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Reps probes $5bn under remittance by CBN, sugar import waiver abuse

Henry Omunu, Abuja

ÏÏÏ The

House of Representatives ad hoc committee constituted to investigate the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for alleged under remittance of over $5billion

into the federation account began its work at the weekend.

The ad hoc committee, headed by the Chairman House Committee on Customs, Hon James Faleke, has fashioned out a work plan on which ministries, depart-

APC sweeps Kano LG poll

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Continued on page 5

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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2018 VOL. 3. NO. 575

N150

GLOBAL FINANCIAL/COMMODITY MARKETS

CURRENCIES/CBN: CBN: N305.55 PER DOLLAR, Parallel Market: USD N365 POUND N475 EURO N424 NSE: ASI 37, 425.15 MARKET CAP 12.90 FMDQ O/N 22.50 OBB 22.00 COMMODITIES: Wheat US $455.00/MT Rice US $12.40/MT Cocoa US $2,004.00/Bag Coffee US $139.60/Scoop Cotton US $70.95/Unit Sugar US $14.15/Ounce METALS: Gold US $1263.10/Ounce Silver US $16.21/Ounce Copper US $2.87/Ounce ENERGY: Brent US $52.21/PB, N/Gas US $2.78/CB

FRONT PAGE COMMENT

Police officers must protect Nigerians, not few prominent elite ÏÏÏ The Nigeria Police Force on Thurs-

day said that only 20 per cent of men and officers of the force were engaged in the core duties of protecting lives and properties of Nigerians and ensuring peace and security in the country.

The revelation, coming from the Assistant Inspector-General of Police

(AIG), Zone 5 in Benin, Rasheed Akintunde, has once again showed the misuse of police officers and vindicated some Nigerians, who had before now pushed for the restructuring and repositioning of the force in line with global practice.

While addressing officers and men

of the Nigeria Police in Bayelsa State, Akintunde had decried a situation where prominent people in society seek more than 30 police men to protect them, while according to him the bulk of work for members of the force rested on protecting the masses.

According to Akintunde, “If only 20

percent of officers and men of the Police Force were engaged in the protection of lives and properties in Nigeria, what then is the other vast 80 percent doing? “The remaining 80 percent are just busy providing personal security to some `prominent people’ on guard

CBN: Why currency in circulation dropped by N0.25trn in Jan Ï Links development to rise in deposits banks, FG, others Ï ‘Nigerians still finding it difficult to embrace cashless policy’

Continued on page 15

Motolani Oseni, Lagos

ÏÏÏ The nation’s currency in circulation has dropped by N0.25 trillion, when compared to N1.9 trillion recordContinued on page 5

FG’ll retain capital budget B1 despite forthcoming elections – Adeosun IPOB wants US Court to refuse Buratai,others’ request 7 Buhari, others mourn as John Shagaya dies in auto crash 5

L-R: British Deputy High Commissioner, Laure Beaufils; Executive Director, IT and Operations, Access Bank Plc, Ade Bajomo; British High Commissioner, Paul Arkwright; GMD/CEO, Access Bank Plc, Herbert Wigwe; Executive Director, Business Banking, Access Bank Plc, Titi Osuntoki and Team Leader and Senior Economist, Department for International Development, Richard Ough, during the visit of the British High Commissioner to Access Bank head office in Lagos at the weekend.

Air Peace, NCAA trade words over burglary at Lagos Airport runway B3

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Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

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Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

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Why currency in circulation drops by N0.25trn in one month Continued from page 1 ed in January 2018 against N2.15 trillion declared in December 2017, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has disclosed.

The CBN, in its economic report for fourth quarter, disclosed that, “at N2.15 trn, currency-in-circulation rose by 21.1 per cent, above the level in the third quarter of 2017. The development reflected the growth in currency outside banks’’.

According to the new report, “Total deposits at the CBN amounted to N13.17 trn, indicating 7.5 per cent increase over the level at the end of the third quarter of 2017.

The development was as a result of the rise in the deposits of banks, Federal Government and the “others” in the review quarter.

“Of the total deposits

at the CBN, the shares of the Federal Government, Banks and Others” were N6,018.10 bn (45.7 per cent), N4,320.37bn (32.8 per cent) and N2,834.02 bn (21.5 per cent), respectively.

“Growth in banks reserves at the CBN and currency-in-circulation accounted for the 16.5 per cent rise in Reserve Money (RM) to N6,477.6 billion at end-December 2017, compared with the level at endSeptember 2017,” the report stated.

Currency in circulation between November and December 2017 was at N1.79 trn and N1.89 trn respectively, the CBN revealed on its website The apex bank disclosed that the currency in circulation, which is the physical money used for transactions between consumers and businesses, opened this year at N1.99 trn and closed

in February at N1.97 trn.

Commenting on increasing currency in circulation, currency analysts at the Ecobank Nigeria, Mr. Kunle Ezun, hinted that excess liquidity in the economy was due to the Yuletide celebration that has leveraged growth in currency in circulation, stressing that Nigerians are finding it difficult to embrace the cashless policy of the CBN. His word: “The market is liquid and it is due to current season of the year. We

have seen a lot of Treasury Bills that have matured which the CBN has not rolled over. Market is awash with liquidity coming from CBN suspension of Open Market Operation (OMO) and slow down in the foreign exchange sales.”

He explained further that Nigeria is still more of a cash economy, facing infrastructure challenges.

“Someone can blame infrastructure deficit to CBN’s good intention of making Nigeria a cashless

society. The infrastructure that will make the cashless policy work is missing compared to what we have in Kenya”.

The apex bank in 2002 introduced the cashless policy to eliminate the amount of physical cash (coins and notes) circulating in the economy, and encourage more electronic-based transactions (payments for goods, services, transfers, among others.)

The CBN said N1.98trn and N1.97 trn was in circu-

lation in March and April respectively, but dropped to N1.89 trillion in May as CBN’s mopped up of liquidity in the system.

Further investigation by The Daily Times revealed that currency in circulation moved to N1.87 trn in June and N1.77 trn in July and increased by 5.6 per cent to N1.86 trn in August.

The amount of Naira in circulation, according to the CBN in September 2017, dropped to N1.78 trn and closed October at N1.79trn.

Buhari, others mourn as John Shagaya dies in auto crash Tunde Opalana and Mathew Dadiya, Abuja

ÏÏÏ A former senator, Gen

John Shagaya, was on Sunday afternoon involved in a ghastly car crash. He died from the accident.

A former chairman, Langtang North Local Government in Plateau, Mr Dan Dandur, confirmed the death to the News Agency of Nigeria.

The development came just President Muhammadu Buhari and other prominent Nigerians have extolled the virtues of the late Shagaya, saying that his demise was a great loss to the country.

Shagaya, a retired army general, was said to have been returning from his country home in Langtang on his way to Jos when the accident occurred.

Providing details of his death, a former Chairman, Langtang North Local Government Area, Dan Dandur, said Mr. Shagaya died in a road accident along Langtang-Pankshin road in Plateau State.

“Shagaya died in a road crash today; we are right now with the corpse at the Air Force Military Hospital, Jos,” Mr. Dandur told the News Agency of Nigeria, in a telephone interview.

Dandur said that the 75-year-old retired army general was on his way to Jos from his village in Langtang, when the accident occurred at Amper in

Kanke Local Government of the State.

“Shagaya was traveling along with his driver and orderly when the accident occurred, but the two survived with serious injuries and are receiving treatment at the hospital,” he said.

Mr. Dandur described Shagaya’s death as “shocking and unbelievable”.

“His death is too sudden.

I just can’t believe that he has left us,” Dandur, who holds the traditional title of “Baraya Langtang”, told NAN. He was recently appointed as the chairman National Institute for Policy and Strategy Studies (NIPSS)

by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Speaking on the death of Shagaya, President Buhari said that he is “profoundly saddened” to learn of the tragic auto crash that took the life of John Shagaya.

In a statement made available on Sunday by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, Buhari also offered his “heartfelt condolences to the Shagaya family, friends, the Government and people of Plateau State on the painful passing of their illustrious son”.

The president paid tribute to the great Nigerian whose legacies, he said, will live on in the patriotic work he did as a military officer, who rose to the position of a general, and a senator representing Plateau South.

L-R: Government Relations Advisor, MTN, Mrs. Ifeoma Nkata, Deputy Director Monitoring and Reporting, Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Maureen Ubi and Director, Divine Wounds of Jesus Orphanage Home, Mr Charles Ikezemuoka during the Donation of Household and Food Items to Divine Wounds of Jesus Orphanage Home by the MTN Foundation in Abuja...at the weekend.

HURIWA blasts FG’s anti- graft war over reinstated NHIS boss ÏÏÏ A non- governmental

human rights organisation, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has criticised the Federal Government for what it described as one sided anti- corruption characterised by political hypocrisy and nepotism.

The rights group condemned the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari for reinstating the suspended Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Prof Usman Yusuf, after overruling the decision of the ministerial panel that investigated allegations against the indicted Executive Secretary.

The group also slammed the federal government for the poor defence of

its action through the Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, who was accused of allegedly mismanaged information on the amount for which the immediate past spokesman of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olisa Metuh, is being witchhunted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(EFCC).

HURIWA has also asked the Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole, to resign his appointment or stay back and be disgraced for his courage to suspend a suspected distanced first cousin of President Muhammadu Buhari.

The group said, “We have it on good authority that the reinstated NHIS ES is a cousin of President Mu-

hammadu Buhari which explained why he bluntly disrespected the minister when he was given the matching order. We were told that the powerful cabal within the Presidency were actually instrumental to his unmeritorious appointment to head the strategic institution with lots of slush funds such as the dysfunctional NHIS. These powerful persons in the Presidency who made sure that their man Friday is recalled will disgrace the health minister who almost marred their plots to control the huge funds available in the coffers of NHIS”.

The Daily Times recalls that Yusuf was suspended

by Adewole in June 2017, following allegations of gross misconduct in ad-

dition to him been found guilty of alleged offences that ranged from nepotism to theft of public funds.

HURIWA also criticised Buhari for not considering Yusuf ’s heavy indictment by a ministerial panel, before asking him to return to work.

HURIWA also said that, “It is only in a Banana Republic will such a lawless action be taken by the President who simply sent the letter of reinstatement to his Minister of Health, Prof Adewole which amounted to a show of shame. It is also a huge humiliation that Prof Adewole was caught napping but simply confirmed receipt of the reinstatement letter, by simply saying: “It is true that the president has reinstated him.”

News 6

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Reps probes $5bn under remittance by CBN, sugar import waiver abuse Continued from page 5 ments and agencies (MDAs) to invite and other necessary modalities necessary for the investigative hearing.

Our correspondent reports that the committee was constituted, following the adoption of a motion sponsored by Hon Ayo Omidiran (APC/Osun ) in which he alleged that

the CBN was guilty of not disclosing the true state of the financial inflows into the federation account on a monthly basis.

The House member also indicted the office of the accountant general of the federation for not reporting the alleged infractions by the CBN. Omidiran said, “The CBN takes advantage of this all important function

of warehousing funds for the three tiers of government and preparation of the federation account statement, to manipulate the system by opening various accounts not known to the three tiers of government where funds are remitted, hidden, diverted and spent without authorisation.

“The CBN in 2006, opened various accounts

with JP Morgan Chase Bank in New York, USA, in which International Oil Companies (IOCs) remit all revenues for the federation.

“The CBN still operates an account with Federal Reserve Bank of New York, USA, alongside that of JP Morgan Chase Bank from 2006 till date.

“The CBN’s responsibility of receiving revenue

in foreign currencies and converting same to Naira for the benefit of the three tiers of government, has led to substantial loss in the amounts remitted to the federation account.

“In the recent past, FAAC meetings have been postponed due to irregularities observed in the federation account by the states.”

According to her, the

CBN violated Section 80 (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) by spending funds not appropriated by the National Assembly.

After the House Speaker, Hon Yakubu Dogara, announced the constitution of ad hoc committee last week at plenary, the committee decided to begin Continued on page 15

L-R: Vice President Marketing, Lumos Nigeria, the Community Partner to the 2018 Lagos City Marathon, Olufemi Ashipa; former Super Eagles captain, Austin Jay-Jay Okocha and third placed Nigerian winner of the 10km category of the 2018 Lagos City Marathon, Oman Sale, during the presentation of Lumos Solar Powered Systems to winners in Lagos...on Sunday.

SERAP urges Ambode to reverse ‘unfair Lekki toll charges’ Babatunde Opalana, Abuja

ÏÏÏ

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode “to take steps to immediately reverse the unfair and discriminatory toll charges at the Lekki-Epe Expressway and Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge toll gates by the Lekki Concession Company, if the Lagos State government is not to run the risk of undermining the public interests, democratic values and accountability, and opportunities for participation.”

The organization said, “It’s time for Ambode to ensure and maintain a balance between the needs of the citizens and residents of Lagos State and the Le-

kki Concession Company.

The authorities should respect and protect the right of protesters to demonstrate against the hike in toll charges and to voice their opinion. International human rights treaties ratified by Nigeria and the country´s own constitution obligate the government to safeguard the rights of freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly.”

The new rates for the toll charges at the Lekki-Epe Expressway and LekkiIkoyi Link Bridge toll gates were implemented February 1 by the Lekki Concession Company (LCC), managers of the road.

But SERAP in a statement on Sunday by its executive director, Mr Adetokunbo Mumuni, said, “This latest increase in toll

charges at the Lekki-Epe Expressway and LekkiIkoyi Link Bridge toll gates is unacceptable, as it conflicts with the goals and commitment of the Lagos State government to provide basic public services to citizens and residents.

It seems the agreement between the Lagos State government and the Lekki Concession Company is no longer serving the needs of citizens and residents.”

According to the organization, “In the face of rising poverty and economic inequalities across the country, the Lagos State government should be considering eliminating toll charges rather than allowing the Lekki Concession Company to get away with overcharging citizens and residents and prioritising profits over the public interests. Unless the

situation is satisfactorily resolved in the public interests, the government runs the risk of being viewed as beholden to special interests and out of touch with the public good.”

The statement further reads in part: “The hike shows how profit motive can conflict with public motive.

Accountability principles require the government to ensure that the activities of the Lekki Concession Company align with the policies and activities of governance, and that the Company is not allowed to exploit its monopoly position to charge excessive rates.

“It is the duty of the Lagos State government as custodian of the public trust, to take the public interests into account in assessing the activities

of the Lekki Concession Company. The government is further obligated to prevent unnecessary and unjustified harm to the public trust and interests.

“Both ‘pre-decision accountability’ in the form of consultation with citizens, residents and other stakeholders, and ‘post-decision accountability’ in the form of taking corrective measures to redress the apparent injustice to those that might be affected by the hike are key democratic and governance values.

“Citizens cannot be mere recipients or purchasers of government services; they must also participate in the act of governance itself.

The shift from a participatory role to a consumer role changes the role of individuals vis-a-vis their government from one of citizens

to one of consumers. This itself erodes the ideals of a democratic society.”

“States contravene their human rights obligations when they fail to take appropriate measures or to exercise due diligence to prevent, punish, investigate or redress the harm caused by acts by private persons or entities.

“At the Admiralty Circle Plaza (Lekki-Epe expressway), cars now pay N200 from N120; sports utility vehicles (SUV) now pay N250 from N150; while commercial buses now pay N150 from N80. Motorcycles now pay N100. At the LekkiIkoyi Link Bridge, saloon cars now pay N300 from N250; sports utility vehicles (SUV), mini vans, and light trucks now pay N400 from N300. Motorcycles will now pay N200.”

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

7 News

Extra judicial killings: IPOB wants US Court to refuse Buratai,15 others’ request Our correspondent

ÏÏÏ The proscribed Indig-

enous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) has asked the District Court of Columbia, United States of America to deny the motions filed by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Tukur Buratai, Anambra State Governor Willie Obiano and 14 others seeking to dismiss the suit against them over extra judicial killings and torture.

Ten members of IPOB including one survivor of the attack at St. Edmond Catholic Church, Onitsha, Anambra state on May 2930, 2016 had instituted the action in the District Court of Columbia before Judge Dabney Friedrich in which they named certain people as defendants in their individual capacities.

They are: Gen Buratai, Lawal Musa Daura, Ibrahim Attahiru, M.I. Ibrahim, Kassim Umar Sidi, Issah Maigari Abdullahi, Solomon Arase, Ibrahim Kpotun Idris, Okezie Ikpeazu, Willie Obiano, Habila Hosea, Peter Nwagbara, James Oshim Nwafor, Hosea Karma, Bassey Abang and Johnson Babatunde Kokomo.

The plaintiffs who sued with named John Doe1- 6 and 10, and Jane Doe 7 - 9 in

the response filed by their lawyer, Bruce Fein also asked the court to proceed to judgment.

Bruce Fein stated that “the Torture Victim Protection Act ( TVPA), law suit against the 16 defendants arises from nine extra judicial killings and 10 acts of tortures under Nigeria law of the nine representatives of the wrongful death claimants of the deceased.

Doe 1-9 and the lone survivor of torture Doe 10.

According to the Fein, all the plaintiffs are Igbos, Biafrans and supporters of IPOB. He told the District court that the group is dedicated to Martin Luther King like peaceful protest to restructure Nigeria and end chronic oppression and genocidal persecution of Biafrans by Hausa Fulani.

The lawyer to IPOB further told the court that despite the fact the Nigerian constitution - 1999 Constitution (as amended), guarantee freedom of association, expression as recognised by the universal declaration of human rights and sister human rights conventions, lethal military and police force suppressed these rights.

They are therefore seeking for the following prayers: “That plaintiffs’

TVPA claims is derive from the alleged defendants complicity and command responsibility for extra judicial killings or torture in three incidents .

“First at a peaceful gathering of IPOB supporters or members in the St. Edmond Catholic Church, Onitsha ,Anambra State May 29-30, 2016 to celebrate Biafra patriot day.

Second, a peaceful gathering of Igbos IPOB sup-

porters at National High School on Port Harcourt road Aba, Abia State, on February 9, 2016 to protest continued imprisonment of IOPB leader,Nnamdi Kanu.

“Thirdly, that IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu has been missing since mid September 2017 after his home was attacked with military force

by Nigerian military.

That the claimants entertained reasonable fear of

death if they were to seek judicial relief in Nigeria for extra judicial killings or torture.

“That in any case, Nigeria judiciary have been compromised and incapable of providing relief against the defendants ,therefore, the motion should be denied.

But the defendants through their lawyer, Anthony Egbose, had urged the court to dismiss the plaintiffs claim (Docket 36

-1 ) while another lawyer Mr.Jude Iweanoges, who appeared for Governor Obiano asked the court to dismiss Docket 35.

Both lawyers argued that the service on the defendants were defective.

The defendants also claimed political immunity and hinged the failure of the plaintiffs to state claims and lack of personal jurisdiction as grounds to dismiss the suit.

R-L: Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Archbishop of Onitsha, Valeman Okeke; Chief celebrant, Prof. Pat Utomi and his Wife, Mrs.Utomi, after Pat Utomi’s 62 Years Birthday Anniversary Mass, at St. Monica Catholic Church, Asaba, Delta state, on Saturday, February 10, 2018.

Group to Saraki: Non-confirmation of 60 nominees hampering smooth running of governance

ÏÏÏ The Human and Envi-

ronmental Developmental Agenda (HEDA Resource Center), has urged the National Assembly to commence the confirmation process of about 60 nominees submitted by the executive to it, saying that the delay is affecting many government agencies.

HEDA, in a petition sent to the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, and signed by the Resource Centre’s chairman, Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju, said the failure of the Senate to screen and confirm nominees from the executive is undermining governance and frustrating the ongoing fight against corruption in the country.

HEDA, which is a nongovernmental and non-

partisan human rights and development organization, said in the petition that it is deeply worried and concern over the failure of the Senate under Saraki to discharge its constitutional duty with respect to confirmation of political appointees nominated by the executive, to administer over strategic institutions responsible for governance, economy, development and anticorruption agenda of the government.

The petition reads in part: “Newspaper headlines are speculating political motive not unconnected with differences between the Senate and the Presidency is responsible for Senate’s deliberate

withholding of a constitutional duty in the confirmation of about 60 nominees from the President. “ The Senate under your leadership has delayed some of the nominations for a period of over six months. This has not only affected the confirmation but it has also continued to affect the smooth running of the affected Federal Government Agencies who are still having problems clearing their nominees in the Senate.”

HEDA noted further that: “The Daily Times of February 5, 2018 reported that the nominees of President Buhari are still having their fate hanging in the balance since the Senate continued to put

their case in abeyance in alleged protest against the retention of Ibrahim Magu

by Buhari as the Acting Chairman of the EFCC. “The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has been incapacitated with the absence of an Acting or Substantive Chairman. That institution with enormous responsibility in the fight against corruption is on the long list of Government Agencies adversely impacted by the inexplicable constitutional dereliction on the path of your Senate.

“Failure to screen and confirm the Chairman designate is an utter disregard for your responsibility as

provided in section 3(6) of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) Act which states that: “the chairman and members of the commission who shall be persons of proven integrity shall be appointed by the President, upon confirmation by the Senate and shall not begin to discharge the duties of their offices until they have declared their assets and liabilities as prescribed in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

The Resource Centre said, “Failure of the Senate to exercise its statutory duty in confirming the ICPC chairman designate is undermining and frus-

trating the ongoing fight against corruption in the country.”

HEDA therefore gave Senate a seven-day ultimatum to commence the process of confirmation for the nominees, saying that it will institute a legal action against the Senate if it failed to discharge its statutory responsibility within the period.

The group then said, “ We therefore, by this letter, call on the 8th Senate under your leadership to activate the process of confirming the 60 nominees within seven days of the receipt of this petition, failure of which we shall institute an action in court to compel you to discharge your statutory duties.

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Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

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Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Lagos marathon: Ambode vows to train Nigerian runners Benjamin Omoike

Ï EƆ ƕ è &Ɛ ƈ ƍƈ ƌ ƊƆ ƅƋƆ ƓƆƆƍ Ƈ Ɠ ƏƗ

ÏÏÏLagos state governor,

favourably for the prizes.

“My promise to Nigeria is this; I’m tired of giving this award to the East Africans and so Lagos state is going to commit professional coaches and then we will go to Jos and then come back in two years’ time to give them (East Africans) fight for their money,” the governor said.

He commended all the athletes and organisers who contributed to the successful hosting of the third edition of the tournament, assuring that efforts would be made to make the fourth edition which will take place on February 9, 2019, bigger and better.

“I just want to say a big

Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, on Saturday unveiled plans to invest in training of Nigerian athletes to compete with elite athletes all over the world for the grand prize of the annual Access Bank Lagos City Marathon.

Speaking at this year’s edition of the tournament held at Eko Atlantic City (EAC), Victoria Island, governor Ambode said he was tired of handing over the star prizes of the marathon to athletes from East Africa, assuring that concerted efforts would be made to reverse the trend and prepare Nigerians to compete

thank you to all the participants and also the organisers. We have done Lagos proud again and we have done Nigeria proud again. This is the third edition and we are getting bigger, we are getting finer and this is what this is all about. We have had over a hundred thousand participants and we have broken all the records of last year and we are very excited about this.

“Yes, this is the bronze level; the intention is to take it to the gold level in the next two years and I know we can do it. This is more about the energy of Lagos. Beyond the fact that we are able to show the aes-

thetics and the improvement we have done in the last two and a half years, Lagos is getting better and then Lagos is getting more enjoyable.

“I know we are going to do this again next year and so come Saturday 9th February, 2019, we are going to have a bigger marathon and bigger prizes,” governor Ambode said.

He expressed excitement at the introduction of a 10km race dedicated solely for Nigerians, assuring that prizes in the category would be made to be at par with the main marathon in subsequent editions.

Also speaking, Minister of Youth and Sports, Solo-

mon Dalung commended the state government, organisers and sponsors of the Marathon, assuring that the Federal Government would partner with the state to prepare Nigerian athletes to compete at the top level with their foreign counterparts.

He also announced additional cash reward for Nigerian athletes who finished top in the male and female categories as well as young athletes.

Meanwhile, Kenyanborn French athlete, Kiprotich Abraham breasted the tape in two hours, 13 minutes, four seconds to emerge winner of the third edition of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon on Saturday, carting away the grand prize of $50,000.

Abraham’s time set a new Lagos Marathon record, three minutes better than the record set by his compatriot, Abraham Kiptum, in the second edition of the 42km annual tourney held last year.

Kenyan duo of Ronny Kipkoech Kiboss and Benjamin Bitok came second and third, finishing in two

hours, 13 minutes and 26 seconds and two hours, 13 minutes and 29 seconds, winning 40,000 and 30,000 USD respectively.

In the female category, it was a clean sweep by Ethiopia as the trio of Alemenesh Herpha Guta, Tigst Girma Getayechew and Ayelu Abebe Hordofa came first, second and third to win $50,000, $40,000 and $30,000 respectively.

Iliya Pam was the first Nigerian to finish the 42km race in two hours, 40 minutes, 16 seconds to win N3million, while Sharubutu Philbus came second in two hours, 54 minutes and 16 seconds to win N2million and Kefas Williams also got on the medals table finishing third in a time of two hours, 58 minutes, 16 seconds to win the third prize of N1million.

There were also prizes for Nigerians in the newly introduced 10km race, which saw Sajo Ismaila (male) and Ona Salay (female) drive home a brand new saloon car each and other mouth watering prizes.

Again, Herdsmen kill father of 2 in Ekiti Gbenga Sodeinde, Ado Ekiti

ÏÏÏSuspected Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson (L), receives a letter of award as Vanguard Governor of the Year, 2017, from the Editor, Vanguard Newspapers, Lagos, Mr. Eze Anaba, during a visit by a high powered Delegation from the Vanguard Newspapers, Lagos, to Government House, Yenagoa.

2019: Okorocha supports Abe’s governorship ambition in Rivers Amaka Agbu, Port Harcourt

ÏÏÏThe

Governor of Imo State, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, has publicly declared his unflinching support for the governorship bid of Senator Magnus Ngei Abe, representing Rivers South East Senatorial District in the National Assembly.

Speaking at the All Progressives Congress, APC, and Victory Thanksgiving Service for Senator Abe at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Garrison, in Port Harcourt, on Saturday, the Imo state governor stressed that power belonged to God and not to any individual.

Governor Okorocha stated: “When John the Baptist went to the River Jordan

for Jesus Christ to be baptized, after the Baptism, the Spirit of God came from Heaven in the form of a dove, and it is also like that for Senator Abe’s head; this is my son in whom I am well pleased.”

“Power comes from God and nothing can stop whom God has anointed.

Let us be peaceful and support our nation. I call for unity within members of the APC. Support your governments and work for the unity of the party. Let us love each other and support each other.”

Meanwhile, that same Saturday, the Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, who is currently having a long running battle with Senator Abe because of the latter’s governorship ambition, boycotted the

event and instead attended an APC rally in Bori, in Khana Local Government Area, under Abe’s Senatorial constituency.

Speaking earlier at an event organized by the Ikwerre Elders and Leaders Forum of the APC in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Amaechi who was a two term governor of Rivers State vowed that he would work for the emergence of the governor under the aegis of the APC from the riverine area in 2019. Senator Abe, an Ogoni, is from the upland area of Rivers State.

“We cannot continue to hold on power in Rivers State. Dr. Peter Odili served for eight years. I served for eight years. By the grace of God, Nyesom Wike will serve for four years and we will take it from there.”

Amaechi urged: “When politicians of IKwerre extraction come and ask you to vote for them in 2019, tell them that we from Ikwerre have had enough. We cannot continue to hold on to power in the state. Please, go and register and get your voters card so that we can vote for a governor from the riverine of the state in 2019.”

National Chairman of the forum, Sani Dike, declared that the group had embarked on grassroots mobilisation to vote for an APC candidate in the 2019 gubernatorial election.

“We have stated it loud and clear: APC is the only party that can make life more meaningful to us here on earth. We make no pretentions about that. So, we are urging our members to register and vote for APC in 2019.”

herdsmen identified as Bororos have again killed a father of two, Olayemi Tunde, 32, in Ipao, in Ikole Local Government Area of Ekiti State.

He was allegedly killed by herdsmen Sunday afternoon while he was returning from his farm.

Daily Times gathered that Olayemi, a commercial motorbike rider who also had a farm in the farm settlement in Ipao Ekiti had gone to his farm to harvest some cassava when he met his death.

As at the time of filling this report, it was gathered that the incident has thrown the town into confusion as palpable fear have gripped them.

Narrating how the incident happened, Chairman of Ikole Local Government Area, Mrs. Abiola Ajayi, who briefed newsmen on the tragic development via the telephone, said: “The deceased was an Okada man who has a farm in the settlement. He had gone to his farm to harvest some cassava. He was with one other person. They were heading back to town from the farm and have loaded

the motorbike with cassava when they saw some Fulani herdsmen coming towards them. The two of them were said to have been surprised at seeing the herdsmen. They said it was at that point the herdsmen brought out their gun and the two of the farmers had to run for their life.

“The Bororos were said to have pursued the two men and eventually got Olayemi who they massacred like a cow.

We have reported the matter to the nearest police station and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) has since swung into action and sent two vehicles and they have gone to the scene of the murder to take the corpse and also commence investigation, “she said.

Head of the local hunters in the community, sounded very angry on the development, Adebayo Odeyemi , he said the hunters have declared war on the herdsmen and would not allow such development to be repeated.

