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15 revenue agencies didn’t remit N8.1trn in 5 years - Minister Tom Okpe, Abuja The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has said that 15 revenue generating agencies of the Federal Government failed to remit N8.1 trillion to the Federation Account between 2010 and 2015.

The Minister made the disclosure in Osogbo, Osun State, on Monday, while commissioning the Channelisation, De-silting, Flood Control and Development of Okoko and Ogbagba Rivers, phases one and two, on behalf of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Continued on page 5

Ohaneze Ndigbo demands restructuring of Nigeria https://plus.google.com/+DailytimesNgr/posts

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TUESDAY, MAY 22, 2018

Says it’s best option for sustaining country’s existence

VOL. 3

NO. 659

N150

John Ndu, Awka

Seeks 6-year single tenure for president, govs, 5 vice presidents Wants implementation of 2014 Confab report, new constitution

The national body of Ohaneze Ndigbo has called for immediate implementation of the report of the 2014 National Conference and the restructuring of Nigeria.

Continued on page 4

L-R, Deputy National President General, Ohaneze Ndigbo, Prof Chigozie Ogbu, Anambra State Governor Willie Obiano; National President General, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief John Nnia Nwodo and Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu at the Ndigbo Summit on Restructuring of the Nigerian Federation, oganized by Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide in Awka, Anambra State... on Monday.

N400m fraud: Drama as Metuh’s lawyer withdraws after his collapse in court g5

2018 Budget: Why

NASS included additional funding for Primary Healthcare - Sen Tejuoso g4

Magu to sue online publication over false report on guber ambition g5

Falana: Western countries more corrupt than African countries

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Daily Times Nigeria Friday, May 11, 2018 Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

SERVICES SECTION

News 4

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Ohaneze Ndigbo demands restructuring of Nigeria Continued from page 1 This was part of the resolutions of the summit organised by the pan-Igbo socio-cultural group held at Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, the Anambra State capital, on Monday.

The theme for the summit was entitled: “If my people, who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray, I will heal their land.”

The event attracted high profile personalities across the country, including delegates from the five Eastern states, Delta and River states.

Some of the dignitaries were the Deputy Senate President, Dr. Ike Ekweremmadu, Anambra State Governor Willie Obiano, former Minister of Information, Prof. Jerry Ghana, Senator representing Anambra Central Senatorial zone, Chief Victor Umeh.

Also in attendance were the former Governor of Anambra State, Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife, former Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, and President General of Omi ny’Igede in Benin State, Comrade Ben Ekpe, among others.

The Ohaneze demand on restructuring was presented by former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, who explained that restructuring was the best option for sustaining the existence of Nigeria.

The Ohaneze Ndigbo in the resolution also called for the convocation of a constitutional conference to fashion a new constitution for the country.

Reading out the resolutions, Soludo, who was also the chairman of the Organising Committee of the summit, said Igbos seek for a transformed Nigeria where every geopolitical zone is treated equally in the context of fairness and justice.

The apex Igbo socio-cultural group said total restructuring demand would be made possible through a new constitution of Nigeria that would be enacted by the National Assembly

after constituting a constituent assembly for a new Nigeria through referendum.

The group regretted that Igbos were humiliated and fall victims whenever there is crises not minding their heavy economic investment across the states.

“The state of origin should be scrapped and be replaced with state of residence. The states should have control over their resources, “Soludo posited.

The former apex bank governor while reading the resolution called for the adoption of a six year single tenure for the president with five vice president which would be rotated among the six geopolitical zones of the country.

Soludo maintained that the Presidential System of Government would continue at the National Level with bicameral legislature which would be replicated at the regional level.

For the office of the President, Ndigbo canvassed for a single tenure of six years and should rotate among the six regions of the country. Same six year single tenure applies to state governors and should rotate among the three senatorial zones of each state.

In his remark, the Chairman of the occasion, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyawu, noted that the event would reshape the history and destiny of the nation.

He called for general reflection of Nigeria history and examination of the future for better repositioning of the nation.

While calling for restructuring, Iwuanyawu explained that the killings in Nigeria was an indication of problems in the country’s political system.

Also, Deputy Senate President, Dr. Ike Ekweremmadu, described the event as historical which would reposition the federal architecture of the nation.

Ekweremmadu called on Nigeria to take advantage of the mineral resources and other products to enhance effective development.

On his part, Anambra State Governor Willie Obiano, said no ethnic group had socio- economic investment in Nigeria than Igbos, and called for equitable distribution of resources.

He said: “In the past 58 years, Ndigbo have worked tirelessly with fellow Nigerians to lay the foundations for a better federation and a more perfect union.

“We have made the most sacrifices and more often than not, we have also paid the supreme price for the unity of this country. But we have made these sacrifices in the belief that in the contemporary history of mankind, the road to nationhood is often paved with the blood of patriots.

“Indeed, Ndigbo have paid the price for Nigeria’s greatness.

We paid in blood.

“We must ask for a just, fair and equitable federation where every citizen is guaranteed the freedom to be the best they can be and to aspire to the highest position in the land regardless of their tribe, culture or religion.

And this is what Nigeria in its present structure, has not given to us”.

Also, President General of Omi ny’Igede in Benin, Edo State, Comrade Ben Ekpe, said the only solution to Nigeria is giving every region equal distribution of resources.

Ekpe, who expressed assurance for the realisation of restructuring, stressed that Nigeria had acquired adequate political experience that would assist in proper development of the country to a greater height.

The highlight of the summit was the endorsement of the resolution by a voice vote majority.

The motion for the adoption of the Ekwueme Declaration was moved by South East Senate leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe while Barrister Rita Maduagwu, chairman of South East Speakers of House of Assemblies, moved for the adoption of the motion.

PHOTO TIMES

President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki with the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari at the palace in Ilorin, Kwara State, yesterday.

L-R: Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr Boss Mustapha, Permanent Secretary , General Services Office Mr Olusegun Adekule and Director Human Resources Management , Mrs Agnes Aremu during the launching of the new website in his office in Abuja ... on Monday.

Budget 2018: Why NASS included additional funding for Primary Healthcare - Sen Tejuoso Tunde Opalana, Abuja The Chairman, Senate Committee on Health, Senator Lanre Tejuoso, has revealed why the National Assembly included funding for the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF) in the 2018 Appropriations Bill.

Senator Tejuoso (APC, Ogun Central) stated this in a statement made available on Monday.

He said, “ While the Executive did not include the BHCPF in the 2018 Appropriation Bill submitted to the National Assembly, the Senate embarked upon a phenomenal task of ensuring the inclusion of BHCPF in the 2018 appropriation and its effective implementation.

“The Senate mandated its Committee on Appropriation to work out a modality for

accommodating the Fund in the 2018 appropriation.

The Senate Committee on Health through the Technical Advisory Group (TAG) to the Legislative Network on Universal Health Care (UHC) held series of sensitization, capacity building and media parleys to galvanize support towards implementation of the BHCPF and reiterate the commitment of the National Assembly towards the cause.”

Tejuoso added that the push to ensure that there was increased funding in the 2018 budget was a clear demonstration of the commitment and responsiveness of the 8th Senate, under the leadership Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, who is also a medical doctor, to ensure that the healthcare needs of Nigerians are met.

He said, “I am happy to inform you that the Senate President and the Senate Committee on Health have lived up to their promise to Nigerians by including the BHCPF in the 2018 Appropriation Bill. By this important milestone, we have demonstrated our collective and sustained will to harness and align our human and other resources towards transforming the health landscape in Nigeria.

“We have to remain vigilant to ensure that nothing scuttles our collective will towards actualizing the dream of affordable universal health care for all Nigerians. It is my vision that one day, Nigeria health care system will be a model for other African countries and the country will be a reputable destination for medical tourism.”

L-R: Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai and Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson, during a courtesy visit to El-Rufai...on Monday.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (3rd left); Akran of Badagry, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I (2nd left); Deputy Governor, Dr. (Mrs) Oluranti Adebule (left); Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu I (3rd right); Ayangguren of Ikorodu, Oba Kabiru Sotobi (2nd right); Onigando of Igando, Oba Lasisi Gbadamosi (right) and other members of the newly inaugurated Council of Obas and Chiefs at the Government House, Alausa, Ikeja, on Monday, May 21, 2018.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

5 News

15 revenue agencies didn’t remit N8.1trn in 5 years – Minister Continued from page 1 According to the minister, the discovery by the auditing firm KPMG is many times worse than the N1.34 trillion carted away by 55 public officials between 2006 and 2013.

He said: “Recently, the Federal Government ordered an audit between

2010 and 2015 of 15 government revenue generating agencies, the result was the discovery that the agencies had not remitted over N8.1 trillion to the Federation Account; this amount is about six times the N1.34 trillion that was stolen between 2006 and 2015. ‘’It is also the equivalent,

on the average, of the country’s yearly national budget!

Imagine, for a moment, how many kilometres of roads could have been constructed, how many kilometres of rail tracks that could have been laid, and how many modern hospitals and schools that could have been built if that money had been properly

N400m fraud: Drama as Metuh’s lawyer withdraws after his collapse in court Andrew Orolua, Abuja.

A mild drama ensued at the courtroom of the Federal High Court in Abuja before Justice Okon Abang on Monday as the former National Publicity Secretary of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olisa Metuh, collapsed in court.

Metuh and his company Destra Investment limited are standing trial on seven count charge for alleged N400m fraud.

But amidst the drama, Justice Abang threatened to strike out the charge in which Metuh had called 11 defence witnesses. He said if the prosecuting lawyer who acceded to request for adjournment continue to agree to the defence lawyer’s flimsy excuses, he would strike out the matter.

Metuh had collapsed while trying to enter the dock after his case was called. The judge insisted that the defence should call its next witness.

But, the lawyer to Metuh, Mr Emeka Etiaba (SAN), said “It will be against all procedure of trial to say I

want to continue when my client is lying down and I don’t know whether he is dead or alive.” He therefore orally applied to withdraw his appearances on the matter.

But the judge refused Etiaba’s application to withdraw from the trial, saying that, “It is an attempt to delay this trial”.

Etiaba, although remained in the court, insisted that he had withdrawn from the case. He refused to offer further contributions even when asked for by the judge.

The court medical officials including a female doctor that were hurriedly invited by the registrar to attend to Metuh, who was lying on the floor of the courtroom. The incident happened at about 9.01am in the courtroom on Monday.

As a result of incident, Justice Abang rose for 29 minutes and upon return, he demanded from the court registrar, and two other clerks what transpired in court when the matter was called for continuation of trial.

But while the proceeding

was on, the Medical Doctor from the court told Justice Abang that Metuh needed to be taken to the hospital for further examination due to the fall.

The judge asked for the response of the prosecuting lawyer, Silvanus Tahir, who said he would not be opposing an adjournment based on the opinion of a Medical Doctor from the Federal High Court.

In his remark, the judge stated that the Federal High Court has nothing against Metuh, saying that it is the duty of the prosecution to prosecute its case.

The judge said, “This is not a case of the Federal High Court. If the prosecution does not want to proceed with the trial, the court will strike out the case”.

In his brief ruling on the matter, the judge said :”In view of the application of the Medical Doctor in the employment of Federal High Court, that was not in court at the commencement of proceeding, and there being no objection, and since it is a medical opinion, this matter is adjourned to May 22.”

Magu to sue online publication over false report on guber ambition Doosuur Iwambe, Abuja The Acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Ibrahim Magu, has said that he will sue the publishers of 247ureports.com for publishing falsehood over purported governorship ambition against him.

Describing the publication as false, malicious and an affront on his professional integrity, the EFCC boss said that he has briefed his lawyers to initiate legal action against the news medium, and all others who published the libellous report.

This was contained in a statement by the commission’s head, Media and Publicity, Wilson

Uwujaren and made available to journalists on Monday.

The publication, which first appeared on247ureports. com comes with the headline, “Exclusive: Buhari Holds Secret Talks With Sheriff To Push For EFCC Magu’s Guber Ambition”.

The publication further claimed that Magu was keen on pursuing the ambition, to seek “protection from arrest following a series of exposé that would lead to his conviction”.

But the EFCC has faulted the publication saying that the online publication was fabricated and malicious.

The statement reads in part: “The attention of the EFCC, has been drawn to publications in a section of

the online media, claiming that its acting Chairman, Mr. Ibrahim Magu, is nursing a governorship ambition in Borno State.

“The EFCC chair who was recently named chairman of heads of anti -corruption agencies in Commonwealth Africa has been exemplary in the discharge of his duties as anti-graft czar and does not need protection from forces which exist only in the fecund imagination of the publisher of the Online news portal.

“Moreover, the disingenuous attempt to dress Magu in the garb of a politician is the height of mischief in fiction writing.

Mr. Magu is not a politician‎, and is not nursing any governorship ambition”.

accounted for”.

He told the gathering at the commissioning that the Buhari Administration’s fight against corruption remains very critical because it will free the much-needed resources for national development.

The Minister said the projects being executed by the present administration, including the one that was commissioned in Osogbo - one of 53 being commissioned across the

Saraki

country - could have long been completed but for the mind-boggling looting of the treasury by previous administrations, which deprived the nation of infrastructural growth.

He said, “This is why we will not stop talking about those who have looted the public treasury, despite the pushback from their apologists. If we do not stop the looting of the treasury, there will be no money for the kind of projects we

are commissioning here in Osogbo today”.

Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola corroborated the Minister’s disclosure that N8.1 trillion was unaccounted for by 15 revenue generating agencies, saying the share of his state from the said amount is N75 billion which, he said, would have been more than enough to pay all civil servants their salaries and complete all infrastructural projects of the government.

Dogara

Dogara: Science and technology, key to Nigeria’s development Nigeria cannot compete without innovation It is only in science that the excellency of Nigeria shall emerge Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, has said that Nigeria needs to record gains in science and technology in order to compete favourably among other nations.

He said this at a dinner held in honour of Professor Suleiman Elias Bogoro, the former Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Fund, on his induction as a Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Science.

The Speaker therefore urged members of the Academy to lay emphasis on research because it is through science that the country will attain its full potential.

“Our nation cannot compete favourably without innovation. We have also seen that it is innovation in the area of science that drives communities, even nations to thrive. They are exporting their intellect, we have seen that. That is why the 10 most advanced nations, or richest nations on the earth, some of them do not have the kind of resources that we have. It is in this area: advancement in science and technology that the true potential of this nation will emerge.

“That is the challenge before the Nigerian Academy of Science, some of us are not scientists, we read Law and I guess we are doing very well

in the field of Law. We have different eminent live vessels in different fields in this country affecting lives and defining the destiny of this nation, but I know that it is in science that the excellency of this nation shall truly emerge.”

The Speaker lauded Prof.

Bogoro’s virtues, describing him as an inspiration and one who is fully committed in anything he does.

“I have walked with him and seen his commitment, and I can tell you here that what has marked him out as a person and not even just as an academician, is the fact that whatever he does, he does it from the bottom of his heart. When it comes to philanthropy, anyone who has come in contact with Professor Bogoro will tell you that he doesn’t do it from his head, but from his heart. I’ve seen him in situations where he doesn’t even have, but he’ll give everything he has, this is very true and I believe there are so many people in this audience who can testify to that.

So it is that exceptional spirit in him that drives him, even when he is delivering a speech; he does it with a difference, when he gives; he gives with a difference, when he teaches; he teaches with a difference. Even in this field of science; he has

distinguished himself with a difference, I am 100% convinced of that.”

For his part, Prof Bogoro disclosed that during his spell at the Tetfund, 90 percent of resources were committed to research in science and technology.

According to him, “it is science that perfects even the arts and humanities. Talk about Mass Communication, can you do anything reasonable and communicate without technology even in the context of social media of today?

Prof Bogoro recalled that when he came up with a research to build animal research house a Professor responsible for approving the funds doubted him but he argued that productivity of herders’ cattle in Nigeria is just about 1/20 of their potential compared to what obtain in other advanced economies where agriculture is practiced with the aid of science and technology where a cattle yields about 40 liters of milk per day but in Nigeria a nomadic Fulani cattle produces just about 2 liters of milk per day.

The event was attended by members of the Gindiri Old Boys Association (Gosa) where Prof Bogoro did his secondary education including two from the first set of 1955.

News 6

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Police parade 3 suspected kidnappers in Lagos Joy Anyim, Lagos Three suspected kidnappers who belong to a four man gang were on Monday paraded by the Lagos State Commissioner of Police for attempting to kidnap a 22 year old girl, Bidemi Omoniyi.

The suspects - Blessing Nwaeze, Emeka Okeke

and Monday Onwukawere intercepted after they had pretended to be taxi operator picked their victim attempted to take her to Ibadan.

It was gathered that the victim who was going to work had joined the bus at Egbetedo and was heading to Pencinema at about 7:15 am on Monday.

According to the victim

who was rescued by good Samaritans, “ I work as a receptionist at a hotel in Omole phase 1. I was on my way to work this morning when I joined a passat vehicle at Egbetedo heading to Pencinema. “ I had opted for the vehicle because there were too many people at the bustop and no keke going to Pencinema. So when the

vehicle came, I just joined it.

It was only the driver and a lady who was in the vehicle.

“The vehicle driver had just driven for two minutes before two other of their colleagues joined the vehicle. The driver then started a discussion. He was asking the woman (Nwaeze) where she got the dollars she was carrying from.

She said she works at

Airport hotel as a prostitute.

She said a man had taken her for a night but that when returning she had stolen dollars from the guy.

At this point I discovered they were fraudsters. I attempted to alight from the vehicle but they held me down. Even when people saw me calling for help, they stopped us, Nweze alleged I was her younger sister, that

Pro-Biafra group leaders warn members against violence Charles Onyekwere, Abakaliki Leadership of the Movement for the Sovereign State of Biafra, (MASSOB) and Biafra Independent Movement,(BIM), Ebonyi Central zone in Ebonyi State, on Monday cautioned its members across the state to shun violence or any other act which is capable of portraying the group in a bad light during its independence celebration today in the State.

Briefing Journalists at

MASSOB/BIM’s zonal headquarters, Onueke in Ezza South local government area of the state, the leader of Ebonyi Central zone, Hon. Sylvester Ufeh who called on members to come out en-mass for the group’s Independence Celebration stressed that the sit-at-home order of MASSOB belonged to Ojukwu’s old Biafra as MASSOB/BIM belongs to the new Biafra which was declared by its leader, Dr. Ralph Uwazuruike on May 22, in Abia State.

According to him, our celebration remains sacrosanct and irreversible as members and non-members are welcome to celebrate with us on this auspicious occasion.

“The entire Ebonyi central zone of the group and indeed the state are hereby called up to come out enmass on 22nd May 2018 for the celebration of our Independence in a colourful way under our non-violence posture or policy.

“We want to expressed our

gratitude to our indefatigable, courageous and gallant leader and founder of MASSOB/BIM, Dr. Ralpha Uwazurike, the lion of Africa, the Joshua of our time for passing through turbulent waters to emancipate the totality of Biafrans from the darkness called Nigeria.

“He paid the ultimate price for our freedom. In the course of the celebration, there shall be a match past, and cultural dance in the state; both members and non-members are all welcome to celebrate

our independence.

They should not forget to comport yourself according to our non-violence norms. We are a non-violent group and we will remain as such.

“Any person or group talking about sit-at-home order during the celebration belonged to Ojukwu’s old Biafra as MASSOB/BIM belongs to the new Biafra which was declared at 175 Folk Road by our leader, Dr. Ralph Uwazuruike on 22nd May in Abia State.”

I was too stubborn and they were taking me back to the village. “ It was at that the elderly man(Onwuka) threatened to cut off my breast that someone has already paid for it. The driver Okeke called someone and all I had is that they have gotten a victim and were heading to Ibadan. “ luckily for me a man who didn’t believe their explanation earlier, pursued us with a bike and intercepted the suspects at Akinyele bustop. He called passerby and they came to my rescue. However one the the gang member fled.

When I explained all that had happened, they started beating them before the police came to their rescue.”

The 35 year old Nwaeze however denied the kidnap and ritualist allegation. He claimed they are one chance operators who just wanted to disposes the victim of money and other valuables.

Onwuka who is 71 year old said he didn’t know anything about the alleged criminal act. He insisted he was also a commuter.

Subsequently The Commissioner of Police, CP Imohimi Edgal who paraded the suspects stated that investigations were ongoing. He further disclosed that the police will do everything within its reach to arrest the fleeing member.

Bindow believes in hard work –Adamawa LG boss Tom Garba, Yola

HRM Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, Obi of Onitsha, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, AFENIFERE Chieftain, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Chairman of the occasion, Chief Victor Ike Oye, National Chairman APGA and Sen Ike Nwachukwu, former minister of External Affairs at the Ndigbo Summit on Restructuring of the Nigerian Federation, organized by Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide held in Awka Anambra State yesterday.

Diaspora APC chapter lauds passage of 2018 budget Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC) Scandinavia chapter, Mr Ayoola Lawal, has lauded the Senate for allocating one percent of the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF) to basic healthcare in the country.

Lawal, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the telephone from Gothenburg, Sweden on Monday that the passage of the 2018 appropriation bill was a welcome development.

He also praised the Senate

for passing the repeal and reenactment of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA).

Lawal, an aspirant for the Lagos State House of Assembly for Ifako/Ijaiye Constituency 1, said the move by the upper chamber of the National Assembly was important for the economic foundation and public healthcare of Nigerians.

“The passing of CAMA Act and the appropriation of one per cent of CRF for public healthcare are grand milestones ever achieved by

the Nigerian Senate in my perspective.

“The Sen. Bukola Saraki-led 8th National Assembly has just laid the basic foundation for a serious and genuine economic institution for Nigeria.

“If well implemented, huge are the implications for the health sector and the Nigerian economy.

Lawal said the passage of the CAMA Act would enable Nigeria´s business environment to genuinely join the league of competitive business environments on the

globe.

The chairman said: “Most of the bottlenecks, especially the analogue business registration and outdated regulatory provisions will become things of the past.

“Partnering, starting businesses and running a business will now become easy from any part of the globe.’’

Lawal added that the law would contribute to the inflow of foreign direct investment into Nigerian economy daily.

“The appropriation of one per cent of CRF for basic

healthcare depicts that quite a number of average Nigerians will now be having access to free basic healthcare and less death due to health issues.

“With the above developments and constant demand for transparency and good governance, Nigeria will one day become the nation of our dream once again,’’ Lawal said.

Meanwhile, the Senate and the House of Representatives have yet to meet to harmonise the budget before President Muhammadu Buhari’s assent.

A grassroot politician and the current Chairman of Maiha Local Government Area (LGA) of Adamawa state, Alhaji Idi Amin, has described Governor Muhammadu Umaru Jibrilla Bindow as a believer of hard work.

Amin, who recalled that Bindow passed through several Court cases and is still standing strong in delivering dividends of democracy.

“If you look at his antecedents as Governor he battled nine casses, and won them all and became a record breaker. ”All the huddles he passed through as a governor did not deter him from doing good for the people of the state, ” Idi said. ‘‘I tell you the truth, I brag around telling people I’m from Adamawa State where we have a Governor that makes good things happens unlike before,” he added

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

7 News

2019: Be ready to accept defeat, PDP tells Buhari Tunde Opalana, Abuja Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has told President Muhammadu Buhari, to be prepared to accept defeat in the 2019 presidential election, given that all indices, including those released by the Presidency are capable of making Nigerians deny him another four years in office.

The party also stated that Buhari’s administration is swimming against the tide considering the degenerated economic, security and social situations in the country under the APC government.

According to the party, Nigerians have reached a consensus that President Buhari has betrayed the trust of the ordinary people, thereby bringing acute poverty, hunger and starvation, particularly in the north, especially with scandalous revelations that he is not indeed pro-poor and uncorrupt as they were made to believe in 2015.

The party in a statement by its spokesperson, Kola Ologbondiyan yesterday knocked Buhari for “his disconcerting aloofness

to the plight of citizens, his failure to initiate and implement any development project in any party of the country and the refusal to fulfil the littlest of his 2015 campaign promises.”

The PDP asserted that the electorate have come to terms with the fact that the promises by President Buhari and his APC are all a big scam.

“President Buhari’s handlers, in their shouting match, should know that Nigerians are only clamouring for his expulsion from Aso Rock come 2019 because our nation does not have provisions for mid-term elections. Had such been in our statutes book, Nigerians would have since chased this incompetent, insensitive and tactless President away from office.

“Now that the multitude of artisans, market women, transporters, labourers, small scale entrepreneurs and professionals, whose businesses have collapsed are teamed with the army of unemployed youths, deprived widows and victims of bloodlettings across our country,

in clamouring against President Buhari, who then is left to vote for him in 2019”.

It therefore warned the Presidency that Nigerians are now rallying on the platform of the repositioned PDP, to rescue the nation from grips of the Buhari-led APC administration.

Meanwhile, the party has

challenged President Muhammadu Buhari to quickly respond to issues contained in the Open Letter addressed to him by a chieftain of his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank.

The PDP said President Buhari’s response has become imperative given the

weighty issue of humongous corruption, intimidation of citizens, erosion of freedom, constitutional breaches and persecution of citizens under the guise of fight against corruption, for which Nigerians and the international community demand immediate explanations.

The PDP commends Timi

Frank’s action as patriotic, bold, courageous and in the interest of the nation.

We therefore urge other democrats and publicspirited persons in the APC to speak out for our nation and take the bold step of withdrawing from the APC and rallying with other wellmeaning Nigerians in the repositioned PDP.

Convention: APC not for questionable characters, says Oshiomhole Tom Okpe, Abuja An aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairmanship position, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, has declared that if voted at the party’s forthcoming national convention, the party would no longer admit people of questionable character.

Speaking in Abuja on Monday, when he paid a visit to an APC chieftain and former governor of Abia State, Dr Orji Uzor Kalu,

the former governor of Edo State said: ‘‘If a reactionary element wants to join the APC and by his antecedents, we feel that his values, his actions do not conform to the core values of social democracy, we should be able to engage him and say, ‘Mr. Applicant, maybe you have to look elsewhere’.

“I believe, working along with leaders like you and other leaders of our party to begin the process of building a functional, democratic, masses-based, membershipdriven, membership-funded

political party that is accountable to its members.

That way, Nigerians will begin to see over time the difference between the APC and any other party.

When I read newspapers, I see people wondering aloud, what is the difference between Party A and Party B? You really cannot fault them because the difference is so difficult to define but I believe that going forward, we must begin to consciously work towards that”.

Oshiomole pointed

that the party cannot be a spectator in the faceoff between the executive and the legislature, commended Dr. Kalu for staying true to his dreams both in business and in politics.

In his remarks, Dr. Kalu promised to support the chairmanship aspirant for as long as he continues to remain on the same page with President Muhammadu Buhari saying he will support whoever supports President Buhari to sanitized this country of corruption.

News 8

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Students shut down Benue Varsity over fee hike Chiangi Avese, Makurdi Activities at the Benue State University, Makurdi was on Monday stopped by protesting students of the institution who blocked and shut down all the main entrances into the school in opposition to increment of school fees by the management.

The university approved the increment of the school fees from N56,000 to N92,000 per session.

But the students, who were visibly angry over the decision of the school authority, stormed the school around 8am, took over the gates, locked up and displaced security manning the main gate of the university bringing to a halt the inflow and outflow of human and vehicular movement into the university.

Describing the increment as a betrayal, one of the protesting students who pleaded anonymity told newsmen

that “the increment is coming when the state is experiencing some economic challenges. We therefore are demanding for its reversal”.

“The decision of the school authority to increase fees is whimsical, inconsiderate and wicked and coming when many student cannot even afford the old regime of school fees”.

He said, “the school authority is not sensitive to our plight, even when there was no

increment many students could not pay their school fees. A situation which led to the crises that resulted to the closure of the school early this year. Students were also barred from writing examination because they could not pay”.

The protesting students carried placards some which read: “our parents are being owed by the state government”, “where we shall get the fees to pay”. Right now, said another

student, “the state government owes our parents about seven months’ salary arrears and those working at the local government are being owed about twelve months”, he said.

But the Management of the Benue state University said those protesting were miscreants who were only parading themselves as students of the university.

The school management in a press statement signed by the Acting Registrar Mrs.

Catherine Terlumun Bur and made available to newsmen yesterday in Makurdi, described the protest as worrisome most especially that the university is scheduled to commence accreditation of programmes by the National Universities Commission from Monday 21st May (yesterday).

The statement reads in part; “the university is yet to conduct election into the leadership of the students union since the expiration of the tenure of the immediate past Executive Committee.

Management wish to warn the perpetrators to vacate the gate in their own interest as it will not hesitate to avail itself of lawful means to deal with the situation.

“For purposes of emphases, management hereby reiterates its resolve to ensure that timelines for registration and other activities are strictly observed.”

Ex-LG boss emerges APC Chairman in Rivers

Former National Publicity Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party, Olisa Metuh on the floor when he collapsed on Monday in court at the resumption of his trial in Abuja High Court.

nPDP grievances genuine -APC

Tom Okpe, Abuja

All Progressives Congress (APC,) has declared that all the issues mentioned as grievances by the leader of the defunct New Peoples Democratic Party (nPDP) were genuine, saying that the party and the presidency will address those issues accordingly.

The party made this disclosure in Abuja on Monday through its Deputy National Secretary, Shuaibu Lawal at the party Secretariat while receiving the group led by its leader and spokesman, Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje.

Alhaji Baraje however denied insinuation that the group is planning to defect from the ruling APC for a yet be declared party, possibly the

PDP. Recall that the Kawu Barajeled nPDP had submitted a four page grievances letter two weeks ago to the National Working Committee (NWC), alleging that its members have been badly treated, sidelined and persecuted by the governing party.

Speaking after a closed door meeting which lasted about an hour, Senator Lawal, who led other National Working Committee (NWC) members to the meeting, said the party was taking up the disaffections seriously.

Senator Lawal who stood in for the National Chairman Chief John Oyegun, said: “We have not yet resolved. They wrote a letter to us, they are party men, they have grievances, we looked at

the letter, and their grievances are genuine. They requested a meeting within 7 days and before the seven days expired, I called them and they were not ready to come, they said we should shift the meeting till today (Monday), which we did.

“So, we are listening to them, we have listened to them and we are taking up their matter seriously, we will address it. We don’t ignore our people except if you don’t send your grievances to the party, but if you send, we will always address your grievances”.

When asked whether he was satisfied with responses his group got from the closed meeting, Abubakar Baraje said: “So far so good, we have just started and when you start a race, you don’t say whether

somebody wants to see you until you are getting to the middle or to the end. But it is a good start, it is a good beginning.

“As you are aware, we requested that we wanted to see the party, and the party, very sensitive and responsible party, responded to our requests adequately and we think it is an encouraging time.

“Since last week, they have gotten across to us but because of one logistics or the other, we couldn’t come until today. We begged the party to shift the day till today and we have seen our party. We are party members, this office is our office, we have only come home to discuss those observations we copied you people. The meeting was very beautiful”, Baraje stated.

When asked to respond to the allegation raised by Sen. Abdullahi Adamu’s group, Baraje said he was not ready to respond to such issue because a member of his group had responded.

“I am not ready to do that because somebody had earlier responded to them adequately.

I think the former Youth Leader of the defunct nPDP, Timi Frank, responded to them and once somebody has responded, there is no need beating about the bush.

“In any case, in any group, particularly political groups, you are bound to have a splinter while they splint is best known to them. As far as we are concerned, the group that sent me here, or sent us here are 95.9% intact”, he said.

Former chairman of Akuku-Toru Local Government Area, Rivers State, Hon. Ojukaiye Flag-Amachree, on Monday emerged as the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in the state.

Following the election, Flag-Amachree replaces Dr. Davies Ibiamu Ikanya, who had piloted the affairs of the party in the state for close to ten years.

The immediate past Secretary of the party, Chief Emeka Bekee, was re-elected as its secretary while Mr. Chris Finebone retained his current position as the publicity secretary of the APC. The APC state congress which started as early as 6. am returned Messrs. Cyprian Chukwu as the state legal adviser, Okpalibe Napoleon as assistant state secretary, and Ime Benson as the state youth leader.

The candidates who now constitute the new executive committee of the party in Rivers State, emerged through consensus arrangement.

However supporters of Senator Magnus Ngei Abe’s governorship ambition were not part of the election.

The group had addressed a news conference at Freedom House, Abe’s governorship campaign office, on Saturday, May 19, saying that they would not participate in any of congresses of the party.

Senator Abe’s faction of the party said they decided to abstain from the congresses because of a subsisting court order restraining the party from conducting further congresses in the state.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

9 News

Lagos hits N34bn IGR monthly Lagos State Government has said that it is generating an average of 34 biilion internally on a monthly basis, noting that this was a huge positive movement compared to what it generated in the last three years.

The state’s Commissioner for Finance, Akinyemi Ashade, made the disclosure at the ongoing annual Ministerial Press Briefing to mark the third anniversary of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s administration held at Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Alausa.

He said the feat was made possible by the gradual improvement to the impact of the ongoing reforms and growth in the State’s economy.

He said, “Notably, we are recording gradual improvement in our average monthly IGR in 2018 compared to the levels achieved in previous years due to the impact of ongoing reforms and growth in the State’s economy. Based on our first quarter results, Lagos State has so far achieved an average monthly IGR of N34billion in 2018 compared to monthly averages of N22bn, N24bn and N30bn in 2015, 2016 and 2017 respectively.”

The Commissioner

expressed optimism that the IGR would continue to rise even further as the State continues to implement the various reforms, driven by wider technology adoption and innovation, adding that the target to grow the State’s IGR to N50bn by next year was well on course.

“The target we set for ourselves is N50billion but we all know the kind of push backs we have experienced including people going to court and all that. Our commitment is not for now, its for the future of Lagos.

We know it’s a marathon, we would win some and we would lose some, but we are very committed towards ensuring that we meet the target, but if we don’t meet it this year, definitely there would be another year, but we believe we would succeed in that target we set for ourselves,” Mr Ashade said.

On federal transfers, he said

since Lagos joined the league of oil producing State, the government had received a total of N327 million revenue, comprising N197 million and N130 million received in 2017 and first quarter of 2018 respectively.

“Furthermore, we are in ongoing discussions with the Federal Government towards obtaining a refund for expenditure totalling N51billion that was incurred by the State Government on behalf of the Federal Government for infrastructure projects developments in the State. We are optimistic of successful discussions that will result in the approval and payment of the amount owed to the State Government by the Federal Government,” he said.

Giving an update on the State’s Debt Profile, Mr Ashade said the government’s debt stock, comprising 48 per cent

local debt and 52 per cent foreign debt currently stood at N874.38 billion at the end of 2017 while the debt service charge to total revenue ratio which stood at 17.61 per cent was still within the World Bank threshold of 30 per cent.

The commissioner said the State Government has continued to maintain a positive credit rating, however, adding that a downgrade of Nigeria’s sovereign rating would lead to a corresponding action on Lagos’ international drawing rights.

“As Nigeria continues to improve on its credit rating, we would be able to achieve better rating as we currently have because no amount of revenue generation, no amount of employment growth of Lagos State can make us surpass to surpass the sovereign rating,” he said.

He, however, said that

the state government has taken some strategic steps to help Nigeria improve on its ratings including adhering to fiscal discipline, improved revenue generation, reforms in infrastructure development, transport and embedded power.

Giving an update on the revised Land Use Charge (LUC), Ashade said the State Government has continued to engage critical stakeholders in line with its tradition of inclusive governance, adding that a wide range of response have been received.

He said the extensive discussions led to several concessions on Land Use charge for property owners across board, adding that a revised bill to further amend the LUC Law to incorporate the additional concessions was presently before the House of Assembly and would be passed

soon.

Besides, the Commissioner said the Government through the LUC Assessment Appeal Tribunal, received a total of 1,503 complaints, out of which 1,113 were successfully resolved administratively and through mediation, adding that an additional 263 property owners/agents had their grievances resolved in the last two weeks and more still ongoing.

Mr Ashade also urged residents to continue to support the government by fulfilling their civic duty of paying their taxes and remitting all taxes collected on behalf of the Government as and when due, assuring that the present administration was committed to maintaining financial accountability and transparency for the overall development and prosperity of the State.

Ikpeazu, Ayade move to end boarder clash in Isu, Arochukwu LGA Sunday Nwakanma, Umuahia Lingering communal crisis between Isu community in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State and their Cross River State neighbours will soon be resolved as the two state Governors, Okezie Ikpeazu and Ben Ayade are set to meet in Calabar, the Cross River state capital this weekend to find solution to the problem.

Governor Ikpeazu dropped this hint on Sunday at the Peculiar Peoples Assembly Aba during the 2018 glory summit of the church.

According to him, the meeting will attempt to bring lasting peace to the two warring neighbouring communities.

The Governor thanked the founder of the church, Bishop Goddy Okafor and his church for their prayers and support for his administration, while acknowledging God’s blessings upon him, pointing out that it does not matter what people say if God wants to use one.

According to him, whoever he chooses he equips and charged believers to trust in God. In his sermon with the theme “Proof Producers”, Bishop Goddy Okeafor enjoined Christians to copy and imitate God as He is the architect of every good thing.

Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki receiving the 2017 Annual Report of the State Civil Service Commission from the Chairman, Princess (Mrs.) Ekiuwa Inneh, at the Government House in Benin City. . . on Monday

Police nab medical doctor for cybercrime Joy Anyim

A medical doctor and a professional hacker Micheal Williams who specialises in generating fake bank alerts to buy assorted vehicles and divert online fund transfers have been arrested by the Lagos State Police Command.

The 28 year old suspect who hails from Delta State claimed he learnt how to hack when he relocated to Canada. He alleged his roommate who is from Israel had taught him the Act. The Commissioner of Police, CP Imohimi Edgal who paraded the suspect at the Lagos Command Headquarters in Ikeja claimed his office had received a complaint that there exists a syndicate that goes to car shops, buys a car, configures a computer program that would send a fake payment alert to the seller and

by so doing, obtains a car under false pretenses.

He disclosed that one Abidogun Adewale whose car shop played host to the leader of the syndicate had lodged a complaint. The leader, Williams had bought a Porsche car at N28 million and also generate the fake bank alert at four different payments made for the vehicle.

Edgal said, “ After he had bought the vehicle, he thereafter requested for the seller’s bank account number and made it look like he had paid him via the fake alert to his phone using HTTP tunnel. com.

“The suspect drove the car away unknown to the seller that he had been scammed. Adewale had only discovered when he went to the bank to obtain his bank statement weeks after.

“However, based on his complaint, a manhunt was

launched on the fleeing suspect.

The command availed detectives of the Federal Special AntiRobbery Squad all necessary Intelligence asset which led to the arrest of the suspect in Lekki Lagos.

