Nigerian watch issue 053

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NIGERIAN WATCH tHe uK’s leAding AfricAn newsPAPer witH tHe lArgest circulAtion

BefftA coMMunity newsPAPer of tHe yeAr 5 - 18 June 2015

Issue No 053

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to Inspire, Inform and Entertain

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“too grAnd”!?

Astonishing attack on Nigeria’s Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka Page 10

PMB A great day in the history of our nation – pages 2-3

fond fArewell The diaspora’s “people’s champion” returns to Nigeria Page 12 one Million BAMe votes went to tHe tories – election analysis of voting patterns p8

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The breeze of change is to be welcomed fter his recent pre-inauguration visit to London, it has been widely reported the then presidentelect general muhammadu buhari flew home economy class.

The inauguration ceremony ran to time; proper time, not African time.

And the president has said his convoy will obey Nigeria’s traffic laws. pinch me, someone.

These essentially little things are hugely symbolic, underlying election pledges about an end to waste, efficiency and the law being universal.

It is the breeze of change that puts a spring in the step; change at haste is better than change at speed.

We should be proud of the events of the last few months, and savour the moment. may 29 was an historic day.

Let’s preserve it in the forefront of our memory, as we have signed a social contract that must be made good on.

And it feels great.

A

The current President of the African Union and seemingly lifelong President of Zimbabwe Robert Mugabe was challenged over his presence at the inauguration of President Buhari.

He was pursued by journalists from Sahara Reporters demanding to know how he had the audacity to attend.

On the video of the confrontation that has been viewed 200,000 times President Mugabe, who has been in power since 1987, by dint of alleged voterigging, violence and intimidation, is asked, “Is there democracy in Zimbabwe? It’s about time to step down. It’s enough! Over 30-something years and you came here to witness democracy? Let there be change in Zimbabwe!”

A SIgN of thE tImES Those invited to attend the inauguration were repeatedly told “don’t panic” ahead of the ceremonial 21-gun salute, giving a measure of the heightened tension surrounding Boko Haram.

NIgErIA’S troopS In an astonishing display of fortitude and self-discipline the ceremonial troops of Nigeria’s armed forces stood on parade in Eagle Square for nigh on four hours. A magnificent white horse led the way throughout. Given the heat it was remarkable that only nine soldiers were reported to have collapsed.

WhAt A hoWLEr maryanne Jemide, md

Publisher Publisher/Managing director Managing editor Art editor

tevin Jemide maryanne Jemide Jon hughes cathy constable

contributors obah Iyamu; harriet ogbeide; AJ James; Ayo Akinfe; funmi odegbami; Samuel Kasumu; Ngozi mbana; Ekanem robertson, Jessica onah, Laura Adenuga; Edel meremikwu chief cartoonist

harold ogbeide office address Nigerian Watch chartwell house 292 hale Lane Edgware middlesex hA8 8Np email editor@nigerianwatch.com marketing@nigerianwatch.com sales@nigerianwatch.com website www.nigerianwatch.com

tel: 020 8588 9640 fax: 020 7160 5232 Nigerian Watch is a monthly newspaper owned by green World media Ltd. Views expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher.

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ISSN 2051-4670

The Metro newspaper in London – owned by the Daily Mail – made an astonishing howler when it reported on Monday (June 1) that as promised PMB had declared his assets, although these have yet to be made public.

Accompanying the picture was an African in military uniform. While we cannot ascertain who it is we know one thing for certain it isn’t the President, not even in his days as a General. It beggars a question to our Metro colleagues; do we really all look the same?

EAgLE SquArE (from l-r): US Vice President John Kerry arriving, Former Heads of State, General Ibrahim Babangida; General Abdulsalami Abubakar and Former President Olusegun Obasanjo

A GREAT DAY thE uNprEcEdENtEd pEAcEfuL hANd Images Votebuhari-Bayo Omoboriowo

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At nine minutes to 11am on May 29, 2015, in Eagle Square, Abuja, Nigeria made history.

That was when General Muhammudu Buhari received the symbols of state - the flag of defence and flag of Nigeria – from his predecessor President Goodluck Jonathan and became President Muhammadu Buhari.

At that historic moment Nigeria came of age as a democracy. The people had spoken and were heard. Their will reverberated across the nation, the continent and around the world.

Here was Democracy Day writ large.

The day when GMB became PMB; his preferred acronym as of now, the title of General dispensed with. The day when Nigeria became the leader of the continent and its beacon of hope. The day when Nigeria became a major player on the world stage, invited to state its requirements to the G7 group of nations.

The inauguration marked a great day in the history of our nation.

Amid much pomp and ceremony, reflecting the rich and varied cultural tapestry of Nigeria, its economic might and geo-political importance, a new

benchmark was set.

Little wonder VIP guest President Mugabe of Zimbabwe looked uncomfortable if not embarrassed.

The sun has risen on Africa's spring.

Little wonder outgoing President GEJ is being touted to receive the Nobel peace prize for his role in establishing democracy on the continent.

It is now of course up to PMB to deliver.

His inaugural address as President reflected the popular mood of the people.

There was a spontaneous roar of approval when he declared in his inauguration address, “I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody.”

It was an electrifying moment, signalling the end to the era of turning blind eyes and brown paper envelopes as much as it signalled a beginning of a Nigeria united.

He told the country what was expected of them. “My fellow Nigerians I cannot recall when Nigeria enjoyed so much goodwill abroad as now. The messages I received from East and West, from powerful and small countries are indicative of international expectations on us.

President Muhammadu Buhari taking his oath of office before Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mahmud Mohammed

The world welcomes Nigeria’s coming of age Prime Minister David Cameron has urged President Muhammadu Buhari (PMB) to come armed with requests from Nigeria to the G7 summit when he attends the group of industrialised nations’ meeting in Berlin this weekend (June 7-9).

Delivering this message to the new President at a meeting on Friday shortly after the inauguration, British Secretary for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, Philip Hammond, said his Prime Minister had requested a list of what Nigeria wanted to help it succeed against the current challenges facing the country.

“We are waiting for your own list,” said the minister on behalf of Mr Cameron.

On the meeting with the UK Prime Minister’s envoy, the Head of the President’s media team, Garba Shehu, in a statement said it was a follow-up to an earlier one between PMB

and Prime Minister Cameron, at which commitments were made to the then in-coming administration on several areas, including the fight against terrorism, power and energy and matters of common concerns such as migration challenges facing the continent, as well as what he called “intelligence fusion” to secure Africa from global terror.

The PM also raised the issue of “free trade” between the EU and Africa, a proposal he said enjoyed the support of several countries on the continent and in support of which he sought to enlist the backing of President Buhari. The President in turn promised to prepare the government’s aspirations for the summit. Buhari had noted the burden is on his administration to achieve much more “with less resources in terms of debt servicing, less revenue from oil.”

bELoW; British Secretary for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, Philip Hammond with President Buhari shortly after his inaugaration

Meanwhile, the leader of the Chinese delegation to President Buhari’s inauguration, who is the country’s Minister of Agriculture, Mr Han Changfu, at a similar meeting, asked President Buhari to open avenues for Chinese invest-

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Marching Soldiers, President Elect Muhammadu Buhari sits with Vice President-elect Yemi Osinbajo, and Aisha Buhari, the new first lady, before being joined by the Outgoing President Goodluck Jonathan.

IN OUR NATION’S HISTORY ovEr of poWEr LIt up NIgErIA, AfrIcA ANd thE WorLd “At home the newly elected government is basking in a reservoir of goodwill and high expectations. Nigeria therefore has a window of opportunity to fulfil our long-standing potential of pulling ourselves together and realising our mission as a great nation.”

The viable and progressive Nigeria envisioned by the founding fathers, who's legacy had been squandered.

“Some of their successors behaved like spoilt children breaking everything and bringing disorder to the house,” he said.

There will be no settling of old scores - “the past is prologue” – and from hereon in Nigeria will be ready to play the leadership role expected of it on the continent.

On the home front he declared “insecurity, pervasive corruption and the hitherto unending and seemingly impossible fuel and power shortages are the immediate concerns. We are going to tackle them head on.”

The army is to relocate its command and control centre to Madiaguru, the

epicentre of the Boko Haram insurgency – with all the hardware that entails – and this “mindless, godless group who are as far away from Islam as one can think” would not be declared defeated until the Chibok girls are found.