“We haven’t attacked any herdsman but they have killed one now and right now we will ensure they are not allowed to do this again. We are valiant men not cowards and we will face them this time around.

They have massacred one of us mercilessly and this won’t happen again.”

Politics

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

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11

Ambode has done well for us, but he can do more -Aholu of Ajara Agamathen Congratulation sir Kabiyesi, how do you feel about this development?

I feel happy, I am very happy.

Appreciation to the people involved?

I am very happy and give glory to the Almighty God, the only God that can crown, the only God that makes man a king, so I’m very happy today, this is a battle we have been fighting since 1981, I joined this race when I was 21 years old by the grace of God,

by May this year, I will be 55, so you know that its only God that crowns, we have been in this tussle in Ajara for long, we went to so many tribunals before the last tribunal which the report came in August 2011, that time former Governor Fashola was in the saddle then, but did not implement the tribunal report until now that the present Gov. Ambode implemented it.

Actually in 1981 what we had was Aholu of Ajara, and the prayer of Ajara-Agamathen is to resuscitate the Aholu of Ajara, because in those days before the colonials we had the Aholu of Ajara, we have some sacred places we can show you to prove that, even the first Aholu entered the ground, and till date people always come there as tourists because it has become a tourist centre. In March 1981 government made a publication, that anybody that has interest in the Aholuship of Ajara should submit his interest, so from that time we continued the battle.

The last tribunal, which I told you about, the court recommended Aholu of Ajara, through the implementation of the tribunal report, our governor used his office because Ajara is a very large community comprising 14 towns and villages, so Governor Ambode used his position to add two to the Aholu of Ajara, which is a very great thing that he has done for us, because everyone of us are happy, and the whole community are very happy to see that he used his wisdom to settle the case. And now the additional two are approved the same day making three, on the 24th of January, 2018, so we are now having three recognised Aholu in Ajara today.

The issue of unity is among three of us, government has done enough for us, it’s now left for us to sit down as one, one family and make sure we make sacrifices to each other in order to avoid boundary crisis, all this crisis of sharing the community because we know the tradition. To be sincere with you, adding two to it, adds more positive thing to Ajara generally. I’m appealing to my brothers that we should co-operate and make Ajara kingdom grow, we are like the Ijebu, we have Awujale there and we still have other kings there as well, even Alake of Egba and we still have many kings there even in Epe as well.

So I am appealing to our governor and government, we are very happy with it, but it doesn’t affect our own title which we have been praying for, that our title should remain Aholu of Ajara remain Aholu of Ajara doesn’t disturb any other Aholu in Ajara community, we really appreciate the government and we are in support of it, but we are appealing that our former title should remain, that Aholu of Ajara should remain for Ajara Agamothen, that’s the prayer, we went to many tribunals and they recommended it, but government view supersedes tribunal, but government should not mean to change the title of

Lagos State governor, Akinwunmi Ambode recently upgraded three Baales in Ajara kingdom in Badagry Local Government Area of the state to the status of Obaship to the delight of the community. In this interview, the Aholu of Ajara, Agamathen, Aholu Agano Toniyon I who is one of the elevated traditional rulers, speaks on the giant strides of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and the need to retain the title of Aholu of Ajara Kingdom, Ajara Agamathen. fighting here in the community, we don’t have any problem at all, we are really in support of government view, the point is that when other people can retain their prayer we also have the right to retain our prayer too. So all we are saying is that they should reinstate the Aholu of Ajara title to Ajara-Agamathen which is our prayer and we have made our prayer, showed many evidence towards this and nobody is disputing it, nobody is opposing it.

Acknowledgement of Ambode?

He has done so well that he doesn’t need to campaign here because all the whole community is happy, before, we don’t know what is called street light but now we have it here in the community. Even the level of criminality has reduced in the community due to street light. He awarded road contract here and the contractor has arrived now for the construction. Ambode has done well for us.

AHOLU OF AJARA, AGAMATHEN, AHOLU AGANO TONIYON the community, the three of us requested different prayers in tribunal, like Aholu of Topa that’s his prayer, that they should grant him Aholu of Topa, and also Aholu Tha-zunnoh of Ajara Vetho and I say that they should grant me my own former Aholu of Ajara, and both of us left the tribunal happy.

So now my appeal to the governor, is that our title doesn’t have any crisis with anybody, it doesn’t affect any title at all in Ajara, so also Olu of Epe doesn’t affect any

Oba of Epe, recently we have Oba of Itire, later we still have Oba of Itire-Ikate, so I don’t see anything bad if we still have Aholu of Ajara, and Aholu Tha-zunnoh of Ajara Vetho and Aholu of Ajara Topa, nothing, the point is that we have 14 villages and now three of us are now upgraded to Oba status, now the remaining 11, it’s our responsibility and our right we can sit down at the round table and give the consent to any other community that any Oba deserves, so that we will round it off in peace. We are not

Message to the people of Ajara?

My message has always been that I will never allow nor support any child abuse in this community, or deny any child education.

I won’t tolerate it and I have zero tolerance on it, because the children are the leaders of tomorrow. I will appeal to the people to be law abiding and also ensure they pay their taxes. They should also take good care of their children. I will also be ready to defend my people just as I’ve always been doing, but first they must be law-abiding.

Appreciation?

I want to appreciate my Royal Father, the Akran of Badagry, may his days be long, I thank the governor and his executives, for their initiative towards this royal tussle that has just come to an end. I really thank them and also all the contributors to today’s success and pray that God will pay them accordingly.

APC sweeps Kano LG poll, wins 44 LGs

Yakubu Salisu, Kano

Kano State Independent Electoral Commission.

(KANSIEC) on Sunday declared All Progressives Congress (APC) winner of the Saturday local governments election in the state.

Declaring the results at a press conference at the KANSIEC headquarters, the Chairman of the commission Prof. Garba Ibrahim Sheka, said the ruling APC swept all the 44 chairmanship and 484 councillorship seats.

According to him, security reports received duringandaftertheLGpoll,noarrestmadenorany violencerecordedas theelectionendedpeacefully.

Prof. Sheka said that 25 political parties, including Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) which featured one chairmanship candidate, participated in the justconcludedcouncilelection.

Sheka, who acknowledged the challenges and success that characterized the conduct of the

election, however, dismissed allegations of alleged malpractises, saying that the action was the handworkof mischievemakers.

The Chairman, who acknowledged the delayed in the comencement of the election in almost all the polling units attributed the shortcomings to late arrival of sensitive materials which were ordered fromChina.

He explained that the commission had to immediately sought for alternative measure by contacting Ethopia Ambassador in Nigeria to facilitate the use of Ethiopian airlines to convey the last consignment of the electoral materials back to thecountry.

The KANSIEC chairman also revealed that the commission received N600million from the state government for the payment of 35,000 ad-hoc staff and 44 presiding officers engaged across the local councils.

Sheka, who reaffirmed the nuetranity of KANSIEC in the just concluded council election

GANDUJE maintained that “ I will not hesitate to declare any other party winner if any candidate from other political parties had won the election because we are not against nor in favour of any particular party”.

Politics 12

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Clerics to Nigerians: Don’t vote politicians above 60 years Stories by Patrick Okohue

Ï9Ƈ ƕ Ƒ Ɠ Ɛ Ɛ ƅ Ɔ Mƈ ƆƏƈ è ƅ Ɔ ƕ ƑƏ ƆƋƒƆ

The Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Anambra State, Most Revd Paulinus Ezeokafor, has asked Nigerians not to vote for politicians above 60 years of age in the 2019 elections.

Describing such politicians as a “burden on the growth and development of the country,” the bishop said they ought to have quit active politics at such an age.

This is even as another Catholic Priest, Reverend Father, Jude Ifeanyi Duruaku, has advised Nigerian political leaders to change themselves if they plan to change the country and make things better for the people.

Speaking on Sunday in Awka, Anambra State, Most Revd Ezeokafor wondered why candidates who retired from service would want to pilot the affairs of the country.

“I can’t understand why retirees would want to seek political offices. Such people are a burden to growth.

“I urge Nigerians to stop electing such people. 2019 is crucial in our history.

We should vote wisely; we should avoid

voting for retirees.”

He urged Christians to ensure active participation during the 2019 general election, just as he condemned Christians who speak ill of government but would fail to participate in election processes.

He insisted that the only way to vote out the wrong people during elections was to be fully involved, such as by obtaining the Permanent Voter Card and casting one’s vote during elections.

The bishop condemned Christians who sell their votes for a token, adding that such people should be ready to endure the consequences.

He said Christians were entrusted with the responsibility of taking the lead in positive directions, tasking them to eschew nonchalant attitude.

Applauding the recent move by the Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to check excessive spending by politicians during elections, the cleric said if implemented, it would restore sanity in the electoral

process.

Also speaking at the Holy Trinity Catholic Parish in Awaka, Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State, on Sunday, Duruaku urge leaders of Nigeria, to seek the face of God, adding that the level of killings in the country has made it look like a leprosy country, that needed urgent attention.

The Catholic priest who spoke at a thanksgiving mass for the wife of the Imo State Chief Judge, Mrs. Ine Nnadi, in celebration of her promotion to the rank of a Professor of Law, said he was worried that “Nigeria is like a leprosy country, we need a personal commune with God. God is craving to be with his people. The problem is that people still move from one pillar to the other looking for God, when the solution is there.”

“What is going on in this country, you may think that God is silent, I want to tell you that God has given us the solution and nobody wants to accept it. The lord says my thought for you is for good and not for bad.”

Group, VON boss hail Tinubu’s reconciliation committee A group under the auspices of Harmony Progressive Forum (HPF) and the Director General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Osita Okechukwu have hailed the establishment of former Lagos State governor, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to head the All Progressives Congress (APC) reconciliation committee.

The forum, a coalition of exCongress for Progressives Change (CPC) local government chairmen of the Kwara State of the All Progressives Congress (APC), also cautioned the Tinubu-led committee to be wary of individuals that might be out to derail its activities for personal and selfish reasons.

Addressing reporters in Ilorin, Chairman of HPF, Alhaji Musa Umar said: “We appreciate the setting up of a reconciliation committee to settle amicably identified rifts among members of APC in the country. The choice of Tinubu as the team leader is highly commendable in view of his track record of managing political issues.

“The outcome of the committee’s assignment should therefore be guided only by its objectives and verifiable submissions and not allow sentiments and primordial issues to becloud their work.

Kwara must change for better and the time to act is now.

“While we call on all our loyal members to continue to work hard for the political victory of President Muhammadu Buhari and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo come 2019, we equally call on our committed members to be wary of pending political appointments

TINUBU in the state that may be loaded with questionable intentions.”

Alhaji Umar expressed the legacy parties’ frustration and marginalisation under the current APC leadership in the state.

Said he: “Our frustration has more than ever before made us more united in our coalition’s efforts of electing in the state only progressively minded people that can be scolded as at when due as against the present unfortunate order where elected representatives are answerable only to an individual outside their constituencies.

“The national leadership of APC should avoid any disastrous outing of APC in 2019 in Kwara State by quickly reorganising the party in the state.

“Our marginalisation coupled with few nominal party positions ‘awarded’ to a select few of our legacy members shall no longer be tolerated.

“The legacy groups of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), CPC, ANPP with the nPDP in the state was window-dressed believing that proper and effective integration will take place after the 2015 general elections. Thing

suddenly took a dramatic turn and the PDP leadership in the state exhibited what they are best known for-politics of exclusion, discrimination, marginalization and hatred.”

Also speaking at the weekend, the VON boss, Okechukwu, a chieftain of the APC described the appointment of Tinubu, who is the national leaders of the APC, as chairman of APC Reconciliation Committee as a milestone for the ruling party in the country.

Entertaining questions from journalists in Enugu at the sideline of a meeting of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Anchor Borrowers, Rice Agricultural Programme, Mr. Okechukwu said the appointment of Mr. Tinubu by President Muhammadu Buhari, to lead APC reconciliation committee was timely and a milestone.

He maintained that only a person of Tinubu’s calibre could reconcile all the intra-party feuds in APC, adding that he provided the critical supplement for APC’s victory in 2015.

“It is a milestone. I salute Mr. President for appointing our national leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to head such a crucial committee. It is timely and a welcome development. He was one of the core architects of the merger which gave birth to the APC and has the Midas touch to stitch the torn parts. Let’s be honest there are intra-disputes which need a man of Asiwaju’s calibre to fix.”

Ex-Minister says Benue facing state of paralysis The immediate past Minister of Interior, Comrade Patrick Abba Moro, has said it is regrettable that the Benue State government is in total paralysis and the governor, Samuel Ortom, cannot do anything about the wellbeing of the people.

Moro, a stalwart of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in Benue State made the remark in a statement in Abuja.

The PDP chieftain wondered why the governor, rather than doing the needful to stop the indiscriminate killing by the Fulani herdsmen under his watch, decided to join the people in crying and blaming everybody but himself for the Benue massacre.

“It is unfortunate that the killing of the good and innocent people of Benue State under the watchful eyes of the Chief Security Officer of the state, Samuel Ortom, has continued unabated, yet nothing is being done to put a final stop to the bloodbath. Our people can no longer sleep with their eyes closed for fear of attack by the marauding herdsmen, while the man that is supposed to protect them as their leader is busy crying and claiming not to have security agents on his side.

“If the governor who swore the oath of office to secure the lives of the people is so helpless and crying like a baby, what then is the fate of the Benue people? This clearly is an indication of the absence of government in Benue State. No reasonable government would fold its arms and watch the people being mercilessly killed for no just cause,” Moro stated.

ORTOM

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February12, 2018

APC reconciliation committee: VON DG commends Buhari for appointing Tinubu as chairman Moses Oyediran, Enugu

ÏÏÏThe Director General

of Voice of Nigeria (VON) and a chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Osita Okechukwu, at the weekend commended President Muhammadu Buhari for appointing Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu as chairman of APC Reconciliation Committee.

Briefing journalists in Enugu at the weekend, Okechukwu said the appointment of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu by President Muhammadu Buhari, was timely and a milestone.

While maintained that only a person of Tinubu’s caliber could reconcile all the intra-party feuds in APC, Okechukwu pointed out that Asiwaju provided the critical supplement for APC’s victory in 2015.

He said, “It is a milestone. I salute Mr. President for appointing our national leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to head such a crucial committee.

It is timely and a welcome development.

“He was one of the core architects of the merger which gave birth to the APC and has the Midas Touch to stitch the torn

parts. Let’s be honest there are intra-disputes which need a man of Asiwaju’s caliber to fix.”

Probed further to name such crisis, Okechukwu said: “it is not crisis per se, but intra-feuds, which normally occur in every human association. Some of them are ego based, some are ancient grudges and some are frictions, which could be traced to the fact that APC is a polygamous household with many mothers and one father.”

Confronted with the insinuations in the media that Asiwaju’s invitation

by Mr President was being resisted by supporters, who felt that Asiwaju was sidelined, he “I don’t want to comment on speculation, all I know is that our brothers in the South West, appreciate the critical foundation President Muhammadu Buhari is laying nationwide in infrastructural development.

“And our national leader is aware that what is paramount is to save Nigeria from those who for sixteen years of unprecedented oil boom squandered our commonwealth.

VON DG equally expressed optimism that Asiwaju would mend fences with the National Chairman of APC, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun.

13 News

Voters’ Registration: Ugwuanyi sacks 216

Moses Oyediran, Enugu

ÏÏÏGovernor

Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has sacked all 216 Executive Assistants from Enugu North Senatorial District of the state.

Daily Times learnt that Ugwuanyi decided to sack the aides because of nonperformance in the ongoing voters’ registration exercise by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Our correspondent gathered that the Enugu North Senatorial zone has 108 wards and each ward has two executive assistants making it 216.

Consequently, Gov. Ugwuanyi declared the positions of the affected Executive Assistants vacant and directed them to go back

to their various electoral wards to revalidate their mandate and obtain fresh endorsement from the people before being reappointed.

The governor regretted that some of the former EAs are not on ground and have not lived up to their responsibilities in the wards in terms of sensitization, mobilization and promotion of government programmes, policies and interests at the grassroots.

Addressing members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the Enugu North Senatorial District Committee meeting of the party held at its zonal office in Nsukka, Gov. Ugwuanyi noted that the INEC voters’ registration is the key to the fortunes of the party and state ahead

of 2019 general elections.

He added that the exercise offers the people of the state and the zone in particular another opportunity to justify themselves as those who have always been known for their highest number of voters during elections.

The governor also emphasized the need to involve those who are committed to the party and its government in political appointments and advised the stakeholders to allow the people at the grassroots choose those who will be appointed as Executive Assistants to manage the activities of his administration at the ward level.

The governor also told the councillors, supervisors and other political office holders at the ward

and local government levels to reside in their areas and participate actively in the affairs of the party and the government, adding that the council chairmen will be held responsible if they do not comply with the directives.

“The on-going voters registration is the key. It is very important to us. It is beyond election. It is about all of us. Unfortunately, the EAs appointed to drive this campaign for the government at the grassroots, have not done much in terms of sensitization and mobilization. I hereby declare their positions vacant in Enugu North Senatorial District.

They should go back and get the endorsement of the people at their various wards for re-appointment”, the governor declared.

Buhari welcomes release of UNIMAID lecturers, 10 police wives Mathew Dadiya, Abuja

ÏÏÏThe

Department of State Services, DSS Saturday briefed President Muhammadu Buhari on the release, through negotiations, of three University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) lecturers abducted by suspected Boko Haram terrorists in Magumeri, Borno State.

Also released from the Boko Haram terrorists are 10 women, kidnapped in a raid by the militant group on a military/police convoy on Damboa road, near Maiduguri.

Their release followed a series of negotiations as directed by President Buhari and was facilitated by the International Committee of the Red Cross, ICRC. According to the brief given by the DSS, all 13 rescued persons are in the custody of the service and are on their way to Abuja with the assistance of the Nigerian Army and the Air Force.

In expectation of their

being brought to the DSS headquarters, a team of doctors and psychologists has been placed on standby.

The rescued persons may be presented to the President and thereafter released to their families, if there are no issues of security or medical concerns.

The President, who got step by step progress reports on the lengthy negotiations while they took place, received the good news with a lot of happiness. He commended all those who in one way or the other helped in making the release possible.

He then urged the DSS and the Nigerian Army to intensify efforts to bring home the remaining Chibok Girls still in the custody of the terrorists.

The Director-General, Malam Lawal Daura, assured the President that they were working hard to bring home the remaining girls and, as soon as possible, bring the Chibok Girls saga to an end.

L-R: Former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and National Chairman Atiku Care Foundation Amb. Aliyu Bin Abbas, presenting samples of the Foundation’s customised wrappers to the Grand Patron, Abubakar in Abuja...on Sunday

No reconciliation, no victory for Rivers APC at 2019 polls Amaka Agbu, Port Harcourt

ÏÏÏSenate

President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, had predicted that unless the Rivers State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, embraced reconciliation and peace, the party would perform abysmally at the 2019 polls.

Addressing a mammoth crowd of APC supporters during a reception at the Polo Club after: “The Victory Thanksgiving Service”

by Senator Magnus Abe and five others at the St. Paul’s Anglican Church, all in Port Harcourt, said that a house divided against itself would not stand.

The Senate President, who was piqued by the division in the ranks and

file in the party in Rivers State, advised the state Chairman, Dr. Davies Ibiamu Ikanya, to strive to reconcile all aggrieved members of the Party in order to present a united force against the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in 2019.

The Senate President expressed disappointment that the Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, failed to attend the victory thanksgiving service” of Senator Magnus Ngei Abe and other APC legislators at the national and state assemblies.

The number three citizen in the country said that rather than attend “The Victory Thanksgiving Service” organised

by APC Stakeholders, the Minister who is also the leader of the party in

Rivers State chose to attend another APC event in Bori, in Khana Local Government Area.

The Senate President asked: “What is wrong is wrong. The governor of Rivers State from the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, is here. Rivers State Chairman of the APC, Chief Davis Ibiamu Ikanya is here.

So, why is there another APC event in the state?

“We know the role Senator Abe and other APC legislators in the National Assembly played in getting someone from Rivers State into the current federal cabinet. We know what transpired.

We can’t say everything here. This thanksgiving service is the main APC event in Rivers State, today. There should not have been any other APC event in the state by

APC. Senator Saraki enthused: “Senator Abe is a good man. He is a humble man. He is a loyal man. He is a courageous man. Abe does not blow his trumpet. Abe played a great role in the formation of the APC that we are now talking about.

He worked very hard to get the Senate approval for someone to become minister from Rivers State.”

The Senate President stated: “Like the Archbishop said in the Church, power comes from God. Governor Wike just said he did so many things to stop Abe from going back to the Senate. And you know he can do all those kinds of things. But, he did not

succeed. So Truly, power comes from God.

14

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

15 News

Reps probes $5bn under remittance by CBN, sugar import waiver abuse Continued from page 6 work in earnest and decided to invite the CBN and the accountant general of the federation and others to help in its investigation.

While moving the motion on the floor, Hon. Omidiran had expressed regret that the apex bank has not been forthright on the issue.

In a related development, the House of Representatives ad hoc committee investigating the alleged abuse of import duty waivers granted sugar companies has resolved to summon the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Okechukwu Enelamah and other stakeholders to shed new light on how firms granted

waivers by the federal government short changed the government of billions of Naira in revenue.

Chairman of the House ad hoc committee, Hon Olasupo Abiodun Adeola, disclosed this to journalists at the weekend in Abuja, while speaking to journalists.

Hon Adeola said that the committee’s assignment is

straight forward, to determine the compliance by local sugar companies with the waiver granted them to import raw sugar into the country under a scheme to promote backward integration and ensure local sugar production meets demand, thereby reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imported sugar.

Sadly, he declared that

companies granted the waiver abused the privilege and turned around to fleece the nation of billions of Naira.

He assured that the committee will do a thorough job, adding that “we’ll hit the ground running and the committee will invite all stakeholders, including the minister and everybody involved with

the waiver one way or the other.

“Nigeria produces less than four per cent of its sugar requirements locally. The backwards integration scheme that necessitated the granting of waiver was to encourage local production, reduce imports, create employment and reduce foreign exchange expenditure.”

Police officers must protect Nigerians, not few prominent elite Continued from page 6

duties”. And this is a situation that should be outrightly rejected by relevant security stakeholders in Nigeria.

The Nigeria Police Force

is mandated by the 1999 Constitution (as amended) to ensure that, there is public order and safety within the Nigerian society and it carry out this function in a variety of ways. These include, law enforcement, as

well as regulations, which govern all the unlawful assemblies. While public meetings are guaranteed by the Nigerian constitution, public processions are also guaranteed by the 1979 public order decree.

Therefore, the trend in the country where police officers lobby to be attached to prominent Nigerians as orderlies and ADCs has rendered the Nigeria Police weak and unprofessional and this has in turn

Secretary- General (PAN), Dr. Omomwunmi Ayanbadejo (left), presents an award and certificate of appreciation to Marketing Manager, Healthline Limited, Pharm. Priya Hariharan (right), while Portfolio Manager, Healthline Limited, Osoba Oluwatoyin (middle), looks on, during PAN 2018 annual conference, Theme; Contemporal Surgical Techniques in the Management of Periodontal Disease, held in Lagos.

HMCAN vows legal action against reinstatement of NHIS boss

Angela Onwuzoo

ÏÏÏ Worried about its neg-

ative impact on the growth of health insurance in the country, Health & Managed Care Association of Nigeria (HMCAN), has joined the league of Nigerians condemning the reinstatement of the suspendef Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Prof. Usman Yusuf.

While some NHIS workers staged a protest against the reinstatement of the suspended NHIS boss, HMCAN, the umbrella body of Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs) licensed operators of the NHIS, has disclosed that it would contest the reinstatement of Yusuf in court.

President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday rein-

stated Yusuf exactly six months after he was suspended by the Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, following allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office.

Addressing journalists in Lagos at the weekend on the development, Chairman of HMCAN, Dr. Tunde Ladele, said even before the reinstatement of the suspended NHIS boss, his appoinment had been in contention,describing Yusuf as unfit for the job.

He said: “We will definitely contest his reinstatement in court. We were already in court before his suspension and those that have been following the trend, knew that we were in court. We were contesting his appointment that was irregular.

Ladele continued: “But

immediately he was suspended, there was a vacuum, so we could no longer proceed because the position we were attacking was attached to him. We had to stay action on that matter after he was suspended by the Minister of Health, but now that he is back in office, we will proceed with our case. The other thing we were contesting was the distortion of the processes in the scheme. So, we have a case in court already.”

Kicking against the action of the President, Ladele said: “We condemn it and do not approve of it. Again, the action of the President did not speak well of his anticorruption war”.

On government’s assurances that investigation was ongoing, he said: “ While noting the gravity of

the allegations against him, HMCAN is mindful of the dictum that an accused person is innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction .

“We advise that in the spirit of transparency, accountability and the stance of government on corruption, the report of the investigation should not be swept under the carpet”.

Ladele reminded the President that doing this will erode public confidence and cast a doubt on the sincerity of this administration.

The reinstatement of Yusuf many stakeholders say, lends credence to the fact that the anti-corruption war of the President is lopsided, decrying that it has different standards for different people.

reduced them to the whims and caprices of few prominent elite, who not only use them against their wish, but to unleash mayhem against fellow citizens. Many innocent citizens have died; and many others have suffered one form of wickedness or the other, just on the prompting of these officers attached to few big men and politicians.

Another shocking revelation came from the Chairman, Police Service Commission (PSC), Mr Mike Okiro, who said that more than 150,000 police officers were attached to VIP’s and unauthorised persons in the country and that Nigeria currently has about 400,000 police officers.

According to Okiro in a recent interview in Abuja, “We cannot afford to have more than half of the population of the Police in private hands,”.

He added that the commission in conjunction with the Nigeria Police Force, had commenced the implementation of the withdrawal of police officers, saying ,however, that the exercise was stalled due to lack of fund.

“We could not sustain the enforcement of the order on the withdrawal of policemen attached to unqualified persons in the country because of lack of fund”, Okiro said and expressed disappointment at the practice where persons who served as ministers for over 10 to 15 years still go about with police security”.

President Muhammadu Buhari had in 2015 directed that police personnel attached to unauthorised persons and VIPs in the country be withdrawn and deployed to confront the security challenges in the nation.

Just recently, Senator Ikechukwu Obiora, who was elected as senator on May 29, 2007 and left the Senate in 2011, blatantly used eight riot policemen to unleash terror on The Daily Times. Acting in connivance with a serving DIG Hycenth Dagala and Mag-

istrates’ Court, Obiora was able to illegally arraigned the Chairman of the Folio Media Group (FMG), publisher of The Daily Times, Mr. Fidelis Anosike and the Group Managing Director, Mr Noel Anosike and five members of staff of the media organisation.

The dangerous trend was nipped in the bud when the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr Ibrahim Idris, put a stop to the infamous action and ordered a thorough probe into the matter.

To further stress that many police officers are being misused in our society by certain individuals, Senator Obiora’s ally in the onslaught against The Daily Times and DSTV boss, Adewumi Ogunsanya, is also using about 20 riot policemen for his protection.

Incidentally, IGP Idris has barred operatives of the controversial Police Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) from conducting stop and search on roads and also stopped them from acting as bodyguards to prominent Nigerians just as he warned them against further delving into civil matters including land disputes, personal disputes, debt collection and other civil matters.

The leadership of the Nigeria Police Force should as a matter of urgency take inventory of all its ranks and file attached to prominent Nigerians and decide whether these individuals deserve such discriminatory protection.

The Nigeria Police Force must change the current narrative and ensure that the security of lives and properties of ordinary Nigerians remains the primary duty of its officers and men and not the protection of few rich individuals.

The dangerous practice must stop and the police officers must be deployed for the protection of every Nigerian. The present trend does not augur well for Nigeria as the country is still grappling with myriads of security challenges.

16

Daily Times Nigeria L Ɨ ƕè 0ƆƄƏƑ Əƕ ơƾè ƾƠơƤ

FEATURES

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How 250 Nigerians died from snake bite Gbubemi God’s Covenant The acute scarcity of snake anti-venom drugs in the country came to a head recently as two states – Plateau and Gombe have lost 250 of their citizens to snake bite in just 21 days.

The figure represents the number of confirmed deaths from three snake treatment centres – General Hospital, Kaltungo, Ali Mega Pharmacy, Gombe and Comprehensive Medical Centre, Zamko, Plateau State.

A correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria who visited the three medical outfits, met other victims in critical situations, with some of them left on bare floors as the doctors said they were helpless without the anti-venom.

The snake anti-venom drugs – Echitab Plus ICP polyvalent and Echitab G monovalent – had not been supplied to the country since August, throwing the treatment centres into crisis after the last vials were used up in the first week of October.

Echitab Plus ICP, produced at Instituto Clodomiro Picado, University of Costa Rica, treats bites from all venomous snakes in Nigeria, while Echitab G, produced by Micropharm Ltd, United Kingdom, is solely for carpet viper bites.

Medics at the three treatment centres, said that the cases of snake bites were usually very common during the harvest season.

“We receive an average of 50 victims every day. Some arrive here in very critical conditions and we just have to watch them die because we are helpless,” Abubakar Aliyu, Managing Director, Aliyu Mega Pharmacy, told NAN in Gombe.