“This suspect was interrogated and he confessed to committing the crime. He also led detectives to Asaba, Delta State where the stolen Porsche car was recovered. He also led detectives to Owerri, Imo State where two Camry Saloon cars he stole in a similar fashion were recovered.

“The modus operandi of the suspect who has a good mastery of cyber environment is that he creates a credit card, through cyber ghost 12. When the credit card matures, it is then funded through a hacked Swiss account.

Any transaction anybody is doing through Swiss account the

suspect manipulates such and wire the fund to his contrived credit card.

In his words, “ I was pushed out of work so I got a visa to travel to Canada. I worked at Tolu medical centre and EKO hospital. It is just that in Nigeria, when they see you are good at something, they just look for a way to push you out. I travelled to Canada to get a job to do or something to do.

“When I got to Canada, I was living with an Israel guy who had an accommodation there.

He taught me all I need to know in hacking. It is about software made easy online. So when you are a hacker, you buy the software online, it is very easy.

I get money online and not from individuals in Nigeria. It is a free world online.

“I came back to Nigeria because our banks are not

secured. You can easily hack accounts online. Creating a credit card, you get old credit card online, create them wait for a day monitor your emails and wait for when transactions are coming in on the Swiss code transaction.

He faulted Nigerian banks for their inability to secure themselves online. “In Nigeria you can sit and hack any account but abroad it is only through the Swiss account because the money is much . Nigerian bank don’t have professional hackers to secure them online. They are not secured so I can easily hack into their account. When you are online, you can do whatever you want to do. I don’t have an account because you can easily be caught so I just do credit cards.

You get old credit card” The Commissioner of Police said the suspect would be charged to court soon.

News 10

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Ambode counsels Council of Obas on peace, security Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday urged traditional rulers to work towards ensuring peace and security and as well be at the forefront of correcting anti-social behaviours in their communities, saying peaceful atmosphere remains the necessary ingredient for development.

Ambode, who spoke at Lagos House in Alausa, Ikeja, while inaugurating the newly constituted Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, said traditional rulers also have a pivotal role to perform in promoting the State’s tourism campaign being the custodians of culture and tradition of the people.

He said the new Council was coming at a time of momentous changes in evolution of

the State, especially with the development by his administration to ensure that government presence is felt by every community.

According to him “our government has immense regard for our Royal Fathers and Traditional Rulers and we always welcome advice from our royal fathers in order to maintain social harmony and ensure peaceful coexistence in our State.

“I, therefore, use this opportunity to call on our Royal Fathers and Chiefs and the new leadership of the Council of Obas and Chiefs to continue to address anti-social behavior in their communities.

The most important ingredient for development in the State is peace and security and you all have an important role to play

in this.

“As custodians of the culture and tradition of our people, our royal fathers should also be at the forefront of the State’s tourism campaign. A significant aspect of tourism is our culture and historical sites which fall under your jurisdiction,” he said.

The Governor said the tourism potentials of the State and the resources being channelled by the State Government to environmental regeneration and creation of tourist hubs must be showcased to the world, adding that such required the support and cooperation of royal fathers.

He said regardless of the advent of modernism, the importance of traditional institution of kingship in the society could not be

downplayed, noting that it remained a rallying point for the generality of the people.

The Governor, therefore, urged members of the reconstituted Council to justify the confidence reposed in them by using their wealth of experience to support his administration in the task of deepening democracy and bringing development to every part of the State, just as he restated commitment to the welfare and activities of royal fathers in the State.

Besides, Governor Ambode commended members of the dissolved Council for serving the State with a high sense of patriotism during their five-year tenure, and urged the new Council to advise government rightly on matters relating to customary

laws, cultural affairs, intercommunal relations and maintenance of public order in the State.

Earlier, in his opening remarks, Commissioner for Local Government and Community Affairs, Mr Muslim Folami said the reconstitution of the Council became imperative following the expiration of the tenure of the former Council after serving for five years in line with the law.

He said the new Council is made up of one Permanent Chairman in person of Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu; three Vice Chairmen, one Acting Vice Chairman and 77 members totaling 82 members.

“The composition of the new members is made to reflect the 20 Local

Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas, thereby allotting 15 members each to four divisions of the State and 21 members to Lagos Division due to its peculiarity,” Folami said.

The Vice Chairmen are Akran of Badagry, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I; Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Kabir Shotobi; Alara of Ilara, Oba A.O Adesanya; and Onigando of Igando, Oba Lasisi Gbadamosi.

Responding on behalf of the Council, Oba Akiolu thanked Governor Ambode for the opportunity given to them to serve the State, and urged traditional rulers to team up with government by coming up with useful ideas to assist in area of security, welfare, environmental sanitation and revenue generation.

L-R: Managing Director, Fouani Nig. Ltd, Mr. Mohammed Fouani; Arsenal Football Star, Mr. Alex Iwobi; and Corporate Marketing Manager, LG Electronics West Africa Operations, Mr. Hari Elluru during the unveiling of Alex Iwobi as the LG Ambassador in Lagos…at the weekend. Photo: Olatunji Wale

Ikpeazu seeks FG’s support for C’River superhighway, deep seaport Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has called on the Federal Government to lend its support for the actualisation of the 274km superhighway and the Bakassi Deep Seaport projects embarked by the Cross River Government.

Ikpeazu, who was speaking at the Cross River State Executive Council Chamber, Calabar, on Monday, when he paid a visit on his Cross River counterpart, Professor Ben Ayade, maintained that the projects were of huge economic benefits not only to Cross River, but the entire country, particularly, the South East.

The Abia state governor,

who expressed excitement at the multi-billion dollars twin projects said: “It is only a man of courage and vision that can embark on such monumental projects. It is not about Cross River but about Nigeria.”

While urging the Federal Government’s support for Ayade’s signature project, Ikpeazu said: “If we all support the governor to bring the projects to fruition, they will ramp up the economy of not only Cross River, but also that of the North East as it will allow access to the sea in a few hours and the potentials of that opportunity will add value to other states.”

Insisting that the Bakassi

deep seaport and the superhighway have the capacity to diversify the nation’s economy, Governor Ikpeazu also maintained: “If we are serious about diversification and giving equal opportunities to all parts of Nigeria, serious about combating crime and all those things that have held us down economically, the best thing to do is to encourage the realisation of these signature projects. So we are appealing to the good reasons and logic of our leaders everywhere to lend their voice and support.”

Ikpeazu said it is ironic “for a country that is so blessed with many opportunities from its

geography through the sea, rivers, oceans to the people to stick to strict restrictions created by them, instead of placing their fingers on those things that God has given to them freely.”

Ikpeazu said his state which shares borders with Cross River will be privileged to benefit from the abundant natural endowment that God has blessed the state with, adding that “the time for us to tap the full potentials of the seaport in Cross River is now and so, it is not proper to restrict the entrepreneurial spirit and energy of our people to just one or two seaports in the midst of many opportunities around us.”

The Abia governor who Described Governor Ayade as a visionary leader who is opening vistas of economic growth through the natural endowments, advocated for the marketing of Nigeria through the perspective of Cross River.

“A peep into Nigeria through the Cross River perspective will present a country of peace, great cultural heritage, a people who are hospitable and prepared to accept the world.

“If we market our foreign direct investment efforts through the perspective of Cross River, I think we will achieve greater strides than we are doing now.”

He stressed the need for

leaders to move away from what he termed ‘election politicians’ to visionary leaders of tomorrow who will peep into the future to see what the people need, while urging Cross Riverians to hold fast to Ayade whom God has placed in their hands to position the state where it rightly belongs in the scheme and map of things going forward.

Responding, Governor Ben Ayade thanked his guest for urging the federal government to give all institutional support for the realisation of the superhighway and deep seaport so that every region of the nation has a feel of self worth and value.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday May 22, 2018

Politics

11

Agbakoba, Balewa, others to adopt Niger Delta group lauds political platform for NIM in Abuja FG over take off of Initiate rainbow coalition for Ekiti 2018 guber elections Maritime Varsity Charges Sylva on need for link road from Warri to permanent site Benjamin Omoike

Agbakoba Patrick Okohue Conveners of Nigeria Intervention Movement (NIM) popularly known as the fresh breed third force movement in Nigeria have announced their plans to adopt the anchoring political party of their grand alliance for the 2019 elections this week in Abuja Addressing the press on Sunday in Abuja, according to a release signed by Olubori Obafemi Isah, of NIM Media, the Movement’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Nasser Kura said talks with Labour Party (LP), Action Democratic Party (ADP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), United Progressive Party (UPP) among others in the proposed alliance for the 2019 elections will be finalised in Abuja on Tuesday with the adoption of an anchoring party as the face of

Balewa NIM. “NIM is about to actualise the vision of its conveners as a fresh breed ideological platform conceived to reorder the political culture and governance system of Nigeria by adopting a credible political party towards the engagement of the 2019 elections.

“Our coalition talks with like minded political parties in the last two months will be cemented by the National Executive Council (NEC) of NIM on Tuesday in Abuja with a two pronged decision of adopting a credible political party for NIM as well as formalising NIM electoral alliance with like minded political parties such as Labour Party, Social Democratic Party, Action Democratic Party, United Progressive Party towards a grand coalition for a New Nigeria.”

Kura said those expected to be at the Tuesday meeting, which will be jointly presided over by Dr Olisa Agbakoba SAN and Dr Abduljalil Tafawa Balewa are members of the National Executive Council and Steering Committee, Zonal and State Coordinators as well as Principal Officers of the National Secretariat of NIM. He also hinted that the meeting will consider adopting a rainbow coalition in the forthcoming gubernatorial elections in Ekiti State which is most likely to be anchored on the Action Democratic Party (ADP) with the formidable collaboration with the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Labour Party (LP) in ensuring that the fresh breed third force movement deliver Ekiti from the manipulation and misrule of “stomach infrastructure” foisted on the Ekiti people.

Atiku denies visiting Jang in prison Patrick Okohue Former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has denied reports making the rounds in the media that he visited former Governor of Plateau State, Jonah Jang in Jos Prison, saying that the report is entirety false and mere fabrication.

According to a release from Atiku Media Office, “it has come to our notice that there is a report in a section of the media purporting that His Excellency, Atiku Abubakar, visited former governor of Plateau State, Jonah Jang in Jos Prison. That report, as it relates to the former Vice President, is in its entirety false and mere fabrication.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Atiku Abubakar has been in Yola, Adamawa State since Thursday for the activities

of the 10th Commencement Ceremony and Presidential Inauguration of American University of Nigeria, Yola.

“The Waziri Adamawa on Thursday attended the Honours Society event of the university. On Friday, Atiku Abubakar joined the Yola Ummah at the first Juma’at prayer of this year’s Ramadan at the Yola Central Mosque and later graced the Graduation Awards Ceremony of AUN. “On Saturday, Atiku Abubakar attended the 10th graduation ceremony of AUN which was widely reported in the media. The former Vice President arrived in Yola International Airport in the morning of Thursday, 17th May and still remains in Yola till today.

“Therefore, he was not, and could not have been in Jos as being claimed in a section of the media.”

Atiku

The Niger Delta Indigenous Movement For Radical Change has hailed the Federal Government for the smooth take off of the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, Gbaramatu kingdom, Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State.

The group has been at the forefront, pushing for the commencement of academic activities at the University, located in the oil-rich Niger Delta region.

The group recalled that the Governing Council of the University was inaugurated on March 22, 2018, with more than 300 students currently studying in the institution.

In a Press Statement signed by its President, Nelly Emma, Secretary, John Sailor and Public Relations Officer, Stanley Mukoro, the group said that the smooth take-off of the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, was a welcome development and lauded President Muhammadu Buhari; the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo; Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr. Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu; Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and other stakeholders for their efforts in the establishment of the University.

The group said that everything possible must be done now to make teaching and learning comfortable in the new university.

“We want to commend the Federal Government for the smooth take-off of the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, Gbaramatu kingdom, Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State. We have been at the forefront pushing for the take off of the University. We made several presentations on the desirability of the Nigerian Maritime University, first of its kind in Africa. We almost gave up in our struggle to see that the University is established. But today, we are so excited now that this listening administration has kicked off the University,” the group said.

According to them: “We want to appeal to the former governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Timipre Sylva, who is the Chairman of the Governing Council of the University, to do everything possible to make teaching and

learning conducive for both lecturers and students of the University.

“We are using this medium to call on the Chairman of the Governing Council of the University to prevail on the Federal Government to construct a road from Warri to the permanent site of the University.

There should be no politics on this matter. Now that the University has kicked off, we must put all sentiments aside and do the needful for the University.

“We have implicit confidence on the Chairman of the Governing Council of the University, Chief Timipre Sylva, with a road constructed from Warri to the permanent site of the University, development will spread rapidly to the area and other parts of the Niger Delta region. With a man like Chief Timipre Sylva from the Niger Delta region, who knows the pains of people of the region, getting a road from Warri to the permanent site of the University will not be a problem. We therefore call on him to push for it and make it happen in his time.

“A road from Warri to the permanent site of the University will not only encourage parents from any part of the world to send their children to the University, it will also attract investors to the Niger Delta Region. The establishment of the University and a road down from Warri to the permanent site of the University will also consolidate on existing peace in the oil-rich Niger Delta region,” the group said.

It added: “We are equally using this medium to implore the Chairman of the Governing Council of the University to prevail on the President to mobilise the contractors handling the construction of the permanent site of the University back to site, to continue from where they stopped when the current administration came into office.”

The contractors, they said, should be allowed to go back to site as soon as possible, especially now that academic activities had commenced.

“The people of the region will forever be grateful to the President and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University if construction works are allowed to commence immediately at the Permanent Site of the University,” they said.

Politics 12

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Difficulty in obtaining PVC, deliberate ploy by politicians – Utodio Patrick Okohue ‘Political Engineering’ is a new word that has entered into Nigeria’s political arena, describing how politicians manipulate the system to steal the people’s mandate.

An insider and a political stakeholder, former counsellor in Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area, Lagos, Mr. Samuel Utodio revealed that the difficulty in obtaining the Permanent Voters Card (PVC) currently experienced by voters in some parts of the country is deliberately engineered by politicians to create the opportunity to decide which way the votes will go come 2019 presidential election.

According to him, “All the delays and difficulties that eligible voters are made to face in obtaining the Permanent Voters Card (PVC) in the South East and South Western parts of the country are strategic, what is going on is a script politicians are acting out with one objective.

“Make sure these other places have more, and so and so other places do not have enough. It is part of the strategies politicians are using to perpetuate themselves in leadership positions.

“As we speak, this same PVC is taken to the people in their homes in some places in Northern Nigeria; it is part of the game, and Nigerians should even expect more,” he said.

The management consultant from Ikot Abasi Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State wants Nigerians to be aware that the elites are on

top of the game.

“Whether we know it or not, there is an undeclared war going on, so Nigerians should brace themselves to beat them at this game - and the muscle you need is that PVC; whatever way you can, see that you secure it.”

Utodio who was first speaker at an international conference organised by the Young Christian Workers at Ogudu, Ojota recently, added that political engineering is not unusual in politics though, but advices the electorate to stand up to abort the politicians’ game.

According to him “If the Federal Government wants to play a positive role in this regard, it should declare a public holiday and concentrate on strategies to make everybody have the PVC before the upcoming election.

“If government fails to act fast, this is the way the plot works out: When the day comes, the ‘engineers’ will simply tell them, ‘go and buy the PVC and give it to the people that will vote for you’. But bad as that may be, the good thing is that that system can be changed.”

Utodio recalled that there has been places all over the world where one single vote has made all the difference. “That means that in any position you aspire as a candidate, just one single vote in your favour matters a whole lot. So, everybody’s vote is very important. As insider, I assure you that votes still count in this country inspite of the seeming chaos during elections.”

The consultant politician stated that there are three key

Utodio

things in politics anywhere in the world and every member of the electorate must aspire to belong to one, at least.

“You are either active, an activist or an advocate. To be

active, one must be a cardcarrying member of a registered party. Being an activist means you are not a member of any political party, but you are politically aware, while an

advocate means that you are a stakeholder by flowing with the political sea and can know that something is done rightly or not done at all.

“If you do not belong to any of these three, then you have sentenced yourself to the voiceless group who believes that ‘politics is a dirty game’ and, if you refuse to join politics because it is a dirty game, then dirty people will rule over you and continue to rule over you.”

Acknowledging the influence of cash during elections, Utodio stressed that voters education begins with everyone being aware of their rights.

“If everyone is aware of their rights, politicians will not be free to do what they are doing.

If people are well educated, they should be told to collect the cash politicians give you, but still vote for the candidate of your choice because the cash is probably from looted funds anyway, so the cash is your rightful own.”

Speaking on independent candidacy bill, Utodio said, “It’s going to be a long process, I can tell you. One thing I am glad about is that because of much suffering, people of Nigeria are now willing to fight for their rights.”

He also speaks on the statement by the President that Nigerian youths are lazy, “The President’s statement that Nigerian youths are lazy has triggered off a lot of things in the system. 2019 is around the corner, and believe me, there is going to be a lot of surprises; what Nigerians expect will not be what will come up,” he assured.

2019: Christian groups endorse Ambode for second term Benjamin Omoike

Gov Ambode

Ahead of the 2019 gubernatorial election in Lagos State, Christian Associations in the state, at the weekend endorsed the state governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, for a second term in office.

The associations stressed that the achievements recorded by the Ambode administration demanded that he should be reelected to boost Lagos’ global status.

Announcing the endorsement at the bi-annual public lecture held in Ikeja, the National Chairman, Christian Conscience Group, Elder Enoch Ajiboso, explained that they had no option than to endorse Ambode since, according to him,

heavenly signs pointed towards him.

He said: “Since almighty God has endorsed him, so, who am I not to do same. Who is that Christian that wouldn’t endorse Ambode. And if you have a preferred candidate for the seat, please bring him out and see what would happen during election.

“We are using this medium to express our desire that this governor, who had done well by the guidance of God, should return. He has done a lot across the state. And we all can attest to it that things have changed for the better in Lagos.”

At the lecture themed: ‘Matter Arising in Political Landscape of Nigeria: The Church Response’,

held in Ikeja, organised by Christian Conscience Group, Ajiboso stated that the essence of their gathering was to appreciate God for the governor He has bestowed on Lagos.

“The essence is to come together as Christians and acknowledge the goodness of God under an umbrella, for giving us a true child of God as governor, Akinwunmi Ambode. We thank God for his life and to let heavens know that we appreciate the lord.”

Also the Chairman of Christian Associations of Nigeria, Professor Alex Bangbola, argued that the Ambode administration had introduced strategies that aided religious harmony in Lagos.

“All is well in Lagos. While some

experience religious issues, we have been enjoying harmonious relationship among the faiths in the state.

“At the NIREC level, we solve all problems before they escalate. We appreciate what our God is doing in the state.

“The reason why Lagos is enjoying peace is because all the faiths in Lagos are praying fervently for Lagos,” he said.

Also, the guest lecturer, Rev. Wilson Badejo, described achievements recorded by the administration as second to none and told the gathering that with the present realities in the state, God is absolutely in control.

In attendance were all Christian denominations in the state.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

13

Editorial Commentary OUR POSITION Government’s spending and accountability

C

oming against the backdrop of the need to ensure accountability in the handling of government revenue, enhance transparency and check misapplication of public funds, the President Muhammadu Buhari- led administration introduced the policy of Treasury Single Account (TSA) into public accounting system at the federal level about 18 months ago.

Under the system, all government revenues, receipts and income are collected into one single account, usually maintained by the Central Bank of Nigeria while all payments are done through the same account.

In the main, TSA enables proper monitoring of government receipts, expenditure and helps to block most leakages in government.

Such leakages have over the years largely contributed to the slow growth of the economy.

With the introduction of TSA came a better cash management of government funds, elimination of idle funds usually left with different commercial banks and enhanced reconciliation of revenue collection and payment.

In particular, since the accounts of Ministries, Departments and Agencies

(MDAs) of government with the money deposit banks are zeroed every day, the banks no longer have access to the float provided by the accounts they maintained for the MDAs. The introduction of TSA in 2015 has been a source of pain to money deposit banks. This is because prior to the introduction of TSA, public sector funds constituted a large chunk of commercial banks’ deposits. Indeed, when TSA was introduced, the commercial banks held more than N2.2 trillion of public sector funds. The impact of such a huge amount of money leaving the banking system was debilitating and excruciating to the banks and to the country’s economy. Far more disturbing to the banks was the movement of funds of revenue generating parastatals such as the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), out of commercial banks.

For the banks, implementation of the TSA policy brought some unintended consequences, such as deposit depletion, resulting in low asset quality, decreased revenue and liquidity stress, thus affecting the operation of all the banks and visiting economic hardship on Nigerians at a time the country was going through an agonising recession. In the absence of cheap public

Historical Times in Pictures

sector accounts, the banks were forced to reposition their strategies to survive in the light of the new realities forced on them by the government.

In the main, the banks responded by concentrating more on their traditional roles of savings aggregation and financial intermediation.

To improve their performance, the banks also became more innovative in generating revenue to support their operations and improve their profitability. Some of them increased interest rates on deposits to attract more customers, while some increased the interest rates on their loans to shore up their profitability.

It is admitted that government is the largest spender in the economy. At the commencement of the execution of TSA, more than N2.2 trillion of the Federal Government MDAs’ funds were pulled out of the deposit money banks with debilitating impact on banks’ liquidity and hampering their ability to successfully carry out their financial intermediation. In all, while the coming on board of TSA has helped in no small measure to streamline government revenue and expenditure therefrom, it should not be out of place for the government to fine-tune the policy with a view to address the pains resulting from its implementation.

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0 189 King Duke IX (middle) of Old Calabar , 1890

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Opinion 14

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

The real price of ‘changing the change’ (II)

T Garba Shehu

he Buhari win in 2015, and the possibility of four more years have crumbled their dreams of endlessly looting the state and the growing list of achievements of the administration is not doing any good for them.

“Change the change” means also that the biggest tax revolution since independence, the Voluntary Assets and Income Declaration Scheme (VAIDS) now being implemented, and about which many of our rich citizens are unhappy may be scrapped. A recent report shows that there are four million new taxpayers, including companies and individuals, resulting in N700 billion increase in tax revenue in 2017.

The early casualties of ‘‘changing the change’’ may include initiatives like the Whistle Blower policy by which the government is able to recover stolen or concealed assets through information provided by citizens. This has changed the ethical and moral tone of the business transaction space in the country. The whistle blower is entitled to between 2.5%-5.0% of amount recovered.

Sometime last year, the Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, told the world, “we are going after those who have stolen our money. We have put in place a very successful whistle-blower programme that is delivering results and allows those who report illicit activity to receive up to five per cent of any funds that we recover.” The response has been so fabulous that in just four months, it yielded N17bn, as revealed by the Acting Chairman of EFCC, Ibrahim Magu.

Another formidable group unhappy with the change and wish it reversed are the importers of diesel and generators.

Nigeria ranks as the second biggest

importer of generators all over the world.

Buhari is bad business for them because he has raised electric power availability from 2,600 MW in 2015 to 7,000 MW and is targeting 10,000 megawatts by the year’s end. Increased power availability means less purchase of generators and less consumption of diesel.

Noticeably, they are rooting for parties that are bent on changing the change.

Rooters of ‘‘Changing the Change’’ campaign also include the beneficiaries of the malaria economy which costs Nigeria N132 billion and 300,000 lives annually, an economy now threatened by the administration’s National Malaria Elimination Programme, NMEP, by which tens of millions of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (ITN) are being freely distributed. A part of this order is now made in Aba, Nigeria.

The government’s moves on ease of doing business which has attracted international attention and investment and significantly improved the ranking of Nigeria as a place of doing business, in fact achieving a place in the World Bank’s top 10 reforming economies would suffer a hit from those bent on proving that on-going change is not working. But this is how the World Bank saw Nigeria: “Overall, the 10 top improvers implemented the most regulatory reforms in the area of getting credit, starting a business, dealing with construction permits and paying taxes,” the report said.

It’s really hard for the beneficiaries of the old order to see and appreciate what the Buhari government is doing considering that they ran an economy based purely on oil, the price of which was as high as US$140 per barrel. They reticulated oil revenue through personal spending and corruption, wasteful expenses and salaries. Nigeria did not record a single major infrastructural

project in the 10 years before the Buhari administration. The money was mismanaged. No savings were made. To compound the problem, they borrowed heavily and owed contractors, and international oil companies.

The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II and Professor Chukwuma Soludo, both eminent former Central Bank Governors had had occasion to warn the government of the day about the wrongful way of doing things and the accompanying wastage but they were clobbered. The dire warnings of the dangers to economic health and the wellbeing of the people were both ignored.

Increase in government spending in infrastructure which is beginning to show results with sectors like employment, and returning growth to the recessed economy may equally suffer. Under the 2017 appropriation budget which is about to lapse, government’s capital spending is expected to hit N1.5 trillion.

In the PDP years, the highest this got to was N450 billion or 21 per cent of the capital allocation in 2014. Doing more with less.

The Railways, on which the common man travels, is being changed for the better. The 3,500 monorail that had existed has been leased to the American company, General Electric. They are to refurbish it and are bringing new locomotives and hundreds of coaches. All trains and coaches are being modernized. New standard railway tracks are being laid linking Ibadan and Lagos. Kaduna-Abuja, partly completed when President Buhari took over is now in use and contracts for the entire stretch, Lagos to Kano have been awarded. Lagos-Port Harcourt will follow and by the Presidential directive, all state capitals are to be linked by the new, standard gauge railway.

“Changing the Change” means that we will go back to the old ways of doing things. A strong and diversified economy has been on top of President Buhari’s achievements. Key drivers of the economy such as agriculture and solid minerals have been progressing with over 7% growth rate, an indication of positive signs for the future. Is everyone happy with this? No. We cannot say this of the importers of rice who have seen their import business go down following the tremendous success of the home-grown rice schemes. Over two billion USD have been saved as a consequence.

Then, you must also count those who got USD 200 million every year from the Central Bank and ended up bringing in low standard fertilizers. They lapped a government subsidy of N60,000 annually and sold a bag each for between N10,000-N13,000. Now, a governmentapproved price, by the common consent of local producers is N5,500 per bag. Those who fed fat on the perennial shortages and the subsidy regime would desire nothing but “Changing the Change.”

There are many today who take for granted the declared victory over the Boko Haram terrorists, forgetting the reign of the bomber who made it almost impossible for regular attendance in markets, Churches and Mosques in many of our cities, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

But again, as we have seen from the heist in the national security establishment, even Boko Haram was an industry from which money was scooped. Boko Haram was the hallmark of a flourishing business of corruption.

The beneficiaries won’t like that the security threat is eliminated. Yes, for them, “Changing the Change” is an opportunity for a resumption of business as usual.

would be the first to deliver increased funding for primary healthcare — in order to help reduce the prevalence of maternal mortality, infant mortality, child mortality, and of course, diseases like malaria that 97% of Nigerians are at risk for.

He has delivered. Again. And then, he took it a step further, he led the Senate in the passage of CAMA. For those that may be wondering, what all the fuss about this ‘CAMA’ Bill that has been trending on social media since Tuesday afternoon is — CAMA is a historic overhaul to Nigeria’s ‘doing business environment’ that will revolutionize how businesses are run and operated in the country.

Once adopted and assented to, CAMA will ensure that small and medium scale business-owners, or prospective business owners, will be able to bypass the legal fees (that usually start at about N70,000+) that they pay to lawyers to register their companies at the Corporate Affairs Commission. Additionally, in-line with international standards, business owners will now be able to register their companies from anywhere in the country — just as long as they have a smartphone or a laptop.

The passage of CAMA also means that unlike before, when a limited liability company needed to have two directors and a secretary on its

board, one person can now register a small business — without having to employ a secretary or conduct the stipulated ‘annual general meeting’ of the board.

From delivering on the Access to Credit Bills last year — that have led to Nigerian lenders pushing out more loans to the SMEs; to the passage of the #NotTooYoungToRun Bill, during the National Assembly’s #ConstitutionalReview exercise, to Saraki and his colleagues in the National Assembly, the inclusion of more young people in Nigeria’s business and political spaces is a priority.

Now that the 2018 budget has been passed; CAMA is about to become a reality; and primary healthcare for hundreds of millions of Nigerians is finally within reach — as a medical doctor and a former banker, Saraki’s vision as the President of the Senate and Chairman of the 8th National Assembly is coming alive before our very eyes as the people-centered priorities of the 8th Assembly are being actualized.

With more than a year to go before the 9th National Assembly is inaugurated, knowing Saraki’s penchant to deliver where others have stumbled in the past, surely, there will be many more #MicCheck moments over the next 13 months.

For now, we all watch in anticipation…

#MicDrop, The Saraki Way

T Olu Onemola

his week, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, the President of the Nigerian Senate, deserved to ‘drop his mic.’

After promising to deliver a comprehensive reform to Nigeria’s business environment, he did it — with the passage of the reenactment of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA).

After promising, to ensure that Nigerians across the country receive basic primary healthcare — so they won’t have to pay so much out-of-pocket, he did it with the National Assembly’s passage of the stipulation that 1% out of the Consolidated Revenue Fund must go towards funding primary healthcare in the 2018 budget.

Of course, Saraki could not have done all this without the help and support of his colleagues in the 8th National Assembly — however, when a man stakes his reputation on a promise that he has made, and that promise is ultimately kept, in this season of ‘political promises’ you have to give ‘props’ to those who keep to their word.

When Saraki tweeted ‘#MicDrop’ on Thursday morning, Nigerian Twitter — overlords and observers alike — stood still for a second, or a minute, maybe more. This was not because Saraki did not deserve his

colloquial ‘accolades’, it was because for a second, a minute, maybe more, Nigerians started to pay attention to the fact that our Senate President has the capacity to deliver — and deliver well.

All around the world, political office holders are judged, celebrated or crucified based on their capacity to drive their own policy. Let’s take the United States as an example, Donald Trump was elected based on the anti-immigrant/pro-‘America First’ sentiment that characterized the end of the Obama years. This week, I read an article in USA Today titled, “Trump supporters across America: The president is delivering on his agenda.” People are starting to acknowledge — not necessary appreciate, but acknowledge — that Trump is driving his agenda and catering to his base.

Now, coming back home, we can see that Saraki has consciously, but surely, adhered to the legislative agenda he and his colleagues in the 8th Senate adopted in 2015. He has kept to his word, even when it has been difficult. He promised that the 8th National Assembly would be the first to pass the ‘much elusive’ Petroleum Industry Bill. Check.

He delivered. He promised that the 8th National Assembly would open up its budget. Check again. He promised that this Senate, and by extension, this National Assembly

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

15 Column

Nigeria can work, but only if…

Times Columnist don pedro obaseki

‘

As politicians gild their loins in preparation for the 2019 general election, we of the Midwest will insist that they commit to a restructured Nigeria. Only then, will they be assured of our votes

,

T

o say Nigeria as a nation totters on the brink, is to be economical with the truth. Never in the history of Nigeria as the nation faced such deep-rooted schisms as it currently faces. Not even in the tumultuous years of the 1960s prior to the first military coup, and the tribal/ethnic motivated counter coup of July 1966. Infact, the remote and immediate causes of the bitter 1967-1970 Civil War pales in comparison. As I read posts online of late, whether on main stream media or in less ethical, uncensored social media banter, a heavy sigh weighs my heart.

It’s clear: as a nation, Nigeria faces an Existential Threat. I write both as a Nigerian and a Midwesterner/Bendelite.

In spite of the avalanche of provocations, ethic sabrerattling, the mindless slaughter of fellow citizens even in their own homes, backyards and farms by persons perceived to be nomadic Fulani herdsmen, I still truly believe that Nigeria can and will work as a nation.

It is a historical fact that we are a nation patched and cobbled together by the insensitivity of the British Colonialists. But our country can still work to achieve a “nation”. However, to do this and give all her federating ethnic nationalities a sense of belonging, the Rules of Engagement and Terms of Association must change. It must change to truly reflect contemporary realities.

There appears an impending conflagration in the horizon.

If things remain as they are, one do not need a soothsayer to opine that Nigeria may not remain as it presently is.

Things are spiraling out of control, and our present crop of leaders appears to be out ideas, and this is worrisome!

Every ethnic group is grandstanding and I wonder: whither these sabre-rattlings?

However, I believe Nigeria can be salvaged and it is our collective responsibility to salvage Nigeria. But we must insist on a more equitable Nigeria. This is imperative.

As an Edo man from the old Midwest Region/Bendel State, I am more worried. Our

Midwest people, (presentday Edo & Delta States) hypothetically, are caught in betwixt! The Midwestern Region of Edo and Delta States is sandwiched between the Old Eastern Region (present day Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross Rivers, Ebonyi, Enugu and Rivers States) and the Western Region (Ondo, Ekiti, Ogun, Osun, Oyo and Lagos States); as well as the entire Northern Region with Kogi State as gateway. Strategically, we will be caught in the “eye of the storm” should things go awry.

This is why the BenDel people must be ready for it. A little history and geography will suffice at this juncture.

In 1963, barely two years and nine months after independence, a referendum for the creation of the Midwestern region was held on July 18, 1963. The Results of the Midwest Plebiscite (or Referendum) is a case study in democracy in this country.

The total number of eligible voters, being persons whose names appeared in the Federal Electoral register of 1959 was 654,130. Of this number the percentage that voted in the affirmative was 89.07%, well in excess of the required 60% (or 392,478) for the creation of the Midwestern region.

The region that was born on August 9, 1963 as a result of the July 13th plebiscite remains the only major administrative unit of Nigeria created by due constitutional process. By the 8th of August 1963, the Western Region Assembly affirmed the outcome of that exercise and by the next day 9th August 1963, the Midwest Region was born. In contrast, the present 36-State structure as well as the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja were created by military fiat and decrees without due reference to the peoples of Nigeria via a due process of plebiscite as prescribed by all constitutions of Nigeria since

independence.

The Midwest Region was just about three years old when the Military interrupted our developing system of governance. By that singular act, the Midwest Region became the largest collateral damage of military adventurism in Nigeria. The present Constitution and the system of governance have been imposed on the citizens of the various ethnic nationalities that make up Nigeria, albeit without their knowledge and consent, by military decrees and fiats!

Consequently, of the four equal federating units prior to the treasonable military interventions in the affairs of Nigeria since 1966, the Midwest Region has remained the most marginalized and maligned to date.

Whereas the former Northern Nigeria was subsequently split into 19 States and spread across 3 geopolitical zones; the old Eastern Region was split into 9 States and spread across 2 geopolitical zones; the former Western Region was split into 6 States in a monolithic geopolitical zone; only the former Midwest Region remained as one State till lately (1991) when it was inequitably split into 2 States and subsumed and compressed into a geopolitical zone, where it makes up a mere one-third of that geopolitical zone! The Midwest Region was one out of four equitable Regions, then made one out of twelve States, then one out of nineteen States and so on till now that it is just two out of 36 States by a skewed military fiat.

The entire geographical area of the two states of Edo and Delta, which forms the territorial area of Midwest Nigeria, covers a total of 35,500 square kilometres. It is noteworthy that there is no State in the Southwest except Oyo, that is larger than either

Edo (6,873 sq miles/17,801 sq Kilometers), or Delta (6833 sq miles/17,697 sq Kilometers).

More so, The Midwestern Region of Edo and Delta States is larger than all the southeastern states combined! Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo States combined, is 11,346 sq Miles (29,386 sq Km) as against the MIDWEST States of Edo/Delta, which is 13,706 sq Miles (35,757 sq Km).

The combined States of Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom and Cross Rivers (which were the “minority parts” of the old Eastern Region) now has 80 Local Government Areas, while the combined States of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu & Imo (which were the “majority parts” of the old Eastern Region) now has 95 Local Government Areas.

In sharp contrast, The MIDWEST REGION (Edo/ Delta States combined) now has only 43 Local Government Areas as against the Old EASTERN REGION that now have a whopping 175 Local Government Areas.

It is needless to recount or compare the inequalities in this regard with the old Northern and Western Regions.

Marginalization cannot be better illustrated.

In economic terms, The Midwest Area that contributes more than 11.8% of Nigeria’s GDP, has only 2 States (or less than 6% of 36 states), and only 43 Local Government Areas (or about 5.5% of 774 Local Government Areas) in Nigeria.

With a combined nominal GDP of about $40bn, (in spite of the 13% “derivation” debacle), the Midwest Region (now Edo and Delta States) has an economy larger than some Nation States in Africa like that of Senegal and competes favorably with Ghana & Ivory Coast among others.

That the military “defederalized Nigeria” and foisted a unitary system on its hapless citizenry is a truism.

Thus, the Federation of Nigeria as presently constituted must be deconstructed, and then reconstructed along lines of equity and justice. There must be a structural dismantling of the “cobbled” federal arrangement and Nigeria must retrace her steps to the original negotiated Union at independence in 1960 and as modified in 1963. That is the best way Nigeria can work!

As politicians gild their loins in preparation for the 2019 general election, we of the Midwest will insist that they commit to a restructured Nigeria. Only then, will they be assured of our votes.

The Midwest peoples will not be canon folder or the collateral damage of a continued skewed Nigeria.

News 16

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Ebola: NMA wants JOHESU to end strike Kingsley Chukwuka, Jos Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), has call on the Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU) to end the ongoing strike and join hands with doctors to prevent Ebola from gaining access into the country.

NMA also said the demand for salary parity with doctors as demanded

by JOHESU is unfortunate and unrealistic.

Chairman of NMA in Plateau State, Dr. Dajel Bulus stated this on Monday, while addressing journalists in

Jos. He said, “of particular concern is the demand for salary parity with doctors, technically called ‘CONHESS adjustment’, this is not only unfortunate and strange, but unrealistic, untenable and unacceptable to the Nigerian doctor.

“Relatively in salary between health care workers is not popular to Nigeria but a practice obtainable all over the world: JOHESU’s clamour for erosion of this is not acceptable and will be resisted by well-meaning medical practitioners in Nigeria”.

“The Nigeria Medical Association, Plateau State wish to categorically state that no doctor practicing in Plateau State is on strike: Doctors working in our various health institutions are currently working and providing essential lifesaving service to patients including JOHESU members who need medical help.

“The general public is therefore advised to access these services from our hardworking doctors who are working against all odds to save lives instead of patronising quacks and substandard care from the streets”, Bulus said.

Speaking on the involvement of the state and local government workers in the ongoing JOHESU strike, Bulus said, “Its unfortunate and disheartening.

“We wish to advise that health workers in Plateau State suspend their involvement in the ongoing strike.”

According to him, “This is to reciprocate the good will of the Governor of the State who has strived against all financial challenges to implement one of the best salary structures for them without any threat of strike.

Prioritise health for better workforce, NPA boss tells employers Managing Director of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Usman, has called on corporate organisations in the country to promote health fitness as a means of enhancing productive workforce.

