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DG’s appointment: Osinbajo trails Buhari, violates PenCom Act

Ï Names Doherty from S’West to replace Anohu-Amazu from S’East in contravention of Act Ï Stakeholders call for reversal of appointment, urge NASS to stand by provisions of PenCom Act Bonny Amadi

ÏÏÏ Like President Muhammadu

violated the Pension Reform Act 2014 by appointing his kinsman from South West, Mr. Funso

Buhari, the Acting President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, has again

Continued on page 6

MONDAY, MAY 29, 2017 VOL. 3. NO. 374

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GAINERS AS AT May 26, 2017 PZ

17.85

18.70 4.76%

PRESCO

48.00

N150

LOSERS AS AT May 26, 2017 49.01

2.10%

UNILEVER

36.00

35.75

-0.69%

CADBURY

9.90

9.42

-4.85%

PDP, Falana, Balarabe Musa, Okogie, others score Buhari at 2 Ï It’s a failure, nothing to celebrate - PDP Ï The govt. has fought and tamed insurgents but has not defeated terrorism -Falana Ï Everything has flopped, says Archbishop Okogie Ï Change, a political deceit – Balarabe Musa Ï APC govt has justified purpose of being in power – Spokesman

Lateef Ibrahim, Tom Okpe, Abuja and Gbubemi God’s Covenant Snr, Lagos

ÏÏÏ As the President Muhammadu

Buhari-led administration clocks two years in office today, May 29, 2017, a cross section of Nigerians who spoke to The Daily Times on Sunday described the performance of administration as unimpressive, urging the Continued on page 6

Naira slips to 7 N382/$ as external reserves drop by $489m in 14 days

L-R: Gombe State Governor, Ibrahim Dankwambo; his counterparts in Ekiti State, Ayo Fayose; Lagos State/ Host, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode; Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo; Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi; Deputy Governor of Osun State, Chief (Mrs.) Titi Laoye- Tomori and Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, during the unveiling of the books on: The Perspective of Lagos, @ a Gala Night, to commemorate Lagos @ 50… on Saturday night.

Oil import: Nigeria drops from 2nd to 5th on US top 6 10 list Democracy Day: We must remain vigilant, says Tinubu 12

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Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

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Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

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BA computer glitch :Lagos passengers affected Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo Lagos flight, BA ‘worldwide’ passengers Flights to Lagos and Abuja from London were on Monday cancelled as passengers were left without flights for hours all over the globe owing to a major computer glitch that wreak havoc for British Airways.

It comes as thousands of Britons headed overseas for the long weekend with halfterm school holidays next week.

Tens of thousands of British Airways passengers experienced long lines and hours-long delays at airports around the world overnight after a computer failure affected check-in systems.

Airline employees had to manually process passengers at airports including San Francisco, Seattle and Phoenix, delaying the departures of dozens of Londonbound transatlantic flights.

The implication was that passengers already booked on the BA flight yesterday could no longer do as offi-

cials of the airline in Lagos were frantically working to reach virtually all the intending travellers on the problem which grounded the airline’s operations.

The BA Abuja flight was not affected early today because the problem started after the aircraft had departed.

Country Commercial Manager for BA (Nigeria and West Africa), Mr. Kola Olayinka said in Lagos that flight expected to depart at 11.40pm had been cancelled as plane could not leave London because of the problem.

Olayinka disclosed that the Abuja flight departed shortly before the glitch.

Except the problem is urgently resolved, Abuja flight from London could also be affected.

His words: “Tonight’s flight has been cancelled.

The Abuja flight left before the glitch. They are trying to resolve the problem. The flight left before the glitch. It will be resolved. Our flight tonight to Lagos has been cancelled and we are hoping to restore the problems as soon as possible.

TierIIoperatorslistthreatsto FG’sbroadbandagenda

ÏnƏ Ɔ M Ɛ ƏƆ ƅƑƆ ƐƆƋƆƅ ƌ ƈ ƗƑ ƐƏƕ Tony Nwakaegho Tier II telecoms operators in Nigeria have drawn attention to the difficulties that are threatening to cripple their operations with the attendant effect of derailing the broadband plan of the federal government.

The Tier II operators, made up of notable broadband companies in Nigeria, therefore asked the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), as the industry regulator, to take immediate and decisive steps to avert the looming threat of strangulation, which its members currently face.

The leaders of the Tier II telecoms operators represented by a high-powered delegation made up of Mr. Godfrey Efeurhobo, Managing Director of Smile Communications, David Venn, Managing Director of Spectranet, Mr. Osondu Nwokoro, Director Regulatory and External Affairs of nTel and Mr. Chuma Okoye, Chief Commercial Officer of Swift Networks, made the call during a re-

cent visit to the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof.

Umar Garba Danbatta in his office at Abuja.

Tier II telecoms operators warned of a systemic industry failure threat with likely negative collateral and great national socio-economic implications that is in the offing.

According to them, the industry is in a situation where all operators are finding it difficult to justify the required investment case for additional CAPEX (capital expenses) for network capacity expansion to improve quality of service to customers.

They further noted that the Network OPEX (operational expenses) of Telecommunication Operations has sky rocketed in the last 15months by over 85 percent with revenues remaining relatively flat.

Most Operators, they observed, are currently struggling with meeting obligations to their suppliers particularly Network Vendors, TowerCos and servicing Loan obligations.

Former Vice President and chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar (l), in a handshake with Emir of Kano, Lamido Sunusi ll, during the award ceremony marking the 50th Anniversary of the creation of Kano State, at the Government House, Kano… at the weekend.

Jonathan, Saro-Wiwa, 125 others get Special Awards from Rivers Amaka Agbu, Port Harcourt Former President Goodluck Jonathan and the Late Ken Saro-Wiwa were among the 127 distinguished Nigerians honoured with awards on Saturday night by the Rivers state government to climax the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the state.

Some of the awardees were honoured posthumously for their outstanding contributions to the growth of Rivers state at different times.

The state governor, Nyesom Wike, personally presented the awards to the awardees or their representatives during a splendid ceremony that took place at the remodeled MultiPurpose Hall of the Alfred Diete Spiff Civic Centre.

Governor Wike presented three categories of awards to the distinguished personalities. They include: Grand Service Star of Rivers State

(GSSRS), Distinguished Service Star of Rivers State (DSSRS) and Governor’s Medal of Honour (GMH).

All civilian and military former governors of the state accepted the award except the immediate past governor of the state, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, who has been indicted by a judicial commission of inquiry for misappropriation of state funds.

Prominent among the awardees on Saturday night are: former President Goodluck Jonathan, his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan, first Rivers military governor, King Alfred Diete Spiff, former state governor, Dr. Peter Odili, former governor, Chief Rufus Ada George, former Deputy Speakers of the House of Representatives, Chibodum Nwuche and Austin Opara.

Late Ken Saro-Wiwa, Late Senator Obi Wali and Late Edward Kobani were among those honoured posthumously.

In his address, Governor Wike stated that the Excellent Achievers Golden Jubilee State Awards was instituted to appreciate all those who worked hard to ensure the growth and stability of the state.

He said: “Rivers people are all proud of you. You are our heroes. You have inspired generations and we pray you continue to inspire us by upholding the finest values of hard work, courage, commitment, determination, competitive spirit, love for knowledge and love for your country, your State and the Nation.

These are the time-honoured values that stood you out among the rest for this noble recognition.

“To the families of our departed recipients, we appreciate you for the lifetime achievements and contributions of your loved ones to the development of our people, our State and our Nation. Some of them died so that we can be free to

pursue our dreams and aspirations. We are proud of every one of them and let this award remind you that we love them as much”.

The governor added: “You have all done well and we call on our youths to draw inspiration from your achievements and free themselves from the selfimposed and self-limiting sense of despair, hopelessness and helplessness.

“Let us never forget that we are a people of common heritage with a common destiny under God. As Government we shall continue to promote, protect and defend the collective interest of Rivers state.”

Speaking further, Governor Wike stated that the law establishing the award will be amended

to ensure that criminals, no matter their previous positions don’t get honoured from the state.

Ramadan: Aregbesola urges Muslims to pray for increased security Sodiq Adekunle, Osogbo

Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun state has enjoined Muslims across the country to increase themselves in good deeds as the Holy Month of Ramadan begins.

Aregbesola, who joined Muslim faithful at the Ajobo Central Mosque Osogbo for the weekly Jumat prayer, used the occasion to pray for Muslims to expect blessings of their creator within the month.

The governor equally charged Muslims all over the country to pray for

peace and security.

In a statement by the Director, Bureau of Communications and Strategy, Office of the Governor, Mr. Semiu Okanlawon, the governor said Ramadan is a month in which Muslims renew and redouble their spiritual efforts for the attainment of piety.

Aregbesola tasked the Muslim ummah to use the holy month to pray fervently for peace and security in the nation and the State of Osun.

He reiterated that Islam is a religion that promotes peace and it’s adherents

have no choice but to propagate messages and deeds among fellow faithful and non muslims alike.

The statement said in part: “This is a month that comes once in a year. It is a month designed by Allah to open the door of mercy, favour and forgiveness to His creatures.

“We should seize this opportunity to pray for the country to overcome all its social, political and economic problems.

“We must extend hands of fellowship to both Muslims and non-Muslims; use the month to share,

care and show love to others.

“Above all, we must strife to be agents and promoters of peaceful and harmonious co-existence in our communities.

“We must also make a strong resolve not to revisit whatever anti-social vices and behaviours that Ramadan has prevented us from engaging in.”

Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun has enjoined Muslims across the country to increase themselves in good deeds as the Holy Month of Ramadan begins.

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Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

PDP, Falana, Balarabe Musa, Okogie, others score Buhari at 2 Continued from page 1 government rise up and deliver the change it promised during the run up to the 2015 general election.

This is even as the National Caretaker committee (NCC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Senator Ahmed Makarfi, on Sunday, assessed the two years administration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) with a damning verdict that the regime is a failure.

The NCC of the PDP pointedly said that there is nothing for Nigerians to celebrate about the two years government of the APC. The party, in a statement by

its National Publicity Secretary, Prince Dayo Adeyeye, on Sunday, in Abuja, rated the Buhari’s regime low in virtually in areas.

The national caretaker committee however called on all the citizens to continue praying for the full restoration of President Buhari’s health and his safe return to the country.

“We also urge the Acting President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, to assent to the 2017 National Budget as a matter of urgency and see to its successful implementation in order to reduce the sufferings of the people”, the PDP said.

In his assessment, foremost lawyer and Right activist, Mr.

Femi Falana, SAN, in an interview with The Daily Times on Sunday recalled that the governing All Progressives Congress (APC) before assuming power promised to fight terrorism, abolish corruption, end impunity and change poverty to prosperity.

He noted that two years after assuming office, the administration has fought and tamed the insurgents but has not defeated terrorism.

Falana, observed that although the Buhari’s administration has attempted to challenge corruption, but that the monster is fighting back.

He stressed further that be-

Management of Diamond Bank Plc; Staff and Students of Lekki British School, during a courtesy visit to Diamond Bank Plc., as part of the activities marking 2017 Children’s Day Celebration… at the weekend.

Oil import: Nigeria drops from 2nd to 5th on US top 10 list OpeOluwani Akintayo

ÏÏÏ Fresh data has shown that Nigeria now ranks 5th from 2nd on U. S top 10 list of countries it has imported oil from in the last 30 years.

Before US shale oil started booming, the US had bought 91 billion barrels of crude oil from 80 nations.

The Energy Information Agency, EIA’s data on US oil import since 1986 showed that from 1986 to 2016, the U.S. imported 91.2 billion barrels of crude oil, in just under 244,000 individual records.

On the top five is Nigeria. The country was once the second-largest provider of oil to the US. According to EIA, Nigeria has sent the US about 7.8 billion barrels of oil in the last three decades.

Since Nigeria produces mainly lighter crude, similar in grade to the oil being produced by the now booming US shale producers, shale has now dealt a huge blow on Nigeria, forcing the country out of the US market.

In 2010, the US imported 983 MBOPD of oil from Nigeria.

However, four years after, US importation fell to just 58 MBOPD, a drop of 94 percent.

Sadly, according to EnerCom Analytics, the situation is not likely to change any time soon, reason not fetched- the “US shale is projected to grow significantly in 2017”.

Top on the list is Canada. The country has provided the most oil to the US—a total of 17.3 billion barrels since 1986. Imports from Canada have been growing steadily, powered primarily by oil sand production. The country has been main source of imported oil for the US since 2004, and has grown significantly since then.

The US imported more than 3,250 MBOPD from Canada last year, nearly triple the volume imported from Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia has sent the US more than 14.5 billion barrels of oil since 1986. It’s the US’s secondlargest oil source. Imports from the OPEC leader are falling however, gradually declining from the peak 1,726 MBOPD America received in 2003. In 2016, the US imported 1,097 MBOPD from the

kingdom, making it the current second-largest oil source.

Perhaps more surprising is third place: Mexico. At 12.1 billion total barrels, Mexico was actually the primary import partner of the US back in 1986, and has always been in the top five sources.

Production from the country has been declining in recent years however, and lower supply combined with growth in US shale production mean Mexican oil exports to the US have been decreasing. Current export rates are down nearly two thirds from their peak in 2004.

Despite occasionally rocky relationships with the US, Venezuela has been America’s fourth-largest source of oil since 1986. The heavy oil producer has provided the US with about 11.9 billion barrels of oil over the last thirty years. In 1996 and 1997 Venezuela ranked first among America’s oil import partners. Like Mexico, however, imports from Venezuela are currently declining. Venezuela’s current economic troubles and unrest will likely push imports down further.

cause the administration allowed the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank to continue to control the economy of the nation, poverty is on the ascendancy.

He urged the labour movement and all progressive forces to mobilise the people to liberate the nation.

The Catholic Archbishop Emeritus, Cardinal OlubunmI Okogie, speaking to The Daily Times from London where he is currently running a medical check-up, acknowledged that the APC government of change started well but stated his reservations.

His words: “They had a very good plan, but the change we have now after two years is not what we expected. The change they waved at us that attracted a good number of Nigerians - including myself, has suddenly flopped. If you remember, the inaugural speech of President Buhari, his promise about the economy, insurgency like Boko Haram, the Niger Delta militants, the Chibok girls, corruption, and so on, everyone was happy. But unfortunately, and I am laying emphasis on the word, all his promises have flopped.

They delayed here and there and our expectations were just thrown out - and I think it must be due largely to those people who were not originally APC members that crossed the carpet from PDP into APC, and unfortunately again, they were the same people that destroyed PDP, and that’s why this APC government is the way it is today.

“Secondly, the man who brought the President in, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the President began to see him as an enemy and that is how the whole thing started. Look at the economy, for example: Buhari began to put the wrong people in top positions. How for example could he have given so many ministries to one man, the Babatunde Fashola example? That was when everything went out of hand.”

In his assessment, elder statesman and former governor of Kaduna State, Alhaji Balarabe Musa was blunt and brief on the subject when The Daily Times asked his take.

His words: “The only way to explain everything is that the change they proposed to Nigerians is a political deceit because we have not seen any change. Real change has to be qualitative and fundamental.

“I didn’t see any qualitative change. I didn’t see any fundamental change. All we have seen is a variety of public deceit.”

Reviewing the two years of the current administration, National Publicity Secretary of the panYoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Yinka Odumakin, declared that the performance of the Buhari administration was

unimpressive.

He said: “If you look at key areas where President Buhari promised Nigerians of change during his campaign, you will agree they all have not succeeded.

He is not even coordinated as it relates to governance.

“He took many months to appoint ministers, for example and in the last two years we have not seen any move he has actualised that Nigerians can say, yes, this one stands out. There are complaints of hardship everywhere, yet if you look at the oil rig sales and increase in other of the nation’s resources, this present government must have had more money in the last two years than the four years of the previous administration, but we have not seen anything concrete on ground to show for it.”

Pointing that all indices have gone from bad to worse in the last two years, the political activist recalled that the stock market has lost close to two trillion Naira: “Many more people have gone out of jobs in the same period, the value of Naira kept sliding down on daily basis, while most industries have closed down because they cannot get forex to produce and bring in the expected profit; then rate of kidnappings, robbery and all kinds of crime are on the increase. Also, foreign companies are leaving the country in droves and these have brought us to social and economic collapse.

“Furthermore, we have seen the worst of insecurity in Nigeria in the last two years,” he continued.

“We have Fulani herdsmen raiding Eastern and Western communities, raping and killing people at will and nobody is checking them because they are overprotected and pampered. So there are serious problems everywhere, and unfortunately, we are also moving up to the next election crisis.

“But if these four years fail to put sensible growth in the economy and life of the people, the government has to take a retreat and take more serious approach to governance and, above all, accede to the call for the restructuring of the geo-political zones of the country because if this call is not heeded, nothing significant is going to happen and no change can be expected with the current structure. That is the way forward.”

Olubanjo Olugbenga of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) represents the pastoral hierarchy in the review of the political and economic change of the Buhari-led administration two years on.

He reasoned that change is a beautiful word, but stated that: “As beautiful as it is, it is something a lot of people don’t like, even though we want it, yet change is the only thing that is constant in Continued on page 12

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

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Naira slips to N382/$ as external reserves drop by $489m in 14 days Motolani Oseni

ÏÏÏ The Nigerian currency, Naira, after it appreciated to N380 to the Dollar on Thursday relapsed by two points on the last trading day of the week (Friday) to 382 at the parallel market, just as the nation’s external reserves declined by $489 million in 14 days, latest figure on the official website of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has revealed.

The naira, over the weekend, traded between 382 and 381 per dollar and also dropped against Pound and Euro, and exchanged in the black market at 492 and 422, respectively.

The closing rate of 305.35 to the dollar at the official market on Friday was slightly better than the previous rate of 305.4

and weakened price of 305.90 per dollar against the quoted rate of 305.45 last Wednesday.

Nothing changes at the Bureau De Change (BDC) window, the Naira remained at the regulated rate of N362 to the Dollar, while the Pound Sterling and the Euro closed at N495 and N423.

Also, at the Investor and Export FX window, the local currency opened at 381.56 per dollar and closed at 381.00, representing an appreciable rate compared to the closing rate of 381.81 within the week under review.

However, at the interbank market, the local currency traded sold at 314.63 to the US dollar, while it exchanged at 404.85 per Pound Sterling and 352.98 to

the Euro, against 319. 99 to the Dollar, 414.79 per Pound Sterling and 360.24 to the Euro, it traded earlier in the week under review.

Consequently, the apex bank has continued to inject fresh capital to boost liquidity in the forex market, with injection of forex to lift the foreign exchange market, selling $391.50 million at the interbank window, comprising (1) spot delivery for invisibles worth USD86.50 million, and (2) sales to SMEs and wholesale users totaling USD50 million and USD200 million respectively.

Asides that, it also auctioned an undisclosed amount of dollars to settle a backlog of foreign exchange demand for airlines, fuel and raw material importers. However, the result

of the auction was unavailable at the time of writing.

Last week’s programme brings the total amount of CBN intervention to approximately N6.65 billion, since January.

A check on the volume of trading on the IEFX, revealed that approximately USD1.51billion has been sold by autonomous sources between April 28th and May 19th, 2017. That said, the naira -- in the interbank market -- strengthened against the basket of currencies tracked.

This assisted marginally to stabilise the naira against the greenback and deepen dollar inflow into the market.

The CBN Acting Director, Corporate Communications, Isaac Okorafor, speaking to the journalists

L-R: Air Vice Marshal Olufunsho Martins; Lord Bishop, Lagos Central Diocese of The African Church/celebrant, Gabriel Adebanjo; his wife, Lady Evangelist Dorcas and Chairman of the occasion, Dr. Ore Falomo, during the 50th birthday celebration and 30 years in the Ministry, at The African Church Bethlehem Cathedral, Lagos… recently.

PDP, Falana, Balarabe Musa, Okogie, others score Buhari at 2

Continued from page 12

in government today at the federal level and in the various states.

“I would like to say that there are three things that President Buhari promised as we went round the country campaigning. One was that he promised to fight corruption. Secondly, he said he will fight insecurity especially as it relates to Boko Haram and thirdly, he said he will create employment opportunity for the young people.

“Let us take the issue of Boko Haram. I have said it repeatedly that we tend to forget one fundamental fact which was that at the time we were preparing for election in 2015, more than 50,000 square kilometers

of Nigeria territory were physically occupied by Boko Haram, where they declared a caliphate and planted their flag. I remember that in trying to make sense of it, foreign media said the area occupied by Boko Haram was the size of Belgium. Two years down the line, what is the size of Nigeria territory occupied

by Boko Haram? Zero, including the dreaded Sambisa forest. For us, this is a remarkable achievement and we believe that in that respect.

“President Buhari and the government of APC have justified the purpose of coming to power. Yes, many of the Chibok girls are still in captivity, but some of them have been recovered and more are still being re-

covered. For the parents of those recovered, you cannot tell them there is no reason to celebrate. For those who had to abandon their families and homes two years ago because of the menace of Boko Haram and has returned home today, you cannot tell them that there is nothing to celebrate.

“Let us take the issue of corruption. We must not forget that before APC came into power two years ago, we knew what was going on. We knew that people were stealing this country dry, but it was almost like it has been accepted as if it was normal.

People were stealing as if it was an entitlement. But what do you find happening today? You listen to the radio, watch the tele-

visions, read the newspapers, Nigerians are talking about corruption every day. It means that as a nation, there is nothing in our DNA that accepts corruption. It means that we are telling the world that as a country, we don’t want corruption and that is why we are having that conversation. You hear people talking about whistleblowers, people talk about huge amount of money being recovered, people being dragged before the court, former governors being remanded in prison custody for corrupt practices, you hear about former ministers being held in detention and prison for corruption. These are things that were almost impossible two years ago. The

last week reiterated that the CBN will continue to make every necessary intervention in the interbank market to sustain the supply of forex to meet legitimate foreign exchange demands by customers.

He stated that the efforts of the CBN in sustaining the intervention in the forex market is beginning to post some positive effects, as the Naira is making steady gain against major currencies.

This goes to reaffirms the CBN Governor’s pledge at the Tuesday Monetary Policy Committee press briefing on the need to sustain the forex intervention to ensure the convergence of the forex rates.

Although, the external reserve has risen by $4.7 billion since the beginning of the year, now standing at $30.49 billion, compared to $30.93 stood two weeks ago.

But this followed continued actions by the CBN in the in the foreign exchange market.

The external reserves last week dropped by $145.7 million or 0.48 per cent from $30.66 billion it opened to $30.5 billion on Thursday.

This is less than a week, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the CBN concluded its two day bimonthly meeting in Abuja, with retention of all status quo unchanged.

The last time the local currency recorded any gain was last Wednesday when it strengthened by five points against the dollar, from 385 to 380 at the parallel market.

The MPC left the Monetary Policy Rate unchanged at 14 per cent, as well as the Cash Reserves Ratio at 22.5 per cent.

The CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, who announced the decision of the committee at the end of a two-day meeting held at the apex bank’s headquarters in Abuja explained that the members of the committee agreed to maintain the current monetary policy stance.

DG’s appointment: Osinbajo trails Buhari, violates PenCom Act Continued from page 12 Barrister Chucks Nwachukwu, reacting to Doherty’s appointment, called on the National Assembly not to endorse Doherty’s appointment, hence it did not follow the Pension Reform Act 2014.

“The government of the day has shown that it has no desire to respect the rule of law in federal character.

By the recent appointment, the government is telling the South East that they are not qualified”.

He argued that the South East ranks highest in University admission and as most educated, yet, it is from the educationally disadvantaged that the government sources its qualified skills.

“The president has been insensitive to the South East, but all these has consequences which is that we can’t always be together as one united country, because there is discord and delusion and there are costly

consequences to all these as a nation”.

Nwachukwu added that the appointment by the of Doherty from the South West by the Acting president, in place of a qualified person from the South East as provided by the PenCom Act shows that the government which is supposed to promote unity, is fueling discord.

“We have seen governments where people in power woo and win the confidence of those who did not vote for them in election, but the reverse is the case in Nigeria. It will lead to a head someday, when the people will regret their actions”.

Meanwhile, research shows that Mr. Funso Doherty is the Managing Director/CEO/CIO of Value Alliance. He has over two decades of experience in investment management. He was the Pioneer CEO and CIO of ARM Pension Managers.

+ REMEMBRANCE +

We remember Mr. Festus Duru and Mrs. Abigail Duru who died on their way to church during the Nyanya, Abuja bomb blast on 21-09-2011 and were buried on 28-09-2011 at their home town; Owerri West, Imo State.

May God continue to grant you eternal rest.

Bennard Duru For the family

News 8

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

US based Nigerian model slams N97m suit on Wema bank Peter Fowoyo

ÏÏÏ Hearing, in a N97 mil-

lion suit filed against Wema Bank Plc, by a 22 year old Nigerian model based in United States of America, Nneoma Anosike, for allegedly using her picture for commercial purpose without authorisation, has commenced at a Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos.

Anosike sued the bank through her attorney, Frank Anosike, who is also her father, alleging that on April 11, 2016, the defendant used her picture for commercial purpose in a social network, called ‘Instagram’ without her consent or authorisation from the management of Ford Models Inc, a company in USA which she had agreement to manage her career as a model.

Specifically, the plaintiff is asking the court for an order directing the defendant to pay her the sum of N 75, 000, 000

for allegedly passing off her services.

Besides, she sought the court for an order of injunction restraining the defendant from passing off or causing / enabling others to pass off her professional services.

A declaration that the plaintiff is entitled to her privacy and the privacy of her correspondence, under Section 37 of the 1999 constitution.

The plaintiff asked the court for an order directing the bank to pay her the sum of N 20, 000, 000 for the breach of her privacy by advertising her private correspondence.

An order directing the bank to write a letter of apology to her, and to publish the written apology in two national dallies in USA and another two in Nigeria.

Miss Anosike also demanded for sum of two million naira as special damages and

cost of filing the suit.

According to the statement of claims attached to the suit, the plaintiff claimed that she is reputable and international model who had won many laurels within and outside the country, she averred that among the competitions she won in Nigeria was ‘Elite Model Look’, 2013.

Adding that based on her reputation, in 2014, Pepsi-Cola Nigeria made her its brand ambassador for Aquafina Water.

The plaintiff averred that her contract with Ford Models Inc, the company that took her to USA, is for period of three years and prior to the advert of the defendant which used her as their model, the American company was already negotiating with her on how to renew the contract.

On April 11, 2016 , the management of Ford Models sum-

moned her to a meeting on April 12, 2016 and in the meeting she was presented with her photographic advert procured from account of the defendant on Instagram. She alleged that the defendant mutilated and photo edited her professional photograph for the said advert and advertised it on the World Wide Web. Based on the action of the the bank, the defendant had breach the contractual agreement between her and the American company, alleged that the bank had jeopardized her chance of contract extension with Ford Models Inc. However, the defendant in its Statement of Defence, averred that the bank was neither a party nor privy to any of the alleged modelling contract of the plaintiff with any third party.