He said that more than 70 victims had died in the last three weeks following the lack of anti-venom to treat them, adding that some came from Adamawa, Taraba, Bauchi, Borno and Plateau States.

“An average of six deaths are recorded daily. If you go to the snake treatment centre at the Kaltungo General Hospital, you will pity the victims; the lucky ones among them get supportive treatment, while many are left to fate since the drugs are just not available.

“Between August and October, we received 750 victims. We were given 700 vials of the anti-venom on August 31, but we exhausted them before October.

Many people are just dying. It is a major crisis,” he stated.

Mr. Aliyu said that the only

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Snakes invade communities during harvest seasons

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6ƆƋƍƋƆ ƍ ƐƈƆ Ɛ Ɨƕƈ Ƈ ƊƆ ƄƈƐƆ

available drug – Indian antivenom – was not as effective in the treatment of the bites from carpet vipers, the commonest poisonous snakes in the country.

“We have tried the Indian anti-venom, but it does not elicit much response. Sometimes, we give six vials and more to a patient, but the effect will be minimal. If we had Echitab drugs, one dose is enough to cure a patient,” he said.

The pharmacist urged the federal government to promptly step in to assist Echitab Study Group, the outfit coordinating the supply and distribu-

tion of the Echitab drugs, so as to make them available.

The Snake Treatment Centre at the Kaltungo General Hospital, Gombe State, equally presented a sorry sight with helpless patients gasping for breath while the medics watched helplessly.

Sad and scary Abubakar Ballah, the Snakebite Treatment Officer, said the situation was “sad and scary”.

“We have a serious crisis here. In the last one week, 139 patients were admitted with 77 absconding when we appeared helpless, due to the non-avail-

ability of the anti-snake venom drug.

“Some were unconscious when they were brought here.

Sometimes, it is corpses that are brought to us.

“In the last few days, we have recorded 21 deaths. The figure is more because many of those that absconded were in bad shape; many others did not even bother to come here because of the fore-knowledge of lack of anti-venom in the centre.

“The last drug was used on October 13. We try to give vitamin K to the victims to enhance blood clotting in the absence of anti-venom because bites from

the viper snakes cause bleeding which is difficult to control without anti-venom.

“It is a critical period, but we are helpless. This is why we call on the government to work with the Echitab Study Group to provide a lasting solution to this menace.

“Already, some criminals are faking the drug and selling it at N43,000 per vial, contrary to the original anti-snake venom sold by the Echitab Study Group at the cost of between N13,500 to N30,000.

“What we must avoid is a situation where desperate people produce fake drugs. We must work toward an effective handling and supply of the drug to guarantee quality and ensure that only genuine drugs are supplied to the treatment centres.”

He urged government to treat the issue as a national emergency.

“The need for the snake antivenom should be seen as a security issue with its necessity equated with having an army, customs service, police force and other security agencies.

“Government should work with the Echitab Study Group to have a reliable supply channel; government should subsidize the cost to avoid a major crisis like the one in our hands now, because we find it difficult and embarrassing to explain the situation to our patients.” * Please read the full story on online dailytimes.ng/features

17 Features

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Firm warns Nigerians on dangers of obesity By our correspondent

As part of rising campaign against obesity, particularly amongst Nigerians, a multinational health wellness firm, Edmark International, during the week held an exhibition-talk show in Lagos, the commercial capital of Nigeria.

The event which took place at Etal Hotel, Oregun, Ikeja was attended by Nigerians from all walks of life.

Speaking at the event, the Double Crown Manager, EDMARK Nigeria, Engr.

Emeka Raymond Onanewu said the event was organised because the company is concerned at the rate at which Nigerians are dying through many diseases associated with overweight and obesity.

In an interview with The Daily Times, Onanewu said; “We converge every three months to let the people know how to maintain a healthy wealth, the danger associated with overweight and to suppress what is called obesity also.

“So, we are here today to celebrate achievers; we are here to sensitize the people against modern day challenges; we are saying enough to obesity and we are here to let people know about the danger of overweight and fatness in human health.

“As a company, we took it as a responsibility to let people know why they should live healthy, the food they should eat, and what they should not eat and we have drugs produced by our firm in Malaysia according to international best practice that can help one to burn fat and help one come back to the normal healthy weight,” he said.

Onanewu further explained that once there is excess weight in the body, “The individual is at risk of contacting diseases that are deadly, when u are overweight, viruses and pandemic diseases grow faster in the body system than when one is not over

Obesity - Africa’s new crisis

weight.

“Today, we have our customers, those who patronizes us and our marketers to share their testimony about our products; how EDMARK products have helped them battled obesity to the fullest.” He stressed.

On the suitability of their products, Onanewu responded thus: “Our products are very healthy and hygienic to the people. We

are not marketing for any firm, we produce our products ourselves. The processing plant that mixes EDMARK liquid drugs and juice in Malaysia is the biggest and largest in the world. It was built with over ten million dollars.

“Our plant is certified by world health organization in Malaysia and our produc here in Nigeria are certified by National Agency for

Food, Drugs, Administration and Control (NAFDAC) Our products are hygienic to the healthy and the sick”.

The weight expert also used the occasion to call on Nigerian government to create an enabling environment for businesses to grow by reducing taxes and duty on imported products into the country.

“We call on Nigerian government to help private investors in Nigeria for the sake of young Nigerians.

They should help us to reduce taxes. This is a platform that can help the common man to live a healthy live. They should help us to reduce custom duty. Running and maintaining businesses in Nigeria at the moment are not easy.” he emphasized.

Another speaker at the event, Mr. Canice Anozie said obesity is a pandemic disease that has broken many people homes and made many people lost jobs.

Anozie who is a height wellness by profession urged parents to look after how their kids eat to avoid future challenges for their health.

The firm, as part of its corporate social responsibility, conducted BMI test for twenty participants at the event free of charge and

gave out both tablet and liquid drugs to those who are overweight to help them burn fat.

On display at the event were many products manufactured by EDMARK to help human beings reduce fat such as Hawaiian Spirulina, Shake off PYHTO Fiber Drink, MRT complex; Splina Liquid Chlorophll, Red yeast Coffee, Troika Cafe, Red Bubble Tea, Cafe 73, Edmark capusisna, BioElixir Soya Drink, Cocollagen choco beverage, Bubble C orange drink and many more.

Founded by Philippine, Sam Low Ban Chai, Edmark Group of Companies is a multi-million dollar company with market presence in over 25 countries.

Supported by its own manufacturing and production arm - EDMARK INDUSTRIES which operates its manufacturing plant in the state of Selangor, Malaysia, EDMARK has invested over USD30 million for the construction and relocation to a brand new factory since the year 2010.

To cater to the upsurge of demand of EDMARK products worldwide, the factory has been upgraded with state-of-the-art equipment, industrial robots and energy saving features.

News 18

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Herdsmen ambush, kill 3 in Plateau Kingsley Chukwuka, Jos

ÏÏÏThree people have

been reported killed in Zangwra community of Miango district, Plateau state in what residents said is yet another attack by herdsmen.

The three were said to have met their death while returning home on a motorcycle while two others escaped with injuries.

Those killed include one Mr. John Esije 32 years, Mr. Monday Nzwe 38 years and Mr. Saku Giyeri, 41years.

The survivors identified as Mr. Sunday Bala, 33 and Mr. Gudu Gara, 25 years were said to have been taken

to an undisclosed hospital.

Speaking to newsmen, the District head of Miango, Daniel Chega regretted that the attack comes after series of security meetings and agreements with security agencies and the Fulani leaders aimed at ending the killings.

Residents of the area had trooped out en masse, to protest against the killings but were calmed by the village chief.

As at time of this report, the STF Spokesperson, Major Umar Adams, when contacted said he was yet to be briefed but requested to confirm and call back.

Ex-minister advocates for more teachers in arithmetic Charles Onyekwere Abakaliki

ÏÏÏA former minister of

power, Professor Barth Nnaji, has advocated for more teachers in arithmetic and other core science subjects at the primary school level to revive science and technology.

Nnaji told Journalists in Enugu that “the country is not getting it right on its pursuit for advancement in science and technology.”

The former minister, who was speaking on the low capacity of the country to produce artisans, technicians, technologists and scientists, said if well trained, they could invent things to solve local technical or engineering challenges.

He said although the educational system had gone bad, there were a few states making efforts to revamp

the educational sector in their states.

“In primary school, this is where the whole thing starts; you need to have teachers that can read and write and do arithmetic properly and not teachers that will be teaching children incorrect grammar.

“I can tell you that the ugly development is like the prevailing situation now in many state schools. This needs to be corrected.

“In teachers training colleges, many of the teachers and people who go there somehow think coming out with certificate is all they need and not learning about teaching,’’ he said.

Nnaji, who is a Professor of Robotic Engineering and Physics, said that a typical Nigerian child has high intelligent quotient but the process of impacting the knowledge had been a problem over the years.

L-R: Widow of Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, Mrs Abosede Ransome Kuti; Special guest of honour, Mr Femi Aborisade; National President, Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, Malacky Ugwummadu; and Speaker, Mr Abiodun Aremu during the 12th Annual Dr. Beko Ransome Kuti Memorial Lecture in Lagos at the weekend.

LASG gives 24 hrs quit notice to traders along Oshodi – Mile 2 Joy Anyim

ÏÏÏ

The Lagos State Government has served all new/fairly used furniture traders on road setbacks and walkways from Oshodi to Mile 2 area ‘24hour Vacation Notice’ The Chairman of the Lagos State Task Force SP Olayinka Egbeyemi disclosed that the government served this ‘ 24 Hours Vacation Notice’ due to environmental nuisance being constituted by these traders.

He disclosed further that no responsible and responsive government would tolerate heavy environmental degradation being perpetuated by these illegal traders around that axis.

SP Egbeyemi said “illegal shanties constructed by these illegal traders who specialises on new/fairly used furniture from Oshodi to Mile 2 particularly around ‘Itire’ and ‘Ijesha’ area has now become an abode for criminals.

“Residents around these areas could no longer sleep with their two eyes closed because of criminals activities being perpetuated by some miscreants and hoodlums who pretended to be new/fairly used furniture traders around Itire and Ijesha axis” He noted that residents living around Oshodi to Mile 2 areas have been warned to desist from dumping refuse on the median, road setbacks and walkways.

“This warning became imperative as anyone caught dumping refuse at undesignated spots would be charge to court for prosecution,” he maintained.

Egbeyemi stated that the Lagos State Government has however enjoined members of the public to properly package and dump their refuse inside waste-bin provided by ‘Cleaner Lagos Initiative’ at different designations across the State.

Enugu town honours Ugwuanyi over new communities, appointments Charles Onyekwere Abakaliki

ÏÏÏThe

people of EhaAlumona town in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State, weekend hailed Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi over the creation of new autonomous communities in the area.

They spoke during the formal presentation of the Staff of Office to the first Traditional Ruler of Eha-Etiti Autonomous Community, Nsukka Local Government Area, His Royal Highness, Igwe Frederick Agbo Odo (Etiti 1 of Eha-Etiti) at the

Igwe’s Palace.

Leading in the applause was Hon. Chinedu Nwamba representing Nsukka East constituency in the Enugu State House of Assembly.

Nwamba said the people of the area were so pleased with Gov. Ugwuanyi owing to his community development efforts.

“Our people are so happy and want to appreciate the Governor for his commitment towards the development of our place.

“Apart from the creation of new autonomous communities, he has also appointed several of our people into very prominent positions.

We are also not left out in community development programmes,” he said.

Speaking at the event, Governor Ugwuanyi of Enugu State reiterated his administration’s commitment to take decisions that would rapidly develop the state as well as bring governance closer to the doorsteps of the rural dwellers, especially the long neglected.

Ugwuanyi added that the resolve to make lives more meaningful for the people of the state, especially those in the rural areas through his administration’s transformational and rural development policies remains high

on the agenda.

The governor who noted that it was in line with his administration’s rural development policy that autonomy was granted to the “resourceful community”.

Gov. Ugwuanyi saluted the people of the community for ending their sixteen-year campaign for the coveted status to be autonomous.

He disclosed that the exercise for the election of Igwe Odo, who he described as “a renowned elder statesman, educationist, administrator, and community leader” was transparent and supervised by the state government.

According to him: “following this development and in accordance with the Chieftaincy Laws of Enugu State, I have come here today, to formally present to Chief Fredrick Odo, his Certificate of Recognition and Staff of Office as the Traditional Ruler of Eha-Etiti Autonomous Community, Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State”.

While congratulating the new traditional ruler on his “well-deserved” election and receipt of his Certificate of Recognition and Staff of Office, Gov. Ugwuanyi assured the Igwe and the entire peo-

ple of the community that his administration will give them the needed support and attention to ensure that they benefit fully from the rural development agenda of the state government.

The governor, therefore, urged the members of the community to give the traditional ruler, who is the father of the Chairman of Enugu State Internal Revenue Service, Prince Emeka Odo, maximum support and remain peaceful, united and fully committed to the rapid development of the community in particular and the state in general.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

19News

APC reconciliation: Timi Frank calls for Tinubu’s support Tom Okpe, Abuja

ÏÏÏDeputy

L-R: Leader, Iba New Town Stakeholders Association, (INTSA), Prince Fatai Onibodo, Leader, INTSA, Sunday Kaapo, Chairman, INTSA, Emma Eladi, Secretary, INTSA. Joseph Salvador and Vice Chairman, Alhaji Yinusa Busari, during a press briefing to thank Governor Akinwumi Ambode of Lagos for approving their heart desire on Lagos State University (LASU) Land dispute in Lagos... on Sunday.

PCNI donates N2bn medical, reconstruction materials to Borno Myke Uzendu, Abuja

ÏÏÏThe

Presidential Committee on NorthEast Initiative (PCNI) and Presidential Committee for Victims Support Fund (VSF) has donated building and medical equipment worth N2 billion to Borno state government in Maiduguri to support reconstruction of communities destroyed by insurgents.

The presentation was made to the Governor of Borno state, Kashim Shettima by the vice chairman of PCNI, Alh. Tijjani Tumsah, over the weekend, according to a statement by its Head of Media, Alkasim Abdulkadir.

A total of 298,000 pieces of timber, 59,710 ceiling boards and 20,865 bags of assorted nails were handed over to the governor.

14,100 bundles of zinc and 2,400 bags of cement were also part of the presidential com-

mittee’s intervention to the state.

According to Alh. Tumsah, ‘the distribution was based on populations of the local governments and damage assessment’.

Biu, Gwoza and Monguno local governments got 50,000 pieces of timber, 2,275 bundles of zinc, 2,650 ceiling boards and 350 bags of cement each.

48,000 pieces of timber, 2,275 bundles of zinc, 2,650 ceiling boards and 350 bags of cement were donated to Damboa local government.

Five local governments, Guzamala, Kala-Balge, Kukawa, Mafa and Ngala received 20,000 pieces of timber, 1,000 bundles of zinc, 2,053 bags of assorted nails, 5,670 pieces of ceiling boards and 200 bags of cement each.

He further stated that “Rebuilding of hospital infrastructure is meant to complement our short-term interventions

such as the medical outreach programs that have been going on across the north east” Also the PCNI has flagged off a Housing Refurbishing Material Support Programme intended to provide access to an improved housing, in terms of quality and standard for returnees and people directly affected by the insurgency.

The distribution of the building materials was made to nine local governments of the state where reconstruction works are ongoing.

Similarly, PCNI handed over healthcare facilities meant to furnish a hospital in Bama local government to the governor. Alh. Tumsah noted that the facilities, including x-ray machines and a total of 240 adult beds, among other things, will fully furnish the hospital.

Receiving, Gov. Shettima thanked the presidential committee for the intervention, noting that it will help fast-

track the ongoing reconstruction works and subsequent resettlement of internally displaced persons.

He explained that his government is determined to resettle all displaced persons by May 29.

‘Our government is determined to see that by May 29, we have resettled all displaced persons to their communities’, the governor said.

He called on the committee to extend similar intervention in its next tranche to other local governments of the state where reconstruction works are ongoing, including Askira Uba, Chibok, Konduga and Marte, among others.

Since its inauguration in 2016 by the federal government, PCNI has made several interventions across various sectors particularly in areas of reconstruction, education, healthcare and peacebuilding in the North East region.

National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Comrade Timi Frank, has called on all members and political leaders within the ruling party to support the appointment of former Lagos state governor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, to reconcile all the aggrieved members of the party.

He, however, expressed concern over the possibility of the exercise turning out a huge success and whether the efforts will not be in futility having taken a long time for the presidency to listen to hiscalls, saying “Asiwaju Tinubu cannot do magic because it’s already late”. Timi Frank spoke to selected journalists in Abuja on Sunday, congratulated the APC national leader for his new role and prayed God to grant him (Tinubu) the needed wisdom to carry out the assignment, adding that “though I know that it is too late.

He said: “If they had listened to me much earlier, when I was the only voice in the wilderness and appoint someone like this same Tinubu a year ago, may be the likes of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar wouldn’t have left the ruling party.

“There is no doubt that Jagaba is the right person to do this job of reconciliation, but unfortunately, the former Lagos state governor cannot do magic because it’s already late and nothing will come out of it; although some people might not like this truth, but I will continue to say it.

“It is glaring that all Tinubu is expected to repair now were caused by the National Chairman Chief John Oyegun’s indecision, which I loudly spoke about.

When I demanded for his resignation, some people felt I was being sponsored.

But thank God, today, I have been vindicated because all eyes can see clearly what Chief Oyegun’s style of leadership has done to the ruling party.

At this level, if care is not taken, APC might soon become history.

“I don’t know how the national leader will go about this reconciliation task. But I pray that God will give him the necessary wisdom. To be frank, I don’t know how he will succeed in reconciling the likes of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and Governor Umar Ganduje inKano, Senator Shehu Sani and Governor Nasir El-Rufai in Kaduna, Speaker Yakubu Dogara and Governor Mohammed Abubakar in Bauchi, Rotimi Ameachi and Sen. Magnus Abe in Rivers state, Senator Dino Melaye and Governor Yahaya Bello in Kogi state, former governor of Edo state Adams Oshiomohle and Chief John Oyegun in Edo, Crisis in Ondo, Lagos, Gombe, Bayelsa, Cross Rivers, Osun, Ekiti, Jigawa, Niger, Delta states and so on”.

While calling on all members of the APC and the working committee to support the party’s national leader in his efforts to reposition the party, Frank said: “the crisis rocking the party was not caused

by Tinubu, but ineptitude of the party’s NWC.

FUNAI matriculates over 2000 students for 2017/2018 session Moses Oyediran, Enugu

ÏÏÏThe Federal Univer-

sity Ndufu-Alike Ikwo (FUNAI), Ebonyi State has matriculated over 2, 000 students for the 2017/2018 academic session.

In a ceremony held over the weekend to usher freshmen into the university, the Vice-chancellor, Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba urged the students not to joke with the rare opportunity given to them by the University.

He stressed that out of more than 12,000 applicants who made the

University their first choice only over 2,000 were admitted to study in the University after going through its Post-UTME test and meeting the other requisite admission criteria.

The Vice-chancellor further enjoined the students to work hard in their studies by attending lectures, doing their assignments and participating actively in all their academic activities to avoid the consequences of academic failure.

“It is painful to note that of the 1,750 students that we admitted in the 2016/17

session, about 232 were asked to withdraw and another 218 sent home for a year at the end of the session for reasons of poor academic performance”, he stated.

He continued: “We expect this set to be different. To be different, you have to focus on the main purpose for your coming to FUNAI. You are here simply to study. Every other thing is secondary.

Work hard and behave well, and you will be successful.

“In the university you must pass every course you register. This is not a

secondary school where you may fail a subject and still move on.

I reiterate, you must pass every course you register. You must also attend lectures as attendance to lectures is a prerequisite to sit for examinations.”

Prof. Nwajiuba warned that the university has zero tolerance to cultism, examination malpractices, sorting, sexual harassment, indecent dressing, stealing and other unwholesome behaviours, warning that culprits would be fished out and sent home.

He also informed them

that the foundation of the university was built on excellence and integrity, adding that lecturers are not allowed to sell handouts while recommended books were only to be purchased in the university bookshop. He equally assured them of a serene and conducive learning environment as the challenges faced by their predecessors have been arrested.

The vice-chancellor to appreciate the role of FUNAI-Parents Forum in providing lecture chairs, housing for junior staff, and fencing of the univer-

sity environment to ensure security of lives and property on campus, and called on other investors to partner the university in other rewarding areas.

“We must build a university campus that is secure and inspires us to excel. That is why you must appreciate the little sacrifice by the FUNAI-PARENTS FORUM in form of security contributions for what it is; seeds being sowed for a better future.

If we do not develop our own, who will do that for us? I therefore charge you to imbibe the spirit of FUNAI,” he said.

News 20

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Develop ranches, do your business, no land for cattle colonies in Abia – Sen. Ohuabunwa

Sunday Nwakanma – Umuahia

ÏÏÏCattle

herdsmen in the country have been told that there is no land for cattle colonies in Abia, especially in Abia North senatorial district, but urged to make use of ranches to do their business.

The senator representing Abia North at the National Assembly, Mao Ohuabunwa stated this in Ohafia after the closing ceremony of the second batch of his empowerment programme, “MAO Ohuabunwa Skill Acquisi-

tion Training” in collaboration with SMEDAN, expressing his thanksgiving that the Abia state Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu has expressly made it public that the idea of cattle colony is not welcomed in the state.

Fielding questions from newsmen that the state has concluded plans to create a cattle colony in Ohafia, the senator said “I am not aware of any land being surveyed in Ohafia for cattle colony. If anyone is ceding any land, he should be held responsible”, while describing the allegation as not true, pointing out that any land in the state is under the state governor.

The senator who would not mind being called “Frying Pan” senator, regretted that people only looked at a component of pastry business, the frying pan, neglecting that the frying pan came with gas burners and cylinder as well as a minimum cash of N20, 000.00 for akara (bean cake), chinchin, buns and even making of coconut oil, which the trainees exhibited and shared out for people to see.

“I don’t have any regret being called “Frying Pan” Senator. Frying pan is only an item in the pastry business. I also gave them gas cylinders and gas burners.

That is what they need.

W2e gave tapestry what they need, including cash of N20, 000.00”, the senator said.

He highlighted other skills involved to include poultry, GSM repairs, starch making, coconut oil making, fisheries, solar panel installation, and soap making, stating that after the training, the trainees would receive their certificates and starter packs, as well as takeoff grant of between N20, 000.00 and N50, 000.00 each.

He described the 2018 edition of the training as one restricted to agriculture-based skills stating,

“It is better to teach to fish than give them fish to increase value of life and to help their families”.

He recalled that two weeks ago, he flagged off some roads in the area, including Lodu Imenyi, Uburu Ihe in Ihechiowa, as well as the rehabilitation of Arochukwu mini stadium, disclosing also that he had just attracted hospital equipment worth over N35 million to an Abiriba community health centre as well as flagged off also a medical laboratory in the area.

Earlier while addressing the trainees, Sen. Ohuabunwa had informed

all that the country is diversifying its revenue sources away from crude oil to agriculture, describing it as “returning back to basics”, highlighting also his contributions through bills he sponsored including the bill on agricultural loan scheme and which has been signed into law by the President.

In her vote of thanks, a trainee, Evangelist Ijeoma Ogwuma from Isuikwuato appreciated the senator, disclosing that slogan of the trainees to be “Think Big, Start Small, Grow Big”, assuring him of their votes, come 2019 elections for a second term.

Greg Varsity, Uturu sends students to US, Canada on exchange Sunday Nwakanma – Umuahia

ÏÏÏGregory University,

Uturu has concluded plans for this year’s exchange programme for its students in United States of America and Canada.

The founder of the university and the Visitor, Prof. Greg Ibe disclosed this last Saturday during the school’s 6th Matriculation ceremony, stating that the exchange programme with the university’s affiliate universities in the US and Canada will be for four months, pointing out that the university wants to ensure that they push out quality students of international standard.

The undergraduates of the school, he said now come from all parts of the country “for a relationship with the school that produces future leaders of the country”, disclosing that First Class students of the institution are automatically employed by the school as well as giving them scholarship for their Masters level or up to Ph.D level.

While welcoming the new students, he said they have the opportunity to study in Nigeria and in USA as “we have been managing to ensure that support the parents and guardians of the children.

Apart from strict entrepreneurial training,

the school, Prof. Ibe said also gives moral upbringing to the students through the establishment of different churches and mosque in the school where the students worship, while thanking parents for bringing in their children to the school, assuring “you will not regret it”.

He also disclosed that the management of the school has introduced what he called “Class Management Thinking” a system where biometric clocking captures students and lecturers class attendance in order to ensure academic seriousness, stating “the school is managing financially and is the university in the country that is not owing any bank and had also had course to reduce school fees”.

The school, he said is not finding it easy dealing with some attitudes of the students, but has ensured that through the school’s entrepreneurial studies, students would be able to help their parents in household activities, and therefore urged parents to help the school advise their students to take their studies serious as students with “third class degrees and passes have no need coming here”.

Parents, he also said can take advantage of the school’s entrepreneurial studies to equip themselves with skills to expand family income base.

Chairman, Orile Agege local council Development Area, Hon. Johnson Babatunde, who in the absence of lastman officials controls traffic at Abekoko junction Agege, Lagos...at the weekend

Dickson urges Bayelsans to resist desperate politicians

Akam James, Yenagoa

ÏÏÏGovernor Seriake Dick-

son of Bayelsa state has urged citizens of the state to resist desperate politicians who are just out to cause violence and use the youths, describing them as criminals and not leaders.

He affirmed that his administration has succeeded in laying a solid foundation for peace and development to continually thrive in the state, adding that the government is all out to flush out criminals in the state.

Dickson made the assertion on Sunday during a Thanksgiving service to kick start the 6th anniversary of the restoration administration at the King of Glory Chapel in Government

House, Yenagoa.

He noted that in spite of economic and political challenges, the administration has recorded appreciable progress in virtually all sectors of the economy.

He said in the last six years, the state government has been working tirelessly, in not only building infrastructure, but also providing quality education funding scholarships of Bayelsans and scholars drawn from Ijaw communities outside the state.

Commenting on the achievements recorded in the health sector, Governor Dickson said the health insurance scheme has recorded over a billion naira and urged those in the public sector to keep subscribing to

the programme.

He thanked the people for their support over the years and urged them to pray ceaselessly for peace and stability of the state and country, noting that all this development can’t be sustained except we have a peaceful atmosphere.

His words: “The past 6 years have been very eventful. There have been a lot of challenges, trials and temptations and also recorded a lot of victories to the glory of God.” Working together in spite of all trials, distractions, especially economic challenges, we now have the best public schools and institutions. We started universities afresh and opening up the frontiers of education which is the cornerstone of a lasting

legacy.”

In a sermon, Rev. Emmanuel Ogiemudia declared 2018, as a year of grace and prosperity upon the people of state.

Rev Ogiemudia emphasized the need for people to respect those in authority, if they must succeed in life.

Intercessory prayers were offered for the three arms of the government, the people of the state, as well as success of the activities of the anniversary programme. The Thanksgiving was attended by the state First Lady, Deputy Governor, the Speaker, Chief Judge, service commanders, Traditional Rulers, lawmakers, members of the state Executive and top government functionaries.

CAN tasks South-East Governors on herdsmen killings Charles Onyekwere Abakaliki

ÏÏÏThe

Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, South-East, have called on the Governors in the zone to take

proactive measures against rampaging activities of suspected Fulani herdsmen.

CAN in a statement issued after it elected a new chairman for the zone, in the person of Bishop Dr. Goddy Okafor.

Okafor emerged as the new

CAN chairman in the SouthEast during an election held at the Holy Ghost Catholic Cathedral, Enugu.

Okafor, who is the presiding Bishop of Peculiar Peoples Ministry, Aba, and one-time chairman of CAN, Abia State,

replaced Bishop David Eberechukwu, who died late last year.

The new CAN chairman said in the statement that the activities of the Fulani herdsmen across the country was a serious area of concern for the Church.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

MRS UNDENSI NKECHI EMMANUELLA

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS AKUMONYE NKECHI EMMANUELLA now wish to be known and addressed as MRS UNDENSI NKECHI EMMANUELLA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

DIRIBE CHIDI CLARA I, formerly known and addressed as OSUORJI REBECCA CLARA now wish to be known and addressed as DIRIBE CHIDI CLARA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

MOSES BARNABAS KELECHI

I formerly known called and addressed as CHUKWUKERE BARNABAS KELECHI. Now wish to be known called and addressed as MOSES BARNABAS KELECHI. Former documents remain valid.

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CHUKWUNYELU FAVOUR AMAKA

I formerly known called and addressed as EDITH IGBOKE NOMEH. Now wish to be known called and addressed as IGWE EDITH IGBOKE. Former documents remain valid. General public take note.

ILUGBAMI TITILAYO DORCAS

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I, formerly known and addressed as ADENOLA TITILAYO DORCAS now wish to be known and addressed as ILUGBAMI TITILAYO DORCAS. All former documents remain valid. general public should please take note.

IJOMAH CHINYERE ROSE

ALONGE ABIODUN AYODELE

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AZUBUIKE DANIEL CHIKA

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MRS JANE-FRANCES CHINENYENWA OZIOMA

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EKWELEM EBERE JOSEPH

UDUAKOBONG HARRY ETUKUDO

MR ANIETIE MKPANDIOK ABEL

I formerly known and addressed as Uduak Harry Etukudo, uduak John Bassey and Uduakobong Eventus Edem. Hencefoth, wish to be known as Uduakobong Harry Etukudo. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as Williams Wilson Abia, now wish to be known as Mr Anietie Mkpandiok Abel. All former documents remain valid.