Ms Usman, gave the charge at the 2018 Nigerian Ports Authority Sports Association (NIPOSA) games, tagged ‘‘Calabar 2018’’.

Represented by the Calabar Port Manager, Mrs Olufumilayo Olotu, she noted that only a healthy, motivated and efficient workforce that could contribute meaningfully to the growth of the nation’s economy.

“I impress on all employers of labor in the nation’s maritime sector, in both the private and public sectors, to make fitness for health, through sports for their employers a priority.

“This, to my mind, is the surest way to have a healthy and productive workforce, which can contribute to the nation’s economy.

“Only a healthy, motivated and efficient workforce can enable the nation realize its enormous maritime potentials, ‘’ she said.

The managing director described the success of the games after 17 years

as a big achievement in her administration of the authority, adding that NIPOSA would continue to remain one of the cardinal points of the management of the authority.

“You will all agree with me that the outcome of the Calabar 2018 has indisputably shown that the NIPOSA has remained an effective avenue for sports development, well being and socialization among the workforce of the authority.

“I wish to assure you that management will, within the limits of our budgetary provisions, ensure that the hosting of the NIPOSA games becomes a regular annual feature in our corporate calendar of events, ‘’ she said.

She commended stakeholders in the industry including maritime operators, NIMASA and the Shippers Council for their support in the successful organization of the games.

Also speaking, General Manager, SERVICOM, NPA Mrs Caroline Ufere expressed appreciation to the Management of NPA for reviving the games which was last held in 2001.

She added that the event would engender love and togetherness amongst the maritime workers.

Ogun civil servants get training on leadership, effective service delivery L-R: Member Strategy Team, Not Too Young To Run(NTYTR), Njoku Emmanuel; Member Not Too Young To Run, Bella Ndubuisi and Convener Not Too Young To Run, Samson Itodo; during Press briefing on Not Too Young To Run Bill in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: Balogun Temitope

Family doctors online platform for patients under way The Society for Family Physicians of Nigeria (SOFPON) has that said it would soon launch an online media platform for Nigerians to have access to family doctors without necessarily visiting hospitals.

Dr. Timothy Abuba, the General Secretary of SOFPON, made this known at a news conference to mark the World Family Doctor Day in Abuja last Friday.

The theme of this year’s celebration is: “Family Doctors – Leading the way to better health”.

Abuba explained that the online platform would help curb corruption affecting most health institutions in the country.

“This platform will be launched on May 19, and it will curb the issue of some patients paying their way or cutting corners to see doctors.

“So many patients have problem with hospital care because the access time to see a doctor could be quite long.

“This platform will also provide some remuneration to the doctors as well as the hospital where the patient is receiving care.

“A patient just has to click on the application and will be connected immediately to an available doctor,” he said.

The Acting President of SOFPON, Dr Musa Dankyau, noted that the Nigerian health system would require significant improvement in

six major aspects for better health outcomes.

He said that better health services should have impact and must be able to offer financial risk protection for all who utilise health services in the country.

“Health service delivery, health workforce, leadership and governance to assure quality are needed for patient-doctor relationship.

“Others include health system financing, supply of medical products and technologies, and health system information were necessary for sustained improvements in health services,’’ Dankyau said.

On Ebola, Dr Ogenna Okeke, the Treasurer of the

society, said that they are educating patients on how to protect themselves from the disease.

She said that traditional practices of washing bodies of corpses should be avoided for now.

Okeke said that Nigerians should continue to maintain healthy lifestyle at all times to avoid the disease which could spread by land, sea and by air.

World Family Doctors Day is being celebrated annually since 2010, when it was first declared.

It serves as a day to highlight the role and contribution of family doctors in healthcare systems globally.

Ogun State Civil Service Commission says its second edition of the year 2018 quarterly in-house training programme, with the theme “Leadership for Effective Service Delivery”, was targeted at the role and what makes the civil servants in the state more effective in their work places.

Acting Chairman of the Commission, Alhaji Surajudeen Olusesi made this known at training organised for the civil servants in the state, adding that the training programme was part of measures to promote effective leadership skills at all levels among the State civil servants, which he said would sustain quality service delivery among the workers.

Guest Lecturer on the theme, Barr.

Ayomide Abraham, described leadership skills as the capacity to solve problems and the ability to stretch individuals thinking to meet particular needs, standard and the organizational set goals, which could make them effective at their work places.

According to him, “in the chain of service delivery, every role is important right

from the gate man to the higher ranking officer and each person must display leadership skills at all levels, in order to achieve the corporate goal for service delivery. Whoever has a genuine desire to make a difference and committed to doing so is a leader, irrespective of age, education, social, ethnic or economic status.

“Your leadership begins by being excellent in your current role, we all need to start demonstrating leadership regardless of title. To succeed, everyone must see themselves as part of leadership team. You don’t need formal authority to lead anyone but only a desire to be involved and the commitment to making a positive difference”, Abraham stated.

One of the participants, a Director from Ogun State Emergency Management Authority (OGUNSEMA), Abdul Hakeem Ashimi commended the Commission for organizing the training, saying it would keep enhancing the productivity of workers at their various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

17 News

Fani Kayode lauds Timi Frank’s apology to Jonathan Tom Okpe, Abuja Former minister of aviation and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Femi FaniKayode, has reacted to the apology tendered by the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the

All Progressives Congress, (APC), Timi Frank to the immediate past President, Goodluck Jonathan, saying Frank displayed courage and strength by showing remorse to Jonathan in a tweet on Monday morning.

Fani-Kayode agreed with Frank’s claim that

life was not worth living under the President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government.

The tweet reads, “The Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Timi Frank, displayed courage and strength by apologizing to GE Jonathan and Nigeria for

the woeful performance of President Muhammadu Buhari.

“He says ‘injustice, killings and hunger reign supreme under President Buhari’ and that ‘life is not worth living under him’, true”.

The former deputy spokesman of the ruling

APC had stressed that Buhari’s government had performed woefully since assuming power in 2015.

However, reacting to Frank’s action, the National Leadership of the APC disowned him, saying the former spokesperson was not a chieftain of the party, but a suspended member.

L-R: Permanent Secretary/Accountant General, Lagos State, Mrs. Abimbola Umar; Chairman, Lagos Inland Revenue Services (LIRS), Mr. Ayodele Subair; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Mrs. Funmilayo Balogun; Special Adviser to the Governor on Taxation & Revenue Matters, Mr. Olalekan Lasisi; Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Akinyemi Ashade; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information & Strategy, Mrs. Kofoworola Awobamise and Special Adviser to the Governor on Information & Strategy, Mr. Idowu Ajanaku during a media conference by the Ministry of Finance as part of the on-going Y2018 ministerial briefing to mark the third Year in Office of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, the Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja. . . on Monday

Ganduje woos Kwankwaso’s supporters for Kano’s development

By Yakubu Salisu, Kano Kano state Governor, Dr Abdulahi Umar Ganduje has called on the followers of former governor of the state Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, to join hands, with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) so as to move the state forward.

Ganduje, who spoke shortly after the inauguration of the newly elected APC Chairman in the state, Abdullahi Abbas and other members of his executive, Ganduje assured that whoever re-joins his fold would be treated as a complete brother and partner in progress.

According to him “we all

belong to the same state and the same country, which we are proud of. They should come to us, so that we forge ahead collectively.”

The Governor, disclosed that, Kwankwasiyya followers would be welcomed, so as to create additional fronts for developing the state collectively.

To allay any fear of possible discrimination for accepting the new leadership of the party in the state, said, :”With this newly inaugurated leadership in place, there will be no imposition of candidates during any election.”

“There shall always be transparency and accountability in our affairs. Rule of law will

Dickson to leaders: Show restraint in application of power

Bayelsa State Governor, Henry Seriake Dickson, has urged the political class to show restraint in the use of power ahead of the 2019 general elections.

Dickson also called on politicians and indeed all Nigerians to give priority to the conduct of free fair and peaceful elections in the country.

A press statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Francis Agbo, quoted the governor as having made the comment on Monday in Kaduna while speaking at a meeting with top leaders

and members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) at the residence of the former National Caretaker Committee Chairman and Governor òf Kaduna State, Senator Ahmed Makarfi.

Dickson who called for peace stated further that it was important for political players to be considerate and be civil in relating with fellow citizens in the respective parties. He stressed that political players should treat one another because according to him, “in the end, we are all brothers and sisters irrespective of party and religious affiliations.”

On the upcoming rescheduled local government elections in Kaduna, the governor sued for peace and urged the political actors to play by the rule of the game of politics.

He also commended the PDP in the state for their resilience and congratulated them for winning four out of the 18 local government councils where elections held on 12th May. Dickson expressed confidence that the PDP will do well in the supplementary elections into the remaining five local government councils.

Kaduna State PDP Chairman,

Dr Felix Hassan Hyat thanked the Governor for the visit, adding that it will boost the morale of the PDP. He particularly praised the Governor for building bridges across the Niger, stressing that the state chapter of the PDP is fully in support of his drive to restructure Nigeria.

He said: “We as a people want anything that can move Nigeria forward. On the restructuring of Nigeria, we want the governor to continue to build consensus among leaders and people of Nigeria across party and religious lines on this restructuring. He said the PDP in Kaduna State

also be followed diligently. All doctrines of our great party would be observed,” he insisted.

Abbas garnered 2,982 votes to emerge victorious, just as Ibrahim Zakari, clinched 2,817 to clinch the Secretary position, while Habiba ‘Yardalla, the Woman Leader of the party in the state, won with 2,876 votes.

is United and prepared to take over power at the centre even in the face of intimidation from the APC and the security agencies.

We commend your leadership qualities and what you are doing to build bridges across the Niger” Former Chairman of the PDP Caretaker Committee, Makarfi commended the governor for his sincerity and dedication to the unification of the PDP and indeed the country. While describing the Governor as a patriot, Makarfi wished the Governor well in his political career.

No parallel APC congress in Ebonyi

By Charles Onyekwere & Edward Nnachi, Abakaliki Leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in Ebonyi State has said that there was no parallel state congress other than the one which produced Pastor Eze Nwachukwu Eze, as Chairman of the party in the state.

A chieftain of the party, Mr Ephraim Okike, disclosed this to DAILY TIMES in Abakaliki, in response to alleged parallel congress in the state.

The congress which attracted 980 delegates from across the 13 local government Area of the state was conducted under a peaceful atmosphere held at Grand Arena, Nkwagu Ugbala in Abakaliki.

Those who witnessed the peaceful congress include minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Onu, the immediate, past governor Chief Martin Elechi, Sen. Sonni Ogbuoji representing Ebonyi south senatorial zone including other stakeholders of APC in the state which started at about 3:30pm and ended at about 9pm last Saturday.

Nwachukwu, emerged with a total vote of 775 votes to beat his rival Hon. Mgbebu who secured 7 votes only from 980 delegates that voted.

Only the position of state chairman and women leader were the two positions contested, while the other 31 positions were returned unopposed.

Both Hon. Nwachukwu and Mrs. Marcellina including others who emerged unopposed were declared winners by the State Congress Committee Chairman, Hon. Udea at the end of vote.”Based on the power confide on me by the National Working Committee of our great APC, l hereby declared Mrs. Ugoeze Marcellina Uburu as the winner of the Ebonyi state Women Leader and Pastor Eze Nwachukwu Eze as the state chairman including those that contested unopposed”, he said.

In his remarks, the newly chairman, Hon. Nwachukwu Eze lauded the committee members for good a job.

He assured that he would run an open door policy for the party but would not tolerated antiparty activities adding that a new dawn has come for members of APC and the state at large.

News 18

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

12,000 candidates to sit for rescheduled UTME

L-R: The Ologbo Ikaye of Itsekiri Community in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area (LGA), Chief Johnson Atseleghe; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief Taiwo Akerele, Senior Special Assistant, (SSA) on Security and Marine Surveillance, Hon. Don Robert, and the commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Edo State, Erimona Edorodion Oye, during the tour of riverine communities of Gelegele, Kolokolo, Ajoke, Ajamogha, Koko, Abiala 1, Abiala 11 and Ologbo in the state at the weekend.

‘Sokoto varsity gets N158m for e-library’ Sokoto State Commissioner for Higher Education, Dr Jabbi Kilgori, says a contract of N158 million has been awarded for the construction and automation of the State university’s e-library to meet the accreditation standard.

Jabbi told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday that the contract was approved by the state executive council during its last meeting.

He said efforts were being channel to ensure that the institution had all the

requirements for standard learning facilities that would produce the best students and productive individuals in the society.

He explained that other approvals in education sector included N99.5 million contract for additional works at Army Girls Secondary school and N268 million at Government Secondary School Balle in Gudu local government area.

NAN reports that the Commissioner for Land and Housing, Alhaji Bello

Abubakar, during last meeting disclosed that state government had concluded arrangement to upgrade its three petroleum service stations to full commercial activities aimed enhancing fuel availability in state Abubakar said N125.5 million was earmarked for acquiring licence and upgrading the stations to meet statutory Directorate of Petroleum Resources (DPR) requirements.

He said that the council had approved N240 million as starter for construction of

100 housing units at Bado area for low income earners.

The commissioner said the construction, which was under direct labour, would be undertaken by state Housing Authority, adding that government had review the period of 20 per cent payment on already sold government quarters from three months to six months.

The Commissioner for Finance, Alhaji Umar Ubandoma, said N28 million had been approved for relocation of Illela

Livestock Market to new site in recognition of social and health hazard being faced by the people in the present location.

Ubandoma said a memorandum of understanding was signed with Ministry for Animal and Fisheries on modalities and disposal of old market premises.

He said in view of refuse collection and disposal challenges, the council approved the purchase of 10 evacuation trucks at the cost of N143 million.

Heritage Institute seeks academia participation in policy formulation Charles Onyekwere, Abakaliki African Heritage Institution (AfriHeritage), a socioeconomic and political analytical institution, has urged the academia to participate actively in policy formulation in order to accurately measure their impact on the people.

Executive-Director of AfriHeritage, Prof Ufo OkekeUzodike, made the call in an address at the “2018 Trainthe-Trainers Workshop on Econometrics for Policy Analysis’’ on Monday in Enugu.

The five-day workshop is being organised by the institution.

Okeke-Uzodike noted that due to the fact that the academia had left policy formulation and implementation solely in the hands of politicians, most policies are not objectively thought-out and implemented to impact positively on the socio-economic well-being of Nigerians.

He noted that the institution had set out to build a critical mass of intellectuals in various

fields that would aggregate their thoughts and empirical research based findings to bring policy solutions to most of the socio-economic challenges of the country.

According to him, insecurity, poverty to the extent of hunger and large migration of the nation’s intellectual capital (highly skilled professionals) to other countries remained most of the immediate problems of the country and it can be address through sound policies.

“There is a need to change

the way accumulations of the country’s policies had negatively shaped our political-economy structure.

“Empirical evidence based knowledge would greatly assist our leaders in making the right choices in terms of policy formulation and its implementation.

“X-ray why those policy choices should be made, whom interests it serves and why the policies should come into play in the first place.

“So, from clear intention of growing the economy

and solving immediate challenges facing the country, the academia must not stay away but must get close to government and participate to ensure that there would be positive direction for the country,’’ he said.

Earlier, Dr Nathaniel Urama, Director of Research in the institution, noted that renowned authorities in empirical research and econometrics would take most of the lecture sessions.

“We are going to be very detailed so that the lecturers

(the trainers) can have a lot to take back home to their institutions as well as train others so that within the course of the years we have a critical mass that would support policy formulation at every level of government,’’ Urama said.

It was gathered that Afri-Heritage is currently re-training 56 lecturers (mostly young lecturers) from institutions all over the country in the workshop. The workshop would run for five days, from May 21 to May 25.

AUN President tasks graduants on entrepreneurship

Tom Garba, Yola

American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola has graduated 158 students with a call on them to be creative in the area of entrepreneurship.

President of the university, Dr Dawn Dekle, made the call during the graduation ceremony at the university’s main campus in Yola, Adamawa State capital on Saturday.

Dekle, said that the graduation was among the remarkable achievements of the university.

“Today, AUN is graduating another remarkable cohort of students, the class of 2018.

“As the 10th graduating class, this cohort is unique, comprising another group of passionate individuals filled with innovations and ideas,” Dekle said.

Dekle was officially inaugurated as the substantive Vice Chancellor of the university during the ceremony, saying “I envision AUN becoming part of a much larger, colourful tapestry, one that is part of a

vibrant and active north eastern Nigeria corridor. My vision for AUN is based on the belief that accessibility to the benefits of education supports a dynamic and prosperous society. Today, I invite you to consider what will be your contribution to this colorful tapestry. Each of you has an important role to play in this colorful tapestry, this AUN Alliance. Together, we will transform this vision into a plan.’’

In an effort to showcase AUN to the world as an institution

whose education to build great African leaders and the world at large by launching a new hashtag as #AUNleads ‘’Today we are launching a new hashtag, #AUNLeads. We will not be Nigeria’s best kept secret any longer. We will be top of mind as thought leaders in education, and we will bottom of heart in our growing AUN family, of which you are all members of. #AUNLeads will go where no university has gone before, paving the way for other universities to follow.’’

Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has said that it had set May 26 for rescheduled Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME) for more than 12, 000 candidates across Nigeria.

JAMB’s Head of Media, Dr Fabian Benjamin, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

According to Benjamin, more than 12, 000 candidates are expected to sit for the mop up examinations in few of its centres across the country.

This category of candidates, he explained, are those whose biometrics were not captured during the initial period of the UTME in March.

He said: ““It would also include those, who are yet to see their results since the end of the examinations in March till date and have not been involved in any form of malpractice.

“It will also include those, who were unable to print out their e-slip before the earlier examinations and those whose centres were cancelled for suspected malpractices.’’

According to him, “there are centres that were cancelled because of suspicious activities but the board was unable to identify the actual culprits.

However, he said that those, who were involved and caught in illicit acts and centres where a case of malpractice has been established against them would not partake in the rescheduled examinations.

He advised candidates, who might have fallen into any of the categories qualified for the examination to print their e-slips from Monday, May 21.

NAN recalls the board had earlier promised to reschedule the examinations for some candidates whose cases were exceptional, adding that candidates, who fall under such categories would be contacted before then.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

19 News

Female ECOWAS parliamentarians demand 30% representation in govt Adebisi Oyindamola, Abuja A call has been made for a Collective effort towards better gender representation in government at all levels, especially in the face of dwindling women representation across West Africa.

The charge was made at the first general summit of ECOWAS Female Parliamentarians Association ECOFEPA general summit on the sidelines of the 1st Ordinary session of ECOWAS parliament in Abuja.

President of ECOFEPA Senator Stella Odua, in her opening remarks listed a number of challenges facing the average woman in the west African sub region, in areas

of political and government marginalisation, stressing that women are not where they ought to be in terms of representation in government.

According to her, “women constitute an expansive block of the electorate in Nigeria, and other countries in the sub region, despite being the larger block of the electorate, women occupy less than 7 percent of positions in government(elective and appointive) in the country” “It is for this reason that we must demand at least 30 percent representation at all levels of government, we must push this advocacy with vigour and finality” Proffering solution, she opined that “legislation is imperative in emancipating

women and freeing them from socio-cultural shackle, the laws must prohibit discrimination against women by political parties and engender their protection against political violence.”

Globally Nigeria ranks lowest in the west African sub region in women representation in parliament ranking 181 while Senegal has the highest rank at 12th place in the most recent survey.

This figures shows an increasingly alarming situation in Nigeria, a country with more than half of the population in the sub region.

The gender parity bill which aims to give women equal opportunity in the work place, job, education and government was shut down in the Nigerian

senate, was brought to the fore at the summit.

ECOWAS parliamentarian and Sponsor of the gender parity bill, Senator Biodun Olujimi while giving an update on the bill said “The issue has always being that the people who believe for now it will injure political alliances of those who vote in favour of the bill, what we have done so far is to remove all the contentious issues, to take the minimum we can and go ahead. We are just waiting to be able to do public hearing and go on with it.”

ECOWAS is taking the cause for promoting gender mainstreaming at national fronts a step further with the launching of the “ECOWAS Gender and Election Strategic framework and Action Plan”

with 10 key thematic areas aimed at addressing barriers to equal participation and representation of men and women in the political arena.

The commissioner, social affairs and gender, ECOWAS, Dr. Sigma Jagne, noted the need to enhance the role of national electoral stakeholders, support and integrate gender dimension in activities of the electoral processes prompted the launching of the action plan.

“Politics is being increasingly commercialized and economically expensive” she stated that women should support each other financially in the quest for stronger political representation.

“Women can help one another, if we each put one

Naira together for women who want to run, it becomes a lot of money and I think we can do it, we can do the “esusu”for the women who want to run too” she said.

The summit with theme, Enhancing Women’s participation’s and representation in democracy and Good Governance in West Africa, is funded by Denmark and is expected to end today.

Plateau seeks partnership with CAN to tackle gender violence Mathew Dadiya, Abuja

Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Akinyemi Ashade (middle), addressing journalists during the on-going Y2018 ministerial press briefing as part of activities to mark the third Year in Office of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, the Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, on Monday, May 21, 2018. With him are Special Adviser to the Governor on Information & Strategy, Mr. Idowu Ajanaku (right); Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information & Strategy, Mrs. Kofoworola Awobamise (2nd right); Special Adviser to the Governor on Taxation & Revenue Matters,, Mr. Olalekan Lasisi (2nd left) and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Mrs. Funmilayo Balogun (left).

Maritime industry present great opportunity for economic rebirth, says NIMASA DG Director-General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dakuku Peterside, said the maritime industry present a great opportunity for an economic rebirth if the potentials of blue economy was properly unleashed.

Peterside made the call at the opening of the National Tourism and Transport Summit and

Expo 2018 held in Abuja.

The director-general, represented by Mr Anthony Ogadi, Director, Shipping Development, urged the Federal Government to provide maritime infrastructure development for tourist attraction in Nigeria.

He said that the blue economy was the effective, integrated use of the country’s seas and oceans to achieve economic development stating

that water transport and tourism was the least taped in Nigeria.

According to him, cruise ships are major suppliers of tourists all over the world and Nigeria cannot be different if we do the right thing.

“The tourism industry can also leverage on the legal frameworks in the maritime industry for its development; legal frameworks such as international and regional

conventions laws.

“And regulations that govern sea transport could facilitate and strengthen cruise shipping.

“In 2016 alone, the cruise liners or leisure vessels made a combined income of $35 billion with passenger traffic of over 24.7 million people.

“Nigeria is still completely left out of this business not because we do not have good beaches, beautiful islands

or wonderful tourist attractions, but there seems not to be a synergy between the maritime industry and tourism industry,” he said.

Peterside, however, reinstated the agency commitment to tackle piracy, sea robbery and illegal activities through the establishment of the Maritime Guard Command with combined efforts from security agencies.

Plateau State Government is seeking partnership with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to curb gender violence and engage women in security and peace building in the state.

Mrs Hassana Ayika, Permanent Secretary, Plateau Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, made this known during a courtesy visit to CAN Office in Jos, on Monday.

Ayika said that CAN was a critical stakeholder in building morals.

“Religious organisations play very vital roles in enlightening their followers on societal ills and their consequences.

“We want to hinge on this to seek your support in curbing gender violence in the state.

“We also seek the support of CAN in the implementation of the Plateau State Action Plan (PSAP) on the Peace Architecture document.

“The PSAP is a United Nations-supported document that acknowledges the significance of women in ensuring peace in their communities,’’ she said.

The permanent secretary added that the resolution also sought protection of women from sexual violence.

According to her ‘‘the provisions of the resolution acknowledge the experience and contributions of women and girls in conflict prevention and post-conflict peace building.’’

In his response, Rev. Soja Bewarang, CAN Chairman in the state, said that the organisation would support efforts to sustain peace.

Represented by his vice, Bishop Ibrahim Chindo, Bewarang, said that women had great value.

“If women were given this opportunity earlier, we would have been 100 years ahead by now,’’ he said.

News 20 NLC warns el-Rufai against inflicting pains on citizens Idu Jude, Abuja Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has again warned the Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam El-Rufai, to discontinue from his notorious act of inflicting pains on fellow Nigerian.

President of the NLC, Comrade Aliyu Waba, in a press statement, gave the warning saying that the leadership of the organised labour can no longer swallow the inhuman act being inflicted on common Nigeria workers by the same man who have sacked thousands of Kaduna workers earlier this year.

According to the statement issued Monday in Abuja, the NLC said that its body was in receipt of official statement credited to the Governor of Kaduna State; Mr. Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, over plans by other northern Governors’ to imitate his ruinous path of sacking teachers in their state employment. The NLC president, said that these reckless statements were reported by a number of national dailies.

“There is really no doubt that Mr. Nasir El-Rufai mistakes notoriety for popularity.

The two are millennia apart.

Unfortunately, the Governor of Kaduna State has decided not only to continue in his favourite past time of inflicting pains and sorrows wherever he goes, he is also bent on marketing such profound proclivity for mischief to his fellow Governors.

We need to remind Governor El-Rufai that there is a limit that man can play God. By announcing that other northern state governors will replicate his callous and insensitive retrenchment of teachers and other cadre of workers in Kaduna State post-2019 election, El-Rufai has already declared his own election and those of the governors he is purportedly speaking for a fait accompli”.

The organized Labour wishes to remind El-Rufai that he is not God, after all. He and other northern Governors possess a voter card each. Citizens at the receiving end of their unpopular and de-humanizing policies are in the majority. “in 2019, we will ensure that the votes of the oppressed and victimized count all over Nigeria”.

The NLC also noted that while Nigerians continue to watch the open desecration of the rule of law, human rights, constitutionally guaranteed freedom and collective cum individual dignity in Kaduna State, “we urge other northern Governors especially those in the same political party as Governor el-Rufai not to be deceived into copying the failed policies of Governor El-Rufai.

The truth is that the logjam that has trailed el-Rufai’s phony reform of the education sector in Kaduna State has overshadowed the public outcry that greeted his unjust sack of teachers and other cadre of workers.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Algeria Air incident: Lufthansa rescues stranded Lagos passengers to Frankfurt Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo Lufthansa Airline, on Monday flew stranded Lagos passengers from Tamanrasset in Algeria to their final destination in Frankfurt, Germany.

Lufthansa Airline, the largest airline in Germany had on Sunday May 20, 2018 diverted Lagos- Frankfurt

flight LH569 to Tamanrasset (TMR) Airport TMR due to an unusual smell in the cabin.

Tamanrasset Airport, is an airport serving Tamanrasset, a city in the Tamanrasset Province of southern Algeria and located 3.6 nautical miles northwest of the city.

In an official statement issued yesterday and made

available to journalists, the airline stated that the Airbus A330 aircraft with 204 passengers on board landed safely in TMR where it was examined by technicians.

Emphasising that the safety of passengers and crew are Lufthansa‘s number one priority at all times, the airline further hinted that “Passengers

will continue their journey to FRA today (May 21) with another Lufthansa aircraft sent from Germany.

Lufthansa apologizes for the inconvenience caused”.

Lufthansa is one of the five founding members of Star Alliance, the world’s largest airline alliance, formed in 1997.

Besides its own services,

and owning subsidiary passenger airlines Austrian Airlines, Swiss International Air Lines, Brussels Airlines, and Eurowings including Germanwings, Deutsche Lufthansa AG owns several aviation-related companies, such as Lufthansa Technik, as part of the Lufthansa Group.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (right), with Aladeshonyin of Noforija Kingdom, Oba Babatunde Ogunlaja (left); Adeboruwa of Igbogbo, Oba Semiu Orimadegun Kasali (4th right) and other Obas during the inauguration of the Council of Obas and Chiefs in Lagos State, at the Government House, Alausa, Ikeja. . .on Monday

‘Sea transportation has potential to boost Nigeria’s economy’ Idu Jude, Abuja As the country seek possible investment ground to foster Nigeria economy, experts have said that improved sea transportation in Nigeria has the potential to inject billions of dollars for a stronger economy.

This call it was said, has become necessary as Nigeria opts for economic diversification to rescue mono crude oil economy situation.

Speaking during a two day workshop, organised by transportation stakeholders in Nigeria, with the view to finding a sustainable development of the transportation and tourism sectors in Nigeria, the Director General Nigeria Maritime

administration and safety agency NIMASA, Dr. Peterside Dakuku, stated that the Nigeria economy has a long time been highly dependent on crude oil and should improve through an improved sea transportation.

Dr. Peterside, who was represented during the occasion by the Head shipping development Mr. Anthony Ogadi, said that over dependent on single commodity for the survival of an entire nation portends a grave economic danger, not only because of the volatility of the commodity price but the more present danger of diminishing demand as a result of the discovery of alternative energy sources by world’s major major users.

His words, “it is now more

imperative than ever that we focus on finding other sources of income before the doomsday arrives. There are no better areas to focus on now than the transport and tourism industry because Of our natural endowments in these sectors. It is therefore very heart-warming that these two industries are now coming together for an effective collaboration and synergy to achieve the desired economic diversification and prosperity for the county”.

According to Dr. Dakuku, statistics, has shown that the travel and tourism industry is one of the worlds largest industries with a global economic contribution of over 7.6 trillion US dollars in 2016 alone.

He said “other countries of

the world with similar economic situations like ours have keyed into these sectors and are already achieving great feats.

A very good example is the United Arab Emirates that have used transport and tourism to diversify their economy. In 2016, tourists spent over S31billion in Dubai alone, which is the highest amount spent by tourists in a single city anywhere in the world”.

Giving another example, he said that Emirate airline carried a total of 51.9 million passengers with revenue in excess of S23.2billion in 2016/2017 financial years. There is no way that the correlation between Emirates airlines and the boom in the Dubai tourist industry is not apparent. Today UAE is

earning more foreign exchange from tourism than from their oil and gas industry. It is possible for the same feat to be achieved in Nigeria”.

He said that the maritime industry also presents a great opportunity for an economic rebirth if the potentials of the blue economy is properly unleashed. He further explained that the blue economy which is the effective and integrated use of a countries seas and oceans to achieve economic development confers unimaginable advantages to Nigeria whose coastline spans 850km.

The two day worship is in furtherance to the establishment of national policy on viable transportation conference held in Sokoto state last year.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

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THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. OLALEYE ADENIYI DAVID - PRESIDENT 2. OLUWAKEMI OMONIYI - VICE PRESIDENT 3. AMURUN BAWO DONALD - SECRETARY 4. AREMU OLUWATOSIN MARY - TREASURER 5. OGUNLEYE WURAOLA ABIODUN - MEMEBER 6. ABAYOMI MATHEW OLUSEGUN - MEMBER THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE IS:TAKING THE GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH OR TO EVERY MAN UNDER THE SUN ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION(CAC) PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED BY: AMURUN BAWO DONALD SECRETARY

PRECIOUS DIADAME FOUNDATION

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APOLIED CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLLED MATTERS ACT, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE (1) UDOM MICHAEL JOHNSON (CHAIRMAN (2) UKE GODWIN ENUN ENUN (SECRETARY) (3)JACOBS OYADEJI ADEDIWURA IYADUNNI (4) OYADEJI AYODEJI JACOB. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES TO FULFILL OUR VISION AND OBJECTIVES PRECIOUS DIADAME FOUNDATION IS LOOKING FORWARD: 1: TO BUILDING HUMAN CAPACITY AND TOUCHING THE LIFE OF HUMANITY FROM THE GRASS ROOT, THROUGH OUR HUMANITARIAN SERVICES PROGRAM’S TRADE AND SKILLS ACQUISITION,ALSO OPENING OF VOCATIONAL CENTERS FROM THE GRASSROOTS TO THE NATIONAL LEVEL 2: TO INCREASE CONSTANT DELIVERY OF THE BEST HUMAN CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT EXPERIENCE. 3: TO DEVELOP ALTERNATIVE, COMPLEMENTARY AND INNOVATIVE WISDOM IN TOUCHING THE LIFE’S OF HUMANITY FOR GOOD BY ALSO LOOKING INTO AGRICULTURAL ACTIVITIES, REAL ESTATE AND LANDED PROPERTIES, SMALL SCALES INDUSTRIES, SCHOOLS, RECREATIONAL CENTER’S, HOSPITAL ETC 4: TO HELP THE PEOPLE AT THE GRASSROOTS TO FULFILL THEIR DREAMS AND AMBITION. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION. PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA, WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION SIGNED: SECRETARY

THE KING VISION MINISTRY

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.

PASTOR CHINEDU SUNDAY -CHAIRMAN 2.

PASTOR (MRS) PEACE OKERE -SECRETARY 3.

PASTOR RICHMOND OGEH -MEMBER 4.

IKESINACHI HONOUR OKERE -MEMBER 5.

HIGHNESS OKERE -MEMBER 6.

GIFT AMARACHI CHUKWU -MEMBER AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1.

TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS TO ALL MANKIND 2.

TO FEED THE POOR IN THE SOCIETY. 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: CS NOMINEES 08023246493

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. CHRISTIE EBIBULUOMI FIDI - CHAIRMAN 2. IFIDI STEPHEN TARI - SECRETARY 3. EHINNA-JAJA EUCHARIA CHIBUZOR - MEMBER AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO HELP THE NEEDY AND LESS PRIVILEGE IN THE SOCIETY. 2. TO EQUIP THE LESS PRIVILEGED PERSON 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, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: CHAIRMAN

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1. BELLO SABIU ABUBAKAR _ CHAIRMAN 2. OHIKERE AGNES BALIKISU 3. ASUN DAVID OMEIZA 4. OKODO VINCENT IBIPADE 5. ISIYAKU ZAKARI AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. TO CATER FOR YOUNG AND WOMEN IN NEED THROUGH ENHANCING EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT AND OTHER EMPOWERMENT. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION MAITAMA ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION SIGNED: SECRETARY

21 Companies Registration SET 8085 JIBRIL MARTIN MEMORIAL GRAMMAR SCHOOL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION LAGOS

THE BRITT CALL CHRISTIAN CHURCH OF GOD

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE:(1) COHEN CHUKWUDI ANINE -CHAIRMAN (2) TAIWOJALUPON OLUREMI IDOWU -SECRETARY (3) AJAGUN MOSUNMOLA ADEBIMPE (4) HOTONU BABABUMI LADIPO (5) OSHODE OLUSHINA BABATUNDE (6) ONWODI ALEXANDER NWANNEAMAKA (7) OKOLI NNABUIKE NATHAN (8) EBIDAH JOY AWUNRI THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:1. TO EXTEND HELP TO ALL OLD STUDENTS OF JIBRIL MARTINS MEMORIAL GRAMMAR SCHOOL, IPONRI IN EVERY WAY PHYSICAL, MENTAL, PSYCHOLOGICAL AND LEGAL. 2. TO ACT AS A BRIDGE BETWEEN COLLEGE AND THE WORLD OUTSIDE OF THE COLLEGE FOR INTERACTION ON EMPLOYMENT, BUSINESS AND ISSUES AS ARISING FROM EXISTENCE. 3. TO ASSIST THE COLLEGE TO PROMOTE GIVE-BACK ACTIVITIES, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT, FINANCIAL SOLVENCY AND CONSULTANCY. 4. TO EXTEND FINANCIAL HELP TO ECONOMICALLY BACKWARD AND DESERVING STUDENTS IN THE FORM OF SCHOLARSHIP AND AID RECOVERY FROM POOR OR FAILING HEALTH OF OUR MEMBERS 5. TO ENCOURAGE THE STUDENTS FROM THIS COLLEGE BY AWARDING PRIZES TO MERITORIOUS STUDENTS SHOWING BRIGHT PERFORMANCE IN THE FIELD OF EDUCATION, SPORTS AND CULTURAL. 6. TO ENRICH THE CENTRAL LIBRARY BY DONATING BOOKS AND ALSO BY SUBSCRIBING JOURNALS IN ALL FIELDS OF STUDY. 7. TO EXTEND EVERY POSSIBLE HELP TO THE COLLEGE AUTHORITIES FOR OVERALL PROGRESS OF THE INSTITUTION. 8. TO ORGANIZE PROGRAMMES ON PERSONALITY DEVELOPMENT, INTERVIEW TECHNIQUE AND LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT, EDUCATION IN HEALTH SCIENCE, LITERATURE, SPORTS ETC. TO OUR MEMBERS.

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

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

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

TRUSTEES ARE: 1. NDOHOSE DENNIS FRIDAY 2. NDOHOSE MFON DENNIS 3. ADEISRAEL BOLAJI ADEGBITE AIMS: TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAIMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: TRUSTEES

BLESSED UNIVERSAL OUTREACH MINISTRY 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 THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. SIMON NWACHUKWU 2. IFEOMA NWACHUKWU 3. SIMON CHIKWADO NWACHUKWU 4. EMMANUEL OKOH 5. MAUREEN CHUKWUEMEKA AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PROPAGATE THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST IN THE WORLD 2. TO ESTABLISH A BIBLE BASED CHURCH WITH THE BRANCHES PLANTED ROUND IN MANY PARTS OF THE WORLD. 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: BARR. ARINZE J. UZOCHUKWU 08038466838 (SOLICITOR).

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. BELLO OLUSUYI ADEBOLA RABIU 2. BELLO MOMOH AZEEZ 3. AKANDE CECILIA OLUJOKE 4. ALABI OLAYINKA IDOWU AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO ENCOURAGE AND FOSTER FRIENDSHIP AND GOOD RELATIONSHIP AMONGST THE MEMBERS OF THE MOVEMENT 2. TO PROMOTE AND WORK FOR UNITY OF ALL AKOKO SONS AND DAUGHTERS FOR DEVELOPING AKOKO LAND. 3. TO ORGANIZE, ENCOURAGE, CREATE STRATEGY AND NURTURE GOOD EDUCATION AMONGST THE YOUTH OF AKOKO LAND. 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: ROTIMI OGUNLEYE, ESQ, SOLICITOR.

GOD’S LIFE VICTORIOUS FIRE MINISTRY THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

TRUSTEES ARE: 1. AJAKAIYE OWOLOJA MICHAEL. 2. SAMPSON OLU. 3. OGBONNAYA CHUKWUEMEKA. 4. OLUFEMI OWOLOJA. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. 2. TO SET CAPTIVES FREE THROUGH PRAYERS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: TRUSTEES

THE TRUSTEES ARE; 1. ADERADE OLAMILEKAN IDOWU - CHAIRMAN 2. OTUBOYEJO OMONIYI OLUWASESAN - SECRETARY 3. OLUKOKUN W. BABATUNDE 4. AKINBOYE OLUWUMI BOLA 5. ADEKOLAWOLE RIDWAN GBOLAHAN 6 MAFIMISEBI ELIJAH THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:(1) TO WORSHIP AND SERVE GOD AND TO FULFILL THE GREAT COMMISSION OF JESUS CHRIST AS SET FORTH IN MATT. 28: 19-20.