While he declared the legislative and judicial arms of government would be given their independence, he let it be known that his will be an administration that is going to follow the money, to ensure it delivers for the people.

The Federal Government will not “fold its arms and close its eyes” to what is going on. States and local government would be held to account, “not least the operations of the Local Government Joint Account, to ensure gross corruption is kept in check”.

In these difficult economic times for the country – its economy exposed by the fall in oil price – the dividends from this will finance investment in

“Nigeria has an opportunity to fulfil our mission as a great nation”

ments in Nigeria. China promised to help Nigeria out in several areas including agriculture, power, railways and other infrastructure.

The President of Congo Brazaville, Dennis Sassou Nguesso was among the several leaders from across Africa who had audiences with the President after the inauguration on Friday. For many, the fight against terrorism topped the agenda.

The Congolese leader said he had been mandated by other leaders in Central Africa to seek a meeting with their counterparts in the ECOWAS, with a view to tackling common challenges, especially the one posed by terrorism.

Nguesso also requested President Buhari to assume his rightful place as the leader of Africa.

President Buhari agreed that the ECOWAS meeting should be held before the next African Union summit, scheduled to take place in South Africa before the end of the month.

Speaking while receiving Jacob Zuma, President of South Africa, President Buhari also expressed his wish to work with Zuma to fight terrorism in Africa

infrastructure and job creation to tackle youth unemployment.

In a similar vein he declared there will be a root and branch analysis of the power generating sector to discover how after $20bn had been spent since 1999 the country still only generates 4000 MW to only deliver “darkness, frustration, misery and resignation among Nigerians”.

The President reached out to all Nigerians, promising to work with the Trade Unions and MEND among others to deliver his programme.

He concluded by quoting from Shakespeare's Julius Caeser. “’There is a tide in the affairs of men, which taken at the flood, leads on to fortune; Omitted all the voyage of their life, is bound by shallows and miseries.’ We have an opportunity. Let us take it.”

For PMB’s speech in full, turn to page 14

BELOW: PMB acknowledges the cheers during his inauguration

and outside the continent. The two leaders agreed to come to meet and exchange state visits to deepen the existing bilateral relationships.

Twenty Presidents from across Africa were among 50 world leaders to attend the inauguration: Jacob Zuma; John Dramani (Ghana); Paul Kagame (Rwanda); Idriss Derby (Chad); Boni Yayi (Benin Republic); Theodore Nguema (Equatorial Guinea); Robert Mugabe (Zimbabwe); Macky Sall (Senegal); Ernest Koroma (Sierra Leone); Mahammadu Issoufou (Niger); Mohammed Abdelaziz (Saharawi Republic); Joseph Kabila (Congo Kinshasa); Denis Nguesso; Michel Kafando (Burkina Faso); Hage Geingob (Namibia); Manuel Pinto da Costa (São Tomé & Principe); Hassan Mohamoud (Somalia); Hailemariam Desalegn (Ethiopia); James Igga (South Sudan); and Mohammed Bilal (Tanzania).

US Vice President John Kerry led the US delegation to the inauguration in a symbolic show of President Obama’s willingness to strengthen the relationship between the two countries, which over recent years had become severely strained.

Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan stands next to President Mohammadu Buhari after handing over power.

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TORIES WIN GREATEST EVER NUMBER OF BAME VOTES

While Labour remains ahead with ethnic minority voters on 52%, research by British Futures finds that the gap between the two main parties is shrinking.

One third (33%) of ethnic minority voters supported the Conservatives in 2015, a stronger result than ever before for the party. The Liberal Democrats and Greens each took 5%, with just 2% voting for UKIP. When translated into votes, based on an estimated three million ethnic minority voters taking part in the election, the

showing that the party is closing the gap on Labour with ethnic minority voters, particularly British Asians; African voters by a margin of two to one backed Labour.

The analysis was based on a survey of 2,000 people conducted by Survation.

results equate to 1.6 million votes for Labour, with the Conservatives securing one million ethnic minority votes for the first time in the party’s history.

The results are especially encouraging for David Cameron’s Conservatives,

chuka bows out of leadership race citing pressure of scrutiny Before the ink had time to dry on the last edition of Nigerian Watch hailing Chuka Umunna's bid to become leader of the Labour party, the MP for Streatham and shadow business secretary performed the most remarkable U-turn and withdrew from the race.

Mr Umunna announced his decision to run on Monday May 11 but dramatically withdrew his candidacy on May 15, saying he could not cope with the pressure of scrutiny and was not comfortable with the attention on his private life.

His remarks immediately triggered speculation that a weekend newspaper was preparing an expose on Mr Umunna but this proved unfounded.

In a press statement explaining his decision Mr

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as a temp worker over 20 years ago – Mr Eni sits on the councils Operations Review and Personnel Committees.

Married to Martine, in his ‘spare time’ he also played an active role in establishing a hugely successful translations service company with her.

Mr Eni hopes that by being elected he will inspire others to enter politics - “there’s no point to just sitting there and moaning” – and his life story will inspire youths to grasp any opportunity that comes their way.

Up to one million black and minority ethnic (BAME) votes helped put David Cameron into Downing Street on election night, according to the first analysis of voting patterns in the May general election.

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Nigerian Victor Eni has become the first black councillor elected on to Hertsmere Borough Council; under the radar of the UK general elections a host of borough elections were held across the country on May 7.

Of Igbo heritage the father of three and self-made man stood as a Conservative and was returned to represent the people of Borehamwood Cowley Hill Ward.

A logistics manager with supermarket giant Sainsbury’s – where he started out

chuKA umuNNA speaking to Allegra Stratton on BBC Newsnight

Umunna said, “As a member of the shadow cabinet, I am used to a level of attention which is part and parcel of the job. I witnessed the 2010 leadership election process close up and thought I would be comfortable with what it involved.

“However, since the night of our defeat I have been subject to the added level of pressure that comes with being a leadership candidate. I

have not found it to be a comfortable experience.

“Consequently after further reflection I am withdrawing my candidacy. I apologise to all those who have kindly supported and encouraged me to do this and for disappointing them.

“I know this will come as a surprise to many but I had always wondered whether it was all too soon for me to launch this leadership bid – I fear it was.

“Most importantly, I continued to have very real concerns and worry about this bid’s impact on those close to me.”

He said he would continue to play an active role in the party and “continue to serve the area I know and love – the Streatham parliamentary constituency”.

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THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO AGU thE LEAdEr of thE uK’S fAStESt groWINg church dELIvErS A vISIoN for rEvIvAL More fasting, greater unity and less noise sometimes.

That is how the church can act as a catalyst for spiritual revival in the UK and have a more influential role in society, said the man who should know, Pastor Agu Irukwu.

He is after all celebrated as the most influential black man in Britain and, as the senior pastor of Jesus House Church in Brent Cross and executive council member of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), he is a leading light of the largest and fastest growing church in Britain; from having just five churches in 1994, RCCG now has over 750 parishes across the UK. He made his observations during the keynote address at the 4-day Christian Resources Exhibition at the Excel Centre in London, which attracted over 20,000 church leaders from across the UK. Over 100 people from all denominations gathered to hear Pastor Agu’s talk on how the church can act as a catalyst for revival.

Pastor Agu drew on the story of Elijah, the ordinary man – one of few in the Bible of unknown lineage – who confronted the degenerate empire of Ahab and Jezebel, to exemplify how God is going to use “ordinary men and women” to deliver spiritual revival.

“I see very many similarities between where the nation of Israel found itself [during the time of Ahab] and where we find ourselves today; I see an aggressive secularism, militant Islam, an attack against institutions that are based on the word of God, like marriage; a definite attack against the youth and young generation in this country, with laws and policies that are at best unfavourable and in certain cases hostile; and I see a liberal press that is openly hostile to the church.”

These are things we have to contend with today in the same way Christians had to contend with the worship of Baal and the spirit of Jezebel then. And as then, God will raise another Elijah, said Pastor Agu, adding, “I feel that Elijah is a plural term for us. God will raise an Elijah church or Elijah generation that will be a catalyst for revival.”

For that to happen, however, Christians have to open themselves up to the word of God. He said sometimes church leaders sermonise too much and congregations often go for months talking about but not hearing the word of God. He said, “The word of God is the only offensive weapon we have. The kingdom of

darkness is not afraid of the church that does anything; we can hold our conferences, serve soup in our soup kitchens; do all the work we like in the community; we are as good as any other organisation that is doing good works. But the work that transforms the soul must come out of an organisation that understands that it is the word of God that the enemy is afraid of.”

He said Church leaders had to accept and believe the word of God, full stop.

“God is calling us to a place where we just believe him, where we stop trying to figure him out with our intellects. We are not called on to explain the Gospel we are called on to proclaim the Gospel. The virgin birth makes no sense, the thing is unexplainable. We should just do the proclaiming.”

However, he accepted, this was more readily embraced by Africans.

“If you come from Africa you tend to believe in God for everything; because if you go to hospital you pray there are going to be doctors, you pray there are going to be medicines and you pray that they are not too expensive. You just better believe that God heals. Or if you’re driving in Kinshasa, dodging bullets, you better believe there’s a God to protect you.”

In Britain, where we don’t face these daily survival tests, it is harder for people to open themselves up to the word of God. That is why Pastor Agu fervently believes the church needs to “embrace fasting, as we need a burden” to focus our minds on prayer and the word of God. “If we have to pay that price and if it is biblical to pay that price, let’s pay the price.

Whatever we have to do to move the hand of

prayer.

“I went to a prayer meeting with the Archbishop of Canterbury in his private chapel.

It was fascinating. I loved it so much I’m taking our general overseer there for that same kind of prayer. It was peaceful, there was no noise and it was short. We were done in 20-25 minutes; it was an amazing experience; so soothing. I

thought I need to introduce my folk to this kind of prayer because I’m sure God sometimes doesn’t want you shouting at him; ‘OK I’ve heard what you have to say, sit down and listen to me.’ Other times God will say, ‘I need some fervency and I need some volume’.”

He asked the question, “Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could merge everything so that by the spirit of God we know when God wants some noise and when he doesn’t. That’s the beauty when we come together. There’s strength in unity; something in unity that pleases the Lord. It touches God’s heart when we work together in unity.”

He continued, “I am passionate about the unity of the church; I believe the enemy has driven a wedge through the church and has separated the church. For this revival there must be a coming together. Elijah believed he was the only one of the prophets left. He was wrong. We know God doesn’t use just one. What that tells me is it is God’s plan to use the church.

“The beauty of the church is that it is diverse.

We bring different things to the table; when we put together all that we bring it forms something powerful in the hands of God.” He concluded with the rallying cry, “As long as we persevere, as long as we pray, as long as we get a burden, we will see the revival we desperately desire.”

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“Sometimes church leaders sermonise too much and congregations go for months without hearing the word of God ” God lets do it so that heaven can never say to us it’s because you didn’t do what you were supposed to do,” he said.

He revealed that he was minded to introduce quiet, contemplative prayer sessions to his mighty congregation.

“We generally pray very loud, we pray hard, we pray loud, almost as if we feel that if you’re fighting we don’t fight quietly and these people are BAD. Come and enjoy that expression of

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NIGERIAN WATCH 5 - 18 June 2015

‘BRAIN DRAIN’ POSES THREAT TO NIGERIA’S DEVELOPMENT The European Union (EU) says there are more Nigerian professionals in Europe than in Nigeria, warning the ‘brain drain’ can be detrimental to the development of the country.

The EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr Michel Arrion (right) revealed there are more Nigerian doctors and nurses and PhD holders in Europe and America than in Nigeria.

He said while the EU welcomed migration the loss of this level of expertise posed a danger to the development of Nigeria.

Addressing a Conference on National Migration Policy in Abuja on May 28, Mr Arrion explained that the EU welcomed migration as long as it was legal.

“Migration is good. We (Europe) like migration as long as it is legal. Movement of factors of production is a good thing and labour moving freely is a very good thing,” he said.

In Europe we need migration for various reasons he explained. “We have this

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specific issue of aging population. So we need fresh blood in our countries but we have to be careful sometimes about brain drain.

“As you know, there are more PhD holders from Nigerian origin in Europe or in America than in Nigeria.

“There are more Nigerian doctors and nurses in Europe and in America than in Nigeria. So, let’s be careful with that. It is good to attract the best people but not to the detriment of the

development of your country.”

In his remarks, the Minister of National Planning and Deputy Chairman, National Planning Commission (NPC), Dr Abubakar Sulaiman, said Nigeria was grappling with a wide range of migration issues.

He said the Federal Government’s commitment in this regard had been demonstrated by the endorsement of the National Labour Migration Policy and the National Migration Policy.

The minister said the policy recognised the challenges of migration in Nigeria, especially relating to smuggling and trafficking in persons and irregular migration.

According to him, it addresses the benefits of migration and considers ways of maximising opportunities to use the huge remittance flows from the diaspora.

Sulaiman said the policy would also engage the skills, entrepreneurship, transnational transactions and ideas of the diaspora.

L to r Yomi Abass, DJA Media, Cornelius Sanwo, Nigerian Secondary Schools Family Fun Day

The party people party The annual celebration of the men and women who make, stage and star in some of the best celebrations, dinners and awards ceremonies in the UK drew a packed house of over 300 to the swanky Open Door venue at Crystal Palace.

Naturally; if anyone knows how to throw a glittering party it is these entertainment industry professionals.

Guests were thrilled all night with music by fromer NEA UK Award Winners; DJKCFirstChoice; comedian Akpos Ogagbe; and Gospel/Afrobeat Saxophonist Ben Saxxy. The event was co hosted by MC Posh Victor Oluwole and Dazzling Daizy Fini.

Founded and organised by BaronessJ Jummy Ariyo and Lady Vanessa Oluwole, the Nigerian Events Awards UK (NEA UK) are held to honour those

who have showed professionalism and passion for excellence over the past year.

This year 19 awards were presented (see box right) before their peers; a veritable who’s who of diaspora stars from the worlds of sports and politics as well as entertainment.

A special recognition Award was presented to Juju maestro Jide Chord for long service and involvement in the Industry and for mentoring young and new live performers.

Also presented with a special Appreciation Award was the outgoing Minister for Welfare and Education at the Nigerian High Commission, Mr Shina Alege (see page 12), who has championed the awards since their inception – recognising their value to Nigeria and the diaspora, socially and economically.

NEA uK 2015 AWArd WINNErS Outstanding Events Marketer - dJA mEdIA (yomi Abass) Outstanding DJ - dJ babylynn (Linda Jacks) Outstanding Photographer - powerful creations (olawale Kazeem) Outstanding Events Caterer - Jemmy's catering (bunmi tawose) Outstanding Events Host - dazzling daizy (daizi fini) Outstanding Venue Decorator - magnif Events - Kemi Animashaun) Outstanding Events Supports Service Provider - turbane events (tomi oje) Outstanding Balloon Decorator - Abicious Entertainments (Abiola Shekoni) Outstanding Make Up Artist - bimsfix make up Artistry (bimbola onabule balogun) Outstanding Event of The Year - Nigerian Secondary Schools family fun day 2014 Outstanding Live Band Performer - Abi mega (grace ogunbiyi) Outstanding Event Planner/Organiser meet The royals (bunmi osiberu) Outstanding Kiddies Entertainer - hapidayz Events (Wunmi Adeyanju) Outstanding Comedian - Akpos ogagbe Outstanding Fashion/Fashion Brasseries Designer - remsco creations (remi oyenekan) Outstanding Cake Designer - Wotever cakes (Seyi oluwamayowa) Outstanding Videographer - triple t media (tope babatola) NEA UK 2015 Special Recognition Award - Jide chord (right)

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NIGERIAN WATCH 5 - 18 June 2015

Akin Adesina bags Presidency The man who revolutionised farming in Nigeria has been elected to be President of the 80-member strong African Development Bank (AfDB).

Nigeria’s former minister of agriculture, Akin Adesina, emerged victorious on May 28, edging out seven other candidates.

Mr Adesina (left) was named Forbes African Man of the Year in 2013 for his reforms to the Nigeria's farming sector,

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having introduced more transparency into the supply and distribution of fertiliser, which had previously been marred by massive corruption.

Mr Adesina previously worked for the Rockerfeller Foundation and was Vice President of Policy and Partnerships for the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa.

He takes up his role at the AfDB in September.

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Such is her commitment to the cause that on Saturday May 20 she scaled the highest sea cliff in the UK, Hangman’s Cliff, while carrying four kilos of water on her back – to symbolise the amount of water people should drink a day and the lengths people in remote areas often have to walk to get clean water.

Christianah undertook the gruelling seven hour trek to raise funds for Engineers Without Borders (EWB) and RedR UK’s Future Relief Workers scheme. EWB and RedR UK

fund projects across Africa, Asia and Latin America to deliver development projects using engineering to tackle some of the world’s most pressing issues.

To achieve mission, Christianah has to raise a minimum of £900 over the next six weeks – to fund the ongoing costs of the project. She is scheduled to travel to Roatan in Honduras in mid-July for three months, to design the clean drinking water supply network for a health clinic and surrounding community.

She will be the sole design engineer on the project that will enable local people to drink freely from their taps for the first time instead of from only bottled water.

To help fund Christianah visit www.uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ ChristianahKale

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cAINE prIzE NomINEES l to r; Segun Afolabi, Elnathan John Two Nigerians have been named among five finalists for the 2015 edition of the prestigious Caine Prize for African Writing.

The two Nigerians are winner of the 2005 edition of the prize, Segun Afolabi, who was shortlisted for ‘The Folded Leaf’ and a 2013 finalist, Elnathan John, who was shortlisted for ‘Flying’.

The shortlisting of the two Nigerians is a welcome development to many Nigerian writers

after no Nigerian was shortlisted in the 2014 edition, despite previously dominating the prize.

Mr Afolabi was born in Kaduna but grew up in Canada, the Congo, Indonesia, Germany and Hong Kong. He won the 2005 edition with ‘Monday Morning’. His first novel, ‘Goodbye Lucille’, was published in 2007 and won the Authors’ Club Best First Novel Award in the UK. Meanwhile, Mr John is

a full time writer and best known for his political satire which he publishes on his blog. He is also very popular on Twitter.

He was a finalist in the 2013 edition for ‘Bayan Layi’. His first novel will be released in October by Cassava Republic.

Previous Nigeria winners of the prize are: Helon Habila (2001), Segun Afolabi (2005), E.C. Osondu (2009), Rotimi Babatunde (2012) and Tope Folarin (2013).

10

NIGERIAN WATCH 5 - 18 June 2015

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“Global experience tells us that ultimately, it’s through changing attitudes, not just laws, that we will end FGM,” Tanya Barron, chief executive of children’s charity Plan International.

“Prosecution must be just one strand of our efforts to end FGM worldwide,” she said. “What is encouraging is that we are talking more and more about FGM, in Africa, in Europe and across the world.”

The law, which was passed by the Senate on May 5, also prohibits men from abandoning their wives or children without economic support, according to the Nigeria Stability and Reconciliation Programme, a Lagos-based thinktank.

Soyinka dubbed ‘too old and grand’ for Oxford poetry post Huge controversy has erupted over Wole Soyinka’s nomination to become the Professor of Poetry at Oxford University – a highly prestigious position, second only to the Poet Laureate.

A Nobel Laureate, prolific poet, novelist and playwright, as well as fearless political activist, Mr Soyinka has been dubbed too old and too grand by the leading arts broadcaster Melvyn Bragg.

Mr Bragg, who had previously backed the Nigerian poet to be the next Oxford chair of poetry, told the Sunday Times over the weekend (June 1) he was switching his allegiance to Simon Armitage, saying he was concerned 80-year-old Soyinka would not “bother to come to Oxford” were he appointed. “Soyinka is a grand man … I also query his age,” Bragg said.

The accusation simply puzzled Mr Soyinka, who responded, “How curious that anyone would even speculate that I would allow busy and committed people - friends, colleagues and total strangers - to waste their time nominating and

campaigning on my behalf for such a prestigious position if I were not serious about contesting.”

Soyinka’s personal representative for the campaign, Lucy Newlyn, a poet and professor of English at Oxford, said, “Soyinka is a candidate of absolutely outstanding distinction, energy and enthusiasm. If elected, he will be totally committed to the post.”

Campaigning for the Oxford poetry post has a history of being badtempered. Ruth Padel – the first female poet to be elected, in 2009 – declined to take the Chair after becoming embroiled in a media storm, having emailed journalists to highlight ongoing allegations of sexual harassment surrounding her rival, Saint Lucian Derek Walcott. Walcott stood down from the election after an anonymous email campaign against him, which Padel insisted was not instigated by her.

Mr Soyinka is the front runner to win the post with an impressive 149 nominations, compared to his nearest rival Simon Armitage’s 54.

The result is expected to be announced by the end of the month.

grace uwiyeze of equality (centre)with campaigners in liberia

gEJ bANS fgm IN LAW thAt promotES thE rIghtS of WomEN In one of his last acts as President Goodluck Jonathan signed into law a ban on Female Genital Mutilation, which, according to the latest figures from the UN a quarter of all Nigerian women have undergone.

Although some of Nigeria’s 36 states already prohibit the ritual, this new federal law – signed into being on May 5 – brings in a nationwide ban.

18:06

It is hoped the law will encourage states without bans already in place to tackle the practice, and will embolden activists to help communities root it out, said Grace Uwiyeze of the campaign charity Equality Now. “It’s not going to immediately stop communities from practising FGM,” she said, adding that it will be essential to back up the new law with strong enforcement.

Africans Unite Against Child Abuse (AFRUCA, the children’s charity) are to stage a day long training course on June 26 entitled FGM as a Child Safeguarding Issue.

The course is targeted at professionals – Child Protection Officers, Education Welfare Officers, Teachers, Health practitioners, Crime Prevention Officers – has been independently certified as conforming to Continuous Professional Development (CPD) standards.

It will explore the issue of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and the impact on victims.

Practitioners will also gain further knowledge around the socio-cultural and religious factors underpinning the practice and skills in identifying at risk individuals. The training will also examine the Serious Crime Act 2015 in relation to FGM and mandatory reporting.

It will also explore current debates around informed consent and male circumcision.

For more information and to book a place contact training@afruca.org

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11

Letters to the Editor The challenges ahead are as daunting as the inauguration is historic

The National Association of Nigerian Communities (NANC)UK wishes you all a happy Democracy Day (May 29). Looking back,it is important that we thank God for the peaceful hand

over.

Let us know what you think. put pen to paper and send your letters to: The Editor, Nigerian Watch, The symbolic sigchartwell house, 292 hale Lane, Edgware, middlesex hA8 8Np, or email us at: editor@nigerianniďŹ cance of the 2015 watch.com elections in our Letters to be included in the next issue must be received by no later than June 15, 2015. Anonymous country is enormous. letters will not be published. please include your full name, postal address and contact telephone When incumbent number. Names and addresses can be withheld, if preferred.

President Goodluck Letters may be edited for publication.

Jonathan conceded to his opponent PresiPresident and pursued his dent-elect Muhammadu Buhari dreams until he realised it. after the March 15 presidential Thus, for the ďŹ rst time in the elections – an unprecedented and As I woke up today (May 29), I observed the history of our country,the maunexpected outcome in Nigeria – weather condition to be so good and very jority have chosen the man national pride was seemingly reconducive, meaning no hot, no cold. In who wanted to lead us. The slostored immediately. fact, I am in gratiďŹ cation mode. I am feeling gan ‘Change’ became a reality.

Thus the election outcome the signs of CHANGE. PMB is a man of integrity, exsent a message to other African May Allah make this day (Friday) to be perience and the passion to move states that the power of incumthe end of our hardship from the hands of Nigeria forward. If things go well bency is not omnipotent as Nigethose wicked oppressors; may Allah help then change should be realised. ria being Africa’s biggest Muhammadu Buhari to fulďŹ ll his promises Today (May 29) should be used economy will remain its biggest and may He grant him health, courage, mostly for sober reection, relief democracy too. This is what we guidance, strength, wisdom and conďŹ dence and prayer so that our dear counall doubted in the tense and poto rule this country intact. AMEN! try Nigeria may continue to enjoy larized lead-up to election day.

CONGRATS PMB!!! peace, tolerance and love.

But the challenges ahead for HAPPY NEW NIGERIA + JUMA’AT KHAOnce again, happy Democracy the new President are as dauntREEM. ing as his inauguration is historic. Day. Comr. Kassim Abubakar Gamawa African’s largest producer of oil is Sir Martins Bakare, President NANC, (Sardaunan Gamji & A Concerned Citizen), via www.nancuk.org running low on fuel. email Please cast your mind back to the past week and you will be sorry for Nigerians back home as the economy and basic human needs were out of circulation over disputed subsidiary payments.

In addition to the fuel shortage, there is an on going Islamist insurgency, a struggling economy, corruption at all levels, unemployment and insecurity.

The good news is that President Buhari is the ďŹ rst Nigerian civilian to personally seek to be

What a remarkable Friday

Nigerians must remember that Rome was not built in one day The June 12 Coalition of Democratic Formations (J12CODEF) with heartfelt gratitude to the Almighty God, would like to use this medium to appreciate the following; Nigerians across ethnic and religious divide who came out peacefully to exercise their franchise on election day despite all the hiccups; the political parties who participated in the elections; the media; Prof. Attahiru Jega and his management team in INEC for a wonderful job done to enhance the integrity of our electoral system; the security agencies who carried out their constitutional responsibilities without fear or favour; the vigilant local and international observers; international partners and all those too

numerous to mention, who contributed in no small measure towards ensuring a free, fair and credible 2015 general elections that has made this New Dawn for Nigeria possible.

We are indeed very delighted to witness the peaceful exit of the outgoing President Goodluck Jonathan administration and the entry of the incoming administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, which symbolises the resilience and doggedness of the human will to overcome obstacles that cannot but arise in the course of life. Once again, we give glory to God. We equally want to congratulate Nigerians and urge them to be prepared to make the necessary sacri-

ďŹ ces to make Nigeria great. They must realise that Rome was not built in a day, so it is imperative for them to be mindful of the fact that President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration is coming into oďŹƒce at a very critical period in our national life.

As we enter this New dawn in our national life, it is the fervent wish and prayers of the June 12 coalition, that may the path to a great and virile Nigeria of our dreams as envisaged by our founding fathers be laid by the incoming administration that is a beneďŹ ciary of our collective mandate, so help us God. Nelson Ekujumi, General Secretary, via email

To advertise call (UK) 0208 588 9640 (Nig) 07084556093

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12

NIGERIAN WATCH 5 - 18 June 2015

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News from the

NIGERIA HIGH COMMISSION London

The people’s champion bows out in some style Diaspora community leaders from across the UK gathered in huge numbers at the High Commission on Friday May 22 to bid the fondest of farewells to the High Commission’s Minister of Consular and Welfare Shina Alege.

For the past five years he has been the to go-to guy for the diaspora – reflected in the fact that this was his fifth farewell celebration of the week. Everyone simply wanted to say thank-you.

There is hardly one diaspora association, organisation or community group that has not benefited from Mr Alege’s help, encouragement and support since he was asked to head up the section by Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the UK Dr Dalhatu Sarki Tafida OFR, CFR. Mr Alege at the time was deputy in the political section.

His Excellency obviously recognised the qualities in the Minister that saw a succession of community leaders sing his praises. Some remained thwarted in thier attempts to thank him when after over 90 minutes the floor was closed.

The picture that emerged was of a gracious, humble and intelligent man; amicable, a diplomat’s diplomat, a people person, caring and considerate.

Sir Martins Bakare, President of the National Association of Nigerian Communities in the UK said he had been instrumental in uniting the diaspora, travelling the length and breadth of the country to meet with the diaspora communities.

Mr Bakare’s colleague, the head of the

thE ALEgE fAmILy (from l-r): dolapo, pastor Abisola, minister Alege, damilola and doyinsola

Nigerian Community in Birmingham Dr Toye Agegbe added, “Many Nigerians do not know the High Commissioner face-to-face but they know Mr Alege.”

The chairman of the Nigerian Council of Elders UK Adebayo Oladimeji said Mr Alege was an example for all, “to be good, to be gentle, to be dutiful”.

The chairman of the Central Association of Nigerians in the UK Babatunde Loye described Mr Alege as an “amicable, loveable, gentleman, who, with his smiling eyes and cheeks is a man of peace who would go any lengths to assist Nigerians in the Diaspora.”

Jenny Okafor, chairwoman of the Nigerian Women in Leadership Diaspora Forum and Kate Anolue of the Foundation for African

Caribbean and Asian Women in Parliament thanked him for “always making us feel valued, appreciated and supported”.

Standing in for the High Commissioner – who had gone to meet the then President-elect Buhari on a whistlestop tour to London – Deputy High Commissioner Olukunle Akindele Bamgbose said, “In the diplomatic sense the consular and welfare section is one of the most difficult and for somebody to knit all the associations together is a great achievement.”

With typical humility, which so many had referenced during the afternoon, Mr Alege shared the praises he had received with his staff, and particularly his deputy Frances Enya.

Mr Alege’s replacement is Emmanuel Engom.

youthS dELIghtEd ANd INSpIrEd AftEr AudIENcE WIth hIgh commISSIoNEr Over 100 young people of Nigerian heritage were treated to a rousing speech and frank Q&A during an unprecedented audience with Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the UK Dr Dalhatu Sarki Tafida, OFR, CFR, on Saturday May 16.

His Excellency agreed earlier in the year to open the doors of the Mission to the youth in response to a request from YAC n CAY (Youth Against Crime not Crime Against You), the anti-gang charity that works tirelessly to reward and inspire young people who strive to be the best they can and avoid becoming involved in crime.

The young people, who came from churches and schools across London and are active campaigners under the YAC n CAY banner, inspiring others to follow their path, were greeted by an almost full compliment of ministers and the chairman of the Central Association of Nigerians in the UK, Babatunde Loye, amongst others.

Dr Tafida dispensed with protocol and took the microphone to mingle with his seated guests as he spoke. He was pleasantly surprised when he asked how many had visited Nigeria and around two thirds of those present raised their hands.

More so when some revealed they could speak Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo.

Dr Tafida revealed he had returned some of his children to Nigeria to learn “my dialect”.

“Nigeria is your home,” Dr Tafida told the young people. “We in this Mission are working hard to make sure you who happen to be here, remain Nigerian.”

To do so he advised them to always listen to your parents and pursue your studies.

“Never think you’re better in-

formed than your parents,” he told the gathering. “Even when they chastised you they do so because they love you and want the best for you.”

He continued, “They are the bosses,” and, speaking from experience, added, “even when you’re 50 your mother will still consider

you a child.”

On the serious matter of street crime, he advised them to steer clear. “Your life is worth more than fighting over girls or some issue of disrespect. If you have problems, talk to your mother. It is better to talk and avoid situations where you could end up gone forever,” he said.

The young people in turn wanted to know about Nigeria and spoke knowingly of being treated as JJC (Jonny Just Come) when they had visited. Dr Tafida assured them if they had returned to stay they would be treated with full respect as fellow Nigerians.

“There are many things you can

bring from here but don’t think there’s nothing good in your country, there is.”

The youths were so inspired by His Excellency they clamoured to find out if they could obtain work placements at the High Commission and politely wanted to know when and if they could return again.

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15

“We have an opportunity – let’s take it” for the history books: president muhammadu buhari’s inauguration speech I am immensely grateful to God who has preserved us to witness this day and this occasion. Today marks a triumph for Nigeria and an occasion to celebrate her freedom and cherish her democracy.

Nigerians have shown their commitment to democracy and are determined to entrench its culture.

Our journey has not been easy but thanks to the determination of our people and strong support from friends abroad we have today a truly democratically elected government in place.

I would like to thank President Goodluck Jonathan for his display of statesmanship in setting a precedent for us that has now made our people proud to be Nigerians wherever they are. With the support and cooperation he has given to the transition process, he has made it possible for us to show the world that despite the perceived tension in the land we can be a united people capable of doing what is right for our nation.

Together we co-operated to surprise the world that had come to expect only the worst from Nigeria. I hope this act of graciously accepting defeat by the outgoing President will become the standard of political conduct in the country.

I would like to thank the millions of our supporters who believed in us even when the cause seemed hopeless. I salute their resolve in waiting long hours in rain and hot sunshine to register and cast their votes and stay all night if necessary to protect and ensure their votes count and were counted. I thank those who tirelessly carried the campaign on the social media. At the same time, I thank our other countrymen and women who did not vote for us but contributed to make our democratic culture truly competitive, strong and definitive. I thank all of you.

I belong to everybody Having just a few minutes ago sworn on the Holy Book, I intend to keep my oath and serve as President to all Nigerians. I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody.

A few people have privately voiced fears that on coming back to office I shall go after them. These fears are groundless. There will be no paying off old scores. The past is prologue.

Our neighbours in the Sub-region and our African brethrens should rest assured that Nigeria under our administration will be ready to play any leadership role that Africa expects of it. Here I would like to thank the governments and people of Cameroon, Chad and Niger for committing their armed forces to fight Boko Haram in Nigeria.

I also wish to assure the wider international community of our readiness to cooperate and help to combat threats of cross-border terrorism, sea piracy, refugees and

boat people, financial crime, cyber crime, climate change, the spread of communicable diseases and other challenges of the 21st century.

At home we face enormous challenges; Insecurity, pervasive corruption, the hitherto unending and seemingly impossible fuel and power shortages are the immediate concerns. We are going to tackle them head on. Nigerians will not regret that they have entrusted national responsibility to us. We must not succumb to hopelessness and defeatism. We can fix our problems.

building on our great civilisations In recent times Nigerian leaders appear to have misread our mission.

Our founding fathers, Mr Herbert Macauley, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Alhaji Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Malam Aminu Kano, Chief J.S. Tarka, Mr Eyo Ita, Chief Denis Osadeby, Chief Ladoke Akintola and their colleagues worked to establish certain standards of governance. They might have differed in their methods or tactics or details, but they were united in establishing a viable and progressive country. Some of their successors behaved like spoilt children breaking everything and bringing disorder to the house.

Furthermore, we as Nigerians must remind ourselves that we are heirs to great civilizations: Shehu Uthman Dan Fodio’s caliphate, the Kanem Borno Empire, the Oyo Empire, the Benin Empire and King Jaja’s formidable domain. The blood of those great ancestors flow in our veins. What is now required is to build on these legacies, to modernise and uplift Nigeria.

Daunting as the task may be it is by no means insurmountable. There is now a national consensus that our chosen route to national development is democracy. To achieve our objectives we must consciously work the democratic system. The Federal Executive under my watch will not seek to encroach on the duties and functions of the Legislative and Judicial arms of government. The law enforcing authorities will be charged to operate within the Constitution.

We shall rebuild and reform the public service to become more effective and more serviceable. We shall charge them to apply themselves with integrity to stabilize the system.

For their part the legislative arm must keep to their brief of making laws, carrying out over-sight functions and doing so expeditiously.

The judicial system needs reform to cleanse itself from its immediate past.

The country now expects the judiciary to act with dispatch on all cases especially on corruption, serious financial crimes or abuse of office. It is only when the three arms act constitutionally that government will be enabled to serve the country

optimally and avoid the confusion all too often bedeviling governance today.

We will follow the money Elsewhere relations between Abuja and the States have to be clarified if we are to serve the country better.

Constitutionally there are limits to powers of each of the three tiers of government but that should not mean the Federal Government should fold its arms and close its eyes to what is going on in the states and local governments. Not least the operations of the Local Government Joint Account.

While the Federal Government can not interfere in the details of its operations it will ensure that the gross corruption at the local level is checked. As far as the constitution allows me I will try to ensure that there is responsible and accountable governance at all levels of government in the country. For I will not have kept my own trust with the Nigerian people if I allow others abuse theirs under my watch.

unity will deliver prosperity for all However, no matter how well organised the governments of the federation are they can not succeed without the support, understanding and cooperation of labour unions, organised private sector, the press

basing the Command and Control Centre in Abuja. The command centre will be relocated to Maiduguri and remain until Boko Haram is completely subdued. But we can not claim to have defeated Boko Haram without rescuing the Chibok girls and all other innocent persons held hostage by insurgents.

This government will do all it can to rescue them alive. Boko Haram is a typical example of small fires causing large fires. An eccentric and unorthodox preacher with a tiny following was given posthumous fame and following by his extra judicial murder at the hands of the police. Since then through official bungling, negligence, complacency or collusion Boko Haram became a terrifying force taking tens of thousands of lives and capturing several towns and villages covering swathes of Nigerian sovereign territory.

Boko Haram is a mindless, Godless group who are as far away from Islam as one can think of. At the end of the hostilities when the group is subdued the Government intends to commission a sociological study to determine its origins, remote and immediate causes of the movement, its sponsors, the international connexions to ensure that measures are taken to prevent a recurrence of

“We can not succeed without the support, understanding and cooperation of labour unions, organised private sector, the press and civil society organisations” and civil society organisations. I appeal to employers and workers alike to unite in raising productivity so that everybody will have the opportunity to share in increased prosperity. The Nigerian press is the most vibrant in Africa. My appeal to the media today – and this includes the social media – is to exercise its considerable powers with responsibility and patriotism.

My appeal for unity is predicated on the seriousness of the legacy we are getting into. With depleted foreign reserves, falling oil prices, leakages and debts the Nigerian economy is in deep trouble and will require careful management to bring it round and to tackle the immediate challenges confronting us, namely; Boko Haram, the Niger Delta situation, the power shortages and unemployment especially among young people. For the longer term we have to improve the standards of our education. We have to look at the whole field of medicare. We have to upgrade our dilapidated physical infrastructure.

fellowship, peace and security The most immediate is Boko Haram’s insurgency. Progress has been made in recent weeks by our security forces but victory can not be achieved by

this evil. For now the Armed Forces will be fully charged with prosecuting the fight against Boko haram. We shall overhaul the rules of engagement to avoid human rights violations in operations. We shall improve operational and legal mechanisms so that disciplinary steps are taken against proven human right violations by the Armed Forces.

Boko Haram is not only the security issue bedeviling our country.

The spate of kidnappings, armed robberies, herdsmen/farmers clashes, cattle rustlings all help to add to the general air of insecurity in our land.

We are going to erect and maintain an efficient, disciplined people – friendly and well – compensated security forces within an over – all security architecture.

The amnesty programme in the Niger Delta is due to end in December, but the Government intends to invest heavily in the projects, and programmes currently in place. I call on the leadership and people in these areas to cooperate with the State and Federal Government in the rehabilitation programmes which will be streamlined and made more effective. As ever, I am ready to listen to grievances of my fellow Nigerians.

I extend my hand of fellowship to

them so that we can bring peace and build prosperity for our people.

There will be light No single cause can be identified to explain Nigerian’s poor economic performance over the years than the power situation. It is a national shame that an economy of 180 million generates only 4,000MW, and distributes even less. Continuous tinkering with the structures of power supply and distribution and close to $20bn expanded since 1999 have only brought darkness, frustration, misery, and resignation among Nigerians. We will not allow this to go on. Careful studies are under way during this transition to identify the quickest, safest and most cost-effective way to bring light and relief to Nigerians.

We have an opportunity Unemployment, notably youth unemployment features strongly in our Party’s Manifesto. We intend to attack the problem frontally through revival of agriculture, solid minerals mining as well as credits to small and medium size businesses to kick–start these enterprises. We shall quickly examine the best way to revive major industries and accelerate the revival and development of our railways, roads and general infrastructure.

Your Excellencies, My fellow Nigerians I can not recall when Nigeria enjoyed so much goodwill abroad as now. The messages I received from East and West, from powerful and small countries are indicative of international expectations on us. At home the newly elected government is basking in a reservoir of goodwill and high expectations. Nigeria therefore has a window of opportunity to fulfill our long–standing potential of pulling ourselves together and realizing our mission as a great nation.

Our situation somehow reminds one of a passage in Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar: “There is a tide in the affairs of men which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune;Omitted, all the voyage of their life, Is bound in shallows and miseries.”

We have an opportunity. Let us take it.

Thank you.

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Website W ebsite : w www.airafrica.co.uk ww.airafrica.co.ukk | Email : inf info@airafrica.co.uk fo@air o@air o@ africa.co.uk Air Africa assures you the best quality of service available all advertised fares fares are of real time itineraries itineraries during the issue of publication. For more details on the Terms and Conditions please visit us at http:// http://www.airafrica.co.uk/terms /www.airafrica.co.uk/terms Fares are highly subject to availability and change without any prior notice. Conditions apply. Please be informed these fares are including taxes.

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NIGERIAN WATCH 5 - 18 June 2015

LEISUREwAtcH london AfroBeAt collective taking over The clore Ballroom for a full live set, - see Music listings overleaf.

Fortnight

WhAt to SEE ANd do ovEr thE NExt thEAtrE Sense of an Ending Charles, a New York

journalist, arrives in Rwanda to interview two Hutu nuns charged with war crimes during the 1994 genocide. The nuns must convince the world of their innocence or face a lifetime in prison.

When an unknown survivor contradicts their story, Charles must choose which version of the truth to believe.

Ongoing until June 6 From £12 Theatre503 at The Latchmere, 503 Battersea Park Road, SW11 theatre503.com

hang Playwright Debbie Tucker Green, brings Marianne JeanBaptiste to the Royal Court alongside Claire Rushbrook.

Hang is shrouded in mystery.

All we know is it is about a crime, a victim, a criminal

and an ‘unspeakable decision’. Expect something taut and inky, peopled by psychologically fractured characters and pulsing with stark verse.

June 11–July 18, evening and matinee performances see website for times.

Tickets from £12 Jerwood Theatre Downstairs, Royal Court Theatre, Sloane Square, SW1W www.royalcourttheatre.com

fILm The Supreme price This feature length documentary film traces the evolution of the ProDemocracy Movement in Nigeria and efforts to increase the participation of women in leadership roles.

Following the annulment of her father’s victory in Nigeria’s Presidential Election and her mother’s

17

14 dAyS...

assassination by agents of the military dictatorship, Hafsat Abiola faces the challenge of transforming a corrupt culture of governance into a democracy capable of serving Nigeria’s most marginalised population: women. Superb.

June 14, 2pm+ Q&A with Nadia Denton From £9.50 Phoenix Cinema , 52 High Road, East Finchley N2 www.phoenixcinema.co.uk 17th June, 8:30pm Tickets £10 London: Arthouse Crouch End 159A Tottenham Ln N8 www.arthousecrouchend.co.uk

The birth and Legacy of race movies in the uS ‘Race movies’ were a genre that started in America in 1915 and consisted of films produced for all-black audiences, featuring all-black casts, produced outside of mainstream Hollywood.

Join Tim Reid, Director of Legacy Media Institute, Kunle Olulode (Rebop Productions) and others for a day of discussions and film

tImbuKtu Arriving at an auspicious time – after the Charlie Hebdo terrorist attacks in France and Boko Haram attacks in Nigeria have raised global concerns over militant jihadists – Mauritanian filmmaker Abderrahmane Sissoko’s Timbuktu offers a perspective largely missing from Western media reports: the indigenous African point of view.

The film details the arrival of an armed band of jihadists who occupy a Malian village not far from Timbuktu and declare sharia law. The film is primarily concerned with the impact of the jihadists on the village, whose peaceful existence is now threatened by violence, detention, and brutal punishments.

4th June, 9:20pm. From £9.20. BFI, Belvedere Rd, South Bank, SE1. whatson.bfi.org.uk screenings, including Within Our Gates – the first fulllength race movie – and The Girl from Chicago.

Jun 20th, 12:00pm, Tickets £10 NFT2, South Bank, Belvedere Road SE1 nfts.co.uk

ExhIbItIoNS The tuareg and A history of

the Sahara Former Guardian photographer Henrietta Butler brings together her stunning photography focusing on the culture of these fascinating desert nomads, with Tuareg poetry, historical documents and maps, art and artefacts.

Until June 20, 10.00am -

9.00pm weekdays. FREE The Royal Geographical Society, 1 Kensington Gore, SW7 www.rgs.org

53 Echoes of zaire, popular painting from Lubumbashi, democratic republic congo Exhibited for the first time in London, a collection depicting

Write here. WrItE NoW! thE NIgErIAN WAtch StoryWrItINg compEtItIoN for chILdrEN AgEd 7-11 SEE YOUR STORY (poetry or prose) published in a fantastic compilation.

The top author at each age (7, 8, 9, 10, & 11) will receive special first prizes

Published authors will be special guests at the glittering book launch.

All published authors will have their story illustrated by a professional artist and you will get a framed copy of the picture and a certificate.

Entries close on July 22.

Submit your story via email to bookcomp@nigerianwatch.com or post to Nigerian Watch Book Competition, Chartwell House, 292 Hale Lane, Edgware, Middlesex, HA8 8NP. Entries can be any length but no longer than 500 words and have “a beginning, middle and end”.

All prize winners will be featured in Nigerian Watch newspaper and all published authors will be invited to the glittering book launch.

A panel of judges including published authors will select the winning entries. The judges decision is final.

For full terms and conditions visit www.nigerianwatch.com/book comp

18

NIGERIAN WATCH 5 - 18 June 2015

1970’s Zaire. These works offer an unparalleled opportunity to understand the country’s key historical moments as recollected through folk memory.

Sadler’s Wells, Rosebery Avenue, EC1R www.sadlerswells.com

Afriquoi Musicians from Africa, the Caribbean and the UK combine together creating Afriquoi, an African-electro dance band with live vocals, Gambian kora, Congolese guitar, percussion and electronics drawing on dubstep, house and hip hop.

Until June 30, Tues – Fri 12:00pm – 6:00pm, Sat 3:00pm – 6:00pm. FREE Sulger-Buel Lovell Gallery, 51 Surrey Row, SE1 www.sulger-buel-lovell.com

muSIc coup fatal Inspired by the dandy sapeurs of Kinshasa Coup Fatal is a band of stylish and immaculately dressed

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LEISUREwAtcH

musicians, singers and dancers who create an exuberant evening of theatricality, flamboyance

and diverse musical influences.

June 5. 9:30pm. From £10 Kings Place, 90 York Way, N1 www.kingsplace.co.uk

June 4-6, 7:30pm. Tickets from £12.00

London Afrobeat collective

Taking over The Clore Ballroom for a full live set, the London Afrobeat Collective is joined by DJs, for even more opportunities to dance.

June 12, 5:30 - 8:00pm, FREE The Clore Ballroom at Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd, SE1 www.southbankcentre.co.uk

othEr I’m A Storyteller Actors including Nicholas Pinnock talk about their favourite books and poetry, with readings from the I’m A StoryTeller, a series of short stories penned by aspiring young novelists mentored under the YOUYOU Mentoring scheme.

June 9, 6:30pm. Tickets £10 Keats House, 10 Keats Grove, NW3 youyoumentoring.org.uk

LSo Singing day: African/American Journey with david Lawrence Explore early traditional gospel music, borne from its parents of African spirituals and European hymnody. And sing your way through American soul ending up with the contemporary gospel sounds of today, including music by Richard Smallwood.

June 20, 10:30am - 1:00pm.

From £13.50 Barbican, Silk Street, London EC2Y www.barbican.org.uk

SAfE chILd AfrIcA Nigerian fine Art Exhibition hosts child rights charity Safe child Africa’s 10 year anniversary celebration UK based international charity Safe Child Africa is marking a decade of working to protect vulnerable children in Nigeria with an intimate evening with supporters among the works of Nigerian art currently on display as part of the Transcending Boundaries Art Exhibition in London.

Safe Child Africa works to improve the lives of abandoned children in West Africa, some of whom have been accused of witchcraft.

To mark its landmark 10th anniversary, it has collaborated with Lacey Contemporary Gallery, currently showcasing the Transcending Boundaries Art Collection designed to highlight the growing importance of contemporary Africa Art. Transcending Boundaries is a metaphor for artists moving into previously unexplored frontiers in the fields of art, systems, culture, history and life.

Safe Child Africa invited supporters to a private showing of the exhibition whilst taking the opportunity to celebrate its achievements so far and discuss what the future holds for Safe Child Africa and how the charity still needs help to continue protecting as many children as possible.

Safe Child Africa works to protect street children, including those who have been thrown out of their homes because they have been accused of witchcraft.

The charity is also involved in educational projects, as well as campaigning for the rights of vulnerable children. It strapline is: ‘No Child Should Live In Fear’.

Originally called Stepping Stones Nigeria, it changed its

name at the start of this landmark 10th year. The charity has also featured in a Channel 4 Dispatches documentary.

Since 2005 the charity has set up schools and provided over 1,000 scholarships. It manages street-child centres and shelters.

It has even changed laws and influenced the UN. Lisa Atkinson, the charity’s fundraiser, is incredibly proud of the charity’s work and the supporters who make it happen but is also clear that there is still much work left to do and many children still left to reach. “It’s been an amazing journey so far. If we didn’t exist, many children wouldn’t be alive today. It’s a humbling thought – but we also know there’s a lot more work still to do.

“From street children who don’t know their age because they have lived on the streets for so long, to orphans and children suffering abuse, including torture. It is important to remember that we still need all the help we can get in protecting these children.”

Safe Child Africa is busy with their Nigerian partners finalising plans to develop a child protection support network. This will include outreach work, drop-in assessment centre, emergency and short term accommodation so they can immediately best help children suffering or are at risk of abuse. The service will also aim to best support families who are struggling to keep their children safe.

To find out more about ‘Safe Child Africa’ and how you can get involved visit www.safechildafrica.org

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NIGERIAN WATCH 5 - 18 June 2015

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hoW WErE you rEcEIvEd At thE propErty & homEbuyEr INvEStor ShoW? The show was a great opportunity to collaborate and network with companies within the industry from across continents. The level of interest shown in the Nigerian and African market, not just by Africans but more particularly by foreign nationals from Europe and Asia, was a real eye-opener. It revealed the endless possibilities of an untapped market just waiting for

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NIGERIAN WATCH 5 - 18 June 2015

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NIGERIAN WATCH 5 - 18 June 2015

EDUCATIONwAtcH

21

You will wish you were here…

17 year old Subomi Ajibola, head girl at Westonbirt School, describes her experience at one of the uK’s elite boarding schools being head girl at a prestigious English school is quite an achievement! tell us what it is like ?

It’s been really exciting and challenging as well as fun. At first I didn’t feel as if I had the confidence to be Head Girl but I have grown into the role and am really grateful to have had this experience and come out the other side of it as a much more confident and experienced person.

being at school in Lagos. I enjoy the girls, my friends, being exposed to different experiences, just the variety of it all really.

describe your earliest memory growing up in Nigeria. how does it compare to life here in the uK?

My earliest memory is from my childhood in Lagos when at Christmas me and my friends and neighbours would buy fireworks from the local shop and just light them to celebrate. We did not need licences to do this and had the freedom!

What has the experience of being head girl taught you?

Being Head Girl has taught me to be more accepting of people. I have learnt to understand people better and just because we may not have the same faith and the same beliefs we can all work together. I put differences aside for the good of my team and value the input of others and learn from different people’s view points.

What do you enjoy most about schooling at Westonbirt?

I think I enjoy everything really because it is completely different to

live in the UK and have come out of my two years as a much stronger person. I feel I have grown as a person more at Westonbirt than I did in my six years at school in Lagos.

how do you feel being one of a small number Nigerian girls in the school?

We understand that your whole family has schooled at Westonbirt. how does it feel to have experienced the same experiences as your family?

I am glad to have had this chance to

I quite enjoy it actually, as I feel unique. It makes the experience of school richer as we don’t have cliques in the school. All the nationalities here mix very well.

have a wide range of nationalities including Spanish, German, Nigerian, Asian and American as well as a lot of British girls.

What have you learnt from other girls you attend school with?

I have learnt a lot especially from my Study 1 team, this is the prefect’s team. I have learnt not to take myself too seriously and also to fight for what I believe in. for a parent that is thinking of sending their child to a private school, what advice would you give?

I would tell any parent or child to come with an open mind as that is the only way you can allow yourself to experience all the opportunities of British boarding school life. Have a good think about the opportunity and let the place affect you, learn from it and at the same time affect the school yourself, too.

do you feel there is a balance of girls from other nationalities?

do you feel you are getting the best and balanced view of the world through your experience?

It’s really changed and we now

Yes, definitely, I am getting a wider

world view here than I would have had in Lagos.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?

I am hoping to go to the University of Leicester to study Business Studies. Following that, I see myself in the future in a senior business position within the fashion and beauty industry.

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NIGERIAN WATCH 5 - 18 June 2015

SPORTSwAtcH

AfrIcAN NAtIoNS cup uK

footbALLEr of thE yEAr rESuLtS group b

NIgErIA Kenya NIgErIA Rwanda Burundi NIgErIA Rwanda Kenya NIgErIA Rwanda

From page 24 But it proved to be a miserable weekend for Nigeria. The

gEttINg thErE If you are going along to support the Nigerian U16 team – and enjoy the carnival atmosphere that surrounds the African Nations Cup UK – and you intend driving, then avoid Memorial Avenue, which parked cars turn into a single track road. Bould Avenue is the better option for ease of parking and access.

three times champions were unceremoniously knocked out on Sunday by Burundi. This was a crunch match. Nigeria needed to win to go through at their opponents’ expense but could only manage a draw.

So now it is down to the reigning U15 champions, Team Nigeria UK, to do us proud – and hopefully they will bring some Nigerian drummers and support to match those of other diasporas. Their competition kicks off this weekend (see box right). Get out and support them and indeed this competition, which is the biggest community football event in the UK.

23

4-0 0-0 0-1 1-3 5-3 4-0 0-5 0-1 1-1 0-5

Rwanda Burundi Somaliland Kenya Somaliland Kenya Burundi Somaliland Burundi Somaliland

Defending champions Sierra Leone and three time champs Nigeria both crashed out in the group stages of African Nations Cup UK. First time participants Somaliland, Ghana, Uganda, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Burundi, Morocco and Senegal are all represented in the knock out stages of the competition that will be held Saturday June 6 alongside the U16 group games below.

u16 group A fIxturES Sat 6th June NIgErIA V Morocco 11:00am Uganda V Congo Brazzaville 11:00am Morocco V Uganda 2:30pm NIgErIA V Congo Brazzaville 2:30pm Sun 7th June NIgErIA V Uganda 12:00pm Morocco V Congo Brazzaville 12:00pm Semi Finals 2:00pm Winner Group A V Runners Up Group B Winner Group B V Runners Up Group A The Finals take place Sun 14th June, Terrence McMillan Stadium, 281 Prince Regent Lane E13

From page 24 cons face Sweden in their Group D opener. Australia and the USA are the two other teams in their group and with Oshoala becoming the first player to win the new award from the BBC World Service, the team has been given a boost.

Voted for by football fans around the world, the award is the first of its kind hosted by a global broadcaster. Oshoala, who was the youngest player to be shortlisted, was the leading scorer and was voted best player at the Under-20s World Cup, which also held in Canada last summer.

Oshoala said, “I would like to say thank you to the BBC, to my fans around the world and to everyone who voted. It’s a really good thing for us as a team because we now know that we have something great and now we want to go at the trophy.

"We can do it, we did it in 2014 we can also do it this year as well. There is going to be a lot of motivation for women’s football in Nigeria now because of this award be-

cause there are a lot of fans out there and support for women’s football in Nigeria is now growing very high."

Last year, Oshoala's performances led Nigeria to the final, where the Falcons were narrowly beaten by Germany and she was also a major influence in the senior Nigeria team who won the African Women’s Championship in October.

That ensured qualification for this summer’s World Cup in Canada and Oshoala said the honour was a big lift for Nigeria ahead of the World Cup. She added, “I know my Liverpool Ladies coach is going to be happy right now. Before I left the UK he called me and said to me don’t worry I hope you win the award and we’re going to celebrate it when

liverpoolfc

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you come back."

Oshoala signed for Liverpool Ladies in January 2015, becoming the first African to feature in the Women’s Super League, with manager Matt Beard calling her one of the world’s top young footballers. Mary Hockaday, controller of BBC World Service English, paid tribute to Oshoala, pointing out that although still only 20, she has proved herself a formidable talent on the pitch.

NIgErIA’S WomENS WorLd cup mAtchES canada 2015 GROUP D Mon 8th June

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24

NIGERIAN WATCH 5 - 18 June 2015

Follow us on Twitter @NigerianWatch

BBC

SportsWATCH

wHere were you?

Nigeria crash out of African Nations cup uK - outgunned on the pitch; outnumbered on the terraces

The incredible festival of football known as the African Nations Cup UK drew astonishing crowds and caused traffic chaos around the West Ham memorial grounds when it kicked off on Saturday (May 31).

SupEr fALcoN votEd WorLd’S bESt pLAyEr

If the trophy were to go to the best supported team then Somaliland would be the runaway champions – their supporters lining the whole of one-side of the pitch when they drew 1-1 with Nigeria.

While this sizeable 12th man couldn’t lift their team to victory or get them through to the knock out stages, it sure helped to create the carnival spirit. The sun beat down, barbecues smoked, sound systems boomed out, and children played on giant bouncy castles as matches took place across five pitches.

Turn to page 23

SUPER Falcons and Liverpool Ladies striker Asisat Oshoala has said she hopes her winning the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year award will inspire Nigeria to go on and win the Fifa Women's World Cup kicking off next month.

Oshoala, 20, was named the winner of the BBC award yesterday, beating Spain’s Veronica Boquete, German Nadine Kessler, Scot Kim Little and Brazilian Marta to the honour. She was given the award at the Super Falcon's team hotel in Canada where the Falcons are camping for the World Cup, which kicks off this weekend.

Nigeria will get her tournament off to a state on June 8 when the Super Fal- Turn to page 23

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