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MRS FLORENCE EZINWANYI FRIDAY

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DANIEL SUNDAY OJOCHEGBE

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ADEOLA FATIMOH OPEYEMI

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ABIODUN FELIX AKINTOLA

MRS ADESHOLA OLASUNMBO

HARUNA FAISAL GAIYADU

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I formerly known and addressed as EKEOBA FLORENCE TAIWO now wish to be known and addressed as EKEOBA FLORENCE ODION. All former documents remain valid.

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AGE DECLARATION I, MARCUS UGOCHUKWU, wish to correct my date of birth which was wrongly written as, 6th June, 1972, instead of, 6th June, 1976, in my BVN details. My correct date of birth is, 6th June, 1976 not 6th June, 1972. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

MRS. OBIKA JACINTA IJEOMA

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I formerly known and addressed as FATIMOT AMOPE ADEOLA now wish to be known and addressed as ADEOLA FATIMOH OPEYEMI. I was born on 07/05/1973 not 01/01/1974.

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OLAOYE OBAYOMI EMMANUEL

(Trustees)

I, formerly known and addressed as OKPECHUKWU EBERE JOSEPH, now wish to be known and addressed as EKWELEM EBERE JOSEPH. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

CORRECTION OF NAME In some of my documents including my BVN my name was wrongly written as ANTHONY-OKO ABIGAIL instead of ANTHONY ABIGAIL OKO. I was born on 10/01/1995 not10/01/1994. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

EKEOBA FLORENCE ODION

Change of names 21

NWAIRO CHIDINMA CATHERINE

KALU EME OJI I, formerly known and addressed as OLUGU KALU ORIEKE now wish to be known and addressed as KALU EME OJI. All former documents remain valid. BVN operators, Keystone Bank, operators of National Identity Card, NIMC and the general public should please take note.

SALAKO OLASUNKANMI EBENEZER

MRS NWAKOLAM KELECHI JULIET I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS ELEAKA KELECHI JULIET NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS NWAKOLAM KELECHI JULIET. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE. CORRECTION OF NAME

IKWUKAEME FELIX JESSICA CHIZOBA I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS DIJI JESSICA CHIZOBA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS IKWUKAEME FELIX JESSICA CHIZOBA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE. MRS BONAVENTURE RITA OLUOMACHI

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I, formerly known and addressed as MISS LINUS RITA OLUOMACHI now wish to be known and addressed as MRS BONAVENTURE RITA OLUOMACHI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

MRS PETERS LOVETT I formerly Known and Addressed as AKPORAVWARE LOVETT now wish to be known, called and addressed as MRS PETERS LOVETT. All Documents and Certificates bearing my former names remain valid. Banks, Nigeria Immigration Service, Relevant Authorities and the General public Please take note.

I formerly known called and addressed as CHUKWUKERE CHIWENWA GRACE. Now wish to be known called and addressed as MOSES CHIWENWA GRACE. Former documents remain valid. General public take note.

MRS TAIWO TEMITOPE

CHUKWU HAPPINESS. O

MOSES CHIWENWA GRACE

Formerly known and addressed as SALAKO SUNKANMI now wish to be known and addressed as SALAKO OLASUNKANMI EBENEZER all former documents remain valid general public should pleace take note

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I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OKPARA HAPPINESS. O.,NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS CHUKWU HAPPINESS. O.ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID.GENERAL PUBLIC,FIRST BANK,UNLG,PLS TAKE NOTE

CHINENYE SANDRA UCHE

OMEKUDO CHINEDU GRACE

LEVI JOY UWABUNKEONYE

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AYINDE SALIU OWOLARAFE

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IKECHUKWU LEONARD NWAFOR

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DR. (MRS) OLUKEMI ABEO OYEGBILE

Formerly known and addressed as Omekudo Chinedu Cynthia now wish to be known and addressed as Omekudo Chinedu Grace. all former documents remain valid, general public should please note.

MADU SUCCESS KELECHI

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MRS AFANGIDE EMEM NDIFREKE

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UMORU ABUBAKAR

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MICHEAL BENEADITH I formerly known and addressed as Ogechi Onuoha, now wish to be known and addressed as Micheal Beneadith. All former document remains valid. The general public take note.

RIDWAN ANUOLUWAPO BELLO

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IMAEKHA JOSHUA ANSELEM

I formerly known and addressed as OLAOYE AHMED ABAYOMI now wish to be known and addressed as OLAOYE OBAYOMI EMMANUEL. All former documents remain valid.

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I formerly known and addressed as OKORIE CHIDINMA CATHERINE now wish to be known and addressed as NWAIRO CHIDINMA CATHERINE. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as DR. (MISS) OLUKEMI SILIFAT ABEO KAREEM now wish to be known and addressed as DR. (MRS) OLUKEMI ABEO OYEGBILE. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as ABUBAKAR HASSAN UMORU now wish to be known and addressed as UMORU ABUBAKAR. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

FAMOUS CHRIS CHINATU UZOMA

KELECHI RITA EBELE

I, formerly known and addressed as, CHRISTIAN CHINATU IHEKWUOABA, FAMOUS CHRIS CHINATU IHEKWUOABA and FAMOUS CHRIS CHINATU EWUZIE, now wish to be known and addressed as, FAMOUS CHRIS CHINATU UZOMA. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, NWANKWO RITA EBELE, now wish to be known and addressed as, KELECHI RITA EBELE. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

CHUKWUBUNNA ADANNA CATHERINE I FORMERLY KNOWN, CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS OBILO ADANNA CATHERINE, THAT NOW BY VIRTUE OF MARRIAGE I WANT TO BE KNOWN, CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS CHUKWUBUNNA ADANNA CATHERINE. THAT ALL MY DOCUMENTS BEARING THE ABOVE MENTIONED NAMES REMAIN VALID AND FOR GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

UCHE FRIDAY OBI I formerly known and addressed as UCHE HYGINUS PROMISE and HYGINUS UCHE PRINCE now wish to be known and addressed as UCHE FRIDAY OBI. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

VENITOR OGBAJE I formerly known and addressed as Ugbaje Benitor Offor and Ugbaje Benito Victor, now wish to be known and addressed as Venitor Ogbaje . All former document remain valid. General public should please take note.

IGWE JOY NJUM

AKONYE IFARADA ABOSEDE

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I formerly known and addressed as AKONYE ENDURANCE ABOSEDE , now wish to be known and addressed as AKONYE IFARADA ABOSEDE. All former document remain valid. General public should please take note

BANKOLE ABIOLA BAMIDELE

OGBONNA STANLEY CHINEDU

I formerly known and addressed as OJO ABIOLA BAMIDELE,now wish to be known and addressed as BANKOLE ABIOLA BAMIDELE. Due to Marriage. All former document remain valid. General public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as OGBONNA CHINEDU SARAQUEOUS CHRISTOGONUS, now wish to be known and addressed as OGBONNA STANLEY CHINEDU. All former document remain valid. General public should please take note.

ALICE

ANIEKAN

ETIM

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I formerly known and addressed as BELLO PETER now wish to be known and addressed as IMAEKHA JOSHUA ANSELEM. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

CHUKWUJEKWU ANTHONIA NWADIOGO

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22 Change of Names ISHOLA RAPHEAL ATANDA .A.

AKAYOR ALBERT OMAGHOMI

I formerly known and addressed asISHOLA RAFIU ATANDA Now ISHOLA RAPHEAL ATANDA .A. Former document remains valid.

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I formerly known and addressed as KAKAYOROKOROGHEYE ALBERT OMAGHOMI now KAKAYOR ALBERT OMAGHOMI. Former document remains valid. General public should take note.

MRS. SHODE MODUPE KAFILAT

OGUNSEYE ISLAMIAT TEMITAYO

Formerly known as Mrs Shode-Beninigton Modupe Kafilat now to be addressed as Mrs. Shode Modupe Kafilat. Former document remains valid. General public should take note.

I formerly known and addressed as Adeseun Islamiat Temitayo. Now Ogunseye Islamiat Temitayo. Former document remains valid. General public should take note.

KAREEM ABIBAT ABOSEDE

YANGA DABANG LEADER

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

MAYOWA BOSE OLAJIDE

I formerly known and addressed as Emmanuel Chinonye Umeagu now wish to be known and addressed as Emmanuel Umeagu. All former document remain valid. General public take note

OLANIPEKUN OLAJUMOKE ABIMBOLA I formerly known and addressed as Omolawon Olajumoke Abimbola. Now Olanipekun Olajumoke Abimbola. Former document remains valid. General public should take note.

OLATUNBOSUN MODUPE ADEBOLA

WEMIMO OLAYINKA FOLORUNSHO

DEBORAH ETETE OBUROH

I, formerly known and addressed as DEBORAH ORITSEMAJEMITE ETETE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as DEBORAH ETETE OBUROH. All documents bearing my former names remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as ANYAENE CHARITY CHIOMA now wish to be known called and addressed as OBI CHARITY CHIOMA. All former documents remain valid.

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PAMELA OLOHI NTUL I formerly known and addressed as PAMELA OLOHI AKHIGBE now wish to be known and addressed as PAMELA OLOHI NTUL. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note

MISS UGOAMADI IFEYINWA EMMANUELLA I formerly known and addressed as MRS OLORI IFEYINWA EMMANUELLA now wish to be known and addressed as MISS UGOAMADI IFEYINWA EMMANUELLA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note

OLUJEHOVA OGOCHUKWU MARK

MRS ONUKAFOR CHIDINMA FAVOUR

OBI CHARITY CHIOMA

I formerly known and addressed as UBESIE OGOCHUKWU UZONDU. Now wish to be known and addressed as OLUJEHOVA OGOCHUKWU MARK. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

ONYERERI CHINWE NKASI

I formerly known and addressed as ONYERERI CHINWE NGOZI now wish to be known and addressed as ONYERERI CHINWE NKASI. All former documents remain valid. Banks and General public should please take note.

CHIDI FESTUS ONYEBE I, formerly known and addressed as VICTOR CHINEDU ONYEBE, Now wish to be known and addressed as CHIDI FESTUS ONYEBE and correct date of birth is 12/3/1975.

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MRS AMANKWAH CHINWE OBIANUJU

I formerly known and addressed as Asogwa Chidinma Favour now wish to be known called and addressed as Mrs Onukafor Chidinma Favour. All former documents remain valid.

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STELLA OLUWASEYI JOHNSON

I, formerly known and addressed as STELLA IYABO SOLOMON, Now wish to be known and addressed as STELLA OLUWASEYI JOHNSON. All former documents remain valid. General public/authorities concerned should take note.

MRS QUEEN OGECHUKWU NWODOGWU

I formerly known and addressed as MISS EWENIGHI CHINWENDU OBIANUJU and MISS EWENIGHI CHINWE OBIANUJU now wish to be known and addressed as MRS AMANKWAH CHINWE OBIANUJU. All former documents remain valid.

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I formerly known and addressed as MISS QUEENDALINE OGECHUJKWU OKOLOCHA now wish to be known and addressed as MRS QUEEN OGECHUKWU NWODOGWU. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

MRS GODWIN-NDEM UGOCHINYERE

MRS JANEFRANCES EZINNE NNOLI

I formerly known and addressed as MISS NDEM UGO UDU now wish to be known and addressed as MRS GODWIN-NDEM UGOCHINYERE. All former documents remain valid.

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MRS IDOWU OLUFUNKE DEBORAH

Formerly known and addressed as Miss AMOSU OLUFUNKE MONSURAT now wish to be known and address as Mrs IDOWU OLUFUNKE DEBORAH. All former documents remain valid,general public please note.

MRS JANET EMMANUEL EFFIONG MENDIE I, formerly known and addressed as Miss JANET EDET SAM. now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs JANET EMMANUEL EFFIONG MENDIE. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

MRS GIGINA CHIDIMMA MARYANN

I formerly known and addressed as MISS NNAIKE CHIDIMMA MARYANN now wish to be known and addressed as MRS GIGINA CHIDIMMA MARYANN. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

ADDITION OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed as MR SUNNY REUBENSON, Now wish to be known and addressed as MR SUNNY IKECHUKWU REUBENSON. All former documents remain valid.

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EDEH EMMANUEL I formerly known and addressed as EDEH EMMANUEL HENRY now wish to be known and addressed as EDEH EMMANUEL. All former documents remain valid.

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IDENYI OKPALA DONATUS SUNDAY

I formerly known and addressed as MISS JANEFRANCES EZINNE OPARA now wish to be known and addressed as MRS JANEFRANCES EZINNE NNOLI. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as SUNDAY IDENYI OKPALA now wish to be known and addressed as IDENYI OKPALA DONATUS SUNDAY. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

AHMED MAHMUD

MRS ODEWUNMI OMOLARA HOPE

Formerly known and addressed as MOHAMMED B. MOHAMMED now wish to be known and address as AHMED MAHMUD. All former documents remain valid,general public please note.

EMMANUEL UMEAGU

I formerly known and addressed as Okorie Chidinma Catherine now wish to be known and addressed as Nwairo Chidinma Catherine. All former document remain valid. General public take note

I, formerly known and addressed as JAGORA YANGA DABANG, now wish to be known, called and addressed as YANGA DABANG LEADER. All documents bearing my former names remain valid.

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Formerly known and addressed as AMUSA ABIBAT ABOSEDE, now wish to be known and addressed as KAREEM ABIBAT ABOSEDE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

NWAIRO CHIDINMA CATHERINE

I, formerly known, called and addressed as MAYOWA OLAREWAJU MISS-MAY now wish to be known, called and addressed as MAYOWA BOSE OLAJIDE. Former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities concerned take note.

I formerly called Miss Ogunmuyiwa Omolara Hope now wish henceforth to be addressed as Mrs Odewunmi Omolara Hope.

All former document still remain valid,general public please do take note

I formerly known and addressed as Bishopton Modupe Adebola. Now Olatunbosun Modupe Adebola. Former document remains valid.

General public should take note

I formerly known and addressed as FESTUS OLAYINKA WEMIMO now WEMIMO OLAYINKA FOLORUNSHO . Former document remains valid.

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JOEL ONYERIBE EZE I, formerly known and addressed as ONYERIBE CHIDI JOEL, now wish to be known, called and addressed as JOEL ONYERIBE EZE. All documents bearing my former names remain valid. General public should please take note.

MR. EZE EZEKIEL UCHENNA

AKINMOLAYAN MOSEBOLATAN FELICIA

I formerly known and addressed as AGBEYO MOSEBOLATAN FELICIA now wish to be known and addressed as AKINMOLAYAN MOSEBOLATAN FELICIA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note MRS IPINLAYE OLUWATOBI REBECCA

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Akinade Oluwatobi Rebecca now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Ipinlaye Oluwatobi Rebecca. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

ADDITION OF NAME I formerly known and addressed as Jimoh Williams Sherifat now wish to be known and addressed as Jimoh Williams Sherifat Arike. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

UYANWANNE UZORCHUKWU KELVIN

I formerly known and addressed as UYANWANNE UZORCHUKWU SATURDAY Now UYANWANNE UZORCHUKWU KELVIN. Former document remains valid. General public should take note.

OYEBIMPE YETUNDE KOFOWOROLA

I, formerly known and addressed as MR. BENJAMIN EZEKIEL UCHENNA, now wish to be known and addressed as MR. EZE EZEKIEL UCHENNA. All former documents bearing my name remain valid. General public and authorities concerned should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as YETUNDE OYEBIMPE, now wish to be known and addressed as OYEBIMPE YETUNDE KOFOWOROLA. All former documents bearing my name remain valid. General public and authorities concerned please take note.

OTENE OLUFISAYO BUSOLA

ASESHO MARY OMOWUNMI

I formerly known and addressed as AOFOLAJU OLUFISAYO BUSOLA now wish to be known and addressed as OTENE OLUFISAYO BUSOLA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note LAYIWOLA MUSA AFOLABI

I formerly known and addressed as Musa Olayiwola now wish to be known called and addressed as Olayiwola Musa Afolabi.

All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as AKINBEBIJE MARY OMOWUNMI, now wish to be known and addressed as ASESHO MARY OMOWUNMI. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

This is to confirm and certify that OBIANOR CHRISTIAN and OBIANOR CHRISTIAN MALIZECHUKWU is one and same person but now wish to be known as OBIANOR CHRISTIAN MALIZECHUKWU. General public take note.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

CHRIST OUTREACH INT’L

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

TRUSTEES (1)REV.YAKUBU J.NAMASO (2).REV.MUSA UMARU (3)REV.MATHEW MAGAJI (4)REV.AYUBA NYAKEL (5)REV.BALA CHARAKE. AIM AND OBJECTIVE TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED :SECRETARY

ZEAL OF THE LORD CHRISTIAN CENTRE THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

TRUSTEES: 1. ANGUS MCANGUS 2. DR. AUGUSTA MCANGUS 3. LEKWA OMEAKU 4. NWACHUKWU NNANNA ONOCHIE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1 TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST TO ALL PEOPLES AND NATIONS AND EXHORT THEM TO LIVE A LIFE OF HOLINESS, RIGHTEOUSNESS AND JUSTICE. 2. TO ORGANIZE THE COMING TOGETHER OF PEOPLE AT A PLACE OF WORSHIP TO RECEIVE INSTRUCTIONS AND TEACHINGS FROM THE HOLY BIBLE. 3. TO RAISE KINGDOM WARRIORS FOR THE PULLING DOWN OF SATANIC STRONGHOLD AND WHOLE DELIVERANCE OF SPIRITUAL CAPTIVES. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: DR. AUGUSTA MCANGUS ( SECRETARY).

ACROSS ALL INITIATIVE FOR MENTAL HEALTH AND STIGMA ERADICATION

Companies Registration 23 ZIKORA FOUNDATION

THIS IS TO NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR CHANGE AND APPOINTING OF TRUSTEES UNDER THE PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

TRUSTEES 1. DR. IKEORHA AZIKIWE CHUKWUDIOGO -CHAIRMAN 2. ZIK-IKEORHA CHIDINMA ADAEZE OJIUGO SECRETARY 3. DR. IKEORHA CHIAGOZIEM OJI ZIK TREASURER 4. IKEORHA KATELYN 5. DR. IKEORHA CHUKWUEMEKA AZIKIWE 6. MANGANDI JACQUELINE 7. IKEORHA CHUMA OBINNA 8. ENGR. IKEORHA IHUOMA PAMELA 9. IKEORHA CHUDI 10. IKEORHA MORGAN ELYSE THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. FREE MEDICAL SERVICES TO THE LESS PRIVILEGE. 2. PROMOTE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION. 3. PROVIDE FREE LEGAL SERVICES TO THE LESS PRIVILEGE. 4. EDUCATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP TO THE LESS PRIVILEGE. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION MAITAMA ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED :SECRETARY

HIS GLORY FIRE DELIVERANCE AND HEALING MINISTRY INTERNATIONAL

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

SIGNED : OLUSOLA BUKOLA. 08034923860

THE EXCELLENT WOMAN OF TWON BRASS KINGDOM ASSOCIATION

TRUSTEES: 1. TREASURE UCHEGBU 2. ONYEDIKACHI EKWERIKE 3. DEJI RAZAQ 4. AJIDE ALEX OLAJIDE 5. OLUWASEUN DOSUNMU - CHAIRMAN 6. OLAMIDE AMAO - SECRETARY

THE TRUSTEES ARE 1. HRM ( BARR ) JOSEPHINE DIETE-SPIFF JP. CHAIRMAN 2. MRS. MILDRED FRANCIS EGELE SECRETARY 4. DR. GEORGIANA KIENTE NGERI NWAGHA OON

SIGNED: THE CHAIRMAN

GREATER TOMMORROW FOUNDATION (GTF) THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

TRUSTEES ADEBOLA MACPRINCE PROF. ABAYOMI FASINA ENGR. AKIN OLATERU ELIJAH MACPRINCE ADERIBIGBE ABIODUN AIMS AND OBJECTIVES (1) TO FACILITATE HELP FOR THE LESS PRIVILEGE. (2) TO PROVIDE GUIDANCE AND MENTOR-SHIP TO TEENAGERS, YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS IN THE SOCIETY (3) TO PROMOTE EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND RIGHT VALUES. (4) TO TRANSFORM PEOPLE’S MIND POSITIVELY THROUGH SEMINARS, CONFERENCES AND TRAINING. (5)TO ADVOCATE ON EDUCATION, CHILD ABUSE AND OTHER CHILDREN’S RIGHT. ANY OBJECTION TO THE ABOVE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIR COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT OFF AGUIYI STREET, MAITAMA P.M.B 198, ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

ONELOVE MINISTRY

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CHURCH HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PLACID ESTHER (PRESIDENT) 2. BASSEY GABRIEL CELESTINE (SECRETARY) 3. OKERE VINCENT OBINNA (TREASURER)

AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. TO FOSTER UNITY AND PROGRESS AMONG MEMBERS ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED:- BARR GIBSON

HELEFRANCE NWACHUKWU FOUNDATION

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA, FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

TRUSTEES: 1. CHIDINMA NDUKWE - PRESIDENT 2. EMMANUEL NDUKWE - SECRETARY 3. IKECHUKWU NWACHUKWU - TREASURER AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO ASSIST AND EDUCATE THE LESS PRIVILEGE CHILDREN ON OUR SOCIETY. 2. TO PROVIDE NECESSARY ASSISTANCE TO WIDOWS AND ORPHANS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED:CHIDINMA NDUKWE (PRESIDENT)

THRONE OF HIS GRACE GLORIOUS MINISTRY WORLDWIDE THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CHURCH HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. AGU THANKGOD IKECHUKWU (PRESIDENT) 2. AGU JULIET OLUCHI (SECRETARY) 3. GODWIN ESHAREIVE

AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST WORLDWIDE.

AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST WORLDWIDE.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

SIGNED: PRESIDENT

CHRIST LABOURERS OUTREACH INT’L .

AIM AND OBJECTIVE: TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘’C’’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1999.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

SIGNED :SECRETARY

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

TRUSTEES: (1)PST.IBRAHIM NURA (2)PST.JOSEPH DAZI (3)REV.YOHANNA YAKUBU (4)PST.JOSHUA INE. (5)PST ADAMU MUHAMMADU AIM AND OBJECTIVE TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

TRUSTEES: 1. OFIEAFATE AYIBATEKI NEGIMOTE. 2. DUAYO-OCKIYA TEKENA DAVID 3. DAMBO INIKUROGHA 4. OFIEAFATE ULOMA PATIENCE

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘’C’’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1999.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO EDUCATE THE PUBLIC ON CAUSES OF MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS. 2. TO ENLIGHTEN NIGERIANS ON STIGMA AND THE NEED TO ERADICATE STIGMA.

POWER OF LOVE PENTECOSTAL CHURCH

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

TRUSTEES 1- PROPHET OMONIYI TIMOTHY 2- PASTOR SAMUEL AJAYI 3- ELDER YAYA JUSTIN THOMAS AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1- TO EMBARK ON EVANGELISTIC MISSIONS AND PROGRAMMES THROUGHOUT NIGERIA AND IN ANY PART OF THE WORLD WITH A VIEW TO WINNING SOULS FOR THE LORD JESUS CHRIST AND PREPARING MEN FOR HIS SECOND COMING. 2- TO PROMOTE AND PROPAGATE OR CAUSE THE SAME TO BE DONE, THE GROWTH OF CHRISTIANITY AND CHRISTIANS AND TO COOPERATE WITH ANYBODY OR BODIES WHOSE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE IDENTICAL AND COMPLIMENTARY WITH THOSE OF THE CHURCH.

SIGNED: PRESIDENT

SIGNED :SECRETARY

HOLY GHOST DELIVERANCE AND MIRACLES MINISTRY THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

TRUSTEES: 1. PASTOR PETER TOKULA - GENERAL OVERSEER 2. EVANGELIST FAVOUR PETER 3. MERCY PETER 4. MIRACLE PETER 5. MR. TONY AGOGOZIA 6. MR. JOSEPH IGBA 7. MR. AUGUSTINE STANLEY ADENIYI 8 MR. STEPHEN IBRAHIM. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO WIN SOULS FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD. 2. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL THROUGH EVERY SCRIPTURAL MEANS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: KINGSLEY O. ONOJAKPOR ESQ.

GOLDEN HANDS CARE INITIATIVE

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘’C’’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1999 THE TRUSTEES ARE 1.CHARLES E. MANAH -PRESIDENT 2. PATIENCE I. AGBONIFO - SECRETARY 3. OKWOLI SUNNY FARUNA -MEMBER AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO ENHANCE ACCESSIBILITY TO QUALITY HEALTH SERVICES BY RURAL FAMILIES 2. TO PROVIDE HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE SERVICES TO THE AGED, WOMEN AND CHILDREN ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED:- SECRETARY

THE ROYALS PINNACLE OF PRAISE INT’L MINISTRY THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CHURCH HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE 1. MIRIAM UMOH - CHAIRMAN 2. UMOH GODSON EZEKIEL 3. SAMPSON JOY AUGUSTINE 4. UDEME PATIENCE OFONIME 5. OKOH JOSEPH UDUAK 6. OGUNKA EJIKEMME AIM AND OBJECTIVE: TO PREACH THE WORD OF GOD ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: CHAIRMAN

24 Companies Registration

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Senator Shagaya dies in auto crash

ÏÏÏFormer

Minister of Internal Affairs, Senator John Shagaya, on Sunday died in a road accident along Langtang-Pankshin road in Plateau, Mr Dan Dandur, former Chairman, Langtang North Local Government, has confirmed. “Shagaya died in a road crash today; we are right now with the corpse at the Air Force Military Hospital, Jos,” Dandur told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), in a telephone interview.

Dandur said that the 75-year-old retired army general was on his way to Jos from his village in Langtang, when the accident occurred at Amper in Kanke Local Government of the State.

“Shagaya was travelling along with his driver and orderly when the accident occurred, but the

two survived with serious injuries and are receiving treatment at the hospital,” he said.

Dandur described Shagaya’s death as “shocking and unbelievable”.

“His death is too sudden.

I just can’t believe that he has left us,” Dandur, who holds the traditional title of “Baraya Langtang”, told NAN. Born in Langtang North, on Sept. 2, 1942, Shagaya served as minister of internal affairs under military President Ibrahim Babangida, and represented Plateau South in the Senate from 2007-2011.

Until his demise, he was a chieftain of the APC in Plateau State.

Shagaya, who attended Junior Primary School at Nyer and Sudan United Mission (S.U.M) Primary School, Langtang between

CALVARY GRACE HOUSE OF ABUNDANCE The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Acts, Decree No. 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE; 1. GIRAH AKEIPERE - PRESIDENT. 2. DICKSON DIBALAKUMO - SECRETARY. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES; 1. To preach the word of God. 2. To win souls for Christ.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission Plot 420 Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi street Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED; TRUSTEES. CHAPEL OF FAVOURED AMBASSADORS The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. REV. MRS. SMAKA TINA NWOKE - PRESIDENT 2. NWOKE HOPE KELECHI - SECRETARY AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO PREACH THE WORD OF GOD Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registration-General Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: PRESIDENT THE LORD’S COVENANT SIGNS AND POWER SANCTUARY This is to inform the General public that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja, for registration under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

TRUSTEES 1.Rev.Dr ABIODUN OKOJI. (2)NAMDI TUNDE OKOJI. (3)OGUGUA REMILEKUN OKOJI, (4).IJENU YETUNDE OKOJI. (5).OMOH RASHIDAT ODUNFA. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES (1)Hearing and greatness,(2)Inspiring words of his power Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama District, Abuja within 28 daysfrom the date of this publication Signed: Secretary

1952 and 1959, later went to the Nigeria Military School (N.M.S) Zaria in 1960-1964.

After graduation from the Nigeria Military School, Zaria, Shagaya was posted to the Nigerian Army Corps before attending the first short service Combatant Commission Course at Nigeria Defence Academy (N.D.A)

Kaduna, in 1967.

He was posted to 3 Marine Command upon commission, where he participated in the Nigeria Civil War from 1967-1970.

Shagaya became the first Field Commander to chair the Conference of the Joint Chief of Staff of the enlarged ECOMOG having commanded the 1st Mechanised Division

TABERNACLE OF RICHES OF GRACE ASSEMBLY The general public is hereby notified that the above named Assembly has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Acts, Decree No. 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE. 1. Mr. Ofonmbuk Godwin Esua - Chairman.

2. Mr. Freedom Ofonmbuk Godwin - Secretary.

3. Mrs. Uduak Ofonmbuk Godwin.

4. Mr. Ini Edet Jones.

5. Mr. Effiong Sunday Anwanakak.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES. 1. To preach the Gospel of Christ to all manner of people.