(2) TO MINISTER TO THE NEEDS OF MEMBERS AND OTHER AS THE CHURCH IS ABLE TO DO SO. (3) TO DO ALL OTHER THINGS RELATED AND IN CONNECTION WITH CARRYING OUT THE OBJECTIVES AND PURPOSE HEREIN ABOVE SET FORTH. ANY OBJECTIONS TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL ,CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION,PLOT 420,TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: G. O. FABUNMI CONSULTANT

OJA CAMPOS FOUNDATION

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE:(1) MR. ANEGBEH OSIZIMETE THOMPSON (2) MRS. MONIRETI ELIZABETH ADEOLA (3) MRS. ODUMOSU OMOLARA OMOWUNMI (4) MRS. ELUSOJI KAFAYAT YEMISI THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:(1) TO CATER FOR AND SUPPORT THE ORPHANS (2) TO REHABILITATE THE DESTITUTE (3) TO CATER FOR THE NEEDY (4) TO PROVIDE EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS FOR THE NEEDY (5) TO CATER FOR THE MOTHERLESS BABIES ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION(CAC)PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED BY: SECRETARY

COMFORT ONYINYECHI

AVWEROSUOGHENE ENDURANCE

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MICAH COMFORT ONYINYECHI. NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS NKPOLARA COMFORT ONYINYECHI ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS ONOVUGHAKPOR AVWEROSUO ENDURANCE NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESS AS MRS IFIEZIBE AVWEROSUOGHENE ENDURANCE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAINS VALID, ALL AUTHORITIES CONCERNED AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE

MOHAMMED BELLO UMAR I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESS AS BELLO UMAR ABUBAKAR NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AS MOHAMMED BELLO UMAR. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAINS VALID, FSTC OROZO, NECO, MAUTECH YOLA, ALL AUTHORITIES CONCERNED AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE

CONFIRMATION OF NAME THAT NWABUFO JOSEPH ONY, J.N UWABUFO AND CO., ONUORA UWABUFO AND NWABUFO ONUORA JOSEPH N. BELONG TO ONE AND THE SAME PERSON. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAINS VALID, BANKS, ALL AUTHORITIES CONCERNED AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE

CHYROSIE FOUNDATION

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. ASIEGBU ROSEMARY CHI ROSY OGUGUO - PRESIDENT 2. ASIEGBU CHIDIEBERE OMENKA - SECRETARY 3. ASIEGBU UGOCHUKWU NZENWA CHINEMEZE, 4. ASIEGBU ONYINYE DIDI, 5. OSIEGBU UCHE NJIDEKA AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO EMPOWER THE DISADVANTAGED CHILD, EQUIP THEM WITH SKILLS WHICH WOULD HELP THEM CREATE A BETTER FUTURE FOR THEMSELVES, THEIR FAMILIES AND COMMUNITIES. 2. TO EQUIP THE LESS PRIVILEGED PERSONS WITH VOCATIONAL SKILLS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: PRESIDENT

THE GREAT REDEEMER CHURCH WORLDWIDE

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE-: 1. OSIGWE CHRISTOPHER DAVID - PRESIDENT 2. INAH FORTRESS - VICE PRESIDENT 3. FIDELIS HOPE - SECRETARY AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. TO PREACH THE WORD OF GOD ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: PRESIDENT

Companies Registration 22 OFU OBI BROTHERS CLUB AKPAKWUME/NZE THIS IS TO NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C’’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. NEBE MARTIN ONYEKA - CHAIRMAN 2. EZIGI IFEANYICHUKWU PETER - SECRETARY 3. ONONYABA CHRISTIANTUS IK - TREASURER 4. AMADI OBINNA CYRIL - PROVOST 5. EGBUEDIKE OZOEMENE ISAIA - MEMBER 6. ANYAEGBU CHIDI - MEMBER AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO CREATE, NURTURE AND PROMOTE LOVE, PEACE AND BROTHERLINESS AMONG THE MEMBERS. 2. TO ENCOURAGE MEMBERS TO BE RESPONSIBLE IN LIFE AND HARDWORKING IN BUSINESS. 3. TO EXTEND WELFARE SERVICES TO THE MEMBERS AND THE LESS PRIVILEGED. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SYLVESTER I. ONYEAMA, ESQ. LEGAL ADVISER (08180872254)

HIGH LEVEL SOCIAL CLUB

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. AJAYI IBRAHIM - PRESIDENT 2. IDOWU GBENGA - SECRETARY 3. RAFIU ALIU ADEMOLA - TRUSTEE 4. RABIU ABISODUN - TRUSTEE 5. ASISI HAKEEM AZEEZ - TRUSTEE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PROMOTE AND OFFER THE MEMBERS A WIDE RANGE OF SOCIAL BENEFITS AND SERVICES SUCH AS ATTENDING VARIOUS FAMILY EVENTS, HAPPY HOURS, ANNUAL FAMILY PICNICS, ANNUAL DINNERS, DANCE AND CONCERT AND SPORTING EVENTS 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

UNILAG FACULTY OF LAW CLASS OF 2010 ASSOCIATION 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. ATTANSEY RITA IFEYINWA 2. OWOSENI OLUWATOYIN LATEEFAT 3. TAJUDEEN SAHEED ABIODUN 4. ABIIBA MICHAEL ADENIYI 5. ADELEKE FLORENCE NENE 6. AJAYI EMMANUEL OLAOLUWA 7.KAREEM TEMITAYO HAMMED 8. OLAYINKA WASIU ADEBAYO 9. OBIKWELU CHINENYE SANDRA 10. OROJINMI NIRAN STEPHEN AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO BRING TOGETHER AND UNITE THE YEAR 2010 GRADUATES OF THE FACULTY OF LAW, UNIVERSITY OF LAGOS 2. TO FACILITATE AND PROMOTE HUMAN DEVELOPMENT THROUGH TRAINING, RESEARCH AND RE-ORIENTATION OF PEOPLE FOR PURPOSEFUL LIVING 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: TEMITAYO KAREEM, ESQ. 08027064385

FOUNDATION FOR RESCUE OF ABANDONED AFRICAN CHILDREN THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. ONI WEMIMO RONKE 2. OLUSANYA TEMIDAYO OLAJUMOKE BOLANLE 3. ONI OLADAPO ISAAC 4. TAIWO BOLANLE 5. ADETOLA BUKOLA OMOTOMILOLA 6. ADEWALE AYOOLA ABOSEDE 7. AFOLABI FUNMILOLA ELIZABETH AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: TO ENHANCE SELF SURVIVAL OPPORTUNITIES AND IMPACT MAKING CONTRIBUTIONS OF GIRL CHILD, AFRICAN YOUTH AND INDIGENT WOMEN. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: ONI WEMIMO RONKE

SOLUTION CITY INT’L MINISTRY

HUMAN LIFE AND SAFETY FOUNDATION

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. ANTHONY CHINEDU UKAEGBU 2. HENRY CHIMA 3. CHIDI JOSEPH IBEH AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PROMOTE SOCIAL JUSTICE AND DIGNITY OF HUMAN LIFE 2. TO PROMOTE HUMAN RIGHT PROTECTION FOR THE INDIGENT MEMBERS OF THE SOCIETY. 3. TO PROMOTE BEST PRACTICES IN CRIME PREVENTION AND ENCOURAGE CORDIAL RELATIONS BETWEEN MEMBERS OF THE SOCIETY AND LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION MAITAMA ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION SIGNED: SECRETARY

THRESHOLD EMPOWERMENT INITIATIVE

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. DR PETER WOBIHIELE GEORGEWILL 2. UCHE OSINACHI ONYEMA 3. IHEANYI IKECHUKWU ONYEMAH AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. YOUTH EMPOWERMENT 2. SUPPORT FOR WIDOWS AND THE LESS PRIVILEGE 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, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: JOHN KPAKU 08034511802

THE INVENT YOUTH LEADERSHIP INITIATIVE

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. ONWUBIKO VICTORIA DIBUMMA - CHAIRMAN. 2. OGUNRO OLUWASEYI ABIOLA - SECRETARY. 3. ROTIMI IYIOLUWA OLAJOKE - MEMBER. 4. ADEYI OLADIPO ADEOLU. 5. ADESIDA BABATOMIWA JOHN. 6. ADEGBAMBOYE OLUBUSOLA AYONRINDE. 7. OLUPONA OLUDAISI ELIJAH. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO ENHANCE THE LEADERSHIP POTENTIALS IN THE YOUTHS AND REAWAKEN THEM TO THEIR CAREER, SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC RESPONSIBILITIES AS A CRITICAL AGENT OF NATIONAL SURVIVAL. 2. TO SUPPORT YOUTHS ACROSS VARIOUS CIRCLE KNOW THEIR SEARCH FOR NEW DISCOVERIES IN THE EVERY NOTABLE AREA OF PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, SOCIAL ALIGNMENT AND GLOBAL ASSOCIATION. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, P.M.B. 198.GARKI, ABUJA .WITHIN 28DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY.

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

TRUSTEES NAMES: 1. PROPHETESS (MRS) ESTHER EHIWOGWU. 2. MR MONDAY EHIWOGWU. 3. REV. JONAH ISAAC MKPEUBOK. 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

FOTO FACTORY FOUNDATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘’C’’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1999 THE TRUSTEES ARE 1. EDEH GEORGE 2. EKOJA JAMES 3. EKOJA ADA VERA AIM AND OBJECTIVE: TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.

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

TRUSTEES: 1. SYLVESTER OGBECHIE - CHAIRMAN 2. ABINBOLA OWULADE - SECRETARIAL 3. FRANKER ALIGBE 4.OCHERBAUER EVA MARIA. AIM AND OBJECTIVE: TO PROVIDE HELP, SHELTER, FACILITIES FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES.

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

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

Daily Times Nigeria

Tuesday, May 22, 2018

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR RITA IFEANYI MOGOLI- CHAIRMAN 2. PASTOR SUNDAY IFEANYI UGWUOWO - SECRETARY. 3. DCNS DEELE EBUTE- MEMBER. THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST. 2. TO MINISTER DELIVERANCE THROUGH THE NAME OF JESUS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS FOUNDATION FOR YOUTHS EMPOWERMENT 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. IMAM ABUBAKAR SURAJO - CHAIRMAN 2. MAIKAKA ABDULLAHI MUAZU 3. YAZEED SURAJO ABUKUR 4. SULEMAN AMINU - SECRETARY 5. MAHMOUD MANNIR AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO ESTABLISH A GOOD ENTREPRENEURSHIP FOUNDATION FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT AND EMPOWERMENT 2. TO CREATE AWARENESS ON THE IMPORTANCE OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT 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

TASHJIH-L-SHABAB ISLAMIC ORGANISATION OF NIGERIA THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION ABUJA, FOR THE REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ‘ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: (1), ADESINA ADEMOLA ABDUULMUMINI ===CHAIRMAN. (2), AJIBOLA LUKEMAN SANJO === VICE CHAIRMAN (3), ODULOYE SAHEED ABAYOMI === SECRETARY (4), ADEYEMI AZEEZ ADETUNJI === FINANCIAL SECRETARY. (5), SANNI KAMIL ADELEKE. (6), LAWAL NURUDEEN BABATUNDE === TREASURER. (7), ADESINA MUIBUDEEN ADEDOYIN. AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. TO PROPAGATE THE ISLAMIC RELIGIOUS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, P.M.B. 198.GARKI, ABUJA .WITHIN 28DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY.

OKPAI KINGDOM DEVELOPMENT UNION 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.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES ARE 1. COMRADE AMAECHI ASUGWUNI -CHAIRMAN, 2. FIDELIS NZEKWE, 3. BARR(MRS) EGOAZOKWU OGBOLU, 4. EMMANUEL OKIA 5. ERNEST CHIEJINE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO PROVIDE SOCIAL AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT FOR THE PEOPLE OF THE COMMUNITY 2. TO PROTECT THE WELFARE OF 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

LOVE LIKE YOURSELF FOUNDATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘’C’’ OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1999 TRUSTEES : 1. DAVIDSON ETOAMAIHE- CHAIRMAN. 2. IKPEKA PEACE - SECRETARY 3. DEXTER ONYEMAUCHE OHAERI AIM AND OBJECTIVE: TO PROVIDE HELP, SHELTER, FACILITIES FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

THE KINGDOM OF GOD REVIVAL MISSION

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE : (1) PASTOR JEREMIAH ABRAHAM -PRESIDENT (2) CELINE UCHE ABRAHAM (3) MARVELOUS ANI (4) OYEDEJI OLUYEMI SUNDAY -SECRETARY (5) CHRISTIAN NNAMDI DURUAKU. THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:(1) TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST (2)TO SAVE LOST SOULS

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

THE REGISTERED TRUSTEES OF WORLD UNITED MUSLIMS ORGANISATION THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLY TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: (1) IMAM SULAIMAN IBRAHIM (2) MALLAM ABIDEEN OLAWALE FASASI (3) MALLAM QAMARDEEN LAWAL EJIWUNMI (4) MALLAM MOHAMMED HASSAN - IBRAHIM (5) MALLAM ADENIYI BABATUNDE ONASANYA (6) MALLAM AHMED AJIBOYE (7) MALLAM RAHMON SUNDAY OGUNTOLA (8) MALLAM ISMAIL BABAFEMI ZAKARIYAH THE AIMS & OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. TO PROMOTE, EDUCATE AND GUIDE THE UMMAH ON THE PRACTICE OF THE PRISTINE ISLAM 2. TO UNITE THE SCHOLARS IN GIVING SERMONS BASE ON THE RIGHT PART OF ISLAM 3. TO PROMOTE COMMUNITY SERVICES AND DEVELOPMENT THAT EVOLVE PEACEFUL CO - EXISTENCE ANY OBJECTION TO THIS APPLICATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA. SIGNED: SECRETARY

CHRIST GLORIOUS RESURRECTION AND LIFE ASSEMBLY THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MINISTRY HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 2004.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR AKANBI OLAWOLE STEPHEN 2. OLAWOLE COMFORT OLANIKE (MRS.) 3. AMOS AREMU 4. KAYODE BADMUS THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. TO PROCLAIM THE GOODNEWS OF JESUS CHRIST TO WHOLE WORLD. 2. TO WIN SOULS FOR CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B. 198, GARKI, ABUJA WITHIN TWENTY-EIGHT (28) DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

CHANGE OF FAMILY SURNAMES

I, ONYEKACHI PATRICK CHIDI ,THE HEAD OF THE UNDERLISTED FAMILY, THE FAMILY SURNAME FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS NWAOGWUGWU NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AS ONYEKACHI. HENCE, 1. FORMERLY NWAOGWUGWU PATRICK CHIDI, NOW ONYEKACHI PATRICK CHIDI; 2. FORMERLY NWAOGWUGWU THERESA ELECHI, NOW ONYEKACHI THERESA ELECHI; 3. FORMERLY NWAOGWUGWU CYRIL ONYEKACHI, NOW ONYEKACHI ONYEKACHI CYRIL ONYEKACHI; 4. FORMERLY NWAOGWUGWU AUGUSTINE IKECHUKWU, NOW ONYEKACHI AUGUSTINE IKENWACHUKWU; 5. FORMERLY NWAOGWUGWU PIUS EMEKA, NOW ONYEKACHI PIUS EMEKA; 6. FORMERLY NWAOGWUGWU LILLIAN NGOZI, NOW ONYEKACHI LILLIAN NGOZI; 7. NWAOGWUGWU JUSTIN UCHECHUKWU, NOW ONYEKACHI JUSTIN UCHECHUKWU; 8. NWAOGWUGWU CHARLES CHIEMELA, NOW ONYEKACHI CHARLES CHIEMELA. ALL OUR FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. AUTHORITY CONCERNED AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

BEDFORD NWEKE FOUNDATION

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 2004.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. NWEKE UCHECHUKWU COMFORT - CHAIRMAN 2. NWACHUKWU NKIRUKA OBIAGELI - VICE CHAIRMAN 3. NNAMDI NWEKE - CAMP COMMANDER 4. OGWO CHINYERE UCHENNA - SECRETARY 5. IMANYI CHIKA EBERE - TREASURER 6. NWEKE DAVID CHUKWUMA - FINANCIAL SECRETARY THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. TO FULFILL THE LAST WISH OF BEDFORD NWEKE OF BECOMING AN EVANGELIST

BY BRINGING EVERY CITIZENS OF ENUGWUABO COMMUNITY TO THE KNOWLEDGE OF JESUS CHRIST. 2. TO KEEP THE FIRE OF REVIVAL BURNING AT ENUGWUABO COMMUNITY TILL JESUS COMES. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRARGENERAL, 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: BARRISTER CHUKWUZITALU OKONKWO PHENOM CHAMBERS (08033273099)

23 Companies Registration MOSAKU WASIU

MEREDITH ADERONKE

FOLASHADE OMOWUNMI

OLATUNJI LATIFAT

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MASAKU WASIU ARANSE. AND WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MOSAKU WASIU SUNDAY., MY DATE OF BIRTH IS18/06/1995.

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

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS .AFOLAYAN ADERONKE ABIDEMI. NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS MEREDITH ADERONKE ABIDEMI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENT REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS FOLASHADE OLABIMPE LUSIA ANIMASHAUN, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS FOLASHADE OMOWUNMI ANIMASHAUN. ALL FORMER DOCUMENT REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS LAWAL LATIFAH TENIOLA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OLATUNJI LATIFAT TENIOLA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

LAWYERS IN OIL AND GAS NETWORK

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

TRUSTEES ARE: 1. QUDRAT OLORUNTOYIN OLOKO - CHAIRMAN 2. RAQEEBAH ADEBIMPE OLOKO - SECRETARY AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO DEVELOP THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK OF THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY IN NIGERIA ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL,CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION,PLOT 420,TIGRIS CRESCENT,OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STR EET,MAITAMA,PMB.198,GARKI,ABUJA WITHIN TWENTY EIGHT (28) DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: TRUSTEES

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. REV. MANIGA KATE CHIDERA -GENERAL SUPERINTENDENT. 2. MANIGA EMMANUEL-ADMINISTRATIVE SECRETARY 3.NNAMDI PATRICK EGWUNWOKE 4.DAVID MANIGA CHUKWUBUIKE-AUDITOR 5.MRS VIVIAN AMADI -MEMBER AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO CARRY OUT FULL EVANGELISM WITHOUT ANY GEOGRAPHICAL RESTRICTION 2.TO PREACH AND UPHOLD SALVATION MESSAGES 3. TO ESTABLISHED BIBLE COLLEGES,HOSPITALS ,CAMPUS MINISTRIES. 4.TO ENCOURAGE ACTIVE WITNESSING THROUGH SUCH AVENUES LIKE OPEN AIR EVANGELICAL MEETINGS, CRUSADE, CONFERNCES ,ETC. 5.TO PRINT ,PUBLISH AND SELL RELIGIOUS LITERATURE BOOKS,TRACTS,MAGAZINES, WHICH ARE USEFULL IN PURSUANCE OF THE OBJECTS OF THE MINISTRY. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA ABUJA, WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : MANIGA EMMANUEL, ADMINISTRATIVE SECRETARY.

FULLNESS OF HIS LOVE PRAISE CENTER 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 OF 1990.

TRUSTEES: 1). NWACHUKWU UGOCHUKWU JAMES (CHAIRMAN) 2) NWACHUKWU IFEOMA KATE 3). ABANA NGOZI (SECRETARY) 4). AKATA NGOZI AMAKA 5). OKOLI EMMANUEL AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: TO PREACH THE WORD OF GOD ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: CHAIRMAN

OKUNNUJI IDOWU I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS IDOWU SOJI. NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OKUNNUJI IDOWU EMMANUEL MATHEW. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

MORENIKE ELIZABETH

THIS IS TO CONFIRM AND CERTIFY THAT OJIKUTU GANIYU IS THE ONE KNOWN AS OJIKUTU GANIYU KEHINDE AND NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS GANIYU OJIKUTU OWOYELE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. BANKS AND GENERAL PUBLIC KINDLY TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS RACHEAL ELIZABETH OMOTOSHO . NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MORENIKE ELIZABETH SHONEYE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE

CORRECTION OF NAME IN SOME OF MY DOCUMENTS MY NAME WAS WRONGLY WRITTEN AS HATHIRAMANI PRAKASH INSTEAD OF HATHIRAMANI PRAKASH KANAYALAL OF CELPLAS NIGERIA LIMITED..ALL FORMAL DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GEN PUBLIC & CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION PLS TAKE NOTE.

AMA JOANNAH I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS UMANA JOANNAH MARY . NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AMA JOANNAH MARY ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE

OCHA COMFORT

AFILAKA ANUOLUWAPO

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS ODO COMFORT UGUMA, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN; CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS MRS. OCHA COMFORT UGUMA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC AND AUTHORITIES CONCERNED SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS JOHNSON AFILAKA OLAMILEKAN, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN; CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS AFILAKA ANUOLUWAPO OLALEKAN. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC AND AUTHORITIES CONCERNED SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR JULIUS EWA. . O – SENIOR PASTOR 2. PASTOR E.O. CHINWE – ASSISTANT SENIOR PASTOR 3. SISTER FELICIA EDET - TREASURER 4. BROTHER FELIX KALU - SECRETARY AIM AND OBJECTIVES: 1 TO PREACH THE WORD OF CHRIST TO EVERY NATION, STATE, CITIES, COMMUNITIES, VILLAGES AND TO BRING REVIVAL TO THE BODY OF CHRIST. 2) TO MINISTER TO THE NEEDS OF MEMBERS AND OTHER AS THE CHURCH IS ABLE TO DO SO. 3) TO DO ALL OTHER THINGS RELATED AND IN CONNECTION WITH CARRYING OUT THE OBJECTIVES AND PURPOSE HEREIN ABOVE SET FORTH ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: TRUSTEES

ESELE CHRISTIANA

FORMERLY ABIKELE CHRISTIANA IRENE NOW ESELE CHRISTIANA IRENE. FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

LOSS OF DOCUMENT

BASHORUN ADETUTU

RHEMAWORLD GOSPEL CENTRE

AFOLABI MOSHOOD

FORMERLY - YUSUF AFOLABI MOSHOOD NOW - AFOLABI MOSHOOD KOLAWOLE. FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAINS VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC NOTE

THIS IS TO NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC OF THE MISPLACEMENT OF MY ORIGINAL CUSTOMARY RIGHT OF OCCUPANCY, AGIS RE - CERTIFICATION RECEIPT OF C OF O ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF PLOT 698 DAWAKI RELOCATION LAYOUT, ABUJA ALLOCATED TO SAMUEL O. JOSEPH. ALL EFFORTS MADE TO TRACE THE SAID DOCUMENT PROVED ABORTIVE, IF FOUND, KINDLY RETURN TO THE NEAREST POLICE STATION OR AGIS. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ADEKAMBI ADETUTU OYINLADE, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN; CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS BASHORUN ADETUTU OYINLADE DUE TO CHANGE IN MY MARITAL STATUS. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC AND AUTHORITIES CONCERNED SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

THIS IS TO NOTIFY THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION( C.A.C.) ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

AKINRELERE FEYISAYO I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ARIBISALA FEYISAYO OLUWASEUN NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AKINRELERE FEYISAYO OLUWASEUN.ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

IKEBUAKU BLESSING I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS IFEACHOR BLESSING NWANNE NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS IKEBUAKU BLESSING NWANNE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

OTOR BLESSING I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OJIRA BLESSING ORECHI NOW I WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OTOR BLESSING ORECHI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE

ODIA AYODELE

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AYODELE TOPE LEONARD, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ODIA AYODELE JOSEPH. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC AND AUTHORITIES CONCERNED SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

QUEEN NWOKORO I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS NWANYIEZE NWOKORO QUEEN, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS QUEEN NWOKORO TOTTY. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC/AUTHORITIES CONCERNED SHOULD TAKE NOTE.

ORJI MARYLYN

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OKPALEKE MARYLYN CLEMENTINA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ORJI MARYLYN CLEMENTINA ANURIKA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

Companies Registration 24

Daily Times Nigeria

Tuesday, May 22, 2018

olamIde adeola

esther bIodun

makanjuola kolawole

eZe lawrence

ojora aleX

oduGbemI mbanude

I formerly known and addressed as olamIde adeola adedejI now wIsh to be known and addressed as olamIde adeola oyetola. all former documents remaIn valId, General publIc to please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as esther bIodun bamIdele now wIsh to be known and addressed as esther bIodun oladejI. all former documents remaIn valId, General publIc to please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as suara kolawole abefe and suara kola now wIsh to be known and addressed as makanjuola kolawole muyIdeen. all former documents remaIn valId, General publIc to please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as eZe frank okowuchukwu now wIsh to be known and addressed as eZe lawrence okwuchukwu. all former documents remaIn valId, General publIc to please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as ojora adeyInka kaZeem now wIsh to be known and addressed as ojora aleX kaZeem. all former documents remaIn valId, General publIc to please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as nGoZI nbanude now wIsh to be known and addressed as oduGbemI mbanude nGoZI. all former documents remaIn valId, General publIc to please take note.

afolabI subuola

ejIke oGueZuonu

eZe Geoffrey

patrIck okoroafor

oshInuGa james

mrs taGbo oluchI

I formerly known and addressed as afolabI subusola sunkanmI now wIsh to be known and addressed as afolabI subuola sunkanmI. all former documents remaIn valId, General publIc to please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as ejIke emmanuel oGueZuonu and ejIke james oGueZuonu now wIsh to be known and addressed as ejIke oGueZuonu. all former documents remaIn valId, General publIc, dIamond bank, Guanranty trust bank and authorIty concerned to please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as eZeudohImIlI Geoffrey now wIsh to be known and addressed as eZe Geoffrey uchenna. all former documents remaIn valId, General publIc to please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as okoroafor chIZobam now wIsh to be known and addressed as patrIck okoroafor chIZobam henry. all former documents remaIn valId, General publIc to please take note.

I, oshInuGa james adeleke, that In some of my document my name appear as oshInuGa Gary adeleke, want to add ‘Gary’ whIch Is my mIddle name. now wIsh to be known and addressed as oshInuGa james Gary adeleke. all former documents remaIn valId, General publIc to please take note.

IhueZe: I, formerly known and addressed as mIss oluchI IhueZe, now wIsh to be known and addressed as mrs taGbo oluchI. all former documents remaIn valId. General publIc should please take note.

pIus nwanebuIke

bana charles

aleXander solomon

jaIyesInma rasheedat

anyadIeGwu beatrIce

mrs okafor uloma

adIele: I, formerly known and addressed as adIele pIus adInde, now wIsh to be known and addressed as pIus nwanebuIke adInde. all former documents remaIn valId. banks and General publIc should please take note.

bana: I, formerly known and addressed as bana charles steven, now wIsh to be known and addressed as bana charles adI. all former documents remaIn valId. General publIc should please take note.

obajI: I, formerly known and addressed as obajI olIver, now wIsh to be known and addressed as aleXander solomon olIver. all former documents remaIn valId. banks and General publIc should please take note.

jaIyesInmI: I, formerly known and addressed as jaIyesInmI damIlola .a., now wIsh to be known and addressed as jaIyesInma rasheedat damIlola. all former documents remaIn valId. General publIc should please take note.

anyadIeGwu: I, formerly known and addressed as anyadIeGwu beatrIce, now wIsh to be known and addressed as anyadIeGwu beatrIce chIoma. all former documents remaIn valId. General publIc should please take note.

uGwu: I, formerly known and addressed as mIss uGwu uloma ann, now wIsh to be known and addressed as mrs okafor uloma ann. all former documents remaIn valId. General publIc should please take note.

mrs tor promIse

oGbonna matthew

mrs uGwu amarachukwu

mrs chInwe obodo

mrs uGochukwu peace

mrs adlIne ukamaka

Zhokwo: I, formerly known and addressed as mIss Zhokwo promIse raGba, now wIsh to be known and addressed as mrs tor promIse. all former documents remaIn valId. banks and General publIc should please take note.

arukwe: I, formerly known and addressed as arukwe matthew nnaemeka now wIsh to be known and addressed as oGbonna matthew nnaemeka. my correct date of bIrth Is 23th june 1988. all former documents remaIn valId. banks and General publIc should please take note.

nwadImkpa: I, formerly known and addressed as mIss nwadImkpa amarachukwu loveth, now wIsh to be known and addressed as mrs uGwu amarachukwu loveth. all former documents remaIn valId. General publIc should please take note.

njoku: I, formerly known and addressed as mIss chInwe njoku, now wIsh to be known and addressed as mrs chInwe obodo. all former documents remaIn valId. General publIc should please take note.

udekwelu: I, formerly known and addressed as mIss udekwelu peace chIka, now wIsh to be known and addressed as mrs uGochukwu peace udoka. all former documents remaIn valId. General publIc should please take note.

uhara: I, formerly known and addressed as mIss adlIne ukamaka uhara, now wIsh to be known and addressed as mrs adlIne ukamaka madueke. all former documents remaIn valId. banks and General publIc should please take note.

aneke collIns

mrs Iloh rIta

mrs mGbemena GInIka

mrs mercy aderI-onyekwere

chukwudI romanus

chukwudI dorathy

uGwu: I, formerly known and addressed as uGwu onyedIka, now wIsh to be known and addressed as aneke collIns onyedIka. all former documents remaIn valId. General publIc should please take note.

eZe: I, formerly known and addressed as mIss eZe rIta Ifeoma, now wIsh to be known and addressed as mrs Iloh rIta Ifeoma. all former documents remaIn valId. General publIc should please take note.

anaZodo: I, formerly known and addressed as mIss abaZodo GInIka mmasInachI, now wIsh to be known and addressed as mrs mGbemena GInIka mmasInachI. all former documents remaIn valId. General publIc should please take note.

aderI: I, formerly known and addressed as mIss mercy obemIeaso aderI, now wIsh to be known and addressed as mrs mercy aderI-onyekwere. all former documents remaIn valId. banks and General publIc should please take note.

chIdI: I, formerly known and addressed as Isaac john chIdI, now wIsh to be known and addressed as chukwudI romanus uGwu. all former documents remaIn valId. General publIc should please take note.

nnaedoZIe: I, formerly known and addressed as nnaedoZIe dorathy uchenna, now wIsh to be known and addressed as chukwudI dorathy uchenna. all former documents remaIn valId. General publIc should please take note.

obe hIGh school, obe

obe hIGh school, obe

obe hIGh school, obe

we, formerly known and addressed as GIrls secondary school, obe, now wIsh to be known and addressed as obe hIGh school, obe. all former documents remaIn valId. eXams bodIes and General publIc should please take note.

confIrmatIon of name thIs Is to certIfy and confIrm that Ifeoma veronIca udeZe, Ifeoma v. udeZe and Ifeoma .v. nnol-udeZe refers as one and the same person now wIsh to be known and addressed as Ifeoma veronIca udeZe. all former documents remaIn valId. General publIc should please take note.

confIrmatIon of name thIs Is to certIfy and confIrm that mmaduka mathew chInaZa, maduka bIshop mathew chInaZa and maduka bIshop mathew refers as one and the same person now wIsh to be known and addressed as maduka bIshop mathew. all former documents remaIn valId. General publIc should please take note.

free space

Benin River Port: Obaseki tours Edo waterways, assures investors of security, communal support …makes case for second Marine Police post in Edo at Osiomo River As plans for the commencement of the Benin River Port Project reaches advanced stages after preliminary work by the China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has assured investors that the state government will not relent in strengthening security on the waterways and ensuring communal support for projects in riverine areas.

Obaseki disclosed this after a three and half hour tour of riverine communities including Gelegele, Kolokolo, Ajoke,

Ajamogha, Koko, Abiala 1, Abiala 11, and Ologbo, in the state, at the weekend.

He said that the tour was in furtherance of the survey of the waterways around the state, which kicked off some weeks back and is aimed at strengthening security to protect lives and properties on the waterways.

Obaseki said that more investors are interested in the project and would want to know how the Benin River Port project will connect the Benin Industrial Park, noting that the two areas are connected by water,

even as enough provision is being made for road network.

He said discussions with investors and partners about the Benin River Port has reached a critical stage where critical issues are raised and addressed, noting, “Some of the issues have to do with the actual location of the Port vis-a-vis the extent of road network to connect the Port with other facilities like the Industrial Park.”

He said, “We will not underestimate security on the waterways. Security

is of prime importance to us as an administration, as we work to attract investors to the state. We will not relent in working very hard to create a conducive environment for investors to do business.”

Obaseki added, “We have decided to establish a Marine police post in Gelegele.

The construction for the post will commence soon as the design is ready. We will also have another Police post at Osiomo River.

That is why we are at Ologbo to look for a suitable location for the post.”

According to the governor, the state will

leverage the huge economic potentials in water transportation, adding that the waterways offer the state a unique economic opportunity for transporting goods and people from one place to the other.

The spokesman for the Ologbo Ikaye Itsekiri Community in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, Chief Johnson Atseleghe, commended the governor for the visit, noting that it was the first time any governor would visit the area through the waterway.

APS Graduates to unveil made in Nigeria beauty brand Mathew Dadiya, Abuja The Centre for International Advanced and Professional Studies (CIAPS), said it has concluded arrangement for the unveiling of the “Sophie’s Bath and Body Essential” ‘a 100% made in Nigeria’ beauty brand led by Sophie Okoye, a CIAPS graduate of Productions and

Operations Management.

CIAPS Administrator and Events Coordinator, Wunmi Adeguna, on Sunday in a statement said that the Centre Director, Prof Anthony Kila, confirmed that the unveiling of the event and placements of the products was being managed by other CIAPS graduates of Business Development

and Project Management the team.

The team according to him; include Mathias, Nwokoedia, Funmi Ogundare Maryann Akabuike and Aminu Sheu.

Kila described the event as an exciting and needed project, adding that “it combines the need for the country to groom and appreciate a new generation of trained, exposed and passionate

producers capable of using what we have in Nigeria to produce what can be exported to the rest of the world.

The unveiling event will take place at CIAPS Lagos on 26 May 2018 and will be a Saturday morning of Music, Cocktails, Business and Professional Mix and Mingle plus Surprise Celebrities appearance to support the project.“

He said that the event is opened to the public and businesses and it would be an opportunity for consumers to discover the products which includes Black Soap Paste, Glow Scrub, Body Oil, Shea Mousse, Whipped Sea Salt Scrub at specially discounted prices and for prospective resellers and other businesses to sign up with the brand.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

25 Companies Registration

nwaBInwe Kennedy

Hassan sHuKurat

Hassan sHuKurat

mrs. angela oBInna

opara CHIKa

I, Formerly Known and addressed as nwaBInwe Kennedy CHIma now wIsH to Be Known, Called and addressed as nwaBInwe Kennedy nnanI all doCuments and CertIFICates BearIng my Former name remaIn valId. relevant autHorItIes and tHe general puBlIC please taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as Hassan sHuKurat asaBI now wIsH to Be Known, Called and addressed as Hassan yetunde sHuKurat all doCuments and CertIFICates BearIng my Former name remaIn valId.relevant autHorItIes and tHe general puBlIC please taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as danFulanI JoHn JosepH, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as aKIntade JoHn JosepH. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as mIss Kalu angela ume, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as mrs. angela oBInna. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC please taKe note.

ConFIrmatIon oF names: tHat CHIKa opara, and opara CHIKa eZInwanyI maBel Is same and one person. now wIsH to Be addressed as opara CHIKa eZInwanyI maBel. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC please taKe note.

atolagBe IdIat I, Formerly Known as a d e l e K e I d I at B u s ayo, now wHICH to Be Known and addressed as atolagBe IdIat Busayo. all Former doCuments remaIns valId. general puBlIC taKe note

mrs elIZaBetH aBosede

mrs osayande nwaKaego

adIgun aZeeZ

eme-esop InIoBong

olayInKa BuKola

olayInKa BuKola

I, Formerly Known as mIss elIZaBetH aBosede ogundIpe, now wHICH to Be Known and addressed as mrs elIZaBetH aBosede davIds malaCHI .all Former doCuments remaIns valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known as mIss nwaopara nwaKaego BlessIng, now wHICH to Be Known and addressed as mrs osayande nwaKaego BlessIng.all Former doCuments remaIns valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known as olawale lasIsI ,now wHICH to Be Known and addressed as adIgun aZeeZ. olawale. all Former doCuments remaIns valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as eme-esop anslem InIoBong now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as emeesop InIoBong FranCIs. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

my name was wrongly wrItten as olayInKa BuKKy olumIde Instead oF my CorreCt name wHICH Is olayInKa BuKola olumIde. Former doCuments remaIn valId.general puBlIC note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as mIss aHmad olateJu ruKayat now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as mrs aBdulKaBIr ruKayat. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

olayInKa BuKola

oKpogode essIen

mrs aKInyemI omosHalewa

ogundele oluwatomIsIn

mgBeaHuru gIFt

ereme omolola

I, Formerly Known and addressed as adeyega wale now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as omIdIyamonsuruolawale, all Former doCuments remaIn valId, F C m B, general puBlIC taKe note

I, Formerly Known and addressed as oKpogode tosIn aBraHam now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as oKpogode essIen aBraHam all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note

I, Formerly Known and addressed as mIss oloKodana omosHalewa atInuKe now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as mrs aKInyemI omosHalewa atInuKe. all Former doCuments remaIn valId general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as FaBunmI tIwalade tomIsIn now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as ogundele oluwatomIsIn estHer. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC please taKe note.

I magBeaHyu gIFt a,mgBeaHuru gIFt a and mgBeaHuru gIFt aduragBemI Is tHe same person But now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as mgBeaHuru gIFt aduragBemI. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. autHorIty ConCerned and general puBlIC please taKe note

I, Formerly Known and addressed as ogungBemI omolola CatHerIne now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as ereme omolola CatHerIne. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC and autHorIty ConCerned please taKe note

ayInde noFIsat

pHIna anIetIe

eHIdIamen aIre

FranKlIn oKHIrIa

FadoJu adesHIle

CHuKwudI HarrIson

Formerly Known and addressed as roFIat FunmIlola IKumapaeyI now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as ayInde noFIsat FunmIlola. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. sterlIng BanK, ZenItH BanK and tHe puBlIC to please taKe note.

tHIs Is to ConFIrm tHat pHIna anIetIe sunday and tIna anIetIe sunday reFer to one and same person, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as pHIna anIetIe sunday. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. tHe general puBlIC taKe note.

reConCIlIatIon oF name: tHat eHIdIamen godwIn aIre,Is also Known as eHIdIamen aIre.tHat tHe names eHIdIamen godwIn aIre and eHIdIamen aIre are one and same person.tHat now wIsH to Be Known Called and addressed as eHIdIamen aIre.Former doCuments remaIn valId.general puBlIC and autHorIty ConCern taKe note.

reConCIlIatIon oF name: tHat my names are FranKlIn oKHIrIa orIaIFo,as wrItten In my newmap reCords wHICH appear on tHe CHeque emanate From newmap.tHat want to CorreCt tHe name wrongly wrItten In my Bvn to FranKlIn oKHIrIa orIaIFo. sterlIng BanK plC and autHorIty ConCern please taKe note.

