BusinessDay 02 Jun 2019

BDSUNDAY BUSINESS DAY

www.businessday.ng Sunday 02 June 2019

House speakership race sets Bago against Gbajabiamila

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African leaders quell dissent by shutting down Internet

??England, Germany lead European

p. 34

pp.42 41.

p.12

football clubs to £25bn valuation

President lauds OIC response to Africa’s challenges Tony Ailemen, Abuja

...seeks action against terrorism

resident Muhammadu Buhari on Saturday, joined other African leaders in passing a vote of confidence in the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) for the impact they are making on Nigeria and other African

countries, especially in the intervention programmes of the various institutions under it.

In the specific case of Nigeria, the President acknowledged the support of OIC Member States in countering the menace of terrorism and armed criminality in West

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Africa, the Lake Chad area and the Sahel Countries, according to statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu.

President Buhari expressed the confidence while reading the collective statement of African

countries at the 14th Summit of the OIC in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.

African countries had commended the robust interventions of the Islamic Development Bank, IDB, in key sectors such as agriculture, trade and investment.

In the statement read in the early hours of Saturday, President Buhari Continues on page 3

APAPA GRIDLOCK

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Governor Babaji Sawo-Olus promise: “I will rid Apapa of gridlock in the first 60 days of my government.”

Social ills that must not go to ‘Next Level’

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0.06 14.51%

inside The Kula and Ogoni situations, according to SPDC’s Igo Weli Boko Haram insurgency

Banditry/cultism

Security agents brutality/assault

Kidnapping

p. 21 & 22

The true story of my ‘arrest’ – Blessing Okoro

P. 29

Chilling tales by kidnap victims: Who will end the misery?

P. 30 & 31

Abia monarch denies selling land to MOUAU, herdsmen in Umuahia P. 7

Next Level: Anxiety grows over Buhari’s direction Page 2

Nigerians foresee ‘tougher times’ ahead

BMO says, ‘there’s no cause for alarm’

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Cover

Next Level: Anxiety grows over Buhari’s direction CHUKA UROKO (Lagos), INNOCENT ODOH & OWEDE AGBAJILEKE, Abuja

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ll eyes are on President Muhammadu Buhari to begin to deliver on his election promises that will take Nigeria to the next level. But early signs appear to dampen morale and create apprehension in the polity that the next four years may not hold any hope for the long-suffering Nigerians, after all.

President Buhari was sworn in on Wednesday, May 29, 2019 for a second term of four years.

Against all expectations, he did not unfold a new programme for the new administration.

Observers have said the President’s action was ominous.

“The fact that the President did not even think that it is wrong not to give a speech at that momentous occasion shows what the country is up against,” an analyst who craved anonymity said.

Some observers also described the President’s silence as the height of insensitivity to Nigerians. Again, the President’s visit to Saudi Arabia, a day after his swearing-in for the Summit of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), has given rise to different conspiracy theories.

One of such theories is that the President did not want to lay out his second term plans to Nigerians until his consultation with the OIC. A source in the Presidency who is familiar with the matter, said: “OIC’s main agenda is to get the Islamic countries to take a common stand on world issues. I think the President needs to be guided on that before unveiling his plans in detail”.

Taiye Odewale, an author and political analyst, said the President’s silence portends ominous signs of what Nigerians should expect in the next four years.

“I have never heard it in any part of the world where a President is sworn-in and he has nothing to say to citizens of his country. Whether the ceremony was being done low-key or not, he ought to have said something at his swearingin even if it is not a written speech,” Odewale said.

“And to make matters worse, he jetted out the following day.

There is no link between inauguration and democracy day.

He was not sworn in on June 12. He was sworn-in on May 29, 2015. So, he supposed to have read a speech, made a lot of promises, assure them of his readiness to take them to the Next Level,” he further said.

The main opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) alleged that Buhari’s silence also showed that the President and his party were overburdened by the guilt of the “rigged

Presidential election”.

A statement issued by Kola Ologbondiyan, PDP national publicity secretary, said:”It is indeed pathetic that at a ceremony such as Presidential inauguration, where truly elected leaders address their people, make commitments and unfold their governance direction, President Buhari did not showcase his plans or commitment to the development of critical sectors of our polity,” the PDP observed.

Charles Onunaiju, a public affairs analyst, said failure of President Buhari to release his policy statement on his inauguration day was a missed opportunity.

“Not making a speech on such important occasion as inauguration is unusual because after his election victory, he delivered victory speech to his party people and during his swearing in as Nigerian president he should have had a word if for nothing to emphasize unity, to emphasize that party division is over and now is the time to build. He should have reached out to Nigerians across party lines,” Onunaiju said.

He also condemned the idea of designating June 12 as Democracy Day, adding that the idea behind it was flawed, which he said reflected the intellectual barrenness of the political class.

“This idea of trying to designate June 12 as Democracy Day is a misnomer, there is nothing like democracy day. Democracy is a process not a product, is a continuum. Those who have started democracy over 200 years ago, are still trying to improve on it, so it is difficult to talk about democracy day; it reflects the illiteracy of the political elite, it is abnormal, it is laughable, it cannot stand up to rigorous logic. So, the whole idea is an exhibition of collective foolery of the political class,” he said.

Reacting to Buhari’s ‘New level’ agenda and the expected ‘tough times’, Onunaiju, who is also the director of the Centre for China Studies, said it was the ruling party’s slogan, adding that no concrete policy framework defines Next Level outside the party.

“We should take it for what it is- party’s rhetorical slogan.

Tough times ahead are for sure but the question is do they have the political will; do they have the deep insight to appreciate the contradictions and challenges? Talking about tough time is normal; anybody telling you that things are going to get better too soon is largely deceptive. There is structural gridlock, the political system is dysfunctional, too formalistic and does not promote citizen engagement and service delivery,” he said.

Majeed Dahiru, a public affairs analyst, security expert and columnist, appears less

L-R: Asu Beks, publisher, Shipping World, with Dakuku Peterside, director-general, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), at the second edition of the Nigeria’s Maritime Industry Living Legends Awards held in Lagos.

optimistic about the second term of Buhari even as he raised issues with his alleged aloofness in the face of national challenges.

He said that Buhari’s approach to governance was his disturbing attitude of blaming everyone but himself for the lingering national crises even though he is the commanderin-chief.

“Judging by the interview the President granted the NTA, it is clear that we are still trapped in an illusion of rhetorically blaming the past, passing the buck around, blaming every other person than the President taking responsibility for the failings of his own government.

If the president is refusing to take responsibility even for security as is clearly spelt out in the constitution as the primary responsibility of government, it means the prospects of social economic improvement in the lives of Nigerians in the Next Level is very dim. I believe everybody should be concerned,” Dahiru said.

Making sense of the ‘Next Level’ agenda Before now, Next Level, was simply a political and campaign slogan. Today, it is a rude reality that Nigerians are still trying to relate to or make a sense of its meaning, import and desirability in modern Nigeria.

When the All Progressives Congress (APC), the party that has formed the centre came up with the change mantra in 2015, it had universal and unreserved acceptance, particularly among those who felt unsatisfied with the state of affairs in the Goodluck Jonathan administration.

Three-and-half years later, it dawned on everybody that change had several meanings and could be subjected to numerous interpretations depending on which side of the divide one stands.

As a way of demonstrating

how this change would come, promises were made. 740,000 new jobs were to be created in one year. But by the turn of 2018, Nigeria’s unemployment figure stood at 20 million. Other promises that were made included revamping the coal industry in Enugu.

Analysts converge on the opinion that Nigerians have never had it so bad as they did in the last four years, and that positive change has eluded the country.

When it became very obvious to the government that the change mantra was becoming a hoax, it was modified to read, ‘Change Begins with Me’, making it now a public property.

The ambush meant that if ‘me’ as part-owner of the mantra fail to do my part, I would have no moral justification to blame other parties, nor the originators, if change fails to come.

And, indeed, change did not come.

Now, Next Level is here. A few attempts at defining this concept may suffice here. By simple reasoning and in a lay man’s understanding , next level simply means a position higher or beyond the present or the status quo. For someone or something or an entity to go to the next level, therefore, means such a person or thing rises above where he is presently seated or standing; or he climbs up the steps of the ladder above the position he presently occupies.

It follows, therefore, that the Buhari and APC’s next level agenda seeks to take Nigeria and Nigerians to a position or situation that is higher than where they are at the moment and this easily begs the question, ‘what position or situation are Nigerians and Nigeria in now that anybody wants to take them higher?

Some observers say that in the last four years there

has been institutionalisation of misery, hunger, poverty, joblessness and insecurity in the country as all international rankings along these lines have damned Nigeria.

In 2015 when Nigerians were promised change, little did they know that a bag of rice would be sold for the national minimum wage which, until recently, was just N18,000. This rice price shot up from between N8,000 and N10,000, meaning that an average civil servant who wishes to buy a bag of rice will use the whole of his pay to do that and will be left with nothing else for other needs.

And this cannot be an achievement that needs to be taken to the next level.

Today, Nigeria has about 87 million people, almost 50 percent of the national population, that are adjudged extremely poor. About 13 million children were out of school as at 2018 and about 60,000 children under the age of five die from diseases caused by the nation’s poor levels of access to water, sanitation and hygiene. These are also not good to go to next level.

For Nigerians in the NorthEastern part of the country, especially Borno and Adamawa, and those of the North Central, particularly Benue State, and Plateau where insurgent activities have desecrated family bonding, mass-produced widows and orphans, and cramped strange-bed-fellows into subhuman conditions at internally displaced persons (IDPs’) camps, the next level agenda simply underpins arrogance and government’s insensitivity.

In January 2015, former President Goodluck Jonathan reduced the price of fuel from N97 to N86.5 per litre. Buhari’s party, the APC, kicked and responded by saying the Continues on page 3

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Sunday 02 June 2019

News

APC major problem is godfathers - Oyegun … says, Obasanjo’s comment on herdsmen must not be ignored INIOBONG IWOK with agency report

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ohn Odigie-Oyegun, a former national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has urged the party to get rid of godfathers, saying godfatherism is one of the major challenges bedevilling the APC. Odigie-Oyegun was speaking in an interview with journalists at the weekend, advising the ruling party to embrace internal democracy.

“I think the basic problem we have all over is the godfather thing. Internal democracy simply means that if 10 people want to vie for an office, so be it. Let the electorate decide.

But when party leaders are the ones deciding who is fit or who is not fit, that becomes a problem,” he said.

“That is the decision of the electorate. And when they start displacing persons with their friends and other undesirable inducements, which is totally unacceptable.

“The damage it does is that you are destroying the belief of the electorate in due process. So, it becomes more difficult to accept the result of an election,” Oyegun further said.

“So, the damage is intense and I pray that our politicians will see the need for a proper internal democracy and allow due process and allow the people to thoroughly decide.”

Oyegun advised.

The former governor of Edo state also observed that former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s comment on “Islamisation and Fulanisation” of the country might have been

dramatised.

He said that Obasanjo was the kind of leader Nigeria needs, saying his words are “infinitely weighty and cannot be ignored”.

Obasanjo while delivering a lecture on May 18 in Delta State had said that the Boko Haram crisis had become an agenda for “West African Fulanisation, African Islamisation”.

The comment sparked reactions among Nigerians with many describing the statement as inciting.

But Oyegun stressed that Obasanjo was addressing an issue “that is with us”.

He said while he may not tag the crisis as “Islamisation”, “there is no question at all that it calls for worry because these people exist virtually in every state of the federation and, very soon, it would lead to unpleasantness all over the country”.

President lauds OIC response...

Continued from page 1

said: “The robust interventions of the various OIC institutions and principally the Islamic Development Bank Group, have been effective in such key sectors as trade and investment, agriculture, rural development and food security, science, technology and innovation, poverty alleviation as well as women and youth empowerment.’’

“In particular, Nigeria acknowledges the support of OIC Member States in countering the menace of terrorism and armed criminality in West Africa, the Lake Chad area and the Sahel Countries. We appreciate their contributions in the alleviation of the humanitarian crisis arising from the insurgency but urge them to do more.

“We appreciate their contributions in the alleviation of the humanitarian crisis arising from the insurgency but urge them to do more,” said the President.

President Buhari also commended OIC institutions for supporting development projects aimed at achieving rapid socioeconomic development in

Nigeria.

He highlighted the InterWater Basic transfer, aimed at recharging the Lake Chad, the National Food Security Programme, the Second Niger Bridge, various roads and school rehabilitation projects as some projects in Nigeria that have attracted the support of OIC institutions.

On issues of concurrent global significance, President Buhari said the African members of the OIC were pleased with renewed efforts by the organisation for the restoration of the national rights of the Palestinians and other long-standing unresolved conflicts.

The President, however, noted that many OIC member states were grappling with serious security problems, including terrorism, violent extremism and armed criminality.

He said some of these challenges have assumed grave dimensions in recent times and required serious and coordinated approach for lasting solutions. ‘‘In addition to the core issue of the restoration of the national rights of the

Palestinians and other longstanding unresolved conflicts, we now grapple with serious security problems, represented by the destructive activities of terrorists, violent extremists and armed criminals in many of OIC Member States. ‘‘This situation has also been compounded by a series of political crises, which continue to affect a number of our countries. ‘‘In this regard, we support the actions of the OIC in seeking an early resolution to the lingering Palestinian question and the rights of the Palestinian people to an independent homeland. ‘‘We equally subscribe to the various actions of the OIC in resolving the crises in Syria, Yemen and Libya. ‘‘We commend OIC engagement with other international actors in addressing the various political conflicts in the OIC region and the plight of the Rohingya Muslim minority in Myanmar,’’ he said.

President Buhari also used the occasion to express confidence that the on-going political transition in Sudan and Algeria would be concluded smoothly and peacefully.

Next Level: Anxiety grows over...

Continues on page 3

price was not low enough, promising the nation a better deal under their government. Today, the pump price of fuel is N145.00 per litre.

Similarly, APC promised it would improve the power situation in the country and the man who was Buhari’s power minister for four years told Nigerians that fixing the power problem in the country should not take any serious government six months because it is not “rocket science”.

Four years after, the situation has become even worse with deep-seated corruption reflected in the estimated bills given to consumers who scarcely get the services they pay for. This must not go to next level.

If government takes the unfortunate power situation to the next level, it means that the few industries still operating under heavy energy cost burden will cave in, either close shop or relocate to smaller neighbouring countries as many have done, just as the generator business fueled by the cabal in and outside government will continue to flourish.

Observers also say that clannishness, which manifested in appointment of aides and other government functionaries, by President Buhari, injected bad blood in the polity. It is also their considered opinion that this must not go to the next level.

Apapa is Nigeria’s premier port city. It is home to the country’s two busiest seaports that account for about 75 percent of the country’s export and import activities. This port city is the highest source of the country’s non-oil revenue. The economy of the port city is estimated at N20 billion a day. Yet, Apapa has become a wasteland where landlords and prop-

erty investors are crying, business owners are sulking while residents are gasping for breath as fumes from millions of trucks stuff their nostrils.

The spirit of Apapa will continue to wail for as long as the Federal Government continues to dance on the graves of businesses and investments in this port city, more so as government continues to smile to the bank with fabulous revenues generated by its numerous agencies, notably the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA).

No cause for alarm – BMO In response to the swelling allegation that the President’s refusal/failure to deliver a speech was a negative sign, the Buhari Media Organisation (BMO), said such was “unnecessary, frivolous, mischievous and sheer fault-finding”.

According to a statement signed

by BMO Chairman, Niyi Akinsiju and Secretary, Cassidy Madueke, a copy of which was made available to BDSUNDAY, it said that the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) or any other critic on this score got it all wrong, as according to the group, “The President has toed a different path by concentrating on improving the welfare of ordinary Nigerians and we all know it that President Buhari is a performer and not a talker.”

The group urged critics to, rather than whining over May 29 speech, they should, “appreciate President Buhari’s numerous achievements in agriculture, rail and roads infrastructure in the country.”

It also pointed out that “It is nonperformers who take refuge in long speeches in order to obfuscate their failures.”

L-R: Isyaku Tilde, acting executive commissioner operations, SEC; Ibrahim Magu, acting chairman, EFCC; Mary Uduk, acting DG Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and Olukoyede Olanipekun, secretary EFCC, during an official meeting between EFCC and SEC in Abuja. picture by TUNDE ADENIYI.

Dakuku tasks media on professionalism

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akuku Peterside, director-general of Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), has advised the media in Nigeria to concentrate their effort and attention on productive reporting aimed at spurring positive action in the country, especially in the maritime sector.

Da k u k u s t a t e d t h i s in Lagos at an awards ceremony organised by Maritime Media Limited, where he bagged Nigeria’s Maritime Industry Living Legends Award.

The award was for his outstanding performance and contributions in the maritime sector.

Appreciating the man-

agement of Maritime Media Limited for the recognition, Dakuku said the media, as a major stakeholder in the maritime industry, should make reports meant to keep the Agency and other players in the sector on their toes, their main emphasis.

“There is great transformation going on in the maritime industry and we can achieve more when all the stakeholders are put on their toes by the media; more can be achieved through constructive criticism,” Dakuku stated.

He stated that NIMASA would continue to leverage its key resources, including existing structures and stakeholders’

support, to push back the frontiers of transformation.

Asu Beks, managing director of Maritime Media Limited, said the NIMASA DG deserved the honour bestowed on him because of the transformational initiatives he had brought to the Agency since his assumption of office.

The Pere of Akugbene Mein Kingdom, in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, Pere P. Luke, Kalanama VIII, while presenting the award, said, “The recognition is as a result of the track record of positive impact made by the Agency and its leadership in the industry that has distinguished them from others.”

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BDSUNDAY 5

News

Malaye, Okeke, Ohuabunwa, Makinde cancels Ajimobi’s last minute appointment others bag ‘Integrity Award’ …11 permanent secretaries affected aniel Chimezie isations across religious or

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Okeke, group chief executive officer Express Concerns Limited; Dino Malaye and Moa Ohuabunwa, both senators of the 8th National Assembly and ace broadcaster, Wale Oke were among top dignitaries honoured by the National Association of Christian Journalists (NACJ) held at the Sheraton and Towers Lagos.

Okeke, who is also the Chairman Swiss Spirit DANAG Port Harcourt, was honoured with the prestigious Man of Integrity Award in recognition of his businessman transparency, patriotism and selfless service to humanity with high sense of integrity.

The NACJ Integrity award now in its 7th year honours individuals and organisations with track record of integrity and exemplary leadership tenets, who have also distinguished themselves in their respective areas of endeavour.

“Individuals and organ-

political divides are selected based on merit after due diligence of exhibited integrity in chosen area of specialty,” the organisers said.

In his response after the award, Okeke thanked the organisers for honouring him alongside other distinguished Nigerians, noting that the award will spur him to do more towards entrenching a better society.

“Nigeria needs to fight corruption from its foundation and I am convinced this award is one of the platforms that is identifying Nigerians with time tested integrity, I am proud to be associated with the award and I am encouraged to do more towards achieving a better society,” he also said.

Also speaking at the event, Malaye, who was also a guest speaker at the event, charged Nigerians to stand up and fight the evil and injustices prevailing in the land, noting that silence in the midst of evil and corruption in itself is evil.

Wema Bank celebrates Children’s Day with ‘Royal Kiddies Creative Competition’

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s part of activities to mark the International Children’s Day, Wema Bank hosted its Royal Kiddies to a fun-filled event at its head office, 54 Marina Road, Lagos.

The Children’s Day celebration is a global initiative of the United Nations marked annually to promote child education and welfare.

At the event, over 200 children were given the opportunity to display their creativity and win amazing prizes. Children took part in colouring, painting, drawing, writing, singing, dancing and playing musical instruments.

The event also included food, games, and gifts from the bank.

After the rounds of contest, the overall best performer was given a grand prize of N100,000 with the first and second runners-up winning state-of-the-art educational tablets. Other contestants were awarded shopping vouchers.

The contest was held with the objective to help children develop confidence in their

creative abilities, inculcate the spirit of sportsmanship and appreciate arts as a means of communication.

Children from select schools were also hosted by the bank on a Junior Bankers excursion. The excursion intended to introduce children to the world of banking and highlight the importance of financial institutions in society.

The bank used the event as a platform to emphasise the need for children to cultivate good saving and spending habits. Parents and guardians were also advised to take advantage of the bank’s Royal Kiddies Account to help secure the future of their children and wards.

The children-exclusive account offers benefits of an attractive interest rate, hitch free and convenient payment of school fees, a virtual card and eligibility for the annual Wema Educational Award.

Wema Bank is an innovative and service-driven bank that offers reliable banking solutions to enable possibilities and solve the challenges of tomorrow’s businesses today.

Remi Feyisipo, Ibadan

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overnor Seyi Ma k i n d e o f Oyo State has announced the reversal of appointment of eleven permanent secretaries elevated by former governor Abiola Ajimobi.

The eleven permanent secretaries appointed two weeks ago by the immediate past governor were subsequently inaugurated on Wednesday, May 15th.

The new eleven permanent secretaries were Oladeinde F.N, Jimoh A.A, Abioye Christiana and Eyitayo Adejoke Ajagbe J.O, Adedigba A.A, Adebowale Balogun and Olaleye Iyabo Olayinka. Others were Olanrewaju T.A, Fatoki Yinka and Audu Akeem.

But on Friday, Governor Makinde announced the decision to reverse the appointed at a meeting he had with all permanent secretaries in the state.

The new governor said that he has reversed the appointed with immediate effect.

Makinde

He maintained that he reversed the promotion as part of effort to fulfil his promise to review all new contracts and appointments made

by Ajimobi in the last three weeks of his administration.

Makinde’s Media Aide, Dotun Oyelade said that the decision was in line with the governor’s electoral promises.

Oyelade stated, “It is true.

Yes it is true and it is in line with his electoral promises.

Governor Makinde will be very consistent and finicky with all his campaign promises and this is not an exception. “ Th e g o v e r n o r s a i d that all transactions either contractually or in terms of appointments and pro-

motions that were done especially between Monday, March 11 and May 28 would be given closer scrutiny particularly because of the obvious mischief that has been introduced into the whole governance within this period.

“So, it’s true that during the campaign period, the governor promised that the people of the state would not have him in the Governor’s Office to embark on distractive traditional probe but the brazen attitude that borders on attempt to block the success of the current administration has made the governor to decide the latest course of action which is to reverse many of the policies and actions of the Ajimobi administration at the eve of his exit because they were born out of malice.

“So, just like he made good the promise to cancel the N3, 000 paid by parents on their public secondary school children and open the Governor’s Office flyover for every citizen of Oyo State, in the same manner he is dealing with the issue of the appointment of the permanent secretaries and civil servants.”

Why child abuse may remain prevalent in Nigeria - Experts Cynthia Egboboh, Abuja.

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hild protection experts have raised concerns on increasing prevalence of child abuse in Nigeria stressing that despite measures to tackle child abuse in the country, children are still made victims of various forms of abuses such as child marriages, sexual violence, abduction of children, molestation, child labor, and neglect, among other forms.

Speaking on the issue, they expressed fears of continued prevalence in the country as the child rights act which seeks to provide and protect the rights of a Nigerian child has not been domesticated in some in some parts of the country.

BDSUNDAY findings shows that laws and policies put into place with the purpose of protecting children from abuse have not been effective for many reasons including poor enforcement mechanisms, poverty, corruption, lack of rehabilitation of sexual offenders, negative attitude of parents, and inefficient judicial processes.

Sharon Oladiji, Child protection specialist, UNICEF, speaking to Businessday said the child rights act which was adopted in Nigeria in 2003 has over the years suffered neglect especially in the northern states.

Only 24 states have so far domesticated the child right act in Nigeria, and according to her, “it’s is disheartening to know that the states yet to domesticate the act often

tops the list of child abuse cases recorded in the country. This is a call to all state governments to domesticate and fully implement the child right act”.

Statistics show that Sokoto, Kastina, Kebbi, Zamfara, Kano, Jigawa, Kaduna, Bauchi, Gombe, Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe states are yet to domesticate the act.

Oladiji speaking further noted that the global trend of urbanisation, unplanned population, wrong societal values as well as conflict has taken a severe toll on the average Nigerian child adding that the actions and in-actions of the government and civil society have had greater impact on the rights of the Nigeria child.

She said: “Children totally depend on adults for survival,

and their views are rarely heard or considered. They are often the victims of the global trend of urbanisation, unplanned population, wrong societal values amongst others; it is time for us to acknowledge our share responsibility in upholding the rights of the Nigerian child”.

She explained that the different forms of child abuse include early child marriage, physical and sexual violence, children accused with witchcraft, children used for house helps, as well as “Almajiri” amongst others.

Speaking on the early marriage menace, Oladiji lamented that over 40 percent of females in Nigeria are given in marriage before the age of 15 adding that over 44percent married before 18 years of age.

Church releases week-long burial plan for Archbishop Obembe, starting 14 June

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l-ShaddaiBibleChurch has released the burial arrangement of the presiding bishop of thechurch,ArchbishopJoseph Olanrewaju Joseph Obembe who died on May 1, in Lagos. The week-long activities will commence on Monday 10 June with a programme tagged ‘El-Shaddai Night of Worship’ that would be fol-

lowedbytwonightsoftributes on Tuesday and Wednesday June 11 and 12 respectively, by 5pm at the church’s headquarters in Ikoyi, Lagos.

According to the church, the second nights of tribute which is Wednesday 12 June will be anchored by the International Communion of Charismatic and Apostolic Ministries (ICCAM), while

Archbishop Obembe

Tuesday’s tribute will be anchored by El-Shaddai Bible Church. The nights of tribute will be followed by a service of songs on Thursday 13 June.

The burial service and interment will hold by 10am on 14 June at the El-Shaddai Bible Church, Great Grace Cathedral, Osborne Road, Corporation Drive, Dolphin Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos.

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News

PharmAccess, Adamawa partner to launch Adamawa Health Insurance Scheme IFEOMA OKEKE

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new dawn emerged on the horizon of Adamawa State as it made a move to follow its predecessors and take a plunge to launch its health insurance scheme.

This landmark event in the history of the state occurred on Tuesday, May 13, 2019.

The event held in the Government House premises in Yola, was attended by government officials, traditional rulers, development partners, media and other stakeholders in the health sector.

The journey began over a year ago with the signing of a contract between the state government and PharmAccess organisation in January 2018.

PharmAccess was contracted to lead the technical development process for the state’s health insurance scheme based on their expertise and experience in supporting other states and governments to establish the scheme.

The state had also gone further to request for the commissioning of a State Poverty Identification exercise to adequately determine household eligibility for statesponsored subsidies, which was also provided by the PharmAccess Foundation.

Jibrilla Umaru Bindow, immediate past governor of Adamawa state and others at the event.

Iyobosa Igbinovia, the Adamawa State WHO Coordinator and Pharmacist in his goodwill message conveyed his joy that this was happening during the present administration; promising that the organisation will continue to support the state to achieve all it has set out to achieve in the health sector.

Njide Ndili, the Country director, in her goodwill message on behalf of the PharmAccess Foundation, stated how delighted she was at the launch of the Health Insurance Scheme as this was one of the surest ways of achieving UHC and reaching the poorest of the poor of

the society as studies have shown.

She further expressed her appreciation for the support and cooperation that PharmAccess has enjoyed in the State while providing the technical assistance for the establishment of the scheme.

She solicited for more support, stating that “the journey has begun with great strides and there is still some distance to cover to get to the final destination of providing quality and affordable healthcare for all residents of the State.”

Also speaking at the event, Olamide Okulaja,

the Director of Advocacy and Communications of PharmAccess expressed his optimism that the implementation of the health insurance scheme will ensure that all residents of the State irrespective of status receive quality and affordable healthcare when they need it.

Fatima Atiku Abubakar, former commissioner of Health, in her remarks noted that, though a Health Insurance Scheme was established in 2011, it went into limbo and had to be revived in line with the administration’s quest to provide quality health services for all citizens in the State.

Sterling Bank’s ‘One Woman’ provides period kits to 2,000 girls

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terling Bank Plc, through its women platform, One Woman, in partnership with Sanitary Aid Nigeria Initiative, has donated period kits to 2,000 girls in secondary schools across the country as part of measures to help keep the girl-child in school in a hygienic condition.

Speaking at one of schools during the kit-sharing in Lagos recently, Temi Dalley, chief human resources officer (CHRO) of the bank, said Sterling Bank is, through the donation, helping to provide young girls with the products they could use and reuse during their menstrual cycle periods for up to 2 years. She identified lack of access to affordable menstrual products as one of the problems that keep girls in the hinterland out of school.

According to her, “Without access to these products, many female students miss school lessons during their

periods or drop out entirely for the same reason.”

She said records show that one in 10 female students in sub-Saharan Africa miss school during their periods. Dalley added that anecdotal data in Nigeria indicate that female students from poor homes do not go to school when they are menstruating, remarking that having a period should not have to cost a student her education. She said there were some reasons why people are not likely to hear enough about

this problem and they include stigma and the notion that periods are a “female problem” and theirs alone to worry about.

While commenting on the initiative, Karo Omu from Sanitary Aid Initiative said, One Woman partnering with our organisation has given 2,000 girls a sustainable solution to the problem of accessing menstrual hygiene products which girls from low income homes and IDP camps often face. We are very happy about the commitment of the One Woman

team joining our team to educate the beneficiaries on best menstrual hygiene practices.

We are also happy for the role our sister organisation, the Gender Network has played in ensuring an impactful outing.

The team had this engagements during the Menstrual Hygiene Week in Progressive School, Clegg Girls Senior School, Adebola Baptist Senior School and Iponri Estate Senior High School in Lagos. Uhogua IDP Camp in Edo State, Magboro community school in Ogun State and Williams Memorial School, Victory Comprehensive School and Akpahia Girls School in Abia State.

Education is one of the five core sectors of the Nigerian economy where Sterling Bank is currently focusing its investment in.

The others are Health, Agriculture, Renewable Energy and Transportation.

CAN urges Buhari to harness Nigeria’s potentials in ‘Next Level’ SEYI JOHN SALAU

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s t h e Mu h a m madu Buhari administration commences the second term on 29 May with its campaign promise to take the country and the people to the ‘Next Level’, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged the President to harness the potentials of Nigerians, especially its youth population towards achieving delivering on that promise.

S a m s o n Ol a s u p o Ay o k u n l e , t h e CAN president, stated this at a breakfast meeting with the Christian Press Association of Nigeria (CPAN) tagged ‘Christian Response to Global Persecution’ held recently in Lagos.

According to Ayokunle, the ability to develop and grow the country is available in Nigeria and with Nigerians; but asked, “Where is the political leadership to harness them?”

The CAN president further said that the government should respect the rule of law and appear fair to all Nigerians. “If government disrespect the judgments of law court, such government is a lawless government,” said Ayokunle as he called on all Nigerians to promote fairness, mutual respect and justice to the country together.

Speaking on the persecution of Christians in Nigeria, the CAN president said Christians do not have the boldness like Esther to fight

Samson OlasupoAyokunle, CAN president

for their faith. “Most ‘Christians’ in politics place political advantage above the spiritual and this has contributed to the continued persecution of the church in Nigeria,” Ayokunle said, adding that Churches cannot get C-of-O in the north, which according to him is against the constitution of Nigeria.

Ayokunle opined that there is a lack of sincerity among Christians, particularly in CAN, to speak and pursue a common objective. “The Church is so rich but can’t put resources together for a single purpose,” he said.

For those calling on the Christian body to openly support a political party, Ayokunle said that CAN is not a political organisation, hence Churches cannot register political associations in Nigeria as such a move would pitch the Church against other Nigerians and put the Church at disadvantage from the very start.

Glo showcases products for SME’s productivity

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lobacom has called on Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the country to utilise many of its solutions designed to promote productivity and profitability.

Ad e k u n l e Ad e l e k e , head, Oil and Gas, Glo Business Solutions, made the call in an interview conducted on the sidelines of the two-day African Food and Products Exhibition organised by the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce. The exhibition was held at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Lagos at the weekend.

Adeleke said Globacom, in a bid to enhance the efficiency of small businesses, had rolled out a bouquet of solutions with pocket-friendly rates.

“We understand that no two businesses are alike and that each has its own

unique needs. To address these needs, we offer a range of customised and community-driven voice and data connectivity solutions that help to manage different networking systems. These include internet connectivity, mobile money solutions, Wide Area Connectivity (WAN), credit check for postpaid subscribers, and mobile solutions for establishments,” he said.

He said the company had an extensive infrastructure that covers the entire country, adding that the company’s reliable network was providing a solid platform and connectivity for digital transformation that will make small and medium businesses competitive all over the world.

Adeleke said the company was a business enabler, always willing to assist businesses to design specialised ICT solutions that would match their needs.

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News

Wazobia plans free fuel distribution as giving back to Lagos, Abuja, Kano Hope Ashike-Moses

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azobia FM, in conjunction with Enyo Retail, a technology-driven distributor of quality fuel products, is giving back to the community with an initiative called #WazobiaFuelMyMoto.

The initiative aims to give listeners of Wazobia FM free fuel at a predetermined Enyo station at a given day and at a given time, all of this to be announced by the Wazobia On-Air Personality (OAP).

Serge NOUJAIM, CEO of Wazobia FM, said, “In the

context of a very tough economic environment, people tune into the radio because they want to be relieved and comforted from daily struggles and simply let off steam.

It is our responsibility as a station to GIVE BACK, be it in the form of entertainment, an advice, a job opportunity, providing food, restoring a family home or fixing a school roof. Creating social impact to change people’s lives for the better is our goal this 2019. To this effect we reached out and created new partnerships to help us achieve our goal, As a result we are very excited about our relationship with Enyo Retail and Supply. We want to show our appreciation

to our customers, and together we’re doing just that.

Through the #WazobiaFu-

elMyMoto initiative, we are rewarding our listeners with fuel which provides them

mobility to go about their various business”.

Abayomi Awobokun, CEO of Enyo Retail and Supply, excited about the partnership stressed the need for collaborative efforts as well as leveraging the wide reach of the radio platforms in order to get across an extensive reach of customers. This campaign started on the 8th of March and has taken place at 3 locations, all at Enyo Service Filling Station; Olowo Eko, Lekki 3rd roundabout, Ikate-Lekki, and along Lagos-Abeokuta expressway, Agege.

In total, more than 1000 vehicles have been fueled for free.

Some of the stations On Air-Personalities were present at the locations lending a hand and making themselves available to help. Buchi, Ratata, and Ikechukwu from ‘Evening Oyoyo’ were present at the Ibeju Lekki location and Lolo from ‘Oga Madam Office’ was present at the Agege location. Free drinks and branded gifts were distributed to the participants of the activation.

This initiative will continue to roll out in other cities in Nigeria like Abuja and Kano for the rest of the year.

Wazobia FM will be giving out free fuel across stations in Lagos, Abuja, Kano and Lagos for the rest of the year.

Abia monarch denies selling land to MOUAU, herdsmen in Umuahia Eleme launches ‘Operation Flush UDOKA AGWU, Umuahia

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ze Boniface Izuogu, the traditional ruler of Okwu-Olokoro autonomous community, Umuahia South Local Government Area, Abia State, has denied selling their community land to the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike (MOUAU) or to Fulani herdsmen for grazing.

His denial followed some online reports that Eze Izuogu had in collaboration with some elders in the community allegedly sold out the community’s land (about 263 hectares) and that the said land is presently being graded for the herdsmen to occupy.

Eze Izuogu described the report as false, saying, “I did not do such a thing and I won’t do such a thing”.

According to him, “I became the traditional ruler of Okwu-Olokoro in 2001.

Before then, my community, between 1991and 1993, had unanimously donated our

lands to Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU) for agricultural expansion. I wasn’t at home then, I didn’t participate in the land donation.

“In 2011, the university decided to pay us for the value of the crops in the land and not for the land. All these while, they have not entered the land because they are not ready. Now that they are ready, they have started grading the place for agricultural expansion and for the building of hostels.

“Somebody, who does not like me too much, who has been looking for a way to kill me and my family decided to write against me by saying that I have sold the land to the Fulani herdsmen. I did not do such a thing and I won’t do such a thing.”

The monarch further explained that “There is no way in this civilised society like Okwu-Olokoro that has produced well educated people, governorship candidates, senator and the likes of them, will have a traditional ruler who will single-handedly

sell a land of 260 hectares to Fulani herdsmen; such thing cannot be possible in an Autonomous community like Okwu-Olokoro.