2. To provide charity to the needies.

3. To establish Bible institutions to aid spread the knowledge of Christ.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission Plot 420 Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi street Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED; UDEME UMANAH ESQ. SOLICITOR. UMUADA OHUHU HURU UZO ASSOCIATION The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. MRS. AZURU BLESSING 2. NWAZUO NNENNA 3. AMARIKWA CHIAWOLAM CHERRY 4. EKESON ELIZABETH OLUCHI 5. NWAEZE NWAKAEGO CAROLINE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO FOSTER UNITY AMONG OHUHU DAUGHTERS 2. TO ASSIST IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF OHUHU COMMUNITY Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registration-General Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: PRESIDENT

IROHES PREMIUM HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION The general public is hereby notified that the above named foundation has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990 in respect of the following persons being trustees of the foundation.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 6. MR IDOWU GOWON 1. MR. LOOKMAN OSHODI 7. PROFESSOR CHRISTA EINSPIELER 2. DR ADEYANJU OYETOYAN 8. MRS CHRISTIANA ADEYEMI 3. DR BUNMI OMOSEYINDEMI 9. MR BANWO AIYEOSETEMINIKAN 4. MR FELIX MORKA 10. MRS MUNI SHONIBARE 5. DR VINCENT DA SILVA THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To provide primary health care for the local community of Makoko/Iwaya area of Lagos .

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, PMB 198, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days from the day of this publication.

in the Nigerian Army including a Platoon, Company, Battalion and Brigade.

In addition to being an active politician, Shagaya was Director of the defunct Lion Bank (Nig) Plc from 1998-2003, and is the author of a book: “The Tarok History”, after publishing two other books – “Governance in Nigeria:

The IBB ERA, an Insider’s View” and ”The Ministry of Internal Affairs, an Overview”.

RAJI GANIYU OPEYEMI

I formerly known and addressed as ABDULGANIYU OPEYEMI RAJI, now wish to be known and addressed as RAJI GANIYU OPEYEMI,all former document remain valid general public take note.

GLORY INITIATIVE FOR WOMEN EMPOWERMENT This is to inform the general public that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Acts of 1990.

Trustees are : (1) Taiwo Sunday olalekan (2) Oni Ademola Gbolagade (3) Taiwo Olayinka Alaba Aims: To support and care for the welfare of women in the society.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi street, Maitaima, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: TRUSTEES CHRIST RESCUE FAMILY CHURCH The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Acts, Decree No. 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE; 1. Pastor Uti Rita - President.

2. Rev. Chukwuekweli Benedict - Secretary.

3. Mrs. Richard Martha - Treasurer AIMS AND OBJECTIVES; 1. Restoring man/woman to their original position of freedom and dominion through the doing and teaching of the word of faith.

2. To impact and instilled a new social order through a compassionate transformation and exemplary leadership that is based on the application of the principles of the word of God. 3. Establishing and supporting local and international missionary works.

4. To rescue men and women from satanic bondage.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission Plot 420 Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi street Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED; Rev. Chukwuekweli Benedict (Secretary)

HERALD OF VICTORY GLOBAL OUTREACH This is to inform the general public that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Acts of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1) REVD. OLAWUYI OLU - PRESIDENT 2) AREMU TIMOTHY AKINTOLA - SECRETARY 3) OLAWUYI OLUWAKEMI ADEWUMI 4) DR (MRS) OYEYODE ADEBIMPE YETUNDE AIM AND OBJECTIVE : TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST THROUGHOUT THE WORLD Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission Plot 420 Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi street Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED SECRETARY

SIGNED: TRUSTEES

IJEBU INNER CIRCLE CLUB OF SANGO OTA The general public is hereby informed that the above club has applied to corporate affairs commission for registration under part ‘C’ of the companies and allied matters act, Degree No.1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: (1). ALHAJI SHEU SALAM (2). ONAFEKO ABIODUN FATAI (3). MR ADEBAJO WAKEEL KABIR Aims/Objectives To promote peace and love among our peopjection to the registration should be forwarded to the registrar -general corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris cresent, off aguiyi ironsi street, maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed Secretary.

PUBLIC NOTICE

That the Land and building situated at No. 2C, Rafatu Close, Balogun, Iju-Ishaga, Lagos State with the following ordinates: GZ 7182, GZ 7166, GZ 7169, GZ 7181 and with Area of 478.905 Sq. Meters are not for Sale.

That the Original Survey Plan and Receipts of Purchase are missing and all efforts to trace same proved abortive.

That the correct address is 2C, Rafatu Close, Balogun, IjuIshaga.

That the said property is registered under the Lagos State Land Use Tenament Rate with Land Use Charge No. 30127989 bearing MR. & MRS. ADENRELE JACOB EBO with payment I.D No. 859696. That the General public is hereby notified and warned that the above stated properties are not for sale.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

25

News 26

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Professor Johnbull treats concept of slay queens in society ÏÏÏ

Professor Johnbull, popular television situation comedy sponsored by Globacom, this week descends hard on the concept of slay queens, a nomenclature for young ladies who hinge their social acceptability on falsehood and vain glory.

Entitled Pepper Dem Gang, the episode is both hilarious and educating as its lead character, Professor Johnbull interpreted by Nollywood legend, Kanayo O. Kanayo (KOK), does a critique of the concept of slay queens, wondering why some ladies celebrate their birthdays more than once in a year; dress-to-kill though bereft of the reality of the image they project and why slay queens embrace appellations different from their original names.

Veteran TV drama

character, Zebrudayah (Chief Chika Okpala) makes a cameo appearance in the episode while Ese Eriata, former fake housemate of the reality TV show, Big Brother Naija, acts the biggest slay queen in the episode who is up in arms against the drama series’ constant slay queen, Jumoke (Bidemi Kosoko). Flash (Stephen Odimgbe) is called upon to defend Jumoke as Ese deploys unusual swags in the bid to trade tackles with her.

Lovers of the series will also find out if the concept of slay queen is indicative of the Nigerian culture or not, whether the intelligence quotient of the slay queens tally with their fake public image as they also discover the remote and immediate meanings of slay queens.

Bayelsa to unveil New Yenagoa City Chris Eze, Yenagoa

ÏÏÏBayelsa

Governor, Hon. Henry Seriake Dickson on Sunday said his administration would commence the construction of a New Yenagoa City between March and April, 2018.

The Governor who disclosed this at the interdenominational thanksgiving service at the King of Glory Chapel, Government House, Yenagoa to kick start activities for his sixth anniversary in office, said the ceremony would attract the leadership of the country and other eminent dignitaries to witness the epoch making event.

“In one or two months, we will assemble the best in our country and I have received assurances that the leadership of our country will be here because here we are talking development.

“They all know that Bayelsa is for development, stability and security, not for politics.

They will be here and we will unveil the most ambitious development any state has ever undertaken, that is the New Yenagoa City Development.

“I want to assure you, our dear people that with the foundation God have helped us to lay, the future of our dear state is bright and it

can only get better”, the Governor said.

According to the governor, the state is also working to create an Industrial Estate, Industrial Park and a Power hub in order to transform the state into a Manufacturing, Energy and Tourism hub. “We want Bayelsa to be the Dubai and the Florida that everybody will be coming to”, he stressed.

Governor Dickson also highlighted other areas his administration has left footprints in the last six years, like in education and health sectors. He said former President Obasanjo would be in the state to commission some landmark projects in health sector such as the Diagnostic Centre, Specialist Hospital, and the Drug Mart as well as unveil the state’s public health insurance system.

He said despite daunting challenges, the state now has the best public schools and public institutions.

“Working together, in spite of all trials, in spite of all distractions; in spite of all challenges, economic especially, we now have the best public schools, best public institutions in the state.

“Starting universities afresh and opening up the frontiers of education which is the cornerstone of any lasting empowerment”, he added.

L-R: Amb. Babagana Kingibe; Son of the deceased / Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai; Presidential delegation led by the Chief of Staff Mallam Abba Kyari and others, during the 3- day prayers for the late father of Buratai in Maiduguri, Borno State...on Sunday.

I’m better fit for APC winning strategy than Oni, Fayemi , says Ex-Senator Arise Ï ƍƄƄ ƑƆƎ R Ɔ Ƃ Ƈ Ǝ ƎƄ Ƌ ƉƆƃƄ

By Gbenga Sodeinde, Ado Ekiti

ÏÏÏ

Former Senator representing Ekiti North Senatorial District, Mr. Ayo Arise, Sunday insisted that people like him should be considered for the ticket if his party, the All Progressives Congress wants to win the Governorship election in E Arise who said he stands a better chance to win the 2018 governorship poll for the APC in the state than former governors Segun Oni and Kayode Fayemi insisted that his party should see reasons for he should

be preferred.

Arise said the two former governors have contributed to thedevelopment of the state and that time has come for a fresh blood to be allowed to rule the state, saying “going by the mood in town, the people prefer a new person than those they have seen in the past”.

The trio off Oni, Fayemi and Arise were eyeing the state governorship seat on the platform of the APC. On the rising kidnapping and killings being allegedly perpetrated by herdsmen in the country, Arise said he agreed with Vice President Yemi

Osinbajo on the establishment of state police.

Arise spoke in Oye Ekiti, headquarters of Oye Local government on Sunday after a thanksgiving commemorating his release from kidnappers’ den held at SS, Peter and Paul Catholic Pro Cathedral Church in the town.

Arise was kidnapped last year along Lokoja –Abuja road while returning to the Federal Capital Territory after visiting Ekiti State and was held by his captors for six days.

On whether he would step down for either Oni or Fayemi, who were known to be his political al-

lies, Arise retorted that; “I am not going to step down for anybody.

He said the issue of zoning does not applicable to a homogenous state like Ekiti, saying though the south senatorial district has the right to produce the governor but such shouldn’t be realized through zoningof the governorship ticket.

“The APC knew how important the July 14 governorship election is to members. They need to apply the right strategy and they knew who is best fit to be able to defeat the PDP, and that is me.

2019: Imo group backs Ibe for governorship race

Ibe

A group of Imo professionals, Young Entrepreneurs and Professionals for good governance has thrown its weight behind

Ike Ibe to become the governor of the state in 2019.

In a release signed by Francis Ubasineke Ugorji and Anoruo Pet, president and secretary, respectively, said Ibe is the most qualified of all those jostling and will vie for the same seat.

This, they continued stemmed from the fact that Ibe is popular in the 27 local governments of the state. And this is based on the impact he has had on the lives of the indigenes through his medical outreach which has spanned over two decades.

“His intervention in ru-

ral job creation and development of entrepreneurial capacities of our teeming youths and millions of hard earned money invested in those forgotten by the society and government are some of the things that has endeared him not only to us but the larger Imo community.”

Furthermore, they said that his unlike the latter day foundations is not for politics but altruistic reasons.

Comparing him with other politicians, Ibe, they continued: “is extremely humble, bothering on the shy and devoid of the

‘winner takes it all’ and ‘kill and go’ attitude of the average Nigerian politician Ike Ibe remains a reference point to any youth who wants to join the political terrain with good intentions.

“His integrity speaks volume, while we are yet to see another close to him in commitment to the people.

For a state like Imo that has run into dire straits in recent times, we need a fresh air like Ike Ibe with radical, out of the box ideas steeped in great humility and empathy to liberate our people”.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

26

News

Lagos seals RCCG, hotel, over illegal structures Benjamin Omoike

ÏÏÏA

zonal headquarters church building of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), under construction in Ajegunle area of Lagos; a hotel, De-Golden Guest Hotel in Opebi, Ikeja and six other buildings have been reportedly sealed by officials of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LABSCA), over illegal development of structures and for breaking government seal.

Over 11 people found working on the church site, when LASBCA officials visited, were arrested and have been arraigned at the Mobile Court which sat in Ebute Meta at the weekend. The arrested workers have been remanded

in prison for their inability to perfect their bail conditions.

The operation was led by the General Manager, LASBCA, Engr.

Olalekan Shodeinde. Officials of the Lagos State Task Force were on ground to provide security and to effect arrest of culprits during the enforcement exercise on Saturday. The RCCG building, a massive three-storey structure, being developed on Old Ojo Road in Ajegunle was said to have contravened government’s seal on several occasion after it was served ‘stop work’ notice, consequently facing the penalty.

Investigations revealed that seven labourers found working on the structure were arrested and in put in a ‘Black Maria’, while about four other buildings on Old

Ojo Road were sealed for the same offence and labourers found on site were equally arrested.

An alleged illegal shopping centre in Ajeromi was also sealed.

The developer was all ready erecting the third floor illegally, without approval, when LASBCA officials came and sealed up the building.

It was gathered that the structure had been sealed several times, with the shop owners breaking government seals, while two people were arrested in the process.

An alleged illegal shopping plaza under construction at Boundary area of Ajegunle was sealed while a three-storey building and an adjoining one by the same developer in the same

compound were sealed at Chidi Street, Awodi-Ora in Ajegunle.

De-Golden Guest Hotel in Opebi area of Ikeja was also sealed as the developer converted a residential apartment to a hotel without getting government approval for the conversion.

LASBCA GM, Shodeinde, told newsmen that all properties sealed had been sealed up to four times in the past, but that their owners always broke government’s seal to continue their illegal development.

He said the RCCG had been sealed several times, but that the church removed the seal to pave way for its illegal development, likewise the other affected buildings. Many people had been ignoring LASBCA seal order, he

said, adding that this year would be different as anyone caught would be prosecuted.

“This year, we will come hard on defaulters who remove our seals. We will prosecute anybody found on site. Once a building contravenes, anybody found on it will be arrested and prosecuted.

To unseal a sealed site is a criminal offence and the penalty is N500, 000,” he said.

Shodeinde said the Mobile Court was brought along during the enforcement so that culprits would be tried immediately and punished for their offences, saying that it was no longer going to be business as usual.

I rob clubbers of their phones, purse, gold - Suspect Joy Anyim

ÏÏÏ A robbery suspect arrested

- Director – General Standard organisation of Nigeria (SON Mr Osita Aboloma (middle) flanked by Prof. John Akanya (left) and Dr. Joseph Odumodu both former DGs.

by the operatives of Rapid Response squad (RRS) of the Lagos State Police Command, has confessed that he robbed drunk club – goers of their phones, purse, gold rings and chains every early Saturday morning.

The suspect, Nathaniel Peters, 28, was arrested in Abule Egba early Saturday morning during a search for a suspected robber, who stabbed a lady after dispossessing her of her mobile phone.

Peters, who was returning from a popular night club in Ikeja around 5:00 a.m. where he had gone to operate, was seen running away while police were searching for a robbery suspect.

The Rapid Response Squad officers, who are stationed near Abule Egba Roundabout, heard the scream of a lady shouting

for help at around 5: 20 a.m. early Saturday morning.

When Peter was arrested, found on him were stolen laptop, three mobile phones, two wrist watches. The lady who was stabbed and robbed confirmed it wasn’t Peter that robbed her.

On further interrogation, Peter disclosed that he was coming from a night – club somewhere around Ikeja where he had dispossessed clubbers of their laptop, phones and wrist watches.

He added that he had been visiting night clubs particularly those in Ikeja to break into parked vehicles and rob sleeping and drunk clubbers of their valuable.

He said, “I have been in this business since 2016. My friend, Sheriff introduced me to it. We were both butchers at the Agege Abattoir. At a point, he ran into him after absconding with his boss’s N170, 000:00.

Int’l Day for women, girls in Science: Obaseki lauds women for breaking new grounds ÏÏÏGovernor of Edo State, Mr.

Godwin Obaseki, has celebrated the innovative spirit of women researchers who have broken new grounds in science and technology, commending them for braving the many cultural hurdles to stamp their names in history.

Governor Obaseki said this on the occasion of the commemoration of the 2018 International Day for Women and Girls in Science marked every February 11 by the United Nations (UN).

The Governor said that breakthroughs by women researchers in recent years across the globe have shown

that when spaces are open for everyone to thrive, much can be achieved to advance the cause of mankind.

According to him, “There has been an upsurge of women scientists who are breaking new grounds in various scientific fields. I believe this reality is a call on us here in Edo State and Nigeria to continue to expand the space for women to get into Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields. Already, we are focusing on basic and technical education to ensure that our children, including boys and girls get a head-start to explore carriers in science and technology without discrimination.

“However, we need to do

more and encourage our female children to strive to be the best in whatever they aspire to be, especially in science disciplines,” he said.

He noted that this year’s theme for the event, Equality and Parity for Peace and Development emphasises the need to break down stereotypes and open the space for women to explore interest in STEM fields.

According to him, “This challenge is more pertinent in the age of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). The use of mobile phones and the internet has made it easy for people to access and process information that can enable them break barriers.

“So, we encourage our women and girls to deploy ICTs to solve

societal problems and in doing so, break stereotypes cast in STEM disciplines.

There are many resources on the Internet to learn from, many mentors to channel and many mountains to climb if they are committed and willing to explore the sciences.

The world body says that a significant gender gap has persisted throughout the years at all levels of STEM disciplines all over the world, noting that even though women have made tremendous progress towards increasing their participation in higher education, they are still underrepresented in these fields.

According to the UN, the General Assembly adopted a resolution to establish an

annual International Day on 22 December 2015, “to recognise the critical role women and girls play in science and technology communities. In welcoming the efforts of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN-Women), the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and other relevant organisations that support and promote the access of women and girls and their participation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics education, training and research activities at all levels decided to proclaim 11 February of each year the International

28 News

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Obasanjo, Secondus, others for Dickson’s 6th anniversary, commissioning Akam James, Yenagoa

ÏÏÏFormer

president, Olusegun Obasanjo, National Chairman Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Uche Secondus and other prominent Nigerians are on the roll call of dignitaries for the marking of the 6th anniversary of the Bayelsa state restoration government and also the commissioning of projects done by the current government.

The weeklong event will avail Bayelsans and people of the world the opportunity to see what impact the current government under the leadership of Hon. Seriake Dickson, has done within the year in review.

Secretary to the State Government and chairman central planning committee, Mr. Kemela Okara, disclosed this in a Press briefing at the weekend in government house Yenagoa, to reel out the programme of event.

Okara, while addressing the media noted that it is vital for any good government as ours that places high premium on delivery of promises to on a regular

basic provide opportunity for Bayelsans to score the government on its performances.

He said “Commissioning of projects is essential because it’s a period for us to tell the world and Bayelsans that we hold dearly the mandate to serve, adding that such issues are important because this is when we pause and reflect on what we have been doing” The SSG who applauded the state commissioner for information and orientation, Mr. Markson Iworiso, averred that the programme which will start with the inter-denominational church service at the Bayelsa state Ecumenical centre on Sunday 11, added that the service is in light of the fact that all success comes from God. He noted that on Monday 12, a public lecture with the theme: “Restructuring the way forward for a new Nigeria” which guest speaker will be Gen. Alani Akinrinde (rtd), and a panel of eminent Nigerians as discussant, adding that commissioning of the State Secretariat Annex and Cultural boulevard will com-

L-R: Vice President, Marketing, Lumos Nigeria, Mr. Olufemi Ashipa, President, Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Engr. Ibrahim Shehu Gusau; Chairman, Lagos State Sports Commission, Dr. Kweku Tandoh and Marathon Project Consultant, Hon. Bukola Olapade, during a media Conference at Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. mence.

Uche Secondus, will commission a number of projects on Wednesday 14, which is the actual anniversary, include the OX-bow lake pavilion, adding that the following day will witness commissioning of the Bayelsa Health Insurance

scheme office, Federal Medical Centre house officers quarters, doctors quarters of the 500 bed hospital, police officers mess and the security command centre government house, he said.

Okara said, Friday 16, will begin with the receiving of the former President

Olusegun Obasanjo, then to the traditions ruler’s council, then commissioning of Bayelsa specialist hospital, the drug mart, diagnostic centre, Igbogene glory drive, renamed as “Chief Olusegun Obasanjo drive” and the Bayelsa Aqua village.

He said the last day will be an interactive section with students in Bayelsa at the Ijaw National Academy tag an Hour with the former president, before the grand breaking for a private sector refinery project at Obunagha community, Gbarain in Yenagoa.

Family/Community drag Lagos govt 2019: Adebutu canvases for Ogun to court over chieftaincy appointment West support t Says No ‘Third Force’ can stop PDP from regaining power Gbenga Sodeinde

ÏÏÏ The Opesha Royal fam-

ily and the entire Mowo Community in Badagry, Lagos State, have dragged the state government to court for appointing an Dagbeyon Abidemi Kolawole Padonu, an ‘outsider’ as Baale of Mowo community.

They said Dagbeyon Abidemi (aka Kolawole Samuel Talabi) is ‘a non native’, and therefore lacking basic qualification for being se-

lected.

The Opesha family through their Lawyer, Chief Orisalade Adetunji Taiwo, has consequently asked the Court through Suit No: BD/4748/ GCMW/2018, before the High Court of Lagos, to declare the appointment of Mr. Dagbeyon (6th defendant) as Baale of Mowo, as “null, void and lacking genuine historical basis.”

The family noted its opposition to the letter from the office of the Governor

of Lagos State dated 9th January, 2018 affirming Dagbeyon’s choice, declaring Dagbeyon as Baale was illegal, unlawful and ultravires on the basis of his ‘non-membership of the Opesha Ruling House.’

Opesha through the Summons also asked for an order of perpetual injunction restraining Mr. Dagbeyon Abidemi Kolawole Padonu (aka Kolawole Samuel Talabi) from acting or parading himself or holding himself out as Baale of Mowo.

said Buratai was a disciplinarian.

In a condolence over the death of the father of LtGen Tukur Buratai, said he lived a fulfilled life and revered and respected by many in the society for his uprightness.

“The loss of late Mallam Yusuf has created a gap and a void of fatherly and experienced advise not only to his son the chief of army staff but to the entire people of the North East

who look up to him for advice and guidance”.

The father of the Chief of Army Staff, passed away in Maiduguri on Friday morning, According to the Director of Public Relation of Nigeria Army, Brig. Gen. Kukahsaka Usman, “the man passed on in his house along Baga Road in Maiduguri on Friday morning”.

He prayed Almighty Allah to give the Buratai family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

Yusuf Buratai was a great achiever – Bindow Tom Garba, Yola

ÏÏÏThe

Executive Governor of Adamawa State, Senator Jibrilla Bindow has described father of the Chief of Army Staff, Mallam Yusuf Buratai, as a great achiever, who retired as a veteran of the World War II. Bindow who said this in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary also

Abiodun Taiwo Abeokuta

ÏÏÏAn

Ogun State Governorship hopeful and member of the House of Representatives, Oladipupo Adebutu, has solicited for the cooperation of Ogun West senatorial district in order for him to achieve his governorship ambition come 2019 general elections.

Adebutu made the appeal while speaking with news men at the sideline of an interactive session with youth groups in Ogun West senatorial district, held in Ilaro, Yewa South local government area of Ogun State, on Saturday.

The House of Representatives member representing Remo Federal constituency, said Ogun West senatorial district has the right to vie for the number one position, noting the zone should rather reciprocate the support given it by Ogun East in 2011 and 2015 general elections and massively support his bid to govern the State. .

Going down memory Lane, Adebutu said, former governor Gbenga Daniel from Ogun East, had against all odds threw his weight behind

the candidature of Ogun West person in 2011, while the same candidate was fielded

by PDP in 2015 election.

“At the end of Gbenga Daniel’s tenure in 2011, Gboyega Nasir Isiaka became our candidate, originating from Imeko Afon Local Government in Ogun West, despite the fact that others could have contested from Ogun East, nobody arose to challenge that position.

We did our best. We fulfilled our obligations but by reasons not our fault, Olurin as well contested and the strength of Ogun West was dissipated.

“Four years later, again, we presented Gboyega Nasir Isiaka. That means for a period of eight years, Ogun East kept the agreement and no Ijebu man contested. The question is do we subvert our own right to contest forever?

We have abided by agreements and as such, we are now inclined to exercise our own right to be voted for as well. But that does not diminish the possibility of having an Ogun West that is properly enmeshed in the scheme of things in Ogun State.

“Whenever Ogun West

cooperates with Ogun East, Ogun West succeeds a lot. In the days of Bisi Onabanjo, that cooperation was a very successful one; the cooperation with Otunba Gbenga Daniel was very successful and I hope and sincerely believe that in this new enterprise, the cooperation of Ogun West with my candidature will be very successful”.

Speaking on the chance of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to take over power in 2019, Adebutu declared that no ‘Third Force’ can stop the Party from regaining power in 2019 general elections, both at the state and federal levels.

He said though everybody has the right to freedom of association, he was yet to fathom how the much-talked about ‘Third Force’ would prevent a formidable party such as PDP from winning next year.

The lawmaker, who is the Chairman, House Committee on Rural Development further remarked that while the ‘Third Force’, might give a fillip to democracy in Nigeria, he longed and looked forward to the day the country would allow independent candidate to stand for election.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

News 29

HMOs vow to go to court over NHIS boss reinstatement

Angela Onwuzoo

ÏÏÏWorried

about its negative impact on the growth of health insurance in the country, Health & Managed Care Association of Nigeria (HMCAN), has joined the league of Nigerians condemning the reinstatement of the suspended Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Prof. Usman Yusuf, even as it vows to go to court.

While some NHIS workers staged a protest against the reinstatement of the suspended NHIS boss, HMCAN, the umbrella body of Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs) licensed operators of the NHIS, said it would contest the reinstatement of Yusuf in court.

President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday reinstated Yusuf exactly six months after he was suspended by the Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, following allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office.

Addressing journalists

in Lagos weekend on the development, Chairman of HMCAN, Dr. Tunde Ladele, said even before the reinstatement of the suspended NHIS boss, his appointment had been in contentious, describing Yusuf as unfit for the job.

His words: “We will definitely contest his reinstatement in court. We were already in court before his suspension and those that have been following the trend, knew that we were in court.

We were contesting his appointment that was irregular.

Ladele continued: “But immediately he was suspended, there was a vacuum, so we could no longer proceed because the position we were attacking was attached to him. We had to stay action on that matter after he was suspended by the Minister of Health, but now that he is back in office, we will proceed with our case.

The other thing we were contesting was the distortion of the processes in the scheme. So, we have a case in court already.”

Kicking against the action of the President,

Ladele said: “We condemn it and do not approve of it.

Again, the action of the President did not speak well of his anti-corruption war”.

On government’s assurances that investigation was ongoing, he said: “While noting the gravity of the allegations against him, HMCAN is mindful of the dictum that an accused person is innocent until proven guilty by a court of competent juris-

diction.

“We advise that in the spirit of transparency, accountability and the stance of government on corruption, the report of the investigation should not be swept under the carpet”.

Ladele reminded the President that doing this will erode public confidence and cast a doubt on the sincerity of this administration.

The reinstatement of

Yusuf many stakeholders say, lends credence to the fact that the anti-corruption war of the President is lopsided, decrying that it has different standards for different people.

It will be recalled that the Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, had in July suspended the NHIS boss over alleged N919 million procurement scam and abuse of office.

The Ministry of Health,

five months ago, submitted the report of a panel on the allegations against Yusuf to the Presidency.

In its report, the panel accused the NHIS boss of N 919m fraud and now being probed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Efforts made by our correspondent to get Yusuf ’s reaction proved abortive as his telephone number was switched off at press time.

Suspected Armed Robbery Gang with Stolen Motorcycles during the Press Briefing held at Police Headquarter Eleyele Ibadan.

Amosun lights up community after Kwara group cautions people in leadership ethnic clans 25 years of darkness ÏÏÏThe

Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun has lighted up Gbamugbamu Community in Ijebu-East Local Government Area of the state with the commissioning of 85KW Solar Hybrid Mini Power Grid after 25 years of unconnected to the national power grid.

Amosun who described the commissioning of the power project, a collaboration with the European Union (EU) and German Government, under the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP), anchored by the German Agency For International Development (GIZ) as another milestone to his government, noted that it was also in tandem with one of his five cardinal programmes, aimed at reducing unemployment in the state and provision of jobs opportunity for the teeming youths through provision of regular power supply.

“Our belief is that the provision of state power supply will boost socio-economic activities of our people, promote employment generation by enhancing and scaling up of Micro, Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (MSMSEs), promote value chain development; and reduce rural-urban migration”, Amosun said.

He assured that his government would continue to collaborate with private investors and developmental partners to continually make the state conducive and secure for businesses and for the foreign investor to operate in the state, adding that the government would mobilize contractors to commence Ogbere/Gbamugbamu road which would stand the test of time, and improve development that the solar mini grid has brought to the community.

In his remarks, the Minister of Power, Works and

Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN), represented by the Honourable Minister of State for Power, Works and Housing, Surv. Suleiman Hassan Zarma, said the project would improve the standard of living of people, noting that Federal Government would continue to engage the genuine private sectors on vibrant project for the betterment of Nigerians as a whole.

Also, the Chairman Rubitech Limited, Mr. Bolade Shoremekun, in his speech appreciated the state government for the prospect given to them in establishing the power plants in their domain, and with the project the state would continue to secure for businesses to thrive, noted that their presence in Gbamugbamu community would not only tackle epileptic power supply but also bring about rapid development and employment generation to the teeming youths of the area.

Kehinde Akinpelu , Ilorin

ÏÏÏA

group, the Kwara South Consultative Forum, has cautioned and admonished people in positions of leadership of the various ethnic clans in Nigeria to always be circumspect and issue statements that would unite rather than those capable of igniting misgivings.

The Forum, which was reacting to the communiqué by the Ilorin Emirate Development Progressives Union (IEDPU) issued at the end of its 2017 National Conference in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, picked holes with the objection raised by the IEDPU against the zoning of Ilorin, and Kwara state at large, to the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) and the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Ibadan.

IEDPU had raised objection to the zoning of the Emirate to Ibadan Zonal Office, on the grounds that “the Emirate

remains part and parcel of the Northern Region and the North Central.”

