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Dangote Cement delights shareholders with N179bn dividend Pays N10.50 per 50k share Motolani Oseni, Lagos Shareholders of Dangote Cement on Wednesday at the company’s 9th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Lagos were full of praise for the Board, Management and staff of the company after approving the dividend payout of N10.50 per 50k share, representing 90 per

cent of net profit and an increase of 23.5 per cent on the N8.5 per share paid last year.

The shareholders described Dangote Cement as a very reliable company that has consistently demonstrated its love for the shareholders.

The shareholders unanimously urged the regulators to Continued on page 4

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THURSDAY, JUNE 21, 2018

VOL. 3

NO. 681

Faults NASS’ padding with N578bn projects, N14.5bn hike in lawmakers’ budget No, we’re not executive rubber stamp, padding justifiable, says NASS

President okays 12 justices for Appeal Court, 16 for High Court g7

Atiku to Jonathan: History will be fair to you as core democrat g7

Nwaoboshi’s trial begins as legal firm seeks Buhari’s probe over Delta killings President Muhammadu Buhari during the signing of the 2018 Appropriation Bill into law at the Presidential Villa, Abuja... on Wednesday

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US Govt deports 34 Nigerians for various offences g 5

EFCC files criminal charge against ex-Gov Dakingari g 8

L-R: Chairman, Dangote Cement Plc, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Group Managing Director/CEO, Engr. Joseph Makoju; Non-Executive Director, Olakunle Alake and Group Chief Financial Officer, Brian Egan, during the 9th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Dangote Cement Plc in Lagos... on Wednesday.

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Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

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Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

Dangote Cement delights shareholders with N179bn dividend Continued from page 1 give special award to the company and its Management for keeping faith with the shareholders.

President, Progressives Shareholders Association of Nigeria, Boniface Okezie, said the shareholders were pleased with Aliko Dangote and his team. He said for the company to still pay a robust dividend despite the recession in the economy, which also affected their operations shows the doggedness and the fighting entrepreneurial spirit of the Management.

Okezie said, “We are very happy and pleased with this result. 2017 was very tough with the recession and fluctuation in the foreign exchange market which the Chairman also said affected their operations, but despite all these challenges, the company was still able to pay us a very good dividend, better than last year, and even gave us hope of better returns on our investments in the years to come. This is very commendable and it is only a company like Dangote Cement that can achieve this laudable feat.”

Another shareholders’ association leader, Dr. Umar Farouk, urged the regulators to adequately compensate the Management of the Dangote Cement

with an award as it has consistently kept faith with its shareholders.

Farouk expressed optimism on the pan African plants, especially now that the Plants are contributing significantly to the turnover of the company.

“It is a statement of fact that we are lucky to be shareholders of this great company. If you see what our subsidiaries across Africa is contributing to the turnover, then you will understand what I am talking about. I am very happy and our members are upbeat for the future, knowing fully well that it will only get better,” he said.

But the Chairman of Dangote Cement, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, attributed the 31 per cent increase in the company’s revenue of N805.6 billion to its pan African operations growth which also recorded a significant increase in revenue from N195 billion to N258.4 billion in 2017.

He said: “Pan African operations increased volumes by 8.4 per cent, with Ethiopia, Senegal, Cameroon and South Africa all performing strongly and close to their operating capacity.”

Noting that the company experienced some challenges in operating in sub-Saharan Africa, Dangote said the Management responded in robust fashion and benefited from “…the diversity we have created

across our business and because of our local knowledge and attitudes towards doing business in neighboring countries in Africa.”

Explaining the rationale behind the success recorded by the Dangote Cement’s revenue, the acting Group Chief executive, Joe Makoju said, “ The increase was helped by our decision to increase our use of local coal in Nigeria and that also helped to improve our fuel security, maintain production uptime and it reduced our need for foreign currency. We source coal from our parent company, Dangote Industries and from another Nigerian supplier, and we are very happy with the way this has worked out for us because it has enabled us to phase out the use of expensive low pour fuel oil in our kilns and also to reduce our use of imported coal.”

Commenting on the future growth plans for the Group, Makoju said, “As it stands, I think we will focus on building new grinding plants along the coast of West Africa, and ensure we have clinker export facilities in Nigeria. We are looking at the possibility of two new lines in Nigeria, perhaps by the end of 2020 and its likely these will be in Edo State and Obajana, with a combined capacity of 6Mta.”

PHOTO TIMES

Port Harcourt, Nigeria, 20 June, 2018: Former President Goodluck Jonathan and former Vice President and PDP presidential hopeful, Atiku Abubakar, at Atiku’s courtesy visit to Jonathan at his country home in Otuoke, Bayelsa State... on Wednesday.

L-R: Former Governor of Abia State, Dr. Orji Kalu; Chairmanship Aspirant All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Adams Oshiomhole and Minister of Women Affairs, Asiha Al- Hassan, during a courtesy visit to Oshiomhole in Abuja...on Wednesday.

Photo: Temitope Balogun.

Nwaoboshi trial begins as firm urges Buhari to probe Delta killings Peter Fowoyo, Lagos and Andrew Orolua, Abuja The trial of Senator Peter Nwaoboshi (PDP, Delta North) commenced on Wednesday at the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, just as a law firm has petitioned President Muhammadu Buhari, asking him to order probe over alleged involvement of the senator in Delta Killings in 2013.

The prosecuting Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Wednesday presented two of its witnesses who gave testimonies in the two-count charge of conspiracy and money laundering brought by the commission.

Prince Kpokpogiri, the Prosecution’s Witness (PW1), said he wrote a petition to the EFCC after he received an anonymous call and some

documents at his office in Asaba, Delta State.

He stated that he was subsequently invited by the EFCC to Abuja to come and adopt the petition.

The witness said he runs a non governmental organisation, Anti-Corruption and Integrity Forum, as well as a real estate firm, P.K Aro Multiservices Nigeria Limited.

During cross examination, the witness said his petition did not contain a list of the firm’s Board of Directors because it was not mandatory.

He also said it was not his duty to investigate the contents of his petition before forwarding to the EFCC. “I only investigated by going through the documents. I did not contact the defendants because it is the work of the EFCC.” The defence lawyer, Chief

Anthony Idigbe (SAN), accused the witness of being an agent of the EFCC. “I also put it to you that apart from the fact that you did not investigate the documents, you did not also take any step to verify the facts stated in the petition,” Idigbe said.

Another Prosecution Witness (PW2), Murtala Abubakar, in his evidence in chief, stated that Suiming Electricals Limited, the third defendant, applied for a loan at the Nigerian Export Import Bank in December 2013, and it was approved in April 2014.

Abubakar, the head of Enterprise Risk Management unit at the bank, said Nwaoboshi was a former board member of the bank.

He also said that while the meeting to take a decision on the loan request was being held, Nwaoboshi indicated

Continued on page 5

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson (right) speaking during the commissioning ceremony of Annex 6 of the Bayelsa State Secretariat Complex, executed by the Restoration Government at Ovom in Yenagoa, while from left-right: the State Head of Service, Rev. Thomas Zidafamo, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Konbowei Benson, Deputy Governor, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah retd, and the former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar looks on.

(Middle): Chioma Okolie, CSR Lead, Airtel Nigeria; (left) Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Communications, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ujani; (right) his wife, Mrs Nonyelem Ujani during the recent premiere of Airtel Touching Lives Season 4 in Lagos

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

5 News

I was forced to sign N9.12trn 2018 budget into law - Buhari Mathew Dadiya, Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari has said he was compelled to sign the 2018 Budget into law given the numerous insertions and alterations made in the budget by the National Assembly before passing the bill.

The President added that he was concerned about some of the changes that the National Assembly made to

the budget proposals that he presented seven months ago.

Buhari said that he decided to sign the 2018 Budget in order not to further slowdown the pace of recovery of the economy, which has doubtlessly been affected by the delay in passing the budget.

The President expressed his displeasure on Wednesday when he appended his signature to the budget bill at the Aso Villa, Abuja.

He said that it was unfortunate the

Nwaoboshi trial begins as firm urges Buhari to probe Delta killings Continued from page 4 his interest in the transaction and was recused from the deliberation.

The Senator is a Director at Bildeberg, a holding company which has the majority shareholding in Suiming Electricals Nigeria Limited.

Abubakar said the EFCC made five requests to the bank on Suiming Electricals, starting from June 2017, in respect of the loan transaction granted to the company.

He further stated that the company met all the bank’s conditions before the loan was disbursed.

The witness said although the third defendant had repaid over ₦1 billion of the loan, it is still a non-performing one as “the loan facility is for five years”.

“There is a difference between paying and performing. When we give a loan, we give you a payment plan. When you are supposed to be paying ₦1 million quarterly but you are paying ₦200,000, you are paying but you are not performing.”

However, the EFCC on Wednesday requested for an adjournment to enable it assemble its remaining four witnesses.

Senator Nwaoboshi is standing trial alongside two firms – Golden Touch Construction Project Limited and Suiming Electricals Limited.

Count one of the charge accused the senator and Golden Touch Construction Project Ltd of fraudulently acquiring a property known as Guinea House situated at Marine Road, Apapa in Lagos, between May and June 2014, at a cost N805 million.

The charge stated that the defendants ought to have known that N322 million out of the purchase price formed part of the proceeds of an unlawful act under the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act. Count two of the charge accused Suiming Electricals of aiding Nwaoboshi and Golden Touch Construction Projects Ltd to commit money laundering.

Justice Idris later fixed July 2 for continuation of trial.

Meanwhile, a law firm, E. E. Legal Consult has petitioned President Buhari, calling for a probe of one Uba Nonso’s confessional statement that allegedly implicated Nwaoboshi in a series of killings in Ibusa, Delta State in 2013.

The firm, acting as solicitor to the family of Nonso, said in the petition signed by Ezezobor Emmanuel Izibili and Dickson Anieh, that all persons mentioned in Nonso’s confessional statement should be investigated.

The petitioners said that Nonso, sometime in 2013, was arrested by the police in Delta State and charged for armed robbery and murder.

Part of the petition read thus: “That the said Uba Nonso, made a confessional statement admitting robbery, and murder of one Zikara Saswad, and four others. That in the said confessional statement, Uba Nonso specifically mentioned some names and persons who had provided them with guns and actually contracted them to kill in Delta State.

“That despite Uba Nonso’s confessional statement which was also corroborated by his co- convicts, implicating these persons, that these persons were never invited for questioning, let alone charged and prosecuted for their involvement in the confessed crimes.

“It is shocking that those implicated

by Uba Nonso in his confessional statement move as free men in the society today, rather than being behind the bar.

“No man is above the law, goes the saying; it is, therefore, our passionate appeal to your Excellency, as the fountain of justice, to use your good office to cause immediate investigation into the confessional statement of Uba Nonso, with a view to bringing the persons whose names were mentioned to Justice.

“Furthermore, it is also our humble appeal that the said Uba Nonso be transferred from Ogwashiuku prison to any other prison in the country as he had expressed fear about his safety, arising from the names and persons he mentioned in his confessional statement.

“Your Excellency, Sir, the summary and aggregate of our complaint is contained in the Uba Nonso confessional statement (see page 9-12) which is attached to this petition for your kind perusal and possible action,” they stated.

The said pages of the confessional statement, alleged that Nonso and his co-convicts were contracted by Nwaoboshi, the then chairman of PDP Delta State to kill with guns given to them through one Emeka said to be his driver.

Buhari

National Assembly did not give much regard in what has been sent to him.

The 2018 Budget signed into law, provides for aggregate expenditure of N9.12 trillion, which is 22.6% higher than the 2017 Appropriation.

The President said that further details of the approved budget will be provided by the Minister of Budget and National Planning.

Buhari maintained that “the logic behind the Constitutional direction that budgets should be proposed by the Executive is that, it is the Executive that knows and defines its policies and projects.”

The Daily Times recalls that President Buhari had on November 7, 2017, presented the 2018 budget proposal to the National Assembly.

Buhari lamented that the National Assembly made cuts amounting to N347 billion in the allocations to 4,700 projects submitted to them for consideration and introduced 6,403 projects of their own amounting to N578 billion.

He bemoaned that many of the projects cut are critical and may be difficult, if not impossible, to implement with the reduced allocation.

The President said, “Some of the new projects inserted by the National

Assembly have not been properly conceptualised, designed and costed and will therefore be difficult to execute.

“Furthermore, many of these new projects introduced by the National Assembly have been added to the budgets of most MDAs with no consideration for institutional capacity to execute them or the incremental recurrent expenditure that may be required.

“As it is, some of these projects relate to matters that are the responsibility of the States and Local Governments, and for which the Federal Government should therefore not be unduly burdened.

Buhari recalled that when he submitted the 2018 Budget proposals to the National Assembly on November 7, 2017, he had hoped that the usual legislative review process would be quick, so as to move Nigeria towards a predictable JanuaryDecember financial year.

“The importance of this predictability cannot be over-emphasised”, he stated.

“While the Federal Government’s budget represents less than 10% of aggregate yearly expenditure in the economy, it has a very significant accelerator effect on the financial plans of other tiers of government, and even

more importantly, the private sector, which mostly operates on a JanuaryDecember financial year”, Buhari said.

Speaking further, the President said, notwithstanding, the delay this year, he is determined to continue to work with the National Assembly towards improving the budgeting process and restoring the country to the JanuaryDecember fiscal cycle.

He said: “I note, with pleasure, that the National Assembly is working on the enactment of an Organic Budget Law, so as to improve the efficiency of the nation’s budgetary process.

“As I mentioned during the presentation of the 2018 Appropriation Bill, we intend to use the 2018 Budget to consolidate the achievements of previous budgets and deliver on Nigeria’s Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) 2017-2020.

“Such examples of projects from which cuts were made are as follows: The provisions for some nationally/ regionally strategic infrastructure projects such as Counter-part funding for the Mambilla Power Plant, Second Niger Bridge/ancillary roads, the East-West Road, Bonny-Bodo Road, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and ItakpeAjaokuta Rail Project were cut by an aggregate of N11.5billion.

“Similarly, provisions for some ongoing critical infrastructure projects in the FCT, Abuja especially major arterial roads and the mass transit rail project, were cut by a total of N7.5 billion.

“The provision for Rehabilitation and Additional Security Measures for the United Nations Building by the FCT, Abuja was cut by N3.9 billion from N4 billion to N100 million; this will make it impossible for the Federal Government of Nigeria to fulfill its commitment to the United Nations on this project.

“The provisions for various Strategic Interventions in the health sector such as the upgrade of some tertiary health institutions, transport and storage of vaccines through the cold chain supply system, provision of anti-retroviral drugs for persons on treatment, establishment of chemotherapy centres and procurement of dialysis consumables were cut by an aggregate amount of N7.45 billion Naira.

“The provision for security infrastructure in the 104 Unity Schools

Continued on page 6

US Govt deports 34 Nigerians for various offences Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo The United States Government on Wednesday sent 34 Nigerians back home for committing various offences in the country.

The deportees , comprising 32 males and two females arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMlA), Lagos at about 2.30pm aboard a chartered Omni Air International aircraft with Registration Number: W342AX. DSP Joseph Alabi, the spokesman of

the Lagos Airport Police Command, confirmed the development to journalists.

Alabi said: “At about 14.30 hours (2.30pm), we received 34 Nigerians who were brought back from the United States. They were made up of 32 males and two females. “ He added that the 25 of deportees were alleged to have committed criminal offences, one was allegedly involved in narcotics while the others were alleged to have committed immigration-related offences.

Alabi said the deportees were received by officers of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and the Police.

Also on ground to receive them were officials the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

He said the deportees were profiled by the relevant authorities and were allowed to depart to their various destinations.

News 6

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

At last, OAU sacks professor over sex-for-mark scandal Say he had inappropriate affairs with female student

Benjamin Omoike, Lagos The Governing Council of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, on Wednesday announced the dismissal of Professor Richard Akindele, who was allegedly involved in a sex-for-marks scandal.

The Vice Chancellor of OAU, Prof. Eyitope Ogunbodede, who made the announcement in a statement, said that the University Senate at its meeting on June 14 considered the committee’s findings that Akindele had inappropriate relationship with a female student.

The Daily Times recalls that the VC had, on April 19, confirmed Akindele’s suspension pending outcome of the investigative panel.

A Masters of Business Degree programme student, Miss Monica Osagie, had released a recorded telephone conversation, which went viral on the internet, in which the sacked lecturer allegedly demanded five rounds of sex in exchange of high marks for Osagie.

He said this was established through their conversation in the audio recording, his reply to the query, the oral evidence and the printed ‘‘WhatsApp conversations’’ tendered before the committee.

The vice chancellor said Akindele had acted in a manner that compromised his position as a teacher and examiner, in that his conversations with Monica Osagie were about examination scores and inducement of favour for the alteration of examination

scores.

Ogunbodede said, “he offered to change Miss Osagie’s purported “33%” result to a pass mark in consideration for sexual favours; this was established in the audio recording which he admitted.

“His claim that Miss Osagie knew that she had passed with a score of ‘45’ but was seeking to score an ‘A’ and that this led to him being sexually harassed by Miss Osagie cannot be supported by any evidence.

“Professor Akindele’s actions in requesting sexual favours from Miss Osagie to change her examination scores was scandalous behaviour that has brought ridicule to the name of the university and has tarnished the reputation of the university, as it portrays

the university as an institution where its teachers and examiners trade marks for sexual favours.

“From the evidence, Miss Osagie had no idea that she scored ‘45’, a pass mark as later claimed by Professor Akindele, although she later found out she did not fail the course.

“Professor Akindele’s claim that he reported Miss Osagie’s ‘harassment’ to his colleagues cannot be supported by any evidence, as all his colleagues denied it and one mentioned that she only talked about the matter with him after the audio recording was released over the internet.

“Professor Akindele operated in a position of power and authority over Miss Osagie and as such, sexually harassed her.

“Professor Akindele was liable for all the allegations of misconduct levelled against him.

“The Council, at its meeting of today, Wednesday, June 20, 2018, having considered the recommendation of Senate, as well as the report of the Joint Committee of Council and Senate, decided that Professor Richard I. Akindele should be dismissed from the services of the university for gross misconduct.

“The university has also taken further steps to ensure the total elimination of Sexual Harassment (SH) in the OAU community.

“The university has a legal duty to prevent sexual and gender-based harassment within the institution and ensure that both men and women are protected from this

menace; and thereby provide conducive environment for teaching and learning.”

Ogunbodede, pointed out that the veracity of sexual harassment concepts include sexual solicitation and advances, sex exploitation, prostitution, seduction, pimping, sexual assault, unwanted touching, vulgarly sexual jokes and rape, among others.

According to him, OAU was fully committed to the eradication of sexual and other types of harassment from the university and would do all that is possible to curb them.

“OAU has zero tolerance for sexual harassment and as a renowned university, will do everything humanly possible to maintain the rules and regulations of the university,’’ the Vice Chancellor added.

I was forced to sign N9.12trn 2018 budget into law - Buhari Continued from page 5 across the country were cut

by N3 billion at a time when securing our students against acts of terrorism ought to be a major concern of government”.

Buhari further observed that the provision for the Federal Government’s National Housing Programme was cut

by N8.7 billion.

According to him, “at a time when we are working with Labour to address compensation-related issues, a total of N5 billion was cut from the provisions for Pension Redemption Fund and Public Service Wage Adjustment”.

The president noted further that the provisions for Export Expansion Grant (EEG) and Special Economic Zones/ Industrial Parks, which are key industrialisation initiatives of this administration, were cut by a total of N14.5 billion. “The provision for Construction of the Terminal Building at Enugu Airport was cut from N2 billion to N500 million which will further delay the completion of this critical project.

“The Take-off Grant for the Maritime University in Delta State, a key strategic initiative of the Federal Government, was cut from N5 billion to N3.4 billion.

“About 70 new road projects have been inserted into the budget of the Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing.

“In doing so, the National Assembly applied some of the additional funds expected from the upward review of the oil price benchmark to the Ministry’s vote. Regrettably, however, in order to make

provision for some of the new roads, the amounts allocated to some strategic major roads have been cut by the National Assembly.

“Another area of concern is the increase by the National Assembly of the provisions for Statutory Transfers by an aggregate of N73.96 billion.

Most of these increases are for recurrent expenditure at a time we are trying to keep down the cost of governance.

“An example of this increase is the budget of the National Assembly itself which has increased by N14.5 billion, from N125 billion to N139.5 billion without any discussion with the Executive.

“However, it is my intention to seek to remedy some of the most critical of these issues through a supplementary and/ or amendment budget which I hope the National Assembly will be able to expeditiously consider,” the president added.

Meanwhile, the president expressed satisfaction with the success recorded in the implementation of the 2017 Budget.

He stressed that a total sum of N1.5 trillion has been released for the implementation of capital projects during the 2017 fiscal year.

“In response to this and other policy measures implemented, we have observed significant improvement in the performance of the Nigerian economy,” he stated.

Buhari assured that to achieve the laudable objectives of the 2018 Budget, his administration would work very hard to generate the revenues required to finance our projects and

programmes.

He said that the positive global oil market outlook, as well as continuing improvement in non-oil revenues, make the government optimistic about its ability to finance the budget.

“However, being a deficit budget, the Borrowing Plan will be forwarded to the National Assembly shortly.

I crave the indulgence of the National Assembly for a speedy consideration and approval of

the Plan”.

The president also commended the Ministers of Budget and National Planning, the Budget Office of the Federation, and everyone who “worked tirelessly and sacrificed so much to bring us to this day.

“However, the job is only partly done. I am sure you will remain committed to advancing our Change Agenda, not only in the preparation of the national

budget, but also in ensuring its effective implementation,” Buhari said.

But the president thanked the leadership of the National Assembly, particularly the Senate President, Bukola Saraki and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara as well as all the Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members, for passing the 2018 Appropriation Bill, after seven months.

The 2018 budget is the longest in the history of budget passage in Nigeria as it took the lawmakers seven months to pass the Appropriation bill.

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has reacted to the comment by President Buhari over the insertion of N578 billion into the 2018 budget, saying that the federal lawmakers are not executive rubber stamp.

Continued on page 7

L-R: Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi; All Progressives Congress Leader in Oyo Central Senatorial District, Chief Solomon Akindele; and a member of the House of Representatives, Prince Akeem Adeyemi, during the governor’s condolence visit to the family of a late APC stalwart, Chief Samuel Ogundiran, in Jobele, Afijio Local Government Area of the state, on Wednesday

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

7 News

I was forced to sign N9.12trn 2018 budget into law - Buhari Continued from page 6 Chairman, House Committee on Media and Publicity, Hon Abdulrazak Namdas in a statement issued on Wednesday evening, insisted that the budget is usually a proposal by the Executive to the National Assembly, which the latter is given the constitutional power of appropriation to alter, make additions, costs or reduce as it may deem necessary.

The House Spokesmann stated that Legislature is not expected to be a rubberstamp by simply approving the Executive proposals and returning the budget to Mr. President.

The lawmaker said that “the additions Mr. President complained of in his speech are justifiable.

“We are on the same page with Mr. President in his desire to return our budget cycle to January-December. By the provisions of the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007, the budget estimates should be with the National Assembly around September of the year. In the case of the 2018 budget, the estimates came behind schedule in November 2017, even though this attempt was seen as one of the earliest in recent years.

Going forward, we urge the Executive to speed up the reporting time to the National Assembly by complying fully with the FRA. “Besides, there were delays that should be blamed on the heads of MDAs. Mr. President will recall that he had to direct ministers and heads of agencies to go to the National Assembly to defend their proposals. This came after the National Assembly had persistently raised the alarm over the non-cooperative attitudes of these government officials. On this grounds, the delay in passing the budget cannot be blamed on the legislature.

“New projects in budget. On this aspect, we have to remind Mr. President that we are representatives of our people and wish to state that even the common man deserves a mention in the budget by including projects that will directly affect his life positively. Some of the projects designed by the executive, as high-sounding as their names suggest, do not meet the needs of the common man.

“National Assembly budget. Before 2015, the budget of the National Assembly was N150 billion for several years. It was cut down to N120bn in 2015 and further down to N115bn in 2016. In 2017, the budget was N125bn and N139.5bn in 2018. This means that the budget of the National Assembly is still far below the N150bn in the years before 2015.

“While we commend Mr. President for a good working relationship, we also wish to state that we have a job to do, which requires adequate funding as well. The additional costs and projects to the budget were done in good faith for the sole purpose of improving the lives of Nigerians,” the House spokesman stated.

Namdas said that the House welcomed the proposal by Mr. President to forward a supplementary budget to the National Assembly to address other areas of pressing demands and commended the President and the entire executive arm for a cordial working relationship.

We agree with Reps position - Senate

Meanwhile, the Senate has said that it is on the same page with the House of Representatives over its response to the issues raised by Buhari on the 2018 Appropriations while signing it into law, saying that it totally agree with the position stated by the lower chamber.

The Senate stared this in a statement made available last night by the Chairman, Senate Committee on Media and Publicity, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi.

The statement reads in part, “ It should also be noted that the leadership of both chambers have directed the chairmen of our committees on appropriations to provide item by item, detail explanations on all points raised by the President for the benefit of members of the public. They will therefore address a press conference on Friday, June 22, 2018.

“It should however be noted that the action of the National Assembly while working on the budget was informed by the provision of the constitution on the need for inclusion, balance and the fact that the first responsibility of government is the security and welfare of all citizens.”

Buhari Cannot Implement 2018 Budget -PDP The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has castigated President Muhammadu Buhari for his submission that the 2018 budget he signed yesterday, will be near unimplementable.

The party said the submission was a clear admission that the President lacks the capacity and competence to run a development-oriented economy as desired by Nigerians.

The PDP spokesperson , Kola Ologbondiyan in a statement on Wednesday said Buhari stunned Nigerians and the business community worldwide with the statement while signing the budget.

The party said Buhari “exhibited unpardonable ignorance of the dynamics of international best practices in macroeconomics management”, an indication that the nation’s economy is in very bad hands.

The party further asserted that.

“President Buhari, in picking holes on items that would directly impact on economic productivity, infrastructural advancement, rural development as well as those that would provide urgent palliatives to the plights of Nigerians, shows his aversion to developmental economy as well as insensitivity to the

welfare of our citizens.

“In fact, President Buhari, in his comments on the budget has further de-marketed our economy before international investors, thereby worsening our woes as a nation. “ How on earth can a President, if indeed he loves the people, quarrel over budgetary items seeking to cushion the biting effect of the economic recession, particularly for the poor, who are the direct victims of the harsh policies of his incompetent administration? “ Furthermore, President Buhari’s resort to blaming the National Assembly for his inability to exert himself as a leader and ensure smooth implementation of the budget, further shows that he cares little about the actual needs of the people, having holed in himself in the comfort, security and pleasures of the Presidential villa”.

The PDP, therefore urged the National Assembly to ensure strict implementation of the 2018 budget.

The party also called on all Nigerians to save the country from what it described as official lethargy by rallying on the platform of the repositioned PDP and voting out President Buhari and his All Progressives Congress (APC), come 2019.

L-R: Commissioner for Wealth Creation, Cooperatives and Employment, Emmanuel Usoh; Public Affairs and Company CSR Manager(East/Central), Nigerian Bottling Company Ltd, Ekuma Eze; Executive Governor of Edo state, Godwin Obaseki and Public Affairs and CSR Manager(Lagos West), Nigerian Bottling Company Ltd, Ifeoma Okoye during the 2018 NBC/CCHBC Youth Empowered Workshop.

Buhari okays 12 Justices for Appeal Court, 16 for High Court Andrew Orolua, Abuja.

President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday approved the appointment of 12 new justices for the Court of Appeal, nine new judges for the Federal High Court and seven new Judges for the High Court of the Federal Capital.

The President approval was sequel to the recommendation of the National Judicial Council (NJC).

The 12 Justices approved for the Court of Appeal are: Hon. Mr Justice P. A. Mahmud, ​Hon. Mr Justice F. O. Ojo, ​Hon. Mr Justice I. A. Andenyangsto,​ Hon. Mr Justice G. O. Kolawole ,​ Hon. Mr Justice B. B. Aliyu, Hon. Mr Justice Ebiowei Tobi, ​Hon. Mr Justice J. G. Abundaga, ​Hon.

Mr Justice A. S. Umar, Hon. Mr Justice A. M. Talba , Hon. Mr Justice A. M. Bayero, Hon. Mr Justice A. M. Lamido and Hon. Mr Justice M. B. Idris.

Nine lawyers whose appointment were approved as judges for the Federal High Court are: ​Sunday Bassey Onu, Mrs. Adefunmilola Adekemi Demi-Ajayi, Mr Justice Peter O. Lifu,​Obiora Atuegwu Egwuata,​ Sa’adatu Ibrahim Mark (Mrs),​ Mobolaji Olubukola Olajuwon,​ Aminu Bappa Aliyu, ​Tijjani Garba Ringim and ​Nkeonye Evelyn Maha.

The seven other lawyers whose appointment were approved by the President as judges for the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory are as follows: Binta Mohammed,​ Modupe

Osho-Adebiyi, ​Gaba Venchak Simon,​Babangida Hassan, ​Akobi Iyabeni Anna, ​Samirah Umar Bature, and ​Asmau Akanbi Yusuf A statement signed by Director, Information, NJC , Soji Oye, Esq said the new Justices of the Court of Appeal will be sworn-in by the Chief Justice of Nigeria and Chairman, National Judicial Council, Mr Justice Walter Onnoghen on Friday at about 10am.

Those appointed for the Federal High Court will be sworn-in on Monday, June 25, 2018, at 2pm, and Judges appointed for the High Court of the FCT are to be sworn-in on Tuesday, June 26, 2018, by 2pm at the Main Hall of the Court Room of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

History will be fair to you as a core democrat, Atiku tells Jonathan Tunde Opalana, Abuja.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has described former President Goodlcuk Jonathan as a hero of democracy in Nigeria.

In a press statement made available to the Daily Times by the Atiku Media Office, the former Vice President made the assertion on Wednesday during a courtesy call on President Jonathan at his country home in Otuoke, Bayelsa State.

Atiku Abubakar, who recalled Jonathan’s exemplary decision to hand over the reins of power without qualms, observed that that singular historic decision set him apart as a democrat of unimpeachable credentials.

Atiku, while reflecting on Jonathan’s action that doused tension in the country at that time,

noted that the situation in Nigeria may have been different if he (Jonathan) did not voluntarily relinquish power.

He said, “I want to say without equivocation that history will be very kind to you. As the democrat that I have always been, I want to say you have truly excelled! If you did not excel as a democrat par excellence, I wonder what the situation in Nigeria would be today”.

Atiku had during his visit to EKiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose called on the APC to follow the footsteps of Jonathan by accepting defeat if the party lose the election.

Responding, Jonathan commended Atiku for appointing former Governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel as Director General of the Atiku Presidential Campaign Organisation.

He noted that Daniel’s choice

as director general was spot on, considering that as DG of his own (Jonathan’s) Campaign in the South West, his hard work paid off and was capped with huge electoral success in the zone.

He said that his relationship with Atiku dates back to more than 16 years ago when he was Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State during which time the Waziri Adamawa showed him friendship and support.

On his own part, Daniel paid tribute to Jonathan as the most educated President Nigeria has ever had, who made it through the ranks as Deputy Governor to becoming Vice President and subsequently President of Nigeria.

Atiku was in Bayelsa from where he moved to Port Harcourt on Wednesday in continuation of his nationwide consultations for his 2019 presidential bid.

News 8

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

EFCC files criminal Bomb scare rocks Ebonyi PDP secretariat charge against ex- Gov Dakingari Charles Onyekwere, Abakaliki

Andrew Orolua, Abuja The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), on Wednesday succeeded in serving the former Kebbi State Governor Usman Saidu Dakingari with a 15 count criminal charge filed over a month ago at the Federal High Court in Kebbi .

A statement by the EFCC’s Head, Media & Publicity, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren stated that Dakingari has been evading the operatives of the commission in the past one month but the bailiff of the Federal High Court Kebbi served him with charge at about 1.51pm in his residence at GRA Birnin Kebbi.

The 15 charge was served on the defendant through one of his household, Mohammed Danladi who collected the charge and the court order issued by the court granting the EFCC leave to serve Dakingari alongside the 2nd and 3rd defendants.

The court further ordered the defendants to appear before it on June 25, 2018 to

take their plea.

Dakingari was supposed to be arraigned on Wednesday June 20, before the Federal High Court, Kebbi alongside three others, Sunday Dogonyaro, Abdullahi Yelwa and Garba Rabiu Kamba for allegedly receiving N700million cash from a former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Deizani Alison -Madueke.

The arraignment was however stalled because the 1st, 2nd and 3rd defendants evaded service and refused to honour invitation by the Commission.

Consequently, the prosecution was only able to produce the fourth defendant, Garba Rabiu Kamba before the court.

But the prosecuting lawyer,Johnson Ojogbane, applied for an order of court pursuant to section 382(5) of ACJA for leave to serve the defendants through substituted means.

The application was granted as prayed and the matter was subsequently adjourned to June 25, 2018 for arraignment.

The police in Ebonyi State have discovered a gadget suspected to be Improvised Explosive Device (IED), at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Secretariat on AbakalikiEnugu highway.

The discovery led to the summoning of emergency security meeting by Governor David Umahi at the State Executive Council chambers, Government House, Abakaliki.

Briefing Journalists after the Security Council meeting,

Governor Umahi disclosed that the discovery of the IED came to him as a shock and expressed concern over desperation of the opposition to cease power at all cost.

Governor Umahi alleged that all available security briefs from the Commissioner of Police and other security Chiefs in the state pointed to desperation of some persons in the opposition party.

“The police discovered bomb in our PDP secretariat and from all accounts, and security briefs from the commissioner of police, the

IED was a little bit old showing that it must have been planted by the desperate opposition people in one of the days I was at the secretariat for a meeting but God did not allow the thing to detonate and God will never allow it to happen to us.

“Our suspects are the desperate opposition people who have become jobless and aggressive ahead of the 2019 general election because they think they can cease power by all means. I have directed the security Chiefs to make full scale investigation into the incident and report to their

Ekiti 2018: NUJ, CSOs preach peace to residents To sensitise residents of Ekiti on the need for a peaceful governorship election on July 14, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in the state on Wednesdaystaged a walk around Ado-Ekiti metropolis.

Members of the NUJ, NYSC, Civil Society Organisations as well as students and officials of the Ado-Ekiti Campus of the International Institute of Journalism participated in the walk.

The procession moved from NUJ Secretariat, Oke Bareke, through Isato, Irona, Ijigbo, Old Garage, Okeyinmi,

Okesa and Ojumose to Atikankan areas of the state capital.

Participants carried placards and distributed leaflets denouncing violence, arson and electoral malpractice.

Some of the placards had inscriptions such as “We Want Peace in Ekiti,” “Vote, Not Fight, Election No Be War,” “Remember, Your Life Is Very Precious,” and “Shun Electoral Violence.”

Addressing residents, the NUJ Chairman in the state, Rotimi Ojomoyela, said the walk was the contribution

of the union to a peaceful electoral process.

He urged politicians, voters and other stakeholders to partner in ensuring a peaceful electoral process.

Ojomoyela said that the NUJ as a non-partisan body was committed to supporting a peaceful conduct of the election.

“Election is a civic duty and should be done peacefully; we urge eligible voters to go to their polling stations on Election Day and vote peacefully for the candidates of their choice.

various headquarters while we as government will report to Mr. President” Governor Umahi further decried the spate of killings in the state by militias suspected to have come from Cross River state and urged the people of the affected areas to defend themselves in the face of helplessness from various quarters.

He lamented that despite his peaceful disposition to maintain peace between the people of Edda in Afikpo South and Oferekpe in Ikwo local government areas of the state between their Cross River state counterparts, the later have been consistent in killing of their Ebonyi brothers.

“The Council also received briefs from the security agencies concerning the worrisome killings of our people in Edda and Oferekpe areas by the Cross River state people. I have complained to Mr. President and Vice President; I have also complained to various quarters and nothing seems to be happening but since we have complained and nothing is happening, I have asked my people to defend themselves with stones. We are tired of complaining and we can’t allow ourselves to be killed like fowl,” said Governor

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

9 News

Road construction: LASTMA adopts new strategy to enhance free movement The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), has lauded motorists and commuters for their understanding, support and cooperation since the State Government commenced massive road rehabilitation across the State, revealing that a new strategy has been mapped out to enhance free-flow of traffic.

The State Government under the leadership of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, had earlier in the year, embarked on massive road construction, rehabilitation and construction of bridges across the State to ease movement of commuters and motorists and as well place the State on sound pedestal for

sustained economic growth and development.

Addressing critical stakeholders, Wednesday on the construction work in the State, LASTMA’s General Manager, Mr. Olawale Musa specifically commended motorists and members of the public for the perseverance and patience so far displayed since the commencement of the construction.

A statement signed by the Public Affairs Officer, LASTMA, Mahmud Hassan quoted Mr. Musa as saying the commendation and the need to encourage the people to continue to cooperate with traffic officials became more imperative now that the construction works

were approaching critical stages of completion across the State.

Speaking after conducting the stakeholders round critical traffic choke points in some parts of the State, Musa said: “The ongoing construction, expansion and rehabilitation of roads are deliberate efforts of the State Government to improve standard of living, road security, commerce and socioeconomic development capable of placing the State in the comity of modern cities with state-ofthe- art road infrastructural facilities.

“As an agency, LASTMA is not oblivious of traffic gridlock being experienced when magnitude of roads are being constructed simultaneously in

a complex and populated city like Lagos, but we like to first appreciate motorists, commuters and indeed the general public for their patience, perseverance and cooperation so far, and as well assure them that when the roads are finally completed, the benefits will outweigh their current experience.”

The General Manager said a critical look at those roads would show that the projects were being executed assiduously to meet standard and delivery time, saying in the meantime, a new strategy had been mapped out to enhance free-flow of traffic.

“Already, LASTMA has mapped out new traffic control management strategy that will

increase flow of traffic on all the construction areas in the State through deployment and retraining of key officers on effective traffic management in a complex environment.

“The current gridlock being experienced by motorists on Lagos - Abeokuta Express Road and Murtala Muhammed International Airport Road are temporary. As we speak, we are working with the construction companies in order to ameliorate traffic on those axis by constantly reviewing project implementation time, flow of traffic, opening up of alternative routes and deployment of LASTMA officials at critical areas,” Musa said.

He, therefore, appealed

to motorists to comply with directives of traffic officials and cooperate with them to enjoy stress-free journey, adding that there would be less traffic on the road with continued support and cooperation of the public.

He also urged motorists and commuters alike to report the indiscretion and wrong doing of any officer of the Agency for appropriate sanction, saying such remained the only way bad eggs could be flushed out from the system.

“LASTMA cannot do it alone.

Members of the public see these erring officers more than we do and as such for the good of the State, such officers should be identified and reported appropriately,” Musa said.