I Formerly Known and addressed as oJeBode adesHIle elIZaBetH now wIsH to Be Known Called and addressed as FadoJu adesHIle aBosede. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

CHange oF name /CorreCtIon oF BIrtH date Formerly Known and addressed as FaBanI HarrIson CHuKwudI, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as CHuKwudI HarrIson uKwuanI. tHat my date oF BIrtH was wrongly wrItten on my Bvn as 29 FeBruary 1975 Instead oF 24 FeBruary 1983. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

taJudeen adunnI

olaBode Bolanle

mrs IBraHIm aIsHa

agBaZeKou KodJo

olorogun teslIm

olorogun teslIm

I, Formerly Known and addressed as opeyemI onIgBanJo, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as taJudeen adunnI saratu. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as oKusanya Bolanle aBIola, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as olaBode Bolanle aBIola. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as mIss IBraHIm aJanIgo, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as mrs IBraHIm aIsHa aJanIgo. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

tHIs Is to InForm tHe general puBlIC tHat my FIrst name was wrongly wrItten as CyrIl on my IdentIty Card Instead oF KodJo. tHat my CorreCt Full name Is agBaZeKou KodJo. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe

I, Formerly Known and addressed as olorogun ettI teslIm, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as olorogun teslIm olawale. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I., Formerly Known and addressed as oyeBanJI sulIat KeHInde, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as aJadI sulIat o. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

mrs agBaIgBa oBIoma

CHuKwu nwamaKa

aleX raymond

CHInenye mary-JaCInta

elaHo emIly

BamgBaIye osayI

I, Formerly Known and addressed as mIss osuCHuKwu oBIoma IsaBella now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as mrs agBaIgBa oBIoma IsaBella.

Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as CHuKwu nwamaKa p now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as CHuKwu nwamaKa petIent.

Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as aleX aHmadu, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as aleX raymond KIwenden.. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as CHInenye mary – JaCInta nwoKoroKu, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as CHInenye mary-JaCInta oguCHI. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as oBeBe emIly ann, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as elaHo emIly ann. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as aBHatue osayI susan, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as BamgBaIye osayI susan. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

mrs uCHe ComFort

mr eJIKe KennetH

muyIdeen yusuF

adonu stella

mrs wudIlawa olaJumoKe

enyaBIne stella

I, Formerly Known and addressed as mIss ugorJI ComFort mIraCle, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as mrs uCHe ComFort mIraCle. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe

I, Formerly Known and addressed as mr nnodImele KennetH oBInna, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as mr eJIKe KennetH oBInna. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as muyIdeen Kareem oJomu, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as muyIdeen yusuF aJanI. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as adonu ugoCHuKwu now wIsH to Be Known Called and addressed as adonu stella ogoCHuKwu. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. tHat I was Born on 17/06/1988. general puBlIC taKe note

I, Formerly Known and addressed as mrs olaJumoKe aFolaKe anoKwu now wIsH to Be Known Called and addressed as mrs wudIlawa olaJumoKe FolaKe. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as omonedo stella enyaBIne now wIsH to Be Known Called and addressed as enyaBIne stella ossaI. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

IsIdaHome nweCHI

CHIma oJI

muHammed IsIaK

nnorom estHer

omoBolaJI BaBatunde

ogBonna onyeKa

I, Formerly Known and addressed as nwaBIa nKeCHI CHIKaodIlI now wIsH to Be Known Called and addressed as IsIdaHome nweCHI CHIKaodIlI. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as ruFFus graCe eKwere now wIsH to Be Known Called and addretssed as CHIma oJI graCe eKwere. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

Formerly Known and addressed as alHaJI IsIaKa amoo, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as muHammed IsIaK adIgun. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as enwerem estHer nKIruKa, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as nnorom estHer nKIruKa. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as BolaJI BaBatunde FaFunwa, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as omoBolaJI BaBatunde FaFunwa. all Former doCuments remaIn valId.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as Cem onyeKa edItH, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as ogBonna onyeKa edItH. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

olatunJI IJeoma

olamIde FasasI

olamIde FasasI

BaBatunde JulIus

aleX godgIFt

aIgBIremHon saraH

I, Formerly Known and addressed as JeHosHapHat IJeoma elIZaBetH, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as olatunJI IJeoma elIZaBetH. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as motunrayo osunKoya, now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as olamIde FasasI. tHat I was Born on tHe 18tH oF may, 1992. all Former doCuments remaIn valId.

CorreCtIon oF name tHIs Is to InForm tHe general puBlIC tHat my name was wrongly wrItten as murIlaBa alI Instead oF yusuF modInatu omorIyeBa. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note

I, Formerly Known and addressed as tope asHaJu now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as BaBatunde JulIus asHaJu. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as enoHB sunday godgIFt now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as aleX godgIFt samuel. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as adedeJI damIlola now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as aIgBIremHon saraH. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

sonuga-adelaKun KudIrat

nKurumIKe IFeanyI

vICtor BlessIng

IBraHIm IsmaIl

tolanI tawaKalItu

BaKo deBoraH

I,Formerly Known and addressed as adelaKunKudIratadedoyIn now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as sonuga-adelaKun KudIrat adedoyIn. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as gaBrIel IFeanyI andrew now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as nKurumIKe IFeanyI andrew . all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as ogwuCHe BlessIng ada now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as vICtor BlessIng ada. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC taKe note.

CorreCtIon oF name: In some oF my doCuments my name was wrongly wrItten as IBraHIm IsmaIl atanda Instead oF IBraHIm IsmaIl ayIlara. I was Born on 08/08/1982 not 23/02/1983. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC to please taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as tolanI tawaKalItu oyatoye now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as tolanI tawaKalItu BemIgHo. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC to please taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as danIel salomI now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as BaKo deBoraH salomI . all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC to please taKe note.

raBIu KeHInde

Balogun BalIKIs

amaKa vICtorIa

aBImBade monsurat

agBoola BenJamIn

adenIJI Idowu Henry

I, Formerly Known and addressed as apalowo KeHInde aBIgeal now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as raBIu KeHInde aBIgeal. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC to please taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as Balogun BalIKIs seve now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as Balogun BalIKIs IseneIre. all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC to please taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as amaKa ada amBrose now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as amaKa vICtorIa amBrose . all Former doCuments remaIn valId. general puBlIC to please taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as olulade monsurat olamIde now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as aBImBade monsurat olamIde. all Former doCuments remaIn valId, general puBlIC to please taKe note.

I, Formerly Known and addressed as agBoola BlessIng BenJamIn olaoluwa now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as agBoola BenJamIn adIo olaoluwa. all Former doCuments remaIn valId, general puBlIC to please taKe note.

I Formerly Known and addressed as adenIJIIdowu now wIsH to Be Known and addressed as adenIJI Idowu Henry. all Former doCuments remaIn valId, general puBlIC to please taKe note.

News Analysis 26

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Varsity lecturers seek solution to herdsmen, farmers clashes

By Ephraims Sheyin Worried by the frightening dimension of the herdsmen/farmers clashes across the country, lecturers of the University of Jos recently organised a symposium where they brainstormed on the menace that has claimed several lives and displaced millions.

Among other concerns, the lecturers focused on why the violence had lingered for so long, the contending issues, hope for an early end to the gory sights, and whether the violence was beyond the security agencies.

Other issues included the allegation that the military was colluding with the attackers, the deafening calls on Nigerians to defend themselves, and the fear that the nation could descend into anarchy and possible disintegration.

To set the tone for the symposium that had the theme: “Ecology, class and categorical politics in contemporary Nigeria’’, Dr. Chris Piwuna, Chairman, Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), decried the incessant killings that had festered for more than 20 years, regretting that the situation was getting even worse.

“After 20 years of killing, maiming and arson, it is time for us, as a nation, to reflect and sheath our sword. It is time to reason, time to dialogue, time to be brave and sit around the table and talk.

“As a union, we do not accept the puerile and absurd argument that people that have lived together for hundreds of years can no longer live together.

“It is time to be frank about the issues. Our rivers are red with blood; our fields are piled with bones of those slaughtered in their homes, and our children fear to go to school because they could be abducted.

We cannot continue like this,’’ he said.

Piwuna declared that the solution to the security challenges could only be found within the communities, urging stakeholders to work toward reaching a consensus while challenging government to provide platforms for consistent dialogue.

He said that ASUU, as leaders of the intellectual community, must rise up to the challenge and seek a solution to the problem before it snowballed into a monster that could swallow everyone.

On her part, Prof. Lami Lombin, Dean, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and former Director General, National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), Vom, who was the chairman of the occasion, said that the first step toward resolving the crisis was for the herdsmen to embrace a modern way of breeding cows, in view of the realities on ground.

“Arable land is in short supply following rising demand and climatic changes that have destroyed a vast of the natural habitat.

“Pastoralists must be dynamic; many things have changed. In 1950, we had a population of 33 million.

Now, we have 182 million. It means the fight for limited resources has become fiercer.

“The situation in the Lake Chad basin has worsened an already bad situation. It used to be 25,000 kilometres, but it has shrunk to 2,500 kilometres, displacing more than 10.5 million people.’’

Lombin explained further: “Our population has grown astronomically, while land resources have shrunk drastically. What it means is that there are more farmers, industrialists and cow breeders competing for land resources that get smaller by the day.

“The world has moved on; cows are being ranched in view of the dictates of realities. Herdsmen in Nigeria must move with the times in the interest of peace, the cows, and the general society. The simple truth is that the world can no longer accommodate open grazing which the Nigerian herdsman is insisting on,’’ she said She added that demographic changes and overgrazing had led to massive conflicts in the struggle for resources, noting that the conflict had been worsened by Nigeria’s porous borders and a poor data base that had made it impossible to determine the number of cattle to cater for.

Lombin challenged cattle breeders to buy into current realities and adjust because their age-old lifestyle was no longer sustainable in today’s world.

“The simple reality is that people are tired of violence and want to sleep at night,’’ she declared.

Prof. Omotoye Olorode of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Agwo-Iwoye, Guest Speaker at the occasion, said that the search for a solution must begin with the search for the real owners of the cows grazing on Nigerian fields.

“If we can get the owners of the cows, we shall track down those arming the `unknown gunmen’ to kill

Farmers and herders

our rural dwellers.’’

He accused the Nigerian ruling class of destroying the country by purchasing and amassing all the arable land to themselves, leaving the poor majority to fight over the little land resource left for them.

“Nigerians must ask questions and insist on answers. Who are these gunmen? Who is arming them? Why has it been difficult to arrest and prosecute the attackers? How many herdsmen are in the country and what is the size of their herds?

“Government must also be sincere in the search for peace and involve all stakeholders in the process.

Over time, government has worked with a few elites that have neither cows nor farmlands. We must reach out to the ordinary peasant directly involved in farming and cattle breeding,’’ he said.

Prof. Ochapa Onazi, former Vice Chancellor, University of Jos, who shared Olorode’s opinion, emphasised the need to involve the real herdsman and farmer in the search for peace between the duo.

“The two groups have always lived together and are, therefore, in the best position to know what went wrong. They are in the best position to determine how and why things got so bad and should be central to any attempt to broker peace,’’ he said.

Prof. Monday Mangvwat, another former Vice Chancellor of the university, while calling for a return to the traditional way of settling disputes between farmers and herdsmen, suggested that traditional rulers be central to the quest for a permanent solution to the crisis.

He, however, advised Fulani herdsmen resident in Plateau communities to always report strange herdsmen in their midst, and also support efforts by their host toward ensuring that such strangers did not constitute a security risk.

Mangvwat also appealed to the Fulani ethnic group to reject the perception that they had an unforgiving nature, saying that such impression was not good for them as a race.

Prof. Hayward Mafuyai, immediate past Vice Chancellor of the university, accused the resident Fulani herdsmen of shielding the attackers.

“It is difficult to accept the claims of the resident Fulani that the attackers are unknown to them because the attackers have always spared the residences of the Fulani people. We do not think that such is a coincidence. Our belief is that the attackers work in concert with the resident Fulani people.

“If the resident Fulani herdsmen do not expose the marauders, that mutual trust that existed in the past will be eroded and the situation will continue to degenerate from bad to worse,’’ he said.

Prof. Rotgag Gofwen of the Department of Sociology, in his contribution, blamed the violence on the “desperation to grab land by conquest’’.

Noting that the attackers had always occupied villages hit, Gofwen said that such occupation signified that the areas had been conquered and their ancestral lands taken over by the conquerors.

Gofwen accused the security agencies of “not doing enough’’, and alleged that security personnel deployed to protect the rural areas had often remained in the towns and highways, leaving the villages vulnerable to attacks.

“The attackers are in the rural areas, but the Policemen and Special Task Force (STF) personnel

remain on the roads checking vehicles.

“In many cases, when attacks are reported to the security personnel, they hardly bother. They often claim to be waiting for instruction from `above’ which hardly ever comes, leaving the helpless victims at the mercy of the attackers,’’ he said.

Malam Sani Suleiman, a herdsman, said that a lot of frustration was massing up for both the herdsmen and the farmers because each side was feeling robbed of justice.

“The farmer feels frustrated while the herdsman feel cheated. Any attempt to broker peace must involve the real farmers and herdsmen because they feel the heat of this crisis,’’ he said.

He said that Fulani herdsmen were against ranching, colonies, and grazing reserves because no one had actually taken time to educate them on the benefits of such policies and what they entailed.

Suleiman also accused the nation’s policy makers of paying lip service to the lingering clashes, saying that bills for the establishment of a commission for nomads and the resuscitation of grazing reserves and routes had been “abandoned’’ by the National Assembly.

He urged leaders to encourage herdsmen and farmers to work together to fight cattle rustling, banditry and armed robbery, and accused the ruling elites of promoting divisive tendencies that had pitted the herdsman against the farmer with whom he had enjoyed a symbiotic relationship over time.

For Prof. Stephen Banfa, the solution to the crisis rests on a return to the history of how people and nations rose from one stage to another.

“Nations have moved and so must Nigeria and its herdsmen. The herdsmen cannot remain static in a pastoralist and medieval economy in an era of capitalist economy. They cannot be moving from place to place. They must embrace ranching as the best way to breed cattle,’’ he said.

He also accused government of hypocrisy, wondering how attackers could still be “unknown’’ after they had occupied the residences of their victims and converted their food, livestock and ancestral land into their own.

“My feeling is that those occupying the fled villages are already settling in `conquered’ territories which makes nonsense of the claims that the attackers are unknown gunmen,’’ he said.

Positing that justice was a precondition for peace, he tasked government to chase out invaders that had occupied “conquered’’ territories in Plateau, Kaduna, Benue, Taraba and other states, and ensure the return of the sacked villagers to their ancestral land to ease tension and restore peace.

But Prof. Zanzan Uyi of the Faculty of Architecture, however, had a totally different view.

“We are told that it is a problem caused by desert encroachment. Israel, Libya, and other Arab nations are 90 per cent desert lands, but export food and fruits.

Can’t Nigeria do same and claim lands encroached upon by the desert?

“Again, only recently, Gov. Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano invited all herdsmen to relocate to Kano. He said that Kano had enough land and water for them.

Colorado in the U. S. is less than Kano in size, but hosts more cows than those in Nigeria. Let the herdsmen heed that call and move into Kano where there is a

ready environment for their cattle.’’

Some discussants, however, opined that the problem had remained intractable because it had not been properly diagnosed.

One such discussant, Malam Adamu Aje, decried the conflicting interpretation of the crisis by major stakeholders, and declared that such confusion had “turned a simple disagreement into a huge crisis”.

“The Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, says the violence is a communal clash; Kaduna governor Nasir el-Rufai traces its roots to earlier attacks on foreign herdsmen after the 2011 election, while others have blamed the attacks on insurgents from Libya.

“Not long ago, government officials blamed the attacks on new laws banning open grazing in some states. Others trace the crisis to encroachment on traditional grazing routes. What it means is that we are yet to get to the root of the problem. Unless we get to that root, we shall not come out of this hole,’’ he said.

Other discussants opined that the violence was just part of a larger expansionist agenda, and advised anyone championing such agenda to discard it “so as not to plunge the country into anarchy and chaos”.

One such discussant, Prof. Charles Gonyok, said that the crisis was assuming frightening dimension with anarchy gradually setting in.

“Those concerned must move fast to end the killing because the affected communities might react when pushed to the wall. When that happens, the result will be unpredictable,’’ he said.

Gonyok said that the attacks in Plateau were more frightening because the area worst affected is Daffo that was renowned for producing Irish potatoes, maize, rice and millet.

“If the situation continues, hunger is imminent because farmers have been chased off the farms and are afraid to return.

“In major farming areas like Hotom, Werem, Maiduna, Ganda, Ngakudu, Joshol and Hurti, the farmers have fled.

“The rains are here, but instead of the potatoes, we have weeds on the fields. Government must take drastic steps to end the violence in the interest of the nation,’’ he said.

Overwhelmed by the torrents of contributions, the lecturers resolved to form cluster groups that would dissect the contending issues and come up with a position paper to be submitted to government.

Analysts, while commending the lecturers for the effort, have urged them to organise more platforms for such frank discussions that would serve as breeding grounds for ideas.

They say that such platforms will give perceived “enemies’’ the opportunity to voice out their anger, frustrations, grievances and concerns, which will facilitate the search for common grounds.

Piwuna is on the same page with the analysts.

“The discussions will be sustained; we must, collectively, seek out ideas and explore them.

Ultimately, a cross fertilisation of these ideas will form the basis upon which the contending issues will be resolved toward building a consensus that will facilitate the return of peace to the troubled rural communities.”

Sheyin is of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

27 News

Boko Haram, strike: UMTH provides skeletal services University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) says it is providing skeletal services despite ongoing nationwide strike by the Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU) and challenge of Boko Haram.

Prof. Bashir Tahir, the Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC), said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Maiduguri.

Tahir said that it would be disastrous to close down the hospital because of strike and the challenges of the insurgency in the state.

He said that about 300 doctors were working in all departments of the hospital to provide some services to patients and clients.

He listed some of the departments to include kidney centre, accident and emergency, surgical, operation theatre, ultra sound centre and the radiology.

“As we are aware the Joint Health Sector Workers are on strike. It has some effect on the running of the hospital but we are still able to render services particularly emergency services to our people.

“You can attest to that if you go round. When you go to accident and emergency department, you will see patients there. Go to paediatric and medical units you will see patients being attended to.

“We are also conducting labour, collecting data and doing other examinations.

“So we are running services

but not full. It is not possible to have full services but we are doing our best.

“Our Laboratories are functioning because we have doctors in the laboratories and they are doing their best, particularly the mythology lab, they are doing all necessary tests that were supposed to be done.

“So also if you go to microbiology, you will find some doctors carrying out some investigations and also chemical pathology.

“Also when you go to the kidney centre, you will find everybody onboard including

some of the striking workers, nurses and portal providing services there.

“They are coming because they are patriotic and if we close the kidney centre a lot of people will die.

“Sometimes we receive patients with various degrees of injuries due to bomb blasts and other incidents, and we cannot afford allow anybody to die.

“It was in view of this that we pleaded with the unions and so far, they are really cooperating with the hospital management.

“Well there must be challenges, as you know our doctors are now doing what

the nurses and other health personnel are doing. So they have been quite supportive,” he said.

A NAN correspondent who went round the hospital confirmed that the services were being provided at the surgical ward, operation theatre, medical ward, radiology department, accident and emergency unit, ultra sound and kidney centres.

Mr Abdulkarim Yahaya, one of the patients at the Accident and Emergency Ward, told NAN that doctors have been attending to them.

Yahaya, who suffered injuries as a result of accident,

said the doctors have been coming to check him and providing him with all the necessary assistance.

Reacting, Mr Umar Abdulkadir, the UNIMAID Chairman of JOHESU, said it was supporting the hospital management because of the insurgency.

Umar said: “After due consultation with the national union, we decided to allow the management to continue providing services with support of some of our members.

“Some of our staff are still working in the hospital despite the strike,’’ he said.

L-R: Special Adviser to the Bayelsa State Governor on Public Affairs, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, Big Brother Nigeria 2018 Star, Maryanne Ahneeka, former Super Eagles Coach and Official Brand Ambassador of the Governor Seriake Dickson Football Tournament a.k.a Restoration Cup, 2018, Samson Siasia, Chief of Staff, Government House, Yenagoa, Rt. Hon. Talford Ongolo, State Commissioner for Sports Development, Mr. John Buruboyefe, Director General, 2018 Restoration Cup, Mr. Onoriode Akpe, and other dignitaries, during the formal unveiling ceremony of the former Super Eagles Star, as the Official Brand Ambassador for the Restoration Cup, at the Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall, Government House, Yenagoa.

Photo by Reginald Dei.

Strike: We are not aware of any court verdict -JEHOSU Doosuur Iwambe, Abuja

Leadership of Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) has described as rumours media reports that the on-going strike being embarked upon by the Unions has been stopped by a court injunction.

In a statement on Monday by its National Secretary comrade Ekpebor Florence, JEHOSU stated, “We are not unaware of the machination and propaganda by the Federal Ministry of Health and the Nigerian Medical Association who are bent on thwarting the on-going nationwide action.

“The Joint health Sector Unions leadership feels and empathises with members of the Public on the pains they are going through.

“However, we want to inform the general public that if it is true that there is a court order to stop the strike, we are not aware, neither has JOHESU been served with any court processes or order to stop the on-going nationwide strike. To JOHESU, this is just a figment of the

imagination of mischief makers, busy bodies and interlopers.

“Members of JOHESU do not live in the moon, they are Nigerians who have a Sacred duty to provide health services to the sick and the wounded.

Therefore, they also have the mothers, fathers, friends, sons, daughters, cousins etc who require medical services at this point in time, but the ugly situation brought about by the insensitivity of the Federal Ministry of Health for fairness in the health sector has brought us to this ugly situation.

“After several meetings have collapsed, the Joint Health Sector unions had no choice but to continue with our demands for a better health system where efficiency, manpower development, fairness and better remuneration will be the corner stone of the health system in Nigeria.

“The leadership of JOHESU therefore, insist that no amount of intimidation, arm-twisting, and harassment will cow us from pursuing our constitutional and fundamental rights to protest

and strike.

Therefore, our members across the Federation have been advised to stand firm and fight for the good of our country.

The Ministry of Health should be reminded that all over the world no mistreated worker can put in his best. We are also calling on the good government of President MuhammaduBuhari, GCFR to call both the Minister and Ministry of Health to do the needful by bringing these unwanted circumstances to an end through the implementation of signed agreements and memorandum of understanding between JOHESU and the Federal Government. The Joint Health Sector Union is not asking for more than that.

“We also want to draw the attention of our members across the country that no member of JOHESU was involved in the Road Traffic Accident (RTA) that occurred in Benin, Edo State. The cheap blackmail by doctors that members of JOHESU were involved in an

accident in Edo State is nothing but cheap publicity and propaganda.

“However, our hearts go to the victims of the road crash as we join in wishing them a quick recovery and we use this medium to also advise NMA to respect life by desisting from propaganda that disrespects the sanctity of man, for the purposes of recruiting Public sympathy especially through falsehood and rumours.

“We assure the Federal Government of Nigeria of our desire to support this administration for better health services to all Nigerians. This is determination of all JOHESU members across Nigeria.”

It could be recalled that the National Industrial Court had last week ordered striking members of JOHESU to suspend the on-going strike and return to work.

Justice Babatunde Adejumo gave the order after listening to the submissions of Mr Okere Nnamdi, in an ex-parte motion filed by a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO).

The NGO Incorporated Trustees of Kingdom Human Rights Foundation International – in the motion, prayed the court to order the workers to resume work and go back to the negotiation table.

Justice Adejumo, who is also the President of NICN, ordered Minister of Health, Minister of Labour and Employment, among others, to immediately set-up a committee to address issues raised by the health workers.

The judge ordered that the parties should arrive at an acceptable and amicable solution in the interest of Nigerians who are bearing the brunt of the strike.

The judge also ordered that the President and Vice President of JOHESU, should attend such negotiations.

He said that the negotiations should take into consideration the provisions of the National Salaries, Income and Wages Act. Respondents in the suit are the President and Vice President of JOHESU and National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission.

Private medical practitioners call for collaboration to restructure health system Private medical practitioners have called for collaboration between government and private medical practitioners to restructure, rebuild and save Nigeria’s ailing health system.

President, Association of General and Private Medical Practitioners of Nigeria (AGPMPN), Dr Ugwu Odo, made the call at a news conference organised by the association and World Organisation of Family Doctor (WONCA), on Monday in Lagos.

The conference is to celebrate the World Family Doctor’s Day (WFDD), which is marked annually on May 19, to acknowledge the role and contributions of family physicians in health care delivery.

The 2018 WFDD theme is: “Family Doctors: Leading the Way to Better Health’’.

According to Odo, government’s collaboration with private medical practitioners is the only assurance for Nigerians to have affordable and accessible quality health care for all.

“Family doctors are a very special group of doctors because they provide the most essential daily health care needs to the highest number of the population.

“They are also the longest serving, as well as the longest staying doctors in the lives of people especially because they provide comprehensive and continuous care for.

“On a day like this, family doctors across the world mark their great work in advocacy, clinical governance, health care development and promotion, by way of corporate social responsibility to the society.

“We are all encouraged to reflect this at state and individual hospital levels,’’ Odo said.

“We commend our governments at the federal, state and local levels for what they have done in articulating a health system for Nigeria.

“However, a lot still needs to be done in the health sector because our health care institutions are still very weak and unsustainable.

“The determinants and indicators of a functional primary health care system, which account for over 80 per cent of the needs of the population, are not strongly in place.

“Governments must budget more for health, at least 17 per cent of the annual budget is expected to go to the health sector but it gets less than five per cent presently.

“Our health insurance scheme must be transformed by transparency, accountability and professional diligence, to enthrone universal coverage,’’ Odo said.

28

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 15, 2018

Foreign Affairs Zimbabwe applies to rejoin Commonwealth Zimbabwe has applied to rejoin the Commonwealth, the group said Monday, marking a major step in the country’s international reengagement after Robert Mugabe was ousted last year.

Mugabe angrily pulled Zimbabwe out of the bloc of former British colonies in 2003 after its membership was suspended over violent and graft-ridden elections the previous year.

The Commonwealth said it had received a letter dated May 15 from Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa applying to re-join.

Member countries “very much look forward to Zimbabwe’s return when the conditions are right,” said SecretaryGeneral Patricia Scotland in a statement from London.

“Zimbabwe’s eventual return to the Commonwealth, following a successful membership application, would be a momentous occasion.”

Scotland confirmed that the Commonwealth would send observers to elections due in July or August, the first polls since Mugabe was ousted in November after a brief military takeover.

Mugabe was replaced by his former deputy Mnangagwa, a veteran ruling ZANU-PF party loyalist who was backed by senior military officers.

Mnangagwa has vowed to hold fair and free elections, and has pledged to revive the moribund economy by repairing international ties and attracting foreign investment.

Scotland called for “a credible, peaceful and inclusive election that restores citizens’ confidence, trust and hope in the development and democratic trajectory of their country.”

Britain said last month that it would strongly support Zimbabwe returning to the Commonwealth.

Zimbabwe had fractured relations with the West under Mugabe, who had

People holding Zimbabwean flags celebrating in the streets of Harare held power since independence from 2016.

Britain in 1980.

The Commonwealth brings together The government in Harare was not 53 countries representing 2.4 billion immediately available to comment. people, under a charter pledging If readmitted, Zimbabwe will become commitment to democracy, human the fifth country to re-join the voluntary rights and rule of law. association of mostly former territories The last country to join was Rwanda, of the British empire, after Gambia, in 2009.

South Africa, Pakistan and Fiji.

The organization also holds an The Gambia re-joined the Olympics-style multi-sport event every Commonwealth in February this year four years, most recently in Australia’s after the impoverished west African Gold Coast in April. nation was in 2013 suddenly pulled Zimbabwe left the Commonwealth out of the bloc by ex-president Yahya at the height of violent land seizures, Jammeh. when white farmers were evicted in The other countries to have quit the favor of landless black people in a policy organization are Ireland, which left in that wrecked the agriculture sector and 1949 and the Maldives which exited in triggered national economic collapse.

Brazilian fishermen rescue African migrants adrift for 35 days Brazilian fishermen rescued two dozen migrants from Africa found drifting near the northeast coast of Brazil after 35 days at sea, officials and local media said Sunday.

The migrants came from Guinea, Nigeria and Senegal on the other side of the Atlantic, the human rights department for Brazil’s state of Maranhao said in a statement.

There were 25 migrants — all men —

on the boat and two Brazilians, the navy said in a statement.

The Brazilian pair were suspected of being people traffickers, O Imparcial and G1 news sites reported. They had reportedly spent 35 days afloat but there was no immediate indication of what route they had taken.

The boat, a catamaran, was flying a Haitian flag, the navy said.

On Saturday, local fishermen found

An African migrant arrives in Sao Jose de Ribamar

the vessel drifting off the Brazilian coastal town of Sao Jose de Ribamar, south of the Amazon river, the navy said.

An attempt by the authorities to locate the migrant boat from the air failed, so the fishermen towed it to port, while also feeding the stranded voyagers, the navy said.

By the time they got in, the fishing captain reported he had “no more food and water to give, because provisions were ending,” the navy said.

Once ashore, they were “given medical attention and food,” before being taken for processing by the Brazilian federal police, the Maranhao human rights department said.

“The group will be put into temporary housing provided by the state,” it said.

“The federal police will investigate the possible committing of crimes against the foreigners in relation to their arrival in Brazil and evaluate their legal situation in Brazil.”

18 died after cyclone hits Horn of Africa Flooding and strong winds caused by a tropical cyclone left at least 18 people dead and thousands homeless across two countries in the Horn of Africa, an aid agency said Monday.

Cyclone Sagar formed last week in the Gulf of Aden off Yemen’s coast and made landfall on Saturday in Djibouti and Somaliland, a breakaway state in northern Somalia where the bulk of the deaths occurred.

“1,780 families fled their homes due to the storm, 16 people were reported killed, and at least 80 homes were destroyed,” Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) said in a statement, citing the UN’s humanitarian coordinator OCHA. The aid group added that the storm left two people dead in Djibouti’s capital and flooded several neighborhoods, affecting between 20,000 and

30,000 people.

“This is the biggest storm to hit the region in years,” NRC regional director Nigel Tricks said.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said the full extent of the damage in Somaliland remained unclear because the storm destroyed roads and communication infrastructure.

Forty fishermen who were at sea and were not warned about the storm remain unaccounted for, the body added.

Relief efforts have been hindered by deadly clashes that erupted last week in a disputed desert region between Somaliland and the semi-autonomous Somali state of Puntland.

Those clashes displaced 10,000 people and “further (complicated) an already complex humanitarian picture,” OCHA said in a statement on Sunday.

A Djiboutian boy carries water jerricans. Cyclone Sagar left two people dead in Djibouti’s capital and flooded several neighborhoods, affecting between 20,000 and 30,000 people.

3rd Ld-Writethru: Sri Lanka storms, landslides kill 7, leave 1,000 displaced Sri Lanka: Heavy rain and lightning strikes across Sri Lanka has resulted in at least seven people dead and displaced more than 1,000, officials said Monday.

Police spokesman Ruwan Gunasekara said lighting killed six people and a landslide killed another in different parts of the island.

The Disaster Management Center said 1,024 people were moved to 20 safe locations. Hundreds of army troops and police were deployed to carry out relief work and rescue operations as heavy rains caused flash

floods in many parts of the country.

Sri Lanka has been experiencing heavy rains since Sunday, prompting the government to issue landslide warnings for five districts.

The meteorology department warned of thundershowers with strong winds over the next 24 hours and asked people to take precautions against lightning strikes.

Sri Lanka has suffered frequent natural calamities in recent years.

More than 200 people were killed in mudslides and floods during monsoon rains last May.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 15, 2018

29 Foreign Affairs

US Supreme Court takes up dispute over power plant in India Inquiry into The US Supreme Court on Monday agreed to consider reviving a lawsuit by Indian villagers seeking to hold a Washington-based international financial institution responsible for widespread environmental damage they blame on a power plant it financed.

The justices will hear an appeal by the villagers of a lower court ruling that the International Finance Corp. was immune from such lawsuits under federal law.

IFC, part of the World Bank Group,

is an international institution with 184 member countries that helps secure financing for projects in developing nations.

The case revolves around the IFC’s decision in 2008 to provide $450 million in loans to help construct the coal-fired Tata Mundra Power Plant in Gujarat, India. IFC loans include provisions requiring that certain environmental standards are met.

The legal question before the justices is whether there are limits to immunity for entities like the

IFC under the 1945 International Organizations Immunity Act, as there are for foreign countries under a 1976 law called the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act. Lead plaintiff Budha Ismail Jam and other fisherman and farmers who live near the plant sued in federal court in Washington in 2015, saying the IFC had failed to meet its obligations.

They said the plant’s construction and operations did not comply with the environmental plan set out for the project. The local environment

has been devastated, according to the plaintiffs, with marine life killed by water discharges from the plant’s cooling system and coal dust contaminating the air.

A district court in 2016 and the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in 2017 ruled that the lawsuit was barred because the IFC is immune from such litigation under the 1945 law.

The court will hear arguments and decide the case in its next term, which begins in October.

Nurse dies in Congo as Ebola vaccination campaign starts Congo’s health minister says a nurse has died from Ebola in Bikoro, the rural northwestern town where the outbreak began, as the country begins a vaccination campaign.

Health Minister Oly Ilunga said late Sunday that the nurse’s death brings the death toll to 27 since early April. There are now 49 hemorrhagic fever cases: 22 confirmed as Ebola, 21 probable and 6 suspected.

Ilunga said two patients have recovered from Ebola, returning home.

Congo’s health delegation, including the health minister, and representatives of the World Health Organization and United Nations have arrived in Mbandaka, the northwestern city of more than 1 million where Ebola has spread, to launch the vaccination campaign Monday. The ministry said it will take five days to target health care workers and 100 registered contacts in the city.

The World Health Organization (WHO) hailed the vaccinations as a “paradigm shift” in how to fight the disease which killed more than 11,300 people in a West African epidemic between 2013 and 2016.

The WHO is sending over 7,540 doses of the vaccine to the central African country, 540 of which have been earmarked for Mbandaka, a city of about 1.5 million where four Ebola cases have been confirmed.

In a ceremony attended by health minister Oly Ilunga Kalenga, health workers in blue overalls and rubber gloves administered the vaccine developed by US drug company Merck , marking the start of a complex effort to ring-fence the virus before it gets out of control.

A health worker wears protective clothing outside an isolation ward to diagnose and treat suspected Ebola patients The other vaccines will be given to medical staff later on Monday at a nearby hospital. People who had contact with Ebola victims will come later.

“This is a new phase in our response, another pillar in the fight. We must continue the monitoring of contacts,” Ilunga said.

Ebola causes hemorrhagic fever, vomiting and diarrhea and spreads through contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person. When a new case

is diagnosed, all people who might have been in recent contact with the patient are traced and vaccinated to keep the disease from spreading.

WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom said the outlook for dealing with the new outbreak, the ninth in Congo since the disease made its first known appearance in the 1970s, was brighter than when the West African epidemic was reported.

Mbandaka lies on the Congo River

with regular transport links to the Kinshasa, raising concerns that the virus could spread to the capital where 10 million people live. The need to keep the vaccine at 80 degrees Celsius below freezing (minus 112 Fahrenheit) in a humid region with erratic electricity supply has further complicated the operation.

“It’s concerning that we now have cases of Ebola in an urban center, but we are much better placed to deal with this outbreak than we were in 2014,” Tedros told health ministers at the start of the WHO’s annual assembly in Geneva.

The WHO’s head of emergency response Peter Salama said use of the VSV-EBOV shot means regions with Ebola outbreaks can in future expect more than just containment with basic public health measures such as isolation and hygiene.

“It’s the first time in the midst of an outbreak ... that we’re using this as a way to stem transmission,” Salama told Reuters in a telephone interview.

“It’s an important moment that changes the way we’ve seen Ebola for 40 years.”

Of the 46 people thought to have been infected so far in the latest outbreak, 26 have died, the WHO said. Of that caseload, 21 have been confirmed in a laboratory, 21 are regarded as probable Ebola cases, and four patients are suspected of having Ebola.

The WHO’s previous leadership was heavily criticized for its slow response to the outbreak that began in late 2013. The WHO did not call an emergency meeting for that outbreak until August 2014.

Madrid blocks Catalan councilors as Spain stand-off drags on The Spanish government on Monday recognized the powers of newly-elected Catalan leader Quim Torra but objected to his choice of councilors — some of whom are being held in custody — and refused to ratify his chosen team, official documents showed.

The outcome means that Madrid will continue to impose direct rule on the northeastern region.

Torra, a separatist who wants to recreate the administration that declared independence from Spain in October, put forward four men as councilors who are either being held in custody or are living in self-imposed exile.

Madrid and Barcelona are engaged in a months-long stand-off after regional elections called by the government in

December returned a majority of seats for pro-independence parties.

Under the terms of emergency legislation brought in to take over the Catalan administration, Madrid must lift direct rule once the Catalan government is fully formed and cabinet members named.

But the government said the naming of the four men, who are accused of crimes including rebellion and mis-use of public funds, amounted to a deliberate provocation.

It is uncertain now when direct rule

by Madrid will be lifted. Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy said on Monday he hoped Catalonia would soon form a viable government that would obey the law.

“I hope there will soon be a

government that is viable, that obeys the law and that enters into dialogue with us,” he said in a speech at an event in Galica. “One that will work to recover institutional and political normality in our country.”

Spanish courts ruled that an Oct. 1 independence referendum and subsequent declaration of independence were illegal because they went against Spain’s constitution which states the nation is indivisible.

PM Rajoy telephoned two opposition leaders — Pedro Sanchez of the Socialists and Albert Rivera of Ciudadanos (“Citizens“) — on Saturday to discuss the situation and ask for their support.

Both parties, which together with Rajoy’s center-right People’s Party (PP) make up a majority of seats in Spain’s

parliament, agree that direct rule of Catalonia must be maintained until a regional administration is in place.

“We, all those parties which support the constitution, must accept reality and apply the constitution together,” Rivera said in a television interview on Monday.

“Peace and stability are needed in Catalonia for its economy and for social harmony.”

The Catalan parliament voted in Torra, chosen by former leader Carles Puigdemont who is now living in Germany, last week.