The Kwara South Consultative Forum, however, noted that Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company covering Ilorin and Kwara state at large was not a new development, recalling that “even when the federal government was directly controlling the supply of electricity under the leadership of core northerners, military or civilian, the Ibadan Zonal Office of ECN, NEPA or even PHCN, had always covered Ilorin and Kwara state as a whole with supply of electricity from Osogbo.” The Forum, therefore, wondered if IEDPU could have rejected distribution of electricity from Osogbo to Ilorin because Osogbo is of the old Western Region while Ilorin is of the old Northern Region?

On the zoning of NTA Ilorin to Ibadan NTA, the Forum in a statement after its emergency meeting, signed by

its Secretary General, Engr.

Otunba Adebayo Daramola, said it could not understand what was basically wrong in administration for Ilorin to be part of Ibadan Zone of NTA. The Forum said: “It should be recollected that even before NTA Ilorin came into being in 1975, we were viewing television in Ilorin from NTA Ibadan through the transmission station in Asileke between Otte and Ogbomosho.

“Under the then judicial system, Court of Appeal was in Kaduna and Appeal cases of Kwara were being heard in Kaduna despite the risk of going to Kaduna for such cases instead of Ibadan that was near. Later, a Court of Appeal was established in Ilorin covering Ekiti state among others with Ekiti from the South West and Ilorin the seat of the Appeal Court without Ekiti raising neither any eyebrow nor any protest against grouping them with Kwara.

T a

he Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) has released 18man provisional list for the 2019 FIBA World Cup qualifiers in Bamako, Mali, from February 23 – 25, 2018.

Five players from the 2017 AfroBasket silver winning team top the list including three home-based players and two from the 2015 Afrobasket winning squad.

Agua Caliente Clippers, USA player Ikechukwu Ireogbu who was a revelation at the 2017 tour-

Page 30

NBBF invites 18 for World Cup qualifiers nament where the D’Tigers won a silver medal has been invited alongside Ike Nwamu (Sioux Falls Skyforce, USA), Bryant Mbamalu (CD Vildivia, Chile), Ike Diogu (Schun Blue Whales, China) and Ayodeji Akindele (Belediye Spor, Turkey). Eli Abraham (Kano Pillars, Nigeria), Abdulwahab Yakubu (Gombe Bulls, Nigeria) and Musa Usman Mohammed (Mark Mentors, Nigeria) have also made the

cut for the team ahead of their Group B games against hosts, Mali, Rwanda and Uganda.

The duo of Ben Uzoh (unattached) and Michael Gbinijie (Santa Cruz Warriors, USA) will be making their return to the national team fold after missing out of the 2017 nations cup co-hosted by Senegal and Tunisia.

Other players invited by the coach Alex Nwora include Ofoegbu

Chima (unattached), Ojo Michael Adetokunbo (Worcester Wolves, UK), Mike Efevbeha (Sagesse, Lebanon), Obi Emenago (Rouen Basket, France), Omogbo Emmanuel (VL Pesaro, Italy), Nwogbo Lotana Afam (Sendai 89ers, Japan), Talib Zanna (Ironi Nes-Ziona, Israel) and Christopher Obekpa Ewaoche (Tranzaspor, Turkey). According to arrangements already put in place by the NBBF, foreign based players are to report

to Bamako, Mali on the 19th to be joined by the players and officials from Nigeria.

Explaining the reason behind the arrangement, NBBF President, Engr. Musa Kida, said “Due to the FIBA calendar which opens on the 19th which is just about 4 days to the D’Tigers first game, telling all players to come to Nigeria before traveling to Mali will be mission impossible.

Monday, February 12, 2018

Rangers, Yobe, others win as Sunshine, Pillars draw

Otop’s early strike enough for Go Round FC

I

F

ormer Nigerian champions, Enugu Rangers are the biggest gainers after yesterday’s Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) match day 8 fixtures with leaders, Akwa United occupied with continental action against the Banjul Hawks of Gambia.

The Flying Antelopes recorded a 1-0 win against visitors, El Kanemi Warriors at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu to climb to the fifth spot on the top-flight log on 13 points.

Striker, Kelvin Itoya scored the match winner in the 84th minute to hand the Coal City side the whole three points at stake.

At the FC IfeanyiUbah International Stadium, Nnewi, hosts, FC IfeanyiUbah overpowered neighbours, Heartland 2-0 in an oriental derby.

Forward, Ekene Awazie scored the match opener in the 28th minute while the Ivorien striker, Pascal Seka grabbed the winner in the 53rd minute. Newcomers, Go Round FC piped neighbours, Abia Warriors 1-0 at the Krisdera Hotel Stadium in Omoku.

Striker, Otop Okon’s lone strike in the 3rd minute proved adequate to hand the Omoku side the maximum three points.

Elsewhere, top-flight newcomers, Kwara United made their home advantage count maximally as they defeated hard fighting Katsina United 2-1 at the Kwara State Stadium in llorin.

MFM players line up before a match

CAF Championship: MFM, As Real Bamako play 1-1 M FM FC were held to a 1-1 draw by their hosts, AS Real Bamako of Mali in the first leg preliminary round tie of CAF Champions League yesterday.

The Olukoya Boys, playing their first-ever Champions League game, acquitted themselves well at the Stade Modibo Keita despite a bright start by their hosts and took a shock lead in the 15th min-

ute through Nojeem Akinyemi.

The lead lasted only two minutes before Miakab Giscard levelled scores for the home team with a powerful header.

The visitors suffered a setback five minutes before the break when reliable forward Adekunle Adegboyega was substituted by Akuneto Chijoke due to injury.

Real Bamako piled on the pressure in the second half but Ospino

Egbe stood firm in goal for the Nigeria Professional Football League runners-up from last season.

Dimunitive playmaker Chukwuka Onuwa was forced off in the 66th minute due to injury and was replaced by Ubamaka Peter.

Amadou Hiadara came close to scoring the winning goal for Real Bamako five minutes before the end of the game but his free header went off target.

Plateau Utd win in Jos as Akwa Utd stumbled in Uyo

N

igerian champions, Plateau United started their campaign in the CAF Champions League on a resounding note by defeating Eding Sports of Cameroon 3-0 in their preliminary round, first leg fixture at the New Jos Stadium yesterday.

Oghene Elijah, Sunday Ingbede and Joshua Obaje were all on target for the Tin City side against the Cameroonian champions.

Eding Sports travelled to Nigeria without their head coach, Ancient Foe Mbarga following dis-

We are expecting players from Europe, North America, South America and Asia, so we thought it wise that instead of going through the travelling stress ahead of the qualifiers, they should just report straight to Bamako.

Speaking on Nigeria’s group, the head coach is optimistic about his team’s chances of qualifying from the group to the next round where the women team in 2017 won their Afrobasket title.

agreement between him and club president, Saint Fabien Mvogo but still pushed Plateau United hard in the game especially in the second half.

The hosts were awarded a penalty in the 20th minute when an Eding Sports defender handled the ball in the box.

Tosin Omoyele who has bagged three goals for Plateau United in the Nigeria Professional Football League this season took the resultant penalty but his effort was saved by the goalkeeper with Eli-

jah firing the rebound into the net.

The visitors dominated proceedings in the second half and had a goal rightly chalked off for offside in the 82nd minute.

They went further down two minutes later when Ingbede beat the offside trap and fired the ball home.

Substitute Obaje added the third in added time following a fantastic through pass by Rapheal Ayagwa.

In the CAF Confederation Cup, Akwa United fell 2-1 at home to Banjul Hawks of Gambia.

It was Abdu Maikaba’s men’s first defeat at home in all competitions this season.

The Promise Keepers dominated possession from start to finish in the game but were made to pay for their profligacy in front of goal.

Banjul Hawks got the opener through Mohammed Jallow in the 11th minute while Lamine Chatty added the second in the 34th minute.

Victor Mbaoma reduced the deficit for the hosts in the 72nd minute..

t took only two minutes for Oton Otop to score his first goal of the season for Go Round FC and it was enough as they won 1-0 over Abia Warriors in the league.

The players had barely broken sweat after kick off when Otop sneaked in behind the defenders to dink the ball home as onrushing goalkeeper, Joshua Enaholo could do nothing about it.

Adelani Adeseun who tormented the visitors all game long with his dribble runs on the flanks could have scored in the 30th minute but after shielding the ball off his marker in the penalty area, goalkeeper, Enaholo stopped his shot when half the ground thought it had gone in.

The Warriors one good chance in the first half was in the 44th minute when Emeka Isaac shot wide from distance after finding space to strike.

Coach of Abia Warriors, Emmanuel Deutsche accepted the defeat in good faith.

“Go Round won 1-0 and I accept the defeat. We will go back home and assess the boys for the next match.

“We made a change and it was not a bad change. We changed Obi, not because he is a bad player but I do not know what happened to him today,” Emmanuel Deutsche said.

Captain of Go Round FC, Nelson Esor explains how they held on to win 1-0.

“We got our early goal and tried to sustain the pressure. Abia Warriors are every good and a tactical team and mounted pressure but we were able to contain them.

“We did all we could to contain the pressure and ensure the game ended 1-0,” Esor said.

31

Monday, February 12, 2018

EXTRATIME

Liverpool eyes Thomas Lemar homas Lemar was considered

T

a potential replacement for Philippe Coutinho Jurgen Klopp opted against making a move for the French midfielder in January Liverpool will now look at other targets to strengthen their squad in the summer Liverpool have reportedly dropped their interest in Monaco attacking midfielder Thomas Lemar.

The France international is no longer among Jurgen Klopp’s list of transfer targets for the summer window, according to the Liverpool Echo.

The 22-year-old had been seen as a potential replacement for Philippe Coutinho last month after his £145m move to Barcelona.

Reports in France this week claimed Lemar had turned down a new deal at the Ligue 1 club, fuelling further debate over his future.

But Liverpool, it appears, have pulled out of the race to sign him, handing Premier League rivals Arsenal a huge boost.

The Reds held talks with Monaco in August, attempting to thrash out a late deal for the youngster, but were unable to agree on a fee.

And despite sanctioning the departure of Coutinho in January, Klopp opted against making another go at bringing Lemar to England.

The Liverpool boss felt the £90m price tag was excessive for a player who only enjoyed a breakthrough season at club level last year.

He bagged 14 goals as Monaco shocked PSG to win the league title in France and reached the semi-finals of the Champions League.

Lemar has under-performed in 2017-18, with injury restricting him to just 23 appearances in all competitions.

Neymar’s goal takes PSG top league 1 table P aris St-Germain went 13 points clear at the top of Ligue 1 after Neymar’s goal beat Toulouse. Angel di Maria, who earlier hit the crossbar directly from a corner, found Neymar with a ball over the top and the Brazilian’s shot was deflected in.

BBC reports that Neymar also hit the post and the crossbar in the

Lewandowski dismisses Real Madrid transfer move

space of two minutes after scoring his goal.

Second-placed Marseille drew 2-2 at Saint-Etienne on Friday.

PSG’s lead will be cut to 12 points if Monaco beat Angers at 19:00 GMT. Unai Emery’s side visit Champions League holders Real Madrid in the last 16 first leg on Wednesday.

L

iverpool Manager Jurgen Klopp on Sunday mocked referee Jon Moss and his officials after Harry Kane’s controversial last-gasp penalty kick gave Tottenham a dramatic 2-2 draw.

Klopp was furious that his side’s chances of a vital victory over their top-four rivals were wiped out in an incident-packed finale at Anfield.

After Victor Wanyama equalised for Tottenham with 10 minutes left to cancel out Mohamed Salah’s early opener, Moss and his linesmen took centre stage.

First, Tottenham were awarded a penalty kick for Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius’s foul on Kane, even though Klopp felt the England star was offside.

Kane’s spot-kick was saved by Karius and when Salah put Liverpool ahead in stoppage-time, Klopp must have felt justice was done.

But in the final seconds, Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk nudged over Erik Lamela and Moss gave another penalty kick, with Kane this time converting from the spot.

The Red boss confronted Moss on the pitch at fulltime and still had not calmed down when he spoke to the media.

“I am not allowed to go in their room until half an hour after. It was clear offside, unbelievable, I don’t

Lewandowski

B

Klopp attacks referee as Kane’s late penalty hurts Liverpool know what they were discussing,” Klopp said of the first penalty kick.

Speaking about the second spot-kick, the German said: “Yes, Virgil van Dijk touches him, but we all know Lamela wants the touch and we all know there were so

(many) hard fouls in the first half and we didn’t get any fouls.

“That was the level for the game today, but then a situation in the last minute like that? Wow! He (the official) wanted to be middle of interest and he is.

“It was clear two sides (of) high quality both wanted to win desperately, but the result was massively influenced by linesman decisions.

“We have to take it, that’s how it is”.

ayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski has emphatically denied talk of a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid.

Spanish paper Marca recently talked up a move to Madrid for Lewandowski, claiming the Polish international ‘wants a major challenge and a big contract’ before he eventually hangs up his boots.

However, Lewandowski, who has netted 135 times in 175 games for Bayern, has quashed these ‘rumours’. The 29-year-old told German paper Bild: ‘I hear this speculation every year. These rumours do not interest me. I do not have to say that anymore.’

Meanwhile, Lewandowski has also come out and denied that his agent, Cezary Kucharsky, has offered the player’s services to Madrid.

He added: ‘I have no idea, I did not hear that they have spoken. That’s also a speculation.’

Lewandowski is currently gearing up for Bayern’s Bundesliga clash with Schalke on Saturday evening at the Allianz Arena.

Jupp Heynckes’ side sit very comfortably at the top of the German top flight, a remarkable 18 points clear of second-placed Bayer Leverkusen with 13 games left.

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The Anambra Times

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Nnewi road projects: Obiano targets completion before rainy season AT4

Anambra Elders’ Council demands N43b refund from FG

AT 2

ANSG to embark on massive Agric-related skills empowerment programme ÏÏÏThe Commissioner for Ag-

Governor Willie Obiano and wife during a victory match at Eke Awka market, the Anambra State capital last Wednesday after he received the Certificate of Return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as winner of the November 18, 2017 governorship election in the state

ATMA, others embark on decongestion of roads in Awka, environs ÏÏÏAnambra Traffic Management

Anambra

T E A M

Agency (ATMA) in collaboration with other traffic agencies in the state have moved in to decongest traffic gridlocks on virtually all major roads in Awka and environs.

This is in bid to ensuring free flow of traffic at all major areas of the state, including important towns in the state like Onitsha, Nnewi and Ekwulobia.

Some of the major spots in the state capital that experience traffic hiccups include Eke Awka Market axis on the Zik Avenue, Aroma Junction, Kwata and Amawbia junctions as well as the Anambra State Government Lodge.

In the past, traffic build-ups hamper free flow of traffic, such that people waste man-hour sitting in traffic.

The Zonal Commander of ATMA, Mr. Arinze Olisa said following an executive directive from Governor Willie Obiano to the agency, “we have resolved to ensure that directive is carried out to the letter, without fear or favour.

“If you notice, traffic on the once choked Eke Awka Road now flows freely; a drive through Aroma junction also shows free flow of traffic too.

“This is how it ought to be and

we hope to keep it that way. It is an order from the governor and we are obliged to support this administration.

“It’s not an easy task displacing people from places that they have occupied illegally as their sales outposts,’’ he said.

According to him, the exercise will be a continuous one and not the haphazard approach as has been the case in the past.

He, however, appealed to government to provide them with some working aid to help them in the discharge of their duties as well road users to strictly adhere to traffic rules and regulation.

“We want government to restore the traffic lights at Eke Awka axis.

We also want our operational vehicle, `black Maria’ to start functioning again, so that we use it to move arrested offenders.

“We urge agencies involved in providing for signage like road furniture -- ``No Packing’’, ``No Hawking’’, ``No stopping’’, ``Pick and drop’’ – that will help motorists to know where to pack and where not to stop,’’ the commander said.

A motorist, who identified himself as Mr. Chijioke Odinaka expressed satisfaction at the operation.

Special Project Editor Sam Nzeh

Correspondents: Alphonsus Nweze Philip Balepo John Ndu

He recalled how difficult it had been driving through Eke Awka in the immediate past but with the current development, it would be smooth drive all the way.

He, then, enjoined all the agencies not to relent in their duties as it was the right way to go.

Mrs. Nwankwo, a Civil Servant, lamented the ordeal that she and her colleagues go through commuting daily to and fro work.

“It was a hell driving home through Eke Awka on a typical day.

This is a welcome development.

“Before the Intervention ATMA, we waste more than two hours, in making journeys that ordinarily will take 20 minutes.

“Going to work and back is now stress-free and we thank the governor for this. It is a welcome development,’’ she said.

A pedestrian, Mr. Chijioke

Mmadu, who also was interviewed, thanked the government for coming up with such an exercise.

“Now the road side traders who occupy a full lane of the road have been cleared off the road, shopping in Eke - Awka market has become easier, unlike in the past when we have to fight our way through a huge gathering of persons to get into the market,’’ he added. ``We just hope this will be sustained,’’ everybody seemed to be saying.

However, Mrs. Nnedi Adaugo, a trader decried activities of ATMA, claiming they were been unjustifiably displaced from where they earn their living.

She, then, pleaded with the government to provide them with alternative location, so they could continue to make their living as most of them were bread winners of their families.

riculture in Anambra State, Mr. Afam Mbanefo, says the state government will run massive agric-related skills empowerment programmes for youths this year.

Mbanefo said this during interactive session with Anambra State Think Tank Committee on Agriculture at his office at Awka.

The commissioner, who gave the explanation, noted that this would be in line with the expected massive foreign investment in Agriculture this year.

He added that there was need for youths to be empowered, adding, “there is need to maximise the opportunity to secure employment in the sector’’.

According to him, the dearth of agric-related skills by Ndi Anambra has made our youths unemployable in the sector.

A member of the Think Tank Committee, Dr. Richardson Okechukwu, said that lack of needed skills amongst the youths had made them lose grounds.

“This has given youths from neighbouring states the opportunity to take over.

“The state should push for a policy that will compel schools, especially schools of agriculture to collaborate with the private sector for training in order to have the theoretical and practical aspects.

“The training should be private-sector driven and graduates of such training should be kept in a pool from where they will be posted to various organisations in need of their skills,” he said.

Golden Tulip hotel to be ready in March - Obiano

ÏÏÏAnambrta

Sttae Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, has expressed satisfaction over the finishing touches on the Golden Tulip Hotel, Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area of the state.

The Governor made the expression while inspecting the level of works at the hotel.

Speaking after the inspection, the governor assured that the state government had fully mobilised

the contractor to ensure speedy delivery.

While describing the edifice as the first five star hotel in the South East, Governor Obiano charged the contractor increase the pace of work and deliver according to specification.

He reassured the people of the state that his administration would continue providing adequate amenities that would further trans-

form the state, even as the state suffers from meager economy.

“We are not doing politics, but touching people’s lives. I will continue paying salary and embark on other works that will improve the lives of the people.

“This is one of the promised made and will ensure the completion of other projects,” Obiano assured.

The Anambra Times A2

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

ANSG recruits more health personnel to boost healthcare delivery ÏÏÏThe State Government says

Former Secretary General, Commonwealth, and Chairman, Anambra Elder’s Council, Chief Emeka Anyaoku (second left); former Governor Anambra State, Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife (left); Deputy Governor of Anambra State, Dr. Nkem Okeke (third right), and the SSG, Anambra State, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu (right), during the meeting of Anambra Elder’s Council at the Governor’s Lodge, Amawbia..recently

Anambra Elders’ Council demands N43bn refund from FG Stories by John Ndu,Awka

ÏÏÏAnambra

State Elders’ Council has implored the Federal Government to urgently refund the over N43 billion debt owed to the state for its expenditure on federal roads and bridges.

The Council advised the Federal Government to make the refund from the 2018 budget to enable Anambra State government expedite various developmental projects in the state.

In a communique signed by the Chairman of the Council, Chief Emeka Anyaoku and the Secretary of the Council, Prof.

Solo Chukwulobelu, who is also the Secretary to Anambra State government, the Council commended Governor Willie Obiano for his tremendous achievements in ensuring security of lives and property which has encouraged local and foreign investors, making Anambra State attractive for business.

Reading the communique after the meeting at the Governor’s Lodge, Amawbia recently, the Chairman of the Council, Chief Any-

Ï`ƄƇƄƃƎ ƃ ƎƎƉƄ ƃ Ɖ ƆƄ

aoku expressed serious concern over the consequences of the continuing unwholesome activities of the Fulani herdsmen in many parts of the country, especially the recent killings in Benue State.

Following the killings, Chief Anyaoku, who was also the former Secretary General of Commonwealth, announced the rejection of cattle colonies proposed by the Federal Government.

His words: “The meeting affirmed the view that commercial ranching has become the adopted method for meat and dairy

production throughout the world including in most concerned African countries, and therefore that the idea of cattle colonies, with their inevitable adverse security implications, should be rejected by Anambra State and other states of the federation”.

The Council urged political and allied actors in Anambra State to continue working harmoniously with their counterparts in the South East zone and rest of the country in calling for a restructuring of the present governance architecture for true feder-

alism and to achieve political unity and stability.

The elders enjoined the state government to partner with other states to intensify public enlightenment of their citizens through various platforms and fora in encouraging eligible persons who are yet to register and obtain their PVCs to urgently do the needful.

Some of the members of the Council include the Deputy Governor, Dr. Nkem Okeke, former Governors, heads of Christian religious denominations, and representatives of Ohaneze Ndigbo, traditional rulers, among others.

Ozubulu killings: Trial of four suspects commences ÏÏÏThe

trial of four suspects in the case of over 12 persons who were killed at St. Philips Catholic Church, Amakwa Ozubulu, of Anambra State has commenced.

The trial commenced on Friday, at a High Court in Nnewi, with many gathered at the entrance of the courtroom to catch a glimpse of the accused persons, who were slammed with 25 charges.

On August 6, 2017, gunmen attacked the church during the early morning mass, shooting sporadically at worshippers and in the process, killing about 12 persons while leaving several others injured.

Shortly after, the Police arrested some of the suspects involved in the killings while the government promised that all those behind the attack will be made to face the full wrath of the law.

Subsequently, they were arraigned on November 16, before an Anambra State Magistrate’s Court, sitting at Ozubulu.

Among those invited as a witness at the commencement of the trial on Friday is one Dr. Onwuka, the former President General of Ozubulu.

Meanwhile, a cross examination of witnesses by the prosecuting counsel is still

ongoing.

it has commenced recruitment of more health personnel into all the Primary Health Centres in the state.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joe Akabuike, disclosed this while defending the 2018 budget proposal of the Ministry before the House Committees on Health, Finance and Appropriation.

Dr. Akabuike explained that the 361 primary health centres in the state will also be equipped with enough facilities immediately the proposed budget of the ministry is approved by the House.

He noted that this will bring health services closer to the door steps of the people.

Dr Akabuike told the committee that the Ministry is determined to give the citizens access to quality health care through the implementation of the Anambra State Health Insurance scheme, which requires beneficiaries to pay twelve thousand naira into the state coffers and enjoy accessible, affordable and quality health care for one year.

He maintained that only hospitals that are qualified will be selected for the programme and commended House Committee on Health for partnering with the Ministry to realise its vision last year.

In his speech, the Chairman, House Committee on Health, Dr. Nnamdi Okafor, commended Governor Willie Obiano for increasing the budgetary allocation of the Ministry from N2.8 billion to N7.8 billion, stressing that it has improved the services rendered to patients at the state Teaching Hospital and Primary Health Centres across the state.

Dr. Okafor charged the Ministry to surpass their achievements last year to further improve clinical services rendered to patients in the state Teaching Hospitals and Primary Health Centres.

The Committee equally commended the Chief Medical Director, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Teaching Hospital, Amaku, Awka, Dr. Basil Nwankwo, for performing creditably within six months in office and assured of all necessary support to transform the Hospital to World class health facility that will meet the health needs of the people and discourage medical tourism abroad.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Nnewi farmer, Umeononaku harvests 60kg yam tuber ÏÏÏThe

efforts of the Governor Willies Obiano administration in the area of agriculture has continued to yield multiple dividends, as an Nnewi based farmer, Mr. Basil Umeononaku, has harvested a six-finger elephant yam tuber weighing sixty kilogrammes.

The 60kg height of yam tuber was formally presented to the Commissioner for Agriculture, Mechanisation, Processing and Export, Mr. Afam Mbanefo, in his office at Awka recently.

The Commissioner, while appreciating the dexterity of the farmer, revealed that Governor Willie Obiano during one of his visits to Nnewi provided funds to the farmer for agricultural practices, adding that government would encourage him the more, this time around.

According to Mbanefo, the target is to have him cultivate between three and five hundred tubers of that yam specie next planting season.

He called on other farmers in the state to take a cue from Mr. Umeononaku, adding that he had done the state proud.

Earlier in his speech, the farmer, Mr. Umeononaku from Umudim Nnewi, extolled Anambra State government for their support and encouragement, explaining that the feat was made possible by the financial assistance of the state government.

Mr. Umeononaku, who said that the sixty kilogrammes weight of yam tuber was produced after seven months of hard-work, promised to increase the produce if given enough land for planting.

The President General of Nzukora Nnewi, Sir Ugo Udemezue, commended the state government for their genuine investments in agriculture, thanking the Commissioner for his outstanding performance.

Among those that were present include the Special Assistance to the Governor on Agriculture, Engineer Mike Ogbuekwe, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Comrade Leo Imoka, the Public Relation Officer, Ministry of Agriculture Mr. Mike Affa and the Personal Assistant to the Commissioner of Agriculture, Mr. Seth Ebere, among others.

The Anambra Times A3

Anambra-Imo River Basin Authority trains 1,027 youths on agro business Stories by John Ndu,Awka

ÏÏÏAnambra-Imo

River Basin Development Authority on Thursday kickstarted a two-week training for 1,027 unemployed youths in various fields of agriculture for self-reliance.

The training programme which is currently taking place in Nnewi, the industrial city of Anambra State, was organised in collaboration with DEVASS Agro Consultants for the

unemployed youths selected from Anambra South Senatorial District of the state.

In a remark, the Managing Director of the agency, Mr. Michael Nwabufo, said the training was in line with the Federal Government’s strategies at advancing agricultural development for food security.

“The training is aimed at advancing agricultural development that will guarantee food security and healthy nutrition on

a sustainable and environmental friendly basis to citizens by the year 2020.

“The present aging farming population lacks the knowledge and resources to practice profitable agriculture on sustainable and environmental friendly basis and as a result, our youths, who before now go into buying and selling and pursuit of nonexistent white collar jobs, need to be re-skilled in the art and science of farming as a profitable business”, he stated.

Obiano inspects road construction at Ihiala ÏÏÏAnambra

State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, has expressed satisfaction over the speedy construction of 11.5 kilometre Uzoakwa-UbahuekwemOseakwa road project.

Governor Obiano, who inspected the road project at Ihiala, said it was part of his administration promises to take advantage of the dry season to complete various major roads before the next rainy season.

The Governor, while assuring the completion of at least 5 kilometres of the road, also promised to complete the remaining 2 kilometres road of OluohaOkechukwu spur before the next rains.

He said: “My visit to various road projects across the state is to ascertain the level of work done on them with a view to providing the necessary support as the state’s resources permit, to enable contractors take advantage of the dry season to deliver as many roads as possible.”

The governor reassured Ndi Ihiala that the project was designed to improve the face of infrastructure in the area and to better their lives, saying he is committed to seeing it to comple-

tion.

On his part, the member representing Ihiala 1 Constituency in the State Assembly, Mr. Chidi Udemmadu, x-rayed the importance of the road to the socioeconomic development of Ihiala and environs.

He emphasised that the continuation of the road after Governor Obiano’s re-election was a good sign of total commitment and dedication to transform the state.

The Commissioner for Road Infrastructure, Furniture and Maintenance, Chief Law Chinwuba, said the spur when completed, would provide a shorter route to connect to the Okija -Ihiala -Egbema expressway.

In their separate remarks, the Transition Committee Chairman of Ihiala, Mr. Ifeanyi Odimegwu, the traditional ruler of Akwaezike, Igwe Gab Umeh and a major political stakeholder in the area, Mr. Ken Emeakayi, acknowledged that no dispensation had favoured Ndi Ihiala as the present administration and thanked Governor Obiano for remaining steadfast to his promise to continue to work on the road till it is completed.

Bishop Paulinus Ezeokafor of Awka Diocese (6 left), during the blessing of 48 rooms edifice built by Catholic Diocese of Awka, Lagos Support Group. The building will be used by the priests for their spiritual retreat

Prisons service decorates 158 staff ÏÏÏNo fewer than 158 personnel

of the Nigerian Prisons Service (NPS) in Anambra State have been promoted to new positions in the service.

The newly decorated officers include 108 junior staff and 50 senior officers from across the four prisons centers in the state including Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi, Ekwulobia and the administrative headquarters in Awka.

Mr. Emmanuel Nwakeze, Controller of Prisons, who performed the rank decoration at the state headquarters in Awka, charged them to brace up for the task of their new ranks.

He described promotion as

recognition which came with new responsibilities, new tasks, new trust and new confidence which they must all do.

Nwakeze, who noted that the decoration was the first in the state under his controllership since 2014, congratulated the promoted officers and encouraged others to wait as theirs would come in due course.

“Promotion means recognition, the Prisons Service challenge you to brace for the demands of your new positions which you are being decorated into today.