Chief of Staff: Adamawa lawmaker seeks support for Bakari Tom Garba, Yola Chairman of House committee on Budget and appropriation in Adamawa State House of Assembly is canvassing support from all sons and daughters of the state to support Abdullahi Bakari as the next chief of Staff.

The Lawmaker revealed that Bakari is a major key player in the political scene of the State, where of recent he played a major role in organising the most widely adjudged free and fair congress of the party in a peaceful and credible manner.

According to him, he will lobby the assembly members to rally round all those that matter in the state for Bakari to be the next Chief of Staff.

“Bakari is doing well as principal personal Assistant to the executive governor, Senator Muhammadu Umaru Jibrilla, making sure politicians are not relegated to the background and was the brain behind a successful Congress of our party. ‘’I’m calling on my colleagues at the state assembly and all stakeholders of our Party to see the virtues of good leader in Bakari that can make us win elections in 2019.’’ Isa Said.

Recall that Abdulrahaman Abba Jimeta was the Chief of Staff who died while in Saudi for lesser Hajj.

The office became vacant as a result of his demised with many people showing their interest to occupy the office.

Hon Abdulmumuni Song is another name that is becoming the talk of the town, who many feel can fit in well for the new office.

The former House of Assembly member who represented the Song constituency in the House is presenting one of the directors of Bindow led political support group known as ‘’Team Bindow”.

Others are of the view that Felix Tagwami can serve and fill the huge gap created by Jimeta knowing his political strengths in the State.

Wife of Lagos State Governor and Convener, Lagos Women Forum, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode (middle); Deputy Governor, Dr. (Mrs) Oluranti Adebule (right) and Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, Mrs. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire (left) during the Lagos Women Forum with the theme Women...Your Health...Your Social Environment at Police College Ground, Ikeja, on Tuesday

‘Nigeria has gained from OPEC’s declaration of cooperation’ The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Mr Ibe Kachikwu, said the Oil and Gas sector in Nigeria had witnessed positive transformation since the “Declaration of Cooperation”

by OPEC and non-OPEC members.

Kachikwu said this in an interview with journalists on the sideline of the 7th OPEC International Seminar taking place in Vienna, Austria, with the theme “Petroleum: Cooperation for a Sustainable Future.”

The Declaration of

Cooperation refers to the agreement by OPEC and several other non-OPEC producers to cut oil supplies from January, 2017.

The aim was to lift the oil prices that had plunged from above 110 dollars per barrel in 2014 to below 30 dollars in 2016.

A deal to extend the cut, which has boosted prices to around 70 dollars per barrel now, was agreed in November, 2017. The output cut agreement will however end in December, 2018.

“The gain has been a lot.

NNPC has done a wonderful

job of stepping up at the right time to make sure our production volume increases, thereby allowing us to benefit greatly from the agreement.

“I congratulate them (NNPC) because if we had all these cooperation and we have no volume, there will be a loss. So the volume has been sustained between 1.9 million to 2.1 million barrels per day.

“What that means is that we have been able to reap the benefit of the rise in price in order to finance our budget.

“We have also been able to increase our foreign reserves

and state governments are now able to pay salaries as at when due, largely due to the improvement in oil prices,” said Kachickwu.

He urged the oil producers to be people conscious in their policy decisions knowing that their decisions have environmental and economic implications.

“I think there is too much focus on tightness of market and short term responses.

“I hope that doesn’t lead us into a very frenzied action plan that simply reverses the whole gains that we’ve had over the

last few years.

“Sustainability for third world countries is a different discussion altogether.

“It is not about market fundamentals and rebalancing and cuts in production volumes, but about the environment, economy and impetus for development such as electricity for the people, environment clean ups and so on,” he said.

Kachikwu also urged oil companies to cooperate with host communities and take seriously their Corporate Service Responsibilities.

News 10 Don warns Nigerians to avoid repeat of Biafra A university lecturer, Prof.

Hope Eghagha, warned on Wednesday in Lagos that Nigeria should avoid tendencies that would escalate to another war after the bitter experience of the Biafra civil war.

Eghagha made the plea while reviewing a book, “The Nigerian Civil War, 50 Years After… Reflections of A Younger Generation’’, during the launch of the book.

He told Nigerians to shun propaganda and hate speeches, to prevent a re-occurrence of the events that led to the war in 1967.

Analysts have often described the Biafra civil war as the deadliest of its type in Africa, having taken the lives of more than two million people.

Citing the Rwandan genocide, Eghagha, a lecturer at the University of Lagos, said: “Propaganda breeds hate, the civil war was not a pleasant experience as codes of interpersonal behaviour were suspended.

“Anyone who has gone through a war cannot hope for another, a child that goes through a war loses his childhood.

“We should not promote the ideology of war by narrative or default.

“From the refugee crisis being experienced internationally, the world cannot afford a war in Nigeria,” he said.

Eghagha praised the authors of the book, saying that they did an excellent job in bringing to light narratives from the civil war as well as the reconciliation efforts of subsequent regimes.

The Chairman of the occasion, Mr Chris Ogiemwonyi, described the book as a proof that combat should never be an option to settling national differences.

“There is a Bini proverb which literally translated means ‘war is never beautiful.’ For those asking for war or the country’s separation, they should bear that proverb in mind.

“We should never pray for war no matter how hard the discussion will be.”

Giving insight into the book, Ogiemwonyi, an engineer, said the book was an assemblage of facts from the war.

“We have read various accounts of the Nigerian civil war from warlords, politicians and eye-witnesses.

“This account is a compilation of facts as witnessed by victims, who saw part of the war.

“I will equally like to corroborate the facts as I also witnessed the civil war as a form three student in 1967.

“The book mentioned a time in Nigeria where tribalism was not an issue. However, with successive coups and the civil war, things started falling apart.

“The Nigerian civil war brought various hardships to the country,” Ogiemwonyi said.

The book was written by Ebho Abure and Agbose Akinwole.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

Bayelsa Govt, Microsoft, IGNITE partner to train teachers, student on ICT Akam James, Yenagoa

As parts of efforts aimed at equipping teachers and students to exploit opportunities in Nigeria’s evolving technology ecosystem, the Bayelsa State government in partnership with Microsoft and IGNITE has started the training of 150 teachers and 2000 students on digital literacy.

The one week information and communication technology (ICT), training under the supervision of Bayelsa state Ministry of education, information and

orientation, taking place at the St. Judes Girl Secondary School is expected to commence with the teachers training thereafter the students.

Kicking off the Bayelsa state computer science week, the Bayelsa state governor, Seriake Dickson, noted that computer education is the integral part of every education, adding that a foundation in computer science is what will make the state lead others in education.

He said “The essence of education is to produce a well rounded child, noting that because technology is not new in today’s world, computer

science has come to stay.

Represented by Secretary to state government, Barr. Kemela Okara, he said the state will definitely be at the forefront of everything happening in the country today if we embrace what we are kicking off today.

“A foundation in computer science is what will put Bayelsa state at the fore front of everything happening in the country today. I want to commend Microsoft, IGNITE for the great feat, and we are open to many other partnership on computer and digital entrepreneur” In his brief, Commissioner

of education, Hon. Jonathan Obuibite, described the partnership as being heroic and historic, adding that Bayelsa state is the third state to partner Microsoft on training its teachers.

Obuibite he noted that the training is to benefit both teachers and student of the various schools in the state, added that “as a government we need to think outside the box because education is successful when everyone is involved” Our society will be properly educated with this mark, we can all remember that in 2012,

the governor declared a state of emergency in education and this is one of the many benefit.

The chief executive officer IGNITE, Chichi Okafor, commended the state government for the intervention, promising that the beneficiaries will never regret the knowledge that will be impacted on them after the training.

Representative of Microsoft, Mr. Ade Olowojoba, noted that the partnership is a landmark initiative, adding that the company believes everyone should have access to computer education.

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (left); and the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Zhou Pingjian; during the courtesy visit by the Ambassador, to the governor, at Government House, in Benin City.

68.5m people living as refugees globally – UNHCR The United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), says about 68.5 million people are currently living as refugees around the world.

The UNHCR High Commissioner, Mr Philipo Grandi, made the disclosure in an address to mark the World Refugees Day at Anyake in Kwande Local Government Area of Benue, where Cameroonian refugees are camped.

He noted that the growing number of refugees across the world necessitated greater

advocacy for support to assist them return home when the time was right or build new lives elsewhere.

The commissioner said that the refugees need to be integrated into new communities and given the chance to realise their potentials.

He therefore urged countries and communities hosting refugees to evolve more systematic, long term support as they take on the job of helping the uprooted families.

Grandi also said that helping

refugees to rebuild their lives needed the cooperation of everybody, to enable them access education, a place to live, job, and be part of a community.

“I challenge organisations and others to join us in receiving and supporting refugees in our schools, neighbourhood, and workplaces,” he said.

Earlier, Head of UNHCR office in Adikpo, Mr Thomas Faustini, encouraged people to strive to resolve issues amicably to avoid conflicts that would displace them.

Faustini appreciated

the Federal and Benue governments as well as organisations supporting the Cameroonian refugees.

The UNHCR Senior Desk Officer, Geneva, Mr Zulqarnain Anjum, promised that the Cameroonian refugees of school age would be enrolled in schools in order to build their capacity.

Also, the Chairman, Kwande local government, Mr Terdoo Kente, appreciated the host community for donating their farmlands to camp the refugees.

Kente, represented by his Vice, Mr Andrew Orvande,

also commended the various organisations taking care of the refugees, noting that it was a herculean task to cater for displaced people.

The Divisional Police Officer for the area, Mr Rasheed Alli called for the fencing of the camp to enhance the security of inmates, and assured that the police would continue to protect them. chairman of Anyake community, Mr Levi Ikyum, cautioned the refugees against exploiting the mineral deposits in the area to avoid conflict with the host community.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday June 21, 2018

Politics

11

Race for Akwa Ibom Government House intensify, as Abak 5 endorses Ekere AS the race for the 2019 election intensify across the country, the Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mr. Nsima Ekere, has been endorsed by the people of the five local government areas making up the former Abak Division to contest the 2019 gubernatorial election in Akwa Ibom State.

The endorsement came during a mega rally organised by the Abak 5 Redemption Movement at Government Technical College, Abak, on Friday, which attracted an unprecedented crowd to honour Ekere.

In a motion moved by the member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Obongunwana Emmanuel Ukoete, seconded by the former Member representing Abak/ Etim Ekpo/Ika Federal Constituency, Obongemem Ekperikpe Ekpo, and unanimously carried, the people resolved to call on Ekere to throw his hat into the ring for the governorship contest.

Responding, the NDDC boss expressed appreciation to the Abak 5 people for what he called their show of love and confidence and promised to react to their call at the appropriate time.

“This call by Abak 5, I have taken note of and I will consider it very seriously at the appropriate time,” he said. “Today, I am still the Managing Director of NDDC. I have work to do for the Niger Delta and Akwa Ibom State. The President graciously gave us this job. We are committed to delivering on it. When the time for election and politics comes, I will come back and remind you of this resolution you passed today and I will ask you whether this resolution still stands.”

Ekere, in turn, seized the opportunity to move a motion for the endorsement of President Muhammadu Buhari for a second

Nsima Ekere term, stressing that the President had demonstrated uncommon love for Akwa Ibom State, particularly in terms of appointments.

He commended Buhari for the enormous support to the NDDC, especially his approval for the harmonisation of outstanding remittances from the Federal Ministry of Finance and release of outstanding funds due the commission for the development of the Niger Delta region.

Ekere decried the disruption of NDDC projects by agents of the State Government, reasoning that it was counter-productive because “the money NDDC is using to develop Akwa Ibom State is our own share of money for the development of the Niger Delta.”

The NDDC boss promised that the commission will continue to seek ways of constructive engagement

Obongemem Ekperikpe Ekpo with all governments in the region “so that we can bring development to all nooks and crannies of the Niger Delta.”

He urged the people of Akwa Ibom State to vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) to end “bad governance” in the state.

The Akwa Ibom State APC Caucus Chairman, Atuekong Don Etiebet, who chaired the occasion, said the people of Abak 5 had resolved to purchase the APC governorship nomination form for Ekere because he had done well for them.

“He is not yet governor but he has already intervened in the problems of Abak 5,” he said.

The Managing Director of Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority, Mr. Umana Umana, announced that long before the Abak 5 people, the people of Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District had resolved to purchase the

APC governorship nomination form for Ekere because of his outstanding performance at the NDDC. “We have come here to support and show solidarity with the people of Abak 5 who have taken the right decision to honour Obong Nsima Ekere for his outstanding performance as the Managing Director of NDDC,”’ he said. “We have come here to say that this honour is well-deserved. You cannot hide performance...So this is somebody who performs. That is why we have come here.”

He stated further: “And I know his ideas about Akwa Ibom State.

His programmes for Akwa Ibom State will not be about promises and groundbreaking. There is nothing as traumatic as somebody will come and break your grounds and after two years the site will be overgrown with weeds. We are here to align with the people of Abak 5 that things

2019: PDP in trouble as ranking chieftain defects to APC in Lagos A former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Lagos State and a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oshodi Local Government, Lagos State, Chief (Mrs) Remi Adiukwu has defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) with thousands of her followers ahead of 2019 general elections.

Adiukwu, who said that her defection was motivated by the sterling performance of Gov. Akinwunmi Ambodeof Lagos State and the foundation of the ruling

party, said “I am back in the party, when I say I am back, I am actively back. I am enlightened now.

“Election is coming, we will do it with all our strength to deliver back to the party all the slots and mandates we took from APC to PDP during the 2015 election.

“PDP is now dead in this council, no more opposition. This council is completely for APC now. I pledge my loyalty.

“My sojourn away from the party was based on principle just as my return today is encouraged today by the same principle of supporting

only good things that will be beneficial to Lagos,” she said.

The Chairman of APC in Oshodi Local Government, Alhaji Olamide Kasali said that the ruling party knew the weight of the defector and the challenge she gave the party in 2015 elections.

“She is the bedrock of opposition in the council,” Kasali said as he presented APC flag to the defector.

According to him, with Adiukwu’s defection the fear of APC during elections has gone as the development marks an end to the opposition in the council.

Adiukwu

cannot continue like this in Abak 5.

And we have a capable hand who will make our party proud. Has he not made our party proud? We thank the President who found him worthy.

Our brother, you have done well and the reward for hard work is more hard work. We are very happy with you.”

Umana dismissed newspaper reports of rift between him and Ekere, saying, “Those who continue to write in papers that Nsima and Umana are fighting, tell them that there is no fight. We are one. Our party is one and united.”

A former Minister of Women Affairs, Obong Rita Akpan, said she was overwhelmed by the sheer size of the crowd: “People talk about sea of heads but this is an ocean of heads.

I have never seen this kind of crowd before. Abak 5, you are a trail blazer.”

She canvassed for a female deputy governor or 50 per cent cabinet positions for women in the incoming APC government.

A former Special Assistant to Governor Udom Emmanuel on Electoral Matters, Barr. Chris Okorie, who chaired the event planning committee, explained that the reception was organised to appreciate Ekere for “standing by us to rebuild the bridge that has brought change to Abak 5 and indeed the entire state.”

He enumerated NDDC projects facilitated by Ekere in the five local government areas to include construction of Hospital Road, Abak, and adjourning Obot Street, construction of Spring Road, Abak, and Mercantile Bank Road in Ekparakwa, Oruk Anam and renovation of school buildings in 20 schools, expressing delight that all those projects were executed by indigenous contractors.

“He epitomizes the saying that a good friend is better than a bad brother, son or son-in-law,” Okorie said.

A former Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mr. Uwem Udoma, described Ekere as the real deal for Abak 5, assuring him of the support of the people of the area.

He attributed the clement weather that characterised the day to divine intervention.

Others who delivered goodwill messages at the event were a former State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Arc. Otu Ita-Toyo, a former PDP State Women Leader, Lady Victoria Mel-Udoh, a former Deputy Majority Whip of the State House of Assembly, Obonganwan Mabel Udongwo, a former Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Dr. Emem Wills, a representative of the APC in Diaspora, Dr. Abasiubong Udofia, and a computer mogul, Mr. Inibehe Otoho.

At the occasion, Ekere was presented with a symbolic sword of authority and a native cow by the people of Abak 5.

Politics 12

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

My performance as Vice President to Obasanjo limited by constitutional provisions – Atiku Stories: Patrick Okohue A former Vice President of Nigeria, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has explained that by the letters of the Nigerian Constitution, a Vice President is limited in his official powers to execute projects of his own initiative.

That, according to the former Vice President, limited his capacity to deliver even on some lofty projects designed for his own state in Adamawa while he served with President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Abubakar who said this on Tuesday while speaking to journalists on arrival at the Port Harcourt International Airport in continuation of his consultations to Bayelsa and Rivers states for his 2019 presidential bid, noting that as Vice President he did not have the powers to initiate and execute projects of his own choice, but to engage the process.

He stated further that it is on record that he creditably discharged tasks assigned to him as Vice President.

He regretted that apart from constitutional constraints, which limited the powers of the Vice President, the politics and political intrigues of that era also harmed the larger interest of the people of Adamawa, as some of its share of federal infrastructure including roads were deliberately discontinued on account of some political differences among several key players.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential hopeful said that the administration he served in as Vice President awarded contracts for the Mayo Belwa-Jada-GanyeTongo and Yola-Mubi-Maiduguri roads in Adamawa State in its first term. According to him, there was supposed to be a spur of the road linking Mambilla in Taraba State and thereby making it the shortest cut to Mambilla, but execution of these were delayed and later truncated on the altar of politics.

Atiku said allegations that funds meant for road projects in the state were diverted to build the American University of Nigeria in Yola was being unfair to him, and that “it shows lack of understanding of how government runs on the part of the people making such allegations.

Atiku Abubakar Government does not run on such pedestrian level, it is a process.”

He maintained that all the money used for setting up the first development university in Africa came from private sources.

“To set the records straight, no public funds were involved in all my investments in several sectors that have continued to provide jobs and enhance educational and socioeconomic well being of Nigerians.

I have always been contented with what God has given to me in all its ramifications and I thank Him for using me to better the lot of the people.

“Without being immodest, I was a successful businessman before going into politics and subsequently becoming the Vice President by Allah’s Grace. I was not desperate to be in government in order to make money, but to serve the people in my own little way and contribute my quota to its overall development.”

Atiku asserted that he was the most investigated Vice President in Nigeria, and challenged “anybody with evidence linking public funds to the AUN or any of his private investment to come forward to prove that.”

He lamented that some people

do not appreciate individuals who create wealth by their personal initiative and resourcefulness, but rather hold contrary views with the stigma of such possessing ill gotten wealth.

He said that it was wrong to assume that one can’t succeed without stealing public funds, noting that it is well documented that he had made a success of his businesses before he was tapped as Vice President.

“If money was my motivation for seeking elective office, I would not have joined the presidential race at any point in time in my political career. My ability to make money through my businesses was established long before I was chosen as Vice President,” he said.

He stressed that passion for service, and the desire to bring efficiency in the management of government affairs are the main reasons he wants to run for President.

He however affirmed that better days are ahead not only for Adamawa State, but indeed for all of Nigeria when he gets the mandate of Nigerians to serve as President in 2019.

Buhari support group tasks President on challenges facing re-election Ajibade Alabi The national committee of Buhari supports a group that is campaigning for the second term of President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday, June 18, in Lagos kicked off its mission with the committee advising the President on what to do to make his return to Aso Rock a smooth sail.

Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the association that had the South-West woman leader, Chief Mrs. Yetunde Babajide, the Iyalode of Ojodu land, Hon Kehinde Odeneye, a Member of the House of Representative list out the points that he believe President Buhari can work on for a smooth return to Aso Rock even as he made it clear to the member of the committee that rally alone cannot work but with empowerment “I want to believe that this committee has done a lot of work under ground. In as much as I subscribe to us having a rally for the youths where we want to campaign against the use of drugs among the youths I will suggest we do the campaign with empowerment. I will give myself as an example. I have a lot of empowerment I am doing in my constituency, but I will make sure I empower them with the tools of whatever I am empowering them with.

“On the part of our President, I will advise him on something he need to work on. The president should be fast in his decision making.

He is slow in decision making; President should address herdsmen insurgence; Also some areas of government are not active example is the local government; Also the President should work on our cultural values, we have

Falae assures of credible primary to select SDP presidential candidate for 2019 election National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Chief Olu Falae has assured that the party would conduct a free and fair presidential primary to select its candidate for the 2019 election.

The elder statesman urged Nigerians to vote out the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and also shun the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in next year’s election.

“The two parties have delivered

their best, which has translated to nothing for the country,” Falae, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) told another national newspaper.

“The PDP was in power for 16 years and could not move the country forward, likewise the APC’s three years of governance has not been of any benefit to the country.

“For so many reasons, Nigerians are flocking to SDP as their preferred brand ahead of the 2019 general

elections.

“We will not disappoint our citizens and we are promising to give Nigerians a credible candidate as well as responsible representatives at the federal, state and local government levels.

“We are going to give Nigerians a country of their dream that is different from the current situation where our youths are running to foreign nations in search of greener pastures,” he added.

Falae

Buhari lost our cultural values; The President should also work on our grassroots development and He should also try and stop migration of professionals.”

Another member of the group, Soji Olagunju who came from Ifo in Ogun State to support the programme, stated that President Buhari has a credential that is enough to convince people that he is a candidate to beat in the forthcoming election A woman leader from Ado Odo, also in Ogun State Mrs. Oluwaseun Babatunde (aka immaculate) also added her voice on the issue of the President likely loosing the presidential election next year due to insurgency, “ I should know how to convince my people as a Christian and also as a pastor, I will gather all the pastors to explain what is happening at the point to let them know that there are people who are doing this against Buhari just to embarrass his government.”

Princess Olubunmi Adekoye who is also one of the leaders and chairperson of all females’ workers in Lagos State also bared her mind “there is no way a true Nigerian will not vote for Buhari again. If you are not a corrupt person you will support Buhari for second term if you want Nigerian vision to come through you will support Buhari for second term.”

Boboye Olawale Adenuji a retired police officer who is in charge of security also spoke about the group, “though today is my first day as a member of this group but I decided to join the group because I believe in the capability of Mr. President he has done a lot and I still believe he is the one to take us to promised land.”

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

13

Editorial Commentary OUR POSITION

T

Ex-Governors, convictions and judiciary

he conviction and sentencing of former Taraba State Governor Jolly Nyame and his Plateau State counterpart, Joshua Dariye, within two weeks interval represent a sad reminder of the pervading corruption of our time.

It is painful that their convictions came approximately 10 years after they were charged to court. But the good news is that they made the list of former executive governors convicted of corruption practices. Others include former Adamawa State Governor Bala James Ngilari, whose case is pending on appeal at Supreme Court, Chief James Ibori of Delta State, who served his sentence in London and Chief Lucky Igbinedion of Edo State who wriggled out of severe sentencing in a controversial plea bargain in 2011 with N500 million and three properties.

We commend the courage of Justice Adebukola Banjoko of the Federal Capital Territory High Court who on 30th, May, 2018 convicted and sentenced Nyame to 14 years imprisonment without an option of fine for misappropriating N250m and N180m.

Equally commendable is the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the prosecuting agency which appears to have jettisoned the plea bargain policy after the unfortunate Police pension fraud trial episode in which a pension thief, Teidi Shuaibu, was asked to pay a ridiculous fine and became a free man.

Nyame, a two term Governor of Taraba State

was found guilty of 27 out of the 41- count charge filed against him on May 13, 2007 by the EFCC. The court found that Nyame has breached the trust reposed on him by the people of Taraba State who in three separate occasions elected him as the governor of Taraba State.

Therefore, the court imposed a maximum of 14 years imprisonment for each of the count on criminal breach of trust, two years jail term for misappropriation, seven years jail term for gratifications and five years for obtaining property without appropriation.

But all the sentences are running concurrently, which implied that the convict would spend 14 years in prison.

Similar fate befell Dariye, who also served a two - four- year term as the executive governor of Plateau State. He also perpetuated corruption in his own state.

According to documents in court and in his own hand writing at the back of his complementary card, Dariye authorised the diversion of N1.16 billion Ecological Fund meant for Plateau State, to his personal use, including transferring N176.8million to Ebenezer Retnan Ventures (an unregistered company managed by him) and Pinnacle Communications Limited.

Justice Banjoko, in a landmark judgment delivered on Tuesday, June 12, 2018, convicted Dariye, a serving senator on 15 out the 23 counts preferred against him in July 2007.

His offences includes criminal breach of

Historical Times in Pictures

trust and criminal misappropriation. He was sentenced as provided for under sections 315 and 309 of the Penal Code Act. Evidence of impunity and corruption on the part of the convict were so overwhelming that judge exclaimed while reading the judgment “I can’t imagine such a brazen act. Is it the transfer of as much as about half a billion naira from the state’s Ecological Fund into a personal venture account? Everybody is a victim here,” the Judge said.

The public has received the judgments with relieve that at last after 13 years of trial, justice appeared to have been done while in certain quarters protests are still ongoing over the verdicts. It is not our habit or culture to praise sing convicts rather we see them and their acts as disgraceful. They should be look upon with disdain.

Any convict who is not satisfied with lower court’s judgment has a right of appeal against his or her sentence.

We are of the opinion that 13 years trial of Nyame and Dariye and many ongoing high profile cases have exposed the inherent weaknesses in our criminal justice system delivery that is bugged down by delays and technicalities.

We therefore call on every judicial official in the temple of justice to faithfully implement the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015 and endure speedy dispensation of cases as justice delay is justice denied.

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S I G N AT U R E Publisher

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1959 Asaba-Onitsha Ferry (1959)

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Articles may be reproduced, provided that the original source is indicated.

Opinion 14

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

Offa robbery: Why we’re demanding for justice

O

Wahab Shittu

ffa, the land of my birth and a community of outstanding citizens and achievements, is suddenly now in the spotlight for negative reasons following the callous brutal and inhuman robbery that took place in the town leaving 33 innocent souls dead with trail of colossal casualties to banks, individuals including pains, tears, anguish, sorrow etc of monumental proportion.

In recent times the robbery in terms of sophistication and mode of operation is unprecedented in the history of our country.

Given the scale of unprecedented tragedy unleashed on Offa people and the attendant pain, anguish and tears, the least any decent patriot will expect is the element of justice with strong demand that perpetrators of such man inhumanity to man akin to genocide be fished out and brought to justice.

This is because those 33 innocent souls whose lives were wasted needlessly deserved to live in an ideal society where human life is not cheap and where primacy is accorded to security of lives and property.

The scale of damage unleashed on Offa community and its economy by that deadly robbery operation is so huge that many businesses have collapsed and major banks are yet to recover from the shock and are undecided whether to reopen businesses in the town and if they decide on such opening, when it will be safe to continue to do business in an atmosphere of such grave insecurity.

The victims of the crime may not recover forever – families who have lost their breadwinners, homes scattered and displaced because of the trauma and a peaceful community visited with unprecedented violence with memories

of pain, sorrow and tears to remember forever. Most importantly the souls of the 33 innocent people, including policemen, who lost their lives undoubtedly cry for justice in their graves.

This background underscores the seriousness of what happened and the inculpable damage to the psyche of a people crying for justice.

This demand for justice is beyond sentiments, beyond politics, beyond politicking and beyond any other spurious considerations other than the demand that perpetrators of such heinous crime are brought to book.

I speak the mind of majority of Offa people and decent patriots across the land and outside our shores when I say that what is required in this case is justice, justice, justice particularly to those 33 innocent souls whose lives were needlessly wasted.

The police, appreciatively, has risen to the occasion and so far they have recorded a major breakthrough with major arrests including the arrest of the leaders of the gang who continue to make unprecedented confessional statements containing dangerous disclosures against prominent individuals and high ranking public officials.

The sad development however is that rather than treat the whole episode strictly as a law and order issue, there is some deliberate attempt to introduce political colouration and sentiments with a view to shifting the focus from the quest for justice in the aftermath of high criminality to the people and the state.

This is what worries me and the reason for this intervention. At this stage, I owe a duty to my calling as a law officer and my conscience as a patriot of Offa town to speak up and call on the rest of the world to rise up in defence of the rule of law and the sanctity of human lives needlessly wasted by the occurrence of this Offa

robbery tragedy.

As a law officer, I have to caution myself to maintain an open mind and give all persons involved the benefit of doubts insisting that the rule of law must be strictly followed to determine the guilt or innocence of any suspect.

I have read several theories on the subject being orchestrated by vested interests and I say, such theories should be kept in abeyance while the Police is allowed to do a thorough job.

We want to know all those who were involved in the robbery, we are interested in knowing how the robbery was planned and consummated, the whole world is interested in how the operation was funded, everyone who is decent is interested in stage by stage outline of the operations, the motivation for the operation is necessary as well as the procurement of materials, dangerous weapons and firearms deployed in the operation etc. We raise the following questions: What materials were used in the operation? Who provided these materials?

Who supplied the firearms? Who funded the logistics? What are the detailed casualties in terms of lives and property?

How was the amount carted away, shared and who got what? What happened after the robbery operation? What materials and items have been recovered? Who are those directly involved in the robbery operation?

Who are those remotely involved in the robbery operation? What is the amount of financial losses suffered by the banks?

Who were the victims of the crime and their particulars? What arrangements are being put in place to address the plight of the victims? And many others!

Now that confessional statements are being made, these confessional statements ought to be properly investigated and verified. Everyone mentioned in those statements high or low, rich or poor, prominent or otherwise should be

summoned to explain their respective roles without exception. No attempt should be made to play politics or introduce some other sentimental considerations to this very important issue. Thirty-three innocent lives are involved here. Many of these innocent lives were victims of circumstances.

Some were engaged in the performance of their lawful duties as policemen and women, some were staff of banks who were rendering valuable services to earn a living, some were customers of the bank who were engaged in normal banking transactions, some were patrons of police stations to lodge legitimate complaints and seek redress and some were passersby going about their lawful businesses. These were lives that were wasted and those were souls who daily cry for justice in their graves. We should not be seen dancing on the graves of these innocent souls.

We should rather be preoccupied with securing justice for those souls as well as their families and dependants as well as the society who remain traumatised by this horrendous, callous, inhuman and wicked development.

Olatunji Dare, great columnist in his commentary regarding the confessions made by the gangsters of the robbery made interesting observations as follows: “what one could deduce from the revelations so far is that the boys some of who are almost 50, were the enforcers of the Saraki political empire centered on Kwara State with branches in some other places, especially Kogi State. They had access to the corridors of power and to pull strings that would make them the envy of their neighbours. They were favoured with cash and materials of war. They were supposed to be political thugs; the attack dogs to be unleashed when necessary. But they were unfaithful criminals despite the indulgence they were pampered with by their principals. They love to moonlight.

2019: The choice before Imo people

I

Chudi Muokwe

t must now be obvious to Imo people that all politics is local and that there is really nothing spectacular about aligning with the government at the center. The most important thing in politics is that a state gets it right with its leadership. This simply means that every state of the Nigerian federation stands alone in defining how it pursues its development and how it interprets its desires. This has nothing to do with how the government at the center expresses its obligations. For the Imolite therefore, 2019 offers another opportunity to get it right and define the leadership that will explore the potentials of the state and transform it using same.

I guess many in Imo state now realize that the state has since 1999 been on the wrong leadership pedestal. I also hope that the people now do realize that the comfort they had shown with leadership, at all levels, with persons of questionable character, has done the state more harm than good. It is hoped that the realization of this will spur action towards correcting mistakes of the past with the 2019 general election. This, therefore, means that Imo people must rise beyond the demands of the immediate and begin to think of their state in future tenses. Being futuristic ought to make the people sit back and evaluate what they have been through in the hands of those they empower to administer the fortunes of the state including House of Assembly members, House of Representatives members, and

members of the Senate. It also means that the people must begin to envision a state where integrity and vision are more cherished values than financial worth.

Sadly, the last has been the bane of leadership in the heartland state. Many will prefer to deal with the moneybag who promises transformation without questioning the sources of wealth. Our preference for such has brought the state to where it is today. Imo once noted for hard work and integrity, sadly took a dive into a pool where hard work and integrity are no longer essentials for leadership.

We forgot that in the labour maxim which says that if you pay peanuts, you get monkeys for workers lies a truth that if you worship cash, you get a Robin Hood, or Dillinger, for a leader.

Those who have followed leadership evolution of Imo state since 1999 will realize that our decent started immediately we allowed persons of questionable wealth to return to hijack our traditional institution. They became our traditional rulers not an account of inheritance or merit, but on account of the fact of how much they threw around bastardizing the traditional leadership system in the process. Having successfully hijacked the traditional institution while our youths clapped after working as foot soldiers, they embarked on a conquest process whereby likes were enthroned as red caps dominating the traditional cabinet and community leadership. Such characters eventually took over town union leadership. The conquest was total.

With this gradual erosion of traditional ethos and values, we began a descent into the system whereby our worse became our best. We, therefore, valued financial worth to cerebral worth. Our academics thus meant nothing to us because they did not have the cash to throw around.

Those with technical know-how were derided because they did not have the millions to announce at community luncheon. Men of value and integrity took the back seat because our communities no longer valued them on account of their lean pockets. And without saying much, we told our children that it was better to come back with deep wallets than a bag of certificates.

Those we supported to conquer our traditional institutions because of their cash, soon realized that the local level was not the place to be. They branched out and made attempts at political representation.

It was for this reason that our political leadership space is dominated by persons whose integrity had huge questions marks. This was possible because we allowed a political recruitment system that honoured money above integrity.

We seemed comfortable with the fact that they used political leadership to launder themselves. They became Governors, Senators, Representatives, Assemblymen etc., but with serious integrity deficits that made it difficult for them to speak truth to power. Many were always reminded of their past each time they attempted to question policies that worked against those they represent. For this reason, we

were left with a dump of leaders who feared their past more than they like their future. But with deep pockets, they still retain their political leadership positions because they understand that we value how much they shared during elections.

Note that this is not peculiar to Imo state. However, there is nowhere this is more pronounced than in Imo state. For this reason, Ndi Imo has had to settle not for their cerebral bests as political leaders, but for persons who ought to have nothing to do with the leadership of a people noted for scholarship and learning. If we look at the history of Imo state since creation, we will see that those who actually gave the state a name and image, were persons of great learning and industry; academics and professionals whose names opened gates for Imo state. Compare that to what we have today and see where the decent had dropped us. As 2019 governorship election draws near, the names of hopefuls that make noise impact are those of shadowy characters and wealth, not those of professionals and persons who worked themselves through the public service ladder. The reason this is so is that we have educated our children to value wealth much more than the names they bear. Whatever happens along the way in the quest to make such wealth, does not necessarily matter because we are told that the end justifies the means.

That phrase –the end justifies the means- has contributed greatly in leaving Imo where it is today on the human development ladder.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

15 Column

Revisiting ‘June 12’s enemy judges’

Times Columnist Mohammed Adamu

L

‘

And so creating a make-belief bail grant and then alleging that Abiola had spurned the offer would kill two birds with one stone: it would revitalize the worsted image of the junta abroad and most importantly shift the onus of resolving the June 12 impasse off a now ‘benevolent’ Abacha

,

ike one writhing in the pangs of judicial guilt, in a valedictory about a decade ago marking his retirement from service, Justice Abdullahi Mustapha –one of the infamous Federal judges who presided over the treason trial of the late MKO- said that the winner of Nigeria’s freest and fairest election would not have died in detention if he had not spurned the conditional bail he (Mustapha) had granted him.

Besides being proverbially an ‘after-death-the-doctor’ kind of self-praise, this unsolicited piece of irrelevant orbiter merely reversed the saying that ‘the witch cried at night and the baby died at dawn’.

Justice Mustapha should have dedicated his retirement quietly to seeking God’s forgiveness for the despicable role he played not only in that deceptive bail offer, but more despicably so in siding with the Abacha junta to give Abiola a tough trial. But he chose to attempt to re-write history, casting his odious role in the epic of a ‘benevolent judgehero’ who had gratuitously offered the gift of life –but that Abiola rejected it.

This judge, like the late Justice Bassey Ikpeme –the ill-foretoken female judge who granted the dead-atnight judgment leading to the annulment of June 12- was one of those ‘hand-in-glove’ with the Abacha junta in its desperate efforts to bury the ghost of June 12 by keeping its acclaimed winner under judicial lock and key. After toppling Shonekan not a few unconscionable politicians, lawyers and judges were prostrate at the foothill of Abacha’s jackboots offering all manner of advice on how to tame the genie of June 12 to create an imperial presidency for Abacha. The late ‘Comrade’ Chukwumerije, a member of that interregnal contraption called ‘Interim Government’, even toyed with the idea of a decree outlawing the mention of ‘June 12’ in public places.

In retrospect an untrustworthy General Babangida, to reassure Nigerians about the sincerity of his unending Transition

Program had promulgated a decree ousting the jurisdiction of courts in any suit seeking to stop the forthcoming 1993 presidential election. In fact Babangida’s second in Command, the late Admiral Augustus Aikhomu had made a habit of bragging about the regime’s fidelity to its promise, citing this ouster decree as proof . But behind the scenes the regime was working with the notorious Arthur Nzeribe under a dubious ‘Association for Better Nigeria’ ABN, first to de-campaign the forthcoming election and eventually, as planned, to use the courts to abort the entire process.

Ironically when the suit seeking to stop the election was filed, the same Judiciary which had labored under the yoke of military decrees and ouster clauses, was only too glad to provide the services of a newly appointed Justice Bassey Ikpeme who ignobly disregard the subsisting ouster decree, and granted an order that would set the chain of judicial events leading to the annulment of June 12.

THE BAIL CIRCUS After the arrest and arraignment of MKO for declaring himself President, Justice Abdullahi Mustapha must have been deliberately selected too for the case and who, in the course of a long, tortuous trial neither hid his aversion for June 12 nor his readiness to compromise the judicial process in the service of the military junta.

Else why would a judge claiming to act independently be flown by government in a Presidential jet from his Benin base then, to Abuja on a Saturday to grant bail -on a treason charge- to an accused person who previously was not even allowed a leave of court granted to him to have regular access to his lawyers and personal physician? This ‘Saturday’ bail which could not wait just two more days to the next Monday and which had to be given so surreptitiously in a court without clerks or bailiffs, many said had more

to it than met the eye.

Because, what manner of bail was that at the grant of which not even Abiola’s lead Counsel GOK Ajayi was in court, but some curiouslooking Abacha foot soldiers claiming to ‘represent Abiola’s interest’?. Many had wondered if Justice Mustapha, -claiming to have acted independently- had thought it necessary to convene his court on a Saturday in order to grant a bail that could not wait till Monday, why was it not equally expedient that the accused should be served the bail papers as expeditiously as the bail itself was surreptitiously arranged?