Puigdemont is in Germany awaiting the decision of a German court on an extradition order from Spain on a charge of misuse of public funds for his part in the organization of the illegal referendum last October.

London’s Grenfell fire to hear bereaved speak of lost loved ones

People who lost family and friends in the Grenfell Tower fire, which killed 71 people in London last year, will pay tribute to their loved ones at the start of hearings at a public inquiry into the causes of the disaster.

Only a charred, gutted ruin remains of Grenfell Tower, a 24-story social housing block in a deprived pocket of the rich west London borough of Kensington and Chelsea, since it was engulfed by flames in the middle of the night of June 14, 2017.

The public inquiry faces the daunting task of establishing the root causes of the fire from eyewitness accounts, videos and photos, expert evidence and the paper trail of the tower’s history since it was built in the 1970s.

But before it delves into the details of what happened, the inquiry wants to give those bereaved by the disaster an opportunity to pay tribute to those they lost by talking about them publicly, or by showing photos or videos if they wish.

These commemoration hearings are expected to last nine days, although the schedule is uncertain as the inquiry has set no time limit for the tributes.

They are expected to last between two minutes and over an hour.

The oral hearings into the circumstances of the fire will start later, on June 4.

The first commemoration will be of baby Logan Gomes, who was stillborn in hospital shortly after his heavily pregnant mother Andreia, who lived on the 21st floor, escaped from the fire. Andreia survived after she was put in an induced coma and treated for cyanide poisoning.

While the official death toll from the fire is 71, the inquiry will commemorate 72 people as it is including Maria del Pilar Burton, a resident of the tower who died in January, having never left hospital since she escaped from the fire.

The Grenfell Tower fire shocked Britain and led to an outpouring of angst over whether poor quality social housing and neglect by the authorities of a deprived, ethnically diverse community had played a part in the tragedy.

Separately from the public inquiry, the police are conducting an investigation into the fire which could result in criminal charges against organizations involved in the construction, maintenance or refurbishment of the tower, or against individuals.

TIMES SPORTS Daily Times Nigeria

Tuesday, May 22, 2018

World Cup: Chelsea’s Alvaro Morata misses out on Spain’s final 23-man squad

Flying Eagles get a month’s break ahead U20 AFCON playoff against Mauritania Nigeria U20s, the Flying Eagles, have broken training camp and will resume after a month, officials said.

This followed the team’s passage to the final qualifying playoff for the 2019 U20 AFCON in Niger at the weekend.

The Flying Eagles eliminated Guinea Bissau 3-2 on aggregate and will in July battle surprise team Mauritania for a place at Niger 2019.

“The team will go on break for about a month and reassemble at a venue yet to be decided,” a top team official said.

It was also gathered that Lobi Stars central defender Ekene Olisema lost his father just days leading up to the crucial qualifier against Guinea Bissau in Calabar on Sunday.

“We kept away the news from the player till after the game,” an official revealed.

Rain helps Rafael Nadal claim stunning eighth Rome Masters title Rafael Nadal won the Rome Masters for the eighth time on Sunday when he defeated defending champion Alexander Zverev 6-1, 1-6, 6-3 after a stunning comeback.

German second seed Zverev was 3-1 up in the decider before two rain stoppages halted his momentum.

Top seed Nadal raced away with the last five games to secure a 32nd Masters title and ensure a return to the world number one spot.

The 31-year-old also showed why he will once again be the runaway favourite when Roland Garros begins in a week where he’ll be bidding for an 11th French Open title.

Zverev, 21, came to the court riding a 13-match win streak which included last weekend’s trophy in Madrid.

However, by the end of Sunday’s rain-hit final, his record against the Spaniard stood at five defeats in five meetings.

Nadal was 3-1 down at the first rain break but cut the gap on the resumption.

After a further half an hour off court during the second interruption, Nadal came back out firing, winning four straight games to wrap up the win on his

second match point.

“The rain break was so important, I didn’t think it would help me but it did. I was able to come back out with clear ideas, I’m very happy,” said Nadal.

“To win Rome eight times is amazing, it’s hard to describe.

To have the chance to win here again is so great.

“As for Roland Garros, I’m going to enjoy this victory and think about Paris in a few days.

“For Alexander it’s amazing to have won that many matches in a row,” Nadal said after winning in just over two hours.

“Today this trophy is with me for a short time, but I’m sure you will get it again.”

He added: “This was a very difficult match played at one of the best events of the world.

“To win again after my first (Rome title) in 2005 is amazing, the 2005 final was one of the best memories of my career.”

Nadal remains the best claycourter of the Open Era with an astonishing 408-36 record He will next seek an 11th French Open crown to match the 11 he owns from Monte Carlo and Barcelona.

“You are an amazing champion and you proved that today,” Zverev told the Spaniard

at the trophy presentation.

“You are the greatest clay player of all time, we all saw that. I’m disappointed that my streak is over, but I did lose to Rafa, so maybe it’s OK. “I was so close but I lost it at the end.”

With the sun shining, Nadal made light work of what looked like a disastrous start to the match as he dropped serve in the opening game.

But the king of clay quickly mounted a fightback, breaking world number three Zverev to love and going on to deny the German a winning service game in the entire set.

Nadal closed out the opener in 32 minutes on an overhead smash to leave his challenger scratching for answers after losing six straight games.

Zverev finally held serve to start the second set and answered Nadal by breaking the top seed twice to reach 5-0 as the first dark clouds of the week gathered over the Foro Italico and the conditions slowed.

Nadal temporarily stopped the rot as he won his fist game of the set but Zverev levelled the match at a set each a game later.

That set the stage for the rollercoaster third set decider.

Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata has failed to make Spain’s 23man World Cup squad.

The 25-year-old scored 11 goals in his debut season at Stamford Bridge and was a lastminute substitute in Saturday’s FA Cup final win.

Julen Lopetegui has named four Premier League players in his squad, with David De Gea, David Silva, Cesar Azpilicueta and Nacho Monreal included.

Spain begin their campaign against Portugal on 15 June in Sochi.

Everton’s Gylfi Sigurdsson in final squad for Iceland’s first World Cup Iceland have named Everton midfielder Gylfi Sigurdsson, who finished the season with a knee injury, in the squad for the country’s first World Cup. The 28-year-old has not played for the Toffees since 10 March.

Burnley’s Johann Berg Gudmundsson and Cardiff City’s Aron Gunnarsson have also been included in the 23-man list.

The tournament starts in Russia on 14 June and Iceland will open their campaign on 16 June against 2014 runners-up Argentina in Moscow.

Iceland squad: Goalkeepers: Hannes Thor Halldorsson (Randers FC), Runar Alex Runarsson (FC Nordsjælland), Frederik Schram (FC Roskilde).

Defenders: Kari Arnason

(Aberdeen), Ari Freyr Skulason (K.S.C. Lokeren Oost-Vlaanderen), Birkir Mar Saevarsson (Hammarby), Sverrir Ingi Ingason (FC Rostov), Hordur Magnusson (Bristol City), Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson (Maccabi Haifa), Ragnar Sigurdsson (FC Rostov).

Midfielders: Johann Berg Gudmundsson (Burnley), Birkir Bjarnason (Aston Villa), Arnor Ingvi Traustason (Malmo FF), Emil Hallfredsson (Udinese), Gylfi Sigurdsson (Everton), Olafur Ingi Skulason (Kardemir Karabukspor), Rurik Gislason (FC Nurnberg), Samuel Fridjonsson (Valerenga), Aron Gunnarsson (Cardiff City).

Forwards: Alfred Finnbogason (FC Augsburg), Bjorn Bergmann Sigurdarson (FC Rostov), Jon Dadi Bodvarsson (Reading), Albert Gudmundsson (PSV Eindhoven).

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

31 Times Sports

Niger Tornadoes dedicate shock win at FC Ifeanyiubah to late Hussaini Isah

Milos Raonic pulls out of French Open Canada’s Milos Raonic, who has been battling a knee injury, pulled out of the French Open on Sunday.

The French Open starts in Paris next Sunday.

“It is with a heavy heart that I am withdrawing from @rolandgarros,” wrote the 27-year-old on Twitter.

“I have many great

memories there, but I know I need to continue working hard to put myself in the best position when I step out on the court.

“Thank you all for your support and see you soon on the grass.”

The world number 22, a Wimbledon runner-up in 2016 and who reached the

French Open quarter-finals in 2014, had withdrawn from the Monte Carlo Masters in April with a knee injury before his third round match.

He returned for the Madrid Masters where he lost in the third round to compatriot Denis Shapovalov.

World Cup: Coach Alloy Agu hails Victor Moses after FA Cup display Nigeria goalkeeper coach Alloy Agu has hailed Victor Moses for his fine showing in the FA Cup final this past weekend.

The wingback erased memories of his sending off in last year’s FA Cup final loss to Arsenal by putting in a solid showing

to help Chelsea defeat Manchester United 1-0 at the showpiece game in Wembley on Saturday.

Eden Hazard’s first-half penalty secured victory for the Blues, who claimed their eighth FA Cup title overall and a first since 2012.

In winning the competition, Moses joins the likes of Daniel Amokachi, Kanu Nwankwo, Celestine Babayaro, John Obi Mikel, John Utaka and Alex Iwobi as Nigerian FA Cup champions.

Agu hailed Moses for his performance against the Red Devils and urged the Super Eagles star to keep up his form ahead of the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

“We are really delighted with the achievement of Victor Moses with Chelsea today. He did well in the game and we are happy for him,” Agu said.

“It has been a tough season for Chelsea but they ended everything on a victorious note.

“It’s always good when our players win things with their clubs. We hope he will more titles with the club in subsequent seasons.

“The big thing is now the World Cup, hopefully he will also do well for us at the competition.”

Moses is expected to feature for Nigeria when they open their Group D campaign in Russia with a clash against Croatia at Kaliningrad on June 16.

Niger Tornadoes have dedicated their shock 2-1 win at FC Ifeanyiubah in a match day 22 NPFL fixture at Nnewi to their late teammate Hussaini Isah.

Isah died last week in a motor accident along Maitumbi Road in Minna.

The left back had posted a Man-of-theMatch performance against Kwara United 24 hours earlier in a match day 21 fixture after serving out a mandatory one-match suspension over accumulated cards.

After a minute’s silence in honour of the player in Sunday’s thriller, Mubarak Ejiogu struck twice on either side of Godwin Obaje’s penalty on 90 minutes to hand the travelling Tornadoes all points to become the first team to shock ‘The Anambra Warriors’ at home in three lengthy seasons.

“We are dedicating this victory today against FC Ifeanyiybah to our player, Hussaini Isah, who died on Monday in Minna in an accident”, goalkeeper Terkaa Melai said after the hard-fought victory.

“We missed him greatly but his spirit was with us, so we are dedicating this win to him”.

Melai, a former Lobi Stars goalkeeper, who last season scored six times from the spot before a switch to Tornadoes, single handedly stood between FC Ifeanyiubah and goal with incredible saves time and again, said Sunday’s win at FC Ifeanyiubah was a reward for their resilience, doggedness and composure.

“We did not expect it (victory) was going to come for us at FC Ifeanyiubah,” he admitted.

“But we held our ground, defended well and took our chances.

“We’re happy we got the victory.”

It was Tornadoes second win on the road this term following a 2-0 win at Kwara United earlier in the season.

They had equally dropped maximum points at home to Heartland in the first round of the campaign.

Melai clattered on Godwin Obaje on 89 minutes to gift the home side a penalty kick, which Obaje himself drilled home to bring his side back on level terms.

Melai escaped a sending off after the referee flashed a yellow card at him.

“I did not go out to get him down. But I would say it was tight for the referee to decide (on a possible sending off) because of the difficult situation”, the soft spoken goal tender submitted.

Niger Tornadoes now mount title challenge as they surged forward to fourth in the standings with 34 points, while FC Ifeanyiubah drop to 11th spot with 28 points.

Lobi Stars lead the pack with 40 points and closely followed by Kano Pillars and Plateau United both with 36 points on second and third spots respectively only separated by goal difference.

South African FA supremo faces second sexual assault complaint South African Football Association president and Confederation of African Football executive Danny Jordaan is facing a second sexual assault complaint, it was reported on Sunday.

The mass-circulation Johannesburg-based Sunday Times said an unnamed 40-year-old woman filed a complaint with police this week against the 66-year-old football official.

She alleges Jordaan, one of the senior organisers of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, sexually assaulted her on three occasions.

The Sunday Times reported that the woman is a prominent author and the niece of a top politician.

Last November, singer and former South African lawmaker Jennifer Ferguson said she was sexually assaulted by Jordaan 25 years ago.

Ferguson later flew to South Africa from her home in Sweden to lay a charge with the police against Jordaan.

Jordaan’s lawyer, Mamodupi Mohlala,

denounced the latest complaint, saying it was an attempt to make his client “ineligible” to seek a second term as South African football boss.

The national association are scheduled to hold presidential elections this Saturday and Jordaan is the lone candidate.

“This is another attempt to discredit our client in the media,” Mohlala told AFP. “The only place for these charges is in court and we call once again on the media and the public to allow justice to do its job.”

The police refused to comment.

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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

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Business Times Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

NSE: ASI sheds 0.21% on first trading day

Why banks must deploy technology for regulatory changes, risk management

e-Tranzact CEO, 2 directors forced to resign over alleged N11bn fraud

Oil sector’s contribution to GDP drops by 0.16% in Q1 Motolani Oseni The oil sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in first quarter (Q1) of 2018, had declined by 0.16 per cent, figures released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on Monday revealed.

This means that the oil sector’s contribution to the nation’s economy stood below 10 per cent in quarter under review, even as the GDP grew by 1.95 per cent year-on-year- in real terms in the first quarter of 2018.

Although the nation recorded some growth in the oil sector during the period, the contribution formed only 9.61 per cent of the total, with the nonoil sector accounting for the rest.

This is despite an increase in the daily oil production to an average of 2.0 million barrels per day (mbpd), higher than the 1.95 mbpd in the fourth quarter of 2017.

The report stated that real growth of the oil sector was 14.77 per cent (yearon-year) in first quarter of 2018. This represented an increase of 30.37 per cent points relative to rate recorded in the corresponding quarter of 2017.

Quarter-on-Quarter, the oil sector grew by 13.24 per cent in first quarter, 2018, NBS said.

This was up from 8.53 per cent in the first quarter and 7.35 per cent in the fourth quarter recorded in 2017.

In comparison, non-oil sector grew by 0.76 per cent in real terms during the quarter under review.

This was higher by 0.04 per cent point compared to the rate recorded same quarter of 2017 and 0.70 per cent point lower than the fourth quarter of 2017.

The report stated the sector’s growth

was driven mainly by agriculture (Crop production), financial institutions and insurance, manufacturing, transportation and storage as well as information and Communication.

In real terms, the Non-Oil sector contributed 90.39 per cent to the nation’s GDP, lower than 91.47 per cent recorded in the first quarter of 2017 and 92.65 per cent recorded in the fourth quarter of 2017.

Overall, the Nigerian Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 1.95% (year-on-year) in real terms in the first quarter of 2018.

The bureau stated that the figure shows a stronger growth compared with the first quarter of 2017, which recorded a growth of –0.91 per cent indicating an increase of 2.87 per cent points.

Compared to the preceding quarter, there was a decline of -0.16 per cent points from 2.11%, NBS said.

Quarter on quarter, real GDP growth was -13.40 per cent as oil production estimates for the third and fourth quarters of 2017 have been revised and oil GDP for those quarters have been adjusted accordingly.

According to NBS figures, aggregate GDP for the first quarter stood at N28.4 trillion in nominal terms.

“This performance is higher when compared to the first quarter of 2017 which recorded a nominal GDP aggregate of N26.028 trillion thus, presenting a positive year on year nominal growth rate of 9.36 per cent.

This rate of growth is however lower relative to growth recorded in Q1 2017 by -7.70 per cent points at 17.06 per cent but higher than the preceding quarter by 2.14 per cent points at 7.22 per cent.

L-R: Emmanuel Ikazoboh, Group Chairman, Ecobank Transnational; Oscar Onyema, CEO, Nigeria Stock Exchange; UK Eke, GMD, FBN Holdings Plc and Anthony Okpanachi, CEO, Development Bank of Nigeria at the Africa Development Bank Annual General Meeting at Busan South Korea …on Monday

AfDB to invest $3m on agric, youth employment Mathew Dadiya, Abuja The African Development Bank (AfDB) Group has established a US$ 3 million Rockefeller Trust Fund, a joint effort of the Bank and The Rocke feller Foundation to help in spurring Africa’s transformation in agriculture and youth empowerment.

With this initial endowment, the Trust Fund will support the Bank’s activities particularly with regard to two of its High 5 priorities - under the Bank’s Feed Africa priority; it will support the Leadership for Agriculture (L4Ag) Platform.

The L4Ag is a platform for a network of Africa’s Finance and Agriculture ministers created by The Rockefeller Foundation; under the Bank’s ‘Improve the Quality of life for the People in Africa’ priority, it will support the Jobs for Youth for Africa Coding for Employment Programme, whose goal is to increase inclusive employment and entrepreneurship among Africa’s youth.

Subsequent contributions may also be received to support other areas of the High 5s, which include Light up & power Africa, Industrialize Africa and Integrate

Africa.

The Rockefeller Foundation works to promote the well-being of humanity throughout the world, and for more than a century has done this through strategic partnership with grantees and other likeminded organizations.

“The Rockefeller Foundation is proud of its long history of partnership with the African Development Bank, and is pleased to help establish the Rockefeller Trust Fund,” said Dr. Rajiv J. Shah, president of The Rockefeller Foundation.

The Trust Fund not only invests

in the capacity of Africa’s young people but also advances Africa’s Agriculture Transformation Agenda, helping to renew private-sector engagement and support innovative agriculture financing tools that will help Africa strengthen markets and ensure its food security.

The Trust Fund will complement AfDB’s efforts to catalyze Africa’s transformation over the next decade by leveraging its own resources and significantly scale up development finance for the benefit of its Regional Member Countries (RMCs).

National carrier: FG receives ICRCMRO, lease certification

By Idu Jude, Abuja In a an effort to deliver a promise made by the present administration, on acquiring National air career for the country, Minister of State for aviation Senator Hadi Sirika, on behalf of the Federal Government, received an MRO certification for archiving the feat.

The certificate, which is for the establishment of maintenance, refurbishing and overhauling of aircraft MRO, is one of the requirements for archiving the purpose.

Receiving the certificate in his office Monday, the Minister reiterated the Federal Government commitment to ensuring that its promise is met.

According to Senator Sirika, The Federal Government of Nigeria, on assumption of office had a clear vision and mission towards the aviation industry. “when we came in, the president gave a clear directive that we should make sure that things are turned around. Also the Federal executive Council, gave the approval and everything was according to the law, this made us wrote to ICRC to ensure quality project and since then, we have been working together to the best of our ability. This is because the body supervises, regulates. We however, went through process of the law under the guidance of the ICRC. The programme includes, all these include overhauling maintenance and refurbishing”.

Sirika, said that all the effort is to ensure that ground are prepared before the acquiring of a National career. He said that in order for the country, to save huge amount of money that such industry certification would be on ground as such will save cost from travelling abroad for maintenance.

Business News B2

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

e-Tranzact CEO, 2 directors forced to resign over alleged N11bn fraud Facts have emerged that the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Valentine Obi, and two executive directors, Sulivan Akala and Ike Eze of e-Transact have been asked to resign following allegations of N11 billion fraud perpetrated on its platform. e-Transact, an electronic payment platform, also saw the immediate termination of the appointment of the chief technology officer (CTO), Richard Omoniyi and chief operating officer, Kehinde Segun.

Information from a source very knowledgeable on the matter showed that the management were asked to resign following allegations of the fraud perpetrated on its platform by one Michael Obasuyi, CEO of Platinum MultiPurpose Cooperative Society

Limited against a major Nigerian bank.

Latest facts showed that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has appointed auditors from PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and Ernst & Young to go through the books of e-Tranzact.

The N11 billion fraud allegations comes from a petition written in March 2018 by Michael Osasogie Obasuyi, who is also the managing director of Smartmicro Systems Limited, to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against a mobile and electronic company provider.

It would be recalled that the EFCC in a statement in April 2018, disclosed that, the company implicated in the petition had also written a counter-petition against Smartmicro and Obasuyi, thereby

leading the Commission to begin investigations into the activities of Obasuyi.

Smartmicro was alleged to have approached the company in 2012 for the deployment of bulk purchase solution called “Corporatepay” to facilitate payment of salaries of Delta State employees in microfinance banks.

It was also alleged that the company configured an additional outbound fund transfer solution called “Fundgate” in 2017, which required Smartmicro to maintain a pre-funded settlement account with a first generation bank for settlement of account it had initiated.

Obasuyi later confessed to EFCC in his statement to the commission to having committed the crime, stating that he created fraudulent and imaginary monies through

the aid of Fundgate financial application from the company.

“Part of the money has been recovered,” the source told BusinessDay. The EFCC statement confirmed that the sums of N2,903,737,563.92, $37,992.87 and €18,538.09 found in Obasuyi’s accounts in various banks in the country were recovered.

“However, several watchers are also thinking that CBN has not been fair to e-Tranzact because they were not the perpetrator of the fraud.”

It also spotlights the question the CBN needs to address – what are the risk management frameworks in places like e-Tranzact, NIBSS, Interswitch and SystemSpecs?

This becomes necessary as the companies become big players whose misdeeds can have systemic impact on the economy.

SGF tasks MDAs, web managers on fresh contents Mathew Dadiya, Abuja The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha has directed Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and the web managers of Government websites to ensure that the contents are continually updated and kept up to date in line with the Open Government policy of President Muhammadu Buhari administration.

Mustapha gave the directive on Monday in his office during the official commissioning of the redesigned and upgraded website of the Office of the Government of the Federation (OSGF): http:// www.osgf.gov.ng, in Abuja.

He reiterated the commitment of the federal government to the full operation of the Freedom of Information Act to engender transparency, openness, engagement, and popular participation of the citizens in the governance process.

The SGF disclosed that the website cost N64 million including the cost of redesign, upgrading, purchase of new server, laptop computers and training of the web managers, adding that “the contract was duly approved by the Bureau of Public Procurement and certified by Nigeria Information Technology Deleopment Agency (NITDA) and Galaxy Backborne which is the host.

He emphasised that a major achievement in the redesign project was the revamped e-Participation platform for citizen participation

and engagement in governance, which has been integrated with the website.

The portal will allow citizens carry out the following: Request for information from Government; Submit an idea to Government; Lodge complaints to Government; Respond to Government; Report issues to Government; and Give compliments to Government.

He stated that the new website was in keeping with the need to lead Ministries Departments and

Agencies’(MDAs) compliance with the dictates of Executive Order 001 on the Ease of doing Business, particularly relating to the directive for MDAs to host a functional website.

He stressed that the functions and responsibilities of the Office Secretary to the Government of the Federation made it imperative for it to have a functional website that would deliver information about the structure, policy thrust and activities of the administration on

a daily basis.

According to SGF the upgraded OSGF website project therefore has the following three major components: Redesign and upgrade of OSGF website using newer technology platforms (Laravel and October CMS); Capacity development of Web Development Team (Webmasters), Web Content Providers for the Office, and Acquisition and installation of computer hardware.

Flight cancellation: Medview Airline debunks lawsuit by passengers Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo Medview Airline has stated that the airline is not aware of any law suit by passengers over cancellation of a flight on August 13, 2017.

The airline’s position is being made on heel of reports in the press that some passengers have gone to court over the said flight.

In an official statement issued yesterday and signed by Medview Airline media consult, Mr. Obuke Oyibotha, the airline said it is yet to be served any court papers from any quarters, adding:”we have not received any pre-litigation letters as the practice, much less of properly served court papers”.

“Sensationalization of impeding litigation in the press without recourse to us is tantamount to trial in the media, which is a grandiose to whip up public sentiments”, the statement said.

As a responsible organization, the airline pointed out that the company welcomes genuine complaints from passengers, and such complaints regarding flight cancellation, delays, missing baggage and refunds are handled in line with civil aviation laid down procedures as contained in Part 19 of Civil Aviation Act 2013.

The statement further reemphasised that Medview Airline is committed to its corporate value, which is the ability to succeed in providing the desired service for customers’ satisfaction and respect for individual clients.

L-R: Branch Leader, Jalingo, Fidelity Bank Plc, Kabir Abdulrahman; Principal, Precious Kids International School, James Ayagwa; Regional Bank Head (RBH), North East, Musa Tarimbuka; Commissioner, Urban & Regional Planning, Taraba State, Honourable Hassan Beppah; Her Excellency, Wife of the Governor of Taraba State, Barr. Anna Darius Ishaku and Head, CSR/Sustainability Banking, Fidelity Bank Plc, Chris Nnakwe, at the formal unveiling of special learning aids and other materials donated by Fidelity Bank to Precious Children School in Jalingo.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

B3 Money Stanbic IBTC Bank offers bundled-benefit banking services to enterprises

L-R: Ijeoma Anadozie, Associate Director Nigeria, Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (CIMA); Badibanga Badi Promesse, Regional Vice President, CIMA; Ismaila Zakari, President, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN); and Razak Jaiyeola, Vice President, ICAN; during an MoU signing ceremony between CIMA and ICAN in Abuja.

Why banks must deploy technology for regulatory changes, risk management Stories: Motolani Oseni Being one of the most regulated industries in the world, banks are under pressure to not only comply with constantly changing regulations but also to modernise their systems, Nigerian lenders have been urged to deploy technology in order to reduce compliance costs, improve efficiency and effectiveness in risk management processes.

Also, to stay competitive in the age of the FinTech, and be innovative on risk assessments during new product development, to better serve their customers. This assertion was made at the SAS Risk & Finance Analytics Roadshow in Lagos.

Speaking at the event, Charles Nyamuzinga, Senior Business Solutions Manager, Pre-Sales Risk Practice, SAS noted that banks in Africa face additional challenges, including risk analytics skills shortages, data management issues and integrating their risk management and finance processes across the enterprise.

But, on the positive side, they have started considering technology as a way of eliminating these challenges and have access to new streams of data that are also helping to advance the financial inclusion mandate.

SAS, a leading global analytics firm, as a technological partner for banking institutions has always played a proactive role in fostering innovation and transformation of processes and systems, from regulatory compliance to strategic decisions support, from digitisation to risk assessment in realtime and also providing analytics solutions allow banks to adapt more quickly to regulatory changes minimising costs.

Recent regulatory changes in the banking industry means that Banks across Africa should already be compliant with the new IFRS 9 accounting standard, which changes the way they calculate expected credit losses. There is also need to start thinking about the new ‘Basel IV’ framework, which impacts on how banks calculate their risk weighted assets and the amount of capital they need to offset those risks. Other issues which banks are currently grappling with include incorrect modelling

caused by data management and quality issues, skills shortages, drawing data from a number of disparate systems, credit loss calculations, and risk modeling amongst other issues.

With solutions like SAS’s Risk and Finance Platform, none of these challenges are major issues anymore.

Bundled with data management, risk calculations, scenario management and reporting capabilities, SAS solutions are easy to use through a simple dragand-drop or point-and-click interface.

From a single platform, Risk and

Finance departments can access the same datasets, populated with data that has been scrubbed, scrutinized and validated, perform calculations and produce reports, so that executives can make confident business decisions.

Banks can trust that the information they’re using to build their risk and credit models is reliable and that the reports they generate are automatically compliant with regulatory requirements and can easily adapt to regulatory changes as and when they happen.

Okpekpe race 2018: Organisers laud Ecobank support for youth devt in Africa The organisers of Okpekpe International 10 km Road Race, Pamodzi Sports Marketing, have lauded the consistent support of Ecobank Nigeria to the competition, saying the Bank has contributed immensely to the huge success recorded in the race.

Speaking during this year’s edition of the Road Race in Okpekpe, Edo State at the weekend, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Pamodzi Sports Marketing, Mike Itemuagbor stated that Ecobank has demonstrated that it is a firm supporter of youth and sports development in the continent, and Nigeria in particular, stressing that, the competition is attracting athletes from all over the continent. He used the opportunity to call on other corporate organizations in the country to support sports development initiatives.

“We commend Ecobank for partnering with us over the years in

organizing this race. It is engendering healthy competition among Africa youths. We wish to implore other corporate organizations to emulate Ecobank and support sports development initiatives,” he said.

In his comment, Managing Director, Ecobank Nigeria, Charles Kie reaffirmed the Bank’s support for the Road Race. Represented by Executive Director, Corporate Banking, Akin Dada, he noted that the objective of the organisers of the Race matches that of Ecobank and assured stakeholders that the Bank will continue to throw its weight behind the race as its Official Bank.

“I want to use this opportunity to state here that Ecobank fully endorse this competition and will like to assure you that we will continue to be associated with the Okpekpe International Road Race,” he said.

He commended the organisers for the elevation of the race by IAAF

to a silver label status, stressed that the competition brings together men and women from various parts of the world.

“I want to congratulate the organisers of the annual Okpekpe International 10Km Road Race for the elevation of the race to a silver labeled status. We in Ecobank remain committed to our partnership with Okpekpe road race. It is always a great pleasure to be at the event,” he stated.

Kenyan athletes made a clean sweep in the male category of the 10km Okpekpe road race as Kibet Alex, ran 29 min 46 seconds to come first, Simon Cheprot who won the 2016 edition came second finishing in 30.29 while Ronoh Timothy took third with a time of 30.39. In the female category Ethiopian Yani Dera Dida came firstr and was followed by two Kenyans , Tuei Sandra Chebey and Kipyokei Diana who came second and third respectively.

Stanbic IBTC Bank has introduced a new banking product that will help small and medium scale enterprises save on cost and optimize their Business margins/revenues. The product, Biz-Smart Account, enables enterprises open and operate the account without paying maintenance fees and other related charges.

Biz-Smart Account is a hybrid current naira account specially tailored to enterprises and offers the unique features of both a savings and current account. The account was developed to help Enterprises reduce to the barest minimum the cost of business, especially the ones that emanate from transactional accounts, Stanbic IBTC Bank says.

The account offers zero account maintenance fees and it attracts interest based on the available deposit on the account.

The account also gives the holder access to internet/mobile banking channels and access to MasterCard Naira Debit card.

Other benefits include third party cheque lodgment, setting up of direct debits or standing orders for regular bills payment and receiving transfers, amongst others.

This unique enterprise banking solution from Stanbic IBTC Bank is offered in two variants namely Biz-Smart account and Biz-Smart Plus account. The Biz-smart requires an opening balance of Sixty Thousand Naira and a daily minimum balance of Fifty Thousand Naira and enables the holder receive interest on their account. In addition to this, a maximum of four cash withdrawals is allowed at the branch.

However, there are no limits for transactions on e-channels (ATM, Web payment, Mobile Banking, POS and Internet Banking) so applicable transaction fees for using these channels would apply.

The Biz-Smart Plus on the other hand allows for monthly unlimited withdrawals but requires a minimum account opening balance of Five Hundred and Twenty Thousand Naira and a daily minimum account balance of Five Hundred Thousand Naira.

According to Acting Head, Enterprise Banking & Trade Finance, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Ayodele Ojosipe, “We recognize the importance and pivotal role of Enterprises in the growth and development of our economy.

Business Interview B 4

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

We are lagging behind in data processing – AIMAN where we were told not to expect the completion of the project even in 2016. That has come to pass. At the users end, i.e. in AIS nationwide the effect of the project is yet to be seen in our day to day operations. While we appreciate the progress so far made by the Ministry, NCAA and NAMA management in this regard, I use this opportunity once again to appeal to the Government of Nigeria to see that this project does not become an elephant project.

It must be noted that the international world is not going to wait for us. The world is now transiting to System Wide Information Management (SWIM) and November 2015 was the deadline for contracting states to implement Electronic Terrain and Obstacle Data (ETOD), which is far more expensive than the automation and Nigeria is yet to start this.

What is significant in the celebration of World Aeronautical Information Management Day? The first requirement for Standards and Recommended Practices for Aeronautical Information Services were first adopted by ICAO Council on 15 May 1953, pursuant to the provisions of Article 37 of the Convention on International Civil Aviation (Chicago 1944) and were designated as Annex 15 to the Convention.

Therefore, 15th May every year is the day gazetted to celebrate the Global AIS/AIM day.

Why the theme of this year’s celebration?

The theme for this years World AIS day The role of AIS/AIM in the cockpit is very essential for the successful transition from AIS to AIM in line with the latest amendment 40 to Annex 15, effective 16 July 2018 and applicable on 8 November 2018. The Aeronautical Information Management (AIM) concept presents ICAOs vision for the origination, management, sharing and integration of time-sensitive, digital aeronautical information between and among all members of the global Air Traffic Management (ATM) community in a safe, secure and efficient manner.

Today we live in a world in constant motion where time and information are becoming more precious. No one wants to lose a minute at doing nothing. It is by integrating this reality that ICAO is developing daily, the critical role of AIS/MAP to meet global challenges. The greatest challenges now lie with the Air Navigation Services Providers (NAMA), regulators (NCAA), aviation institutions especially NCAT to accelerate the rate of AIS development to keep abreast of the new requirements arising from global demands, as Nigeria cannot afford to continue to queue behind surrounding smaller African Countries.

You have been calling on government on the need to train and retrain your members. What is the situation now?

Training and re-training of AIS/AIM personnel is critical to the successful actualization of the changes taking place with the transition from AIS to AIM, which involves operational shift from manual operations to automated processes and data is easily and quickly exchanged. We therefore employ the management of NCAT, NCAA and NAMA to embark on effective training and retraining of AIS staff and instructors to meet the present day technological

Tony Okpanachi

The immediate past President of Aeronautical Information Management Association of Nigeria (AIMAN) Babatunde Shittu is not happy with the slow pace of migrating from Aeronautical Information Services to Aeronautical Information Management, years after other countries have transited to System Wide Information Management development.

Licensing of your personnel is very important, what is the stage of licensing of AIS /AIM? Licensing of AIS/AIM personnel is worthy of higher consideration by the state now than ever, due to the critical nature of the data we handle. We need to be responsible to our data. This can be achieved by licensing of AIS/ AIM staff which will in the long run improve our productivity.

What is responsible for the delay

‘ ,

in the automation of AIS? The automation of AIS. ICAO has since 1998 sensitized all contracting state on the need for the services of AIS to be automated. Ever since 1998 in Nigeria we have been hearing and reading on the pages of the newspapers of AIS automation and it is yet to be completed. In the last 5 years, a lot of progress has been made in this regard. Before now, fund has been the recurrent impediment of this project. However, since 2016, the story has changed. In my address in 2015 I said I happened to attend a seminar

I believe we all know the danger this can cause to the morale of staff in a critical sensitive organization like ours especially the flying public

So, what are the challenges faced by your association in the discharge of their duties?

For us as an Association, we have challenges, real challenges. I thank God for our progress so far though there is more room for improvement. let us be hard working and patient. I tell you all our challenges shall be a thing of the past.

There is need for NAMA management to upgrade and fill the vacancies in AIS and Aero. Charts Services organogram. It is with dismay that we would like to note that the official structure of NAMA appears to be lopsided with regards to the management of AIS and Aero Chart Services departments in the organization. Seniority is no longer a consideration for acting appointment.

I believe we all know the danger this can cause to the morale of staff in a critical sensitive organization like ours especially the flying public. The Organogram of AIS and Aero Chart Services show that there are positions that exist which can be filled by a crop of experienced AIS officers that are currently available in the system. This will help to stabilize the departments particularly when the AIS Automation is on ground.

Why did you decide to launch your book on AIS day and what is the idea behind it?

The launching of a book on AIS/ AIM titled Aeronautical Information Management: the pivot of safety in aviation (Nigeria in Perspective). The idea behind this book is to contribute my quota in creating the awareness of this great profession to the general public for different purposes. I hope that will be achieved.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

B5 CRS

CMC Connect BursonMarsteller wins Gold SABRE awards

L-R: President, Association of Bureaux De Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON) Alhaji Aminu Gwadabe; Executive Secretary, ABCON, Uduma Cletus and an official of Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) at the end of a three-day joint training/sensitization programme on anti-money laundering and terrorist financing organised by ABCON and NFIU at the ABCON Secretariat, in Ikeja Lagos…recently

Why CSR differ from countries of the world Stories: Godwin Anyebe Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) can be viewed as a global governance mechanism.

Understanding CSR from this perspective is useful for realising why civil society and government are interested in CSR. The view of CSR as a global governance mechanism emerges from the global transnational institutions that developed in the twentieth century, such as the United Nations, the International Labour Organisation, The World Bank and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), together with international treaties and agreements negotiated by governments and non-government organisations. These institutions and arrangements are designed to create international order around the pillars of democracy, respect for human rights, and economic development.

Checks reveal that, the world’s failures to redress poverty and abuses of human rights and the need to assure equitable benefits from trade liberalisation have driven the rise of the CSR concept among these organisations. This explains the plethora of initiatives at this level such as the UN’s Bruntdland Commission which popularised the notion of sustainable development and the proliferation of over 300 different codes and guidelines related to corporate social responsibility.

Despite the development in the area of CSR, an issue such as, CSR is not the same in meaning in all countries of the world still arises. While some analysts believe that CSR is the same in meaning across the world, others are of the view that corporate social responsibility is the same. They however, relate their argument to a lot of differences between countries, their specific contexts and cultural factors, Reacting to this issue, an Expert in CSR, Adewale Okoya told Daily Times that, it is a matter of semantics. Though, he said that the fundamental definition of CSR may be the same across the world, the approach to CSR is not the same at all. For instance, he continued, in countries like Nigeria, CSR should

be taught at colleges and universities to make students aware of the nature and role of CSR in development. They must know that companies exist in societies and should give back a lot to society through effective CSR initiatives. An accreditation mechanism should be put in place for companies through an independent agency for mainstreaming and institutionalizing CSR in the main business framework of the companies.

According to him, “CSR has the same meaning in the balance of economic, social and environmental issues. The principle of sustainability is the same everywhere but each country has differente peculiarities that request several approaches in practices. In my opinion, after globalization, all countries need to develop a common framework in respect to standards. Obviously triple

bottom line shows different shade in different macro-regions. However the highest values of CSR have to be the same for all countries, but with policies dedicated to the country’s specific emerging issues.”

“There are great differences in financial reporting patterns among countries, even given similar reporting frameworks. These patterns depend on a host of factors, like the legal and economic environment and the adherence to internationally recognized reporting guidance, to mention just the few. Therefore, I would assume that CSR would also differ.”