“You now have higher responsibilities and greater confidence, you must work hard to justify your promotions, do

your job with diligence and stay away from any activity that will bring ridicule to the image of the service,” he said.

One of the newly promoted officers, Mr. Francis Ekezie, thanked the Service for finding them worthy for elevation.

Ekezie, who was promoted from the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Prisons to Deputy Superintendent, said he and his colleagues would do more for the Service.

On her part, Mrs. Sophia Ofili, who was promoted to the rank of Assistant Controller of Prisons, prayed for God’s protection for the management of the service.

The Anambra Times A4 Anambra East communities charged to strive towards ÏÏÏCommunities in Anambra

East Local Government Area have been urged to contribute to the present drive to achieve open defecation-free status.

Spaeaking at a ceremony to mark the “World Toilet day” organised by UNICEF and the European Union in the Council Area, the UNICEF WASH Consultant, Anambra East Local Government Area, Mrs. Amina Ominyi, explained the serious health implications of open defecation to the people.

Mrs. Ominyi explained that there was ongoing water safety plan to teach people how to purify their water, adding that Anambra State has projected the country to the world by being the only state that has commenced the implementation of the water safety plan successfully.

Also speaking, the WASH Coordinator for the Council Area, Mrs. Helen Offor, explained how a household could build an affordable modern toilet facility and enjoined communities in the Area to contact WASH UNIT of the local government Council for

repair of faulty boreholes by experts while urging them to provide adequate security to guard their water facilities against vandalism.

Earlier, the Transition Committee Chairman for the Council, Honourable Pius Ifeadi, had expressed optimism that the area would achieve open defecation-free status before the end of this year.

Honourable Ifeadi identified lack of access to clean water, poor sanitatary practices and diseases associated with them as part of the major causes of illness and deaths of millions of children across the world, and called on Environmental Health Officers to complement efforts of EU and UNICEF WASH UNIT of the Council Area in the house to house inspection, urging all stakeholders to join the campaign against open defecation.

Demonstration of handwashing after using the toilet and a practical lesson on how to build an affordable toilet facility within a household formed the highlights of the event.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Anambra Speaker reassures protesting CSOs on LG Stories by John Ndu, Awka

ÏÏÏThe Speaker, Anambra

State House of Assembly, Mrs. Rita Maduagwu, says Anambra State Government is willing to implement the Local Government Autonomy in the state.

The speaker, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Sir Hartford Oseke, said this in Awka while addressing a coalition civil society groups at the assembly ground.

“The issue of local government autonomy is not peculiar to Anambra State; it takes the deci-

sion of the majority in the House for a bill to be passed.

“The issue will feature in the next public hearing in less than a month, but it is not a decision to be taken by the Speaker alone,” the Speaker said.

The Anambra State President, Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees, Mr. Jerry Nnubia, said that their visit was the second on the issue of LG autonomy in Anambra.

“We have returned again to register our displeasure at delays and failure to pass the bill es-

tablishing LG autonomy in the state.

“The House will write their name ``on sands of time’’ by passing the bill of the LG autonomy into law,’’ Nnubia said.

The spokesman of the Community Empowerment Network (COMEN), Mr. Eloka Okafor, enjoined the assembly to expedite action on the bill.

“The House should swiftly pass the bill into law because there is no need for wide consultation, public hearings, and the likes on the matter,’’ Okafor said.

Nnewi road projects: Obiano targets completion before rainy season ÏÏÏAnambra

State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, has continued the inspection of all the ongoing road projects across the state to ensure their completion before the next rainy season.

The Governor while inspecting the Cosharis road Nnewi, said the roads would have every facility to beautify the state and would be delivered as scheduled.

Obiano revealed that the 6.7 km Cosharis road was part of the 100 kilometers of road his administration had undertaken in Nnewi Urban.

“I have ordered to asphalt all those

roads started, to meet up with the target. We have mobilised all contractors and will continue to embark on meaningful projects that will have positive impacts on the people,” Obiano stated.

The contractor handling the Coscharis road, Prince Chukwuma Okolo, said much work had been done and would deliver the road by the end of the week.

A resident in the area, Mr. Ifeanyi Oloh, expressed gratitude, saying the completion of the road would open up the area and help in their transport business.

Cured mental patients discharged in Anambra ÏÏÏThe Welfare and Rehabilitation Centre, Ministry of Social Welfare, Children and Women Affairs has discharged second batch “certified mentally cured patients’’ at Nteje.

Dr. Chikwelu Victoria, Commissioner for Social Welfare, Children and Women Affairs, Anambra State, who represented Governor Willie Obiano at the occasion, thanked the Almighty God for the kind-heartedness, with which the governor and his wife established the centre.

Dr. Chikwelu, then, announced that 48 patients were discharged to various states, including Ebonyi, Enugu, Delta, Ogun, Oyo, Edo and Bayelsa. ``We did not only discharge them, but empowered them in various skills to enable them to re-adapt into the society,” she said.

The commissioner warned youths to imbibe good virtues and stop drug abuse because ``80 per cent of cases of mental illness today is caused by drug abuse’’.

Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano (6th right); Catholic Bishop of Awka, Most Rev (Dr.) Paulinus Ezeokafor (5th right);Senator Victor Umeh (2nd right) and other Service Chiefs during the 2018 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration, at St Patricks Cathedral, Awka...revently

Anambra Assembly kicks against cattle colony policy

ÏÏÏThe Anambra State House of

Assembly has berated the issue of cattle colonies across the country currently on the frontburner of public discourse.

The legislative arm of government said such idea should be jettisoned on account of the heinous crimes being committed by cattle herdsmen across the country.

Speaking on the issue of cattle colonies at the State Assembly complex Awka, Majority Leader of the Assembly and Chairman, Committee on Police Affairs and Security, Hon.Victor Jideofor Okoye, stated that the issue of cattle colonies is a

no-go area in the South East region especially Anambra State.

He said the South East does not have enough landmass for itself, let alone giving it out for cattle rearing. The lawmaker, who is security expert, maintained that his constituency - Anambra-west, has no land to erect residential buildings as they live in the riverine area.

The majority leader noted that acute hunger and famine loom in the country this year is because farmers are no longer going to the farmlands for fear of herdsmen attack. He also pointed out that in Benue, Plateau and some other

states, farmers have absconded from farmlands due to insecurity.

Okoye, who explained that cattle rearing is a private business, stressed that the Northern region of the country has large landmass enough to provide cattle colonies.

He was of the opinion that it was time security agencies rose up to the situation and protect farmers from the terror of killer herdsmen.

Although he observed that the killer herdsmen were not the ones rearing cattle but the ones in the mammy market, and Hausa quarters, stressing that such places are where the real killer herdsmen reside.

Business Times B1

Daily Times Nigeria

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Nigeria’s leading airline, Air Peace, has again pledged to end the travel difficulties of of the nation’s unserved and underserved cities.

The airline gave the assurance on Friday, when it took delivery of its second Embraer 145 jet in nine days.

The airline received the first of six 50-seater new generation Embraer 145 jets it recently acquired on January 31; and immediately sets up a subsidiary, Air Peace Hopper, to manage its plan to connect routes airlines the country shy away from.

The new aircraft, which arrived from the United States, touched down at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos at about 7.10 p.m. on Friday.

It arrived as the carrier was finalising arrangements for the

launch of its flights to Kano and Yola on February Monday 12; and Thursday, 15 respectively as well as Freetown, Banjul and Dakar on February, 19.

A statement issued on Sunday by the Corporate Communications Manager of Air Peace, Mr. Chris Iwarah said the arrival of the new aircraft marked 5N-BVD and named Chinonye Ezeani (Nee Onyema) was another proof that the airline was serious about its pledge to transform air travel in Nigeria, the West Coast of Africa and beyond.

“The arrival of Chinonye Ezeani (Nee Onyema),” Air Peace said, “has proved beyond doubt that we are indeed serious about our pledge to end the travel nightmares of the unserved and underserved cities of Nigeria. It is our vision to democratise air travel in Nigeria. We are driven by the passion and belief that no

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Air Peace Acquires second Embraer 145 to add value to sector

Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo

Monday, February 12, 2018

one or city should be left behind.

“As soon as we secure the approval of the regulatory authorities, we will start flight operations with our Embraer 145 jets. We will operate into the Nigeria Air Force (NAF) Base in Port Harcourt and connect routes such as Enugu-Kano-Enugu, Benin-PortHarcourt-Benin, Port-HarcourtKano-Port- Harcourt, Lagos-Warri-Port-HarcourtWarri-Lagos, Lagos-Warri-Abuja-Warri, LagosKaduna-Lagos, Lagos-SokotoLagos, Abuja-Sokoto-Abuja, Abuja-Bauchi-Abuja, LagosMarkurdi-Lagos, Lagos-Jos-Lagos, among others.

It said, “It is a whole new experience we are bringing to air travel in Nigeria and the West Coast of Africa. We are pursuing our expansion project with a lot of grit. Our pledge to fix air travel in Nigeria and the West Coast of Africa is not an empty talk.”

According to the statement, “In three years, we have increased our fleet to a size of 24 aircraft. We are quite serious about our business model. It is both sustainable and economically impactful.

“We will continue to work flat out to deliver the best flight experience to our loyal guests and prioritise their safety and comfort”.

The new aircraft is the fifth Air Peace has received in the last 12 months alone. The airline took delivery of three Boeing 737 aircraft on February 21, June 16, December 24, 2017 and February 31, 2018 respectively. The carrier, which will soon launch flights to Dubai, Sharjar, London, Houston, Guangzhou, Mumbai and Johannesburg, is expecting the delivery of four more Embraer 145 jets, two Boeing 777s and a couple of Boeing 737 aircraft it recently acquired.

0 j Ɠ Ə Ƌ Ɨ ƄƑƕƆƏ ƈ Ɛ ƐƏ ƅƐƈ ƄƑ ƈ Ɔ ƓƈƐ ƏƆ ƅ Ƒ ƅƈƋ ƕ 9ƗƑ CƑƗƆè ƄƑƉ The FCT Administration has advised land buyers across the FCT to avoid illegal land transaction with the area councils.

It said that the FCT Minister, Malam Muhammad Musa Bello also decried the illegal activities of touts in the territory , and advised the public against any transactions on plots of land allocated by the area councils until title regularization process is concluded.

The FCT Permanent Secretary and Chairman of the FCT Land Use & Allocation Committee(LUAC), Mr. Chinyeaka Christian Ohaa made this disclosure at the weekend during the meeting of the committee in Abuja.

The Permanent Secretary stated that this action has become necessary to reduce the knotty cases of illegal land activities being perpetuated at the area councils of the Territory and thereby defrauding unsuspected members of the public.

He said: “The confirmation of titles of the area councils can only be conducted after completion of the ongoing area councils’ title regularization exercise, and therefore the general public is hereby advised to desist from transacting on the said titles until conclusion of the regularization exercise”.

Ohaa remarked that by the virtue of Section 297 (2) of the 1999 Constitution as amended; and Sections 18 & 1 (3) of the FCT Act respectively , have absolutely vested the entire 8,000 square kilometers of the land in the Federal Capital Territory to the Federal Government of Nigeria, and is being managed by the FCT Minister under a delegated responsibility.

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Ï ^Ə ƉƆƅƐ Ƣêǀü Ɔƅ ƌƈƅ Ə ƓƐ ƈ ƾƠơƤ The Federal Government’s capital budget would be strictly deployed to fund infrastructure projects across the country, particularly the completion of ongoing projects, the Honourable Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, has said.

The Government, she added, would retain the capital budget de-

spite forthcoming elections in the country.

In a statement by the Special Adviser, Media and Communications to the Minister of Finance, Oluyinka Akintunde and made available to The Daily Times, “The Minister made this known on Friday in Abuja, while representing the Vice

President, H.E. Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, at a lecture delivered to the National Defence College (NDC) Course 26 participants.

Responding to an enquiry by a member of the NDC Course 26 on the use of the capital budget for the general elections, Adeosun maintained that the current administra-

tion would not engage in the diversion of the capital project funds for the forthcoming elections.

According to the statement, the minister said, “The Administration remains committed to infrastructure spending at the high levels of RMj9Mn&d RM ^ 1& ƾ

Business News B2

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Dangote refinery returnee graduate engineers promise to end fuel scarcity Ïd ƕ Ɛ Ɔƕ ƏƆ ƓƆƋƋ ƆƗ Ɛ ƗƗƏƆ ƈƐ

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Desirous to reduce the hardships facing Nigerians, especially occasioned by perennial fuel scarcity in the country, returnee indigenous Indiatrained graduate engineers of the Dangote Refinery have promised to arrest it.

The said they would deploy the knowledge and skills acquired during the training to ensure Nigeria is saved the embarrassment of fuel scarcity when the refinery come on stream.

According to a statement by the Dangote Group and made available to The Daily Times, “The engineers, who described their experience as second to none in the history of Nigeria oil and gas sector, said never again would Nige-

ria experience fuel scarcity, as the Dangote Refinery would be operated in the most efficient manner”.

Dangote Oil Refinery Company had in preparation for take off sent in batches local graduate engineers to Bharat Refinery in India, arguably the biggest in the world, for training in refinery operation and production.

The nation is anxiously awaiting the Dangote refinery with a capacity to produce 650,000 bpd to commence operation as the country’s four refinery have gone comatose.

According to the statement,”Reliving their experience to the management of the copy on return one after another, at the refinery premises at Lekki, Lagos, the engineers said they had

both theory and practical training in India and they are also having a very rare opportunity to witness a refinery of the Dangote’s size being built from the scratch.

“Opeyemi Oyedepo, Process engineer and Igwe John, petroleum and gas engineer , told the management how they are made to be part of trouble shooting during their training, a development that has boosted their confidence that Dangote Refinery with most modern facilities, will eradicate perennial fuel scarcity in Nigeria”.

Speaking further on the benefits of the training to Dangote Refinery, the engineers stated that the company would henceforth enjoy increased value of human asset; improved ability to implement and realize specific goal within timeframe.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1

Dangote The engineers also listed as part of the benefits efficient refinery operations and adherence to quality and standard.

In his comment, Technical Adviser to Dangote Refinery, Engr.

Babajide Soyode expressed satisfaction that the best of the graduate engineers were selected as attested to by the the trainer’s in India.

L-R: Commandant National Defence College (NDC), Rear Admiral Adeniyi Oshinowo; Deputy Commandant, Major Gen. Peter Danke and the Representative of Vice President and Honourable Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, during a lecture delivered by the Vice President to the NDC Course 26 Participants in Abuja on Friday, 9th February, 2018

Aboloma extols predecessors , appoints Akanya, Odumodu SON ambassadors Former Chief Executives of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria have been commended for their commitment and selfless services in building a solid foundation for the organisation.

This commendation was given by the Director General, Mr. Osita Aboloma while welcoming his two immediate predecessors, Prof.

John Akanya and Dr. Joseph Odumodu to the SON Headquarters in Abuja.

He stated that the various contributions of former SON leaders to human capacity, structural and

infrastructural developments as well as the enactment of the SON Act 14 of 2015 are worthy of special mention.

Mr Aboloma expressed the appreciation of his Management and staff to the former Directors General and invited them to serve as Ambassadors of SON all over the world.

According to him, their rich knowledge and experiences in standardisation and quality assurance are invaluable to national, regional and continental economic growth and development.

Responding, the two former Chief Executives of SON accepted the appointment as Ambassadors of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria with gratitude.

They promised to provide necessary advice as may be required, towards the continual improvement of the SON and its positive impact in national, regional, continental and international standardisation.

Prof. Akanya and Dr. Odumodu expressed pride at the visible and monumental strides being undertaken by the Aboloma led management and urged him to sustain the

Ï 01 óƋƋ ƏƆƐ ƈ ƅ ƍƈƐ Ƌ budget despite forthcoming general elections - Adeosun

passion and momentum.

According to them, the Nation and its people stand to benefit immensely from the positive impact of SON through standardisation and quality assurance initiatives and programmes.

Mr. Aboloma then presented SON plaques to his two predecessors as a token of their ambassadorial appointments.

Picture 1 - DG, SON Mr Osita Aboloma flanked by Prof. John Akanya (left) and Dr. Joseph Odumodu both former Directors General.

the past two years and the completion of major ongoing projects.”

She further reiterated the commitment of the Administration to its programme of transformation, and jobs and wealth creation across the country.

President Muhammadu Buhari had on November 7, 2017 presented a budget of N8.612 trillion to the National Assembly, with focus on massive infrastructure development which includes: key strategic roads, rail projects and power projects, among others.

Earlier at the National Defence College, the Finance Minister had delivered the Vice President’s lecture to the Course 26 participants titled “Economic Dimensions of National Security: The Nigerian Experience”.

In the speech, Vice President Osinbajo said improvement in economic security was vital to Nigeria’s economic growth, human security improvement, and realisation of national defence and security requirements.

He assured that the Federal Government would continue to play a key role in ensuring national cohesion by promoting social inclusion as a Key State objective.

“Economic development is a springboard for improved national security because it comes with growth which enables more resources for a growing population.

“National economic development means that a country can meet its national security needs without depending on outsiders for the provision of its defence and security needs. Depending on food and energy imports makes a nation vulnerable to external pressure,” said the Vice President, who chairs the Economic Management Team (EMT) of the Government.

He disclosed that the Administration adopted the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) as a response to the recession towards restoring growth and reducing Nigeria’s vulnerability to external shocks.

He explained that the ERGP was initiated to address macroeconomic balance, increase contribution of agriculture, manufacturing, mining and high value services to the economy, build a competitive economy through the provision of infrastructure, and invest in the Nigerian people.

Adeosun

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo

B3

Business News

Air Peace, NCAA trade words over burglary at Lagos Airport runway

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has declared the alleged and reported runway 18R burglary attempt on the Cargo Hold of Air Peace as unfounded.

The NCAA in a statement issued on Sunday and signed its spokesman, Sam15 seconds and went off. This Adurogboye, it said the con-means someone has opened clusion was arrived at afterthe compartment’s door. the regulatory authority re- The Air Traffic Controller viewed all the reports fromon duty confirmed receiving the relevant agencies con-the report at about 1933hrs cerning the incident and it(1833GMT). was unproven.

“In line with Standard Last week, there were re-and Recommended Practices ports that the Pilot-in-Com-(SARPs), Aviation Security mand (PIC) of Air Peacepersonnel were at the HoldFlight no. APK 7138 withing Point of Runway 18R Aircraft no. 5N-BUJ hadmonitoring the departure/ alerted the Lagos Controltake off of both Air Peace Tower that the Aircraft’sand Arik Air aircraft.

AFT Cargo Compartment “The PIC alarm triggered has been opened. an immediate response. The According to the Pilot inEscort team overtook the his report to the Tower, heArik aircraft for a more proxnoticed that the Cargo Com-imate field look and access to partment light came up forthe Air Peace Aircraft.

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When companies are open for hostile acquisition Bonny Amadi

“On full speed, with the full lights on, no person(s) was found within the vicinity of the aircraft. “Importantly, the Arik aircraft which was on queue immediately after the Air Peace aircraft was similarly put on observation at this point”, the statement reads.

The authority continued by saying that, ‘the Arik Air aircraft also had its full complement of lights on towards the Air Peace aircraft having being aware of his counterpart’s conversation with the Tower. With benefit of this full view, neither movement nor any sign of person(s) was sighted around the aircraft.

“Thereafter, the Air Peace PIC requested to taxi back to the Apron at D45 to check if anything had been stolen. In addition, he wanted to clear his doubts that a bomb may have been thrown into the aircraft.

“At D45, the Airport Chief Security called the NPF-EOD (Explosive Ordinance Disposal) team who reported with their equipment at about 2026hrs.

“Passengers were disembarked at 2028hrs. The EOD team joined by FAAN’s Aviation Security and Air Peace Security conducted a search on the Cargo compartment and the passenger cabin of

the aircraft.

The search, it said, was completed at about 2055hrs and the aircraft was declared safe by the EOD Team leader.

Speaking further, Audurogboye said: The Air Peace PIC therefore briefed the passengers of the EOD’s all clear decision and that the service shall be operated. “ All passengers re-boarded and the aircraft was escorted to the holding area for take – off by the Escort teams from FAAN AVSEC and the Military Airside Patrol.

“The flight departed and landed safely at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. Therefore, against this background, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) came to the conclusion that the Runway 18R burglary report is unproven, largely unsubstantiated and therefore should be discountenanced.

“All stakeholders should be informed that all aviation agencies are well motivated and prepared to carry out their responsibilities perfunctorily at all times”, he said.

It would be recalled that Air Peace had alleged last Thursday that suspected thieves opened the cargo hold of its Flight 7138 holding for departure on Runway 18R (A1) of the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos at about 7.35pm Meanwhile, the management of Air Peace has accused the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority of cover up over the alleged theft at the runway.

A statement by Mr Chris Iwarah, communications manager for air peace disclosed that NCAA embarked on a lazy man’s job instead

Mr. Malomo Oladapo a Lagos -based stockbroker told our correspondent that having seen the first week of trying the new pricing methodology, the best form of insurance for the insurance firms on the expected development rests on the boards themselves.

The boards of insurance companies should race up with reality and perform better to deliver value to shareholders; otherwise investors who have money and are committed to deliver value to shareholders may wrestle the companies from them at 1 kobo per share.

The trend has its positive impacts, which certainly will subdue whatever negative impact that people might see in the new L-R : Obeahon Ohiwerei, MD/CEO Keystone Bank Limited, His Excellency, Governor of Edo pricing model.

He said that consideration State, Godwin Obaseki during a business meeting at the governor’s office in Benin...on Friday. on investment should above all place greater emphasis on shareholders who usually are denied of any benefit as long as companies remain unprofitable and in Myke Uzendu, Abuja (NEPZA). the West African sub-region and most cases, continue to trade at According to a statement is- Africa at large in the area of free par value price of 50 kobo per sued on Sunday by NEPZA’s zone innovation.

The Chief Executive of share.

Simon ImoboHis words: “We are here to exGhana Free Trade Zone, spokesman, On 29 January 2018, the NigeMr. Michael Okyere Baafi Tswam, the Chief Executive Offi- plore areas of cooperation and rian Stock Exchange (NSE) introhas called on their Nigerian cer (CEO) of GFTB, Mr. Michael partnership. But we believe Niduced new pricing methodology, which ushered in three catego- counterpart to provide leader- Okyere Baafi, made the call at geria is a senior brother in busithe weekend in Abuja when he ness, population etc, so it is an opries of listed companies and how ship for the region in the area of led a three-man delegation from portunity for Nigeria to take the their equity prices should move free trade and investment drive.

He further promised to deep- the Ghana Free Trade Board to lead and I can tell you that Ghana either up or down. The week ended February 28,th 2018, marked ened their socio-economic bonds, the NEPZA Headquarters on a is prepared to follow. This way, we the second week of the new price adding that Ghana Free Trade working visit. can, together, build strong Afriregime operation.

Baafi said, besides being in can free zones so they can stand Board (GFTB) is diaposed for a The three categories in the new strategic partnership with Nige- Nigeria to seek areas of coopera- shoulder-to-shoulder with the price regime are companies tradria beginning with signing of a tion with the Authority, they were world’s best. ing at N100 and above, companies in Nigeria to also urge the giant “We don’t have a large market, trading at N50 and above and Memorandum of Understandof Africa to rise to the historic but we need a senior brother like ing (MoU) with the Nigeria Exthose trading at N.50 and above. port Zones Processing Authority duty of providing leadership for Nigeria to move so that we’ll be

of engaging serious people on board the aircraft during the incident to ascertain the truth.

Iwarah disclosed that the airline will continue to play its role in providing security and safety for its passengers.

“While we remain unwilling to be drawn into unnecessary controversy with agencies that ought to have been jolted into action from their slumber by patriotic information as we did on the incident, we are compelled to say the purported report

by NCAA is both a lazy and shoddy job at cover-up” “The conclusion by NCAA suggesting that our information on the incident was a false alarm absolutely lacks a basis. From the report, it is clear that the only reason for NCAA’s dismissal of the very serious security breach was the claim that when an aircraft of another airline beamed its lights after our pilot alerted the control tower to the incident, the suspected thieves were not seen. “ We need to reiterate that our pilot’s call to control tower was made after the rear cargo hold of our aircraft was opened and shut after fifteen seconds.

“We, therefore, begin to wonder whether NCAA expected the suspected thieves to be there waiting after opening and shutting the cargo hold within a space of fifteen seconds.

“Even before we confirmed the incident, our guests on board the aircraft had made their independent accounts of the occurrence public” “On our part, we will continue to take all necessary measures to prioritise and guarantee the safety of our guests, crew and equipment’.

Ghana Free Trade CEO urges Nigeria to provide leadership for Africa able to build standard African free zones. Seeing what is happening in Morocco, Ethiopia and Rwanda, we believe this type of collaboration is strategic to our overall success at the regional and continental levels.

“We are here to see what we can do together, collaborate on things we can do together, try to see what we are not doing right that we learn from the Nigerian counterparts and we can also share some thoughts about what we are doing that can bring a change to the free zones in general in Africa.”

Money Market

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Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Naira to remain stable amidst regular FX injections Ï M Ɔƍ ƍƄƊ Ɔ ƅƉ Ǝ Ǝ ƅƅƆƃƆ Ɖè Ƌ ƍ ƉƉƄƉ Ɗ ƍƈƄƎ Ï1 Ɔ Ǝ 9÷& 0 Ɗ ƍƈƄƎè # ƃƉ Ƅ Ǝ MƠÕƟƁÝ Ɵ Stories by Motolani Oseni Foreign exchange traders are optimistic that the Nigerian currency, Naira, will remain stable during the week ahead, amidst expecta-

CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele

tions that the forex market and its segments will be continually lifted by the weekly FX intervention(s).

The naira, however, remained flat at N363 in the parallel market, and N305.85 against the US Dollar at the official forex market.

At the close of Friday’s trading, the local currency, at the Investors and Exporters (I&E) FX window, gained by 0.04 per cent to settled at a better rate of N360.27, against N360.27 traded on Thursday.

Also, the Bureau De Change (BDCs) forex market segment traded Naira to the Dollar at N361.

Traders believed that the naira is likely to remain stable

against the dollar next week , despite a sell-off this week on the stock and bond markets started by international investors, traders said.

Nigerian bond yields rose across maturities, while stocks fell on Wednesday , as global risk-off sentiment spread to local assets.

Traders said the impact of the sell-off was limited on the naira as there was no sign of pressure building up on the currency.

Although, the Africa’s largest economy plans to redeem N762.5 billion naira, worth of Treasury bills from the proceeds of a planned $2.5 bn Eurobond, to lower borrowing costs for the government.

Thereby, expected to save N64bn each year after it refinances the local bills with the dollar debt, she told reporters following a cabinet meeting in the capital, Abuja.

Meanwhile, the apex bank in its latest report, explained that foreign exchange inflow into the economy increased in the fourth quarter of 2017, as a result of the rise in international spot price of Nigeria’s reference crude oil, the Bonny Light to an average of $62.48 per barrel in the fourth quarter of 2017.

“The rise in crude oil price was attributed to the decline in United States shale oil output, increased global demand for refined petroleum and exten-

sion of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) production-cut deal to the end of 2018.

“In addition, an overall balance of payments surplus of 2.2 per cent of the gross domestic product (GDP) was recorded in the review quarter”, report stated.

“Consequently, foreign exchange inflow through the CBN stood at $14.71bn, showing an increase of 22.7 per cent and 118.7 per cent over the levels in the preceding quarter and the corresponding period of 2016, respectively.

The increase reflected the rise in receipts from oil and improvement in non-oil proceeds.”

FDC predicts January inflation rate at 14.90% Analysts at Financial Derivates Company Limited (FDC) have predicted that inflation rate will plunge to 14.90 per cent in January 2018.

According to FDC report, “We forecast that year-on-year headline inflation will plunge to 14.9per cent in January 2018. This is a 0.47per cent decline from 15.37 per cent in December 2017.

“If our estimates are correct, this will mark the 12th consecutive decline since February 2017. Our forecast is based on a simple regression model and empirical analysis. We expect month-on-month inflation to flatten out to 0.59per cent (7.33per cent annualized).

“The downward trajectory in headline inflation can be attributed to the decline in most global commodity food prices such as sugar and rice and to a minor extent, the stability of exchange rate between (N363/$-N364/$).

“A stable exchange rate encourages producers to finally pass through the benefit of cheaper imports to con-

sumers.

“Furthermore, the decline in production levels due to the fall in demand (post-Christmas blues) in January - evident in the sharp fall in FBN PMI to 54.6 from 68.7 in Dec’17 - will taper inflationary pressures.

“The downward trajectory in headline inflation can be attributed to the decline in most global commodity food prices such as sugar and rice and to a minor extent, the stability of exchange rate between (N363/$N364/$). A stable exchange rate encourages producers to finally pass through the benefit of cheaper imports to consumers.

“Although Inflationary pressures were subdued in the month of January, we are likely to see a reversal in the trend in the coming months.

As business activities pick up in the run up to Easter, there will be an increase in aggregate domestic demand which could trigger a further build-up of inflationary pressure.

“Assuming that inflation declines as anticipated, the CBN will find it difficult to respond

by lowering the current policy rate (MPR).