We would later discover that the Mustapha bail was a ruse -a carefully choreographed offer never intended to be executed. Abacha’s pariah junta needed some breather from the harangues especially of an international community pushing for the release of MKO and the resolution of June 12.

And so creating a make-belief bail grant and then alleging that Abiola had spurned the offer would kill two birds with one stone: it would revitalize the worsted image of the junta abroad and most importantly shift the onus of resolving the June 12 impasse off a now ‘benevolent’ Abacha.

When it was expedient for Abacha to prove the ‘Diya coup’ attempt he merely gave a video tape to NTA showing a contrite Diya begging for clemency. If the bail offer was real and Abiola had truly rejected it Nigerians would have been treated to another epic footage revealing a belligerent Abiola or his lawyers refusing the offer. In actual fact it was not until six days after the bail grant that Abiola’s lawyer G.O.K Ajayi was allowed to see his client and during which Abiola was to know about the Greek gift called ‘Abiola bail’ for the first time. And the proof of this came after the late FRA Williams took over the case from G.O.K and his attempt to perfect the same bail was

now vehemently opposed by the same prosecution on the flimsy grounds that the bail documents were ‘forged’. And you wondered ‘by who?’ And to what end?

If memory serves right, it was at this point in the absurdly frivolous debate over the quality of the bail documents that a certain Justice Senlong -newly appointed to the Abiola case- went a little out of judicial decorum to even accuse the government of ‘executive rascality’. Justice Mustapha lied about Abiola refusing bail; because there was in fact no bail.

IN THE HALL OF SALEH’S IMFAMY And now long after the ignoble post-retirement orbiter of Justice Abdullahi Mustapha, came another despicable icing on the cake of a familiar judicial infamy: the post-dismissal bombast of another June 12 enemy, Justice Dahiru Saleh, claiming in a recent interview that it was he -and not Babangidawho annulled June 12. And now ‘with the rusty curb of old father antic the law’, our judicial system has degenerated so much that a judge would proudly stake claim to the ignoble antdemocratic deed of a military dictator!

In disregard of an ouster decree, Justice Ikpeme granted a dead-in-the-night order stopping the conduct of the June 12 election. The electoral Chief Humphrey Nwosu rightly disregarded this order and conducted the election. Then Justice Saleh –also in breach of the ouster decreegranted another orderstopping further announcement of the election results, followed by another declaring the election ‘null and void’. This order was in disregard of the Electoral Commission’s pending appeal against Justice Ikpeme’s obnoxious injunction which started it all. And then Babangida, -relying on or in disregard of -Justice Saleh’s last declaration, announced, on behalf of the ruling Military Council that the election stood annulled! And so, it was not so much about who deserved the trophy for annulling the election, as it was that the election was annulled.

The horde of hunters by which the lonesome rabbit of June 12 was environed, and the multiple bangs from their anxious guns obviated the search for who killed the poor rabbit. And so what does it matter if we prove that Babangida, Ikpeme or Saleh annulled June 12? Isn’t it sufficient that a confederacy of all of them did it?

News 16

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

Not Too Young to Run Law: Unilorin VC hails Buhari The Vice-Chancellor, University of Ilorin, Prof.

Sulyman Abdulkareem, has commended President Muhammadu Buhari for signing the “Not-too-Young-toRun” bill into law.

Abdulkareem gave the commendation on Wednesday while declaring open a leadership summit organised by the Nigerian Association

of Physical Science Students (NAPHSS) held at the University of Ilorin.

The theme of the summit is: “Repositioning the Nigerian Youth for Global Leadership”.

He hailed the decision of the president to give Nigerian youth voice in the country’s democratic setting, noting that the bill would allow for a level playing field to both young and

old to run for political offices.

The bill, which was passed by the National Assembly last year to alter sections 65,106,131,171 of the Constitution, was assented to on May 31.

The bill reduces the age qualification for President from 40 to 35, Governor from 35 to 30, House of Representatives membership from 30 to 25 and State House of Assembly from

30 to 25.

Abdulkareem said that the bill would give youths the opportunity to contest for the post of president at the age of 35.

He noted that involvement of youths in leadership was not essentially the panacea to the country’s numerous challenges.

He warned them not to be carried away by the exciting torrent of their involvement in

politics.

“Never had there been more clamour for youth leadership in our political offices than we have been getting in recent times,” he said.

The vice chancellor noted that it has birthed the struggle to pass the ‘Not-too-young-to-run’ bill into law.

“What is most important for national development is for the

youth to have the right skills to deliver purposeful leadership to the followers,’’ he said.

He described the leadership summit as an opportunity to reflect on the leadership crises that had hindered the nation’s growth and possibly think over the ways to wriggle out of them and get the country back on track toward greatness.

He said that the theme for the leadership summit was one that hinges the consciousness of the nation “and reminds us that there is still a long way for the country to go in attaining growth through purposeful leadership’’.

Dean of the Faculty of Physical Sciences, Prof. Uche Eke, commended the leadership of the association for organising the historic event and for bringing exemplary dignitaries of the society to the university.

“It is my belief and hope that the lectures here today shall forever impact in the lives of our youths so that they will represent and protect the image of the university in this nation and world at large,’’ he said.

Eke enjoined the participants at the summit to be responsible, decent and reliable at all times, reminding them that they were the leaders of tomorrow.

Northern youth coalition wants Oshiomhole to reconcile APC members CTA Permanent Secretary, Sir. Chinyeaka Ohaa (middle), Chairman, FCT 2004 Retirees, Engr. Audu Umar (4th right), Coordinator Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), Umar Shuaibu (2nd right), General Council/Secretary, FCT Legal Secretariat, Muhammad Umar (right), and other officials, during the sign off ceremony for FCT 2004 retirees in Abuja

FIDA seeks partnership with police, Plateau AG to curb wife battering, child rape Kingsley Chukwuka, Jos Worried by the reported cases of wife battering and child rape in Plateau state, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), is seeking partnership with the Attorney General (AG), and the Police to curb the menace.

Speaking at a courtesy visit to the Plateau AG office in Jos, the chairperson of FIDA in Plateau, Mrs. Mary Izam said the menace can be curbed through the domestication of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA).

She said the visit was to seek the assistance of the AG in the amendment of the ACJA to fast- track its submission as an executive

bill at the Plateau State House of Assembly.

The FIDA official said when domesticated and adopted, ACJA would enforce the protection of women and children’s rights and other issues that bother on them.

“This law would ensure all accused persons in legal proceedings are assumed defendants till proven otherwise. The pregnant woman cannot be harmed or issued death sentence till she gives birth to her child and weans for six months.

“ACJA generally strives to enforce justice especially to indigent women and vulnerable children,” she said.

She said they recently visited the Commissioner of Police to plead for the

prosecution of cases on child rape at the high court for appropriate judgment instead of the lower court.

“This is because it is a capital offense in the Nigerian constitution to be handled by the high courts.

We are optimistic too that the gazette of the Gender Equal Opportunity (GEO), Law passed in Plateau since 2015.

“The GEO Law would prohibit all forms of violence and infringement against women rights in public and private places eradicate socio cultural harmful practices and eliminate gender stereotyping and prejudices.

In his response, the AG of Plateau, Chrysantus Ahmadu pledged commitment to domesticate the ACJA, saying progress was already made on its

amendment to suit the peculiarities of Plateau.

He said the state government would consider granting ‘fiat’ to FIDA which

is permission to prosecute accused persons in matters such as rape, wife battering instead of waiting for the bureaucracy of the police.

Kano Fire Service receives 63 distress calls in 2 weeks The Kano State Fire Service on Wednesday said it received 63 distress calls from different parts of the state in two weeks.

The Public Relations Officer of the service, Alhaji Saidu Mohammed, disclosed this in an interview with journalists.

Mohammed said the calls emanated from road accidents, fire disasters and gas cookerinduced fire incidents.

Giving the breakdown, he said 15 calls were received on

fire incidents, 41 for rescue while seven were false alarms.

The spokesman advised the public to always exercise caution with electrical appliances and stop storing petroleum products in shops and homes.

He also stressed the need to keep gas cylinders in wellventilated places.

Mohammed also advised road users to be cautious when driving and always obey traffic rules and regulations.

The Coalition of Northern Youth Forum, on Wednesday expressed support for the election of Mr Adams Oshiomhole as National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC).

National Secretary of the forum, Mr Abdulrahman Aliyu, said at a press conference in Sokoto that Oshomhole has the experience to reconcile all APC members.

“Oshiomhole’s experiences are good for the leadership of the party and the country in general, this, especially at a time when the party has a lot of crisis in the states which requires much reconciliation.”

Aliyu therefore urged APC delegates to the party’s national convention to elect the former labour leader and governor of Edo to lead the party.

According to him, the coalition delved into the issue of the APC because, as youth, they believe that a stable APC would “will have an effect to the future of Nigerian youth who constitute more than 65 per cent of the population.”

“As such, we hereby declare our full support to Oshiomhole and urge all stakeholders and delegates to ensure that he emerges as chairman in the interest of the country,” he added.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

Fresh crisis rocks Delta PDP

Nosa Akenzua, Asaba

Fresh trouble of alleged continued threats to lives of aspirants and members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in Delta state has unsettled the party leadership.

The state chairman of the party, Olorogun Kingsley Esiso, who confirmed this to our reporter in Asaba said “I have received over 30 petitions which bother on threats to lives of members/ Aspirants, this is not what our great party is known for, the threats are coming from members too, it is unfair, and we are looking into it with a view to bringing those involved to book” It was gathered that “big time Aspirants allegedly attack freshers with threats to their

lives through their supporters, either on Facebook or face to face”.

Investigation revealed that posters of most of these aspirants are deliberately removed from where they are pasted by agents and supporters of unpopular ones, and often times, they threaten them to withdraw from the race or face continued attack.

One of such, is the PDP member in Ethiope East local government area of the state, Igbuzor Elliot who on Tuesday raised the alarm over the alleged threat to his life for supporting one Prince Joshua Atiogogo’s aspiration to represent the constituency in the state House of Assembly.

Elliot, a member of the Atiogogo media Organisation

2019 told our reporter “I was shocked that in this current democratic dispensation, an Aspirant in the constituency would degenerate to the extent of sending his political stooge to threaten another. I got a call from somewhere, and the person told me to stop campaigning for Atiogogo, or I consider myself dead”.

Further investigation revealed that many supporters of Ned Nwoko are also facing same challenges of threats to their lives.

A media director to Nwoko, Mr Norbert Chiazor who spoke to our reporter said “I have been threatened by persons allegedly believed to be loyal to senator Peter Nwaoboshi, because Nwaoboshi can’t go back to

Senate, he has deployed all arsenals to deal with those perceived to be against him; I am faithful in the discharge of my duties as a journalist to work for Prince Nwoko”.

He said that no amount of threat would discourage him from supporting Prince Nwoko because he is better than senator Nwaoboshi as he has no respect for anybody.

Chiazor however cautioned against politics of threats, and bitterness in the local government areas, adding that such evil trend would do the constituency no good, adding “We must work collectively as a party in order to defeat the opposition; for the sake of the party’s supremacy, whoever gets the ticket should be supported collectively “.

17 News

‘Lack of research affects rating of Nigerian varsities’

An Intellectual Property Right Expert, Mr Tolulope Adekola on Wednesday identified lack of proper research work as reason responsible for the low rating of Nigerian Universities in the world.

Adekola, who teaches Intellectual Property Law at Landmark University OmuAran in Kwara made the observation in Ilorin, during an interview with journalists.

He noted that many of the nation’s universities were currently performing below expectation on research work that can lead to discoveries and aid the development of the country.

The expert charged authorities of universities and other tertiary institutions in Nigeria to take a cue from international best practices on research and intellectual property enforcement.

This, he noted will stem the tide on intellectual property infringement going on in various parts of the country.

“If Nigerian universities

fail to address the issue of plagiarism in tertiary institutions, it would further cripple the country’s educational system,” he said.

Adekola described plagiarism as a cancer that must not be allowed to grow further in the education sector and appealed to relevant stakeholders to collectively kick out the menace from the system.

“Plagiarism has become a common trend in the Nigeria educational system.

It is indeed a cancer that has plagued the academic integrity of our ivory towers,” Adekola added.

Adekola explained that the advanced countries have several ICT devices with which they track plagiarism and urged Nigeria to take a cue from such countries.

He advocated stiffer penalty for defaulters of intellectual property rights in any part of the country.

Ekiti poll: DPP optimistic of victory

Founder of Hope for Women in Nigeria Initiative (HOFOWEM) and Wife of the Governor of Lagos State, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode (r) kitting one of the pupils of public primary schools in Lagos State, during the flag-off of the 2018 Project Bright Steps, organized by the foundation, at the Cherubim & Seraphim Primary School, Majidun, Ikorodu, on Tuesday. With them is HOFOWEM’s educational team.

Next president must be fair to all– Makarfi Kingsley Chukwuka, Jos The immediate past National Caretaker Committee Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and former Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, on Wednesday said that Nigeria’s next President will be fair to all irrespective of religion, tribe and party differences.

Makarfi said the current administration led by President Muhammadu Buhari, has succeeded in dividing the country along religious, tribal and party lines, which spells doom for Nigeria.

Sen. Makarfi made this known in Jos, the Plateau State

capital when he addressed the PDP executives and National delegates at the State Secretariat of PDP, where he made his intention to run for the Presidency known to the State exco, convincing the delegates to vote him as the next Party flag bearer to context the 2019 elections.

He said, “the country has never been this divided under the APC led administration; a credible Party must carry everyone along, because Nigeria does not belong to one tribe, religion or Party.

“Winning election is not about one individual, it is all about the PDP movement, it is all about the people; the PDP supported me when I was

chairman caretaker committee and we were able to resuscitate PDP and the Party is seen by Nigerians and all over the world as an alternative government in waiting, and with that, if supported, as the Presidential candidate of the Party, I am absolutely sure that we will be able to return PDP to power come 2019”.

Makarfi also pointed insecurity as one major challenge faced by the country, saying that residents cannot travel from Kaduna to Jos without being harassed by kidnappers, armed bandits, etc.

He said his campaign which is anchored on unity would be driven by fairness, justice and equity where every geopolitical

zone in the country would be carried along.

The former Governor said his government will end insecurity that has ravaged the country by not politicizing security matters that affects the citizens of Nigeria.

“We will not politicize security matter, it is a matter which affects everybody, one thing that this government has done is trying to politicize security: PDP government will not politicize security matter, we will work with everybody, we will work with traditional rulers, we will work with religious leaders, community leaders, it will be fairness, justice and equity for all without any kind of discrimination”, he said.

The Democratic Peoples Party (DPP), has expressed optimism of wining the July 14 governorship election in Ekiti with its candidate, Oluyinka Akerele.

The National Chairman of the DPP, Mr Garshon Benson, in an interview with news men on Wednesday in Abuja described Akerele as a grassroots politician.

He said that the party had replaced Joseph Oladejo, whose name was initially submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), with that of Akerele.

“Akerele is a strong grassroots politician that is well known in Ekiti State.

“He has also done a lot of politics in Lagos. He is the candidate to beat in the Ekiti State governorship election.

“He is more popular

today than any other candidate contesting the Ekiti governorship election because of his antecedents.

“Akerele is not just a new comer; he has a lot of supporters across both the formal and informal sectors.

“Just few days ago, he was endorsed by the tailors and some groups with over 30,000 members as their candidate.

“With what is on the ground, I believe we are going to win Ekiti,’’ Benson said.

Akerele was one of the aspirants that participated in the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary in Ekiti State which produced former Minister of Solid Minerals, Kayode Fayemi, as winner.

He later defected to the DPP where he would contest as the party’s flagbearer in the governorship election.

ActionAid Nigeria gets new Chairperson ActionAid Nigeria (AAN) has appointed Dr Jummai Umar-Ajijola as its new Chairperson.

This was disclosed in a statement by Mrs Nihinlola Ayanda, the Communication Coordinator of the organisation in Abuja on Wednesday.

Ayanda said that Ajijola until her appointment was a member of the board with over 23 years working experience that spans across the public and private sectors.

She said Ajijola succeeded Prof. Patricia Donli, the out gone board chairperson, who had retired to join ActionAid General Assembly after serving for six years.

She listed other members of the board executive elected as Mr Imoni Amarere, Vice Board Chair and Board Treasurer as Mr James Milahan.

Ayanda said the decision was made at the 36th Board Meeting of the organisation held on June 9, in Abuja According to her, Ajijola is a PhD holder in Public Administration and Policy Analysis. She is also a Fellow of the United Nations University, Maastricht, Netherlands.

“She is a recipient of several awards, including the prestigious Executive Leadership Award for support to the Women and Children of Liberia.’’

News 18

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

EDF empowers 150 Ekiti residents Gbenga Sodeinde, Ado Ekiti Non Governmental Organisation, Ekiti Development Front (EDF), has again empowered 150 residents of Ikere Ekiti, and five other local governments.

The EDF assured Ekiti people of more goodies and dividends of democracy if the All Progressives Congress (APC,) gubernatorial candidate in Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi wins.

Speaking at the distribution of the materials to the 90 beneficiaries during the programme held at Odo Oja in Ikere Ekiti yesterday, the convener of the NGO, Barr.

Adeoye Aribasoye assured Ekiti people of more goodies and dividends of democracy more than Youth in Commercial Agriculture Development (YCAD), the Youth Volunteer Scheme, payment of students’ public examination fees, noting that free education will be restored

by Fayemi government by the time he takes over power.

He listed other things to benefit from Fayemi government to include government programme and restoration of Ekiti value system, (Owo arugbo) social security for senior citizens among others.

Aribasose who criticised the Ayo Fayose government for rolling out employment form when election is about three weeks away described the present government as “deceptive and lacks direction”.

“Imagine a governor who thinks Ekiti people are idiot that he just decided to roll our employment form to deceive and cajole them with employment form when election is about three weeks away in a bid to lure them into voting for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate now.

“What has he been doing since four years ago that he just suddenly woke up and think Ekiti people will continue to key into his deceptive programmes. Ekiti people are wiser now and we cannot be deceived”. He added.

Aribasoye who said the gesture was aimed at giving succour to the residents in the areas of social amenities, education, economic empowerment, political enlightenment and defence of their human rights, explained that the EDF drew inspiration from the Dr. Fayemi’s government, during his first tenure as Governor.

The EDF convener who described Fayemi as the only credible alternative that can bring the desired development that is needed in Ekiti urged the people to vote wisely on July 14, election for Fayemi, the APC. Candidate.

Ongoing construction of the Pen Cinema Fly Over at Agege.

Man, 60, bags 6 months jail term for selling stimulant A 60-year-old man, Ibrahim Sale, was on Wednesday sentenced to six months imprisonment by a Doma Area Court in Gombe, for selling dangerous

stimulant for human consumption.

The Judge, Malam Aminu Haruna, said that the conviction of Sale, without option of fine, would begin on June 20.

Sale of Bolari Quarters, Gombe, was convicted upon his plea of guilty when the case was first mentioned on May 23.

The prosecution, Insp.

Sumaila Shuaibu, said that

Sale on May 21 committed the offence of selling a chemical known as “suck and die”.

Shuaibu said that the convict has been selling the chemical for over 30

years.

According to him, people in the area raised the alarm after noticing that many youths, on daily basis, thronged Sale’s house to buy the chemical.

Ohafia stakeholders, youths re-affirm support for Chukwu Sunday Nwakanma, Umuahia Political stakeholders of Ohafia Local Government Area in Abia State yesterday re-affirmed their support for the Deputy Governor of the state, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu and expressed confidence in his performance and leadership of the area.

The leaders drawn from the three major communities in the LGA: Abiriba, Nkporo and Ohafia, made this known after an enlarged stakeholders meeting held under the umbrella of Ohafia Local Government Area Progressive Assembly (OLGAPA), at the residence of Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, Chief Ukpai Agwu.

According to the communiqué read by Barr Ukpai Ukairo at the end of the meeting, the stakeholders assured that the Deputy Governor remains the political leader of the area and

commended the partnership between him and Governor Okezie Ikpeazu which they described as “a partnership that is result oriented in delivering democracy dividends to Ohafia local government area, in particular, and Abia State as whole”.

The stakeholders unequivocally endorsed Governor Ikpeazu and his deputy for second term in office, under the banner of the People Democratic Party (PDP), promising to support other candidates of the party that emerge after the party’s primaries to ensure that PDP wins all elective offices during the 2019 general election.

Stakeholders who attended the meeting include the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr Ukpai Agwu, Commissioner for Information, Chief John Okiyi Kalu, Honorable Mandela Obasi, Hon Ifeanyi Uchendu, Barr Ukpai Ukairo, Chief U U Egwu, Director of

Women Mobilization in the state, Barr Nnenna Obewu, Chief K K Owen, PDP Chairman in the LGA, Chief John Okocha, Chief George Nnanna Kalu, Special Advisers and other aides of the Governor from the area, councilors and Grassroot political leaders of the local government area.

The member representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, Chief Uko Nkole was also at the meeting.

Similarly, youths from Ohafia south State constituency same day backed the state Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Udo Oko Chukwu in his reelection bid alongside the state governor, Okezie Ikpeazu.

Led by a former Ohafia LGA council chairman, Sampson Anagha the youths said they visited the deputy to assure him that the embarrassment meted out to him on June 2nd this year was not a collective agreement of Ohafia people.

Also speaking, another

former council boss of the LGA, Chief Kingsley Imaga said they were there to protest and disassociate them from that incident, as well as to draw the attention of the governor that what happened at that date was no a collective agreement, pointing out that any pronouncements from the area should come from the president general of ohafia clan.

According to another aide to the state governor, Tony Osmola Arua, Ohafia youths are aware of the numerous projects of the state governor in the area, stating however that it was the collective agreement of the youths from Ohafia that the state governor, Okezie Ikpeazu and his deputy, Ude Oko Chukwu should go for a second tenure.

It would be recalled that in a reception organised for the state governor, Okezie Ikpeazu on the 2nd of June,

by Ohafia clan in Ohafia LGA, the deputy Governor was

highly embarrassed by the organisers of the programme for deliberately omitting his name and pictures from the programme, even when he is from the LGA and by that the leader of the party in the LGA. Prominent sons of the area involved in the organisation of the programme had lamented that all state appointments had gone to the Nkoporo clan where the deputy governor came from, stating their obvious disenchantment with the deputy governor.

However, people from the area have been trouping en mass to dissociate themselves from the embarrassment.

Responding, the Deputy Governor, Ude Oko Chukwu highlighted political appointees form Ohafia, expressing the state governor’s love for Ohafia people.

He advised them to see the organisers’ mistakes as not deliberate.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

19 News

APC chairmanship: Osunbor withdraws from race Tom Okpe, Abuja Ahead of the All Progressives National Convention holding on Saturday, the former Governor of Edo State and National Chairmanship aspirant, Osereimhen Osunbor, has dropped his aspiration to become national chairman of the party.

Disclosing his withdrawal from the race in a press statement made available to newsmen on Wednesday and endorsing the immediate past governor of the state, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, who is also in the race, Osunbor said he did so to respect the order of the Presidency.

Recall that one of the contenders, a UnitedKingdom based member of the party, Ibrahim Emokpaire had also withdrawn from the race to support Oshiomhole.

He said: “I withdraw from

l As Party inspects convention venue the race to avoid unduly prolonging the voting exercise during the national convention in the interest of a rancour-free national convention and to ease the work of the National Convention Committee and in the overall interest of our party the All Progressives Congress”.

“I have decided to withdraw from the race and also endorse Adams Oshiomhole”, he

added.

The contest will now be between former governor of Cross State, Clement Ebri and Adams Oshiomhole who is believed to be enjoying the backing of National leader of the party, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, ex-interim Chairman of the Party, Chief Bisi Akande and governors elected under the party’s platform.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson of the party’s

National Convention Committee, Abike Dabiri told journalist late Wednesday night that the committee will be inspecting the National Eagle Square, venue of the party Convention on Thursday, 21st June (Today) to ascertain the readiness of the grand event.

She said the inspection of the venue is necessary so as not to leave any stone unturned in recognition of the

importance of the convention.

The spokesperson also disclosed that aspirants vying for different national positions in the party will meet with the committee at the Convention Secretariat after inspecting the venue.

“The party has a total of 48 aspirants vying for different national positions, the meeting with the committee headed by the Jigawa Governor, Abubakar Badaru is to see how the number of aspirants can be brought down to a minimal level to

avoid rancour and litigation.

“We don’t want to give room to mistakes”, Abike said.

The Party Governors known as the Progressives Governors Forum met at the Imo State Governors Lodge Assokoro yesterday, 20th June in preparation for the National convention of the party.

The Meeting which had all the APC Governors in attendance was hosted by the Chairman of the Progressives Governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha of Imo State.

NERC suspends board, others of Ibadan DisCo

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), says it has suspended the board of directors and other key management staff of Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC).

NERC’s Head of Media Unit, on Wednesday said in statement that the directors and management staff were suspended for non recovery of inappropriate shareholders loan of N6 billion.

Mbonu said the suspension was via Order No. NERC/181/2018 of June.

She said the loan was granted to Integrated Energy Distribution and Marketing Group (IEDMG) Ltd. by the utility.

According to her, IEDMG is the core investor in IEBDC, following the privatisation of electricity distribution companies by the Federal Government.

“The loan was granted by IBEDC from funds released to all DisCos by the CBN under the Nigeria Electricity Market Stabilisation Funds (NEMSF).

“It is for the purpose of improving the networks and reducing aggregate technical, commercial and collection losses.’’

She said the commission had earlier fined IBEDC N50 million on Sept. 18, 2017 for non-compliance with Order No. NERC/173/2017.

According to her, the 2017 order directed the IBEDC to fully recover the outstanding N5.7 billon being the balance of the loan granted by the utility to IEDMG.

President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki (middle) with from right, Nigerian Ambassador to Russia, Prof. Steve Ugba; Chairman, Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu; Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Olusola Adeyeye; Senate Minority Leader, Senator Godswill Akpabio; Chairman, Senate Committee on Airforce, Senator Duro Faseyi and Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Army, Senator Ibrahim Danbaba at the Russian Parliament on Wednesday.

Saraki addresses Russian Parliament l Seeks stronger security, economic cooperation Tunde Opalana, Abuja President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, on Wednesday addressed the Upper Chamber of the Russian Parliament known as the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, in Moscow.

This was contained in a statement by his chief press secretary, Sanni Onogu.

In the address which was historic - being the first head of the Nigerian legislature to perform such a function in Russia - Saraki called for a stronger security, economic and

cultural cooperation between Nigeria and Russia.

The President of the Senate thanked the Chairperson of the Federation Council, Ms. Valentina Matviyenko for the invitation to visit the Russian Parliament and expressed confidence that the event would mark a new phase of interparliamentary cooperation between the two nations, as well as a springboard for renewed vigour in NigeriaRussia relations in general.

He insisted that since aid alone cannot mitigate the enormous socio-economic

challenges confronting the country, it is imperative for both countries to engage in partnerships that would “open the door to new investments and other opportunities.”

Saraki said: “Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa is unassailable. An improved relationship between us would be a definitive pathway to a stronger relationship with the whole of Africa.

“Let us, therefore, pledge to revitalise the ties between our two countries. It is important, at this point, to stress that the relationship we seek is one

based on partnership.

“We recognise that aid alone will no longer sufficiently tackle the challenges ahead.

Partnership, on the other hand, will open the door to new investments and other opportunities.

Saraki noted that in the emerging global order, world powers are looking to Africa because “Africa is not merely rising; Africa is here. There is a world of opportunities on the continent.”

According to him, the 54 nations of Africa represent a huge geographical bloc with enormous potential for investment and strategic partnerships that would benefit only those that

venture.

“Our position, therefore, is simple: those who are serious about expanding their interests in Africa must necessarily see Nigeria – the powerhouse in the region – as the gateway to the continent,” he said.

He further called on the Russian Government to reckon with Nigeria as the central area of focus in Africa, by taking a more serious view of its longstanding ties with the country.

“We hope for your continued cooperation and partnership towards combating the threat; and with your support, I have no doubt that Nigeria will prevail,” he said.

News 20

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

FRSC records 11% decrease in road deaths during Sallah Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo, Lagos

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), says it recorded 51 deaths in road traffic crashes nationwide during the 2018 Eid-El-Fitri Sallah.

This figure compared to 57 deaths during the 2017 EidEl-Fitri Sallah is 11 per cent decrease in the number of people killed last year during the celebration.

Throughout he just concluded 2018 Eid-El-Fitri Sallah, the Corps provided a Special Patrol which lasted from Wednesday 13 June 2018 to Monday 18 June 2018.

The Corps Public Education Officer, Bisi Kazeem, in an official statement issued yesterday stated, that there was a significant increase in the number of people rescued without injury during the 2018 Sallah special patrol exercise which was given a wider coverage than previous years, when compared to the same period of Easter celebration in 2017.

According to him, 406 road traffic crash victims were rescued without injuries in 2018 Sallah special patrol compared to 293 that were rescued in 2017 Sallah special patrol of same period which marks 39 per cent increase.

However, Kazeem noted that the total number of crashes in 2018 were 126 compared to 102 in 2017 during same period and this is represented by 24 per cent increase; number of person involved in road traffic crashes during the 2018 Sallah celebration period were 839 compared to 662 in 2017, and this marks an increase by 27 per cent.

He added that the Corps recorded 7,667 offences during the Sallah Celebration compared to 7533 in 2017; and 6728 offenders apprehended in 2018 compared to 6,562 in 2017. The most prevalent offences during the 2018 Patrol

were Seatbelt Use Violation (SUV) 1615, compared to 1462 in 2017, and Speed Limit Device Violation (SLD) 785 compared to 943 in 2017, and Riding a Motorcycle without crash Helmet (RMH) 857.

Quoting the Corps Marshal, Dr. Boboye Oyeyemi, Kazeem stated that the Corps now has a wider coverage due to the establishment of more FRSC Commands, Outposts, road side clinics and Zebra points who now feed in reports from different routes that were hitherto not thoroughly covered.

He stressed that the increase in number of road crashes, increase in the

number of persons involved, and increase in the number of persons killed is due to the reports that emanated from the new FRSC formations.

It will be recalled that Dr. Boboye Oyeyemi had earlier directed that the 2018 Easter special patrol to cover 42 corridors which includes but not limited to Sokoto-Tambuwal-JegaBirnin Kebbi; Mokwa-Birnin Yero-Zaria; Maiduguri-BiuNuman-Jalingo-Wukari; Lafia-Langtang-PankshinJos; Abuja-Lokoja-Okene; Lokoja-Auchi-Benin; OnitshaNjaba-Owerri-Umuahia, Ibadan-Oyo-Ogbomosho; and Ibadan-Ogere-Shagamu.

L-R: Parent Teacher’s Association (PTA) Member, Mr. Afe-Ajanaku; Executive Director, Lara Day School, Mrs Olatomi Keleko; Guest Speaker, Taiwo Akinlami; PTA Chairperson, Lara Day School, Mrs Atinuke Afe-Ajanaku and Head of School, Lara Day School, Mrs Patricia Tioluwani during the Father’s Day Celebration.

Customs destroy expired, seized medicament valued at N102.4m The Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Command in Badagry, says it has destroyed expired and seized medicaments in its warehouse with a Duty Paid Value (DVP) of N102.4 million.

The command’s spokesperson, Mr Saidu Abdullahi, made the disclosure in a statement released in Lagos on Wednesday.

He said the destruction was supervised by the Director General of National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye and the Area Controller, Mohammed Aliyu.

Drugs destroyed were Tramadol caps and tabs, Codeine, Diazepam tabs, Analgen Injection, Medik 5, Paracetamol with caffeine, Dexamethasone tabs.

Others were expired rice, fertilizers and food seasonings.

The area controller said the destruction was in compliance with the service extant law.

“The destruction of these items are in compliance with the policies of the Federal Government and we are determined to get rid of dangerous and illicit drugs coming through the border.

“We will keep on strengthening the synergy with sister agencies so as to ensure that our borders remain safe in all departments,” Aliyu said.

He warned drug traffickers to desist from smuggling noting that the enforcement team would track them.

Adeyeye commended the efforts of the command noting that the synergy would ensure that illicit drugs were not brought into the country.

“We are determined to flush out all illicit and dangerous drugs from all corners of the country because they are harmful and dangerous especially for our children.

“We must all join hands together in the fight of the usage of illicit drugs especially by the youths,” she said.

Cleric urges holistic, multi-sectors approach to fight corruption Executive Director, Lux Terra Leadership Foundation (LTLF), Rev. Fr. George Ehusani, has called on the Federal Government to use holistic and multi-sectoral approach to fight corruption in the country.

Ehusani said this at the opening ceremony of “Training of Trainers’ Programme on Using Religious Institutions, Networks and Resources, to Fight Corruption and Promote a Culture of Integrity and Accountability in Nigeria.”

The programme, which was organised by LTLF in partnership with the MacAthur Foundation, would hold from June 20 to 23.

The reverend said that the havoc wreaked by corruption does not spare any sector or sphere of the country.

According to him, corruption has been posing a major challenge to national development in Nigeria.

“From education to law enforcement and judiciary, from public procurement to commercial transactions, in both public and private entities, including religious institutions, corruption abounds.

“Instance of embezzlement, nepotism, favouritism, bribery and facilitation payments are the norm in day to day transactions,“ he said.

He said that it`s widely believed that corruption was the most critical factor that explains how a richly endowed country like Nigeria could be so economically stagnated.

The cleric said that the root cause of corruption include economic factors such as poverty and inequality.

He also mentioned impunity or failure of government to enforce the rule of law as other causes of corruption.

The cleric said that a holistic and multi-sectoral approach was needed to fight corruption, adding that the government’s anti corruption campaign had often time focused on a few incidents of

“grand corruption.”

“The campaign has not done much in changing the mind-set of the people, the belief systems that fuel corruption, or the prevailing social norms on the Nigerian society,” he said.

He said the training programme would showcase how best Nigerian Christians and Muslims can use religion institutions, networks and resources to fight corruption.

“Religion is wildly acknowledged to influence human behaviour and actions.

Up to 90 per cent of Nigerians profess either Christianity or Islam,“ he said.

He said at the end of the

training, the trainees would be exposed as leaders and potential leaders to the dynamics of purposeful, visionary, transformative and inspiring servant leadership.

In his remarks, Dr Kole Shettima, Director, MacArthur Foundation, Africa Office, urged religious leaders to be passionate and committed to the fight against corruption in their local community.

He called on participants to promote the fight against corruption by building grassroots organisations to challenge the political system rather than working from inside government.

“Corruption cannot be

tackled from the top, it has to be confronted from the grassroots,” he said.

According to him, the government approach to fighting corruption in the country was devoid of active involvement of the people.

“Citizen’s ownership of the fight against corruption is lacking and that is why we are using both religions to bring back the nation’s values,” he said He urged the trainees to go back to their religion books where values were best defined, adding that values-driven leadership must be lived out in the everyday behaviors of leaders at all levels to be considered real.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

SHAKIRAT ABIDEMI

RUFAI ABIOLA

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS SHAKIRAT ABIDEMI OLOYEDE AND SHAKIRAT ABIDEMI OSHOALA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS SHAKIRAT ABIDEMI OLOYEDE-OSHOALA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS RUFAI ABIOLA FAUSAT NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS RUFAI ABIOLA MORENIKEJI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

AKPOJARO ISLAMIYAT FORMERLY BADARU ISLAMIYAT OLUWATOSIN. NOW AKPOJARO ISLAMIYAT OLUWATOSIN. FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

AYEMOWA ABIDEMI FORMERLY KNOWN AS BALOGUN MATHEW NOW WHICH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AYEMOWA ABIDEMI.ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID.GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

KASALI-GBADAMOSI

21 Companies Registration

OGUNSANYA TAIWO I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS OMOGBEHIN TAIWO BOSE NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS. OGUNSANYA TAIWO BOSE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

EMEKA O’KING

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS EMEKA OGBODO , NOW WISH TO BE CALLED AND ADDRESS AS EMEKA O’KING I. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE .

ADIE KATE

ADEYINKA SEKINAT

FORMERLY ADIE KATE IROSUNH. OLD DATE OF BIRTH IS 19 09 1988 NOW TO BE ADDRESSED AS ADIE KATE IROSUH. NEW DATE OF BIRTH 30 08 1991. FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

FORMERLY MISS ADEYINKA SEKINAT OLUWATOSIN ADEDEKE. NOW: MRS ADEYINKA SEKINAT OLUWATOSIN ADEDEKE AJASA, FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

OSHIYEMI OLUWASEYI

YESUFU ADERONKE

OLATUNBOSUN OMOLOLA

FOMERLY MY NAME WAS WRITTEN IN SOME OF MY DOCUMENTS AS OSHIYEMI OLUWASEYI OLUWATOYIN : NOW WANT TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OSHIYEMI OLUWASEYI ADIJAT. GENERAL PUBLIC PLS TAKE NOTE

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FORMERLY KASALI RUKAYAT TITILOPE NOW KASALIGBADAMOSI RUKAYAT TITILOPE .

FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

SILIFAT BOLAJI

GIWA LATEEFAT

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS SILIFAT BOLAJI LAWAL NOW WISHES TO BE KNOWN AS MRS SILIFAT BOLAJI LAWAL-JOLAOSO. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC AND AUTHORITY CONCERNED SHOULD TAKE NOTE

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ONAFOWOKAN YEWANDE FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS DISU YEWANDE MULIKAT ADUNNI IS THE SAME PERSON KNOWN AS DISU YEWANDE ARAMIDE NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS ONAFOWOKAN YEWANDE ELIZEBETH ADUNNI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID.GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE

BANKOLE FASAWE FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS FASAWE OLUWADAMILOLA ESTHER NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS BANKOLE FASAWE OLUWADAMILOLA ESTHER.ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE

ALUKO MARY

NWOSU EMMANUEL

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS EJUGU MARY OROHU , NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ALUKO MARY ROSE . ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MARIA EMMANUEL UCHENNA. NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS: NWOSU EMMANUEL UCHENNA. AM THE SAME AS EMMANUEL UCHENNA WHICH APPEARED ON MY CAC DOCUMENTS. GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE

ADENIKE OLUMAYOWA FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS ADEBIYI ADENIKE OLUMAYOWA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS ADEMOLA ADENIKE OLUMAYOWA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. OGUN STATE TESCOM AND GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

AKINTEWE OLUWAFISAYO I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ODEYEMI OLUWAFISAYO DEBORAH NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AKINTEWE OLUWAFISAYO DEBORAH. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

IYIOLA KIKELOMO I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS SALAWUDEEN KIKELOMO SARATU NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS IYIOLA KIKELOMO SARATU. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

HASSAN LAMIDI FORMERLY KNOWN ADDRESSED AND CALLED AS HASSAN LAMIDI EGBUNNU I NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN ADDRESSED AND CALLED AS HASSAN LAMIDI.. FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE

FOLORUNSO OLUWADARE I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS FOLORUNSO DARE JOSHUA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS FOLORUNSO OLUWADARE JOSHUA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. PUBLIC TAKE NOTE

BAMGBOYE OLUSOL FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS IYERIMAH BOSE MARY NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS BAMGBOYE OLUSOLA TEMILOLUWA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE

ABDULKAREEM HALIMOT

ISHOLA ALIMAT SHADIA

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OLADIPUPO HALIMOT SADE NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ABDULKAREEM HALIMOT SHALEWA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS LSHOLA ALIMAT NOW WISH TO ADD SHADIA TO MY NAME. HENCEFORTH I WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ISHOLA ALIMAT SHADIA . ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC KINDLY PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

YARI ZULAI

ONUMADU UGOCHUKWU

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS BALANGE ZULAI YARI NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS YARI ZULAI AHMED. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS CHIMEZIE UGOCHUKWU DESMOND NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ONUMADU UGOCHUKWU DESMOND . ALL DOCUMENTS BEARING MY FORMER NAMES REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

PROMISE CHINYERE

AJIBOLA BUNMI

FORMERLY MISS PROMISE CHINYERE UWEH NOW : MRS PROMISE CHINYERE AWOJOBI. FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

FORMERLY FADEYI BUNMI ELIZABETH NOW AJIBOLA BUNMI ELIZABETH. FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

KAMORU BILIKIS

ALATISHE DEBORAH

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS QAMARDEEN BALIQEES MOTUNRAYO. NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS KAMORU BILIKIS MOTUNRAYO .

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

FORMERLY TAIWO DEBORAH TEMITOPE. NOW TO BE ADDRESSED AS ALATISHE DEBORAH TEMITOPE. FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

KOLAWOLE OLUWASEUN

IDOWU SUSAN

FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS OLUMIDE OLUWASEUN FISAYO NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS KOLAWOLE OLUWASEUN FISAYO. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC AND AUTHORITY CONCERNED SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE

FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS ADELANI SUSAN OPEOLUWA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS IDOWU SUSAN OPEOLUWA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC AND AUTHORITY CONCERNED SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE

OGUNDIPE SANMI

ABDUL OMOLARA

KAREEM ALIMOT

CORRE CTION OF NAME

FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OGUNDIPE EMMANUEL NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OGUNDIPE SANMI EMMANUEL, DATE OF BIRTH 02 MAY 1985 CHANGE TO 25 MAY 1979.

ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE

FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS OLUGBEMI OMOLARA EUNICE NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS ABDUL OMOLARA EUNICE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID.GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS KAREEM SAKIRAT BOLA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS KAREEM ALIMOT FOLAKEMI. ALL FOMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. WEMA BANK AND GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

MY NAME IS OGUNSEYE TOSIN OMOLEYE IN MY DAIMOND BANK AND WRONGLY SPELL BY BVN AS OGUNSEYE OLUWATOSIN OMOLEYE HENCEFORTH I WANT TO BE KNOWN AND CALLED AS OGUNSEYE TOSIN OMOLEYE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE

OKON INEMESIT

OLEGU CHINEME

OGECHUKWU ROSEMARY

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS HAPPINESS PATRICK UKOH NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OKON INEMESIT UKOH. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN, CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS NMELU CHINYERE GIFT, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN, CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS NMELU CHINYERE. ALL DOCUMENTS BEARING MY FORMER NAMES REMAIN VALID. BANKS AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE

I FORMERLY KNOWN, CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS OLEGU CHINEREM EMERIE NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS OLEGU CHINEME EGBERE MY DATE OF BIRTH IS 7TH APRIL 1987. ALL DOCUMENTS BEARING MY FORMER NAMES REMAIN VALID. BANKS AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

AJANI AZEEZ FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AJANI AZEEZ ABIODUN NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AJANI AZEEZ ADEWALE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC AND AUTHORITY CONCERNED PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

OGECHUKWU ROSEMARY

OMOTAYO UMOESSIEN

ANGELA ADANNA

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

EMMANUEL CHINWENDU

AMADI NDIDIAMAKA

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSES AS NDULUE OGECHUKWU ROSEMARY, NOW WISHES TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OZUEH OGECHUKWU ROSEMARY. COUNCIL OF LEGAL EDUCATION, NYSC, IMO STATE UNIVERSITY AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS. OLUFAYO TOLULOPE OMOTAYO NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS. TOLULOPE OMOTAYO UMOESSIEN. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VAILD. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ANGELA ADANNA IKE NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ANGELA ADANNA IGNATIUS EBERECHUKWU. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE

THIS IS TO CONFIRM THAT THE NAMES UWARIKE ANTHONY AND UWARIKE CHIBUIKE ANTHONY REFERS TO ONE AND THE SAME PERSON, BUT NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS UWARIKE CHIBUIKE ANTHONY. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. FIRST BANK PLC AND THE PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS NWOHIRI CHINWENDU CHRISTIANA, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS. EMMANUEL CHINWENDU CHRISTIANA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AS ONYEONU NDIDIAMAKA OGECHUKWU, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AMADI NDIDIAMAKA OGECHUKWU, ALL FORMER DOCUMENT REMAINS VALID,GENERAL PUBLIC PLS TAKE NOTE

GOD KINGDOM BELLS MOUNTAIN CHURCH INT’L

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORMED 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) VICENT FALOLA

-GENERAL OVERSEER (2) DUROSINMI ADEBIMPE IDAYAT -TREASURER (3) ONIYINDE OLUWAFEMI DAVID -SECRETARY THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:1.TO EXIST IN CHRIST FAITH PRIMARILY FOR CALL TO SALVATION, TO CELEBRATE GOD, FOR PRAYERS, DIVINE SOLUTION AND CARE. 2.TO PREACH AND TEACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, WIN AND NURTURE SOULS FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD. 3.TO EMBARK ON EVANGELISM WORLDWIDE. 4.TO ESTABLISH CHURCHES, SCHOOL, CARE CENTRES , HOSPITALS, CHARITIES, LIBRARIES, ETC, FOR THE BENEFIT OF MANKIND AND FOR CELEBRATING GOD. 5.TO ENGAGE IN THE PUBLICATION OF BOOKS, MAGAZINES AND EVERY KIND OF CHRISTIAN LITERATURE AND MATERIALS. 6.TO PROMOTE PEACE AND RELATIONSHIP, LOVE, TRUTH AND JUSTICE TO THE GLORY OF GOD. 7. TO PLAY THE ROLES OF A TRUE CHURCH OF GOD AS PERMITTED BY LAW. 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 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED BY: SECRETARY

GREAT HEART ONE LOVE FOUNDATION THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO.1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. MOBOLAJI OLUWAFUNMILAYO 2. AKINOSI OLUYEMI ADETOUN 3. SOYEMI ADEPEJU YETUNDE 4, MUSTAPHA AFEEZ TOYO 5. MOBOLAJI JUWON JOSHUA THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE IS:TO HELP THE LESS PRIVILEGED PEOPLE IN THE SOCIETY 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 BY: SECRETARY

NIGERIA ONCOFERTILITY NETWORK THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE-NAMED ORGANISATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT CAP C20 LFN 2004.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: (1) MR. NONSO R. DANIELS - PRESIDENT (2) DR. MUTIU A. JIMOH -MEMBER (3) DR. LOUIS C. AJONUMA - MEMBER (4) MR. CHRISTOPHER N. NWANKWO - MEMBER (5) MRS. STELLA I. AGU - MEMBER (6) MS. EBELECHUKWU I. ONWUAGBAIZU - MEMBER (7) MRS. OMOTADE ALALADE - MEMBER (8) MR. CHIDOZIE UZOWULU -MEMBER THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:(1) TO ADDRESS THE COMPLEX HEALTH CARE AND QUALITY-OF-LIFE ISSUES THAT CONCERN YOUNG CANCER PATIENTS WHOSE FERTILITY MAY BE THREATENED BY THE DISEASE OR ITS TREATMENT ESPECIALLY THROUGH THE PRESERVATION OF THE FERTILITY OF SUCH YOUNG CANCER PATIENTS; (2) TO CONNECT WITH A WORLDWIDE, INTERDISCIPLINARY AND INTER PROFESSIONAL NETWORK OF SCIENTISTS, MEDICAL SPECIALISTS AND SCHOLARS WHO ARE EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HEALTH, DISEASE SURVIVORSHIP AND FERTILITY PRESERVATION IN YOUNG CANCER PATIENTS; AND (3) TO CREATE PUBLIC AND PROFESSIONAL AWARENESS ON ISSUES REGARDING FERTILITY PRESERVATION IN CANCER WITH A PLATFORM OFFERING YOUNG CANCER PATIENTS FERTILITY PRESERVATION OPTIONS. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION OF THE ABOVE-MENTIONED ORGANISATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: PRESIDENT

Companies Registration 22 BIBLE STANDARD HOLINESS COVENANT CHURCH

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

YOUNG OGANIRU OFUOBI CLUB

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990 TRUSTEES: 1. REV. OSARETIN LUCKY IGBEDION - CHAIRMAN/GENERAL OVERSEER 2. REV. (MRS.) REBECCA EHIMWENMA IGBEDION 3. ENGINEER AMOS OSADOLOR EKOFU 4. MR. EZEKIEL JEGBEFU 5. MR. PROGRESS ODOSAMAWEN IGBEDION AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST TO ALL NATIONS 2. TO WIN SOULS FOR CHRIST FOR THE EXPANSION OF HIS KINGDOM ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990 TRUSTEES 1. OKORO JONATHAN CHUKWUEMEKA - CHAIRMAN 2. OKELIA UZODIMA MATTHEW - SECRETARY 3. AGADA CHUKWUMA CHRISTOPHER - TREASURER 4. MAXWELL CHUKWUDI BLESSED - VICE CHAIRMAN AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO FOSTER UNITY AND PROTECT THE INTERESTS OF HER MEMBERS 2. TO HELP ONE ANOTHER IN TIME OF NEED ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

HAAWKA FOUNDATION

HORIZON COURT HOMEOWNERS AND RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION

OWERRI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, INDUSTRY MINES & AGRICULTURE 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. DR IGWE NNADUMIJE CHRISTIAN 2. EKEDEBE EMEKA 3. NKWEKEGBU GERALD CHUKWU 4. IROEMEH CHIZOBAM JOVITA 5. NNADUMIJE DUMEBI LEONI 6. NWAGWU CLEOPHAS 7. OKPARA EVEREST 8. NNEJI FRANCIS UZOR 9. EGEJURUM IHEANYICHUKWU EMMANUEL 10. UBAH FESTUS NNAMDI AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. TO CATER FOR THE MEMBERS ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

POWERING DREAMS FOUNDATION

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

TRUSTEES: (1) TABAT MARTINS NACHE (2) ENEMA ELVIS UGBENYO (3) OPITOKE ATHANASIUS OSHONE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: (1) TO REACH OUT TO THE LESS PRIVILEGED WITH UNPARALLEL ASSISTANCE (2) TO RAISE HOPE OF THOSE WHO HAVE LOST HOPE AND ON THE VERGE OF LOSING HOPE 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. SIGEND: SECRETARY.

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

NAMES OF TRUSTEES 1. MR OLUKAYODE RAMOS 2. BARR MRS ZAINAB OLUKAYODE RAMOS 3. HAYAT KAY RAMOS 4. KAMAL KAY RAMOS 5. AUWAL KAY RAMOS AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO ASSIST THE LESS PRIVILEGED IN THE SOCIETY. 2. TO CATER FOR THE INTEREST OF THE NEEDY. 3. TO HELP THE LESS PRIVILEGE AND BUILD SOCIAL AMENITIES BY GIVING OF SCHOLARSHIP AND RENDERING FREE MEDICAL CARE AND BUILDING OF MEDICAL FACILITIES. 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: EZIWANNE A. OKAFOR, ESQ.

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

TRUSTEES: 1. GEORGE LOLOMARI EREKOSIMA 2. NKANGA AKANIMOH BASSEY 3. OGBEBOR USIFO JOSEPH 4. OSHODI OLUWADAMILOLA KIKELOMO 5. ONYEKWENA EKENE AUGUSTINE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: TO REPRESENT AND PROMOTE THE INTERESTS OF ALL MEMBERS OF THE HORIZON COURT HOMEOWNERS AND RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION 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: UZOWULU UGO & CO. 08033393213

PASSION FOR GOD WORLD OUTREACH

WUSHU KUNG-FU AND TAI CHI DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA

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

TRUSTEES: 1) OLUFAYO OLUWOLE OLAYINKA G.O 2) MORAWO ADENIYI IBRAHIM SECRETARY 3) OLUFAYO ANNE BOSE 4) OLUFAYO AYORINDE AKINLABI AIM AND OBJECTIVE: TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST THROUGHOUT THE WORLD ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

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

TRUSTEES: 1) EWEJE ADELEYE YUSUF CHAIRMAN 2) OGUNYOMI MUSA ADISA SECRETARY 3) OLATOYINBO EMMANUEL OLALEKAN. AIMS / OBJECTIVES: 1) TO PROMOTE THE PRACTICE AND DEVELOPMENT OF WUSHU KUNG-FU AND TAI CHI SPORT 2)TO ADHERE TO AND PROMOTE INTERNATIONAL STANDARD PRACTICE BY MEMBERS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED SECRETARY

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

TRUSTEES: (1) PROPHET ADE ADENIJI M-A (2) GENE MOSES (3) MRS, ADENIJI VICTORIA L-B AIM AND OBJECTIVE: TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

CHRIST LIGHT COMMISSIONED MINISTRY INTERNATIONAL

CHRIST MATHETES GLOBAL MISSION

KALIMATU LLAHI HIYAL ULYA WA KALIMATUL KUFRI HIYA SUFLA SOCIETY OF NIGERIA

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

TRUSTEES: 1. REV. DR SHAKA SAMUEL ALABAMA UGBOKHE 2. PASTOR MRS PEACE SHAKA 3. PASTOR OKECHUKWU AMANZE 4. PASTOR. MONDAY UDUBUKWU 5. PASTOR. JOSHUA OMOLAYE 6. DEACONESS MRS MARIAN ODUKOYA AIM AND OBJECTIVE: TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

GREATER ONITSHA FOUNDATION

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

TRUSTEES: 1. IFEANYI WILLIAM IWUCHUKWU - CHAIRMAN 2. ARINZE MICHAEL ODIARI - SECRETARY 3. NONSO AUSTIN AREH - MEAIM AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1) ENGAGE IN AWARENESS CAMPAIGN ON THE NEED FOR IMPROVED POLITICAL, ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND EDUCATIONAL PARTICIPATION WITHIN ONITSHA METROPOLIS AND ENVIRONS. 2) ENGAGE THE ELECTORATE TO ENSURE CREDIBLE PEOPLE ARE PUT FORWARD FOR LEADERSHIP POSITIONS WITH A VIEW TO ENSURE QUALITY LEADERSHIP, GOOD GOVERNANCE, EFFECTIVE AND EFFICIENT REPRESENTATION. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

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. PASTOR SAMUEL ATUNGWU - PRESIDENT 2. PASTOR PAUL SUNDAY EJISUN - PROPHET 3. SISTER ELIZABETH AJUMI SAMUEL - SECRETARY AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST TO ALL NATIONS 2. TO BAPTIZE PEOPLE IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER,SON AND THE HOLY SPIRIT 3. TO TEACH BRETHREN TO OBSERVE ALL THE LAWS OF GOD IN THE HOLY BIBLE 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

THE NEW HABITATION CHURCH OF CHRIST-C & S ALADURA PUBLIC NOTICE FOR ADDITION OF TRUSTEES THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CHURCH HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REMOVAL AND ADDITION OF TRUSTEES UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTER ACT, 2004.

OLD TRUSTEES: 1. ELDER MICHEAL ADEBOLA ABDUL - RE- ELECTED 2. ELDER ARTHUS ANDREW AKINBOWALE - RE- ELECTED 3. ELDER JUSTUS ASANI OLUDASE - RE- ELECTED 4. ELDER JOSEPH OMOLEWA OLOWOYEYE - RE- ELECTED 5. ELDER SAMUEL CHUKS ADAH - RE- ELECTED 6. MOTHER ESTHER ADENIKE ONANUGA - RE- ELE ELDER FILANI EMMANUEL TAIWO - RE- ELECTED NEW TRUSTEES: 1. IKUSIKA VICTORIA IYABODE - ELECTED 2. OJUMU ENITAN - ELECTED REASON ADDITION OF NEW TRUSTEES ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REMOVAL AND ADDITION OF TRUSTEES 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 TWENTY-EIGHT (28) DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION. DATED _________DAY OF ____________, 2018 SIGNED: SECRETARY

REAL CHAPEL OF TRUTH CHRIST INTERNATIONAL

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. HAMMED QUADRI BABATUNDE - CHAIRMAN 2. SAHEED ABDULQUADRI- SECRETARY 3. YUNUS ABDULKABIR 4. JIMOH JELILIL ADISA 5. ADESHINA MORUFAT MOTUNRAYO 6. ADEX ABIOLA 7. WULEMOTU OLAITAN SHUAIBU 8. SALAMI OLATUNDUN ALIRAT 9. OLAYIWOLA SHAKIRAT OMOBO 10. FOLARIN RUKUYAT OLAWUNMI 11. AYELESO WAJEEHAT TOYIN 12. AYELESO KAYODE IBRAHIM AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO EVANGELISE AND PROMOTE THE KNOWLEDGE OF ALLAH AND ADHERENCE TO THE TEACHING AND EXAMPLE OF PROPHET MUHAMMED. 2. TO PROMOTE ISLAMIC EDUCATION, VALUES & MORALS 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

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

TRUSTEES 1. LT. GEN. CHAP. UCHEM OBINNA JOSEPH (CHAIRMAN) 2. MAJ. GEN. ADAMU DYERI RTD 3. CAPT. NELSON EBONG RTD. 4. PHARM. MRS UCHEM PAMELA IJEOMA 5. EZENWA TOOCHUKWU 6. WILLIAMS VICTOR 7. SGT CHAP. BEM GILE MOSES 9. SGT CHAP. DONATUS NNALUE 10. HON. CHIEF STANLEY DIKE SNR 11. PROF. A. U AWUZIE (SECRETARY) AIM AND OBJECTIVE: TO PROTECT THE INTEREST AND WELFARE OF MEMBERS SO THEY CAN BE CARRYING OUT THEIR WORK EFFECTIVELY 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: NKECHI F. CHUKWUEMEKA FOR: FLOSIE CLEMS & CO

ata

n and onatus to be sed as former valId. publIC te.

y

former doCuments remaIn valId. General publIC sHould please take note.

ude vICtor

I, formerly known and addressed as mICHael toCHukwu ude, now wIsH to be known and addressed as ude vICtor toCHukwu. all former doCuments remaIn valId. banks and General publIC sHould please take note.

oladosuoluwa funke

free space

I formerly known and addressed as oGuntoyInbo oluwafunke olayInka nowwIsH to be known and addressed as oladosuoluwafunke deboraH. all former doCuments remaIn valId, General publIC kIndly please take note.

mrs omabaH onyekaCHI

and okorIe H to be d as mrs former valId. d please

obInna CHInemerem I,mrsformerly known and I, addressed formerly known asand addressed mIss alI as mIss IroeGbu CHInemerem onyekaCHI, now wIsH to be preCIous, to be known known now andwIsH addressed as and as mrs obInna mrsaddressed omabaH onyekaCHI. all CHInemerem preCIous. all former former doCuments remaIn doCuments remaIn valId.sHould banks valId. General publIC and General publIC sHould please take note. please take note.

n and sannI to be ssed as ormer n valId, please

JoHnson reGIna and I, mrs formerly known I, addressed formerly known and as mICHael addressed as now ekeanyanwu toCHukwu ude, wIsH to be reGIna, to be known knownnow andwIsH addressed as ude and addressed as mrs JoHnson vICtor toCHukwu. all former reGIna Ikan. remaIn all former doCuments valId. doCuments remaIn valId. banks banks and General publIC and General sHould sHould pleasepublIC take note. please take note.

n

ude vICtor

doCuments remaIn valId. banks and General publIC sHould please take note.

mrs onuH Joy

mrs obInna CHInemerem

I, formerly known and I, formerly known and addressed addressed as mIss okorIe as mIss IroeGbu CHInemerem Timesnow Nigeria Joy franCIs, now wIsH to be Daily preCIous, wIsH to be known known and addressed as mrs and addressed as mrs obInna Thursday, June 21,preCIous.

2018 all former onuH Joy anurIka. all former CHInemerem doCuments remaIn valId. doCuments remaIn valId. banks General publIC sHould please and General publIC sHould take note. please take note.

mrs beatrICe oGadInma

I, formerly known and addressed as mIss beatrICe oGadInma ude, now wIsH to be known and addressed as mrs beatrICe oGadInma alor. all former doCuments remaIn valId. General publIC sHould please take note.

sanI bello

free space

I formerly known and addressed as sannI bello now wIsH to be known and addressed as sanI bello. all former doCuments remaIn valId, General publIC to please take note.

mrs JoHnson reGIna

free space

I, formerly known and addressed as ekeanyanwu reGIna, now wIsH to be known and addressed as mrs JoHnson reGIna Ikan. all former doCuments remaIn valId. banks and General publIC sHould please take note.

donatus anIGbata

beatrICeknown oGadInma I, mrs formerly and I,addressed formerly asknown and donatus addressed as mIss nnalue, now wIsH beatrICe to be oGadInma ude,addressed now wIsH to known and as be knownanIGbata. and addressed as donatus all former mrs beatrICe oGadInma alor. doCuments remaIn valId. all former banks anddoCuments General remaIn publIC valId. General publIC sHould sHould please take note. please take note. mrs onuH Joy

odo Ifeoma I, formerly known and tHat I was formerly known and addressed as mIss okorIe addressed as odo Ifeoma, tHat Joy franCIs, now wIsH to be I now wIsH to add mIrIan to my known name and addressed as wIsH mrs former tHat I now onuH anurIka. all former to be Joy known and addressed as doCuments remaIn valId. odo Ifeoma mIrIam. all former General publIC please doCuments remaInsHould valId. banks and General publIC sHould please take take note. notes.

bello ST. GABRIEL INTERNATIONALsanIMINISTRY

oladosuoluwa funke

AIMS/OBJECTIVES; 1. TO PREACH THE UNDILUTED WORD OF GOD. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR- GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED; AMADI GABRIEL PAULINUS (GENERAL OVERSEER)

URHOBO WORLD UNITED UNION

THIS IS TO NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CLUB HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES. AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1 OF 1990.

TRUSTEES: 1. UTUEDOR OGHENETEGA 2 AWARITOMA ERHIRE 3. EMORHOKPOR AKPESIRI FIDELIS 4. ONEDO OGHENEMGA BLAISE AIM AND OBJECTIVE

kelvIn okeCHukwu

free space

I, formerly known and addressed as kelvIn arukwem oGbonna, now wIsH to be known and addressed as kelvIn okeCHukwu oGbonna. all former doCuments remaIn valId. General publIC sHould please take note.

mrs obInna CHInemerem

ConfIrmatIon ofaddressed name I, formerly known and tHIs to CertIfy and ConfIrm tHat mIss as IsmIss IroeGbu CHInemerem anyanwu CallIsta adaku, mrs oGbonna preCIous, now wIsH to be known CallIsta adaku, mrs nwalI CallIsta and addressed as CallIsta mrs obInna adaku and mrs aGuoHa adaku CHInemerem preCIous. former refers as one and tHe sameall person now doCuments remaIn valId. banks wIsH to be known and addressed as andnwalI General publICallsHould mrs CallIsta adaku. former doCuments remaIn valId. General publIC please take note. sHould please take note.

odo Ifeoma

free space

tHat I was formerly known and addressed as odo Ifeoma, tHat I now wIsH to add mIrIan to my former name tHat I now wIsH to be known and addressed as odo Ifeoma mIrIam. all former doCuments remaIn valId. banks and General publIC sHould please take notes.

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mrs beatrICe oGadInma

I, oluseGun formerly adenIyI known and Inaddressed some of my my as doCuments mIss beatrICe name was wronGly wrItten oGadInma ude, now wIsH as to adenIyI oluseGun Instead of be known andemmanuel. addressed as oluseGunadenIyI now mrstobeatrICe alor. wIsH be known oGadInma and addressed as all former doCuments remaIn oluseGun adenIyI emmanuel. all valId. General former doCumentspublIC remaInsHould valId, General publICnote. kIndly please take please take note.

INITIATIVE OF CHANGE IN NIGERIA mrs JoHnson reGInaFOR UNITY AND GROWTH odo Ifeoma

I was formerly known and I,THISformerly known and THATtHat IS TO NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC THE ABOVE NAMED CLUB HAS addressed as REGISTRATION odo Ifeoma, tHat APPLIED TO THEas CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR addressed ekeanyanwu UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES. AND ALLIED MATTERS OF 1990.

I now wIsH ACT to 1add mIrIan to my reGIna, now wIsH to be known former name tHat I now wIsH NAMES OF TRUSTEES.; and addressed as mrs JoHnson to be known and addressed as (1) ODETOYINBO FELICIA OLAYONU (MRS). reGIna Ikan. all former (2) OGUNYE ADEOYE ABAYOMI (MR), odo Ifeoma mIrIam. all former doCuments remaIn JULIUS valId. (MR)(SECRETARY). banks (3) OWOSENI ABIODUN doCuments remaIn valId. banks and (4) OPARA BENEDICTA NGOZI (MRS). and General publIC sHould General publIC sHould please take (5) ALU PAUL CHEGWE.(MR). please take note.AGBOOLA OLOLADE (MRS). notes.

(6) FISHER-THOMAS (7) DIKEDI-AJAKAIYE AMINA.(MRS).

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1TO EMPOWER THE PEOPLE TO TAKE ACTION TO IMPROVED THEIR SOCIAL ECONOMIC POTENTIALS. 2 TO INCREASE THE KNOWLEDGE BASE OF THE PEOPLE OF THE OPPORTUNITIES AROUND IN THE COUNTRY. ANY OBJECTION TO THE ABOVE 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

THE PILLAR OF PRAISE MINISTRY

THIS IS TO NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CLUB HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES. AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1 OF 1990.

TRUSTEES: 1. PASTOR BANKANTHONY NNAMDI DAVID-CHAIRMAN 2. OLATUNBOSUN GBENGA BABATUNDE -SECRETARY 3. CHIKE REUBEN ORJI 4. OLUFEMI OLUMIDE ALLA AIM AND OBJECTIVE: TO PREACH THE WORD SO THAT PEOPLE ARE ENLIGHTENED ABOUT GOD’S PRINCIPLES FOR LIVING AND THE DYNAMICS FOR SPIRITUAL WARFARE

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

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

MARY OGOMA

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MARY OGOMA AMADI, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MARY OGOMA EMEKA OKORO. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC/AUTHORITIES CONCERNED SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

GILBERT IPENSE

PETER PHILIPS

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS IPENSE PETER OLUWAMBE, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS GILBERT IPENSE PETER. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS PETER EKPENYONG, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS PETER PHILIPS ETIYEN BASSEY. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

ASSOCIATION OF FORENSIC AND INVESTIGATIVE AUDITORS IN NIGERIA – CAC/IT/NO. 88270

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:

REMAIN THE SAME.

REASONS FOR REMOVAL: A) THE FOUR (4) TRUSTEES WERE REMOVED BY 2/3RD MAJORITY OF THE MEMBERS PRESENT AT THE GENERAL MEETING AND OTHERS WERE APPOINTED TO FILL THE VACANCY. B) THE AMENDMENT OF THE CONSTITUTION WAS DONE AS A RESULT OF EXPANSION. ANY OBJECTION(S) TO THIS RE-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 TWENTY-EIGHT (28) DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: EZRA ENWERE,ESQ. (SOLICITOR

IKENANZIZ YOUTH CLUB OF NIGERIA

THIS IS TO NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CLUB HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES. AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1 OF 1990.

NAMES OF TRUSTEES ARE: 1. ONUEGBU KINGSLEY - (CHAIRMAN) 2. STANLEY AGO 3. DANIEL OBASI 4. OBINNA OKORO AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO CREATE, NURTURE AND PROMOTE THE SPIRIT OF BROTHERHOOD AMONG MEMBERS 2. TO EXTEND WELFARE SERVICES TO MEMBERS AND TO THE LESS PRIVILEGED.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT THE ABOVE ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR CHANGE OF TRUSTEES AND AMENDMENT OF THE CONSTITUTION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, 1990.

THE OLD TRUSTEES ARE: 1. DR. MRS. VICTORIA AYISHETU ENAPE - RETAINED 2. PROF. BAYERO MUHAMMAD SABIR - RETAINED 3. IBRAHIM USMAN - REMOVED 4. ABUH OKPANACHI - REMOVED 5. OKORO EDDYBROWN ONYEGBULA - RETAINED 6. ILOBA GRACE ONUMU - RETAINED 7. GRACE ILEMONA JOSEPH - RETAINED 8. STEPHEN AJEKA ABUH - REMOVED 9. JOSEPH ENAPE - RETAINED 10. GIDEON IKOJO JOSEPH - REMOVED THE NEWLY APPOINTED TRUSTEES IS: 1.

PROF. AMINU SALIHU MIKAILU 2.

MR. OBAKA JAMES 3.

DR. GBEGI DANIEL ORSAA 4.

BARR. EZRA OGECHUKWU ENWERE

ConfIrmatIon of name

tHIs Is to CertIfy and ConfIrm tHat mIss anyanwu CallIsta adaku, mrs oGbonna CallIsta adaku, mrs nwalI CallIsta adaku and mrs aGuoHa CallIsta adaku refers as one and tHe same person now wIsH to be known and addressed as mrs nwalI CallIsta adaku. all former doCuments remaIn valId. General publIC sHould please take note.

ANY OBJECTION TO THE ABOVE 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: KINGSLEY ONUEGBU (CHAIRMAN)

oluseGun adenIyI

In some of my doCuments my name was wronGly wrItten as adenIyI oluseGun Instead of oluseGunadenIyI emmanuel. now wIsH to be known and addressed as oluseGun adenIyI emmanuel. all former doCuments remaIn valId, General publIC kIndly please take note.

ETE AKPASA FOUNDATION

ottaH amaeCHI

I, formerly known and addressed as nkwuda omInyI, now wIsH to be known and addressed as ottaH amaeCHI sunday. all former doCuments remaIn valId. banks and General publIC sHould please take note.

TO GATHER THE PEOPLE OF URHOBO TOGETHER FOR THE PROGRESS OF THE TOWN .

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ADEBANJO FATIMAT YEMISI , NOW WISH TO BE CALLED AND ADDRESS AS OKUNLADE FATIMAT YEMISI . ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE .

ottaH amaeCHI

I, formerly known and addressed as nkwuda omInyI, now wIsH to be known and addressed as ottaH amaeCHI sunday. all former doCuments remaIn valId. banks and General publIC sHould please take note.

23 Companies Registration

I THIS formerly known and I formerly known and IS TO NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED addressed asFORoGuntoyInbo HAS APPLIED REGISTRATION TO addressed THE CORPORATEas AFFAIRSsannI oluwafunke now wIsH“C” OF bello now COMMISSIONolayInka UNDER THE PART COMPANIES ANDwIsH ALLIEDto be to be known and addressed as known and addressed as MATTERS ACT 1990. oladosuoluwafunke deboraH. sanI bello. all former all doCuments remaIn THEformer TRUSTEES ARE; doCuments remaIn valId, 1. AMADI GABRIELpublIC PAULINUS - GENERAL OVERSEER. valId, General kIndly General publIC to please 2. ROMEO, DABO-OJU. please take SOIBIFAA note. take note.

OKUNLADE FATIMAT

kelvIn okeCHukwu

I, formerly known and addressed as kelvIn arukwem oGbonna, now wIsH to be known and addressed as kelvIn okeCHukwu oGbonna. all former doCuments remaIn valId. General publIC sHould please take note.

free space

free space

THIS IS TO NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CLUB HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES. AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE 1) AKPASA SAMPSON OKON 2) ADEDEJI INIOBONG ISAAC. 3) NWOSU VIOLET AMAKA. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES : 1) TO RE- ENGINEER IN THE MINDS OF YOUTHS THE VIRTUE OF INDUSTRY AS A MECHANISM FOR ACHIEVING ECONOMIC INDEPENDENCE.

I,

kelvIn okeCHukwu

formerly

known

and

I,

ottaH amaeCHI

formerly

known

and

2) TO EDUCATE YOUTHS IN THEIR ROLE IN GOOD GOVERNANCE AND addressedPRINCIPLES.3) as kelvIn arukwem addressed omInyI, LEADERSHIP TO CARRY OUT PROGRAMSas OF nkwuda MENTORING now BY wIsH to be ACCOMPLISHED now wIsH to be known and OFoGbonna, YOUNG PERSONS RESPECTABLE PROFESSIONALS AND LEADERS. known and addressed as addressed as ottaH amaeCHI ANY OBJECTION TO THE ABOVE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED kelvIn okeCHukwu oGbonna. sunday. all former doCuments TO THE REGISTRAR - GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT all former doCuments remaIn remaIn valId. banks and 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA valId.28General sHould General publIC sHould please WITHIN DAYS OF publIC THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: KINGSLEY ONUEGBU please take note. take(CHAIRMAN) note.

CHRIST TRUMPET CALLoluseGun MINISTRYadenIyI

ConfIrmatIon of name

tHIs Is to CertIfy and ConfIrm tHat mIss

In some of my doCuments my

THIS IS TO NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED anyanwu CallIsta adaku, mrs oGbonna name was wronGly wrItten as CLUB HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA CallIsta adaku, mrsUNDER nwalI PART CallIsta adenIyI oluseGun Instead of FOR REGISTRATION ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES. AND ALLIED adaku andACT mrs1aGuoHa CallIsta adaku oluseGunadenIyI emmanuel. now MATTERS OF 1990. refers as one and tHe same person now wIsH to be known and addressed as TRUSTEES: wIsH to be known and addressed oluseGun 1.PASTOR RAYMOND ASHIEGBU N. as (SENIOR PASTOR)adenIyI emmanuel. all mrs nwalI CallIsta adaku.C.all former former doCuments remaIn valId, 2.MRS. KATE ASHIEGBU (PASTOR) doCuments remaIn valId. General publIC 3.BRO EZEKIEL FANIRAN TREASURER General publIC kIndly please take 4.BRO -GENERAL SECRETARY sHouldWILLIAMS please takeANAYAWU note. note.

5.FRIDAY ADOGA - ASST.PASTOR 6. JUSTIN MALACHY - FINANCIAL SECRETARY AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD AND SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST ANY OBJECTION TO THE ABOVE 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

CHRIST FAITH INT’L CHURCH

THIS IS TO NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CLUB HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF THE COMPANIES. AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1 OF 1990.

TRUSTEES: 1. TAIWO LAWRENCE OLURINDE 2.BAMIDELE YEMISI NIKE 3.ODEKEYE ADENIYI GBOLAHAN AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1.PREACHING OF THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST FOR THE PURPOSE OF PEOPLE’S SPIRITUAL ,ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT, BY ESTABLISHING CHURCHES IN NIGERIA AND ALL OVER THE WORLD. PUBLICATION AND DISTRIBUTION OF CHRISTIAN LITERATURE AND OTHER MATERIALS 2.TO ESTABLISH A LEADERSHIP TRAINING /SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY FOR THE PREPARATION OF INDIVIDUALS INTERESTED IN THE ACQUISITION OF SUCH KNOWLEDGE FOR IN PURSUIT OF RELATIVE MINISTERIAL CALLING ANY OBJECTION TO THE ABOVE 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

HAUW’U BUKAR

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS HAUWA’U AUDU BAKO, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESS AS HAUW’U BUKAR. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

IBRAHIM OMOSHEMI

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS DADA OMOSHEMI JANET ,NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESS AS MRS IBRAHIM OMOSHEMI JANET OMOKAFE . ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE .

PUBLIC NOTICE

THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, CAP C20 LAWS OF FEDERATION OF NIGERIA, 2004 COMPANY LIMITED BY SHARES LAKE SIDE ACADEMY LIMITED (769798) (FOR MEMBER’S VOLUNTARY WINDING UP) (PURSUANT TO SECTION 478 OF COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, 2004) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING TAKE NOTICE THAT THE FINAL MEETING OF LAKESIDE ACADEMY LIMITED (IN LIQUIDATION) WILL BE HELD AT 24, BASHIR DALHATU STREET, 2ND AVENUE EXTENSION, IKOYI, LAGOS ON THE 31ST DAY OF JULY, 2018 AT 10:00AM. AGENDA: 1. LAYING OF FINAL ACCOUNTS; AND 2. OTHER MATTERS ARISING. DATED THIS 12TH DAY OF JUNE 2018.

SIGNED. NASIR SALAU (LIQUIDATOR)

Change of Names 24 rowland aBosede

Formerly known and addressed as oyeTUnJI aBosede reGIna, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as rowland aBosede reGIna. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

correcTIon oF name

ThIs Is To InForm The General pUBlIc ThaT my name was wronGly wrITTen on my sTanBIc Bank accoUnTs as oBIaGaerI amadI phIlomIna InsTead oF amadI phIlomIna oBy. ThaT my correcT name Is amadI phIlomIna oBy. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

yUsUFF olaTUnJI

Formerly known and addressed as yUsUFF olaTUnJI aJaGBe, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as yUsUFF olaTUnJI amoo. ThaT my daTe oF BIrTh Is 05/05/ 1978. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

adekoya ronke

Formerly known and addressed as aFolaBI ronke adekoya, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as adekoya ronke. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

akanBI olaTUnde

I, Formerly known and addressed as akanBI Joseph olaTUnde now wIsh To Be known and addressed as akanBI olaTUnde. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

oGodo eJIke

Formerly known and addressed as nkwUda oGodo eJIke BarTholone, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as oGodo eJIke BarTholomew. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

adeseGUn mary

I Formerly known and addressed as adeseGUn mary olUwamayowa, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as adeseGUn mary TemITope. all Former docUmenT remaIn valId. General pUBlIc shoUld please Take noTe.

conFIrmaTIon oF name

In some oF my docUmenTs my name was wrITTen as adIsa TaIwo elIZaBeTh whIle In some oTher ones IT appears as alanI TaIwo Fadeke. I am The same person BearInG all The names . all docUmenTs BearInG all The names are valId, General pUBlIc To please Take noTe.

asnwanneneme GeradIne

I, Formerly known and addressed as nwanneme onyInye, now wIsh To Be known and addressed asnwanneneme GeradIne onyInye. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc shoUld please Take noTe.

dIamond emeka

I, Formerly known and addressed as dIamond eBUBe wems, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as dIamond emeka wems. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. Banks and General pUBlIc shoUld please Take noTe.

mrs kolawole Bolanle

Formerly known and addressed as mIss eGUndeyI Bolanle, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as mrs kolawole Bolanle arIke. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

aTanda ZaInaB

Formerly known and addressed as aTanda ZaInoB omoTanwa, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as aTanda ZaInaB mayakI. ThaT my daTe oF BIrTh Is 28 march 1971. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

anaGa eThel

Formerly known and addressed as collIns kalU UkakU and eThel ada, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as anaGa eThel ada oko. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

oreJImI esTher

Formerly known and addressed as Bakare esTher TaIwo, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as oreJImI esTher TaIwo. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

amaechI eBerechI

I, Formerly known and addressed as anyanwU eBerechI venanTIa now wIsh To Be known and addressed as amaechI eBerechI venanTIa. my correcT daTe oF BIrTh Is 18/5/1973. Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

oZIBo roselIne

Formerly known and addressed as UGorJI roseFrancIs onyekachI, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as oZIBo roselIne onyekachI. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

Bakare Florence

I Formerly known and addressed as adek‎oya Florence BolaTITo, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as Bakare Florence BolaTITo. all Former docUmenT remaIn valId. General pUBlIc shoUld please Take noTe.

adeladUn monsUraT

I Formerly known and addressed as akeem monsUraT aJoke now wIsh To Be known and addressed as adeladUn monsUraT aJoke.