Also speaking, a public affairs commentator, Pwano Maxwell said; More recently, scholars have argued by reference to the experience of

well-known companies such as Shell and Motorola, that the corporation be understood as an entity with the purpose of creating wealth in all forms for its stakeholders. Wealth is broadly defined as “the cumulative result of corporate performance over time, including all of the assets, competencies and revenue-generating capacities developed by the firm”. By attending to the interests and issues of a wider set of stakeholders, corporations can maximise their intangible assets such as relationships, goodwill, reputation, trust and opportunities for innovation.” “building on a stakeholder view of the firm, management gurus Michael Porter and Mark Kramer introduced the concept of “shared value” in Harvard Business Review in 2011.

SERAS-CSR awards: Africa calls for 2018 entry The organizers of the Sustainability, Enterprise and Sustainability awards, otherwise known as The SERAS CSR Awards have announced the call for entry for the 2018 edition. The 2018 edition would be the 12th edition of the awards which first held in 2007.

Over the years, The SERAS international positioning as the most glamorous, biggest and the most credible on the continent has taken further leap with the participation of organisations from Nigeria, Angola, Uganda, South Africa, Kenya, Botswana and Ghana amongst others. By 2017, the annual award had recorded its highest numbers in participation- 130 top organisations and 41 small and medium scale enterprises- making a total of 171 organisations that have taken part in the jostled for the gold standard award in CSR and sustainability in Africa.

The theme for this year is-Poverty Eradication through Sustainability: ‘Turning Challenges into

Opportunities.’

In a statement made available to newsmen recently in Lagos, the founder of the awards, Ken Egbas, “the number 12 is a combination of two numbers; 1 stands for ‘staying positive’ and 2 which connotes ‘keeping the faith.’

“From inception till date we have remained positive that the objective we set out to achieve, which is- to lead the drive towards actualization of the sustainable development goals in Africa by enabling a platform that promotes, measures and harmonizes the contributions of private sector, governments/public sector and nongovernmental organizations to attain set targets- would be met sooner than later.

“We have not arrived at this point where the platform has come to enjoy international recognition on our own, but through support and participation by multilevel organizations that share our dreams and aspirations of ensuring that Africa shines the light on

the path of sustainable development and becomes a global example of how to meet the sustainable development goals by working together.”

The organizers also announced two new award categories besides the others in the line of the 17 sustainable development goals namely- No poverty; zero hunger; good health & well-being; quality education; gender equality; clean water & sanitation; affordable & clean energy; decent work & economic growth; industry, Innovation & Infrastructure; reduced in-equalities; ustainable cities & communities; responsible consumption & production; climate action; life below water; life on land; peace & justice & strong Institutions; Partnership for all goals Entry for these awards open on April 26th and close on July 20th, 2018. Interested organizations are expected to log onto website to participate in the process.

The award ceremony shall hold on November 9th, 2018 at Eko hotel, Lagos.

CMC Connect BursonMarsteller, a premier perception management consulting firm, won 2018 Gold SABRE Award for Public Relations campaign in the public sector/government category at the just concluded 30th African Public Relations Association’s annual conference held in Gaborone, Botswana.

The SABRE Awards is the largest continental awards competition for the public relations industry hosted by the Holmes Report in different continents to celebrate PR campaigns that demonstrate the highest level of creativity, integrity and effectiveness.

The annual award organized by the Holmes Report in collaboration with APRA recognizes Superior Achievement in Branding Reputation and Engagement (SABRE).

Commenting on the award, the Executive Director of CMC Connect Limited, Mr. Raheem Olabode, said the award reflects CMC Connect’s passion for public relations in providing solutions to clients’ businesses. “As a key player in the PR industry, our aim is to provide strategy-driven solutions to its clients’ issues and help them tell compelling stories with creative ideas and content” he said.

“We are committed to help our clients win, drive their businesses through PR and the SABRE Award is a testament to our problem-solving PR strategies rendered to all our clients”, he added.

The Group Managing Director of CMC Connect Limited and APRA President, Mr. Yomi BadejoOkusanya who was also re-elected as the President of African Public Relations Association (APRA), for another two-year tenure at the conference, while delivering his key note address, urged all PR practitioners to embrace data analytics, research and training to boost content quality as a key factor in all development when telling the African story.

He emphasized on the need for Public Relations and Communication practitioners to comply with the highest ethical standards of practice, accountability, transparency, probity and uphold industry reputation in telling their stories.

President Muhammadu Buhari also congratulated Mr. BadejoOkusanya for his re-election as APRA President. In a statement signed by his spokesman, Garba Shehu, Buhari commended other Nigeria PR firms, Red Media and PR Nigeria, which also won awards at the event.

“On Badejo-Okusanya’s reelection, President Buhari believes that the PR guru’s positive, inspiring and remarkable works in public relations over the years, have indeed made him to stand out as a national, continental and global icon.

“The President noted that the endorsement of the MD/CEO, CMC Connect by his peers in Botswana is an expression of confidence that under his watch, public relations practice in Africa has come of age, despite all odds, and is adding value in developing the continent.

Capital Market B 6

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, April 22, 2018

NSE: ASI sheds 0.21% on first trading day The equity market began this week’s trading session in red, shedding 0.12 per cent. The market recorded 26 gainers companies as against 22 losers, with the All Share Index (ASI) dropped 47.38 absolute points, to close at 40,472.45 points.

Also, the Market Capitalization depreciated by N17.16 billion, representing a dip of 0.12 per cent to close at N14.64 trillion.

The downturn was impacted by losses recorded in medium and large capitalized stocks, amongst which are; OANDO

(-3.03%), FLOURMILL (-2.72%), FBNH (-2.71%), ACCESS (-1.83%), UBA (-1.31%), GUARANTY (-1.14%), STANBIC (-0.92%) FBNH (-0.45%), and DANGFLOUR (-0.47%).

Of the five major sectoral indices, three (Consumer goods +0.13%, Industrial +0.28% and Oil&Gas +0.52%) closed in positive territory while the two financial based sectors (Banking -0.21% and insurance -0.86%) declined.

Unity bank led the list of stocks with the highest gains, following a growth of 8.5 percent to close at N1.02 per share,

while NEMt dropped 4.91 percent to top the day’s losers, closing the day with a share price of N2.52 per share.

Making it to the top five traded stocks were Afrinsure with the exchange of 90 million shares valued at N18.7 million, Fidelity Bank’s 21.9 million shares exchanged at N48.9 million, and Diamond Bank’s 20.5 million shares worth N33.2 million. Guaranty Trust Bank and Access Bank also made the list with an exchange of 15.2 million shares and 11.5 million shares worth N664.9 million and N123.6 million respectively.

The total amount of stock traded in 4,052 deals amounted to 271.3 million units. They were valued at N2.3 billion.

As share prices trade at relatively low levels, United capital researchers are of the opinion that investors will begin a hunt for bargains, amid anticipation of economic data.

They said, “In terms of liquidity profile, N267.0bn maturing bills are expected to hit the system this week. Also, we expect market activities to be largely determined by decisions made at the MPC meeting as speculations of policy easing mounts.”

L-R: Group Marketing Head, Sona Group, Devanshu Seth; Sales/Marketing Manager, Sandeep Sharma; Chairman, Sona Group of Industries; A K Mirchandani; COO, Ashok Manghnani and Head of Modern Trade, Pradeep Sharma, all of Sona Group at the just concluded Food West Africa in Lagos.

Transactions at NSE decline by 22% in April Total transactions at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) decreased by 22.11 percent from N272.48 billion recorded in March 2018 to N212.23 billion (about $0.70 billion) in April 2018.

The reduction in transactions was fuelled majorly by the domestic investors as, total domestic transactions reduced by 36.05 percent from N140.27 billion in March to N89.70 billion in April 2018.

Although foreign transactions also reduced, foreign investors outperformed domestic investors by 15.48 percent in April 2018. The reduction in foreign transactions was by 7.32 percent from N132.21 billion to N122.53 billion within the same period.

There was a 7.79 percent decrease in foreign inflows from N69.71 billion in March 2018 to N64.28 billion in April 2018.

Foreign outflows also reduced by 6.8 percent from N62.50 billion to N58.25 billion within the same period.

The monthly NSE domestic and FPI report for April however, revealed that cumulative transactions from January to April increased by 114.22 percent from N509.38 billion recorded in 2017 to N1.091 trillion in 2018.

The institutional composition of the domestic market reduced by 49.04 percent from N91.27 billion in March to N46.51 billion in April 2018. The retail composition also decreased by 11.86 percent from N49 billion to N43.19 billion within the same period, still signalling a higher participation of institutional investors over their retail counterparts.

PenCom plans micro pension for small firm employees, sole proprietors The National Pension Commission (PenCom), has disseminated a draft framework for micro pension plan (Framework) for stakeholders’ consideration and comments, Deloitte has revealed.

According to the report from Deloitte, the Framework seeks to extend pension coverage to employees of organisations with less than three employees and self-employed persons (Micro Pension Contributors) in accordance with the provisions of Section 2(3) of the Pension Reform Act 2014 (PRA).

“Upon implementation, the Framework will ensure provision of retirement

benefits to the Micro Pension Contributors (MPCs) through clearly spelt out guidelines on operational modalities for the Micro Pension Plan (the Plan).

In addition to the operational modalities, the Framework also proposes strategies for securing participation in the Plan and minimum requirements for participation by licensed pension fund administrators and custodians.

Key highlights of the Framework include: Participation shall be by registration and completion of the Retirement Savings Account (RSA) Opening form.

-The minimum registration age is 18 years but persons from

15 years may participate subject to approval by the guardian.

In recognition of the peculiarities of the sector, the report notes that MPCs are entitled to some incentives which include: Access to a portion of their RSA balance – 25 per cent of contributions made shall be available for contingent withdrawal before “retirement age”. The remaining 75 per cent shall be managed exclusively for retirement benefits upon retirement – under extant rules. The withdrawal options are programmed withdrawal and life annuity; possibility of minimum pension guarantee, subject to compliance with certain provisions as prescribed

by PenCom; and -access to other incentives as may be approved

by PenCom. Remittance of contributions may be made daily, weekly, monthly or as may be convenient to the MPC. Such contributions can be made in Naira via cash deposit, electronically or any CBN approved payment platform.

Subject to PENCOM’s approval, RSA holders (under the general regime), who are no longer in employment and yet to draw pension, may convert and participate in the Plan. In the same vein, MPCs could move to the general contributory scheme.

Licenced Pension Fund

Administrators and Custodians are the only participants allowed and they are obliged to render periodic returns on the operations of the Plan.

Before the Framework is finalised, Deloitte advises stakeholders to send inputs and review comments to mppguidelines@pencom.gov. ng, to enable PenCom proceed with the next phase of the implementation.

It is expected that once the Framework is finalised and rolled out for full implementation, there would be increased voluntary participation in the Contributory Pension Scheme by the informal sector.”

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

B7 Money Market Fidelity Bank commended for learning aids gesture to children with disabilities

Founder/Chair of the Holmes Group, Paul Holmes; Executive Director, CMC Connect Burson Marsteller, Mr. Raheem Olabode and APRA President/Group Managing Director, CMC Connect Limited Mr. Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, receiving the Holmes Report Continental SABRE Awards in Gaborone, Botswana...on Monday.

CIBN boss identifies 5 areas to address banking sector challenges Stories: Motolani Oseni As part of efforts in addressing challenges in the banking sector, the new President and Chairman of council, the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Dr. Uche Olowu has identified five key areas that his administration will focus on.

The five strategic areas he highlighted include rules & standards; skills and competences; research & advocacy; technology & resources and brand & visibility.

Speaking at the institute investiture in Lagos during the weekend, the CIBN 20th president pointed out that the institute fiduciary role is being threatened if urgent intervention

is not employed.

He explained the newly members of the institute will purse initiatives that is expected to propel the institute forward, building on the noble achievements.

According to him, “The banking industry is contending with multiple challenges occasioned by regulations, disruptive models and technologies as well as new competitions and of frightening dimensions is the inadequate skills sets and competencies across the banks.

“Furthermore the recent financial crisis also presented an unwholesome picture of poor risk management and corporate governance practices, knowledge gaps in critical core banking functions and non-adherence

to professional standards occasioned mainly by the failure of the larger society to address the challenge of eroding values.

Our fiduciary role is being threatened if urgent intervention is not employed.

“In the face of these challenges, financial institutions notwithstanding must pursue strategies that seek out to balance long-term goals with short term performance pressures for sustainable growth.“Our Institute must rise to the occasion and provide the much needed succor. The challenges provide an opportunity for us to make a difference. We shall be guided by the principles upon which our great Institute is established as vividly captured by the provision of Sec 3 (d) of The

Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria Act No 5 of 2007 which states inter alia “…. ensure the furtherance, maintenance and observation of ethical standards and professionalism among practitioners of the banking industry”.

“We will pursue initiatives that will propel the institute forward, building on the noble achievements and legacies of our predecessors. We will engage the relevant and competent stakeholders to ensure that our Institute is contemporary, forward-thinking and future oriented always evaluating for relevance. We shall be guided by the kind advice of John F. Kennedy that “conformity is the jailer of freedom and the enemy of growth.”

Ecobank drives financial inclusion among youth Ecobank Nigeria has commenced a youth engagement program in tertiary institutions across Nigeria as part of efforts to deepen financial inclusion by banking the youth.

The initiative, themed ‘Ecobank Xpress Campus Storm’ will avail students of tertiary institutions the opportunity to open the Ecobank Xpress account, a digital account that requires no documentation, minimum balance or paperwork, simply by downloading the Ecobank Mobile app. With the Ecobank Xpress account, students will be able to access financial services such as airtime top up, funds transfer and bill payment from their mobile devices. Parents and Guardians will also be able to transfer money to their children or wards‘ Xpress accounts

which they can withdraw without a card at any Ecobank ATM or Xpress Point.

The first phase of this initiative will cover 24 universities, polytechnics and colleagues of education across the country.

Flagging off the program, Carol Oyedeji, Executive Director Consumer Banking, Ecobank Nigeria, said the activation is to empower young people by offering them convenient, affordable and accessible financial services anytime, anywhere from their mobile.

She reiterated that it was in line with the bank’s strategy to make banking available to the hitherto unbanked and underbanked in support of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s financial inclusive drive.

According to Mrs. Oyedeji, “This initiative

is one of the ways we are connecting with the youth segment. We will set up free WiFi centres tagged the ‘Xpress Corner’ across these campuses and there are opportunities for the students to win exciting prizes during the activation. We will also hold concerts with major artistes as a means of infusing fun into the program” Institutions listed for the campus storm include University of Lagos, Akoka; Yaba College of Technology, Yaba; University of Benin, Benin City; Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife; University of Nigeria, Nsukka; Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta; University of Abuja and University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom, among others.

Fidelity Bank Plc, in its bid to enhance the lives and well-being of children with disabilities, has donated special learning aids to Precious Kids International School in Jalingo, Taraba State.

The Bank under the auspices of the ‘Fidelity Helping Hands Programme’ (FHHP), its multi-purpose vehicle for corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme, also provided stationery and writing materials to the children as part of continuous efforts to improve the standard of education in the country.

The project was initiated by staff of Jalingo Branch whose personal contributions were matched by the bank; in line the bank’s CSR philosophy.

Speaking in Jalingo during the ceremony, Fidelity Bank CEO, Nnamdi Okonkwo, said the bank recogniszes the importance of education as a powerful tool for socioeconomic transformation.

Okonkwo, who was represented by the Regional Bank Head, North East, Musa Tarimbuka, said: “Today, we are here to impact the lives of our young ones; some of whom who are visually impaired and have speaking and hearing impediments. It is our hope that the donation of educational materials to precious Kid International School Jalingo will aid effective teaching and learning in the school.”

Wife of the Governor of Taraba State, Anna Darius Ishaku, who was the Special Guest of Honour at the event, thanked the bank for its kind gesture.

She also commended the Fidelity staff who contributed their personal funds for the project.

Whilst calling on other corporate organisations to emulate Fidelity Bank and give back to society, the Taraba State First Lady expressed confidence that the materials will help develop the mental abilities of the students and help raise a new generation of Nigerian youths.

The Principal of the School, James Ayagwa, also thanked the Bank for the kind gesture, stating that the materials were quite timely and much needed.

Meanwhile, doing social good is a culture at Fidelity Bank, said the bank’s Head of Corporate Social Responsibility & Sustainability, Chris Nnakwe.

According to him, “being socially responsible was the most effective way to bring about change in any society and we all have roles to play as individuals and corporate citizens”.

Still in Taraba State, the bank earlier in the year, equipped the School Library of the Excellences International School and also erected an electronic bill board for them.

This gesture has contributed to improving the reading and research culture of the school.

Labour B 8

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Reps plan to sell FG’s share of NLNG delights PENGASSAN Stories: Joy Obakeye The House of Representatives has received appraisal from the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), following its decision on the proposed sale of the Federal Government’s shares in Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG).

PENGASSAN National Public Relations Officer Comrade Fortune Obi said the government should retain its share ownership in

the company.

He described the NLNG model as the best option, saying it should be replicated in other government failed ventures, such as the refineries and others.

According to Obi, NLNG is one of the mostsuccessful ventures that Nigeria has embarked upon since its inception.

He noted that the losses that would accrue from the sale of the NLNG far outweighed its gains; adding that the rather than selling the

asset, there are other options the government could adopt to resuscitate the economy.

The PENGASSAN spokesperson said about 18,000 jobs would be affected if the proposed plan were carried out, adding that the government should explore other options to fund the economy rather than selling a viable company like NLNG, which dividends were used to kickstart and finance the economy when Nigeria was in recession.

“NLNG has bailed out Nigeria when the

country was in recession as proceeds from its dividends were used to finance the economy.

Those investors who were clamouring for the FG to sale her shares in NLNG should find another means of injecting their resources into the economy instead of buying a successful company.

“In the alternative, they should set up their own LNG project and help the country in utilising its large gas reserves as well as eradicating gas flaring in the country,” he said.

NUPENG wants FG to declare emergency on roads

Minister of Labour and Employment, Sen. Chris Ngige (left), during the receipt the report of the National Productivity Order of Merit Award committee from the Chairman, Ikechi Uko in Abuja on Monday.

Delay in budget passage, shows lack of seriousness from lawmakers - NECA The Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA) has described late passage of the 2018 budget and previous budgets, as a show of unseriousness on the part of the lawmakers.

NECA, however, urged the National Assembly to put a sense of urgency into budget passing, in order not to drag the nation into a state of inertia.

NECA Director-General Mr. Segun Oshinowo said in Lagos that the development could drag the nation into a state of inertia.

“It appears to have become a tradition in this democratic dispensation for the budget to be unduly delayed, thereby plunging the economy into a state of inertia, particularly in the first quarter of the year.

“This is chiefly because the delay in the passage of the budget would make implementation of the capital expenditure component of the budget for the year an uphill task and these capital expenditure components are needed for sustainable economic growth as against our

present growth rate that is premised on improved oil production and increase in crude oil prices in the international market.”

Oshinowo described the budget as a vital compass expected to give stakeholders information on the likely flow of the economy as well as income and expenditure in a given year.

He said the budget is an indicator that helps domestic and foreign investors and businesses to plan their economic activities, decisions, projects and expenditures for the year.

He noted that while Nigeria might be said to be out of recession, as long as the economy is still tied to the apron strings of irrational global oil prices and the country is unable to shore up the foreign reserves significantly, it will take a while to really come out of recession.

Oshinowo said Nigeria had done well by ratifying the ILO Convention on Child Labour.

“But, beyond that, we need to domesticate this convention that we have ratified and then declare in our mind what the implementation strategy

should be, and I think that is where the problem is.

Over the years, with the support of the ILO, quite a number of initiatives have been commenced in Nigeria to reduce child labour.

“As an employers’ group, we served on the tripartite committee, which the Ministry of Labour has set up to be on top of this matter.

“Though we cannot acknowledge various challenges we have in trying to reduce the incidence of child labour, unlike the developed world, where the formal economy is larger than the informal economy, in our own case, the informal economy is much larger than the formal and you have the incidence of child labour being more preservative in the informal sector of the economy.

“Unfortunately, the workers’ organisations are shunning the insignificant figure in extending its tentacles to the informal sector, neither has the ministry of labour been able to actually spread its inspectorate machinery to really be on top of the situation.”

The National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has urged the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on roads. The measure, it said, would end carnage on them and ease road transportation.

NUPENG President Comrade Williams Akporeha, made the call during the fourth Quadrennial Delegates Conference of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers’ Branch of NUPENG in Abuja.

He said: “We know the present regime has been working hard to properly fix our highways, yet, a lot still have to be done. In the light of this, we earnestly call on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on Nigerian roads to attract urgent attention, as no economy thrives without good roads and effective transportation system.”

On the state of NUPENG, Akporeha said: “As you are also aware that the strength of any trade union organisation is in the numerical number of its membership, our recruitment and operational activities will be geared toward organising more members into the union.

“Aside increasing the membership strength of the union, it is also in our plan of action to diversify and increase the number of sources of income for the union.

“We plan to leverage our strength and opportunities in the downstream sector to achieve these, by providing key services in the industry, such as having mega filling stations across the country and building ultra-modern petroleum tanker parks in every zone of the union.

“We have all these noble and lofty ideas and dreams; it is our firm belief, that with the unrelenting support of petroleum tanker drivers, they are achievable within the time lines we set.’’

He continued: “We urge you to continue to support us as we promise to run a union that is accountable, transparent and have high regards for members and branches. The theme of this conference is very apt and topical because, as you already know, road is one of the major working conditions for every tanker driver.

“An average petroleum tanker driver, who is actively on the wheel, spends most parts of his working life on the road traversing from one loading location to several discharging locations, all to get the economy of our nation going. His safety, health, prosperity, promotion, effectiveness and even life-expectancy depend almost on the state of road infrastructure,” Akporeha added.

The Law

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Judicial officers can’t face trial without NJC’s input – CCT

AGF Abubakar Malami

Member, CCT, Hon. William Atedze

IN THE CODE OF CONDUCT TRIBUNAL HOLDING AT ABUJA CHARGE NO. CCT/ ABJ / 01/ 2017 BETWEEN FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA - COMPLAINANT/ RESPONDENT SYLVESTER NWALI NGWUTA - DEFENDANT/APPLICANT. RULING ON MOTION DATED 9th JANUARY,2018.

FACTS Justice Nwali Sylvester Ngwuta, the fourth in rank of the justices of the Supreme Court of Nigeria was one of the judges whose residences were raided in October 2016 by the Department of State Service (DSS). The agency recovered huge sums of money- cash in various denominations from his residence.

Consequently, he was charged and later arraigned before the Federal High Court, Abuja.

Justice Ngwuta was then put on trial on an amended 16 count criminal charge bordering on money laundering and passport fraud.

While, the trial was ongoing, the Attorney General of the Federation filed a 10 -count charge of misconduct against him at the Code of Conduct Tribunal. In the charge, Justice Ngwuta was accused of trading in the purchase and sale of rice, palm oil and other related products, while being a Justice of the Supreme Court. He was also accused of not declaring some of his assets including 28 plots of land, five cars and huge sums of money that was found in his house, on the asset declaration form which he submitted to the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), between June 2, 2011 and July 19, 2016.

The Federal Government alleged that Justice Ngwuta contravened Section 15 of Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria. The alleged offence is punishable under Section 23 (2) of the Act. Justice Ngwuta denied the charges and the prosecution opened his case. While the case dragged on, the defendant counsel Kanu Agabi (SAN), brought an application challenging the jurisdiction of the Tribunal to hear the suit on the ground that Justice Ngwuta is a judicial officer whose alleged misconduct ought to have been heard and determined by the National Judicial Council (NJC).

DEFENDANT & COMPLAINANT ARGUMENTS The defendant / applicant filed a motion pursuant to Section 158(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended ) and under the inherent jurisdiction of this Honourable Tribunal requesting for an order of the Tribunal dismissing the suit for lack of jurisdiction. The ground upon which the application is predicated are: 1. That the defendant is a serving Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria hence a judicial officer within the contemplation and purview of Section 318 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

2. That by the combined effect of Section 158 (1)of the Constitution and Paragraph 21(b) of the 3td Schedule to the Constitution, any complaint or allegations of misconduct against the defendant / applicant must first be referred to the National Judicial Council, a body constitutionally established to exercise disciplinary control over the applicant.

3. That the allegation as contained in the present charge against the defendant/ applicant was never referred to and or determined by the National Judicial Council prior to the institution of this criminal charge by the complainant/respondent.

4. That the Court of Appeal in a recent decision in the matter of Hon. Justice Ngajiwa vs. FRN (2017) LPER - 43391(CA) held that no criminal investigation can be initiated or instituted in any court of law or tribunal against a judicial officer for judicial misconduct without first presenting such allegations to the National Judicial Council for a determination as the case many be.

5. That therefore, the combined effect of Section 158(1)CFRN 1999(as amended), paragraph 21(b)of the 3rd Schedule to the Constitution and the decision of the Court of Appeal in Ngajiwa vs FRNB (supra)on the present charge is that it is incompetent as it violates the Constitution; it therefore be dismissed.

That the complainant / respondent in his opposition to the motion on notice, through their counsel A.O. Mohammed (SAN),did filed a written address in opposition to the motion, the written address was dated 16th February, 2018.

The complainant/ respondent felt it was unnecessary to file a counter affidavit but rather choose to respond to issues of law as raised in the defendant/applicant’s motion as follows: 1. That the defendant/applicant’s motion is incompetent for failure to present all

Justice of Supreme Court, Justice Sylvester Ngwuta

relevant materials necessary for the effective determination of the motion. That is ,that the defendant/ applicant relied primarily on the unreported decision of the Court of Appeal in Ngajiwa v. FRN (supra).

2. In the alternative, he submitted that this Honourable Tribunal is vested with exclusive, original and unqualified jurisdiction to hear and determine the charges preferred against the defendant/ applicant.

3. That the Code of Conduct Tribunal is one of the Federal Executive Bodies established under the 3rd Schedule of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended),making it wholly independent of any interference and not subordinate to any other body in the performance of its functions.

4. The learned senior counsel for the prosecution also sought to rely on paragraph 5. Part 11 of the Fifth Schedule of the Constitution which subjects the defendant/applicant to the jurisdiction of this Honourable Tribunal i.e., “ public officers for the purpose of the Code of Conduct” as listed in paragraph 5 which includes the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justices of the

hence a judicial officer within the contemplation and purview of Section 318 of the Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).”

Going further to the contention by the learned senior counsel for the prosecution that the defendant is arraigned in his capacity as a public officer and not as a judicial officer, and therefore liable to trial before the Honourable Tribunal without first reference to the National Judicial Council: this in my opinion ,is not tenable. This is because the defendant is a public officer because he is a judicial officer. In order words, it is his judicial cloak that makes him a public officer, and not the other way round. Not all public officers are judicial officers. Thus, he is first a judicial officer which then translates into a public officer, and any matter that will affects him as a public officer will automatically be weighed in how it affects him as a judicial officer. Thus, we are most reluctant to align with the reasoning of the learned senior counsel for the prosecution that a difference actually exists between the defendant/ applicant identity as a judicial officer, and as a public officer.

Pursuant to the immediate forgoing, I am persuade by the argument of the defendant/ applicant in paragraph 4.1 of his written address that as a serving judicial officer, he is under the Management ,control and discipline of the National Judicial Council ,a body whose independence from external control or interference is constitutionally provided for by Section 158(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). This means that any allegation of official misconduct will first have to be referred to the National Judicial Council to the exclusion of any other body ,court or tribunal.

Further it is observed that the prosecution who queried the veracity of the adoption of the case of Ngajiwa vs FRN as a precedent, further contradicted himself by alluding to the possibility that should the matter be appealed to the Supreme Court for final determination ,that the apex court may adopt his line of argument. This in other words means that the prosecution is desirous of selecting only precedents that favour his case. But this can not be so. Judicial precedents are all binding , for as long as it is subsisting. And until such precedent is overturned by the higher court, it remains a force. One can not be choosy of which precedent to adopt, and which not to, or to speculate on possible out come of a question of law., and thus, seek to adopt it , as persuasive in a legal argument.

In resolving the issue raised by parties in this application, it is hereby held that the defendant/ applicant ,though a public officer ,is also a judicial officer, and subject first to the discipline and management of the National Judicial Council. This is in line with Section 158(1)of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). Paragraph 21(b)of part 1 of the 3rd Schedule of the1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and the decision of Court of Appeal in the case of Ngajiwa vs FRN (supra), which form a precedent binding on this Tribunal ,our hands are therefore tied in the light of the aforesaid decision.

Based on the above, the application of the defendant/ is found merited and hereby granted.

TIMES LAW REPORT

Supreme Court and all other judicial officers and staff of courts of law. The learned senior counsel for the prosecution further added that any erring judicial officer standing trial before the Code of Conduct Tribunal is being tried as a public officer and not as a judicial officer.

RULING Having read and digested the arguments made by both parties in their pleadings filed before this Honourable Tribunal. I will hence address the relevant issues raised by both parties and resolve same according to law.

Concerning the question of the defendant/ applicant failing to exhibit a copy of the Court of Appeal judgement relied upon in the pending application such failure to exhibit is not fatal to to the application. This is trite law, irrespective of whether the aforesaid Judgment is already reported or not, as contended by both parties. The contention, in my view, is not necessary or relevant because, whether reported or not, it remains a matter that the Tribunal is bound to take judicial notice of , and where the Tribunal deem it necessary, may request a copy for its assessment but where the Tribunal doesn’t make such request, then it is automatically bound to take judicial notice of it.

This is the law as stated in S. 122(1)m.(2) (3) of the Evidence Act 2011. I therefore hold the view that the defendant applicant’s non- exhibition of the judgment does not vitiate admissibility under the doctrine of judicial notice which courts are enjoined to accord notice. Thus, the judgment of the Court of Appeal in the case of Ngajiwa vs. FRN (supra),falling under S. 122 (1)m of the Evidence Act 2011, is a matter that the Tribunal must take judicial notice of. We are further persuaded by the Court’s reasoning in the case of FRN vs Sylvester Nwali Ngwuta with charge No FHC / ABJ/ CR/232/2016, as per J.T. Tsoho of Federal High Court delivered on the 23rd March ,2018 wherein it was held inter alia ,that: “That applicant is a serving Justice of the Supreme Court

The defendant is hereby discharged accordingly.

Signed Hon. William A. Atedze Hon. Member Code of Conduct Tribunal 15th May, 2018.

The Law L2

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

‘We are working towards securing damages for injured employees’ The Director, Lagos State Office of the Public Defender (OPD), Mrs. Adenrera Olayinka Adeyemi, in this interview with PETER FOWOYO, speaks on how the agency plans to improve on its services among others.

The OPD hosted judges from the United States and lawyers from the National Institute for Trial Advocacy (NITA), trained OPD and Ministry of Justice lawyers on forensics and trial advocacy skills, among others. How have such trainings impacted on your lawyers’ performance?

It has had a great impact. The quality of services we render in representing our clients has so improved that more defendants now prefer that we represent them rather than outside counsel. Also, a lot of people including local and international organisations now seek collaborations with us. Some nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) that cannot go to court, now approach us to do so on their behalf. If they didn’t have faith in our competence they would not be doing so.

Even judges, who are sometimes involved in training our lawyers, now testify that they can see marked differences in how we defend cases in court. Such partnerships will certainly continue. Just before I left the OPD for two years, we started work on this kind of training. We are looking at expanding such partnerships to other areas of law, so that our officers can get the required exposure and training. Right now, we are stepping up our involvement in child justice issues, so, we are seeking collaborations for training in that area.

The visitors from the US and NITA observed in 2016 that apart from Lagos, no other sub-Saharan African city or country had an Office of the Public Defender. Several states in Nigeria now have dedicated offices for public defence. What is your relationship with these states’ agencies?

Periodically, we get requests from other states and organisations seeking opportunities to understudy the OPD. I was part of the trainers for Ogun, Ekiti and Oyo states when they were about to set up their citizens’ rights centres a few years ago. Recently, we had an NGO from Osun State wanting to collaborate with us on some of our activities; they want to learn the secret of our success in rendering the services we do. We have had other NGOs, especially within Lagos coming in as well.

Many other states have seen the need for and are now setting up this platform, so we are applying more innovation in our services which would make it even easier for people to get access to justice and enable Lagos State maintain its leadership status.

How do you plan to improve on last years’ record where the OPD handled over 14,000 cases and recovered over N189 million for indigent litigants. ?

One area where we feel the OPD can make more impact is on employee - employer cases, because we’ve realised that low income earners suffer a lot in employers’ hands. So, we want to look at these cases critically and see how we can assist them to get compensation.

Some employees also suffer injuries from accidents in the course of doing their jobs, so we are stepping up action towards securing damages for them and I can assure you that by the end of this year, the amount recovered for indigent litigants is certain to be higher.

It is also noteworthy that when we started the OPD, we started with criminal cases like similar agencies around the world were doing and then we graduated to child justice cases

government prosecution team from the state Ministry of Justice (MOJ); that won’t count.

That’s one of the reasons why the OPD was moved out of the MOJ and made a separate agency.

In the past, the OPD’s authority was challenged in court, but we have a Supreme Court decision to the effect that there is no conflict of interest in the cases handled by the OPD. Don’t forget also that the Constitution is very clear: everyone is entitled to counsel, particularly for serious offences. In fact, without a counsel, a murder or armed robbery suspect’s case might not move. Those were some of the things the OPD discovered when it began operations; most legal practitioners in the field were not ready to represent such defendants. But when the OPD came, we began offering free legal services and that has really bridged the gap between the rich and the poor. If you want to quantify the financial value of the services that the OPD renders, you’ll realise that the Lagos State Government has done a lot.

How has the OPD been meeting its funding needs?

The OPD has been receiving tremendous support from the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Mr Adeniji Kazeem . Every innovative idea that the OPD brings to the A-G’s attention is always approved and given every support to the highest level.

Recently, the A-G increased the capacity of counsel at the OPD. This has strengthened our operations and enabled us to render our services faster and more efficiently. We used to have contract staff, but now we have permanent state counsel. It was the A-G that pushed for this.

Adenrera Olayinka Adeyemi

and other non-criminal matters. Now, those other agencies around the world have begun emulating us in terms of the type of cases they handle. So, the world is moving towards safeguarding the rights of the vulnerable and less privileged. This is another area where we shall increase our focus.

How do you overcome communication challenges for persons with disabilities or persons who are not literate, but require your services?

Language barrier is one of the things we have largely broken. We have staff who are fluent in some of major Nigerian languages.

This has aided our work here tremendously.

For instance, we are collaborating with an NGO from the Hausa community in Agege.

They approached us for assistance to tackle human rights abuses in their community. So, we will be visiting them soon to familiarise with them and sensitise their people on how they can take advantage of our services to get justice. We’ve written to the Seriki of Agege to call his Galadimas, high ranking chiefs, etc. for the meeting. We are not only going to talk about human rights abuses, we are going even further to talk about child rights issues such as early marriage. Of course, we understand that

“

it is a cultural thing, so we will be diplomatic so as not to offend their sensibilities. For persons with disabilities, we are collaborating with the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) because sometimes persons living with disability approach us to seek our services and one of the challenges that we have is sign language. So, we are collaborating with LASODA who will likely give us someone to assist us in this regard.

This is just a temporary measure, because we intend to select some of our counsel to learn sign language. Personally I think lawyers and, in fact, everyone should learn sign language.

It could be made a subject in school. This will aid our communication and relationship with persons with communication challenges.

The OPD is an agency under the Lagos State Ministry of Justice. MOJ counsel prosecute, OPD counsel defend. Does this cause any friction in the cases you handle?

How can you convince OPD clients that your lawyers will not be influenced by the MOJ? No, there is no friction whatsoever. Our first allegiance at the OPD is to the people we are defending. We are professionals and we defend people to the best of our abilities. It is irrelevant whether we are friendly with the

Don’t forget also that the Constitution is very clear: everyone is entitled to counsel, particularly for serious offences. In fact, without a counsel, a murder or armed robbery suspect’s case might not move

”

How long have you been at the Office of the Public Defender (OPD)?

I have been in the Office of the Public Defender for quite a while, from 2004 till 2015 and I rose to the post of director. But I was transferred to another agency in 2015 and now I’m back.

What changes have you observed since your return?

There seems to an increase in cases of defilement, rape, domestic violence, etc.

I would have thought that the increasing awareness about such crimes would have significantly curbed its occurrence, but it appears that this is not the case and this is of great concern to the OPD and the Lagos State Government.

At the same time, it is reasonable to assume that because of the regular campaigns by the OPD and its sister Lagos State Government agencies against such crimes, more people are now more willing to file complaints about it. In the past, people were very shy, very reluctant to speak about sexual offences for fear of being stigmatised, we almost had to be compelling them to come and testify in court. But they are now getting bolder and coming out more because of the support they know they can get from the OPD and other government and nongovernmental agencies.

Don’t forget that one of the reasons why the OPD was established to bridge the gap in access to justice between the rich and the poor. In fact, it is a plus for the Lagos State Government or any other government to have an agency like the OPD because by bringing access to justice closer to the people, it will further endear the government to the people.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Court issues warrant of arrest against Uwajeh Refers 2 lawyers to NBA for sanction

Andrew Orolua and Francesca Iwambe, Abuja

The Abuja Division of the Federal High Court has issued a warrant of arrest against a self acclaimed United Kingdom based private investigator, Victor Uwajeh who is facing criminal charges before the court.

Presiding judge, Justice John Tsoho issued the bench warrant following failure of the defendant to appear in court for the fourth time for arraignment on the criminal charges preferred against him by the federal government.

The judge also referred two lawyers : Mr. Edward Omarga and Amushi Nnamani-Nwankwo to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee, (LPDC) of the Nigeria Bar Association, (NBA) for sanction “if their conduct is truly found wanting as legal practitioners”. The two lawyers who had appeared in court for Uwajeh were not in court yesterday.

The Federal government had slammed a fourcount criminal charge against Uwajeh for alleged forgery, impersonation, fraud and illegally procuring forged documents.

Uwajeh was said to have been indicted in an investigation conducted by a crack team from the Nigerian Police Force following a petition received by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Ibrahim Idris.

In the petition, Uwajeh was accused of attempting to use forged and illegally procured documents to extort money from members of the public.

He had also evaded several attempts to be served

by the court bailiff prompting the court decision to issue a bench warrant against him.

Meanwhile, the judge while delivering his ruling on an application by the prosecution to issue a bench warrant against Uwajeh, held that since the defendant was aware of the Criminal charges pending against him through the filing of his bail application by his lawyer, his refusal to appear before the court constituted an affront to the authority of the court.

According to the judge, Omarga and Nwankwo had appeared in the matter in the previous proceedings only for a new lawyer to purportedly appear in the matter on Monday proceedings on behalf of Uwajeh with a request that raised questions.

He held that section 348(8)of the ACJA compels lawyers in a matter to give a three days notice prior from withdrawing from a suit but there was no such notice from Uwajeh lawyer.