“This is because the National Assembly is yet to ratify the appointments of the new nominees of the President to the MPC. The absence of a quorum will make any policy change almost impossible,” the report added.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria’s annual inflation had slowed for 11th consecutive period in December, easing to 15.37 per cent against15.90 per cent recorded in Novem-

ber and 15.91 in October 2017, the latest report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) had stated.

The statistiscs office in its Consumer Price Index (CPI) report for December 2017, disclosed that year 2017 ended with a rate of 15.37 per cent (year-on-year) in December the same year.

The latest figure, however, showed that 0.53 per cent points lower than the rate recorded in November, represented 11th consecutive dis-

inflation (slowdown in the inflation rate though still positive) in headline year -on- year inflation since January 2017.

According to the report, increases have been recorded in all the Classification of Individual Consumption

by Purpose (COICOP) divisions that yield the Headline Index.

On a month-on-month basis, the bureau stated that the Headline Index increased by 0.59 per cent in December 2017, 0.19 per cent points

higher from the rate of 0.78 per cent recorded in November.

It stated that the percentage changed in the average composite CPI for the 12 months period ending in December 2017 over the average of the CPI for the previous 12 months period.

The NBS stated that the percentage of average composite CPI was 16.50 per cent in the month, showing 0.26 per cent points lower from 16.76 per cent recorded in November 2017.

vv

Capital Market

B5

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Experts finger global equities market uncertainty to prevailing sell off

Stories by Bonny Amadi

Cross section of market experts have pointed that the prevailing global markets uncertainty to be responsible for the sustained market decline recorded for consecutive ties market. the last trading session of the

NSE-ASI dropped -3.39 per cent.

Investment one research said it “may not be unconnected

other sectors finished in the -

slide in the price of Brent oil

-

Activity levels also declined share price declined by -46pts, the losses offset the gains recorded by highly priced Danated by 84pts.

Furthermore, market

in the Nigerian Stock Exchange The market data released by

Equity Assurance changes name to Sunu Assurance

as 23 stocks gained compared announced that its same has been changed to Sunu Assurance, earlier in February

the losers’ chart.

In the near term, analysts, expect market to trade sidetinue to take positions in this earnings season. “Despite the present

entry

Franco-phone

African

Insur-

Liberia Ltd. The company also completed sition reflects that a total of uity Assurance has been bought by the group A statement by the company’s secretary, John Akubueze said

opportunities -

one noted .

xx

ing shareholders have collapsed

bn for a non-life general business insurance company in Nigeria. is, to be a leading Africa insuris present in 12 Franco-phone Assurance is present in three Anglo-phone countries. This arrangement brings about market L – R: Head of Brand Strategy and Marketing, Paga, Daniel Oparison; Co-founder and Head of Business Development, Paga, Jay Alabraba; General Manager, Agent Network Sales, Paga, Arike Okunowo; Paga Agent, Leumastek Venture; Founder & CEO, Paga, Tayo Oviosu, at the launch of community financial services building in Badagry.

Afromedia announces resignation of group’s ED Afromedia

Nigeria

the tag minimum regulatory nounced the resignation of its Group Executive Director shared services, Mr. S.O.S. focused on pursuing other personal endeavors.

Acting company secretary, Oseni Adeyemi, in a signed statement released by the Ni-

board is yet to meet to ratify the appointment of Mr. Olaiya and the resignation of Mr.

said that the company has in

so at the company’s scheduled ter 2018, ending in March 30th.

Afromedia Plc September MRF for non-rendition of au-

of the articles of Association, appointed Mr. Olufemi Sunday Olaiya, as the Executive Director /C.O.O Media business unit of the company.

According to the report, the

for the company’s financial year ended 30th September.

Custodian discloses gratitude capital controls 12.17 % holding Custodian and Allied plc has, to the NSE listing rules, disclosed that Gratitude Capital Limited ings in the company.

In a statement titled “Discloership of Custodian and Allied

secretary, Adeyinka Jafojo dated February 8th made available to the Nigerian Stock Exchange, The statement read, “in line amendments to the NSE listing rules, custodian and Allied Plc hereby notifies the Exchange that

issued share capital of the company.

According to the company, the -

belongs to a major insurance conglomerate in the continent.

T-bill, fx, Repos boost market by 93.64% The three segments, Treasury bills, foreign exchange market and the repos, buy back and unsecured placements contributed 93.64 per cent of total turnover in the FIC markets, the OTC market has revealed.

Fr the month of January 2018 turnover in the FMDQ OTC decrease from the value recorded Transaction turnover recorded in the Fixed Income and month of January 2018 amounted crease from the value recorded volumes traded in the import and The market posted a year on

Rocknet Nigeria Limited \and has been transferred to Gratitude Capital Limited.

-

is expected to be influenced by N90billion OMO maturity ThursAccording to the transaction reports released by the FMD, activities in the Nigerian Treasury bills’ market accounted for 39.24 -

against 33.63 per cent in DecemIn the same period, the money market (Repurchase Agreements for 16.90 per cent, against 24.31 per cent per cent in December The above three segments , Treasury bills, foreign exchange market and the repos, buy back and unsecured placements contributed 93.64 per cent of total turnover in the FIC markets.

Insurance Ganiyu Obaaro, with Agency reports A.M. Best has downgraded the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) to B+ (Good) from B++ (Good and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating (Long-Term ICR) to “bbb-” from “bbb+” of Jordan The outlook of the Long-Term ICR has been revised to stable from negative, while the outlook of the FSR remains stable.

The Credit Rating (rating) downgrades reflect deterioration of JIC’s balance sheet strength fundamentals. Risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), has declined over recent years despite management actions aimed at bolstering capital adequacy.

Over the past five years, onerous dividend payments and underwriting growth, as well as fair value losses from the company’s concentrated and high risk investment portfolio, have negatively

B6

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

A.M. Best downgrades credit ratings of Jordan Insurance impacted its level of risk-adjusted capitalisation. In addition, JIC’s liquidity position deteriorated notably in 2017, with net operational cash outflows eroding the company’s cash resources, requiring it to utilise its bank overdraft facilities.

Underpinning JIC’s ratings are its balance sheet strength, which A.M. Best categorises as strong, as well as its strong operating performance, neutral business profile and marginal enterprise risk management.

The company’s balance sheet strength is expected to be managed to a strong level over the medium term. Management’s intention to divest certain capital intensive investments may lead to

an improvement of risk-adjusted capitalisation if executed; however, the long-term benefits will be dependent on JIC’s ability to retain the proceeds within the company. Offsetting balance sheet factors include the company’s limited liquidity and asset liability management, weak regulatory solvency margin and moderate dependence on reinsurance.

JIC’s operating performance is viewed as strong, although somewhat volatile. The company’s underwriting performance has been excellent historically, with non-life combined ratios that have outstripped many of its local competitors.

However, in 2016 and the first

nine months of 2017, competitive market conditions across JIC’s non-life operations and reserve strengthening requirements in the United Arab Emirates, have led to near breakeven combined ratios. Offsetting this weaker performance has been the company’s life business, which has demonstrated consistently good profitability.

The company has a good competitive position within Jordan, ranked second in the market based on gross written premiums in 2016. Despite this, the Jordanian insurance market remains relatively small by international standards with limited growth opportunities. JIC’s operations

are also relatively concentrated by geography with approximately 75% of premium emanating from Jordan.

JIC’s risk management framework is developing, and its risk management capability is viewed to be marginal relative to the size and complexity of its operations.

The company has solid controls and adequate capability for key underwriting risks; however, A.M. Best considers there to be deficiencies in the management of investment, liquidity and capital management risks. Country risk is also a key risk to JIC given that its underwriting and investment operations are focused principally in Jordan.

Western Lotto raises stakes with Powerball Max

Adeyemi Akeem

R-L: Fela Ibidapo, Group Head, Corporate Communications, Heritage Bank, Hon. Desmond Elliot, member of Lagos State House of Assembly; who was represented by Halima Rammal and Adora Zulu-Okafor, Team Lead, Personal Banking, during Heritage Bank’s gift donation to the Honourable Representative, Surulere Constituency 1, for its Charity Christmas Project at the bank’s head office, Lagos... recently,

Gaming and entertainment firm Western Lotto Nigeria Limited has raised the stakes in the gaming business in Nigeria with the introduction of Powerball Max, one of the latest games in the franchise.

According to the company, Powerball Max, a US lottery, offers winnings of up to N14b ($26,000,000.00) and Western Lotto Nigeria Limited is the official partner of the lottery.

Powerball is the wealthiest lottery in the world, offering a N562bn jackpot. Draws take place every Wednesday and Saturday in the US or Thursday and Sunday Nigerian time.

The Managing Director of Western Lotto Nigeria Limited, Mr. Yomi Ogunfowora, said the gamers on the platform could tap into the nine ways through which to win prizes.

Jackpots never fall below N14bn at any given time. Winners share from a large pot.

According to him, Western

Lotto added the Powerball Max to its rich bouquet of games in line with its pledge “to bring world-class entertainment to Nigerians.”

Participation in the Powerball Max cost only N200 per game. The frontline gaming platform allows Nigerians the opportunity to play and win millions of dollars offered by other renowned games like Mega Millions, Euro Millions, Euro Jackpot and the UK Lotto.

Ogunforowa said: “We are committed to bringing undiluted world-class entertainment and this is a major one for us. For someone to participate directly in these international games is a huge opportunity. Nigerians are intelligent and fun-loving.

Hopefully, the world will soon celebrate a jackpot winner in this country.”

He disclosed that over 18,000 gamers had won different cash prizes, including Dorcas Nwagbara, who won N15m in September 2017.

Two new digital insurance cos seen starting in 2018

Why Swiss Pharma Nigeria shut down – MD

A reduction in the capital required for new insurance companies will make it easier for new entrants to the market.

Two digital insurance companies are set to receive approval and to start business in the first half of 2018. Sources inform “Globes” that these are two separate groups each led by a former CEO of a traditional insurance company: Emil Vainshel, formerly CEO of Ayalon Holding Ltd. (TASE: AYAL) and a senior manager at Migdal Insurance and Financial Holdings Ltd. (TASE: MGDL) and Harel Insurance Investments and Financial Services Ltd. (TASE: HARL); and

The Managing Director of Swiss Pharma Nigeria Limited, Mr. Gaby El Khoury has explained that the recent closure of the pharmaceutical company was carried out to safeguard the company’s properties and prevent any form of hostility by some of its staff.

In a statement at the weekend, Khoury explained that upon the acquisition of Swiss Pharma Nigeria Limited (swipha) in March 2017, the new management decided to lift the company up to its Group compliance and social policies, corporate governance and benefits for the employees.

However, he said, some of these policies appeared to be unacceptable to some members of staff

Ester Elishkov, who managed Hachshara Insurance (TASE: ILDN), and came close to being CEO of Ayalon.

The Capital Market Insurance and Savings Authority said in response to the report, “The reduction in capital requirements will make it easier for new companies to enter the market, and they will boost competition. The Authority expects that new insurance ventures will start operating this year.”

At the “Globes” Israel Business Conference last week, Commissioner of Capital Markets, Insurance and Savings Dorit Salinger said, among other things,

“We see new entities seeking to enter the market. I believe that competition will come from new models.

The ventures that exist currently are all digital, and I believe that these models will not change the structure of the market, but that they will boost competition, even if their market shares are small.” Also last week, the Capital Market Insurance and Savings Authority and the Ministry of Finance issued a statement on “Reduction in the Capital Required for Obtaining an Insurance Company License,” which received approval from the Knesset Finance Committee.

who preferred to slow down, then to hinder operation and embarked on strike since mid-December 2017, while all efforts to make them have a rethink about a promising future proved abortive, adding that it was to safeguard company properties and prevent any form of hostility the management decided to officially shut-down operations temporarily.

He said that despite the tough economic situation in Nigeria, Biogaran, a subsidiary of Servier (the No. 2 French Pharmaceutical Group) that specializes in generics acquired Swiss Pharma Nigeria Limited (swipha) in March 2017, as part of its expansion plans to other African countries.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday February 12, 2018

B7

CSR

CSR, Nigerian youths, nation building Stories by Godwin Anyebe

Over the years, Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR) in Nigeria has been a contemporary and contextual issue to all followers of event including the government, brand handlers and the larger society.

Analysts are of the view that the payment of taxes and the fulfillment of other civic rights are enough grounds to have the liberty to take back from the society in terms of CSR undertaken by other stakeholders.

Before now, the Nigerian society was characterised by children who were seeing on the street due to bad governance or poor parental control.

While children of those

at the corridor of power attend schools overseas, children of the underprivileged are more often than not seeing hawking on the streets..

To this end, checks by Daily Times showed that most corporate organizations that are supposed to bridge the gap between government and the youths are often concerned about what they can take out of the society, and de-emphasized the need to give back to the society (their host Communities).

This attitude often renders the entire community uninhabitable.

For example, the Boko Haram insurgency in the North and militancy in the South south part of Nigeria have translated to negative integrity

and reputation on the part of corporate identity , as people perceived this as exploitation and greed for profitability and wealth maximization within a decaying economy.

Nonetheless, the general belief is that both business and society gain when firms actively strive to be socially responsible; that is, the business organizations gain in enhanced reputation, while society gains from the social projects executed by the business organization.

Though, it is believed in some quarters that if only the government can make an enabling environment for business to strive, the corporate organisations on their part will ensure they give

back to the society which will have a positive effect on the children.

Therefore, many companies are occupying responsibilities in Nigerian schools through CSR, because the country’s government has not improved upon the lapses in the country’s education.

Speaking on this issue, Toyin Olakanpo, a lawyer and a passionate child rights advocate, who also and sits on the Board of the Foundation for CSR & Children’s Rights as its President and Chief Executive Officer said; “the Convention on the Rights of the Child launched in 1989 was supposed to change the way children in the world were viewed and treated.

L-R: Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, Executive Vice Chairman Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC); Prince Bola Ajibola, former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice; Senator Olabiyi Durojaiye, Chairman Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), during the public presentation of the book, ‘Dare to be Different,’ to mark the 85th birthday of Senator Durojaiye in Lagos...on Thursday

‘Party and Eventz’ to train photographers in Lagos The management of Parties and Eventz, an event and protocol company based in Lagos, is organising an exciting two weeks’ intensive photography session for both amateur and professional photographers in Lagos.

The maiden edition of the digitalphotography training session,

which will focus on current trends in the photograph, is scheduled to hold from 26th February to 9th March, 2018 in Ikeja, Lagos.

The Managing Director of the company, Mrs. Abiola Scott assured recently in Lagos that seasoned professional photographers would take the participants through

the various aspects of photography and its latest technological applications.

She pointed out that the training would be new dawn in the digital photography world, as participants would experience new innovations, through theory and practical training, in a conducive atmosphere.

According to her, “photography is beyond the act of posing before a camera and printing it on a paper”.

Scott, who is deeply passionate about the act of photography, traced her love with the lens to the influence of her father, who she described a master in the act, during her early days as a teenager.

“It sets out a pioneering set of principles that placed children as human beings with a distinct set of rights. It is important to take a close look at the Child Rights Act (Nigeria) passed into law at the Federal level in 2003, which encapsulated the Convention and its principles and see if life for the Nigerian child had indeed changed for the better.

The advocate pointed out that, “the Nigerian child’s right to survival and protection was clearly violated on November 10, 2014 when a suicide bomber, suspected to have been spurred on by the terrorist group Boko Haram, murdered 47 children as they gathered for the morning assembly at their school – the Federal Government Science School in Potisku “This was not a singular incident. On the 6th of July, 2013, Boko Haram attacked a secondary school in Mamudo, Yobe State, killing 42 children. On September 29, 2013 gunmen from Boko Haram entered the male dormitory of the Federal Government College of Agriculture in Gujba, Yobe State, killing 44 boys.

“On February 25,2014 members of Boko Haram attacked the Federal Government College in Buni Yadi, Yobe State where they massacred 59 boys in their sleep.

“The Nigerian child has been subject to murderous attacks in schools as far back as July 2013; and no visible remedial action had been taken by the Nigerian government to provide adequate security to make schools safe in the North Eastern part of Nigeria where insurgency has reached a climatic stage of terrifying proportion.”

Daily Times learnt that, in other climes, where children are treated with dignity, corporate organisation through the activities of some none governmental organisation ensure that children are remembered after death. For example, the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in December 2012 where 26 children were killed by a deranged madman

in Newton, Conneticut, USA. On the CNN website there was a picture of each of the children who were killed and a short biography for each of them including personal details such as “her favorite stuffed animal was a lamb; pink and purple were her favorite colors.”

On this note, the questions analysts are asking is that, where is the memorial wall for all the children killed by the insurgents?

Meanwhile, in recognition of the Nigeria child’s right to dignity, the Bring Back Our Girls Movement, led by Oby Ezekwesili, insisted in giving a name to each of the 276 girls abducted by terrorists in Chibok, Nigeria on April 2014, because every human being has a name and every life matters.

The BBOG Movement refused to view the abductions as just another episode of: “some girls were abducted”, but a case of someone’s daughter or sister or friend. These were human beings whose lives mattered with a name, a face and an identity. This right of dignity is even more important in death.

Nigerians are, however, of the view that companies in the country engage in the CSR projects owing to a lack of qualitative education in the country.

This is given as the basis of national problems in the recent times that range from corruption to insecurity, from official crime to street crime and so forth.

These companies had perhaps seen that investing in the foundation of education in the country would necessitate how the behaviours of Nigerians would be in a long run.

Pundits like Professor Adewale Okunuga, who was an old student of The Apostolic Church Grammar School, Lagos, as guest lecturer at the school’s 50th anniversary lecture sometime in the first quarter of this year, believed that the putrefaction in the country’s education system could be traced to the 1980s and 1990s.

vv

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 12, 2018

Adesola Afolabi Fidelity Bank Plc has emerged the best performing banking stock in 2017 on The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), as it gained 193 per cent in the 52week trading session.

The Tier-II bank is the highest gainer by percentage, followed by Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc, FBN Holdings Plc and United Bank For Africa Plc. Fidelity Bank’s share price surged to join seven others as the largest market capitalization on the NSE Banking Index in 2017.

A stockbroker at Foresight Securities & Investment Limited, Mr. Fakrogha Charles, attributed the growth to corporate governance and increased participation from foreign investors.

He said, “Take a look at Fidelity Bank. The bank in 2017 was involved in a lot of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) empowerment and investors were taking note. The bank also announced an impressive result in nine months ended September 30, 2017. All these impacted on the bank’s results.

“Banks growth in share prices is a combination of so many factors but most importantly, the managements have shown some seriousness in taking those banks to the next level and that is expected to bring confidence.”

He maintained that Nigeria economy growth in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) also play a critical role in banks shares in 2017, stressing that by 2018, further stability will further aid growth in banking sector shares.

“Once a bank is effectively managed, foreign investors will patronize their shares.

Once economy polices is stable, banks are expected to perform very well and not only banks, but other companies.”

Other top gainers by percentage include Access Bank Plc, Zenith Bank Plc and Guaranty Trust Bank Plc (GTBank).

The gain in above financial institutions impacted positively on NSE Banking Index that closed 2017 at 73.32 per cent or 201.12 basis points to 475.44 basis points from 274.32 basis points the equities market opened for trading in 2017.

The NSE’s Banking Index

B8

Business Features

How Fidelity Bank’s stock grew 193 per cent in 1 year

FIDELITY BANK MD, NNAMDI OKONKWO

FIRST BANK MD, ADESOLA ADEDUNTAN

thus recorded the highest gains amongst other sectoral indices on the local bourse in 2017.

As at the close of trading on Friday (December 29), Fidelity Bank share price added N1.62 to close 2017 at N2.46 from N0.84 it opened for trading this year.

The lender’s Earning Per Share (EPS) closed 2017 at 0.53x, far above other TierII banks listed on The Exchange.

The share price of Stanbic IBTC added 177 per cent or N26.50 to close 2017 at N41.5 from N15.00 it opened for trading, while FBN Holdings Plc share price also appreciated by 163 per cent or N5.45 fromN3.35 it opened for trading to close at N8.80 on last day of trading.

United Bank For Africa Plc (UBA) share price also increased by 129 per cent or N5.80 to close 2017 atN10.3 from N4.50 per share.

Joining in the top five banks by percentage is Access Bank while Zenith Bank and GTBank came sixth and seventh respectively.

The share price of Access

in 2017.

Speaking on the performance, Managing Director, Enterprise Stockbrokers Plc, Rotimi Fakayejo, said, most banks have gained above 100 per cent due to impressive earnings in second quarter and third quarter of 2017.

He said, “coming back of foreign portfolio investors also play a critical role in banks shares in 2017. We have seen stability of the Naira bring back foreign investors. The game changer is stability in the foreign exchange and also the workable foreign exchange policies of the CBN.” Jaiz bank Plc that was listed on NSE early 2017 emerged as the worst performing banking share, followed by Unity Bank Plc and Wema bank Plc. Skye Bank Plc remained flat at N0.50 per share for the second consecutive year, over non-disclose of its 2016 accounts.

The bank has serially failed to submit its Q2 result of 2016; Q3 result of 2016; the full 2016 report; Q1 result of 2017, and the first –half year

Bank rose by 78 per cent or N4.58 to close 2017 at N10.45 from N5.87; Zenith Bank share price gained 74 per cent or N10.89 to close 2017 at N25.64 while GTBank’s share price increased by 65 per cent or N16.05 from N24.70 it opened for trading to close at N40.75.

Another major gainer in banking share is Diamond Bank Plc. The bank’s share price gained 70per cent or N0.62per cent to N0.88 from N0.62 it closed for trading in 2016.

Other gainers are Ecobank Transnational Incorporated with gain of 65 per cent or N6.72 to close at N17; Sterling Bank Plc share price added 42 per cent or N0.32 to close at N1.08; Union Bank Of Nigeria Plc rose by 42 per cent or N2.30 to N7.80 and FCMB Group Plc rose by 35 per cent or N0.38 to close 52-week trading at N1.48.

Agreeing with Fakrogha, other analysts attributed the performance to stability in foreign exchange, reiterating that quarter-on-quarter corporate earnings also impacted on these banks shares

results of 2017.

However, for 2017 banking shares, Zenith Bank, GTBank and Stanbic IBTC were trading above their tangible book value, a measure of what the companies would theoretically be worth if liquidated, with Zenith Bank at 5.21x; GTBank at 4.90 x and Stanbic at 4.60x .

The three banks are the largest by market capitalisation in Nigeria (excluding ETI with primary listing in Lome Togo).

The price to tangible book value ratio is closely vv bank investors watched by vv and analysts.

GTBank has generally traded between 1.2x and 1.8x book value in the past four years while Stanbic’s valuation has soared with the lifting of regulatory overhang on the share following the resolution of the financial reporting council (FRC) saga.

Zenith Bank saw profit before tax rise to N152.6bn, while GTBank and Stanbic profit before hit N150.03bn and N45.65bn in nine months ended September 30, 2017, respectively.

Life&

TIMES Monday, February 12, 2018

Social media market; a must for today’s L entrepreneurs – Fela Yomi-Layinka P

2

Interview L2

Daily Times Nigeria

Monday, February 12, 2018

Retail fashion is a challenge in Nigeria-Fela Yomi-Layinka The year 2017 was an economic roller coaster for Nigeria, most especially for time high and only managed to settle somewhere between N360-N365towards

-

Fela Yomi-Layinka The OYL SIGNATURE brand……..

It is a fashion and lifestyle brand with a vision of retailing uniquely designed accessories & apparels from a Nigerian perspective. We are currently building a portfolio of unique products that are not only comparable internationally when it comes to product quality but in design aesthetics. In short, our primary objective is to build a reputable brand of notable value with products internationally recognizable designs & comparable manufacturing quality. I long run.

The several channels of the brand…….

The company currently retails its products under 2 sub brands – OYL SIGNATURE COLLECTION and the NOVELTY SPORTS COLLECTION. OYL Signature Collection caters an array of OYL branded fashion and lifestyle ac-

cessories which currently include the Flair Tag (a stainless steel chain & pendant design), the

sories) and the Vanity Ring (currently our only The Novelty Sports Collection also known as NSC is an annual capsule collection of apparel.

This sub-brand was created to cater to the teeming urban street wear culture and the immediate

simplistic snap back design) a product we are proud to say we have retailed over 1000 unit till date. On the 13th of August last year, we formally launched NSC-17 Limited Edition capsule collection, which included a new hat, lux sweatshirts and crop tops for the ladies. Right now plans are already on the way for the introduction of NSC-18 capsule for next year, in a grander manner hopefully.

Earlier this year, my business partner and I travelled to Aba, which is reputably the headquarters for textile marketing and manufacturing in Nigeria. Our goal was to simply explore & understudy the vast marketing region, in the hopes of developing valuable business relationships and connections for our future product development needs most especially for our NSC sub-brand.

While this proved to be a fruitful trip in terms of new knowledge gained and a general exposure to huge deposit of raw materials, two Lagos boys the realization that it is systematically cheaper to manufacture knock-off Versace pants that it was to produce an original NSC sweatshirt. Amazing right?

Recession tale…… come at a more trying period. We had just placed

Life&

T E A M

prices had been set, marketing plans in place,

packaging items sourced, and a few preorders had even come in. We had even paid our deposit to the manufactures and were just waiting eagerly to receive our shipment from our overseas partners so we can hit the ground running. We had

ready to give 2018 all it takes.

sure we were going to be smiling to the bank on this one. All of a sudden, the Nai-

fashion labels in Nigeria deal primarily in

crashing. I was totally confused, I mean I had just put in all my savings, and had also gotten my business partner to buy believing in the vision he had just bought outing as partners. What were we going were we going to survive this? All these questions kept running through my head.

The answer was simple, nothing! Nothing at all! We had no choice, we decided to follow the course, trust the plan. One of the major lessons I picked up in business school is that a successful business is not one without challenges, and that beyond the health of the business is determined one of those trying times. We went ahead with all our plans for the product, kept the preset prices, and even had to deal with manufacturing errors that eventually ever I am proud to say we completely sold out that product, and it is such a customer favourite that we have already set out plans to release an upgraded version of the design for the year 2018, based on customer feedback. Even though by the time we checked our books for 2016, we tional year, we have been able to learn from our mistakes, re-strategize and stabilize this 2017, now we are focused and

The retail fashion challenge in Nigeria…..

Retail fashion is a challenge in itself where Nigeria is concerned. The major-

the retail-products market, the reality still remains that most Nigerian brands are not necessarily in health competitions with each other. Rather we are generally tasked with competing against foreign brands (mostly knock-off products) that are not in any way tasked with our socioperturbed, we are young and resilient and are determined to reach our destined The OYL signature is basically an online store where business is transacted via all the major social media platforms.

2018 plans……

It is really about growth for us. In 2018 we plan to continuously expand our product range, improve our quality and customer service, and explore better and farther reaching marketing and distribution techniques. Most importantly we hope to build on the trust that Nigerians have put in the OYL SIGNATURE brand. A trust that has helped us move thousands of products to customers all over Nigeria; East, West, North, South, with less than three thousand follower on our instagram page, which is been our core marketing nitely do not plan to disappoint our growing community of supporters. Expect magic! See I had a personal experience recently that showed me that when we dream, all we need is believe to make it real. So thank you to all the believers in the OYL dream!

Daily Times Nigeria

Monday, February 12, 2018

Nutrition L3

Tigernut: Inexpensive yet nutritious Mutiat Alli There is no doubt that Tigernut are one of the cheapest African snack foods often sold by the Hausa in different parts of Nigeria. In Nigeria, the

Tigernut is highly nutritious and contains high energy content (starch, proteins, sugars and fat), it

the tissues. Due to the high contents of soluble gut and brings a feeling of fullness, helping to suppress appetite and aid eating. The African journal of food, agriculture, bread instead of butter for a healthy applying on skin and hair. The oil is

Wellness L4

Daily Times Nigeria

Monday, February 12, 2018

Mutiat Alli

Maintaining that good breath Halitosis affects how you feel about yourself, not to mention how others perceive you. Bad breath is mostly caused by bacteria that breed inside your mouth, it can also be caused by smelly food like onion, garlic and some spice can cause bad breath.

The odour lingers while food particles stay in your mouth but these foods gives you a double whammy, once they make it through your system their stinks chemicals travels through your blood stream to the lungs when you breathe them out.

Here are few tips on how to maintain a good and fresh breath: ally with baking soda - The bacteria that causes bad breath thrive in an acidic oral environment. Brushing your teeth with baking soda helps to neutralize excess acids found in the oral cavity.

reliever and antihistamine unless it is medically necessary. These drugs chronic dry mouth. practicing consistent and thorough oral hygiene is an effective prevention tool. instead of your mouth - try to address any snoring or sleep apnea issues that could be affecting your breath and causing dry mouth. shown that smokers are at higher risk of developing periodontal disease. Furthermore people who smoke may also engage in other habits that promote this condition such as drinking alcohol and suffering from chronic anxiety conditions that require exacerbating prescription medication. drinking plenty of water.

halitosis. Avoid eating heavily procarbohydrates such as cookies, cakes, sweet and ice cream.

be sure to get a tooth brush with soft -

mouthwash or oral rinses are effective at preventing bed breath, however you should never use alcohol based mouthwashes because the alcohol makes the mouth very dry which would actually make the problem worse.

remove any food and plague which can be used as fuel source by the anaerobic, sulfur producing bacteria that are at the root of these problem.

try not to take anti-depressants, pain

and Vitamin B are effective at helping your body eliminate excess mucus and toxins naturally.