I was Born on 18/11/1990. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId, General pUBlIc To please Take noTe.

mrs nwaJaGU UchechUkwU

I, Formerly known and addressed as mIss aTU UchechUkwU lIlIan, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as mrs nwaJaGU UchechUkwU lIlIan. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc shoUld please Take noTe.

aGU BonIFace

I, Formerly known and addressed as aGU Frank, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as aGU BonIFace. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. Banks and General pUBlIc shoUld please Take noTe.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

kareem ahmed

Formerly known and addressed as hameed olalekan, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as kareem ahmed olalekan. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

adIGUn olUwaToyIn

Formerly known and addressed as olUwaToyIn adIGUn BasIraT, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as adIGUn olUwaToyIn phoeBe. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

aBImBola aBosede

danJUma BImBola

Formerly known and addressed as oJeleye aBImBola TosIn, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as danJUma BImBola Balkees. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

conFIrmaTIon oF name

ThIs Is To conFIrm and cerTIFy ThaT oladeJI aBel sUnday Is The same person as oladeJI aBel olayInde. henceForTh, I wIsh To Be known and addressed as oladeJI aBel sUnday. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

mrs paUl sTella

Formerly known and addressed as aBImBola aBosede Jawo, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as aBImBola aBosede IZevBehaI. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

Formerly known and addressed as mIss mone sTella TIBIeBI, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as mrs paUl sTella TIBIeBI. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

nwosU perpeTUal

chanGe oF name/ correcTIon oF BIrTh daTe

I, Formerly known and addressed as nwosU happIness now wIsh To Be known and addressed as nwosU perpeTUal onyInye. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

chIkwendU kenneTh

Formerly known and addressed as chIsom vIncenT kekeocha, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as chIkwendU kenneTh darlInGTon. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

adeyemI shakIrU

Formerly known and addressed as adeyemI shakIrU, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as adeyemI shakIrU olamIlekan. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

FolorUnsho oladele

I, Formerly known and addressed as oJenIyI paUl, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as FolorUnsho oladele paUl. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

TIJanI momodU

I Formerly known and addressed as TIJanI IBrahIm now wIsh To Be known and addressed as TIJanI momodU. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId, General pUBlIc To please Take noTe.

mrs nwaJaGU chIamaka

I, Formerly known and addressed as mIss nwaoGIdI chIamaka mIracle, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as mrs nwaJaGU chIamaka mIracle. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc shoUld please Take noTe.

aJah calIsTa

I, Formerly known and addressed as aJah calIsTa okorIe, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as aJah calIsTa lechI. my correcT daTe oF BIrTh Is 24Th JUne 1964. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. Banks and General pUBlIc shoUld please Take noTe.

Formerly known and addressed as lydIa FavoUr omeh, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as eleTUo kelechI FavoUr lydIa. ThaT my daTe oF BIrTh Is 19/04/ 1986 and noT 25 /08/1986.. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

aZUdIUGwU chIoma

Formerly known and addressed as InnocenT chIoma mIraBel, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as aZUdIUGwU chIoma mIraBel. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

okoro chIka

I Formerly known and addressed as okoro BlessInG.c. now wIsh To Be known called and addressed as okoro chIka maryJane. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

James emmanUel

my name was wronGly arranGed as emmanUel eTIm James, now wIsh To rearranGe my name as James emmanUel eTIm. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe

kaTe UkachI

I Formerly known and addressed as kaTe UkachI nwaGBIhIa opara now wIsh To Be known and addressed as kaTe UkachI nwaGBIhIa TasIeoBI .all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId, General pUBlIc To please Take noTe

mrs Uwakwe maryann

I, Formerly known and addressed as mIss mamah maryann IFeoma, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as mrs Uwakwe maryann IFeoma. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc shoUld please Take noTe.

mrs oGBonna nJIdeka

I, Formerly known and addressed as mIss eZe nJIdeka oBIaGelI, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as mrs oGBonna nJIdeka oBIaGelI. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc shoUld please Take noTe.

yerIma yemIsI

Formerly known and addressed as yemIsI akInyosoye, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as yerIma yemIsI. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

chrIsTy chUkwUka

Formerly known and addressed as chrIsTy paTIence arUya, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as chrIsTy chUkwUka. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

IJeZIe chInwe

Formerly known and addressed as akUde chInwe Joy, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as IJeZIe chInwe Joy. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

okeke Jane

I, Formerly known and addressed as oZonma Jane eBUBechUkwU now wIsh To Be known and addressed as okeke Jane eBUBechUkwU. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

adeyemo maryam

Formerly known and addressed as adeyemI maryam, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as adeyemo maryam kehInde. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

nkechI aUGUsTIna

I Formerly known and addressed as :nkechI aUGUsTIna nwaedoZIe now wIsh To Be known called and addressed as nkechI aUGUsTIna GwUnyenGa. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

mIchael roosevelT

In some oF my docUmenTs my name was wrITTen as okaFor IFeanyI roosevelT I am The same person BearInG mIchael IFeanyI roosevelT. henceForTh I wIsh To Be known and addressed as mIchael roosevelT IFeanyI. all docUmenTs BearInG The all names are valId, General pUBlIc To please Take noTe.

soyode ZacheaUs

I Formerly known and addressed as soyode sUraJU alao now wIsh To Be known and addressed as soyode ZacheaUs alao. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. corporaTe aFFaIrs commIssIon and General pUBlIc To please Take noTe.

alo IFesInachI

I, Formerly known and addressed as alo sopUlUchI JUlIeT, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as alo IFesInachI JUlIeT. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. Banks and General pUBlIc shoUld please Take noTe.

mrs UZowUlU sTella

I, Formerly known and addressed as mIss eZenwa sTella chInyere, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as mrs UZowUlU sTella chInyere. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc shoUld please Take noTe.

akawe promIse

Formerly known and addressed as oGochUkwU promIse esTher, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as akawe promIse esTher. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe

ekanem nora

Formerly known and addressed as eneh nora eXcellence, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as ekanem nora eXcellence. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

adenIJI adeola

Formerly known and addressed as oGUnToyInBo oyInlola olaTokUnBo, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as adenIJI adeola olaTokUnBo. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe

okeke Jane

I, Formerly known and addressed as aGBo eneJo sUnday now wIsh To Be known and addressed as onoJa Joseph. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

akInlaBI olUwaTosIn

Formerly known and addressed as aJao laTIFaT amInaT, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as akInlaBI olUwaTosIn ayInke. ThaT my daTe oF BIrTh was wronGly wrITTen as 3rd oF may, 1996 InsTead oF 5Th oF march, 1997. ThaT my correcT daTe oF BIrTh Is 5Th oF march, 1997. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

anIkwenZe Ukamaka

my name was wronGly wrITTen on my Bank and oTher docUmenTs as amaka anIwenZe. InsTead oF anIkwenZe Ukamaka nkechInyere. ThaT my correcT name Is anIkwenZe Ukamaka nkechInyere. General pUBlIc Take noTe.

conFIrmaTIon oF name

In some oF my docUmenTs my name was wrITTen as oyeleke IBIdUnnI loIs whIle In some oTher ones IT appears as oyeleke IBIdUnnI Grace. I am The same person BearInG all The names. all docUmenTs BearInG all The names are valId, General pUBlIc To please Take noTe.

akInsIJUola akInola

I Formerly known and addressed as akInsIJUola akInola olaFUsI now wIsh To Be known and addressed as akInsIJUola akInola wIllIams. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId, General pUBlIc To please Take noTe.

mrs mBamalU chIkaodIlI

I, Formerly known and addressed as mIss enemoh chIkaodIlI oGochUkwU, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as mrs mBamalU chIkaodIlI oGochUkwU. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc shoUld please Take noTe.

samUel danIel

I, Formerly known and addressed as onwa danIel chUkwUemeka, now wIsh To Be known and addressed as samUel danIel chUkwUeBUka. all Former docUmenTs remaIn valId. General pUBlIc shoUld please Take noTe.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

25 News

CAN denies endorsing Buhari for 2019

Gunmen abduct, kill NNPC officials in Rivers

Tunde Opalana, Abuja

Idu Jude, Abuja

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), has denied a story purportedly linking it with the endorsement of President Muhammadu Buhari for the 2019 presidential election.

The Christians umbrella body has therefore denounced a report with the title, ‘CAN says no vacancy in Aso Rock, endorses Buhari, Oshiomhole’ as published in some online media platforms.

Pastor Bayo Oladeji,

Special Assistant (Media and Communication) to CAN President, His Eminence, Rev. Dr. Samson Ayokunle said in a statement issuedon Wednesday that the report, emanated from a statement issued by a political movement, Change Advocates of Nigeria, with the same acronym, CAN. He categorically stated that “we wish to reiterate here that the Christian body has not endorsed President Muhammadu Buhari or any other presidential aspirant

for election. We wish to urge the general public to discountenance the claim because it did not emanate from Christian Association of Nigeria at all.

“CAN recognises the right of political groups to perform their activities and also endorse whoever they deem fit in support of their political aspirations. We wish to therefore disassociate ourselves from the political group making this claim using our acronym ‘CAN. “While we are presently

making enquiries to determine the circumstances behind a group deploying our acronym for political mileage, we call on Nigerians once again to dismiss the alleged report as coming from CAN”.

The Christian body prayed that the will of God will come to pass in the lives of politicians that are contesting for one position or the other, including the incumbent President Buhari and that the best person in the mind of God would emerge victorious in next year election.

Gunmen have abducted and killed a senior official of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) in Rivers state, as the federal government continue to glory in decimating the dreaded Niger Delta militants, renowned for their penchant for pipeline vandalism, kidnapping and ransom taking.

Recent incidents have however shown a reappearance of kidnapping when a group of hoodlums kidnapped and killed a senior official of the NNPC identified as John Ihenacho.

Ihenacho was said to have been abducted by the hoodlums in Ndoki community in Oyigbo Local Government Area last week before he was killed by his captors, who had earlier collected ransom.

It was learnt that the victim was later buried in a shallow grave, even as sources said that ransom was paid in foreign currency.

However, the State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Nnamdi Omoni, said some of the suspected kidnappers arrested and have confessed to the crime.

Omoni told newsmen that it was during interrogation of the suspects that they confessed to the crime and took security operatives to where the late NNPC official was buried.

“I can confirm to you that we have arrested some of the suspects involved in the crime and investigation is ongoing.

The State Police Command is after other members of the kidnap gang that killed the NNPC official,” the state police spokesman was also quoted to have said.

World Refugee Day: Obaseki harps on global action, synergy to curb crisis

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (left); Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Zhou Pingjian (2nd right); and other members of the Chinese delegation, during a courtesy visit to the governor, at Government House, in Benin City.

I won’t discredit PDP in public- Makarfi Augustine Kuza, Lafia A presidential aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ahmed Makarfi, on Wednesday said he would not publicly disgrace the party after using the platform to attain great positions in the country.

Makarfi, who was in Lafia, on consultation tour, said PDP made him what he is today and as such he see no reason to disappoint it.

According to him, “I was nobody working selflessly for PDP in Kaduna when I was made the party flag bearer and subsequently voted as Governor of the state.

“People accepted me based on my past records of achievement while in the office as Governor, and Senator, as well as acting chairman of the party.

“PDP has done everything to me and I will not naked her in a public or market place. I

will not disappoint her,” he reiterated.

Makarfi informed that his declaration for the office of the president came after wide consultations and being fully convinced that the nation needs somebody with track records of his calibre.

He further explained that Nigerians are in great tension of insecurity and uncertainty, in dire need of a leader that will salvage her from sorrow and pains.

Makarfi noted that he was known with record of peace making while in office as Governor, adding that he would ensure the restoration of peaceful coexistence that the country was known for long, by making sure tribal, religion and cultural affiliation do not separate the people.

Earlier, the state chairman of the party, Hon. Francis Orogu, said PDP in the state would support him by giving their votes for him to clinch the ticket.

Nigeria’s territorial integrity not under threat, says DHQ Andrew Orolua, Abuja

The Defence Headquarters said on Wednesday that there is no concrete evidence on ground to back claim that ISIS has been sending her members to Nigeria to train Boko Haram Terrorists (BHT).

The Defence Headquarters in a statement signed by Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General John Agim said however that it is aware that there is collaboration between terrorist groups.

The statement reads in part:

“It could be recalled that the Amnesty International (AI) Barnawi faction of BHT in 2016 pledged alliance to the ISIS as a result of our troops’ fire power which dislodged them from Sambisa forest and surrounding areas in the North East.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria is aware that there is collaboration between terrorist groups, thus, it is important to note that the activity of one group in a country influences other groups in other countries and because of this knowledge, activities of other terrorist

groups usually affect our own military strategy.

“The Nigeria Military will continue to condemn all tactics by terrorist groups of isolating the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) from any foreign collaboration.

“If terrorist groups understand the importance of collaboration for evil global attacks, then, it is the highest degree of irresponsibility for AI to use repeated falsehood with the intention of isolating AFN from her citizens’ support and international collaboration

to win the fight against BHT and other forms of terrorism in Nigeria.

The Defence Headquarters said that “proactive measures are currently being taken to nip any such development if it exists in the bud.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria wishes to assure all Nigeria that it is up to the task of defending the country and its citizens from every attempt to infiltrate it by criminals.

Hence, the ill motivated stories, clips and their claims should be disregarded”.

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has called on global leaders to join hands in building structures to provide support for people forced to flee from crisis and other forms of social and economic issues that cause dislocation from homes.

The governor, who said this on the occasion of the commemoration of the World Refugee Day, marked every June 20, by the United Nations and its various organs, stressed that support should be provided for refugees so that they don’t succumb to the harsh conditions of forced resettlements, such as malnutrition, poverty and all forms of rights’ abuse.

The governor said the rising cases of refugees within Nigeria and across the world is an indication of the need for governments to strengthen

institutions to protect and provide for conditions necessary for inclusive development.

He noted, “On this day, we are reminded of the need to shun ideas, practices and agendas that promote strife, violence and crisis, all of which are conditions that force people out of their natural settlement and seek refuge elsewhere.

“In Nigeria, we have had to contend with the issues of Internally Displaced Persons as a result of the insurgency in the Northeast. The imperative to continue to support our fellow countrymen cannot be over-emphasized and in Edo State, we have extended a hand of support to the IDPs in the various camps built in the state to shelter them and we will continue to make provision for them.”

NDDC resumes foreign scholarship scheme Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), says it has concluded plans to resume its PostGraduate Foreign scholarship to qualified indigent youths in the Niger Delta.

NDDC’s Director of Corporate Communications, Mr Ibitoye Abosede, announced this in a statement in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.

He stated that the Governing Board and Management of the company had met and approved the commencement of the 2018 award process worth about 30,000 U.S. dollars per annum.

He noted that the programme was cancelled earlier to allow the commission to carry out comprehensive restructuring of the scheme.

He stated that “NDDC regrets the cancellation of the inconclusive 2017 award process and the inconveniences suffered by students who applied for the scholarship.

“To this end, all outstanding tuition for recipients of the scholarship have been cleared.

This is to provide a fresh start and a seamless process.

“However, any student who has proof of non-receipt of payment should feel free to contact the commission immediately.”

Abosede explained that the scheme covered disciplines in engineering, medical sciences, computer science technology, geosciences, environmental sciences, agriculture, environment, oil and gas law and project management.

He added that advertisement for the scholarship would be published in national media and the commission’s website.

Established in 2010, the scholarship is designed to produce top level professionals with technical manpower, capacity and expertise to compete in oil and gas industry and in other sectors.

News 26

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

‘NASS not worrying about Buhari’s budget concerns’ The Deputy Majority Leader in the Senate, Alh. Bala Ibn Na’allah, on Wednesday said that the National Assembly was unperturbed by President Muhammadu Buhari’s concerns about the adjustments it made in the 2018 Appropriation Bill.

Na’allah was reacting to the Buhari’s criticisms during his budget signing speech on the reduction of N347 billion from the proposal sent to NASS and increasing it by N578 billion for some projects which he said might be difficult to execute.

He said that the job of the parliamentarians was a very difficult one, adding that the way the budget came warranted that the National Assembly carried out some adjustments.

“If we had allowed it to go that way (it came) we would have been in trouble with those who elected us into office.

“You have to balance between the six geo-political zones.

“It is the balancing effort by the National Assembly that

led to those observations and happily enough he himself has said that he is coming with supplementary appropriation which will be dealt with as quickly as possible.

“I assure you about that one.’’

According to the Senator the most important issue is that the supplementary budget does not last long in approval since it is will be a build-up based on what has been done by the national assembly (on the main appropriation).

On the seven months delay for the approval of the budget, he said the president was right in his concern but recalled that the President himself had to order the MDAs to appear before the National Assembly to defend their allocations.

“It is a very delicate issue; if someone says he wants N500 billion for the maintenance of the nation’s bridges and then you expect the National Assembly to say that budget is approved because it is coming from the executive then we

have not done our work.

“We will be interested in knowing which roads you say you want to maintain so that we do not give another allocation in the next budget.

“The President’s observations are correct but in the budgeting process those things are normal,’’ Na’allah stated.

He, however, said that Nigerians should be happy that the country had a budget to run for 2018 and it had been signed.

He also noted that the President had made it clear that it would be a buildup on the achievements of the administration in impacting positively in the lives of Nigerians.

Also speaking, Rep. Alhassan Doguwa, the Majority Whip, said that some of the concerns raised by the President were critical, but added that he was at liberty to raise such concerns.

He said that having been signed into law the NASS would expect the Executive to implement it.

“But the most important thing you have to note is that the budget is at least now signed by the President.

“The Budget is now law of the federation and we expect the executive arm of the government to now implement the budget to the latter.

“Should the President now have other concerns to bring about some supplementary budget for the National Assembly to consider, I think we will at the same time be at liberty to look at the President’s concerns and those things he wants us to review.

“I want to believe the NASS is always in a position to work hand in hand with the President.’’

The Rep noted that a lot of legislators in both chambers had great respect for Buhari and cherish his moral integrity as a leader.

“I want to believe that we will always play in tune to his expectations to be able to deliver on the dividends of democracy like he has promised especially

in this election period,’’ he said.

Doguwa stated that those in the APC and others in the opposition were aware of the enormous responsibilities on the President’s shoulders.

He added that this was the time to cooperate with him to give him what he desired as the leader of the government to deliver on people’s expectations.

On the late signing of the budget, Doguwa said it was not caused by the NASS as its duty was not to sign but only to consider and pass it.

“Based on the processes that we face as an institution certainly you would not expect us to just rubber stamp and bring it back; we have to do the nitty-gritty of budget considerations.

“We do not consider it to be too long, whatever is worth doing is worth doing well; we have done the right thing we think should be done to deliver on expectation and the mandate bestowed on us by the people of our constituencies.

“We have no regret about that,’’ he added.

Former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, on motorcade after declaring his intention to contest the Oyo State governorship election on the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC)...on Wednesday.

STF averts post Sallah conflict, arrests bandits

Kingsley Chukwuka, Jos

The Special Task Force (STF), in Plateau Plateau State has averted what would have resulted to crisis in Jos, the Plateau State capital.

The Task-Force also known as Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), arrested

some suspected cultists known as Sara-suka alongside their gang leader.

However in a stakeholders’ meeting held at the instance of the STF Commander, Major General Anthony Atolagbe, said the arrest were made

Tu e s d a y m o r n i n g , following violence clash between rival cult groups (Sara-suka).

He said the “OPSH arrested some suspected Sarasuka members, and have also recover 120 packets of Tramadol substance with 23 knives from the suspects.”

The STF boss added that “a number of cars were smashed by the rampaging cuties, but at the moment I cannot ascertain the exact number of cars affected, though we have brought the situation under control”.

It was gathered that

most of the suspects apprehended by the STF were under the influence of hard drugs.

The Sarasuka clash had earlier created tension within Jos metropolis, as residences and travellers to Bauchi and Gombe state avoided Bauchi road for fear of being hurt.

Ogun tops national productivity merit award list Ogun State has again top the Productivity Merit Award list, as a result of high priority placed on health sector by Senator Ibikunle Amosun-led administration.

The Merit Award, which was presented by President Mohammadu Buhari to Dr. Somade Taofeek of the State’s Hospitals Management Board in Abuja, was said to have followed due process, where nominees were finally picked from the 36 States of the Federation, with Ogun State topping the list.

The Permanent Secretary, Hospitals Management Board, Dr. Adesanya Ayinde, commended the Awardee for his dedication and hard work, which he said had paved way for his selection as the most outstanding officer, urging other staffers of the Board to redouble their efforts and commitments to efficient service delivery.

Dr. Ayinde, according to the Press Officer, Ogun State Hospital Management Board, Mrs. Busayo Malaolu, described the National Merit Award as a credit to the present administration’s passion in providing efficient health care service to its citizenry since inception.

Responding, the recipient of the award, who is the Head of General Hospital, Ifo, Dr. Somade Osuolale, appreciated the State government for the opportunity given him to serve the people, which qualified him for nomination and eventual conferment of the award.

While attributing the success to the team work exhibited by the workers at the hospital, he appreciated his subordinates for their supports, saying working as a team pays, especially in the public service.

“You need not be afraid of doing the right thing at the right time, if you are productive, people will listen to you and support what you are doing, which will ultimately help in achieving your goal’’, Somade said.

The recipient noted that the honour would spur him to do more, as ‘’reward for hard work is more work’’.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

27 News

APC National Convention: Court refuses to stop Lagos Exco participation Andrew Orolua, Abuja The Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday refused to stop the Hon. Babatunde Balogun led executive committee (Exco) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Lagos State chapter from participating in the National Convention of the party, slated for this Saturday in Abuja.

Justice Binta Nyako, who declined to stop the Balogun group said that the principle of fair hearing will be breached if a restraining order is granted

without hearing other delegates who participated during the Lagos State APC congress like Bunmi Tayo Church, the applicant.

This is contained in a ruling prepared by Justice Nyako but delivered by Justice Babatunde Quadri on an interim application filed by Mr. Church, an aggrieved delegate/ contestant in the May 12, 2018 Lagos APC Congress seeking to restrain Lagos APC Exco from attending the National convention.

Justice Nyako said that it will

be unfair to stop the Balogun faction in view of the timeline of the convention holding on June 23, 2018 in Abuja.

The judge said that the plaintiff was just one out of 1, 885 delegates who took part in the congress.

Justice Nyako said that the plaintiff worsen his case with the claim that he was prevented from participating at the state congress, because it is settled in law that anyone who did not participate in an election cannot challenge the outcome of that election.

“The applicant having not participated in the May 12, 2018 Lagos State APC congress, cannot use the interlocutory injunction’s application to challenge the outcome of the Lagos APC Congress.”

Justice Nyako said that hundreds of other participants at the congress would be denied fair hearing if this application is granted because they were not joined in the suit. This application failed because they were excluded.

The judge, therefore, ordered that the Originating Summons

filed by the plaintiff/applicant, through his counsel, Chief Akin Olujimi (SAN) should be given accelerated hearing.

However, Justice Quadri, explained that he was assigned to read the ruling on behalf of Justice Nyako, under Order 23 Rule 2 of the Federal High Court because Justice Nyako was bereaved.

He however did not give a definite date for the hearing of the Originating Summons but added that Justice Nyako will fix a convenient date for her to hear the matter.

It should be recalled that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and All Progressives Congress (APC) had on June 14, urged the Court to refuse the motion seeking to restrain them from recognising Lagos State’s delegates for the June 23 national convention of the APC. INEC and APC made the request in their separate counter arguments to the motion for interlocutory injunctions filed by an aggrieved member of the APC in Lagos State, Bunmi Tayo Church.

Church, whose substantive suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/ 583/18, is challenging the outcome of the last Ward, Local Government and State congresses of the APC in Lagos State, had sought the interim order pending the determination of the main suit.

Akin Olujinmi (SAN), who represented Church, had argued the motion and urged the court to grant his client’s reliefs to preserve the res (subject) of the case.

He said that since the APC’s national congress was scheduled for June 23, there was need to preserve the subject of the substantive suit.

NSCDC arrests 27 suspected illegal miners

President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki addressing the Upper Chamber of the Russian Parliament known as the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, in Moscow on Wednesday.

2018 Hajj registration: FCT board announces June 27 deadline The Federal Capital Territory Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board has fixed Wednesday, June 27 as deadline for registration of 2018 intending pilgrims in the territory.

The Board’s Director, Malam Muhammad Bashir, made this known during a meeting with the management staff of the organisation, after reviewing the progress report of the 2018 hajj preparation.

Bashir said that the measure became necessary to enable the board abide by the

deadline on registration of intending pilgrims set up by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

According to him, NAHCON had directed the board to complete the process of e-registration of all intending pilgrims by the end of June, 2018.

The director advised those who had paid deposit of their hajj fare and are yet to complete their balance to do so before the deadline.

He also urged those who are yet to submit their

e-passport or National Identification Number (NIN), to do so before the expiration of the deadline or risk the chances of performing the hajj this year.

He explained that at the expiration of the deadline, the board would complete the process of registration for this year as directed by the NAHCON regardless of the number of intending pilgrims who completed the process.

Bashir said that the board has scheduled Saturday, June 23 and Sunday, June

24, for medical screening of intending pilgrims who have either miss the earlier exercise or made payment after the first medical screening exercise.

He explained that the medical screening which would be conducted at the permanent hajj camp on the stipulated days would serve as the last chance for the intending pilgrims.

The director said that in order to enable intending pilgrims get the basic knowledge of the spiritual

journey, the board has fixed Saturday, June 30, andSunday, July 1, for its third phase of education and orientation exercise.

He said that the board had conducted series of education and orientation exercises as well as medical screening before the commencement of Islamic month of Ramadan fasting.

No fewer than 2,115 from FCT are expected to join over two million Muslims from around the world to perform the 2018 hajj.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), said it arrested 27 illegal miners in Imo, Plateau, Sokoto, Kaduna and Niger between January and May. Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the corps, Emmanuel Okeh, disclosed this to journalists on Wednesday in Abuja.

Okeh said that 10 of the suspects were from Imo, five from Plateau, six from Sokoto, three from Kaduna and three from Niger, adding that the persons arrested in Plateau were Chinese.

He said that some of the suspected illegal miners had been charged to court.

“The people caught in Niger had been sentenced to sevenyear imprisonment,” he said.

The NSCDC spokesman noted that some illegal miners were spotted in the act in Kogi and Bwari area of Abuja, but fled the scene before the personnel of the agency could get to them.

“The miners were not arrested but we impounded their equipment, such as excavator that was abandoned as they fled the scene.

“We confiscated the equipment as exhibit,” he said.

Okeh assured that the corps would continue to work harder to ensure that illegal miner were flushed out.

28

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

Foreign Affairs EU leaders urged to ‘step up’ Brexit no-deal plans

Somaliland frees jailed king Somaliland has freed a king, Osman Aw Mahmud Burmadow, who was imprisoned in April for attending the inauguration of a monarch in neighbouring Puntland.

Puntland and Somaliland are at loggerheads over disputed territory along their border in the Sool and Sanaag regions.

Somaliland’s President Muse Bihi Abdi pardoned the monarch, who

was sentenced to five years in prison.

Human rights organisations have condemned the self-declared republic of Somaliland of suppressing free speech and arresting people critical of the administration.

In April, a court sentenced female poet Nacima Qorane to three years in prison on “contempt of state” charges.

She was also freed after receiving a presidential pardon.

Source: BBC

King Osman Aw Mahmud Burmadow

High school exams: Algeria cuts off internet access to stop students cheating Algeria went offline on Wednesday for the start of high school diploma exams, the first in a series of Internet blackouts to stop students cheating.

Mobile and fixed Internet lines were cut across the country for a total of two hours, to coincide with the start of two separate school tests, AFP journalists in Algiers said.

A third hour-long Internet shutdown was planned for later on Wednesday, according to a schedule issued by public

operator Algerie Telecom.

Internet services were cut “in compliance with instructions from the government, aimed at ensuring the high school diploma tests run smoothly,” Algerie Telecom said.

The pre-planned blackouts are due to continue for the whole period of exams, until Monday, to combat cheating among more than 700,000 students.

Ali Kahlane, president of telecoms association AOTA, said operators were required to conform to the government’s

demands.

The 2016 exam season was marred by widespread cheating, with exam questions published on social media before or at the start of the test.

Last year, authorities requested operators shut down access to social media, but the move did not entirely end the problem.

Latecomers were banned from taking the exam and instead had to attend a specially organized test.

Electronics with Internet access, such as mobile phones

and tablets, were this year banned from Algeria’s more than 2,000 exam centers.

Metal detectors have meanwhile been set up at the entrance to the centers, Education Minister Nouria Benghabrit said.

In a further move to prevent questions being leaked, the minister said mobile phone jammers and surveillance cameras had been installed in locations where the exam papers are printed.

Source: ARAB NEWS

Canada to announce date for Marijuana legalisation soon Canadian government said Wednesday it will soon announce the date when cannabis will become legal — but warned it will remain illegal until then.

The Senate gave final passage to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s bill to legalize cannabis on Tuesday. But Canadians will have to wait at least a couple of months to legally buy marijuana. The country will become the second in the world to make pot legal nationwide.

“The legislation is transformative,” said Justice Minister Jody WilsonRaybould, adding it “marks a wholesale shift in how our country approaches cannabis, leaving behind a failed model

of prohibition.”

The federal government said provincial and territorial governments will need eight to 12 weeks following Senate passage and royal assent to prepare for retail sales. Legal sales are expected to start sometime in early or mid-September.

Wilson-Raybould suggested Trudeau could announce the legalization date as soon as later Wednesday, when the prime minister has an end-of-Parliament session press conference.

“The law still remains the law,” Wilson-Raybould said. “I urge all Canadians to continue to follow the existing law until the Cannabis Act comes into force.”

Canada is following the lead of Uruguay in allowing a nationwide, legal marijuana market, although each Canadian province is working up its own rules for pot sales. The federal government and the provinces also still need to publish regulations that will govern the cannabis trade.

Many questions remain unanswered, including how police will test motorists suspect of driving under the influence, what to do about those with prior marijuana convictions and just how the rules governing home cultivation will work.

The Canadian provinces of Quebec and Manitoba have already decided to ban home-grown pot, even though the

federal bill specifies that individuals can grow up to four plants per dwelling.

“Provinces can set their own laws.

If individuals are challenging that law, they can challenge it,” WilsonRaybould said.

Former Toronto Police Chief Bill Blair, who is the parliamentary secretary to the justice minister, said discussions for pardons of past convictions “can’t take place” until legalization is in effect.

In the neighboring US, nine states and the District of Columbia have legalized marijuana. California, home to one in eight Americans, launched the United States’ biggest legal marijuana marketplace on January 1. AP

EU leaders will be asked to accelerate contingency plans in the event of failed Brexit negotiations with Britain, according to draft conclusions of a key European summit to be held next week.

The European Council, which groups the EU’s 28 member states, “renews its call upon member states and all stakeholders to step up their work on preparedness at all levels and for all outcomes,” said a harshly worded draft document seen by AFP on Wednesday.

The spectre of no deal had subsided in December after Britain agreed in principle on several EU red lines, including the hot-button issue of Ireland, that London agreed to flesh out later.

The June 28-29 summit in Brussels was long set as the deadline for Britain to provide its detailed offer on the fate of the Irish border.

This was to include the controversial idea of a “backstop” that would keep a non-EU Northern Ireland inside the bloc’s customs union, barring a better solution.

But overwhelmed by political turmoil within her own Conservative Party, British Prime Minister Theresa May has so far failed to submit a compromise that satisfies the Europeans in time for the summit.

The Council, which is headed

by EU President Donald Tusk, “expresses its concern that no substantial progress has yet been achieved on agreeing a backstop solution for Ireland/Northern Ireland,” the draft said.

“Negotiations can only progress as long as all commitments undertaken so far are respected in full.”

After a round of talks in Brussels, the EU had already on Tuesday underlined problems, noting the “serious divergences” on Ireland despite progress on several technical components of the Brexit negotiations.

“We are not there yet: serious divergences remain on the backstop for (Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic). More work clearly needed,” EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier said on Twitter.

At the European summit, Barnier will present the state of play in Brexit negotiations to the assembled heads of state and government.

The EU hopes a final version of the withdrawal agreement, together with a political declaration on the future relationship between London and the EU, can be approved by October so that it can be ratified by the Brexit deadline of the end of March 2019.

Source: AFP

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

29 Foreign Affairs

‘Enough rhetoric! Catalysing an era of concrete action’ Tebogo Thothela In an era filled with so many plans and visions, which are often never followed through with any form of concrete action, this title was the theme which the Oxford Africa Society decided to give to its 2018 conference. The Oxford Africa Conference is an annual student-run gathering, with an audience of about 350 people from across Africa and its Diaspora held at Oxford University, England.

This year marked its 8th year running, and the organising committee deliberately chose this theme to ensure that keynote speakers, panellists and delegates to the conference sought to identify solution-driven approaches to deal with the contemporary challenges and opportunities within the African continent. The theme of this year conference could best be described by the famous mantra of Karl Marx when he said that the greatest ‘philosophies have hitherto only interpreted the world in various ways; the point, however, is to change it’.

The conference itself is renowned for bringing a range of people from different sectors that have a strong belief in African partnerships to resolve African problems and create new prosperous paths. By no means is this just another student-run event, with the conference in its recent history having been able to attract prolific continental leaders to be keynote speakers, including among others Mrs Graça Machel, an international advocate for women’s and children’s rights; Michel Elsie Kanza, the African regional head of the World Economic Forum; and entrepreneurs like Jason Njoku, Founder of Iroko TV. The keynote speakers for the 2018 conference were led by none other than the President of Ghana, His Excellency Nana Akufo-Addo, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mrs Amaina J. Mohammed, the President and CEO of the U.S. African Development Foundation (USADF), Mr C.D. Glin and the First Lady of the Republic of Namibia, Mrs Monica Geingos. The conference then draws from young people from across Africa in various fields to participate as panelists and share their experience with delegates.

One can therefore imagine the levels of excitement when on the 22nd of February 2018, I received a letter from Ms Noxolo Ntaka, one of the co-chairs of the conference, requesting I speak on the youth political panel that would deal with the topic ‘Too young to lead?

A generation of leaders in party politics and elected public office’. Upon making an enquiry on how I had been selected, I was informed that some of the South African students who were members of the Oxford African Society had been tracing my work since my days as an SRC President at Wits University, as well as serving as the National Deputy President of South African SRC task team, Higher education task teams, my participation as an ANC member and the work we were doing as the Gauteng Provincial Government.

I will be the first to admit that as humbling as the invite was, for most youth activist who belong to the mass democratic movement, we are conditioned to critique the context, format and nature of such international gatherings. It’s almost always ideologically frowned upon to be seen participating in such forums, particularly as a graduate of the South African Student Congress (SASCO),

when such a conference is held in a ‘western country’, particularly those which have a strong history of colonialism and apartheid apologism.

Here are two inherent concerns that I knew I had to first deal with before accepting such an invite. The first critique is that I knew I would have to ask and equally be in a position to answer the question ‘why is a conference discussing challenges faced

by Africans in Africa not being held in Africa?’ This was best answered by Dr Vuyani Mhlomi, a medical doctor from South Africa who had been based in Oxford for the last four to five years.

Having completed his PhD and now studying towards his MBA degree at the University, Dr Mhlomi answered this question so profoundly by unpacking how they, as African students based in Oxford, had the responsibility through the Oxford Africa Society, to deliberately open up the doors of opportunity, empowerment and resource which for years had been an impossibility for so many people of colour, who by their very nature of being underprivileged would never set foot in a university of such stature. More important was the fact that in building a post-colonial society, hosting a conference of such magnitude for African students across the continent and its diasporas in Oxford, was in itself an act for those based as students at the university.

With the first concern having been resolved, the secondary question which was halting my participation was ‘to what extent is this not another talk shop that does little to resolve the material condition faced by our people on the ground?’ This was a far easier question to resolve than the first one. The nature of the conference is that delegates are screened and selected to attend on the basis that there is a portfolio of trailblazing work in the country, be it in the private sector, NGO, government, creative arts, medicine, etc. To top it off, the theme of this year was specifically crafted such that the recommendations of conference would be consolidated so that they could be sent as submissions to the African Union and the regional groups such as SADC and ECOWAS. When these two questions had been answered, it was clear that by all means necessary I had to work at ensuring attendance at this festival of ideas for the benefit of enriching the work that one was doing back at home here in South Africa, and so on the 16th of May I took my first ever international flight to go participate in the Oxford Africa Conference.

The conference was truly all I had expected it to be and in fact more. Very few conferences have the ability to have so many cross cutting themes, and still manage to ensure that the discussions are focused, deal with tangible solutions that are targeted, measurable and achievable. The panels of the conference had nine focal areas which included: 1.

Curbing Unconstitutional Changes of Government through Constitutionalism & Citizen Movements 2. Shaping an Inclusive Business Landscape: Foreign Direct Investment for Social Progress & Innovation 3. “____” is (un)African. Lifting the Rug on LGBTIAQ+ Identity 4. Addressing Mental Health – Africa’s Invisible Epidemic 5. African Art & Media – Its role in Entertainment and Public Expressions on Social and Cultural Issues 6. Adapting to Climate Change in Africa – Tackling Financing, Collaboration, Energy Production & Job

Creation for Resilient Development 7. Not too Young to Lead – A New Generation of Leaders in Party Politics and Elected Public Office 8. Shaping an Inclusive Business Landscape: Foreign Direct Investment for Social Progress & Innovation 9. A Disruptive Digital Revolution – Utilizing Emerging Alternative Technologies to Tackle Africa’s Challenges The conference also had two additional aspects over and above the panel sessions and keynote address geared toward catalysing action among attendees. The first was workshop sessions which we held on the second day of conference to allow delegates to share experience of how their respective countries were dealing with the subject matter. These related mainly to areas on; • Fast tracking Universal Health Coverage – Innovations for Delivery • Rethinking Education – Skills Development for Employment, Research and Innovation • Equipping the Individual Actor: Unleashing Creative and Innovative Potential for Impact The last component worth reflecting on was the conference innovation fair.