In ordering for his arrest, justice Tsoho held “the defendant has still not shown up and his lawyers.

This constitute an affront by the defendant to the authority of this court and renders him liable to an order of arrest pursuant to Section 83(1)(b) 131 and 352(1)(a)of the ACJA,2015.

“Accordingly bench warrant is issued against the defendant in this charge to compel his appearance before this court for trial.

In a similar vein, the court held “in view of the in glorious attitude of messrs Amushi Nnamani -Nwankwo and Edward Omarga, I hereby refer them to the Legal practitioners and Disciplinary committee of the Nigeria Bar Association for

An Abuja based legal activist, Hameed Ajibola Jimoh has gone to Court with an unprecedented prayers asking the Federal High Court to declare a section of the Legal Practitioners’ Act (as amended ) barring filing of suit against the Body of Benchers as an unconstitutional.

The prayer is contained in an originating summons the activist filed before the Federal High Court Abuja marked No FHC/ AB/C8/ 64/2018 in which the Attorney General of the Federal Republic of Nigeria was made the sole defendant, Jimoh in the suit raise five questions for determination of the Court. Whether the Legal Practitioners (Amendment)Decree No 21,1994 is an existing law pursuant to section 315 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as (as amended) and having the force of law in Nigeria.

Whether this Honourable Court has the jurisdiction and or power to declare invalid the provisions of Section 23A (1) (b),(2)and (3) inserted in the Legal Practitioners’ Act (as amended) by the provisions of Section 12 of the Legal Practitioners (Amendment)Decree No 21 1994 being existing law pursuant to section 315 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999(as amended).

Whether, the provision of Section 23 23A (1) (b),(2)and (3) inserted in the Legal Practitioners’ Act (as amended) by the provisions of Section 12 of the Legal Practitioners (Amendment)Decree No. 21,1994, having the force of law in Nigeria are not inconsistent with Chapter IV of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended)?

Whether, the provision of Section 23 23A (1) (b),(2)and (3) inserted in the Legal Practitioners’ Act (as amended) by the provisions of Section 12 of the Legal Practitioners (Amendment)Decree No. 21,1994, having the force of law in Nigeria are not unconstitutional, null and void and of no effect for being inconsistent with the Chapter IV of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).

Whether any person who alleged that any of the provisions of Chapter IV of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) has seen ,is being or likely to be contravened in any state in relation to him by the Body of Benchers established pursuant to section 3 of the Legal Practitioners’ Act ,2004 (as amended)has the right to apply to a High Court in that State for redress?

Based on the above he is seeking the following reliefs.

A declaration that the Legal Practitioners’ (Amendment) Decree No 21,1994 , is an existing law pursuant to section 315 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) and has the force of law in Nigeria.

A declaration that this Honourable Court has the jurisdiction and or power to declare invalid the provisions of section 23A (1)(b),(2) (3) inserted in the Legal Practitioners’ Act (as amended) by the provisions of Section 12 of the Legal Practitioners (Amendment)Decree No. 21,1994,having the force of law in Nigeria, the Legal Practitioners (Amendment) Decree No 21 ,1994, being an existing law pursuant to section 315 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999( as amended).

A declaration that this Honourable Court

N10m fraud: Court strikes out suit against lawyer Peter Fawoyo

Uwajeh

sanction if their conduct is truly found wanting as legal practitioners”.

The suit has been adjourned to July 4,for the arraignment of the defendant.

Earlier, the prosecution had urged the court to issue a bench warrant for the arrest of the defendant .

It could be recalled that the Special Presidential Investigations Panel for the Recovery of Public Property headed by Mr. Okoi Obono-Obla, had sacked Uwajeh who was appointed to serve as its special investigator following the criminal charges pending against him before the court.

‘Declare law barring actions against Body of Benchers’ a nullity’ Andrew Orolua, Abuja

L3 The Law

declaring that the provision of Section 23 23A (1) (b),(2)and (3) inserted in the Legal Practitioners’ Act (as amended) by the provisions of Section 12 of the Legal Practitioners (Amendment) Decree No. 21,1994, having the force of law in Nigeria are inconsistent with Chapter IV of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).

A declaration that this Honourable Court declaring that the provision of Section 23 23A (1) (b),(2)and (3) inserted in the Legal Practitioners’ Act (as amended) by the provisions of Section 12 of the Legal Practitioners (Amendment) Decree No. 21,1994, having the force of law in Nigeria are unconstitutional, null and void and of no effect for being inconsistent with Chapter IV of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).

An order of this Honourable Court striking out the provisions of Section 23 23A (1) (b),(2) and (3) inserted in the Legal Practitioners’ Act (as amended) by the provisions of Section 12 of the Legal Practitioners (Amendment)Decree No. 21,1994, having the force of law in Nigeria, from the Decree and or the Principal Act for being unconstitutional, null and void and of no effect.

A declaration of this Honourable Court that any person who alleges that any of the provisions of Chapter IV of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) has been, is being or likely to be contravened in any state in relation to him by the Body of Benchers ,a Caretaker Committee of the Nigeria Bar Association or any officer or Committee or members of the Body of Benchers established pursuant to section 3 of the Legal practitioners’ Act ,2004 (as amended) has the right to apply to a High Court in the State for redress.

A Chief Magistrates Court, Igbosere, Lagos has struck out a N10 million fraud suit brought by the Police against a Lagos based lawyer, Mr. Francis Azuh.

Chief Magistrate Mrs. Adetokunboh Omoyele, discharged the lawyer based on a response to the court for verification of DPP’s advice.

Mrs. Omoyele stated that: “The office of the Attorney General has cleared the DPP’s advice and is of the opinion that party should resolve their differences via civil action. Based on the said reply this charge is struck out and the defendant is discharged accordingly.”

The Police had arraigned Mr. Azuh on a two count charge of fraudulently obtaining and stealing N10 million meant for processing and securing a title document at Lagos state Ministry of Land.

Trouble began when lawyer Azuh got a brief to pursue the excision of community land belonging to the Salia family of Shapati village in Ibeju - Lekki Local Government of Lagos state from the complainant.

Azuh was to be remunerated with 10 percent of the said plots of land which is 22 plots from a total of 220 plots. He spent N6.5 million and voluntarily refunded N3.5million to the complainant after the job was concluded.

But, the complainant in an attempt not to remunerate the lawyer with 22 plots of land valued at N400 million laid a bogus complaint with the police alleging that the lawyer had stolen the sum of N10 million from him.

However, on April 4, 2017 a legal advice with reference no LJP/ MISC/2017/45/7 was issued and dispatched to the court. After the issuance of the DPP’s advice, the charge came up on June 8, 2017 wherein the court did not sit, it also came up on June 22 and July 6, 2017 wherein the court refused to give effect to the DPP’s advice and instead it pandered to the view of the complainant by adjourning to await the outcome of a counter petition from the complainant to the Attorney General of Lagos state.

It was a petition by Bolanle Olugbani, to the Chief Judge of Lagos state dated January 28, 2018 and titled: “Petition Against Legally Unjustifiable 10 Months Refusal To Give Effect To DPP’s Advice by Her Honor, Mrs. A. T. Omoyele of Court 12 Igbosere Chief Magistrates Court Lagos” that paved way for Mrs. Omoyele to give effect to the legal advice.

The Law - Tribute L4

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Femi ‘Authority’ Falana (SAN) @ 60 Wahab Shittu It is not an easy task paying tribute to Femi ‘Authority’Falana SAN who clocked 60 recently with encomiums and accolades everywhere including the rare one from the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President MuhammaduBuhari who commended “…Falana’s sense of patriotism over the yearsas well as “his antecedents which the president described as “… most exemplary and commendable in advocating for a better life for the poor and underprivileged”.

I will say it is not easy commenting on the persona called Femi Falana SAN because of the dilemma of deciding which aspect of this extraordinary Nigerian to focus on in such commentary. Many will prefer to focus on his activities as a lawyer as well as a human rights crusader consistently for several decades in company of such greats as late Chief GaniFawehinmi SAN, late Dr. BekoRansomeKuti, Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka and many others in that category who were and have been relentless in their crusade for the enthronement of good governance, rights protection and enhancement of the living standards of our people. In this category of assessment, Femi Falana SAN ranks very high on account of his accomplishments. This is however one aspect of Femi Falana SAN. There is the other aspect of Femi Falana as a consummate strategist that no one can ignore. Indeed, his rating on this score is so high that if you are to contend in any battle against Femi Falana you are better warned to be fully prepared for this is a soldier in battle difficult to confront or dislodge in any encounter, whether within or outside the courtroom.

Thirdly, there is also another aspect of Femi Falana SAN as a vociferous protester against all manner of injustice. Indeed, he is such a oneman riot squad that his singular crusade on any matter at all is sufficient to draw the attention of the authorities to take notice and implement.

Femi Falana SAN also has incredible capacity to build, cultivate, retain and nourish relationships across board. He is a friend to human rights and democracy crusaders, friend to the ivory tower including established academia of various orientation, friend to labour movements, friend to the poor and underprivileged, friend to those in privileged circles, friend to those within and outside government and all these relationships, Femi Falana SAN nurture without betraying his principles. In nurturing such relationships, the surprise element is that Falana is always very careful to uphold ethics and the highest professional standards.

What of Femi Falana’s strength of advocacy in the courtroom? Oh my God! Femi Falana SAN is such a delight to watch in the courtroom with capacity to make very serious points even while putting up regular smiles in a manner that will leave opposing counsel sometimes seriously perplexed. Learned silk argues clearly, masterfully, logically and with clear focus. As counsel in the proceedings,he is very fierce yet friendly and willing to make concessions in the best and finest tradition of the bar. I recalled that it was this trait that attracted him to me many years ago and we have since retained such senior friend/junior friend relationship ever since. I had wondered at the time, how can a counsel be so gifted and yet so friendly?

Femi FalanaSAN is also an uncommon patriot who is obsessed with the theory of development and he never abandons his friends within and outside government. ArakunrinOluwarotimiAkeredolu SAN in a recent tribute to him wrote: ‘…we are gladdened that you stand out, proudly, among genuine patriots and true lovers of our country. That you remain a consistent and relentless advocate of the downtrodden is a fact through which we derive immense pride in our association with you…your prodigious talent has enriched our jurisprudence. Your seminal interventions at crucial moments continue to resolve the socio-political conundrums thrown up by the very logic of socio-economic interaction in a transitional society. You are indeed a priceless gift.”

What a testimonial!

Many may not be aware of the monumental contributions of Femi ‘Authority’Falana SAN to the

Falana

anti-corruption crusade in our country. Perhaps it is a story for another day how Femi Falana influenced the choice and emergence of MallamNuhuRibadu, the anticorruption czar in our country and how his activities directly or indirectly encouraged the emergence of the latest anti-corruption sensation in our country, Ibrahim Mustapha Magu. Femi Falana SAN consistently makes his services available to support the anticorruption crusade and movements in our country. On a personal level, Femi Falana SAN it was who introduced this writer to the prosecutorial assignment in EFCC since inception and for this, I remain eternally grateful to this extraordinary Nigerian. His expectation is that I and many others in that category do not betray the sacred trust. I remember that constantly in addition primarily to the reputation of my background.

What of Femi Falana as a humanist? Femi Falana is ingeniously humane and willing to deploy his talents always in the service of the common good. Abraham may have had elements like Femi Falana SAN when he wrote: “The worthiness of life is deep rooted in sacrifice to mankind. If one dies in the process, he becomes a martyr.”

Femi Falana by his activities is definitely on a journey to martyrdom.

The celebrant is also a very passionate family man who has raised with his wife, FunmiFalanavery successful children among which is FolarinFalana, the popular artist known as Falz.

In the past, I commented about Femi Falana SAN as follows: “It is said that there is time to labour and there is time for harvest. Anybody familiar with Femi Falana (SAN) and his delectable wife, FunmiFalana would agree that this is one unique couple who have come a long way together and certainly have paid their dues…”

Who is this Femi Falana SAN? Femi Falana was born at Ilawe, Ekiti State on May 20, 1958. He studied Law at the University of Ife (now ObafemiAwolowo University) and the Nigerian Law School. Since he was called to the bar in July 1982, he has been in active legal practice majoring in human rights and international humanitarian law. Through public interest litigation Mr. Falana has contributed to the promotion of human rights, defence of the

rule of law and the expansion of the democratic space in Africa.

Following the suspension of human rights provisions in the Constitution by successive military regimes Mr. Falana convinced Nigerian courts to uphold the human rights guaranteed by the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights. He equally championed the campaign which led to the expansion of the mandate of the Community Court of Justice to enforce the human rights Community citizens in West Africa.

Apart from his regular appearances in Nigerian courts Mr. Falana has represented victims of human rights abuse at the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, in Banjul, The Gambia; Community Court of Justice, in Abuja, Nigeria; Special Court for Sierra Leone, in Freetown, Sierra Leone and African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, in Arusha, Tanzania.

Through the instrumentality of the law Mr. Falana’s law firm has secured the release of hundreds of illegally detained persons and ensured the reinstatement of many dismissed students and staff of tertiary institutions. He has also got reprieve for scores of soldiers who were charged, convicted and sentenced to death by military courts. The law firm successfully stopped the execution of the 12 kids who were convicted for armed robbery by a military tribunal in Lagos in 1989; the take-over of the Nigerian Bar Association by the military junta; the proscription of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the criminalization of strikes by teachers; the arrest and detention of family members in lieu of wanted criminal suspects and the indefinite suspension of legislators from legislative houses.

Aside the promotion of political and civil rights Mr. Falana’slaw has ensured the recognition and protection of the socio-economic rights of the people by local and international tribunals. Thus, the courts have upheld the right of Nigerians to protest without police permit, the right of police women to marry without permit, the right of every Nigerian child to free and compulsory basic education, the right of undergraduates to education loan, the right of underprivileged citizens to access loans for business without collateral, the right of citizens to protection and security of life and the right of the people of the oil producing communities in the Niger Delta

region to a safe and healthy environment.

Mr. Falana has consistently campaigned for the enactment of welfare laws to cater for the majority of poor and disadvantaged citizens.

On account of his human rights activities he was arrested and detained in police and prison custody on several occasions by the former military dictators. He was charged with criminal offences including unlawful assembly, incitement, sedition and treasonable felony but was never convicted by any court. As a youth corps lawyer, Mr. Falana successfully defended some student activists who were charged with attempted murder by the police. The authorities seized his National Youth Discharge Certificate for 18 years for embarrassing the federal government However, he has been honoured for his consistent defence of human rights and rule of law. He is one of the 4 lawyers in Africa who have been conferred with the prestigious Bernard Simons Human Rights Award by the International Bar Association. His many other awards include the American Bar Association International Human Rights Award (1986); the Defender of the Year Award from the International League for Human Rights, New York (2000); Kwame Nkrumah Leadership Award, Ghana (2003); Knight Outstanding Leadership by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts State, Senate, House of Representatives and Boston Council, United States (1998); Knight of Freedom Award by the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria (2009); GaniFawehinmi Life Time Award on Human Rights from the Hallmark of Labour Foundation, Nigeria (2011); Promoter of Human Rights Jurispudence in Africa by the National Human Rights Commission (2015).

Apart from his stints as a member of the National Executive Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association and General Bar Council Mr. Falana was the President, Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (1996-1998); SecretaryGeneral, African Bar Association (2000-2002) and President, West African Bar Association (2004-2009). Mr. Falana is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Arbitrators of Nigeria and Institute of Chartered Public Administrators of Nigeria, member of the Nigerian Bar Association, International Bar Association, Pan African Lawyers Union and West African Bar Association.

Mr. Falana is a regular commentator on public affairs and the Editor-in-Chief, Weekly Report of Nigeria. He is a member of the Editorial Board of Thisday Newspaper; the Network for the Defence of Journalists in West Africa and the International Centre for Investigative Journalism and Justice Research Institute. He is also a member of the African Group on Justice and Accountability. Mr. Falana has a long list of publications including Fundamental Rights Enforcement in Nigeria (2004); Fundamental Rights Enforcement (second edition, 2010); ECOWAS Court: Law and Practice (2010) and Nigerian Law on Socio-Economic Rights in Nigeria (2015).

As I sum up this tribute, one question keeps nagging my mind about this extraordinary Nigerian and I hope one day he will provide an answer. The question is, learned silk from where do you derive the boundless energy with which you crusade all these myriads of activities and traverse everywhere? Before you answer, let me make a guess, I say it can only be God and God alone.

As Femi ‘Authority’ Falana SAN clocks 60, my expectation is that he will continue on the path of righteousness and crusade for the common good for which he has acquired unprecedented reputation and for which in my view, he will always be appreciated as the celebrant etches his name in letters of gold.

Congratulations Femi ‘Authority’ Falana SAN, My senior brother, my senior friend and a patriot extraordinaire!

Shittu is a lawyer and a lecturer at the University at the University of Lagos

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2016

For the Record

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I’ll continue to speak against injustice, bad governance – Dino Melaye Dino Melaye Someone once said, that, rock bottom is good solid ground and a dead-end street is just a place to turn around. In the last few weeks, I have been taken to the good solid ground at the rock bottom and they couldn’t go further. I have been brought to the deadend street but with you standing by my side, I have turned around and bounced back to the chagrin of those who sought to seal my lips from speaking out against tyranny, politics of oppression and blackmail.

They, unleashed an endless barrage of physical, psychological, metaphysical and emotional torture and assault on me, but, through the power of the Most High, and you the good people of Nigeria, we have once again, seen the triumph of truth over lies and good over evil.

It was Edmund Burke who was quoted as saying that when bad men combine, the good must associate; else they will fall one by one, … in a contemptible struggle. I am of all men, a blessed man, to have courageous and dependable people like you as my fellow soldiers in the struggle to free us from the shackles of political strongholds and tyranny. It is to you and my most wonderful and ever knowledgeable people of Kogi State, especially Kogi West, that I owe my deepest gratitude. You stood by me against the state and your own ‘best political self-interest’.

The state unleashed its raw power on me and released a 200 man-strong fully armed policemen - on a man without a knife nor a bullet. It did this because I called injustice by its name and called for accountability. For this they sought to break my spirit and destroy me permanently. In their moment of reign, I was fully shackled. With my hands tied to my back, and hurled into a dark solitary confinement waiting for the butchers knife, you, my people stood by me. You came against a raging fire and stood up against tyranny, lies, filthy lucre, injustice, persecution and greed. While in the dark and unable to fight for myself, they sought to take my mandate, which you had freely given to me. But you answered back and quenched deceit in its wake. You stood resolute and unflinching and defended your mandate to me.

I thank you from the bottom of my heart. In their attempt to break me, they have made me stronger.

To you my indefatigable leaders; my irremovable President of the Senate, a man of immeasurable vision for Nigeria and true fighter for the enthronement of true democracy and the rule of law, Sen. (Dr.) Abubakar Bukola Saraki. The fearless Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, I thank you both for your steadfastness in the defence of the Nigerian Constitution and the enthronement of the Rule of Law, justice and equity and the emasculation of anti-democratic forces and tyranny everywhere in Nigeria. I am eternally grateful to you.

To the entire National Assembly Membership, especially my colleagues in the Senate, I am eternally indebted to you for not playing politics but standing courageously against oppression and terror. You have shown yourself leaders on whom Nigeria’s hope for tomorrow can be assured.

To you our governors, ministers, my dear Okun people and leaders, the National Chairman and Kogi

Dino Melaye

State Executive of the PDP, leaders of the Diplomatic Corps, opinion leaders, Chief Mike Ozekhome SAN, Chief Ricky Tarfa SAN, human rights lawyers and activists, and all my well-wishers and lovers of democracy in Nigeria; the Christian and Muslim Community, all of you that visited me in the National Hospital, after I was injured and subsequently detained at the hospital. I thank you all for your steadfastness in the defence of due process and the rule of law. I also thank you for your courage and solidarity.

Our ever foresighted and courageous civil society leadership, the media, leaders of thought across the country, our hard-working youth for whom I will give my last blood, our loving mothers and sisters, I lack words to express to you my profound gratitude for the unbreakable chord of love that binds me to you through thick and thin. You have strengthened my resolve and hardened my flesh against those who seek to devour and make meat of me. You have once again proven to me the axiom in the saying that “in prosperity, our friends know us; in adversity, we know our friends.” I am very grateful. For your sake, I remain unbowed.

I know many of you worry about my safety and life in this new dispensation where life is no longer sacred in Nigeria. But do not be troubled. My bond of love for you, my good people, makes it impossible for me to consider my self-risk, safety, comfort or opportunity in my unflinching commitment to stand up for you, to stand up for truth and if necessary die for the truth and the emancipation of our people from the chains of poverty and oppression. Though they raise spurious allegations against me, bear false witness against me,

though they seek to frighten me and lure me into their bounty of evil, I will fear no foe.

Yes, my traducers and torturers wish that I keep quiet; though they seek to seal my lips, to silence my voice forever, I remain ever more resolute and committed. I am committed to this cause for which I am a politician; the cause of the down trodden, to speak truth to power and stand against oppression and injustice. On these issues there will be no compromise.

I owe no apologies and I tender none.

Like I have always said, you speak the truth, you die, you don’t speak the truth, you die. I have chosen to speak the truth, dead or alive. Rev. Martin Luther King Jnr., once said, “Cowardice asks the question - is it safe? Expediency asks the question - is it politics?

Vanity asks the question - is it popular? But conscience asks the question - is it right? And there comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular; but one must take it because it is right.”

To my people, I promise you this and this only. I have taken my position, I will not hold back, I will not hold my peace, I will not be shut down, neither will I shut-up, not as long as injustice and falsehood continues to reign, as long as I will live, I will not bow to Baal.

May the Almighty continue to keep you all and be your bulwark until victory is assured. Once again, I thank you all so much.

God bless you. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Senator Melaye (APC, Kogi West) is the Chairman, Senate Committee on FCT

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Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Feature

Top 20 benefits of ginger

Ginger powder

Ginger is one of the most ancient spices well-known for its health benefits, which include its ability to relieve nausea and pain. It also helps boost bone health, strengthen the immune system, and increase appetite.

Ginger is good for preventing cancer, improving respiratory conditions, stimulating digestion, treating arthritis, and reducing excess gas. It is also good for enhancing sexual activity, mitigating obesity, and relieving the pain related to menstrual disorders.

What is ginger?

Ginger, also known as Zingiber officinale, is a flowering plant, whose root or rhizome is used as a spice. It can be consumed in many forms, fresh, dried, powdered, and in the form of oil and juice. In many places, it is mostly used in sweets and alcoholic beverages such as ginger beer and wine.

Today, ginger is on the FDA’s list of generally safe foods and is often used to mask the taste of bitter medicines such as cough syrups.

Ginger nutrition Most of the benefits derived from ginger are because of the presence of an active constituent called gingerol in it.

It is also rich in carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and protein.

In terms of minerals, it has sodium, iron, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc. Vitamins in it include vitamin C, folate, vitamin B6, riboflavin, and niacin.

There are many anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds like pantothenic acid, beta-carotene, capsaicin, curcumin, caffeic acid, and salicylate in it. Also, the presence of active compounds like shogaol, zerumbone, terpenoids,

flavonoids, paradol, and zingerone in ginger provide many health benefits.

The various health benefits of this amazing root are given below: Relieves nausea Studies have concluded that ginger helps in curing nausea and vomiting connected with morning sickness in pregnancy. It has long been used as a preventive measure for motion sickness and seasickness. Cancer patients who have undergone a chemotherapy can benefit by this root as it will relieve the symptoms of nausea and vomiting. Its quick absorption and rapid regulation of body functions cure nausea in people who have undergone surgeries, without any side effects.

Nausea and vomiting, being symptoms of a migraine, can irritate people. By curing both, ginger can effectively treat a migraine and headaches that follow it.

Treats cold and flu Ginger has been prescribed to fight illnesses and infection like cold and flu in all ages. It can be used in the form of tea for keeping the body warm. The tea acts as a diaphoretic and induces sweating, which removes toxins from the body and makes you healthy as before.

Aids in digestion Ginger has been discovered to be a facilitator of the digestive process. The elevated sugar levels after a meal may cause the stomach to reduce its natural rate of emptying its contents. It helps in regulating high sugar levels and soothing the stomach, thus, maintaining its regular rhythm. Along

with that, it has a number of compounds that improve the absorption of nutrients and minerals from the food we eat.

This is why ginger is frequently used as an appetizer or an aperitif since it can stimulate the appetite while preparing the digestive system for an influx of food.

Removes excess gas Ginger is a very strong carminative, meaning that it induces excess gas elimination. Excess gas does much more than leaving you in an uncomfortable situation. Too much gas built up in your system can go upwards and put pressure on delicate organs in the torso. Ginger acts like a carminative and forces the gas down and out in a healthy way and also prevents additional gas from building up again.

Stomach ulcers Consuming ginger regularly can help improve the gut health. It prevents the occurrence of ulcers, which are generally characterized by bleeding and acute gastric irritability. In addition, it also inhibits the growth of H. pylori bacteria, which is a major ulcerogen, thus keeping your stomach healthy.

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease can create havoc in the body and leave you restless forever. Anti-inflammatory properties of ginger aid in treating these issues.

Reduces arthritis pain Ginger is known to boost bone health and relieve joint pain associated with arthritis. It contains gingerol, which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Gingerol has been directly associated with improvements in osteoarthritis, knee inflammation, and rheumatoid arthritis. Along with

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, May 22, 2018

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Top 20 benefits of ginger that, it also suppresses the inflammatory compounds like cytokines and chemokines at the source before they begin to affect the body.

Relieves asthma Ginger has been used traditionally as a medicine to treat respiratory disorders. Recent studies on it have also seconded to this anti-inflammatory property of ginger. Zerumbone, an active compound in ginger, helps relieve asthma. Research shows that the allergic airway inflammation is majorly caused by Th2 dominance and ginger is successfully able to suppress it.

Liver protection People suffering from tuberculosis can benefit from ginger, as it helps prevent hepatotoxicity. It also protects against the liver-damaging cadmium poisoning caused due to significant ingestion of cadmium. Ginger essential oil exerts a protective effect against the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease occurring because of obesity.

Mitigates obesity Ginger can aid in accelerating weight loss and managing obesity by helping boost your metabolism. It increases exercise endurance capacity so that you work out well and get back into shape to fit in that outfit you were so excited to wear.

Prevents cancer The organic compounds like gingerol, in ginger aid in the prevention of breast cancer and many other types of cancer. They have anti-inflammatory properties that help prevent carcinogenic activity in the colon that can lead to colorectal cancer.

Recent studies have also connected gingerol to apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells, thereby reducing tumors and the growth of cancerous cells, without harming the healthy cells around them. Gingerol is also known to protect against skin cancer.

Zerumbone, in ginger, is positively linked to prevention of gastric, ovarian, and pancreatic cancer as it functions as an anti-angiogenic and antitumor drug.

Improves cognition Ginger is known to delay the onset of neurodegenerative diseases like dementia, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. These harmful factors are also to be blamed for the age-related cognitive decline. Therefore ginger, with its powerful nutrients, mitigates the risk of brain damage and keeps your memory intact.

Relieves muscle pain Ginger is well-known for reducing muscle pain and soreness caused due to exercising. The anti-inflammatory properties of this root are to be credited for this benefit.

Prevents menstrual cramps Ginger helps reduce the levels of prostaglandins in the body, hence it aids in relieving cramps. Scientists believe that high levels of prostaglandins contribute to increased menstrual cramps. Cramps are the body’s way of alarming an individual to some type of danger or damage. In this case, prostaglandins, which are hormones that function as chemical messengers, are the key activators of symptoms such as cramps, pains, and fevers.

Boosts heart health Ginger protects the cardiovascular health by lowering the LDL cholesterol levels and increasing the HDL cholesterol levels. It also reduces the risk of blood clotting, thereby helping regulate hypertension and keeping your heart healthy.

Controls diabetes Ginger helps regulate the blood sugar levels in people suffering from type 2 diabetes. Glycemic and lipid abnormalities lead to long-term complications in diabetics.

Therefore, to improve your insulin resistance and control diabetes, consider adding this root to your diet.

Detoxifies the body Ginger is good at promoting sweating. Sweating cleans out the pores and allows your body to eliminate toxins. Research has also shown that sweat includes a germ-fighting compound, named dermcidin. It has been positively connected to reduced bacterial and viral infections as it can create a sheen on the skin, which is a protective layer of previously unknown proteins.

Prevents infection Ginger is known to inhibit bacterial, viral, and fungal infection, owing to the presence of gingerol in it. It also helps in maintaining oral health by killing the pathogens in the mouth and keep the teeth and gums intact. Ginger, with its antibacterial properties, wards of pathogenic bacteria that cause urinary tract infection (UTI), bronchitis,

and pneumonia.

Treats diarrhea Ginger has been used since ancient times to cure diarrhea since it prevents stomach spasms and gas that contribute to and stimulate it. In China, its powder is given to those with diarrhea and this traditional practice is followed for thousands of years; scientists have concluded that these ancient treatments are indeed beneficial for this condition.

Skin care Ginger can help in alleviating the symptoms of eczema, owing to its anti-inflammatory properties. By adding ginger tea, or ginger juice to your diet, you can easily bid goodbye to many chronic skin conditions like dermatitis, acne, and psoriasis.

Increases sexual activity A known aphrodisiac, ginger has been used for years to arouse desire and enhance sexual activity. Its scent has a unique allure that helps in increasing fertility and establishing a sexual connection. This root also helps blood circulation, hence blood flows more easily to the mid-section of the body, an important area for sexual performance.

How to buy ginger?

Select a root that is wrinkle-free or has minimal wrinkles and taut skin. Make sure the skin is not thick and bruised.

The best way to check is by scraping it with your nail. The aroma of a fresh ginger is peppery, sharp, and strong, so inhale the fragrance and enjoy shopping!

How to store ginger?

Ginger can be stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.

However, you should peel, cut or grate it only before using it. If you want to store a cut piece of the root, dry it first so that it doesn’t rot away.

Ginger supplements Aside from the fresh raw ginger root, you can also reap its benefits in the following forms: • Ginger extracts • Ginger capsules • Dried ginger root • Ginger powder • Ginger essential oil Uses of ginger Culinary Uses • Beverage: In Asian cultures, it is directly used by chopping it up or using its powder in traditional dishes and in soft drinks such as coffee and tea.

• Baking: Bake a ginger cookie the next time you are having a sweet-tooth.

• Smoothie: You can make a healthy smoothie by adding some crushed ginger to it.

• Tea: Steep some grated ginger in boiling water

and enjoy the tea! You can add some honey to make it refreshing and sweet.

• Soups: Your soups, stews or curries can be spiced up by a tint of ginger. Healthy and savory!

• Pickle: Pickled ginger is very healthy and it also soothes your taste buds.

• Juice: Ginger juice is one herbal cure-all drink that can be enjoyed if you are looking for something new.

Other Uses Ginger’s irresistible fragrance is due to an essential oil in its composition that has been coveted and extracted by perfume makers since ancient times.

Side effects of ginger The commonly observed side effects of ginger are as follows: • Diarrhea • Heartburn • Stomach upset • Hives • Swelling • Breathing issues Risks • Acid-reflux: Ginger may worsen acid reflux in some people.

• Gallstones: It can increase bile production, which may cause the stone to create a block in bile flow. Talk to your doctor before using it.

• Diabetes: Ginger can affect your insulin and blood sugar levels drastically so make sure you talk to your doctor before adding it to your diet.

• Blood-thinning: It should not be eaten with bloodthinning medicines or aspirin as it may affect blood clots.

• Pregnant women: Intake of ginger has been connected to a miscarriage. Though it is generally considered safe, consult your doctor before making any change in your diet.

History and origin Not only is ginger known as an essence and a spice, it is known to be one of the oldest remedies in herbal and aromatic traditional treatments, especially in China, India, and the Middle East. In China, it has been used for over 2,000 years for curing inflammation and diarrhea. Native to the Indo-Malaysian rain forests, ginger favors lush, moist, tropical soils for cultivation.

Its cultivation may have begun in southern Asia, but it has now spread to East Africa and the Caribbean as well.

Ginger’s perennial plant grows bright red flowers that come in different shapes such as torch and honeycomb and are often used in seasonal festivals in the South Pacific for the decoration of stalls, houses, and even dresses.

Source: www.organicfacts.net

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Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday May 22, 2018

Public Discourse

Western countries more corrupt than African countries – Falana Femi Falana Human rights lawyer Femi Falana SAN has said that “Western countries are more corrupt than African countries”, adding “There has been a massive and accelerated transfer of much of the wealth from the developing world into developed economies around the world, much of which was looted from various Treasuries across Africa and in the rest of the developing world.”

Falana said this in a paper titled Human Rights Issues Surrounding The Non-Return Of Assets To Countries Of Origin and delivered at the 8th Annual Conference of Anti-corruption Agencies in Commonwealth Africa held last Friday in Abuja.

Falana said that, “African governments and anti-corruption bodies should stop labeling Africa as a continent of corrupt people.

London is the centre of global corruption. The banks of western countries receive and keep stolen wealth from Africa and other developing countries.”

According to Falana, “Western governments conveniently hid behind the free movement of capital ideology to fold their arms and turn the other way for many years after the end of the Cold War. This laissez-faire attitude on the part Western leaders encouraged corrupt leaders from Africa to use stolen wealth from their various countries to establish individual presence in their economies; buying shares in major corporations, mansions and other landed properties, yachts, planes, you name it.”

Falana also said, “Mr. David Cameron whose family name was listed in the Panama papers had the temerity to label Nigeria as a fantastically corrupt country. The Abacha loot of about $5 billion has been traced to banks in Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States and other western countries.

Apart from Switzerland which has reluctantly returned part of the loot no other recipient country has recovered and repatriated a dime to Nigeria.”

The paper read in part: “Since the Joseph Kabila regime has failed to request for the repatriation of the over $10 billion kept in Zurich banks by the late Mobutu Sese Seko, the Swiss government is planning to return the looted wealth to the family of the former dictator and not to the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.”

“Throughout the 1970s and much of the 1980s, money leaving Africa into Europe and other parts of the world took an upward trajectory, leaving essential services to rot

Buhari

and decay. What then followed was a serious economic crisis across Africa, which witnessed the International Monetary Fund (IMF) setting up offices inside the various ministries of finance in state after state on the continent, as it tried to help implement a harsh austerity programme to “readjust” the various economies.”

“Nigeria has lost billions to illicit financial outflow resulting from corruption and embezzlement of funds by public officials. Nigeria’s history as a “fantastically corrupt” country is apparent upon an appraisal of the activities of its past leaders and public officials especially as it relates to conversion of government fund.”

“Meanwhile, scores of African “migrants” were finding their ways into Europe, looking for employment and a better life. This alarmed Western governments whose citizens began to make their feelings known by voting in right wing governments promising to put a stop to immigration from socalled “Third World” countries.”

“The idea of untrammelled, free movement of capital economic orthodoxy has long been dead and buried. Western Governments, especially the USA, now freely impose sanctions against countries, for instance, Iran and Russia, even against specific individuals and companies in those countries and elsewhere in the world. Why then have corrupt political leaders in Africa and their stolen wealth not attracted the same level of vigour

Trump

and scrutiny?”

“It is simply that corrupt money emanating from Africa and elsewhere had long been thought of as a ‘victimless’ crime.

There is, after all, no one visibly hurt, no building being blown up, no planes flying into high rise buildings or anything of that nature. It was seen as just another typical “Third World” malaise.

Well, not any more. There is a nexus between stolen wealth and human rights. It is the intersection between poverty and international (human rights) principles.”

“Stolen wealth is not an abstract idea dangling in the air; it fosters poverty, diseases and illiteracy, ill-health and general social deprivations. It also subverts good governance and the rule of law of the country from which the wealth has been stolen. Every single one of the index of underdevelopment mentioned above is interwoven with the holding of stolen wealth and it is inimical to basic human rights and decency.”

“I fully concur with Dr. Kolawole Olaniyan who has said that grand corruption breeds bad governance, instability, and creates opportunities for criminal entrepreneurs to thrive, as politicians and their friends tend to take advantage of weak law enforcement and gaps within the criminal justice systems to use public offices for private gain. But unless the people are made the centre of development there will always be enough funds to steal

and transfer abroad or keep locally by unpatriotic public officers.”

“Multinational corporations and politically exposed persons from western countries enjoy almost absolute immunity in many African states. While Africans are prosecuted for engaging in corrupt practices their foreign accomplices who are treated like sacred cows due to political pressure from their home governments.

Notwithstanding that the Buhari administration has demonstrated some political will to fight corruption it has not been able to order investigation into serious allegations of corruption involving multinational corporations and other western companies.”

“For instance, the petition to the government alleging theft of crude oil worth over $200 billion by indicted oil and shipping companies has been ignored. Even instead of directing the EFCC to recover the huge fund the federal government has continued to take multi-billion-dollar loans from China and African Development Bank. Whereas the officials of Halliburton involved in bribing Nigerian government officials with $180 million to secure a contract were prosecuted by the United States government the EFCC was pressurised to drop the charges against, Mr. Dick Chiney, a former Vice President who was the managing director of the company at the material time.”

“No doubt, recovery and return of stolen assets stashed in Western

economies and transparent and accountable management and use of returned funds would help strengthen the ability of victim countries to fortify the rule of law, improve access to justice (and consequently, enjoyment of human rights) and reduce state impunity.

It will also serve as a measure of accountability, with huge potential to reduce impunity thereby impacting on respect for human rights including socio-economic rights in African countries.”

“Since public officers are prohibited from keeping and maintaining foreign accounts, civil actions should be filed against public officers whose foreign accounts have been identified and located. Anti-graft agencies should speed up the trial of politically exposed persons whose assets have been traced to foreign countries.

Once the cases are concluded and forfeiture orders are made by trial courts the judgements should be registered abroad and enforced.”

“The governments of victim countries should institute civil proceedings in countries where the nation’s stolen wealth has been located. The EFCC in Nigeria has secured some orders of Mareva injunctions against the assets of some Nigerian citizens and companies which are said to be proceed of economic and financial crimes. Foreign banks that have aided public officers to launder stolen money should be reported to the relevant financial regulatory and anti-corruption bodies.”

“Western governments should be requested to impose visa ban on public officers who have engaged in corruption and money laundering.

Reports of investigation of the allegations of such practices should be made available to the embassies. For the credibility of the request the reports should include the names of serving public officers who have been indicted. Western countries should deny visas to any public officer travelling for medical treatment abroad.”

“African countries should lead a campaign for the classification of grand corruption as a crime against humanity which should be tried by the International Criminal Court. Loopholes in the financial system should be blocked to prevent capital flight and money laundering. Banks and other financial institutions aiding money laundering should be sanctioned and made to pay aggravated and exemplary reparation. They may also be sued in the countries where the offences may have been committed.”

Falana is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN)