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FG talks tough, begins prosecution of tax evaders

Ï To name, shame defaulters March 31 Mathew Dadiya, Abuja

ÏÏÏ The

Federal Government has said that it has concluded plans to prosecute, name and shame tax evaders that fail to utilise the tax amnesty pro-

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gramme known as Voluntary Assets and Income Declaration Scheme (VAIDS), to regularise their tax profiles.

Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, disclosed this on Thursday at the VAIDS Continued on page 4

FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2018 VOL. 3. NO. 591

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

Suspension threat: Senate, Reps divided over EGMONT directives Ï Hon Oladele derailed process of legal framework - Sen Utazi Ï No, Sen Utazi refused every attempt for reconciliatory meeting - Oladele Ï ‘NFIU should domicile in EFCC as new unit will hurt Nigeria’

Olufemi Samuel and Tunde Opalana, Abuja

ÏÏÏ As

the EGMONT Group meets on March 12 to deliberate on many issues Continued on page 5

Reps pass no confidence vote on Fayemi, Bwari 4 Court orders forfeiture of 5 $200,000 concealed by bizman to FG 19 million new born babies risk brain damage 5 annually - UNICEF

L - R: Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Yusuff Lasun; Speaker House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara and Senate President, Senator Bukola Saraki jointly receiving Constitution Amendment report from the Chairman, Conference of Speakers State House of Assembly, Hon. Ismaila Kamba, during the Transmission of Resolutions on Constitution Amendment at the National Assembly Abuja... on Thursday.

PHOTO: TEMITOPE BALOGUN

States Assembly okay devolution of powers 6

2

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

News 3

Fuel scarcity now a thing of the past –Baru Idu Jude Abuja

ÏÏÏThe

Group managing Director of the NNPC Dr. Maikanti Baru, has insisted that the management’s recent engagement with relevant stakeholders on the marketing of oil products, has actually laid the lingering product scarcity to rest.

Baru, who insisted that fuel scarcity was caused by greedy marketers, explained that the corporation had been collaborating with sister agencies towards addressing products profiteering, diversion, hoarding and smuggling.

Dr. Baru, who made this assertion during his presentation at the ongoing Kaduna trade fair, said that above all, the corporation was working hard to get the nation’s refineries back to their optimal levels.

He listed some of the key stakeholders engaged by the corporation to include the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing, the Nigerian Security & Civil Defense Corps, the Nigerian Customs Service

as well as Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has expressed its commitment towards providing the necessary assistance for Nigeria to attain competitive edge in non-oil sectors of the economy.

“NNPC is suited to providing the enabling environment for the Nation to optimise its commercial, industrial and agricultural potentials to attain competitive edge in these sectors. This is a commitment which we shall continue to abide by,” Dr. Baru stated. he said that to further demonstrate NNPC’s commitment on this goal, Baru explained that the corporation had set up the Renewable Energy Division which is focused on not only developing solar and other renewable energy sources but also on developing Biofuels that are heavily dependent on agricultural produce as feedstock.

According to him, the multiplayer effects of such ventures are enormous. These include reviving the nation’s agricultural sector, generating millions of jobs, contributing significant-

ly to power generation, producing high volume of animal feed, starch and other byproducts, in addition to the biofuels that will be blended to our Refineries’ petroleum products that will significantly reduce imports of petroleum products into the country.

Baru, who spoke on the theme “NNPC and

ÏÏÏThe

President of Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Alhaji Ismaila Muhammed Zakari, has said the need to bring ICAN closer to the people and improve their capacity were the motivating factors for their support for the construction of multi-million ICAN Resource Centre In Onitsha, the Anambra State commercial hub.

Fielding questions from journalists in Onitsha, Wednesday after the fundraising for the project, Alhaji Zakari, expressed happiness that 90 percent of the N50 million target expected from Onitsha chapter for the building of the centre has been met.

He said N48 million out of the N50 million being their own counterpart funding has been realised, since what they

were looking was N50m, and then the ICAN headquarters will bring their N50m counterpart funding, bringing the total amount to N100m.

Ismaila said the building of ICAN Resource Centre in Onitsha will encourage professionalism in the commercial centre, saying that more chartered accountants will equally add value to the town.

The ICAN President said with the Resource Centre, people who want to be trained as Chartered accountants in this part of the country do not need to travel to Lagos again, since they can access it here in the centre.

He said the Resource Centre will afford the youths of the community the opportunity to study and sit for ICAN examination, saying that the only way one can join ICAN is through examination.

The chairman of the organising committee of

ture.”

In this regard, the GMD observed that that key infrastructure sectors that were expected to be upgraded include electric power, transport, information and communication, Roads, Water and Sanitation as well as rehabilitation of existing oil and gas pipeline facilities.

“It is my sincere belief that revitalizing these critical infrastructures will emplace efficiency in the new focus areas of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture to buoy the national economy and enable the country’s entrepreneurs compete favourably with their peers across the globe,” he added.

A 12 – man delegation from the German Armed Forces General Staff College, led by Col. Thorsten Schutz visited the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army in a group photograph in Lagos….on Thursday

Why we’re building resource centre in Onitsha- ICAN Alphonsus Nweze, Awka

Promotion of Industry, Commerce and Agriculture for International Competitiveness” noted that to aid the course of focusing on industry, commerce and agriculture, Nigeria needed to begin with the end in mind by first undertaking a holistic policy actions towards rebuilding the nation’s infrastruc-

the fundraising, Chief Kevin Obieri, Managing Partner Ichien Dien Audit, expressed happiness how Governor Willie Obiano bought into the project.

He said with the centre in Onitsha, a child can trek to the place, study to take the examination and become Chartered accountant.

Obieri said with an ICAN certificate, one has remarkably made himself different from the crowd of unemployed youths in the country today.

He said ultimately they may be shopping for about N500m because this N100m is just for the construction of the centre as they have not factored equipment and other vital things needed in the centre.

High points of the launch was the donation of N30m by Dizzy Group an N15m by the Anambra State Government.

Improved workers’ welfare will revamp economy - FG

By Idu Jude Abuja

ÏÏÏ Secretary to Govern-

ment of the Federation Mr. Boss Mustapha, has said that an improved workers’ welfare in Nigeria, will ensure a revamped economy stressing that the importance of the Nigeria Labour Congress in the affairs of any government cannot be overlooked as it strives to liberate the sufferings of Nigeria workers.

Boss Mustapha, stated this during a dinner night to mark the end of the NLC 40th year anniversary he said that the organized labour, is the soul of the government because without the workers, be they civil servants, private sector workers or even pensioners, there will be nobody to man the system.

“This is why this administration takes the welfare of the Nigerian worker as priority by putting so much effort into the resuscitation of the economy. I must underscore the fact that the primary objective of the Economic Recovery

and Growth Plan is to diversity the economy, grow skills, create wealth, gain infrastructures, ensure food security and provide jobs”.

He noted the that federal government is conscious of the need to bring wages to meet economic realities.

It is in this regard that the tripartite minimum wage committee was inaugurated to review the national minimum wage. The committee is determined to complete its assignment before the end of this year and I am confident that the outcome of their assignment would address the issue of social imbalance, inequality and the wide gap of poverty in the country.

“It is indeed a time to reflect on years of struggle, turbulence and the service of the congress to the Nigerian worker. It is also a time to recognize and reward excellence. I stand here to celebrate with the NLC, not just as Secretary to the Government of the Federation, but also as a comrade.

I have been a comrade right from my school days and

shall remain so until tomorrow. I would like to say that you have a member in this government.

With this year anniversary theme of Nigeria Labour Congress: “Yesterday, today and tomorrow”, it is indeed time to count our blessings and chat a new course for the future. I believe that together, we can build the Nigeria of our dream and improve on the generality of the life of Nigerians. I congratulate the leadership of the congress for deeming it proper to reward past services through recognitions. I congratulate the awardees and say that your recognition tonight is a challenge to all of us to continue to contribute our best to the service of our nation”.

Also speaking earlier, the president of NLC Aliyu Waba, said that as enumerated during the three-day brain storming event, and from the volume of discourse, it is very clear that the future will be bright because we have assembled the best from among our rank and file.

News 4

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

FG talks tough, begins prosecution of tax evaders Continued from page 1 Stakeholders Symposium held at the Umaru Shehu Yar’Adua Centre, Murtala Square, in Kaduna State.

Adeosun said that the Federal Government would strictly adhere to the confidentiality of the Automatic Exchange of Financial Account Information in Tax Matters, in line with the guidelines of

the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

The sensitisation programme was attended by Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir el-Rufai; Accountant General of the Federation, Alhaji Idris Ahmed; Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Mr. Babatunde Fowler; members of the State Ex-

ecutive Council, captains of industries and business owners.

Adeosun stated that the Federal Government had the political will to prosecute tax evaders once the tax amnesty programme was over by March 31, 2018.

She said, “The Federal Government has the political will and data to go after tax evaders who fail

to take advantage of the tax amnesty programme.

Many Nigerians cannot explain their lifestyles or match their lifestyles, assets and income with their tax payment.

“We will close VAIDS at the expiration of the programme on March 31, 2018. And once the programme is closed, we will name and shame and also prosecute tax evaders.

L-R: Publisher of Vanguard Newspaper, Sam Amuka Pemu;former Governor of Ogun State,Aremo Olusegun Osoba; Author, Adetola Adeniyi,and former Chairman, Concord Newspaper, Mrs Doyin Abiola, during the book launch titled: The Belly of the Vulture, held in Lagos...on Thursday.

On data sharing with foreign countries, the Minister noted that the information sourced would strictly be used for tax purposes.

The minister said: “The guideline requires that the automatic exchange of financial account information must be specifically designed with residence jurisdictions’ tax compliance in mind rather than be a by-product of domestic reporting for it to be effective”.

She added that the automatic exchange of information had become necessary to combat tax evasion and protect the integrity of tax systems.

The VAIDS, according to her, has been strengthened by the data on financial accounts, property and trusts shared by other countries.

She advised offshore asset owners to utilise the VAIDS window to regularise their taxes before the end of the amnesty programme.

“The offshore tax shelter system is basically over. Those who have hidden money overseas are being exposed and whilst

Nigerians can legally keep their money anywhere in the world, they must first pay any taxes due to the Nigerian Government so that we can fund the needs of the masses and create jobs and wealth for our people,” she added.

Earlier in his remarks, Governor el-Rufai, who disclosed that he declared his assets in 2017, commended the collaboration between the Federal and State Governments on tax.

He pledged to provide land ownership data to tax authorities at the Federal and State level, as part of measures to bring more income earners and asset owners into the tax net.

The Governor assured that the revenue from taxes would be judiciously used in improving the lives of residents of the state through investment in infrastructure, primary health and education.

The FIRS Executive Chairman, Babatunde Fowler, reinforced the need for Nigerians to join hands with the Federal and State Governments to improve the standard of living through compliance with tax payment.

Reps pass no confidence vote on Fayemi, Bwari

Henry Omunu, Abuja

ÏÏÏ The House of

Representatives on Thursday, passed a no confidence vote on the Minister of Mines and Steel, Kayode Fayemi and his Minister of State, Bawa Bwari, accusing the two ministers of executive rascality and holding the House in contempt for failing to honour the summon of the Speaker of the House: Hon Yakubu Dogara, for them to shed light on the delay in completing the Ajaokuta Steel Complex by the federal government.

Apart from the no confidence vote, the House also resolved to have nothing to do whatsoever with the two officials as it relates to governance.

Similarly, the House constituted an ad hoc committee that will conduct an investigative hearing on the apathy displayed by

Ï Accuse ministers of rascality, contempt for House Ï Ministers complicit in non-completion of Ajaokuta Steel

government in completing the steel complex that has reached 98 per cent completion and making it functional and in other issues surrounding the running of the complex.

Both ministers were indicted by the House following their absence for allegedly instructing the sole administrator of Ajaokuta Steel on the sectoral debate convened by the House at the instance of the speaker on the noncompletion of the moribund steel complex.

Minister of Finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun, however, escaped incurring the wrath of the House based on her appeal requesting for an extension of time when she can appear before the House as she was attending an official function in Kaduna.

But, the erring min-

isters had through the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Abdulkadir Muazu, written the House that the ministers can’t honour the summon because they had prior official engagements.

Interpreting this to mean a boycott of the debate by the ministers, Dogara again appealed to the ministers to reconsider their posture, adding that “the debate would have provided an opportunity for officials of the ministry to debunk the widespread allegations that the proposed concessionaires have tied their hands.”

Irked by the disrespect displayed by the ministers and their disinterest about the subject matter of the debate, House Leader, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, moved the motion that

the no confidence vote be passed on the two men and that the House constitute an ad hoc committee to probe the current status of Ajaokuta Steel Complex.

Gbajabiamila said, “Their absence is a contempt for the House. None of the ministers had the courtesy to reply to your (speaker’s) letter but did so through their permanent secretary.

“This in my opinion is a scorn on this House by the two ministers.

Supporting the motion, House Whip, Hon Alhassan Ado Doguwa, described as unfortunate the attitude of the ministers, declaring that the two men by their actions undermined the integrity of the House.

He called for decisive action against the ministers, saying that “their absence

simply gives credence to suspicions about their roles in the Ajaokuta complex saga.”

Addressing journalists at the House debate, Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Hon Abdulrazak Namdas, said that, the House not only passed a no confidence vote on the ministers but resolved not to have any relationship with them for now.

“They’ve no respect for the legislature and they care not that Ajaokuta can be the backbone of Nigeria’s development.

“On the issue of concessioning, they even wrote that there’s no going back.

But experts have warned against privatization or concessioning, as it’s too strategic to be left in private hands or group,” he added.

The lawmaker accused the ministers of fanning the embers of the frosty

relationship between the executive and the National Assembly for selfish reasons.

Dogara had earlier before the commencement of debate said that, the Ajaokuta Steel Complex has an installed capacity of 1.3 million tons per annum with provision to increase capacity to 2.6 million tons and further to 5.2 million tons per annum.

The speaker stated that an investment of over $5.1 billion has gone into the complex which equally has a completed internal standard gauge rail track of approximately 68 kilometres and is linked to Warri by standard gauge rail line and gas pipeline.

He added that the complex has two power plants with total installed capacity of 110 megawatts of electricity, more than enough to power the comContinued on page 6

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

5 News

Suspension threat: Senate, Reps divided over EGMONT directives Continued from page 1 including its decision over the suspension of Nigeria, the Senate and the House of Representatives have expressed divergent views over measures to address concerns raised

by EGMONT on the independence of the Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU).

The Senate had passed a bill to create a new NFIU that is independent of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) while the new unit will be domiciled in the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

But the House of Representatives came up with a different version, as the House stated that the EFCC Amendment Bill had addressed the issues raised by EGMONT Group.

The development indicates that the two chambers must hold a

conference meeting to harmonies their differences.

Nigeria was suspended from the EGMONT Group which is a network of 152 member countries that share information relating to criminal intelligence and financial information.

Nigeria was suspended over failure to meet up with the conditions of the group, one of which is to make the NFIU an independent unit.

The Senate had on Thursday claimed that Nigeria’s anti-corruption fight may suffer a great setback as the nation risked being expelled from the global EGMONT Group.

This followed the adoption of a Point of Order (43) raised by Chairman, Senate Committee on Anti- Corruption and Financial Crimes, Senator Chukwuka Utazi, who was worried that the National Assembly has failed to

Court orders forfeiture of $200,000 concealed by businessman to FG Andrew Orolua, Abuja.

ÏÏÏ Justice

Ijeoma Ojukwu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the forfeiture of $200,000 cash belonging to Moghalu Maduakonam to the Federal Government for transporting the sum exceeding the limit provided for by the Money Laundering Act. Maduakonam, a businessman, was arrested sometime in February 2013 by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for transporting in cash, a sum of $200,000 while attempting to board an Ethiopian Airline from Nigeria to Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The money is above the threshold of $10,000 allowed by law for an individual but the defendant failed to disclose the said sum to the officials of the Nigerian Customs Service as required by Section 12 of the Foreign Exchange (monitoring and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act Cap F34 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 and Section 2(3) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act No.

11, 2011.

The one-count charge of money laundering preferred against the convict

by EFCC was punishable under Section 2(5) of Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act No. 11, 2011 (as amended).

Justice Ojukwu ruled that the prosecution had proved its case against the defendant beyond reasonable doubts.

The judge said, “I have no difficulty in convicting the defendant on the count preferred against him”.

Maduakonam’s lawyer, Babara Amosu, however, urged the court to consider the convict as a first time offender and temper justice with mercy, having admitted to his mistake earlier in the trial.

On other hand, lawyer to the EFCC, M. E. Eimonye, urged the court to apply the full weight of the law, adding that the offence was “intentional” and that the convict was fully aware of its consequences under law as the trip was not his first time of travelling to Dubai.

Consequently, Justice Ojukwu ordered the forfeiture of the $200,000 to the federal government.

come up with a conference report needed in granting independence to NFIU, a unit presently domiciled in the EFCC. Senator Utazi also blamed the development on his counterpart, Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Financial Crimes, Hon

Kayode Oladele, for allegedly derailing the process of having a legal framework that would guarantee independence of the unit.

Utazi said: “My counterpart in the House of Representatives has refused to make himself available so that the two arms can

meet and come up with the conference report.

“So the bill becomes imperative because if the process of having a legal framework does not receive an accelerated consideration to help Nigeria avoid expulsion from the EGMONT Group, the Senate should not be held re-

sponsible’’.

Bit in a swift reaction, Oladele denied the allegation, saying that he never derailed the process.

Oladele told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that on the contrary, Utazi shoved off all his efforts Continued on page 6

L-R: Director-General, Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA), Mr. Olusegun Oshinowo, President, NECA, Larry Ettah, 1st Vice-President, NECA, Dr. Mohammed Yinusa and 2nd Vice-President, NECA, Mr. Terry Wilson, during NECA First Quarter Press Briefing on the Global Economic overview, ranging from, the new Lagos State Land use charge law, Delay in National Budget passage, Fuel Scarcity etc, held in Lagos...on Thursday.

19 million new born babies risk brain damage annually - UNICEF Myke Uzendu

with Agency reports

ÏÏÏ

A United Nations International Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has disclosed in a report that nearly 19 million babies born globally every year are at risk of permanent but preventable brain damage and reduced cognitive function due to a lack of iodine in the earliest years of life.

The report, also backed

by United Nations (UN) which was released on Thursday, showed that the figure represents 14 per cent of the total global population of children, according to UNICEF Senior Nutrition Adviser, Roland Kupka.

According to report from UNICEF and its partner, the Global Alliance of Improved Nutrition (GAIN), they noted that insufficient iodine during

Ï 4.3 million babies from South Asia top list pregnancy and infancy resulted in neurological and psychological deficits, reducing a child’s IQ by eight to 10 points.

The report reads in part, “The nutrients a child receives in the earliest years of life influence their brain development for life, and can make or break their chance of a prosperous future.

“By protecting and supporting children’s development in early life, we are able to achieve immense results for children throughout their lifespan.”

The UNICEF official noted that salt iodization was both cost effective and economically beneficial at only 0.02 to 0.05 dollar per child annually.

According to him, every dollar spent on salt iodization is estimated to return

$30 through increased future cognitive ability.

The report titled “Brighter futures: Protecting early brain development through salt iodization,” also notes that more than one in four affected children, about 4.3 million new born babies, live in South Asia.

According to the report, South Asia is home to the largest proportion of babies at risk globally, the region has the second highest iodized salt coverage rate at 87 per cent of the population, preceded by East Asia and the Pacific at 91 per cent coverage.

The lowest coverage with iodized salt was seen in Eastern and Southern Africa, where around 25 per cent of the population do not have access to iodized salt, leaving 3.9 million babies every year un-

protected against iodine deficiency disorder.

The UNICEF Report states that the most critical stage for a child’s development, is the earliest moments of life, from conception up to age two.

It added that nutrition, along with protection and stimulating activities like play and early learning, during a child’s first 1,000 days shape brain development for life.

The report also outlined some urgent steps to reduce the risk of mental impairment to babies’ growing brains.

This includes the integration of salt iodization into national plans to support children’s nutrition and brain development in early childhood and the establishment of surveillance systems to identify unreached populations.

News 6

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

States Assembly okay devolution of powers Olufemi Samuel and Tunde Opalana, Abuja

ÏÏÏ The National Assem-

bly yesterday came under a sledge hammer of the Nigerians at the grassroots for failing to include power devolution in the list of items on the ongoing constitution amendment process.

Chairman of Conference of Speakers of States House of Assemblies, Hon Abdulmumin Sumaila Kamba, said the aggregate opinion of Nigerians at the grassroots was that the National Assembly has failed the yearnings and aspirations by rejecting the power devolution bill.

He added that the lawmakers at the states assembly supported the call for devolution of powers.

He said this while transmitting the resolutions of States House of Assembly on the ongoing constitution alteration exercise to the Harmonisation Committee of the two chambers of the National Assembly on Thursday.

The Conference chairman, who is the Speaker of Kebbi State House of Assembly said the collated views of people at the grassroots during public hearing sessions held in the states revealed displeasure of Nigerians with the National

Assembly for dropping the power devolution bill.

He, however, said there is an opportunity for the National Assembly to reconsider its position on the bill and put it on subsequent list of items to be considered in the next amendment process.

Kamba said, “We want the bill on devolution of powers to be reconsidered and proposed in the next constitution amendment process”.

He said though the journey of constitution alteration has been challenging, Kamba commended the National Assembly for providing the leadership role and guideline for state legislators during the process.

Reacting, the Speaker House of Representatives.

Hon Yakubu Dogara, expressed personal disappointment in the states assembly for rejecting local government autonomy.

He said the states assembly might have their reasons and fear for turning down the bill, there is another chance for them to tinker with the bill in the next round of alteration.

He appreciated the state assemblies for the courage and determination to consider the 15 bills recommended in the amendment, saying that “ it is a demonstration of the indepen-

Senate, Reps divided over EGMONT directives

Continued from page 5

for them to meet.

He said: “I have tried all my efforts to ensure that we meet but each time we try to meet, he will say he was busy.

“But just on Tuesday to be precise, we were both guests of honour at the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption (PACAC) and while we were discussing, I threw it to him and said why can’t we meet this week and he shoved it off.

“I repeated it and he didn’t answer me and I took it again that he was busy until about 10 pm on Wednesday, I received a text from him asking me to meet with him at 2 pm on Thursday.

“And I replied him that I have a previously slated meeting that he should please choose another

time or date.

“Utazi fixed the date without consulting with me to fix a meeting date and time and expected me to abandon every other engagement that I had earlier scheduled on my calendar.

“Before this time, there was nothing from him suggesting a meeting”.

But Mr. Francis Usani, Director of NFIU, in a statement made available on Thursday, said establishing a new FIU locating it outside the EFCC would result to a situation that will aggravate the current situation which the NFIU is facing in the EGMONT Group.

He disclosed that the bill proposing the Amendment of the EFCC Act which has addressed the concerns of the EGMONT Group has been submitted to the EGM

dence of state legislature”.

He said, “They are men and women of courage. If our democracy works in Nigeria, it means we are determined to make it work”.

Speaking on the importance of legislature in democratic process, Dogara said, “No government can fully be described as being democratic if it doesn’t have a fierce and fearless legislature”.

Chairman of the National Assembly and Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, said the conclusion of the process as evident in the transmission of the

resolutions of states assembly is the commencement of a process to deepen the nation democracy.

He expressed disappointment with Lagos and Rivers states of assembly for not participating in the amendment process while he expressed hope that the two states will participate in future exercise.

He said though there were areas of disagreement, the National Assembly will set in motion another round of alteration process.

He disclosed that the Committee will soon swing into action by looking at

gray areas, fine tune them and represent them in the next round of amendment process.

Saraki commended his colleagues in the 8th Assembly for the great feat in kick-starting the process which other assemblies preceding it failed to do.

In his opening remark, Deputy Speaker House of Representatives, Hon Yusuf Lasun, was optimistic that the constitution amendment will scale through at the Presidency.

He said, “If you consider what goes into the alteration of the constitution

since the inception of the 8th Assembly, we know definitely that we are going to get good response from the Presidency”.

He said if the President could give assent to just one of the 15 bills, it is enough success story that the constitution would have been amended.

Giving kudos to the legislators at federal and state levels, Lasun said “That shows that we are serious, that shows we mean business and that we know that for a country to develop, we must have part of our constitution reappraised”.

L-R: Lagos State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ade Akinsanya;Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning,Abayomi Kadri; Manager, Enterprise Segment, 9mobile, Mojeed Aluko and Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lagos State, Adeniji Kazeem at the Lagos-Kano Economic and Investment Summit 2018 held at Jubilee Chalets, Epe, Lagos...on Thursday.

Reps pass no confidence vote on Fayemi, Bwari

Continued from page 4

plex, as well as the whole of Kogi and Edo states.

When completed, Dogara stated that the Ajaokuta Steel plant has the capacity to generate about $1.7billion per annum, employ over 10,000 engineers and technicians, employ over 10,000 other personnel and lead to the creation of over 2 million indirect jobs.

Furthermore, he said that the plant will increase Nigeria’s export earnings by over $1billion and save over $15billion worth of steel products imported into Nigeria annually, including producing millions of metric tons of cement and fertilizer annually.

“I want you to imagine what would be the outcome today, if we had completed this plant 34 years ago as originally planned. Also, imagine if there is any nation on this earth that will sink more than $5.1billion of its hard earned money on any project and walk away from it when it is 98 per cent completed.

“Could this be national sabotage or have we been bewitched by some powerful sorcerers? Just imagine how much it will cost if we were to undertake such a project afresh, either now or in the foreseeable future.

“To our collective shame, the present state of Ajaokuta steel complex is more of an expressive

metaphor of our ineptitude and bad governance over the years. We have been told that government does not have the funds to complete the remaining two per cent of the plant.

“Nothing can be further from this position as government does not need liquid cash to complete the plant and put it to work.

All government needs to complete the plant is, leadership,” he added.

Meanwhile, one of the experts invited by the House, Hadiza Akpoti, in her presentation, alleged that Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello was working in concert with Global Infrastructure to win the concession of the steel complex.

Akpoti alleged that the

governor has a direct link with the concessionaire and probably is a co-owner of the company.

She added that “the government of the late President Musa Yar’Adua had indicted Global Infrastructure after an administrative panel had recommended it should not run the affairs of the complex.

“The company went into arbitration and finally won and former President Goodluck Jonathan government paid Global Infrastructure $525m as compensation. It’s this same company that has returned as concessionaire working with a company suspected to be owned by the governor of Kogi State.”

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

News 7

Buhari welcomes increased Foreign Private Investments in Nigeria Mathew Dadiya, Abuja

ÏÏÏPresident Muhamma-

du Buhari has welcomed the rise in Foreign Private Investments in the country owing to the success of his administration’s economic agenda.

Speaking on Thursday at a meeting with a Qatari business delegation led by the former Emir, Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa AlThani at the State House, Abuja, the President described the Federal Government’s economic agenda as one designed to move the country from over-reliance on crude oil and food importation.

He said the policy has, in the past two years turned Nigeria into one of the most attractive investment destinations in Africa.

According to President Buhari, “My administration’s economic agenda has always been to move away from over reliance on crude oil and food importation. Nigeria is a blessed country. We have fertile land. We have young and energetic population. And we have a very

strong legal and regulatory system that protects capital and investments, both local and foreign.

“As you are aware, Nigeria just exited its worst recession in more than two decades. We have more than doubled our foreign reserves. We are winning the war against corruption. We are developing our infrastructure.

And we are enforcing the rule of law. As a result of this, we are seeing significant growth in the non-oil sector which is creating thousands of jobs across the country.”

The President cited the current strategic partnership between Moroccan and Nigerian fertilizer companies as part of the success stories.

“Today, due to this alliance, Nigeria has over 13 functioning fertilizer blending plants with another four in the pipeline.

This is purely driven by the private sector,” he noted.

According to President Buhari, “In 2017 alone, we saw significant commitments and agreements by major global organisa-

L-R: Member, House Committee on Industry, Hon. Wale Raji; Chairman House Committee on Industry, Hon. Abubakar H. Moriki; Managing Director/CEO, Berger Paints, Mr. Peter Folikwe; Representative of the MD/CEO, Bank of Industry, Executive Director, Small and Medium Enterprise, Bank of Industry, Mr. Waheed Olagunju; Member, House Committee on Industry, Hon. Ibrahim Malle; and Ag. Head of Manufacturing, Berger Paints Nigeria Plc, Mr. Henshaw Nwaougu during an oversight visit to Berger Paints Nigeria Plc., one of the Bank of Industry funded projects in Lagos tions in infrastructure projects such as: the proposed USD 9 billion Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical complex in Lagos; the completed USD 600 million Lafarge Plant in Calabar; the proposed rail stock; the proposed

USD 1.3 billion public private partnership with General Electric on Rail Track Development and the proposed ENI/Agip rehabilitation of Port Harcourt Refinery.

You can see clearly that foreign private companies

are coming back to Nigeria and making massive investments within our existing legal and regulatory frameworks.”

In his remarks, Sheikh Al-Thani said that the global opinion on Nigeria as an investment destina-

tion had been boosted by President Buhari’s strong standing against corruption and adherence to the rule of law. He also expressed his delegation’s interest in investing in Nigeria’s oil, railway, aviation and power sectors.

FG targets zero import bill ERGP Labs will focus on delivering quick results Nigerians - Udoma for food consumption Mathew Dadiya, Abuja

ÏÏÏPresident Muhamma-

du Buhari has said that the Federal Government was already targeting a regime of self-sufficiency in food production and consumption, while radically cutting down on imports of agricultural products that depleted the country’s foreign reserve in the past.

Buhari said this on Thursday while receiving Letter of Credence from the High Commissioner of Republic of Singapore to Nigeria, Mr Lim Sim Seng, at the State House, Abuja.

He said that the era of high import bills on food was fast becoming a thing of the past with growing investments in the agricultural sector, favourable weather and collective will of Nigerians to start feeding themselves, and exporting products.

“I am very pleased with the relationship we have with Singapore, and we

are benefiting a lot from your experiences and investment.

“Recently, I was in Kaduna to commission one of your investments in agriculture. We are happy that you are also looking at the agricultural sector because that is integral to our economic blueprint for diversifying the economy,’’ he said.

The President said bilateral relations with Singapore will be further strengthened so that both countries can enjoy the benefits of competitive advantage, especially in exchange of ideas and technology that will enhance growth and improvement in the livelihood of citizens.

Buhari, who also received Letters of Credence from the High Commissioner of Republic of The Philippines, Mrs Shirley Ho-Vicaria and High Commissioner of the Republic of Uganda, Nelson Ocheger, assured the countries of Nigeria’s

Mathew Dadiya, Abuja

ÏÏÏThe

Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) Focus Labs scheduled to start on March 12, 2018 will focus on delivering quick and fast results to the citizens by identifying actionable projects, removing roadblocks and developing an enabling framework for the sector, the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma told investors in Lagos on Thursday.

The Minister who was speaking at a sensitization luncheon with investors said the lab process is just one of the several initiatives by the Federal Government to drive the implementation of the strategic objectives of the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP).

At the luncheon he indicated that government will be conducting focus labs in three selected areas within six sectors to deliver quick and fast results on investments and job creation. The selected areas are Agriculture and Transportation, Manu-

facturing and processing; and Power and Gas. The luncheon was organized by the Ministry of Budget and National Planning in close collaboration with the Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC).

He said the labs are intended to drive new investments for critical projects and to resolve complex inter-agency problems that inhibit private sector investment. Government, he indicated, welcomes and is ready to provide assistance to investors.

He explained that the labs will specifically target the identification of projects which will increase investments and create jobs for the citizens.

Udoma emphasized that the focus labs aim at unlocking projects with private sector funds, the Minister said the labs will seek to chart clear 3-feet implementation plans for each project with identified budget and key performance indicators as well as alignment of stakeholders to execute the plan.

In the area of fast ac-

tionable projects, he said the labs will consider existing projects, as well as big new ideas and projects, provided that they have immediate enhancements in impact on the economy and create jobs.

The labs are meant to remove roadblocks by ensuring that all enablers for high potential projects are relieved of the encumbrances that could stall their smooth operation, and also to use projects to create showcases for development of enabling framework, he said.

The Minister pointed out that there are huge opportunities for investments in agriculture and agro- processing, manufacturing, mining, construction and services, and that investors, whether domestic or foreign, who are interested in any of these areas are invited to participate in the labs, provided they meet the minimum criteria set out in the guidelines.

He indicated that the actions to unlock value in the labs include what policy or regulatory decisions are needed, what approvals are outstanding, what

infrastructure improvements must be made, what processes need to be accelerated or enhanced and what human capital requirements must be addressed.

The labs’ target is to mobilize USD 25 billion in investment. One hundred and twenty six (126) potential entry point projects have already been identified, including 74 in Agriculture and Transportation, seven in Power and Gas and 45 in Manufacturing and Processing.

The Executive Secretary of NIPC, Ms Yewande Sadiku, said that the Commission is glad to be associated with the project not only as a member of the labs focus group but in partnering to mobilise and sensitize the business community towards the labs’ success.

Sadiku who was represented by a Director in the Commission, Ladi Katagum, said that the labs will also help the Commission actualize its own mandate, as it will assist in solving some of the complex issues potential investors have been grappling with.

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Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

Nigerian grassroots condemn NASS over rejection of power devolution’–Conference of Speakers Olufemi Samuel and Tunde Opalana, Abuja

ÏÏÏThe

National Assembly Thursday, came under a sledge hammer of Nigerians at the grassroots for failing to include power devolution in the list of items on the ongoing constitution amendment process.

Chairman of Conference of Speakers of States House of Assemblies, Rt. Hon Abdulmumin Sumaila Kamba said the aggregate opinion of Nigerians at the grassroots was that the National Assembly has failed the yearnings and aspirations by rejecting the power devolution bill.

He said this while transmitting the resolutions of states houses of assemblies on the ongoing constitution alteration exercise to the Harmonisation Committee of the two chambers of the National Assembly on Thursday.

The Conference chairman who is the Speaker of Kebbi State House of Assembly said the collated views of the people at the grassroots during public

hearing sessions held in the states, revealed displeasure of Nigerians with the National Assembly for dropping the power devolution bill.

He, however, said there is an opportunity for the National Assembly to reconsider its position on the bill and put it on subsequent list of items to be considered in the next amendment process.

“We want the bill on devolution of power to be reconsidered and proposed in the next constitution amendment process”, he implored the federal legislative bodies.

He said though the journey of constitution alteration has been challenging, he commended the National Assembly for providing the leadership role and guideline for state legislators during the process.

Reacting, the Speaker House of Representatives.

Rt. Hon Yakubu Dogara expressed personal disappointment in the state assemblies for rejecting local government autonomy.

He said, the state as-

IGP arraigns 2 journalists for alleged injurious publication Andrew Orolua ,Abuja

ÏÏÏ Two

journalists Daniel Elombah and Timothy Elombah were on Thursday arraigned before the Federal High Court, Abuja, on four- count charge by the Police for publishing offensive article on the Inspector General, Ibrahim Idris on their website Elombah. com.

The two journalist brothers pleaded not guilty to the four -count charge bordering on defamation, cyber stalking , injurious publication and terrorism. They said they never published an injurious article against the IGP. Daniel and Timothy where however admitted to bail on the sum of N500,000 and one surety each in like sum.

The defendants counsel Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN), who argued their bail application urged the trial court judge, Justice Gabriel Kolawole to admit them bail because the offences allegedly committed are bailable.

He deplored the charges brought against his clients.

“It is a shame that people are still being put on trial at this age over something they said about those in power,” he said.

The two brothers were arrested on January 1 on allegations that they published an article critical of Mr. Idris on their website, Elombah.com.

Recalled that the Online Publishers Association of Nigeria, OPAN had on Wednesday expressed concern over claims by the Nigeria Police Force that two of it’s members conspired to commit terrorism offences and cybercrime because they approved an opinion article on their website which the police sees as uncomplimentary and offensive.

The Publishers of Elombah News were charged by the Nigerian Police for Cybercrime, cyber stalking, cyber bullying and for “championing Biafra terrorism”.

OPAN calls on the police to withdraw the spurious charges without delay and stop harassing journalists for doing their constitutionally backed assignments.

A 4-count charge filed at the Federal High Court 5 in Abuja, capital of Nigeria, revealed that the Police is charging the Elombah brothers for cyber bullying and cyber stalking the Inspector General Of Police, Ibrahim Kpotum Idris.

semblies might have their reasons and fear for turning down the bill, there is another chance for them to tinker with the bill in the next round of alteration.

He appreciated the state assemblies for the courage and determination to consider the 15 bills recommended in the amendment, saying “ it is a demonstration of the independence of state legislature”.

He said” they are men and women of courage. If our democracy works in Nigeria, it means we are determined to make it work”.

Speaking on the impor-

tance of legislature in democratic process, he said “ no government can fully be described as being democratic if it doesn’t have a fierce and fearless legislature”.

Chairman of the National Assembly and Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki said the conclusion of the process as evident in the transmission of the resolutions of states assemblies is the commencement of a process to deepen the nation democracy.

He expressed disappointment with Lagos and Rivers states of assem-

blies for not participating in the amendment process while he expressed hope that the two states will participate in future exercise.

He said though there were areas of disagreement, the National Assembly will set in motion another round of alteration process.

He disclosed that the Committee will soon swing into action by looking at gray areas, fine tune them and represent them in the next round of amendment process.

Saraki commended his

colleagues in the 8th Assembly for the great feat in kick-starting the process which other assemblies preceding it failed to do.

In his opening remark, Deputy Speaker House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Yusuf Lasun was optimistic that the constitution amendment will scale through at the Presidency.

He said “if you consider what goes into the alteration of the constitution since the inception of the 8th Assembly, we know definitely that we are going to get good response from the Presidency”.

Wife of the Vice President of Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo (fourth left); Governor of State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola & his wife, Sherifat (second left); wife of the governor of Lagos State, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode (third left); wife of the governor of Ekiti State, Mrs. Feyinsetan Fayose (2nd right); Hon. Ayo Omidiran (r); Mrs. Kafayat Oyetola (left), during the opening ceremony of National Women conference, with the theme; “Virtuous Woman – Pushing for Greater Development”, organised by Osun Officials’ Wives Association (OSUNOWA)

Ajimobi deserves another term if not for constitutional impediment - Olubadan

ÏÏÏThe

Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji has said that the ‘unprecedented’ achievements of the Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, qualify him for another term in office were it not for constitutional impediment that restricts governors to two terms in office.

Similarly, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, has expressed ‘surprise’ at the pace of road constructions and other ongoing projects across the state, notwithstanding the pervading economic downturn in the country.

The first class monarchs extolled the governor for what they called his outstanding performances dotting all the five zones of the state since his assumption of office about seven years ago.

They bared their minds at a meeting the governor held with traditional rulers

in the state at the House of Chiefs, Parliament Building, Ibadan, on Thursday.

The governor had invited the monarchs to keep them abreast of his scorecard, developments across the state and his future plans to sustain his administration’s transformation agenda.

The Olubadan said that he decided to openly appreciate the governor for what he called his unrelenting efforts to bring development to all the nooks and crannies of the state.

He said: ``Yoruba don’t appreciate themselves except to abuse and criticize but when someone has done well, we must say it. I am talking about what I have seen so far. In view of this, I would have loved him to go for another term if not that the constitution does not allow it.

“The governor has performed very well. He has recorded unprecedented achievements worthy of

commendation. This is the only way to spur him into greater performance for the benefit of the whole state.”

Also, the Alaafin said that the governor should be commended for all he had achieved since the beginning of his administration in spite of the dwindling allocations from the Federation Account and paltry internally-generated revenue.

He said: We can only commend you for all you have been able to achieve in the last seven years. We are very impressed with your performance. At the appropriate time, we will comprehensively, sufficiently and adequately respond to your address. ``The only thing you are not telling us is where you have been getting the money to do all the projects. I have had to engage you in a private discussion on this recently to ask how you source the money you have been using to execute the

projects since you are not printing money. ``But, the governor has allayed my fears. He explained to me that most of the projects were contractor-financed and that the money would be paid back under very convenient terms. He has assured me that he would not plunge the state into huge debts.’’

Other traditional rulers who also spoke at the occasion included the Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Rafiu Adekunle; Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adegbola; Onpetu of Ijeru, Oba Sunday Popoola and the representative of Soun of Ogbomoso, the Aare Ago of Ogbomosoland, Chief Sobalaje Otolorin.

They all expressed appreciation to the governor for the initiative which they described as an eye opener on the achievements so far recorded by the Ajimobi-led administration as well as his future plans for the state.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

9 News

GAVI CEO visits Nigeria, meets Osinbajo Monday Doosuur Iwambe-.Abuja

L-R: Country Manager, Canon Nigeria, Omotayo Omodia; famous Nigerian photographer, TY Bello, and Sales & Marketing Director B2C, Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA), Somesh Adukia, at the Canon #LivefortheStory Launch Event in Lagos.

ÎÎÎ

In its effort to push global advocacy for immunisation financing in Nigeria, a high-level delegation of the Global Alliance for Vaccine and Immunisation (GAVI) is to meet on Monday with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.

A statement issued by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency revealed that GAVI chief executive officer Seth Berkley during the one week-long visit will also meet with the leadership of the National Assembly, state governors, health minister and the Northern Traditional Leaders Committee on Primary Health Care.

According to the statement, this will be the second time the GAVI chief ’s will be visiting Nigeria since his last visit in June.

The agency’s executive director Faisal Shuaib said a critical challenge of grave concern to the global community was the current huge financial gap for child survival interventions, especially immunization which runs into billions of dollars.

He however expressed optimism that the weeklong visit would provide a new window of opportunity to strengthen the NigeriaGAVI relationship and partnership focusing on child survival interventions particularly immunization financing.

$1.6m oil fraud: Omokore gives PDP Chairman 35 cars, Adamu 25 cars - witness Andrew Orolua, Abujae

ÎÎÎ

Oloyede Olawale, a prosecution witness in the ongoing trial of Jide Omokore and five others over alleged crude oil fraud of $1.6m, told the court on Thursday that Omokore and Atlantic Energy gave out exotic cars to some members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP),

and some other Nigerians.

Testifying as prosecution witness 5 and led in evidence by the prosecution counsel Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), Olawale, an accountant and admin manager of Skymit, an automobile sales and service company based in Lagos, said the company got order from Jide Omokore to supply 23 vehicles to the Chairman

of the PDP, Adamu Mu’azu, including four Land Cruiser SUV. Olawale also admitted that Omokore ordered for 35 cars in 2014 to be delivered to the current Chairman of the PDP, Chief Uche Secondus who was at the time Deputy National Chairman of the party.

Olawale said the Atlantic Energy gave out N23m

Mercedes-Benz to one Nnenka Prince and another Mercedes-Benz S550 worth N26m to Mbanefo David (a co-accused).

However, under cross-examination, Olawale said he would not know whether the vehicles were given out as bribe or not.

When he was asked by the counsel to the first defendant, R. A. Rabana-

Lawal whether or not he knew the relationship between Omokore and the receivers, he said he didn’t know.

“I don’t know the relationship between Omokore and parties he gave out the cars.

I don’t know the financial relationship between them either. I wouldn’t know if he supplies and gets refund from them “, he said.

Dangote promises to end rice importation, inaugurates multi billion-naira processing plant Ladesope Ladelokun

ÎÎÎ

The Dangote Rice Outgrower Scheme in Jigawa State reached a turning point Thursday, when the President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote laid a foundation stone for the construction of a multi-billion Naira rice processing mill in Hadin, Jigawa state.

The mill with capacity to process 16 metric tons of paddy rice per hour, when completed will in a year process paddy rice worth N14 billion bought directly from the famers in Jigawa at market rate.

Speaking at the ground breaking ceremony in Hadin, Kaugama local government area, Dangote said the commencement of the construction of the integrated rice processing plant was the culmination

of series of events which began with the signing of a $1billion agreement with the federal government for the integrated rice production in Kebbi, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kano, Niger and Jigawa.

“We have continued to pioneer new approaches to empowering our primary stakeholders and our farmers, through the Dangote outgrowers programme thereby creating thousands of jobs, increasing incomes poverty reduction in rural communities by providing high quality agro-inputs, technical support and secured market for farmers.

Also, creating access to finance, mechanization and irrigation services so as to enhance agricultural productivity.”, he stated Recalling that the Dangote Rice limited started

the outgrowers scheme in 2016 with thousands of hectares of land in Hadejia, Jigawa state, creating over 10,000 jobs (direct and indirect) to farmers, the business mogul said with the new ultra-modern mill enough paddy rice will be grown and harvested for processing.

According to him, the mill which will take only months for installation and commissioning is the first in the series of five other mills coming up in Kano, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi and Niger States in the first phase, while in the second phase, other mills will be built in Nasarawa, Kogi, and other states.

Said he: When these planned six mills come fully on stream, we will achieve a capacity of seven hundred thousand metric tons per

annum of Par boiled rice, which will make Dangote Rice the largest rice producer in Africa and will make a bold step in making Nigeria self-sufficient in Rice production, stop importation Nduka save the nation foreign exchange.”

Dangote stated further that towards co-creating value for all stakeholders, the company has engaged about 20,000 out growers who are expected to produce an average of 180,000 tons of paddy rice on about 30,000 hectares of land. “We are focused on engaging in the region of 300,000 farmers in the next 12 months when our rice mills are all functional and we achieve steady state.

“We will continue to launch massive agricultural projects across the country in rice and dairy

farming. Our push for backward integration in providing our own raw materials on a massive scale has led to the planned investment of $4.6 billion over the next three years in sugar, rice and dairy production alone. That will eliminate the country’s reliance on imported materials, and the foreign exchange headaches that comes with it.”

In his opening remarks, the Dangote Group Executive Director, Devakumar Edwin explained that the Dangote Rice team has been involved in scaling up the outgrower operations to a least 5,000 hectares this season and this will very soon increase and grow to over 15,000 hectares cultivated per cycle or season to fully optimise operations.

He said the establishment of a Multi-billion

Naira state-of-the-art integrated rice processing facility to process at least 260 metric tons of rice paddy per day grown which is produced from thousands of local rice out growers within Jigawa state is a giant step forward and expresses his company’s confidence and faith in local farmers to continuously stand with Dangote to make this project a success.

Located on 25 hectares site in Hadin, Edwin noted that the mill is earmarked to begin operations in the last quarter of 2018. “During the construction phase and when it becomes fully operational, hundreds of employment opportunities will be created, knowledge transference and skills developed among our teeming youthful population thereby boosting local economy.”

News 10

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

Arbitrary billing, disconnection of electricity constitutes gross abuse –CPC Mathew Dadiya, Abuja

ÏÏÏThe

Consumer Protection Council (CPC) has appraised the interaction between the nation’s electricity Distribution Companies (DISCOs) and their consumers, declaring that arbitrary billing and group disconnection of electricity consumers without consideration for those paying their bills constitute a gross abuse of consumer rights.

The Director General of the Council, Babatunde Irukera, said this in Abuja at a meeting with the top management of Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) led by its Managing

Director, Engineer Ernest Mupwaya.

The Director General noted that the vast majority of complaints in the sector are these two issues.

Irukera, while expressing understanding about challenges in the industry, said “there is no excuse for how consumers are treated”.

He said, “The key complaints that we receive are arbitrary, unsupported and unreasonable billing; people not being treated with dignity, the complaint resolution process is either lacking or unclear and there’s really no respect for people”.

The director general disclosed that consumers’ complaints have not been

primarily about supply, but about billing for non-existent supply, stressing that “as a matter of fact, a vast majority of supply complaints are attributed to the fact that you are asking them to pay for something that was not supplied and the other significant reason is group disconnection”.

According to him, “DISCOs have gotten to a point where no one takes their bills seriously anymore, because they are considered outrageous. I think the pressure on metering will not be so bad if the estimated billing was more transparent and reasonable”.

He noted that “what DISCOs are doing is connecting their balance sheets to receivables from consumers,

but consumers are connecting what they owe to what they receive”.

Irukera, while charging the distribution companies to stop the arbitrary billing system, asserted that “connecting balance sheet to an opaque arbitrary metering system is the worst form of abuse, especially for an essential public utility”.

He also contended that group disconnection usually adopted by distribution companies because of the debts owed by some members of the affected groups unfortunately disregards and undermines the rights of other consumers in the groups who did not owe.

They group-disconnect consumers. If there’s one responsible consumer who

is being disconnected unjustly, what you are doing is that you are discouraging responsibility”, he added.

The CPC boss observed that group disconnection is antithetical to the promotion of an enabling environment for investment, stressing that it “is the quintessential case for mistreatment of an otherwise responsible consumer”.

On his part, the AEDC Managing Director emphasized the need for the company to have a cost reflective tariff for it to have a seamless and a more robust operation, stressing that fluctuation in foreign exchange rates and inflation impact on its activities.

Speaking on the issue of estimated billing, he dis-

closed that efforts are being made to address the metering gap with more meters for consumers and the adoption of an interim plan of metering transformers for a more accurate estimation.

He stated: “The issue of estimated billing has not been fully resolved because of the low rate of metering, and this is closely tied with the impairment on the balance sheet which is tied to tariff issues. The balance sheets are impaired to the extent that we are facing huge challenges to attract investments. But I must say that the government, through the power sector recovery programme, has put up a plan that will address these gaps.

Trial of Tumsah brothers over non assets declaration begins March 28 Andrew Orolua,Abuja

ÏÏÏJustice

From Left:Chairman,Council of Elders,Nasfat,Alh. Mudathir Shitta,Chief Missioner Nasfat Worldwide,Alh. Azeez Onike, General Muyiwa Okunowo (rtd) and Member House of Representative, Hon. Monsuru Batola at the N100 million Fund Raising and Laying of Foundation Building of the Construction of Nasfat Lagos-Island Branch(Islamic Development Center) in Lagos on...Thursday.

2019: ‘Don’t be used as thugs by politicians, Ahmadu Ali tells youths ÏÏÏFormer

chairman of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ahmadu Ali on Thursday advised youths not to allow themselves to be used for political gains by office seekers in next year elections.

He advised them to take their fate in their hands and involve in gainful venture rather than allowing themselves to be used as canon folder by politicians.

The former minister of education said irrespective of the situation of the country, youths can do something to better their lots and the country.

According to him, former leaders such as, Gen Yakubu Gowon (rtd), held positions of responsibilities at their

youthful age and they succeeded in dissipating their energies to the development of the nation.

Dr. Ali gave the admonition while responding to comments on his personality on the occasion of the launch of a biography titled ‘ The Many Colours of a Rainbow in commemoration of his 82nd birthday celebration at the Shehu Musa Yar’ Adua Center, Abuja.

“As 2019 is around the corner, you have to work hard for this country. Don’t just walk the streets and be used as instruments in the hands of politicians, don’t be canon folders in their hands.

Work hard”, he said.

In his opening address as chairman of the occasion,

former president Dr Olusegun Obasanjo who gave historical relics of his military and political relationship with the celebrant said both of them have collaborated and cooperated on many occasions for the progress of Nigeria.

Describing Ali as a political technocrat whose tenure as the national chairman of the PDP brought stability to the party said “what we’ve been able to achieve in the party was partly due to Ahmadu Ali’s loyalty not to me as a person but to our party and the nation”.

The Father of the Day and former Head of State, Gen Yakubu Gowon (rtd) who relished on his days together with the celebrant

at Barewa College, Zaria described Ali as a very good boxer and a brilliant student.

He said Ali did well as a Federal Commissioner of Education and as pioneer Director of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

“He worked for me as director of NYSC as . a versatile young man. Thank you very much. You did exceptionally well and I must say that what you did has made Nigeria better. He served the nation well in various capacities”, he said.

The occasion was graced by eminent personalities in the Obasanjo administration including party loyalists, former governors and public office holders.

Nnamdi Dimgba of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has fixed March 28, for the commencement of trial of two civil servants with the Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing, Ibrahim Tumsah and Tijani Tumsah.

Both public officers were arraigned on February 8, on a 2-count charge dated January 17, 2018, and endorsed

by Celsius Ukpong, Chief Legal Officer, Special Presidential Investigation Panel for the Recovery of Public Property, Abuja.

The panel filed the charge on behalf of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN) after the suspects refused to declare their assets to the special panel.

But, at a resumed hearing yesterday, the prosecution counsel, Festus Keyamo (SAN), pleaded the court to adjourn the matter to enable parties in the case to sort out some grey areas.

“My lord, there is a development in the matter that will not allow trial to commence today, the prosecution told the court.

Keyamo said the prosecution is reaching out to the defendants for them to fill new assets declaration forms given to them by the panel, while there is likelihood of out of court settlement or plea bargain.

Counsel to the 1st defendant, Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), did not object to an adjournment.

However, he was not at ease with the utterance of Keyamo on “plea bargaining”, saying the defendants are not contemplating such.

Kehinde Ogunwumiju (SAN), representing the 2nd defendant associated himself with the position of Ikpeazu.

In view of the development, Justice Dimgba adjourned to March 28, for the trial to begin.

The offence alleged to have been committed by the two brothers is contrary to and punishable under Section 3 (3) of the Recovery of Public Property (Special Provision) Act, 2004.

However, after their arraignment, the court granted them bail upon the condition that they must sign bail bond of N20million each with two sureties in like sum.

The charge read in part; “That you, Ibrahim Tumsah and Tijani Tumsah on or about the 10th and 25th day of October 2017, being public officers with the Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing Abuja and Presidential Committee on North East Initiative Abuja respectively within the jurisdiction of this court committed an offence to wit: refusal to declare your assets without reasonable excuse and upon notice to declare your assets before the Special Presidential Investigative Panel for the Recovery of Public Property, Abuja contrary to and punishable under Section 3 (3) of the Recovery of Public Property (Special Provision) Act 2004.

Politics

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

s

11

Why I’m in support of Obasanjo’s third force coalition - Falana Stories by Patrick Okohue with Agency Report Human right activist and constitutional lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana, SAN, has thrown his weight behind the third force movement of former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, known as Coalition for Nigeria (CN).

The constitutional lawyer said the third force by Obasanjo should be a party of the working class that would protect the interest of Nigerians.

Speaking at the 40th anniversary celebration of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), in Abuja, Falana while revealing that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recovered N750 billion loots in two years, tasked the NLC to monitor the usage of the money by the Federal Government.

According to Falana, “The solution is for us to reorganise the Labour Party so that it will not be a dumping ground for the disgruntled elements of the ruling class.

“This is because General Obasanjo said neither APC (All Progressives Congress) nor the PDP (Peoples Democratic Party) has a solution to the country’s problems.

“Therefore, there is a need for a Third Force. That Third Force must not be by the disgruntled people, but of the Nigerian working people.

OKUPE

Okupe: God will choose Nigeria’s next president in 2019 OBASANJO

FALANA “The NLC has a role to play to protect the interest of the Nigerian people. That is why whenever there is a problem in the country, people will be asking where is NLC. “If you say you are fighting corruption, we have nothing to lose but to join them to expose themselves.

“The EFCC in the last two and half years recovered N750 billion.

NLC must find out what they will do with the money.

“I told government publicly that what they are doing by saying they are fighting corruption is a tip of

the iceberg, the real corruption is not being fought.

“I wrote a letter to the Minister of Finance and I itemised how this country can recover about $200 billion and therefore they don’t need to go anywhere to borrow money, but what the Minister did was to write me back to acknowledge receiving the letter and that it is receiving attention.

“And up till now, that letter is receiving attention.

“In 2006, the then CBN Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, gave $7 billion to 14 banks and

those banks have not paid back the money.

“Also in 2008, the CBN governor, Malam Sanusi Lamido, gave to six banks N600 billion and up till now, the money has not been returned.

“You cannot say we are broke, pay back this money.

“You also remember the N100 million that was released for the reviving of the textile industry, but still these textile companies are still moribund. Where is the money?

“Also in the last 10 years, over N400 billion was released for agriculture, but yet we are hungry.”

Saraki to states: Stop paying pension to ex-governors still holding public office President of the Senate Dr. Bukola Saraki has called on states of the federation to emulate Kwara State and stop the payment of pensions to former governors still holding elective or appointive positions.

This is even as he commended the Kwara State House of Assembly for passing the bill to stop payment of such pensions.

Just as the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on the Chairman of Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Zamfara State Governor, Abdulaziz Yari to emulate Senate President, Bukola Saraki, and kick against double emoluments laws for former governors and deputies in their states.

Saraki in a series of tweets on his handle, @BukolaSaraki said that he was indeed happy that the chat he had with the Assembly Speaker, Ali Ahmed, had resulted in the passage of the bill.

In 2017, the Senate’s President had said that he already directed the state government to stop paying him pensions adding that he had refunded those that he had collected earlier.

“I am happy that following my

conversation with Kwara Speaker, @ HonAliAhmad, two months ago, the Bill to suspend the payment of Pension to former governors and their deputies when they hold a Political or Public office was passed into law yesterday by the Kwara House of Assembly.

“Moving forward, it is my hope that other State Assemblies take a cue from Kwara State and pass similar pieces of legislation into law.

The Kwara State House of Assembly on Tuesday passed an amendment bill halting payment of pension to former governors, deputy governors and other officers holding political offices after their tenure in office.

The passage of the bill followed the consideration of the report of the House Committee on Establishment and Public Service at the Committee of the Whole House sitting in Ilorin.

The motion for the passage of the bill was moved by the Deputy House Leader, Segilola Abdulkadir and was unanimously adopted by members.

The Deputy Speaker, Matthew Okedare, who presided over the plenary, directed

the Clerk of the House, Alhaji Mohammed Katsina, to prepare clean copy of the bill for governor’s assent.

The bill, which was forwarded to the House by Gov. AbdulFatah Ahmed, sought to review the existing law where payment of pension for former governors and deputy governors after their tenures would be suspended.

SERAP in a statement by its deputy director, Timothy Adewale urged Gov. Yari to show example and abolish double emoluments laws.

The statement reads “Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Zamfara State governor, Abdulaziz Yari to emulate the example of Senate President Bukola Saraki and make a clear public commitment that the Governors’ Forum and all governors will take immediate steps to abolish double emoluments laws for former governors and deputies in their states.

“Governor Yari should show leadership by example by starting the campaign within the Governors’ Forum to abolish double emoluments laws from his own Zamfara State, which has passed laws allowing former governors to receive

Contd. on page 12

SARAKI

Former aide to exPresident Goodluck Jonathan, Dr. Doyin Okupe, has said that God will by Himself choose the next President of Nigeria come 2019.

According to Okupe, some powerful men installed President Muhammadu Buhari as Nigeria’s President in 2015, but vowed that come 2019, the Almighty God will do the selection.

In a post he shared on Facebook, Wednesday night, Okupe said, “In 2015, powerful men chose a President for Nigeria.

“In 2019 God Almighty will choose an anointed President for His people. Watch.”

He further warned those who prefer to leave in a godless nation to migrate to some other country.

He added, “Those who want a godless Nation can emigrate.

Nigeria shall be ruled hereafter by leaders who worship and fear God,” he said.

CXCX

Politics 12

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

Stop paying pension to ex-governors still holding public office Contd. from Page 11 pension for life; two personal staff; two vehicles replaceable every four years; two drivers, free medical for the former governors and deputies and their immediate families in Nigeria or abroad; a 4-bedroom house in Zamfara and an office; free telephone and 30 days paid vacation outside Nigeria.

“Following the positive engagement and intervention by the Senate President on the matter, it is now indefensible for the Governors’ Forum to remain indifferent to the issue of double emoluments for ex-governors and their deputies. We urge Governor Yari to speak out strongly against double pension laws and encourage his colleagues to urgently take

measures to abolish such laws in their states for the sake of millions of Nigerians who deserve good governance and sustainable development.

“By providing the necessary leadership on the matter, Governor Yari will be sending a powerful message to his colleagues that public function is meant to be exercised in the public interest.

Such public commitment and action to abolish double emoluments laws would also be entirely consistent with article 19 of the UN Convention against Corruption to which Nigeria is a state party.

“Given the strong influence of senators on their states, we also urge the Senate President to now build on his public statement to state assemblies by immediately taking steps to sponsor a resolution at the Senate on the matter.

“The abolition of such laws is a necessary first step towards delivering on the constitutional promise of equal protection and equal benefit of the law for a distressingly large number of Nigerians.

Otherwise, public officials will remain seriously out of touch with a major source of poverty and discrimination in the country, SERAP said.”

ABDUL FATAI

Niger Delta group urges Buhari to re-contest in 2019 Coalition of Urhobo and Isoko Youths (CUIY), has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to recontest the presidency in the 2019 general election, saying the President deserved a second term in office.

Speaking with newsmen at Oleh, Isoko South Local Government Area, Delta State, Coordinator of the group, Comrade William Omoro, said the Buhari led administration had left no stone unturned in the fight against corruption.

According to him Buhari had done exceedingly well in stabilising the economy which he said was left in shambles by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he said the President had demonstrated that he meant well for all Nigerians.

Commending the President for the effective implementation of Treasury Single Account (TSA), the N’Power scheme for the teeming unemployed youths in the country, he said: “The

INEC receives 108 fresh applications for party registration The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said that it has so far received no fewer than 108 fresh applications from political associations seeking registration as political parties.

Chairman of the commission, Prof. Mahmoud Yakubu, made the disclosure in Lagos on Thursday while speaking on “Citizen, Government and Technology’’ at a session of the ongoing Lagos Social Media Week.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the commission had in December 2017 registered 21 new parties.

The registration of the new parties brought the total number of registered parties to 68.

Yakub, who addressed the session via a video call, said the fresh applications were being processed by the commission.

“As of Friday, we received no fewer than 108 fresh applications from political associations seeking to be registered as political parties.

“We have begun the processing and scrutiny of the applications and we will register those that meet the eligibility criteria,’’ he said.

Yakub said the commission would continue to register political associations as parties so long as they meet the set guidelines.

He, however, said political associations which sought registration six months before the general election would be barred

from the polls.

Yakub said the commission decided to take the step to ensure that parties had enough time to prepare for elections.

He said the commission was glad that out of the 21 parties that were registered recently, four were driven by women.

The INEC boss added that the commission had always been advocating gender inclusiveness in governance and the electoral process.

On the release of election timetable for the next 36 years by INEC, Yakub said the commission had not done anything strange.

He said the objective of the step was to instill some certainty in the electoral process and management.

“We released the timetable because we believe we have reached a point where election dates should not be a matter of conjecture, it should be known. That is what obtains elsewhere.

“In Ghana, everybody knows the election date and it has remained the same for the past six years; in Kenya, it is August 8, and that is known to all Kenyans.

“So the essence of the timetable is to ensure some certainty, such that every Nigerian knows the election date regardless of the year,’’ he said.

On the move to re-order the sequence of the 2019 election, Yakub said the INEC timetable remained sacrosanct for now.

YAKUBU He said there was no law yet compelling the altering of the sequence, saying the National Assembly’s proposal could only be considered with the coming of a new law.

Yakub said the commission was working closely with parties to promote internal democracy among them to strengthen democracy.

He also said it was putting checks on political parties to ensure they complied with election spending limits as recommended by the law.

The chairman appealed to the public to support the commission in efforts to endure free and fair conduct of governorship elections in Osun and Ekiti, as well as the 2019 general elections.

Buhari

signing into law of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, FUPRE Bill and the provision of take off grant to the Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko goes to show that Buhari is in touch with the yearning and aspirations of the people of the Niger Delta

region.”

He applauded the extension of the tenure of the Chief John Odigie-Oyegun led National executive of the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying “This will no doubt bring stability to the party and pave way to build on its successes ahead of the 2019 general elections.”

el-Rufai vows APC will wipe out rascal members from its midst Governor Nasir el-Rufai of Kaduna State has warned that rascal members within the All Progressives Congress (APC), will soon be wiped out. el-Rufai gave the warning while reacting to the presidential assignment given to the party’s national leader, Bola Tinubu to reconcile aggrieved members.

Speaking in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital Wednesday, the governor said, “We have had people that are unhappy, there are many unhappy people, some of them legitimately, there are some disgruntled people that are unhappy without basis, and we also have rascals and troublemakers who think politics is rascality and to each one there is a different solution.

“The President has established a committee under Asiwaju to reconcile. The President recognises that there are people that have worked for the success of the party and they have not been adequately recognised. “There is the need to recognise those people, apologise and do something and he said Asiwaju go and do it. There are people who are disgruntled because they are used to the PDP thing of distribution, every month bring money give them. There are people like that. Those ones there is no solution. They will remain in opposition until you find a way to annihilate them politically. There are rascals.

“They do rebel so that you will negotiate with them. Well, you can keep negotiating depending on the level of rascality. You can choose

el RUFAI your rascality and I will say I am wiping you out of the political map.”

On the state of the nation, the governor noted that hope is not lost, saying, “The reasons why Nigerians voted out the PDP in 2015 was because they were tired, everyone could see that the country was heading towards collapse, so many people voted not really just APC but against PDP. “And since then the various federal and state governments, both APC and PDP have got the message and are trying to govern justly, but they cannot overturn the baneful legacy of gone governments overnight.

“It took us many decades to get to where we are and to get into the hole that we are and we will not be able to get out of the hole overnight in spite of the best efforts. There is the need to articulate a proper national consensus on what our goals are as a country and what standards, the majority of the citizens will subscribe to rank out Nigeria as a justly govern polity.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

Page Thirteen

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13

PHOTO TIMES

Editorial Local manufacture of electric meters

R

ecent opening of a local electric meter manufacturing factory in Onna Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State is a welcome development as it marked the era of privately owned local manufacturing of electric meters in Nigeria. When in November 2013 the Federal Government privatised the Power Holding Company (PHCN), the buyers did not envisage problems.

Since then the 11 distribution companies (Discos) have been struggling to meet the metering deadline of five years contained in their Purchasing Agreements (PAs) with the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE). A modicum of progress was made in the metering of customers. But, the Discos have been citing weak capital as the major reason for their inability to meter all their customers. They blamed illiquidity for their inability to meter the customers and their banks’ failure to provide them credits to purchase meters.

Nigeria is a country with great potential for development. Almost all sectors of the country’s economy need electricity to stimulate development. Unfortunately, no appreciable economic development can be made in an economy with inadequate supply of electric power. Even with the erratic and unstable power supply in the country, electricity supply to homes and industries have over the years been bedevilled by insufficient supply of metering machines. As Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo rightly observed at the inauguration of the metering company, Nigeria’s economic development is hinged on effective power supply. Without doubt, availability of a good electric metering device is part of an effective power supply. Herein lies the importance of the new electric meter manufacturing company.

Since the privatisation of electric distribution companies a few years ago, the elec-

tric distribution companies (Discos) have been complaining of inadequate supply of meters. In the main, the Discos complained about their lack of funds to purchase meters for onward sale to their customers, thus limiting the quantity of orders they could purchase from local suppliers of the product who also had to import them from overseas.

The introduction of prepaid metering system made it easier for the Discos to collect their money upfront from electric power consumers while it has enabled electric power consumers too to pay in advance for whatever quantity of electric power they would want to enjoy.

In many parts of the country attempts by the Discos to make unmetered consumers of electric power to pay have been unsuccessful. Also, the Discos resort to the use of estimated bills has not helped matters as, in most cases, such consumers avoid payment for the electricity they used.

The new electric power metering factory which is a partnership between the Akwa Ibom government and some private investors is expected to put the state on the path of industrialisation. It will manufacture an average of one million meters per year but can be increased later to produce up to 2.7 million units of meters per year.

If anything, the Akwa Ibom example is an example of fruitful collaboration between the public and the private sectors in an uncharted area that used to be controlled by the Federal Government. The Akwa Ibom State example has shown that with approval from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) a state government, just like any private entrepreneur, can invest in any area of the power sector. It is expected that many local and foreign investors will follow the example of the investors in the metering company to set up factories in Akwa Ibom State and other parts of the country.

Lagos State Governor Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (right), Kano State Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje (middle) and Commissioner for Finance (Lagos State), Mr. Adeyemi Ahsade (left) shortly after signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Lagos-Kano Economic and Investment Summit at the Jubilee Chalet, Epe, Lagos.... on Thursday

Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai (left), Managing Director, Nigeria Port Authority, Hadiza Bala Usman; Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun and Executive Chairman Federal Inland Revenue Service, Babatunde Fowler, during an interactive session on Voluntary Assets and Income Declaration Scheme in Kaduna on Thursday

R-L:Governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Abubakar Badaru; the Deputy Governor. Ibrahim Hassan Hadija; Alhaji Aliko Dangote (Laying the block) and the Emir of Hadija, Alhaji Dr. Adamu Abubakar Maji at the foundation laying ceremony of the for 16 MTP/H state-of-theArt Dangote Rice Integrated Rice Mill in Jigawa State…. on Thursday

L-R: Author of the Book, Senator Amadu Ali, Chairman of the Occasion, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo; Wife of the Author, Mrs. Mariam Ali; Father of the Day, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd) and former deputy governor Plateau State, Mrs. Pallen Tallen, during the Public presentation of a book: “The Many Colours of the Rainbow”, in Abuja....on Thursday

14 Opinion

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

Weak public procurement breeds corruption (I)

O

Emmanuel Onwubiko

ne area of Nigeria’s Public life that has yet to receive the needed legal frameworks and policy guidelines to check financial leakages in the management of public finance and in the funding of public projects is the procurement sector.

Not long ago, an official of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Allied offences Commission Dr Anthony Onyilimba stated that 60 percent of corruption cases are procurement related. In the last few years of the operations of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, over 75 percent of the cases of graft against public officials are procurement related. In most states, public utilities are in bad shape due to weak implementation of procurement laws. In the last few months both the Directors General of Securities and exchange commission Mounir Gwarzo and that of the National Health Insurance scheme Dr Yusuf were suspended for alleged financial recklessness relating to violations of procurement law. The poor state of procurement over the last fifty years is the reason for the mind blowing corruption amongst public officials.

The major test of determining the indices of good governance, respect and strict adherence to the principle of transparency and accountability is the availability of empirical data to concretely establish the commitment or otherwise of public officials to the laws and statutes guiding the procurement and execution of public utilities or projects which basically and fundamentally are meant to serve public good.

The above mentioned fact finds legal bearing in section 15(5) of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria of 1999 (as amended)

which states that: “The state shall abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power.”

But our political history is replete with pragmatic evidences that points to the wanton disrespect to the available body of laws that safeguards public procurements from abuses and most especially since the year 2007 when the Bureau of public procurement Act was institutionalized and domiciled as a national legislation. The current administration has gone further in the abuses rained against public procurement Act. The Director General/Executive Secretary of the National Health insurance scheme who was kicked out by the health minister for corruption relating to procurement was reinstated by the government only because the man is a distant cousin of President Muhammadu Buhari. But the legal frameworks on public procurement may be weak but there is indeed a national legislation on public procurement.

In writing, the following are what that institution was established to do as can be found in its website.

The Public Procurement Act 2007 established the Bureau of Public Procurement as the regulatory authority responsible for the monitoring and oversight of public procurement, harmonizing the existing government policies and practices by regulating, setting standards and developing the legal framework and professional capacity for public procurement in Nigeria.

The vision of the BPP is as follows: “Building and sustaining an efficient country procurement system that meets international best practices” The Mission is “to professionalize the process of procurement that ensures Transparency, Efficiency, Competition, Integrity and Value for

Money to support National Growth and Development” The objectives of establishing the Bureau of Public Procurement are; The harmonization of existing government policies and practices on public procurement and ensure probity, accountability and transparency in the procurement process; The establishment of pricing standards and benchmarks; Ensuring the application of fair, competitive, transparent, value-formoney standards and practices for the procurement and disposal of public assets; and The attainment of transparency, competitiveness, cost effectiveness and professionalism in the public sector procurement system.

The Core Objectives are as follows: Economic Efficiency; Competition - Providing level playing ground for all strata of bidders; Value for money; Transparency.

But these legal provisions that ought to guide Nigerian public officials on how to follow global best practices in going about the functions of public procurements are grossly abused beginning from the failure on the part of the presidency to inaugurate a functional governing council to administer and monitor awards of contracts.

Right from the inception of the Bureau of public procurement (BPP) with the signing of the law and the inauguration of the offices for that institution, it would seem that the succeeding administrations have always set out to fundamentally weaken and undermine the BPP (Bureau of public procurement). The violation of the critical segments of this law makes any claim of probity on the part of the President highly unsustainable and unprovable.

For the avoidance of doubts, Part

one of the public procurement Act, of 2007 is on the establishment of National Council on public procurement and states as follows: 1 (1) “There is established the National Council on Public Procurement (in this Act referred to as “the Council”); (2) The Council shall consist of: a) the Minister of Finance as Chairman; b) the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice of the Federation; c) the Secretary to the Government of the Federation; d) the Head of Service of the Federation; e) Economic Adviser to the President; f) Six part-time members to represent: i. Nigeria Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management; ii. Nigeria Bar Association; iii. Nigeria Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture; iv. Nigeria Society of Engineers; v.

Civil Society; vi. The Media and g) the Director-General of the Bureau who shall be the secretary of the Council.

The law goes further to state that (3) “Notwithstanding the provisions of Section (2), the Council; may coopt any person to attend its meeting but the person so co-opted shall not have a casting vote or be counted towards quorum. (4) The Chairman and other members of the Council shall be appointed by the President.

(5) Subjects to subsection (2) of this Section, a member of the Council being: a) the holder of an elective office under the Constitution of Nigeria, shall hold office for a period he remains so elected and no more; and b) the Director-General of the Bureau, shall hold office on such terms and conditions as may be specified in his letter of appointment. *Emmanuel Onwubiko is the Head of the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) andblogs@www.emmanuelonwubiko. com ; www.huriwanigeria. com, www. huriwa@blogspot.com.

Terrorism, self-determination and IPOB (2)

N Simon. A. Igbinedion

evertheless, there is overwhelming evidence or state practice to show that the right to self-determination outlives the extinguishment or termination of colonialism. For example, many states have recognized or welcomed the split of former Yugoslavia into seven independent republics of Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kosovo, Croatia, Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, Slovenia (1989 – 1992); the emergence of 14 republics out of the defunct USSR (1990); breaking away of Bangladesh from Pakistan (March 1971); secession of Eritrea from Ethiopia (April 1993); separation of South Sudan from Sudan (July 2011); and the mutual split of Czechoslovakia into Czech Republic and Slovakia (1993).

Therefore, all the post-colonial creation of states out of existing states belie the claim that the principle of self-determination evaporated with the dismantling of the colonial machine.

IPOB is described as a separatist organisation led by Nnamdi Kanu.

The group aims to make the South Eastern States (made up of Ibos) to break away from Nigeria and form the independent nation of Biafra through peaceful means a la referendum to settle the issue of Biafra in a civilised and democratic manner.

Interestingly, IPOB has been largely peaceful; it has not adopted violence as a means to achieving its end. However, on 20 September 2017, a Federal High Court in Abuja granted the Federal Government an interim injunction proscribing the activities of the group.

When the modus operandi of IPOB is considered against the backdrop of the pedigree of other terrorist groups operating internationally

or in foreign jurisdictions, the government’s labelling of the group as terrorist beggars belief. The Federal Government through the Minister of Information Lai Mohammed, Senior Special Assistant to the President Garba Shehu and others have laboured to justify such appellation.

They accused IPOB of so many things including mounting road blocks, burning a Police Station, killing a Police man, using stones, molotov cocktails (a simple incendiary weapon variously described as bottle bomb, petrol bomb, fire bomb, benzene torch, etc), machetes and broken bottles, possessing own flag, printing own currency, extorting money from innocent citizens, etc.

Additionally, they accused Kanu of using intemperate language in the social media. I do not know the verity of some of these allegations but if they are true, then some of the activities of IPOB have become criminal and therefore worthy of state control. But they are not so bad as to warrant the group’s terrorist classification. In other words, the alleged conducts are not terrorist conducts; they are illegalities. They do not fit into the objective definition or description of a terrorist group. Can you truly say that IPOB has become hostis humani generis?

Where is its compulsion exerted on others, compulsion intended to cause death or serious bodily injury?

The disharmony between IPOB and the terrorist tag that the government has stamped on it explains why some foreign countries including the US find Nigeria’s terrorist tag on IPOB ridiculous. It is convenient for those defending Nigeria’s action to raise the veil of the country’s sovereignty to ward off any contrary view but it ought to be remembered that these countries tasted the pangs of ter-

rorism long before Boko Haram institutionalized it in Nigeria. So they know terrorism when they see one. And Nigeria can ignore views from other jurisdictions to its peril.

Interestingly, every terrorist organization craves some international or cross-border connection or network in order to survive. So if in its sovereign capacity, Nigeria classified IPOB as a terrorist group without caring whether the standard of such classification passes international best practices, then the country cannot expect mutual cooperation from such foreign jurisdictions in dealing with IPOB. So if you say the financial headquarters of IPOB is in France, do not expect France to treat finance meant for IPOB as terrorist fund or property. If the government has declared IPOB a criminal organisation, I would have no problem with it but naming it a terrorist organization is overkill. It portends grave danger for other ethnic nationalitybased groups genuinely agitating for self-determination or development.

The naming is worrisome because IPOB’s struggle, being rooted in selfdetermination, is legitimate. As an aside, it is more worrisome when such naming is coming on the heels of the nation-wide violent onslaught

by Fulani herdsmen who are maiming, raping and killing Nigerians and destroying properties with dangerous weapons across the country.

Despite the outcry of Nigerians, the government has turned the deaf ear for some narrow interests. Specifically, the government has not declared the Fulani herdsmen, who are ordinarily pursuing their mission with violence, terrorists but has declared IPOB, which is ordinarily peaceful in conduct, as a terrorist organisation. Yet the government is moralizing on the virtue of unity

amongst Nigerian ethnic nationalities!

Undoubtedly, IPOB relies on the principle of self-determination in its struggles against the Nigerian State.

And I believe IPOB is on firm ground in so doing. However, the government appears to have, in the heat of passion, ignored or overlooked the nexus between the principle of self-determination and terrorism.

Self-determination is a rule ofcustomary international law that has matured into a rule of jus cogens. A state cannot invoke its domestic law to defeat its international obligation regarding self-determination. Additionally, self-determination is also contained in conventions (such as the International Covenants of 1966) to which Nigeria is a signatory. The consequence of all this is that suppression of agitators genuinely relying on the rule is seriously frowned upon. Pointedly, it is odd to declare such agitators terrorists. According to discussions by the UN’s Sixth Committee (during its 64th Session on 7 October 2005), the legitimate struggles of peoples in the exercise of their right to self-determination must not be tainted with the paint brush of terrorism. Otherwise, as the Pakistani envoy to the UN puts it, “brutalization and oppression of people struggling for their legitimate right to self-determination constitutes state terrorism.” I believe what the government has done against IPOB is naked brutalization and raw suppression of a people peacefully asking for their right to be allowed to develop themselves in the face of governmental failure to consciously develop them.

Dr. Igbinedion is of the Department of Jurisprudence & International Law, Faculty of Law, University of Lagos.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

15 Column

Buhari, how did Dapchi happen?

Conversation

with AZU ISHIEKWENE

‘

And soon we’ll forget. The only reason why we’re still talking about Chibok is because Oby Ezekwesili and members of the Bring Back Our Girls campaign group have refused to give up, despite the odds

’

C

NN anchor, Isha Sesay, is right about what she said on her Twitter handle. The kidnap of the 110 girls of Government Girls Science Technical College, Dapchi, is not a national disaster as President Muhammadu Buhari had described it; it’s a national disgrace.

The only thing worse than the disgrace is the incompetent response of Buhari’s government and the buck-passing in a moment of national grief.

How do we tell a world that still cannot understand how 256 girls got missing in Chibok, that after four years of trying and managing to rescue 100, another 110 girls are now missing without trace?

How do we explain to the parents and families involved that one week after their children were taken away from school by terrorists neither lawmakers representing the constituency, nor the state governor, nor the policemen in charge of the area, nor the soldiers, can give an account – any kind of coherent account at all – of what happened?

Buhari promised to keep Nigerians safe and secure. How can he look at himself in the mirror today and not think that if the missing 110 schoolgirls is a national disaster, then his personal failure to keep his promise is the father of that disaster?

When it happened under former President Goodluck Jonathan, Buhari’s All Progressives Congress, then the opposition party, said it could only have happened as a result of malicious incompetence.

That may have been correct.

Jonathan’s government did not make any pretensions about honesty or competence. Army generals were diverting funds set aside for the war on Boko Haram into their private pockets and angry troops, tired of fighting with their bare hands and buying their own medicines at the war front, were shooting their commanders or fleeing across the border.

One hundred Chibok girls are still missing today because Jonathan believed some of those who

Buhari were around him, who said the story of the missing girls was a hoax by the opposition to undermine his government.

Have you noticed how the rank and file of Jonathan’s party, the Peoples Democratic Party, has jumped on the bandwagon to flog Buhari?

The same people who said Chibok was a scam and on whose watch Boko Haram grew from a homeless status to become a landlord?

I know that politicians must play, but to play with the fate of children whose lives they endangered by their callous negligence is unforgivable.

It’s surreal to think that we’re right where we were four years ago; that in the same Yobe where 29 boys were murdered by Boko Haram in their hostels, 110 girls were later abducted and Minister of Interior, Abdulrahman Dambazau, is saying the government is taking steps to ensure that this does not happen another time.

Well, there’ll be another time for Dambazau and all those who have shamelessly let the country down yet again. There’ll be another time for Army spokesperson Onyeama Nwachukwu; the Yobe State commissioner of police Sunmonu Abdulmaliki, and for their bosses who sent them to rub salt in our wound by trading blames.

There’ll be another time for Governor Ibrahim Geidam who had falsely announced the rescue of some of the girls even before seeing the parents of the girls and hearing their own side of the story.

Sure, there’ll be another time to announce that more billions of

naira has been poured into the war on Boko Haram and anyone who wants can now have a picnic anywhere in the North East. There’ll always be another time to deepen our misery.

But there won’t be another time for the 110 missing girls or for the parents and families who are haunted by the bizarre thoughts of just where their girls are or what is happening to them.

There won’t be another time to repair the future of those children and hundreds more like them who will see no point at all in going to school.

It is not Dambazau saying that the government is taking steps to ensure that this won’t happen again that doesn’t make sense to me. It is the fact that the government has not said what it would do to prevent more girls from being kidnapped or more boys from being murdered in their dormitories.

Just like it happened in Chibok, it took Boko Haram one to two days of doing a recce and bedding in before the girls were rounded up and herded away in trucks.

There was a calamitous failure of intelligence between Dapchi and either Geidam or Damaturu – both places where soldiers attached to Operation Lafia Dole had at least not been withdrawn and which are only about 60 kilometres from Dapchi. This failure paved the way for the girls to be taken away with the casualness of a practice match.

What is Buhari going to do about it? How many schools are still open outside the capitals of Yobe, Adamawa or Borno? And why is it impossible to deploy vigilantes or drones or some minimum form

of technology to complement the effort of the brave soldiers on the front lines to secure schools and other soft targets?

Unlike Chibok, which happened in the forest area of Sambisa, Dapchi is miles and miles of flat land, stretching all the way up to the arid borders of Niger Republic. I’m lost for words that in a zone that is practically at war, nearly half a dozen trucks plied the major Damaturu-Bayamari Road for hours on February 19, 2018, with distraught schools crying for help and nothing happened.

To say there won’t be a next time does not mean it won’t happen because Dambazau said so. Buhari’s government has put Boko Haram on the back foot. Yet, if the rising wave of other forms of violence is a parable of how much work still needs to be done, then Dapchi is a clear statement that the government has been too eager to give itself a pass mark.

And soon we’ll forget. The only reason why we’re still talking about Chibok is because Oby Ezekwesili and members of the Bring Back Our Girls campaign group have refused to give up, despite the odds.

Dambazau and others can say it won’t happen again because they know that, like Chibok, we’ll get used to Dapchi and, as usual, just get on with our lives; leaving the matter to God and surrendering ourselves as willing victims of the next idiocy.

Are we all right?

Ishiekwene is the Managing Director/Editor-In-Chief of The Interview and member of the board of the Global Editors Network

News 16

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

parade Buhari congratulates Pastor Adeboye at 76 Police fake lawyer,

By Johnson Ayantunji

ÎÎÎ

President Muhammadu Buhari has joined all members of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), as well as Christians in Nigeria and many parts of the world in congratulating the General Overseer of RCCG, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, who turned 76 on March 2.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity Mr. Femi Adesina on Thursday, the President extended warm felicitations to the family and friends of the highly revered preacher.

President Buhari noted that the clergyman is a

teacher of the word of God under whose leadership, since 1981, the church has grown to become one of the largest congregations in the world, with parishes in almost all countries.

He also affirmed that the exemplary leadership provided by the servant of God has resulted in an exponential growth of the church, which directly translates into the development of infrastructure, building of educational and health institutions, as well as vocational centres that have created a means of livelihood for many Nigerians.

The President Com-

mended Pastor Adeboye’s warmth and friendliness, recalling his visits to the State House, and most significantly, the historic visit in London when he was on medical vacation.

He believes the clergyman has planted seeds of the gospel that posterity would always remember, especially his divinely inspired dream of ensuring that there will be a church within every walking distance in the country.

President Buhari further extolled Pastor Adeboye for his humility, focus, discipline and sacrificial spirit of giving up his personal comfort, career, and dreams, to take

2 pastors, 56 others in Imo VAL OKARA, OWERRI

ÎÎÎ The Imo State Commis-

Adeboye up the higher call of leading the Lord’s flock.

He prays that the Almighty God will grant the

Buhari church leader longer life, good health, and more strength to propagate the word of God.

Cross Section of Oyo State Governor,Abiola Ajimobi with traditional rulers at the Oyo State Governor Meet with Oyo state traditional rulers held at House of Chief Secretariat Ibadan...on Thursday

Kids TV debuts, to fight social ills, offers innovative leadership skills

By Idu Jude Abuja

ÎÎÎ The search for the pro-

tection of cultural norms and values which is at the verge of extinction, may have found a platform for its proper preservation on Nigeria soil.

This is the motive of the emergence of kids television station specifically for the growing children with the aim of investing in Nigerian and African Culture.

While speaking in a press briefing to herald official launch of the television station, the media relations of-

ficer to the board of Directors Victoria Nkong, stated that the emerging television programming is broad and includes Stories for inventiveness, programmes for the promotion of cultural norms and values. Victoria, further stated that the emerging television, would bring the install child moral upbringing in Nigeria and indeed Africa. “what we are actually trying to offer Nigerian is to erase the wrath in the system which has instilled immoral behavior among Nigerian youths. Just take a look at all the television stations across Nigeria both

foreign and local what you see is show of immorality and the features of western culture. So the television contents we use are already taking a swipe on the African continent and more especially Nigeria”.

The media relations, observed that programmes including quiz Shows, African Tales, Cooking Shows, discussions, Culture and Science Documentaries, Nigerian music and songs, all in the name of bringing back the moribund television contents of African origin.

“Our Mission is to educate, entertain and to em-

power African children while promoting African culture, religious tolerance, gender equality and geographical acceptance. We hope that there is the time for us to make a change of television contents to continue to prepare the minds of Nigeria future leaders also with the aim to building a strong politically cultured nation. Taking a look at the Chinese or the Japanese, we can see nations with strong believe in their cultures. They eat their food, their cultures, their artifacts as well as strong belief to their unique features”.

She said that Mango Television & Production Company Limited is a special purpose vehicle founded by highly experienced Business and Media Management, Production and Marketing experts.

The administrative arm of the company will launch out of Nigeria from a management and content creation standpoint, which will be known as Mango Media, while the channel will be known as Mango TV. She stressed that the TV will be the first dedicated Children’s Television Channel on the African Continent

sioner of Police, Mr. Chris Ezike Thursday paraded a fake lawyer Miss Beatrice Nnamuah, two pastors Mr. Michael Unegbu, Benjamin Ndieze and 56 other suspects for various offence raging from armed robbery, kidnapping, fake prophecy.

The fake lawyer, Miss.

Nnamuah, aged 35years from Iyiamu village Onitsha Anambra State was arrested at Orlu after defrauding unsuspecting members of the public over N340,000.00 with the pretense of selling auction vehicles.

The state commissioner of police disclosed that lawyers wig, letter headed papers and call cards were recovered in her office.

Mr. Ezike said that on January 30, Pastor Benjamin Ndieze, the officiating pastor of Deliverance Home of Comfort Assembly. Ihiagwa in Owerri West LGA of the state arranged fake kidnapping in the parents of a five-year He said that the Pastor arranged with the parents of the little girl and dropped her at the NNPC filling station at control Post, Owerri and during the service and prophesy session, Pastor Benjamin told the congregation that a woman in their midst was looking for her daughter that was kidnapped by her uncle in Aba, Abia state.

According to the CP, the pastor told them (congregation) that the baby girl had been taken to Onitsha preparing to be taken to Port Harcourt, Rivers state. The pastor said, “By his powers and prayers the kidnappers and ritualists will drop and abandon the baby girl at NNPC Control Post, Owerri all members who wanted to witness the power of God should go to NNPC control post to witness his power.

“At the NNPC filling station some members of the church were shouting kidnappers while others were raising alarm of cultism.

Police arrested the pastor and in the process the pastor confessed fake prophecy arrangement with the parents of the baby girl.

In the same vein, another pastor Michael Unegbu who hailed from Umukirika Umuoba Uratta, owerri North LGA of the state was arrested by the police for allegedly keeping amourd for armed robbers and guy running.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

News 17

Dapchi abduction: Northern Govs vow to tackle insecurity within region Tunde Opalana,Abuja

ÏÏÏThe Chairman of

the Northern Governors Forum, Kashim Shettima, has said that their primary responsibility as leaders is to take a serious look at the security challenges in the region.

Shettima who is also the governor of Borno State said that the forum will not only look into the situation but come up with implementable ways and means on how to address them.

This follows the recent abduction of the Government Girls Science Technical College in Dapchi which has led to serval

calls from the President Muhammadu Buhari, United Nations and serval other concerned Nigerians demanding their rescue.

Governor Shettima condemned the recent abduction and noted that various steps have been taken by the Federal Government to ensure the girls return safely.

The governor made this known during the meeting of the northern governors on Thursday in Kaduna.

He said the forum will deliberate on the causes of various conflicts in the region and their seemingly intractable nature with an open and unbiased mind.

Double registration: Govt to face prosecution when out of office - INEC ÏÏÏThe

Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said that its allegation of double registration against Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State still stands.

“The allegation of double registration has not been swept under the carpet.

We cannot prosecute Bello now because he enjoys immunity as a sitting governor.

“He has committed an offence and we shall prosecute him when he is out office,” INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner in Kogi State, Prof. James Apam, said in Lokoja on Thursday.

He said that the recent issuance of a temporary voter’s card to the governor did not mean that the issue of double registration had been swept under the carpet.

INEC had, on February 26, issued a temporary voter’s card to the governor after applying for the transfer of his permanent card from Abuja to Okene.

INEC last year declared the second registration done by Bello, on May 23 at the Government House, Lokoja as illegal and contrary to the Electoral Act. The electoral body, through one of its Federal Commissioners, Mr. Emmanuel Soyebi, said that the registration, which was done outside the designated registration centre, also amounted to double registration which is a criminal

offence.

Shoyebi said that Bello did his first registration at Wuse Zone 11 in Abuja, on January 30, 2011.

For their involvement in the double registration saga, a senior official of INEC was compulsorily retired from service while two others were summarily dismissed last month.

Apam, however, explained that a temporary voter’s card was issued to the governor based on legal advice, saying that the governor would surely face the consequences of his crime at the appropriate time.

He said that INEC’s legal advisers had advised the electoral body not to deny Bello his right to vote and be voted for since he could not be tried at the moment.

On the ongoing Continued Voters Registration exercise, Apam said that INEC had registered 176,866 new voters in Kogi between April 2017 and February, 2018.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner said that the new registrants comprised of 90,553 male voters and 86,313 female voters.

During the period, he said that the organisation had transferred 7,169 permanent voter’s cards and replaced 9,400 lost or defaced cards.

Similarly, INEC said it distributed 57,148 permanent cards to their owners within the same period, while 202,289 voter cards were

Lagos Police Command parades suspected Cannabis dealers arrested at different location in Lagos...on Thursday.

5 terrorists, 2 soldiers killed, as troops battle Boko Haram ÏÏÏFive

terrorists and two soldiers lost their lives on Tuesday as troops continued the crackdown on the remnants of Boko Haram insurgents in the Sambisa forest.

The Deputy Director Public Relations, Theatre Command Operation Lafiya Dole, Colonel Onyema Nwachukwu, confirmed the development in a statement on Wednesday night.

The soldiers were car-

rying out clearance operation when they encountered the terrorists.

“The clearance operations progressed further into other identified insurgents’ camps around Tchikide and Chinene, where the troops ferociously engaged and cleared pockets of resistance by the insurgents, killing five of them in the encounter,” the statement said.

Tunde Opalana,Abuja

from FOWOSO as the goal is to raise the consciousness of women to take the lead.

Mrs. Akeredolu also added that projecting women to the forefront starts with acquisition of knowledge and skill so that they can be in a position to cater for their families.

She used the opportunity to challenge cultural and social misconceptions that affect the potentials of women stressing that women must rise up to take their pride of place towards the development of the society.

Her words: “What we are doing here today is historic – Some of these women have been trained in different skill areas.

We are going to give them start up tools and with it, they will perfect themselves. And for those who already have skills and

Explaining the death of the two officers, Nwachukwu said, “As troops exploited further in pursuit of the insurgents as they fled, one of the combat vehicles was rammed into by a terrorists’ Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED), injuring two officers in the vehicle.

“The wounded officers were promptly evacuated for medical attention by

the Battle Group medical team. Regrettably, we lost the two gallant officers yesterday afternoon. the troops rammed into by a terrorists’ Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) while in a hot pursuit thereby leading to an injury in the process.”

Despite the death of the soldiers, Nwachukwu said troops continue their operations.

Akeredolu takes FOWOSO empowerment to Akoko South West

ÏÏÏThe

wife of Ondo State Governor, Mrs. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu has led members of the Forum of Wives of State Officials (FOSOWO) to Akoko South West, where women and youths from the local government were empowered.

At the colourful event held at African Church Grammar School, Oka Akoko, where the rich culture of Akoko people was on display, Arabinrin Akeredolu observed that the empowerment programme was FOWOSO’s way of walking the talk and creating a pathway for women’s advancement regardless of who they are or where they lived.

According to the first lady, every Ondo State woman should benefit

don’t have the capital to start up, we will provide them with it”.

In her welcome address, the chairperson of Akoko South West Local Government, Mrs Florence Oloruntogbe thanked Arabinrin Akeredolu for the historic visit to the local government.

She also used the opportunity to congratulate the Akeredolu led government for its one year in office stressing that Mrs. Akeredolu has to a large extent demonstrated her commitment to the development and empowerment of womenfolk in the state.

On the train was the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Omowunmi Olatunji Edet, who lauded the FOWOSO empowerment Outreach programme of Her Excellency and encouraged

the women and youths to make good use of the opportunity being handed to them.

Also present were the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftancy Affairs, Hon. Lola Fagbemi, Hon. Victor Olabintan, Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Gboyega Aderarati, Wives of Commissioners, SSA Women Affairs, Mrs Titi Adeyemi, SA Gender, Research and Documentation, Mrs Tope Daniyan, Chairmen and the Chairpersons of Local Government in Ondo State among others.

Earlier, Mrs. Akeredolu paid a courtesy visit to Oba (Dr) Yusuf Adebori Adeleye OON ascended the throne as Olubaka of Oka-Akoko where she called for supports towards programmes that promote women empowerment in Ondo state.

News 18

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

Sokoto doubles incentive for wheat, garlic, sesame farmers ÏÏÏSokoto state govern-

ment said it has introduced additional incentives to farmers to in bid boost cultivation of wheat, sesame, garlic and onion in the state.

Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal stated this when he inspected a wheat farm at Taloka, Goronyo LGA. The 43 hectre farm is supported by the state government and is in partnership with some flour mills to offtake the commodity.

“Our support for wheat, garlic, sesame and onion farmers have been doubled to enable Sokoto maintains its position as one of the leading states producing these crops in the federation.

“These additional supports are in the form loans and grants, training of farmers and extension workers in

modern farming technique, provision of free and improved seedlings, provision of fertilizer and pesticides and lease of equipment to boost production,” the Governor added. Tambuwal said the support became necessary in view of economic benefit of the crops within and outside the country.

According to him, government will continue to support private sector participation in agriculture in the state, so as to enhance growth of the sector.

The Governor commended the owner of the farm for keying into the sector and urged the people to emulate him.

The farmers commended the Governor for his various interventions in agricultural activities in the state.

Election materials printed locally, says INEC boss Yakub

Tunde Opalana, Abuja

ÏÏÏ

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has stated printing election materials locally since 2015 without recourse to printing abroad.

Chairman of the Commission, Prof Mahmoud Yakub stated this on Thursday when the members of the Chartered Institute of Professional Printers paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja.

Yakubu however noted that the commission has its own guidelines as well as the Public Procurement Act which makes the printing works time bound,

noting that this makes it impossible to give their printing jobs to those who

Yakub

would sublet them.

He said the commission has been patronizing Nigerian printers,noting that the Institute’s ‘certification has been the baseline for giving out jobs.”

The chairman expressed delight at the quality of work and capacity of Nigerian printers and assured them that the commission would continue to partner with them and also continue to depend on their certification to ensure that only those certified by the institute get INEC’s jobs.

The president of the Institute, Mr Wahab Lawal noted that the printing industry has what it takes to move Nigeria forward, stating that Nigerian printers are over-equipped contrary

to widely held belief.

He regretted however that 99 percent of materials used for printing were imported into the country and stated that papers deployed for INEC’s printing jobs should be made duty-free.

According to Lawal, many Nigerians now run to a country like India to print and bring back to Nigeria, a situation he said has worsened the rate of unemployment in the country.

He seeks cooperation with INEC in terms of capacity, security and cost, the president of the institute called for more patronage by the commission.

N40bn: SERAP to Gov Yari: ‘Make clear commitment to abolish double pay, pensions laws’ ÏÏÏ

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged “the Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Zamfara State Governor, Abdulaziz Yari to emulate the example of Senate President Bukola Saraki and make a clear public commitment that the Governors’ Forum and all governors will take immediate steps to abolish double emoluments laws for former governors and deputies in their states.”

Saraki Thursday disclosed how he inspired the passing of the bill by the Kwara State House of Assembly to suspend payment of pensions to former governors and their deputies when they hold a public office and called on other state assemblies to take a cue from Kwara and pass similar laws in their states.

This followed SERAP’s request to Saraki on Tuesday urging him to “use his leadership position to sponsor a resolution in the Senate that would call on other states to abolish payment of double emoluments to ex-governors and their deputies.”

SERAP in a statement today by its deputy director Timothy Adewale said, “Governor Yari should show leadership by example by starting the campaign within the Governors’ Forum to abolish double emoluments laws from his own Zamfara State, which has passed laws allowing former governors to receive pension for life; two personal staff; two vehicles replaceable every four years; two drivers, free medical for the former governors and deputies and their immediate families in Nigeria or abroad; a 4-bedroom house in Zamfara and an office; free telephone and 30 days paid va-

cation outside Nigeria.”

According to the organization, “Following the positive engagement and intervention by the Senate President on the matter, it is now indefensible for the Governors’ Forum to remain indifferent to the issue of double emoluments for ex-governors and their deputies. We urge Governor Yari to speak out strongly against double pensions laws and encourage his colleagues to urgently take measures to abolish such laws in their states for the sake of millions of Nigerians who deserve good governance and sustainable development.”

The statement read in part: “By providing the necessary leadership on the matter, Governor Yari will be sending a powerful message to his colleagues that public function is meant to be exercised in the public interest. Such public commitment and action to abolish double emoluments laws would also be entirely consistent with article 19 of the UN Convention against Corruption to which Nigeria is a state party.”

“Given the strong influence of senators on their states, we also urge the Senate President to now build on his public statement to state assemblies by immediately taking steps to sponsor a resolution at the Senate on the matter.”

“The abolition of such laws is a necessary first step towards delivering on the constitutional promise of equal protection and equal benefit of the law for a distressingly large number of Nigerians.

Otherwise, public officials will remain seriously out of touch with a major source of poverty and discrimination in the country.”

It would be recalled that the

Federal High Court in Lagos in January ruled that SERAP “has sufficient interest to bring its suit to stop former governors and now serving senators and ministers from receiving double pay and life pensions, and to seek recovery of over N40bn of public funds unduly received by these public officers.” Justice Oluremi Oguntoyinbo stated this while granting leave in the suit number FHC/L/CS/1497/17 filed last year by SERAP to compel the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Mr. Abubakar Malami, SAN to “challenge the legality of states’ laws that allow former governors who are now senators and ministers to enjoy governors’ emoluments while drawing

normal salaries and allowances in their new political offices and to identify those involved and seek full recovery of public funds from them.”

It would also be recalled that following SERAP’s letter to Mr Malami, Senate President Dr Bukola Saraki last year told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Forum in Abuja that he wrote a letter to the state government to stop the payment of the pension “the moment I saw that SERAP allegation.” He said, “No, I’m not collecting pension; the moment I saw that allegation, I wrote to my state to stop my pension.” So far, Dr. Kayode Fayemi Minister of Mines and Steel Development and his counterparts in the Ministry of Labour and Employ-

ment, Senator Chris Ngige, and Minister of Power, Works and Housing Babatunde Fashola have denied ever receiving double payments and retirement benefits as former governors in addition to other roles in public office.

SERAP’s letter to Malami read in part: “According to our information, those who reportedly receive double emoluments and large severance benefits from their states include: Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso (Kano); Kabiru Gaya (Kano); Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom); Theodore Orji (Abia); Abdullahi Adamu (Nasarawa); Sam Egwu (Ebonyi); Shaaba Lafiagi (Kwara); Joshua Dariye (Plateau), and Jonah Jang (Plateau). Others include: Ahmed Sani Yarima (Zam-

fara); Danjuma Goje (Gombe); Bukar Abba Ibrahim (Yobe); Adamu Aliero (Kebbi); George Akume (Benue); and Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers).”

“Under the Lagos Pension Law a former governor will enjoy the following benefits for life: Two houses, one in Lagos and another in Abuja estimated to cost between N500m and N700m. Others are six brand new cars every three years; furniture allowance of 300 percent of annual salary every two years, and a close to N2.5m as pension (about N30m pension annually); free medicals including for his immediate families; 10 percent house maintenance; 30 percent car maintenance; 10 percent entertainment; 20 percent utility; and several domestic staff.”

L-R: Celebrant, Gen. Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (rtd); Prof. Pat Utomi, Founder/CEO, Centre for Values in Leadership (CVL) and Ms. Nonny Ugboma, Executive Secretary, MTN Foundation, at the 42nd CVL/ Leader Without Title, Leadership Tribute Colloquium in honour of Danjuma at 80, held in Lagos…on Wednesday.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

For the Record 19

Dangote inaugurates multi- billion naira rice plant in Jigawa to boost production Ladesope Ladelokun

ÏÏÏThe

Dangote Rice Outgrower Scheme in Jigawa State reached a turning point yesterday when the President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote laid a foundation stone for the construction of a multi-billion Naira rice processing mill in Hadin, Jigawa state.

The mill with capacity to process 16 metric tons of paddy rice per hour, when completed will in a year process paddy rice worth N14 billion bought directly from the famers in Jigawa at market rate.

Speaking at the ground breaking ceremony in Hadin, Kaugama local government area, Dangote said the commencement of the construction of the integrated rice processing plant was the culmination of series of events which began with the signing of a $1billion agreement with the federal government for the integrated rice production in Kebbi, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kano, Niger and Jigawa.

“We have continued to pioneer new approaches to empowering our primary stakeholders and our farmers, through the Dangote outgrowers programme thereby creating thousands of jobs, increasing incomes poverty reduction in rural communities by providing high quality agroinputs, technical support and secured market for farmers. Also, creating access to finance, mechanization and irrigation services so as to enhance agricultural productivity.”, he stated Recalling that the Dangote Rice limited started the outgrowers scheme in 2016 with thousands of hectares of land in Hadejia, Jigawa state, creating over 10,000 jobs (direct and indirect) to farmers, the business mogul said with the new ultra modern mill enough paddy rice will be grown and harvested for processing.

According to him, the mill , which will take only months to install and

commission , is the first in the series of five other mills coming up in Kano, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi and Niger States in the first phase, while in the second phase, other mills will be built in Nasarawa, Kogi, and other states.

Said he: When these planned six mills come fully on stream, we will achieve a capacity of seven hundred thousand metric tons per annum of Par boiled rice, which will make Dangote Rice the largest rice producer in Africa and will make a bold step in making Nigeria self-sufficient in Rice production, stop importation Nduka save the nation foreign exchange ” Dangote stated further that towards co-creating value for all stakeholders, the company has engaged about 20,000 out growers who are expected to produce an average of 180,000 tons of paddy rice on about 30,000 hectares of land. “We are focused on engaging in the region of 300,000 farmers in the next 12 months when our rice mills are all functional and we achieve steady state.

“We will continue to launch massive agricultural projects across the country in rice and dairy farming. Our push for backward integration in providing our own raw materials on a massive scale has led to the planned investment of $4.6 billion over the next three years in sugar, rice and dairy production alone. That will eliminate the country’s reliance on imported materials, and the foreign exchange headaches that comes with it.”

In his opening remarks, the Dangote Group Executive Director, Devakumar Edwin explained that the Dangote Rice team has been involved in scaling up the outgrower operations to a least 5,000 hectares this season and this will very soon increase and grow to over 15,000 hectares cultivated per cycle or season to fully optimise operations.

He said the establishment of a multi-billion naira state-of-the-art integrated rice processing facility to process at least 260 metric tons of rice paddy per day grown which is produced from thousands of local rice out growers within Jigawa state is a giant step forward and expresses his company’s confidence and faith in local farmers to continuously stand with Dangote to make this project a success.

Located on 25 hectares site in Hadin, Edwin noted that the mill is earmarked to begin operations in the last quarter of 2018.

“During the construction phase and when it becomes fully operational, hundreds of employment opportunities will be created, knowledge transference and skills developed among our teeming youthful population thereby boosting local economy.”

According to him, “the Jigawa famers are in for a good times as the 125, 000 metric tons of paddy rice that this plant requires for processing will be brought from the farmers of Jigawa for an estimated purchase price of N14 billion per annum.

“This is a huge benefit for the farmers in Jiga-

wa. This mill will be producing high quality parboiled rice that competes with the best in the world this is in-line with our continuous aim to touch the lives of millions who believe in the Dangote brand.

“Jigawa State is endowed and blessed with vast fertile land, water resources, climate and progressive people, as well as one of the fastest growing agricultural destinations in Nigeria, was identified as an ideal location for us to set up our first facility in Nigeria.

This obviously reinforces our commitment to supporting the efforts of the present administration in developing a robust agro-industry in Nigeria.

“We made commitment to Nigerians that we will produce 1 million metric ton of quality par boiled rice. Since then we have embarked on several initiatives towards achieving this objective with support and collaboration from state and Federal Government agencies, ministries and departments, non-governmental organisations, community based organisations, traditional and financial institutions, etc., we continue to pioneer new approaches to empower our primary stakeholders

Dangote and our farmers, through the Dangote out grower program thereby creating thousands of jobs, increasing incomes, poverty reduction in rural communities by providing high quality agroinputs, technical support and secured market for farmers.”

Jigawa State Governor Alhaji Abubakar Badaru expressed delight at the stage of the Dangote Rice project in the state saying it was in line with the vision of the Invest Jigawa, an organ set up to accelerate investments in the state.

He said Jigawa is one of the States reputed to be on top on ease of doing business in Nigeria saying the Dangote Rice presence in the state is a pointer to the fact. He added that the state is also in the forefront of the diversification efforts of the federal government from oil to non oil ventures especially agriculture.

He promised that the state will be willing to do whatever it will take to ensure the Dang9te rice operate smoothly to the satisfaction of all parties in the state

20 News

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

Independent newspapers demand release of Abuja Bureau chief Idu Jude Abuja

ÏÏÏThe

management of Independent Newspapers Ltd(INL) publishers of Daily Independent, Saturday Idependent and Sunday Independent, has demanded for the unconditional release of its Abuja Bureau chief Mr. Tony Ezimako, who was detained by the Department of State Services (DSS) Wednesday morn-

ing.

In a press statement signed by the Editor of the newspaper Mr. Don Okere, and made available to Daily Times Thursday afternoon, said the arrest of Mr. Ezimako is now in its second day. It said that the authorities of the Department of State Services (DSS) have detained Ezimakor, the Newspapers’ Abuja Bureau Chief,

who was invited and detained on Wednesday, February 28, in Abuja at about 10.30a.m. and has since been kept under detention.

Okere further said that Ezimako upon honouring the invitation of DSS on Wednesday, was shunted from one office to the other and was asked to wait for a particular officer who was said to have been

away from his office.

According to the statement, INDEPENDENT management had made frantic efforts through its lawyer, Mr. Douglas Ekhator, since Wednesday to see the detained Ezimakor but with little result.

“As at today, the INDEPENDENT management had received no news about Mr. Ezimakor, though the lawyer, Mr.

Ekhator, returned to the DSS office on Thursday morning.

One thing is certain, Mr. Ezimakor was not given his medication though the lawyer who took it to him late Wednesday.

“We hereby alert the world to this real and present danger that Mr. Ezimakor is a high blood pressure patient and apart from taking his

drugs, needs to see his doctors at very short notice.

The implication is very clear; any outfit holding him for days is endangering his life. We reiterate that Mr. Ezimakor’s wife had said that her husband left home on Wednesday without medication and did not eat any food before leaving home Wednesday morning.

Ignorance, major challenge to town planners – State Chairman Sunday Nwakanma, Umuahia

ÏÏÏ

Ignorance on the part of the public and leaders has been identified as one of the major challenges that face town planning activities in Nigeria.

Addressing newsmen as part of their 25th anniversary celebration in the state, the state chairman of Nigeria Institute of Town Planners, Abia State chapter Elder Nelson C. Nwaosu said “If the populace knows the essence of Town Planners, they demand that the right thing should be done”.

“There should be planning and a religious implementation of the plans. The public is generally ignorant of what town planning is all about”, he said regretting that people don’t demand planning from leaders, “while leaders don’t plan before physical planning which is guided by principles.

“The problem is lack of

knowledge by people and leaders as if planned, cities will be attractive and will attract inventors and employment will come, while the economy will improve”, he said.

Elder Nwaosu explained that the NITP started in the state as a study centre in 1992 with less than 10 members, while it became a full chapter in 1994.

“At the age of 25 years, I feel like telling the world that we are growing. It has not been easy, but we have started”, he said.

Also speaking, the pioneer chairman of Abia NITP, Chijioke Odumuko said NITP in the state is blazing the trail in the south east and needs support of the government to achieve a lot, while expressing their happiness that they have a town planning-friendly person as the governor of the state, stating “If he continues, he can push further the activities of town planners in the state.

NHCDA, partner agencies, call for awareness over measles vaccination programme in Abia Sunday Nwakanma, Umuahia

ÏÏÏAbia State Primary Health Care Development Agency, ASPHCDA, Thursday told Abians the need for mothers to avail themselves of the on-coming measles vaccination to immunize their children.

In a one-day sensitization workshop with newsmen in the state, the State Health Care Educator, Mrs. Margaret Onwu disclosed the obvious need for mothers to work assiduously to make Abia free from measles and as well called on all hands to be on deck for a successful campaign against the disease.

She disclosed that after state flag of the campaign

on the 6th of the month, the actual implementation begins on the 8th through the 20th of the month, stating that the campaign was developed to provide the security to children through vaccination, “otherwise, children end up being deformed, blind or dead”.

She said that the measles vaccination campaign targets children from the age of 9 months to 5 years, while mothers are supposed to take their children to established Temporary Fixed Health Posts that is more accessible to them.

She pleaded with the press in the state as part of their corporate social responsibility to enlighten the masses on the campaign.

R-L: Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State, the Chaplain, King of Glory Chapel, Government House, Yenagoa, Bishop Dotimi Egbegi, Guest Preacher, Rev. Precious I. Precious, Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters, Pastor Samuel John Peters, and the Deputy Chaplain, Rev. Godspower Asingba, in a discussion, shortly after the February Edition of the State Monthly Praise Night, at the King of Glory Chapel in Government House, Yenagoa

Delta Police arrest 17 kidnappers, human traffickers, pastor, others Nosa Akenzua, Asaba

ÏÏÏThe Delta State Police

Command on Thursday said that in the last few weeks, it has recorded huge successes in crime bursting, adding that seventeen kidnappers, a pastor (name withheld) including human traffickers and armed robbers have been arrested The state Police Commissioner Mr. Muhammad Mustafa who made this known at a media briefing in Asaba, told journalists that one kidnap suspects; Ndidi Okoro, 35 years, a native of Atani town in Agboro, Anambra State, and one Henry Oguagua, 26 years old of same Anambra State, were alleged involved in the theft of a twoyear-old baby in Igbodo town, Delta State.

The Police Boss explained that his men got wind of the act from Igbodo Vigilante that the two-

year-old baby was stolen and the suspects arrested, adding that the suspects during interrogation confessed to the crime, and led the police to Oyi town in Anambra State, where the stolen child was recovered in the premises of the second suspect, Henry Ogugua.

On human trafficking, the police boss said that the suspects, Ohwevwo Rosemary, 25 years, Saturday Kilo, 20, Mercy Lucky, 53 and Austin Udio, 24, were arrested on intelligence gathering after one of the suspects reportedly called their victim one Favour Minna who lives with the complainant, and asked her to buy some cigarettes for him.

He added that upon the return of the victim, the suspect asked her to bring the cigarettes to his mother’s room where he was lying down and as the victim entered into the room, the suspect pulled off his boxers, reached for a jar of

Vaseline which he applied on his penis, and started having carnal knowledge of the victim.

He said the suspect was caught in the act by a neighbour who reported to the vigilante men who arrested the suspect, and handed him over to the police.

While saying that a traditional ruler of Agbarho community was arrested as gun running cultists troubling the community.

The Police Boss disclosed that he was later transferred from Agbarho to the state Anti-Cultism Unit (SACU) for investigation, adding that suspects arrested alongside the traditional ruler (name withheld) confessed other members, and led detectives to Ozoro where one Uyabeme Lucky Martins 16 years old was arrested.

Meanwhile, one of the suspects, Ruvkerwe Choice Omoware has confessed that one Ariku Julius 38 and a member of

Agbarho vigilante, is the one who sells live cartridges to the cultists at N700, 000 each, adding that the said Julius had been arrested, and had also confessed to the crime.

On conspiracy, the Police Commissioner further disclosed that one Akarama Wilson Monday 51 years old, Anetorofa Nicholas and Doutimi Enawonyebo of Ayakoromo community were arrested, adding that two of the suspects escaped on sighting the police, adding that, they were given a hot chase during which one of them was shot while others escaped.

On searching the vehicle, three AK 47 rifles with breach Nos. 5011527, 58485, 56651, 193 rounds of 9.6mm live ammunition and two dynamites were recovered.

The injured suspect gave up the ghost at the hospital while the case was transferred to Area Commander’s Office Sapele for further investigation.

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Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

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THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. ULASI IFEOMA ISABELLA 2. YOUNG EKENECHUKWU ESTHER 3. EZUGWU EUZEBUS CHINONYE AIMS: 1. HELP TO IMPROVE THE WELFARE OF MEMBERS 2. HELP TO REDUCE DIABETES AND OTHER DISEASES 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.

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.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: (1) AUGUSTINE ONOH EGBO (2) OZOANI CYRIACUS AFAM (3) ONYIA AMOBI (4) UGWU OBIORA REMIGIUS (5) EZENWA CLIFFORDO (6) IGBO ADOLPHUS IGBOAMAZUO. AIMS & OBJECTIVES: (1) TO PROTECT THE WELFARE OF ITS MEMBERS (2) TO HELP MAINTAIN CORDIAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MEMBERS AND OUR CUSTOMERS. 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: TRUSTEES

OKOYEFI KINGSLEY ESQ SAPIENS ADVOCATIS 08061269003 SAPIENSADVOCATIS@GMAIL.COM 2ND FLOOR, ELEGANZA HOUSE, 15B JOSEPH STREET, LAGOS.

ADEBAYO

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ADEBAYO SURA OLUWASEYI , NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ADEBAYO SURURAT OLUWASEYI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENT REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

AHUNANYA

I FORMERLY KNOWN AS AHUNANYA NKECHI EVIDENCE NOW WISH TO B KNOWN AS AHUNANYA NKECHI PROMISE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID.GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

SUNDAY

FORMERLY BLESSING TELMA PAUL NOW SUNDAY BLESSING IMOH. FORMER DOCUMENT REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

OGUNJOBI

FORMERLY KNOWN AS OGUNJOBI OMOSHALEWA ABOSEDE AND AS OGUNJOBI OMOSHALEWA OLUWASEYIFUNMI TO OGUNJOBI OLUWASEYI ABOSEDE. FORMER DOCUMENT REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

MRS. FAVOUR

I FORMERLY KNOWN CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS MISS. CYNTHIA ELOHOR OKPORUANEFE. NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS MRS. FAVOUR ENOHOR OSEGHE. FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE

SWOEMIMO

I FORMERLY KNOWN AS ODULOWO OMOTAYO , NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS SOWEMIMO OMOTAYO, ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

MRS OYLUDE

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS. OKELUE CHIBUZOR CATHERINE, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS. OYELUDE CHIBUZOR CATHERINE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENT REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

DANKUWO

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS BAMIDELE OLAJUMOKE DORCAS, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS DANKUWO OLAJUMOKE DORCAS. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

OGUNBANJO

FORMER NAME AS FOLLOW: 1, OSIBANJO YEMI FUNMILAYO AND 2,OSIBANJO OLUWAYEMI FUNMILAYO. NOW OGUNBANJO OLAYEMI FUNMILAYO . FORMER DOCUMENT REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE .

BELLO

FORMELY KNOWN AS AREMU OLUWASEUN ABIDEMI NOW WISH TO KNOWN AS BELLO OLUWASEUN ABIDEMI HENCEFORTH. FORMER DOCUMENT REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

SIGNED: TRUSTEES

CORRECTION OF NAME AND DOB

CORRECTION OF NAME

MY NAME AND DATE OF BIRTH WAS WRONGLY WRITTEN AS FATAI ALADE LAWAL, 28TH NOVEMBER, 1940.MY CORRECT NAME AND DATE OF BIRTH IS AJUMOKO MUSENDIKU .24TH OCTOBER, 1947. ALL FORMER DOCUMENT REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

MY NAME WAS WRONGLY WRITTEN AS OLUWATOSIN AKINLOSOTU. MY CORRECT NAMES ARE AKINLOSOTU, OLUWATOSIN AYODELE. I NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AKINLOSOTU OLUWATOSIN AYODELE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENT REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

MATHEW

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS FRED, FRED SARFRED, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AS MATTHEW EDET UDOFIA. THAT BOTH NAME BELONG TO ONE AND SAME PERSON. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

ADDITION OF NAME THAT I WAS FORMERLY KNOWN AS OKUSANYA ADEMOLA THAT, I NOW WISH TO ADD ENOCH TO MY OTHER NAMES WHICH IS NOW OKUSANYA ADEMOLA ENOCH. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

CHINEDU

FORMERLY AGAR GREG MBUM NOW CHINEDU CHARLES CHUKWUEMEKA. FORMER DOCUMENT REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE

GODWIN I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS, ENYEAZU PRINCE EZIONYENYI, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS, GODWIN PRINCE EZIONYENYI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

HASSAN

FORMERLY LAWAL SUHAIB HASSAN NOW TO BE ADDRESSED AS HASSAN ADEWALE SHUAIB. FORMER DOCUMENT REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

JOSEPH

FORMALLY JOSEPH CHIGOZIE GEORGINA NOW JOSEPH CHIGOZIE MERCY. FORMER DOCUMENT REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

ONYEUKWU I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS UDOIKPONG LME MARY ,NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ONYEUKWU IME MARY. ALL FORMER DOCUMENT REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

MRS GIWA

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS, MISS. DICKSON IBORO AUGUSTINA, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS, MRS. GIWA IBORO AUGUSTINA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

UGOCHI

FORMERLY UGOCHI JANET IJEOMA NWAOGAZI NOW UGOCHI JANET IJEOMA. FORMER DOCUMENT REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

ADDITION OF NAME FORMERLY EGWEMI LUCKY NOW WANT TO ADD GODWIN TO MY NAME. I WANT TO BE REFERRED AND ADDRESSED AS EGWEMI GODWIN LUCKY HENCEFORTH. FORMER DOCUMENT REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

MRS ADEBULE

OWA

JABOY

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS ILUFOYE BILIKISU ADEJUMOKE NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN, CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS MRS ADEBULE BILIKISU ADEJUMOKE ALL DOCUMENTS AND CERTIFICATES BEARING MY FORMER NAMES REMAIN VALID. BANKS, NIGERIA IMMIGRATION SERVICE, RELEVANT AUTHORITIES AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

TAIWO

I, AYODELE SUNDAY MOSES, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AS OWA SUNDAY OLABANJI, ADDRESS- 10, FAGBEMI STREET OFF KILANKO, ILORIN KWARA STATE.ALL DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS UZOHO ALBERT IFEANYICHUKWU NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ABIRM NNAYEREUGO JABOY. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS TAIWO STEPHEN SOBANDE NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS TAIWO STEPHEN OBADE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

MRS OKPOLO

AKINOLA

I FORMERLY KNOWN AS MISS EMEREUWA OLUCHI , NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS OKPOLO OLUCHI , ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AS OGUNSIPE IYABO , NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AKINOLA MUINAT IYABODE , ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

AMABAGBOR

I FORMERLY KNOWN AS AMHABAGBOR MUSA MONDAY , NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AMABAGBOR CHRISTIAN IVHARUE , ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

SALAMI

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS KEHINDE SAKIRAT SHOGBESAN AND SHOGBESAN SAKIRAT .NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS SALAMI SAKIRAT OLASUNBO. ALL FORMER DOCUMENT REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

CORRECTION OF NAME THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT MY NAME WAS WRONGLY WRITTEN AS AYISAT AJOKE ISHOLA ,MY CORRECT NAMES ARE.RAHMOT RAHMON ORIYOMI. I NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS RAHMOT RAHMON ORIYOMI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENT REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

ERYKAH

FORMERLY ERYKAH. OGHOSA OBAZELU ..NOW ERYKAH. OGHOSA ARTHUR. FORMER DOCUMENT REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

ODEDEYI

FORMERLY BALOGUN OMOTOLA ESTHER NOW ODEDEYI OMOTOLA ESTHER. FORMER DOCUMENT REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

MARY

FORMERLY MARY UCHENNA UMEODINKA NOW TO BE ADDRESSED AS MARY UCHENNA UMEH. FORMER DOCUMENT REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

OSAREMWANTA

EDOS

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OSARENOTOR. MOSES IGUMA NOW WANT TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OSAREMWANTA. MOSES. OSAIGBOVO ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID .

GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS SUNDAY AIWONE NOW WANT TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS EDOS SUNDAY. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID .

GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

SOUTHERN EMPERT INITIATIVE

Companies Registration 23 IRON CHURCH OF GOD

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

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE 1. ABIODUN JIMOH -CORDINATOR 2. DANLADI EBBAH -SECRETARY 3. FUNSHO OGUNGBEMI -ANNONCER AIMS AND OBJECTIVES (1) ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT (2) POVERTY ERADICATION (3) RURAL TRANSFORMATION.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR BENSON AGADA - GENERAL OVERSEER 2. PASTOR BIBINBIE BENSON - SECRETARY 3. ELDER PAUL AGAON - TREASURE

ANY OBJECTION TO THE 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 FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED SECRETARY

ABDUL - JELIL AMOLOYE EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION 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 DR. SULAIMAN OLAYIWOLA RABIU 2 DR LATEEF AYINLA ADEDIRAN 3 ENGR. MUDASHIRU BUSARI 4 DR. AZIZAT OMOTOYOSI AMOLOYE - ADEBAYO 5 DR LUQMAN OLOWONJAYE ABDULGANIY 6 PROF ISHAQ OLANREWAJU OLOYEDE 7 PROF MUSBAU ADEWUMI AKANJI 8 PROF WAHAB OLASUPO EGBEWOLE 9 MALLAM YUSUF OLAOLU ALI SAN 10. ALH ALIU ALABI BADMUS AIMS: TO TO ASSIST THE LESS PRIVILEGED EDUCATIONALLY. 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

PUBLIC NOTICE

APPLICATION FOR THE REGISTRATION WITH THE NIGERIAN CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY AS AGENT OF FOREIGN AIRLINES THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT MESSRS HAYLEY AND LARSON LIMITED OF 26, AKANNI SHOWUNMI STREET OFF BEESAM BUS STOP ALONG AIRPORT ROAD, IKEJA, LAGOS STATE, WHICH INTENDS TO PROVIDE FLIGHT SUPPORT SERVICES TO AD-HOC OPERATORS, HAS APPLIED TO THE NIGERIAN CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY (NCAA) FOR REGISTRATION AS AN AGENT OF FOREIGN AIRLINES. ANY OBJECTION OR REPRESENTATION REGARDING THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE DIRECTOR GENERAL, NIGERIAN CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY, AVIATION HOUSE, P. M. B. 21038, IKEJA, LAGOS. SUCH OBJECTION OR REPRESENTATION, WHICH SHOULD CONTAIN THE REASON(S) FOR SO DOING, SHOULD BE MADE WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

AIMS & OBJECTIVES: 1 PROPAGATION AIM PROCLAMATION OF GOSPEL OF GOD 2. PREPARING SERIOUS MINDED BELIEVERS FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD 3. PLANTAIN OF NEW CHURCHES ALL OVER THE WORLD 4. TRAINING AND RETRAINING OF MINISTERS ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRARGENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, PMB 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

HOPE FOR THE AGED FOUNDATION

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. OJARA UKACHI OKPE 2.

REV. MRS. MARY AZUKAEGO IKECHUKWU 3.

BARRISTER OGBONNA KENETH OKWUOBASI 4.

PASTOR GRANT IZUCHUKWU CHUKWNEME 5.

MR. OKOROAFOR DANIEL 6.

NWAKANMA CHINEME 7.

ENGR. CHIMA STANLEY OKORO 8.

MRS. JOHN AMAMEFULA IJEOMA 9.

MRS. CAROL NWANYIKAEBEYA IHEANYICHUKWU 10.

AGNES AKUNDU OKOROAFOR AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1.

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

SIGNED: PASTOR BENSON AGADA - GENERAL OVERSEER

ALL NIGERIA FOUNDATTON THE ABOVE NAMED ORGANIZATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION AND REGULARIZATION OF THE APPOINTMENT OF TWO NEW TRUSTEES UNDER PART OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, 2004 OLD TRUSTEES ARE: 1. ALHAJI MUHAMMADU DIKKO YUSUFU GCON - DECEASED 2. CHIEF AKINTOLA WILLIAMS CFR, CBE -RESIGNED 3. ALHAJI YAHAYA GUSAU - DECEASED NEW TRUSTEES ARE: 1. CHIEF EBENEZER ADEYEMI FABIYI - APPOINTED 2. DR ABIODUN ISHOLA LAYONU,SAN -APPOINTED ANY OBDECTION TO THE ABOVE APPOINTMENT SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, MAITAMA, ABUIA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: TRUSTEES

ACHIEVERS FINEST CLUB

SIGNED: PRESIDENT

THE HEAVENLY SOLDIERS PRAYER MINISTRY THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ”C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT,1990.

TRUSTEES ARE: 1. UMEH CHIKWADO EMMANUEL 2. UMEH CHIOMA JESSICA 3. EZENWA BLESSING EGWU 4. OSAEKE ABIGAIL GIFT 5. AKAOLISA IFEANYI CALISTUS AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. UNLOCKING THE GATE OF HEAVEN AND LOCKING THE GATE OF HELL THROUGH PREACHING OF GOD’S WORD AND FERVENT PRAYERS. 2. PREACH, PROPAGATE AND EXPAND THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST IN NIGERIA AND THE WORLD AT LARGE 3. TO EMBARK ON EVANGELICAL MISSIONS THROUGHOUT THE WORLD AND WIN SOULS FOR OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. 4. TO DEMONSTRATE LOVE AND ENCOURAGE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP AND CO-OPERATION AMONG BELIEVERS, CHURCHES AND ORGANIZATION. 5. PROVIDING HELP TO THE LESS PRIVILEGE IN THE SOCIETY ANY OBJECTION TO THE 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 FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

YOUNG SHALL GROW AND FRIENDS SOCIAL CLUB

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 1990.

TRUSTEES ARE : 1. AGBOLUAJE MONSURU ADEKOLA 2. OLUSEYE OPATOKI NATHANIEL 3. AKINLEYE AYOTUNDE BENJAMIN

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. OLANREWAJU, YUNUSA 2. OLAONIPEKUN, AZEEZ. 3. DURODOLA, ISMAILA YEKINI, SURAJU 4. ADEKOLA, ADEBAYO

AIM. TO FOSTER UNITY AMONG MEMBERS. 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.

AIMS: TO FOSTER UNITY AMONG MEMBERS. 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: MANAGEMENT

SIGNED: TRUSTEES

SIGNED: TRUSTEES

SOVEREIGNTY OF GOD’S GRACE MINISTRY INTERNATIONAL

THE VERDANT BROTHERS INTERNATIONAL CLUB

IMO PROGRESSIVE LAWYERS’ ASSOCIATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. EVANG . HADIZA KUBURAT EMMANUEL 2. PROFESSOR CAROLINE EMOSIOKE UMEBESE 3. DR . KEN UWAIFO THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:1: TO SPREAD THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST TO THE WORLD THROUGH MISSION IN NIGERIA AND THE DIASPORA BY CONDUCTING MEETINGS, CRUSADES AND EVANGELISM. 2: TO RAISE PEOPLE WHOSE FIRST PRIORITY IS TO MAKE HEAVEN. 3: TO RAISE SOLDIERS FOR CHRIST WHO CAN PRAY FERVENTLY USING THE SCRIPTURES WITHOUT CEASE. ACT 1:14 4: TO HELP PEOPLE IDENTIFY VARIOUS WAYS OF COMMUNICATING WITH GOD AND HEAR FROM HIM DIRECTLY. PSALM 4:3 5: TO IMPACT THE KNOWLEDGE ON HOW TO BECOME MEN AND WOMEN OF DIGNITY AND PRODUCTIVITY. PRO 31:25 ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRARGENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA DISTRICT, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CLUB HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:(1) MR. JOHN ATTIKPO - PRESIDENT, (2) MR. OWOLABI RAFIU -VICE PRESIDENT, (3) MR. OYINLOLA OLUWASHOLA TAIWO - SECRETARY, (4) MR. GBENGA AGBOJA - TREASURER, (5) MR. CHARLES AKAKPO - PRO, THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:(1) TO FOSTER FRIENDSHIP AND BROTHERLY LOVE AMONG MEMBERS BY ESCHEWING BITTERNESS IN ALL ITS RAMIFICATION AND ATTITUDES THAT SMACK OF INFRIGUE, CHEATING AND ALL MANNER OF ACRIMONY AMONG MEMBERS. (2) TO DEVELOP A SENSE OF BELONGING AND FOSTER UNITY AND BE OUR BROTHER’S KEEPERS. (3) TO RAISE FUND AND ASSIST MORALLY AND FINANCIALLY MEMBERS IN CASE OF DIFFICULTIES 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 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. MAZI OKECHUKWU C. UNEGBU 2. CHIEF CHIBUZO NDUWUEZE ZIGGY AZIKE 3. CHUKWUMA EZEALA 4. CHIEF OSUALA EMMANUEL NWAGBARA 5. VICTORIA IHUOMA OHAERI 6. CHIEF ROBERT OKECHUKWU OKOROJI 7. CHARLES NWABUEZE NNEJI. 8. CHRISTOPHER EHUMADU OKEKE. 9. CHUKWUEMEKA CHINYELUGO OKWUOSA. THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES INCLUDE:EMPLOYING THE INSTRUMENTALITY OF THE LAW TO PROMOTE JUSTICE PEACE AND PROGRESS IN IMO STATE. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRARGENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA DISTRICT, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION.

SIGNED BY: SECRETARY

SIGNED BY: SECRETARY

THE SPECIAL BREEDS DEVELOPMENT INTIATIVE

CHRIST SHINNING STAR ENVANGELICAL CHURCH

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 1990.

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 1990.

TRUSTEES 1.SIR BOLA ABIMBOLA-CHAIRMAN 2.OBATOLA JONATHAN-SECRETARY 3.ADAJE SUNDAY 4.OLUGBENGA YEMISI AIM AND OBJECTIVE

TRUSTEE, 1.EBIKOFARI ABIODUN SAMUEL, 2.ABIODUN ADEOLA ELIZABETH, 3.MIKPUMA SAMUEL 4.AMEH JOHN

TO ENHANCE LEADERSHIP AMONG YOUTH TO ENCOURAGE CULTURE OF PATROTISM AND SOCIAL SERVICES AMONG YOUTH 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 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

AIM AND OBJECTIVE TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF 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 DISTRICT, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

ADDRESS: 49, MCC/URATTA ROAD, OWERRI, IMO STATE, NIGERIA.

SIGNED BY: SECRETARY

SHIELD OF FAITH NATIONS OUTREACH 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 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. OYEKUNLE MICHAEL ABIMBOL (PRESIDENT) 2. OYEKUNLE OLAOTI IYABO (VICE PRESIDENT) 3. AFOLAYAN EBENEZER AKINWU (2ND VICE ) 4. ILELABOYE BUKOLA PELUMI (SECRETARY) 5. AKARI SAIDAT TOPE (TREASURER) 6. OYETUNJI ADEBAMBO ADEWOL (MEMBER) 7. SEGUN, ADEOYE (MEMBER) THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE IS: PREACHING THE WORD OF GOD, GOSPEL MISSION. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION(CAC)PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET,MAITAMA,ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED BY: TRUSTEES

24 Change of names ADEBAYO

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ADEBAYO MORENIKE IDIAT NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ADEBAYO ADERONKE IDIAT . ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

MRS ABRAHAM

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS UDOFIA NSE ASUAMA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS ABRAHAM NSE ANIEFIOK. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

MRS CHIMA

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS. ABIJI CECILIA AGAGBE NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS. CHIMA CECILIA AGAGBE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC AND AUTHORITY CONCERNED TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

BADARU

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS BADARU REMILEKUN NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS BADARU REMILEKUN ABOSEDE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

NNOROM

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS CHUKWUEMEKA VALENTINE MADUKA, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS NNOROM CHIKAODILI ALVAN. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

OKAFOR

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS NNABUO OKECHUKWU EMMANUEL, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OKAFOR JOSEPH OKWUCHUKWU. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. BANKS AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

OGBODO

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OGBODO CHUKWUMA .P., NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OGBODO CHUKWUMA PETRUS. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

MRS ADEOGUN

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OKUBOYEJO OLAYEMI KUBURAT NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS ADEOGUN OLAYEMI KUBURAT .

ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

AROMIRE-SAMUEL I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS SAMUEL OLUSEGUN EBENEZER NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AROMIRE-SAMUEL OLUSEGUN EBENEZER. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

SANNI

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AKPATI IRENE ONYEKA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS SANNI IRENE ONYEKA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

AZEEZ

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS LASISI SURAJUDEEN NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AZEEZ SIRAJUDEEN AKANFE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

MKPUMA

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MKPUMA HYICENT LOTANNA, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MKPUMA EMMANUEL LOTANNA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

AKPAN

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AKPAN UTOLO, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AKPAN ITOLO BENSON. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. BANKS AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

MRS JANE

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS JANE UGOCHI TABUGBO, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS JANE UGOCHI TOBIAS TABUGBO. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

LOSS OF DOCUMENT

LOSS OF DOCUMENT

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC OF LOSS OF LAND DOCUMENTS. ORIGINAL IRREVOCABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY REG. AS NO 33/33/264 AND CERTIFICATE OF REVALIDATION REG AS 100/100/1474 AT ENUGU LAND REGISTRY BELONGING TO MR. WALTER ANEKE, IN RESPECT OF PLOT 45/5 TRANS EKULU ENUGU. ALL EFFORT OF TRACE THE SAID DOCUMENT HAS PROVED ABORTIVE. IF FOUND PLEASE CONTACT THE MINISTRY OF LANDS AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC OF LOSS OF LAND DOCUMENT OF PLOT A1 – A2 NGUEGO RIVER L/ OUT ENUGU, REG. AS NO 90/90/1483 AT ENUGU LAND REGISTRY BELONGING TO MR. UYANNA RAYMOND, RESIDING AT NO 33 NEW ANGLICAN ODENIGBO NSUKKA. ALL EFFORT OF TRACE THE SAID DOCUMENT HAS PROVED ABORTIVE. IF FOUND PLEASE CONTACT THE MINISTRY OF LANDS AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT.

IBEH

HEADMAN

I, FORMERLY KNOWN, CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS OGODO FRANCISCA EUNICE NNEKA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN, CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS IBEH FRANCISCA EUNICE NNEKA. ALL OTHER DOCUMENTS BEARING MY FORMER NAMES REMAIN VALID. SECONDARY EDUCATION BOARD, EBONYI STATE & THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

AKINOLA I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS SHAKIRU AKINOLA GBOLAHAN NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AKINOLA SHAKIRU GBOLAHAN. AND MY CORRECT DATE OF BIRTH IS 01/01/ 1964. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

BLESSING

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS CHIOMA NWAOHA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS BLESSING CHIZOBA NWAOHA . I WAS BORN ON 25/05/1986. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

MOGO

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MOGO VICTOR NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MOGO CHUKWUEBUKA VICTOR . I WAS BORN ON 09/03/1991. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

CONSCIENCE I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS CONSCIENCE OYAMENDA EDOHE NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS CONSCIENCE OYAMENDA IYILEH. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

MRS UGWU

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS EDEH RITA ANURIKA, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS UGWU RITA ANURIKA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

MBAH I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS FRIDAY MBAH EKPO NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MBAH FRIDAY ONYEBUCHI .

MY CORRECT DATE OF BIRTH IS 01/12/1973 ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. BANKS AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

MRS NNAMCHI

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS NNAMANI MERCY CHEKWUBE, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS NNAMCHI MERCY CHEKWUBE.ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

ITIRI

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS IROABUCHI DANIEL, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ITIRI HENRIETA IROABUCHI. MY CORRECT DATE OF BIRTH IS 14TH SEPTEMBER, 1990. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. BANKS AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

CLARA

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS CLARA NKEIRUKA EZENDUKA, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS CLARA NKEIRUKA DIKE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. BANKS AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

ENGBE

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS HEADMAN KEMESEITONKUMOH NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS HEADMAN JOHNSON KEMESEITONKUMOH. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAINS VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS LAMGAKK JIDIMMA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ENGBE JOSEPH LAMGAKKAH AND MY CONTACT ADDRESS IS 20 MOMODU AJANA STREET AGODO ALARA ODOGUNYAN IKORODU LAGOS STATE.ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAINS VALID,GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

MEJEDI

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS LASEBIKAN MUBO BEATRICE NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MEJEDI MUBO BEATRICE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE

THIS IS TO CONFIRM AND CERTIFY THAT MY NAME WAS WRONGLY WRITTEN ON MY BVN NUMBER AS OWUSU PAUL WRONGLY WRITTEN ON MY UBA ACC AS PAUL OWUSU SURU INSTEAD OWUSU PAUL FINAYUN. AND MY CORRECT DATE OF BIRTH 5TH MAY 1969. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE

MRS MARY

MRS TRIUMPH

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS MARY TAIWO DOSUMU, NOW WISH TO BE CALLED AND ADDRESS AS MRS MARY TAIWO ALABI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID AUTHORITY CONCERN AND GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS TRIUMPH OGHENETEKOME ONAIBRE. NOW WISH TO BE CALLED AND ADDRESS AS MRS TRIUMPH OGHENETEKOME OBOLI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID AUTHORITY CONCERN AND GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

ADEYEMI

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OGUNDEJI OLALEKAN JULIUS NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ADEYEMI OLALEKAN JULIUS . ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

OFUASIA

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OFUASILA UGOCHUKWU GODSWILL NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OFUASIA UGOCHUKWU NGOZI . ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

OLANREWAJU

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS SOLARIN ELIZABETH OLUTOBI NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OLANREWAJU OLUTOBI ELIZABETH. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

CHINAKA

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS NDIOKWERE SOMTOCHI NATHAN, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS CHINAKALINUS SOMTOCHI NATHAN . ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

MRS NWAKEZE

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS AMADI OBIAGELI HELEN NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS NWAKEZE OBIAGELI HELEN . ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

MRS ELEJERE

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS EZE MISS IKEKWERE JENEVE OGECHUKWU, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS ELEJERE JENEVE OGECHUKWU. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. BANKS AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

EZE

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS EZE MADU NICHODEMUS, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS EZE MMADUABUCHI NICHODEMUS. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. BANKS AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

AROWOIYA

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AROWOIYA TEMITAYO OYEWOLE NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AROWOIYA TEMITAYO SAMUEL. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

EKANEM

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MFON BASSEY EKANEM NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS EKANEM TERRY AND THE CORRECT DATE OF BIRTH IS 31ST OF DECEMBER 1991 NOT 31ST OF DECEMBER 1982 . .ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

SAMUEL

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS CHIAZOR CHUKWUEMEKA SAMUEL NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS SAMUEL CHUKWUEMEKA OLAWALE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

MRS EZEUDU

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS ANAKWUBA CHIOMA DORIS NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS EZEUDU CHIOMA DORIS. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. BANKS AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

UGURU

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS NWEKE ONYEBUCHI UGURU, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS UGURU ONYEBUCHI NWEKE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. BANKS AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

MRS CHINYERE

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS IHUNEGBO CHINYERE FLORENCE, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS CHINYERE FLORENCE ISIFE.ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE

EKEKWE

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OBODOKWE JUSTINA NNEKA, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS EKEKWE JUSTINA NNEKA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

THIS ADVERT IS FOR SALE

IBRAHIM

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS IBRAHIM HAMEED NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS IBRAHIM ABDULHAMEED HAMEED .

ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. ECO BANK AND GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

ALONGE I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MAKANJUOLA SEUN NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ALONGE OLUWASEUN MAKANJUOLA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

IPEREPOLU

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MORGAN KING SOLOMON NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS IPEREPOLU KSM OLUTUNU. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

EZENDUKA

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS EZENDUKA CHIDIMMA FRANCES AMANDA NNEKA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS EZENDUKA-EZIKE CHIDIMMA FRANCES AMANDA NNEKA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

MRS IYEGHE

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS OKUGO CHIKAODI FEDELIA, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS IYEGHE CHIKAODI FEDELIA . ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. BANKS AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

CORRECTION OF NAME I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS ANEKE JULIET UJUNWA, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS ADENYI JULIET UJUNWA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

MRS UGWU I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS EGWU CHARITY CHINENYE, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS UGWU CHARITY CHINENYE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

CORRECTION OF NAME

AFFIDAVIT OF FACTS

THIS IS TO CONFIRM THAT RAKIAYATU-SAID JIBRIL AND JUBRIL RUKAYAT REFER TO ONE AND SAME PERSON. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

THAT MY NAME PATRICIA NGOZI ATAMATA WAS WRONGLY WRITTEN AS PATRICIAL NGOZI ATAMATA IN MY BVN WITH THE FIRST BANK. ALL OTHER DOCUMENTS BEARING THE FORMER WRONGLY SPELT NAME REMAIN VALID. BANKS & THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

THAT I, MR. CHIZOBA AGBO, CHAIRMAN EZIOKWUBUNDU COMMITTEE OF FRIENDS, AND MEMBERS ARE IN THE PROCESS OF REGISTERING THE CLUB WITH CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (C A C) IN NIGERIA WITH PURPOSE OF HELPING ONE ANOTHER AND ALSO HELPING THE LESS PRIVILEGED. GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED.

ANYA

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED ANYA DORIS OLEDI NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ANYA DORI EBERECHI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID . GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE

KAREEM

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS KAREEM AKEEM KAYODE NOW WICH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS KAREEM AKEEM TEMITOPE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE

THOMPSON I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ADEYEYE OKUNADE ENIOLORUNOPA NOW WICH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS THOMPSON OKUNADE ENIOLORUNOPA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

Nigerians getting poorer –IMF Myke Uzendu, Abuja

ÏÏÏThe

International Monetary Fund (IMF) has disclosed that Nigerians are getting poorer and that “coherent and comprehensive” economic reforms are urgently needed to get the economy out of the woods.

Reuters, quoting the IMF on Thursday said that the gross domestic product (GDP) report released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on Tuesday showed that the economy recorded a growth of 0.83 percent in 2017.

Hence the Bretton Wood

GOD’S MASTERPIECE INTERNATIONAL WORSHIP CENTRE

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, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. DAVID AKPAN MICHAEL 2. CHRISTIANA DAVID MICHAEL 3. REV. DR. ALEXANDER OMUBO ATAMAH-PEPPLE

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. TO DEMONSTRATE AND PROPAGATE THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST. 2. TO BRING MANY INTO PERSONAL AND INTIMATE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD. 3. TO PROMOTE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP 4. TO ORGANIZE SEMINARS, WORKSHOPS, CONFERENCE TRAINING CENTRE, SCHOOLS TO PROMOTE THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THE 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

institution expects federal government to “muddle through” in the medium term, noting that and any progress made could also threatened if next year’s elections consume political energy and resources.

According to them, “Comprehensive and coherent economic policies remain urgent and must not be delayed by approaching elections and recovering oil prices,” IMF said in its annual Article IV review of Nigeria’s economy.

“Higher oil prices would support a recovery in 2018 but a ‘muddle-through’ outlook is projected for the medium term under current policies, with fiscal dominance and structural constraints leading to continuing falls in real GDP per capita.

“Further delays in policy action — including be-

MRS. AROMIRE MODUPE TOYIN

ADEKANMBI TAIWO AFUSAT Formerly known and addressed as OLORUNSEYE TAIWO AFUSAT, now wish to be known and addressed as ADEKANMBI TAIWO AFUSAT. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as EVBUOMWAN OSAS MAUREEN now wish to be known and addressed as EDEME-NWACHUKWU OSAS MAUREEN. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

NAVEY PERE JESSICA I, formerly known and addressed as PERE JESSICA OKPONYA now wish to be known and addressed as NAVEY PERE JESSICA. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

FALE ADERONKE OLABISI I, formerly known and addressed as ADELEKE ADERONKE OLABISI now wish to be known and addressed as FALE ADERONKE OLABISI. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as AYINDE RASAKI ATANDA now wish to be known and addressed as AYINDE RASAQ OLAWALE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

UZOCHUKWU IKECHUKWU JUDE

MRS ODUSAMI OLUWAKEMI ELIZABETH I, formerly known and addressed as MRS ONILEDE OLUWAKEMI ELIZABETH now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ODUSAMI OLUWAKEMI ELIZABETH. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

ADEBAYO OLUWAKEMI YETUNDE

Formerly known and addressed as ADEBAYO BUKOLA, now wish to be known and addressed as ADEBAYO OLUWAKEMI YETUNDE. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

EDEME-NWACHUKWU OSAS MAUREEN

MRS OLAGUNJU MORIAMO YEWANDE I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ALABI MORIAMO YEWANDE now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OLAGUNJU MORIAMO YEWANDE. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME that Akobor Alice Okwor Mary and Okwor Alice Mary refers to one and same person. All documents and should be honoured.

General public take note CONFIRMATION OF NAME Nabaham Abraham is the same person as Rose Nabaham these names remain valid and should be treated as one public take note.

AYINDE RASAQ OLAWALE

I, formerly known and addressed as AMADI JUDE IKECHUKWU, AMADO JUDE and SUNDAY UZOCHUKWU JUDE now wish to be known and addressed as UZOCHUKWU IKECHUKWU JUDE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

ALAO MUFTAU I formerly known and addressed as ALAO MUFUTAO MURFY now wish to be known called and addressed as ALAO MUFTAU. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note MRS. AMINAT ADEPEJU AMUSA-ADEBAYO I, formerly known and addressed as MISS. AMINAT ADEPEJU AMUSA, now to be known and addressed as MRS. AMINAT ADEPEJU AMUSA-ADEBAYO. All former documents remain valid, Authority concerned and General Public should take note.

cause of pre-election pressures — can only make the inevitable adjustment more difficult and costlier.”

The lender reteirated that Nigeria needs to simplify its complex foreign exchange system.

“Moving towards a unified exchange rate should be pursued as soon as possible. (IMF) staff does not support the exchange measures that have given rise to the exchange restrictions and multiple currency practices.”

It also said that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) should stop its intervention activities in the foreign exchange market.

Recall that part of CBN’s interventions has been to inject money into the forex market to ease the pressure on the naira.

CHIJIOKE ABIOLA ESTHER

News 25

SMEDAN launches Conditional Grant Scheme for Micro enterprises Mathew Dadiya, Abuja

ÏÏÏIn view of the critical

importance of the micro enterprises sub-sector in Nigerian, the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (SMEDAN) has flagged off the Conditional Grant Scheme (CGS) for Micro enterprises in the country.

A statement by the agency on Thursday, said the Director General of the SMEDAN, Dr Dikko Umar radda announced the commencement of the scheme on Monday at the Senator Bassey Albert’s Constituency Hall in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

He described the scheme as part of SMEDAN’s determination to address the challenges confronting the MSMEs in the country.

Dr Radda said that the current scheme aimed to

USEN CLARA OKEDURUM

promote the the activities of micro enterprises across the federation in the area of capacity building and the delivery of post-intervention support services such as access to finance, market, workspace, technology amongst others.

He said, the pilot phase of the project was being conducted in six states: Katsina (34 LGAs), Gombe (11 LGAs), EBONYI (13 LGAs), Oyo (33 LGAs), Akwa Ibom (31 LGAs) and Benue with 23 LGAs making a total of 145 LGAs. According to the SMEDAN boss, the justification for a special entrepreneurship and vocational development intervention for the entrepreneurs at the bottom of the pyramid cannot be overemphasized based on the need to graduate informal enterprises to the formal sectors.

OKAFOR CHIDIEBERE FELIX

Formerly known and addressed as MISS. AKINNIRANYE MODUPE TOYIN, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. AROMIRE MODUPE TOYIN. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as ONANUGA ESTHER, now wish to be known and addressed as CHIJIOKE ABIOLA ESTHER. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as MGBACHI CLARA OKEDURUM, now wish to be known and addressed as USEN CLARA OKEDURUM. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as OKAFOR CHIDIEBERE, now wish to be known and addressed as OKAFOR CHIDIEBERE FELIX. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

OSUYA IFEANYI EVANS I, formerly known and addressed as SMART IFEANYI EVANS now wish to be known and addressed as OSUYA IFEANYI EVANS. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

AKINDIPO ADENIKE OWOWUNMI NAOMI OMOLARA Formerly known and addressed as Daramola Adenike Owowunmi Naomi Omolara, now wish to be known and addressed as Akindipo Adenike Owowunmi Naomi Omolara. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note

ADEREMI TOMIWA ASHABI Formerly known and addressed as MUTIAT YUSUF ASHABI, now wish to be known and addressed as ADEREMI TOMIWA ASHABI. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

OVWIGHO HENRY OVIE Formerly known and addressed as OVIE PRINCE, now wish to be known and addressed as OVWIGHO HENRY OVIE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

OLUMIDE OLUSHINA TOSIN

YUSUF SALIU BELLO

SALIU HANNATA IBIWUNMI

I, formerly known and addressed as OLUMIDE OLUSHINA GBENGA now wish to be known and addressed as OLUMIDE OLUSHINA TOSIN. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as SALIM BELLO now wish to be known and addressed as YUSUF SALIU BELLO. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as SALIU OLAWUNMI now wish to be known and addressed as SALIU HANNATA IBIWUNMI. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

DOUGLAS CHIBUEZE-OMA

MRS IFEOMA JANE KAMANYA

I, formerly known and addressed as DOUGLAS CHIBUEZE ONWE now wish to be known and addressed as DOUGLAS CHIBUEZE-OMA. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed variously as MISS JANE IFEOMA UZENDU and or MRS JANE IFEOMA OPARA now wish to be known and addressed as MRS IFEOMA JANE KAMANYA. All former documents remain valid. MRS OIL NIG and the

OKORO HUGH CHIAGOZIE

MRS. ODERINLO MUTIAT OLABISI

I formerly known and addressed as HUGH C. OKORO now wish to be known called and addressed as OKORO HUGH CHIAGOZIE. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OLASUNKANMI MUTIAT OLABISI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ODERINLO MUTIAT OLABISI. All former documents remain valid.

ENENMOR CHRISTOPHER EMMANUEL I formerly known as ENENMOR CHRISTOPHER now wish to add EMMANUEL to my name. That I now wish to be known called and addressed as ENENMOR CHRISTOPHER EMMANUEL. All former documents remain valid. General public take note BOLANLE AFOLAKE BOLARINWA

I, formerly known and address ed as FUNMILAYO FOLASHADE AWOSEDO, now wish to be known and addressed as BOLANLE AFOLAKE BOLARINWA. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

AIMUFIA RICHARD AYEMENRE I, formerly known and addressed as AIMUFIA JUNIOR IKHIMI now wish to be known and addressed as AIMUFIA RICHARD AYEMENRE. That my date of birth is 10/05/1959 All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

OLUWATOSIN OLADUNNI DAHUNSI I, formerly known and addressed as OLUWATOSIN OLADUNNI REIS now wish to be known and addressed as OLUWATOSIN OLADUNNI DAHUNSI. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

OKETOKUN OLAITAN OMOBOUNIKE I, formerly known and addressed as ADEGBENRO OLAITAN OMOBOUNIKE, Now wish to be known and addressed as OKETOKUN OLAITAN OMOBOUNIKE. All former documents remain valid. General public/authorities concerned should take note.

ELOBUIKE IFENYINWA BERNADETTE

OMOKPO OLUWAKEMI WURAOLA

MRS ODEYEMI ANUOLUWAPO JANET

I, formerly known and addressed as ELOBUIKE IFY BENEDITH now wish to be known and addressed as ELOBUIKE IFENYINWA BERNADETTE. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

I was formerly known and addressed as ADELEYE OLUWAKEMI WURAOLA .now wish to be known and addressed as OMOKPO OLUWAKEMI WURAOLA . All formal documents remain valid

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS. OYEWOLE ANUOLUWAPO JANET now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ODEYEMI ANUOLUWAPO JANET. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

take note .

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

26News

Police parade 31 suspected criminals in Bayelsa Chris Eze, Yenagoa

ÏÏÏ

The Bayelsa State Police Command on Thursday paraded 31 suspected criminals arrested for committing various offences ranging from cultism, kidnapping, armed robbery, etc.

Parading the suspects during his maiden press briefing since assumption of duty in the state, the State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Don N. Awunah said, the strategic and operational support of the Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim K Idris and Governor of Bayelsa state, Hon. Seriake Dickson helped the command to achieve the feat.

The Commissioner said the “Operation Safer Bayelsa,” set up to mobilize and refocus personnel and resources for optimum performance as well as confront frontal crimes like armed robbery, kidnapping,

sex related offenses and communal strife is a booster to the campaign by the command to rid the state of crime and criminality.

“Operation Safer Bayelsa’ has recorded huge gains in terms of arrest of criminal elements, recovery of fire arms from violent criminals in Yenagoa.

“Comparatively on the national crime index, Bayelsa state ranks amongst the lowest in crime rate “The apparent low crime rate must not be taken for granted. It must be sustained, reinvigorated and improved upon.

“A cursory analysis of crime pattern in the state indicates evidently that, most prevalent crimes are driven by cultism.

“Membership of the secret cult criminal gangs appears to have permeated the ranks of some misguided youths in the state” Awunah said.

Lalong swears in 23 Commissioners, 3 permanent secretaries

By Kingsley Chukwuka, Jos

ÏÏÏ

Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong on Thursday swore in 23 new commissioners and 3 permanent secretaries.

Speaking at the event which took place at the Government House in Jos, Lalong said “It is my esteemed honour to address you on the occasion of the Swearing-in of Members of the reconstituted State Executive Council, and that of the newly appointed Permanent Secretaries in the Civil Service of our State.

“This occasion brings to an end the speculations and anxieties that have dominated public discourse since I announced the dissolution of Cabinet on the 8th of February, 2018.

“You will recall that in my public engagements since the dissolution, I have repeatedly informed citizens of the State

as to the fact that the dissolution is not an indictment nor is it in any way a punitive measure to show my displeasure with the Cabinet.

“The dissolution was therefore to government a period for the re-ordering of priorities and the strategic rethinking of the governance direction of the Rescue Administration.

“The dissolution you will agree with me also allowed an opportunity for the reaffirmation of confidence in the ability of those who made the new team from the past EXCO, to know that much is still expected of them, for which they must think outside the box, given the essence of time when placed against the expectation of our people.”

Our correspondent reports that among the 23 commissioners, four were returned from the previously dissolved once.

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Serve with humility, respect, Okowa charges political appointees

Ï ƈ ƕƆ Ɛ ƊƆ Ɛ ƅ ƌƌƈ ƈ ƆƏ Nosa Akenzua, Asaba

ÏÏÏ

Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has urged Commissioners and other political office holders to at all times, serve the people with humility and strict adherence to relevant oaths they took.

The Governor spoke during the swearing-in ceremony of Hon. Emmanuel Chinye as Commissioner stated that political offices, whether elective or appointive are for the rendering of services to the people.

“As Commissioners, political office holders,

you should see yourself as servant to all, you should serve the people in humility and respect,” the Governor said.

He continued, “there is no doubt that we have done well as government in ensuring a peaceful state, providing infrastructure despite the challenges, creating jobs and wealth for our people through our skill acquisition programmes, we have impacted on our people.”

“It is the duty of political office holders and our leaders to stand strong and defend the government, we will remain focused, as Deltans, we should enrol in

the contributory health insurance scheme because, there is no alternative to it if we must provide quality and affordable healthcare for our people, because, a healthy people is a stronger people,” he said.

Governor Okowa congratulated Hon. Chinye for his successful swearing-in as member of the State Executive Council and urged him to work closely with his colleagues and the political class for the desired results to be achieved.

“Try to commit your time to doing the job as much as possible and even as you work in your office, relate with your

leadership back home in unity because, a lot can be achieved when you are united,” the Governor advised.

Hon. Chinye in his response, thanked Governor Okowa for giving him the opportunity to serve Deltans, assuring, “I will put in my best to support your administration and do what is necessary to move Delta State forward.”

Former Deputy Governor, Chief Benjamin Elue, top government functionaries and politicians attended the ceremony which took place in Asaba.

JED to boost electricity supply with information technology

By Kingsley Chukwuka, Jos

ÏÏÏ

The Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JED), is to leverage on the ever growing information technology to best boost electricity supply to its franchise states of Plateau, Bauchi, Gombe and Benue States.

Speaking at a one-day workshop, an expatriate and consultancy company known as ‘Triple Seventh’ posited that electricity utility are realizing the benefits of technology in the management of facilities

for engineering, construction operations, maintenance and services purpose.

Triple Seventh, on the one-day workshop on Thursday in Jos the Plateau State capital, to train JED staff on exploring information technology, especially on data analysis to better enhance their performance, also said the problem of planning in distribution system can be solved by using new methods and specific techniques.

“Complexity of electrical distribution system and

necessity of accurate up-todate information of the network assets is a reasonable intention for introducing new method of information technology”, it said.

Addressing participants at the workshop, the Managing Director, Triple Seventh Nigeria limited, Engineer Aliyu Yakubu, said the seminar is geared towards improving the understanding and networking of electricity power distribution towards effective power spreads aimed at boosting JED capabilities in keeping track of the electrical facilities, such as

poles, circuits, power lines and transformers.

The project using Plateau as a pilot State is also aimed at having transparency and knowledge of physical assets that will help JED in operations.

Earlier, the Head, Planning and Network Expansion of JED Plc, Mr. Mansir Nakande, said information technology is no doubt the way to go as it will help the company not only to boost electricity supply, but also to provide more Jobs opportunities to the teeming youths of the respective franchise states, he said.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

Ahmed advocates financial autonomy for the judiciary Kehinde Akinpelu Ilorin

ÏÏÏKwara State Gover-

nor, Dr Abdulfatah Ahmed has thrown his weight behind financial autonomy for judicial and legislative arms of government.

The governor who emphasized that financial independence of those arms of government becomes necessary, explained that “We cannot hope to achieve the separation of powers as well as checks and balances envisaged by our constitution if different arms of government are financially reliant on another”.

Speaking at the National Executive Council meeting of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), held at the Kwara State Banquet Hall, Ilorin, the governor noted that the current national economy has hindered the desired autonomy rather than accelerating it.

According to the Governor, “As desirable as this autonomy is, it is more likely to succeed when our econ-

Gov. Hamed

omy becomes more stable, and our revenues improve.

Governor Ahmed who also agitated for institutional reforms in the country, said “while some of the constitutional amendments are necessary in view of the changing dynamics of our country, I believe that Nigeria is more in need of institutional reforms than anything else.

“What Nigeria needs are strong institutions to implement our laws, improve management of public resources, create prosperity for the good of the majority and secure the confidence of all citizens regardless of who is leading the country.”

National President of the Nigeria Bar Association, Abubakar Balarabe Mahmud (SAN) had in his remarks praised the Kwara State Government on its giant stride in developing the state over the years and appealed for more investment on judicial infrastructure and improvement of Judges’ welfare.

Mahmud expressed worries over the spate of insecurity witnessed in Taraba, Benue, Zamfara and several other states that had led to the loss of lives and property.

The NBA President therefore, appealed to the Federal Government to do all within its powers to address the multiplicity of security challenges facing the country.

27 News

‘Why we returned to PDP, ExGov. Chimaroke’s kinsmen’ Charles Onyekwere, Abakaliki

ÏÏÏ

The Over 1,000 members of the All Progressives Congress(APC),in Agbani, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State have rejoined the People’s Democratic Party, (PDP).

The defectors said their decision was informed by the sterling performances in office by Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of the State.

Agbani is the home of the former governor Chimaroke Nnamani, who

has also at some time been reported to have returned to the PDP. Receiving the defectors at the event which took place at Agbani Town Hall, the Chairman of Nkanu West Local Government, Hon Henry Okenwa charged them to work with existing members to ensure that the party converted all the members that had joined APC or any other party.

Okenwa said that “the PDP has a big umbrella that can cover everybody”, stressing that “Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has shown that

the PDP umbrella is too big for the privileged few as was witnessed in the past which made some of you to defect to APC.” In his remarks, the chairman of PDP, Agbani ward, Comrade Osita John Nneji said that there was no magic in the mass entrance of members into the PDP rather than, “we went around to our people and preached to them on the importance of being in PDP and they accepted.

“They might also have seen the benefit of joining the PDP, having tested the APC bitter leaf.“From our record, we have about

Anambra Commissioner of Police, Garba Baba Umar, flanked by DCP, Operations, Mike Okoli, DCP, CID, Bassey Essien (on mufti) and DCP Admin, Owolabi, addressing newsmen on the recovery of firearms and setting up of task force for mop up operations in Awka….on Thursday.

1,200 people who have registered afresh and all of them are from APC.” Nneji said that the Peoples for Democratic Change (PDC), the party founded by their brother and former governor, Nnamani was no longer existing in the area as it has collapsed its structure into the PDP. Some of the defectors told DailyTimes that they were encouraged by the widespread development projects Governor Ugwuanyi had initiated in their local government, especially the reconstruction of Agbani road.

In an interview, the Traditional Prime Minister of Ogbeke Agbani Autonomous Community, Comrade Sunday Edeagu, who also returned to the PDP, explained that he left the PDP in anger, adding, “but now, I have realized that there is no other party in Nigeria today that is better than PDP.” “Although, APC is controlling the centre, from the look of things, the party is not performing; they are just making noise. “There is no security, no employment as they promised. They have failed Nigerians who believed that once they took over power, the country will start witnessing new lease of life,” he said.

Save Nigerian youth from suicide, assent to Peace Corps Bill, Ikugbese tells Buhari ‘Tosin Ajuwon, Akure

ÏÏÏ

President Muhammadu Buhari has been urged to rescind his decision and assent to the Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN) Bill aimed at providing employments for the teeming youths in the country.

Thomas Wilson Ikubese, the presidential aspirant of National Conscience Party (NCP) made the plea while addressing journalists in Akure, on Thursday.

Mr. Ikugbese said signing the bill would have given credence to the government of President Buhari who had promised to engage youths in his administration.

He highlighted the need for the President to assent to the Peace Corps of Nigeria bill in order to prevent more unemployed youths from committing suicide.

President Muhammadu Buhari had on Tuesday declined to assent to the Nigeria Peace

Corps (Establishment) Bill passed in 2017 by the National Assembly.

Yakubu Dogora, Speaker of the House of Representatives read the letter from the President who cited security concerns and financial implication as parts of the reasons for declining to sign the bill.

On Wednesday evening, report had gone viral that the refusal of President Buhari to sign the bill forced a member of Peace Corps of Nigeria, Timothy Gambo to commit suicide in Gombe state.

Speaking further, Ikugbese observed that the refusal of President Buhari to sign the bill would affect over one hundred and fifty youths who had hoped that the Peace Corps of Nigeria would provide them a means of livelyhood.

“I urge President Muhammadu Buhari to save more souls from committing suicide by reconsidering his earlier stance and grant assent to the PCN bill, to the glory of his ad-

ministration.

“If however, President Buhari fails to so do presently, I urge members of the National Assembly to recall the bill to Parliament, muster two-thirds of the membership of the House of Representatives and Senate and pass it into law in spite of Mr. President’s veto”.

He noted that the APC led government of President Buhari was already sitting on the keg of gunpowder by refusing to sign the Nigeria Peace Corps bill. Mr. Ikugbese said that Nigeria with the population of one hundred and eighty-six million people and a police population of about 370, 000 need effective policing.

“Of the 370, 000 a staggering 80% of this number are assigned to private citizens, politicians, businessmen and private enterprises while leaving only 20% for the core police duties of peace and security.

“It is a known fact that today, in not a few cases, as much as 30 police officers are attached

to a single individual.

“In simple terms, of the 370, 000 Police officers in Nigeria, 296,000 are assigned as ‘private’ guards while only 74,000 are left to the core duties of policing a nation of 186 million people.

“The United Nations recommendation for Police: Citizen ratio is 1:400, meaning that every 400 people should be policed by an officer.

“However, with the current Nigerian situation of 74,000 police officers to a population of 186 million people, we run on a ratio of 1: 2,514.

“This means that instead of a Police officer to a population of 400 people, we have one police officer to 2,514 citizens, leaving us SIX TIMES under policed”.

According to him, there are people in the security agencies and in the presidency frustrating efforts of President Buhari to append his signature on the bill.

He said that the Peace Corps

Buhari

of Nigeria (PCN) was not in a competition with the other security agencies in the nation nor planning to serve as a rival organisation.

He explained that the Presidency should not be scared of monthly remuneration that the Peace Corps of Nigeria will gulp from the scarce resources of the nation.

The NCP Presidential aspirant noted that the fund to run the corps does not need to

come from the federal government as those who requires its service could pay.

“Persons who require the services of these officers will pay specified sums to a designated account from which their salaries will be drawn monthly, thus taking the financial burden off govt.

“The funding for this unit shall also come from citizens who break the law and are fined thereby.

News 28

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

NDDC Tenure elongation: A fraud against the rule of law –APC Chieftain Akam James, Yenagoa

ÏÏÏA

The cross section of participants at the 2018 Enugu State Budget break down held at the State Secretariat Enugu....on Thursday

Nigeria much stable than media portrayal –German military delegate Joy Anyim

ÏÏÏConcerned

by the recent challenges in the country, especially in the area of insurgency, pipeline vandalism, and kidnapping, the German Armed Forces General Staff College on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 81 Division of the Nigerian Army in Victoria Island, Lagos.

During the visit, the leader of the 12-man delegation from the German Armed Forces General Staff College Col. Thorsten Schutz disclosed that media portrayal of the country was one dominated by both economic struggles and crisis especially in the North Eastern part of Nigeria.

He However noted that his visit and what he had seen on ground proves that Nigeria is much more stable. He also applauded the collective effort of the various security agencies in dealing with the many security challenges.

In his remark, Schutz described Nigeria as a good example of stability for Africa. He said,

“ Nigeria is a good example of stability even with the many problem and crisis they have to deal with. It is in respect of these challenges that we visited to know how they cope with it and how they gain stability in all the region and ultimately in West Africa. “ We used to see Nigeria as a developing country that is aiming for more economic growth and one struggling to get stability. Our news of the country was a little bit dominated with the struggles in the North East, but we know this is not representing the

whole Nigeria.”

The leader of the German military delegation noted that it is in this light that Germany is trying to support to ensure stability like they have done in Afghanistan and other countries.

“But this is a factor we are also interested in and we can learn from that because Germany has a very good period of time without those struggles so we are trying to support,” he said.

On the motive for the visit, Schutz said, “we are here to see how the Nigerian Military are coping with the fight

against insurgency, vandalism, piracy amongst others. It is also quite impressive to see the different agencies and how they try to work together in combined effort to counter the challenges.”

Receiving the delegation, the GOC, Major -General Enobong Udoh, appreciated the visit to the division, while urging them to make more of such visits to the country.

The guests were given a brief summary of all the activities of the Division in combatting crime in the recent past and plaques were presented to them by the GOC.

national officer of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Yekini Nabena, has petitioned President Muhammadu Buhari, to redress the injustice and illegality regarding the subsistence of the current Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

The visibly angry officer, in an open letter addressed to the president dated February 26, 2018, said the tenure of the Board formally ended last December and its continued stay was like allowing illegitimacy to run riot.

Nabena said the tenures of the NDDC managing director/chief executive, Nsima Udo Ekere, and chairman of the commission’s Board, Senator Victor NdomaEgba, expired since last year, judging by the terms of their appointment and the law establishing NDDC, which explicitly stated that they were to complete their respective state’s tenure. While Ndoma-Egba was appointed to serve out the tenure of fellow Cross River State indigene, Senator Bassey Ewa-Henshaw, Ekere was chosen to complete the tenure of fellow Akwa Ibom citizen, Mr Bassey Dan-Abia, he said.

Ewa-Henshaw and Dan-Abia were inaugurated in 2013 for a fouryear term that ought to have ended last December.

The National Ex-Offi-

cio Member of APC from Bayelsa State, said Ndoma-Egba and Ekere’s continued stay in office was fraudulent and a demonstration of contempt for the law.

He alleged that Bayelsa State, to which the board chairmanship post ought to have reverted, and other NDDC states were being short-changed under the current situation.

He also lambasted the managing director and the chairman for allegedly applying manipulative schemes to try to change the rules to give themselves more time in office.

“The resort to sit-tight, crude propaganda and manipulation does not only display an arrogant contempt for the law guiding the Commission, but it also offends basic decency and public morality,” he stated, stressing, “In fact, it amounts to administrative fraud. Any further day the board exists is tantamount to allowing willful iniquity and illegality to run riot.

Moreover, the fact that they have been paying themselves all manner of allowances even after the expiration of their legal tenure is criminal.”

He urged Buhari to quickly redress the anomalous situation by disbanding the NDDC Board and reconstituting it based on fairness in order to restore sanity to the commission’s leadership and save the image of his government and its campaign to bring about change.

Edo Lawmaker Empowers Constituents, Doles Out KEKE NAPEP Titus Akhigbe

ÏÏÏNo

fewer than 25 persons on Wednesday benefited from the poverty alleviation program, courtesy, member representing Ikpoba Okha /Egor federal constituency, Edo State, Hon. Ehiozuwa Agbonnayinma Speaking at the All Progressives Congress state secretariat, venue of the event, the fed-

eral lawmaker said the empowerment gesture, few months after he gave out ten vehicles was geared towards collaborating with Governor Godwin Obaseki’s commitment to reduce poverty to the barest minimum.

He said the empowerment was in fulfillment of his electoral promise to reach out to humanity adding that beneficiaries are Edo

indigents, irrespective of party affiliations Ehiozuwa who recently dumped People’s Democratic Party for APC also commanded Governor Obaseki developmental strides since assumption of office and urged the people to be patient with the Governor “ Governor Obaseki is working, look at the roads, infrastructure, economy policies. But

Edo people must make sacrifice.

Governor Obaseki is using the state resources to empower the people. Other Governors should emulate him” On his part, state secretary, APC, Mr Lawrence Okah described the Lawmaker as a good ambassador, adding that the party has no option but to reciprocate the gesture at the appropriate time “ APC is not a

party that is greedy, we know what to do at the appropriate time” Also, a former Majority leader, Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Matthew Iduoreyekemwen, who also laud the Lawmaker gesture said the tricycles should be seen as seeds that must be nurtured to yield greater output to further reduce poverty in the state.

News 29

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

LASPOTECH embarks on large scale cassava farming Esther Taiwo

ÏÏÏ

Lagos State Polytechnic had embarked on large scale farming of cassava in preparation for cassava flour and industrial starch production.

Rector of the Polytechnic, Mr. Samuel Sogunro stated this while addressing journalists at the 26th pre-convocation press conference to herald activities lined up for the ceremony.

According to him, the Polytechnic which commenced its programme with 257 students

Ambode

and five Departments in 1978 is set to graduate 6,355 students on Thursday, March 8 across all schools.

Out of the number of graduating students, 211 earned Distinction, 1,368 in Upper Credit, 3,505 in Lower Credit while 1,271 obtained Pass classification.

He also revealed that a Memorandum of Understanding has been signed with Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company (IKEDC) for the establishment of a mini Power Substation on Ikorodu campus to tackle the problem of power outage.

The Rector also stated that the State government has commenced necessary steps towards the fulfilment of the promises made for High capacity auditorium, Administrative Building, Completion of the abandoned ultramodern sports complex and Drone projects which he made at the 25th convocation.

Sogunro highlighted other activities for the 26th convocation to include convocation lecture to be delivered by former Governor of Edo State, Comrade Adams Oshiomole on Tuesday, March 6, 2018.

The title of the lecture: “Crises of Governance, Governance of Crises: The Role of Education in Nibbling Crises in Nigeria”.

Adamawa COE matriculates its first set of degree students

By Tom Garba, Yola

ÏÏÏ

Adamawa state college of Education, Hong, on Wednesday Matriculated 449 students to pursue degree courses into four different faculties.

The College is now an affiliate of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria, matriculated its first set of students into the department of Agricultural Science, Biology, Social Studies and CRS. The Vice Chancellor of ABU represented by the Registrar, Mallam A. A Kundila while matriculating the students direct them to take an oath and said: “I solemnly undertake and swear to observe and respect the provisions of Ahmadu Bello University Laws and statutes, ordinances and regulations, lawfully made there under which are now in force and which shall from time to time be brought into force.’’

Governor Jubrila Bindow who was represented by the commissioner of Higher Education Alhaji ,Abba Jimeta, said the government of Adamawa state will give the institution all the support they need to succeed. ‘’I’m not unaware of some of your predicaments and re-

quest to the government. The government will all the time give all the support this program deserves and this college in general.” he said.

Furthermore, he said that the Government under the leadership of Bindow despite economy meltdown has been sensitive to the cry of the people of the state and they have for as long as this regime lasted involved in sectorial developments. Education being the nucleus and pivot of all developments has to be given special attention through increased budgetary allocation.

Abba While appreciating the vice chancellor, management and the entire ABU family for accepting to parent the institution to undertake undergraduate program in this noble college, he enjoined parents and students to reciprocate the efforts made by the governing council of the college by stydying hard to earn good results.

The Provost of the college, Dr. Johnson Pongri who is pivotal in making the college a degree awarding institution, opined that before the year runs out more courses will be accredited as the school environment is conducive enough with teaching facilities, new lectures theaters are built and qualify lecturers are employed.

L-R, Hon. Paul Oniyemofe, Ondo State Deputy Commandant of the Nigeria Peace Corps (NPC), Dr. Thomas Wilson Ikugbese, Presidential Aspirant of the National Conscience Party (NCP), Ondo State Coordinator of the Yes We Fit Revolutionary Movement, Dr. Oguntuase Folusho Joshua and the Ondo Central Coordinator of the Yes We Fit Revolutionary Movement, Hon. Ayodele Fagbemi addressing journalists in Akure on Thursday....Photo

by TOSIN AJUWON

Boko Haram: Red Cross supports 4,301 families with emergency cash relief in Adamawa

By Tom Garba, Yola

ÏÏÏ

Nigerian Red Cross Society on Wednesday said it had supported about 4,301 families with emergency cash relief in three local government areas in Adamawa State affected by insurgency.

Mr. Muhammed Bello, the Adamawa branch Executive Secretary of the organisation disclosed this at the opening of fiveday training for volunteers on Participatory Approach for Safety Shelter Awareness held in Yola.

Bello explained that the cash relief assistance was meant to bring succor and improve the living conditions of the insurgency af-

fected communities.

“The Nigerian Red Cross Society has supported 4,301 households with the unconditional, free cash grant of N105,

Gov. Bindow

000 each,’’ Bello said.

Similarly, he said the organisation has built and handover 30 new standard houses to some selected affected communities in the state. He said that the benefiting communities were from Hong, Song and Gombi Local Government Areas. The scribe said that the development was part of the organisation’s efforts to compliment government humanitarian services. In addition, Bello said that the organisation had renovated and equipped seven primary health care clinics in the three affected areas.

According to him, the main objective of the training was to build the capacity of the volunteers to professionally deliver

the needed support by the Nigerian complex crisis.

Bello said that the participants, twenty-five in number were selected from the three affected areas and state branch office.

In his remarks, Mr. Bashir Hamidu, Permanent Secretary, State Ministry of Housing expressed government’s appreciation to the organisation for supporting some affected communities with shelters Hamidu described the shelter intervention as “wonderful humanitarian assistance,’’ adding that the state government was ever ready to partner with the organisation in promoting the living conditions of the residents.

Govt set to implement white paper on Ogbe – Ijaw/Aladja crisis - Okowa Nosa Akenzua, Asaba

ÏÏÏ

Delta State government will implement in full, the white paper on Ogbe-Ijaw/ Aladja crisis, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has said.

In a brief chat with Journalists after the bi-monthly security council meeting held in Warri on Wednesday, the Governor stated that achieving peace in all parts of Delta State was important for the required development to take

place.

It would be recalled that after a protracted land dispute between Ogbe-Ijaw, Warri South-West local government area and Aladja in Udu local government area of Delta State, Governor Okowa inaugurated an 8-man panel of inquiry to look at the issue and proffer lasting solutions to the issue in May, 2016.

“Today, we met with the people of Aladja and Ogbe-Ijaw communities, we conveyed the decision of the state gov-

ernment to them following the release of the white paper and they agreed to work with us to achieve lasting peace as we will implement the decisions taken to the benefits of all,” he said.

Governor Okowa who expressed delight that all stakeholders have resolved to toe the line of peace disclosed that the security council also looked at issues affecting the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN).

On the benefits of the security council meeting, the Governor said, “We hold security council meetings every two weeks to discuss security issues, today, our state is very peaceful because, we nip security challenges in the bud.”

Deputy Governor of Delta State, Kjngsley Utuaro, Secretary to Delta State government, Ovie Agas, Commandant of the various security agencies, including the Police attended the meeting.

Udi insists on victory against MFM FC on Wednesday

S

unshine Stars manager, Duke a Udi has said his side are condemned to win the top-flight make-up clash against Mountain of Fire Miracles Ministries (MFM) FC. The Owena Waves are hosts of the Olukoya Boys in Wednesday’s rescheduled Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) matchday 9 clash at the Akure Township Stadium.

Page 30

Udi said the side’s precarious position on the log makes it binding on them not to drop any point irrespective of the pedigree of the opponents.

“Understandably, the mood in Sunshine Stars is not the best following the purported deduction of three points from our accrued points by the League Management Company.

“Nobody is happy to see a side on the fourth spot two weeks back at the bottom of the league table.

“It’s still tolerable that the issue came up a bit earlier in the season at least we have chance to overcome the setback.

“However, what’s uppermost in our mind right now is to win our outstanding matches.

“Victories in those matches

will greatly help our fortune on the league log as well act as a motivation. “MFM FC took the whole six points from us in the immediate past league season. “The side are still a threat more so now they have gained more experience and maturity as continental team.

“The fact that the side have progressed to the next stage of the Caf Champions League against all odds

is another motivation.

“MFM FC are yet to pick a point on the road so far in the on-going season and Akure looks almost like a home to them.

“The Lagos side are good team guided by young and fantastic coach, Fidelis llechukwu. “The heart of the team is in the midfield so we have our work cut out to ensure we deny them the luxury.

Friday, March 2 2018

Jay-Jay declared king of the game

Winter Olympic: Nigerian athletes arrive

T

By Alli Mutiat

N

igerian football legend, Austin Jay-Jay Okocha, was officially crowned “king of the game” at the launch of BetKing, a premium sports betting platform, in Lagos last week.

Regarded the greatest player of his generation and one of Africa’s best ever, the former Super Eagles captain and European league veteran was the star of the show as the much-anticipated BetKing platform made its entry into the Nigerian sports betting market.

“I’ve trained my whole life to be a winner and if I know two things it’s that to be the best takes passion and persistence. Similarly, BetKing’s philosophy really speaks to me in that it believes that everyone, whatever their position, has a chance to become King of their own destiny,” said Jay-Jay who himself has come a long way since he began playing football on the streets of Enugu with a makeshift ball.

BetKing has used their team’s combined experience of over 80 years in the Industry to develop and customize a state-of-the-art platform, offering world class Odds and Bonuses, almost instant payouts, and attractive agent commissions. “We are committed to changing the face of the sports betting industry in Nigeria and will be continuously customizing and developing new products with attractive innovative features, whilst maintaining our philosophy of putting our agents and online customers first,” said BetKing CEO Byron Petzer.

In celebrating their customers as Kings, BetKing’s plans also include special promotions and “royal spotlights” on winners and top performing agents. ““BetKing will also focus on contributing to Nigerian society. By creating over 4000 jobs in 12 months through its agency network across the country, BetKing will be offering all Nigerians the opportunities to become kingmakers!” added BetKing co-founder Adekunle Adeniji.”

In addition as part of their CSR, BetKing will be supporting 10 businesses with cash amount valued at N10Million naira to further help owners of small and medium scales ventures.

BetKing is currently Licensed in Lagos and Anambra, Oyo and Osun states and will be commence a national expansion expand across Nigeria in coming months.

Present at the grand opening includes, Steve Babaeko, Comedian Ajebo, Indigenous rapper, Reminisce amongst others.

“We must work very hard to stop them from expressing themselves in all the departments.

“We will accord them due respect on the field of play but we will not be afraid or scared of them.

“MFM FC status makes them the big side while we take the tag of underdogs.

“So you will be right to liken the clash ‘David and Goliath’ we are determined to fight till the end of the clash.

L-R: Official of BetKing, Jay Jay Okocha (middle) and CEO, BetKing, Mr. Byron Petzer at the event last week

he Nigerian team to Pyeonchang, South Korea Winter Olympic tagged ‘Bobsled Queens’ yesterday arrived Murtala Muhammed International airport, Lagos.

The Nigerian team which was led by Bobsled Driver, Seun Adigun comprising Ngozi Onwumere, Akuoma Omeoga and Simi Adeagbo.

They were treated to a hero’s welcome at the airport at a reception organised by the Temple Management Company (TMC), the marketimg agency of the Bobsled & Skeleton Federation of Nigeria (BSFN).

Among diginatries that came to receive them were TMC talents including Bisola Aiyeola, Tee-Y Mix and Jeff Akoh.

Some of the athletes on arrival at the Murtala Muhammed International airport Lagos

Minister rallies support for Golf tournaments in Nigeria

T

he Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has called on the private sector and philanthropists to support the game of golf in order to raise the prize money and attract internationally-acclaimed golfers to play in Nigerian tournaments.

The Minister, who made the call at the opening of the 2018 West African Golf Tour at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja, on Thursday, observed that the current prize money of $50,000 for both

Lagos and Abuja tours will not attract top class professional golfers to Nigeria.

He said countries stand to benefit greatly from sporting activities, hence the need for the government and the private sector to tap into the enormous opportunities that golf presents, and to support the West Africa Golf Tour in developing the game.

Alhaji Mohammed stressed the need to leverage on golf and other sporting activities to promote tourism and showcase Nigeria to the rest of the world.

“The West Africa Golf Tour speaks for

the commitment that I hold, as the Minister of Information and Culture, for the promotion of Nigeria’s rich tourism potentials. It showcases Nigeria to the world - our golf courses, natural surroundings and cities as well as our culture, thereby putting Nigeria, West Africa and Africa in the limelight and helping to advance the efforts to improve our image and economy,” he said.

The Minister encouraged the golfers to go beyond the competition and consider the tournament as another platform to further strengthen the bond of unity that ex-

ists among the people of the West African sub-region and the continent in general.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Nigeria, I would like to welcome you all to our great country. Certainly, each of you will pit your skills and talents against your opponents. But I encourage you to go beyond competition to also showcase talent and to come closer to each other. This initiative is a clear example of how sports also contribute to integrating people within Nigeria, West Africa and across the continent,” he said.

31

Friday, March 2, 2018

EXTRATIME

Cedric Bakambu

Beijing Guoan confirm Bakambu signing

C

edric Bakambu’s protracted transfer from Spanish side Villarreal to Beijing Guoan was finally confirmed by the Chinese Super League (CSL) club on Thursday, just one day before the start of the new season.

Bakambu has been training with the club since they paid his 40 million euro ($48.75 million) release clause but Beijing did not announce the Congolese forward’s signing amid confusion over whether they had to pay a 100 percent levy on the transfer.

Regulations put in place last year added the tax on transfers for foreign players at fees higher than 45 million yuan ($7.09 million) but several clubs have attempted to find ways of circumventing the rules.

Loan periods and release clauses were viewed as possible loopholes until the Chinese Football Association moved to close them in mid-January, threatening clubs who sought to exploit any ambiguities with a 10-point penalty.

“It was not an easy decision for me to make,” the 26-year-old Bakambu said of his move to the Chinese Super League in a statement released by the club.

“Now, I’m finally here with my team and I will try my best to help them. After two months of spending time with the team, I want to thank everyone for helping me settle in. Now it is my turn to help the team.”

Beijing also announced the signing of Spanish winger Jonathan Viera from Las Palmas, with coach Roger Schmidt setting his sights on qualifying his side for next year’s Asian Champions League.

“Any pressure on us comes from within,” said the German, who was appointed last year.

“On the one hand, our fans have high expectations of us, on the other, so does the club. We won’t give up or be too relaxed.

“We have to speed up the integration of the new players as soon as possible to become a leading team and try to claim an Asian Champions League slot.

“A long journey starts with the first step and now we have to focus on our games one by one.”

The Chinese Super League season kicks off on Friday with champions Guangzhou Evergrande taking on Guangzhou R&F. Beijing, who finished ninth last season, start their campaign on Sunday when they travel to face Shandong Luneng.

Arsenal defenders can only look on as the City midfielder curls home

Man City humiliates Arsenal with 3-0

T

o put this into perspective, Arsenal are now five points nearer to West Bromwich Albion than they are to Manchester City: and on Thursday night, at times, it looked like it.

City took them apart in the space of 18 minutes. Scored three goals and then toyed with them for the remainder, conserving energy for the fixture with Chelsea on Sunday. They were so clinical, so stylish in the way they finished Arsenal off, it is hard to believe it was not part of a wider plan.

They knew they had the beating of them, and once that lead was established, they knew they could keep them at arm’s length, too. Arsenal had their moments, even missed a penalty, but Manchester City were just so much more effective. They do everything that Arsenal do, just five times better. In their dreams, Arsenal play like Manchester City – but that is all they can

do for now. Dream.

For Pep Guardiola and his players, the title draws closer. They are 16 points clear now, and the title will be won before the middle of April at this rate, even if Manchester United win all their games.

There is a permutation that the title could actually be won against Manchester United on April 7. What an occasion that would be. More uplifting than this, certainly, with blasts of snow chilling a half empty stadium, barely populated by Arsenal fans putting the irate in Emirates.

It is hard to imagine too many halves of football so utterly humbling for Arsene Wenger and Arsenal. A deserted stadium, one imagines mainly due to the weather, but equally evidence of the growing unrest, a rampant opposition, and three goals against in 33 minutes.

So abject was Arsenal’s resistance to

Manchester City that the third goal of the night was greeted by a united chorus of boos from the home crowd, so widespread it almost drowned out the celebrations from the Manchester City corner. Almost.

That is what should worry the Arsenal executives - the City fans could get here.

There were no spaces in the away end, no-one who had looked at the forecast and thought: not tonight. And if they could get here from Manchester, what about the locals? The will, the devotion has been sucked from them. They looked at the weather and wondered if they really needed to go out in the snow? For this lot; for Arsenal? This wouldn’t have happened to Wenger teams of decades past. Their fans wouldn’t have deserted them whatever the weather. The cold was an excuse. Last night’s gate was a cry for help.

The irony being that Arsenal started

relatively brightly. They probably had more about them in the opening 15 minutes than they did for 90 at Wembley, whatever game Wenger thought he was watching. In the opening seven minutes, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had two half chances when Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson was called into action.

On the first occasion he sprinted to the edge of his area and headed clear, on the next he threw himself at the striker’s feet.

Soon after Henrik Mkhitaryan played in Aaron Ramsey, whose cross ricocheted off Vincent Kompany in the middle, hastily snapped up by Ederson again, with Aubameyang hovering. This was more like it.

The sparse crowd seemed encouraged. Good hustling by Danny Welbeck and Ramsey saw the ball fed to Ozil, who passed it on to Mkhitaryan, but his shot was saved.

Blatter opts for World Cup without VAR

B

anned former FIFA president Sepp Blatter said on Thursday that the World Cup should not be used as an occasion to experiment with video replay technology.

Blatter’s comment on Twitter followed a series of confusing incidents involving the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system which is being trialled in Italy’s Serie A, the English FA Cup, Germany’s Bundesliga, the Portuguese league and other competitions around the world.

The sport’s law-making body IFAB is due to decide on Saturday whether to approve VAR on a permanent basis and FIFA has already said it intends to use the system at the World Cup in Russia in June and July.

“A personal appeal to IFAB the Guardians of the Laws of the Game: Fifa WC cannot be used as experiment

for such a fundamental change: VAR,” said Blatter.

The latest confusion involving VAR was at Wednesday’s English FA Cup match between Tottenham Hotspur and Rochdale, where the London side had an early goal disallowed and a penalty later awarded by the VAR. Afterwards, Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino said VAR risked killing emotion in the sport, echoing a sentiment which has already been expressed by some Serie A coaches.

It was not clear if Blatter was appealing for IFAB to reject VAR outright or give it more time.

Blatter quit after 17 years as FIFA president in June 2015 after the global soccer body was engulfed in a corruption scandal. The 81-year-old was later banned from the sport for six years for ethics violations.

Sepp Blatter

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2017 GDP: Metal Ore tops highest performing sector Adesola Afolabi The Nigerian Bureau o f Statistics (NBS) on Tuesday, released the GDP numbers for year 2017.

The FY-17 growth came in at a positive 0.83 per cent amid stronger agriculture sector output, rebound in oil output and FX stability.

But, a sectoral analysis re-

leased by United Capital (UCAP) on Thursday reveal that the Metal Ores sub-sector recorded the highest growth in 2017.

The sub-sector grew by 21.4 per cent in FY-17 and has remained the fastest growing since Q1-16, quarter on quarter (q/q) growth average of 20.0 per cent over the last 8-quarters.

Electricity, Gas, Steam & Air Conditioning Supplies came

next, posting a growth of 16 per cent in FY-17.

The sub-sector’s q/q growth averaged 14.5 per cent in 2017.

Road Transport sub-sector made a surprising entry, with a 4.8 per cent growth in 2017, after jumping 19.7 per cent in Q417 while Crude Oil & Natural Gas expectedly jumped out as one of the fastest growing sectors with a 4.5 per cent growth

in FY-17 and 8. per cent per cent in Q4-17.

Three worst performing sectors in 2017 were, Oil Refining that recorded a decline of 27.7 per cent, Motor Vehicle & Assembly down 21. per cent and Other Manufacturing, which fell 7. per cent. Other notable sectors with poor performance in 2017 included Real Estate (-4.3 per cent), Insurance (-2.9 per

cent) and Trade (-1.1 per cent).

According to UCAP, the GDP numbers suggest that recovery in the Nigerian economy is seemingly tilted in favour Agriculture and Mining, reflecting the feedback effect of favourable policy efforts from the authorities, especially in the Mineral Mining, Oil & Gas as well as the Agric sectors.

‘Contrariwise, the dearth of favourable policy initiatives in the Industrial sector is reflected in the continued underwhelming performance of the sector.’ The investment firm noted.

Asaba Airport fully functional in 4 months - Okowa Nosa Akenzua, Asaba

L-R: Honourable Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun(left); Most Consistent Tax Payer in Kaduna State, Dr Liman Jibril; Kaduna State Governo,r Mallam Nasir El Rufai and Chairman of Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service, Mallam Mukhtar Ahmed, during an interactive session on Voluntary Assets and Income

JED to boost electricity supply with information technology Kingsley Chukwuka, Jos The Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JED), is to leverage on the ever growing information technology to best boost electricity supply to its franchise states of Plateau, Bauchi, Gombe and Benue States.

Speaking at a one -day workshop, an expatriate and consultancy company:Triple Seventh’ , posited that electricity utility are realizing the benefits of technology in the management of facilities for engineer-

ing, construction operations, maintenance and services purpose.

Triple Seventh, while on the day workshop on Thursday in Jos , the Plateau State capital, to train JED staff on exploring information technology, especially on data analysis to better enhance their performance, also said the problem of planning in distribution system can be solved by using new methods and specific techniques.

“Complexity of electrical distribution system and necessity of accurate up-to-date informa-

tion of the network assets is a reasonable intention for introducing new method of information technology”, it said.

Addressing participants at the workshop, the Managing Director, Triple Seventh Nigeria limited, Engineer Aliyu Yakubu, said the seminar is geared towards improving the understanding and networking of electricity power distribution towards effective power spreads aimed at boosting JED capabilities in keeping track of the electrical facilities, such as poles, circuits, power lines and

transformers.

The project , which is using Plateau as a pilot state, is also aimed at having transparency and knowledge of physical assets that will help JED in operations.

Earlier, the Head, Planning and Network Expansion of JED Plc, Mr. Mansir Nakande, said information technology is no doubt the way to go as it will help the company not only to boost electricity supply, but also to provide more Jobs opportunities to the teeming youths of the respective franchise states.

Delta State Governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has expressed confidence that commercial activities will be in full swing at the Asaba International Airport in July, this year.

Speaking during an inspection visit to the airport, the Governor expressed joy that the contractor handling the reconstruction of the runway, Setraco had proven that the project could be delivered within three months.

According to him, “it took two years for ULO to construct 900 metres of the runway but, it gladdens my heart that in just three weeks, Setraco have done 1.1 kilometer of the runway.”

“From the work programme, it may be possible for Setraco to complete the project in three and half months, the speed with which they mobilised to site is wonderful, we thank God for intervening which made us to re-award the contract,” the Governor said, emphasising, “we are confident that in another four months, there will be a lot of bigger planes landing here.”

Engr Jihad Yahgi, Area Manager, Setraco who explained the level done so far, disclosed that apart of the runway, the company was in the process of completing the water channels at the airport.

He assured Delta State government that work will be completed on schedule according to specifications.

Business News B2

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

CPC advises electricity providers against arbitrary billings, disconnection

TheConsumer Protection Council (CPC) has appraised the interaction between the nation’s electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) and their consumers, declaring that arbitrary billing and group disconnection of electricity consumers without consideration for those paying their bills constitute a gross abuse of consumer rights.

The Director General of the Council, Babatunde Irukera, said these in Abuja, at a meeting with the top management of Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) led by its Managing Director, Engineer Ernest Mupwaya.

The Director General noted that

the vast majority of complaints in the sector are these two issues.

Irukera, while expressing understanding about challenges in the industry, said “there is no excuse for how consumers are treated”.

He pointed out that “the key complaints that we receive are arbitrary, unsupported and unreasonable billing; people not being treated with dignity, the complaint resolution process is either lacking or unclear and there’s really no respect for people”.

The director general disclosed that consumers’ complaints have not been primarily about supply, but about billing for non-existent supply, stressing that “as a mat-

ter of fact, a vast majority of supply complaints are attributed to the fact that you are asking them to pay for something that was not supplied and the other significant reason is group disconnection”.

According to him, “DISCOs have gotten to a point where no one takes their bills seriously anymore, because they are considered outrageous. I think the pressure on metering will not be so bad if the estimated billing was more transparent and reasonable”.

He noted with regret that “what DISCOs are doing is connecting their balance sheets to receivables from consumers, but consumers are connecting what they owe to

what they receive”.

Irukera, while charging the distribution companies to stop the arbitrary billing system, asserted that “connecting balance sheet to an opaque arbitrary metering system is the worst form of abuse, especially for an essential public utility”.

He also contended that group disconnection usually adopted by distribution companies because of the debts owed by some members of the affected groups unfortunately disregards and undermines the rights of other consumers in the groups who did not owe.

He stated: “You see people who are complaining about supply because they, as individuals, have

Wife of Ondo state Governor, Chief (Mrs) Betty Anyanwu - Akeredolu (left), presenting Certificate to one of the beneficiaries (right), Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Omowunmi Olatunji Edet (second left) at the Forum for Wives of Ondo State Officials, (FOWOSO) Empowerment Outreach Programme for

Empowerment: Akeredolu takes FOWOSO to Akoko S’ West The wife of Ondo State Governor, Mrs. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu has led members of the Forum of Wives of State Officials (FOSOWO) to Akoko South West where women and youths from the local government were empowered.

At the colourful event held at African Church Grammar School, Oka Akoko, Arabinrin Akeredolu observed that the empowerment programme was FOWOSO’s way of walking the talk and creating a pathway for women’s advancement regardless of who they are or where they lived.

According to the first lady, every Ondo State woman should benefit from FOWOSO as the goal is to raise the consciousness of women

for greater accomplishments.

Akeredolu also added that projecting women to the forefront starts with acquisition of knowledge and skill so that they can be in a position to cater for their families.

She used the opportunity to challenge cultural and social misconceptions that affect the potentials of women stressing that women must rise up to take their pride of place towards the development of the society.

Her words: “What we are doing here today is historic – Some of these women have been trained in different skill areas. We are going to give them start up tools. And for those who already have skills and don’t have the capital to start up,

we will provide them with it”.

In her welcome address, the chairperson of Akoko South West Local Government, Mrs Florence Oloruntogbe thanked Akeredolu for the historic visit to the local government.

She also used the opportunity to congratulate the Akeredolu -led government for its one year in office stressing that the first lady has to a large extent , demonstrated her commitment to the development and empowerment of womenfolk in the state.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Omowunmi Olatunji Edet, who lauded the FOWOSO empowerment Outreach programme of Her Excellency, encouraged the women and youths to make good

use of the opportunity being handed to them.

Also present were the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftancy Affairs, Hon. Lola Fagbemi, Hon. Victor Olabintan, Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Gboyega Aderarati, Wives of Commissioners, SSA Women Affairs, Mrs Titi Adeyemi, SA Gender, Research and Documentation, Mrs Tope Daniyan, Chairmen and the Chairpersons of Local Government in Ondo State among others.

Earlier, Akeredolu paid a courtesy visit to Oba (Dr) Yusuf Adebori Adeleye, OON , ascended the throne as Olubaka of Oka-Akoko where she called for supports towards programmes that promote women empowerment in Ondo state.

been responsible, but the DISCOs have painted them with a broad stroke and disconnected even the responsible people. As a lawyer, our approach to criminal work, even legal work, has always been that let the guilty man go free instead of punishing the innocent man.

“For me, there’s something fundamentally, absolutely irreparable and inexcusably wrong with penalising people because of the conduct of others. It is just not excusable. Government should never do that to its people. But if government does it as a state actor, as inexcusable as it is, it might even be permissible. But one person who has absolutely no right and should never have the prerogative to do it is a private citizen to another private citizen. And that is what DISCOs do. They groupdisconnect consumers. If there’s one responsible consumer who is being disconnected unjustly, what you are doing is that you are discouraging responsibility”, he added.

The CPC boss observed that group disconnection is antithetical to the promotion of an enabling environment for investment, stressing that it “is the quintessential case for mistreatment of an otherwise responsible consumer”.u h Earlier, the AEDC managing director had spoken of the need for the company to have a cost reflective tariff for it to have a seamless and a more robust operation, stressing that fluctuation in foreign exchange rates and inflation impact on its activities.

On the issue of estimated billing, he disclosed that efforts are being made to address the metering gap with more meters for consumers and the adoption of an interim plan of metering transformers for a more accurate estimation.

He stated: “The issue of estimated billing has not been fully resolved because of the low rate of metering, and this is closely tied with the impairment on the balance sheet which is tied to tariff issues. The balance sheets are impaired to the extent that we are facing huge challenges to attract investments. But I must say that the government, through the power sector recovery programme, has put up a plan that will address these gaps.

“There will be a reset this year, and there will be some level of adjustments in such a way that the balance sheets will look better, and this will give us impetus to get more finances. I think the whole plan is premised on DISCOs being able to meter customers 100% over 24 months. So we have positioned our sales to meet this challenge of metering. But beyond that, we realised that whereas it is important to meter every customer, there is a very quick win to meter all the transformers”, he said.

B3 Business News

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

ERGP Labs will focus on delivering quick results to Nigerians- Udoma

Business community in Plateau brainstorms on harnessing opportunities

Mathew Dadiya, Abuja

By Kingsley Chukwuka, Jos

The Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) Focus Labs scheduled to start on March 12, 2018 will focus on delivering quick and fast results to the citizens by identifying actionable projects, removing roadblocks and developing an enabling framework for the sector, the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma told investors in Lagos on Thursday The minister, who was speaking at a sensitization luncheon with investors said the lab process is just one of the several initiatives by the Federal Government to drive the imple-

mentation of the strategic objectives of the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP).

At the luncheon he indicated that government will be conducting focus labs in three selected areas within six sectors to deliver quick and fast results on investments and job creation.

The selected areas are agriculture and transportation, manufacturing and processing; and power and glas.

The luncheon was organized by the Ministry of Budget and National Planning in close collaboration with the Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC).

He said the labs are in-

tended to drive new investments for critical projects and to resolve complex inter-agency problems that inhibit private sector investment. Government, he indicated, welcomes and is ready to provide assistance to investors.

He explained that the labs will specifically target the identification of projects which will increase investments and create jobs for the citizens.

Udoma emphasized that the focus labs aim at unlocking projects with private sector funds, the Minister said the labs will seek to chart clear 3-feet implementation plans for each project with identified budget and key perfor-

mance indicators as well as alignment of stakeholders to execute the plan.

In the area of fast actionable projects, he said the labs will consider existing projects, as well as big new ideas and projects, provided that they have immediate enhancements in impact on the economy and create jobs.

The labs are meant to remove roadblocks by ensuring that all enablers for high potential projects are relieved of the encumbrances that could stall their smooth operation, and also to use projects to create showcases for development of enabling framework, he said.

The Minister pointed out that there are huge oppor-

tunities for investments in agriculture and agro- processing, manufacturing, mining, construction and services, and that investors, whether domestic or foreign, who are interested in any of these areas are invited to participate in the labs, provided they meet the minimum criteria set out in the guidelines.

He indicated that the actions to unlock value in the labs include what policy or regulatory decisions are needed, what approvals are outstanding, what infrastructure improvements must be made, what processes need to be accelerated or enhanced and what human capital requirements must be addressed.

Okoli, (middle), flanked by supporters arriving the Ladipo Auto Market , Lagos

Fidelity Bank discusses digital revolution at 2018 Social Media Week Sam Nzeh Top Nigerian lender, Fidelity Bank Plc, will today (Friday), organise a focused session tagged ‘The Millennial Takeover: How Millennials Are Changing The Financial Landscape” at the ongoing 2018 Social Media Week (SMW) holding at the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island in Lagos.

The Bank’s decision to participate in the week-long conference was borne out of the need to further deepen ongoing conversations around social media and technology in relation to its impact on business, society and cul-

ture around the globe.

SMW Lagos is a conference that provides the ideas, trends, insights and inspiration to help people and businesses understand how to achieve more in a hyper-connected world.

The event features a central stage for keynotes and panels, multiple rooms for workshops, master-classes and presentations, and an area dedicated to co-working, networking and interactive installations. Its mission is to help people and organisations connect through collaboration, learning and the sharing of ideas and information.

The panel discussion, which will be moderated by Producer, radio & television host, Folu Storms will have Mo Abudu, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), EbonyLife TV; Bayo Adekanmbi, Chief Transformation officer (CTO), MTN Nigeria; Shola Akinlade, Co-Founder/ CEO, PayStack; Gbolahan Joshua, Chief Operations & Information Officer (COIO), Fidelity Bank Plc; Layi Funsho, Head, Mobile & Web Payments, Fidelity Bank Plc, Ndidi Nwuneli, Founder/Director, LEAP Africa; Sam Onyemelukwe, Managing Director, Trace and Oluwole Oyeniran, Technology & Digital, Deloitte & Touche, as panelists.

Members of the business community in Plateau State on Thursday engaged chief executive officers of firms in the state in a major brainstorming session targeted at developing a road map that will enable the business community optimally harness opportunities existing in the sector for self development and better contributions to Plateau and National economy .

Speaking at the occasion, the Executive Director of Jos Business School Ezekiel Gomos, said the objective of the gathering was to brainstorm to examine the prospect of the business environment in 2018, “we are not ignorant of the huge business potentials available in our state and Nigeria”, he added.

Bolcit Barshep , the executive director of Anista Marketing Limited lamented the impact of the economic recession in 2017 stressing that things would improve once the economy is normalised.

She said in 2017 business started on a slow note, business suffered but in the second quarter things got better.

In her words “Anista Marketing and Events Limited is a foremost management and solution-driven company with clients in the , entertainment, sports, fashion , beauty, and corporate sectors. Though we attract a broad range of clients from a variety of entities, we specialize in helping companies connect with their consumers.

Business upbeat as Ladipo auto market leader returns 6 years after Bonny Amadi Peace has finally returned to Ladipo Auto Market in Matori area of Lagos state , as their former leader, Jonathan Chibuzor Okoli, who returned to the market on Tuesday was embraced by all the traders in the market.

Okoli, a former Chairman of Aguiyi Ironsi International Market Traders Association(AIIMA) at the market, had been away from business, following series of leadership crises which had rocked the market since 2012.

00pm on Tuesday, the market leader was welcomed by all the traders from different sales unit.

Speaking shortly after his

reception, Chairman of Aguiyi Ironsi International Market Traders Association (AIIMTA) Hon. Cyril Onyemaechi said all the traders have received their former leader with open arms, stressing that the next thing for them is to make sure that they work together and make the place a better for all.

Onyemaechi said,” I have been working to ensure that there is peaceful co-existence in the market. Even during the time of crises, I single handed worked to make sure there is a lasting peace because I know if there is peaceful atmosphere, the people are bound to experience growth which will definitely impact on their businesses positively”.

Money Market B4 Afreximbank to sell share worth $1bn in 5 years In order to diversify its shareholders and add more private investors to its ownership, the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has concluded plans to sell shares worth as much as $1 billion over the next five years.

The trade bank, rated “BBB” by Fitch, plans to issue the shares via depository receipts to new and existing investors.

An offering of $300 million was listed on the Mauritian Stock Exchange last year at $4.30 each.

It now plans to list the shares on the Lagos exchange by the third quarter and then issue fresh receipts worth $200 million in Nigeria, providing investors exposure to rising intra-African trade deals.

The bank is completing the filing process with the local bourse and depository, the bank told Reuters on Thursday.

The note issue will support financing for Nigeria in areas such as trade, manufacturing, financial services, tourism, medical and agro-business, Cairobased Afreximbank said.

The lender has raised more than $3 billion as of 2016 to fund its activities, with about $1 billion coming from Eurobonds, far short of the continent’s soaring demand for financing for African economies hurt by lower commodities price.

Demand for funding for trade and other facilities is worth around $40 billion in African states, meaning other global institutions need to step in to help.

Afreximbank, which was founded by African governments and other investors in 1993 and has shareholder funds of $1.6 billion as at December, 2016 with total assets of $11.7 billion, approved $3.2 billion facilities for Nigeria last year.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

FG: Projected 3.5%Nigeria’s GDP growth rate achievable Stories by Motolani Oseni Following the latest released of the Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate of 1.92 per cent in the fourth quarter y/y as against 1.40 per cent y/y in the previous quarter, the Federal Government (FG) of Nigeria has reiterated that that 3.5 per cent growth estimated for 2018 year is on course.

The Statistics of office on Tuesday, had disclosed in its fourth quarter (Q4) 2017 report that Nigeria’s economy has recorded growth of 0.83 per cent as of close of the year 2017 and grew by 1.92 in the Q4 of 2017.

But reacting to this development, the federal government said the 3.5 per cent growth estimated for this year is on course, as latest GDP figures indicate steady improvement in the economy In the previous quarter, i.e. third quarter of 2017, the Nige-

rian economy had grown by 1.4 per cent, and this latest figure for the fourth quarter marks the third consecutive growth since emergence from recession in the second quarter of 2017.

The latest GDP figures now show the economy improving in all major sectors, including especially the non-oil sector which had contracted for quite a while.

Commenting, the Special Adviser to the President on Economic Matters, Dr. Adeyemi Dipeolu, said: “The figures recently released by the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS) for the fourth quarter of 2017 (Q4 2017) and the full year 2017 (FY 2017) show a consolidation of post-recession growth in the national economy.

The growth of 1.92% in Q4 2017 was an improvement on both the previous quarter and the previous year. This quarterly growth contributed to an overall posi-

tive growth rate of 0.82% in 2017 which translates to a 2.24% points increase from -1.58% in 2016.

“There are two encouraging aspects of the figures. The first is that all major sectors of the economy namely agriculture, industry and services are now experiencing positive growth.

Agriculture, which accounted for 25% of GDP in 2017, grew by 4.23% in Q4 2017; while Industry grew by 3.92%. The Services sector, which is about 53% of GDP, returned to positive growth in Q4 2017. Although the increase was marginal at 0.10, it represented a positive swing of 2.76% points from the level in Q3 2017.

“The other notable element of the data is that the non-oil sector experienced a strong growth of 1.45% in Q4 2017 as compared to a contraction in the previous quarter and the whole of 2016. This showing, the strongest since 2015, points to steady improvements

across the economy.

Also noteworthy in this regard were strong quarterly growth in crop production, crude oil production, metal ores, construction, transportation, trade, electricity and gas production.

“The positive trajectory for the economy should begin to gain momentum as the multiplier effects of investments in infrastructure, including power, roads, and rail, alongside improvements in the business environment begin to manifest.

The agricultural sector is expected to continue its strong showing, while manufacturing should also show sustained growth based on improved availability of foreign exchange and greater backward integration in several of its sub-sectors. Taking all these factors into consideration, the Federal Government estimate of 3.5% growth in 2018 is quite achievable.”

Purchasing manager’s index closes at 56.3 in February - CBN The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has disclosed that the nation’s Purchasing Manufacturing Index (PMI) closed at 56.3 index points in February from 57.3 index points in January.

The apex bank latest PMI report means that the 56.3 index points indicated growth in the manufacturing sector for the 11th consecutive months.

The CBN uses Produc-

tion Level, New Orders, Supplier Delivery Time, Employment Level and Raw material Inventories to measure PMI monthly.

Although, the PMI index grew at a slower rate, when compared to the closing figure in the previous and preceding months.

But according to the report, “Of the 15 subsectors surveyed, 10 reported growth in the review month in the following

order: Plastics rubber products; textile, apparel, leather & footwear; appliances components; paper products; primary metal; petroleum & coal products; chemical & pharmaceutical products; food, beverage & tobacco products; electrical equipment and furniture & related products.

“The remaining 5 subsectors contracted in the following order: printing & related support activi-

ties; cement; nonmetallic mineral products; fabricated metal products; and transportation equipment,” the report explained.

On production, the report by CBN said, “At 57.8 points, the production level index for the manufacturing sector grew for the twelfth consecutive month in February 2018.

“The index indicated a slower growth in the current month, when com-

pared to its level in the preceding month. Six of the 15 manufacturing subsectors recorded increase in production level, six remained unchanged, while the remaining three recorded declines in production level during the review month.

According to CBN, New Orders in February stood at 55.6 points, a growth in 11th consecutive month, indicating increase in new orders

in February 2018.

On Supplier Delivery Time, the PMI report said, “The manufacturing supplier delivery time index stood at 57.0 points in February 2018, indicating faster supplier delivery time for the ninth consecutive month. Six subsectors recorded improved suppliers’ delivery time, 7 remained unchanged while 2 subsectors recorded delayed delivery time.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

B5 Capital Market

NSE partners UN to promote gender parity Adesola Afolabi

For the fourth consecutive year, The Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, will join other global exchanges on March 8, 2018, to ring the bell for gender equality in celebration of the 110th International Women’s Day (IWD), at the Stock Exchange House, Marina, Lagos.

Themed: “Press for Progress”, this edition of the celebration is aimed at motivating

and uniting everyone to think, act and be gender inclusive.

As part of the activities lined up for the 2018 International Women’s Day celebration, the NSE will organise a half-day symposium which will be headlined by the Deputy British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Laure Beaufils and Dame Abimbola Fashola, former First Lady of Lagos State and Chairman, Learn NGO/Ella Care.

The free to attend symposium will also feature panel discussions by an array of thought leaders that include Tinuade Awe, Executive Director, Regulation, NSE; Patience Kunene, Executive Director, World Bank; Oscar N. Onyema, OON, CEO, NSE; Ali Baba, Nigeria’s foremost Stand-up Comedian and Actor; and Dan Agbor, Partner, Udo Udoma and BeloOsagie amongst others. The event will be

moderated by Titi-theDynamite.

The symposium is being organised in partnership with Sustainable Stock Exchanges Initiative, United Nations Women, United Nations Global Compact, International Finance Corporation, the World Federation of Exchanges, Women in ETFs, and Women in Management, Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ).

It will attract about 200 female participants

Trading floor

Adesola Afolabi Foreign outflows from the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) increased by 125.84 per cent from N33.05 billion to N74.64 bn in the space of just one month.

This was revealed in the NSE’s January 2018 report on ‘Domestic & Foreign Portfolio Participation in Equity Trading.’

The increase was recorded between December 2017 and January 2018.

The report shows that Foreign inflows decreased by 47.10 per cent from N173.43 bn in December 2017 to N91.75bn in January 2018.

In the review period, foreign investors conceded about 15.64 per cent of trading to domestic

from the corporate, education, government and non-governmental sectors, who will stand a chance to win great prizes during the raffle draw.

Commenting on the planned celebration, Olumide Orojimi, Head, Corporate Communications stated “As a sustainable stock exchange, we are pleased to offer our platform to putting the required spotlight on the call for recognition of the achievements of women, and supporting the call for equality and justice.

“This initiative reaffirms our pledge for parity at the NSE and serves as a stimulant for our ecosystem to do same. We look forward to great insights that will accelerate the bridging of the gender gap, as we think 217 years, as contained in the World Economic Forum Global Gender Gap Report 2017, is a long time to wait to achieve gender parity”.

“Currently at The Exchange, we promote a working environment that is inclusive for all as we believe that achieving gender equality is paramount

to developing the society. We have a female to male employees’ ratio of 1:2 and we are making sure footed steps to increase the number of women in our employment and especially those in leadership positions. “ The Exchange, in 2017, took steps to address the lack of female representation on its National Council by electing three (3) female members at the last 2017 Annual General Meeting. Today, NSE has 23% female representation on the National Council as opposed to the zero representation in 2016”, Orojimi added.

The NSE International Women’s Day Symposium provides an opportunity for participants and women in particular, to partake in the exchange of stimulating stories of women’s achievements as well as celebrate what women have done and what women can do. It is also an avenue to showcase the NSE and its partners’ commitment to supporting the aspirations of women and girls as essential ingredients for building a more sustainable world.

NSE: Foreign outflows rises by 126 per cent in one month investors.

Total foreign transactions decreased by 19.42 per cent from N206.48bn recorded in December 2017 to N166.39bn in January 2018; and domestic transactions also decreased by 16.87 per cent from N274.32bn to N228.05bn within the same period.

Overall, total transactions decreased by 18 per cent from N480.80bn recorded in December 2017 to N394.44bn (about $1.29bn) in January 2018.

Since 2011, foreign transactions have consistently outperformed domestic transactions.

However, domestic transactions marginally outperformed

foreign transactions in 2016 and 2017, accounting for 52 per cent of the total transaction value in 2017.

Also, foreign transactions which was N1.539trn in 2014 declined to N518bn in 2016, but increased significantly by 133 per cent to N1.208trn in 2017 thereby accounting for about 48 per cent of total transactions in 2017.

Over an eleven (11) year period, the NSE reveal that domestic transactions have decreased by 62.46 per cent from N3.556trn in 2007 to N1.335t in 2017. However, there was a significant increase in 2017 by 111 per cent from N634bn recorded in 2016.

The domestic composition of investors on the NSE indicates a higher participation by Institutional investors over their retail counterparts. The institutional investors accounted for 53 per cent of the market, while retail composition accounted for 47 per cent within the review period.

Meanwhile a year on year appraisal of market performance shows the total transactions in January 2018 increased by 313.81 per cent, as against figures recorded in the same period of 2017.

The growth was from N95.32 bn in January 2017 to

Nu394.44bn in January 2018.

NSE DG, Oscar Onyema

Daily Times Nigeria Friday,March 2, 201

Seplat reports Q318% boost in sales yoy in 4 2017 results Stories by Bonny Amadi Swplat oil development company plc has shown strong recovery in profitability as Q4 sales rose by 318% y/y to US$174m while Q4 PBT of US$46m compares with a loss before tax of -US$85m in Q4 2016; tax credit of US$224m provided significant boost to profitability The result to a large extent, reflected positives from undisrupted exports via the TransForcados System (TFS). This is the second consecutive quarter that the firm is posting profits. Seplat’s sales came in at US$174m, up 318% y/y while PBT of US$46m compares with a loss before tax of -US$85m in Q4 2016.

Sales growth was boosted by a recovery in oil sales which grew by over 900% y/y to US$136m. Full year oil production came within management’s guidance at 17,853 barrels of oil per day (bopd). According to management statements, uptime post lifting of force majeure was 81%.

Additionally, average reconciliation losses are now down to just 3.5% from 10% a year ago. Gas sales which were up 36% y/y to US$38m also benefitted from incremental gas production from associated gas fields. Full year gas production came in at 114 million standard cubic feet of gas per day (MMscfd), also within management’s guidance.

On a y/y basis, average combined production was up 43% for FY2017 to 36,923 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd).

While average realised oil prices were up 25% y/y to US$50.4, gas prices were flattish y/y.

Other positives on the P&L include a significant expansion of gross margin to 50.5% and a -36% y/y decline in opex. In 2017, average production costs came in at US$6.0 per barrel compared with US$8.8/b in 2016. However, Seplat posted a PAT of US$271m, primarily driven by a tax credit of US$224m. On a q/q basis, both sales and PBT were up, by 18% q/q and 81% q/q respectively.

Similar to the y/y trends, PAT was up significantly, driven by tax credits.

B6 Business Extra

Buhari welcomes increased foreign private investments Mathew Dadiya, Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari has welcomed the rise in Foreign Private Investments in the country owing to the success of his administration’s economic agenda.

Speaking on Thursday at a meeting with a Qatari business delegation led by the former Emir, Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa AlThani at the State House, Abuja, the President described the Federal Government’s economic agen-

da as one designed to move the country from over-reliance on crude oil and food importation.

He said the policy has, in the past two years turned Nigeria into one of the most attractive investment destinations in Africa.

According to President Buhari, “My administration’s economic agenda has always been to move away from over reliance on crude oil and food importation.

Nigeria is a blessed country. We have fertile land. We have young and energetic

population. And we have a very strong legal and regulatory system that protects capital and investments, both local and foreign.

“As you are aware, Nigeria just exited its worst recession in more than two decades. We have more than doubled our foreign reserves. We are winning the war against corruption.

“We are developing our infrastructure. And we are enforcing the rule of law.

As a result of this, we are seeing significant growth

in the non-oil sector which is creating thousands of jobs across the country.”

The President cited the current strategic partnership between Moroccan and Nigerian fertilizer companies as part of the success stories.

“Today, due to this alliance, Nigeria has over 13 functioning fertilizer blending plants with another four in the pipeline.

This is purely driven by the private sector,” he noted.

According to President Buhari, “In 2017 alone, we

saw significant commitments and agreements by major global organisations in infrastructure projects such as: the proposed USD 9 billion Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical complex in Lagos; the completed USD 600 million Lafarge Plant in Calabar; the proposed rail stock; the proposed USD 1.3 billion public private partnership with General Electric on Rail Track Development and the proposed ENI/ Agip rehabilitation of Port Harcourt Refinery.

L-R: Founder Lifebank, Mr. Temie Giwa; Head of Startups, Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), Miss Tosin Faniran – Dada; Executive Secretary, LSETF, Akin Oyebode; Co–Founder Leadpath, Mr. Olumide Shoyombo and CoFounder Printivo, Mr. Oluyomi Ojo during the launch of Lagos Innovates at the 2018 annual Social Media Week Lagos held at Landmark Events Centre, Oniru, Lagos

Over 150 high-level speakers to grace ATIGS 2018 in Washington, D.C “Driving Trade, Unleashing Investment and Enhancing Economic Development: the Gateway to AfricaBusiness leaders and prominent personalities are expected to speak at the Africa Trade & Investment Global Summit (ATIGS) 2018 (http:// ATIGS2018.com) to be held on June 24 to June 26 at World Trade Center – Ronald Reagan Building in Washington, D.C. The prestigious biennial business conference and exhibition will bring together delegates from more than 70 countries including government delegations, high-profile African leaders, project developers, and international investors.

The event has a wellstructured format for facilitating direct peer engage-

ment, for more advanced deal-making, showcasing fundable companies, coinvestments and financing engagements, strategic partnerships, and business networking.

The 2018 Summit will feature as panelist and speakers a wide array of senior officials and distinguished personalities including, Hon Senator Ike Ekwerenmadu, Deputy Senate President of Nigeria; H.E. Adonia Ayebare, Uganda’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations; H.E.Clyde Rivers Ph.D. UI of Republic of Burundi, and Advisor to the President of Burundi; Hon Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, former Minister for Trade & Industry, and former Ambassador of Ghana to the USA; Hon. Ibrahim Awaal

Mohammed, Minister for Business Development in Ghana; Hon. Sebastian Kopulande, CEO, Zambian International Trade and Investment Centre (ZITIC) in Zambia; Andrew Herscowit, Coordinator, Power Africa - U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) in USA; Asma ALAOU, CEO, Africa Key Partners in Morocco; Arnon Rosenbaum, VP Global Projects, Netafim in Israel; Belarmino Van-Dúnem, Chairman of Angola’s Investment and Exports Promotion Agency (APIEX); Maria Goravanchi, Director, Overseas Private Investment Corporation in USA; Dr. Mohamed Doumbouya, Minister of Budget, Republic of Guinea Raj Kumar, Founding President

of Devex in United States, Dr. Belachew Mekuria, Industrial Park Division Deputy Commissioner of Ethiopian Investment Commission; Dr. Mima S. Nedelcovych, President & CEO of Initiative for Global Development in USA; Pablo Martín Carbajal, Deputy head for African Affairs, and CEO of Proexca, Government of the Canary Islands; Bernadette Fernandes, Founder of The Varanda Network in Canada; Chris Kirubi, Director, Centum Investment in Kenya; Chris Knight, Global Commercial Director for fDi Intelligence, Financial Times Group in UK; Dr. Richmond Annan, President, iRichie Group Inc in USA; Dr. Munir Ahmad Ch, President, Aspire World Investments LLC - United Arab Emirates;

Dr. Mima S. Nedelcovych, President & CEO of Initiative for Global Development in USA; Joseph Lititiyo, Deputy Executive Secretary of Economic Community of the Great Lakes Countries in Rwanda; Matthew Downing, Chairman & CEO, Ethium Group in Australia; Prince Adetokunbo Kayode, President of Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Nigeria; Vanessa Adams, Director of Strategic Partnerships of DAI in France; Walid Loukil, Deputy Managing Director of Loukil Group in Tunisia; Xoliswa Daku, Founder & CEO, Daku Group of Companies in South Africa; Zekarias Amsalu, Founder and MD of IBEX Frontier, IBEX Financial Consultancy Ltd in Ethiopia, and jmany more

Tours & Travel

B7

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

Why I want to be NANTA president — Salami Simon Ugwu, with Agency report The Chief Operating Officer, Divine Travels and Tours, Mr Adebayo Muyiwa Salami has declared his intention to run for the presidency of the National Association of Travel Agencies (NANTA), in the next Annual General Meeting, AGM, holding in Port- Harcourt between March 22 and 24, 2018.

In a brief interview, Otunba Salami said: “I am ready to take NANTA to the next level. It is the backbone of the tourism sector and because of this, it must be reinforced strongly and strengthened with contemporary global tourism innovation and branding.”

What is your view about past leaders of the association?

The association has been very lucky. It is one association which was founded on strict professionalism, global ethics and values, international standards, competitive peer review mechanism and intercontinental ethos. It is an association with members who are business minded, focused and forward-looking and who are ready not only to maintain the status quo ante, but consistently improve on the work on the ground. I am proud of the past leaders, happy with the present leaders and full of hope for the future.

Why are you contesting?

I am a product of NANTA’s leadership training. I have served at various levels of the association. I have been minted, baked, horned and sharpened by NANTA. I am a thoroughbred NANTA fellow. I

Muyiwa Salami have learned the rope. I know where the shoes pinch NANTA and I am ready, equipped and competent to mend it .

NANTA is an octopus travel and tourism association which has grown beyond the frontiers of Nigeria and spread its tentacles via ATA to West–Africa and Africa, thus, it needed a cosmopolitan minded fellow, an intercontinental person who can wean its spiral progression in the global platform. I have been running my own agencies for over 25 years with

no sign of liquidation or insolvency. I have attended several continentals and intercontinental travel shows and hoisted sand and Nigeria’s and NANTA flags all over the world. I am seasoned both in the travel business, marketing and politics. I have a lot to offer. I want to add value and I will.

Let’s be specific about what you will doSpecifically, I want to build on the past achievements of our leaders. First, I will ensure the provision of the second provider of DIP

for the Nigeria market.

I will make sure that the entry level of IDP is reviewed based on volume of agencies; I will protect members from arbitrary and skewed dealings through fair level playing ground and eradicate the era of special or anointed agencies by the airlines; I will establish a just, fair and equitable leadership structure for better autocratic brand which NANTA is experiencing now; I will institute open door policy which will

Agency Super Travels launch online website Ganiyu Obaaro Foremost Nigerian IATA Licensed Travel Brand, Super International Travel Limited, is set to launch her on-line platform ‘WESABI TRAVELS.COM’ come Saturday the 3rd of March 2018.

In a statement by the Managing Director, Mrs. Mobisola Shobayo, Super International Travels with over 35 years existence in the travel industry has maintained a low profile in the sector,

servicing all sectors especially the top corporate organisations.

Super International Travel Limited has carved a niche for itself in the industry and has received several awards in the sector as top sellers for leading international airlines like British Airways, KLM, Emirates, Delta, Etihad, Virgin Atlantic amongst other carriers.

It is as a result of these and with strong presence in the Central Business District Abuja, Matori Industrial

Estate and at Adeniyi Jones Avenue, Ikeja, that made us remaine active and an accredited agent by IATA in the Tourism Space.

Shobayo assured Nigerians and the general public that the online version will be a game changer, as ‘wesabitravel’ is set to take over the e-commerce space with diligent and effective service.

According to the company’s Project Officer, Mr. Tolulope Adebiyi, he said, “We are a one stop shop for all your travel needs and in the

last one year we have secured special exclusive deals to compete with other online agencies worldwide, providing you with real time bookings and ticketing, timely response and customer service, easy to use platforms and various payment options, best-selling tour packages around various destinations. “ In conclusion as we will commonly say, your travel comfort matters to us ‘we sabi’ all your travel needs at wesabitravels.com.

Lai Mohammed

pave way to transparency in leadership, accountability, nationalism, and infuse sense of belonging and cooperative endeavour.

Also, I with other members of the executive will inaugurate a vibrant cooperative society which will be funded sufficiently to serve as a succour of hope for members in the rainy days when there will be the need for credit facility at a very low rate thus preventing our members from the excruciating and exploitative interest of the banks .’

I will launch a regime of capacity building, this is very crucial and essential. We are in a global village which is being stoked by the computer , internet, and digital advancement. There is a lacuna of these within the capacity content of NANTA members and staff. I will strive to reduce this to its minimal level and NANTA will be best for it.

I have the vision to rescue NANTA from the pang of leaders of no vision. I have the vision of taking NANTA far ahead and above the imagination of leaders whose conservatism and reactionary tendencies have stagnated NANTA’s advancement. I am ready for the mission to rescue NANTA from inglorious leaders. I am ready to take the association to its peak of glory. It shall come to pass. Vote for me.

Enterprenuership

B8

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

What businesses can learn from protests, advocacy Nwaodu Chukwuemeka Lawrence A strong sense of conviction can both encourage and discourage people from speaking out. “If you want to shape people’s behavior, you have to understand how they view the world,” says professor S. Christian Wheeler.

Expressing an opinion these days feels less like a right than an obligation. In addition to lively face-to-face conversations, people now routinely engage with strangers on Facebook, Twitter, and other social media over issues big and small, from the competency of presidential candidates to the quality of their local burrito joint.

“There’s an argument to be made, at least anecdotally, that people are expressing their opinions way more than they used to,” says Zakary L. Tormala, a marketing professor. “Social media offer increased opportunities to express an opinion, so I think there’s a greater need to understand what drives advocacy, because it’s more a part of everybody’s daily life than it used to be.”

The conclusions of Tormala and his colleague S. Christian Wheeler, in separate papers, could help inform those conversations — as well as strategies for marketers looking to create ambassadors for their products.

Their central questions: What compels people to express an opinion or argue a point of view, and how might those people be convinced to try to persuade others?

Wheeler says his study, coauthored with Omair Akhtar, concluded that “if you want to shape people’s behavior, you have to understand how they view the world.”

Some people believe that their attitudes and those of others are fixed and therefore difficult to change. If you dis-

like something, for example, there’s not much chance you will ever change your mind, and you are less likely to try to change someone else’s mind about it because you assume they already know whether they like that thing or not.

Other people believe that their own and other people’s attitudes are more malleable.

“Maybe the music that you liked as a teenager doesn’t appeal to you anymore, or maybe your politics shifted over time,” he says. “Those people believe we all have the capability to change.”

You can persuade fixed-attitude people to advocate for a point of view “by framing it as standing up for their views rather than engaging in a dialogue.”

Once you know what type of person you are dealing with, then “you can frame or direct their opinions so that they are more likely to advocate.” But to do that, Wheeler says, it’s also important to understand which of two factors have inspired their advocacy: Are they trying to persuade others to agree with their

point of view, or are they simply trying to stand up for themselves and make their opinion known?

Wheeler’s study found that, in politics, for example, you can persuade fixed-attitude people to advocate for a point of view “by framing it as standing up for their views rather than engaging in a dialogue.” For those who believe attitudes can change, however, the opposite is true.

Wheeler’s study builds on the work of Carol S. Dweck, a leading researcher in the field of motivation and author of the 2006 book Mindset. Dweck’s research has focused on why people succeed and how to foster success.

She, like Wheeler, identifies two basic types: people who believe their intelligence, talents, and personalities are set and unchanging (fixed mindset), and people who believe such qualities can be developed through dedication and effort (growth mindset).

Dweck found that people can be taught a growth mindset to improve their motivation and productivity.

A parallel but unrelated

study by Tormala and Lauren B. Cheatham, to be published in early 2017, sought to analyse people’s varying inclinations for advocacy from a different angle. Predictably, Tormala confirmed prior research that concluded that true believers are more inclined to publicly advocate for a point of view or a product. But his study also explored the surprising reality that people who are the least certain about something are more likely to advocate for it than people who are moderately certain.

“The question of why uncertain people advocate so strongly was the big puzzle of the paper,” Tormala says.

“But if you think about it, it’s not really counterintuitive.

Most people don’t want to be uncertain. It’s not a pleasant state to be in,” he says. Advocating becomes a way for them to gather information to become more certain. “This research is guided by an assumption that people who are uncertain don’t want to stay that way.”

In a consumer context, Tormala cites the example

of someone who just flew on United Airlines for the first time and had a good experience. “They like United based on that one experience, but they also lack certainty because it was only one experience,” Tormala says. “So they express their opinion to see what others think about United. They might say something like, ‘I liked United, but before I book another flight, I’d like to hear what others think.’”

Follow-up research suggests that people who are less certain might in some cases be more effective persuaders.

“We have found that people who are highly certain can come across as more judgmental, even moralising,” he says. “Uncertain people can seem more open to discussion. This can be helpful for persuasion, especially when people don’t share your view.

So if you know people disagree with you, try asking questions, expressing interest in their views, and using qualifiers. It makes you seem more open and reasonable, which could improve your persuasiveness.”

Once you know what type of person you are dealing with, then “you can frame or direct their opinions so that they are more likely to advocate.” But to do that, Wheeler says, it’s also important to understand which of two factors have inspired their advocacy: Nwaodu Chukwuemeka, is a consultant with IDEAS Exchange Consulting, Lagos. He can be reached at nwaodu.lawrence@hotmail.co.uk (07066375847)

Life&

TIMES Friday, March 2, 2018

Adesegun Temitope: Ooni’s TV show for underprivileged, first of its kind in Africa L2, 3

P

Interview L2

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

Ooni’s desire is to put smiles on faces –Adesegun Temitope The Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi is indeed a generous and humble king who has brought himself to the level launched a TV show, HAI TV SHOW, solely dedicated to the less privileged. The Deputy Chief Convener of Hopes Alive Initiative, a pet project of the Ooni of Ife under which the television show is being anchored, Miss Temitope Adesegun shared the vision and objectives of the Initiatives with ESTHER TAIWO. Enjoy‌

My name is Temitope Adesegun, I am privileged to be the Deputy Chief Convener Hopes Alive Initiative, an initiative that is due to the passion of a man who lives solely for the people, whose desire every time is to see somebody smile and with so much respect and honour, I call his name His Imperial Majesty Arole Oduduwa Oba Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi.

Hopes Alive Initiatives is part of the 11 point youth oriented agenda of His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the Ojaja the 2nd and great Ooni of of HAI as we all know that agenda can only be driven by programmes and initiatives thus the creation of Hopes Alive because his desire is to see everybody smiling by putting smiles on their faces.

Hopes Alive is currently gathering all NGOs that have the same vision to work together as partners in progress to share information about themselves with a view to working better to put smiles on the faces of the less privileged in the society. Government should create enabling environment for NGOs because they are complimenting efforts of government by going directly to people where government cannot reach. them and not to impose laws on them in recent times Nigerians have come to the realization that non-governmental bodies are fast becoming the pillars on which the marginalized in the society rely on, most of these non-governmental bodies

they primarily embarked on. It is to this end that Hopes serve as to go to an a resourceful brand advocate of nongovernmental organization all over the world with the view to alleviate socio-economic, cultural and environmental challenges in a bid to reduce the impact of poverty among the most vulnerable in the society. This is a masses oriented initiative of His Imperial Majesty.

every year and do football competition amongst them in different locality so we supported them, gave them life present and our intention is to take the best group, there is a programme they will be attending in London this year, I will be supporting that also bring out the talent child is gifted, so HAI is trying to focus on that talent that they have, to show case the talent and once its

Amazingly I must say in few months HAI has done

HAI, we brought life into that community by providing water, they fetched and drink and have life put in that

education so we said what can we do again to have more impact in this community, kids are going back to school so we provided stationeries, books, school bags. We visited their clinic and found out that it is as

sport, what they do is they bring together the orphans

Life&

gave valentine babies amazing baby gifts, diaper, baby bath, wipes, clothes and a few to mention and we put smiles on the faces of the families that were privileged to mainly baby items that were shopped for in London by me, His Imperial Majesty sent me to Mother Care in UK to buy those things for the babies because he believed that the gifts must be equivalent to the babies we are giving them to, these are babies coming to the world for

Talking about the TV show coming up soon, we

Daily Times Nigeria

Friday, March 2, 2018

Interview L3

‘HAI will alleviate poverty in many lives’ are launching our TV advocacy programme, we its kind and solely dedicated to the under privileged.

Any organization or NGO can bring any problem or solution, activity, challenges or whatever they are doing in their NGO it can now be on a laudable

That is the reason why we have Non-Governmental Organisations. We are working not as a sole company, we are working together with the NGOs in collaboration with all other NGOs. That is not to say when we see an individual who is an under privileged we will not attend to

The simplest way to describe an under privilege

standards which is equated to a Dollar per day, which is N365 Nigeria rate. Someone that lives below that standard on a daily basis is considered as underprivileged.

It is all encompassing, we are not segregating or one as long as you are tagged an underprivileged.

Either educationally you are not able to go to school, activities or responsibility or you are not able to achieve your desire on a daily

ago, we got a call and I discussed with his imperial majesty and then we will need to we need to do is aggressive campaign and see how we can be solely involved in this campaign to bring this kids back.

March and we are praying to God and we

something we or the Ooni can do alone, so we are people that so much believe in everyone smile. So we are all coming together, we are still using the same hall, NGOs are partners in progress with a view to working and body to keep hopes alive, Hopes Alive Initiatives is encompassing, the

in the society. Government should create enabling

one house, being accommodated we our activities. kids that once in a while we take them state, let them see what is going on one box and just wake up to do their normal busy chores , we are going to be promoting that via this path. a long way in instilling discipline on members rather than government imposing laws on us since we are

Society Gist L4

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

Ajibade Alabi

Femi Obafemi changes gear For some time now, many people about celebrated businessman and socialite, Dr. Peter Obafemi. Since his political misadventure in 2014 in Ekiti State when he failed to pick the ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, as its gubernatorial candidate during the primaries, a race won by the incumbent governor, Ayodele Fayose, many people have been wondering what the serial aviation investor has up his sleeves. It was gathered that for a while the debonair businessman

practically disappeared into thin air due to the huge disappointment he encountered in Ekiti State.

But a source said the businessman who nearly suffered bankruptcy after the gubernatorial misadventure might have bidden farewell to politics as he claimed many have betrayed his trust and quietly news of a new venture, the Eagle Airways which he promises would commence operations across the country.

Ogunawo Olatomiwa Ebenezer’s lofty dream Though he has been in politics for the past 6 years even though he is based in Abuja where he works with National Assembly, but Ogunbanwo Olatomiwa Ebenezer is one politician whose dream is to serve his people of Ogun State as a member of House Assembly representing Odogbolu Constituency in Ogun State.

“I am looking at the Ogun State House of Assembly come 2019 under the party of All Progressives Congress (APC). Contrary to people opinion that politics is for hooligans, I disagree. People believe, especially Christians that Christians should not be seen in politics, that should not be. I love this country and I want to serve the country so as to develop her.

On his godfathers, he said: “To me, I went to God in prayer. I told him should I go ahead, would I overtake and the answer was, my son go ahead, I am with you and that boostworked with one of the present Honourables in the House of Assembly representing Odogbolu Ijebu Ode in the person of Hon Kehinde Odeneye and I think he has

Awolowo-Dosunmu joins the league of septuagenarians Nigeria s former ambassador to The Netherlands, Dr. Tokunbo Awolowo-Dosunmu, has clocked 70.

The respected medical doctor on Tuesday, February 20th joined the league of septuagenarians with outpouring emotions from scores of admirers and even common men, whose lives Awolowo – Dosunmu has impacted positively.

In celebrating her, AwolowoDosunmu was decorated with Iya Ewe title at the Our Saviour Anglican in Ikenne RemoOgun State.

Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Alake of Egbaland Oba Aremu Adetotun, and Pastor Tunde Bakare were among the A-list Nigerians that stormed the ancient town of Ikenne to honour Awolowo-Dosunmu.

The Presidency also joined the

Dr. Awolowo Dosunmu

Awolowo family, friends and professional colleagues of the cerebral daughter of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo to celebrate the landmark in a life that has over the years been lined with service to her fatherland and humanitarian.

Florence Ita-Giwa’s 72nd birthday blues

Florence Ita-Giwa

Tomiwa

been good. I have seen him as somebody who loves to see his followers growing.

“Most of our Honourtheir constituency feel their presence. They believe all what they need is just to pass laws, no that should not be. We have many projects that are left undone in most of our communities”.

Tomiwa will not give a promise on what he will do when elected come is not what people see when they are outside, it is not just what you say and promised or just on pages of newspapers. But for you to bring something to your people, you have to be a leader which is what I am going to do”.

socialite, Senator Florence ita-Giwa has dedicated her life to the service of humanity is like saying the obvious. Her service to her immediate environment is almost unequalled as she is widely acknowledged to have positively impacted her society.

As a philanthropist, she is well loved by people and well admired by the womenfolk generally. Interestingly, as she turned 72 on Monday, February 19, 2018, the dominant thought in her mind was how to give back to humanity with her new pet project - War against human

the amiable woman was away outside the country during her 72nd birthday.

Nevertheless some of her privileged friends would not want the day to pass unmarked and in celebration of the anniversary, her friends decided to host her to a private dinner in Beirut, Lebanon. At the dinner were some of her friends who

home and on Friday, February 23, she penthouse of her palatial mansion in Banana Island, Lagos.

Daily Times Nigeria

Friday, March 2, 2018

Society Gist L5

Ajibade Alabi

Oba Adedapo’s double celebration

It was celebration like no other weeks back as the high and mighty left ace of Osile of Oke Ona, Oba Adedapo Tejuosho, Karounwin III, to celebrate with him as he turned 80 and also celebrated his 30 years on the throne.

The Oba was in a happy mood during the celebration because all was well with him, as he enjoyed good health and looked refreshingly young with his skin glowing without wrinkles on his face, and

agile and witty with pageantry and pomp.

Oba Tejuosho, who is one of the most respected monarchs in Yorubaland, is not your run-of-the mill tradition ruler, he is one with a lot of difference.

Since becoming Osile of Oke Ona, this 80-yearold medical doctor and billionaire businessman critical sub sectors of the economy, has been on a crusade to win Egbaland for God.

When socialite, Joko Oni dragged celebrities to Ekiti for late hubby’s farewell The crème of Nigeria high society were at Okemesi Ekiti state last week Saturday as guests of popular Lagos socialite, Chief (Mrs.) Joko Oni as she bided her husband, late Chief Francis Adekunle Oni, farewell. The deceased, one of the sons of late business mogul, Chief T. A. Oni, died in January after a brief illness.

He was buried last Saturday in his hometown, Okemesi after a the two states of Oyo and Ekiti, though his transition actually of songs at Jogor centre, Liberty road of Ring road Ibadan, Oyo State and on Friday morning, held at Ebenezer African Church in Anfani Layonu, Ring road Ibadan. the reception was

Joko Oni

personalities some who came held at the from Ekiti, Oyo states and

African Church , Okemesi had in attendance many important

socialite who made party circles her oasis in her heydays. She found it impossible to miss any of those A-list parties particularly in Lagos.

Jaiye Kuti, Yemi Solade, others storm Ibadan for Rare Edge historical record breaking movie The Daily Times Society Gist gathered in Ibadan last week that Rare Edge Media, the producers of such as Aajiirebi, Awon Aladun De, Family First and Akoni Obinrin is currently on location to produce another ground

which started principal photography on the 22nd December 2017.

The production parades an amalgam of sterling quintessential Nollywood stars such as Taiwo Ibikunle, Tunde Oladimeji, Jaiye Kuti, Bimbo Oshin, Akin Lewis, Antar Laniyan, Alex Osifo, Ebun Oloyede (Olaiya Igwe) and Yemi Solade who recently turned 58 while on set of Borokini, to

The

according Daily

Times

captures the story of three elite friends and business partners - Laolu Deji and Supo who go through different journeys families, careers and aspirations. The story

strengths and weakness.

Borokini is a masterfully told story of Laolu (Akin Lewis), an extremely ambitious industrialist who wants to be king of his hometown Pakuroat all costs, Deji (Antar Laniyan), a calm looking

a semblance of calm till an old friend and brother simply referred to as retired from the military at that rank, miraculously returns, to the shock of the presumed him dead in a car crash proceeds to appropriate his share of their oil business to

a

lot

their

of

interactions

connected Yetunde (Bimbo Oshin) to help make babies for him.Supo (Yemi Solade), on the other hand is a wifeless, carefree Senior

fast life and wants to be

of

disturbance

to

romance,

with

them

is

intrigues,

murder as each try to

few things during its broadcast run.

Just like the other projects from Rare Edge Media, Borokini The

chaos which characterize the typical life of the upper-class elites. The ingredient of this storyline actors hitherto unknown, some of such as crime, romance, whom are trying out their acting glamour, power play and

Edge Media is using this production platform as a proper mentoring tool for young people thereby creating opportunity for young and emerging actors to work with established names in the industry and the result is a high end enjoyable, entertaining is expected to be able to retain audience discussion for as long as possible.

Gist L6

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

Mutiat Alli

Business mogul, Ifeanyi Odii, launches Tjan takes RNB to another level with ‘Sotey’ Ultimus Entertainment -

Nigerian Business mogul, Ifeanyi Odii has launched Ultimus Entertainment, a duces all related high-demand entertainment solutions.

with his unique style -

emergence in the music ous niche for himself with a growing array of fans and soulful songs

in the fast growing Nigerian entertainment industry as it has huge interests and business dealings as a record la-

In the words of the CEO, Ifeanyi Odii, global entertainment industry to be Af-

Smile amongst others,

engaged the best minds in the indus-

higher this time as he -

At the moment, Ultimus Entertainment Ifeanyi Odii

board as the manager of the record label -

Being the head of Ultimus Enterthat the world of entertainment will

it a notch higher with this soul soothing record fusing RNB and classi-

gift to his teaming fans.

mo world.

release of Sotey was

label.

MultiChoice, Africa Magic announce 2018 AMVCAs

2Face, Wizkid, Adekunle Gold, others for GIDI FEST 2018

with Multichoice, has announced the call to entry for the 2018 edition of the Africa tinent. technicians in the success of the conti-

-

-

the best of our home grown talent.

mal Swiss.

announce the call to entry for 2018 edi-

featured African and international acts and this year will be no different so stay tuned for the second announcement

ing talents and at AfricaMagic, we con-

-

er edition. After a brief hiatus, we are thrilled -

some of the most sort after Nigerian

ferent categories ranging from acting and -

This year, the organisers are intro-

Net West Africa, said: “Nearly one year

Wangi

before settling in its current home, -

2 days.

designing, sound and lighting amongst others. For 2018 there are 27 categories -

-

Daily Times Nigeria

Friday, March 2, 2018

In the sphere of online courses and training in Africa, there stands an astute and widely venerated expert who has dedicated ample amount of time to accentuate learning online. She is none other than Stephanie Obi who recently launched an online where everyone seeking to learn how to grow their businesses can sign up and be taught several business most

successful

leaders.

com) has managed to garner considerable buzz since its inception, with Stephanie describing it as a paradigm shift in the world of online courses and training. In this gives an insight into the platform and challenges of young entrepreneurs.

My name is Stephanie Obi. I run an online education company focused on creating and selling online courses. Over the past four years, I have launched over twenty online courses and worked with 600 students from over nine countries.

have an MBA from The Lagos Business School.

Trayny is an online platform that

L7 Interview

New Media is a gift to entrepreneurs –Stephanie Obi most trusted leaders. So far, we have launched an online course by Tara Fela

In 2013, I launched an online course to teach ladies how to start an Ankara Accessories Business. The feedback I got from that online course was humbling. So many of the people who took the course told me about how the course impacted their lives. This experience showed me how powerful education was, and it also opened my eyes to see the gap we had in the business education industry. A lot of entrepreneurs were starting businesses but did not have access to affordable and practical trainings that could help them grow. This is what inspired me to create a platform what would curate business trainings from people who had actually succeeded in Africa, so that anyone anywhere can have access to it.

One of the biggest challenges would be lack of know how. They keep know what to do or the right way to achieve a goal. A lot of people claim that lack of capital is a big challenge, but the truth is, looking for money to start or grow a business is also a skill that can be learnt.

We have one course for now, but plan free guides we give out on the platform to launch many more online courses at www.trayny.com before the end of the year.

No, it is not restricted to Nigerians only.

We already have Africans from people in New Media is a gift to entrepreneurs, because the barriers have been brought down and entrepreneurs can now market of America, South Africa, Namibia, directly to their customers at a very and India taking online courses on the affordable rate and most times, for free.

It has also brought about a new wave of platform. online entrepreneurs. Businesses that could not have existed a few years ago They can visit www.trayny.com, are now thriving businesses. browse through the courses and pay for the courses. After they pay, we will give them access to the lessons and the Trayny is going to have an array of community of entrepreneurs who will courses that will cater to entrepreneurs be taking the course with them. They in different stages of their businesses. will not only be learning new skills, they Some of the courses will cater to will also have access to networking opportunities. established businesses. We are very excited about the courses we have lined up.

They can sign up for the online new information. courses, and also take advantage of the

L8

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, March 2, 2018

Confusion as new pairings struggle to know fate in Big Brother’s House

Bambam and Teddy-Finally get down