The innovation fair brings together entrepreneurs and innovators tackling challenges in Africa. They participate in networking sessions and a pitch competition for a chance to win cash prizes to further their impact.

I was most challenged by a project named ECOACT, based in Tanzania.

ECOACT is a project which has developed a chemical free, energy conserving plastic technology to recycle and transform plastic garbage and packaging materials into durable plastic timbers using unique technology. Plastic timbers are an affordable alternative to wood timbers. They reduce the need for building material manufactured from wood.

What really caught my eye however about this initiative is how they have been able to link recycling to increasing access to health care. In the areas in which ECOACT is based in Tanzania, there is a challenge of affordability of quality health care. The returns that community members receive from bringing litter and rubbish is that the project pays for your health care fees for up to a year.

The panel that I had been invited to speak on required us to interrogate the role of young people in public office and elected office. Fellow panel members included the Deputy Information Minister of Ghana, Ms Nana Ama Dokua and Advocate Fadzayi Mahere, an independent candidate running for office in the 2018 Zimbabwe general elections.

As a member of the ANC Youth League, this was bound to be a tricky topic to handle on the panel while maintaining some level of moral high ground. A league of a governing party has the difficulty of rallying young people of the country behind the banner, policies and program of its mother body, while at the same time ensuring that the mother body is responsive to the challenges of youth and resolves them. Since the disbandment of the 24th National Executive Committee of the ANC Youth League in 2013, its credibility as a vanguard of the youth of South Africa has been called into question. Too often it has allowed itself to be used as a mouthpiece and hired gun for the dominant faction within the ANC, without it being linked to any principle but rather some political patronage network beneficial for a few and not the youth in general. This has left the league, and invariably its members who toe the line, isolated from the majority of the youth in South Africa and unable to galvanise them behind anything.

In 2016, Stats SA recorded that an estimated 36.2% of the total population were young people between the age of 15-36. The panel discussion showed how there exist high levels of unemployment among youth across the continent, and that South Africa in the second quarter of 2017 showed sky rocketing figures of 67% from those younger than 25 years.

The importance of how the fees must fall movement in South Africa was able to bring together youths from different political parties and walks of life, was highlighted to show that the youth is not apathetic, but rather requires a credible vehicle to push its cause.

Advocate Fadzayi took the panel through a detailed presentation on why she had decided that running as independent, in a country like Zimbabwe, was the best approach if she wanted to substantially change the political landscape in her country.

Her hopes are geared at being one of Zimbabwe’s youngest members of parliament. To do this, she has taken a digitalised social media campaign aimed at first time voters. Within months of her campaign she already has a social media reach of over 107 600 followers, which is impressive when one considers the population size in Zimbabwe.

Deputy Minister Nana Ama Dokua, who although made it to parliament through partisan politics gave practical examples of how even though she was a member of the national executive, she was still subjected to gender bias which prescribed certain social norms and patterns for women which men were not obliged to follow. This was a constant reminder that intersectionality with our politics was needed and should never be abandoned.

In reflecting on the presentation of our panel, the ideological foundation was set, and agreed upon by all speakers, that in order for this generation to ensure concrete paths for our people there was a need to ensure we deal with the triple challenges of unemployment, poverty and equality, particularly in relation to its effect on African women.

In the immediate, some of the proposals were that respective governments must resolve the issues of access to quality higher education, including a diversified higher education that is not solely reliant on traditional methods of education like universities.

In dealing with the unemployment of the youth, demand-led learning had to be a priority, such that training and skills development are linked to verifiable market demand. The facilitation of young entrepreneurs and focusing on township and rural areas was important in narrowing the high levels of inequality that exist in Africa.

The final report of the conference is still to be put together by the organising committee, but one can safely rate the Oxford Africa conference a solid 8/10. It became a platform in which ‘a hundred flowers bloomed and a hundred school of thoughts contended’.

It’s upon each and every one of us as delegates to the conference to ensure that the partnerships and learning we all received from each other over the grilling three days in Oxford become concrete action for change for our people.

Source: Polity.org.za

TIMES SPORTS

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

Gernot Rohr urged to feature players ready to give 200% against Iceland As Super Eagles of Nigeria continue to intensify preparation ahead of their Friday’s make or break tie against Iceland in Volgograd, former Super Eagles captain Garba Lawal has urged Rohr to field players who are willing to give 200% on the pitch of play

Nigeria lost their first game against Croatia which has reduced their chances of advancing to the next round of the World football show piece in Russia.

According to the former Lobi Stars midfielder who spoke with newsmen said, “I want to believe Rohr knows what he’s doing and do the

needful in order to ensure that we don’t struggle again against Iceland on Friday.

“My advice for him is to field players who are willing to give 200% of their best on the pitch of play as anything other than a positive result in this game means we are out of the tournament.”

Deontay Wilder mulling offer to fight Anthony Joshua, official says

Super Eagles to wear popular home kit against Iceland, Argentina Super Eagles will wear their hugely popular home kit for their next two World Cup Group D matches against Iceland and Argentina, according to a report.

Nigeria have been

designated as the home team for the games against Iceland on Friday in Volgograd as well as against Argentina on June 26 in Saint Petersburg.

They first wore the home kits when they lost 2-0

to Serbia in a friendly in London in March.

The team played with the less popular all-green strips when they lost 2-0 to Croatia in their opening group game in Kaliningrad last weekend.

Deontay Wilder and his advisers are reviewing an offer from fellow heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua for a bout in the United Kingdom, the Los Angeles Times has learned.

World Boxing Council champion Wilder and his lead manager Shelly Finkel earlier this month said they’d accept fighting England’s three-belt champion Joshua in the U.K., but terms and the date were not immediately identified.

One official monitoring the talks told The Times last week that there’s skepticism Joshua promoter Eddie Hearn is willing to stage JoshuaWilder in the fall, when he’s poised to launch DAZN’s $1 billion streaming operation of live fights starting in September.

While Joshua (21-0, 20 knockouts) has the backup option of taking a mandatory fall title defense against Russia’s Alexander Povetkin, the showdown with Wilder never has been riper.

The unknown is what terms Joshua has offered to Wilder (40-0, 39 KOs) after Wilder’s team previously extended a $50 million guarantee for Joshua to fight in the U.S. The risk in that proposal was that while JoshuaWilder stands as the most significant heavyweight clash since Lennox Lewis’ 2002 knockout of Mike Tyson in Memphis, neither Joshua nor Wilder has fought on American pay-per-view.

Joshua has massive drawing power in the U.K., where he has attracted around 250,000

to his past three bouts, including a torch-passing, 11th-round technical knockout of long-reigning Wladimir Klitschko before 90,000 at London’s Wembley Stadium in April 2017.

Wilder’s team, The Times has learned, received the contract proposal Monday night and has yet to officially respond.

An answer could come to Joshua “within the next few days,” according to one official close to the negotiation who is not authorized to speak publicly.

Odion Ighalo: Iceland game will Wilder vs. Joshua could be different from Croatia happen this year, says Super Eagles forward Odion Ighalo has said in an interview today that their second group game against Iceland in the on going Russia 2018 World Cup will be different from Croatia one.

The Changchun Yatai forward made this known while responding to a question about his approach ahead of facing Iceland at the Volgograd Arena, Ighalo said, “The Iceland game will be different from the Croatian one. We want

to attack in that game and we want to create chances because only with chances you score goals.”

“Our team spirit is very important to us. No matter if we win or lose, we are always united and thinking the same way. We believe in this unity and we believe in our team.”

Nigeria will face Iceland on Friday at the Volgograd arena and they need at least a draw in order to avoid early exit from the tournament.

Showtime Honcho

The heavyweight fight everyone wants to see -- Deontay Wilder vs.

Anthony Joshua -- could happen in the next 6 months ... says the man in charge of broadcasting the event.

TMZ Sports spoke to Stephen Espinoza -Showtime’s president of sports and event programming -- who tell

us the “ball is rolling” on making the fight happen in 2018.

“Things are moving.

Discussions are happening,” Espinoza tells us.

Wilder and Joshua have been calling each other out publicly for the last year -- with Wilder recently saying he’d even fly to England to fight Joshua on

his home turf.

Both guys seem down to fight -- it’s just a matter of locking up a deal.

Espinoza tell us the fight would be massive -- bigger than Canelo Alvarez vs.

GGG -- and only rivaled

by Mike Tyson vs. Lennox Lewis in 2002 and the super fights of the 1980s.

Fingers crossed he’s right!

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

Wilshere confirms Arsenal exit Jack Wilshere has announced he will leave Arsenal when his contract expires at the end of the month.

In an Instagram post on Tuesday, Wilshere - who came through Arsenal’s academy and made his first-team debut for the club in 2008 at the age of 16, confirmed he was ending his lengthy stint at Emirates Stadium with reluctance.

However, the midfielder said he felt he was “ultimately left with little choice” after multiple conversations with the club and new manager Unai Emery over his future.

Wilshere made only 12 starts and eight substitute appearances in the Premier League during Arsene Wenger’s final season in charge and duly missed out on a place in England’s World Cup squad.

In a post accompanied by the message ‘Thanks for the memories’, Wilshere wrote: “I can confirm that I will be leaving Arsenal Football Club when my contract expires at the end of June.

“Following a number of extensive conversations with those at the club, and in particular a recent meeting with the new manager, Unai Emery, I felt that I was ultimately left with little choice but to make the decision that I have due to purely footballing reasons.

“As has widely been reported I, along with my representative, have been in talks with the club for a number of months with the view to signing a new contract to extend my stay at the Emirates.

“My intention throughout these discussions has always been to remain an Arsenal player. I have been on the books at Arsenal for 17 years and have always felt part of the fabric of the club.

“Such was my desire to stay that I had in fact recently agreed to sign a financially reduced contract in order to commit my future to the club.”

A player who has endured several lengthy injury lay-offs, Wilshere spent the 2016-17 season

on loan at Bournemouth, before returning to Arsenal for the recently concluded campaign.

Amid persistent speculation over his future, he was restricted to a bitpart role in the league, but did feature frequently as the Gunners reached the Europa League semi-finals.

Wilshere has not represented England since their humiliating exit from Euro 2016 at the hands of Iceland, but retained hope of making Gareth Southgate’s 23-man party for the World Cup in Russia.

He was left disappointed, though, and it now remains to be seen whether the 26-year-old can now resurrect his international career at his next club.

Arsenal released a statement praising Wilshere, who made 197 appearances for the team and won the FA Cup on two occasions.

The statement concluded: “Thank you Jack for your contribution and the fantastic memories. Good luck in the future.”

31 Times Sports

June 20 World Cup Results Uruguay 1 - 0 Portugal 1 - 0 Iran 0 - 1

Saudi Arabia Morocco Spain

World Cup Fixtures June 21

13:00 Denmark vs Australia 16:00 France vs Peru 19:00 Argentina vs Croatia

Uruguay into World Cup knockouts with win vs Saudi Arabia Uruguay booked their place in the knockout stage with a 1-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in Rostov on Wednesday.

The result had a number of repercussions for all teams in Group A as hosts Russia will join the South Americans in the round of 16 while Egypt are eliminated along with the Saudis with a game still to play.

Uruguay snuck by the Egyptians via a late set-piece goal in their opening match of the tournament and went back to the well for their first against the Asian side after 23 minutes.

Luis Suarez, who was guilty of a number of blown chances against The Pharohs, was happy to sweep home

at the goalmouth after a Carlos Sanchez cross from a corner sailed over Saudi goalkeeper Mohammed AlOwais’ attempted punch and found the Barcelona striker unmarked at the far post.

Taisir Al-Jassim limped out of the match in the 44th minute with what appeared to be a hamstring injury after over-stretching for a ball at the top of the box.

Both teams struggled to create chances in the second half, with half-chances the best either could produce.

Uruguay would have been fortunate to score in the 80th minute when a long-range shot by Lucas Torreira found Edinson Cavani’s head before going

feet wide of the post.

Cavani missed a golden chance four minutes from time when a fallen defender allowed him a one-on-one chance with Al-Owais at the top of the box but Saudi keeper did well to get a foot on the PSG man’s effort and keep it out.

The win gives Uruguay six points from two matches, trailing leaders Russia — also with six points — only on goal difference.

The Saudis and Egyptians have yet to collect a point.

Oscar Tabarez’s side will finish group play against the Russians on Monday in Samara.

Saudi Arabia will play Egypt that same day in Volgograd.

French Open champ Simona Halep to miss Eastbourne French Open champion Simona Halep will miss next week’s Wimbledon warm-up at Eastbourne after suffering an Achilles problem.

Halep won her first Grand Slam title earlier this month after lifting the silverware at Roland Garros with a threeset final victory over Sloane Stephens.

It was an emotional moment for Halep, who had lost her three previous Grand Slam finals and trailed by a set and a break against Stephens before fighting back.

But the Romanian world number one will go into Wimbledon, which gets under way on July 2, without a competitive match on grass.

“I’m very sorry to announce that I’m withdrawing from next week’s Nature Valley

International,” Halep tweeted.

“I was experiencing Achilles tendon pain and inflammation during the French Open and it has yet to fully recover.

“I’ve been advised by my doctors that it needs more rest while continuing treatment.

“I loved competing at Eastbourne last year and hope to see you at this wonderful event next year.”

Halep’s withdrawal leaves four top-10 players in the Eastbourne event, including last year’s champion Karolina Pliskova and runner-up Caroline Wozniacki.

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FLASHBACK in Times: June 21, 1948

THURSDAY, JUNE 21, 2018

VOL. 3

NO. 681

N150

Published by FOLIO COMMUNICATIONS LIMITED. Operational Headquarters: Lateef Jakande Road, Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos Corporate Office: 9 Osun Crescent, MaItama, Abuja Email: info@dailytimes.ng Managing Editor: BONAVENTURE MELAH, Tel: 08036062975, Email: bonamelah123@gmail.com

Editor: TONY AMOKEODO, Tel: 08111811228, Email: tonyamok@gmail.com

Business Times

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

IMC agencies should work hard towards stimulating consumers’ demand – Expert

Stakeholders applaud renewal of Oyeyemi’s tenure as FRSC boss

AfDB pledges $12bn for Africa’s energy devt

Oil spill: Court orders Shell to pay $3.6bn fine Peter Fowoyo A Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos has dismissed a suit by Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Ltd challenging the $3.6billion fine imposed on it by the Federal Government.

Justice Mojisola Olatoregun, while dismissing the suit also resolved all the issues in the defendant’s favour.

Shell had approached the court, challenging the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), over its powers to impose levies or fines on oil spills.

The multi national oil firm sought the court for an order to declare that NOSDRA cannot, in the light of Section 1, 3, 4, 5 and 6 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) validly exercise any powers under Section 5, 6, 7 and 19 of the NOSDRA Act.

Shell had through its lawyer, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), said the sections’ provisions encroach on judicial powers vested exclusively in the courts.

The senior advocate also argued that it is the Federal High Court that is vested with the jurisdiction to determine liability and to assess, impose and direct the payment of any sum as penalty, damages or compensation in connection with an incidence of oil spillage, particularly the Bonga Oil Spill of December 20, 2011.

Olanipekun urged the court to declare that the decision leading to the imposition of $3,600,191,206.00 on by NOSDRA was in breach of its right as enshrined in Section 36, 43 and 44 of the 1999 Constitution.

He also urged the court to nullify NOSDRA’s powers to impose such levies over oil spills.

But NOSDRA through its lawyer, Mr

D. A. Awosika, argued that the cause of action arose more than two years ago when it served Shell with notice of sanction over the Bonga Oil Spill.

Awosika contended that Shell was enjoined to exercise its right of litigation if it felt aggrieved by the letters within three months from March 25, 2015 and not beyond.

“The plaintiff waited for more than 13 months to institute this action against the defendant,” Awosika argued, saying that Shell’s action was caught by the statute of limitation.

Besides, the NOSDRA’s lawyer argued that his client did not act outside its powers in imposing the fine on Shell.

But in the judgment delivered on May 24, a copy of which was obtained on Wednesday, Justice Olatoregun held that NOSDRA acted in line with its powers and did not violate Shell’s rights in any

manner.

The judge also found that Sections 5, 6 and 7 of the NOSDRA Act which empower it to impose penalties do not violate the Constitution.

The judge said, “I found no conflict with the duties conferred on NOSDRA by law and the power of the court to adjudicate in this matter…I find no violation of the 1999 Constitution within these sections.

Justice Olatoregun further held that NOSDRA’s demand letters to Shell were not in conflict with Section 44 of the 1999 Constitution.

The judge said: “The plaintiff had notice and opportunity to fair hearing.

The plaintiff ought to have had recourse to the court for the determination of its civil rights and a proper adjudication on the issues if it felt its rights were infringed or about to be infringed.

L- R: General Manager,Human Resources/ Corporate Services/ Company Secretary Total Nigeria Plc, Mrs Olubunmi Popoola-Mordi; Chairman, Mr Stanislas Mittleman; Manging Director Mr Jean Philippe Torres and representative of Mikano, Mr Melhem Grizi at the Total Nigeria PLC Pre- AGM Cocktail party held in Lagos... On Wednesday.

Photo: Olatunji Wale

NSE compensates 17 investors over transaction losses Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) says it has compensated 17 investors who suffered pecuniary losses in the course of transactions with N6.39 million in 2017 under its Investors Protection Fund (IPF) initiative, according to information posted on NSE’s website on Wednesday.

According to NSE, the 17 investors are those who suffered from revocation or deregistration of a dealing member firm

by Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

A dealing member firm can be deregistered due to its insolvency,

bankruptcy or negligence.

The IPF also compensates for defalcation committed by a dealing member firm or any of its officers in relation to securities, money or any property entrusted to, or received or deemed received by the dealing member firm in the course of its business as a dealing firm.

The IPF is a statutory fund established under the Investment and Securities Act 2007 (ISA) to protect investors who suffer flaws.

NSE said fewer number of claimants were compensated in 2017 compared with the 59 investors compensated with a total

of N18.92 million in 2016.

It explained that fewer number of claimants compensated in 2017 was because most claimants failed to fulfill the preconditions for payment of compensation.

It stated that such preconditions included executing the indemnity and subrogation agreement in favour of the IPF. The exchange noted that a total of 885 investors’ claims were referred to the IPF between 2015 and 2017, adding that 659 out of the 885 claims had been successfully verified, while 226 claims were pending.

It added that a total of 179 claimants were compensated between 2015 and 2017, while 250 investors abandoned their claims.

It stated that the abandoned claims had been referred by the IPF Board of Trustees (BOT) to Datapro Limited for identity verification of claimants.

Datapro Ltd is a consultant company engaged by the IPF for identity verification of claimants.

It said that abandoned claims could be reopened if the claimant came forward within six years from the date the BOT approved the abandoned claims.

Operators lauds FG on removal of air transportation VAT Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has expressed joy as the Federal Government issued an Executive Order for the removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) from “All Forms of Shared Transportation”, which we believe includes Air Transport.

The airline operators who thanked President Muhammed Buhari and the Federal Government for listening to the cries of domestic airlines, further prayed that the President will go a step further to encourage the House of Assembly to pass this Executive Order into law as quickly as possible.

In a statement made available on Wednesday, the AON said the decision by the Federal Government, following the Federal Executive Council (FEC) Meeting of June 6, 2018 presents a veritable opportunity for the aviation industry to immediately take advantage of the decision to expedite a White Paper to that effect.

The AON Chairman, Captain Nogie Meggison said: “We as Nigeria have been crying out for decades now for discussions on the immediate removal of VAT from domestic air transportation in line with global best practice, but we have barely been heard over the years. VAT is an added burden on our passengers who have limited disposal funds and have reached their elastic point in this difficult time in the nation’s economy.

“This adversely affects the sector by reducing the number of those who can afford to travel by air due to high fares in this tough economic time. This has been shown to be true according to a recent report from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) that passenger traffic dropped by 27% in 2017 and by another 7% in the first quarter of 2018 making it a total of 34% drop in passenger traffic within a span of one year.

Furthermore, he noted that: Domestic Air transportation in Nigeria is the only mode of commercial transportation that pays VAT. Road, rail, marine and even foreign airlines operating in Nigeria don’t pay VAT in their home country or in Nigeria with reference to an information circular by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) which grants them VAT exemption (Information No.: 9701; Circular Dated 1st Jan. 1997); Part L (b) No. 8.

According to Meggison, VAT on commercial air transportation is a huge departure from what obtains worldwide and an increased burden on the Nigerian travellers stating that countries like Ghana, Benin Republic, Togo and Cote d’Ivoire located next door to Nigeria have all abolished VAT for air transportation.

Motoring B 2

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

Stakeholders applaud renewal of Oyeyemi’s tenure as FRSC boss Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo

The re-appointment of Dr. Boboye Olayemi Oyeyemi as the Corps Marshal and Chief Executive of the Federal Road Safety Corps {FRSC} for another four years, has been applauded by transporters, unions and other road safety stakeholders.

President Muhammadu Buhari had on Tuesday approved the renewal of Dr. Oyeyemis tenure - a move which road safety advocates say is a recognition of his impressive performance as the head of the countrys lead agency in road traffic administration and safety management.

Reacting to the news, the founder and Managing Director of ABC Transport Plc, Mr. Frank Nneji, commended the President for availing Oyeyemi of another tenure that would enable him record more achievements in the corps.

A stickler for strict adherence to safety even in his company, Nneji described the reappointment as very good development, considering Oyeyemis giant strides” in the past four years.

Also applauding President Buharis action as

a welcome development is the road safety nongovernmental organisation {NGO} network in Nigeria which reacted through the Abuja-based Prompt Assistance to Victims of Road Accidents {PATVORA}, dedicated to supporting those involved in road crashes across the country.

In a statement, the Project Adviser of PATVORA, Chude Ojugbana said, “Dr Oyeyemi has shown strength in both professional and intellectual conduct that is required to reduce road traffic injuries on the roads of Nigeria. Specifically, under Oyeyemi, the corps has sustained discipline amongst its officers, introduced effective initiatives for curbing road deaths and expanded collaboration with local and

SYNC 3 system helps Ford owners recover time Ever thought about how you can make your commute more productive, perhaps by catching up on the things that matter to you, or even learning a new language? As you spend your time sitting in traffic, you may start to feel your time wasting away, but it doesnt necessarily have to be the case.

According to research published by US-based transportation analytics company INRIX in its 2017 Global Traffic Scorecard, which ranks 1,360 cities in 38 countries on five continents, drivers in the UAE spend an average of 24 hours every year in traffic during peak hours. By comparison, drivers in the Saudi Arabian capital of Riyadh spend 31 hours a year in traffic, while residents in Cape Town (49 hours) and Johannesburg (46 hours) also face time-consuming commutes.

When you consider that drivers in this region spend a considerable part of their lives in their cars, theres a huge opportunity to turn that journey into something more meaningful, said Ziad Chaaban, Electrical and Electronic Systems engineer, Ford Middle East and Africa.

While authorities work to reduce traffic congestion issues across the region, drivers can make good use of that time behind the wheel.

With Fords SYNC 3 infotainment system, you can spend your time in traffic more meaningfully in a safe manner that still allows you to pay attention to the roads without distraction. Here are five things that SYNC® 3 can do to help you take back your day.

Learn something new (or rock out to your favourite tune). Spending hours in traffic presents the ideal opportunity to learn something new. Load some useful audiobooks onto your smartphone, and then play them back in your car via SYNC 3. From picking up a new skill to learning a new language, theres virtually no limit to what you can achieve, optimising your commute and transforming it into a time for personal growth. Or if books arent your thing and you prefer singing instead, download your favourite backing tracks and have your own impromptu karaoke session.

Reply to text messages with just your voice.

Ford SYNC 3 offers smartphone integration with Android Auto Apple CarPlay and Siri Eyes Free compatibility, allowing you to sync it with the system and access its functionalities while on the move. More importantly, you can use SYNC 3 to read messages on your Apple device and both read and reply to text messages safely on your Android device. SYNC 3 also seamlessly and fully supports Arabic.

Boboye

international partners.”

Remarkably, collaboration with road safety stakeholders was also cited by a chieftain of the national Association of Road Transport Owners {NARTO}, Ogbogo Aloga, as one of the strong points of Oyeyemis administration in the past four years.

The policy of all-inclusiveness and “carrying the stakeholders along” echoed in many of the reactions that greeted the confirmation of Oyeyemi for another four-year tenure.

We commend President Buhari for renewing Oyeyemis tenure. He is one of the best Corps Marshals the FRSC has ever had, Ogbogo, who is the Executive Secretary of NARTO, said, citing the restoration of sanity to the issuance of drivers licence and the introduction of speed limiting devices, as some of the current Corps Marshals initiatives.

Ogbogo also hailed the FRSC boss for the corps emphasis on proper training and retraining for drivers and the reduction in the rate of accidents. But, above all, he carries the stakeholders along in many of his initiatives.

Congratulating the Oyeyemi and the FRSC on his reappointment, the Executive Director {Technical}, Safety Beyond Borders, Patrick Adenusi, recalled that prior to his appointment, previous chief executives were political appointees.

Adenusi remarked, The secret of impact is continuity. The appointment and reappointment of Oyeyemi is a welcome development in the growth and development of road safety in Nigeria. His appointment in the first place by the government boosted the commitment of the corps members.

“Prior to his appointment, previous chief executives were political appointees. His choice as the Corps Marshal and reappointment will help others aspire to the corps leadership seat. I congratulate him

and the FRSC for all they have done so far. I will urge him to show more commitment to improved road safety on Nigerian road.”

A holder of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Transport Administration from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Dr. Oyeyemi, was first appointed to head the FRSC by the then President Goodluck Jonathan, on July 23, 2014.

A pioneer in the corps that was established in 1988, he has experiences at the national headquarters spanning Zones RS4 headquarters, Lagos, RS3, Yola and RS9, Sokoto where he served as the Zonal Commanding Officer. He was also the Acting Director (Operations) 1999; substantive Director (Operations), 2001; Director (Motor Vehicle Administration), 2003; Assistant Corps Marshal (Operations), 2005; Assistant Corps Marshal (Planning Research and Statistics), 2006; Assistant Corps Marshal (Training Standards and Certification), 2008; Assistant Corps Marshal (Operations), 2009; Deputy Corps Marshal (Operations), 2010 and Deputy Corps Marshal (Motor Vehicle Administration).

Among his honours is Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR), 2006. He is committed to the attainment of the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety (2011 2020), reduction of road traffic crashes and fatalities by 50 percent by year 2020, Accra Declaration of reducing road traffic crash and fatalities by 50 percent by year 2015 and reversal of the trend of 43 deaths per 10,000 vehicles to minimum of two deaths per 10,000 vehicles and ultimately placing Nigeria among the league of global safest roads by the year 2020.

“Our expectation at PATVORA is that in the years ahead, Oyeyemi should improve road users’ knowledge on first-, especially for drivers as endorsed by 2007 Accra declaration, Ojugbana said

How van, saloon features drive Mercedes V-Class to success Ever wondered why the Mercedes-Benz V-Class immediately became an international success following its market launch in 2014, and more so in Nigeria where it was unveiled

by Weststar Associates Limited in 2017?

Well, the secret is the international growth strategy of Mercedes-Benz encapsulated in “Vans goes global” - which has as its goal to further extend the business unit’s technology leadership, expand existing brand activities and tap into new growth potential outside the core European markets.

This explanation was provided by Mr. Mirko Plath, Managing Director/CEO, Weststar Associates Limited (the authorised general distributor of Mercedes-Benz in Nigeria), while introducing the new Mercedes-Benz V-Class in Lagos recently.

Plath disclosed that the V-Class fits in perfectly to the “Vans goes global” approach as it combines

luxury, utility and performance for customers who want to have an enjoyable driving experience with the functionality of a van that can serve their daily needs for both personal use and work related activities.

To satisfy the needs of the users, V-Class comes with features that include a generous interior space, an attractive exterior design, technological leadership, high quality equipment and excellent safety highlights that set it apart from its competitors.

Customers in Nigeria can now enjoy luxury and utility together in a van as the V-Class is built following the excellent standards of MercedesBenz passenger cars and is equipped with a generous amount of interior space to accommodate business and family needs of different customer groups. From the interior and exterior designs to the safety and driving assistance systems, the new V-Class is way ahead in its segment,” the

Managing Director The vehicle comes in three different lines (Standard, Avantgarde and Exclusive) and in addition, an exclusive AMG line which comes with refined sportiness. The Standard V-Class lines exterior design is equipped with16-inch steel wheels, halogen headlamps, a manual tailgate with fixed rear window and four individual seats in the rear.

The Avantgarde V-Class lines exterior is equipped with 17-inch light-alloy wheels, a waistline trim strip in chrome, separately opening rear windows, LED intelligent light system and an additional left sliding door. The Exclusive V-Class lines exterior is equipped with 19-inch light-alloy wheels, a panoramic sliding roof, an Exclusive label on the fender, electric sliding doors and tailgate as well as the Avantgarde sports package.

The modern, generously-dimensioned interior is exemplary in the Multi-purpose Vehicle (MPV) segment both in terms of its ergonomics and its visual and tactile value appeal. Design and materials meet the highest standards.

This is seen among other features in the media display with a high-quality glass surface or the generously sized trim. Even more individually, exclusively and sportily, the interior of the V-Class can be optionally equipped with the AMG line and the Interior Design package or with the V-Class Exclusive and V-Class Avantgarde design and equipment lines as well as the Avantgarde Interior Design package available for this.

Thanks to its engine with 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission, the V-Class boasts agile performance, superior handling characteristics, as well as low fuel consumption and high efficiency.

For the Nigerian market, the V-Class comes in a vertical in-line 4 cylinder petrol engine with 211hp with an output of 155kW and a peak torque of 350nm delivering plenty of driving enjoyment.

With its unique concept that combines the functionality of a van with the typical strength of a Mercedes-Benz saloon, the V-Class has endeared itself to customers in around 90 countries, including Nigeria.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

B 3 Brands & Marketing

IMC agencies should work hard towards stimulating consumers’ demand –Expert Stories: Godwin Anyebe An expert in the Experiential Marketing subsector of the integrated marketing communications industry, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GDM Direct, Mr. Gbenga Afolabi, has advised agencies in the industry irrespective of their core areas of competent must word hard towards stimulating consumers’ demand in order to increase purchase of their clients’ products;.

Afolabi who made this known recently in Lagos disclosed that, agencies should stop complaining of budget cut but rather should forge ahead by stimulating consumers’ demand for their clients.

According to him, one of the characteristics of a recessed economy is that there is a slump in the demand of goods and services but by stimulating customers’ demand there is the likelihood that brands could have amazing

returns and high customers’ patronage.

Afolabi stressed that agencies that know their onions experience a boom during a tumultuous recessionary period like Nigeria experienced in 2016, citing GDM Direct as a typical example. The agency, he disclosed, grew its billings by 27% in that year.

He explained that from the lay man’s perspective, a recessed economy depicts a shrink in consumers’ disposable income, high cost of living, low patronage, amongst others, noting that this is the time when agencies play crucial role in stimulating consumers’ demand to boost the sales of their clients’ products.

“Recession for an average man on the streets is not GDP, it is the fact that the amount of money that they have as disposable income has shrunk, things have become more expensive, there are things that I want to buy, I cannot afford, so I am forced

to make rational choices, low patronage, yet cost of materials are going up, so the only way brands need to stay afloat and stay profitable is more patronage; I need more patronage yet the consumers want to spend less, that is the definition and the interplay of the forces of recession, not GDP for the consumer on the street.” He anoted Continuing he said; “However, this is the time where agencies play crucial role because the role of the agency, basically, is to stimulate demand, that is the job of the agencies, our job is stimulation, so if the characteristic factor of a recessed economy is a slump in consumer demand, a slump in product off-take, that is when agencies should experience a boom because they should deploy their expertise to ensure their clients have more patronage..”

Further, he pointed out that clients that had enjoyed what is called a natural pull over

L- R:Opeyemi Awojobi, National Coordinator Power Oil Health Camp, Lagos State Governor’s Wife and Convener, Lagos women, Bolanle Ambode, Omotayo Azeez- Abiodun, Public Relations Manager, Power Oil during the Lagos Women’s Health and Social Development Forum held in Lagos...recently

the years are forced to engage advertising, experiential, and Public Relations agencies to connect with their customers in order to keep a top-of-the-mind awareness about their products amongst consumers.

“Once an agency person does not understand the fact that my key role is to create stimulation of demand and patronage, then there is an issue. So with a recessed economy, demand is low, agencies have found themselves very relevant.“ he said.

Teachers get advice on entry guidelines for 2018 Maltina award The search for the 2018 Maltina Teacher of the Year has kicked off with a call on teachers across the country to avail themselves of the opportunity presented by the initiative.

Corporate Affairs Adviser of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Kufre Ekanem explained that entries for the 2018 Maltina Teacher of the Year which opened on Friday, May 25, 2018 will close on July 2, 2018.

He enjoined interested teachers to download application forms from the Maltina website. Applications forms are to be completed and uploaded to the website or sent by email.

According to him, the 2018 Maltina Teacher of the Year would get N1 million, a trophy and another N1 million every year for the next five years, as well as a block of classrooms built at the school where the winner teaches.

The first runner-up will receive N1 million and a trophy, while the second runner-up will have N750, 000 and a trophy. In addition, each state champion, including the winner and the first and the second runners-up will get N500, 000.

In her key note address at the event, the Head of Department of Educational Foundations at the University of Lagos, Professor Ngozi Osarenren explained that teachers are invaluable drivers of societal norms and the teaching profession must be respected to attract the best and the brightest.

Osarenren, a former Commissioner for Education in Edo State, listed factors that could attract the best hands to the profession to include professionalising teaching, reasonable and guaranteed salary, job security and competitive entry requirements for would-be teachers.

Power Oil supports Lagos women forum In an unrelenting effort to further intensify the advocacy drive for a healthy living and other wellbeing measures especially amongst women in the society, Power Oil, a healthy cooking oil brand demonstrated its support during the Lagos Women health Forum, a project being put together by the First Lady of Lagos State Mrs. Bolanle Ambode recently in Lagos The program attracted lots of powerful women in attendance such as; Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Oluranti Adebule, wife of the first civilian governor of Lagos State Abimbola Jakande, Senior Special Assistant to the president, on Sustainable Development Goals; Mrs Adejoke OrelopeAdefulire, Lagos State Head of Service

Mrs. Folasade Adesoye amongst others.

At the forum, with the theme, ‘Woman…

Your Health, Your Social Environment,’ Ambode noted that sound health is one of life’s greatest blessings, hence the need to encourage and educate the women to always live in good health for long life and for optimal performance in all aspects of life.

She said, “Good health is the gateway to everything. To have good health, we need to take care of our body, mind and soul.

“It is when we have good health that we can run around for business and engage in other activities. While also condemning the spate of social vices in the state, Ambode urged the women to voice out their discontent with domestic violence, child

abuse, rape and teenage p Speaking at the event, the State Deputy Governor, Dr Idiat Adebule, said the forum provided a platform for women to say “enough” to challenges they were facing.

“We should no longer be stereotyped into silence but become vocal advocates for an improved health delivery system and social justice for women in Lagos State and the country,” she said.

Also speaking at the event was the Public Relations Manager, Power Oil, Omotayo Azeez – Abiodun who said Power oil is delighted to align with such a laudable health awareness and general wellbeing programme and particularly as it regards to the women in the society. The program happens to share similar values with what

the brand stands for – “Healthy Living and general well being”.

Because of the multifunctional nature of women, they equally deserve being in a healthy state in order to carry out their duties efficiently, which is one of the reasons it is recommended they take advantage of the free health check up and medical consultation opportunity which Power Oil health camp offers, Omotayo stated.

It will be recalled that Power Oil Health Camp is into collaboration Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development of various states across the country and it also organises various annual health awareness initiatives which inspire consumers to stay fit and take good care of their health.

Business Int’l B4

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

‘Renewables, decentralisation China business top energy trends in Africa’ ‘more The pace of electrification in Africa has nearly tripled since 2012, relative to the previous decade, with electrification in sub-Saharan Africa surpassing population growth for the first time in 2014.

However, there is a long way to go to realise continental electrification, says Aggreko CEO Chris Weston.

Roughly 57% of the African population still does not have access to electricity – the largest such concentration in the world, he told delegates at the Africa Energy Forum, in Mauritius, on Tuesday.

Weston highlighted progress towards bridging that gap, including through the establishment of the Impact Hub, in Kigali, Rwanda, which launched a nationwide search for new solar energy solutions.

Further, in Nigeria, the government has outlined plans to deploy 10 000 new microgrids.

Weston noted clear trends in energy include the move towards renewables. “Between 2000 and 2012, there were 3.5-million people who enjoyed renewables-based power in sub-Saharan Africa.

“Between 2012 and 2015, this increased

dramatically to around 18-million people, particularly from large-scale hydropower and geothermal [sources].”

He added that much of the policy and economic focus has been on renewables over the last few years and with good reason. “The cost of renewables continues to drop [and] energy storage is maturing – which, in turn, increases the utility of renewables solutions.”

Weston predicts that this will continue.

Renewables, taken in the context of a second trend, namely decentralisation, will have a big impact on Africa’s energymix, said Weston, noting that power is increasingly being generated exactly where it is needed, which means the need for centralised power generation from large-scale powerplants delivering baseload through national grids is decreasing.

“It could well be that within the next ten years the need for [centralised power] will fall away entirely, owing to not being enough of a cost-effective solution,” he stated.

Instead, there will be more localised energy sources and microgrids. Resultantly, more consumers

will become independent from the grid, the cost of staying on the grid will increase and the trend to decentralisation will intensify.

Further, Weston discussed how, in a transforming energyworld, thermal energy will be needed to ensure secure, uninterrupted power supply, while being deployed in innovative ways.

He explained that with renewable power sources being available intermittently, it is necessary for either storagesolutions or fast-start thermal generation to provide powerwhen renewable generation is not available.

“For many African countries, this is a genuine greenfield development opportunity, a far cry from the complex, costly upgrades involved in updating ageing Western infrastructure.”

Earlier this year, Aggreko installed its first-ever hybrid powerplant, comprising 21 MW of thermal power capacity and 7 MW of solar photovoltaic capacity, in Eritrea. The plant allows the consumer to save money, hedge against fuel cost increases, and cut around 10 000 t of carbon dioxide emissions.

Engineering News

L-R: Mass-Market Analyst, 9mobile, Ikechukwu Dike; beneficiary, Abdullahi Sadudeen, and Retail Advisor, 9mobile, Rauf Wahab, presenting guests with gifts to mark the end of Ramadan, at the 9mobile Moretalk Funfair held in Ilorin...recently.

Oil prices gain on lower US crude inventories, Libyan output disruption Oil prices recovered some day-earlier losses in Asia on Wednesday, supported by a drop in US commercial crude inventories and the loss of storage capacity in oil producer Libya.

US crude inventories fell by 3 million barrels to 430.6 million barrels in the week to June 15, according to American Petroleum Institute (API) in a weekly report on Tuesday.

Brent crude futures rose 18 cents, or 0.2 percent, to $75.26 per barrel at 0351 GMT, compared with their last close on Tuesday.

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures gained 20 cents, or 0.3 percent, to $65.27.

Traders said a drop in Libyan supplies due to the collapse of an estimated 400,000-barrel storage tank also helped push up prices.

Looming larger over markets, however, is a June 22 meeting in Vienna of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) with some other producers, including Russia, to discuss supply.

De-facto OPEC leader and top crude exporter Saudi Arabia, as well as Russia, which is not a member of the cartel but is the world’s biggest oil producer, are pushing to loosen supply controls introduced in 2017 to prop up prices.

Other OPEC-members, including Iran, are against such a move, fearing a sharp slump in prices.

“Saudi Arabia and Russia continued to push for a relaxation in production constraints, going against many other members’ wishes,” ANZ bank said on Wednesday.

“Iran rejected a potential compromise, saying it won’t support even a small increase in oil production. This puts Saudi Arabia in a tough position, as unanimity is needed for any accord to be reached,” it added.

Jack Allardyce, oil-and-gas research analyst at Cantor Fitzgerald Europe, said he had the “expectation that supply quotas will be increased, but probably more in line with the smaller

range being quoted (300,000-600,000 barrels per day) given the lack of consensus among OPEC members.”

Allardyce said “we could see this knocking $5 per barrel off Brent and perhaps squeezing the WTI discount a little.”

Markets are also anxiously watching trade tensions between the United States and China, in which both sides have threatened to impose stiff duties on each other’s exports, including US crude oil.

A 25 percent tariff on US crude oil imports, as threatened by China in retaliation for duties Washington has announced but not yet implemented against Chinese products, would make American crude uncompetitive in China versus other supplies.

This would almost certainly lead to a sharp drop-off in Chinese purchases of US crude, which have boomed in the last two years to a business now worth around $1 billion per month. REUTERS

difficult’ - European firms

European companies complain they still face a difficult business climate in China despite Beijing’s pledges of openness, with about half saying it has become tougher in the past year, according to a survey released Wednesday.

The study comes as President Xi Jinping looks to portray the world’s number two as being at the forefront of the globalization while trade tensions with the United States rise.

“The root of the tension we see today starts with a China that has not opened up and reformed as quickly as it promised in its rhetoric,” said Mats Harborn, president of the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China.

Among the litany of complaints for European companies were the uncertain legal environment, higher cost of labor, regulatory headaches and the “Great Firewall” that censors much of the global Internet.

“As its economy matures, the longstanding inefficiencies in China’s business environment are rendered all the more glaring,” according to the report by the EU chamber.

Harborn told reporters that the “regulatory environment is actually holding the economy back.”

“Time is running out for China to continue its reform process,” Harborn said, noting 2018 must be the year Beijing acts.

Instead Beijing has backtracked in some areas. New cybersecurity regulations make it more costly to jump the firewall, requiring businesses to sign up for expensive and problem-plagued government-approved virtual private networks that allow users to circumvent filters and access the global Internet.

Two-thirds of companies believe that censorship and blocking of certain sites has a negative impact on their business, while only 23 percent say the state-sanctioned VPNs are efficient.

This is the “great contradiction,” said Harborn.

“We have China which claims itself a leader in globalization, talking of the importance of integration, but the cybersecurity law is creating problems.”

The survey found 48 percent of European firms felt it had become “more difficult” to do business in the past 12 months.

And a fifth say they have been victims of forced technology transfers, a practice denounced fiercely by Washington as it carries out a probe on the issue while threatening tariffs in retaliation.

And there is little optimism for the future as nearly half of European businesses believe barriers to business will harden in the coming five years, while a quarter believe they will never witness a “significant opening” of the market.

But progress was reported in some areas.

Some 61 percent of the 532 European companies polled by the chamber said they are “optimistic” about the growth of their sector in the country, compared with 55 percent the previous year.

Just over half of surveyed companies, 51 percent, consider that they are treated “unfavorably” compared to their local competitors, compared to 54 percent last year. AFP

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

B5 Business Int’l

AfDB pledges $12bn for Africa’s energy devt African Development Bank (AfDB) has placed access to sustainable energy development at the heart of its strategy, with the biggest priority ensuring improved access to electricity across the continent.

AfDB power, energy, green growth and climate change VP Amadou Hott told delegates at the twentieth yearly AfricaEnergy Forum, being held in Mauritius this week, that East African countries are seeing progress with regard to access to electricity.

ERTISEMENT “For example, Kenya moving from 32% [population energy] access in 2013 to 56% access in 2016, owing to the intervention of many partners, including the AfDB, which financed Kenya’s Last Mile energy project,” he noted.

However, despite this progress, Africa remains the lowest-access region in the world. The AfDB has, therefore, placed energy at the top of its list of priorities.

ADVERTISEMENT AfDB has committed to funding $12-billion for energydevelopment in Africa over the next five years.

The provision of $1.4-billion in funding in 2017, and the sourcing of another $5-billion, enabled the construction of 7 000 km of transmission and distribution lines, which also enabled some regional power integration.

“We expect four-million additional people to now have access to electricity,” said Hott.

However, he noted that power in Africa will not

happen if utilities are not properly functioning.

“We cannot accelerate universal access without transforming the utilities.”

“They have to be least-cost-based. In light of this, the AfDB is supporting countries that are using both renewable energy(off-grid and mini-grids) and traditional energy resources. It should not be offgrid versus grid-based energy.”

In light of grid-sustainable energy, the AfDB will commit to investing $100-billion a year from 2020 to support emerging countries in meeting their Paris Agreement commitments.

“Funding from the public sector should be blended with the private sector to reduce the cost and tariffs for green-based energy,” said Hott.

Engineering News

L-R: Group Chief Executive Officer, UACN, Mr. Abdul Bello; Chairman, Mr. Daniel Agbor; and Company Secretary, Mr. Godwin Samuel, during the Annual General Meeting of the company in Lagos...on Wednesday. Photo: Olatunji Wale

EU to launch counter-tariffs against US Friday European Union will launch a raft of retaliatory tariffs against US exports on Friday, a top official has said.

The move comes after US President Donald Trump imposed steep duties on steel and aluminium earlier this month.

American exports such as blue jeans, motorbikes and bourbon whiskey will be targeted, trade commissioner Cecilia Malmstrom confirmed.

However, she said the bloc “did not want to be in this position”.

“The unilateral and unjustified decision of the US to impose steel and aluminium tariffs on the EU means that we are left with no other choice,” she said.

Brussels drew up the list of products in March when Mr Trump initially proposed the 25% tariffs on steel imports and 10% on aluminium, which also target Canada, Mexico and other close US allies.

Cranberries, orange juice, sweetcorn and peanut butter are among the other goods targeted.

It comes amid an intensifying row over trade between the US and its partners.

On Tuesday, Mr Trump threatened to impose duties on an additional $200bn (£151bn) of Chinese goods after hitting $50bn of products with tariffs.

He said the 10% duties would come into effect if China “refuses to change its practices”.

However, China accused the US of “blackmail” and said it would “fight back firmly”, raising fears of a full-blown trade war.

How did this start?

Mr Trump announced plans for tariffs on foreign steel and aluminium in March, justifying them on national security grounds.

He has argued that global oversupply of steel and aluminium, driven by China, threatens American

steel and aluminium producers, which are vital to the US. Since the announcement, South Korea, Argentina, Australia and Brazil have agreed to put limits on the volume of metals they can ship to the US in lieu of tariffs.

However, Canada has announced it will impose retaliatory tariffs on C$16.6bn (£9.5bn) worth of US exports from 1 July.

And Mexico put tariffs on $3bn worth of American products ranging from steel to pork and bourbon two weeks ago.

The measures have also prompted complaints at the World Trade Organisation, including from India and Norway.disappointing” What does the EU say?

Ms Malstrom called the EU response proportionate and in line with World Trade Organisation rules.

She said that counter-measures - which affect €2.8bn worth of US goods - would be removed if Washington removed its metal tariffs.

EU steel and aluminium exports now facing US tariffs are worth a total of €6.4bn (£5.6bn).

What could the impact be?

Many of the products the EU has in its sights are specifically chosen to have maximum political effect.

Bourbon whiskey is produced in Kentucky, the state of Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell.

Orange juice is a key export for Florida, a swing state in the US elections.

Meanwhile, economists have warned the US metal tariffs could lead to higher metal costs, disrupt supply chains and even get passed on to US households.

Last week, the International Monetary Fund warned that the Trump administration’s protectionist policies are likely to hurt the US

economy and undermine the world’s trade system.

IMF director Christine Lagarde said a trade war would lead to “losers on both sides” and have a “serious” impact.

US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross has dismissed the concerns about higher costs, arguing that the effects would be minimal.

At a hearing in Washington on Wednesday, he blamed a spike in the price of steel on speculative activity and said his department would conduct an investigation into “illegitimate profiteering”.

And in March, Mr Trump signalled he could impose yet more retaliation if the EU raised trade barriers on US companies.

What is the reaction in the US? US politicians criticised the measures at a hearing in Washington on Wednesday, saying they were hurting American businesses and alienating allies.

US Senator Pat Toomey, a Republican from Pennsylvania, said the use of national security to justify the metals tariffs was “wholly inappropriate”.

He is co-sponsor of a bill that would limit the administration’s authority on trade.

Lawmakers also said the administration’s process for granting companies exemptions from the tariffs is in disarray.

Companies have submitted more than 20,000 requests for exemptions from the measures, Mr Ross said.

He said the department has granted 42 exemptions from the steel tariffs and denied 56.

Senator Claire McCaskill, a Democrat from Missouri, said the US should have published a list of exempted products when the tariffs were announced.

She said the administration was handling the issue in a “chaotic and frankly incompetent manner.” BBC

Heineken’s Amstel, Smiths beer hit by CO2 supply shortage Supplies of Heineken’s John Smith’s Extra Smooth and Amstel kegs have been hit by an industry-wide shortage of carbon dioxide.

The CO₂ shortfall is leaving beer and soft drinks makers high and dry just as the World Cup and barbecue season get under way.

Seasonal manufacturing shutdowns have left the UK with only one big plant producing CO₂.

Heineken said it was “working with customers to minimise disruption”.

But the Grocer magazine reported that Heineken had written to pubs limiting the amount they can order of the affected lines.

“We’ve been informed by our CO₂ supplier that they are facing a major issue with supply availability in the UK,” Heineken confirmed in a statement.

Wetherspoons pub chain said that while it had not had any supply issues yet, “that is likely to change in the coming days, and it’s not likely to get any better.

“There might be some products we don’t have available and if it affects Wetherspoons, then it will affect everyone else.”

‘Desperate’ Demand for beer and fizzy drinks is peaking as fans gather to watch the football, thanks to the recent run of hot weather.

Ford, VW in talks for developing vans Ford and Volkswagen are in early talks about jointly developing a range of commercial vehicles.

The two car giants said they were “exploring a strategic alliance” aimed at strengthening both companies’ competitiveness without giving details.

However, the cooperation would not involve any share swaps or cross-ownership deals.

Ford’s biggest-selling commercial vehicles are the Transit van and the F-series pick-up truck.

VW also owns the Scania and Man truck brands.

Car companies are increasingly collaborating to cut the costs of developing new technology amid a growing demand for more environmentally friendly vehicles.

Earlier this year VW struck a commercial vehicle alliance with Toyota’s truck division, Hino.

At the time the firms said areas of cooperation could include hybrid and electric engines, as well as connectivity and autonomous driving systems.

At the Detroit car show in January Ford unveiled a more fuel-efficient version of its Ranger pick-up truck.

‘Big plans’ Meanwhile, Ford plans to renovate the famous Michigan Central Station in Detroit - a historic and eye-catching railway station that opened in 1914 before closing in 1988 and having its interior subsequently vandalised.

The company will turn the building into offices for up to 5,000 technology workers and software engineers working on selfdriving cars.

For The Record B6

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

Buhari

I signed 2018 budget in the interest of Nigeria’s economy – Buhari I would like to thank the leadership of the National Assembly, particularly the Senate President and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, as well as all the Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members, for passing the 2018 Appropriation Bill, after seven months.

2. When I submitted the 2018 Budget proposals to the National Assembly on 7th November 2017, I had hoped that the usual legislative review process would be quick, so as to move Nigeria towards a predictable January-December financial year.

The importance of this predictability cannot be overemphasized.

3. While the Federal Government’s budget represents less than 10% of aggregate yearly expenditures in the economy, it has a very significant accelerator effect on the financial plans of other tiers of government, and even more importantly, the private sector, which mostly operates on a January-December financial year.

4. Notwithstanding the delay this year, I am determined to continue to work with the National Assembly towards improving the budgeting process and restoring our country to the January-December fiscal cycle.

5. I note, with pleasure, that the National Assembly is working on the enactment of an Organic Budget Law, so as to improve the efficiency of the nation’s budgetary process.

6. As I mentioned during the presentation of the 2018 Appropriation Bill, we intend to use the 2018 Budget to consolidate the achievements of previous budgets and deliver on Nigeria’s Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) 2017-2020.

7. It is in this regard that I am concerned

about some of the changes that the National Assembly has made to the budget proposals that I presented. The logic behind the Constitutional direction that budgets should be proposed by the Executive is that, it is the Executive that knows and defines its policies and projects.

8. Unfortunately, that has not been given much regard in what has been sent to me. The National Assembly made cuts amounting to N347 billion in the allocations to 4,700 projects submitted to them for consideration and introduced 6,403 projects of their own amounting to N578 billion.

9. Many of the projects cut are critical and may be difficult, if not impossible, to implement with the reduced allocation.

Some of the new projects inserted by the National Assembly have not been properly conceptualized, designed and costed and will therefore be difficult to execute.

10. Furthermore, many of these new projects introduced by the National Assembly have been added to the budgets of most MDAs with no consideration for institutional capacity to execute them or the

‘

incremental recurrent expenditure that may be required.

11. As it is, some of these projects relate to matters that are the responsibility of the States and Local Governments, and for which the Federal Government should therefore not be unduly burdened.

12. Such examples of projects from which cuts were made are as follows: a. The provisions for some nationally/ regionally strategic infrastructure projects such as Counter-part funding for the Mambilla Power Plant, Second Niger Bridge/ ancillary roads, the East-West Road, BonnyBodo Road, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and Itakpe-Ajaokuta Rail Project were cut by an aggregate of 11.5 billion Naira. b. Similarly, provisions for some ongoing critical infrastructure projects in the FCT, Abuja especially major arterial roads and the mass transit rail project, were cut by a total of 7.5 billion Naira. c. The provision for Rehabilitation and Additional Security Measures for the United Nations Building by the FCT, Abuja was cut by 3.9 billion Naira from 4 billion Naira to 100

Many of the projects cut are critical and may be difficult, if not impossible, to implement with the reduced allocation. Some of the new projects inserted by the National Assembly have not been properly conceptualized, designed and costed and will therefore be difficult to execute

,

million Naira; this will make it impossible for the Federal Government of Nigeria to fulfill its commitment to the United Nations on this project. d. The provisions for various Strategic Interventions in the health sector such as the upgrade of some tertiary health institutions, transport and storage of vaccines through the cold chain supply system, provision of antiretroviral drugs for persons on treatment, establishment of chemotherapy centres and procurement of dialysis consumables were cut by an aggregate amount of 7.45 billion Naira. e. The provision for security infrastructure in the 104 Unity Schools across the country were cut by 3 billion Naira at a time when securing our students against acts of terrorism ought to be a major concern of government. f. The provision for the Federal Government’s National Housing Programme was cut by 8.7 billion Naira. g. At a time when we are working with Labour to address compensation-related issues, a total of 5 billion Naira was cut from the provisions for Pension Redemption Fund and Public Service Wage Adjustment. h. The provisions for Export Expansion Grant (EEG) and Special Economic Zones/Industrial Parks, which are key industrialization initiatives of this Administration, were cut by a total of 14.5 billion Naira. i.

The provision for Construction of the Terminal Building at Enugu Airport was cut from 2 billion Naira to 500 million Naira which will further delay the completion of CONTINUED On B7

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

B7 For The Record

NASS: We’re not executive rubber stamp, additional figures justifiable The House of Representatives is appreciative of President Muhammadu Buhari in signing the 2018 Appropriation Bill into law and wish to make the following observations: 1. That the budget is usually a proposal by the Executive to the National Assembly, which the latter is given the constitutional power of appropriation to alter, make additions, costs or reduce as it may deem necessary. The Legislature is not expected to be a rubber-stamp by simply approving the Executive proposals and returning the budget to Mr. President.

Therefore, the additions Mr. President complained of in his speech are justifiable.

2. We are on the same page with Mr. President in his desire to return our budget cycle to January-December.

By the provisions of the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007, the budget estimates should be with the National Assembly around September of the year. In the case of the 2018 budget, the estimates came behind schedule in November 2017, even though this attempt was seen as one of the earliest in recent years. Going forward, we urge the Executive to speed up the reporting time to the National Assembly by complying fully with the FRA. 3. Besides, there were delays that should be blamed on the heads of MDAs. Mr. President will recall that he had to direct ministers and heads of agencies to go to the National Assembly to defend their proposals. This came after the National Assembly had persistently raised the alarm over the non-cooperative attitudes of these government officials. On this grounds, the delay in passing the budget cannot be blamed on the legislature.

4. New projects in budget. On this aspect, we have to remind Mr. President that we are representatives of our people and wish to state that even the common man deserves a mention in the budget by including projects that will directly affect his life positively.

Some of the projects designed by the executive, as high-sounding as their names suggest, do not meet the needs of the common man.

4. National Assembly budget. Before 2015, the budget of the National Assembly was N150billion for several years. It was cut down to N120bn in 2015 and further down to N115bn in 2016. In 2017, the budget was N125bn and N139.5bn in 2018. This means that the budget of the National Assembly is still far below the N150bn in the years before 2015.

While we commend Mr. President for a good working relationship, we also wish to state that we have a job to do, which requires adequate funding as

Saraki

Dogara

well. The additional costs and projects to the budget were done in good faith for the sole purpose of improving the lives of Nigerians.

5. Finally, we welcome the proposal by Mr. President to forward a supplementary budget to the National Assembly to address other areas of pressing demands and commend the President and the entire executive arm for a cordial working relationship.

Signed Hon Abdulrazak Namdas Chairman, House Committee on Media & Publicity

Budget 2018: We Agree With House Position, Detail Response to Follow

The Senate has seen the statement issued by our sister chamber, the House of Representives, in response to the issues raised by President Muhammadu Buhari on the 2018 Appropriations while signing it into law

earlier today, and we totally agree with the position stated therein.

It should also be noted that the leadership of both chambers have directed the chairmen of our committees on appropriations to provide item by item, detail explanations on all points raised by the President for the benefit of members of the public.

They will therefore address a press conference on Friday, June 22nd, 2018.

It should however be noted that the action of the National Assembly while working on the budget was informed by the provision of the constitution on the need for inclusion, balance and the fact that the first responsibility of government is the security and welfare of all citizens.

Signed Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi Chairman, Senate Committee on Media and Publicity.

I signed 2018 budget in the interest of Nigeria’s economy – Buhari CONTINUED FROM B6

this critical project. j. The Take-off Grant for the Maritime University in Delta State, a key strategic initiative of the Federal Government, was cut from 5 billion Naira to 3.4 billion Naira. k. About seventy (70) new road projects have been inserted into the budget of the Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing. In doing so, the National Assembly applied some of the additional funds expected from the upward review of the oil price benchmark to the Ministry’s vote. Regrettably, however, in order to make provision for some of the new roads, the amounts allocated to some strategic major roads have been cut by the National Assembly.

13. Another area of concern is the increase by the National Assembly of the provisions for Statutory Transfers by an aggregate of 73.96 billion Naira. Most of these increases

are for recurrent expenditure at a time we are trying to keep down the cost of governance.

14. An example of this increase is the budget of the National Assembly itself which has increased by 14.5 billion Naira, from 125 billion Naira to 139.5 billion Naira without any discussion with the Executive.

15. Notwithstanding the above stated observations, I have decided to sign the 2018 Budget in order not to further slowdown the pace of recovery of our economy, which has doubtlessly been affected by the delay in passing the budget.

16. However, it is my intention to seek to remedy some of the most critical of these issues through a supplementary and/or amendment budget which I hope the National Assembly will be able to expeditiously consider.

17. I am pleased with the success recorded in the implementation of the 2017 Budget.

A total sum of 1.5 trillion Naira has been

released for the implementation of capital projects during the 2017 fiscal year. In response to this and other policy measures implemented, we have observed significant improvement in the performance of the Nigerian economy.

18. To achieve the laudable objectives of the 2018 Budget, we will work very hard to generate the revenues required to finance our projects and programmes. The positive global oil market outlook, as well as continuing improvement in non-oil revenues, make us optimistic about our ability to finance the budget.

19. However, being a deficit budget, the Borrowing Plan will be forwarded to the National Assembly shortly. I crave the indulgence of the National Assembly for a speedy consideration and approval of the Plan.

20.

The 2018 Budget I have just signed into law provides for aggregate

expenditures of 9.12 trillion Naira, which is 22.6% higher than the 2017 Appropriation.

Further details of the approved budget will be provided by the Minister of Budget and National Planning.

21. I thank the Ministers of Budget and National Planning, the Budget Office of the Federation, and everyone who worked tirelessly and sacrificed so much to bring us to this day. However, the job is only partly done.

22. I am sure you will remain committed to advancing our Change Agenda, not only in the preparation of the national budget but also in ensuring its effective implementation.

I thank you and may God bless Nigeria.

Being the speech of President Muhammadu during the signing into law the 2018 Appropriation Bill, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Wednesday, June 20, 2018.

Business Feature B 8 The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) moved closer to realizing its single exchange rate target by unifying dollar buying rates for banks and Bureau de Change (BDC) operators. MOTOLANI OSENI writes on the development that has brought stability to the foreign exchange market and the CBN’s proactive approach to ending multiple exchange rate, while tipped to permanently send currency speculators out of the market. Excerpts...

The Association of Bureaux De Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON) commends the CBN’s policy direction and believes the BDCs’/Banks’ rate unification promotes efficiency, transparency, price discovery and will help phase-out multiple exchange rates regime.

It was an idea whose time had come. And when the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) finally announced that Bureau De Change (BDC) operators and commercial banks will buy dollar at same rate and sell within same margin, market watchers saw it as a masterstroke needed to eliminate multiple exchange rates in the industry.

Over two weeks after the policy implementation, market response has been positive, with the local currency making massive gains against the greenback.The policy has equally put an end to frivolous dollar demand, exchange rate spikes, speculations, hoarding and rent seeking in the foreign exchange (forex) market.

Many financial pundits believe the rate unification also captured CBN’s commitment and readiness to end the multiple exchange ratesthat have remained a plague to the industry, and in its place, entrench single exchange rate regimethat serves the interest of all stakeholders.

Speaking on the development, Association of Bureaux De Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON) President, Alhaji Aminu Gwadabe, said the speed at which the naira recovered against the dollar after the CBN’s announcement, buttressed the BDCs’ massive influence in the market and economy.

He said the BDCs have so far stamped their role as key players in the forexmarket, where they remain major economic drivers creating employment and wealth for the people. These contributions, he said, require that the operations of BDCs be supported to sustain ongoing market rally and stability.

“We commend the CBN’s bold move in unifying the BDCs’, banks’ rates. We can safely say that the threat of distortions of market rate by election anxiety have been mitigated by the policy. And the BDCs are committed to supporting the CBN’s policy direction and actions to sustain ongoing market stability,” he said.

According to the ABCON boss, the impact of the rate unification is massive, including raising foreign investors’ confidence in the domestic economy, boosting the foreign exchange reserves position and creating opportunity for a better foreign reserve management by the apex bank.

He assured that the BDCs will continue to meet the critical forexneeds of the retail end-users and stick to allowable transactions limits as approved by the regulator.

The CBN had earlier in the month, approved an upward review of the trading margin available to BDCs. The approval allowed BDCs to buy dollar from the apex bank at N357/$1 and sell at N360, enabling them to earn a positive margin of N3 per dollar sold.

CBN Acting Director, Corporate Communications Department, Isaac Okorafor, said the decision was aimed at giving BDCs a level playing field to enable them compete favourably with other authorised forex dealers.

Okorafor urged the BDC operators to abide by the new guidelines and not exploit eager customers by selling above the N360 band. He warned that erring BDCs would be sanctioned in any case of infraction established against them.Before the review, the BDCs were buying dollars at N360 to a dollar, while selling same to customers at no more than N361.5/$1 while banks were buying at N357/$1 and selling at N360/$1.

Speaking further on the new BDC rate, Gwadabe described the development as reflection of the apex bank’s commitment in achieving a single exchange rate regime. He said ABCON had earlier expressed concerns about rate disparity and is now pleased with the review which willensure transparency and stability in the forex market.

New ABCON demands The ABCON has further put up new requests before the CBN, which are meant to further deepen liquidity the market.

Following the implementation of the $2.5 billion currency swap agreement between the CBN and the People’s Bank of China (PBoC), ABCON had urged the CBN to approve disbursements of the Renminbi (Yuan) to its members to deepen the China-Nigeria swap deal.

Gwadabe explained that the approval would enable BDCs sell Personal and Business Travelling Allowances (PTA/BTA) to its customers in Yuan. According to him, the sale of BTAs and PTAs to China-bound businessmen would make them get used to the authentic features of the Yuan to avoid being issued fake currencies for transactions.

The ABCON chief applauded the CBN for taking proactive measures in prosecuting the deal and the stability of the naira at the nation’s foreign exchange market. He said the currency swap deal was part of the CBN’s plan to keep the naira stable and protect the foreign reserves domiciled in dollars. He said the 15 billion Renminbi (RMB)/Yuan or N720 billion deal would provide adequate local currency liquidity for Nigerian and Chinese industrialists and reduce difficulties they face in searching for the greenback.

The ABCON boss said BDCs would benefit from the swap deal given that a stable and strong naira is good for the economy and operators.

For him, the increased use of Yuan in trade deals will also open a new business opportunity for BDC operators.

According to Gwadabe, ABCON will continually support CBN in achieving its exchange rate stability mandate and promoting economic growth through increased global partnerships and collaborations. He said the association is taking strategic steps to ensure that it benchmarks global best practices in currency dealings as seen in the ABCON co-

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

Dollar rate unification: Move to end multiple exchange rates, ensuring convergence

CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele

Gwadabe

ordination, automation and digitization projects.

The tough regulatory policies and environment, including the N70 million licencing fee for BDCs being championed by CBN are also concerns to ABCON. This fee, Gwadabe said, is not only outrageous, but has reduced the funds available to BDCs to successfully run their operations.

The BDC sector is also facing other challenges such as multiple exchange rate, abnormal bank charges, Value Added Tax (VAT) and Commission on Turnover (COT), parallel market operators and illegal International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs), porous international boarders, complex documentation requirements and poor capacity/ skills of operators.

Over-regulation stifling BDC operations The increasing difficulties arising from over regulation and complex documentation requirements that licensed BDCs are facing in carrying out their daily legitimate operation is disturbing.

These hitches have negative impact on BDCs’ ability to comply with statutory and regulatory requirements and have to be tackled by the apex bank.

For instance, six units within the CBN are involved with BDC regulations, supervision, licensing, monitoring. For instance, a BDC operator is expected to render daily, monthly, quarterly, half yearly and annual returns to these various departments of the same corporate body, which could be very cumbersome, repetitive and time consuming for both the operator and the regulator.

The operators are also under obligation to render same returns to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) /Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), while at the same time reporting to other statutory government establishments, including the Federal Inland Revenue Service and Corporate Affairs Commission among others.

“These constitute multiple regulation of a unit of the financial subsector that is only involved as a small market player. Unfortunately, some operators have had to pay high penalties to different departments where instant regulations are violated. The result of this is heavy burden on the BDCs which have continued to challenge their operations.We urge the CBN to take critical look at these challenges and tackle them in the interest of the financial sector and economy,” he said.

ABCON Co-ordination/ Digitisation agenda According to Gwadabe, ABCON coordination journey of automation and digitilization of BDC’s processes started in 2016 with the launch of our automation platform named www.abconng.org.ng.

The project came with three layers and stages. First layer is on online

real time registration of our members with a success rate of over 4,100 BDCs registered nationwide. This layer is to enable our members conduct their membership registration from any of their location without coming physically to ABCON Secretariat.

The second layer bothers on automation of ABCON’s operational process, book keeping, issuance of receipt, preparation of accounts, balance sheets, ledgers and sales/purchase registers. The most important of this layer is the online real time rendition of returns to regulatory agencies.

“I am happy to inform this forum that this game changer is revolutionalising the BDCs sub sector in Nigeria and we will start a pilot test on June 20, 2018 with 21 BDCs selected across all the zones in Nigeria,” he said.

Another important feature of this layer is the BDCs on boarding and integration of the Bank Verification Number (BVN) platform on the Nigerian Interbank Settlement Systems (NIBSS) portal for verifications and validation of clients’ BVNs, which is a most vital requirement forex sale.

“Of special note is also the integration of our platform to immigration platform for the verifications of international passport. Already, we are in advance engagement with the Irish technology experts for the achievement of this idea. The final layer is the one that excites me a lot and has to do with a trading platform for BDCs in Nigeria. Our technical experts in India, Poland are in advance stage of completion for onward submission to the CBN,” he added.

In addition, ABCON presently co-ordinates dollar disbursement in all the disbursement centres across the country. The association in particular, co-ordinates dollar disbursements in three key locations namely: Kano State, Abuja and Awka in Anambra State.

Capacity Building for BDC Operators ABCON has for years been an active group in the financial services sector, concentrating more on the BDC segment of the market and ensuring that global best practices are followed in BDCs operations.

The association has on its own, organized trainings for its members, and also partnered with NFIU and the EFCC to build capacity for operators. BDC operators have been trained on how they can help in tackling money laundering, terrorist financing and the benefits of keeping records of their transactions.

“The anti-money laundering training that ABCON organised last month with NFIU in Lagos was meant to familiarize BDCs with the process of money laundering — the criminal business used to disguise the true origin and ownership of illegal cash — and the laws that make it a crime”.

“The NFIU/ABCON goal is to ensure that BDCs are not used to launder funds by Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs) especially at this period of electioneering. Their target was also to upscale BDCs’ compliance with the Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) for Banks and Other Financial Institutions in Nigeria, Regulations 2013,” Gwadabe stated.

At the end of the training, BDCs were taught how to raise and submit both the Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) and Currency Transaction Reports (CTRs) to regulators.

Besides, ABCON will in the coming months partner with National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to train BDC operators on how on record keeping and ways of tackling illicit financial flows into the country through BDCs.

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The BDCs have also been enhancing price discovery and transparency in the foreign exchange market.The operations of BDCs have equally raised the level of investors’ confidence and Diaspora remittances in the country

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday June 21, 2018

Health OAM Foundation celebrates albinos, vows to end stigma, discrimination Angela Onwuzoo Onome Okagbare -Majaro, a graduate of Mass Communication from the University of Lagos, Akoka, who conquered the challenges associated with albinism despite all odds has vowed to stop at nothing until the stigma and discrimination against them are over.

Okagbare -Majaro who is loved and cherised by her mother, Mrs. Rita Okagbare, said it was her mother’s support that enabled her overcome discrimination that albinos suffer in a society like Nigeria.

To stop the discrimination and help more albinos realise their dreams, the happily married mother and CoFounder of Onome Akinlolu Majaro (OAM) Foundation, is therefore, calling on Nigerians to support ongoing efforts in the country to address the myths and misconception about albinism.

For the self-funded Foundation, it is high time parents, guardians and the society at large put an end to the injustice suffered by those living with the genetic disorder, which many have eroneously attributed to a spiritual problem.

According to experts, albinism occurs due to lack of melanin in the skin cells.

It is against the backdrop that the Foundation organised an event in Lagos recently to mark this year’s International Albinism Awareness Day with the aim of strengthening awareness on albinism in the country.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Akinlolu Majaro, who is also a Co-Founder of OAM Foundation, urged the government at all levels to provide free skin and eye treatments for people living with albinism in Nigeria.

International Albinism Awareness

Albinos in a group photograph

Day is an annual United Nations observance held on June 13 and it focuses on raising public awareness of albinism and preventing attacks and discrimination against persons with albinism. This year had the theme, “Shining our Light to the World.”

Majaro noted that the provision of free skin treatments would help protect their skin from damage while appealing to Nigerians to celebrate albinos instead of discriminating against them.

“I want the government to look at the two key things that are of great concern to people living with albinism; skin care and eye care. On skincare, we all know that when they are exposed to the sun, their skin have spots and they are also prone to skin cancer. Since there are a lot of skincare products out

there that can help them, government can come in and subsidise these skincare treatments thereby reducing their plight. Concerning eyecare, people living with albinism do not have a very good vision. So they need help and support. So these are the two key areas that government can come in to support albinos”, he explained.

Majaro who decried poor access to healthcare for people living with albinism in Nigeria, further said: “As a society, we should treat them well, the society must accept albinos. Our attitude towards them should be loving. We have to embrace them and also change our negative perception and misconception about them,” He however, challenged albinos not to wallow in self-pity but rise against every discrimation against them by

pursuing their dreams without fear or intimidation.

Giving the huge financial resources involved in raising awareness on albinism, he therefore, appealed to the government, corporate bodies and well-meaning Nigerians to support the Foundation.

In his presentation on Career Prospect/Developing the Good Resume, Human Resource Personnel of Forte Oil, Mr. Paschal Ejechukwu noted that albinos are smarter and more intelligent people compared to those that have melanin in their body.

Ejechukwu said as someone that recruits people for employment, he was speaking from experience that albinos spend more time to acquire and develop themselves because of the way society view them.

Painkillers expose arthritis patients to higher risk of heart failure

By Angela Onwuzoo Millions of osteoarthritis patients are a nearly quarter more likely to develop heart disease because of their painkillers , a study suggests.

Evidence already exists that shows a link between non- steroidal anti -inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs ) and the world’ s leading killer .

But the new research, branded ‘ important’ , is the one of first to pinpoint the drugs as a cause of heart disease in osteoarthritis patients.

Canadian researchers found osteoarthritis patients who take NSAIDS, such as aspirin and ibuprofen , have a 23 per cent higher risk of heart disease . More than eight million people in the United Kingdom ( UK ) and 30 million in the United States ( US ) have osteoarthritis – when the cartilage gradually becomes thin .

Treatment to combat the agonising condition revolves around NSAIDs , which can come in prescription forms or be bought over -the - counter. Their heart dangers have repeatedly been

highlighted in recent years – and the new University of British Columbia study adds to the catalogue .Professor Aslam Anis , who led the study , said: “Our results indicate osteoarthritis is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease .

“This is highly relevant because NSAIDs are some of the most commonly used drugs to manage pain in patients with osteoarthritis. ” He added that the trial also suggests a “substantial proportion of the increased risk is due to the use of NSAIDs ”. Professor Thomas Dörner , chair of the European League Against Rheumatism – an organisation aimed at fighting the condition, welcomed the findings . He said “ this study is important” because it provides ‘ information about the potential causal role of NSAIDs ’ in terms of heart risks for arthritis patients . The researchers examined data from nearly 31, 000 participants – a quarter of which had osteoarthritis – to make the conclusion.

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis – sometimes called ‘

wear and tear’ – is a condition that occurs when the surfaces within joints become damaged . Cartilage covering the ends of bones gradually thin over time, and the bone thickens, according to Arthritis Research UK. It is different to rheumatoid arthritis , a long - term illness in which the immune system causes the body to attack itself , causing painful , swollen and stiff joints .

Replacement joints are often necessary for osteoarthritis patients, because the joint has been worn down and causes agonising pain . They discovered there was a significantly higher risk of heart disease for the arthritis patients – even when they accounted for other risk factors. In a further breakdown , the biggest risk ( 43 per cent) of NSAIDs was found to be for heart failure . The drugs also boosted the chances of ischemic heart disease , which is caused by a build of fat in the arteries known as atherosclerosis, by 17 per cent and stroke by 14 per cent.

Professor Anis and colleagues also uncovered just how much

effect NSAIDs have on the hearts of osteoarthritis patients. They found the drugs are responsible for more than two thirds ( 68 per cent) of the overall risk of heart disease for patients. The stark findings of the study were presented at the Annual European Congress of Rheumatology in Amsterdam Thursday .

Professor Anis and his team did not speculate on why NSAIDs raise the risk of heart disease – which kills nearly 18 million people each year across the world.However, it is suspected the drugs – which block certain chemicals that promote inflammation – may raise heart risks in several different ways.They may cause arteries to constrict, increase fluid retention and raise blood pressure, some researchers believe .Alternative theories include the possibility that they encourage the clumping of platelets and formation of blood clots .Professor Anis said “ to the best of our knowledge” the study was the first to find out the mediating role of NSAIDs for the heart risks of osteoarthritis patients.

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Blood test predicts pregnant women’s risk of premature birth A new blood test that predicts if a pregnant woman will give birth prematurely has been developed.

It is up to 80 percent accurate and can also be used to estimate the mother ’ s due date as reliably as an ultrasound, but costs much less, says the research team at Stanford University in California, United States ( US ) .

Almost one out of every 10 infants born in the US is premature and the rate is going up , according to the CDC .

Premature babies suffer a greater risk of breathing problems, feeding problems and are more susceptible to contracting infections.

The researchers hope this new breakthrough will accurately predict delivery dates so treatment can be provided immediately after birth or lead to new drugs to delay premature birth.

Premature birth occurs when a baby arrives at least three weeks early.

Prior to this new technique, the best tests only predicted premature birth in high- risk women, such as women who conceived through In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF), suffered multiple miscarriages or had already given birth prematurely.

Additionally, they only proved correct around 20 percent of the time.

“They were very good at determining if the woman wouldn’ t deliver preterm, if the test came back ‘ no ’ , ” Mira Moufarrej, a bioengineering PhD student at Stanford said.

Health L2

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

32 FIFA 2018 World Cup finalists at risk of obesity, says report Angela Onwuzoo As the 32 finalists are looking forward to doing well in the ongoing 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, a new report has revealed that the participating countries including Nigeria are faced with obesity crisis.