“I appeal to the individuals and readers of this libelous write-up to please try and fish out this writer and punish him accordingly to serve as a deterrent to others like him, because he is a blatant liar.

“Since this write-up has been made, I have received more than 200 calls from different countries of the world, asking why I sold a land belonging to Biafrans to the Fulani herdsmen, which I didn’t do. Some of these calls come with threats; threats to wipe out my family”.

W h e n B D S U N D AY contacted Eze Christopher Ejirika, chairman of the land donors - MOUAU, and chairman Ikwuano traditional rulers council, for comments on the development, he described the write up as false, saying that nobody sells land to government and that government only acquires land and pays damages for cash crops.

He recalled that the Land Use Decree (now Land Use Act) was promulgated on 29th of March 1978 following the recommendations of a minority report of a panel appointed by the Federal Military Government of the time to advise on future land policy, with immediate effect, all land in each state of the Federation was vested on the governor of that state.

Eze Ejirika disclosed that the university had acquired the land years ago and wondered why rumour should be circulated online and advised the reading public to investigate on the matter as all transactions/dealings of the university are usually documented for clarification.

Also speaking on the issue,

Eze Godfrey Onwuka, the secretary of the land donors – MOUAU- and chairman, Umuahia South Traditional Rulers Council, described the report as “baseless and totally false”, adding that the land had been acquired even before the civilian government was ushered in.

While exonerating Eze Izuogu from the allegations, Eze Onwuka argued that most of them were not even traditional rulers when the said land was acquired by the government.

He insisted that the write up was made with the sole aim of damaging the image of the traditional ruler.

Martins Ugoji, a MOUAU town and gown member representing Okwu-Olokoro, in his reaction, harped on the need for the reading public to always verify every information before passing judgment.

He described the report as unfortunate and challenged the writer to be bold enough to come and prove his claims.

The report as being circulated online reads: “Information reaching us now is that 263 hectares of land is about to be given to Fulani herdsmen; the land belongs to some kindreds in Okwu Olokoro Umuahia South LGA. Few years ago, the kindreds revolted over the Federal Ministry of Agriculture’s takeover of the 263 hectares of land, but the Eze in council in collaboration with his then late Prime Minister, Chief Solomon Nkuche, and the late President General of Okwu, Mazi Juuman, with one Mazi Aham Adighije, four of them had a deal with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and sold the land, now the land is being graded and very soon the herdsmen will occupy the land against the wishes of the land owners.”

Out’ to save industrial zone

… LGA boss, chiefs, take battle to cultists, bandits Ignatius Chukwu and Godwin Egba

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leme, the industrial town near Port Harcourt where over 35,000 wor ker s go to work every day, has launched a huge push to flush out criminals especially cultists and kidnappers. Apart from the Oil and Gas Free Zone, there is Notore, Indorama-Eleme Petrochemicals Company, Port Harcourt refineries, and many more numbering almost 200. The problem however, has been killings, abductions, and general insecurity.

Governor Nyesom Wike turned red eyes and dethroned some monarchs, suspended some local council bosses and party chairmen, but recalled them on the condition that they would take the war against insecurity.

Thus, the Eleme Local Council Authority and the council of chiefs are said to have risen to flush out criminal elements terrorising the oil and gas industrial zone with a thriving business community.

This is said to be the resolve of all chiefs in the 10 clans that make up Eleme with the council chairman, Philip Okparaji. Last Thursday, the acting king of Eleme, Philip Osaro Obele, the chiefs’ council, local council key officials and other stakeholders sat and formed a security committee to kickstart the ‘Operation Flush Out’ mandate.

The council boss, Okpar-

aji, in a media interview disclosed that the drawn-line of action was in response to the Rivers State governor who recently gave the marching order to all community chiefs, leaders and council chairmen in the state to flush out cultists, kidnappers and other bandits living among them.

This order, according to Okparaji, was against the back-drop of high rise in recent dastard cult killings and kidnappings that are seizing the geographical land space across most of the local council areas of the state.

The dare-devil criminality though not peculiar to a particular local government area of the state but the act has risen to an alarming dimension in recent times where the perpetrators seem to have seized the space to the chagrin of security agencies especially the police and other task forces.

For instance, some parts of Eleme area such as Ebubu, Agbonchia, Ogale, Aleto, Alode, and Alesa began to assume names such as hotbed of cultism. Here, kidnap and other killings with little or no arrest of the hatchet operators began to take place.

Some Eleme residents who spoke to our correspondent under anonymity lamented that some of the criminals live within the communities but are being shielded by some people residing in the same communities. They are said to be afraid of being hunted down coupled with people not willing to divulge information to the police and other security agencies.

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Sunday 02 June 2019

News Senate Presidency: Another PDP senator-elect backs Lawan OWEDE AGBAJILEKE, Abuja

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he race for the position of Senate Presidency in the Ninth National Assembly assumed a new twist as another senator-elect has backed the candidacy of Ahmad Lawan for the top job.

Peter Nwaoboshi, who declared his support for Lawan’s aspiration at a media briefing in his office on Friday, said his decision was informed by his party’s continued silence on the matter as the inauguration draws near.

Inauguration of the Ninth Senate and election of Presiding Officers is expected to hold on June 11.

The Delta North lawmaker explained that even if his party officially takes a position, he has the right to decide who to support.

He pointed out that his constituents, Anioma people of Delta State, prefer Lawan to other aspirants eyeing the seat. With this development, Nwaoboshi becomes the second PDP senator-elect to endorse Lawan, with Abba Moro (PDP, Benue) being the first.

Checks revealed that the PDP Senate Caucus is currently divided on the matter with the Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, throwing his weight behind Lawan’s main challenger, Ali Ndume.

According to Nwaoboshi, Lawan

is the most qualified legislator for the position, having been in the National Assembly as an elected federal lawmaker since 1999.

“All those contesting for the position have approached me for support and as a student of history, I have studied their backgrounds which clearly show that in terms of

experience, Lawan is the one with the requisite legislative experience.

“I have found in him competence and the required intelligence legislatively and politically to steer the ship of leadership of the 9th Senate and by extension, that of the 9th National Assembly”, he said.

He added that opposition of

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he Lagos State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Action Democratic Party (ADP) have called on the newly sworn-in governor of the state, Babajide Sanwo-Olu to serve the people of Lagos State with the fear of God and not that of man.

In a separate message to journalists signed by the state chairmen, Segun Adewale and Adewale Bolaji, respectively, the parties urged Sanwo-Olu to immediately focus on delivering on his promises to the

electorate in the state.

The parties stated that the Sanwo-Olu administration should focus on advancing the state in all aspects, including job creation, empowerment of youth with entrepreneurship skills and improving the education standard in the state.

However, the ADP tasked the governor to look critically at the alarming influx of Fulani herdsmen allegedly kidnapping people for ransom, which is creating panic amongst residents of the state.

“First of all, Babajide Sanwo-Olu must prove to all Lagosians that he is a man of his own and not a puppet of any godfather as widely speculated.

“The ADP is tasking Babajide Sanwo-Olu to critically look at the looming crisis which is silently brewing, the issue of influx of Fulani herdsmen, reportedly kidnapping people for ransom, which is creating panic amongst the residents of the state. “Security of lives and property must be another area topmost priority attention must be given, to give investors confidence of a conducive business environment in the state,” the ADP chairman said.

The parties further urged Sanwo-Olu to address the duplicity in the collection of internally generated revenue of the state.

International Breweries appoints Odulate independent non- executive director

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he Board of International Breweries Plc has appointed Olutoyin Mobisola Odulate as an independent nonexecutive director of the company.

A statement announcing her appointment, a copy of which was sent to BDSUNDAY, said: “Odulate is a seasoned Consumer Goods and FMCG senior management professional with over 16 years of multinational corporate experience in retail management and distribution, supply chain optimisation, strategic

Nathaniel Gbaoron, Jalingo

PDP senators-elect to Lawan has dwindled following the recent pronouncement by the Deputy National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) Lawal Shuaibu that leadership at both chambers cannot be imposed but through consensus across party lines.

Michael Daramola, legal and corporate affairs director; Tolulope Adedeji, marketing director, both of International Breweries; Segun Ogunsanya, managing director, Airtel Nigeria, and Yetunde Daramola at the Inauguration Ball organised in honour of Prince Dapo Abiodun, governor, Ogun State.

PDP, ADP, set agenda for Sanwo-Olu Iniobong Iwok

Fulani herdsmen killed 51 of our people - Fr. Kamai

Odulate

development, operational planning, risk management, business development, product development, branding and marketing across the telecoms, management consulting & Consumer Goods/FMCG industries.”

It was also stated that she has held past senior roles including missions at L’Oreal, MTN Nigeria & Accenture and most recently as Regional Director Anglophone West Africa at Danone ELN where she worked for 6 years.

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Catholic Priest, Rev. Fr. Cyriacus Kamai on Friday said 51 Kona indigenes were killed across 11 villages, during attack on Kona people

by Fulani herdsmen last month.

Kamai a native of Kona in Jalingo Local Government Area of Taraba disclosed this in a homily he delivered during a remembrance Mass for the 51 martyrs held at the Church of Assumption in Kona village.

According to him, 8,494 people were displaced across 11 villages of Murkunu, Murtia, Yaukani, Murbai, Yawai, Somporo, Jekunuhou, Sembe, Ndayaro, Kaudad and Keshabro in Jalingo and Ardo-Kola LGAs. The Priest, who said the Kona people though with pains in their hearts, have forgiven the Fulani herdsmen who carried out the attack, called on them to repent.

“In this crisis, there is no winner, no vanquished. I know is painful to say this looking at the number of casualties, but we pray God to turn the heart of the bereaved, the injured, the displaced, widows and orphans and above all, rest the dead.

“We pray God will turn the heart of those who commit evil to true conversion God’s desire. All the people who died are not dead but asleep in the Lord,” he said. The cleric called on the government to ensure the immediate resettlement of IDPs to their original homes so that they can go back to their farms, even as he called for unity of purpose among the Kona people.

I am the project manager of the state this second term - Ayade MIKE ABANG, Calabar

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overnor Ben Ayade of Cross River State has assured that in the next six months, every company newly established by his administration will have full commerciality in full swing as he goes into action as project manager of the state.

Ayade in his first term had established a garment factory, Cala-Pharm, cocoa processing factory, rice city, Banana plantation, tooth pick factory, among other industries that are yet to go into production.

The governor, who lamented the absence of Federal Government presence in the state said: “We have had a very embarrassing treatment by the Federal Government as we are No. 35 out of 36 with a paltry allocation of N2.7billion every month.”

The governor promised to deliver on his signature projects which include the Bakassi deep seaport, 275km superhighway, garment factory and the Calabar Pharmaceutical factory by making himself project manager of Cross

River State to ensure that the dream becomes a reality.

Ayade said before the end of his second tenure, Cross River State will move from a third world to first world state. The state currently ranked 35th in the comity of state in Nigeria with huge debt profile whose allocation from the Federation Account is less than N2.7billion monthly.

He thanked the people of the state for re-electing him for a second term, saying, “It is only by your power that I am here; for the first time we had a stiff opposition in the history of the state that our party is not in control at the Federal Government.”

The governor, in his Valedictory speech before dissolving the Exco thanked members of the former Exco for the contributions and services to the people of the state.

He said: “I must take a bold step in running a lean government that would bring result. I like to thank all of you for your kind words.

When I say I would downsize I mean no harm because you are great team. My first term was food on the table and my second term would be all hand on deck, because I have over-stressed the intellectual money.”

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PhotoSplash

L-R: Ireti Sholola, pastor-in-charge of RCCG Christ The Cornerstone; Ifeoma Nwosu, assistant pastor, RCCG, Christ The Cornerstone Zone; Peter Nwosu and Iluyomade, pastor-in-charge of RCCG Region 20 at the Evening of Discovery 2019 in Lagos.

L-R: Michael Daramola, legal and corporate affairs director, Tolulope Adedeji, marketing director, both of International Breweries; Segun Ogunsanya, MD, Airtel Nigeria, and Yetunde Daramola, at the Inauguration Ball organized in honour of Dapo Abiodun, governor, Ogun State.

L-R: Owolabi Mustapha, MD, Maxxconnection Limited; Tolu Adedeji ,marketing director, International Breweries plc; Rafiu Ladipo , president general of Nigeria Football Supporters Club, and Hafis Balogun, PRO of Nigeria Football Supporters Club, at the just concluded Trophy 5 Aside Competition co-executed by Maxxconnection at Campos Mini stadium Lagos.

L-R: Jude Akaz, Hilife fest judge; Dons Ifeanyi, Hilife fest king 2018; Bright Chimezie, chief judge, HiLife Fest; Ben Umeh, regional brand manager, NB Plc; Chibest David, Hi-Life Fest King 2017; David Jones Davis, Celebrity Judge, and Chidi Egwu, brand manager, Life Continental Beer, NB Plc, at the unveil of HiLife Fest 2019.

L-R: Solomon Aboluwodi, education secretary Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government; Chioma Okolie, lead CSR Airtel Nigeria; Kudirat Kasali, head mistress, and Devanshu Seth, head of marketing, Sona Group, distributing gifts on Children’s Day with pupils of one of Airtel’s adopted school, Oremeji Primary School II, Ajegunle, Lagos.

L-R: Oshiokamele Aruna, MD, Tetra Pak West Africa; Mosunmola Umoru, technical adviser, youth and gender, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, and Solomon Yu, marketing director, Tetra Pak West Africa, at the maiden Tetra Pak West Africa Innovation Day in Lagos to commemorate the World Milk Day.

L-R: Devanshu Seth, head of marketing, Sona Group; Amita Joshi, business development manager, Sona Group; Chioma Okolie, lead CSR, Airtel Nigeria; Funmilola Bada, head mistress, and Femi Osinlaja regional operations director, Airtel, celebrating and distributing gifts on Children’s Day with pupils of one of Airtel’s adopted schools, St John’s Primary School Oke Agbo, Ijebu Igbo, Ogun State.

L-R: Mary Dewan, focal person on non-communicable disease, World Health Organisation; Clement Peter, officer-in-charge of WHO Nigeria, country office, and Charity Warigon, head of communication, during a news conference to commemorate 2019 World “No Tobacco Day” in Abuja. NAN

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On the transience of political power

Frank Aigbogun editor Zebulon Agomuo DEPUTY EDITOR John Osadolor, Abuja

Tayo Ogunbiyi

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, STRATEGY, INNOVATION & PARTNERSHIPS Oghenevwoke Ighure GENERAL MANAGER, ADVERT Adeola Ajewole ADVERT MANAGER Ijeoma Ude FINANCE MANAGER Emeka Ifeanyi MANAGER, CONFERENCES & EVENTS Obiora Onyeaso BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER (South East, South South) Patrick Ijegbai CIRCULATION MANAGER John Okpaire DIGITAL SALES MANAGER Linda Ochugbua ASSIST. SUBSCRIPTIONS MANAGER Florence Kadiri GM, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT (North)

Bashir Ibrahim Hassan

GM, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT (South) Ignatius Chukwu

Sunday 02 June 2019

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Publisher/CEO

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, OPERATIONS Fabian Akagha

@Businessdayng

Ogunbiyi is of the Lagos State Ministry of Information & Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja

O

n 29th May, 2019, a change of guard was effected in the leadership of some states in the federation. With this development, many who once traversed the political landscape of the country as some lords of the manor suddenly realized the ephemeral nature of political power. If only men recognize that tomorrow will come, they would be cautious in the way they handle today.

One thing that is quite puzzling is the mind-set of most political office holders while in office. They seem to forget that political office, like political power that births it, is transient. No sooner have some of them assumed office than they begin to act in manners contrary to the expectations of the people whose interest they are supposed to protect.

One remembers, with regret, the utterance of a particular minister, in the dark days of military rule, to the effect that telephones

are not meant for the common men. Contrary to his claim, both the common and the uncommon are today proud owners’ of mobile handsets among other forms of communication. Ironically, the same man that demonstrated such a disdain towards the common men, once, occupied a very sensitive post in the polity!

If only they would learn from history, public office holders should always view their appointments strictly as opportunity to leave indelible footprints on the sand of time. They should take their appointments as a privileged opportunity to serve their people and fatherland.

Ideally, the ultimate purpose of political power is to shape and control public policy primarily for the betterment of the society.

This viewpoint is reinforced by the conviction of American Baptist Minister and Civil-Rights Leader, Martins Luther King that power is a moral instrument needed to uphold justice and fairness in the society. To this end, Martins Luther King once declared: “I am not interested in power for power’s sake, but I’m interested in power that is moral, that is right and that is good.” By alluding to the moral perspective of power, King was simply emphasizing justice and fairness as the fundamental basis of true political power.

In his famous book, ‘1984’, English novelist, essayist and critic, George Orwell was, perhaps, inadvertently referring to the power perception of the

average Nigerian political power actor when he stated that: “the Party seeks power entirely for its own sake. We are not interested in the good of others; we are interested solely in power, pure power. Power is not a means; it is an end. The object of power is power.” How awful!

Without doubt, the picture of political power actors painted above by Orwell, to a great extent, perfectly describes the power image of a typical Nigerian political power actor. Orwell’s reference to pure power could be interpreted to mean absolute power.

In this clime, pure power stands for various things ranging from liberty to drive against traffic, in utter disregard for traffic laws, to condoning off a whole city because of a ‘powerful’ political power actor.

Late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, once revealed that he was always studying late into the night in search of solutions to the myriads of problems confronting the country while some of his contemporaries were partying away in the dead of the night. It is because leaders with adequate preparation for the rigorous demand of power are in short supply in the country that we have been moving in circles for long.

A former governor once complained that he couldn’t deliver democratic dividends in his state because of dearth of fund. Well, Mr. Governor, part of your duties in power is to creatively device means of stepping up the revenue

base of your state. Ironically, the same Governor fought tooth and nail to secure re-election for a second term in a state where there was no fund to actualise his electoral promises. Despite being located in a desert, Israel remains self-sufficient in food production.

This was achieved through the creative use of power.

This is the time for our new crop of political leaders across the country to uphold the right concept of power for the good of the society. This is also the time for the followers to ask questions of their leaders. Government does not exercise power; rather, it is the concept of government, upheld by law, which exercises power. Democracy will be endangered when political power actors assume that they wield power, and not, that power wields them.

In the meantime, it is important that new leaders in the country’s political landscape understand that only God is constant. Whatever position anyone finds himself in the political space is temporary.

Humility remains key in every human endeavour. That you are privileged to occupy a revered seat of influence is an act of grace, not that you are the best in the race.

One day, you would live that position and become history. As Williams Shakespeare puts it: “All the world’s a stage and the men and women merely players; they have their exits and their entrances.”

Ogunbiyi is of the Ministry of Information and Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja.

HEAD, HUMAN RESOURCES Adeola Obisesan

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD Dick Kramer - Chairman Imo Itsueli Mohammed Hayatudeen Afolabi Oladele Vincent Maduka Keith Richards Opeyemi Agbaje Amina Oyagbola Bolanle Onagoruwa Fola Laoye Chuka Mordi Mezuo Nwuneli Charles Anudu Tunji Adegbesan Eyo Ekpo

Enquiries NEWS ROOM 08169609331 08116759816 Lagos 08033160837 Abuja

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11 Inside Lagos

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Residents laud Sanwo-Olu’s first steps Stories by JOSHUA BASSEY

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esidents of Lagos have been reacting to the first steps taken by the new governor of the state, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on his day in office, they show the governor is at home with the major challenges facing Nigeria’s commercial city.

Sanwo-Olu was inaugurated on Wednesday, May 29, as the 15th governor of Lagos State, taking over from Akinwunmi Ambode, who governed the state for four years.

The residents of Lagos, in separate interviews, on Friday, welcomed Sanwo-Olu’s directives on traffic and waste management as well as fixing of potholes.

Roads around the city are riddled with potholes and refuse, while traffic congestions remain a major issue, as articulated trucks are parked almost permanently on the roads, thereby narrowing their carriage capacity.

As a step towards addressing these challenges, Sanwo-Olu, on Thursday, his first official resumption day in office, signed an executive order to restore sanity on roads, ensure better flow of traffic, as well as raise the level of environmental sanitation in the state.

The executive order tagged

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu (3rd l); Obafemi Hamzat, deputy governor (l); Hakeem Muri-Okunola, head of service (2nd l); during a condolence visit to Kudirat, mother of late Folashade Arogundade, a staff of Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), who was crushed to death by a moving truck while on duty.

‘enforcement of law and order in respect of traffic and sanitation matters,” states that henceforth, there shall be zero tolerance for environmental abuse, including illegal a d indiscriminate dumping of refuse, construction on drainage points and setbacks.

The new order further empowers traffic officials to carry out their functions by ensuring strict compliance with all extant traffic rules and regulations while operatives of the Lagos State

Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) would also work on a shift basis, in which road and traffic management operations shall be on till 11: pm.

The order also directed the Lagos State Public Works Corporation (LSPWC) to identify and commence repairs of all potholes and bad roads within the state.

According to the residents, these first steps by Sanwo-Olu, portrayed positivism, urging him, however, to stay focused and not

Lagos upgrades TB control interventions

L

agos State government has upgraded its Tuberculosis (TB) control interventions in order to reduce prevalence of the disease in the state.

Titilayo Goncelves, permanent secretary, ministry of health, stated this during a facility tour to some TB Direct Observed Treatment (DOT) centres in the state.

According to Goncalves, the upgrade is aimed at addressing issues of human resources, sputum collection and transportation.

The upgrade, she noted, would aid data gathering, patient followup, community sensitisation, as well awareness in the effort to prevent and treat tuberculosis.

She said that the ministry, with support of the Global Fund and other TB control implementing partners, had begun implementation of interventions. “ We h a v e r e c r u i t e d a n d trained personnel who will help with data gathering and patient follow-up and these include, and not limited to cough officers, contact tracers and linkage officers,“ she said.

Goncalves said the facility tour of the TB DOT centres was to enable the ministry get firsthand information on challenges confronting each centre on the TB programme implementation with the aim of addressing them.

“The facility tour had also pro-

vided an avenue to pay advocacy visits to community leaders and traditional rulers to seek support for implementation of the interventions.

“At Iwaya Primary Health Centre, a number of challenges have been identified, including logistics with sputum transportation and workers’ attitude, which are being looked into already,” said she.

Goncalves urged stakeholders to put more efforts in the drive to control and eradicate the disease.

She advised members of the public to seek appropriate care if they had symptoms of prolonged cough accompanied with weight loss and profuse sweating.

Court remands man for defiling 14-yr-old

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n Ikeja Chief Magistrate Court on Friday remanded a 50-year man, Sunday Salami, in prison for allegedly defiling his neighbour’s 14-year daughter.

The chief magistrate, Olufunke Sule- Amzat, who did not take the plea of the defendant, ordered that he should be remanded in Kirikiri Prisons.

Sule-Amzat ordered the police to send the case file to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for advice.

The defendant, who lives in Bariga area of Lagos, is facing one-count charge of defilement.

The police prosecutor, Benson Emuerhi, told the court that the defendant on May 2, defiled the minor in his residence.

He said that the complainant’s

parents reported the case to the police and the accused was arrested.

The offence, he said, contravened the provisions of Section 137 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State 2015.

Section 137 of the criminal laws prescribes 14 years imprisonment for defilement, if found guilty. The case has been adjourned till June 3.

distracted by vagaries of office.

Olanrewaju Dunmiju, a screen printer at Alimosho area of the state, said he was pleased with the first steps.

“Let’s put party difference aside. He has started very well with his actions on traffic, waste and potholes. I appreciate the way he visited the family of the late LASTMA official that was crushed by a truck, his visit to Apapa and his directive on LASTMA operations.”

Dunmiju also commended Sanwo-Olu for carrying his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, along, and urged him never to allow anyone to make him derail.

Also, Gift Wejem, a furniture maker, commended the governor for his initial steps, and called on him to ensure that the common man feels the impact of his governance.

“Those directives are good, but we must wait until we see the impact of his government on ordinary people, the businessmen and women, the transporters and others.”

Also reacting, Olatunde Owoeye-Wise, a human rights activist, said that Sanwo-Olu’s first day in office had shown that he meant business, urging him to live up to all his promises.

Owoeye-Wise said: “That is a good start. We pray that he is able to do something visible according to his promise.”

He urged the governor to ensure adherence to the rule of law and respect to the fundamental human rights of all citizens.

A clergyman, Lanre Ikumogunniyi, also commended Sanwo-Olu for some of the steps taken on his first day in office, “it shows he is well acquainted with the challenges facing the state,” he said.

Ikumogunniyi, a retired civil servant, however, urged SanwoOlu to always consult well before taking decisions on issues, to avoid backlash.

Official seeks improved welfare for inmates in Ikoyi Prisons …as 150 inmates cramped in one room

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gunshakin Ajiboye, a Deputy Controller of Prisons, in charge of the Ikoyi Prisons, Lagos, has urged corporate organisations and philanthropists to complement government’s efforts in taking care of inmates.

Ajiboye made the appeal on Friday when Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) donated food items and relief materials to the prisons’ inmates.

Receiving the items on behalf of the inmates, Ajiboye commended the company and urged other Nigerians of goodwill and corporates to emulate.

“The welfare of prisoners is of paramount importance to government, and every effort by organisations and kind-hearted individuals will assist greatly in achieving that aim.”

He bemoaned the fact that the prisons with a capacity for 800, currently hosts over 2,937 inmates. According to him, 2,444 out of 2,937 inmates are waiting trial, while 493 had

been sentenced.

“The rooms are over-crowded; we have between 120 inmates and 150 inmates occupying a room. I appeal to the Lagos State Government to always turn minor cases to community services or award them little fines than sentence which adds to the congestion,” he said.

Ajiboye said that some inmates had acquired vast knowledge from the prisons which had reformed their characters and would make their attitudes to conform to societal norms on their release.

He said that over 80 inmates in the prisons sat for GCE while 57 wrote the JAMB examinations and scored over 180 marks, while some inmates were studying at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).

“Getting science teachers to teach the inmates has been a major challenge to the prisons.

We urge corporate organisations and NGOs to assist in that direction,’’ he added.

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Sunday 02 June 2019

Politics House speakership race sets Bago against Gbajabiamila James Kwen, Abuja

A

head of the June 11 proclamation of the 9th Assembly of the House of Representatives, the hotly contested race for the Speaker of the House is gradually narrowing down to two top contenders, Femi Gbajabiamila (APC, Lagos) and Umar Bago (APC, Niger).

While Gbajabiamila has been adopted by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for the job, Bago is contesting on the ground of what pundits described as ‘popular demand’.

Consequently, the question many observers are asking is: “Can Bago be another Dogara” in this contest?

Recall that the outgoing Speaker of the House, Yakuba Dogara ascended the throne of the number four person in the country’s political hierarchy in 2015 against the plan of his then party, the APC. Dogara became speaker on June 9, 2015 under APC when he defied APC decision for current House Leader, Gbajabiamila emerge Speaker of the 8th Assembly.

He scored 182 votes, defeating Gbajabiamila who got 174 votes, while four votes were voided. Dogara joined forces with some APC members at the time along with PDP lawmakers who gave him overwhelming support. The APC had 213 members at the time, while PDP had about 140 lawmakers.

There are strong indications that the same script would be acted in the 9th Assembly leadership selection as there seems to be stiff opposition against the APC Gbajabiamila both within and outside the party.

As it is now, one aspirant that is likely to emerge in the circumstances that Dogara emerged is Bago who is favoured by ethnic agitation, independence from party control or godfatherism, inter-party acceptability and popularity.

By ethnic agitation or zoning which is a major factor in Nigerian politics, Bago is favoured because he is from the North-Central State of Niger. North-Central which harbours minority ethnicities in the Middle Belt region has argued validly that it deserved the office of Speaker for fairness, justice and ethnicity.

The North-Central APC caucus in the House of Representatives has been emphatic that the South-West geopolitical zone where Gbajabiamila hailed from, presently has the Vice President, Yemi Osibanjo and in terms of party patronage, North-Central had produced the third highest block of votes that brought back APC into power.

The caucus led by John Dyegh (Benue) had called on the party to consider the power sharing formula in the country and the overwhelming support given the party in 2015 and 2019 and accordingly reward the central zone.

“We the members of the North Central Caucus of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the House of Representatives called this briefing to express our position with respect to the leadership position of the

Femi Gbajabiamila

9th assembly.

“It is in this regard that we humbly wish to appeal to our great party, the APC, to strongly consider the North Central geo-political zone for the position of Speaker of the House of Representatives in the 9th assembly. Our position is based on the following reasons: “Zoning the position of speaker to the North Central will satisfy and advance the cause of equity since the North-west and South-west already have the presidency and vice presidency respectively.

“We note that apart from the North West and North-East, the North Central zone delivered handsomely for the party in the general elections and as such needs to be rewarded for the hard work and loyalty.

“The need to ensure balance and spread between and among the six geo-political zones has made it imperative to give prime consideration to the North Central zone to produce the position of speaker”, Dyegh demanded.

In the North-Central zone, the only aspirant in race for the Speaker is Dyegh from Benue who is already working with Bago with likelihood of the former backing the latter for a joint struggle for the recognition of the zone by the APC in the sharing of leadership positions.

As Bago had noted, “he (Dyegh) came to us, to identify with our cause and that he also believes in the North-Central speakership project. Therefore, he wants us to form an alliance so that we can foster the aspiration of the North-Central. If we are able to achieve that, then we will choose among ourselves one person that will go for the position.

“I started this issue of equity, justice and

Umar Bago

fairness, and all of them have lent their voices to my struggle because it is a collective one.

Is it the decision of the National Executive Committee or National Working Committee.

Who decided; who and who sat? We need the minutes of the meeting that decided that they would endorse people. You can micromanage the situation to say, ‘take it to this zone or that zone’, you cannot microzone to an individual. It shows desperation of an aspiration.

“The ‘coup d’état’ that brought the APC to government was orchestrated in the National Assembly, particularly in the House of Representatives and (the national leader of the APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, from outside), was part of the coup d’état. He provided the

If they are taking the speakership to the South-West, they should take the Senate presidency to the NorthWest. If you are giving the Vice-President, the Speaker; give the President, the Senate President to balance it

tools that were used and the awareness of members. Because we understand his ways, we are very wary of what he wants to do”.

Dyegh also concurred that, “it was a solidarity meeting so that the speakership will come to the North-Central. Bago is not my enemy; he is my friend. My visiting him was in solidarity, to show to the world that this thing that we are doing is in friendship and it must come to the North-Central. We must work together and make sure that it comes to the zone.

“We feel it is ours; any other persons doing it are just trying their luck. It is not over until it is over. We still think there is room for negotiation. We still feel very strongly that the party made a mistake by taking it to the South-West which already has the Vice-President.

“If they are taking the speakership to the South-West, they should take the Senate presidency to the North-West. If you are giving the Vice-President, the Speaker; give the President, the Senate President to balance it.

“Nigeria belongs to all of us; it does not belong to individuals. The North-Central has worked for the unity of this country for the APC and the government of the day, particularly President Muhammadu Buhari’s re-election.

“Why would they think that our votes don’t matter? We brought the third largest votes over and above the South-West. So, why would they take what rightly belongs to us and give it to the South-West which already has the Vice-President? These are the points we are raising”.

Also, Bago more than any other candidate has the express backing of his home state,

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13

Politics Niger and the Governor of his State, Abubakar Bello who is lobbying other governors and APC chieftains in the entire 19 northern states to support his candidature.

Bello had told members-elect during their induction that, “going by our own record since 2015 to 2019, when you check the record, Niger State is about rated 6th in terms of performance when it comes to delivery for APC in presidential elections.

“This particular position of speakership is not in contest and it is not a miscalculation when you check the record since 2015, we have a zoning pattern. The essence of zoning is to reduce tension and allow other regions to benefit.

“The people of Niger State, we are appealing to all the members-elect that this particular position should come to North Central, and to Niger State.

“We as a government will do everything humanly possible, both in morale support and otherwise, to ensure this position come to Niger State”.

On the other hand, unlike Gbajabiamila who apart from being endorsed by his party, the APC, is the candidate of the National Leader of the party, Tinubu, Bago is more or less an independent candidate who is not representing a party agenda or that of any political godfather.

Rather, Bago who openly declared that he has no godfather as the race for Speaker is concerned, said his ambition was to correct the imbalance orchestrated by his party, stressing that he wouldn’t have bothered if the APC zoned the position to South-East, South-South or North-Central.

According to him, “The North West, South West and North East have all produced five different speakers between them. The SouthSouth, North East, South East and South West have also produced five deputy speakers among themselves since 1999.

“What does the North Central has in the entire equation, and they want us to keep mute? Who’s speaking for the zone that has never been recognised for keeping faith with the party?

“Despite all the crises and challenges bedeviling the zone under the APC administration, we stayed the course for the party and the President, delivering more than 70 percent of vote cast”, he argued.

Bago noted that the party has no basis for insisting on a zone that has serially dominated governance in the last 20 years, saying: “What’s the southwest’s contribution to the party’s victory in the last elections compared to that of the North Central?

“As such, we deserve the position, not on basis of state but also as a zone. So, nobody can say he wants to expel us from this party.

And no one will singlehandedly take over the structure of the legislature as well as the party.

“Apart from the zoning argument, if you say the South must get something, why insist on Southwest, why not South-South or the South East?

“But then, in terms of representation in the party and government, the South-South has the chairmanship of the party, and the Southwest has VP, what does North Central have? Nothing”.

Also, unlike Gbajabiamila the anointed candidate of APC who has not dispelled the threat of his party that the opposition, particularly the PDP, would not head committees, Bago had at the pseudo-screening of candidates by the PDP promised that there would be proportionate allocation of com-

mittees under his leadership.

Adams Oshipmhole, APC National chairman had insisted that they would not share power with the opposition PDP at the National Assembly even in the headship of Committees.

“We will not share power in the House of Representatives and the leadership must ensure that critical Committees that drive government are shared only among APC members. So, all the Chairmen of Committees except one that I know it is statutorily reserved for opposition which is public account; we will have that.

“So, we will not do the kind of thing that happened the last time in which some APC members as members of the leading party became spectators in the management of the Committees when PDP has majority of strategic Committees. That will not happen in the next Assembly”, Oshiomhole instructed.

Furthermore, Bago appears to be enjoying inter - party support as he received thunder of accolades more than other aspirants during the presentation at the PDP caucus while none of the aspirants has spoken against his aspiration even as most of them have asked APC to rescind the zoning decision to South-West and that Gbajabiamila should step down.

For instance, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, a speakership aspirant from South-East, asked the party to rescind its zoning decision to South West and called on Gbajabiamila to withdraw from the race.

“I am appealing to them that it is not yet late to rescind their decision to include a woman to clip the two geopolitical zones that were left out ab initio. Also the leader of the House, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, there is time in somebody’s life that any leader should make sacrifice and that time is now for the leader of my party, and the leader of the 8th Assembly,” she said.

Similarly, Chike Okafor, another contender from South-East, also told APC to sacrifice Gbajabiamila, in the interest of national unity.

“The party should be able to sacrifice merit and competence to be able to accommodate social justice, fairness, and to embrace unity.

“The party will also find competence and merit in other people who are also aspiring.

We are not saying sacrifice merit and competence and go and pick a neophyte or go and pick a non-ranking member. No. That is not what we are saying and I will not stand here because of my ambition and not allude to fact that the party’s choice is ably qualified,” Okafor said.

Only recently Bago’s candidacy received major boost as 156 members-elect reportedly declared their support and promised to vote for him during the election.

The Director of Media and Publicity of Bago’s Campaign, Afam Ogene, while reacting to the endorsement, said: “We have been meeting and we will continue to meet because ours is ideal to ensure equity and fairness among the six geopolitical zones of the country”.

According to him, “We believe that Hon. Bago is more than qualified to be Speaker, and coming from the North Central that has never occupied the position, we are sure he will be elected”.

There are strong indications in the House of Representatives that majority of the returning lawmakers and a section of the APC have teamed up with Bago and are seriously working against the combatant-like disposition of Oshiomhole and Tinubu to hijack the leadership of the House.

Ogun Assembly reverses Amosun’s appointments of 18 perm secs; 75 monarchs, others

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RAZAQ AYINLA, Abeokuta

aving declared all the appointments made between 1st of February and 28th May 2019 as last minute exercise created by immediate past Governor Ibikunle Amosun which didn’t follow due process, the Ogun State House of Assembly has passed a bill and three resolutions nullifying all appointments of permanent secretaries and general managers, employments of staff into Civil Service and upgrading of Baales and Chiefs to Coronet Obas.