According to the report based on data from the World Health Organization (WHO), Saudi Arabia secured the unwanted title of being the country in the competition with the highest rate of overweight and obesity.

The data revealed how the 32 finalists are facing an even bigger challenge than the top title in football: the obesity crisis.

According to latest data from the WHO, 70 percent of adults in Saudi Arabia are overweight or obese, more than double that of the lowest ranking World Cup country, Japan.

England has the highest obesity score of the European countries and comes in fourth overall with a staggering 63 percent of adults registering as overweight or obese.

Australia (third) and Mexico (second) highlight that obesity has run rampant across the world and urgently needs action.

Reacting to the new report, Chief Executive of the World Obesity Federation, Johanna Ralston,said:“These figures are a wake-up call to all the World Cup finalists. Just because you have

Saudi Arabia tops list

qualified for the World Cup doesn’t mean your population as a whole are healthy.”

“Now is the time for bold action on obesity, including the introduction of sugar taxes, which have proven to be effective in a number of countries, including the UK”, Ralston noted.

While experts are expressing worry over the new figures,FIFA had however officially partnered with big soda, big food and big alcohol.

Obesity is a gateway disease to many non-communicable diseases (NCDs) including cancer, diabetes, and heart disease, and is now a

problem in rich and poor countries alike.

According to Chair of the WHO Independent High-level Commission on NCDs, Dr. Sania Nishtar, the obesity epidemic is a leading cause of ill-health in countries across the world.

Nishtar cautioned that governments in every one of these World Cup countries must act urgently to stop the crisis.

“It’s important to ensure that all children are able to play sport, enjoy a balanced nutritious diet and not be targeted by health harming advertisements”, she said.

Nishtar revealed that a growing

number of countries are adopting measures to tackle obesity, in a sign that governments are waking up to the economic and social damage of this epidemic.

She added: “Although the report of the WHO High level Commission on NCDs fell short of recommending soda taxes, it is nonetheless a measure that is increasingly being used by countries around the world as one of a range of measures to tackle the obesity epidemic.”

Also speaking, Chair of NCD Child, Mychelle Farmer, said: “Tackling obesity doesn’t have to be complicated, and countries which have recognised the scale of the problem and taken measures to fight it have already begun to see positive results. We owe it to the next generation, whether or not they grow up to be football players, to prioritise this global disease.”

Meanwhile, world leaders would later this year meet at the UN General Assembly in New York to discuss an international response to prevent NCDs, many of which have associations with obesity, from killing tens of millions of people across the globe each year.

The 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia began on June 14 and is to end on July 15, with 32 squads from around the globe taking part in football’s most prestigious tournament.

NGO urges secondary school students to embrace genotype testing Angela Onwuzoo A nongovernmental organisation on Tuesday urged secondary school children to embrace genotype testing as as Nigeria joined the rest of the world to mark this year’s World Sickle Cell Day. The NGO, Sickle Cell Hope Alive Foundation (SCHAF), took its projects– Know Your Genotype and Operation Catch them Young– to some secondary schools in Olomi area of Ibadan as part of the campaign against the sickle-cell disease.

The World Sickle Cell Day marked June 19 every year was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2008 in order to increase awareness about the sickle-cell disease and its cure.

Addressing the students, a medical doctor, Dr Taiwo Aderemi said that the burden of sickle-cell disease could be controlled if people make informed choices based on their knowledge of genotype before procreation.

“Sickle cell disease is an inherited genetic blood disorder, with Nigeria having the highest burden of the disease.

“Sickle cell disease is a debilitating condition which can lead to severe health problems like pain, organ damage or

failure, infections, stroke, headache, liver problems and so many others,’’ he said.

Aderemi, a family health physician, said that sicklecell disease could affect any child irrespective of social and educational status.

According to him, sickle-cell disease remains a major public health problem in the country due to the low-level of awareness.

“We are here today to create sufficient awareness and understanding on sickle-cell disease.

“We want to let our young ones know that sickle-cell disease can be controlled if they make informed decisions before choosing partners.

“There is no better time to create awareness than as they are growing up they are also advancing in knowledge. “ If they know their genotypes as they are growing up, they will be able to make informed decisions later in life.

“They don’t have to wait till they are about to get married before they know their genotypes

and that way we can reduce the number of children born with sickle-cell disease and protect the future generation,” he said.

He also advised parents to give their children health education early in life to help them make informed decisions on procreation later in life.

Mr Abayomi Odetunde, an adjunct volunteer with the foundation, said people with sickle-cell disease must remain hydrated at all times and avoid stress to stay healthy and prevent painful crises.

Breast milk reduces risk of infant’s allergy – Study Angela Onwuzoo The unique composition of sugars in a mother’s breast milk may prevent food allergies in her infant, according to a study published in the latest issue of Allergy.

The study highlighted the health role of Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs), which are not found in infant formula, suggesting a potential for therapeutic interventions.

HMOs are structurally complicated sugar molecules unique to human breast milk, and the third most abundant solid component in human milk after lactose, a different type of sugar, and fat.

They are not actually digestible by infants, but could help guide development of the infant gut microbiota, which previous research suggests is a key influencer of allergic disease.

Previous studies have shown that breastfed infants have a lower risk for a variety of medical conditions, such as wheezing, infections, asthma and obesity.

Researchers at the University of California (UC), San Diego School of Medicine and their colleagues in Canada analyzed breastmilk samples taken threeto-four months after birth from 421 infants and mothers.

Then, at one year of age, infants were given skin prick tests to check for allergic sensitization to common allergens, including certain foods.

The team found that 59 of 421 infants (14 per cent) displayed sensitisation to one or more food allergens at age one.

“Our research has identified a ‘beneficial’ HMO profile that was associated with a lower rate of food sensitisation in children at one year,” said Lars Bode, associate professor of pediatrics at UC San Diego School of Medicine, who led the study.

No individual HMO was associated with food sensitization, but the overall HMO composition appeared to play a role, according to the study.

Composition of HMOs in breast milk is variable and determined by factors like lactation stage, gestational age, maternal health, ethnicity, geographic location and breastfeeding exclusivity.

“A positive test is not necessarily proof of an allergy, but does indicate a heightened sensitivity,” said Meghan Azad, a Canada Research Chair in Developmental Origins of Chronic Disease.

“Sensitisations during infancy don’t always persist into later childhood, but they are important clinical indicators and strong predictors of future allergic disease,” said Azad.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

L3 Health

Achieving polio eradication in Nigeria: Prospect and challenges Doosuur Iwambe, Abuja For more than two decades, polio had continue to constitute an intractable challenge to global public health and indeed the African Region. Polio was endemic in most countries in the African Region in the 1990s, with 12,000 cases reported each year in the Region. The virus was resilient and intimidating. In 2008, the World Health Assembly (WHA) passed a declaration of polio eradication as a public health emergency. The fortunes of the virus began to change, as a new global and local impetus to fight the disease was launched. A global partnership comprising of World Health Organizations, WHO and its key partners such as the United Nations Children’s Fund, the United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Rotary International, and Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, among others), as well as other stakeholders and national governments in the African Region generated enormous human, financial and material resources committed to polio eradication. The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) strategies, namely strengthening immunization systems to ensure high coverage with polio vaccines through routine childhood immunization, robust surveillance for acute flaccid paralysis (AFP), supplementary immunization, and “mop-up” immunizations were intensified to make progress.

Despite the massive international effort to eradicate poliomyelitis, the disease has remained alive and well in some corners of the world. Several previously poliofree African countries have now become re-infected following major outbreaks in some northern parts of the country. Medical experts have said that vaccine campaigns has been flawed and failing. “There are not enough kids, particularly in the northern part of the country getting vaccinated” according to Dr. Roberts Orduen, of the Givienne hospital, Jos. He said that in some areas, as much as 40 to 50 percent of the kids have missed out in the vaccination campaign.

The Minister of Health, professor Isaac Adewole revealed recently at the annual meeting of African Regional Certification Commission for Poliomyelitis Eradication (ARCC), in Abuja that no fewer than 100,000 children in Nigeria’s Northeast geopolitical zone are currently at risk of polio, as they have yet to be immunized against the virus.

This setback according to the Minister is as a result of the Boko Haram insurgency in some Northern part of the country.

He said that despite that, the government making considerable progress in immunisation programmes in the region.

He pointed out that Africa had made remarkable process towards eradicating poliomyelitis, noting that in 2012, the African region reported 128 wild poliovirus (WPV) cases, which accounted for more than half of the global burden but by 2013, only about 76 cases were reported; with a further

Children living with polio

decline to 17 cases in 2014 and no reported case in 2015.

“Nonetheless, in 2016, after almost two years, four cases were confirmed from areas that were under Boko Haram insurgency in Borno State in Nigeria and the outbreak was successfully contained,” he said.

The minister attributed Nigeria’s continued listing among the polio endemic countries to the inaccessibility of some areas in the northeast to the polio programme.

The Africa Regional Certification Commission for Polio had identified insurgency as a major hindrance towards polio eradication in Nigeria.

The commission therefore urged the Government of Nigeria to strengthen surveillance programmes towards ending wild polio virus in the region.

Prof. Rose Leke, Chairperson of the commission noted that in spite of the progress recorded in Nigeria on its bid to end polio, there are inaccessible areas in the countries due to insecurity in some part of the country.

She said: “We don’t know what is happening in those areas and I think that is a problem.”

However, she commended the efforts of the Nigerian government through the partnership between the National Primary Health Care Development Agency and the Army to make the inaccessible areas to shrink to smaller units.

According to her, there are smaller units in the areas affected by the insurgency and we don’t know whether there is polio there or not.

Leke said: “The last time Nigeria records significant progress and record no cases of wild polio virus suddenly the case emanated from the Borno state.

“This time we better say a little

about eradication, but strengthen our efforts to move in to the in accessible areas.

“The government is doing everything possible to cover all the affected areas and then we can say there is no polio there and subsequently, we can declare that Africa is free from polio.’’

Leke said the Nigerian government has put in a great effort and much progress has been made toward ending polio in the country.

She added that ARCC had come to Nigeria to see the progress that has been made, and congratulate Nigeria for the progress recorded in the fight to end polio in the country.

She said: “We are here to also advocate for more work to be done because there is great work to be done especially in the inaccessible areas.”

She said there are nine countries in the meeting, adding that the meeting will review the complete documentation forMadagascar which claims to have achieved a polio free status.

Leke said there were nine countries that have problems with respect to polio eradication programme, adding that the meeting would discuss with them on ways to improve the situation.

She said the meeting would also review updates and progress reports on polio eradication from Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria and Kenya which had the outbreak of Circulating Vaccine Derived Poliovirus.

She said: “Two countries with security challenges such as South Sudan and Central Africa Republic and three other countries with surveillance challenges which include Guinea Bissau, Equatorial Guinea and Mauritania.’’

Even though the World Health Organization (WHO) had on

several occasion recommitted to eradicating polio, promoting health through the life course, combating communicable and non-communicable diseases, and supporting universal health coverage through government’s primary healthcare revitalization agenda over the next biennium (2018-2019), curbing the disease completely out of the country has remained a major challenge.

Nigeria’s Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole had said at the signing of the 20182019 biennial work plan in Abuja, that the approved programme budget “Is an attestation of WHO’s will to support government in strengthening the health system and significantly improve health of the people”.

Professor Adewole informed the Country Representative of WHO (WR) to Nigeria that he was delighted to note that a significant part of the programme budget will be dedicated to polio eradication, and battling communicable and non-communicable diseases in the country.

The approved biennium Programme budget is WHO’s work plan, summarizing the costs of planned activities under the country office’s selected outputs.

The signing ceremony further highlighted the work of WHO in Nigeria and the support that it provides to government towards making Nigerians healthier.

Both Professor Adewole and Dr Alemu appended their signatures to the WHO Programme Budget 2018-2019 at the Federal Ministry of Health in line with the Country Cooperation Strategy (2014-2019).

Speaking before the formal signing ceremony, the WR explained, “For 2018-2019 biennium, WHO will prioritize health systems strengthening

within the context of primary health care and universal health coverage, polio eradication, scale up priority interventions through the lifecourse and promote partnerships in alignment with national, regional and global priorities”.

He further disclosed that as part of the approved budget, WHO would further support Nigeria to strengthen its national core capacities for emergency risk management to prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies due to any hazard that pose a threat to national health security. WHO activities in Nigeria are supported with funding from the government through partnerships with donors.

Polio according to Dr. Austin Funsho of Federal staff hospital Abuja will remain a priority, for the coming years. He said that to ensure a polio free world and pre-empt the danger of reemergence, adequate resources must be strategically put in place for immunization, surveillance and prompt response. “Countries should continue to come up with local innovations to reach children in hard to reach and insecure areas. A right mix of polio vaccines should be available to protect and boost population immunity against polio.

“The current situation of global shortage of the inactivate poliovirus vaccine (IPV) to protect children born since the tOPV/bOPV switch from paralysis due cVDPV2s is also another area of concern. This is particularly troubling given the grave danger the populations of the African continent, and indeed the world, face with respect to serotype 2, which needs to be controlled with a different vaccine than WPV1 currently in circulation in the Region”.

Health L4

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

NBTS, TCIF raise the alarm over declining number of blood donors Stories: Doosuur Iwambe, Abuja

The National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) in collaboration with Trauma Care International Foundation (TCIF) has expressed concern over the daily decline in the number of blood donors in the country.

Addressing a news conference in Abuja on Tuesday, TCIF Senior Executive Officer, Dr. Olajumoke Akinsanya who advocated for an increase in the number of voluntary blood donors said that the least expected daily number of donors per day ought to be 30 to meet the need of the public.

While calling on 10,000 voluntary blood donors for registration, Akisanya who was represented by the Chairman of the TCIF board, Dr Deola Philips lamented that many lives have been lost due to non availability of blood for transfusion or funds to procure blood for transfusion in the nations hospitals She said, “poised to make a difference, we are using this platform to advocate for an increase in the number of voluntary (unpaid) blood donors; because this category of donors are those that stay in good health and have committed donation. Most of us are more familiar with family/ replacement donors and paid donors but these are not the ideal ways to run sustainable system for safe blood donation.

“According to the World Health Organisation, over 234 million major operations are

performed worldwide every year, with 63 million people undergoing surgery for traumatic injuries, 31million for treating cancers, 10 million for pregnancyrelated complications; road traffic accidents kill 1.2million people and injure or disable between 20 to 50 million people yearly, a large portion of whom require blood transfusion during the first 24 hour treatment.

“These are huge figures and they depict just how important and necessary access to safe blood transfusion is in our society”.

She added that to play it’s part in saving more lives, the TCIF will be organising a voluntary blood donation drive with the aim to encourage the teeming population

to make safe blood available to individuals and patients in dire need.

On his part a representative of the NBTS Dr. Christopher Otabor who also lamented that the annual donation of 1.8million pints of blood is far below the required need called on Nigerians to imbibe the habit of donating blood.

The NBTS official assured would-be donors of safety, saying “there will be adequate medical test for them to ascertain whether or not they are fit to donate or not.

“There will be Haemoglobin level test, pulse rate check, blood pressure check, weight check and other body checks.

“Blood is also tested for blood group and screened for some major

blood-borne diseases which the donor is immediately informed in strict confidentially if any of these tests show positive results.”

Allaying the misconception among some donors that blood donation could be dangerous, she said “when blood is withdrawn the donor’s body immediately begins to replenish the lost blood.

“New cells are produced by the marrow within 48 hours of donation, and all of the red blood cells the donor loses during donation are completely replaced within one to two months.

“Therefore, donating blood helps to stimulate the production of new blood cells which helps the body stay healthy and work more efficiently.”

Bowel cancer symptoms: 3 signs to check whether you have this cancer

Illustration of bowel cancer

The symptoms of bowel cancer can be subtle and don’t necessarily make you feel ill. However, it’s worth trying simple treatments for a short time to see if they get better.

More than 90% of people with bowel cancer have one of the following combinations of symptoms. Bowel cancer symptoms according to Dr. Cynthia Nwanchukwu of Madonna

hospital Abuja include extreme tiredness for no obvious reason and unexplained weight loss.

Speaking with the Daily Times Health correspondent, she stressed the need to watch out for these three key warning signs of the condition adding that the symptoms can be subtle, but also reasonably common.

“You’re more at risk of developing

the condition if you drink a lot of alcohol regularly, are obese, or older than 60.

Having a diet that is high in red and processed meats can also increase your risk of the condition” she said.

Most cases of the cancer first develop on the inner lining of the bowel, according to the NHS, which can lead to tumour formation.

Watch out for these three key warning signs of the condition, as described by the charity Bowel Cancer UK. Pain in your stomach “Do you have constant or intermittent pain anywhere in your abdomen?”, asks the charity on its website.

“It may be linked to going to the toilet or it might come and go like cramps or colic,” they say, describing the symptom of bowel cancer.

Bleeding from your bottom Blood in your faeces is also a possible indicator of bowel cancer.

“Have you noticed bleeding from your bottom with no obvious reason such as local soreness piles (haemorrhoids) or tears (anal fissures)?

“Have you tried over the counter remedies, but the condition has not improved?”, asks the charity.

Signs of the cancer could be caused by an obstruction in your bowel Change in your bowel habit

This symptom is indicated by going to the toilet more often than usual or experiencing looser poo (diarrhoea).

“Do you have constipation, a feeling of fullness or incomplete emptying of your back passage after going to the toilet?”, continues the charity.

Other symptoms of the condition include unexplained weight loss, extreme tiredness for no obvious reason and a lump in your tummy.

The problems may be caused by a bowel “obstruction” which stops digestive waste passing through your digestive system, said the NHS online.

A change in bowel habit, such as going to the toilet more, could be a sign “Most people with these symptoms, however, don’t have bowel cancer,” said Bowel Cancer UK. “Other health problems can cause similar symptoms.

“But if you have one or more of these, or if things just don’t feel right, go to see your GP.” “Bowel cancer is a general term for cancer that begins in the large bowel,” says the NHS. “It is one of the most common types of cancer diagnosed in the UK. Most people diagnosed with it are over the age of 60.”

Exercise, key to wellness, healthy living

It is a well known fact that physical activity and/or exercise have many benefits.

Some of the benefits of exercising regularly according to Dave and Jason Bellefleur of the Bellefleur physiotherapy in USA include helping with weight control, prevention of health conditions/ diseases, improved mood, boosting energy levels, and promoting better sleep. Exercise is also a key component in the prevention of numerous injuries.

Certain exercises have been shown to reduce and prevent many sports, work related, or repetitive strain injuries. As well, full recovery from an injury is unlikely to occur without some component of restorative exercise.

Finally, exercise has also been found to be effective in older populations for preventing falls as well as maintaining mobility and independence.

Work place injuries are a common occurrence and for the most part, are preventable. For example, if someone works at a computer, or their job involves regular lifting, a few simple stretches and strengthening exercises can go a long way to prevent stress and strain on the body. A physiotherapist can recommend an exercise program to minimize the development of bad posture or poor work techniques.

Stretching in the office While recovering from an injury, doing specific exercises during the correct phase of healing can decrease recovery time and allow for proper healing. Exercises are not meant to be painful, rather they should be quite comfortable and easy to do. Many exercises help to decrease pain, increase movement and strength, and improve balance.

Activity is then geared to the return to functional activity, whether it be a sport, regular work duties, or just to live life without pain or restriction. Physiotherapists are skilled in developing exercise programs based on your injury or pain and your phase of healing.

Exercise programs focused on seniors are on the rise, since staying active can prevent the onset of many age related health concerns. In addition, exercise has been shown to increase bone density thus decreasing a senior’s risk for fractures. Another key area of focus with seniors is fall prevention, where the importance of maintaining flexibility, increasing balance and strength has been shown to be effective. Many retirement homes and community centres are now offering falls prevention classes.

Senior’s exercise class Whether you are looking at preventing injuries or recovering from one, exercise should be an important component to consider.

With the help of a health care professional, an exercise plan can be developed based on your current needs. Setting long term goals and working towards them is a great way to start exercising, and making exercise fun and simple is a great way to ensure compliance.

Daily Times Nigeria

Thursday, June 21, 2018

Culture/Art/Hospitality

L5

TYworkspace, a multifaceted hub with a touch of artistic class Still promoting young and professional artists

Mrs. Toyin Arowolo center flanked by exhibiting artists

Stories: Chris Onuoha In what started as a serene workspace for discerning businessmen and tourist centre for art views, TYworkspace in Yaba, Lagos, an emerging facility centre for corporate entity has gradually turned into a bubbling art exhibiting place.

Making a right turn from the University of Lagos junction via Herbert Macaulay way, situated the spacious and luxurious space in Ibikunle Street, off Unilag road that houses the centre. On the outside, little is left to imagine but right inside the premises, daring artworks dotting the walls will invite a feel of museum-like aura in the like of modern gallery.

TYworkspace is a modern business center with facilities ranging from conferencing and board meeting rooms, internet space to spaciously partitioned walls for art displays among other things. When Toyin Arowolo, founder and the Chief Executive Officer, TYworkspace decided to create a multifaceted space to ease out stress that businessmen in Lagos, especially within Yaba axis pass through to meet up with business demand of the day, little did she know that accommodating art pieces will eventually endear more patronage to the place than the original intention.

At the inception last year December 2017, prominent professional artists in the like of Dr. Kunle Adeyemi, Dean, School of Art, Design and Printing, Yaba College of Technology; Aladegbongbo, another art teacher at the afore mentioned institution alongside other professionals based in Lagos opened the place with exciting works that attracted pull of collectors and art enthusiast. Hence then, it has turned to be a hub of business for many with interest to curb traffic situation in the city and erratic power outage that disrupts normal businesses.

Last weekend witnessed yet another convergence of art curators, collectors and admirers as the place hosted about 8 emerging student artists in its second art exhibition tagged, “New generation, New Talent.” The exhibiting artists comprised Agbeleye Adesola; Joshua Olaseni; Afolabi Afeez; Kazeem Mumin; Abogunde Aina; Onyekachi Christian; Osuya Alvin and Ogbeyemi Oladele all students

from Yaba College of Technology, University of Lagos and Federal College of Education, Akoka, in Lagos.

Presenting four works each that was rendered in mostly pastel, water colour and charcoal on paper with few oil on canvas and metal sculptural pieces, the artists drawn from the pull of many entries showcased the very best they can offer at that moment. Although, there is no best in any artwork as every artwork is a progressive project, but the body of works on display depicts an in-depth fine works made out progressive efforts from class works and thoughtful concepts.

Going through the body of works on display, one thing that played prominent was individual expression and experimentation with materials.

Some of the works in various sizes has strong message about the ills of the society, environmental awareness, nature and landscape drawings. A work titled, “Eve” by Joshua Olaseni talks about evolution and civilisation. A female figure adorned with ornaments and tattoos on her skin tells the story of evolutionary trend coming from the original biblical Eve as seen in today’s evolving fashion trend.

According to him, the message is to warn the youths about the danger of harmful practice called fashion trend. Works by other artists in their own rights carries different messages.

Speaking with Toyin Arowolo, CEO, TYworkspace, on the outcome of the exhibition, she stressed, “It has been an interesting journey so far; actually, we have made up our mind to put it twice a year. The first exhibition we had recorded an unexpected response. We had more than we expected and that encouraged us to do more. We decided to also showcase students to diversify the creative space. We called in students from within who always had budding talents to come and showcase their talents. Looking at the quality of artworks exhibited here today, you can see it’s quite amazing. This is also giving us insight on what to expect in the next exhibition giving that the response is quite encouraging.

“In our next exhibition, we intend to showcase female artists because obviously, ladies in the industry are very strong and doing us proud. Beyond inviting student artists, we are also encouraging creative artist who have not had formal art training

in school or about to get admission to study art to come around and showcase their budding talents.

TYworkspace is about giving visual artist a voice and space to grow and be seen. For now, it might seem we are working with artists within the vicinity, maybe because we are new but our vision is to crate space for artist around Nigeria to use the space as a special exhibition hub with other facilities,” she added.

Speaking further, she said, “This exhibition will run till June 29. At the end, the best work will be selected by a special guest curator from South Africa. The lucky artists will be rewarded with offer to display all his works in this place for 6 months.

Beside this, the artists will be given an opportunity to tour other space and participate in other exhibitions thereby giving them an exposure.”

Mrs. Arowolo who sees art as a money spinner appeals to government to look inward and encourage artists in the country. “Art is known as a money spinner which will generate huge income to the country and we see it as an avenue to contribute our quota towards developing the sector in the country. Art can be developed to tourism to the country.

“Government has a big role to play to encourage these talents. The youths are not really lazy as the notion goes. They need to be encouraged with work tools, infrastructures and moral supports. Most schools in the country lack art teachers or qualified ones, so to say. They need supports to grow with access to materials, good works studio and enabling environment to progress,” she added She also disclosed intentions to extend such space across the country where artists and businessmen can have a common place of meet.

For Tony Badmus, the Project Manager, TYworkspace, “It’s a success story so far from inception. With the pool of art lovers that visits this place including businessmen and corporate entities, TYworkspace is living up to its billings. We hope to spread our horizon to reach out to more people that has not known this place.”

Dr. Adenle, Lecturer at University of Lagos Creative Art Department says, “It is a good outing especially coming from students artists.

TYworkspace is doing much for the young talents trying to harness and encourage them to be more effective in their career pursuit and the society at large. Often times, big galleries would not encourage these young talents. These students will remember tomorrow, not for the artworks sold or unsold but the fact that their works are exposed to the public.

They will be encouraged to grow from these and know how to present their works for subsequent public views.”

Children African drum experience holds in July From the stable of Declassical Arts & Entertainment, preparations are now in top gear to ensure the program achieves remarkable success and turns out to what children excitedly look forward to every year. It is scheduled to hold from July 3 through to the 14, 2018 at 33, Glover Street, Adekunle, Yaba Lagos.

Children African Drum Experience (CADEX) is a platform for engrossing children in varieties of African drumming skills, rich African folktales to be performed stylishly by experts with profound musical accompaniment, poetry, drama and general musical skills. The program becomes invaluable particularly at a time when

westernization has almost eroded African traditional values amongst our children.

The initiator of the program “realizes that children of this generation have been too exposed to western knowledge and would want to use this medium to creatively restore them to their African heritage. It is a way of exposing them to African values and refreshing their minds on what they might have forgotten. It is about impacting knowledge both in practical terms and in theory” says Ayo Ajayi, head of organizing committee.

The two-week program aims to instil and groom artistic gifts in children within the age bracket because often times, regular

schools don’t give them such opportunity to express such talents. It is to enable children express themselves artistically, to improve them in all facets for a more realistic outlook, knowing that life isn’t one way.

“It has been proven over again that children who imbibe musical skills at early age develop sharper intelligence quotient” says Ms. Idono Onyibe who will serve as music instructor at the event.

Since African stories are known to be highly didactic, the children would have enough moral lessons to learn from the pool of stories drawn from different countries across the continent.

Art L6

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

Stories: Chris Onuoha Dr. Akindotun Merino is a professor of Psychology based in the USA. She is an avid advocate of leveraging human capital to improve the collective mindset in communities. Akindotun Merino, PhD, is a global leader who articulates transformational principles for education in the 21st century. She is especially interested in fostering opportunities to bridge the 100 year learning gap in African educational systems. She has a creative and innovative idea to help change the landscape of Educational learning in Africa starting from Nigeria.

Dr. Merino has over 30 years’ experience in education spanning from her Bachelor’s degree at the University of Lagos with Masters and doctoral degrees in the United States. She taught in schools in Lagos before traveling to the United States where she served in several capacities including, classroom teacher, mentor teacher, researcher, curriculum designer, Presenter, Professor, Director of Training, Department Chair, accreditation team.

She has also worked as Consultant to several stakeholders, University Administrator, CEO, President and Institutional Vice President of Academic Affairs for multiple campuses. Dr. Merino also serves as Behavioral Health Commissioner in California and on a few other Boards.

She is an international conference speaker and CEO of Jars Educational Group with several published books to her credit.

Armed with these huge qualifications, Dr. Merino brought bank of experiences back home with her first educational sensitization programme called The African STREAMS project Nigeria Campaign held in Ikeja Saturday 9, 2018. Participants in their numbers assembled for this all-important exercise that defined and treated certain deficiencies in the educational system in the country.

The African Stream (TAS) is a campaign for students to explore the wonders of Science, technology, Reading, engineering, arts, math and science (STREAMS) through collaboration, critical thinking, creativity and citizenship.

The medium for presentation are interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, innovative programs and awe-inspiring films. The platforms advocate, and provide transformative solutions that fill the gap in classroom learning and take education outside the four walls.

With topical issues concerning the challenges of the education in the 21 century by Dr. Merino, she pointed way forward for a paradigm shift through innovative and effective teaching method to better the existing curriculum. According to Dr. Merino, “Africa needs an education paradigm shift. Education planners have to look beyond counting the number of children sitting in classrooms and start to focus on learning. Teacher cannot be separated from student success.”

Dr. Merino champions training teachers in the 4Cs approach to upgrade standards of teaching and learning in Nigeria. Her organisation

We need to teach children to be solutionists – Dr. Akindotun Merino tends to present a united African continent, with educated children who think critically, creatively, work collaboratively and participate in the global economy as ethical citizens.

“We have a vision to upgrade the quality of education, such that it encourages and stimulates personal discoveries, experiential learning that elevates communities, mentorship that culminates in career shaping discoveries, and students who become ethically guided solutionists,” says Dr. Merino.

Speaking on reasons for initiating the project, she stressed, “My career has been in education and psychology.

I have done everything from teaching to head a department and now I am the Vice President of a University in the US. I am very passionate about education. I think this is an opportunity to make a difference in our society. That is why I am doing this. My foundation decided that this is going to be a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) from our side and to make sure that we contribute our quota to make education work in this country. During a conference held sometime last year with all the stakeholders on ground including the President, Muhammadu Buhari, one thing he actually said that is of great importance was that we cannot afford to neglect our education, that we need to increase the quality and filled the gap. So, I decided to do my own part that is making sure that the education system is more effective without

changing the curriculum, work on the teachers and also make learning more interactive.”

With great enthusiasm to creative and innovative solutions, Dr. Merino challenged the system by saying, “If I happens to be a Minister of Education in this country, I will introduce a pragmatic approach towards education, enhancing quality teaching method that will key into the 21 century system. Looking at the education system in the country, there are more works to be done. The most important thing I need to do first is to increase the budget for education.

We have to make sure those teachers’ welfare matters.

“Right now, my focus is to add my voice to those advocating for improvement in the quality of education and be a solutionist with the introduction of our model to this landscape. To all the stakeholders in charge, I will say they are making good progress but it still remain a fact that Nigeria and other African countries are so far behind in academic and opportunity gap that we must think creatively and collaboration to compete in the 21st century.

“There’s a need to prepare our students for a changing world by doing the following such as making learning interactive and business relevant, prepare students to be solutionists, invest in teacher’s salaries and professional development. Other things include provide scholarships for them to attend private best services

as this will create a higher competent pool of teachers, give power to local schools for implementations and decision making, upgrade administrative facilities as vision models and develop a practicum model that promotes practice,” she said.

Continuing, she added, “Meanwhile, there should be reward for volunteerism while all school inspectors should be model 21st century education teachers. Besides, we need a diverse group of advisors at the decision table and also encourage those coming home from diaspora to assist in this venture by removing red tapes.”

Dr. Merino also disclosed that Lagos state is the pilot stage of the project.

“This is because Lagos has been very receptive to our initiative.” According to her, “SUBEB is working on our proposal and we are hoping that they quicken it so that we can engage our children in an interactive museum. It is so big that it will bring a change in our learning system. Right now, about 60 to 70 percent of our children are not in school. Some of them that are in school are not getting the quality of education that they should. We need to be competitive and teach the children so that they will be solutionists in the society rather than focusing on being employees. We need to teach the children to add value to the country, so that they don’t have to go to school and learn only arts and science theoretically but to practicalise it.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

L7 Art

Picasso’s “Blue and Rose period” going public: As Foundation Beyeler terms it early Picasso Blockbuster Chris Onuoha & Agency report.

One of the major highlights before Art Basel 2018 opened in Switzerland was the unveiling of Pablo Picasso’s stunning appearance to the public. As some number of journalists convened at a press conference at the nearby Foundation Beyeler in Basel, just before the Basel art fair kicks off, it became a surprise as Foundation Beyeler, arthouse handling the project announced to the newsmen details about an exhibition that will not open until next February, 2019 but which already sounds like it could be a blockbuster to end all blockbusters: “The Early Picasso: Blue and Rose Period.”

Sam Keller, the museum’s director, who was joined on stage with his chief curator, Raphaël Bouvier, and the artist’s granddaughter, Diana Widmaier-Picasso, an art historian, got things off to a crackling start by unleashing a series of events that will herald the exhibition.

The show will be “by far the most ambitious our museum has organised to date,” he said; he termed Picasso “the most influential artist of the 20th century;” and he argued that the Rose and Blue moments are from “the most loved period of Picasso’s work by the general public.”

Keller added, “We also expect to draw record numbers of visitors,” saying that attendance will likely outpace its marquee Monet and Gauguin shows. Keller also disclosed that tickets will go on sale in November 2017, for the art show which runs next February to June.

Keller confirmed that there are many Picasso shows each year in several art fairs round the world but boasts that theirs will certainly be a “once-in-ageneration experience” maybe even a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience. “We will turn the entire Foundation Beyeler into a temporary Picasso museum,” he said, using the museum’s holdings from later periods and loans to offer a survey of the artist’s career.

The crew also disclosed that Picasso blowout is a joint venture of the Beyeler with the Musée Picasso and Musée d’Orsay in Paris, where the show will open in a few months, on September 18, and run through January, after which it will venture to the Beyeler, where its focus will be expanded to include Picasso’s early moves into Cubism, a curatorial gesture made possible by the museum owning a study for the artist’s famed Les Demoiselles d’Avignon (1907), which is owned by the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

An earlier report had it that Ernst Beyeler, who was close friends with Picasso, almost parted with that study,

but his wife, Hilda Kunz, put her foot down. She “almost left her husband when he wanted to sell that work,” Keller said.

“She famously put her suitcases on the painting and snapped, “The painting leaves the house, I’m going to leave as well.” And so it remained in the collection.

Many other key Rose and Blue period works are also deeply ensconced in collections, whether public or private.

“The works are rare, often very fragile, and very, very rarely lent,” Keller said, noting that they also tend to be popular at the museums that own them— another reason not to loan them.

“Also,” he continued, “they are extremely valuable, both as cultural treasures of our civilization and also on the market.” By way of example, he motioned to a work on a screen behind him: Picasso’s Fillette à la corbeille fleurie (1905), which sold for $115 million last month in New York at Christie’s from the collection of Peggy and David Rockefeller saying it will be in the show.

Bouvier said that the Beyeler is still negotiating the terms of a loan for the important La Vie (1903) with its owner, the Cleveland Museum of Art—the first time that I can recall ever hearing a curator publicly disclosing the finer points of such a behind-the-scenes maneuver. Referring those assembled

to a little maquette of the exhibition in the back of the room, he offered a précis of the Blue and Rose series, saying that in the former the “moving and profound images show Picasso confronting existential themes such as desire, destiny, and death,” while the “acrobats, artists, and circus performances” that define the latter may be read as stand-ins for Picasso.

Disclosing an intriguing side of the exhibition, Pablo Picasso’s granddaughter, Diana WidmaierPicasso said, “The years between 1901 and 1907, which the Beyeler show will cover, marked a “period of instability and poverty,” “At this time he often used twice his canvases because he didn’t have enough money to buy new ones.” She seemed thrilled about the exhibition. “My family has always been close to the Beyeler Foundation.” As it happens, she’s at work on a Picasso sculpture show right now, to open at the Villa Borghese in Rome in October. “It can warm you up for the show at the Beyeler,” she said.

It must be noted that such art press conferences tend to be, on average, a bit zestier in Europe than they are in the United States, and this one did not disappoint. One gentleman asked Widmaier-Picasso about her mother, Maya Widmaier-Picasso (the daughter of the artist and Marie-

Thérèse Walter), and whether they are in contact. “How is she doing?

She’s in her 80s now.”

“Yes, I see her every day,” Widmaier-Picasso said with a laugh.

She’s doing well and is strong, even if she sometimes has trouble walking, she continued, noting pleasantly that she’s “still very focused on criticism.

She has a power always to see what is wrong—in a picture, in a person.”

Another journalist wondered if “this exhibition is in some way a road show for the period, to validate it in the public market and in the auction market for possible recycling of some of this art in the deep collections . . . not maybe the masterpieces but lots of other pieces in the collection that might be subject for sale.”

“No,” Keller replied immediately.

I can tell you exactly what the reason is. We have dreamt to do this exhibition for a long time.” He called it an “adventure together with our colleagues in Paris.”

“And if you are suggesting that we have any financial interest,” Keller said, “I can tell you the opposite is the case. This is the most expensive exhibition we have ever done. It will create the biggest deficit ever . . . we own no works from that period. I don’t know what other benefits than cultural such an exhibition should have to a museum.”

L8

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, June 21, 2018

Travel Guide

Swim with whale sharks in tofo beach

Mozambique beaches, safaris and sights for sore eyes For a fun-filled and adventurous holiday, Mozambique is one of the best African countries to visit.

The southern African nation shares a long portion of her border with the Indian Ocean.

The Portuguese-speaking nation offers guests a variety of things to see and do.

Here are five places you must visit when in Mozambique.

Bazaruto Archipelago The Bazaruto Archipelago is a

group of six islands off the coast of southern Mozambique.

Visitors can stay at the private lodges which offer scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, and sailing activities.

The Bazaruto Archipelago is not a shoppers’ destination as it has no shops, just miles and miles of white sandy beaches.

Maputo Maputo, Mozambique’s beautiful capital, is a living history lesson of the country’s colonial era.

Gorongosa National Park where you see Kubatana elephant

The city is known for its stunning colonial architecture and pretty Portuguese-style frontispieces, as well as the irresistible Pemba Bay, which is a must-visit for scuba divers.

Gorongosa National Park Looking for a Safari?

Head to Gorongosa National Park to seek out bouncing bushbuck, elephant herds,

Swim with whale sharks in tofo beach

waterbucks, crowned cranes, wild warthogs and more.

Tofo Beach Located in the Inhambane Province, Tofo has become a hotspot for young travellers.

It hosts beautiful stretches of beaches, a friendly laidback atmosphere, an entertaining nightlife, and great diving and snorkelling sites.

Palace & Chapel of São Paulo The former governor’s residence which dates back to 1610 is now a museum.

The interior which houses recently refurbished Museu de Artes Decorativas and original pieces of furniture gives an idea of what upper-class life was like at the time.

Source: TheCable.ng