Recall that former Governor Amosun was on April 10 appointed 18 permanent secretaries and two general managers for Ogun State Broadcasting Corporation (OGBC) and Ogun State Television; employments of 2,000 staff into the State Civil Service and upgrading of new 75 Baales and Chiefs to the position of Coronet Obas.

Speaking on the floor of the House on Friday, Speaker of the Assembly, Suraju Ishola Adekunbi, who had earlier announced the appointment of Olusola Sonuga as its new Majority Leader after due consultation with members of the majority party - the All Progressives Congress (APC), reeled out reversal of all the appointments, employments and upgrading undertaken during the tenure of immediate past government.

The passage of the bill entitled ‘H. B 047/OG/2019- Nullification of Irregularities (Amendment) Law, 2019’ at the plenary presided over by Speaker Suraju Ishola Adekunbi, followed the suspension of the Assembly’s standing orders 45 - 48 to allow for the consecutive second and third readings of the bill.

Consequently, after the first reading of the bill on the floor of the Assembly by the Deputy Clerk, Deji Adeyemo and extensive debate by members of the Assembly during its second reading, motion for the third reading was moved by the new Majority Leader, Olusola Sonuga, seconded by Olawale Alausa and supported by the Whole House through a voice vote by the Whole House at the Assembly Complex at Oke-Mosan in Abeokuta.

Earlier, while opening debate on the bill, Deputy Speaker, Olakunle Oluomo, noted that the bill was an amendment to the one earlier passed by the Assembly at the inception of Ibikunle Amosun administration to reverse all irregularities especially on employment of over 2, 000 workers purportedly appointed by the then Daniel administration few months to the take off of the Amosun administration.

Earlier in their separate submissions, members including the Deputy Speaker, Olakunle Oluomo; Akinpelu Aina, Olusola Bankole, Olusola Sonuga and Adebowale Ojuri, said the last minute appointments, upgrading and employment by the last administration did not follow due process, lacked merit, not in good faith and was lopsided.

They equally submitted that all fi-

Ibikunle Amosun

nancial transactions with any financial institution done by the administration not approved through the House of Assembly resolution should not be honoured by the current government.

Adeyemo thereafter, did the third reading of the bill, while Speaker Adekunbi directed that the clean copy of the bill should be forwarded to the new Governor, Dapo Abiodun, for his assent.

The Assembly passed a resolution directing the State Government to immediately dissolve all chairmen and members of statutory boards and parastatals having been paid their severance allowance by the immediate past administration. The lawmakers urged all chairmen to hand over government property within their custody to the most senior Director or Public servant in their agency for continuous operation of government activities.

In a related development, the Assembly through a resolution has equally suspended all political functionaries in all Local Government Councils and Local Council Development Councils (LCDAs) in the state.

Consequently, it directed all Local Government political office holders to hand over to the Head of Local Government Administration in their respective councils and LCDAs, while enjoining the Chairmen and House leaders to appear before the Assembly on 7th of June, 2019 for appropriate investigation on allegations of gross misconduct and misappropriation of public fund in petitions earlier submitted against some of the local government chairmen.

The Assembly unanimously passed another resolution calling for the reversal and review of all the upgrading of traditional rulers including Obas and Baales done within the same period for holistic assessment by the new administration with a view to promoting peaceful coexistence and entrenching good governance in the state.

In their separate remarks, Akinpelu Aina , Viwanu Ojo, Olawale Alausa , Israel Jolaoso, Rasaq Oduntan and Adebiyi Adeleye citing instances of the irregularities, reported that there were series of complaints on the promotion and appointments of new monarchs, saying that the traditional institutions and relevant stakeholders were not consulted.

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Sunday 02 June 2019

Politics Fred Agbedi: Bringing honour, rich political history to Bayelsa guber race Samuel Ese, Yenagoa

W

ith the release of the election timetable for the next governorship election in Bayelsa State by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which fixed political party primary elections for August this year, the search has begun for the next governor of the state.

An array of governorship hopefuls is already joining the fray and one man who brings honour and a rich political history to the contest for the candidature of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is Frederick Yeitiemone Agbedi, member representing Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

Humble with a charming smile, innocuous laughter and a demure appearance, Agbedi is one man who has been through thick and thin in his efforts to make his mark in the political arena and been at the forefront of struggles for Bayelsa’s political emancipation and infrastructural development.

Agbedi was born 58 years ago at Aghoro, a riverine community on the Atlantic coast in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, a few kilometers away from Agge, the proposed terminal of the long talked about SagbamaEkeremor-Agge Road.

He had his primary education at State School, Aghoro where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate and proceeded to Oproza Grammar School, Patani in Delta State for his West African School Certificate.

Not done, he attended the College of Education, Warri, Delta State where he bagged the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) majoring in English and History and later the University of Port Harcourt for a BA (Education) English before going on to obtain a Masters In Public Administration from the University of Abuja.

As a teacher, Agbedi had excelled, but he soon turned to the mainstream civil service where he functioned as a confidential secretary to the Secretary, Local Teaching Service Committee and also Pay Officer in the 1980s.

Within this same period, he was also a member of Ad Hoc

Fred Agbedi

Committee on Verification of Primary/Post Primary School Teachers and Confidential Secretary to the Military Panel on Screening and Verification of Staff of Burutu Local Government Area, Delta State.

Leaving the civil service, the young Agbedi ventured into private business, but it was in the political that he made his mark; from being Secretary, National Republican Convention (NRC), Ekeremor Local Government Area from 1992 to 1993, he became one of the youngest members of the National Assembly when he represented Ekeremor Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives from 1992 to 1993.

As a member of the House of Representatives, his sterling qualities were soon noticed and he served as a member, Public Accounts Committee as well as the Sports and Youth Development Committee.

As the political horizon changed, he joined the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP) and was a member of the party’s screening committee for House of Assembly aspirants in Bayelsa State.

From there, recognising the need to aspire higher to meet the needs of his people, he contested the UNCP Bayelsa West Senatorial District primary election in 1998 where he ended as first runner-up.

He later joined the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) at the ward level; Ekeremor Ward 11,

served as Special Assistant to the Chairman, 2001 PDP Computerised Membership Registration Committee, Bayelsa State.

Agbedi was also a member and secretary of the PDP National Committee on Supervising, Monitoring and Conduct of Congresses/Convention 2001 in Abia State and contested the Bayelsa West Senatorial primary election in 2002.

Among the various positions he held in the party are member, Transitional Committee on Handover of Power in Government of Bayelsa State, 2007 and later state Chairman, PDP, a position he occupied from 2005 until February 2008.

He was twice Director-General of Governor Henry Seriake

Dickson’s campaigns in 2012 and 2015 when the governor was elected for his second term in office and was also a Senior Legislative Aide to the President of the Senate among several appointments.

In 2015, he contested the and won the Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives where he served member of several House committees and was reelected this year for a second tenure due to his sterling contributions on the floor of the House.

Agbedi is Chairman House Committee on Gas Resources, a position that he has used to impact positively on his constituents, especially as his community, Aghoro is an oil producing with several oil wells.

His impressive scorecard cuts across several areas of the economy and political spheres including empowerment, education, infrastructural development, quality and effective representation as well as accountability and transparency.

Perhaps, it is the acute need for development in his area that has suffered years of devastation from crude oil exploitation and exploration coupled with the marshy terrain that has been seen as a nightmare to several governments development efforts that fueled his quest for political power to enable him add verve to development efforts.

Agbedi has contributed to efforts at development of infrastructure in his constituency in the past four years; for instance he has seen the construction of the Amazor-Agge-Palm BushOgbointu-Orobiri-Amatu I communities concrete road and culverts.

As a member of the House of Representatives, his sterling qualities were soon noticed and he served as a member, Public Accounts Committee as well as the Sports and Youth Development Committee

There is also the construction of a concrete road with drainage from Aghoro II Civic Centre to the GRA both in Ekeremor Local Government Area as well as maintenance of Toru EbeniOkumbiri road off YenagoaMbiama and Amassoma roads.

He has helped in the provision of solar street lights across several communities in the constituency, provided electricity generating sets and renovated some existing structures that required facelift.

Worthy of note is the provision of return tickets to several Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) students stranded abroad and made N100,000 monthly contribution to the Bayelsa Educational Development Trust Fund since May 2018.

Others humanitarian accomplishments worthy of mention are payment of education support fees, maintenance and accommodation to an innumerable number of students within and outside his constituency and elsewhere in the country.

As a result of his selfless contributions to human and infrastructural development, he has been given several chieftaincy titles including the Izon Ebidoowei by the Pere and Chiefs Council of Kumbowei Kingdom for his contributions towards uplifting the Ijaw nation and its people.

He has also received numerous awards of recognitions including Face of Bayelsa in the National Assembly by Bayelsa Media Award and he was recently conferred with the Legislator of the Year Award by the Ijaw National Merit Award.

These contributions are reasons why he is both adored and eulogised by his people and constituents alike who see in him a leader that carries the pains and burden of the people on his shoulders and ever ready to render assistance and service whenever he is called upon.

A loving husband and caring father, Agbedi likes playing table tennis and volleyball, enjoys reading and traveling while not neglecting swimming, which comes to him naturally as an Ijaw man from a riverine terrain.

Such are the natural endowments of the man who is seeking to take the mantle of leadership from incumbent Governor Dickson to continue the upward trajectory of development in Bayelsa State, The Glory of All Lands.

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BDSUNDAY 15

Interview ‘It’s unfortunate, some bad eggs dent great exploits of Nigerians in US’

Magna Faith is a woman of many parts- media entrepreneur, mentor of presenters and entrepreneurs, a broadcaster of note who anchors several broadcast programmes in the United States that deal with the Africans in the Diaspora, especially Nigerians, focusing on their lifestyle; tracking their investments and entrepreneurship as well as treatments and relationship of Africans with the Americans. Although, Magna Faith is US-based, she is a Nigerian who hails from Karim in Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State in the North East. In this interview, she spoke with RAZAQ AYINLA on Nigerians’ experiences in foreign lands. Excerpts: How has been your Entrepreneurship journey so far, especially in the foreign land? yentrepreneurship journey has been an interesting one.

First, I realised that it is not about making money, it is about solving problems for societal development, and if at all you eventually make enough money while solving a problem, what you use the money for matters so much. Nevertheless, impacting lives has been the most gratifying for me in my entrepreneurship journey. As I have said earlier, entrepreneurship is more about solving a problem. People have identified various gaps, but the most pressing for me are leadership, mentorship, quality education, empowerment and capacity building for youth, women and the girl child in the society.

Having lived in Nigeria and the US, how can you describe your experience in both countries?

I have acquired knowledge and mastery in diverse areas through my experience in Nigeria and exposure to the US Corporate and Academic world. While it’s been very challenging traveling between both countries, I have garnered great experience in the United States and also in my home country Nigeria. See, the US has a large and stable economy that encourages freedom of speech and expression. More importantly and especially for my business, freedom of the press and media. Hence, diverse media outlets offer different perspectives. I found, what was organic within the US system like adequate education at college level, comfortable housing, relative security, energy, latest technology, access to great healthcare, and high overall standard of living among others were advantages I personally experienced. On the other hand, the ethnic diversity and its influence on culture in Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, aiding me to speak more than one language, the infrastructural challenges we have in a nation, abundance of land, but yet high cost of living, income inequality, insecurity, community and societal engagements, among others, are all evidences of how different both nations are.

How would you rate the performance of Nigerians abroad?

Wow! This is an interesting question. Nigerians are doing awesome things abroad; you really need to come see these things for yourself. Our people are movers, shakers and ground breakers. Nevertheless, the bad eggs seem to be denting the image of the good ones.

It is quite unfortunate that we read more of bad news about Nigerians abroad than the good ones. On my show - The MagnaMomentum show which is an offspring of FootPrints of Nigerians in the Diaspora- showcases and highlights the great and unique things Nigerians

M

>>

Magna Faith

are doing in the Diaspora. Millions of Nigerians have emigrated from Nigeria and in 2012 alone Nigerians in the Diaspora remitted $21billion, $38billion in 2017 to Nigeria and currently are the most educated ethnic group in the U.S. Bear in mind that most members of the Nigerian Diaspora maintain strong ties with their families, friends and relatives back in Nigeria. While, there has been limited formal studies of we, Nigerians in the Diaspora we are the highest percentage of Bachelor Degree holders among Africa immigrants.

What can you say about Nigerians who invest heavily abroad?

For me, Nigerians investing abroad is a challenge we all must curb. When you look around, you hearing large figures investment

by Nigerians abroad and this sometimes makes you wonder why they refuse to invest these money in their homeland. It is wrong, I believe greater security on investment and resources will promote more investments in Nigeria. We must continue to highlight the potential of the Nigerian Diaspora as evident source of not only economic but social development. I see where Nigerians abroad fear that issues of insecurity, escalation of banditry, and rapid increase of violence in the North Central part amongst other factors will deter

economic prosperity and other initiatives. A major concern is the grand corruption that the nation has seen which is central to economic policies. Nigeria’s poor infrastructure and challenging business environment has discouraged not only her Diaspora but also foreign investors. The western world has done well with regards to facilitating the mobilisation of investment and talent. We must do likewise and leverage the emotional connection we as Nigerian Diasporas have with our home country.

Apparently, you have interviewed some of the shakers and movers in Nigeria and abroad.

What has been your take out from them?

That is true. That is what MagnaMomentum represents. We feature people of African descent especially Nigerians in the Diaspora and discuss issues across various spheres. My take out from most episodes is that, media and the society will do well if we amplify authentic voices, people who truly make a difference, inspire and cause change. People are results of information they feed on. We must ensure that what we have on our screens are what we want our children to become.

How are you giving back to Nigeria?

Recently, I co-founded a school

aimed at improving the quality of education and special education in Nigeria. “JK Academy” named after my father Deputy Inspector General of Police (Rtd) Jonathan Johnson Krimi who served Nigeria and instilled in me the mindset of service birth a scholarship program JK Foundation Schools Fund which provides free education for internally displaced people. I coach and mentor youth, young adults and even adult women, I facilitate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) programmes for youth, serve on several boards, facilitate vocational and skills acquisition programmes for women, present empowerment programmes, provide platforms for graduate internships and facilitate trade between organisations in the US and Nigeria.

What can you say about the current government?

The government is doing fine, but I believe there is always room for improvement with the support of the citizens and other stakeholders.

How would you describe Nigerian economy?

Many years of mismanagement and lack of leadership has stunted our economic growth. It is evident fact that outside of the energy sector our economy is inefficient.

Seeing, a decaying infrastructure, unreliable and/or almost no power supplies, from transportation, mining, foreign investments, underdeveloped human capital to endemic corruption which has tainted our business environment our economy is suffering. We must make progress towards achieving macroeconomic stability, accountability, poverty reduction, gender equality, good healthcare and more.

What are the roles of women in governance?

Women have a right and as much a part in government. Effective leadership can only be attained with the inclusion of women. Particularly crucial is gender diversity in public sphere. Inequality has destabilised the Nigerian economy especially our political systems, undermining resilience, precipitating grievances, and sowing the seeds of social unrest and conflict.

Women challenge conceptually the dimensions of inequality structural forms of discrimination and exclusion. Women bring about a fine balance in policies which reinforce economic inequality foster discrimination showing a roadmap to providing solution to our issues as a “People”.

Where do you see Nigeria in say, 10 years to come?

I see Nigeria getting better, a safe and enabling environment that will conducive for business and participation in public and community affairs. I see change in laws, policies and institutional arrangements with implementation of effective remedies. I am hopeful that we

will see a Nigeria where we enjoy freedom of expression, including the right of access to information, increased participation and engagement in public affairs by her citizenry. I am hopeful we will have a Nigeria that encourages freedom of media and safety of journalists, women and human rights defenders. A Nigeria where there is mutual respect, understanding and trust between public authorities and civil society. I see our citizenry having unlimited opportunities to live their dreams. I believe we can and, yes we will.

With all you have said, one will want to ask a simple questionwhat gave all these experiences?

I find this particular question interesting. About what I do, I have had a very interesting career prior to my current niche which is media, community building and SDGs. I have proven expertise in up-to-date HR management, organisational leadership, project management and technological practices. I have had the advantage of providing mentorship and training for youth and women under United Nations and African Union affiliated organisations.

I specialised in maximising individuals and groups’ talents through setting strategies, team building and resource optimisation. In my collaborations with international organisations, I have managed over 600 financial portfolios and provided capacity structure for them. I have mobilised for partnership with various global agencies, facilitating trade in Africa, United States and the rest of the Western World. I also provide culturally competent programmes to local and international corporations as well as promoting their interest.

On my SDGs activities, in a bid to uphold quality education, I founded JK Academy, an elementary and secondary school in Nigeria to support the less-privileged in society.

Under the umbrella of the African Union, our team facilitated the 1st Annual STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) camp for children of African descent in the District of Columbia. I serve as Media Consultant for candidates of African descent running for office in the Diaspora. I have experience serving as Adjunct lecturer for Impact SilverSpring; I currently serve as Executive Director, African Global Center, Vice President, Global Progressive Women’s Network, Member, United Nations Women National Committee, Ambassador, 1000 African Women Network, Member, United African Congress, Member, Women Speakers Association USA, Member, United Nations Committee on the Status of Women, Ambassador, Libertad Foundation, Member, Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation, Ambassador Lady B Bless Humanitarian Foundation and Chair BOD, Jonathan Krimi Foundation, among other designations.

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Sunday 02 June 2019

Interview Nigerians cannot shield criminals in their neighborhood and expect government to attract investors - Buhari President Muhammadu Buhari recently spoke to the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) where he appealed to Nigerians to help government fight insecurity by exposing criminal elements in their neighborhood. He also used the opportunity to unfold his socio-economic and political blueprint as he begins his 2nd term in office. BusinessDay State House Correspondent, TONY AILEMEN and INIOBONG IWOK, monitored the interview. Excerpts:

Y

ou took over the affairs of the country in 2015, promising to address the issues of security, economy and corruption. Looking back, what would you say you are most happy about?

I think it is the relief to the people of North East, especially, for degrading the Boko Haram.

If you go to the North East, you will find out that they controlled up to 17 local governments in Borno State alone, before 2015, but they are no longer holding any local government now. They have resorted to holding some islands in the Lake Chad region, indoctrinating young people, especially girls, strapping them with explosives and sending them to soft targets such as mosques, markets and motor parks. So, really, in our first term, and in our tasks of securing the country, we have achieved some success. In the area of economy, we are very lucky, God heard our prayers the last rainy season was good, we made fertilizers and some other inputs available and we have virtually achieved food security.

Still on the last four years, what are those things that created frustrations for you as President?

Well, my worries were that we could not move faster in prosecution and punishment of looters of public funds. We have made some progress though.

We recovered a number of fixed assets and money in banks in Europe and America. But under this system, you can’t be too much in a hurry. Even if you get information from whistleblowers, you have to get the police to go through the rigmarole of full investigations before prosecution. That has been my biggest frustration really.

What lessons would you say you have learnt so far, dealing with politicians and political office holders in the course of discharging your responsibilities as President?

Well, everybody is minding their responsibilities to their immediate constituencies. They continue to impress on their constituencies that they are doing well. But the frustration is that it is taking too long, by my own hope. I want to see that people are punished for the crimes they commit, especially those who have looted and frustrated the economic development of the country. This is because the resources

President Muhammadu Buhari

we have been getting as revenue, we ought to put into developing infrastructure, like roads, rails, power that will enable Nigerians improve their businesses.

But when the infrastructure is lacking, there isn’t much we can achieve as a people.

In the build up to the 2019 general elections, the so-called Nigerian elite, as you normally to call them, campaigned vigorously against your re-election.

Do you feel betrayed?

Well, l only know that the so-called Nigerian elite want to impress on the majority of Nigerians that they do dictate the terms to government at all levels, both the Central, States and the Local governments.

That we understand very well.

But don’t forget that l contested three times before l won the election the fourth time. In 2003, 2007 and 2011, l ended up at the Supreme Court. So, really, l understand Nigerian politics.

But l found out that the elite are just for themselves, which was why l don’t worry myself about their threats and what they felt they could do. And I am happy, l proved myself right.

”

This is because there is a failure of neighborhood security, in the sense that those who are perpetrating these atrocities against communities against the states and the country, come from somewhere in Nigeria, they have neighbours

I hope they will appreciate what sacrifices Nigerians have been making to make them to continue enjoying the positions they have achieved, either materially or politically. Nigerians having trusted me, voted for me overwhelmingly. I visited all the states, including Abuja. The people who turned out to listen to me and welcome me were more than what anybody could buy, or forced to come and see me. I think that Nigerians really understand me and therefore, l am not surprised that they are backing me.

You never doubted your chances of winning the election and you won with 15.1million votes. What gave you so much confidence?

Well, again, l was confident because l know that Nigerians understand me. Don’t forget that l had earlier tried three times and it was only the fourth time that l won and there is no local government I have not visited in this country, not to talk of states. I had visited all the 774 local governments, between 2003 and 2011.

Most of the time, l either go by road or l used boats, only very few places by air, because l was

on my own.

It was said recently that the relationship between the Executive and the 8th National Assembly wasn’t the best. To what would you attribute their uncooperative attitude?

I think a culture was developed in the National Assembly that they should dictate the terms, which was wrong. It is the Executive who dictates the terms and place them before the Legislature, who should examine and agree or disagree with them. But when they go around assuming they are the government, then there is a problem. I spoke personally to the Senate President, Bukola Saraki and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara. I asked them how they felt holding the country to ransom for seven months, without passing the budget. I said they were not hurting me, but hurting the country. So, really, in terms of patriotism, l rate them very, very low, indeed.

Have their actions in anyway affected the performance of your government?

Well, there is a Constitution and there are things that have to go through them. There was nothing l could do. To hold down the budget for seven months cannot be justified if you really bother about your country.

Mr. President, security is still a major challenge despite the fact that you had degraded the Boko Haram. Kidnapping for ransom is also an issue. How do you feel about this?

I feel very bad indeed. This is because there is a failure of neighborhood security, in the sense that those who are perpetrating these atrocities against communities against the states and the country, come from somewhere in Nigeria, they have neighbours.

The traditional rulers and of course the Police are on the frontline. There are police in every major city in this country. And I think they were not given the rifles and uniforms to impress anybody, but to secure the people. I think the community leaders and the police have failed this country.

What assurances are you giving Nigerians as you move to the Next Level?

The assurance l am giving Nigerians is that, l will continue to do my best.

So, Mr. President, In the face of these security challenges, how will you rate the performance of the Service Chiefs and other Security agencies?

You see, all of my life in ser-

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BDSUNDAY 17

Interview

President Muhammadu Buhari

vice, l had gone through all these things. I did virtually all the Staff and Command duties from Platoon of 36 or 40 people, to Divisions. I was the only officer in the Nigerian Army that commanded three out of the four Divisions then. These were the First Division in Lagos, the Second Division in Ibadan and the Third Division in Jos. I cannot say what happened to the security of the county after l left the Military, the way l left. But definitely, l did not know person to person amongst all the Service Chiefs, but l think l defended our records very well. When we have cases of emergency, l don’t think it is the time to start organising or disorganising the Military. You have to take your time to do it because, these are institutions that know that every Nigerian depends on a strong center. There are no State Police, Army, Airforce or Navy. So, those people know more than ordinary Nigerians that the center has to hold for them to have security, both materials and physical security.

If they should allow the center to collapse, automatically, they are the ones leaving.

Are you satisfied with their performances? I understand that you have given them all that they really required?

I am used to very high standards. I told you I did all the Commands and so on, from 2nd Lieutenant to General. I am thinking of what happened between 1999 and 2014. I suspected a lot of things went wrong, including accountability and efficiency in all the enforcement agencies.

Mr. President, the last time

you promised members of the working committee of your party that you are going to expand your cabinet. That is yet to happen.

Are you likely to do so in your next level?

I have addressed members of the cabinet and said goodbye to them at least for the four years.

I still haven’t discussed it with anybody, and you will not be the first person l will discuss it with.

What kind of Ministers are you likely to have in the next four years?

When l addressed the cabinet, l said l am very pleased we did not have any major scandal.

This is a major achievement.

And anybody who hasn’t gotten any evidence against any of my ministers should have to trust me and my sense of judgment about which of the ministers l will retain and which ones l will say goodbye to and very sincerely, too. I won’t go beyond that because, like l said, l have not discussed it with anybody yet.

So, sir, as you begin your second term in office, is there anything you hope to do differently?

I will try to make the police and the judiciary work more efficiently. The police are in the frontline, they are supposed to be in the frontline for law and order. The only thing closer to the people than the police, are the people within the neighborhood. In some communities, if people steal, they know from which family or which kind of criminals they have. This is what l expect Nigerians and the police to achieve- absolute community

security. To know the criminals around them, so that they can deal with those who commit certain crimes and get them prosecuted.

I asked that question because some people have started speculating that you are likely to be more ruthless against those who do not mean well for the country, including criminal elements and economic saboteurs?

Well, it makes sense. We are making noise that people should bring their money to invest in our economy. Who will bring his or her hard earned money to invest when his General Manager or top officials will be abducted? So, all those screaming over lack of jobs and so on because we are not attracting capital investments should blame those who are not cooperating with law enforcement agencies to get the criminals amongst us out. The abductors and the ‘419ners’ live with them.

They know who they are. They cannot continue to accommodate these criminals and blame government for not attracting investments into the country.

The government cannot build all the required factories, provide all the employment and produce all the goods and services needed by the country.

What the government should do and is doing is to provide the security and convince the entrepreneurs, both local and foreign to come and invest, employ people and produce goods and services. What the ordinary Nigerians should do is to expose the criminal elements amongst us, including the kidnappers and

the thieves So, is it a confirmation that we are likely to see more of a General Buhari?

Well, I don’t know what you make of me, but ... (cuts in) They say you are going to be more ruthless...

Well, all those who call me Baba go slow, will see whether l am slow or fast.

What does that mean Sir? It means that l will fast-forward the police and the judiciary to be hard. And where l discover that they are not hard, l will try and trace who is responsible for the slowness from the Commanders and Divisional Police Officers DPOs, upward. The IGP alone cannot do everything. He has to depend of his Commissioners who will in turn depend on DPOs. One of your praise singers from Kano State has declared that “Those who should run, should run” is it the time?

Well, it is up to them. If they stay they will have to behave themselves. It is either they behave themselves or better run.

What is your message to Nigerians as you start the last lap of your administration and what do you expect from them?

My message to Nigerians is they should please expose the criminals in their neighborhood to help the government clear the country and attract foreign entrepreneurs to come and invest in the country, to create factories and employ people, to produce goods and services. This is what will move Nigeria forward. We cannot accommodate criminals in our neighborhood and start to blame government blindly; accusing government that nothing is being done.

You have been described differently by different peopleman of integrity, man of honour, incorruptible, etc. Some simply say you are phenomenal in Ni-

”

I have addressed members of the cabinet and said goodbye to them at least for the four years. I still haven’t discussed it with anybody, and you will not be the first person l will discuss it with

geria’s political landscape. How will you describe yourself personally? Who is Muhammadu Buhari?

Well, l like to start by praising the teachers of my generation.

I spent nine years in boarding school, three years in primary and six in secondary school. I think they do five years or four, now, I don’t know how many years.

The teachers then were treating children and students like we were all children. If you do well as a student, they praise you in the classroom and at the assembly hall which held daily, six times a week. If you misbehave, you will be flogged in front of your class or at the assembly hall. So, the best out of you is brought out physically and academically. You had to do well to survive. I was a class monitor, a junior prefect, a senior prefect and l was a Head Boy. Without good teachers, l wouldn’t have been able to do them.

So, who is Muhammadu Buhari?

I was a lieutenant in the Army in Lagos, during the first coup of 15th January, 1966. If you read about Nigeria’s history, you read about coup and counter coup, the Civil war, coup and the counter coup. I was in all of them, including being in detention for three and one quarter years. So, l am fully qualified as a suffering Nigerian.

So, Nigerians will like to know if there is any secret behind the remarkable way and manner people show you love and trust consistently, since joining partisan politics in 2003?

I thank Nigerians for putting me under the microscope and seeing the way l came through.

I was a governor, l was a Petroleum Minister for three and one quarter years, l was a Military Head of State before joining partisan politics.

I tried three times and ended up in the Supreme Court, three times, then l won 2015. In 2019, l won again. Really, for somebody who has been in the field for 20 years, I think if Nigerians show respect for me, l am grateful they are appreciating my efforts.

So, there is no secret about you?

There is no secret. The only thing is that l tried to survive. So, for those who are trying to survive, they have better continue to try harder. Eventually, they will succeed. It is a matter of trying harder and harder.

Recently, you got some people confused when you went to Saudi Arabia?

Confused about what?

They saw you running Yes! Try and understand the performance of Hajj in Umrah.

There is a certain place where you are expected to jug. This is what l was doing. I was trying to comply with the religious ways of doing it. I was begging God to lead me and make me succeed. I was doing it very hard.

They were wondering how a President could be running like that?

Who is a President before God? We are all equal and ordinary before God.

18

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Sunday 02 June 2019

Interview ‘Why government should implement Senior Citizen’s Law’ Atinuke Wuruola Owolabi has demonstrated love and care for the senior citizens and the needy widows in society. Owolabi’s love towards the needy was motivated her to set up ‘Touch Love and Lift Hand Foundation’, an organisation that caters for the needy. Speaking in an interview with Ngozi Okpalakunne in Lagos recently, the engineer-turned care giver delved into challenges facing the aged, needy widows and the girl–child in society. She also talked about the way forward. Excerpts:

W

hy the passion for the senior citizens in the country?

I am passionate about the senior citizens in Nigeria because many of them are neglected. It is not like that in other countries of the world, where there are good and well equipped old peoples’ home.

Here in Nigeria, l don’t think the government,corporatebodiesandwell meaningNigeriansaredoingenoughto alleviate the plight of the aged. l have an aged woman at home who is over 80 years of age, sometimes , when l look at her, despite the fact that she had children that are taking good care of her at home, she feels lonely especially when everyone in the house has gone out. l now said that this woman has children that could take care of her at home and she still feels lonely, what about those who are aged and do not have people that take care of them.

It was based on that l started thinking of moving around my area to bring together the aged, particularly those who are childless so as to give them sense of belonging and to eliminate loneliness, depression and other diseases associated with old age. So, we stated over three years ago in a two bedroom apartment. It is not residential, but we ran a daily rec-

reational and medical care for them.

They come there every morning to check their blood pressure level. If there is need for drug administration, there are medical personnel that will attend to them. After which they will relax and have fun. We also teach skills to those of them that can still do one thing or the other. It has really help to remove loneness and idleness from them.

We want to let them know that they are stakeholders and should be well catered for, l know that l cannot do it alone in my community. There is need for well meaning Nigerians to come to the aid of the aged in the society, many of them who retired from government service may not receive their pension because of the protocol involved before they die and these are people who served government with their strength only to be abandoned when they need love and care.

Besides, corporate organisations as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility should implement projects that will benefit the aged in the community they operate, such effort will go a long way in reducing the burden of the senior citizens who do not have people that will take care of them.

On the other hand, there is need

for the government to implement the Senior Citizen’s Law which was recently passed, they should also improve on the welfare of senior citizens and put them on monthly stipends.

In what ways can one plan so that he does not need to go through much difficulties in taking care of himself during old age?

People should be focused in life.

They should work hard while they are young. They should have a saving culture and also invest. One can invest on landed property early because land appreciates. When you invest on land while working, by the time you will retire you would have developed it and can make a living out of it during old age. But the problem is that most people don’t think of the rainy days, when one will not have the strength to work anymore as a result of old age. They lavish their hard earned resources on things that does not matter and when they are old, they cannot take care of themselves and all the challenges associated with old age.

There is also need to marry on time so as to raise children early.

Late marriage is not ideal. Take for instance, when one is involved in late marriage, the children will still be in school when such an individual is already tired, it will be difficult for such

engr-atinuke-owolabi_ pix a person to train his children at old age and proper training of children is very crucial. Children who are not well brought up academically, spiritually and socially will ultimately become a problem not only to the parents, but also to the society. So, parents should spend quality time to bring up their children in God’s way because they will not depart from it. They will grow up to be responsible members of the society who will take adequate care of their aged parents.

Having been working with the needy widows, how would you describe their situation and what do you think is the way forward?

The plight of the needy widows in the society is still deplorable. They are poor, as a result, they cannot take care of themselves let alone giving quality education to their wards. Many of them are being pushed away from their husbands house by the in- laws.

To prevent this ugly situation, women should not be idle so that whatever that happens to their husbands in future will not bring untold hardship to

them and their children. They should work had so as to support their husbands when they are still alive because some of these deaths occur as a result of too much pressure on the side of the men, but when men are assisted by their wives financially, such men may live longer.

What has your organisation done to reduce the number of school age girls who are out of school?

We have embarked on series of awareness programme, where we educate parents particularly mothers on the need to send their female children to school. We also had opportunity of talking to some of the girls especially those hawking on the streets on the reason they should be in school. I think ignorance is one of the greatest hindrances. Some of the young girls in the rural areas do not see the reason to go to school.

Their mothers also prefer them to hawk goods for them instead of going to school. We will soon be in Ekiti because our target is the rural areas.

‘You must be courageous to succeed as an entrepreneur’

Emmanuel Okoro is the founder and CEO of GREY SHADOWS. He is a wall mural artist in Nigeria. In this interview with JONATHAN ADEROJU, he spoke about his inspiration to the Art, his beginning, among others. Excerpts:

M

ay we know a little about your business and your educational background?

My name is Emmanuel Okoro, I am a painter and a wall Mural Artist.

I put beautiful Designs on walls. You can also call it Interior decoration.

My business name is GREY SHADOWS. I have a B.Sc in Microbiology, University of Port Harcourt. I started the business in 2011.

What inspired you to go into the business?

The inspiration came when I actually gained admission into the University of Port Harcourt. I needed to pay my fees, rent and also have a means of fending for myself in school. A friend was about to move into her new apartment then, so I offered to paint it. And that was how painting started for me. However, I have been artistic since I was very little; I never really explored the talent until the chance came in 2011.

What was your initial start-up capital and how were you able to raise the fund?

That’s the very interesting thing about this business; you don’t really need a capital to start. The client provides most times; the items or materials needed for the job, or makes the money available for purchasing of materials.

How would you say the business has grown since you start-

ed?

Interestingly, my business has grown very big. I started from painting a self-contained room; I started painting students’ rooms in school. First, I started painting for free or for anything they could offer just to gather experience, and then, after a while I knew I was ready to start charging good money for it. I became a household name in Uniport. Moving forward, I began to paint buildings and much bigger apartments. Now, I even do inter-state jobs.

Has your business in any way helped reduce unemployment?

I will say yes; it has helped to reduce unemployment because I have some people who work with me. I have a team of eight for now.

A lady and seen guys. I hope to have more soon because the business is really expanding.

Where do you source your raw materials from?

I actually get most of my paints or produce them with a paint factory called Dove Paints. It is located in Choba Port Harcourt. However, I relocated to Lagos last year January. So, I use any good Satin or Silk paints for my designs which you can get everywhere that a paint depot is located.

What are some of the challenges confronting your business?

One of the major challenges is power which affects the cost of production of the paint and in turn

Emma affects the price of the products.

And because of the quality of the jobs I do; I don’t compromise with the quality of paint I use. Customers complain sometimes, but I always try to make them understand.

However, they smile after every job.

How can the government address some of these challenges?

The government? Hmmm. The government has so much to do, I can’t list them all. However, I think one of the major problems they need to eradicate is the issue of

power. Once that is done, a lot of things and problems will be solved naturally.

Why should anyone want to patronise you and not some other designers?

The services I render are impeccable, durable and the quality is standard. It’s Art and it’s timeless.

I’m one of the best at wall designs and anyone willing to give me a shot will be very satisfied. If I know I can’t deliver on time I tell my clients beforehand instead of playing pranks in order to swindle some cash from them. I believe in transparency and that is what is keeping my business.

What are some of your expansion plans?

Like I said, I just relocated to Lagos January 2018, and I’ve been able to get a team of young men and ladies working with me and also trained some too. I plan to have one of the biggest paint production companies in Africa and also one of the biggest interior design establishments in Africa. That’s the vision.

What’s the biggest piece of advice you can give to other start-ups?

I want to encourage them to believe in God and in themselves.

The sky is big enough for every bird to fly. Being an entrepreneur takes a lot of courage and one must have a high tolerance for pain. However, just stay focused on your vision and don’t be discouraged. It may not look visible but start anyways.

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Interview

Govt should encourage Nigerians in Diaspora to invest in Nigeria’ Adamu Musa Mele is the managing director of a Nigerian-based Financial Technology (FinTech) Company, Innovate-1-Pay Limited which deals with money transfer among other FinTech services. The company recently won an award in Europe for being an efficient and reliable firm. He spoke to HARRISON EDEH on the company’s efforts to ensure Diasporan Nigerians explore remittance option through the services provided by the company. Excerpts:

M

ay we know what your company is into?

It is a Financial Technology (FinTech) company which deals in payment of bank notes business, International Money Transfer, and other financial inclusions.

What is your role in financial inclusion and FinTech based on the cashless policy of CBN compared to competition of Western Union and beyond; how do you want to break even?

We actually come to block some gaps that have existed prior to our coming into the system, like I told you earlier on, Innovate 1 Pay is basically into FinTech services that has to do with International Money Transfer, trading across all channels be it merchants, individuals and other services that has to do with trade links using technology.

We have our footprint in virtually many countries currently were we handle most of Online Integrated Solution, (OIS) which has 26 lounges across the World where we operate in terms of business and services in the areas of providing visas for people coming to Nigeria, one of our sister companies handles that and Innovate-1-Pay is the payment platform that virtually handles that aspect.

Here, locally in Nigeria, we just recently been awarded the International money transfer licence by the CBN as there is a huge gap particularly as we just came in now to ensure that we service largely our Diaspora Nigerians who are scattered in Europe, America and so many countries around the World. Being a Nigerian company, we hope to have networks in all those areas for they to remit there funds to a more secured, friendly and efficient manner to all their loved ones way back home in Nigeria.

How are you coping in a country like Nigeria considering policy changes?

In the Technology World, our business is a fast moving one, technology changes with time, so we adapt to changes in the society and from that standpoint, we are tailored to work in virtually every climate, we are mindful of changes, be it political, economic or otherwise in any location that we found ourselves. We want to maintain standard and we have a very strong corporate governance that is being implemented virtually across the World and we try as much as possible to give back to society, we do corporate social responsibility, we go into any society that promote free trade and give opportunities for entrepreneurs to thrive.

How are you playing into huge remittances coming into

MD Innovate 1 Adamu Mele One Nigeria? Do you liaise with the Diaspora Commission?

That is exactly what we want to do and we have offices in all countries where Nigerians reside all over the World. The next thing we are trying to do is to work with Diaspora Commission headed by Abike Dabiri. We want to key in to that to bring in the Diaspora Nigerians closer home. Through our platform, we intend to form contact with some individual companies and some charitable organisations across the world.

We met some recently when we were awarded the Euro Knowledge award at the London Parliament recently. We met Nigerians that are doing well there through some formal or informal organisations and with those channels; we believe we will drive home the remittance drive for much of our Disapora people.

How significant is Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to Nigeria’s economy?

You don’t look at the economy at the contest of currency, you look at the opportunity it entails in any given economy, as Nigeria is opening up the private sector, the economy, giving opportunities for FDI to really invest, that really provides opportunities

for money to move and money moves were values is.

We have seen sectors being opened up in the Nigerian economy in the areas of power, agriculture and so many other areas. We have seen many people trying to come and invest in this country. In all this is movement of capital in the form of US dollars which is the largest legal tender in the World.

Being a FinTech company executive, what is your advice to government on minimising or taming cyber crime in the country, otherwise called Yahoo-yahoo?

Cyber crime is a very serious crime all over the world. All governments without any exceptions are doing a lot in order to

...in any economy, it is the private sector that normally opens up the economy

combat it. I have read a couple of news from Nigerian Technology Development Agency (NITDA) which is a government agency superintending technology and Internet Telecommunication infrastructure of government by setting up very strong regulations on how most technology companies operate in the country and for the infrastructure to be protected is very key as that is how cyber crime get under way.

Even recently, even from the Central Bank of Nigeria perspective, they are talking about how the cyber crime is being intensified through E-Force in some financial institutions, but companies on their own, they are coming up with varied measures to counterbalance such kind of intrusion into their systems, when we have a national outlook, how to really address that will go a long way as a whole, as a country. We should have a coordinated effort from the private sector perspective but from the government to have frontal view on how we able really minimise to a great extent cyber crime in the country.

How do you think government should improve the private sector?

It is the responsibility of gov-

ernment for entrepreneurs to thrive in any given economy, and it is very simple and easy, make ease of doing business good. We have seen how the government has improved issues in terms of doing business, what we need to do is to really try harder and do much more by opening up the economy by also reducing some bottle necks in how companies are really registered, how they really rectify their returns, strengthen regulations be making it proactive rather than reactive and also improve corporate engagements with all levels of government that deal with corporate like CBN, SEC, NDIC, NSE among others. This will do a lot more if more engagement with the private sector is being driven from the government perspective; in any economy, it is the private sector that normally opens up the economy.

You floated a company and in a short time, you won an award in Europe; what is the secret?

It is because we are operating in Nigeria which is our headquarters, but we operate globally; the award we won by Euro Knowledge took cognizance of that of our footprints in all the areas of human endeavour where we operate, and they have seen our footprints in all those locations and I think that is really what informed them giving us that award.

What is your reaction on the currency swap between Nigeria’s Naira and Chinese Yuan?

It is a very good agreement as it informs the government’s decision to encourage trade between us and China. They want to reduce the problem and make this an incentive for people to access the Yuan.

How can Foreign Direct Investment be improved to benefit the economy in Nigeria?

Open up the economy, making things much more easy, remove bottlenecks of how things are being done in the areas of business. That does not mean that we should relax but be mindful of very strong corporate governance on how things are being done, but in doing that we should adopt a very seamless, easy approach, employ technology, be mindful of how business thrives, that is the most critical aspect of it. We should look at our tax laws, how we can open up the economy, how can we encourage FDI, every other country does that and Nigeria’s should not be an exception. That is the only way to complement government’s effort in the areas of agriculture, manufacturing, we have young population, opening up the economy is the best option.

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Sunday 02 June 2019

Interview ‘Business must think beyond profit and start to focus on people’ Olumide Makanjuola is the director of programmes at Initiative Sankofa D’Afrique de L’ouest (ISDAO). He is a human rights activist, who has received recognitions on the global stage for his creativity and service to mankind. In this interview with BUNMI BAILEY, he shares his exploits; his passion, high points, life challenges, and need for justice for all. Excerpts:

F

What inspired you to be a human rights activist? or me, it was about creating the kind of environment that operate and function properly. I was keen in creating that society where people matter, where we understand people emotion and their wellbeing. It was important for me to ensure that I join hands with many across the country to build that society where human being matter regardless of their sexuality or gender. I have always been of the thought that everyone should be an activist; activism is not just a job but a way of life. It’s you seeing injustice and speaking up and against regardless of your personal religious or cultural beliefs. For me, I am inspired at how I am creating that Nigeria, that Africa we are going to live for a very long time. I strongly believe we can build a National and continent that is reflective our diversities.

Can you tell us how the journey has been so far?

The journey has been great some days, and some days, not so great. You know, sometime you see or hear things happen and you just wish you had the power to seek or provide the redress yourself. Having said that, I feel that the journey on sexuality and gender discourse in Nigeria has progressed however, little. I do remember how just about a decade ago, we couldn’t even talk about this issues and how they impact society at large. Today, we are seeing new information around sexuality and gender; we are reading stories of people coming to terms with their sexuality despite societal expectation of them.

Beyond just seeing people coming to term with their sexuality, we are seeing spaces being created to address these issues. For example, when I was working as the Executive Director of TIERs, we launched a platform titled ‘Human Rights Sexuality, and The Law’. It was created solely to discuss sexuality and gender but also looking at restrictive law and societal norm. These things couldn’t happen just about a decade ago.

Apart from this, we are using pop culture to advance discourse but also to educate people and tell stories of Gay, bisexual and lesbian person, and their daily experience in a society that majorly belief in heteronormative and think heteronormativity is the only way of being human. Honestly, it has been a journey and I see that journey taking us further into the future of a Nigeria where we understand people and know that not everyone is like yourself but you must learn to accept others.

Olumide Makanjuola

What are the major challenges you face?

There are many challenges, just like you have in every field of work.

One of the biggest challenges is how we use personal religious belief as a yardstick to judge others and forgetting that religion is a personal choice that people make, sexuality is not. Also, we have seen cases where law enforcement agencies have victimised persons perceived to be LGBTQ instead of protecting.

We don’t have laws that protect people; instead we have several laws that criminalise persons that self-identify as LGBTQ. Also, some of the challenges we face are very social such as parent rejecting their child, mob attack, arbitrary arrest but to mention a few. When these issues happen, addressing them is always a challenge because for a parent, they are worried mostly how immediate family and society at large will view them, and for this reason, they will rather not spend time trying to understand their child. The problem with us as people is that we have never taught ourselves diversities and this idea that people are different and when we see different, we should embrace and learn and not set a standard. Societal standard set by us is the biggest challenge I have faced throughout this work.

Once we remove this unnecessary standard and understand human diversity, we will be able to change

our laws to reflect this. We need to stop telling people what they should be or how they should be without us understanding that we will never be same, never.

In 2016, you were honoured by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II for your advocacy work; what does this mean for you?

Every time I get asked these questions, I laugh. I laugh because I often don’t even know how to process this. It was a great moment when it happened. Accolades are great but that has never been the goal for me. My own accolades have always been centered on achieving that society where everyone can be and live together regardless of any form of stigma, discrimination or violence as a result of who they are. The event was great, hanging and chatting with the Queen, David Beckham, Prince Harry and a few British Icons, I enjoyed it but that ended there. Post the event, I was back to my reality, one where we judge people per their sexuality or gender or disenfranchise people from employment, housing, education, health care services because they don’t fit into the box of societal expectation.

You have just been appointed as the first director of programmes at ISDAO, how do you feel about this?

These feel great, absolutely great. I will be doing more than I was doing before. Beyond just lead-

ing a conversation from Nigeria, I now get to work across West Africa but more importantly, ensure that we support grassroots organisations that are creating safe space and enabling an environment that respect rights of everyone including LGBTQ persons. We are about to change how philanthropy or known like within West Africa. This is the first indigenous philanthropy fund for West Africa and by Africa working toward an inclusive and just society. Any philanthropy that supports work where human rights of everyone including LGBTQ person is not respected, is part of the problem. Your philanthropy work doesn’t need to be LGBTQI inclusive if it’s not your focus but it needs to respect the rights of every human being while delivering its work and those human beings are inclusive of LGBTQ persons.

What new thing will you bring to the table now that you have such an important role?

For me, we must understand why philanthropy exists in the first place and one of this is to fill the gap of injustice created by government law and policies. One of the many things I will be doing is challenging how philanthropy has organised in West Africa and how many of these philanthropy organisations have contributed to the problem through what they fund or who they fund.

For example, if you are funding an organisations that believes that LGBTQ person should be stoned to death, sent to 14 years imprisonment or death sentence, you are part of the problem. And what we want to show people is that philanthropy must be inclusive, respectful and promote justice for all regardless of sexual orientation or identity expression. My focus in seeing that we support the work of many organisation across West Africa that are providing legal support, ensuring justice for those whose right are violated, creating a safe space that is inclusive for all person. We will do this through many means and that includes working with groups to tell their stories, share these stories and ensure that we use these stories to provide a new way of thinking.

How will ISDAO ensure equality across the West Africa through her work?

We will do this through the work that we fund, the spaces that we engage and the voices that we promote. Our goal is to increase and diversify resources available to support and advance the rights and safety of LGBTQ in the West African region as well as to build a culture of philanthropy committed to human rights and social justice in West Africa. We are very clear on our long-term goal, an inclusive West Africa and we believe this

is possible through what we and others philanthropies fund, we can achieve this.

What role do you think business play in ensuring Human Rights across the world?

Business plays a huge role in promoting human rights. We must make business think beyond profit or the huge number and start seeing people. You can create philanthropy culture if you don’t understand why they exist in the first place, it is not for show off but actual doing and problem-solving. We need to ask business, how do you treat people who work for you? Are inclusive is your work-place? How much do you respect diversity? During my tenure at TIERs, we saw people fired for being gay or lesbian and not because they were unable to deliver on the job. Also, business must understand that the work they do must respect, promote and protect the right of their workers and others. Before profit, we must see people as people and not as number. Business must ensure that they create work-place policies that are inclusive for all regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. They must speak up in places or countries that violate human rights of persons without any hold back.

If your business is silent in the face of injustice just because you make so much profit from that country or place, your business and yourself is part of the problem. Business must remember that their business need human to function.

How can philanthropic organisation working in West Africa ensure the right of everyone is protected?

The only way they can do this is through what they fund. We understand and know that not everyone has to work on LGBTQ rights but we must ensure that organisations that you are funding are not promoting hate or violence toward any group of persons including LGBTQ persons. If any philanthropic organization is funding groups or person that has been known to promote hate, violence or justify a law that limit how people can be and express, that philanthropic organisation need to rethink their work and strategy, especially those whose work is based on human rights. Human Rights have only one language and that language is human regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity expression.

This means, organisation receiving fund to do work right work or any other charitable work must respect the right of people from a human rights perspective not a religious perspective. Religious beliefs are fine but these are personal beliefs and can’t override human rights of persons.

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BDSUNDAY 21

Sunday Special Insight into strifes in oil communities:

The Kula and Ogoni situations, according to SPDC’s Igo Weli ...FG renews Shell licence for OML 29 despite siege by community ...Stakeholders lose N700bn in one year blockade ...Some Ogoni sons plead for return but Shell says no going back ...Ogoni oil since 2012 ceded to FG’s NPDC through NNPC ... I am a Niger Deltan, we are overdoing these things – Igo Weli

IGNATIUS CHUKWU

E

Introduction very year, around May, Shell Nigeria releases annual report of its operations in Nigeria as part of international best practices, due process and transparency. They also feel obliged to the people of their host country in total disclosure of everything they do to the stakeholders and to Nigerians. Thus, observers can know exactly how much they paid to the FG as taxes and royalties as well as everything they did to the host communities.

This has reduced false claims by governments about what they realised from oil.

In doing this, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) hosts newsmen in at least three major locations in Nigeria, often Lagos, Port Harcourt and Bayelsa; sometimes, Abuja and Warri may feature. At the presentation ceremonies, they explain the Report (book form), share perspectives, and take questions and observations (which have often reflected in future public affairs policies).

Most journalists look forward to such sessions, probably not because of the facts and figures in between covers but the humanity in the persons they see from far and hardly understood; the fellows who wear the Shell toga which the people tend to dread or loath. It is at these moments the newsmen discover that these are our fellow Nigerians, our brothers and sisters who often show warmth, radiate love and humanity, and show understanding.

Often, newsmen get glimpses into their own difficulties, pains, and confusion. These are persons who share our cultures and mannerisms but are straight-jacketed into European behaviours and etiquettes. They battle to live inbetween; eager to relate with their fellow Nigerians and Niger Deltans, but also keen not to breach international protocols and Shell’s standards. After all, their next posting may be outside Nigeria.

Thus, the 2019 session was no different. It is an occasion the General Manager, External Relations of Shell, Elelenwo-born (Port Harcourt) Igo Weli relishes.

The team from Lagos (including Bamidele Odusesan and Anthony Ogedemgbe) was there at the Port Harcourt Library Centre near Pleasure Park on Aba Road. The agile lady, the General Manager,

L-R: Bisi Olaniyi of Nation, Chidube Nnene-Anochie of Shell (Safety), Igo Weli, GM (External Relations) of Shell, and Ann Godwin of The Guardian presenting the Shell 2018 Report.

Safety and Environment, Chidube Nnene-Anochie was much on ground with her sparks and jibs at newsmen. The adorable lady, Gloria Udoh, External Relations Manager, Social Investment, was present in her full and pastoral elegance; and the Manager, Ogoni Restoration Project, the Prof, Vincent Nwabueze, would not be mistaken.

The team preferred the interactive approach whereby journalists made remarks out of their feelings about Shell in the past one year and raised issues and questions. Each Shell manager starting from Weli responded to aspects, after which journalists were to proceed on ‘study leave’ to study the book called booklet.

Critical questions touched on three senstive areas; is Shell using divide and rule tactic to relate with host communities thereby sowing seeds of discord ? What is Shell doing about the siege on their oil field in Kula where the communities want the field taken away from Shell to a new indigenous oil company ? Is Shell plotting an Ogoni re-entry scheme ?

Igo Weli’s bitter truth to his Niger Delta kinsmen The GM (External Relations) launched into what he termed his bitter truth to his kinsmen.

He made it clear he is a son of the region, just from Elelenwo in a part of Port Harcourt who has lived all his life in the Niger Delta and would continue to do so. He wanted everyone to know that his children live in the Niger Delta too. Thus, he would not poison the region and hope to live there. His aides disclosed that his charge to

them is never to bring up any statement for hm to sign if anything is false in it.

Divide-and-Rule ?

There is no iota of truth in the accusation of using ‘divide-andrule’ tactic in the Niger Delta.

Rather, what Shell finds most times is people calling us to come and intervene and help them get contracts in GMoU projects. Our stand is, go and sort it out with your people. You have many approaches that can work amicably in each GMoU cluster foundation.

You can apply turn-by-turn or senioriy or whatever works for your community.

We have observed that a lot of persons prefer conflict and promote it a lot. So, you find people rejecting peaceful formulas and cause conflict and begin to call on Shell. Shell will not get involved.

Let us make it clear once again that Shell will not come in and begin to push up or push down one person or the other. You communities must learn how to sort yourselves out when jobs are given to your community.

In one instance, somebody kept calling and pressing for us to

help him get a contract in a GmoU cluster. When we would not play ball, he used some influential persons to call but did not know that call went to our desk. We overheard everything he said and what he wanted. When the person called us, we told him ahead what he was to tell us, he laughed and ended it there. We tell them, see, you have started inviting Shell to come and dictate things, if we should do it, you will be the same people to go out and say Shell allocates the jobs from behind. Shell will not do it.

Marginalisation : Our people have overused that term and we now use it to hide all our defects.

Its is sad.

Ogoni re-entry ?

Shell has no plans to re-enter Ogoni. Those who insist on such claims or insinuations know what they may be pursuing. Instead, we get calls everyday from Ogoni people asking us to come back, some offering to help us come back. One called me and said he has the structure that can help us come back. I told him, use your structure to build other things for your people, Shell is not interested.

”

They battle to live in-between; eager to relate with their fellow Nigerians and Niger Deltans, but also keen not to breach international protocols and Shell’s standards

Some other times, we ask the person to put it in writing, and they would flee. Look, Ogoni does not have the quantity of oil that can equate the damage the Ogoni story has done to the Shell brand worldwide.

Profit without Ogoni: By the way, Shell made $23bn in 2018 without a drop of oil from Ogoni.

What does that tell you? It shows that Shell has moved on without Ogoni. It is left for Ogoni to move on without Shell. Shell is a global brand and can mitigate from other areas what it lost in one area.

Some Nigerians we met abroad at the venue of a court case against Shell, out of sympathy, wanted to know the size of oil Shell is losing in Ogoni ; they believed it must be over 75 percent of Nigeria’s total output. When we said it was not near it, they said, okay, 50 per cent ? We laughed it off, saying we were not sure it was up to 2 per cent. They were shocked.

We asked them how they think a nation can lose 75 percent of its oil source for over 20 years and still survived. They now understood and said the truth about Ogoni matter may never be known. They said the world may have been sold a dummy with a facade on the surface.

Who is losing ; Shell or Ogoni?

Making Ogoni to be in the news for the wrong reasons creates longterm perception over the years that affects investment decisions in the area. How many persons in the world would put $1Bn into Ogoni on investment ? Our people think there is profit is creating a bad brand laced in violence and anti-investment rhetoric. Investors make hard decisions and your continuous messaging line of disruption, pollution, violence, insecurity, protests, etc, are being noted by investors and their financiers.

We can all see the decision made by Dangote group which was a purely business decision to move to Lagos to set up a set of hydrocarbon plants (fertilizer, petrochemcicals, etc). He preferred to spend any amount to pipe the raw materials from the oil region to Lagos and have peace than to face daily protests and sieges at their gates. (This is at a time the world is urging Nigeria to move to the downstream sector of the oil industry, processing. By scaring away investors like Dangote that Continues on page 22

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Sunday 02 June 2019

Sunday Special

Igo Weli

The Kula and Ogoni situations...

Continues on page 22 are moving into that section, we are denying the Niger Delta that crucial sector that spills jobs and creates real wealth. Experts say its a huge loss.)

What we must know is that only private investment in the Niger Delta will transform the region, no matter what governments promise. Nothing more. So, its not true that Shell is plotting reentry, directly or indirectly. I have personally said so to MOSOP. It is on record that we said so.

Even the attitude of Ogoni leaders whenever a meeting is called would not show that there is consensus that can attract investors. We held a meeting in Abuja with MOSOP, KAGOTE, and other Ogoni groups the other time and they could not agree on anything among them. The Minister admonished them to go back home and come up with a position. Instead, they would begin to quarrel and threaten each other in the presence of those we said caused us harm.

The NPDC (Nigerian Petroleum Development Company) has taken over OML 11 (including Ogoni fields) since 2012, so how is Shell planning to come back? Please journalists and members of the public should learn to direct any such questions about OML 11 to NPDC. The Ogoni matter has facts, fiction, and emotions. It’s difficult to separate one from the other.

Any serious mind should approach the matter by asking, what will Shell lose by not going

back to Ogoni? Shell still spends funds on Ogoni because of pipelines carrying crude from other areas through Ogoni areas to Bonny Island for export.

ORP (Ogoni Restoration Project) by Dr Vincent Nwabueze We have three projects in Ogoni : Clean up in Bodo Creek; Clean up of numerous re-pollution sites in Ogoni; and Supporting HYPREP in the main Ogoni Clean Up Project as recommended by the UNEP. I can tell you that Nigeria is wasting more resources by clean-

”

We are wasting money and 55 per cent of it belongs to the FG. If we step away, our action would be misconstrued, and if we stay, its endless waste of money, mopping the floor while the tap is still running

ing and re-polluting. You dont clean the floor while the tap is still running.

Bodo Repollution: We are wasting money and 55 per cent of it belongs to the FG. If we step away, our action would be misconstrued, and if we stay, its endless waste of money, mopping the floor while the tap is still running. We are however encouraged by the exciting results of the work we have so far done; fish has returned, birds from the forests coming back, etc.

UNEP had said in the report ; dont start clean up until all secondary polluting stops We change pipes and things that are weak and if we go to carry this out, they say, hei, its re-entry. If we leave it, they call it negligence.

We even found that some of the indigenes we trained as pollution control agents and made them contractors to clean polluted areas now turn round to cause pollution to create clean-up contracts.

Note : Newsmen suggested that a time line of UNEP Report compliance update be conducted quarterly to know what the UN Report asked each stakeholder to do and what percentage of compliance has taken place every year or every quarter. FG is to create structure ; Shell and others are to pay $200m per year for five years ; and the communities are to comply by stopping all repollutions. Each group has a duty. There is need to see who is breaching the UNEP Report, including the communities.

Kula issue and N700bn loss Nigeria has lost N700Bn in the Kula stand-off (crisis since the community people laid siege at the oil field and stopped Shell operations. Kula is said to be host to 200 oil wells of about 150bpd.)

Various authorities have tried to intervene without immediate success. The military investigated the matter and saw the truth too. Various VIPs that intervened would come back to us to express frustrations at what they found.

They would say, we can now see.

Many meetings have been held so far but nothing came out of them.

In 2018, the Akuku-Toru local council boss looked into the matter but ended up by warning that the outcome of the siege could be a dangerous one by the kind of precedent it could set. This is a license the FG renewed in December 2018 but the field has remained occupied by the villagers who are demanding forceful handover to another oil company.

The OML produces 25,000 per day and Shell is still interested in it and we have wonderful facilities still on ground there. What is playing out there is like horror movie where someone occupies oil wells owned by another entity in this time and era ?

Look, if Shell is successfully driven out of the Belema Oil Field, it could be a huge message in the industry. There are Rivers investors owning fields in other parts of the oil region especially in Akwa Ibom. Those people could rise one day and demand that it be handed over to their own sons. The world is watching, but we remain optimistic.

Clouds gather over Oshiomhole as groups demand his resignation IGNATIUS CHUKWU and VICTORIA BROWN, Port Harcourt; JAMES KWEN, Abuja

P

ressure is mounting from Rivers State against the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole, who suffered a rough day on May 29, during the inauguration parade.

A good governance advocacy group within the APC, the Rivers Unity House (RUH), has thrown its weight behind calls for the resignation of the APC National Chairman, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole.

In a related development, a group called All Progressives Congress (APC) World Think Tank Committee (WATTAC) has also called for his exit from the office.

Speaking to newsmen in Port Harcourt, RUH Convener, Kingsley Wenenda Wali, said Oshiomhole was responsible for 96 percent of the challenges faced by the ruling party in the 2019 general elections.

Wali said: “It is a natural thing in politics that whenever there are loses, people have to be held accountable for those loses.

There is need to identify the people who made it possible for the party to suffer any kind of loss.

“Just like if the party enjoys a decent measure of victory, it will obviously point out those who made it possible and then, compensate them for making it possible.

“So, those who are responsible for the body-blows APC received should be identified and made accountable so it discourages this kind of attitude.

“I am one person who has been consistent with the position that Mr. Adams Oshiomhole is 96 percent responsible for the problems APC had. It boils down to nothing but somebody feeling that he knows everything and no other person is smarter than him.

“I think the reasonable thing to do is for APC as a party to ask Adams Oshiomhole to vacate the seat. If we insist on understanding or characterising the next level slogan of APC, the kind of attitude that Adams Oshiomhole exhibited cannot be in tandem with the President’s vision on Nigeria.”

The group lauded the APC Deputy National Chairman (North), Lawan Shuaibu, for the courage to tell Oshiomhole to vacate his office.

The RUH Convener said: “Of what is a party Chairman who doesn’t take any form of criticism; once even if it is one councillor in Karadamuda or Akassa, that says something about him, he replies in the same measure.

“Like the Deputy National Chairman said and I want to applaud the Deputy National Chairman (North), Lawan Shuaibu for what he said in the very elaborate letter he sent asking Oshiomhole to vacate office.

That is a point that the man was running a one-man show.

S.N. Nzeh, WATTAC chairman, lending his voice to the call for the APC Chairman to resign, said, “Thanks Mr. Oshiomhole; you can now resign. One way to understand any period of history is to see how different historians have written about it”.

Nzeh noted that, “In our (APC) political epoch, the movement orchestrated by the Deputy National Chairman – Senator Lawal Shuaibu in which he had urged Comrade Adams Oshiomhole (Chairman) to resign is significantly cherished.

“The feeling is itself not a product of harmful propaganda but simply the fear of going back to the bad old days of political standoff that characterised many of our popular parties very recently. Turning to Adams Oshiomhole himself he has not been successful by the standards of his time as our national chairman.

“Remarkably, under Oshiomhole’s watch the political juggernauts of our great party in all corners of the country decamped to other political parties.

“Party conflicts in various states were not equitably and professionally handled in line with the procedure for the hearing and determination of complaints or allegations under Section 21(B) of the APC constitution (as amended 2018). These unsettled scores gave rise to parallel primaries in Imo State, Zamfara and Rivers State.

“When we turn to APC political scene, the first thing we all should emphasis is the continuity of the party now and after 2023.

In order to avoid us to be a party of ramshackle, inefficiency and munitions of trouble, Mr. Adams Oshiomhole should quietly resign.

“The kind of politics of Oshiomhole would not have mattered if the submissions and standing of rival members and groups alone were based on jamboree or quicksand.

“But frankly speaking, these reservations are real – the harmony in APC has completely disappeared under Oshiomhole because the party is anchored in the rule of single archaic faction without charisma but rather suppressions.

“Just as the pressures of necessity had forced PDP out of power, we should recognise quickly that no political party is immune from being the next casualty except such party is prepared to accept and sharpen the awareness of its fragility as a party.

“Wise men in our party like Senator Shuaibu have now known that each leave might be the last experience of voter’s pleasures, therefore, there is the urgent need to resurrect the moral structure and old standards of respectability of party norms which have all gone under the leadership of Oshiomhole.

Sunday 02 June 2019

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Arts ‘It is never easy writing a book, sufficient is the challenge of getting one right’ After twenty-four-year of practice as a broadcaster, Funke Treasure is giving back to her industry in a unique style by releasing two books; The Clergy and The Spoken Word Industry. In this interview with Obinna Emelike, the foremost broadcaster turned author explains what inspired the books, their benefits, lessons learnt on the job, her passion beyond broadcasting, among other related issues.

Congratulations on your new books. What informed the idea of the books? hanks very much. I moon light as a speech coach after official hours. I realised early enough in the practice that there was a need for a text that would condense all that people need to know for accelerated growth. I wanted to put into the hands of my clients a resource manual that would serve them post training. In the bid to do that, I started seeing a greater need for such a book for the larger good.

country, workers should not be left to the whims and caprices of leaders, there are scores of talented people in the Nigerian civil service whose talents are stifled, and there should be evaluation of leaders and their leadership styles.

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Writing two books at the same time must be very challenging, how did you achieve that feat?

I am still trying to get used to it myself because I set out to write a book. However, feedback received after releasing the sample book necessitated a second, which I was reluctant to do because of the enormous work involved. It is never easy writing a book, sufficient is the challenge of getting one right.

I mean you want to start from the writing itself, without electricity, you power your generator to write.

I do not like noise, I had to get used to writing in a neighbourhood with a cacophony of generator induced noise. And then, the constant traffic that leaves one exhausted. Those were the most challenging part of getting the books out.

In one of the books you wrote extensively on some common pronunciation errors made by broadcasters on air, why did you decide to take on that aspect of the media?

Look, I got tired of an ubiquitous development of correcting presenters about mispronunciation of words. Some of them would even look at you as if you were impossibly fastidious. In my active days on air, one feared the disappointing look from a superior when a word was mispronounced. Nowadays, some of these presenters go on a shaming campaign, to whoever cared to listen how you were constantly picking on them out of hatred.

How do you attempt to read the news without being familiar with the pronunciation of words, proper stress placement and word grouping, knowing that the likes of the late Veronica Osawere would be listening? How do you even claim to be a professional when you make so many mistakes on air? Who put you on air to start with? So, there are mispronunciations everywhere one turned, even from the gatekeepers in the Spoken Word industry. Secondly, there are blind arguments

What is your staying power as a woman in the broadcast media?

Re-invention. I constantly re-invent myself to adapt to the changing times, technology and resources needed to compete and stay ahead of competition in all that I do. I try.

Funke Treasure

from people who haven’t bothered to check the pronouncing dictionary. When a listener calls in to tell a presenter that the correct word is ‘preyor, not pressure, you know then that we have a challenge to deal with.

All through the books, I progressively kept explaining and justifying, yet I wrote a chapter that has more than one hundred and twenty words we pronounce wrongly, yet I didn’t exhaust them. For those in public speaking this is critical, just because the word challenge is pronounced starting with ‘cha’ for instance does not make chaos become ‘cha-hose’.

It’s quite ridiculous, and really we need to deal with our huge ego that constantly gets in the way, and learn to speak the English Language right.

I am not saying go acquire an accent, we are second language speakers, so you don’t need to be under pressure, our educated English is fine.

There have been complaints about broadcasters using slangs on air.

What is your take on this?

It depends, on what radio or TV programmes are the slangs being used and what the context of usage is.

Some programmes are light hearted, and when on continuity sessions, one can be creative. I have heard expressions like, ‘in the abroad’ many times on air and on multiple radio stations. At first, I thought it was a joke between two presenters, then I realised that it was not, it was an acceptable slang amongst millennials that found its way into broadcast language. Sometime in the immediate past, such slangs would

be frowned upon, but at the risk of being seen as rigid and inflexible, one may allow this, when however it becomes a regular expression, then one needs to consider critically the role of the media to educate.

Can you tell us the difference if there are any between an On-Air Personality (OAP) and a broadcaster?

The very idea of differentiating between the two shows that we have a problem in our hands. I probably would have been shocked if I hadn’t had an encounter with a young man recently, who relayed to me how they had argued endlessly about the difference between a presenter, an OAP and a broadcaster at a famous campus radio. And they had argued heatedly. One of them had insisted that OAPs are the newest contemporary professionals- the new school who don’t need a script, while presenters are in- between as they sometimes use scripts, give time checks and broadcasters are the old school ones, the prim and proper, I suppose, how so laughable, scary and disappointment all in one breath.

You have been working at FRCN for more than a decade? What lessons have you learnt?

Laughs. Now that would take a whole book to distill. We are talking of almost two decades, nineteen years of work in a government parastatal. I would do an autobiographical work to address that someday. Suffice to say that we need a civil service reform in this

How easy was it for you to climb the corporate ladder at FRCN as a woman?

I had many competent women around me in the professional space within the FRCN then. They were visible, and had agency. They didn’t need to sleep with anyone to be relevant in the system, and they worked hard. The men also were decent, responsible and cared more about consensual relationships. It was a warm, professional space to work and thrive.

Aside from publishing these two new books, what other things do you do?

I am a John Maxwell coach, trainer and speaker. I will be expanding my affiliation with the global John Maxwell Team. My day job is broadcasting, as a broadcast executive, my tasks are administrative nowadays, I have thus focused more on training and teaching in the areas where I have excelled in the course of my career; production, presentation, reporting, newsroom leadership, media relations, and leadership.

What is always on your mind as an author?

Knowledge sharing, being the voice of reason and re-direction for people, being a solution provider, xraying societal imbalance through my writings, encouraging people to be the best they can be, and letting them see that they are possible.

What is the next big step for Funke Treasure Durodola?

I started a media mentoring programme ten years ago, long before it became a trend to be a mentor.

I have ran it as a social enterprise, I will consolidate on that and the other things I do, especially the leadership trainings and mentorship.

You changed your names on your new books to Anike Ade Funke Treasure, what informed the change?

I just want an independent identity as a writer. All the names are offi-

cially mine and on all my documents really.

Do you have time to relax? How do you relax?

I watch stage plays, feel good movies, go out with friends and laugh out loud with Nollywood Yoruba movies. I visited a dance club the other day and thoroughly enjoyed it, perhaps I should return and go the whole hog, that should be fun. I am forever open to anything that offers the promise of adventure and fun. I won’t try sky or scuba diving though.

Laughs. No, that is extreme sports to me. I love to travel, whether locally or internationally or just drive a long distance alone.

Are you an exercise freak? There was a time you were active on Facebook about your routine, do you still have time to do that?

I did a 21 day challenge on Facebook in 2018 and maintained the routine for a while. Once in a while I post but essentially I do a three day weekly regimen now. Quite frankly, I didn’t realise how influential the Facebook live I did was then until I started seeing more people in the estate where I live populating the streets in the morning, and more women jogging and walking, especially on Saturdays. And then I met complete strangers who told me how I inspired them to start exercising too by just watching me struggle with it and complete it on Facebook.

And at work, colleagues would laugh at the notes I wrote as well and discuss the characters with me; and then encourage me. I suppose more people enjoyed the commentaries I wrote and looked forward to my encounters during the exercise.

I wasn’t an exercise freak at the beginning, it was just me stretching myself beyond limits. It soon became a habit I looked forward to with excitement. I exercise for health’s sake, and I try to eat healthy, no sugar, just honey. Low carbs diet, pretty difficult in a society where our favourite meals are an overload of carbohydrate.

Which authors (s) have inspired you?

They are an eclectic mix really, nationally and internationally, academic and non academic. They include Maya Angelou. D O Fagunwa, Prof Wole Soyinka, Prof. Femi Osofisan, Flora Nwapa, Chinua Achebe, Stephen Covey, John Fiske and John Maxwell. I like the detailed research in the writings of Malcolm Gladwell and a long list of contemporary Nigerian writers like Chimamanda Adichie, Myne Whitman, Toni Kan, Jude Idada and many more.

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Sunday 02 June 2019

Arts ‘Daydream Esoterica’: An Artistic navigation of Lagos by Victor Ehikhamenor in collaboration with Johnnie Walker

most notable artist living and working out of Nigeria today.

The central work in the exhibition is the large scale painting, ‘We the people and other dreamers’. The title of the painting borrows from the introductory state-

ment of the United States Constitution’s fundamental purpose and guiding principles. In the same vein, the painting acts as an introduction to the city of Lagos. An abstract figuration piece, the work is at the first deceptive of its announcement as it incorporates light colours such as pastel yellow and light blues suggesting Lagos as a composed city. On a closer look, the painting unravels itself, revealing layers of individual personalities, which Ehikhamenor uses as backdrop for the rest of the body of work.

Also, central to the exhibition is the site specific installation, Daydreamer’s Paradise (Dream for Free)’ made from thousands of plastic sunglasses, reminiscent of what children wear on special occasions such as Christmas day and birthdays.

In the work, the artist dips

his hands in a nostalgic bag of his childhood to retrieve past and present memory and invite his viewers to take on a dreamlike journey with him.

Speaking at the exhibition, the exhibiting artist said: “Daydream Esoterica is an introspective look at the artist as a conscious contemporary nomad, eking a living out of a city that feeds its inhabitants hopes and frustrations in equal measure; a place where to survive the humdrum and the noise, the citizen is driven to Daydream.”

The private opening was attended by notable art dealers and collectors, including Gbenga Oyebode, Toni Kan, Remi Okunlola, Ego Boyo, Akintunde Oyebode, Kavita Chellaram, Peter Thomas, Kola Aina, Uzoma & Adesua Dozie and Ngozi Edozien.

The exhibition runs until June 30, 2019 at the gallery.

than the old one in terms of learning facilities. The library is over equipped now, new classrooms and hostels are coming and the school is going to be number 1 as it used to be”, Okoli said.

He further noted that the continued support to the alma mater was intended to provide learning facilities, help in maintaining the high standards, which the school is known for, and to motivate both teachers and students to go for excellence in their work and academic pursuit.

Speaking on the import of the event, Barr. Sylvester Okonkwo, a politician, chairman of the occasion and an old boy, said the rededication and thanksgiving is an annual event, which has now become a culture of the association.

For him, it is very wonderful been an old boy of DMGS, as everywhere you go, you see

your people, and have the inspiration to do right and show the light and it is rewarding.

In the same vein, Ifeanyi Atuenyi, a pharmacist, a member of the class of 58 and a past president of DOBA Lagos, said it has been a wonderful association with DMGS as the ex students would keep appreciating what the school has done in their lives, especially the strong foundation to excel in life. “There is no student that will not give a good report of DMGS because it was founded on the fear of God and training of students to be very good citizens. We are trying to be close to the school so that the young generation will not depart from the foundations we have laid”, he noted.

Going down the history lane, Dr. Chike Mogilim a member of the class of 86, disclosed that the school has a very long and rich history, especially

in the South Eastern part of Nigeria. “It is one of the oldest grammar schools in Nigeria, and grammar schools were the best available schools then in the country”.

For him, going to DMGS was a thing of pride, even being admitted because it has a rich history of good tutors, good students, good results, and excellence in sports.

Unveiling other plans for the school, Enwezor Victor, secretary of Lagos branch and a member of the class of 92, disclosed that talks are ongoing between the school management and the association on the provision of electricity power supply, new hostels, classrooms and other learning facilities.

On the poor standard of education across the country, Mogilim said there are efforts at keeping the standards at DMGS as high as it has always been. According to him, the old boys have invested a lot in building infrastructure, helping to pay teachers among others. “The decay in Nigeria is very big, but even in the decay you will still find an oasis of sanity. DMGS is what it should be”, he said.

For me, the intrigue of the event was the fact that the members of the class of 90s such as Enwezor Victor were together with the likes of Ifeanyi Atuenyi of the class of 58, P.C. Amadi of the class of 40s among others who are well over 70 years and truly ‘old boys’ and discussing only DMGS.

OBINNA EMELIKE

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ohnnie Walker, the world’s best-selling Scotch whisky and supporter of the arts, recently supported Daydream Esoterica, a solo exhibition by internationally celebrated contemporary visual artist, Victor Ehikhamenor.

The exhibition, which opened at Rele Gallery, Military Street, Onikan Lagos on May 18, 2019, was the artist’s first solo exhibition in the last eight years, hence featured breathtaking works that were display of sheer creativity of the artist.

Depicting the mutualism of ideas and limitations in the Lagos citizen’s quest for success, the exhibition showcased the internationally renowned artist’s outstanding new oil paintings

and installations, embodying Johnnie Walkers consistency and innovation.

The body of work in the series takes an introspective look at the artist as a conscious contemporary nomad living, leaving and

thriving in a city that feeds its inhabitants’ dreams and frustrations and by its sheer nature demands that in order to survive, one must daydream. The exhibition is a rare invitation into the inexhaustible mind of one of the

A day with the ‘old boys’ OBINNA EMELIKE

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unday May 26, 2019 was quite memorable for me. It was a whole day of fun with some fellows who are truly ‘old boys’ because of their collective impact and exertion of positive energy that are easily felt in their alma mater and also while in their midst.

The ‘jolly good fellows’ are the old boys of Dennis Memorial Grammar School Onitsha, Lagos branch who were identifying with their root in the annual rededication and thanksgiving service.

Of course, they are proud of their alma mater because of the school’s many firsts.

Founded in 1925, the school was the first post primary school in the then Eastern Nigeria, first grammar school, first missionary college, and source of the first set of workforce for the expanding colonial mission in that part of the country then.

Another first is that the school was named after Archdeacon T.J. Dennis, the man who translated the Bible from English to Igbo language.

So, going by all these feats, the old boys had reasons to be proud of their alma mater even after many years of graduation. The pride was generously on display at this year’s rededication and thanksgiving service held at Our Saviour’s Church, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.

Decked in red blazers and

ties, both adorned with the school crest, the old boys thronged the church service with the once cherished students’ exuberance alongside their family members and friends.

The clergy also took note of the colourful outing, which spoke volume of the wellorganised association. As expected, there were earlier processions by the clergy in the unique Anglican Church style, hymnals, praises and bible readings followed. But the hymnals reminded the old boys of their days as students.

In his sermon at the service, Reverend Cannon Dr. Kin Egwuchim, a guest preacher and also an old boy of the school, disclosed that the school, which opened its doors to students on January 25, 1925 as the first and best available school in the Eastern Nigeria then, has today produced prominent scholars, professionals and eminent Nigerians who have impacted the society positively.

He therefore called on members of the Lagos branch of the association to see the rededication service as opportunity to consolidate on the strong foundation of the school laid on the gospel that liberated the Igbo land and high quality education that enlightened and empowered the people.

At the rededication proper, the clergy urged the members of the association to continue in their good work and service to God and humanity,

especially as their strength is renewed for more exploits.

At the end of the church service, members of the association had time to exchange pleasantries, especially in rejoicing with Pa Amadi of the 40s class who announced the birth of his grandchild.

After the rededication service, the celebration continued at the Police Officers’ Mess, Onikan, Lagos where guests were treated to exciting food, wine and music offerings. Moreover, there were jokes by some members, though not as rib cracking as professionals.

Speaking at the reception, Barr. Nelson Ako Okoli, president of the Lagos branch of the association, said that the old boys association worldwide has done projects worth over N1billion. “We are hoping to do more and expect the new DMGS to be greater

A cross section of the member of the association

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Life&Living When retail therapy becomes hazardous

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Jumoke Akiyode-Lawanson

etail therapy is shopping with the primary purpose of improving the buyer’s mood or disposition. Ideally, anything therapeutic should cheer you up or excite you, as the case may be but sadly, not every therapy is good therapy.

Confused as to why retail therapy can sometimes be bad and have a reverse effect? There is no doubt that repeatedly engaging in retail therapy is a recipe for debt which is a burden and finally leads to unhappiness.

‘Retail therapy’ is the go-toword for most women especially after a heart break, disappointment or any sort of emotional trauma.

It is a common belief that spoiling yourself by buying something new will make us feel better – espe-

cially when it is something that may contribute to enhancing a lady’s self-esteem or confidence, such as clothes, shoes, makeup or just a relaxing day at expensive beauty spa.

The natural little high that comes along with this is very normal and for the majority of people will not become problematic.

However, it becomes hazardous when you over indulge – like many other habits. Hence, it is advisable to keep it minimal and seek more solace in other things that don’t necessarily have to cost a dent in your pocket.

Therapists have advised that if you find yourself having uncontrollable urge to shop when you are sad, depressed, anxious or even angry, you should ask yourself a few questions to determine if your shopping behavior is unhealthy so as to avoid regrettable decisions.

Do you get the urge to shop

particularly when you are experiencing negative emotions? Do you find it difficult to resist the urge to shop during these times?Is your behaviour resulting in negative results effects (e.g., are you getting yourself into financial debt; do you feel guilty afterward; is it creating conflict with your partner or family?

If you answer yes to one or more of these questions, you are likely engaging in shopping behaviour that is unhealthy.

According to globeandmail.com, a health, fitness and lifestyle blog, there are a few things that you can do to work on this.

‘First, articulate the negative effects of your behaviour. Write them down and be specific and then put this list somewhere visible. Second, identify which particular moods tend to increase the likelihood that you will engage in “retail therapy.”

Work to regulate these negative emotions. Seek treatment for underlying mood issues if these have been unaddressed. Try instead different activities that will intrinsically improve your mood, such as visiting with a friend or going for a walk.’

Joti Samra, a psychologist suggests that you ‘consider what environmental triggers urge you to shop

(e.g., a fight with your partner, a bad day at work). Work on a solution to these situations because targeting the underlying cause will be more effective than focusing strictly on the shopping behavior.’

According to Samra, you need to put a price to your behaviour. ‘What is this costing you on a monthly basis? And how is that interfering with other short- and long-term financial goals you have?’

Finally, she says you should make a commitment to change your behaviour. Be specific about what you are going to do. And start immediately.

Keeping your children’s hair healthy, natural and attractive IFEOMA OKEKE

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others often get worried when their daughters’ hair start showing signs of baldness, have variant colours or is just not as healthy as they expect it to look.

Mums who are keen on ensuring their little daughters look very beautiful and attractive know that the starting point will be to ensure their hair are just good looking.

In a bid to achieve an ideal healthy hair, mothers look for creative ways to help their daughters grow fuller and vibrant hair. Sadly, some use products that end up living the child’s hair worse than it was before.

However, respite is here for mothers who hope to change this narrative with the recent launch of Aurora By Imade, an organic hair care line for children.

I n s p i r e d by I m a d e Au r o r a Adeleke’s lack of hair growth at birth, her mother, Sophia Momodu had to find creative ways to help grow her daughter’s hair and give it a fuller, healthier and more vibrant look.

This was what gave birth to Aurora

by Imade.

Four-year old Adeleke, daughter of popular Nigerian musician, Davido is also excited about her hair and the

new product she and her mum are bringing into the Nigerian market.

In an interview with BDSunday, Momodu said “When Imade was born, she didn’t have a lot of hair, and I had to find creative ways to help her hair grow fuller and look more healthy and vibrant. I used to mix all sorts of concoctions together and post about them on social media and people were always so interested in what I was doing.

“Sometimes they’d think I was cooking some sort of stew, but really I was just mixing hair care products for my daughter. It was really effective too. Everyone loves her hair, it’s shiny, it’s bouncy and other moms have told me that it inspired them to experiment more with natural hair styles, not just for their daughters, but for themselves too.

“So we figured, why not put out a hair care line with the kinds of products that Imade uses so that other people could have their hair looking fuller and more vibrant too.”

She assured that there is definitely demand for product like this, however, noted that supply has been low.

“I know how much I struggled to find great quality hair care products for my daughter, especially ones that were healthy, safe and organic. It’s so important in this day and age to be super conscious about what we put

on our kids’ bodies and in their hair.”

She disclosed that For Aurora by Imade, she used 100 percent organic products and completely avoided things like sulfates which are very

common in these types of products, but have harmful long-term effects.

According to her, this is so important and so she made sure she did lots of market research in advance.

“Even if Nigerians don’t know that they want it, they need it, and we’re going to give it to them. Thankfully, we’ll be shipping internationally too, not just in Nigeria, so we’ll be able to share this great product with people all over the world,” she disclosed.

On the affordability of the product she said one of the hardest things about any quality business is finding that balance between affordable prices and quality-consistent prices.

The entrepreneur said it’s really important to her that these products are available to as many people as possible, especially since she is trying to promote healthier and more organic products, so people should’nt expect ridiculously high prices.

“Different products will have different prices and that will always correlate with the quality of the product.

The products come in different sizes too,” she said.

On the success the products has recorded since she commenced she said “I couldn’t even begin to tell you how many people have been directly or indirectly involved in this. From all our friends who constantly send us hair tips, to our cousins who keep recommending new products, to our personal hair stylists who have been kind enough to share some of their secrets with us.”

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importance of imbibing good saving habits, stating that was a necessary skill that would help them achieve their goals. A very arresting highlight of the event was the interactive session between the Access Bank CEO

and the students.

Discussing with a student who explained that the school needed instructional facilities, Herbert Wigwe made a commitment to refurbish the school’s Information and Communication

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Technology (ICT) laboratory. Interestingly and very encouraging, he joined the students in some interesting activities, as they gathered around him for a selfie photograph, which he promised to cherish always.

and authority in Sahelian history, Djibril Tamsir Niane; Ghanaian politician, Samia Nkrumah and famous musician, Femi Kuti, all spoke

during the first edition of UBA’s Africa Conversations, a symposium organized by the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc at the UBA

House in Lagos, as part of activities marking this year’s Africa Day celebrations. The theme of the panel session was, “Africa’s History Redefined, Our Past, The Path to the Future.” Opening the conversation, the Group Chairman, UBA, Tony Elumelu stated that UBA understands the past; that Africa as a continent has always been united by the struggle for identity.

The one-week event ended on a very grand and funfair as Afro Juju maestro, Sir Shina Peters, titillated everyone with his ever vibrating rhythm, with all the staff of UBA in their native attires dancing at their best.

Extraordinary Banker, Segun Agbaje Honored!

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arlands and honours are ever meant for those who meritoriously deserve them, and this is stating the obvious when one reclines into what happened days back to the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Guaranty Trust Bank, Mr. SegunAgbaje.Hewasamong the select few that were investiture with the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN,) Fellowship.

The event tagged ‘CIBN Extraordinary Fellowship Investiture,’ formally conferred its honorary fellowship awards on six distinguished bankers in recognition of their contributions

Femi Otedola’s daughter, Temi makes him proud

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UBA’s Tony Elumelu headlines Africa Conversations t was another glorifying moment for the undisputed torch bearer of Africa’s leading bank, UBA, Tony Elumelu at the epochal ‘Africa Conversations’ event recently in Lagos.

At the all-embracing event, African leading minds and voices called on Africans to be mindful of their rich history, which according to them creates the path towards the socio-cultural, economic and political development of the continent.

The strong African voices which included Group Chairman, United Bank for Africa, (UBA), Tony Elumelu, Nobel Laureate, Wole Soyinka; Professor emeritus

Sunday 02 June 2019

Bolatito Adebola

Access Bank MD, Herbert Wigwe’s Love for Children arents will always jubilate with their children, especially when the whole world marks their day. This was typified by Access Bank’s head honcho, Herbert Wigwe when he uniquely shared success tips with students during the last Children’s Day celebrations.

Wigwe reiterated his belief in the potentials of young Nigerians and their important role in the socioeconomic growth of the country, at the event which took place at Girls Secondary Grammar School, Ikoyi, Lagos.

The astute banker, Wigwe shared several successful tips built on integrity, honesty, hard work, selflove, family, perseverance, developing a savings culture, even as he encouraged them to adopt the values of discipline and hard work in all their endeavours.

He further explained the

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to the banking industry and the economy, at its extraordinary fellowship investiture.

Others who were con-

ferred with the same award were Edward Adamu, deputy governor, corporate services, Peter Amangbo, managing director/CEO, Zenith

Bank plc, Tony Okpanachi, managing director/CEO, Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN), Hassan Usman, managing director/ CEO Jaiz Bank plc, and Bade Adeshina , Chairman, Goldfield Group.

Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, chairman of Coronation Capital Nigeria limited, while speaking on the topic, “Ethical Dilemma in Financial Institutions: The Way Forward,” told bankers to develop a strong moral standard to deal with an ethical dilemma. This is obviously another feather to GTB’s Segun Agbaje’s cap in the volatile banking industry.

ou might never know a man’s vulnerable place until you see him with his daughter; because with her, he seems capable of more human emotions that he will even share with anyone else. It’s almost an impossible task to separate fathers from their daughters because

the event, and was full of anxiety and joy with what his daughter did for him at that auspicious event.

Those who were at the event have kept on passing commendable words and tributes to Femi Otedola on the wonderful and impressive outing of his daughter at the global

that bond is something mysteriously awesome and it can only be made from heaven.

This was amplified by oil and gas mogul, Femi Otedola’s daughter, Temi, at the 2018 Zik Prize for Business Leadership, who shone like a million stars. His father expressed his feelings and pride for Temi, who represented him ably at

event. Temi Otedola, with the caliber of people at the event, was not cowed, as she remained her normal self throughout the event, without being intimidated at all. Temi has always been a winner at whatever she does, especially through her fashion business and modelling, which she has broken many grounds within all entireties.

Unity Bank’s MD, Tomi Somefun applauds Nkiru Olumide-Ojo’s Women Network

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he is a newsmaker when it comes to issues that have to do with her gender. This is what she will again replicate at a forthcoming women confab. It will be a spectacle at the 6th Women’s Social Development Network, Lighthouse Women’s Conference come Saturday, June 8, 2019, at Four Points by Sheraton, Lagos from 10am to 1pm .

This year, the team is driving a diversity and inclusion agenda by having an all men speaking panel.

Moderated by two leading ladies, the panel has four generations of men discussing how to support the advancement of the working woman.

The organizers have particularly confirmed the presence of Managing Director of Unity Bank, Mrs Tomi Somefun, who will be giving the keynote address at the conference. Tomi Somefun will address participants on the theme of the programme: Views from the Other Side: Women

and the Career Ladder.

Other speakers joining the respected banker are Obinnia Abajue, Managing Director of Hygeia HMO, Amaechi Okobi, Group Head Marketing and Communications for Access Bank, Debola Williams, Managing Director of Red media and Tafar Osisiye Author of fifty percent of a true story are billed to share their views.

Nkiru Olumide-Ojo, the principal organizer and programme initiator spoke on the event that she is delighted to hear views from the other side in this edition, even more specifically to hear views from fourdifferent generations.

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Travel

Nigerian tourism development on front burner at NATOP AGM …as Ile Ife, the host city, opens to tourists

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he 24th Annual General of the National Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), may have come and, but the speeches and presentations delivered at the gathering by heads of government establishments and stakeholders in the tourism industry would not be forgotten in a hurry.

The stakeholders took time at the AGM, which held at the Ife Grand Resort and Leisure, Osun State from May 23-25, 2019, to address issues affecting tourism development and need for sustained collaborations and advocacy in the industry.

The vision of NATOP is to serve as a catalyst for the development and promotion of tour businesses and packages as a component of travel and tourism industry and as an economic activity. The association is the apex body for people who engage in the development, promotion and marketing of tour businesses and tour packages across the country.

Going by the topical nature of the issues addressed at the AGM, all national bodies in the tourism industry were equally represented.

Top dignitaries present at the conference include, Lai Mohammed, Minister of Information and Culture, represented by Patricia Narai, deputy director, Domestic Tourism, Olusegun Runsewe, director general, National Council for Arts and Culture, Folorunsho Coker, director general, Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation, represented by Obawale Simeon Adebisi, supervisor of Home Affairs, Culture and Tourism, Osun State.

Others include; Rabo Saleh, president, Federated Association of Nigerian Tourism (FTAN), Gab Onah, chairman, Calabar Cannibal, Fatima Garbati, former NATOP president, and Bernard Bankole, president, Nigeria Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA).

The meeting hosted by Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II), the Ooni of Ife, was the first of its kind since the monarch assumed office in 2015.

The Ooni’s indisputable passion for tourism fuelled his desire to host the AGM, while the hospitality treats he lavished on NATOP members at the resort spoke volume of his mutual affection for the association.

His arrival at the resort to receive some NATOP officials on the eve of the AGM sent a message of his recognition of the association as an important body in the tourism sector.

The theme for this year’s AGM, ‘Culture, Partnership and Governance on Nigeria Tourism Development’ captured NATOP’s pivotal message of sustainable tourism development in Osun State and Nigeria at large.

In her welcome address, Bilikisu Abdul, president of NATOP, noted that the association was devoted to addressing development issues in the area of policy development and advocacy, promotions, as well as, development of tourist destinations and attractions. The association, according to her, seeks to create enabling environment for her members to thrive and engage in activities

R-L: Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II), the Ooni of Ife; Bilikisu Abdul, president of NATOP; Olusegun Runsewe, director general, National Council for Arts and Culture and Ike Uko, CEO, Akwaaba African Travel Market, exchanging pleasantries with the royal father at Ife Grand Resort, venue of the 2019 NATOP AGM.

aimed at adding values to the Nigerian society.

The NATOP president further noted that the association’s choice of Osun State as host for the 2019 AGM was informed by the fact that the state is the ancestral home of Yoruba race, which is rich with natural attractions and culture.

She expressed gratitude to the Ooni of Ile-Ife for hosting the NATOP’s conference, as well as, acknowledged the hospitality, which the monarch lavished on the members for the three days they stayed at the resort.

However, the president called for collaborations among members to enable them work for the sustainability of the visions and objectives of the association, especially tourism marketing and development in Nigeria.

Speaking at the conference, Lai Mohammed, Minister of Information and Culture, who spoke through Patricia Narai, his representative, noted that NATOP had come a long way in promoting tourism in Nigeria.

Mohammed tasked the association to develop tourism in Ife to the level of the Vatican City in Rome, given the vast opportunities in tourist attractions, sites and rich cultural heritage of the kingdom.

He wants NATOP to collaborate with the ministry to develop tourism in the country. “NATOP should collaborate with the Ministry of Information and Culture in stimulating tourism appeal and growth in Nigeria”, the minister said.

On his part, Olusegun Runsewe, director general, National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), urged for practical approach to culture and tourism development, given the wonderful impact of culture and tourism on the global scale.

Runsewe emphasized that the 21st century tourism required NATOP to think outside the box with commitment and synergy to achieve its

goal despite the challenges posed by insecurity and infrastructure deficits in the country.

The NCAC director general advocated for the establishment of a national career for the country to serve as a national pride, while calling on NATOP to look inward by developing domestic tourism.

Runsewe stressed on the need for tourist operators to package their products based on world-class standards in order to compete favourably with destinations such as Dubai, Ethiopia and South Africa.

In same vein, Folorusho Coker, director general, Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), who was represented by Eyitan Rotimi said, the theme of the AGM reflected the existing reality on ground. He pointed that government is providing the enabling environment for business to thrive in tourism notwithstanding challenges facing the country.

Rotimi tasked NATOP to improve on efforts at driving the tourism private sector, while suggesting partnership with the government as way forward for the sector.

For Obawale Adebisi, tourism director, Osun State, the state was proud to collaborate with NATOP, considering the successful event and friendly hosting of the Ooni of Ife, who doubled as the royal father of the AGM. He pointed that it took the vision of the Osun Government to turn the state into a tourism destination in Nigeria and submitted that partnership with the state government is a viable and practical option.

One of the highlights of the event was the arrival of the Ooni of Ife at the resort to welcome NATOP officials and the media. That gesture for many was an indication of the king’s humility and jovial attitude of accommodating guests in Ile-Ife.

In his remarks, the royal father identified NATOP as an apex body that has positioned itself to champion the development of travel and tour businesses in the country through promotion of leisure, entertainment, education and wellness in every aspect of life.

The Ooni recognized NATOP as a strategic partner in the development of tourism and culture in Ile-Ife, and hopes to collaborate with them on the promotion of Ife tourism and cultural offerings.

The royal father also recognized the role of the media in promoting tourism in the country and beyond, urging the travel media to sustain the spirit with consistency of purpose.

According to the Oba, the travel media is the means through which tourism potentials are marketed to the world for foreign and domestic investments respectively through broad information and education.

Rabu Sabo, president, Federation of Tourism Association of Nigeria, (FTAN), urged all associations under FTAN to support NATOP in its tourism development drive in Nigeria, noting further that harnessing the huge potential in tourism would add great values to the economy both in GDP and job creation.

Speaking at the conference, Gab Onah, chairman, Calabar Carnival Commission, described the theme of the AGM as all embracing because it dwelt on the issues bordering on tourism development across the country.

He remarked that the 2019 NATOP AGM in Ife was significant because it was hosted by the Ooni himself, which gave the conference a royal touch.

Onah said the private sector needs to be protected, but lamented that the country lacks the policy that promotes it.

To promote culture, Onah said,

“We need to harmonize culture at the private participation’’. He stressed the importance of strengthening security to guarantee safety of tourists and tourism businesses in the country.

He also urged the government to make funds available to investors at one digit interest rate. He asked the Federal Government to tap into the aims and objectives of NATOP to develop the nation’s tourism.

For Ikechi Uko, CEO, Akwaaba African Travel Market, there is a factor militating against partnership in culture and tourism in Nigeria, pointing poor habit as one of the issues.

“Our culture is rich as a product, but poor in habit limits partnerships because we fail to explore the wealth of our culture”, he lamented.

Uko stressed that Nigeria has a rich cultural heritage that can support the economy viably, but observed a gap in partnership in the tourism business and citing example with his experience.

He said tourism development in Nigeria is struggling due to lack of proper governance and sustain policy and urged synergy between the government and stakeholders to develop tourism in the country.

Also speaking at the event, Bernard Bankole, NANTA president, noted that NATOP is in a position to promote tourism in the country through strong advocacy and commitment to goal and objectives of the association.

He stressed the need for stakeholders in the tourism industry to come together to stimulate the business.

“We need to come to come together to push tourism into action.

We need to unite all the sectors in the industry.” He identified culture as a marketing product in tourism, adding that synergy is fundamental to bring culture and tourism together.

In her closing remarks, Fatima Garbati, a former NATOP president, said NATOP choice of Ife as the host of its AGM for the year is important given the rich tourist sites and cultural heritage of Ile-Ife. She expressed gratitude to the Ooni for hosting the association with great treats and sought strong relationship between the association and the king, considering the monarch’s passion for tourism.

Garbati identified tourism as a key sector that can support the economy of the country, suggesting that the industry is the way to go. She commended NATOP for organising a successful AGM as she looked for better days for tourism industry in Nigeria.

The AGM ended with tours by the participants to some cultural sites and attractions in Ife including the mystical sites (shrines) in the Ooni’s palace, Queen Moremi’s status, the Oramiyan Staff Grove and a waterfall around the Ife Resort and Leisure.

It would be recalled that NATOP held its 2018 AGM in Jos, Plateau State, while Lagos was the host for 2017.

The 2016 held in Calabar, Cross Rivers State, while Ile Ife held the just-concluded and successful 2019 edition.

As well the success of the AGM signaled the stability, continuity and focus in the leadership of NATOP.

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Sunday 02 June 2019

Travel How Emirates is preparing children for a career in aviation IFEOMA OKEKE

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um, I will like to be a pilot so I can fly people all over the world. I love the way pilots dress, they look very intelligent.

Mummy please tell me what to do to a pilot.” This was the statement of seven-year Joseph who had just been dressed like a pilot at the recently concluded Emirates Children’s Day in Lagos.

Joseph who wasn’t so clear about what he wanted to become in future, seemed to be certain about his new choice of profession after attending the Emirates Children’s Day. Some of the children dressed in specially made Emirates pilot and cabin crew uniforms expressed their aspirations to not only pursue aviation careers but to also fly actual Emirates planes someday. The children felt encouraged to dream and work towards those dreams.

The event which took place at the Genesis Cinema, Maryland Mall, Maryland Lagos hosted hundreds of children as the airline again demonstrated its priority attention to Nigerian children by showing an exclusive screening of a blockbuster movie, ‘Aladdin.’

The children were treated to a full day of entertainment and inspiration at the spectacular Children’s Day event in Maryland Mall, Lagos.

The special Children’s Day package included movie screening, special cake cutting, positive interactions, display of a model aircraft, visualization of the Emirates flying experience and one on one with the Emirates Regional Manager West Africa, Afzal Parambil.

Speaking at the event, Emirates Regional Manager West Africa, Afzal Parambil, said, “We can think of no better way to celebrate the special young travellers in our lives than by bringing the joy of movies to life. Whether they are flying with family or alone, we ensure that children always have an unforgettable experience on Emirates. We always want to make the journey as enjoyable as the destination.”

Parambil pointed out that “We recognize young travellers as one of our most important customers.

We know how challenging it can be for parents to keep their children occupied and happy on flights. We have ensured that every aspect of the travel experience is catered for, from toys and kids’ entertainment to special meals on board, and even family check-in areas. We are committed to ensuring a smooth travel experience for families.

The Emirates award-winning ‘ice’ offers a wide variety of children’s programming including the very best movies and television from Disney, Cartoon Network, CBee-

Doris Akindele, Emirates senior customer sales and service agent; Funmi Unuajefe, winner of the Competition on Sisiyemmie platform; Brume Unuajefe, Her son; Afzal Parambil, Emirates regional manager, West Africa; Mopelola Afonja, Emirates customer sales and service agent, at the presentation of gifts to the winner of the Children’s Day Competition on Sisiyemmie’s platform at the 2019 Emirates Children’s Day event held at Maryland Mall recently.

Children dressed in Emirates Airline Pilot and Cabin crew uniforms as part of activities to celebrate Children’s day by the Airline in Lagos over the weekend

Children, flanked by Mopelola Afonja (left) and Doris Akindele (right) both of Emirates Airline, about cutting a cake in commemoration of 2019 Children’s Day celebration facilitated by Emirates Airline in Lagos over the weekend.

bies and Nickelodeon channels plus much more. For young music fans, Emirates offers a great selection with hundreds of channels of music available. Young travellers on Emirates also receive specially designed colorful headphones for a better fit and improved sound quality.

To fuel a sense of wonder and imagination, Emirates has developed its own set of toys for children,

which includes, Fly With Me Cuddle Buddy, a soft comfort blanket for infants, Fly With Me Animal Tin Cases with magnets and activity sheets for toddlers, and Fly With Me Lonely Planet Kids case for older children featuring a fold-out board game, spinner, ID holder, lanyard, gadget stand and pen.

Other attractions for children and infants on Emirates include:

priority boarding, special fares for those aged two to eleven years of age, and 10kg free baggage allowance for infants not occupying a seat.

Parambil, concluded that “Emirates celebrates children beyond Children’s Day. On every Emirates flight, we clearly demonstrate the importance of children.”

With Emirates, your children can enjoy the following: Fly with Emirates Toys Emirates Animal toys and goodie bags inspire the greatest imaginations and encourage tomorrow’s explorers.

Fly with me Animal Magazine Fly with me Animals magazines is a fun and colourful magazine produced exclusively for Emirates’ young flyers aged 3-8 years old.

Each magazine includes a colouring set which features Emirates Little Travellers characters - iconic Emirates cabin crew and pilot characters exploring the world Meals and special Products for babies and children For babies and toddlers on all routes Emirates, they can enjoy amenity kits with wet wipes, cream, bib, teething ring and tissue pack; child-friendly liners for the bassinet; baby food, formula, feeding bottles and diapers. For children on all routes Emirates offers recently designed meal trays featuring the Emirates Little Travellers, special kids meals which can be ordered in advance, special meals such as Jollof Rice, beef stew porridge yam, braised chicken thighs, rice with black eyed beans, fried plantain, sautéed spinach, sweet potato and Chicken stew are also available.

Children’s entertainment Young travellers on Emirates receive specially designed headphones for a better fit and they can enjoy dedicated channels of children and family programming.

These fun and colourful new headphones have larger speakers for a more comfortable fit and improved sound quality.

Children and family programming Emirates offers a wide variety of children’s programming including the very best movies and television from Disney, Cartoon Network, CBeebies and Nickelodeon channels plus much more.

Some of them include 50 Disney Classic movies on ice Digital Widescreen including: all 4 Pirates of the Caribbean movies,3 Toy Story movies, 101 Dalmatians, Alice in Wonderland, Cars 1 and 2, Cinderella, Dumbo, Finding Nemo, Mary Poppins, Monsters.

A dedicated Marvel folder including: Ant Man, Marvel’s The Avengers, Captain America: The First Avenger, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Guardians of the Galaxy, Iron Man, Iron Man 2, Iron Man 3, Thor, Thor: The Dark World.

It offers over 90 dedicated kids TV channels, including: CBeebies, Car-

toon Network, Disney Junior and Nickelodeon.

There is a TV programming featuring well-known favourites such as: Thunderbirds Are Go, Horrible Histories, Scooby Doo, Star Wars Rebels, The Tom and Jerry Show, Dora & Friends and more than 100 video games (depending on aircraft type) Lounges in Dubai (First class and Business class) Even before the flight departs, Emirates’ young flyers are kept busy with dedicated kids areas in the lounges in Dubai. Both the First Class and Business Class lounges have play areas, with adequate seating for parents to supervise their children. These play areas offer plenty of entertainment and exciting interactive games suitable for kids of all ages, up to older teens.

A separate range of toys and amenity kits have been specially designed for the lounges. Other special services for children and infants include priority boarding for families with small children, special fares for children aged two to 11, 10kg free baggage allowance for infants not occupying a seat, baby kits, bassinets, nappies and baby change tables, baby bottles, milk formula and two types of jar food as well as food/ bottle heating services, special ‘stroller’ delivery service for parents with babies in Dubai, provided immediately after disembarking and family check-in area at Dubai.

Unaccompaniedminorsservice Parents whose children are travelling alone can be assured of a smooth and stress-free journey from start to finish with our friendly and helpful staff. The unaccompanied minors service is available for children from five to under 12 years travelling alone or children under eight years of age travelling in a different cabin class from their parents. This service has to be booked in advance and includes separate check-in facilities, dedicated staff to accompany the minor or young traveller throughout the journey and dedicated lounge with toys and entertainment for kids.

Skywards skysurfers Skywards Skysurfers is the airline’s frequent flyer programme for young travellers aged two to 16.

Skysurfers have their own membership card, earn Miles when they travel and move up through the tiers just like Emirates Skywards members. They can spend their Miles on treats like flights, toys, fun-filled day trips and more. In developing children’s imaginations, Emirates has developed its greatest imaginations and encourage tomorrow’s explorers.

Emirates flies 14 times a week from Lagos to Dubai (2 flights per day), and 4 times a week from Abuja to Dubai. Emirates flies 14 times a week from Lagos to Dubai (2 flights per day), and 4 times a week from Abuja to Dubai.

Sunday 02 June 2019

Bliss with Nonye Ben-Nwankwo

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The true story of my ‘arrest’ – Blessing Okoro

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nstagram blogger, Blessing Okoro who has been in the eye of the storm for some days now for allegedly claiming a house that is not hers, has come out to say she was never arrested by police officers.

In a heart wrenching video she posted recently, the young lady who celebrated a massive birthday party before this episode, said she was forced to say all she said in the video where she was handcuffed.

Amidst tears, Blessing said, “I want the world to hear this even when I am gone. A lot of things have gone wrong and I have been asked to keep quiet and not say a word otherwise they would kill me. But what more is it to die than what they have done to me on the internet. The world feels that I did something wrong. I would rather prefer to die and tell my story than die being quiet for nothing.

“No police officer arrested and humiliated me. It was Onyeze that sent his boys. I was invited to his house. They called me on the phone and told me he wanted to see me. Stupidly (because I had nothing at the back of my mind), I took my shower and went to his house.

“Three boys were holding belts and two were holding guns. I asked what the problem was, they shut the gate and collected my phones from me and asked me to sit on the floor. I asked them why and they said it was the IG that asked them to arrest me. I told them we should go to the station. They said they would kill me if I didn’t keep quiet. One of them brought out

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handcuffs and put it on me. I was just begging them to stop videoing me. They videoed me and asked me to say I invaded Onyeze’s privacy and his compound. They asked me to use my phone and do the life video. They asked me to post it and I did. They asked me to roll on the ground and beg Onyeze.

“They started doing video calls and were calling girls to mock me.

Fortunately for me, they called somebody I knew and immediately she saw me, she ran to the destination with her husband and started begging them. They said I should sign an undertaken. I didn’t even know what was written.

They asked me to bring N500,000 otherwise they would post the video. I told them I didn’t have such since I just finished celebrating my birthday party.

“Before I could blink my eye, the video was already on the internet. People started asking them why I was handcuffed. In order to

cover up, they came back for us to have a drink for social media to believe it was a stunt.”

Blessing who tactfully avoided explaining if and why she claimed the Onyeze’s house as hers, said she has fought for people but couldn’t fight her own battles when it was her turn.

“I am not doing this video to get your sympathy or pity. I have fought for humanity. I have fought for children, I have fought for women and I have fought for single mothers with my life, with my money and with my position and with my blood. It is killing me at this point that I cannot fight for myself. I tried so hard to be strong but I wanted the world to know what happened before I take my own life. I would never rest in my grave if I didn’t tell people what happened to me. It is okay for you to judge. All I want for people to know is that I was not arrested. I was never detained,” she said.

Sound Sultan, others pay homage to Sir Shina Peters

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here was a time veteran singer, Sir Shina Peters held sway in the music industry in Nigeria. That time may be gone but indeed, the singer is well respected and appreciated in Nigeria even as at today.

And so, when the singer, looking all deft, arrived at the recently held Ariya Repete Roundtable discussion organised by Goldberg, his colleagues including Sound Sultan heaped praises on Afro-juju crooner, for the impact and longevity of his career which has spanned over 35 years in the music industry.

Sultan was part of the special guest discussants which also had Sir Shina Peters, Dr. Saheed Osupa, Yinka Davis, Nigerian Breweries Corporate Affairs manager Tayo Adelaja, Alhaji Sikiru Agboola, PMAN executive Tolu Obey, and Music producer ID Cabasa as members of the discussion.

Discussing the topic ‘One Culture, One Voice, New Sound’, Sound Sultan and other members of the panel highlighted the ingenuity of Sir Peters who though sings in the Yoruba language was able to infuse the English language

Kenneth Ekhuemelo receives Hymnodia car prize

enneth Ekhuemelo, the inaugural winner of Hymnodia just could not hold back his excitement when he was presented a brand new wonder on wheels for being the winner of the reality show that was concluded recently.

The presentation, which attracted jubilant worshippers, took place at the All Saints (Army Headquarter) Cathedral, Abalti Barracks, Surulere, Lagos, on Sunday, where Ekhuemelo is an organist.

Hymnodia organisers had promised the winner of the competition a brand new car, in addition to the ASAPH, the main prize specially designed and named after King David’s chief musician, as well as N5 million.

Hymnodia was a keenly contested show as Ekhuemelo battled with Olumide Dada, another brilliant and leading performer at the grand finale. But a winner had to emerge, and that was Ekhuemelo, the bassofundo.

The hymncert ended the 14-week show piece that was aimed at reigniting the almostforgotten hymn culture among young Nigerians.

Explaining the rationale for the presentation at the church, Kufre Ekanem, Managing Director of Philosoville, initiator of Hymnodia said the reality show redefined the art of worship and that since hymn has its foundation in the church, it was wise to bring the car to worship with Ekhuemelo.

“Ekhuemelo is an organist in All Saints Cathedral, and this

also shows that the members are part of his success story,” he explained.

Commending Hymnodia for the novel initiative, Rev. (Col.) Bante Kauche, Director, Chaplain Services, Nigerian Army, eulogised Ekanem for the initiative which was thoroughly planned and executed to an appreciable standard.

He said Hymnodia has tremendously enhanced the talent of the 14 hymntestants, including Ekhuemelo, as well as young Nigerians who watched the programme.

Receiving the car prize with joy written all over him, the ‘bassofundo’ thanked the initiator of Hymnodia for the opportunity to learn new skills on hymns writing and rendition at the Hymnstitute and for the fulfilment of the prize.

“I am very delighted to receive the car and it came as a surprise to me to see it being delivered at the church today.

I see this as a divine blessing from God and I really appreciate Hymnodia. At the Hymnstitute, I boosted my talent through teachings on the fundamentals of hymns writing and singing,” he further said.

Gideon Okeke to host Hi-Life Fest

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into his music, which ultimately helped his music cross over to the wider and diverse Nigerian audience.

Sir Shina Peters has released 19 albums over the course of his career. His ‘Ace “AfroJuju Series 1’ album of 1989 went double platinum and the veteran musician is still a very active stage performer till date.

According to the organis-

ers, this year’s edition of Ariya Repete will introduce the Afropop to the mix with the aim of showcasing amazing from the contest.

Ariya Repete is sponsored

by Goldberg lager, the beer brand renowned for conceptualising and executing initiatives such as these, which highlights the beauty of tradition and culture.

ctor, Gideon Okeke is all set to host this year’s edition of Hi-Life Fest, a talent hunt competition sponsored by Life Larger.

The announcement was made on Sunday, 26th of May at a special media parley hosted in Sky Garden Bar, Onitsha. During this exciting evening, past contestants of Hi-Life Fest were on ground to delight the audience with melodic renditions of some of the most iconic highlife tunes in Nigerian music history.

Present at the special media parley was the brand manager of Life Lager, Chidi Egwu, actor/ musician, David Jones-David and Highlife Legend, Bright Chimezie, as well as others who addressed the media on the plans for the next 12 weeks of Hi-Life Fest.

Speaking after the media announcement, Life Lager Brand Manager, Chidi Egwu shared his vision for the 2019 edition of HiLife Fest.

“Hi-life Fest has been one of our most beloved platforms.

This is one of the ways we connect with our consumers and celebrate our shared love for highlife music. After two successful editions which produced two remarkable talented musical acts, we’ve decided to take this competition a step further and showcase these talents to the whole of Africa.”

Hi-Life Fest kicks off on the 3rd of June, with the regional auditions to be staged in Enugu, Asaba, Awka, and Aba. Winners from these regions will be taken to Lagos for a week of mentoring by some of the most respected acts in the Nigerian highlife music scene. After this, contestants will head back to the East for the quarter-finals in Port Harcourt on the 14th of July.

The semi-finals and Finals are scheduled to hold in Enugu and Onitsha on the 4th of August and the 18th of August respectively.

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Sunday 02 June 2019

Sunday Magazine

Chilling tales by kidnap victims: Who will end the misery?

L AMAKA ANAGOR-EWUZIE

ike a torrent wind, tears gush out of the eyes of a 20-year old young lady, named Joy, as she narrates the ordeal she passed through in the hands of her kidnappers two weeks back.

Joy told BDSUNDAY that she was abducted for over 5hours along Benin-Ore Road on her way to Enugu, the Eastern part of Nigeria from Lagos.

“The driver of our 18-seater bus, which left Jibowu Bus Terminal in Lagos around 6am that fateful Saturday morning, 18 May 2019 to Enugu, was cruising at a speed range of 100 to 120km/ hour because the road that morning was a bit free, devoid of traffic congestion,” Joy said.

“When we left Lagos, our bus only stopped in a gas station located somewhere in Sagamu to refill the vehicle’s tank, and almost all the passengers alighted at that point to stretch their legs while some others went to the gents and ladies to ease themselves. As God may have it, we were able to pass Ore in Ondo State at 11am, meaning that we were half way to Onitsha in Anambra State at that point.

“Few kilometers into Edo State, on approaching the popular Okada Junction, our driver started negotiating left to right without control on sudden bump into the blockade made by the hoodlums, and the passengers started to shout Jesus!

Jesus! Jesus! The vehicle at that point was forced to stop in the middle of the highway.

“Low and behold, five-hefty men with guns suddenly ambushed our bus and ordered all the passengers to come down, lie down flat with

their hands on their heads. People were also asked to submit their phones and monies in their position without hesitation.

“After that, five of us including myself were taken into the bush where we were brutally assaulted by our abductors such that some of us sustained terrible degrees of injuries and in my case, my left foot was badly injured after it was smashed with the head of the gun.

I saw so many other captives, who were mostly travellers kidnapped on that route as well. People were also forced to say how much they think their families could pay as ransom for their release.

“We were released 5 hours later after a traumatic and terrifying experience in the hands of our abductors. They collected our phones and access codes, ATM cards with our pin numbers as well as our monies.

“Before four of us were released, some members of the gang went to thenearestATMmachineandmade withdrawalswithourdebitcards.Initially, they wanted to take me across theriver,wherethegangwasholding people captive, but God made them change their mind, that was how I wasreleasedwiththreeotherswhile the remaining two persons were taken into captive.

“Unfortunately, it was after we were released that I realised that about four other 18-seater buses were captured by the hoodlums that particular Saturday and that men of the Nigeria Police Force only arrived at the scene of the abduction hours after some of us were able to make it out of the loins’ den (bush).

“Though, I was able to make it out of the bush alive that was the most terrifying experience I have ever had in my life. We were left

without a kobo to be able to find our way and no phone to even contact our loved ones. But in the midst of the agonizing pains, the police officers at the Igbenedion University Okada Police station insisted we must write a report (statement), which we did.”

BDSUNDAY recalls that in the last eight years (two administrations ago), Nigeria has been encumbered by serious security challenges, which has grown to become a huge threat to national security.

It began with the Islamist sect, Boko Haram, which started in the North East part of the country.

They also terrorised the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) leaving behind tears and blood. Since the advent of the insurgent group, there have been mindless killings and abduction perpetrated by the Boko Haram.

The menace of the Boko Haram insurgents has been worsened by the activities of an equally dangerous and wicked set, called the Fulani-herdsmen. These herdsmen have left thousands of Nigerians dead, particularly in the Middle Belt and some parts of South-east geopolitical zone of the country.

The killer Fulani herdsmen appear to have changed tactics. They have added abduction to their heinous acts. Today, we hear and read about kidnapping and banditry, and many Nigerians are being sent to their early graves through the reckless activities of these groups of hoodlums in Nigeria.

Aside from Joy, a middle-aged woman, named Beatrice, recently gave a mind-blowing testimony in a church programme, where she narrated a real life story of how God saved her son from the hands

of Fulani-herdsmen that ambushed and nearly killed him and his friend.

“My son, who is schooling in Barkin Ladi Polytechnic in Jos, called me on phone to tell me something.

He first asked that I should not panic and started narrating his ordeal. My son said he went to swim with his friend in a river located in a close-by village to his school, without knowing that Fulani-herdsmen had set an ambush there. Unknown to them, about 15 armed Fulani men surrounded and arrested them,” she said.

“My son said their abductors asked them to remove their clothes without having anything on. He has a tribal mark that makes him look like Hausa, and on sighting the mark, he was told to recite ‘Our Father, who art in heaven’ in Moslem way but, my son became confused because he is not a Moslem.

“At that point, the leader of the gang told his boys to waste my son andhisfriendwithoutdelay,butasthe 15-herdsmenreleasedtheirguns,the bullet refused to release and the guns remained silent. This made my sons’ abductors to become afraid, and the gang had to give their clothes back to them, and asked them to leave the forest,” she narrated.

Meanwhile, amid tears, a female senior lecturer (name withheld) in one of the tertiary institutions in Rivers State, recently gave a detail account of her ordeals in the hands of kidnappers. She recounted how she was raped in the forest of Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers and miraculously escaped from the kidnappers’ den.

On that Friday afternoon at the 6 Division of Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt shortly after Col. Aminu Iliyasu, deputy director, Army public

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Sunday Magazine relations, handed over the three men who confessed to have kidnapped her to SARS. She said: “I was with my children and my husband’s cousin in my house in Port Harcourt on April 30, 2019. They were all sleeping in the roomandIwaswashingclotheswith machine at the balcony around 8pm and at the same time, watching a programme on Zee World. The main gatetoourhousewaslocked,butthe protectorwasopen,sinceIstillhadto go downstairs to get water”.

“Suddenly, I noticed the protector opened slightly while still wondering who it was, because if it was my husband, he would horn for me to open the main gate for him. The next thing I saw was the key to the main door opened. Then, two guys pointed a gun at me. One of them cocked the gun and asked after my husband, whom I said, was not back from work.”

She said she was asked by her abductors to cooperate to avoid being killed. “They collected my ATM card and PIN, and asked of cash, and I said I do not have but offered to give them gold that could be sold for close to N50, 000 and they refused to take it. “They took our television set and laptop before they took me away in my vehicle and drove away.

The kidnappers put my head under the car seat and drove off and I did not know the direction they followed because my head was below the seat. We got to a place that was not motorable and came down and headed to the bush.

“I was paid salary that same day.

I told them to let me give them the salary and one of them brought an account number, which I forwarded my salary N59, 000 to. As we were still going inside the bush, he called someone to confirm the payment.

“We got to a river (the level of which) got to my knees. The leader pulled his trousers but I had to carry my dress up. That night, we spent about two hours in the bush, just moving around and I was barefooted because they refused me from wearing slippers and that made me to sustain injuries on the way.

“I was later blindfolded till we got to a place where we stayed for the night. I slept on bare floor in the open forest that night. The next morning, one of the guys left, leaving one, who finally raped me against my will.

“Though, it was inside the bush but I could hear the sound of passing vehicles. When it rained heavily, we were in the rain. I was completely wet and later became very cold.

“Later, another one came and asked me to eat in order not to die in the forest but I refused. They later brought food, water and drink. I refused to eat but took only the water.

The eldest seemed nicer as he promised not to rape me but he was surprised when he confirmed that his colleague had already raped me.

He said it was not in their culture to rape their victims. He also said that they would not have abducted me if they had seen up to N500, 000.

She said, the abductor said teachers’ ransom was N5 million, but promised to release me if my husband could raise N3 million.

“Around 7 pm. on Wednesday, they called my husband, who said he had no money again since they had collected the over N100, 000 he had with the ATM card. We later

relocated to another place where we slept that night.

“My escape was miraculous as one went to sleep, while the other took his phone and went away. I waited for a while, the one that went to make calls did not return and I saw it as an opportunity to escape.

That was how I ran away and was able to make it out of the bush to the main road where I saw people that helped me”, she narrated.

On daily basis, different people from different locations tell tales of how they were abducted, manhandled, assaulted and ransom paid on their heads before they got released. It is said that for 10 people that are lucky to make it alive after being kidnapped, there are about two or more cases of those who never return alive.

Today, the nation’s highways have become so dangerous that people are afraid to travel outside their base. The Abuja-Kaduna road has been declared a lions’ den.

Lagos-Ibadan road; Lagos-Sagamu road; Ibadan-Ife road; Ore-Benin road, name it, they have all become increasingly dangerous.

Precisely, Nigeria has one of the world’s highest rates of kidnap-forransom cases such that Mohammed Adamu, Inspector-General of Police said recently that at least 685

persons were kidnapped across the country between January and April, 2019.

The IGP further disclosed that 546 kidnappings representing 79.8 percent of the national total were recorded in the three northern geopolitical zones. He said the highest zonal prevalence rate occurred in the North-West where 365 persons were reportedly kidnapped within the period under review.

This was followed by the NorthCentral geopolitical zone where 145 persons were kidnapped. Zamfara State has the highest national kidnap rate with 281 victims in what has been directly linked to the activities of bandits in the state.

This was followed by Kogi and Niger states where 65 and 51 persons, respectively were kidnapped within the period.

Chioma Ezeh, a Lagos-based journalist with one of the national dailies told BDSUNDAY that two years ago, she boarded an marked cab in Victoria Island, but unknown toher,thepassengersinthecabwere all members of ‘419’ gang, popularly known as “One Chance”. They took her to an unfamiliar area of the state.

Ezeh said her abductors took her to an unknown building where she was robbed of all her possession and was told to use her ATM card

to make withdrawals after she was told that they could print several notes of naira. She was also threatened with death if she disclosed to anyone what transpired. After several hours in the hands of her abductors, she was taken by two of them to a nearby ATM machine to withdraw money. It was on their way that it now dawned on her that she was in the wrong hand, and “I told them that I needed to make call to my husband before I could go to the bank but they refused.”

“We continued the journey to the ATM machine when we sighted a police officer on the way, they became agitated and started disappearing one after the other because they thought I was going to give them away to the police. Then, one of them quickly told me to crossover and take Oshodi if I wanted to go. But I ignored him and used the opportunity to jump into a loaded commercial vehicle that stopped by me. That’s how I escaped,” she said.

In his own case, Olayinka Adegbehingbe, a professor and orthopaedic surgeon with the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife in Osun, was on Sunday 5 May 2019 abducted by gunmen, along Ife-Ibadan Expressway.

Narrating his experience, he said his abductors captured and

took him to the bush, where they requested for N30 million ransom for his release.

“I told them to take less because I could not afford the sum they requested. We finally settled for N10 million and it was at that point that we started mobilising funds, but they later collected N5.045 million cash from me before I was released,” he disclosed.

According to him, his abductors were seven in number and were all Fulanis and that they had four guns with multiple rounds of ammunition.

Reacting to this, Edward Komolafe, chairman, Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Osun State said the time has come for the Federal, State and Local Governments to beef up security in the country.

A Lagos based pastor with the Redeemed Christian Church of God, who gave his name as Adeyemi, recently told BDSUNDAY of how God miraculously rescued his son’s best friend from the hands of his abductors, who obviously were ritualists.

According to the pastor, the young boy boarded a commercial bus along Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway, Abule Egba bus stop, without knowing that the bus driver and the passengers were kidnappers.

The abducted young man only woke up to see himself in an unknown bush where other captives were lined-up for ritual. He said he saw a ‘Babalawo’ (native doctor) making incantations in preparation to sacrifice the captives.

“When it got to his turn the Babalawo shouted, ‘who brought this man here’. ‘This is a bad sacrifice, take him out of here’. It was then that his abductors quickly took him out of the forest and ordered him to keep running without looking back.

The young man was able to get help on the road and he got home wearing only boxers and singlet,” the pastor narrated.

Kidnapping, no doubt, is a global problem with many root causes, including unemployment, poverty, religion, and politics. Pundits believe that each of these root causes must be evaluated and addressed in order to eliminate this terrible scourge in the society.

However, countries like Nigeria can fight kidnapping successfully by hiring and training capable agents.

It is believed that if the nation’s law enforcement agencies are actively involved in the fight, the incidences of such crimes would be reduced.

It has also been proven that some security agents are also complicit, as they are also involved in kidnapping activities.

It has been said that mild punishmentdoesnotdetercriminals,which is why government needs to treat kidnapperswithallthestrengthitcan muster to crush them. However, it is said that the most effective way of fighting crime is to nip it in the bud.

This is in line with the popular saying that it is easier to kill a cub than to kill a full grown lion. The Federal Government has been accused of handling the insecurity challenge with kid glove.

Therefore, creation of jobs for citizens, especially for the youth, and enabling environment for businesses to thrive, would go a long wayinstemmingthedangeroustide of insecurity in Nigeria.

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Feature Formula for peace:

Why killers, kidnappers steer clear of Okrika in recent times ... Ateke Tom’s silent revolution ...DPO’s secret moves bail policy

IGNATIUS CHUKWU AND GODWIN EGBA

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ivers State is daily cast in bloody and agonizing mold from brutal crimes and bestiality but Okrika that used to be in the news some years ago has not once been mentioned in this. From all of Emohua to Ahoada, Elele, Ikwerre, Aluu, Eleme and Ogoni areas, and many more places, its news of beheading, kidnapping, rape, barbaric operations by gunmen in worst actions than herdsmen and Boko Haramists. Yet, not in Okrika! This has made analysts and political watchers to wonder why Okrika is silent.

A one day visit to Okrika and deep interactions with community people revealed two power points in the place that may have fashioned out a security strategy that seems to work: the police and the monarch. The police are led by a Superintendent of Police (SP) Manasis Jesse as Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and the traditional rulership is led by the king, Ateke Tom, Amanyanabo of Okrika-Kochiri.

Tom in particular is a peculiar personality; one of the Niger Delta militants who fought for resource control, but received the FG Amnesty offer which required the warlords to be of peaceful conduct thereafter. The interesting thing is that whereas violence has returned in communities controlled by almost all others, not so in Tom’s area of influence, at least Okrika. Many of those interviewed see this as a case of integrity.

Instead, BDSUNDAY found evidence of a network of security between the police and the monarch to deal ruthlessly with anyone trying to return to arms and violence in the area. Thus, as youths return to guns to feed, Okrika seems out of it; not because some persons do not try but because of immediate and prompt actions taken by both the king and the police leadership in the area that brooks no breach.

Crime is not perpetuated by animals but humans. As John Dunning, a crime reporter per excellence wrote in his book, ‘Mindless Murders’, that, “There is overwhelming evidence that humans are the most dangerous life form ever to appear on this planet and the only predator that has ever succeeded in reducing their numbers is man himself”. This implies that since the creation of the uni-

verse, man remains the biggest and leading threat to himself. This is so in Rivers State where people see nothing wrong in senseless killing, rape and kidnapping.

The most dastardly killing reigning in Port Harcourt at the moment is a woman who was forced to provide the kitchen knife with which her husband’s head was severed. To make the ridicule worse, she was asked to fetch a container (bucket) and was made to carry the head and lower it into the container. The assailants now carried the bucket to the front of the community worship centre (church) and dropped it there to form spectacle.

Insecurity is not peculiar to Rivers State, however, but people that live in that geographical space raise concerns over their safety due to daily reports of killing, beheading, abduction, rape and other barbaric actions.

Yes, like in other parts of Nigeria, people in some parts of Rivers State live with palpable fear over insecurity around them. Criminal elements seem to have taken over the socio-economic space of some of the local government areas. It is either dastard cult killing and kidnapping in communities or other forms of brazen banditry.

Profile of criminality has been on the increase in most parts of the 23 local government areas of the state such as Ikwerre, Eleme, and Ogoni geographical areas where hundreds of human lives

have been wasted in few months period.

In most of these affected communities, it has been an orgy of blood-letting. The criminals seem to be beating their chests and winning the battles against security agencies. Some make bold to say that security apparatus in the state may have its limitations and this is attributed to lack of adequate operational logistics, and almost zero levels of sophisticated arms compared available to them in contrast with the fire-brand ones at the disposal of most criminals.

One would, however, observe that some security personnel especially the police are simply wimpish. Some officers are seen as not brave or confident enough to face the threats or challenges they come face-to-face with in operational situations and in criminals’ hide-outs.

Notwithstanding, the Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike, seems to have fought back in the war of insecurity in the state in the past four years. He has donated patrol vans to the police, armoured boats to the Navy, and other logistics. The immediate past commissioners of police in the state and other security agencies have also been credited with sterling efforts to save the state from insecurity and the menace of criminality across the state.

Sources said Governor Wike’s administration may be battling

with sabotage against his security efforts despite the fact that crime probably has no satisfactory level of solution in Nigeria.

In his dogged determination recently, Wike put all community chiefs, leaders and local government executive chairmen on their toes to rise up to the security challenges alongside security agencies in their domains or get the boot.

A recent BDSUNDAY investigation revealed that the Okrika local government area has been adjudged as one of the most peaceful council areas out of the 23 local council areas in the state.

Stakeholders within the community attested that the DPO in Okrika has unleashed strategies that have closed ranks with sections of the Okrika community and chiefs, elders, leaders and youths in his fight against violent crime. This is said to have led to unprecedented peace in Okrika; as many eyes pop.

Jesse assumed duty in March 2017, but a cross-section of Okrikans who spoke with our correspondent admitted that before his arrival, there had been many cases of security breaches. In some situations, police could not penetrate some residential areas and terrains to effect common arrest or carry out investigation.

Not anymore! This is said to be because, Jesse and the monarch have found a way around this.

Some of those who have deep

understanding of the security network and template being implemented in Okrika include the chairman of Okrika Divisional Council of Chiefs, Sunday K. Amiesumak Kalawudo (JP), the chairman of the Community Development Committee (CDC), Temaso Sekubo, and the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) chairman, Alen Amakiri. These men in separate chats quoted to have appraised the latest security successes and maintained that Okrika now stands out in peace and security due to community policing model unveiled in the area of late.

The three chairmen each stated that since Jesse assumed duty in the division, Okrikans sleep with two eyes closed. They however admitted that no government or society can stop crime totally.

Kalawudo stressed that, “In recent times, some local government areas in the state have continued to experience high level of kidnapping, cult killing and other crime-related cases, but we Okrika opinion leaders embraced bond and synergy with the police division to expose any identified criminal element in any part of our community. This is why we remain the most peaceful town in Rivers State today”.

Authoritative sources further revealed that the police division works with the Okrika leaders who seem to have interest of their people at heart and that the DPO uses local intelligence to access the people and places to know who is an influential leader or not; to know the weakness of the non-leaders. This now enables the police to penetrate all nooks and crannies for easy identification of bad elements.

Our source further revealed that no criminal goes scot-free if apprehended irrespective of his or her connections, or affiliation to a ruling class in the community.

They noted that the DPO insists on the police treating everybody equal before the law in their crime fighting methods and investigations.

The Superintendent of Police (Jesse), a United Nations-trained community policing expert, is said to have worked hard on the issue of bail. Many people seem to hate the police because of bail issues where most persons say they are always made to pay fees for bail. Sources said this is not to be mentioned in Okrika these days.

Officers found in breach of this sacred code (bail

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Focus

New minimum wage: Workers in dilemma as Buhari begins new term INNOCENT ODOH, Abuja

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resident Muhammadu Buhari has just commenced another fouryear term of office after taking the oath of office on Wednesday, May 29, 2019, in what many believe heralds a new beginning especially for the Nigerian workers.

Since President Muhammadu Buhari signed into law the New Minimum Wage Bill of N30, 000 in April, the Nigerian workers have shown great excitement and joy at the development. The average worker who hitherto was condemned to the meagerly N18, 000 per month could at least ameliorate his condition with the new wage.

The new law now makes it compulsory for all employers of labour in Nigeria to pay to their workers the sum of N30, 000.

It also gives workers the right, if they are compelled by any circumstance to accept salary that is less than N30, 000, to sue their employer to recover the balance.

The law also authorizes the Minister of Labour and any person nominated by the Minister or any person designated by the Minister of Labour in any ministry, department or agency to on behalf of the worker, take action in his name against such employer to recover the balance of their wages.

The law however, excludes persons who are employing less than 25 workers, persons who work in a ship which sails out of jurisdiction and other persons who are in other kinds of regulated employment which are accepted by the Act. These also include; an establishment in which workers are employed on part-time basis; an establishment at which workers are paid on commission or on piece-rate basis; workers in seasonal employment such as agriculture; any person employed in a vessel or aircraft to which the laws regulating merchant shipping or civil aviation apply.

The outgone minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige in an interview with reporters on Friday, May 24, assured that the Federal Government would commence immediate payment of the new salary regime from April 18, when the bill was signed into law.

However, while the law made it mandatory for workers to be paid the new minimum wage, the workers may yet suffer a reality over the inability of the employers to pay the new wage as well as how the workers can have easy access to the relevant laws to seek redress in case of defaulting employers.

There are apprehension that some employers of labour may be forced to retrench workers especially the state governments, which struggled to pay the former

N18, 000 Minimum Wage. Over 20 state governments failed to pay the former Minimum Wage and owed accumulated salary arrears of, in some cases, between 10 and 15 months despite Federal Government’s intervention with the bailout funds. Many of the governors who participated in the negotiation for the new Minimum Wage perhaps were compelled to do so because since it became law, no state government has initiated modalities to pay the new Minimum Wage from the date it was signed into law on April 18.

A source in one of the states affected by backlog of salaries, told BDSUNDAY that “there is no way the state government can pay the new Minimum Wage because its staff strength is so huge that the only option the state has to meet the requirements of the new wage is to downsize and retrench the number of workers.”

But while insisting on the need for the governors to pay the new Minimum Wage, Ngige said: “It is a national law and no governor can say he will not pay. Issue of the National Minimum wage is item 34 on the Exclusive Legislative List of the Third Schedule of the Nigerian Constitution. Every state government is now owing workers if they have not started paying N30, 000.

We are now in a committee working out a new template with which we will adjust upward.”

Some private sector concerns have also indicated interest to reduce their workforce to a “manageable proportion”. A manager in one of the private corporate outfits in the communications industry told BDSUNDAY on

condition of anonymity that his entity may consider what he called “minor adjustments to meet the requirements of the new law so that we can pay our workers.”

This development jolted Ngige, who during a valedictory session organised for him in Abuja on Monday, May 27, pleaded with the Organised Private Sector not to retrench its workers following the consequential adjustment and implementation of the new National Minimum Wage of N30, 000.

He noted that the new minimum wage is for “the lowest of low, that is grade level one and because of that the government is now carrying out the consequential adjustments.

“So, I am appealing to the organised labour unions of workers to assist government, as the load is going to be too big “I want them to cooperate in order to get something good for those in the consequential adjustments level.

“I also want to plead with the Manufactures Association of Nigeria (MAN) and the Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA) to get the private sector not to retrench as that is what President Muhammadu Buhari is afraid of – retrenchment.

“This government has never retrenched workers since we came and instead we have employed more. “So we are pleading with the organised private sector not to retrench workers in a bid to adjust to the consequential adjustment of the new minimum wage,” he said.

Eze Onyekpere, Lead Director Centre for Social Justice, who spoke with our reporter, noted that there is no excuse for any sec-

tor not to pay the new Minimum Wage as Nigeria has the capacity, if only the leaders shun corruption and mismanagement.

“Definitely, Nigeria can afford to pay the Minimum Wage if the government is serious. It is not beyond the government.

It calls for better husbandry and management of resources and of course expanding the revenue base to make more money for the treasury or else we can continue groping in the dark. It is up to Nigerians,” he said.

While reacting to the dreaded inability of state governments to pay, Onyekere noted that the state governments did not get their priorities right. “They were stealing the money including local government money and lacking the clue to createmorerevenue. Moremoney could come in if they manage resources in a transparent manner, people will be more convinced to pay taxes and levies. The potentials of the private sector have not been exploited because of government poor policy implementation and policy summersault. We need people who have ideas to double our revenue,” he said.

There appears another serious challenge on the workers as inflation has already started eating deep into the new Minimum Wage. For instance between 2010 and 2015, N18, 000 had some value. But since the depreciation of the currency between 2015 and now, the new Minimum Wage of N30,000 appears only an increase in figures but a drastic reduction in the value of the naira, which is today N360 to a dollar.

Contributing, a columnist and

public affairs analyst, Majeed Dahiru, noted that despite the increase in new Minimum Wage empirically it has been proven that there has been a gradual decline in the Minimum Wage since 1980 in dollar terms.

“The N30, 000 is simply inadequate, yet even with the inadequate wage it appears to be a challenge for government at various levels to implement. It was supposed to take effect immediately and that has not happened and there has not been an explanation for that from any quarters.

No state government has started paying Minimum Wage even the former wage was very difficult for a lot of states, which are still owing backlog of salaries. So I do not know how they are going to manage to pay the new minimum wage,” he said.

He also expressed dismay about the attitude of government, which he noted has not indicated that Nigeria is going to witness a paradigm shift in economic transformation to such an extent that there will be an increase in the wealth of the nation in order to meet up such basic obligation as paying a Minimum Wage of N30, 000, which he insist is still far from a living wage.

Reacting on the possibility of the enforcementofthelaw,Majeedsaid the law is “not justiceable,” which poses a problem for the Minimum wage implementation.

“I think it should be criminalized for any government state or federal to fail to pay Minimum Wage.

There should be penalty for that.

You are talking about workers welfare. It should be a crime for any employer of labour be it government or private to fail to pay Minimum Wage as at when due. It should amount to economic crime to divert the people’s salaries into other area,” he said.

The Executive Chairman of the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, Richard Onwuka Egbule, attributed the constant review of the Salaries and wages to the inflationary trend in the country. He noted that the country has low economic productivity coupled with the fact that most of the things Nigerians consume are imported.

“But I can tell you that if you keep adjusting salaries and wages in response to the depreciation of the value of the currency or the rate of inflation you are likely to have a lot of challenges and in an economy like ours where unemployment is high,” he said.

The future appears indeed gloomy for the worker, who is wavering between a new Minimum Wage which value has been reduced by inflation, and the threat of job loss as some state governments and private concerns may not pay until they retrench some workers.

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Insight

African leaders quell dissent by shutting down Internet At least six countries this year have ordered mobile operators to disable access TOM WILSON, FT

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uthoritarian governments in Africa are using internet shutdowns as a tool of repression into flicking the off switch.

Since the start of the year, at least six African countries have turned off access to part or all of the internet and in each case the government has required the assistance of mobile operators to do it.

The official orders to block internet access and messaging services have left operators caught, experts say, between their obligations to regulators and a moral duty to protect customers’ freedom to communicate.

Both the UN and the African Union have passed resolutions condemning internet shutdowns as a violation of human rights, yet disruptions continue with increasing frequency.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, where access to the entire internet was shut down for 20 days after a widely discredited presidential election last December, the global telecoms groups Vodafone of the UK and France’s Orange said they had no choice but to comply.

Orange, the second biggest network provider in Congo, said instructions to restrict internet and messaging services came from the “empowered authorities” and that under the terms of its licence it is required to respond.

“We cannot oppose request for restriction based on local regulation or our licence obligations without risk of exposing our employees to heavy penalties,” said a spokesperson.

Vodafone, which owns a controlling stake in Vodacom, Congo’s biggest operator, said it has to balance a responsibility to respect customers’ “right to privacy and freedom of expression” with its obligation to respond to lawful instruction from regulators.

“Refusal to comply with a country’s laws is not an option, “it said.

Across Africa, platforms such as WhatsApp and Facebook have made it easier for politicians, activists and citizens to talk and organise at speed via smartphone. But the government’s ability to shut down those conversations has become a powerful weapon in the arsenal of autocratic leaders.

Though the Congolese government made no formal announcement confirming it had ordered the shutdown, ruling party officials said it was necessary to prevent the circulation of false

vote counts.

The more important impact, campaigners said, was that candidates and civil society group could not verify election results by dispatching teams to the 70,000 polling stations to photograph and send photos of the official counts via smartphones.

Some governments have justified the disruptions as necessary to prevent the planning of potentially violent protests.

In other case, the authorities and service providers have offered no explanation, leaving citizens in the dark as internet access suddenly dropped off.

In Benin, as people queued up to vote in elections last month, internet providers began to block access to social media networks including Facebook and Twitter. By midday, 99.5 per cent of Benin was offline, according to NetBlocks, a group that tracks internet disruptions.

Advocacy group Access Now estimates there were 188 shutdowns globally in 2018, up from 108 in 2017 and 75 in 2016. Over those three years, 310 occurred in Asia and 46 in Africa. But it is in Africa where the trend appears to by growing most quickly, and where blackouts – when access is completely blocked – are becoming more common said advocacy director Melody Patry.

The technology required to filter or block access to the internet is unsophisticated and exists at every internet service provider, expert say. To use it

authorities need the service providers to comply and in most cases they do.

“The idea of a national kill switch is actually a bit of a myth. In almost all cases, we have seen connectivity drop off provider by provider,” said Alp Toker, executive director at NetBlocks.

It means that these companies are in a way, party to the censorship, in that they have choice of whether to push back or to implement the block.”

While it is true that some licenses allow the regulator to demand a suspension of internet services without a court ruling or further justification, Access Now is encouraging network providers to push back against such provisions when negotiating licenses and to legally equip firms to oppose such orders.

Shutdowns often violate local law, offering providers a legal basis on which to oppose the request, Ms Patry said.

In Zimbabwe in January, advocacy groups successfully petitioned the High Court that the government’s internet shutdown during protest over rising fuel prices was unlawful and the judge ordered providers to restore services.

Such shutdowns come with economic cost. Telecoms companies in Congo say they lost about $40million in revenue during the 20-day shutdown, while NetBlocks estimates that the total cost to the economy may have been around $64million.

In more digitally connected economies, the impact blackout would be far more severe. Shutting down the internet would cost Nigeria, Africa largest economy, up to $134million a day, according to Mr Tokeer. In the UK, the equivalent would be 1.7billion Pound a day.

Other governments have pursued more selective strategies. In Sudan, where the military last month ousted Dictator Omar Bahir, the government disrupted social media for 68 consecutive days but kept other parts of the internet open. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and WhatsApp outages began on 21 December 2018 and lasted until February 26 2019, according to NetBlocks.

Algeria imposed blackouts in some areas in March amid protests that eventually led the army to outs Abdelaziz Bouteflika, the ailing president. In Chad, access to most social media sites has been blocked by authoritarian leaders Idriss Deby for more than a year.

The increasing frequency of disruptions points t the “normalisation of shutdowns” among a growing number of governments willing to look pas the economic cost in order to control elections, hide human rights abuses and hold on to power, Ms Patry said.

“And when a country shuts the internet down once, it is much more likely to shut it down again.”

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SundayBusiness PIND moves to boost investment on cocoa farming in Niger Delta YOMI AYELESO, Akure

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he Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) has put in place mechanism towards ensuring states in the Niger Delta region take their rightful places in the planting and production of cocoa in Nigeria.

Dara Akala, executive director of PIND, disclosed this in Akure, the Ondo State capital at the stakeholders’ roundtable discussion on ‘Developing strategies for improving the competitiveness and growth of Niger Delta Cocoa value chain’.

The event, which had various stakeholders in the cocoa sector in attendance, was organised by PIND in partnership with the Ondo State government.

He said the round table discussion was to engage the stakeholders on how to work together to attract

new investments into the cocoa sector and increase profitability.

Speaking through the Economic Development Manager of PIND, James Elekwachi, the PIND boss lamented the dearth of quality data and information on the sector as well as the absence of a well articulated feedback mechanism between the demand side (off-takers/buyers) and

supply side (producers).

“We at PIND Foundation and in collaboration with our esteemed partners organised this roundtable as a platform for stakeholders to share their experience and dialogue on ways to collectively grow the Cocoa sector in Nigeria.

“Among others, it will also kickstart discussions and activities towards addressing poor cocoa bean

Innovations, others lift Halogen Security as Nigeria’s Next Bull CHUKA UROKO

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or imbibing good corporate governance, innovations and raising the bar in service delivery, Halogen Security Company Limited emerged tops in the Top 25 CEOs & Next Bulls Awards organized by BusinessDay Media Limited in conjunction with the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE).

The integrated security risk solution company won the 2019 Next Bulls award which is given to companies that, besides good corporate governance and innovations, are also raising the standards of their organizations to a point where it would be seamless for them to be listed on the NSE. “On behalf of the board, management and Staff of Halogen, we are immensely grateful to the organizers of this reputable award. This is unprecedented in the history of Halogen Security.

We are most gratified to be recognized by such an authority as the Business Day Media Group and the Nigeria Stock Exchange,” said Wale Olaoye, Halogen

Security’s Group Managing Director.

He added that the award was dedicated to the great owners of Troyka Holdings, explaining that their foresight has yielded results.

He commended the company’s over 20,000 work force, the Man-Guards and astute professionals who toil day and night for the company to build a world class brand.

Prior to winning the Next Bulls Award, Halogen was recognized two weeks ago as Nigeria’s outstanding contract security company in 2019 by the UK-based Outstanding Security Performance Awards (OSPAs).

“This is an impetus to do more work. We are delighted that the award is coming on the heels of our major transformation to becoming a bigger, futuristic and a redefined security risk solution company.

“It is a call to ignite more innovation, shape new thinking, spark progressive collaboration and create tomorrow’s security solution today for the good of our people. Our ethical philosophy of professionalism, integrity, passion and

excellence continues to be our guiding mantra,” Olaoye said.

Bosun Sosanya, Halogen’s Executive Director, described the Next Bulls Award as a call on the company to be more efficient than before. “Our past is history; we will have to continuously re-invent the wheel of our operations to be ahead of the market in terms of quality service delivery and integrity. I commend all our operations team members and the entire Halogen Group workforce.”

He noted that Halogen Security was the only company within the private security management subsector to be recognized by the organizers of the Top 25 CEOs and Next Bulls Awards for its consistent adherence to corporate best practices and unequalled aspiration to deliver excellence in security risk solutions.

Halogen Security was celebrated in the Next Bulls category alongside notable companies like Airtel Network Limited, Alpha Mead Group and Dana Airlines among others.

quality issues and regulation in the sector by working with relevant public institutions with the responsibility of ensuring quality and standardisation in the sector,” he said.

According to him, “The value chain study revealed low productivity and profitability of the cocoa business arising from poor yield and poor quality cocoa beans.

“As a result of poor qual-

ity, Nigerian cocoa beans are being sold at a discount price in the international market, resulting in low profitability for actors in the value chain, especially the farmers.”

Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, in his address, disclosed that the government has approved the establishment of 2,000 hybrid cocoa plantation in the state.

The plantation is to be located at Ijugbere town in Owo council area of the state.

Represented by the Acting Permanent Secretary of Ondo State Ministry of Agriculture, Segun Odusanya, stated that four productive “cocoa seed bank” which included hybrid cocoa seeds, high yielding, early maturing and resistance to drought were domiciled in the state.

“The importance of cocoa cannot be over emphasised; its cultivation generates employment, income earning to government and enhanced livelihood

of farmers, raw materials for agro-allied industries among others, “The present administration in the state is desirous to further consolidate the efforts of the previous governments who during their time established coach farm settlements across the state.”

Commending the organisers of the forum, Akeredolu opined that there was a need for the stakeholders to take cocoa farming as a serious business and make it attractive to the younger generation by improving the infrastructure in the rural areas.

Adeola Adegoke, national secretary of Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria, lamented lack of clear cut policies to regulate the cocoa sector in the country.

Adegoke, while commending PIND for bringing stakeholders together, urged President Muhammadu Buhari to do everything possible to revive the country’s cocoa sector.

Govt introduces general sales tax in Imo SABY ELEMBA, Owerri

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o increase its monthly internal generated revenue (IGR) which would help the new administration meet up with its obligations, Imo State government has introduced a General Sales Tax. The General Sales Tax or Purchase Tax or Consumer’s Tax which has authentically imposed a five percent tax on some consumer goods and services was signed into law by former governor, Rochas Okorocha few days before leaving office. Our correspondent was informed that the law was back dated as the document bore the date of June 8, 2016.

Titled a “Law to impose a tax to be called general sales tax on specified commodities and services rendered for monetary gains or consideration in Imo State and for other related matters”, according to the document, it should be cited as the ‘Imo State General Tax Law, 2016’.

As a result, services in hotels, motels, event centres, catering establishments, restaurants, guest houses, inns and similar institutions providing lodging, catering,

laundry and other ancillary services in the state capital or any other part of the state will increase by five percent.

According to the law, the consumer goods or items which five percent tax is imposed include beer, wine, liquor and spirits, cigarettes and tobacco, jewels and jewelries, perfumes and cosmetics.

It also states that a company, partnership or individual shall keep and maintain proper records, books and accounts in respect of sales and services rendered which attract general sales tax in the form or manner to be prescribed by the state board of internal revenue.

The law also states that “any company, partnership or individual liable to deduct General Sales Tax at source for all sales or services of his business shall issue a bill to the client to reflect the nature and amount charged for sales or services rendered on tax eligible”. As a result, the amount due as tax remittable to the government shall be paid to the state designated revenue account within a specified time slated in the law.

According to the law sited by our correspondent a defaulter in the case of a company is liable on con-

viction to a fine of N50,000 only for a first offence and a fine of N100,000 only for any second or subsequent offence.

But in the case of person, to a fine of N30,000 only or imprisonment for six months for a first offence and a fine of N50,000 only or imprisonment for 12 months for any second or subsequent offence or to both such fine and imprisonment. When called for comments, Chima Chukwunyere, chairman, Imo State Hoteliers Association (ISHA), said the association would urge its members to comply but wondered the reason why such law would be imposed on eateries in the state without the government or the Imo State House of Assembly first calling the association and the people of the state for “a public hearing”.

He noted that the association had earlier said it would support the government and “wants government to recognise ISHA and work with it”.

He however, said that discussions with the state government have not ended. This story was done two days before the current governor, Emeka Ihedioha took over the affairs of the state.

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Sunday 02 June 2019

SundayBusiness Agricultural development using the value chain process

Food & Beverages With Ayo Oyoze Baje

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ne of the critical sectors of the nation’s economy that the President Muhammadu Buhari administration has made appreciable progress is that of agriculture. And there are empirical evidences on ground to attest to this. For instance, the Anchor Borrowers Programme (ABP) of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has made available N82billion in funding to 350,000 farmers of rice, wheat, maize, cotton, and cassava. Others include poultry, soy beans and groundnut farmers. The recipients have so far cultivated over 400,000 hectares of land to increase food production especially in Kebbi, Niger, Kaduna, Kano, Enugu, Benue, Zamfara, Anambra and Kwara states.

Furthermore, the locally made farm produce have cumulatively enhanced our internally generated

revenue (IGR) index and foreign exchange capacity to put the reserve to over $45 Billion in cash and bonds as at 2016. What more, the Home Grown Feeding Programme, designed to put an end to importation and market monopoly of farm produce that can be grown here in our country is making the desired impact even if it is on a gradual level. This is a pilot vehicle meant to boost sustainable economic, agricultural, academic and job creation. This is also being strengthened by the Standing InterMinisterial Technical Committee on Zero-Reject of Agricultural Commodities and Produce/Nonoil Exports in Nigeria as inaugurated.

Efforts at improving the standards of Nigeria’s agricultural exports to align with global standards due to the rejection of our produce at the EU Border Co n t ro l s are als o o n . I t is interesting to note that as at the fourth quarter of 2016 sesame seeds contributed N6.46billion to Agricultural product exports and frozen shrimps and prawns added N4.4billion to Agricultural product exports. Flour and meals of soya beans contributed N2.59billion to agricultural product exports.

Cashew nuts in shell contributed N0.95billion and crude palm kernel accounted for N0.62 billion of the total Agricultural exports.

Notable too is the Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises (LIFE) programme initiated by the Buhari Administration aimed at bringing life back to rural communities through the empowerment of youth, women and other vulnerable groups across the country. The salutary aim at the outset was to establish 150,000

cooperatives nationwide under commodity value chain groups.

The spin-off effect is to operate up to 1,000 cottage industries in the country and ultimately engage about 1,995,500 youth and 997,500 women for enhanced productivity. Eventually, the LIFE programme would add about 5,965,000 metric tons of foods to the national food store.

It is expedient therefore, to also fast track agriculture-related policies and projects that are already in place. For instance, the Bank of Agriculture (BOA) should be strengthened for improved delivery of services through consolidation and recapitalisation in collaboration with the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE). This move is to ensure loan disbursement at a single digit interest regime in the agricultural sector as obtainable in developed and emerging economies.

This would be assisted by the approval of a grant of $1.1 million from the African Development Bank (AfDB) for the restructuring of the Bank of Agriculture, aimed at staff training to strengthen service delivery.

The enabling Act which is meant for the Ministry of agriculture to work closely with the Nigerian University Commission and development partners to re-focus the universities of agriculture in the country should see the light of the day.

So also should the proposed use of National Soil Map Data, with the promotion of. This is based on soil types following the conduct of soil mapping/test to enhance agricultural production and productivity. Besides, the

government must walk the talk on the National Irrigation Policy and Strategy. This has been developed and focuses on the need to overcome the irrigation challenges and put available irrigation facilities in the country into effective use.

Related to this is the status of infrastructure in all the 12 River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs). There should be no delay in the effective use of the facilities for commercial farming.

It is worthy of note that the administration has established a N50 billion mechanisation fund to facilitate the second phase of Agricultural Equipment Hiring Enterprise (AEHE) to roll-out 6,000 tractors and 13,000 harvest and post-harvest equipment units across the country.

Partnerships are important in driving the engine of growth in the food sector. The government has established 40 large scale rice processing plants and 18 High Quality Cassava Flour (HQCGF) plants with a stake commitment of China EXIM (85 per cent) and Nigeria Bank of Industry (BoI) (15 per cent). This came through concessional credit facilities of US$383,140,375.60 for the rice mills and US$143,722,202.40 for the HQCF plants.

Th i s m o v e w i l l s t a b i l i z e Nigeria’s milled rice production which has increased by about 60 percent, from 2.5 million MT in 2015, to 4 million MT in 2017 under the President Buhari administration. With the Lake Rice Project between Lagos and Kebbi states and the coming on stream of one of the largest rice mill projects in West Africa, as

initiated in Lagos there is hope for growth in the sector.

More than 7 million Nigerians are actively employed in agriculture under the Buhari Government’s diversification agenda and the Ministry of Agriculture is working to ensure that Agriculture will offer 20 million jobs in the nearest future.

This paradigm will be upped with the setting up of the Presidential Fertilizer Initiative (PFI) to deliver commercially significant quantities of affordable and high quality fertilizer to the Nigerian farmer at the right time. This has resulted in the revitalisation of 14 blending plants across the country, with a total installed capacity in excess of 2 million MT.” To succeed, this administration must halt the incessant clashes between the herders and the crop farmers. One prays that the provision of 55,000 hectares of land by 11 states as part of the 5,000 hectares each expected from the 19 northern states for the development of pasture/ paddocks grazing reserves succeeds; although this runs against the grain of the fast growing of cattle fodders within days in advanced countries which we should adopt.

W i t h t h e S e c o n d Te r m evolving, expectations are high that these efforts would not only be sustained but upgraded with modern technology in the areas of processing,preservation,marketing and export to take agriculture to the next level.

Baje is Nigerian first Food Technologist in the media ayobaje@yahoo.co.uk; 08057971776

Sarsoli soars with made-in-Nigeria products at plastic trade show …Set for global show in Germany OBINNA EMELIKE

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fter a successful exhibition of worldclass products at the 5th Plastic Print Pack Trade Show 2019 at Landmark, Lagos, recently, Sarsoli is set for this year’s edition of the global show tagged k Fair 2019.

Sarsoli Industries, which started in 2011, is the first plastic master-batch manufacturing company in Nigeria based in Lagos.

In 2013, Sarsoli was the first company from West Africa to exhibit at the K Fair, Dusseldorf, Germany, the largest plastic industry fair in the world. The participation was repeated in 2016 and hopefully again in October 2019 when it will be exhibiting and showcasing madein-Nigeria products at the fair.

Sarsoli exhibits made-inNigeria products in all the exhibitions throughout West Africa in joint collaboration with NEPC. This year at K

R-L: Jai Changrani, MD, Sarsoli; Akhigbe Itua, Tradefair Services Ltd; Petra Cullman, director, Messe Dusseldorf & Marc Lucassen Delegate AHK in Nigeria, at K Stand at 5th Plastic Print Pack Trade Show held in Lagos, recently.

fair Dusseldorf, they will be in Hall 8A booth number B 41 talking to people from around the world and introducing them to things done in Nigeria as they place Sarsoli Industries on the global map and also strengthen their presence in Nigeria and West

Africa.

From their third exhibition at K, they expect and continue to look forward to the innovation the fair continues to bring as exhibiting at the fair proves that they are conscious of producing quality products and are at

par with some of the leaders in the plastics industry.

Also being at the K fair gives them the first-hand information on new technology introduction in the plastic and allied industries. It was after Sarsoli exhibited at K2013, that they started to

export master-batches in 2014 to neighboring countries of Nigeria in West Africa who showed interest in their products.

Sarsoli Industries have now expanded to Ghana and operates an office there. The K fair has been instrumental in helping them expand to their target demographic across West Africa and the focus within ECOWAS provides zero import duty, hence their product are cheaper compared to importing from elsewhere and also since it is within ECOWAS, supply time is fast and foreign exchange income is generated by exports.

Sarsoli currently services the plastic industry, which is one of the largest industries in Nigeria, producing items like jerry cans, shopping bags, chairs, tables, buckets, sacks, mats among others. In the production of master-batches there are nearly 20 different ingredients used to get different coloured masterbatches with nearly 40 percent of these ingredients im-

ported from different parts of the world like, India, China, Egypt, Germany, US, Belgium, and Korea. Before Sarsoli industries started, masterbatches were imported from Korea with only 18-20 different colours being imported then by parent company Shivlila Polymers, which is the largest importer of plastic raw materials in Nigeria.

Now, plastic colour masterbatches are produced locally with over 1,000 different colours and shades for their clients and Sarsoli supplies companies such as Forte Oil, PZ, BAGCO, Dangote, KGM, Celplas Industries, Leoplast, Shonghai, Lotus Plastics, Mammuda Industries, Ammasco and many more with different coloured masterbatches. Their state of the art machines and continuous improvement in technology and capacity keeps them at the cutting edge with their experts constantly working to keep quality as the priority and providing regular training programs to all the staff at all times.

Sunday 02 June 2019

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SundayBusiness What loan seekers need to know about FMBN and NMRC

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ome level of confusion usually arises when a mortgage loan seeker where he can get ‘cheap’ mortgage. A lot of the time, some loan seekers do not even know what functions primary mortgage banks (PMBs) play as different from those of secondary mortgage institutions.

One of the frequently asked questions by mortgage loan seekers in Nigeria is what differences and similarities exist between the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) and the Nigerian Mortgage Refinance Company (NMRC) as secondary mortgage institutions and housing loan providers.

By the first quarter of 2014, the NMRC opened for business to provide secondary mortgage market services for primary mortgage lenders for on-lending to teeming Nigerian housing loan applicants.

To open for business, the company was registered; the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) granted it approval, the board was set up, and World Bank provided a 40-year loan of $300 million, among other conditions. It is a strictly private sector-led company that is run more like a commercial bank.

The FMBN has a different charter. It gets its funds from contributions by workers in the formal

sector. It is a federal government agency that provides mortgage loans to home loan applicants through the National Housing Fund (NHF) which it supervises.

In their confusion, loan seekers raise concerns on how the two institution can work side by side, noting that there are no reasons for people to raise concerns over the existence of NMRC side by side with FMBN, because each is no threat to the other.

The major difference between them is that whereas government appoints the FMBN board and largely guides its operations, the NMRC appoints its own CEO and members of the board from its subscribers. It is ‘free’ from government interference.

The two companies, even in their similarities as secondary mortgage markets, also differ significantly in their ownership and organizational structure and, according to Femi Johnson, a mortgage operator, they exist and operate side by side as is done in other climes such as Mexico and USA. “In USA, Mexico and other places, there are similar institutions that run parallel like what we see with FMBN and NMRC. In those places, some of these institutions are funded by the private sector, some by the government, and others from workers salary”, Johnson

Procurement and Supply Chain

with Gob-Agundu Uche Branch chair (CIPS), Nigeria

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Response times for tenders IPS believes that it should be the responsibility of Procurement and Supply Management professionals to determine a reasonable period for responses.

This will depend on variables such as the complexity of the procurement, the nature of the marketplace and the urgency of the purchase.

The response date or ‘tender return date’ should be clearly shown on the covering letter or detailed within the ITT. There should also be a time given (e.g., noon) beyond which tenders received will be deemed ‘late tenders’. These should be separated from the rest and a decision then taken, by an independent person, as to whether or not the late tender should be evaluated excluded. Reasons for inclusion may include a bona fide reason for lateness or a lack of competition due to too few tenders being received.

I f, d u e t o u n f o r e s e e n circumstances, the tender return date is changed, this should be

immediately and effectively communicated to all suppliers that have been invited to tender and all suppliers should be given exactly the same new tender return date.

Tender Boards/Evaluation Panels Tenders often arrive early, and these should be stored in a safe place, unopened. When the response deadline is reached a group of at least three people, including at least one P&SM professional, should meet to open the tenders and record their receipt.

This group is often referred to as a ‘Tender Panel’. A special form can easily be produced to list those tenders received by the deadline and this should be signed by all on the panel.

Members of the panel should individually sign the first page of each tender, which should also be stamped with the date. It is good practice to stamp and sign every page in a tender containing a price or financial information.

The extent of such processes should be determined by the P&SM professional in conjunction with

informed.

In terms of operational model, the difference between the two institutions is fundamental in that for a primary mortgage lender to get money from the FMBN for on-lending to a customer, he must know who his customer is.

He will appraise the customer based on the parameter the FMBN has set and if the customer meets the criteria, the lender has to check the property for which the loan is to be given, evaluate it and, based on that, package an application on behalf of the customer to FMBN and, on the basis of this, FMBN will release the money that the lender will give out to the customer.

The problem here is that even though the lender has done his due diligence and every other thing, the FMBN will still do it again, a second time, and if it is okay with that, it will disburse to the lender and where it is not okay with the application, it will not disburse and, until the lender gets the money, he will not disburse to the customer.

This is a long process that will be there for as long as two years which is why a lot of people run away from NHF contribution because they find it difficult to get the loan when they need it.

NMRC is a different ball game.

The procedures are short and sharp, giving the customer both

Talking Mortgage with CHUKA UROKO (08037156969, chukuroko@yahoo.com)

ease and convenience of transacting business. Here, the money the lender gives out to the customer is his and so giving it out is his normal course of business.

After lending, he goes back to NMRC to refinance it for the company to reimburse him so that he can lend to other customers. In this case, he doesn’t have to wait for anybody before lending. It his money and so he can lend easily and directly to whoever applies.

Gradually, the refinance company is taking the shine off FMBN and this is understandable given is core function of leveraging funding for mortgage refinancing and, by so doing, provides liquidity for the mortgage market to refinance the mortgage portfolio of its member banks, and improves affordability by reducing mortgage rates, extending mortgage terms, and lowering deposits.

The company enhances stan-

dardization of mortgage origination and administration processes within the market through the Uniform Underwriting Standards (UUS), drives reforms to the enabling environment for mortgage lending and title perfection through advocacy of a draft Model Mortgage and Foreclosure Law. It also accelerates the creation of new mortgage products, promotes affordable home ownership for Nigerians and grows the contribution of mortgage sector to GDP in Nigeria.

In July 2015, the company successfully issued a 15-year N8 billion Series 1 Bond - the first mortgage refinance facility in Africa to achieve this feat. This was done under its N140 billion medium term Note Programme, backed by an unconditional federal government guarantee which it has deployed to the refinancing of the mortgage portfolio of its member banks.

Tendering and post-tender negotiation (2) the Internal Audit department. It is very important to ensure that a fully auditable process is developed and followed so that questions can be dealt with quickly and challenges can be satisfied with robust evidence.

The tender panel, or a separate evaluation panel, then has the task of determining the shortlisted or preferred suppliers and the results of this evaluation are then presented to the full project team for further evaluation.

During the time between tenders being opened and a final decision being made, all those involved must take care not to breach confidentiality. CIPS believes that it is not good practice to advise any tenderer of the details of another tenderer’s offer without prior agreement with all suppliers.

Selection criteria During tendering there are generally two forms of selection criteria. One is similar to the pre- qualification criteria where objective items, such as financial status, are reviewed.

The second type of selection criteria take into account the qualitative/quantitative criteria, such as materials used, applicable standards, price, track record, proposed solution, etc.

Other criteria that are used include, but are not limited to, the following: · Quality of product or service · Delivery times · Terms and conditions (payment terms, warranties etc.)

· Cost (including the initial price, total acquisition cost plus whole life costs) · It may also include the future likelihood of supplier innovation, technical or cultural fit with the purchasing organization, the strength of the supplier’s account team, ability to handle TUPE transfers, or any other factor which is important to that particular requirement. · The selection criteria should be agreed prior to the tenders being invited so that the information required can be incorporated in the tender documents. The European Procurement Directives state that, for public sector and utility sector procurements, the selection criteria must be stated in the advert and this is normally reiterated in the ITT. · There are many different approaches to evaluation. For example; the selection criteria can be weighted according to their importance and a table produced listing the suppliers against the criteria. The tenders then need to be evaluated and ranked against each criterion accordingly so that the best value for money offer can be assessed. · CIPS believes that evaluation should never be a purely mechanistic process. In most cases, cost has to be assessed against the other criteria, and usually there will be some value judgments to be made e.g. whether to pay more for apparent better quality or service.

However, the objective of a robust evaluation process is to make

these judgments as structured and objective as possible.

Post tender negotiation Provided it is undertaken professionally and ethically, CIPS believes that post tender negotiation is an appropriate process to secure value for money.

It is the responsibility of the P&SM professional to determine whether, for any particular contract, post tender negotiation should be undertaken. CIPS suggests that bid clarification i.e. detailed discussion about the offer, should usually comprise the final stage after receipt of tenders and before contract award; it will normally lead to improved value being obtained.

This is because there are often points in the tender which need to be clarified. It may also be necessary to undertake bid clarification with several suppliers, for example if a bid appears especially low, or especially high on price. During bid clarification, discussion might take place around the specification or delivery period for example.

This may lead to negotiation on terms and conditions, warranties, payment terms or price. It is important however, that during this process of negotiation, the changed offer does not alter the competition to the extent that other bidders may challenge the award of contract. Public sector contracts are subject to a standstill period prior to award of contract that allows the losing suppliers to be debriefed and any aggrieved suppliers to put in a challenge.

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Sunday 02 June 2019

TheWorshippers ‘The church cannot fulfil its potentials by focusing only on the spirit of man’ Recently, a consulting firm released the ‘Alder Church Report 2019’, an outcome of a nationwide survey on the church and millennials. In this interview, Godman Akinlabi, the senior pastor of The Elevation Church, Lagos, speaks on the many ills bedeviling Nigeria, especially the increasing rate of suicide among young Nigerians against the seemingly carefree attitude of the government and its agencies. Excerpts by SEYI JOHN SALAU Some of the things highlighted by the Alder Church Report 2019 seem to indict the church in Nigeria on its response to the youth; what is your view on this? would say that I don’t consider it as indictment; I consider it more as motivation.

Sometimes, you do things but the way people perceive it is different and if truly we want to serve people we need to get feedback from them; feedback is very important. Even Jesus asked a question, who do men say that I am? So, the church in Nigeria – it’s ok for us to ask the question; who do men say that we are, and we shouldn’t say we don’t care about what people say if truly we are sent to lead and influence these people: then we should be willing to accept what their perception is. There is difference between real need and felt need; sometimes felt need is more important than real need but people feel this is what they need and if we don’t fill that, even their real need we may not be able to fix.

This is more for me from the point of view of felt need because this is what people are saying and we should respond appropriately to them without feeling indicted – it is a motivation in my opinion.

What do you think is responsible for the increasing rate of suicide in Nigeria?

I think suicide comes from hopelessness, and hopelessness is not something that happens in one day. It’s something that starts from cluelessness from not knowing what to do; from feeling helpless; from feeling constrained; then to the point you feel there is no point living. And when the economy is down, when the aspiration of the youth is becoming unrealisable, when people can’t make ends meet, relationship/marriages are breaking up, when people have issues in their emotional lives they are very quick to judge themselves as being hopeless or useless.

When there is lack of economic empowerment; when you see what your mates are doing and what you are doing, it’s also possible for you to feel that you are hopeless. For anybody to take his or her life, the person has to get to the point where it feels like this life is no longer worth living – there is an atmosphere that can put people off easily; that is the kind of atmosphere we have in Nigeria right now, which we are believing to change over a period of time but that is the atmosphere we have, and that is why we see more people wanting to commit suicide.

Also, as churches, civil societies, government there has to be a response to that; I believe that right now the government as policy

I

makers should come up with enlightenment campaign that tells people that ‘look, this is what we are doing – give us some amount of time, things are going to get better, don’t kill yourselves; we recognise that things are going up’, but they behave as if nothing is happening.

In fact, governmental organisations that should keep the records (the data) of how many suicide we have on a weekly basis in Nigeria, I don’t think they have it. Because we do not even measure the level of these things, it’s difficult for us to make statement about it. We who are pastors know that we get reports: people write us saying they are depressed; people write us about suicide, for instance somebody called this morning saying,‘my father is about to die and we are not in good terms; what should I do, and the doctors have said that he is going to die anytime’ – then I said you need to go see him, so you can make peace because I know somebody I have counselled like that before whose father died: this guy in his 40s is still depressed because he feels that it was that unresolved issue that killed his father and that is affecting him.

He is not an emotionally healthy human being, and that is how we create lack of emotional health; so we know what is going on but like we said the real issues cannot be addressed only by churches. Churches lay hands on people to be healed for instance, but if there is a health policy that can make healthcare available en-masse to all Nigerians so that headache does not become something else before I am able to go to the pastor to say – pray for

When there is lack of economic empowerment; when you see what your mates are doing and what you are doing, it’s also possible for you to feel that you are hopeless

Godman Akinlabi

me; so that I can access healthcare easily. That is the kind of things we are talking about; as church we will respond but government also have to respond and not bury their head in the sand and just behave as if everything is ok: because everything is not ok.

In other words, what are you telling the churches to do?

In other words, what am saying is that the churches should get this report; download it, read through it, know what the yearnings and aspirations of young Nigerians are and tailor solutions towards it.

I mean young people want jobs; how can the church and religious organisations help them to be more employable. We have a graduate employability programme that we run – we run like two sections with a hundred people in attendance in each.

A lot of these people have gotten job because when you coach them and give them the right skills that the employers are looking for – the next interview they go for; they will get a job. Because if they cannot use Excel before or PowerPoint, or do not know anything about project management and now if they ask them those questions, they know about it and this is the skills that we are giving them. For instance, in the church that I pastor, we said this year we want to help a thousand people to get jobs, not that we are

going to provide the job but we are going to prepare them because we have researched what jobs are available in the market; what is the skill level and help them to bridge the gap so they can get jobs.

It’s the same thing to help 200 people to start a business, it means we are going to train them on entrepreneur; we need to know they are cut-out for entrepreneur, we need to make a little fund available as start-up funds for them which will run through a microfinance institution and the church guarantees it – they get guarantors, have something to start the business. So, rather than church looking to start a bank, we don’t have to start a bank; work with existing banks, guarantee that they can pay back – you have a pool of funds with which you can guarantee that, that’s how wealth is created, that’s how a nation can get better.

So, if we see many more churches doing this, that would be the appropriate response and when the government creates the enabling policies, it will then make that happen on a higher scale. Let me give you another example about what am talking about: when we say that young people are not going to school, a lot of the time it is because they don’t have anybody to pay their school fees. In developed countries, government collaborates with corporate institutions to make

student loan available for graduate and undergraduate studies.

Many more people from the down-trodden homes will be able to go to the university if they know that if they get a loan to go to school; your first 10 years of working can be used to pay back the loan. It is a government policy that can solve that, the church cannot create student loan for instance, the church can only give a few scholarships and how many people will be able to participate in it. We have a mass problem but we are using small scale solutions, so the number of people that are excluded are too many and that is what is resulting to all these crimes and other things because many people feel excluded – so you mean I have to come to your church to get all these things; why can’t we create something at the policy level that is available to everybody and then we see massive changes happening in our country.

The church has been contributing to help the less-privileged in society; what is the motivation for this?

It is an understanding of the scriptures first of all. Acts 10:38; the bible says how God anointed Jesus with the Holy Ghost and with power, he went about doing good – the doing good there in some interpretation is an art of philanthropy. When it said he went about doing good; some people thought he went about preaching; doing good is about creating solutions for people, so the church as it was configured will not fulfill our potentials if we focus only on the spirit of man without the soul and the physical well being of man.

Martin Luther King Jr., said ‘Any religion that professes to be concerned about the souls of men and is not concerned about the slums that damn them, the economic conditions that strangle them and the social conditions that cripple them is a spiritually moribund religion awaiting burial.’ In James Chapter 2 or so, the scripture says what is pure religion? Pure religion is to bridle your tongue but apart from that, is to visit the widows and the orphans – so this is pure religion.

Religion is beyond, we want to go to heaven; we want to go to heaven quite alright but how do we make the earth better and how can we be the good neighbor? Remember the story of the ‘Good Samaritan’; who is your neighbor? and he said anybody that is around you is your neighbour – make sure that they are ok. So, we need to go beyond religion, just come together every Sunday, we clap and worship God and pray fire over our enemies; that would not be church anywhere.

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BDSUNDAY 39

BrandsOnSunday SPOTLIGHTING BRAND VALUE

Too Much Noise Pollution in Lagos, Does Sanwo-Olu Know?

The desire of Lagos State, the most populous state with over 21 million residents is to achieve a destination brand and mega city. Daniel Obi looks at how deafening noise pollution largely from religious houses and music and other shops which is very discomforting, is frustrating the objective of making Lagos a place to be. When this is not achieved, Lagos will begin to reduce traction and the state IGR will be s impaired.

I

ndividuals living in Magodo, Banana Island and on Victoria Island are somehow enjoying serenity. This gives them good sleep, sound health which translates to innovation and productivity.

Apart from those areas , other major places in Lagos are ‘hellish’ with deafening noise pollution that makes life uncomfortable and itchy for majority of Lagos residents. The noise is either coming from externally-mounted loud speakers of churches, mosques, shops on streets, music centres and drinking spots.

Worship in mosques and churches has clearly moved from being quiet, solemn and silent communion with the Creator to battle and confrontational as they shout both in the morning and evening through their loud speakers to ear-splitting of residents. In some cases, residents find it difficult to have upto 2 hours sleep. In some residential streets in Lagos, there are two mosques, two churches and over two music centers, all with public speakers. Lagos government appears handicapped over this as attempt to control the churches and mosques will appear ‘unreligeous’ In other climes, noise from these houses is controlled, with the neighbour in mind, but Lagosians and residents in other states think it is fun to create noise even from home music.

It is obvious, even to the blind and deaf that the noise pollution from these quarters contravenes Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law on noise. The State is either weak in implementing the law or its hands are tied or it is implementing the law partially.

Under its Prohibition of noise in private and public places, the Lagos State law states that it is an offence to: A) Engage in the business of selling of musical records or playing of any musical instruments, songs, lyrics and/or usage of public address system in public places.

B) Use public address system or loud speakers to propagate beliefs and ideas or advertise any good or solicit and disseminate information in any residential places. C) A person or organisation shall not use a public address system that causes or likely to cause nuisance or discomfort to the general public to disseminate information, propagate beliefs and/or ideas or engage in activities without a permit from the enforcing authority.

While speaking at a forum in 2016 on noise pollution, Adebola Shabi, CEO of LASEPA agreed that noise is an unwanted, unpleasant, annoying and excessive sound produced from natural or anthropogenic sources (humans or animals) which are capable of harming the environment and other organisms.

In all languages of the world noise is always regarded as an unwelcome guest in the society, especially in homes, residential places, schools, hospitals, offices, conferences, stakeholders’ meeting and every formal public gathering.

He gave statistics that showed that as at 2016, there was 1,527 number of noise pollution cases.

He said the number noise pollution resulting to medical concerns was 57. According to him, Lagos had been able to abate 51.08% of noise pollution in religious activities and abated 84.50% noise pollution on domestic generators.

If these statistics were correct as at 2016, the number of noise pollution cases resulting in medical concerns may have doubled as at today while noise emanating from religious centres must have increased due to a number of factors. These include, increase in worship centres, increase in commercial activities, population increase resulting in development of more communities, vehicular increase and weak implementation of the law.

As at end of October, 2017, Lagos State Government issued a 90day ultimatum to religious houses located in residential areas in the

state to soundproof their premises or risk closure as the State’s zero tolerance to noise pollution was still in force.

The ultimatum was given then by the Commissioner for the Environment, Samuel Adejare at a dialogue meeting with the representatives of religious centers in Magodo residential estates in Alausa, Lagos, and Southwest Nigeria.

According to a report, he said that government had been inundated with complaints by Lagos residents on noise emanating from activities of religious houses including mosques and churches.

The commissioner stressed that it was high time religious

There should be a crucial meeting between the governor and agents of noise pollution such as heads of religious leaders, leaders of music selling shops to educate them on dangers of the noise from their external loud speakers to the neighbours and the communities

houses operated in manners that rights of their neighbours would be respected as noise pollution infringed on the wellbeing of others. Today, it is clear that noise polluters in Lagos either don’t know about the law or obviously don’t care about neighbours. They are leveraging the weak law.

On the consequences of noise, Researchgate website quotes Bhishm Khanna who made some important observations about noise pollution. Noise increases the chance of occurrence of diseases such as headache, blood pressure, heart failure.

“Noise leads to emotional and behavioral stress. Noise may permanently damage hearing. A sudden loud noise can cause severe damage to the eardrum. Noise leads to increased heartbeat, constriction of blood vessels and dilation of pupil. Noise is a problem especially for patients who need rest. Noise may cause damage to liver, brain and heart”.

The Nigeria Hypertension Society (NHS) says in a report published in Vanguard in May last year that one-third of Nigeria’s adult population is hypertensive. Another report says over 8.5 million Nigerians have suffered hearing disorder. The report identified children as the most vulnerable group to ear defects.

Clearly, a nation with decreasing productivity arising from lack of sleep, discomfort, ear defects and hypertension occasioned by noise is risking its future. Obviously, a worker with church in his left

and mosque in his right and music center in the front of his residence cannot be a productive person due to lack of sound sleep especially when he gets home late almost every day due to traffic.

What needs to be done Babatunde Sanwoolu who has just taken the reins of leadership of the most populous state, sure, has big challenges at hand and how he handles them will justify him.

All eyes are on him for good governance as he is expected to complete Ambode’s projects and embark on new projects that will be associated with his administration. He is therefore expected; on his assumption of duty to roll up his sleeves for work. This is because Lagosians expect better administration from him and his team as there is much work to be done.

As he promised, he is expected to tackle Apapa gridlock and general traffic challenge in Lagos.

The governor is expected to immediately tackle waste which has given the city a new coloration.

Lagos, Africa’s biggest city, and the economic capital of Nigeria has become filthier with waste dumps at every corner which does not create a positive image for it.

But on the noise pollution which no governor has addressed headon, the new governor should direct LASEPA to immediately get to work without fear of favour or discriminatory approach to implementing the law against noise pollution.

There should be a crucial meeting between the governor and agents of noise pollution such as heads of religious leaders, leaders of music selling shops to educate them on dangers of the noise from their external loud speakers to the neighbours and the communities.

Landlords and landladies should also be made to warn their tenants against noise.

In Europe, the law against noise is strict and this is obeyed by the citizens because they understand the consequences to the psychology of human beings and the society. Without good thinking, there will be no good product. Lagosians and Nigerians, in general are not different people.

Noise from music selling shops; from external loud speakers of religious places affect health, thinking, sensibility and ultimately productivity. As a matter of urgency, noise should be controlled in Lagos to add colour and impetus to the destination branding efforts of the state.

40 BDSUNDAY

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LifestyleHomes&Suites

Sunday 02 June 2019

Paul Ojenagbon

pauloje2000@yahoo.com

Sizzling hot residences at Chevron

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ike gold fish, beautiful properties anywhere have no hiding place from appreciative eyes. In one of the sprawling estates around Carlton Gate Estate and Chevron Oil Company Head office is a well appointed 4-Bedroom detached house located on an interlocked road with excellent drainage.

It is a house attached with an ensuite Boy’s quarters and is adorned with top notch quality fittings and fixtures beautifully packaged together. It seats on a compound that is interlocked and boasts of expansive space.

There are large sitting rooms on the ground and first floors respectively. The master bedroom is also spacious and well-appointed with an alluring balcony.

The house with all rooms ensuite is beautified with chandeliers hanging down from the ceiling.

It is being marketed for sale by Wireeffect Real Estate Services.

The kitchen is well designed, spacious and well fitted with microwave, oven, fridge and heat extractor. Close to the kitchen are the box room and laundry room with washing machine ready for use. Recreational facilities include lovely in-house swimming pool, power supply is backed up with 5kva solar and inverter system preinstalled. All rooms are ensuite and there is a guest toilet in the anteroom.

Surround speakers issue out soothing music within the house.

The title is certificate of occupancy and the price tag is N128 Million.

Ne a r b y a n d l o c a t e d a t

Chevyview Estate is 4-Berdroom semi detached house being marketed by the same agent with virtually the same charac-

teristic features but including a video door bell to monitor entry into the house. The price tag is N65 Million.

Gerald court for the real deal

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erald Court is located strategically at Plot 2, Block 54, Rasheed Alaba Williams besides the Road Chev drive through, off Admiralty Way in Lekki Phase 1.

On the exquisite stable of Dillon Consultant Limited, the development consists of 30 units of well finished, luxury, 4-Bedroom terrace houses with luxury in every single detail to fit every life style. The newest project of this fast rising developer,

Gerald Court offers ‘ tastefully stylish and luxurious 4- Bedroom apartments with distinctive specifications, convenient road ways, proximity of institutions and entertainment hub, lush green corners and an exhaustive list of amenities’. It is indeed centrally located in the heart of Lekki draped in leading lifestyle and home décor brands; it comes across as one of the Island’s luxury landmarks in the making.

Each home is adorned with

features such as full air conditioning of all rooms including the kitchen, dual view DSTV connection and intercom in all the rooms for internal communication. The kitchens would be fully fitted, ready for immediate use, equipped with heat extractor, gas cookers and stainless steel oven top and top quality washing machine. There is adequate arrangement for security round the clock with well trained, reputable security personnel working

with the aid of CCTV and other devices. The four bedrooms are spacious and all ensuite.

Power supply is guaranteed round the clock with generators complementing mains supply from EKEDC. Prepaid meters would be installed to ensure proper billing.

Gerald Court would be powered with recreational facilities such as swimming pool, gym, and lounge / bar, spa and fitness centre. Potable water supply is from borehole made good through treatment plant. Access to the house is digitally controlled with motorized remote controlled gate and electric fence atop the wall fence. There is a huge open space that allows good ventilation, right next to living room and adequate parking space for each unit.

Each terrace house is on three

floors. The major accommodation components on the ground floor include living and dining area of 58.2 square meters, kitchen, store and boys’ quarter. The first floor consists of bedrooms 1&2 with their bath/wc, lounge and terrace. On the third floor are bedroom 3 and a sizeable master bedroom of 33.41 square metres, and opens onto a terrace.

An initial deposit of 20 percent secures an allocation with a large chunk of the balance conveniently spread out over the duration of the project at six months interval while the remaining 40 percent is paid at full completion before handing over.

Each unit carries a price tag of N100 million. There is huge open ground space that allows good ventilation, spacious balcony right next to living room, parking port for each unit.

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BDSUNDAY 41

Health&Science Weak policies slows Nigeria’s fight against looming epidemic of tobacco

A

ANTHONIA OBOKOH

s Nigeria joined the rest of the world to commemorate t h e Wo r l d No Tobacco Day, advocates and public health professionals says weak policies slows the county’s fight tobacco, however, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has urged government to focus on policies proven to reduce tobacco use.

Every year, on 31 May, The World No Tobacco Day 2019 will focus on the poor impact of tobacco on people’s health. Smoking can cause lung cancer, chronic respiratory disease besides wreaking disorder on your mental and physical health. However, it is never too late to quit as the WHO lists several immediate and long-term health benefits of quitting smoking.

Tobacco addiction is one of the biggest health challenges that the world is facing today. According to WHO, there are more than 1 billion smokers all around the world and this addiction kills more than 7 million people every year. Cigarette smoke contains 400 toxins, 69 known carcinogens.

Kingsley Akinroye , cardiovascular health physician, executive director Nigeria Heart Foundation, who spoke to BusinessDay in commemoration of the ‘World’s No Tobacco Day’ said that government must intensify its efforts in ensuring the anti-tobacco law to be effectively implemented with enforcement

of the laws at the National level and also the involvement of the whole population, multi-stakeholders, CSOs, and industries these can be achievable.

Despite the known harms of tobacco to heart health, and the availability of solutions to reduce related death and disease, knowledge among large sections of the public that tobacco is one of the leading causes of cardiovascular diseases is low.

Akinroye urge that everyone should realise that tobacco is the number one poison that damages the heart, leading to reduction of life span through promotion of hypertension, stroke, premature death and disability.

“Tobacco is no friend to anyone, from the new born to the young and the elderly;

therefore everyone should choose health and not tobacco,” he added.

Tobacco contains nicotine, the highly-addictive ingredient that makes you crave cigarettes. So trying to quit can cause unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.

The nicotine from cigarettes provides a temporary and addictive high, and eliminating that regular dose causes our body to experience physical withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

WHO says in order to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of a one-third reduction in NCD premature mortality by 2030, tobacco control must be a priority for governments and communities worldwide.

Currently, the world is not on track to meeting this target.

Tobacco is the cause of

nearly 90% of oral and lung cancers; however there are various other tobacco related diseases. These includes stroke, bronchitis, asthma, impotence, birth defects among others Meanwhile experts say that quitting smoking can be hard and frustrating, but there are many ways to stop, and with trial and error you can find a method that works for you.

“Quitting all tobacco related products is the first step one can take towards improving their overall health.

Initially, it might be difficult for people who have been smoking for years. But with determination and self-discipline, this can be achieved. Also the support of family, friends and timely professional are a key to helping an individual quit tobacco,” experts advised.

What to know about calories and body fat

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n relation to food and the body, calories are units of energy that allow the body to work. Food provides this energy, some of which the body stores and some of which it uses. As the body breaks down food, it releases calories as energy.

Max Wishnofsky first propagated the concept that there are approximately 3,500 calories in a pound (lb) of body fat.

Put simply, to lose 1 lb of body fat per week, people will need to have a deficit of around 500 calories per day. They can achieve this by consuming roughly 500 calories fewer than they are currently, by burning an extra 500 calories per day with exercise, or a combination of the two.

If the body takes in too many calories or burns too few, weight gain occurs. This is because the body stores calories it does not use as body fat. Organs including the brain, heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys account for roughly 80% of total daily energy use.

Recent research calls this rule into question, concluding that it overestimates someone’s weight loss potential. The rule does not take into account dynamic changes in metabolism, hunger, and satiety levels as weight loss occurs.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) have developed a new, more accurate rule-of-thumb: Every 10 calorie decrease per day leads to an eventual 1 lb loss. Only time will tell how long that weight loss takes, so patience and consistency is key.

How fat works Body fat, or adipose tissue, consists of adipocytes.

These are fat cells, and they occur alongside other types of cells and proteins. Fat cells contain lipids, including cholesterol and triglyc-

erides.

Adipose tissue stores energy for the body to use and protects the organs. It also releases hormones that control many functions in the body, such as insulin sensitivity and appetite.

People with more body fat may experience something called leptin resistance, in which the body is less sensitive to the satiety hormone leptin. This, in turn, drives up hunger and food intake, making weight maintenance harder over time.

There are two types of adipose tissue: white and brown. Brown adipose tissue is more metabolically active. It burns more calories and helps manage weight, insulin sensitivity, and overall health to a greater extent than white adipose tissue.

If people have excess body fat, it is most often due to the fact that their white adipose tissue has expanded.

Having too much body fat can cause obesity and result in many health problems, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Having too little body fat can also be harmful and lead to health concerns such as malnutrition and fertility issues.

How calories work Research estimates that muscle burns calories at a rate of 10–15 calories per kilogram (kcal/kg) per day. This amounts to 4.5–7 kcal/ lb per day.

Muscle accounts for roughly 20% of total energy expenditure each day. For people with 20% body fat, body fat accounts for 5% energy expenditure.

So, people with more muscle tissue have a higher metabolic rate.

This means that they burn more calories and are able to maintain their body weight more easily.

• Culled from Medical News Today

Change the fortune of health Care in Nigeria, NAGGMDP tells leaders SIKIRAT SHEHU, ILORIN

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he newly sworn-in leaders; especially governors in the country have been charged to change the fortune of health care in Nigeria by placing more commitment to improve the sector.

The National Association of Government General Medical and Dental Practitioners (NAGGMDP) stated this in its congratulatory message to the country leaders.

In a statement, written by Abubakar Ayinla, the President NAGGMDP, and signed

by Nura Abubakar, the Secretary however, called for an effective management of Primary, Secondary and Tertiary health care services.

The statement reads: “My delight stems from hope for a better Nigeria as promised by all the gladiators that have taken ‘Oath of Office’ Wednesday. I pray that God Almighty shall help them to take the best decisions in pi-

loting the affairs of the country and their specific states.

No doubt, a key message that characterized the electoral campaigns was a better healthcare for the citizens.

Dear colleagues, at this juncture, we have a role to play in actualising the dream for a better Nigeria.

It is the role of reminding all stakeholders including the press and the citizens that the provision of Good health care by the Governors is not another optional charity nor is

it supposed to be an electoral dividend but a fundamental living need that must be championed by them to all communities under their domain.

Let the Governors know that the health of a NATION cannot be said to be adequate when the care givers are being starved of their salaries and benefits and when all the sick assemble only in a centre of excellence when we can appropriately ensure that more centres are available at different levels to address different

categories of the health care needs.

The Governors can therefore change the fortune of health care in Nigeria through an effective management of the Secondary health care level.

Let them start by motivating all the health work force in their employment, paying them appropriately as and when due, invest in their training and re-training as appropriate, recruit additional health work force to fill identified gaps in their state’s human resource pool, remunerate them well like their colleagues elsewhere, provide necessary and required infrastructure, provide modern equipments, provide medical consumables and put an effective management in place to drive it.

In the same vein, the Local Government Chairmen should be appropriately empowered through necessary support from the State Governors and the Federal government to put the Primary

health centres on track having initiated a working model at the Secondary level.

If these steps are taken, the structure of the National health system will begin to function effectively while ensuring that all levels of cares (the Primary, Secondary and Tertiary) are duly manned and emphasized for appropriate developmental strategies.

This implies that our primary health care centres, our general hospitals, the cottage hospitals, the comprehensive health centres, federal medical centres and the teaching hospitals can work again and citizens can access well coordinated and linked services from the lower level, through to the highest level based on their respective needs.

In the long run, the citizens shallbeassuredofsuccourwhen they have health challenges.

The nation as a whole shall thrive, the GDP will increase through inputs from the highly productive and healthy citizens that abounds

the streets and towns and the nation’s glory will be lifted just by an appropriate strides in the health sector.

Doctors and other health workers working as a team shall remain the tool in achieving this goal.

So, as I congratulate Mr. President and Commanderin-Chief and our respective State Governors, I also congratulate us all as we swing into action.

These actions shall entail strategic engagements at different levels emphasizing the obvious, advocating compliance with extant health laws, provisions and agreements, ensuring adequate appropriation of resources and monitoring its utilisation.

We should not shy to seek modifications of faulty provisions to align with international best practice while extending our hands in felicitation and support to our respective governments in our collective journey to the Promised Land.”

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Sunday 02 June 2019

Sports

mounts on IAAF as criticism England, Germany lead European football Pressure of Caster Semenya ruling grows clubs to £25bn valuation … Semenya files appeal against CAS

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T

Stories By ANTHONY NLEBEM

ngland and Germany lead the rank as the biggest earners in European football.

The big five European leagues generated a record £13.8bn in revenue in 2017-18, a 6% annual increase, according to new figures from Deloitte.

It says the European football market is now worth some £25.1bn.

The English Premier League was the market leader, with record revenues of £4.8bn, as five teams competed in the Champions League for the first time.

Germany’s Bundesliga overtook Spain’s LaLiga to become the second-largest revenue generating league in the world.

Deloitte said during the 2017-18 season, European club football was in the “strongest financial position that we’ve ever seen”.

“This reflects the drive among leading clubs to generate ever greater revenues to fund success on the pitch and also the sustained efforts of UEFA to improve profitability and sustainability of clubs through Financial Fair Play and club licensing,” said Dan Jones, partner and head of the Sports Business Group at Deloitte.

With a quintet of English teams competing in the Champions League in 2017-18, and all reaching round 16 or beyond, UEFA payouts to clubs increased by about £71m.

Alongside the increase in European cash, match-day and commercial revenue also both grew at Premier League clubs - by 8% and 12% respectively.

However, following record operating profits in 2016-17 season, increased spending on player wages contributed to reduced operating profits. They fell by 16% to £867m, still the

second highest level of profitability to date.

“This wage spending is an indication of the competitive nature of the division, with the top clubs competing for financially lucrative places in Uefa competitions, and clubs lower down the division fighting to remain in the Premier League itself,” said Jones.

“With the sale of the Premier League’s domestic and international broadcast rights now complete for the 2019-20 to 2021-22 seasons, resulting in an overall 8% revenue increase, Premier League clubs will receive further increases in central distributions in the coming seasons.

“However, the increase is not as significant as in the previous two cycles and therefore clubs will aim to improve their competitive and financial position through developing and growing other commercial revenue.”

He said that while the Premier League had retained its leading position financially, other leagues would continue to grow in coming years.

In the second-tier English Championship, record wage levels have led to record operating losses.

Wages outstripped revenues, highlighting the financial risks that Championship clubs are willing to take in order to gain promotion to the Premier League. However, net debt among Championship clubs almost halved over the course of the season.

Other findings regarding English football finances in 2017-18 include:

The top 92 Premier League and Football League clubs generated a record £5.8bn in revenue Championship clubs generated record combined revenues of £749m, a 4% increase on 2016-17 The 92 Premier League and Football League clubs contributed £2.1bn in taxes (2016-17: £1.9bn) Premier League clubs’ wagesto-revenue ratio rose to 59%.

Championship clubs’ wagesto-revenue ratio increased to 106%.

Meanwhile, Scottish revenues increased to £206m in 2017-18, driven by match-day revenue growth of 19%.

The Premiership saw its highest average attendances since 2006-07, aided by the return of Hibernian to the top flight.

In addition, Deloitte says an exclusive five-year domestic broadcast rights deal with Sky Sports should deliver a 20% increase on the current deal from season 2020-21.

Outside the UK, the commencement of the German Bundesliga’s new broadcast arrangements saw it leapfrog LaLiga to become number two in terms of revenue generation.

The Bundesliga also remains the best-attended European league, with average crowds of more than 43,000.

Italy’s Serie A remains some way behind the German and Spanish leagues in terms of revenues, with France’s Ligue 1 remaining the smallest of the Big Five leagues.

hree global organisations that promote women’s sport have written to athletics’ governing body the IAAF to say its rules for intersex athletes are “discriminatory” and “enforce gender inequality”.

The IAAF has come under strong criticism from academics, campaigners and doctors ever since double Olympic 800 metres champion Caster Semenya failed in her bid to stop the introduction of a new testosterone limit for female athletes who want to compete internationally between 400 metres and a mile.

On Wednesday, Semenya confirmed that she has filed an appeal against the Court of Arbitration for Sport ruling at the Federal Supreme Court of Switzerland but, in the meantime, the testosterone limit is in place.

The IAAF’s determination to implement its rule in the face of so much opposition has now prompted the International Working Group on Women and Sport, WomenSport International and the International Association of Physical Education for Girls and Women to express their “great disappointment”, too.

In a joint statement, they said they were “particularly disappointed” that the IAAF decided to enforce the limit immediately after the CAS verdict earlier this month, which means affected athletes must take testosterone suppressants and submit to regular checks.

“It is (our) collective view that this is discriminatory and in no way do we support a ruling that forces an athlete to take medication that alters their natural state,” they said.

“We believe that affected athletes are being penalised for their biological traits, over which they have no control, and that such penalty enforces gender inequality, because it does not apply to male athletes.

“We believe this infringes their human rights. The affected athletes have not cheated or been found to be taking performance-

enhancing drugs, yet this decision implies wrong-doing and comes with a penalty.”

They continue by saying the IAAF policy contravenes the principles the Monaco-based federation signed up to when it became a member organisation of the International Working Group on Women and Sport.

And they add that while they recognise the inclusion of athletes with high testosterone in women’s sport is a “complex issue that continues to challenge many organisations”, no single sporting federation has the right to impose such restrictions and they should wait for more research and the development of a global consensus on the matter.

Their letter concludes by saying they support Semenya’s attempt to have the rule overturned on appeal.

The 28-year-old South African won her 30th consecutive race over 800m at the Diamond League meeting in Doha on May 3, two days after the CAS verdict was announced. Her next scheduled race is over 3,000 metres – currently not one of the IAAF’s restricted events – at the Prefontaine Classic in Oregon on June 30.

on Saturday.

Joshua said: “Eddie showed

me a video of me yesterday and it made me realise that everything we do in boxing is about memories.

“I want to be able to say I had a great night with Fury, remember fighting Wladimir Klitschko and Alexander Povetkin.

“When all is said and done, all you have left is good memories.

“People speak about being fully focused on 1 June. I am but you can’t not look at the bigger picture.

“I’m sure he is doing it himself.

I don’t put blinkers on about seeing the future potential.

“I will be confident in my ability and try and get him out of there in good fashion.”

Joshua’s focus will have to remain on current opponent Ruiz Jr for now, who has only been beaten once in 33 professional fights.

Joshua says want fight with Fury B ritish boxer, Anthony Joshua, says he is prepared to fight Tyson Fury if his clash with Deontay Wilder fails to materialise.

Wilder first has a rematch with Luis Ortiz after beating the Cuban last year, set for New York’s Maddison Square Garden, before the 33-year-old will even consider taking on Joshua or Fury.

But AJ would be happy with fellow British boxer Fury next.

He told the BBC: “I think I can beat Ruiz. If Wilder is not available, I want Fury.

“I said I want to meet Wilder, chat to him and the next day he announces a fight with no date or venue attached to it. I still say there is hope, but I think the next person I want then is Fury.”

After more than a year of

build up regarding a potential fight between Fury and Wilder, Joshua cast doubt on the clash ever happening.

The Watford born boxer added: “These fighters have big egos now and think ‘if he wants to fight me he has to come and see me and all that’.

“When I first fought for the title my promoter, Eddie Hearn, said when you get the title you are in a position of power.

“I have done that and I feel there is still a power struggle with people thinking, even though they aren’t champion, they still think they are king. Let’s put that stuff aside and get a real solid fight under wraps.”

IBF, WBA and WBO heavyweight champion, Joshua is keen to make memories from his boxing career, believing he can make another one from fighting

and beating Fury, admitting he can’t help but look past his fight

Sunday 02 June 2019

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BDSUNDAY 43

Sports

AFCON 2019: Super Eagles begin camping in Asaba

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Stories by ANTHONY NLEBEM

igeria’s final preparations for the 32nd Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) holding in Egypt begin on Sunday, when invited players, alongside the technical crew and administrative staff, will start arriving in Asaba, the Delta State capital.

Nicknamed The Big Heart, Delta State has eased into the forefront as the nation’s football capital, since hosting the 2018 AITEO Cup finals and the international friendly between the Super Eagles and Uganda’s Cranes in November 2018. Since then, the Super Eagles have played Seychelles in Asaba in an AFCON qualifier and hosted Egypt in a friendly, and the city was also the setting for the U23 National Team’s thrashing of Libya in an U23 AFCON qualifier in March 2019.

Super Eagles’ backroom staff are expected to be complete, with some players also expected, while the larger population of the playing body should hit town on Monday.

This first phase of camping will also take in a friendly match, against equally Egypt-bound Warriors of Zimbabwe, at the Stephen Keshi Stadium on Saturday, 8th

June.

Players and officials will travel to the Egyptian city of Ismailia the following day aboard a chartered flight, where they will stay at the Hotel Mercure and spend a full week perfecting tactics and strategies, before taking on Africa’s number one –ranked team Senegal in another friendly in Ismailia.

On 17th January, the three –time champions will travel to Alexandria – venue of their Group B matches against Burundi, Guinea and Madagascar.

Technical Adviser Gernot Rohr had invited 25 players to the camp, with six other players – among them three home –based professionals – on standby.

25 Super Eagles For AFCON 2019 camp Goalkeepers: Francis Uzoho (Anorthosis Famagusta, Cyprus); Ikechukwu Ezenwa (Katsina United); Daniel Akpeyi (Kaizer Chiefs, South Africa) Defenders: Olaoluwa Aina (Torino FC, Italy); Abdullahi Shehu (Bursaspor FC, Turkey); Chidozie Awaziem (Caykur Rizespor, Turkey); William Ekong (Udinese FC, Italy); Leon Balogun (Brighton & Hove Albion, England); Kenneth Omeruo (CD Leganes, Spain); Jamilu Collins (SC Padeborn 07, Germany);

Semi Ajayi (Rotherham United, England) Midfielders: Mikel John Obi (Middlesbrough FC, England); Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England); Oghenekaro Etebo (Stoke City FC, England); John Ogu (Hapoel Be’er Sheva, Israel) Forwards: Ahmed Musa (Al Nassar FC, Saudi Arabia); Victor

Osimhen (Royal Charleroi SC, Belgium); Moses Simon (Levante FC, Spain); Henry Onyekuru (Galatasaray SK, Turkey); Odion Ighalo (Shanghai Shenhua, China); Alexander Iwobi (Arsenal FC, England); Samuel Kalu (Girondins Bordeaux, France); Paul Onuachu (FC Midtjyland, Denmark); Kelechi Iheanacho

(Leicester City, England); Samuel Chukwueze (Villarreal FC, Spain) Six On Standby: Theophilus Afelokhai (Enyimba FC); Bryan Idowu (Lokomotiv Moscow, Russia); Ikouwem Utin (Enyimba FC); Mikel Agu (Vitoria Setubal, Portugal); Junior Ajayi (Al Ahly, Egypt); Valentine Ozornwafor (Enyimba FC)

2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup: Five players to watch out for Super Falcons to play Slovakian top club, not national team W iththe2019FIFAWomen’s World Cup kicking off in France from June 7 to July 7, here, we pick five footballers to watch out for.

Marta (Brazil) The all-time top goalscorer in FIFA Women’s World Cup competitions is Brazilian superstar Marta – full name Marta Vieira da Silva, nicknamed “Pelé in a skirt,” coined by the man himself – with 15.

At 33 years old, the Orlando Pride forward shows no sign of slowing down, having been named FIFA World Player of the Year last year for the sixth time, and five years in a row between 2006 and 2010.

Hailed as one of Brazil’s most influential female public figures, Marta is the highest-paid female footballer in the world, carried the Olympic flag at the 2016 Rio games and was the first woman to have her footprint immortalised in cement at the Maracanã stadium in Rio.

Alex Morgan (USA) The USA team is currently at the top of the world rankings and, with a record three World Cup victories under their belts, the defending champions are once again the favourites – and Alex Morgan is a big part of the reason why.

She was their top scorer in 2018, with 18 goals in the USA’s 20 games, including a hat-trick against Japan.

She finished the year with a career total of 98. She also won the Golden Boot as the top scorer in the Women’s World Cup qualifiers, with seven goals over the five matches.

Co-captain of the USA team,

Morgan is also a forward for Orlando Pride, has written a series of children’s books about a girls’ soccer team, was one of the first three women to appear on the cover of a FIFA video game (alongside Canada’s Christine Sinclair and Australia’s Steph Catley) in 2015, and the following year appeared with Lionel Messi on the cover of FIFA 16.

Erin Cuthbert (Scotland) Scotland’s women’s team have qualified this year for the first time, a feat the country’s men’s squad last achieved in 1998.

Needless to say the relative novelty of participating in a World Cup has got Scots talking about their prospects – and the name on everyone’s lips is Erin Cuthbert, after the Chelsea striker scored a sensational goal against Jamaica last week in a World Cup warm-up match that saw Scotland win 3-2 in front of a record home crowd of 18,555.

Chelsea’s current Women’s Player of the Year, 20-year-old Cuthbert was nominated for the Professional Footballers’ Association Women’s Players’ Player of the Year Award for the 2018/19 season, during which she scored in Champion’s League ties against Paris Saint Germain and Olympique Lyonnais.

Sam Kerr (Australia) All-time top scorer in the United States’ National Women’s Soccer League, Australian Sam Kerr plays as a forward for the Chicago Red Stars and her national team (nicknamed the Matildas) with whom she made her debut at the age of just 15.

Winner of the Julie Dolan Medal as the best player in Australia in 2017, after having claimed the title of top goal scorer at the inaugural Tournament of Nations that year, she was also last year named Young Australian of the Year.

Steph Houghton (England) Steph Houghton doubles as captain of England and Manchester City, Steph Houghton MBE (to give her her full title – she was awarded the MBE in the 2016 New Year Honours for services to football) has 100 caps for the former. The left-back scored the winning goal in a game against Brazil in front of a crowd of 80,000 at Wembley Stadium in the 2012 London Olympics and earlier this month led Man City to a 3-0 victory over West Ham in the Women’s FA Cup. Houghton is a UEFA women’s football development ambassador and was the first female player to be on the cover of classic football magazine Shoot.

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frican champions, Nigeria’s Super Falcons will now play a Slovakian top division club in Slovakia on Sunday, and not the Slovakia women national team.

Team Administrator Mary Oboduku disclosed that the Super Falcons will be up against ZNK Pomurje Beltinci, which boasts eight players in the Slovakian national squad.

The Nigeria delegation will depart its Avita Resort camp in Bad Tatzmannsdorf, Austria immediately after lunch on Sunday, and is scheduled to arrive in Beltinci by 2.30pm,

for the game starting at 4pm Slovakia time.

Sunday’s encounter is the last friendly game for the nine –time African champions before they head off to France on Tuesday, where they will participate in the 8th FIFA Women’s World Cup finals starting on Friday next week.

On Tuesday, the Falcons also travelled to Hungary, where they lashed top division club, Halandas Viktoria 5-1 at the Kiraly Sports Centre in Szombathely, with goals from Asisat Oshoala (brace), Chinwendu Ihezuo, Francisca Ordega and Ogonna Chukwudi.

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Debt overhang looms in Nigeria (2) Continued from Last week

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uriously, our current budget deficit looks like the subsidy for fuel. Whether we should and what level of subsidy the country can provide on fuel and the management of oil subsidy is a discussion for another day.

To make debt worth-while, we need to do a number of things. Firstly, it needs to be channeled towards investment as debt that are obtained to fund life-style or towards crass expenses or spending can be akin to smoking a stick of cigarette which gives satisfaction while smoking it but cannot be relied upon to give such satisfaction in medium time. Soon after, you feel like smoking another stick and the remnant you can see is the stub. Snugly tied to this point is that debts should also be project-targeted. For instance, the sum of $350million was specifically borrowed to enhance the Port Harcourt refinery in 1988. This involved the enhancement of production from 60,000 barrel per stream day (bpsd) to 210, 000 bpsd. This approach allows for ascertaining in specific terms the purpose of debts.

The process should not only be transparent, debts should be taken to build capacity.

The return on investment should be undertaken. Only when the return is justifiable should such loans be taken. In order words, debts should be tied to project that are not only self-liquidating, but also such that will have multiplier effects on the economy.

For instance, a 1995 study of the effect of software producer Microsoft on the local economy revealed that each job at Microsoft created 6.7 new jobs in Washington State, whereas a job at Boeing created 3.8 jobs.

Targeting such multiplier effects are critical.

A rigorous cost-benefit analysis and link to economic growth should be a prerequisite for obtaining loans. For instance, it seems that over time, for us in Nigeria, there is a correlation between debt pile-up and poverty. Poverty seems to be perpetually increasing with these debts. In comparison, countries like China who had over 750 million poor people years ago now have just

about 10 million in that category. This is in contrast with Nigeria with the number of poor people seemingly increasing on a yearly basis. And now, on the World Poverty Clock, 86.9million people live in extreme poverty putting Nigeria as the number one nation usurping India with a population that is more than 6 times Nigeria’s. This will continue to be so for as long as our GDP growth rate, currently below 2percent falls short of population growth rate which is currently just below 3percent per year which should put Nigeria as the third most populous country in the world by 2050. These two growth rates directly affect the per capita income of a country.

Allowance should be given for maintenance of projects. Currently in Nigeria, such allowances are either not given, not adequately given or consumed altogether with corruption. The maintenance culture is important for us to continue to reap the full benefits of our investment. All our refineries now operate below installed capacity because of this problem and we now find ourselves in the trap of importing what we have the capacity to produce.

A comprehensive plan is critical. Good projection about national budget deficit and projects will give option on timing of debts. For instance, the cost of debt for SA, obtained earlier in the year, is cheaper than ours. An important integral part of this is the institutionalisation of a capital budget plan and framework which a new government should put in place within its first 6 months which will run for 3 years with serious accountability responsibility up to the highest level of the national assembly. In this new age of knowledge economy, know-where and know-when are increasingly becoming more important than know-how and knowwhat (mere facts!). The different timings for Nigeria’s foreign debt as well as that of South Africa this same year comes to mind.

Whereas, South Africa obtained loan at 6percent in May. Nigeria obtained loan at 9.75percent in October. In the space of few months, there has been about 33percent increase in the cost of debt. By implication, Nigeria has started a catch-up race with

South Africa from Day One in terms of putting the project to use and should then have the potential of earning more in order to compete with the equivalent South African project. This scenario is needless if our administration has a better ‘know-when’ appreciation.

Tied to this penultimate issue is the growth rate of the economy. Comparing our cost of debt with economic growth rate gives a gloomy scenario. If we compare our economy that is expected to grow at 2percent by year end with 9.75percent cost of debt literarily means that whereas the Nigerian economy, to which the funds is applied will grow at 2percent, we will add 9.75percent in value to the lender of the funds, whether country or institution.

The engagement of the federal legislators by the populace is critical. The truth is that the total number of legislators in both houses, of 469, in conjunction with the executive, consummate this debts on our behalf. Once the budget is approved, it implies that the 200 million Nigerians have approved it.

We need to see representation as a very serious business. The consciousness on the part of the electorates is currently missing. By some of the actions of the federal legislatures on budgeting, you find it difficult to argue that the consciousness on issues of debt is not also lost on the majority of them. We deserve the best people to take decisions at the highest level of consciousness and responsibility.

Waste and cost of governance are also too high in Nigeria. When we engage in needless debate about infrastructure as a major driver of growth which creates an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, we need to acknowledge that the level of waste and cost of governance is too high. This can be attested to by the mind-boggling level of appointments at all levels of executive and a wanton waste of resources. Eradicating waste and drastically reducing cost of governance will

Akin Morakinyo (Phd) Lectures Economics at Pan-Atlantic University, Lekki, Lagos

unarguably create a healthy headroom to allocate resources to enhance the level of infrastructure.

Expanding our revenue base is of importance. In alliance with the position of the IMF, our tax base may currently be adequate but not efficient as there are loopholes still to be blocked. This concern for an inadequate revenue base is founded in the fact that a budget deficit is inseparably attached to deficit budgeting arising from insufficient revenue to meet budgeted expenditure.

For instance, as of May 2017, only 14million people of 70million taxable Nigerians pay taxes. This means 80percent of economically active and taxable Nigerians still evade taxes. Of the big five economies in Africa, Nigeria with the biggest economy, has by far, the least tax revenue to GDP of 6.1percent.

This compares with 26.9percent for South Africa and 10.33percent, 11.6percent and 18.4percent for Angola, Ethiopia and Kenya, respectively. Even though this may be a reflection of poverty spread, the 80percent of economically active Nigerians which are currently evading taxes shows that there is a huge room for improvement. This leakage adds to the leakage from the grossly undertaxed Nigerians. Again, to compound the situation, corruption cannot be taxed! The issue of tax structure is indeed a discussion for another day. When these tax leakages, which have multiplier effect are combined with the unjustifiable economic-rent- driven government concessions, there comes the inevitable realisation that some of our sovereign debts are probably needless as a proper revenue capture would have made these debts unnecessary.

Quick Takes

Off the Cuff

$191.4bn

The fleetingness of power

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ike play, like play, a good number of political actors that struggled for power a few years ago have exhausted their tenures and have suddenly exited office.

When they were looking for the office, they did all manner of things, including some untoward and hidden things, to acquire power. Perhaps, some of them may have even sponsored killings of political opponents or incapacitation of such opponents using various means, including “remote powers” and thugs. Some occupied their office for straight eight years. While in office, it was as if they would never leave. They took decisions and made policies that adversely affected the people they were supposed to serve. Life for them was generally grand as they felt on top of the world and wielded power anyhow they liked.

For some governors in particular, they turned their states into their personal estates and lived like emperors. While they occupied the office, nothing else mattered. It never crossed their mind they would one day leave behind all the allures of office. If such thought ever crossed their mind, they dismissed it with a wave of the

Continues next week

hand. Many of them only realise the ephemerality of office and of political power a few months to their exit date, then they begin to play very dirty.

That is why a number of them try to impose stooges as their successors, through whom they think to continue to plunder their states in the name of continuity and attempt to sustain legacy.

Some of the governors whose tenures recently expired also engaged in last minute rabid appointments even days to the end of their tenure of office.

For instance, how justifiable is the appointment and promotion of civil servants, and establishment of universities, polytechnics and colleges of education a few days to the exit of a governor from office? For some of them, the last minute is when they remember to pursue all the projects they should have executed at the beginning of their tenure and they begin to engage in contract award frenzy. They try to mop up as much money as they could through all manner of monkey contracts and mirage projects.

If at all public office holders could realise that no matter how many years they may be in office, one day they must leave, they would have been

more circumspect in the way they view and handle such office.

Another election circle has come and gone, inaugurated governors and the President may have started to see their office as a neverending journey, but in reality, the end, as in everything else, will come to them suddenly.

We have been on this circle for 20 years now and nothing has positively changed for Nigeria and for the people.

What we see is unbridled love for power and holding onto power. Governors who served eight years migrate to the Senate to join the senior citizens’ club, as it were; all in the name of law-making. Many of them, usually, do not open their mouth to contribute on any debate or sponsor a bill. They sit idly and watch the four years roll. Some of them eventually die there to the detriment of the country as they are given national burial for dying in active service for the nation. But the observation of the wisest king, Solomon, the son of King David, is ever fresh, “Vanity, upon vanity, all is vanity.”

This is the volume of China’s trade in creative goods as declared by the United Nations Conference on Trade (UNCTAD).

Good commitment!

“We cannot solve all the problems of pensioners in one day.

This problem accumulated for a long time. As a government, we are committed to resolving all pension-related problems…We stand by the truth and we are not afraid, particularly by those who destroyed this state…” .Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, making a commitment to end the misery of pensioners in the state.

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