Justice Ibrahim Buba had adjourned further hearing in the matter till June 15 A 23- year old man, Samaila Abubakar was yesterday sentenced to 20 years in prison by an Ikeja High Court for killing his business partner Sunny Muhammed.

NEITI laud Senate on the passage of PIGB, urges Reps to give assent Myke Uzendu, Abuja Stakeholders in the oil and gas sector have commended the Senate for the passage of the Petroleum Industry Governance Bill (PIGB) just as they called on the House of Representatives to toe the same line so as to bring to a halt, the unending years of uncertainty and inactive legislation in the sector.

A statement signed by its Director of Communications, Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, NEITI expressed its excitement over the passage of PIGB by the Senate.

“The decision of the Senate to consider the bill as priority resulting in its passage is not only legendary, but historic given the challenges the bill has passed through in its legislative journey for almost two decades.

“NEITI therefore calls on the House of Representatives to find similar courage to give the bill an accelerated consideration on its merit in overriding public interest.

“We are delighted that to avoid the controversies that killed the last PIB, the current Senate, carefully assembled experts who carefully broke the Bill into various segments

beginning with the governance aspect of the proposed law. The PIGB now passed by the Senate is a product of this creative initiative” NEITI stated.

Recall that the House of Representative in the 7th Assembly passed the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) but it could not get the necessary assent in the Senate, hence the bill could not see the light of the day.

In one of its publications, NEITI explained that the absence of PIB had robbed the country of quality investment in the sector resulting in a current negative indicators in the economy.

“In that publication shared with members of the National Assembly, NEITI alerted the nation that Nigeria had so far lost over $200 billion as a result of absence of the Law. These lost revenues were as a result of investments withheld or diverted by investors to other (more predictable) jurisdictions.

The hedging by investors stems from the expectation that the old rules would no longer apply, but not knowing when the new ones would materialize.”

The Agency hopes that if the new law gets the assent of the President, the huge revenue were lost by the nation as a result of governance lapses.

World Communications Day: Cleric wants Nigerians to indulge in constructive communication Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Ebonyi State (l), Mrs. Comfort Abia Onyike; Group Executive, Retail Banking, South, First Bank, Nnaemeka Ejeh (4th l) and Commissioner for Education, Ebonyi State, Prof. John U.Eke (5th r), with some students, during the flag off of the First Bank Financial Literacy Programme in Ebonyi State...recently.

Police tear gas anti Ayade protesters, barricade Millennium Park Edem Edem, Calabar

ÏÏÏ

Police command in Cross River state at the weekend tear gassed hundreds of youths who protested against the performance of state governor, Prof. Ben Ayade.

The protesters asked Governor Ayade to stick to his campaign promises, improve the standard of living and forget the change of the state’s logo.

Investigations conducted by our correspondent revealed that the protesters who came under the auspices of ‘Arise Cross

River’ were aware of the police intention and also knew there would be trouble when they got to the take off point of the protest at the millennium park as they saw heavily armed Police men in over five Hilux trucks surrounding the park.

The protesters however, introduced themselves to the police and told them their mission. The police addressed the protesters and told them they had intelligence report that some persons were planning to hijack the protest and disrupt the children’s

day celebration and told them they cannot use the venue.

In spite of the warning by the police, the protesters carrying placards that have various inscriptions such as ‘The Cross River We knew had no potholes,’ ‘The Cross River we knew enabled SME’s to thrive,’ ‘The Cross River we knew used to be safe every time and day,’ among others, moved to Barracks road and were granting interviews and taking pictures when the police fired a live shots into the air and 15 minutes later swooped on the protesters firing

tear gas and threatening to “use force” on them if they didn’t leave.

Speaking with newsmen, the protesters lamented the police high handedness with one of them who spoke on condition of anonymity saying: “this is not even a protest; it is a walk out to call the attention of the government to some of the things that are not going on right in the state.

This was the purpose of our gathering as patriots, to call the attention of the government only to be harassed and tear gassed by the police.”

‘Tosin Ajuwon, Akure Pope Francis has asked Nigerians to engage in constructive forms of communication which rejects prejudice towards others.

Pope Francis made disclosure on Sunday at the 51st World Communications Day held at the Mary Queen of Angels’ Catholic Church, Akure.

The event has the theme ‘Fear not am with you: Communicating hope and trust in our time.’

The Pope, whose message was read by Vicar General of Ondo Diocese, Rev Fr Adewale Ojo, also urged people to foster a culture of encounter which would help everyone view the world with realism and trust.

“I am convinced that we have to break the vicious circle of anxiety and stem the spirit of fear resulting from the constant focus on ‘bad news’ (wars, terrorism, scandals and all sorts

of human failure).

“I would like, then, to contribute to the search for an open and creative style of communication that never seeks to glamourize evil but instead, concentrate on solutions and to inspire a positive and responsible approach on the part of its recipients.

“I ask everyone to offer the people of our time storylines that are at heart “good news”,” he said.

Daisi Ajayi, the president, Catholic Media Practitioners Association, Ondo Diocese, urged media practitioners to foster a culture of encounter.

“We must endeavour to offer the people storylines that are at heart, good news by developing confidence in the seed of the kingdom at the same time relying on the Holy Spirit,” he said.

Similarly, Mr Kayode Ajulo, the Chairman of the occasion, praised the church for having an occasion which could not be compared to others.

Politics

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

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9

Two years of Buhari’s administration: The bright side, the dark side Patrick Okohue

When the All Progressives Congress (APC) in a keenly contested party primary in 2014 nominated then Gen Muhammadu Buhari as its flag bearer for the 2015 presidential election, not a few people heaved a sigh of relief that at last the man many consider as incorruptible has a real chance to win the nation’s number one seat and turn things around.

The campaign was massive and the mobilisation of voters across the various political zones of the country was also not a small affair.

The support of the North, where Buhari is believed to have a cult like following was massive, so was the support from the South West part of the country, where its political leaders vowed to do whatever it takes to deliver the former Military Head of State.

When elections eventually came, it was not a surprise that the Daura, Katsina State born politician defeated the incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan, despite little support from the South East and South South, thereby making history to become the first Nigeria opposition candidate ever to defeat an incumbent President.

The election of President Buhari was to many people a fulfillment of a dream and the celebration of the victory was clear evidence that, the people’s preferred candidate had won.

The victory of Buhari was made much easier by the campaign slogan of the APC, as they vowed to bring change to an already disillusioned people, many of whom were unhappy with the government and many of its policies.

So, when the APC came with the ‘Change Agenda’ with a promise to make a difference in the nation’s economy within the first six months, ensure uninterrupted power supply, ensure refineries are working and new ones are built within a short period of time, the electorates were convinced that this was what they needed at this time.

However, two years down the line, the achievements of the government and how far it has gone in actualising the promises and upholding the hopes of the people is a matter for the people to decide, considering what it has and has not done.

A peep into its performance shows a lot of ups and downs and many are confused about how really to rate the government two years down the line.

The Buhari administration came into office in the heat of the Boko Haram insurgency and the heightened agitation for the re-

Osinbajo

President Buhari

lease of the Chibok girls abducted by the Boko Haram insurgents from Government Secondary School, Chibok, Bornu State two years earlier, so it was not surprising that in its first few days in office, Buhari ordered the relocation of the Nigerian Military Command Centre to Maiduguri, this it must be stated contributed in no small way to the success in the fight against insurgency.

The President also engaged in some sort of shuttle diplomacy to neighbouring countries, with a view to involving them in the administration’s resolve to push Boko Haram elements out of Nigeria through a Multinational Joint Task Force and totally annihilate them.

In the early days of the administration there was a noticeable improvement in the power sector, which greatly raised the hope of many Nigerians for better days ahead, but this feeling was short

lived as things has since returned to how it was in most places.

The President had vowed in the heat of the return of the Niger Delta militancy and vandalisation of oil installations leading to a drastic reduction in the oil production level that he will treat Niger Delta militants as terrorists and deal with them the way Boko Haram insurgents are being dealt with if they refuse to negotiate with the Federal Government, subsequently, whether as a result of the threat or because of the intervention of leaders of the Niger Delta region there is now significant peace in the region, following fruitful discussions with stakeholders in the region and the involvement of the Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo in the peace talks in the region.

Another mark of success of the Buhari administration was the level of success the military recorded against the Boko Haram and also the administration’s abil-

The Buhari administration has also been accused of playing double standard in appointment of top officials into key government position, alleging that it has been aimed at favouring a certain part of the country, an allegation that the government has not been able to successfully defend. There is also the issue of trying to shield its top officials accused of corrupt acts, for example in January this year, President Buhari wrote a letter to the Senate, clearing the now suspended Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Babachir Lawal over grass-cutting contract allegations

Savaldor

ity to secure the release of dozens of the abducted Chibok schoolgirls. Three of them had managed to escape on their own; 21 were released last year and another 82 were recently released due to negotiations with the terrorists.

The Chibok girls’ release has enormously lifted the spirits of Nigerians and reduced one of the most enduring pains in the national life since 2014.

The Buhari regime’s anti-corruption campaign has also made a huge impact in the country. Probes have uncovered how trillions of naira was lost in the oil industry and also in the name of weapons purchases. In addition, EFCC made huge discoveries of hidden monies; retrieved assets worth billions from former officials and has initiated the prosecution of many high profile ex-officials, including top military brass and even judges.

The administration’s presidential directive given to ensure the closure of all multiple accounts in Ministries, Departments, and

Saraki

Agencies of government, thereby plugging leakages and concentrating all government resources into a Treasury Single Account (TSA) has also been a plus.

While many will want to celebrate the gains so made under this administration, others are quick to point to the many shortcomings of the government, one of it being the fact that it took Buhari eight months to appoint his cabinet, and an additional 14 months for his government to finally unveil its medium-term economic strategy, the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan, ERGP. This is also coupled with the fact that two years into his administration some boards of government agencies dissolved at the inception of the administration are yet to be reconstituted and many of those reconstituted are fraught with controversies and allegations of the government not following due process and legal provision in the appointments.

Another issue that agitated the minds of Nigerians early in his administration is the fact that despite his electoral promise to reduce petrol pump price from the N87 per litre that he met it, President Buhari increased the price to N145 barely months after coming to power.

The denials on the part of the Federal Government of the APC electioneering pledge of paying N5000 to poor, unemployed Nigerian, also created room for distrust of the government, though the government has since redefined the category of people who will qualify for the payment and claim that it has started paying the money in some states.

Another issue that the government has had to contend with on

CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

Politics 10

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29. 2017

I neither belong to Sheriff nor Makarfi PDP faction – Gbolarumi The late strongman of Oyo State politics, Alhaji Lamidi Ariyibi Adedibu was like your political father. How has it been after his transition?

To me, politically, the contribution and achievements of Adedibu in Oyo State politics and Nigeria in general were immense to even start to mention one by one. He taught me well and made me what I am today. Nobody can deny that he was politically enlightened and very sophisticated to the point that no discussion in the political arena can ignore his contributions.

Alhaji Hazeem Gbolarumi is a former deputy governor of Oyo State. He is a lawyer and a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in the state. In this interview with the BOLAJI OMOSANYA in Ibadan, he spoke about his relationship with the late strongman of Oyo State politics, Alhaji Lamidi Ariyibi Adedibu, the current crisis within the PDP at the national level, the Governor Abiola Ajimobi- led APC administration in the state and people’s comments on President Muhammadu Buhari’s health amongst other issues. sations.

Don’t you think that President Muhammadu Buhari’s state of health is being shrouded in too much mystery?

I just don’t understand why people always want to make mountain out of a molehill. To be sick is human. Anybody can be sick at anytime. A baby can be sick and likewise an old man can become sick. It is in the natural order of things.

All those who are raising issues with Buhari’s health are mainly politicising the whole matter. How about discussing important matters that can move our nation forward.

Is politics in the state the same since his departure from the scene?

Of course, it can’t be the same. One must expect that changes would occur.

That is given. He played his part creditably well while he was with us. His open door policy is well known everywhere.

His Molete, Ibadan residence was a sort of Mecca. Adedibu didn’t close his doors twenty-four hours. You can just walk in anytime of the day. He did not like to see anybody suffer whether the ordinary citizens or the people referred to as high society.

Are you happy about the current crisis within the PDP both at the state and the federal levels. What is the way out?

Let me tell you something, there is no crisis within the Oyo State PDP. We are in the grip of things. The relationship between members has been a good one and we continue to maintain that and by God’s grace we will continue to maintain it. And the other thing that I want you to know is that for me, I am neutral as concerns the two factions. I mean the Ali Modu Sheriff and the Makarfi factions.

I am not involved in favour of one part or the other. I know that in Oyo State, we are in the grip of things. We are on course. You will see when we come on in the next elections, we have done our preparations. The positive ends will become obvious to you in the next dispensation. We are very serious people.

Has the APC in the state failed the people or do you think that if the PDP is still in place it would have been better? In other words, how would you score the present APC government of Senator Abiola Ajimobi?

I would not want to score the present government in the state. It may not be fair to do so now. In government, people come, people go but the state and the people remain. PDP had its own chance. This is the time of the APC. Our focus should rather be on adding value to the lives of the masses once you have your chance.

You try to carve a niche and make a difference in the lives of the people.

There was a book written about you several years ago, “Gbolarunmi: An Enigma” and after leaving office as deputy governor of the state, you went to study law. You are now a qualified lawyer. Are all these about your political ambition?

Every human being is a political animal, if you agree with me. And there is

On the alarm raised by Gen. Buratai’s that some politicians are trying to convince some army officers to stage a coup. What is your take?

This is part of what we are saying. Buratai, so far, has not come out to mention names of those involved. He was just issuing a warning to his men not to be allowed to be used by politicians to destabilise the country. Infact, I don’t want to get involved. If it is true, I believe Buratai would have named names.

Gbolarunmi nothing wrong in pursuing one’s political goal, but aside that, I have a strong view that every human being must strive to look for ways to improve himself at all times. This is what I am doing. I have

my LLB, gone to the law school, for my BL and the one for my LLM in London is on course. I believe that at the end, I would be very ready to serve the people in a much better way in the next dispen-

Your advice to Nigerians generally?

I want to appeal to Nigerians during this Ramadan period, to shun all what can cause disruption of peace in the country. And to pray for peace and progress of the nation. I see a Nigeria where there will be food for all, prosperity and end to recession.

Two years anniversary: Accord party scores Buhari low, wants him to resign Iniobong Iwok As President Muhammadu Buhari led All Progressives Congress (APC) government marks its second year in office, the Accord Party in Lagos State has described the administration as a total failure, arguing that Nigerians have been further impoverished since it assumed office.

The party stated that the President has showed since he assumed office that he lacked the right ideas, and know how to move the country forward, noting that the situation have been further compounded by the lopsided and sentiment used in appointing ministers which have all performed below expectation.

Secretary of the party in Lagos State, Comrade Lanre Ogundare who

stated this in a chart with newsmen, noted that the President was not sincere in his anti corruption fight, which according to him has been toothless.

He said: “Buhari’s two years in office has been a failure. It is nothing to write home about, you can see that the President do not have ideas on how to move the country forward, look at the economy, we are in recession and we are not likely to come out soon, his anti corruption crusade has been toothless.

“To the best of my knowledge, Musiliu Obanikoro was drafted to comeback to boost the anti corruption fight of the President based on agreement with the former United States administration.

“When you look at his recent move to defect to the APC, you would know that the fight with Obanikoro can-

not be taken serious. Why can’t they come up with the owner of the flat in Ikoyi were money was found? I don’t expect anything from the Osinbajo committee, it is a cover up,” he said.

Speaking further, Ogundare backed the call for the restructuring of the country noting that the current system was stagnating the growth of the country.

The party leader urged President Buhari to honourably resign from office, because it is obvious he cannot perform the duties of his office due to his failing health.

“Let him throw the towel and follow the path of honour and resign.

It is normal for us to fall sick as humans, but when it is obvious you cannot run the office again, resign.

“As a party we are calling for restructuring of the country, we want true federalism,” he said.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29 , 2017

Protest mars Niger APC award, as party members walk out on governor Saka Bolaji - Minna Niger State governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello on Friday received the shock of his life when All Progressive Congress (APC) members and supporters walk out on him during an award ceremony organised by the party to honor some of it members.

The award ceremony which was held at the Justice Legbo Kutigi International Conference Center, Minna was part of activities lined up to mark the 2nd anniversary of the APC led administration in office.

Immediately the master of the ceremony (MC) began to call the names of the awardees, the people started protesting, shouting “no! no!! No!!! its a lie, they don’t deserve it, they didn’t work for the party.”

While the protest was on, the entire hall which was jam-parked with party members and supporters who came from across the 25 local government areas of the state became almost empty, leaving only the governor, members of his cabinet and the state party executive in the hall.

The party members and supporters who expressed disappointment over the choice of those being awarded, described the entire

exercise as “cash and carry” and therefore lacking in merit.

According to a party member from Suleja Local Government, Sani Mohammed, “those that are being awarded today are all PDP members who defected to the party after they fell out with their party.

“These people who are being given award today where were they two years ago when we were forming the party. Some of them were in PDP or somewhere laughing at us when we were struggling.

“Today they are being awarded because they have money to give to party executive.

This is a cash and carry award and it is not good for the party.”

Another party member from Bida, Muhamud Musa believed that “this type of shameless act is capable of tearing the party apart, adding that “some people will definitely feel alienated after they had worked hard to make the party what it is today.”

Others who also staged a walk out from the hall in anger, said that they were bundled into vehicles from their respective local governments without feeding and pocket allowances with a promise to settle them when they get to the party office in Minna.

“Some of us left our houses since morning without food and until now (4:00pm) no-

body has given us anything. They said when we get to Minna they will give us our feeding allowance, but now nobody is talking to us,” one of the party members from Bosso Local Government who simply gave his name as Abdullahi said.

According to him, “You can see that since the event started, nobody has served us with even common pure water and you expect us to continue staying here, no! we have to start going back to our houses,” he submitted.

The situation was further compounded following the absence of most of the elected representatives from the state at the award ceremony.

It was observed that out of the three APC Senator from the state, only one, Senator Aliyu Sabi representing Niger North was present at the award, while out of the 11 APC House of Representatives members, only two, Hon. Umar Bago (Chanchaga) and Hon. Muhamud Mohammed (Lapai/Agaie) Constituencies were present at the award.

No reason was given for their absence, but it was reliably gathered that the members have continuously expressed reservation over the style of Governor Abubakar Sani Bello’s leadership and have decided to stay away from all state functions.

Two years of Buhari’s administration CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 regular basis since assumption of office is the controversy over budget.

The first budget of the Buhari administration worth N6.08trn budget was not passed until after several months following allegations of padding and that crisis claimed many casualties both in the budget office and at the National Assembly.

In August 2016, the Nigerian economy was declared to be in technical recession with many believing that the administration’s poor handling of the economy facilitated such.

The President signed an agreement with the Chinese government to improve Nigeria’s power infrastructure and also agreed to a 50 million Euro (about N11.15 billion) loan with the French government for capacity-building and upgrade of power training facilities. Despite the much celebration of both actions, the effect is yet to be felt in the sector.

The Buhari administration has also been accused of playing double standard in appointment of top officials into key government position, alleging that it has been aimed at favouring a certain part of the country, an allegation that the government has not been able to successfully defend.

There is also the issue of trying to shield its top officials accused of corrupt acts, for example in January this year, President Buhari wrote a letter to the Senate, clearing the now suspended Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Babachir Lawal over grass-cutting contract allegations.

Government in the letter defended Lawal and gave reasons why he could not be sacked as demanded by the Senate, but recently he was suspended by the same government, perhaps after more convincing facts emerged and a panel was set up to investigate the allegations.

Also the President defied the Senate on the two consecutive rejections of the nomination of Ibrahim Magu as the Chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and has so far ignored advise that he be replaced.

The Buhari regime’s anti-corruption campaign has been criticised for placing too much emphasis on spectacular raids and high profile arrests rather than institutional and system reforms that could curb corruption in the first place.

The biggest minus of the last two years, according to political watchers has been economic recession. With the steep fall in government revenues due to a fall in international oil prices, the criminal sabotage of oil facilities by Niger Delta and the alleged squander mania of the Jonathan years, the national economy has experienced several straight quarters of GDP decline, high inflation rate and steep decline in the naira’s value against foreign currencies.

Many states and local governments also piled up arrears of workers’ salaries while in many states and at the federal level, tens of thousands of pensioners went unpaid for months for end.

Another issue that is agitating the minds of the people is the activities of Fulani Herdsmen, who have in the last two years killed many people across the country and destroyed farm lands and despite outcry from many quarters, not much has been achieved by security agencies in apprehending the culprits, making some persons to suggest that they may be emboldened to continue carrying out their dastardly act because they have the backing of their Fulani brother who is the President.

It is unfortunate that in the midst of the major challenges that still face this country, President Buhari suffered bouts of ill health that rendered him mostly unable to exercise his presidential mandate since January this year.

He was away from the country for 49 days in January to early March, did very little when he came back, and has been away from the country again now for nearly a month.

In Buhari’s absence the lot fell on Acting President Yemi Osinbajo, who is doing his best, but the administration’s cohesion, long term planning and firmness of purpose are all affected by the uncertainties of this situation.

Speaking on the achievements of the Bu-

hari administration in the last two years, factional chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Adegoke Savaldor said that so far the government has failed in delivering on its promises.

He said, “So far we hardly see what they are doing on their promises, they promised us that immediately they get there we should give them six months and naira and dollar parity will become one to one, but today naira to dollar is about N500 in the market, the government rate that they claim they are selling nobody can access it and people are now complaining, things are difficult. Look at the security issue everywhere in the country.

“Now, look at our economy, it is dwindling down every day, they say we are out of recession, what is the difference between when we had recession and now that we don’t, a bag of rice is almost N20,000, something we use to buy for N7,000 or N8,000, what is then the difference, electricity, no improvement, there is nothing positive that they can point to.”

However he said that despite that not much has been achieved, that the government has made some successes, but that their failures far outweighs their success, “But, there is no way they cannot have their plus, but when things are not good things are not good, when they are not up to 50 percent you cannot say it is success. Everything has to be measured to expectation. It is absolutely impossible for any administration to sit down and not do anything.

“He might be a very good person and the sympathy is even on his health now, I feel bad when somebody get to this type of position and he start having health issues, any right thinking person should feel for him, so we have to take his job as our job, everybody must stand up and if somebody is doing a bad thing we have to say it, it is like he has donated his life to us, because I can assure you that if not for the stress of this office he might not be this sick, he might have his issues, but it can be manageable, but the pressure and the type of responsibilities he chose to take it is now affecting his health,” Savaldor said.

11 Politics

Ndoma-Egba salutes Nigerians for investing in democracy

Udoma-Egba

The Chairman of the Governing Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, (SAN), has congratulated Nigerians for their support and investment in democracy, which has helped sustain the democratic process in the country.

Ndoma-Egba also commended the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration for making peace, security and development the guiding principles of the government which is demonstrated in the resolve and commitment to fight corruption and contain insurgency and militancy.

The former Senate Leader assured Nigerians that the Federal Government has put measures in place to ensure that the economy comes out of recession expediently.

This was contained in a statement released in Abuja through his Special Assistant on Communication, Mrs Clara Braide, on the occasion of Nigeria’s Democracy Day and the second year in office of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“Nigerians have left no one in doubt that we want democracy to succeed.

Even in extreme hardship, we have continued to persevere and make sacrifices.

“I urge all of us to continue to support government at all levels. I am confident that there will be light at the end of the tunnel,” Ndoma-Egba declared.

The Chairman however encouraged leaders at all levels of government to continue to reciprocate the people’s unalloyed faith and resilience in protecting the nation’s democracy by ensuring good governance and sustainable development.

News 12

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

DG’s appointment: Osinbajo trails Buhari, violates PenCom Act

Continued from page 1

Doherty, to replace Dr. (Mrs.) Chinelo Anohu- Amazu, who was yet to complete her tenure as PenCom Director General (DG) before her sack.

This is even as stakeholders who spoke to The Daily Times on Sunday called on the National Assembly to resist attempts to rubbish Nigeria’s retirees’ savings in PenCom through manipulation of its books and destruction of its governance structures.

Doherty’s appointment, they maintained should not be endorsed by the National Assembly, urging that the provisions of the Pension Reform Act 2014 be strictly adhered to in the appointment of successor to Dr. (Mrs.) Amazu.

President Buhari had on Thursday, April 13, 2017, sacked the substantive Director General of the Commission, Dr. (Mrs.) Chinelo Anohu-Amazu, from the South East geopolitical zone and replaced her with his kinsman,

Mr. Dikko Aliyu Abdulrahman from the North, a different geopolitical zone, in contravention to the provisions of the Pension Reform Act 2014.

But while the appointment of Dikko and other members of the commission was yet to be submitted and confirmed by the Senate as required by the Pension Reform Act 2014, Acting President Yemi Osinbajo, on Saturday, May 27, 2017, in a move many saw as yielding to the criticism trailing the appointment of a replacement for erstwhile Director General of the Commission, Dr. (Mrs.) Chinelo Anohu-Amazu, named Funso Doherty as the new Director General of PenCom. As a result, stakeholders in the industry on Sunday called on Acting President Osinbajo to reverse the appointment of Doherty. They urged him to adhere to the provisions of the Pension Reform Act 2014 by naming someone for the South East to replace AnohuAmazu, adding that non adherence to provisions of the Pension

Reform Act 2014 portends dangerous signals in the industry.

They also called on the Senate to stand by the Pension Reform Act 2014 and ensure that the government does the right thing, at least by appointing someone from the South East to complete the tenure of Anohu-Amazu.

Following the naming of Doherty as substantive DG PenCom, cross section of Nigerians have expressed concern on commitment of the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration to establishing and strengthening structures to drive the country’s political and socio-economic infrastructure.

This concern has further been heightened with the government’s recent rubbishing of a laid down structure, the Pension Reform Act 2014, with the appointment of Mr. Doherty as the new boss of the National Pension Commission (PenCom), a slap on Pension Reform Act 2014 by the Acting president.

The earlier appointment of Dikko, and now Doherty, according to stakeholders in the industry and other Nigerians, contravened the Pension Reform Act 2014 which in Part V21 (2) states: “In the event of a vacancy, the President shall appoint a replacement from the geopolitical zone of the immediate past member of the office to complete the remaining tenure”.

The development, cross section of Nigerians say, reveals that there could be deliberate target on the retirees savings, which currently is valued at about N7 trillion, and the single institutional investor in the country, going by the manner Amazu was relieved of her job and the consequent appointments.

Barrister Ike Ikeji told The Daily Times in a telephone interview that the idea behind enacting laws and regulations, is among other things, to ensure certainty, orderliness and peace in the society and otherwise leads to uncertainty.

He told The Daily Times that

the rule in the Pension Reform Act 2014 is clear and unambiguous as “the reason we have law is to have orderliness, certainty, unambiguity, and openness. It is against the law to do otherwise”.

Ikeji said that the recent appointment of Doherty, who hails from the South-West region of Nigeria, to succeed Dr. (Mrs.) Anohu-Amazu, who was yet to conclude her tenure in office before her sack, was in contravention of the provisions of the Pension Reform Act 2014.

“It is against the law and should be condemned totally by all. Since it has been put down as law, it must be followed out rightly,” Ikeji said.

The commercial lawyer said that the reason laws are made is to establish structures that will help the society to advance, adding that where such laws are rubbished by those expected to be instruments to uphold law and order, such actions need to be condemned.

Continued on page 7

PDP, Falana, Balarabe Musa, Okogie, others score Buhari at 2 Continued from page 6 life, as the saying goes.

“To be fair to government, we can see the body language of Mr. President that he really wants to effect change; but it has been established, and we have seen that very thing which they promised to change, rising up and fighting back. The anti-corruption campaign, for example, we have seen instances where corruption really fought back and it is still fighting, which confirms my earlier assertion that people may want change but they don’t really like to see it happen and that is one area Mr. President is having problem.

“His greatest mistake was that he had thought that everybody, including political associates he came along with, truly wanted that change, but after he was sworn in, he soon realised that it is not everybody that want that change. A tree cannot make a forest: if he wants that change and all his ministers and members of the parliament don’t want it, then there is very little he can do about it.

“Overall, after years, I will score him an average of about 50 percent.”

Situations analyst/human rights enthusiast and parish priest, St. Alphonsus, Aboru, Ipaja, Lagos Monsignor Livinus Ukah said: “The real meaning of change is not what the Buhari-led government is advocating. The expectations of Nigerians were that a change for better living conditions, practical change, not the philosophical definition of change, like when they say “you can’t cross a river twice”.

“What Nigerians expected in the two years of this administration is a change in style of government that will effect new infrastructure, change in living standard, and change in attitude as well as the kind of change that will put money in the pocket of the poor and needy which form the bulk of the Nigerian electorate, not this kind of change that has put us in economic inequality; a system where leaders are enjoying themselves while people who elected them are suffering.

Meanwhile, appraising the two years of APC in government, National Publicity Secretary of the party, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, said the has justified the purpose of being in power.

Abdulahi said there was reason to celebrate in spite of the difficulty Nigerians may be going through.

He said: “I believe very strongly that there is every reason to celebrate. I know that because of the difficulty that people are going through, there is a temptation to think that there is no much to celebrate. But I think that if we look more closely, paying more attention to where we are coming from and where we were two years ago, you will see that we have more than sufficient good reason to celebrate. There was a reason that Nigerians overwhelmingly voted for APC a little over two years ago.

There was a reason that for the first time in our history, Nigerians rejected a sitting government and those reasons were quite compelling and those are the reasons that justify APC’s existence Continued on page 7

Commissioner of Police, Airport Command, Dr. Gano Adamu Isah (4th l); Military Airport Commander, Olusegun Okeniyi (6th l); Managing Director, Federal Airport Authority, Engr. Saleh Dunoma (4th r) and other members, during the inauguration of committee to implement executive order on Airport in Lagos… at the weekend.

Democracy Day: We must remain vigilant, says Tinubu ÏÏÏ Former Lagos State Gover-

nor, Sen. Bola Tinubu on Sunday urged Nigerians not to take the nation’s democracy for granted, but keep and nurture it for the progress and growth of the country.

Tinubu, an All Progressives Congress (APC) national stalwart, made the call in his message on this year’s Democracy Day and 2nd year of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

He urged Nigerians to remain vigilant, and by doing so, ensure a better future and better Nigeria for all. ”Democracy Day and our commemoration of it must be more than an empty ritual. It must add up to more than another reason to have another holiday.

”We, as a people, choose democracy as our preferred form of governance not because it would be easy to achieve or to hold even once we have it. ”We choose democracy because history has taught us that the welfare of the people is best and perhaps only secured by government responsive and accountable to the people. This can only be democracy. ”Many Nigerians have fought and sacrificed to enshrine democracy as our way of governance. We mark this day in honour of these people, many of whom laboured in obscurity and without proper thanks, to achieve this precious thing for the nation. ”We mark this day to keep in remembrance that we must not

take this good form of government for granted. We must keep and nurture it, not for democracy’s sake, but for our own sake. ”We must remember that should we fall asleep, there are those who would like nothing better than to take our democracy from us,” he said.

Tinubu congratulated President Buhari on his second anniversary in office and urged him to continue to protect and improve the country’s democracy. ”I congratulate Nigerians on this day. I congratulate President Muhammadu Buhari and urge him and his administration to continue to do all it can to protect and improve our democratic way of life.

“I wish all Nigerians a happy Democracy Day,” Tinubu said.

Page Thirteen

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

s PHOTO TIMES

Editorial

Group General Manager, Daily Times Newspaper (DTN), Mr. Olisa Egbunike (2nd l), in a handshake with fourtime world heavyweight champion, Evander Holyfield (2nd r), during an interview session in Lagos… at the weekend.

With them are, CEO, Bishop Entertainment Consult, Mr. Bishop Adejube (l) and CEO, ACI Entertainment, Mr. Wole Adeniyi (r).

Stemming alarming kidney failure among Nigerians

B

efore now, little was heard of kidney failure as a major killer in Nigeria. In recent times, the reverse has become the case.

The increasing burden of chronic kidney disease (CDK), and end-stage renal disease presents a challenge for the country and health authorities.

According to health experts, more than 24 million Nigerians or 14.2 per cent of the population or, one in every seven persons has one degree of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).

Moreover, with more Nigerians getting overweight, developing hypertension and diabetes, medical experts are warning of a looming epidemic of kidney failure. More alarming is a recent report in Medical Anthropology Quarterly that confirmed a growing worldwide market for body parts that include kidneys. Reports, also, reveal that there is increased kidney trafficking due to the prevailing economic situation in the country, whereby a kidney could fetch the donor as much as N1million. Medical experts say that more people die every day from kidney- related diseases than malaria and HIV/AIDS in Nigeria.

Medical experts have established that diabetes and high blood pressure are key risk factors for chronic kidney disease. Other causes include polycystic kidney disease; sickle cell disease; obstructive uropathy, prostate, fibroids, strictures and cancers; connective tissue disorders, toxic nephropathy and Human Immuno-deficiency Virus /Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome ((HIV)/AIDS).

It is a fact that kidneys serve as filter for the body and once damaged; they can no longer remove waste and excess liquid from the blood. As deadly as this menace is, available statistics on kidney diseases had remained

Publisher/Editor in Chief Group Managing Director Noel Anosike

Group General Manager Olisa Egbunike 08034004224 Group Head Commercial & Business Development Konnie Agu 09033765031

scarce. The lack of renal registries means that there are no reliable statistics about the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Nigeria.

Many people with severe kidney infection are asymptomatic in the early stages of the disease. If present, the early symptoms are nonspecific and may include fatigue and loss of appetite. In the advanced stages, however, the symptoms are severe. For this reason people often do not realise they have the disease until they are already very sick and have sustained irreversible kidney damage.

Symptoms of severe kidney damage may include the yellowing of the eyes and skin (as the kidneys are no longer able to filter waste), nausea and vomiting or severe muscle cramps. In the advanced stages, as the body loses its ability to expel fluid, there may be swelling in the hands and feet and excess fluid in the lungs. This can make it difficult to breath. Without proper end-of-life care, death from kidney failure is often extremely painful.

Lack of adequate and appropriate health facilities including health care personnel pose a great challenge to care of patients with kidney- related ailments in most developing countries. This has encouraged proliferation of various pseudo/quack health facilities found in these countries.

Incidentally, unlike some African countries, such as Rwanda and South Africa, there is no government funding for treatment in Nigeria. This leaves the entire burden to individuals who, most often, cannot bear the cost for too long. It is therefore imperative that Nigerians become health conscious by undertaking routine medical checkup for symptoms of kidney disease. With yearly testing and aggressive treatment, we can greatly slow the decline in kidney function and reduce the number of people developing kidney failure.

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Editor, Daily Sam Nzeh 08050220692

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L-R: Sir. Ude Okochukwu, Deputy Governor, Abia State; Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu; his wife, Nkechi; Theresa Uzokwe, Chief Justice, Abia State; former governor of Abia State, Sen. Theodore Orji and Sen. Mao Ohuabunwa, during the Interdenominational Church Service to mark the 2nd Anniversary /Thanksgiving service and Re-dedication of Abia State… on Sunday.

Nigerian Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo (r); US President, Donald Trump (l) and others, during the 2017 G7Summit in Italy… at the weekend.

Words On Marble :

– Fidelis Anosike

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STATEMENTS BY THOSE WHO MATTER

Goodluck Jonathan

Matthew Ashimolowo

Julius Nyerere

“Nobody’s political ambition is worth the blood of any Nigerian”.

“If you must make a difference in life, then change your mind set”.

“Independence cannot be real if a nation depends upon gifts.”

News 14

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

N0.2mbill: Again,hospitalized domesticgasexplosionvictim begsforfinancialhelpinAsaba Nosa Akenzua, Asaba

ÏÏÏ

Two months after Asaba domestic gas explosion victim, Mr. Moses Lucky, was declared fit and discharged, management of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Asaba are still having him under detention for his inability to clear the N200,000 medical bill incurred.

The victim, who is currently in bed at the orthopedic ward of the FMC, Asaba, following a domestic explosion which left him at a life threatening degree of burns at about 8am on January 8, 2017, has again appealed to well meaning Nigerians to come to his aid to clear the incurred bill running into well over N200,000 which he is unable to settle.

When our reporter visited the victim, he disclosed that he had been discharged and certified healthy by the management of the FMC but was detained as he failed to meet up with the financial cost incurred. Recounting the explosion ordeal, the victim, who is a laundry

man and an indigene of IsseleMkpitime in Aniocha North local government area of the state said he woke up like every other day and was preparing for work when the incident occurred.

He said, “I decided to prepare breakfast. When I entered the kitchen, unaware of the gas leakage, I struck a match and just like in the movies, the whole place exploded before my eyes. Safe for my neighbours who rushed to my aid and took me to this hospital immediately, I don’t believe I would have survived.

“I have been in this place for about four months. I have not been working. Unless well meaning Nigerians come to my aid, I will be grounded for a long time. I have appealed to friends and family but financial efforts so far has not being encouraging,” he added.

Recall that the victim had earlier, through an SOS published called for help but this has proved unhelpful in resolving the issue.

Navy offers free medical outreach to over 300 residents in Ijora Joy Anyim

ÏÏÏ

As part of the activities marking the 61st anniversary of the Nigerian Navy, the Western Naval Command has given free medical services to over 300 residents of the Ijora community in Lagos.

The event which held on Saturday the May 27, 2017, included free consultation for various health concerns, HIV/ AIDS screening and provision of drugs to patients.

The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Western Naval Command, Vice Adm. Ibok-Ette Ibas, who was represented by the Surgeon Commander Ugowchi Nzeribe, stated that the exercise was part of corporate social responsibility of the Nigerian Navy.

Speaking at the event, Vice Adm. Ibok-Ette stated that the free medical outreach has the basic aim of enhancing the health status of Nigerians as well as improve the civil/military relationship.

He said, “The Navy is organ-

ising a medical outreach across all its commands and we have graciously chosen Ijora community for this year’s outreach.

“This a demonstration of the Navy’s commitment towards rendering corporate social responsibility to its host community.

“We are rendering free health talks, medical check-up and consultations, laboratory investigations, malaria and blood sugar tests and drugs.’’

The medical exercise also covered free blood pressure check, eye examination, issuance of free eye glasses as well as deworming drugs for children and adults.

He further noted, “Navy medical expert will give public health talks on topical issues relating to the HIV/AIDS, malaria, environment, personal and oral hygiene.

“Our target is to render the medical service to children, the elderly and pregnant women.

“Drugs provided included pain relievers and multivitamins, among others.

“The medical team will also

distribute treated mosquito nets to pregnant women and nursing mothers to protect against mosquito bites,’’ he said.

One of the beneficiaries of the exercise, Mrs Titilayo Salawu, expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Navy saying that she was happy for the gesture. She also prayed that the Navy would continue to record successes in its assigned responsibilities.

The traditional ruler of Ijoraland, Oba Abdulfatai Aromire, expressed appreciation to the Navy for the gesture. He urged his people to take advantage of the outreach to improve their health status by using the drugs provided as prescribed.

In his words, “I am impressed and grateful for what the Navy has brought to my community and I hope other corporate organisations will emulate this gesture.

“The Navy has shown a high level of civil-military relations with this gesture which it organised every year.”

Environmental sanitation: Kogi to re introduce Sanitary Inspectors

Idris Ahmed, Lokoja

Determined to ensure clean and healthy environment, the Kogi state government plans to contract the services of sanitary inspectors.

Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resource, Mrs. Rosemary Oshikoya, disclosed to journalists while monitoring the monthly environmental sanitation exercise over the weekend.

Oshikoya, who expressed satisfaction with the level of compliance with monthly exercise, noted that there is still need to sensitise the people on the cleaniness of their residences and srroundings pointing out that basic household necessities like toilets, bathrooms, kitchens and bins are lacking in many homes.

She said that the state government was already consulting its private partners to work out modalities for the project pointing out that when fully operational,every house in the state would be inspected at least once in three months.

According to the Commissioner the purpose of re introducing the services of the sanitary inspectors was to ensure full compliance with governments objective of keeping the state clean and free from diseases.

“Mountaims” of refuse some of which were said to have lasted for over 20 years with in Lokoja the state capital as well as others scattered all over the state have been cleared the new concept of refuse collection and dispossal has been introduced by the ministry, she said.

Meanwhile, the mobile court attached to the sanitation exercise has convicted 24 people for violating the monthly sanitation exercise.

They were arrested while loitering around the Ganaja junction which served as epicenter for the monitoring exercise.

L-R: CSR Lead, Airtel Nigeria, Chioma Okolie; Head Teacher, Oremeji Primary School, Mrs. Adunni Animashaun; Ag. Head, Public Relations, Airtel Nigeria, Erhumu Bayagbon; Students, Basic 6, Oremeji Primary School 2, during the 2017 Children’s Day Celebration and presentation of educational materials to the students in Lagos… at the weekend.

Children Day: Gov Bello tasks parents to teach positive societal values to wards Saka Bolaji, Minna

ÏÏÏ

Niger state governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, has admonished parents to teach and instill positive societal values and morals to their children as a critical factor in the regeneration and survival of this country.

The governor who stated this in his message to commemorate the 2017 Children’s Day, expressed concern at the high level of

moral decadence in the society today calls for urgent value reorientation amongst our children.

Governor Sani Bello noted that, as a vulnerable group, children must be given the enabling environment to actualize their potentials and make them productive and responsible citizens in the society.

The governor renewed his administration’s commitment to the fight against all

forms of abuse, discrimination and violence on children stressing that the children have right to a better life.

“A lot of children suffer one form of violence or another every time and it is our responsibility, as a government, to protect them against all forms of abuse.”

Governor Sani Bello explained that the holistic transformation of the health and education sector in the

state has a direct correlation with the efforts by government to make them useful members of the society.

While wishing the children a happy celebration, Governor Sani Bello assured that the state government would soon facilitate the implementation of the Child Rights Act, already domesticated by the state, as well as other relevant laws that guarantees and protects the children.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

15 News

Gov. Udom Rules out local polls Patrick Odey

Cultural Dancers carrying a pupil of Unique Blossom Schools Maitama during the School’s Cultural Day Celebration to mark 2017 International Children’s Day in Abuja on Sunday

Constitution Drafting: DPO in arrest spree in Enugu cmmunity Moses Oyediran, Enugu

ÏÏÏJThere is rising tension in Asaba

community in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu state over continuous arrest of indigenes of the community by the Divisional Police Officer of Adani Police Division, Mr. Longinus Chukwuegwu who has reportedly arrested more than ten persons were clamped into prison custody including a 74 year old man without arraigning them in court.

Daily Times gathered that there was no complaint from any member of Asaba community on breakdown of law and order before the DPO ordered his men to invade the community and arrest people reportedly discharging an assignment giving by the community.

Residents of the area who are predominantly peasant farmers told Daily Times that the DPO regularly indulges in illegal arrest in other to extort money to from them for bail.

A PCRC source told our correspondent how a welder who came to the police station to report about a machine that was parked in his shop and promised to bring the machine once the person fails to turn up only for the welder to be arrested and was asked to bail himself.

“Thetruthisthatthepeopleof Adani and it’s environ are tired of Chukwuegwu, the regard he gives me is because I am a PCRC member.

“Most times people are arrested by the DPO and his men on flimsy ex-

Ïƣƿ ƕƆ Ə ƋƗ ƌ è Ɛ ƆƏ ƗƆƐ ƈ ƆƗ ƈ ƍƏƈ ƅƑ Ɛ Ɨƕ

cuses; a case was that of a welder who reported that a machine was packed in his shop. What baffles me was that the DPO ordered that the same welder who reported that machine was parked in his shop was arrested and asked to bail himself.

“This a little of what people over here suffer in the hands of the DPO who go about making arrest illegally and demanding bail from them.

“I am aware of the crisis in Asaba community and how police turn up trump charges against the people of the area”, the source said.

Investigation by our correspondent showed that members of the Asaba community had last year resolved to draft a constitution for the community whenthepoliceontheorderof theDPO swoop on them for alleged unlawful assembly likely to cause breach of peace.

Asaba community is made up of four villages namely: Umuene, Umuobogu, Umuonoja and Umuidoko while the current and the first traditional ruler, Igwe Alphonsus Agbata hail from Umuonoja is seen as old and may join his ancestors anytime the members of the community decided to put in place a successor plan to rotate among the four villages.

Speaking in an interview on the issue, the President General Asaba Town Union, Mr. Okafor Francis said that the community has existed for the past forty years without constitution but in a town hall meeting the com-

munity agreed to draft a constitution that would guide the activities of the community which was agreed to by the four villages that made up Asaba community.

“But problem started when Umuonoja village where the present traditional ruler hails from pulled out of the earlier agreement on the condition that there must be a clause in the constitution that the next traditional ruler must come from their village which the other three villages kicked against.

“I was surprised when police swoop on the constitution drafting committee at Central School Asaba on an alleged bridge of peace and arrested the nine members of the committees.

“Till today I am yet to understand what the police meant by bridge of peace when in actual sense the entire community unanimously agreed to draft the constitution that would help advance development of the community.

“The nine committee members arrested are: Okafor Chukwudi, Okoro John, Abuchi Ozoemena, Onuama Domnic, Okonkwo Cyprian, Edochie Philip, Okoro Peter, Nwajiana Jacob and Chukwunweike Denyelu “The DPO demanded that we pay N50, 000 for the release of each of the nine people detained making N450, 000 but after two days when we could not raise the amount he demanded he then collected N69, 000 from us to release them.

Nigeria has a lot to celebrate- Glo ÏÏÏFully

integrated telecommunications company, Globacom, has listed reasons for Nigerians to celebrate another anniversary of the current democratic dispensation.

Nigeria is marking the 18th year of unbroken democratic rule on May 29, 2017. It is the longest democratic rule in the country since its independence in 1960.

According to a statement by Globacom to commemorate Nigeria’s democracy day, the current economic and socio-political realities are not enough to obliterate the clear gains of the 18-year-

old democratic dispensation.

Listing the gains, Globacom said Nigerians now have the freedom the founding fathers fought for, the freedom of expression, the freedom of association and also the freedom to choose who leads them. The company said these gains are worth celebrating and defending.

Globacom recalled that Nigeria had peacefully transited to new governments three times since the beginning of the Fourth Republic in 1999, with the last transition taking place from a ruling party to an opposition party; somethingthathadneverhappenedbeforein

the country at national level.

The company said this shows that the country will continue to make swift progress.

“Democracy by its nature is aimed at building a free society which creates the environment for nation building.

We wish, therefore, that the people of Nigeria will take advantage of the sustained democratic experience to collectively and individually participate in the task of charting the course of progress for their local government areas, states and the country as a whole” Globacom said.

ÏÏÏAkwa Ibom state governor, Udom Gabriel Emmanuel, at the weekend, declared that his administration is not prepared to conduct local government elections for now.

All the 31 local government councils in the state are run by caretaker committee structures appointed by the governor.

But speaking at a press briefing to mark his administration’s two years in office, the governor said he was not in a hurry to put in place a democratically elected local government structures for the time being.

Udom who was answering reporters’ questions at the briefing held at the Banquet hall, government house said he was rather in a hurry to develop good roads, build hospitals and create jobs opportunities for thousands of unemployed youths in the state.

He said: “if I’m to use money, I use money in a most productive venture, a venture that will yield immediate returns for my people. I need money to develop good road network to link villages, I need money to build hospitals for the sick, I need money to put into productive ven-

tures to create jobs for the unemployed, I need money to provide food for the needy.

“These are areas I’m most concern about for now not to borrow money and pay at an interest rate of 26 percent to conduct election that people will turn around to criticize, and it not only in Akwa Ibom state that local government structures are not in place” he said The governor stated that he has only one project to achieve in the state and that is “Project Akwa Ibom.”

He expressed appreciation to the media for the support his administration had enjoyed from the onset and enjoined it to partner the state government for the realization of the project Akwa Ibom.

However, the governor condemned sensationalism of most media organizations adding that that the state belongs to all of them, not him alone.

“I have always being saying this that Akwa Ibom state belongs to all of us. No matter what you do you don’t have any other state than Akwa Ibom state.

“So when you write think of how this will promote investors to the state, how it will create opportunities for the state etc”.

Kano @ 50 – Ganduje honours illustrious sons of the state Gbenga Sodeinde, Kano

ÏÏÏ

The governor of Kano state, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has bestowed special awards on 82 prominent Nigerians and expatriates, for their exceptional contribution towards the development of the state, as part of its golden jubilee celebration.

The honorees include former Heads of State, Gen. Murtala Muhammad and Gen. Sani Abacha, all past military and civilian governors of the state, the late Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, Africa’s richest man Aliko Dangote, his maternal uncle Alhaji Aminu Dantata and Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo state.

Other recipients of the awards include Islamic religious leaders, public officials, traditional leaders, politicians, businessmen and so forth, who helped relentlessly in building Kano.

Ganduje stated that individ-

ual and collective efforts of citizens, especially the founding fathers of the state and other patriotic people, has resulted in landmarks by which Kano stands tall among its peers.

While rejoicing with recipients of the state honours, the governor stated that the awards would stimulate people to contribute towards the development of the state, announcing that his administration would forward a bill to the state legislature to make the Kano Merit Awards a permanent affair in the scheme of things.

“We have come a long way and as a matter of policy, our administration has continued with projects initiate by past administrations, despite economic recession”, the governor stated that his government has also initiated more projects aimed at making life better for the citizens of Kano” The governor was quoted saying.

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Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

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Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

TIMES AGAINST CORRUPTION We’ll reposition EFCC to rid Nigeria of economic, financial crimes- Buhari Ï Ɔ ƅƕ ƍƆ ƇƇƈƅƆ ƈ 9Ƅ Ɨ ÏzƆôƋƋ ƋƈƒƆ Ƒƍ Ɛ ƆƔƍƆƅƐ Ɛƈ è Ɛ ƅƊƋƆ ƅ ƏƏƑƍƐƈ é L Ƒ Stories by Anthony Ailemen Abuja

President Muhammadu Buhari has said that the Federal Government will reposition the Economic and Financial Crimes (EFCC) in order to rid the country of economic and financial crimes.

The president added that the federal government will also reposition the National Anti-Corruption Strategy to ensure institutionalization of results-based systems and structures as well as ensuring appropriate incentives for an increased participation of members of the society in the fight against corruption.

Buhari stated this on Thursday during the commissioning of the Ibadan Zonal Office of the EFCC, at Iyaganku GRA, Ibadan, Oyo State.

The president, who spoke through the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN), stated that there will be a review of the EFCC Act to halt frequent removal of the agency’s chairman.

He said, “First and foremost, there will be a review of the EFCC Act, to strengthen the agency. The strategy would also ensure that the frequent removal of the chairman of the agency becomes a thing of the past.

There would also be emphasis on strengthening public education and awareness. Basically, the agency will be repositioned to function at par with its

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international counterparts in developed countries”, Buhari said. Buhari also urged the public to support the present administration in its fight against corruption, which according to him had eaten deep into the fabrics of the country.

The president, while commending the EFCC for the successes recorded so far said the Commission’s presence in Ibadan would further aid the achievement of the goal of getting the citizenry involved in the fight against corruption.

In his welcome address, the Acting Chairman of the EFCC, Mr Ibrahim Magu, acknowledged the strategic position of Ibadan in the history of Nigeria’s anticolonial struggle hence the choice to make

it the melting point at ensuring that the crusade against corruption is taking to the grassroots and make the Commission accessible to the people.

According to him, the Ibadan zonal office was created to encourage the citizenry involvement in the fight against corruption.

Magu also called for support and cooperation of all and sundry towards winning the war against all manners of graft.

He said, “It is part of my vision to take the fight against corruption to the grassroots. We assure you that we shall not betray the trust and confidence reposed in us, both by the people of Oyo State and Nigerians across the states of the federation”.

s

Cleric tasks Nigerians on fight against corruption

The Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos Mainland, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Rev. Akinpelu Johnson, on Friday urged Nigerians to collectively fight corruption in the country.

Akinpelu spoke at the opening of the second session of the 4th synod at the All Saints Church, Yaba, Lagos.

The synod has the theme, “But Even With So Many, The Net Was Not Torn’’.

Akinpelu said that all Nigerians, not just politicians, needed to be accountable, to rid the society of corrupt tendencies.

“The political class alone is not to be blamed.

“The electorates too are involved and they have a great role to play by shunning corrupt practices.

“We, as a people, seem to have lost the ethical values that our forefathers left behind.

“The current fight against corruption cannot be fought and won, except all Nigerians team up to fight it,’’ Akinpelu said.

The cleric advised the Federal Government to channel the stolen money recovered through whistle blowers into development projects like power generation.

According to him, improving electricity supply would enhance the economic activities and take the nation out of recession.

Armsgate: Dokpesi received N2.1bn from ONSA- Witness

Andrew Orolua, Abuja

Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia owes me N18m, refuses to pay back – Witness A prosecution witness in the ongoing trial of suspended judge of the Federal High Court, Justice Rita Ofili Ajumogobia, has informed a Lagos State High Court in Ikeja that the judge stopped picking his calls after she borrowed N18 million from him to buy a property in the UK. The witness, Dr. Gregory Ero, who is the founder, Chief Executive Officer of Arkleel Oil and Gas also told the court on Friday that the Justice Ofili- Ajumogobia despite promising to repay the money refused to do so and after sometime stopped picking his calls.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Godwin Obla and arraigned them before the court on a 30-count charge of conspiracy to pervert justice by allegedly giving and receiving a bribe of N5 million.

The anti-graft agency had also alleged that about $793,800 passed through the Justice Ajumogobia’s domiciliary accounts with Access Bank between 2012 and 2015 and that she allegedly used the money to buy a house in London.

Five of the charges are centered on an

alleged N5m bribe given to the judge by the senior advocate while the remaining 26 charges are on the huge amounts that passed through the accounts of Ofili-Ajumogobia and her alleged inability to explain her source of wealth.

The other charges filed against the judge border on forgery, lying, unlawful enrichment and other related offenses.

They both pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Ero who was the ninth prosecution witness in the case claimed, “I knew Ajumogobia sometimes in 2002 before she became a Federal High Court Judge. She was employed when we outsourced for a secretary.

“She was paid ad hoc fees as we did not have a regular structure as at then. She worked with us for two years before she was appointed as a Judge.

“She came to our office one day after she stopped working with us and sought to have a private audience with me. I obliged and she asked for a loan of N18 million because she had pressing needs.

“I enquired what the urgency was about and Ajumogobia told me that she had a shortfall of N18m for a property she wanted to buy in the UK as she needed to move

out of the family house immediately.

“As a Christian I obliged her request and also based on the fact that she is known to me. She went further to tell me that she has properties which would generate rent while also giving me a payment plan for the repayment of the loan.

“Sadly after a year she did not pay back.

I started calling her and she would pick my call. But between 2012 and 2013 she stopped picking my calls.

“I personally went to her house but I was turned back at the gate when I was informed that she was not around. I went to her house more than twenty times but I was always turned back at the gate.

“I am disappointed in Ajumogobia as I find her actions bizarre. Up till now, she has refused to pay me my money. I still need my money as the money was taken from our retail earnings. I have not written it off, I still need my money,” he said.

Also during Friday’s proceedings, a Deputy Comptroller General of Customs, Tahir Audu Musa also told the court that the Comptroller General of Customs Abdullai Dikko Inde gave him a slip of paper which contained the name, Nigel and Colive, a company owned by Ajumogobia.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has tendered before the Federal High Court Abuja in evidence details of correspondences between DAAR Investment and Holdings Limited, Office of the National Security Adviser, ONSA and Bureau of Public Procurement, BPP, indicating that Raymond Dokpesi received money to the tune of N2.1billion from ONSA. The documents were tendered by the anti-graft agency through Azonabor, who testified as PW5 in the trial of Dokpesi and DAAR Investment and Holdings Limited,who are facing a six-count charge relating to the sum of N2.1billion allegedly received from the ONSA between October 2014 and March, 2015 for the Peoples Democratic Party’s presidential media campaign.

Azonabor, an operative of EFCC, while being led in evidence by counsel to the EFCC, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), informed the court of details of several letters originating from the EFCC in the course of investigating the alleged diversion of billions of naira meant for the purchase of arms by the ONSA under Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd).

“Sometime in 2016, a team of operatives under the directive of the Acting Chairman of EFCC was created in order to investigate, execute search, record statements, and analyze documents relating to the diversion of funds by the ONSA. “In the course of our investigation, it was realized that a huge sum of money was paid into the account of DAAR Investment and Holdings Limited by ONSA.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

TIMES AGAINST CORRUPTION

19

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Politics, leadership and accountability: The role of the people (2) Certain national issues including the 2017 Budget, recoveries of cash in private homes, President Muhammadu Buhari’s medical treatment in the United Kingdom, alleged plans of certain politicians asking soldiers to take over power and others national questions have continued to dominate the legal circles and the polity. FEMI FALANA writes: fore, apart from stopping the opposition to the establishment of Islamic banks, Christian leaders should set up welfare schemes to encourage the establishment of banks that will make loans available to the poor without charging them interests. This will go a long to alleviate poverty among the poor in the congregation.

Femi Falana Contd from last Monday

In the first place, the recovered funds have not been traced to the Federation Account. Secondly, section 162 of the Constitution provides that the Federation shall maintain a special account called “the Federation Account” to which shall be paid all revenues collected by the Government of the Federation. It is our submission that recovered loot does not form part of the revenue collected by the Government.

To that extent, it cannot be paid to the Federation Account. The recovered loot should therefore be transparently managed and spent on socioeconomic projects by the federal government.

The federal government should stop releasing funds to state governments which are unable to account for the bailout fund and London/Paris club loan refund made available to them to fund the payment of salaries of workers and other development projects. The anti graft agencies have a duty to investigate and bring to book the criminal elements who are alleged to have cornered and diverted the public fund. I call on the labour unions to ensure that the fund is fully accounted for as it was meant to alleviate the suffering of the working people.

Hypocrisy over Islamic banks The move to licence Islamic banks by the Central Bank of Nigeria has generated negative reactions from a number of Christian leaders. It ought to be pointed out that the establishment of banks by religious bodies is not illegal in so far as they are not run with public funds. In fact, Chri stian leaders have a duty to support the establishment of free interest banks and other financial institutions. After all, it is clearly stated in Exodus 22:25 that “If you lend money to any of my people who are poor among you, you shall not be like a moneylender to him; you shall not charge him interest.”

In tackling poverty among Christians it is also decreed that “if one of your brethren becomes poor, and falls into poverty among you, then you shall help him, like a stranger or a sojourner, that he may live with you. Take no usury or interest from him: but fear your God, that your brother may live with you. You shall not lend him your money for usury nor lend him your food for profit ”.

In a country where religious institutions are allowed to invest in commercial ventures there is no justifiable reason for mounting opposition to the establishment of Islamic banks which are not going to charge interests. There-

Ethno-religious Violence In December 2015, 347 Shiites were massacred when armed troops opened fire on them in Zaria for allegedly causing a traffic jam which interrupted the movement of the convoy of the Chief of Army Staff. Instead of calling the murderers to order the Kaduna state government aided and abetted them in the secret burial of the bodies of the slain Shiites in a mass grave in Mango village, near Kaduna. As if those atrocities were not enough, the Kaduna state government proceeded to demolish the houses of the Shiites leader, Sheik Ibraheem Elzakzaky. Apart from witnessing the gruesome murder of three of their children , Elzakzaky and his wife who were subjected to horrendous brutalisation from the troops have been detained without trial since December 14, 2015.

The directive of President Buhari that the criminal elements who perpetrated the orgy of violence be fished out and prosecuted is likely to be sacrificed on the alter of “peace”.

Having lost his right eye Elzakzaky has applied to seek medical treatment abroad. But the request has been rejected by the State Security Service. In a grand display of impunity the order of the Federal High Court that the couple be released from detention and be provided with accommodation by the government which has rendered them homeless has been treated with disdain.

Governor El-Rufai should be advised to direct the Attorney-General of Kaduna State to set the engine in motion for the immediate arrest and prosecution of the well known criminal elements who massacred 347 Shiites and the 204 people in Southern Kaduna. In any country which operates under the rule of law the perpetrators of violence are not treated like sacred cows.

With respect to the incessant killing of farmers by armed herdsmen in the various parts of the country the federal government should collaborate with state governments to embark on the establishment of ranches and abattoirs in all the states of the federation. Our political class ought to learn from Botswana which is an arid land as the Kalahari desert has extended to the western part. Yet that country which is the largest producer and exporter of meat and meat products in Africa has successfully eliminated clashes between cattle rear-

ers and farmers by establishing ranches and abattoirs.

Redirecting of the Wheel of Statecraft The level of poverty in Nigeria provides a fertile ground for the recruitment of the economically ‘un-captured’ to perpetuate wanton ethno-religious violence. The National Bureau for Statistics has stated that about 70 percent of all Nigerians are poor. The solution to this is to massively invest the material resources of the country on development and employment creation.

This would mean that the economy is restructured and diversified, corruption is seriously engaged, and the commitment to development is true and central. Second, there will always be individuals that would benefit from divisions and national discord or secession of the country. In this regard the security system of the State must be ready to arrest and punish this group of individuals.

There is also the need to empower institutions. The problem with Nigeria is not the lack of institutions but the challenge has always been that the existing institutions have under-performed or have been hijacked, domesticated and used for certain group interests. Such institutions include the electoral body, police, media, judiciary, religious and ethnic based-bodies. The more these institutions are divorced from ethnoreligious interests the more they champion the quest for nation building.

Fourth, there is the need for rule of law. Ethnic tensions and resentments would reduce when it is collectively accepted that politics and governance would be guided by the rule of law.

Some individuals should not be above the law while others are subjected to the law. The Fourth Republic has been rightly described By Mr. Tony Momoh as de-democratisation rather than democracy.

The government has a duty to educate and mobilise the people against centrifugal forces. The proponents of dividing Nigeria have always found it easy to list the challenges facing Nigeria such as corruption, poverty, exploitation, marginalisation and infrastructure among others. Yet they have often failed to state how these realities would be engaged in the new states that they advocate. For instance, is there any critical reason to assume that there would not be exploitation and minorities in a Niger Delta state or in a Biafra? If it is true that some of the unscrupulous politicians that had benefited from the divide-and-rule politics in Nigeria, what is the certainty that they would not do the same in the new states? The ordinary Nigerians must be educated in this regard.

Nigerians should also be mobilised against centripetal forces in a systematic way.

To be continued

20

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

DENMARG EMPOWERMENT INITIATIVE

21 Public Notice

WORD WORSHIP ENCOUNTER MUSIC MINISTRY

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1) MR. DENNIS ADEMOLA 2) MRS. MARVEL ADEMOLA 3) MR. DAVID AJOKO 4) REVEREND GABRIEL IMENGER 5) MRS. MERCY UMA THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE : 1. TO INITIATE AND SUSTAIN SCHOLARSHIP SCHEMES FOR INDIGENT PERSONS AS MAY BE SPECIFIED AND DETERMINED BY THE MEMBERS OF THE ORGANIZATION ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR_GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIR COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT , OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET , MAITAMA , ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

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

SIGNED : SECRETARY

SIGNED : BARR CHIOMA UNEGBU

KONNECT AFRICA MENTORSHIP PROGRAM INITIATIVE THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED INITIATIVE HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION (CAC), ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART ‘C’ OF COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. OGONNA TOCHUKWU ARIZECHI - PRESIDENT 2. NNEOMA PERPETUA ARIZECHI - SECRETARY 3. TONNY RUTAKIRWA THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE : 1.TO PROVIDE SKILL ACQUISITION TRAINING FOR YOUTHS AND REHABILITATION OF THE AGED PEOPLE. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR_GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIR COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT , OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET , MAITAMA , ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : SECRETARY

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. JOY OSAZEE IRABOR 2. ALLISON OKOSUN 3. IRABOR MARY 4. EMMANUEL ONAS IRABOR 5. BRAI ITSIKEADELO EMOEDUME THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. TO PROVIDE EDUCATION FOR TEENS AND CHILDREN. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL OF CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION MAITAMA ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION SIGNED: SECRETARY

MRS. BLESS NUBIYA ROBERT

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESS AS ABIODUN AYOBAMI JAMIU NOW WISH TO BE CALLED AKEEM JAMIU AYOBAMI, ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE .

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESS AS BLESS JAMES ANUWANIDA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESS MRS. BLESS NUBIYA ROBERT ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

EHIJIEME JEFFREY ASUELIME

MISS. OLAORE OLUWASEUN REBECCA

1. I formerly known and addressed as USILADO JEFFREY ASUELIME, now wish to be known and addressed as EHIJIEME JEFFREY ASUELIME. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

formerly known and addressed as MRS. ABIOLA OLUWASEUN REBECCA, now wish to be known and addressed as MISS. OLAORE OLUWASEUN REBECCA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as BABAYEMI OMOLOLU OLUWASEUN AJIKE, now wish to be known and addressed as SANGOWAWA OMOLOLU OLUWASEUN AJIKE. All former documents remain valid.

General Public should please take note.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE : 1) TO PROMOTE THE PROPAGATION OF THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST GOSPEL MUSIC. 2) TO PROMOTE AND ENCOURAGE CHRISTIAN GOSPEL ARTISTS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR_GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIR COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT , OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET , MAITAMA , ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

MR. OSAZUWA ELIJAH IMMANUEL

I formerly known and addressed as MR. ROMANU OKEKE, now wish to be known and addressed as MR. OSAZUWA ELIJAH IMMANUEL. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. EMMANUEL BUTCHES NWOSU - CHAIRMAN 2. CHUKWUEMEKA MICHAEL OKAFOEZELIE 3. OLAYIDE OLUSHOLA ESTHER - SECRETARY 4. AL-FARUQ ADEDOYIN 5. BAMIDELE ALY 6. ADAOBI CLEMENT MEGAN THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE : 1.TO ENLIGHTEN MEMBERS ON THE NEED TO PROPAGATE TENETS THAT WILL UNIFY THE COUNTRY. 2.TO ENLIGHTEN MEMBERS ON THE NEED TO BE PATRIOTIC. 3.TO ENLIGHTEN MEMBERS TO UNDERSTAND THEIR RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES AS GOOD CITIZENS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR_GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIR COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT , OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET , MAITAMA , ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED : SECRETARY

ZEDI HUMANITARIAN FOUNDATION

THE ONE HABITAT INITIATIVE

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

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1. OSAGIE OZIEGBE ENOBAKHARE 2. RENEE OMORISIUWA ENOBAKHARE 3. STEVEN AKPEH OKPEH 4. DORIS OSAYAWE ONYEKWERE 5. SANDRA NWABUGO ONYEKWERE

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1.ERNEST EDOKA ADIKWU 2. FAITH EUNICE ONYEBUJOH 3. IFEANYI RAPULUCHUKWU MOLOKWU 4. OLUWATOYIN MARIA FALAIYE

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE : 1.YOUTH EMPOWERMENT THROUGH SKILL ACQUISITION.

AIMS: 1. TO BE A LISTENING EAR TO THOSE THAT ARE HURTING 2. TO PROVIDE SUCCOUR AND ENCOURAGEMENT THROUGH MENTORSHIP.

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

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

SIGNED : LOUIS UDO ITIBA 08063534609

SIGNED:- SECRETARY

GREAT SENATORS NOBLE FRIENDS CLUB INTERNATIONAL

OCHOGBE CARE GIVERS ORGANIZATION INTERNATIONAL

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.

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. UBAKA CLIFFORD ONAH - CHAIRMAN 2. OJOBO CHRISTIAN UGOCHUKWU - SECRETARY 3. AGUIYI UGOCHUKWU 4. OKECHUKWU AMAKAH 5. CHIMEZIE KINGSLEY

TRUSTEES: 1. ANNA ADEBO 2. SALOMI ADEBO 3. MERCY ADEBO 4. NGBEDE ADEBO 5. MORDECAI ADEBO 6 . EZRA OLOCHE

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO FORM A CLUB FOR THE PROPAGATION AND PROMOTION OF MEMBERS CREATIVITY 2. OBJECTIVES WHICH IS GEARED TOWARDS THE DEVELOPMENT OF UNITED HOUSE AND THE SOCIETY AT LARGE ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL OF CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION MAITAMA ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION SIGNED: CHIAMAKA EZEA (MRS)

AKEEM JAMIU AYOBAMI

SANGOWAWA OMOLOLU OLUWASEUN AJIKE

THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1) PASTOR PATRICK CHARLES CHIMA 2) BARR CHIOMA UNEGBU

DEPENDABLE PATRIOTS FOR NATION BUILDING AND TRANSFORMATION INITIATIVE

SANI DAUDA FOUNDATION THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT A TRUSTEE OF THE ABOVE NAMED, HAS CHANGED HIS NAME: THE TRUSTEE’S OLD NAME IS: SANI DALHATU MOHAMMED THE NEW NAME OF THE TRUSTEE IS: BALA SAIDU MUHAMMAD ALL OTHER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID ANY OBJECTION TO THIS CHANGE OF NAME SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL OF CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION MAITAMA ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION SIGNED: SECRETARY

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

My name appears as AYODELE ADESOLA OLUWAGBEMIGA on some of my documents, and it also appears as AYODELE GBENGA in other documents. I am the same person answering both names. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take not

AIMS 1. TO HELP THE LESS PRIVILEGED IN THE SOCIETY 2. TO ENHANCE CAPACITY BUILDING AND SKILLS ACQUISITION ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR_GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIR COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT , OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET , MAITAMA , ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: ANNA ADEBO - CHAIRPERSON (08065117818)

ADINOYI OJO-ONUKABA ENDOWMENT FUND THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. CHIEF TUNDE OLUSUNLE - CHAIRMAN 2. MRS MAIMUNAT ONUKABA 3. MR AUDU ONUKABA 4. MRS ETHEL OGIRRI OMEYE 5. MR IBRAHIM ADAVIRUKU SADIQ 6. PROF MAXWELL GIDADO, SAN 7. MR TAIWO OBE 8. MR SONALA OLUMHENSE 9. MRS FRANCA AIYETAN - SECRETARY 10. MALLAM YAHAYA YUSUF THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. TO PROMOTE PEACE AND UNITY AMONGST MEMBERS OF THE ENDOWMENT FUND ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL OF CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION MAITAMA ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION SIGNED: SECRETARY

MRS. NNAKWE ROSEMARY UJU

MRS GABRIEL OLUWASEUN OLAOTAN

OLORUNFEMI LANRE IDOWU

Formerly known and addressed as MISS. OBECHE ROSEMARY UJU, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. NNAKWE ROSEMARY UJU. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as MISS ADEBAYO OLUWASEUN OLAOTAN, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS GABRIEL OLUWASEUN OLAOTAN. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as OGUNDIPE OLANREWAJU IDOWU, now wish to be known and addressed as OLORUNFEMI LANRE IDOWU. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CORRECTION OF NAME

BABARINDE TOLUWALOGO DAVID

GBEMINIYI BLESSING OLUWABINMI

GAFAR ADIJAT ABIODUN

DUYILE FLORENCE OMOWUMI

ADDITION OF NAME

My name was wrongly written as LAWAL MUIDEEN. A. in my bank documents instead of LAWAL MUYIDEEN ABIODUN. All former documents remain valid. My bank and general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as BABARINDE TOLUWALOGO.D. now wish to be known and addressed as BABARINDE TOLUWALOGO DAVID. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as GBEMINIYI BLESSING OLUWABUNMI, now wish to be known and addressed as GBEMINIYI BLESSING OLUWABINMI .(P). All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as GAFAR ADIJAT OMOLEWA, now wish to be known and addressed as GAFAR ADIJAT ABIODUN. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as OBAGUNLU FLORENCE OMOWUMI, now wish to be known and addressed as DUYILE FLORENCE OMOWUMI. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

I, OWOLABI IBRAHIM now wish to add ADEBAYO to my existing names, Henceforth, my names are now OWOLABI IBRAHIM ADEBAYO. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

22 Public Notice ST. MARKS’S COMMERCIAL HIGH SCHOOL OLD STUDENTS ASSOCIATION OSOGBO The general public is hereby notified 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 BOARD OF TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Mr. Samuel Adesoji Adeoye (Chairman) 2. Mrs. Fausat Akinpelu (Secretary) 3. Mr. Nureni Bamigbade 4. Mrs Omolara Odetunde THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To create academic excellence among the young students.

2. To contribute to the school activities morally, financially and otherwise.

3. To create social platform among the members.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigiris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days from the date of the publication.

SIGNED:SECRETARY

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

PUBLIC NOTICE

ROODEL TRUST FOUNDATION

Nearly one year after the Uruaofiong Community was awashed with the news of the wife of one of its chief simply identified as Mrs. Inyang was accused of engaging in bisexual act; Community vows to punish culprit for daring to desecrate the land. Our correspondent gathered that such sexual offenders are usually subjected to inhumane traditional rituals which often leaves the culprit dead. General public should please take note.

The general public is hereby informed that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990 TRUSTEES: 1) IFEOMA FAITH MENIRU - PRESIDENT 2) MATTHEW ELOCHUKWU IWUCHUKWU - GENERAL SECRETARY 3) FRANCIS IFEANYI MENIRU 4) EMMANUEL CHIDIEBUBE MENIRU 5) ISAAC TOCHUKWU MENIRU 6) PATRICIA ADAEZE MENIRU 7) EMEKA JOHN MENIRU 8) ELIZABETH EKENE NKWONTA AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1) TO PROVIDE ASSISTANCE FOR THE PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED IN THE SOCIETY 2) TO BUILD WELFARE AND SKILL ACQUISITION CENTERS FOR THE LESS PRIVILEGED 3) TO PROVIDE COMMUNITY GRANTS AND OTHER FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR THE NEEDY 4) TO CATER FOR EXPECTANT MOTHERS AND NURSING MOTHER / BABIES WITH MEDICAL BILLS. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General Corporte Affairs Commission plot 420 Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi lronsi Street Maitama Abuja within 28 Days from from the date of this publication

PUBLIC NOTICE

CHRIST UNIFICATION CHURCH INTERNATIONAL

PUBLIC NOTICE

SIGNED:SECRETARY.

EJIKE JERRY OGWUEGBU FOUNDATION The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990.

HELPING HANDS ORPHANAGE HOME The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990.

The general public is hereby inform that the above named has

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. OGWUEGBU EJIKE JERRY 2. OGWUEGBU SANDRA 3. OGWUEGBU STEPHENS CHIGOZIE DAVID

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.

HILARY AUGUSTINE ENYIEKERE 2.

INI-PHILIP ENYIEKERE 3.

BEAUTY MICHAEL EKONG

THE TRUSTEES ARE. 1. VICTOR ISAIAH ADEROJU 2. EMMANUEL FOLASAYO REBECCA

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To Help the less Privileged 2. To help the needy and contribute to the society

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To help the motherless and indigent children

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

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

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

Signed:Chairman

SIGNED; TRUSTEES

ADEQUATE PROPERTY MANAGERS ASSOCIATION

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

This is to inform the General Public 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) Comrade Akintunde Mojeed Adeniyi - Chairman (2) Mr Olawale Ogundimu -Vice Chairman (3) Mrs Foluke Nelson -General Secretary (4) Mr Jubril Akapo - Treasurer (5) Mr Ismaeel Akanmu Oludayo - Financial Secretary

ORLU GBURUGBURU CULTURAL UNION OF NIGERIA

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) Revd. (Dr.) Oluwagbemiga Samson (2) Brother Tunde Taiwo

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 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:(1) To propagate and disseminate the Gospel of Jesus Christ through preaching and teaching and to make Disciples of All Nations as outlined in the Holy Bible (2) To make Man discover his original destiny and Open the Eyes of Man to areas of Breach in his Destiny through the Holy Spirit and the Preaching and Teaching of the Total Counsel of God in line with 2Timothy 3:16-17 as well as creating atmosphere for Man to Repair the discovered Breaches in his of her destiny. of the Restored and Renewed Destiny through the Word of God and the Holy Spirit; (4) To build operate and maintain church buildings for the purpose set out in paragraphs 1 and 2 above; (5) To organize and carry on foreign missionary work and to receive, request and collect monies, subscriptions and real or personal property by way of gifts or otherwise for carrying out the work of the organisation.

(6) To publish, sell and distribute Christian literatures and be an Agent of Positive Social Change and Socialisation in partnership with the Almighty God; (7) To establish agencies and institutions such as Schools, Colleges, Radio and Television stations, Printing and Publishing

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

(8) To carry out any other Objects as the Lord God shall reveal to us from time to time through His Word and the Holy Spirit.

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

SIGNED BY :- E. O. Aliyu Esq. Hedgeview Legal Practitioners

SIGNED BY :- SECRETARY

AMBROSE ALLI UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

TRUSTEES: 1. PROF. OMEIMEN UJUANBI 2. H.E. DEACON BARR. KINGSLEY OTUARO 3. PROF. JUDE AIGBE AGHO, 4. MR. EDI AUSTINE LAWANI 5. MR. RICHARD ORITSEGBUBEMI ADEJUMO 6. PROF. AFEISIMI DOMINIC BADAIKI 7. PROF. SUNNY ESAYEGBEMU IYUKE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: TO CATER FOR THE LEGITIMATE INTEREST OF OUR MEMBERS. 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 28TH DAYS FROMTHE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: UWANGUE A OSARETIN, ESQ, A.O.UWANGUE & CO. LEGAL PRACTITIONERS, ABUJA

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES. 1. To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ

FOUNTAIN OF MERCY DESTINY RESTORATION AND RENEWAL MINISTRY Address of the ministry: Igbede Town, Near Owode, Ogun State.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:(1) To achieve unity, peaceful co-existence, justice and progress, (2) To promote love and understanding among members and contribution to the phyiscal development of the associatio (3) To be brothers keeper (4) To promote love and understanding among members

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

Part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Decree No. 1 of 1990.

CHIZED NJOKU FOUNDATION The general public is hereby notified that the above named Foundation has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Acts of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Njoku Chimezie Onyeulo - President 2. Uzogara Emmanuela Chioma 3. Simeon Ugonna Stephen 4. Uzogara Kelechi 5. Uzogara Ugochi AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To assist in the eradication of communicable diseases in Africa.

2. To help the poor in the war against hunger in Africa.

3. To provide quality free Medical service to down trodden.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.

SIGNED : President

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. CHIEF EMMANUEL IBENYE 3. CHIEF EDWIN AGHA 5. MR. KENNETH EZERIBE 7. MR. JUDE NWADA 9. MR. MARSHAL C. ODOEMENE

2. CHIEF CHARLES EZIKE 4. MR. NWOKEDI ORABUCHI 6. MR. MAGNUS OFFOEGBU 8. MR. WILFRED KEVIN 10. MR. BUCKNOR NZERIBE

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:1. THE ORLU GBURUGBURU UNION OF NIGERIA IS A NON POLITICAL ORGANIZATION 2. TO PROVIDE POSSIBLE ASSISTANCE TO MEMBERS WHEN THE NEED ARISES. 3. TO FOSTER PEACE, UNITY AND PROGRESS AMONG IT’S MEMBERS. 4. TO SETTLE DISPUTES AMONG MEMBERS BY PEACEFUL AND AMICABLE RESOLUTION. 5. TO PROMOTE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF MEMBERS AND OUR NATION NIGERIA. Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.

SIGNED BY :- BARRISTER (CHIEF) OKWABAUBA NESTOB

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

I hereby confirm that my full names are OHIOMOBA OGOCHUKWU DEBBIE. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

AKANDE TEMITOPE FOLUKE

Formerly known and addressed as AKANDE TEMITOPE CHRISTANA now wish to be known and addressed as AKANDE TEMITOPE FOLUKE. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

MRS. NKIRUKA BENITA ODIMUKO

OPAKUNLE RIDWAN OPEYEMI

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS NKIRUKA BENITA NWAORGU, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. NKIRUKA BENITA ODIMUKO. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as ILUFOYE KAMALL ADEMOLA, now wish to be known and addressed as OPAKUNLE RIDWAN OPEYEMI. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

LITAN TITILOPE OLUBUKUNOLA

ADEBUSOLA NAOMI AKANO

OGUNTOLA LATEEF ABIOLA

CORRECTION OF NAME

MRS SOTONADE ENOHOBONG DORCAS

formerly known as OLAREWAJU TITILOPE OLUBUKUNOLA wish to be known and addressed as LITAN TITILOPE OLUBUKUNOLA .All former documents remain valid, general public please take note.

I formerly known as Miss ADEBUSOLA NAOMI ADENIYI wish to be known and addressed as Mrs ADEBUSOLA NAOMI AKANO. All former documents remain valid, general public please take note.

I formerly known as OGUNTOLA RAHMON SUNDAY wish to be known and addressed as OGUNTOLA LATEEF ABIOLA . All former documents remain valid, general public please take note.

That I Iloesosi Anthony Maduabuchi my name was wrongly written as Anthony Maduabuchi ilo wish to be known and addressed as Iloesosi Anthony Maduabuchi .All Documents /Credentials bearing these names remain valid, general public please take note.

I Formerly known and addressed as OFFIONG DORCAS GIFT now wish to be known, called and addressed as MRS SOTONADE ENOHOBONG DORCAS. All

NWODE GODWIN JOHN

CHIMOBI LUCY NWOKORO

ODEN EBINGHA

KUNLE OLANREWAJU BANKOLE

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

JIMOH OLALERE ISHOLA

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS CHIMOBI LUCY NWEGO NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS CHIMOBI LUCY NWOKORO. ALL FORMER DOCUMENT REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ODEN FELIX NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ODEN EBINGHA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENT REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

THIS IS TO CONFIRM THAT CHINAKA CHIDERA AND MGBAM JUDITH CHIDEME ARE ONE AND THE SAME PERSON BUT NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MGBAM JUDITH CHIDERA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENT REMAIN VALID.ECOBANK, DIAMOND BANK AND GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OLALERE ISHOLA OLAYIWOLA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS JIMOH OLALERE ISHOLA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENT REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS NWODE GODWIN NWONNA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS NWODE GODWIN JOHN. ALL FORMER DOCUMENT REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS BANKOLE KUNLE EMMANUEL NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS KUNLE OLANREWAJU BANKOLE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENT REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

my former names remain valid Banks, Immigrations, Relevant Authorities and the General public Please take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME MR ABIMBOLA ABIODUN O. and ABIMBOLA OLUWADAMILOLA ABIODUN Refer to one and same person. I now wish to be known, called and addressed as ABIMBOLA OLUWADAMILOLA ABIODUN. All the above names remain valid.

Banks, Immigrations, Relevant Authorities and General public Please take note.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

AYUBA KWAJI I, formerly known and addressed as SIMON AYUBA KWAJI ELIZABETH, now wish to be known and addressed as AYUBA KWAJI. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

UBOCHI OBIAGERI BEATRICE

I, formerly known and addressed as UZOMBA OBIAGERI BEATRICE, now wish to be known and addressed as UBOCHI OBIAGERI BEATRICE. All former documents remain valid. the general public should please take note.

MRS. CHIDIMMA PRECIOUS OZOEMENA I, formerly known and addressed as MISS CHIDIMMA PRECIOUS OKOLI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. CHIDIMMA PRECIOUS OZOEMENA. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

NWOSU NGOZI CALISTUS

I, formerly known and addressed as ESINWOKE JAMES CHIEMELA, now wish to be known and addressed as NWOSU NGOZI CALISTUS. All former documents remain valid, the general public should please take note.

SHOBOWALE ADENIKE ADEFOLAKE

Public Notice

ADAKU GLORY KEKE

23

KHADIJAH IYABO MOPELOLA BABALOLA

MRS. HAWAWU ABIMBOLA ABIDOYE

I, formerly known and addressed as AROWOLO OLUWADAMILOLA ADENIKE, now wish to be known and addressed as SHOBOWALE ADENIKE ADEFOLAKE. All former documents remain valid.

General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as ADAKU GLORY OGBUOKIRI, now wish to be known and addressed as ADAKU GLORY KEKE. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as KHADIJAH IYABO MOPELOLA AGUNBIADE, now wish to be known and addressed as KHADIJAH IYABO MOPELOLA BABALOLA. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS HAWAWU ABIMBOLA ABERUAGBA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. HAWAWU ABIMBOLA ABIDOYE. All former documents remain valid.

General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

IWEHO CHINANUEKPERE MIRIAN I, formerly known and addressed as CHUKWUDI MIRIAN C., now wish to be known and addressed as IWEHO CHINANUEKPERE MIRIAN. All former documents remain valid, the general public should please take note.

ULIKA PRESCILLIA AMOGE

MRS ANIOKE JENNIFER CHINASA ANIOKE: I formerly known and addressed as MISS ANIOKE JENNIFER CHINASA now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ANIOKE JENNIFER CHINASA. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

MRS FIDELIA ONWANYI GAMWELL

DENNIS: I formerly known and addressed as DENNIS PRESCILLIA AMOGE now wish to be known and addressed as ULIKA PRESCILLIA AMOGE. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

ADAMS: I formerly known and addressed as MISS FIDELIA ONWANYI ADAMS now wish to be known and addressed as MRS FIDELIA ONWANYI GAMWELL. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

OKENYA CHUKWUKA OLIVER

RAYMOND JONAH

OZO-OKOLO SABASTINE IGNATUS

MRS ONUORAH NGOZI VIVIAN.

CHIAGOZIE OLUCHI CHINAZA BLESSING

OKEKE FRANCISCA UCHE

OKENYA: I formerly known and addressed as OKENYA OBIORA OLIVER now wish to be known and addressed as OKENYA CHUKWUKA OLIVER. My correct date of birth is 20/2/1996. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

AROME: I formerly known and addressed as RAYMOND JONAH AROME now wish to be known and addressed as RAYMOND JONAH. All former documents remain valid.

Banks and General public please take note.

IGNATUS: I formerly known and addressed as SABASTINE IGNATUS now wish to be known and addressed as OZO-OKOLO SABASTINE IGNATUS. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

ANIEFUNA: I formerly known and addressed as MISS ANIEFUNA NGOZI VIVIAN now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ONUORAH NGOZI VIVIAN. All former documents remain valid.

Banks, NYSC and General public please take note.

OGBODO: I formerly known and addressed as OGBODO OLUCHI CHINAZA now wish to be known and addressed as CHIAGOZIE OLUCHI CHINAZA BLESSING. All former documents remain valid.

NYSC and General public please take note.

AJAH: I formerly known and addressed as AJAH FRANCISCA UCHENNA now wish to be known and addressed as OKEKE FRANCISCA UCHE. All former documents remain valid. Banks and General public please take note.

UDEH MIRACLE OLUEBUBE

MRS ANIDILE CHIZOBA MARTINA

UDEOZOR NICHOLAS CHUKWUEMEZIE

UCHE CHETACHI QUEEN

MRS EJIOFOR NWAKAEGO CHRISTIANA

UDEH: I formerly known and addressed as UDEH MIRACLE ADAORA now wish to be known and addressed as UDEH MIRACLE OLUEBUBE. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

OGBAGA: I formerly known and addressed as MISS OGBAGA CHIZOBA MARTINA now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ANIDILE CHIZOBA MARTINA. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

UCHE: I formerly known and addressed as UCHE CHETACHI now wish to be known and addressed as UCHE CHETACHI QUEEN. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

EKWELIE: I formerly known and addressed as MISS EKWELIE NWAKAEGO CHRISTIANA now wish to be known and addressed as MRS EJIOFOR NWAKAEGO CHRISTIANA. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

OHIA NKECHI ROSEMARY

OBIEFUNA LETICIA UGONWA

MRS. EZEDINACHI CHINWE PRISCILLA

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

CORRECTION OF NAME

CORRECTION OF NAME

ONYENZE: I formerly known and addressed as MISS ONYENZE NKECHI ROSEMARY now wish to be known and addressed asMRS OHIA NKECHI ROSEMARY. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

OBIEFUNA: I formerly known and addressed as OBIEFUNA LETICIA UGOVIN now wish to be known and addressed as OBIEFUNA LETICIA UGONWA. All former documents remain valid. Banks and General public please take note.

AYOLUGBE: I formerly known and addressed as MISS: AYOLUGBE CHINWE PRISCILLA now wish to be known as MRS. EZEDINACHI CHINWE PRISCILLA. Former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

This is to certify that OGECHUKWU COLLINS and ABANA OGECHUKWU COLLINS is one and the same person now wish to be known as ABANA OGECHUKWU COLLINS. former documents remain valid. General public take note.

This is to inform the general public that my name OKEKE CYPRIAN CHIDOZIE was wrongly written during my BVN registration but now wish to be corrected and addressed as OKEKE CYPRIAN CHIGOZIE. All former documents remain valid. Banks and General public should please take note.

This is to inform the general public that my name ADAKU CHINONSO KANU was wrongly written during my BVN registration but now wish to be corrected and addressed as CHINONSO QUEEN ADAKU. My correct date of birth is 30/12/1997. All former documents remain valid. Banks and General public should please take note.

MUSA REGINA OMONIGHO

TEMITOPE ESTHER AWOFEKO

MRS. SAKA OLAJUMOKE MARY I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OMOLODUN OLAJUMOKE MARY, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. SAKA OLAJUMOKE MARY. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

MRS. AYANDEKO OLUWATOYIN TEMILADE

IDEYI KEMI ASIMAT

CHIOMA JECINTA OBINWA

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS BADERO OLUWATOYIN TEMILADE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. AYANDEKO OLUWATOYIN TEMILADE. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

I formerly known and addressed as ADEWUNMI ASIMAT now wish to be known and addressed as IDEYI KEMI ASIMAT. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as CHIOMA JECINTA AMAOGANANYA now wish to be known and addressed as CHIOMA JECINTA OBINWA. All former documents remain valid.

NYSC and General public to please take note.

OBIASOGU CHIKA JANE

DAVID AWEYI GODSWILL

I formerly known and addressed as ANUSIONWU CHIKA JANE now wish to be known and addressed as OBIASOGU CHIKA JANE. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

ADEGOKE ADEYINKA ALMUBARAK I formerly known and addressed as ADEGOKE IRENITEMI AL-MUBARAK now wish to be known and addressed as ADEGOKE ADEYINKA AL-MUBARAK. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as FRIDAY AWEYI NDHU VESSER now wish to be known and addressed as DAVID AWEYI GODSWILL. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

MRS. AYO KALADA BRIGGS

EMMANUEL OGWUBA

MRS. UDOESHIET VERONICA

I, formerly known and addressed as, MISS. OBI ROSEMARY AMAKA, now wish to be known and addressed as, MRS. IBE ROSEMARY AMAKA. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, MISS. Ayo Abiola Mogaji, now wish to be known and addressed as, MRS. Ayo Kalada Briggs. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, ONMONYA DAVID OGWUBA, now wish to be known and addressed as, EMMANUEL OGWUBA. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, MISS. VERONICA GODFERY KANICO, now wish to be known and addressed as, MRS. UDOESHIET VERONICA. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

DOUGLAS SAMUEL DOUGLAS

CONFIRMATION OF NAME.

EMENYEONU JOSEPHINE AYOBAMI

I, formerly known and addressed as, SAMUEL DOUGLAS SAMUEL, now wish to be known and addressed as, DOUGLAS SAMUEL DOUGLAS. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

This is to confirm that I, ANGEL AUSTIN UZOCHUKWU and UZOCHUKWU AUSTIN UZOCHUKWU, refer to one and same person but, now wish to be known and addressed as, ANGEL AUSTIN UZOCHUKWU. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

I Formerly known and address as, Ogbeide Josephine Ayobami, Now wish to be known and address as, Emenyeonu Josephine Ayobami, All former documents remains valid, the general public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME AND CORRECTED DATE OF BIRTH I formerly known as UKATA ACHIDE ANGELA wish to be known and addressed as UKATA ANGELA. My corrected Date of Birth is 15/1/1985. All former documents remain valid, general public please take note.

OKEOWO OLUWABUNMI CHRISTIANA I formerly known as OGUNNUBI OLUWABUNMI CHRISTIANA wish to be known and addressed as OKEOWO OLUWABUNMI CHRISTIANA .All former documents remain valid, general public please take

AMAECHI DORATHY MMENMA I formerly known as AMAECHI DORATHY OSUALS wish to be known and addressed as AMAECHI DORATHY MMENMA. All former documents remain valid, general public please take note.

I formerly known called and addressed as MUSTAPHA MARIA. Now wish to be known called and addressed as MUSA REGINA OMONIGHO.former documents remain valid. general public please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as TEMITOPE ESTHER RUNSEWE, now wish to be known and addressed as TEMITOPE ESTHER AWOFEKO. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

TETE EMMANUEL

DEL PAUL GYANG

I formerly known and addressed as TETEK ABEL now wish to be known and addressed as TETE EMMANUEL. All former documents remain valid.

General public to please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as DEL PAUL MADUGU now wish to be known and addressed as DEL PAUL GYANG. All former documents remain valid.

General public to please take note.

MRS NGBANWA ONYINYE NJIDEKA ZURI

CHANGE OF NAME

I formerly known and addressed as MISS NWAKO ONYINYE NJIDEKA now wish to be known and addressed as MRS NGBANWA ONYINYE NJIDEKA ZURI .All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

I formerly known and address as DAVID VINCENT UCHE, now wish to be known and addressed as OSSAI VINCENT UCHE. All former document remain valid. General public should plese take note.

UDEOZO: I formerly known and addressed as UDEOZO NICHOLAS CHUKWU now wish to be known and addressed as UDEOZOR NICHOLAS CHUKWUEMEZIE. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

OKORO-AZOSIWE OGOCHUKWU FRANCISCA I formerly known and addressed as OMEJE OGOCHUKWU FRANCISCA now wish to be known and addressed as OKORO-AZOSIWE OGOCHUKWU FRANCISCA. All former documents remain valid.

AWGU Local Government Council and General public to please take note.

MRS. IBE ROSEMARY AMAKA

DADA HANNAH BOLANLE

MRS. VIVIAN ONOME ADAMS

I, formerly known and addressed as, DADA FUNMILAYO BOLANLE, now wish to be known and addressed as, DADA HANNAH BOLANLE. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, MISS. VIVIAN ONOME TIMOTHY, now wish to be known and addressed as, MRS. VIVIAN ONOME ADAMS. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

EMMANUEL-UKAGA ODINMA OGONNAYA I, formerly known and addressed as, BOB-MANUEL ODINMA SAMSON, now wish to be known and addressed as, EMMANUEL-UKAGA ODINMA OGONNAYA. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

JUSTINA ADIKA UCHEM

AUGUSTAR ISAAC VINCENT ALOZIE NWACHUKWU

MRS OBANOBI ADEBOLA TOLULOPE

Formerly known and addressed as Justina Akiba Uchem,Now wish to be known and addressed as JUSTINA ADIKA UCHEM. All document remains valid general public should take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Augustar Nsikak Etim and Augustar SundayEyo Now wish to be known and addressed as AUGUSTAR ISAAC VINCENT ALOZIE NWACHUKWU.All document remains valid general public should take note.

Formerly known and addressed as Miss Ajakaye Adesola Tolulope Now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs OBANOBI ADEBOLA TOLULOPE general public should take note

ONYIDO PERPETUA GINIKA

PERPETUA: I formerly known and addressed as PERPETUA GINIKA CYNTHIA now wish to be known and addressed asONYIDO PERPETUA GINIKA. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

Public Notice 24

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

Osinbajo urges Nigerians to sacrifice to rescue country ÎÎÎ The Acting President,

Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, on Sunda, urged Nigerians to be prepared to make sacrifices to rescue the country from decay and make it great.

He said this in his address at the Interdenominational Church Service to mark the 18th anniversary of unbroken democracy in the country and two years of Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

“This nation requires men and women prepared to make the sacrifices that will make it great.

“Those men may not be leaders, they may not even be politicians and they may not even be priests and men and women of God,’’ he said.

Osinbajo recalled the story of the Good Samaritan in the Bible to illustrate his message.

According to him, the story is not how the victim was beaten up or a story of who to blame.

ADDITION OF NAME

I, BUSARI SHEU now wish to add AREMU to my existing names, Henceforth my names are now BUSARI SHEU AREMU. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

JAJA MIRABEL

I, formerly known and addressed as JAJA BELEMA ADONYE now wish to be known and addressed as JAJA MIRABEL. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

MUFUTAU ADAGUN JAGUN

Formerly known and addressed as DADA AJIKAWO JAGUNA now wish to be known and addressed as MUFUTAU ADAGUN JAGUNA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

MRS. AGBONA FAUSAT AJOKE

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ODUMOSU FAUSAT AJOKE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. AGBONA FAUSAT AJOKE. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

He said it was a story of how different people reacted“when they saw a bruised and dying man, and how it is peculiar when one sees a nation that needs to be helped’’.

He recalled that a priest and then a Levite who was a ruler, politician and leader passed by and did not assist the victim.

He said the devout people were the men that Jesus spoke about in the story of the Good Samaritan, who could sacrifice and show compassion for the healing of the nation.

According to the Acting President, such people are found everywhere as teachers, doctors, young graduates whether employed of not who are ready to do something that will help the nation.

He said such Nigerians should stand against corruption and should not allow the nation to be ripped by fraud.

Osinbajo urged the peoFALODUN-LAWAL OMOBOLANLE RIHANAT

I, formerly known and addressed as Lawal Omobolanle Rihanatu now wish to be known and addressed as Falodun-Lawal Omobolanle Rihanat. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

ple to be prepared to make such sacrifices when fighting corruption because the vice would also fight them back.

He, however, noted that there were people ready to take the risk in spite of the circumstances and difficulties.

He reminded the people that if they wanted to make the country to become a better place they must become like the Good Samaritan.

“Whether you are small or big, a leader or a follower be prepared to make that sacrifice,’’ the acting president said.

Osinbajo then prayed for the healing of the country and President Muhammadu Buhari and that God should set the citizens apart to turn the nation around.

Earlier, the Founder of the Word Communications Ministries, Apostle Sunday Popoola, said that the country was in crisis because it lacked leadership for long.

MRS IFEOMA RITA AJIBADE

I, Formerly known and addressed as Miss Ifeoma Rita Emerson now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Ifeoma Rita Ajibade. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

He called for the strengthening of the country’s institutions, adding that the country’s responsibilities should meet with God’s ability for things to turn around.

The cleric said the people should first work hard and then pray to God rather than waiting for God to perform the magic for them.

He called on all to shun prejudices as the country was set to fulfil a divine purpose.

3Popoola, who predicted that the nation would survive and become a world power in a few years, urged the people not to despair.

In the message, on the theme of the celebration `the dry bones shall live again’’ he said the amalgamation of Nigeria 100 years ago was part of the problems.

The cleric called on the government to revisit the decisions of the last national conference.

FUNSHO YAKUB AJIBADE

Ekweremadu harps on constitutionalism, rule of law ÎÎÎ

The Deputy President of the Senate, Sen. Ike Ekweremadu, has stressed the need to uphold constitutionalism and the rule of law to speed up the growth of the nation’s democracy.

Ekweremadu stated this in his Democracy Day message to Nigerians, issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Uche Anichukwu.

He said that the difference between democracy and undemocratic forms of government was the guarantee of human rights and rule of law.

“As we celebrate the 18th anniversary of the return of democracy, we must remind ourselves that the greatest blessings of democracy are not just good roads, hospitals, electricity, and other socio-economic infrastructure, which are however grossly inadequate.

“Any government is capable of providing one, and even several dictatorships around the world have indeed provided better ones.

“The greatest blessings of democracy are constitutionalism, rule MRS NASIRU AJOKE REGINA

of law, respect for human rights, courts, separation of powers, and the ballot box.

“Unless we apply the brake and uphold the rule of law and democratic conventions and practices in all ramifications, our greatest losses, moving forward, will not be economic recession, lack of critical infrastructure, among others.

“Our greatest loss would be an irredeemably deteriorated civilian rule where decisions of courts, letters and spirit of law, resolutions of the legislature, electoral choices of Nigerians as expressed through the ballot no longer count,’’ he said.

Ekweremadu, however, urged Nigerians to keep faith alive in the nation’s democracy as there was no alternative to democratic rule.

He advised Nigerians to rather apply every lawful and legitimate means to demand for, and defend their rights and the rule of law for their own benefit and for posterity sake.

He wished Nigerians a happy Democracy Day.

UGORJI JOHNNIE JUSTICE

I, Formerly known and addressed as Funsho J.Jimoh now wish to be known and addressed as Funsho Yakub Ajibade. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

I, Formerly known and addressed as Miss Samson Ajoke Regina now wish to be known and addtessed as Mrs Nasiru Ajoke Regina. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

AGU JULIET

EZENWATA EVELYN

Formerly known and addressed as AGUWENDU NGOZI JULIET, now wish to be known and addressed as AGU JULIET. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as EREMIOKHALE EVELYN , now wish to be known and addressed as EZENWATA EVELYN. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

MUFUTAU FOLAKE YEMISI

OSHUNBIYI FATAI OLAROTIMI

OMONIYI OLABISI OREBO

I, formerly known and addressed as FOLAKE TALABI now wish to be known and addressed as MUFUTAU FOLAKE YEMISI. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as OSHUNBIYI LATEEF ADIGUN, now wish to be known and addressed as OSHUNBIYI FATAI OLAROTIMI. All former documents remain valid.

That I was born on the 25th SEPTEMBER 1980. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as BABALOLA OMONIYI OLABISI, now wish to be known and addressed as OMONIYI OLABISI OREBO. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as JOHNNIE JUSTICE, now wish to be known and addressed as UGORJI JOHNNIE JUSTICE. All former documents remain valid.

That I was born on the 19th April 1964. General public take note.

DURU OLUWATOSIN ELIZABETH

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

OLALERE OPEYEMI OLAYINKA

NURUDEEN MUHAMMED SOLIU

UZODINMA ESTHER NDIDI

Formerly known and addressed as OLADIPO OLUWATOSIN ELIZABETH now wish to be known and addressed as DURU OLUWATOSIN ELIZABETH. All former documents remain valid.

The general public should take note.

This is to confirm that IGHOMOR ESEOGHENE GIFT and IGHOMOR ESE refer to one and the same person. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as ANIMASHAUN MARIAM now wish to be known and addressed as OLALERE OPEYEMI OLAYINKA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

Formerly known and addressed as NURU SALIU LEKAN now wish to be known and addressed as NURUDEEN MUHAMMED SOLIU. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as NDUKWE UZOMA CHIOMA, now wish to be known and addressed as UZODINMA ESTHER NDIDI. All former documents remain valid.

Diamond Bank and general public please take note.

BASHIRU SIMBIAT OPEYEMI

ABIMBOLA AZIZAT AFARIOGUN

CONFIRMATION/CORRECTION OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as OMOBOLAJI SIMBIAT OPEYEMI, now wish to be known and addressed as BASHIRU SIMBIAT OPEYEMI. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as ANI OLUFUNMIKE OLATOKUN, now wish to be known and addressed as ABIMBOLA AZIZAT AFARIOGUN. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

This is to confirm that JOHN OKOM and OKOM JOHNSON LUKPATA refer to one and the same person. Also, OKOM JOHNSON LUKPATA was wrongly written as OKOM JOHNSON LUKPA in my documents. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

MRS. SOYOYE OMOTOLUWANI ANNA

COREECTION OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ADEKOYA ANNA OMOTOLUWANI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. SOYOYE OMOTOLUWANI ANNA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

That during the BVN registration, my name was wrongly written as NNANNA CHIDINMA PHILOMINA instead of NNANNA CHIDINMA CYNTHIA PHILOMINA. That my correct name is NNANNA CHIDINMA CYNTHIA PHILOMINA. All former documents remain valid. Diamond Bank, Fidelity Bank and general public take note.

MRS. OZOKWELU RITA NJIDEKA

MRS. MODUPE OLUWATOYIN KOMOLAFE

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OKOLI RITA NJIDEKA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. OZOKWELU RITA NJIDEKA. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS MODUPE OLUWATOYIN SENBANJO, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. MODUPE OLUWATOYIN KOMOLAFE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

SPACE FOR SALE

SPACE FOR SALE

SPACE FOR SALE

SPACE FOR SALE

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

25 News

Why Osinbajo made fresh appointments in PenCom, BoI Mathew Dadiya, Abuja

ÏÏÏ

The need to reposition the National Pension Commission (PenCom), Bank of Industry (BOI) and other issues may not be unconnected to the fresh appointments by the Acting President Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), the Daily Times can now authoritatively report.

Multiple sources also confided in the Daily Times that Osinbajo altered the appointment of new management staff of PenCom and that of BOI earlier announced by President Muhammadu Buhari in April, 2017 to bring in professionalism in governance.

President Muhammadu Buhari had on April 13, 20 17 announced the appointment of Mr. Dikko Aliyu AbdulRahman as Director General of PenCom while Mr. Funso Doherty was named the Chairman of the commission.

But Osinbajo had on Saturday altered the appointments by announcing Funsho Doherty as Director General of PenCom instead of the earlier position announced by Buhari.

This, according to sources, was in cognizance of the need to bring in professionalism in the administration of the pension sector in Nigeria.

Dikko, who was earlier named Director General of PenCom by Buhari has now been appointed as the Chairman of BOI, thereby moving him completely out of the pension industry to the BOI to reinvigorate the bank.

According to one of the sources, Funso Doherty was brought in by Osinbajo and initially slated for Director General of PenCom but Buhari decided to appoint a northerner, Aliyu Dikko, who was then the Managing Director/ CEO of Premium Pension.

While Dikko and Doherty were awaiting Senate clearance to resume their new duty, Osinbajo decided to make a fresh appointment which named Funso Doherty as the new DG of PenCom. Doherty is described as an experience industry player who has been in the pension industry right from the onset and has served as Managing Director/CEO of ARM Pension.

But the source said that Dikko had relinquished his position as the Managing Director of Premium Pension when he was announced by Buhari as new PenCom DG which he cannot revert to.

Commenting on the development, pension expert and one of the founders of the First Guarantee Pension, Hon. Chidi Duru, described the appointment of Funso Doherty as a welcome development and one that would breathe a new life into the pension industry in Nigeria.

He said: “Funsho Doherty is a very experienced and astute leader in the pension industry, he would bring his experience to drive the sector to where it’s expected to be because he know the nitty gritty of the industry.

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike (r), presenting Grand Service Star of Rivers State (GSSRS) to former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, during the Excellent Achiever’s Award, to mark the Rivers Golden Jubilee in Port Harcourt… Saturday night.

FAAN sets to implement presidential orderon port Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo

ÏÏÏ The

Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Engr.

Saleh Dunoma, has initiated the implementation of the executive order on ‘Ease of Doing Business in Nigeria,’ given by the Acting President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo.

Engr. Dunoma assured the Prof. Osinbajo of full compliance and has immediately put in place machinery to ensure a successful implementation of the executive order which he will personally supervise.

He said the importance of the order cannot be overempha-

sized, especially because it will strengthen the nation’s fight against terrorism and eliminate unnecessary bureaucracy that impedes business activities at our airports.

He also added that it would improve safety, security and passenger facilitation within and around the airport.

The Acting President, Prof.

Yemi Osinbajo had early this month, issued an executive order aimed at ensuring the ‘Ease Doing Business in Nigeria.’

He had ordered port managers throughout the country to ensure the total elimination of touting by official or unofficial persons at any port in Nigeria.

While on duty , staff shall be properly identified by uniform and official cards,while off-duty staff shall stay away from the ports except with the express approval of the agency head.

He urged FAAN Aviation Security (AVSEC) and Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) security to enforce this order.

Osinbajo also directed that all non-official staff should be removed from the secured areas of airports. No official of FAAN, immigration, security agency or Ministry of Foreign Affairs or any other agency is to meet any non-designated dignitary at any secure areas of the airport.

He warned that any official caught soliciting or receiving bribes from passengers or other port users shall be subject to immediate removal from post and disciplinary as well as criminal proceedings in line with extant laws and regulations Furthermore, Engr. Dunoma urged passengers, airport users and the general public to cooperate with FAAN officials to carry out this responsibility.

He made the remarks during a stakeholders’ forum held recently at the Press Centre of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja. The implementation of the executive order is to take immediate effect.

Allow IPOB, MASSOB, BIM celebrate fallen Biafran heroes, heroines, Igbo groups tell governors, police Patrick Okohue

ÏÏÏ

The South-East Revival Group (SERG) and the Coalition of Eastern Human Rights and Prodemocracy Activists (CEHRAPA) have berated the Nigeria Police and the South East Governors for their response to the proposed sitat-home protest being organized by the IPOB/MASSOB and BIM members to commemorate the fallen Biafran heroes and heroines.

The organisations in a joint press statement said they decided to issue the statement after their NEC meeting, describing the content of the press statements by the Police and the governors on the planned action as draconian, “the NEC of our organizations thereby condemn in strong terms the illegal plan and threat by the Nigeria security agents, especially the

Nigerian police, to ‘clampdown on and deal decisively’ with the peaceful IPOB/MASSOB/BIM members who have chosen to exercise their constitutional and internationally guaranteed fundamental human rights with their proposed sit-athome protest on May 30, 2017.”

The joint statement signed by Eze Willy Ezugwu, national coordinator/president, SERG and Comrade Chukwunwendu Ezeagu, national coordinator, CEHRAPA, said “the NEC of SERG and CEHRAPA held a joint emergency meeting to discuss the press statements issued by both the Nigeria Police and the South East governors on the proposed sit-at-home protest being organized by the non-violent IPOB/ MASSOB/BIM members to commemorate the fallen Biafran heroes and heroines.

“After the deliberations on the draconian content of the said press

statements the NEC of our organisations thereby condemn in strong terms the illegal plan and threat by the Nigeria security agents, especially the Nigerian Police, to ‘clampdown on and deal decisively’ with the peaceful IPOB/MASSOB/ BIM members who have chosen to exercise their constitutional and internationally guaranteed fundamental human rights with their proposed sit-at-home protest on May 30, 2017 meant to commemorate the Fallen Biafran Heroes and Heroines.

“We therefore wish to remind the Nigeria security agents that by virtue of Chapter IV, particularly section 35 38,39 & 40, of the 1999 Constitution, as well as the relevant sections of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights(ACHPR) the members of IPOB/MASSOB/BIM have the right to hold their proposed sit-at-

home protest on May 30, 2017 to commemorate the Fallen Biafran Heroes and Heroines without intimidation, harassment or hindrance by anyone, including the security agents.

“We therefore demand that the Federal Government should immediately call the Nigeria security agents, especially the Inspector General of Police to order and restrain them from disturbing the members of IPOB/MASSOB/ BIM or other members of the public who wish to participate in the scheduled event, including in their proposed sit-at-home protest planned to hold on May 30, 2017 to commemorate the Fallen Biafran Heroes and Heroines.

“The security agents should rather assist these organizations to ensure that the event was successfully and peacefully held across the country as planned.

26

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

Features

s

Buhari’s government @ 2: The kudos, the knocks Gbubemi God’sCovenant & Femi Ganiyu

Two years into the administration of the President Muhammadu Buhari-led AL Progressives Congress, APC- led Federal Government, Nigerians have, expectedly, expressed divergent views about the administration.

Apart from some eminent Nigerians, who have voiced their hearts out about the goings on in the polity,since May 29, 2015, when the current administration, which defeated President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan of the then ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, after 16 years of being in the saddle, a broad spectrum of the society has rated Buhari differently.

Whereas, some have described the administration as trying to right the wrong of the endemic past, including the rot in all our institutions, which had brought Nigeria, the 7th largest oil producing country in the world, and a critical player in the international oil market ,as a member of the oil cartel, Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC, to its disgraceful kneels, others have rightly or wrongly, said the government has come to worsen their socio-economic well-being.

In retrospect, the current administration came with its campaign template of ‘Change Mantra,’ which, according to then National Publicity Secretary of the APC, and now Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Muhammed, was to add value to Nigerians, through fighting corruption, developing infrastructure, providing gainful employment to Nigerians, among other policies.

Expectations were high by Nigerians, when the administration came on board that the APC government would wipe tears from their faces. What with years of pains, poverty, exacerbated by spiral inflation, fuel scarcity; decay in transportation, education, housing and food scarcity, which had faced Nigerians!

However, the first sign of worries for the people came with the delay in appointing cabinet ministers, contrary to expectations of those who had thought that the administration would fire from all cylinders, having read the minds of the people and their desperation for change.

Then, just as a blame game between the PDP and the APC rages on over the management of the nation’s resources, including corruption, sleaze, security,

Buhari

Olugbenga

Musa

among others, Nigerians were visited with recession with the ongoing resultant effect on the average Nigerians, who had been battling against poverty and want over the decades.

Beyond the blame game, however, the government, according to analysts, attacked frontally, what it discovered to be monumental corruption in the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Military, Pension, Procurement, contract awards; and began prosecuting suspects like the former National Security Adviser, Col Sambo Dasuki, retd; for-

mer Chief of Defense Staff, Air Marshal Alex Barde,; former Minister of State for Defense, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, Supreme Court Judges, among several others, just as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, UNDER Acting Chairman, Ibrahim Magu, Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC, have had their hands full in the ongoing fight against corruption and other related offences.

Observers would also give the government some credit for its relentless fight against insurgency, especially induced

by Boko Haram. According to Lai Muhammed, this fight has led to the massive degrading of Boko Haram, especially with the overrunning of the dreaded Sambisa Forest, North East Nigeria.

Again, analysts would also credit the government with the release of the over 100 Chibok Schoolgirls, who are now in the warm embrace of their once traumatized parents, some of whom had since died as a result of the endless wait for their children, out of the over 200 girls taken away by the Abubakar Shekau- led Boko Haram Islamic group about three years ago.

Buoyed by the relentless advocacy by the #Bring Back Our Girls’ campaigners, led by former Education minister, Dr. Mrs. Oby Ezekwesili and others, the remining 103 girls, government has assured would soon be rescued alive and re-united with their parents.

Speaking with The Daily Times, a Professor of French in the Department of European Languages, University of Lagos, Professor S.J. Timothy-Asobele, said, “Although, President Buhari inherited lot of challenges, such as corruption, low civil service morale, poor infrastructure like, roads, rail, waterways, unemployment and security crises, he is one Nigerian that is determined to make things work.”

According to him, “One of the greatest challenges he is currently facing, is the drop in the international price of crude oil; and this has been affecting the running of the government from effective performance, otherwise, he would have done better. I want to credit him with ending fuel scarcity, which had caused so much pain in the past.”

He, however, lauded Buhari’s fight against corruption, saying, “If the fight is sustained and all his aides are fully with him, then, Nigeria would never be the same gain.”

As the administration throttles into the third year of its four-year term, President Buhari has been contending with ill health, forcing to go on medical vacation in England early this year, and again currently, and handed over power to his Vice President, now Acting President Professor Yemi Osinbajo, who has given the government he serves greater ratings for its fight against corruption;

Continued on page 27

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

tackled the hydra headed issue of ghost workers and pension fraud.

Buhari’s ill health has really caused a lot of apprehensions and divided opinions among Nigerians, including, Mr. Tajudeen Aduragbemi, a civil servant, who said the President should rather resign, hand over to his vice and let the country move forward practically.

Indeed, both the PDP and the APC give different verdicts on the administration.

According to the Publicity Secretary of the APC, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, President Buhari had performed well in the last two years, just as the President’s Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, has said that everything put together, the administration was on course to continually deliver the dividend of democracy to the people.

Faced with high inflation that notched up to some 18.2 per cent in March this year, Nigerians say they had never had it so bad over the last 20 years, more so as recession, poor money in circulation, but largely in the hands of the few rich; insecurity; food scarcity stare them in the face; they are praying Buhari to give them succour.

However, for an elder statesman and strong member of the Pan-Yoruba sociocultural group, Afenifere, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, President Buhari and his team, had failed woefully in their performances in the last two years.

Adebanjo, a lawyer and an Awoist, said the government lacked the vision and the capacity to address Nigeria’s multifarious problems, such as, ensuring true Federalism; tackling unemployment, education and the economy in general.

He may be right, as the government has been faced with forex crisis, drop in crude oil price, low which hovers between $49-$50 dollars barrel per day, bp/d, low monthly allocation to the 36 states and Abuja, with the resulting to the inability of close to 36 states not able to pay workers’ salaries, pitching them against the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, who are, in fact, demanding for an increase in workers’ minimum wage from N18,000.00 per month to N65,000.00, among others issues.

Also speaking through the telephone with The Daily Times from London, United Kingdom, Cardinald Olubunmi Okegie said that the “APC started well, they had a very good plan, but the change we have now after two years is not what we expected; the change they waved at us that attracted a good number of Nigerians including myself today has suddenly flopped. If you remember the inaugural speech of President Buhari, his promise about the economy, insurgency like Boko Haram, the Niger Delta militants, corruption, the Chibok girls and so on and everyone was happy”.

According to him, “unfortunately, and I am laying emphasis on the word, all his promises have flopped. They delayed here and there and our expectations were just thrown out and I think it must be due largely due to those people who were not originally APC members that

Olubunmi Okogie

Features

Monsignor Ukah

Oby Ezekwesili crossed the carpet from PDP into APC, and unfortunately again, they were the same people that destroyed PDP, and that’s why this APC is the way it is today”.

He said, “Secondly, the man who brought the President in, Jagaba Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the President began to see him as an enemy and that is how the whole thing. Look at the economy, for example; Buhari began to put the wrong people in top positions. How, for example, could he have given so many ministries to one man, the Babatunde Fashola’s example? That was when everything went out of hand.”

Indeed, Monsignor Livinus Ukah ;Situations analyst/human rights enthusiast and parish priest, St. Alphonsus, Aboru, Ipaja, Lagos, said that, “The real meaning of change is not what the Buhari-led government is advocating. Nigerians’ expectation is a change for better living conditions, practical change, not the philosophical definition of change, like when they say you can’t cross a river twice”.

He said, “What Nigerians expected in the two years of this administration is a

27

change in style of government that will effect new infrastructures, change in living standard, and change in attitude as well as the kind of change that will put money in the pocket of the poor and needy which form the bulk of the Nigerian electorate, not this kind of change that has put us in economic inequality; a system where leaders are enjoying themselves while people who elected them are suffering”.

According to him, “Some people are enjoying embezzled monies, we have seen in the news that people bury physical money in the ground, even burial ground because they are stolen monies. Everybody should benefit from real change, but it’s not so.

“I attend to a whole people in the middle and lower category of the Nigerian entity and I can tell you they have experienced change that changed their life pattern. If they did, and if the people are satisfied, we will not have a situation where people will be contemplating a coup or citizens jumping into the lagoon and committing suicide.”

For Alhaji Barabe Musa, former governor of Kaduna State, North West Nige-

ria, “The only way to explain everything is that the change they proposed to Nigerians is a political deceit because we have not seen any change. Real change has to be qualitative and fundamental. I didn’t see any qualitative change, I didn’t seen any fundamental change. All we have seen is a variety of public deceit.

A pastor of the Redeemed Church Of God, Pastor Olubanjo Olugbenga, also gas some words to tell the government, saying, “Change is a beautiful word, but as beautiful as it is, it is something a lot of people don’t like, even though we want it, yet change is the only thing that is constant in life, as the saying goes.

Though the government came with the ‘change mantra’ and it was expected that they will be able to deliver, at least to do so much of it because of the way they went about the change narrative during their campaign”.

He said, “But two years on, we have found out that it is easier said than done.

People may desire to change but it is not really easy for them to effect it and that’s what we are seeing in Nigeria.

“To be fair to government, we can see the body language of Mr. President, that he really want to effect change, but it has been established, and we have seen that which they really promised to change, rising up and fighting back. The anticorruption campaign, for example, we have seen instances where corruption really fought back and it is still fighting, which confirms my earlier assertion that people may want change, but they don’t really like to see it happen; and that is one area Mr. President is having problem.”

He said, “His greatest mistake was that he had thought that everybody, including political associates he came along with, truly wanted that change, but after he was sworn in, he soon realised that it is not everybody that want that change. A tree cannot make a forest: if he wants that change and all his ministers and members of the parliament don’t want it, then there is little he can do about it.”

Overall, after years, I will score him average, about 50 percent.

News 28

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

Children’s Day: Edo to introduce e-learning in schools Titus Akhigbe, Benin

ÏÏÏ

Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi (2nd l); his wife, Rachel (l); Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu and former Nigerian Ambassador to Greece, Franklin Ogbuewu, during a service to mark the 2017 Democracy Day at the St Peters Presbyterian Church, in Abakaliki… on Sunday.

Nigeria mills 5.7 million tones of rice annually Kebbi, Kano on the lead - GEMS4 Myke Uzendu, Abuja

ÏÏÏ

The efforts of the present administration to reduce the over $1 billion spent on rice importation has begun to yield the desired result following the increase in local rice production to about 5.7 tonnes annually, bringing the country close to rice sufficiency in the nearest future.

It was also discovered that the major challenge of rice farmers generally was funding, access to improved quality seadlings, irrigation for dry season farming, difficulties acquiring agro-inputs, fertiliser and accessing credit.

This was contained in a report titled ‘Mapping of rice production clusters in Nigeria,’ published by the Growth and Employment in States (GEMS4), a programme funded by the

United Kingdom Department for International Development (DfID), released in April 2017.

According to the report, the 18 states were selected based on their contributions to national production via the 2015 Agricultural Production Survey (APS) where studies were conducted among rice farmers spread across 165 clusters and 2,812 sub-clusters.

The report disclosed that the total paddy production in Nigeria in 2016 has been estimated at 17,487,562 metric tons, leaving a balance of about 11.4 million metric tons with 12.4 per cent of rice production wasted due to post-harvest losses. This left a total of 5.7 million metric tons of milled rice, bringing Nigeria’s rice production closer to the 7 million projected milled rice requirement for 2016.

“The 2016 total paddy production estimate is put at 17.5 million tons with a marketing surplus (after post-harvest losses and domestic use) of 11.4 million tons (equivalent to 5.7 million tons milled equivalent), just below the total national demand for rice which was projected to reach 7 million in 2016. This implies that the country is progressing towards its goal of rice selfsufficiency,” GEMS4 stated.

The report further revealed that Kebbi state leads the country in rice mill with 3.56 million metric tons for the wet and dry seasons production combined, followed by Kano with 2.82 million metric tons. Kebbi produced 2.05 million metric tons in the wet season and 1.51 million metric tons in the dry season while Kano produced 1.86 and 0.96 million metric

tons during the wet and dry seasons respectively over the same period under review.

The report stated that only 10 of the 18 states were involved in the dry season production, contributing 26.57 per cent of the total production.

The report was compiled after GEMS4 embarked on the mapping of the 18 rice producing states of Bauchi, Benue, Ebonyi, Ekiti, FCT, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Nassarawa, Niger, Ogun, Sokoto, Taraba and Zamfara.

The findings by GEMS4 revealed the responses of states to the federal government’s policy goal of reducing import dependence, particularly of rice which drains about $1billion annually on importation.

We have failed Plateau people -ex gov Kingsley Chukwuka, Jos

ÏÏÏFormer

governor of Plateau state and Senator representing Plateau Central in the National Assembly, Joshua Dariye, on Sunday made a confession that elders of the state, including himself , have failed to unite themselves toward providing unity and direction for the state.

“We the elders of Plateau state have failed Plateau citizens because of lack of unity, especially those of us who are former governors. But from today, we will resuscitate the Plateau Elders Unity Forum starting from former Governor Tapgun, myself and Senator Jang in order to support

Governor Lalong to succeed because Plateau is for all of us.”

Senator Dariye stated this on Sunday at the Government House Chapel, Rayfield during the thanksgiving service of the two years administration of Governor Simon Lalong with the theme: ‘Thanksgiving an Act of Honouring God.’ According to him the elders of the state have failed in their responsibility to provide direction for the state, saying there is need for the collective effort of all elders and stakeholders to sustained the peace that the All Progrssive Congress (APC) administration has brought in the state.

He charged governor Lalong to remain courageous and focused toward providing leadership for the state.

“I challenge you to remain focused and courageous in your leadership, and let me tell you whosoever has governed Plateau, Kaduna and Lagos is capable of governing Nigeria perfectly”.

Governor Lalong, on his part said there is need to give thanks to God for His faithfulfulness to the state which has had two years of peace.

He said with God Plateau will remain a model for the Nigeria to emulate especially in peace process.

The Gbong Gwom of Jos and chairman of the Plateau

state Traditional Council of chiefs and Emirs His Majesty Da Jacob Gyang Buba challenge Governor Lalong to set strategy team for the state to take position on National issues especially as well contribute toward restructuring of Nigeria.

Methodist Bishop of Jos, Bishop Ibrahim Chindo while taken his reading from (1Samuel 7v7-12) charge Christians to always gives thanks to God in all circumstances in life.

The church Service witness Top government officials, Security, Traditional Rulers as well as National and State Assembly members amongst other dignitaries.

Governor Godwin Obaseki has revealed that the state government would introduce the use of computers and notepads as tools for teaching and learning in primary and secondary schools across the state from September this year.

The governor announced this as he celebrated the 2017 National Children’s Day with young children and parents at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City at the weekend.

Governor Obaseki revealed that the move to introduce technology in primary and secondary educational institutions of the state was in line with his administration’s goal to improve the quality of education in the state.

He said: “We want to key into President Muhamandu Buhari’s vision to reposition the nation’s education system as a foundation for economic and social development. As a first step, we will start from Primary 1 and JSS 1 to introduce computers and notepads in the learning process of the state.

“Pupils and students will start to receive lectures and instruc-

tion with computers and notepads this year,” he said.

In addition, the governor stated that his administration would also subscribe to the Sustainable Development Goals campaign and reduce instances of child trafficking and violence against children through the domestication of federal government laws against human trafficking.

He therefore called on stakeholders to collaborate with the government to ensure that the children’s rights were protected and they were morally brought up.

Meanwhile, the governor’s wife, Mrs Betsy Obaseki, launched a child-friendly version of the Child Right Law, saying that the state government produced the easy-to-read version for children in the state to understand and be acquainted with their basic rights.

The First Lady noted that the state’s Ministry of Women Affairs and social development would ensure that copies of the books were distributed to every child in the state through their schools, while expressing optimism that the version of the law would bring better protection and joy to every child in the state.

Again, Ekweremadu, Umahi ask Biafra agitators to shelve sit-at-home call will, I don’t think it’s right. ÏÏÏ The Deputy President of your“Those who want to stay at

the Senate, Chief Ike Ekweremadu and governor of Ebonyi state, Engr. David Umahi, have again appealed to Biafra agitators calling for a sit-at-home compliance on Tuesday to allow people to go about their normal business.

Ekweremadu and Umahi made the appeal during an Interdenominational church service organized by the Ebonyi state government to mark this year’s Democracy Day in Abakaliki.

They noted that bad approach to genuine struggle was not good, encouraged the Igbo to work in unity in order to achieve their aim irrespective of how long it takes.

Ekweremadu said: “On the issue of Ingenious Peoples Of Biafra (IPOB) and stay at home order, I just have one advice. You cannot have two governments in a state. If anybody says you should stay at home, if you are a trader you can choose to stay at home or go out. But if you are a civil or public servant ,you are under obligation to go to work. “ I addressed the World Igbo Congress in Enugu and I told them that we all condemn the marginalisation of our people. We can never support it and we will continue to fight against it wherever we find ourselves. It is our life but I advise that no one or group should engage in any arm struggle no matter the level of provocation. The idea of trying to force people to do

home should please stay at home but those who want to work should be allowed to go out. I believe that if we have a struggle which I believe we have, it may take us a long time to get there but surely, no matter how long the darkness is, the day will eventually break.”

A statement the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Emma Anya, quoted the Senate Deputy President as commending Umahi for his infrastructural development and the mature way he has piloted the affairs of Ebonyi State, adding that the state has changed for good.

In his remarks, Governor Umahi said he had directed that markets should be opened on Tuesday and that residents should feel free to go about their lawful business He condemned the idea of asking people to stay at home and advised IPOB members to embrace dialogue rather than pursuing their genuine struggle the wrong way.

Umahi maintained that the leaders of South-East were handling the concerns of IPOB, assuring that efforts to solve the problem would soon materialize. “ Let me say it; I have all the lists of their agitations and most of what they are saying are correct but the way they are saying it may not be correct.

Daily Times Nigeria L Ɨ ƕè L ƕ ƾÖè ƾƠơƣ

29

News

Join a Solar Energy Workshop at Recession: God is in Nigeria ICT Fest 2017 Conference the economy of Nigeria

-RCCG Pastor Tom Garba, Yola

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The pastor of Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) in charge of Adamawa Province, Pst Kayode Nana, on Sunday reminded Christians that God is aware of their situation and is interested in taking Nigeria to another level of economic boom despite the recession ravaging the country.

In his homily titled ‘Journey to the next level,’ and reading from the book of Mark 4:35 and 2 Corinthians 2:14, Nana said that economic boat of Nigeria is only experiencing storms stressing that there is great hope

to the people of Nigeria because the storms killer (Jesus) Is still alive and is at work.

While praying for the believers on the journey to the next level, the cleric stated that the grace of Jesus will carry them out of struggles of life, he reminded them the journey to the other side of life is not always easy, for any next level you want to reach in your life there is always a next level of problem and the road to the next level Is all the time rough.

“Once you are moving on the righteous side of the Lord, He will still your storms, the other side (level, promotion) is the

side of manifestation of God’s glory in your life.”

He preached that for a believer to experience another level of lifting in the journey of life, he or she must be convinced of his or her calling and the person must consider how God is dealing with him or her in the past.

He also said it is when a Christian determines how much he must change that he can begin to experience another lifting in his life of whatever type of change is a necessary aspect of human life. And committing himself or herself to overcoming opposition that will earn them another promotion.

Mƈ ƆƏƈ Ɨ 9 Ɨ Ɔ ƈ Ɛ ƐƏƆ Ɛ Ɔ ƄƈƋ ƐƆƏ Ƌ ƏƆƋ Ɛƈ ƐƏ ƍ ƏƐ Ɛƈ Idu Jude, Abuja

ÏÏÏ

The Minister of Transportation, Chief Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, has assured the Indonesian government of the Nigeria’s preparedness to partner with the Indonesian business community to develop the transportation sector in Nigeria.

The Minister gave this assurance while receiving in audience the Indonesian ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Retno L.P Marsudi, who paid him a courtesy call in his office, last week.

Amaechi, who was represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Sabiu Zakari, stated that the two countries have similarities in both natural and human resources that can be used as a tool to develop and promote trade and investment between the two countries.

He added that Nigeria is ever ready to collaborate with Indonesia to address infrastructural challenges in the maritime, aviation and rail sub-sectors of the na-

tion’s economy.

He promised to give necessary support to the forthcoming Indonesia and Nigeria Business Forum scheduled to hold in June 2017 in Lagos and maintained that all the relevant Officials from the Ministry will participate in the Forum which will provide a veritable platform to interact meaningfully with the Indonesian business community.

According to him, there are a lot of potentials in the Transportation sector which the Indonesian Business Community can tap into for investment opportunities. He informed that the Federal Government has recently awarded concessioning of the narrow gauge rail lines to an American Company, General Electric, GE. Earlier, the Indonesian envoy to Nigeria, Mr. Marsudi explained that he was in the Ministry to meet with the Minister and discuss on the need for the two Countries to strengthen and deepen the bilateral relations that will be beneficial to

both Countries.

He added that part of the efforts is the extension of invitation by his country to the Minister of Transportation, Amaechi, to participate in the forthcoming Indonesian and Nigerian Business Forum scheduled to hold in June, 2017 in Lagos, maintaining that both the Indonesian government officials and its business community would be in attendance to deliberate on ways to assist Nigeria in the areas of harnessing investment opportunities.

He further added that Nigeria and Indonesia have come a long way in assisting each other in the areas where each country has comparative advantage over the other adding that his country has many experts and professionals who can assist Nigeria to overcome its challenges in the Transportation sector.

“Indonesia is endowed with both Natural and Human Resources like Nigeria and there are a lot of similarities between the two countries,” he emphasized.

30

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

Monday, May 29, 2017

EXTRATIME

NPFL: Bosso plays down title ambition

H

ead coach of El-Kanemi Warriors, Ladan Bosso has poured cold water over growing speculation that the Maiduguri club could emerge as shock champions of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) this season.

The usual big-hitters, Enyimba, Kano Pillars and Enugu Rangers, have so far failed to hit their expected heights this season, and with El-Kanemi Warriors in third place and currently three points behind surprise leaders Plateau United on the NPFL log, talk about an unlikely title triumph has been gaining momentum.

Bosso will, however, prefer to hear nothing of such talk, insisting that his employers

have not given him any mandate to even finish in the topthree places in the division at the end of the season.

“In my contract, there is nothing that stipulates that I must either win the league title or deliver a continental ticket (the top-three finishers on the log get a chance to represent Nigeria in CAF’s interclub competitions next year).

“But as a coach, I have a target for myself. “And that target comes in the shape of trying to get a continental ticket for the club,” he said.

Before matchday 21 cracker against Rivers United on Sunday, El-Kanemi Warriors amassed impressive 33 points from 20 league matches this season.

31

Iwobi revels in Gunners FA Cup glory A

lex Iwobi has lauded Arsenal’s FA Cup title win and described the fans as “unbelievable” after defeating Chelsea 2-1 at Wembley to end the season on a high.

The Nigerian was an unused substitute as Arsene Wenger ended the Blues’ ambition of winning a double – in a game that saw Victor Moses getting sent off.

The victory marked an incredible turnaround in fortunes for Arsenal, who finished fifth in the English Premier League – which ruled them out of next season’s Champions League.

And Iwobi barely managed to contain his jubilation on social media. ‘’Feels great to end the season on a high. Our fans were unbelievable today. Back to north London with the FA Cup,’’ he tweeted.

Iwobi

Spartak Moscow sign Eagles’ star Kayode S

uper Eagles forward Olarewaju Kayode has played his last game for Austrian side Austria Wien, according to reports.

The forward scored his 17th goal in the Austria Bundesliga in his team 2-3 loss to Red Bull Salzburg.

24-year-old Kayode is presently the top scorer in the league with one goal more than Deni Altar of Sturm Graz, with one game left to play in the season although Kayode will miss the game due to his national team commitment with Nigeria.

His form lead to interest from top clubs around Europe especially from teams in Germany and France, but Russian giants Spartak Moscow are set to clinch his signature. ” It’s not a matter of if, it’s a case of when will he move to Spartak Moscow. He has agreed to join them, and they are presently working out the terms and conditions of his move. It could be announced as early as next week”, the player intermediary told reporters.

Bosso

Kayode

Liverpool,Villarreal in hot chase for Awaziem

T

he rumours surrounding Liverpool’s interest in Nigerian defender Chidozie Awaziem gathered steam two days back during the Super Eagles friendly game against Corsica.

Awaziem was handed his senior national team debut

by Coach Gernot Rohr in the 1-1 draw against the French Island, and the 20-year-old responded with a strong performance which saw him last the entire duration of the game.

Playing alongside William Troost-Ekong in central de-

fence, the FC Porto defender was watched by Liverpool who have been keeping tabs on him after spotting him in a game for FC Porto B. However they face competition for his possible signing with Spanish La-Liga side Villarreal also cited in the stands during the Super Eagles game against Corsica.

FC Porto inserted a buyout clause of €20m when the tough tackling defender signed fresh terms with the club two seasons ago after his breakthrough at the Portuguese side. A fee which Porto

insist must be met by interested parties before a move away will be entertained.

Meanwhile, Slovakian side AS Trencin have concluded the signing of talented Nigerian midfielder Gabriel Okoriko on a three-year deal as replacement for Rueben Gabriel who left the club few months ago. Okoriko will in the coming days leave for Slovakia to team up with Trencin, and further swell the Nigerian contingent at the club who are known to have close ties with players from Nigeria.

19-year-old Okoriko played

sparingly for Nigeria Premier League side Niger Tornadoes this season following his move from Kaduna United before the start of the season.

The GBS starlet captained Kaduna United last season, and an official of the Nigeria National League side (NNL) confirmed his imminent transfer to Slovakia in an exclusive interview. ” Gabriel should leave for Slovakia any moment from now. He is going to join AS Trencin from what I was told. We (Kaduna United) wish him the best in his career, his quality has never been in doubt”, he told Owngoalnigeria.com.

Awaziem on the prowl

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Monday, May 29, 2017

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Iwobi revels in Gunners FA Cup glory

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Holyfield boosts boxing through reality show ANDREW EKEJIUBA Sport Editor

F

our-time world heavyweight champion, Evander Holyfield, was in the country recently to help boost the development of professional boxing in Nigeria through an upcoming ‘TV Reality Show’.

Speaking exclusively to Extra Time he affirmed that he is delighted with the quality of boxers coming out of the country and was eager to use his promotional outfit to help nurture them to stardom.

Holyfield also tasked Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBB of C) to try what was practiced

in United States which saw the discovery of great boxers that took the world by storm.

“I will want to see Nigeria Boxing Board of Control, try what we did in America by going back to the grassroots and catching these future champs young; then put them in Boys Clubs.

“From the Boys Clubs, they can be nurtured to stardom through dedicated educational programmes that will help become champions.

“I’m interested in getting these future boxing champions at their tender ages, so that Ni-

Conte, Courtois defend Moses over FA Cup woe

C

Moses

P.31

helsea manager Antonio Conte does not believe Victor Moses is mostly culpable for his side’s 2-1 FA Cup final defeat to Arsenal on Saturday, while Thibaut Courtois also believes the Nigerian need not apologise over the FA Cup loss.

The Nigerian international was shown a second yellow card in the 76th minute for an apparent dive in the Arsenal box.

Chelsea duly lost by the odd goal in three as Arsenal exploited the Blues’ numerical disadvantage to close out the win.

Conte was asked about the decision to show Moses a second yellow card and while he claimed he did not see the incident clearly, he inferred that Moses might have been awarded a penalty instead of a dismissal.

“For me now it’s very difficult to tell because I saw contact with Moses and their player but I don’t know if it was a penalty or not,” Conte explained.

gerians will benefit from their exploits,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Bishop Adejube, CEO Bishop Entertainment Consult, further clarified the reason behind the invitation of Evander Holyfield to Nigeria.

He told Extra Time that there are plans by his Atlanta Georgia-based company to stage a ‘Reality Boxing TV Show’ in all the thirty-six states of the federation, including Abuja and added that the show is aimed at discovering talented boxers from the grassroots in the country.

“We brought Evander to Nigeria to partner with us in our

bid to revive professional boxing in the country through our upcoming reality TV show.

“There are a whole lot of things to learn from the man who had been at the top of boxing globally and we felt this is the right time to do that by inviting Evander to Nigeria.

“We can also see the way and manner Evander appreciated his visit to Lagosians by donating medical facilities worth $3million to the state showing that he is ready to contribute his own quota to the development of the pugilist trade in Nigeria,” he said.

According to Adejube, the best boxer identified from the reality TV show will be snapped up by Real Deal Promotions owned by Holyfield which in turn will train the boxer to stardom.

The Anambra Times

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

Nov. guber poll: Traders in Idemili endorse Obiano AT 4

UNICEF restates commitment to protection of vulnerable children in Anambra AT 3 NYSC deploys 1, 942 corps members in Anambra ÏÏÏThe National Youth Ser-

Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano (first right) with Chairman, Elite International Investment Limited, Madam Huang Zhi Hui and at the far right, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, chairman, Orient Petroleum Resources Plc, during the ground breaking ceremony of the Anambra International Cargo Airport at Umeri, Anambra East LGA of Anambra State...recently

My govt committed to sustaining investors’ confidence –Obiano Alphonsus Nweze, Awka ÏÏÏ Anambra State Governor, Chief

Willie Obiano, says his administration is committed to sustaining investors’ confidence and setting the pace for other South East states to emulate.

Governor Obiano stated this when he received the Anambra Consolidation Forum (ACF) who paid him a courtesy visit at Governor’s

ÏÏÏA chieftain of

Anambra

T E A M

Biafra Independence Movement (BIM), Comrade Chris Mocha, has called on the Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano, to start work on the proposed road project from Omor to Umolum in Ayamelum Local Government Area of the state in order to alleviate the sufferings and as well as complete the ongoing Omor to Umumbo community

Lodge Amawbia, Awka, the state capital recently.

According to him, his administration has committed positive efforts to restore the faith and confidence of investors to bring their wealth to Anambra State as the most business policy friendly state in Nigeria.

Obiano recalled that in the past the World Bank had labelled Anambra State as unsafe for investors to do their business due to the prevail-

ing security situation and other challenges.

He said the state under his watch has been recording massive influx of investors, recounting measures his administration has taken in ensuring maximum security.

The Governor emphasised that the state has restored stability, transparency and accountability through the Anambra State Investment Promotion and Protection Agency (ANSIPPA), and therefore thanked the

group for their solidarity.

In a remark, the National Leader of the forum, Mr. Emmanuel Mmaduabuchi, encouraged indigenes of the state to look beyond partisan politics in choosing the right leadership which Governor Obiano is providing The Anambra Consolidation Forum comprises the political stakeholders of Anambra origin residing at Abuja and all the Northern states of the Federation.

BIM’s chieftain gives Obiano conditions for second term road.

Mocha, who is also the former vice chairman of Umolum Town Union (UTU), said it is only the immediate road construction of the community road to Omor or Anaku or possibly link them to Awba-Ofemili in Awka North L.G.A as the Governor had ear-

Special Project Editor Sam Nzeh

Correspondents: Alphonsus Nweze Philip Balepo John Chinenye

lier promised the people on March 21st, 2015 during the flagging off ceremony of Orient Petroleum Plc and Alaigba gas power project located in the community that would guarantee him votes from Ayamelum people.

He said Governor Obiano ought to have provided good governance that can address the problems of Umolum community, adding that the community has been neglected, abandoned over the years by successive governments in Anambra State.

“In Umolum, there is no functioning

Health centre, no good road, no electricity, among others,” lamented the former vice chairman, who said that one of the major reasons Mr. Peter Obi had transferred power to him was to ensure that the communities in Anambra North zone were connected with good road networks to enable the people who are predominantly farmers transport their agricultural produce to urban towns.

Mocha’s advice came on the heels of escaping death in an accident with his wife along Omor-- Umuolum road due the deplorable condition of the road.

vice Corps (NYSC) has deployed 1,942 corps members for the 2017 Batch ‘A’ Orientation programme in Anambra State.

Addressing the corps members during the swearing-in ceremony at the Umunya Orientation Camp, near Onitsha on Thursday, Governor Willie Obiano, charged them to distinguish themselves as future leaders.

“In the course of this exercise, you will be introduced to many issues bordering on good governance, national development, culture and tradition of host communities, as well as skill acquisition and entrepreneurship development,” he said.

Obiano, who was represented by the state Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Dr. Uju Nwogu, reiterated his administration’s commitment to completing the ongoing Permanent Orientation Camp at Umuawulu near Awka.

He assured the corps members of adequate security during their one year service in the state.

In his remarks, the state Coordinator of the programme, Mr. Olawale Olusegun, said that 878 males and 1,064 female prospective corps members were registered in the state.

Olusegun further said that skill acquisition training for the corps members would be given priority in line with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) eight.

He expressed the hope that funding would come from the Bank of Industry, Heritage Bank and Central Bank of Nigeria for those who registered for Small and Medium Enterprises.

The Anambra Times 2

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

80 cultists convicted, many counselled, says Polce anti –cult commamder ÏÏÏThe Commander of

Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral I. E. Ibas, during the laying of the foundation stone of the Naval Officers’ Mess in Odekpe near Onitsha...recently.

Detention of Ubah, an attempt to frustrate Igbo businessmen –IPOB Stories by Alphonsus Nweze Awka

ÏÏÏThe Indigenous People of Biafra

(IPOB) has said that the continuous detention of billionaire business tycoon, Dr. Ifeanyi Ubah, was a deliberate ploy by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to frustrate Igbo business men in Nigeria.

The group in a statement made available to newsmen and signed by its Media and Publicity chief, Emma Powerful, condemned the continued detention of the Chairman and Chief Executive of Capital Oil and Gas, saying should anything happen to him, those keeping him in prison should be prepared to face the wrath of the group.

“We want the DSS to know that an attack on Ifeanyi Ubah is an attack on Biafra; the DSS should know that we are watching on this matter and must continue following it until it gets to its logical

conclusion,” the group said.

IPOB added that the arrest of Ubah was part of the plots to frustrate Igbo businessmen.

Powerful said the group’s intelligence unit had uncovered a grand plot to kill businesses in Igbo land, adding that such actions were indicative of the fact that the people of the area were no longer needed in Nigeria.

The group wondered why a court of competent jurisdiction would order the release of Ubah yet the Department of State Services would continue to hold him.

The statement reads: “We have been informed by IPOB intelligence unit that this Ifeanyi Uba arrest by the DSS was the perfection of hard economic policies against our people and strangulation of Igbo businessmen in Nigeria.

“The grand plan to stop every business controlled by our people in Nigeria is eating deep in Nigeria economy because our people are the major business-

men in Nigeria today.

“Arresting Dr. Ifeanyi Uba because of his legitimate business proves to all and sundry that we are no more needed in the contraption called Nigeria”.

The group vowed to resist such policies against the people of the area, adding, “it is pathetic that well-meaning Nigerians are keeping quiet over the continued damage the DSS is causing Nigeria”.

“We want to state it categorically clear to all the Northern dominated DSS and other politicians that nothing should happen to our brother, Dr. Ifeanyi Ubah, because he committed no crime against anybody or Nigerian state.

“In line with this, we warn that Ifeanyi Uba should be released before it is too late or they will see the power of IPOB under Nnamdi Kanu in all over the world; we cannot afford to watch them continue to humiliate and intimidate him for no just cause,” the group added.

Rotary International pledges to intensify efforts to eradicate polio ÏÏÏThe

Rotary International District 9142 Nigeria has pledged to intensify its efforts in polio eradication, as well as provide a lifeline for the indigent in partnership with the Onitsha-Ado Development Union.

The new incoming Governor Rotary International District 9142 Nigeria Pharm. Dr. Emman Ude Akpeh, made the promise during a courtesy visit to the traditional ruler of Onitsha, Obi Nnaemeka Achebe, in his palace recently.

He thanked Obi Achebe and his cabinet members for their warm reception and informed him about his upcoming installation as the new Governor Rotary International District 9142 Nigeria slated for the 15th June, 2017 in Awka.

He said the essence of the Rotary club is service to humanity and one of such humanitarian gesture is for the eradication of polio in the society.

Responding, Obi Achebe thanked the members of the as-

sociation for their visit and congratulated Dr. Ude- Akpeh on his elevation to the status of a District Governor. He thanked them for the noble initiative they have to end poverty and ensure better living condition for all. The royal father called on the association and everybody to assist in bringing Onitsha to what it used to be as a decent, clean and orderly society.

Highlight of the visit was the decoration of the Obi as a Rotary Club ambassador.

the Special Anti-Cultism Squad (SPACS) of the Anambra State Police Command, Mr. Christopher Bassey, has said no fewer than 80 cultists have been convicted and many others counseled within four months of his stay in office as commander.

Bassey, a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP), advised parents to caution and monitor the company their children keep because most of the people who have been arrested were influenced by hard drug addiction to commit crimes due to the bad company they keep.

His words: “We will not spare any cultists caught because if you don’t take them out of the society, they will continue to negatively influence others and constitute nuisance and commit all sorts of crimes in the society”.

Some of them, he said, were lured into crime by criminal kingpins who want to use them to achieve their selfish interest, adding, “They will provide them with arms, hard drugs and money which will influence them to go into crime.

“We have been able to send about 80 to prison through the instrumentality of the courts, while scores have been

counselled and some are presently being counselled,” Bassey said.

He promised that they will continue to play their own role, saying that “if the court had said otherwise by freeing the suspects, I would have just washed off my hands and know that it is Court that said so. But all I know is that Governor Willie Obiano has through our Commissioner, Mr. Sam Okaula, equipped us to fight crimes and you can see that today Anambra is the safest state in the country and we will maintain the tempo”.

He denied the allegation of torture of suspects to obtain information from them, saying: “Here in SPACS, we don’t torture suspects. What we do is to screen them and from there we fish out the core cultists and those who are under age and counsel and monitor them.

“The type of counsel we render to them makes them to realise that the crime they involved themselves into will instead of being beneficial to them will rather send them to prison or lose their lives.

Some of them after regaining their freedom will come back to us and thank us for the counseling and vowed to be of good behaviour,” he said.

Bishop Ezeofor urges APC to address suffering among Nigerians ÏÏÏThe Anglican Bishop of Ogbaru

Diocese in Anambra State, Rev. (Dr.) Samuel Ezeofor, has called for a united voice among Nigerians to call to order the All Progressives Congress (APC) controlled Federal Government to address the growing poverty and suffering in the country.

Bishop Ezeofor, who spoke at the weekend in his charge/presidential address during the second session of the Fourth Synod of the diocese, said church leaders, traditional leaders, and civil society organisation leaders among others were being awaited to speak in one voice against the uninspiring governance by APC. “A united voice of Nigerians has to be one of the most powerful voices in the world, it is a voice that any government would dread when raised against it. It is voice that the Buhari administration should now be facing,” said Bishop Ezeofor.

He lamented that the increasing adversity for Nigerians under the present Muhammadu Buhari regime, saying that this adversity pours for Buhari and Nigerians like rains.

He said in spite of the shenanigans of fighting corruption, the Transparency International report recently indicated the battle against corruption has not impressed Nigerians and it is not achieving much desired effect as being touted in the media.

Bishop Ezeofor said that severe downturn in the economy has much to do with the reality and perception of the resilience of corruption because regardless of the campaign, corruption has persisted due to financial difficul-

ties encountered by Nigerians under this administration.

“Moreover, the scarcity of dollars intensified corrupt practices in the monetary and banking sectors. As to perception, it is hard for people to think that anything has improved when their situation has worsened,” he said.

Bishop Ezeofor said pockets of protest in some Nigerian cities in recent time was a way of telling the Federal Government that Nigerian masses were tired of the way things are going.

He said however that a little relief came since Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo visited some of the troubled and perceived enemy zones which has doused tension and fear, showing that good governance and listening to the yearning of the people was possible.

Turning to Anambra State, the Bishop said among other things that the only road linking Ogbaru communities with the Rivers State commenced since 2007 and is yet to be completed.

He also said the Atani-Ozubulu byepass which is barely two years old is already peeling off, asking that the State Government should order the contractors back to site.

The Bishop called the people of the state to know what they need and should not sacrifice their future on the altar of immediate and personal financial gains as the 2017 governorship election draws closer.

He said “the incumbent Governor should continue to prove he needs a second tenure by his works, and others who wish to ‘serve’ should also prove same to the people Ndi Anambra who must vote wisely come November 2017”.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

The Anambra Times 3

UNICEF restates commitment to protection of vulnerable children in Anambra Stories by Alphonsus Nweze Awka

ÏÏÏThe

United Nations International Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has given firm promise to stakeholders of its commitment to assist Anambra State government in ensuring that children’s rights are protected to the core.

The Chief of Field Office, UNICEF Enugu, Dr. Ibrahim Conteh, gave this assurance during the UNICEF/European Union and Anambra State government’s Mid -year review of Water Sanitation and Hygiene progamme (WASH) programming in Awka, the state capital.

The occasion attracted officials of the agencies from three states of Cross River, Benue, and Anambra, and featured series of paper presentations, providing participants the opportunity to critically asses their performance so far in their states, challenges, as well as to plan on how best to advocate for the children’s rights.

Conteh, who had just arrived the country from Sudan, said that the agency works in areas where vulnerabilities are prominent, assuring of his organisation’s continued partnership with Anambra, Cross River and Benue states to help address the

needs of children.

He expressed satisfaction with the three government’s rural water sanitation and hygiene programme, saying that available reports show evidence of quality programming results being generated for children.

He said the current EU-UNICEF funding cycle for the Water Supply Sanitation Sector Reform Programme II (WSSSRP) in the three states has been granted an extension up to May 2018.

“I understand that Anambra has expanded to additional two LGAs of Nnewi North and Idemili South. This has resulted to UNICEF/EU supporting the

state with additional three Hilux vehicles for the new LGAs”, he said, and appreciated officials of the agency from the three states on their efforts so far in the realisation of their targets and dreams for children”.

The UNICEF chief lauded Governor Willie Obiano over the state’s support to the actualisation of the rights of women and children in the state, adding that the state government has promptly paid counterpart funds for donor support projects state.

He said that the agency would continue to support the administration by providing more bore-

hole facilities around the state to ensure portable and sanitised water for the residents.

Earlier in his speech, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) specialist, UNICEF Enugu, Amose Kudzala, said the meeting was necessary to help review UNICEF achievements and how to restrategise.

Papers were presented at the meeting by the Director General, RUWASSA, Ita Ikpeme, from Cross River State and Assistant Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, RUWASSA, Ogochukwu Areh, where they solicited for more support from the states government.

We’re not in conflict with IPOB, says Obiano’s aide ÏÏÏ Special Assistant to Gov-

Obu of Nanka community in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Igwe Godwin Ezeilo, and wife (middle) with members of his community, when the monarch received his certificate of recognition from Governor Willie Obiano in Awka…recently

Extra- ordinary immorality of the West caused HIV/AIDS scourge –Prof. Katchy ÏÏÏThe Vice-Chairman of Anam-

bra State branch of Red Cross Society, Prof. Peter Emeka Katchy, has attributed the HIV/AIDS scourge to the ex-ordinary immorality of the Western world who unashamedly encourage and propagate same sex marriage.

Prof. Katchy, who spoke in Onitsha, the Anambra State commercial nerve centre, during award given to him by a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Global Initiative for the Most Vulnerable.

Katchy said HIV was traceable to homosexuals in the West who have affairs through the anus, an abnormal way of having sex, saying that the scourge over time developed from the ungodly practice.

He said that scourge was first found in Los Angeles, United States of America and later found first in Africa in Kenya, apparently due their contact with the West.

The Vice- chairman of Anam-

bra State Red Cross told those who stigmise HIV positive persons to desist from that as it is no longer a death sentence, which we ignorantly thought it was.

He said HIV is like any other sickness, hypertension, diabetes and even better than some because some HIV positive persons are known to have lived to have healthy children, prospered and are making meaningful contributions to the society.

He lamented that some HIV positive persons before now died out of ignorance, fear and carelessness but expressed happiness that things have significantly improved, especially with the introduction antiretroviral drugs.

Katchy said he was humbled by the award and was not expecting it because he was just carrying out his work for God and humanity.

He dedicated the award to all the members of Red Cross in the state who have worked tirelessly to respond to emergencies to save lives,

saying, “The credit must go to every one of us. All hands were on deck.

Every one of us part of our success story”.

Katchy said Red Cross is an organisation worthy of emulation because it makes everything possible, stressing “if government imbibes the Spirit of Red Cross, Nigeria would have been a better country.

If people do what they ought to do, Nigeria would. Any day Nigeria adopts Red Cross philosophy, emergence response, Nigeria would be better”.

He said: “I will not say so special.

I am driven by the heart to improve the quality of mankind. I am a human being but whatever I do I consider humanity, vulnerable and less-privileged persons in the society. There are a lot of vulnerable persons. There are a lot who do not have legs and without wheelchair.

We need to reach out to the rich to get them buy into the objectives of Red Cross.”

ernor Willie Obiano of Anambra State on Political Matters, Hon. Arinzechukwu Awogu, has stated that his boss was not in conflict with the members and leadership of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Awogu, who spoke at the residence at the residence of former Biafra warlord, Col. Joe Achuzia, said that Anambra State as the cradle of the Igbo race was not unmindful of the accommodation she owes to all shades of opinion in Igbo land.

“We are not in conflict with our IPOB brothers. We are as a matter of principle on the same page with them in the quest for a better treatment for our people and it is our view that with some degree of understanding and a little flexibility in our approaches to resolving the Igbo question, we could make Ndigbo win on all sides of our struggles for a better homeland.”

The aide with his entourage were at the residence of the Civil war famed Aeronautic engineer to celebrate his 90th birthday and to wish him many more years in good health as he continues to direct the affairs of the Biafrans as the most senior surviving member of the Biafran revolution.

Col. Achuzia, who at 90 is still mentally alert, thanked Governor Obiano for sending Awogu to visit him as he marked his 90th birthday, saying that he bore the brunt of the civil war as he was thrown into jail for seven years after

the war ended on the orders of the Federal Government under Gen. Yakubu Gowon.

Achuzia lamented that those that were in power at the end of the civil war did everything against his person because of his role in the civil war except that they didn’t harm him which he attributed to God’s doing, and for him to live to clock 90 years can only be God’s extraordinary grace.

Col. Achuzia, who does not mince words on topical issues, demanded that he, as a person, should be addressed as “a Biafran” as that reflects his true identity.

He went on to say that he was particularly impressed with the way Gov. Willie Obiano resolved the issue of the Boko Haram convicts that were brought to Ekwulobia in Anambra State to spite Ndigbo and created a sense of apprehension and insecurity among the people.

He affirmed that it is only a true son that could have wrestled the Federal Government into relocating the terrorists from Ekwulobia, stressing that Gov. Willie Obiano’s relocation of the Boko Haram convicts from Anambra State and the entire Igboland was the second frontal confrontation the governor was having in his defence of Ndigbo against the Nigerian establishment, the first being the governor’s insistence on burying Biafran war victims and opting to go to jail as a result.

The Anambra Times 4

Daily Times Nigeria L Ɨ ƕè L ƕ ƾÖè ƾƠơƣ

Nov guber poll: Group endorses Obiogbolu

APGA, Biafra Ojukwu’s legacies to Ndigbo –Col. Achuzia

Philip Balepo

ÏÏÏ Col. Joe Achuzia, one of

the top Biafran war commanders and a trusted associate of Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, popularly referred to as “Air Raid’’ has revealed the motive behind the formation of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), maintaining that the survival of the political platform should be a concern to all Ndigbo.

He frowned at the notion that tended to suggest that APGA is a mere political party, insisting that “APGA is the soul of Ndigbo; that APGA is at the heart of survival of Igbo identity and a vehicle to Igbo’s quest to managing its own affairs politically.

Col. Achuzia recalled that the two legacies Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu left for Ndigbo were Biafra and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APG A), and on these two, his soul rested.

He said that Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu’s thought on Biafra was for a final abode where nobody could cross into to harass his people and the APGA as a platform to resist political oppression against Ndigbo in Nigeria.

He posited that since the First Republic, Ndigbo were not only denied a shot at the presidency as no political party was willing to give them presidential ticket but were also prevented from having ideological political platform to rally round their own people.

Col. Achuzia, a British trained Aeronautic engineer and one-time Secretary General of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, spoke inside in his house at Asaba, the Delta State capital, while receiving the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State on Political Matters, Hon. Arinzechukwu Awogu, who came to felicitate with him on his 90th birthday.

He commended Gov. Willie Obiano for living up to the dreams of APGA’s founding fathers despite the challenges in human management and implored him to ensure that APGA produced presidential candidate in 2019 general election if Biafra tarries.

The fiery war commander revealed that it was Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu’s desire to be on record that an Igbo ran for the presidency of Nigeria in every election year and that the Igbo come together under a political unity and nurture same to national mainstream.

ÏÏÏ Special Assistant to Governor

Willie Obiano of Anambra State on Political Matters, Hon. Arinzechukwu Awogu, has stated that his boss was not in conflict with the members and leadership of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Awogu, who spoke at the residence at the residence of former Biafra warlord, Col. Joe Achuzia, said

Onitsha

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Nov. 18 guber poll: Traders in Idemili endorse Obiano êêê0Ƌ ƕ Ɛ ƐƆƌƆ Ɛ Ƅƕ ^ ƅ ƈƆƇƐ ƈ Stories by Alphonsus Nweze Awka

ÏÏÏTraders in Anambra State under

the aegis of Idemili Market Traders Association (IMATA), which comprises of traders in the three Local Government Areas, Idemili North, Idemili South and Oyi, on Wednesday, at Ogidi, Idemili North council headquarters, endorsed Governor Willie Obiano for second tenure.

The traders also condemned the statement credited to some All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftains in Igbo land that APC would take over Anambra State come November 18, 2017 governorship election.

The traders, who spoke through their Secretary General, Chief Chuma Eruchalu, made the endorsement when they paid a courtesy call on the chairman of the caretaker committee of the council, Chief Ralph Nnabuife Asha, who they described as an achiever that won the award (car gift) as the best Local Government Chairman in the country.

According to them, the statement is deceitful, uncalled for and act to distract Governor Willie Obiano who

made the state the safest in the country, pays salaries of workers as and when due from all these good works in the state.

Eruchalu said: “There is no vacancy at Government House Awka; Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State, former Governor Jim Nwobodo of the then Anambra State and Senator Chris Ngige who is the Minister of Labour and Employment should leave Anambra State alone and face their responsibilities”.

“We will disgrace them if they come to Anambra State as APC whistle blowers because our able Governor Willie Obiano is doing us well.

“I have not seen N20 million community project established in all the 179 communities in Anambra State before.

Again, the Governor has offered N10 million market development project in each of the markets in the state and is ready to do more”.

“We are going to set up a committee in each market that will be briefing each line in the market to showcase Governor Willie Obiano’s activities in the state with a view to working in concert with the council chairman, Chief Nnbuife, to ensure victory for Obiano”.

Commending the council chairman,

Eruchalu, who is also the President of IMATA, said: “We are here to assist you in moving the council forward. This visit is unique because you are the only one that has been here as council chairman two times, you maintained the first position in a place that is full of educated people”.

Eruchalu wondered what Governor Okorocha from Imo State could offer Anambra State when he cannot pay workers, pensioners and provide basic infrastructure for his people.

He said Nwobodo, a spent force politician should go to his state, Enugu, and salvage them just as he challenged Ngige to show concrete evidence of what he has done for the people of Anambra State since he was appointed Minister of Labour and even when he was a senator.

Eruchalu said they would be daydreaming if they think would come with the so-called Federal might to manipulate the Governorship election, stressing that APGA as a party has been good to them.

Noting that APC is not on ground in the state, the market leader vowed that the people of the state would defend their votes with the last pint of their blood.

ANSG to partner FG on tourism –Commissioner that Anambra State as the cradle of the Igbo race was not unmindful of the accommodation she owes to all shades of opinion in Igbo land.

“We are not in conflict with our IPOB brothers. We are as a matter of principle on the same page with them in the quest for a better treat-

ment for our people and it is our view that with some degree of understanding and a little flexibility in our approaches to resolving the Igbo question, we could make Ndigbo win on all sides of our struggles for a better homeland.”

The aide with his entourage were

at the residence of the Civil war famed Aeronautic engineer to celebrate his 90th birthday and to wish him many more years in good health as he continues to direct the affairs of the Biafrans as the most senior surviving member of the Biafran revolution.

ÏÏÏ It was an evening of eulogies, flowery language but not praisesinging; an evening of truth laid bare and solid support for a man who has shown that patience pays; proved that loyalty breeds trust yet, has suffered so much injustice in the murky waters of politics, but still has shown that steadfastness and honesty are the hallmarks of integrity.

And so, on Thursday, a group known as Like Minds, led by Chief Felix Oli, Akulueuno Agu-ukwu, and made up mainly of the class of politicians who graced the turf initially from the Third Republic era, came together in Awka and overwhelmingly endorsed the candidature of Dr. Alex Obiogbolu, to run for the governorship election on the platform of PDP. The group was very clear in her message: “that the time has come for a true politician to lead Anambrarians towards building a strong political structure; that though money is good, but human beings are better”, hence their commitment to see a true politician return to Awka and bring to bear the dividends of democracy and good governance, not propaganda.

In his acknowledgement, Dr. Obiogbolu, who was so much at home with the Like Minds, by almost calling every one of them by first name, drove home the fact that “money only works through the human person, but if only skills and talents are supremely applied. People build parties not money. And over the years, we built these parties through our sweats not the Abuja money. Yes, we spent our resources building people and political parties that some of us can be looked down upon by the present day moneybags. The truth of the matter is that these American politicians do not understand what political structures mean. But ask Senator Bola Tinubu, he will show you the human seeds he sowed.

“It is true that people have disappointed us; friends we trusted betrayed our trust, but we must move on. Our expectations from our legislators are mere desires.

The way to empower anybody is by governorship election; local government executive and the presidential election.”

He went on to remind the group that the essence of political parties is “to establish leadership and get people to work together for the good of all. And my message today is simple: we can take back the Government House in Awka. And the only way we can better our lives and improve our society is to put a politician in Awka.

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NSE indices record 3.38% growth in 1 week

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Nigerian economy in last 24 months: What experts say By our reporters

Credit Rating Fitch’s credit rating for Nigeria was last reported at B+ with negative outlook as at 26th January 2017. Standard & Poor’s credit rating for Nigeria stands at B with stable outlook. Moody’s credit rating for Nigeria was last set at B1 with stable outlook. In general, a credit rating is used by sovereign wealth funds, pension funds and other investors to gauge the credit worthiness of a country, thus having a big impact on its borrowing costs.

Biggest economy in Africa Flash back to 2014, Nigeria “rebased” its gross domestic product (GDP) data, which pushed it above South Africa as the continent’s biggest economy.

Nigerian GDP was restructured to include previously uncounted industries like telecoms, information technology, music, online sales, airlines, and film production.

Nigeria’s GDP for 2013 totalled 80.3 trillion naira (£307.6bn: $509.9bn), the Nigerian Bureau of statistics said.

That was compared with South Africa’s GDP of $370.3bn at the end of 2013.

However, some economists at the time pointed out that Nigeria’s economic output was underperforming because with 170 million people, its population was three times larger than that of South Africa.

On a per-capita basis, South Africa’s GDP numbers are three times larger than that of Nigeria.

At that time, a Nigerian financial analyst, Bismarck Rewane called ‘rebasing’ “a vanity”.

According to him, “The Nigerian population is not better off tomorrow because of that announcement. It doesn’t put more money in the bank, more food in their stomach. It changes nothing.”

Rebasing is carried out so that

BUSINESS TIMES Head Business Azubike Nnadozie Asst. Business Editor Simon Ugwu Capital Market Editor Bonny Amadi

Buhari

a nation’s GDP statistics give the most up-to-date picture of an economy as possible.

Most countries do it at least every three years or so, but according to statistics, Nigeria had not updated the components in its GDP since 1990.

By1990, the country had one telecoms operator (NITEL) with around 300,000 phone lines. Now it has a whole mobile phone industry with tens of millions of subscribers.

Again, while 24 years ago there was only one airline (Nigeria Airways), now there are many.

Nigeria still Africa’s biggest economy?

The debate rages on.

Business Times presents an analysis of select sectors of the economy, 24 months into the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Economy, Forex, others in two years of Buhari With an estimated 4.5 million people who have lost their jobs, an inflation rate steady at 17.24 per cent, with food and energy costs edging up continuously, financial stakeholders in the country have rated the current administration with President Muhammodu Buhari two years at the helm low, while commending some policies implemented during the years under review.

For instance, the chance of Nigeria coming out of its current economy recession in the nearest future looks gloomy, as the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) recently revealed that

Adeosun

the nation has recorded a 2017 first quarter (Q1) Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate of -0.52 per cent, which means that the largest economy in Africa is still in a recession.

The latest negative economic growth rate representing the fifth consecutive quarter of contraction since Q1 2016, while recording 0.15 per cent higher than the rate recorded in the corresponding quarter of 2016 and higher by 1.21 per cent points from rate recorded in the preceding quarter. However, quarter on quarter, real GDP growth was 12.92 per cent.

During the quarter, aggregate GDP stood at N26, 028,356.03 million in nominal terms, compared to N22, 235,315.29 million in Q1 2016, resulting in a Nominal GDP growth of 17.06%. This growth was higher, relative to growth recorded in Q1 2016 (11.39%). The Nigerian economy can be more clearly understood when classified into oil and non-oil.

Financial analysts believed that for Nigeria to exit the recession officially, it will have to post a positive real GDP growth rate. At -0.52%, the first quarter real GDP growth rate is a much more improvement from the -1.73 recorded in the last quarter of 2016.

But NBS stated that the latest contraction of 0.52 percent was the best performance in four quarters, compared to revised 1.73 percent contraction in Q4 of 2016 and 0.67 percent in Q1 2016.

Still in negative territory, the

oil sector saw a boost in its fortune as it contributes 8.9 percent of the country’s GDP, as against the 6.75 percent in the fourth quarter of 2016.

The non-oil GDP grew by 0.72 percent to record the best performance in four quarters, when compared to -0.33 percent in Q4 2016 and -0.18 percent in Q1 2016.

Despite this performance, the contribution of the non-oil sector to GDP declined by nearly two percent from 93.25 percent in Q4 2016 to 91.10 percent.

Transport services GDP contracted by 4.01 percent in Q1 2017 from -2.63 percent in Q4 2016 and 2.23 percent in Q1 2016.

According to Yemi Kale, the statistician general of the nation, many sectors of the economy turned positive but failed to get the country out of recession.

In August 2016, NBS pronounced Nigeria’s first recession since the return of democracy in 1999, stating that the economy shrank by 2.06 percent in the second quarter of 2016 to hit its lowest point in nearly three decades.

According to World Bank data, the last time Nigeria had this magnitude of economic decline was under the military regime of Ibrahim Babangida, when the economy recorded consecutive declines of 0.51 percent and 0.82 percent in first and second quarters of 1987.

The World Bank, IMF, CBN, ministry of finance and the Nigerian presidency have all said at one time or the other that the Nigerian economy will get out of

recession in 2017.

But as the nation celebrates its democracy day today, May 29, 2017, economists believe that the Buhari administration has achieved remarkable milestones in terms of security and antigraft war, but the economy is worse off under its management than it inherited on May 29, 2015.

“This administration has not fared well with the management of the economy. That is the blunt fact and the indices are there to corroborate this fact,” Dr Boniface Chizea, Managing Consultant, BIC Consulting Services Limited, said.

He noted that the six months it took President Buhari to assemble his ministerial team had a devastating effect on the economic prospects of the country.

He also pointed out that the drama and tardiness which characterized the passage and signing of the 2016 budget also dealt a big blow on the economy, creating uncertainty in the system.

This caused over 3.67 million to be thrown out of job in 2016 and unemployment jumping from 8.2 percent in Q2 2015 to 13.9 percent at the end of September 2016, according to NBS. The N7.44 trillion 2017 budget was recently passed by the National Assembly but has not been signed into law.

Rising cost of food and other essential goods pushed inflation rate which was 9 percent in May 2015 to reach a12 year high CONTINUES ON PAGE B2

Business News B2

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

Nigerian economy in last 24 months: What experts say CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1

in January this year, when it hit 18.72 percent. It has however, reversed to 17.24 in April after three consecutive declines.

In his view, Managing Director, Cowry Asset Management Limited, Mr. Johnson Chukwu, opined that the government came to power at a time crude oil had fallen from a peak of over $114 per barrel in 2014 to $27 per barrel in January 2016, which adversely affected the country’s revenue. Crude oil contributes over 70 percent of government revenue and 90 percent of the country’s foreign exchange.

The decline in oil prices caused acute foreign exchange volatility in Nigeria, with the naira depreciating to N525 per dollar in February 2017, the Central Bank started its aggressive intervention in the forex market, which has stabilized the currency at around $/N380-N390.

He attributed the below par economic performance of the President Buhari administration to decline oil prices.

He claimed the government failed to address unemployment, economic growth, wealth creation and forex, which he said the administration should not blamed for, because external factors had a significant contribution to the volatility.

“In terms of economic management, the government has its work cut out for it,” the Cowry Asset Management boss enunciated.

Mr Chukwu commended the government’s anti-graft crusade, adding that it has achieved a lot of feat in the fight against corruption in the country. The Attorney-General of Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami disclosed last week that President Buhari administration has recovered N59.9 billion and another $666,676 within its first two years in office.

Nigerian Maritime Sector: A voyage of pain, pleasure When President Muhammadu Buhari took the reins as the number one citizen of the country, he made the diversification of the economy one of the key points of his administration’s goals. The maritime industry in Nigeria is reputed to have the potentials to do just that, two years after.

With a potential of generating around N7trillion naira annually, the maritime sector has however been held down by myriads of challenges; Maritime domain security, ease of doing business, and poor access roads, amongst all.

Recently, pirates hijacked a ship off the coast of Nigeria, prior to that another boat was hijacked by pirates, in all, piracy in the Gulf of Guinea has been a major threat to the maritime sector in Nigeria.

To further underscore the threat of insecurity in the sector, the Nigeria Customs Service,

NCS few days ago intercepted a container laden with 440 pump action rifles, this came on the heels of a similar seizure of 660 pump action guns four months earlier.

Few weeks ago, the sector was also recently shut down due to a strike action by the freight forwarding agencies in the ports who suspended all activities due to the poor port access roads.

Similarly, the country has also been grappling with the diversion of cargoes to neighboring countries due to unfriendly business environment, high shipping duties as multiple charges hamper the ease of doing business in Nigerian ports. All these and more are some of the problems hampering the progress of the sector.

To solve the various problems hindering the growth of the sector, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigeria’s apex maritime regulatory has re-defined strategy for response to distress calls leading to reduced cases of piracy in the Gulf of Guinea as reported by the International Maritime Bureau for the year 2016.

To curb this, NIMASA now operates a 24-hour surveillance system, which captures all vessels in Nigeria’s maritime domain irrespective of weather conditions On pressure from the United States Government for Nigerian ports to achieve compliance with the International Ship and Ports facility Safety (ISPS) code, the strict enforcement of security protocols by NIMASA officials has engendered a compliance rate of almost 80% as 114 Port facilities out of the total 145 ports in Nigeria are now fully ISPS compliant.

This feat attracted commendation from the United States Coast Guard team which rightly observed that compliance levels were at 13% before NIMASA was appointed the Designated Authority for the implementation of ISPS Code in Nigeria.

Buoyed by the prevailing recession, NIMASA, in its quest to enhance revenue, commenced the billing of Pipelines, Oil Rigs and FPSO’s aided by data from the surveillance system. According to the DG, “this is driving our desire to fully automate the Agency’s Billing System, with a view to reduce the 24-hour operational billing timeframe to 6 hours.”

As part of developing infrastructure capacity, NIMASA has placed orders for the fifth largest modular floating dockyard on the African continent, which should save the country about 100 million dollars annually from the dry docking of vessels operating in Nigeria, which are mostly done outside the country at the moment.

Dakuku highlighted the development of intellectual capacity as a major milestone while giving a scorecard of his first year

Osinbajo at the helm. Locally, the Agency conducted an audit of all NIMASA accredited maritime training institutions in line with the International Convention on the Standards of Training, Certification and Watch-keeping for Seafarers (STCW). 16 institutions including the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron and The Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology were inspected during the exercise.

Peterside also extolled the achievements recorded by the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme, NSDP which he described as ‘the jewel of NIMASA’s human capacity development initiatives.”

He pointed out that “So far, 1,045 beneficiaries have graduated from the project, representing 42% graduates of the over 2500 NIMASA sponsored beneficiaries.

On the other hand, another sister agency, the Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA is not left out.

Recently, the agency entered into an arrangement with leading companies to rehabilitate the poor port access roads. The agency also recently acquired 4 top of the range tug-boats to enhance efficiency.

There are also hopes that the much awaited Single Window platform will kick into gear in the second quarter of the year if the words of the Managing Director of the agency, Ms Hadeeza Bala Usman is anything to go by.

The economic regulator of the sector, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, NSC is also not left out as completion of some of the Inland Dry Ports also known as Inland Container Depots, ICDs are on track.

However, stakeholders in the industry have highlighted that reduction in the cost of doing business at Nigerian ports will prevent diversion of cargoes to neighbouring countries.

This according to President of Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents, ANLCA, Prince Olayiwola Shittu will enable the country to achieve its huge potentials.

“It’s a known fact that the country huge potentials in the maritime sector and it is yet to be tapped. If the leadership of the country puts in place all the right things and does what is

Udoma right, the country will benefit immensely from the sector” he said In the same vein, President, National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA), Lucky Amiwero urged the administration to put all the necessary structures in place to enable the country harness its huge maritime potentials. The diversion of cargoes to neighbouring countries must be addressed. Port access roads must be fixed, the right regulations and enabling environments must be provided” he added Aviation Sector: 2 years of PMB administration Events and activities in the nation’s aviation sector have shown significant improvements since President Muhammadu Buhari assumed office on May 29, 2015, two years ago. In an effort to transform the transportation industry, the current administration made enormous efforts to reposition the aviation sector through proper restructuring, infrastructural development, security and ultimately safety of lives and properties according to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards.

Although, the administration came up and started ab initio, with the slogan-Airport Concessioning as a campaign to ensure that they concession four of the viable airports in the country, including: Abuja, Port Harcourt, Lagos and Kano airports, the concession proposal was however, overtaken by flight diversion from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja to Kaduna International Airport, following the poor state of the runway at that time.

On March 8, 2017 federal government shutdown NAIA for six-weeks to give room for repair works on the runway, making the Kaduna airport as the only alternative to Abuja flights. In what can be described as a landmark achievement in Nigeria’s aviation, the Federal Government through the Ministry of Aviation successfully reopened the Abuja airport, ahead of the April 19 deadline given by the government.

One of the major events that heralded the year in the aviation industry was the suspension of

flight operations by three airlines in a row within a week. The airlines which shut down operations due to recession and high cost of aviation fuel, foreign exchange, charges and others were Aero Contractors, FirstNation and Arik. Although Arik recommenced operations after stoppage but others are yet to resume flight, after several months of suspension of flight operations.

Consequently, Aero Contractors and Arik are under the management of the Assets Management Conpany of Nigeria (AMCOM).

The true position in the year, particularly, 2016 was that airline operators barely survived in 2016, having been burdened with a lot of challenges, including lack of aviation fuel, foreign exchange, manpower, multiple taxation, charges etc. Many of them were on the verge of being declared insolvent, just as the major ones are no longer reliable, with epileptic flight operations characterised by delays, flight cancellations, fare hike and general poor customer services.

To caution the effect of recession, the Federal Government on behalf of foreign airlines and domestic operators under the aegis of Airlines Operators of Nigeria (AON) got the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to include airlines operating from Nigeria in the Inter-Bank Foreign Exchange market through forward settlement.

As part of the restructuring process by the Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika and to make proper placements in the agencies, the Aviation Ministry initiated demotions, sack and other changes at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigerian Airspace Management Agency NAMA and Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority NCAA. Despite recession and challenges faced by operators, aviation since May 29, 2015 recorded quite a number of international accolades. First was the election of the FAAN MD, Engr Saleh Dunoma as President of Airports Council International ACI Africa; re-election of President of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council, Dr. Olumuyiwa Bernard Aliu and the opening of Nigerian office by renowned aircraft maker, Airbus.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

Tier-2 Commercial Banks shareholder’s funds Union Bank of Nigeria Plc’s shareholder’s funds closed 2016 at N271.7 billion, 10 per cent above N246.8 billion recorded in 2015, while Diamond Bank’s shareholder’s funds moved from N214 billion in 2015 to N226.7 billion in 2016.

First City Monument Bank Group shareholder’s funds increased by 10 per cent to N178.87 billion in 2016 from N162.39 billion in 2015.

Fidelity Bank Plc’s shareholder’s funds up by one per cent to N185 billion from N183.5 billion in 2015 while Stanbic IBTC Holdings shareholder’s funds rose by 9.5 per cent from N128.6 billion in 2015 to N140.8 billion in 2016.

Furthermore, Sterling Bank shareholder’s funds dropped by 10.4 per cent from N95.6 billion in 2015 to N85.66 billion in 2016.

Also, Wema Bank’s shareholder’s funds added 5.2 per cent to N48.47 billion from N46.06 billion while Unity Bank’s shareholder’s funds moved to N83 billion from N82.57 billion in 2015.

But Jaiz Bank, who just listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) recorded the lowest shareholder’s funds but gained 28.9 per cent from N11.4 billion in 2015 to N14.7 billion in 2016.

Ecobank opens additional banking lounges Ecobank Nigeria has commissioned three additional banking lounges for its Advantage customers in Uyo, Port Harcourt and Abuja. The Advantage segment offers its customers dedicated banking servicesm, targets the upwardly mobile and generally, professionals in various fields.

The services include a bouquet of lifestyle enriching products to address their day-to-day banking needs with dedicated relationship managers, whose main function is to give specialized services and on board the customers to all our service points.

Speaking at the opening of the Lounge in Abuja, Group Head, Personal Banking, Mrs. Olukorede Demola -Adeniyi, said that the decision to establish lounges in various parts of the country was conceived to promote excellent banking services to its customers, noting that customers in the Advantage Banking segment would have opportunity for personalized services in the various lounges.

According to her, the lounge, which is fully kitted with state of the art digital touch screen computers, will further create a conducive and comfortable ambience for Advantage customers to do their transactions with ease. She said, “It is our effort to raise the bar in service delivery for our customers.

B3 Money Market

How court cases hampered debt recovery in 2016, by AMCON boss … Recovers N134bn in 12 months

The Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) Mr Ahmed Kuru, has said the corporation recovered a whopping N134 billion in 2016, with N86.9 billion from cash collections while N30.64 billion came from assets forfeiture and N7.9 billion was realised from sale of property and N8.7 billion from sale of shares.

According to him, most of the customers (obligors) were not willing to pay and would resort to court to seek redress, which he said was slowing down the corporation’s loan recovery drive.

Also, the country’s ‘bad bank’ has concluded all plans to sell Peugeot Automobile Nigeria (PAN) Ltd, a local car assembly joint venture, to Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, and two Nigerian states.

Mr. Kuru, in Lagos at the weekend explained that a court cases

were used to engage the corporation between 10 years to 20 years, which he stressed was slowing down its operations. He said his mandate was to last for maximum of ten years and wondered what would happen if loan recovery lasted beyond 10 years due to legal complications.

He stated that there were lots of challenges facing the corporation in debt recovery. According to him, “we are not under any illusion that it is easy to recover bad loans. Loan recovery is a very unpleasant job.

According to Kuru, 2016 was tougher because it was a year the country entered into recession for the first time in the last 25 years, adding that it was difficult for people to meet their obligations due to higher inflation rate, currency devaluation, and power sector challenges and drop in the price of crude oil, among others.

Although, he said the corpora-

tion would continue to engage its obligors to enhance loans recovery, he added that AMCON would welcome customers with strategies for loan repayment within a specific period of time.

The AMCON boss said that 2017 would be a better year with the ongoing economic recovery, noting that once the economy picked up, obligors willing to pay back loans, would pay.

He, however, disclosed that the debt recovery agency has concluded all processes on the bids since about two months ago, but still waiting for (now) the approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

PAN, a Nigerian vehicle assembly plant located in Kaduna state, has PSA Peugeot Citroen as its technical partner with a capacity to assemble 90,000 cars a year, according to its website.

Dangote, in alliance with the states of Kaduna and Kebbi and the Bank of Industry (BOI) development bank made a bid to

acquire a majority stake in PAN last year as AMCON seeks to sell off some of the assets it acquired in the wake of the banking crisis.

Dangote’s eponymous group of companies is active in cement, oil, food and sugar, and is expanding into farming.

The automaker is worth over 15 billion Nigerian naira ($49 million) according to its last valuation, Kuru said, but declined to name the company Dangote and its partners are using to acquire the automaker.

He commended the apex bank and the National Assembly for their support to AMCON. In a remark, Mr Olugbenga Ataiyero, AMCON’s Chief Financial officer, said that the corporation’s mandate was not to make profit but to reconstruct loans to help businesses.

Ataiyero said that there were over N5.7 trillion loans to be financed by the corporation through the CBN at six per cent interest.

R – L: Jigawa State Governor/ Past National President of Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Alhaji Badaru Abubakar; Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun; Wife of Acting President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo; Wife of Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Olufunsho Amosun; immediate past National President of NACCIMA, Dr. Bassey Edem and 1st Deputy National President of NACCIMA, Hajia Saratu Aliyu at the inauguration of the Iyalode as the 19th and 1st Female National President of NACCIMA in Abeokuta, Ogun State, recently.

30 SMEs get N90m in Diamond Bank’s BET seasons Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) numbering up to 30 have benefitted in the Diamond Bank’s Building Entrepreneurs Today (BET) initiative, which over the weekend produced new set of five entrepreneurs with three million naira each as startup up capital, joining 25 successful business owners in the previous seasons of the programme, with total sum of N90million in its sixth edition of the programme.

Each edition of the BET sees five budding MSME operators who have showed exceptional entrepreneurial skills and productive business ideas, going home with three million each.

The lender said that with its renewed confidence in the Nige-

rian economy through its continual support to the MSMEs, would ensure sustainable economic growth.

Each of the five BET winners, spread across different sectors of the economy and the six geopolitical zones, received N3 million to invest into their respective businesses. These financial injections into their businesses by the Bank, is expected to help strengthen manpower, expand the product lines and create increased service and product values that would make the MSMEs competitive.

According to its Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Uzoma Dozie, Diamond Bank is very passionate about building these entrepreneurs because of the conviction that sustainable growth and de-

velopment of any modern economy is hinged on a vibrant MSME sector.

Dozie disclosed this at the cheque presentation ceremony held in Lagos, over the weekend that because of the economic headwinds, young entrepreneurs need all the support and mentorship that they could get to enable them stand firm and add the necessary value to the economy.

His words: “We had over 500,000 applications and after several screenings, were pruned to the final 15; this is just to show how creative Nigerians are. We decided to support small businesses because we know how difficult the business environment is, and it is the only way we can guarantee sustainable economic growth and

development in this country.”

Speaking further, Dozie noted that each year, the BET programme has become more and more exciting with diverse innovative ideas emerging, stressing that the business environment in Nigeria was a tough one and needed lots of commitment and support for one to succeed.

Although, the previous BET 4 edition focused on three sectors of the economy, the Season 6 expanded the sectors with the addition of fashion, agriculture, information and communications technology and renewable energy.

In this BET Season 5, Uchechi Arinze, Folarinyo Abiodun, Ayodeji Agboola, Emmauel Okiedesan and Hauwa Bello emerged the winners.

B4 Capital Market

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

NSE indices record 3.38% growth in 1 week … As Market Cap hits N10 trillion

Afolabi Adesola The Nigerian Equities market rebounded 3.38 percent for the week ended Friday, 26th, May in contrast to a decline of 0.28 percent recorded in the preceding week.

Market indices, the NSE AllShare Index and Market Capitalization closed the week at 29,064.52 basis points and N10.048 trillion respectively.

The market capitalisation last recorded the N10 trillion mark, on July 1st, 2016. It settled at N10.048 trillion after gaining N207 billion or 2.1 percent in the course of Friday’s trading.

All other Indices finished higher during the week with the exception the NSE Oil/Gas Index that depreciated by 0.89 percent while the NSE ASeM Index closed flat.

Comparing the performance of the indices for the week, the Banking index recorded the largest gain of 7.64 percent, owing to demand on the shares of GUARANTY which rose 12.00 percent, ZENITHBANK that added 6.93 percent, and STANBIC which grew 3.65 percent.

Similarly, the Consumer Goods closed the week with 1.71 percent growth, Industrial Goods 0.13 percent, and Insurance 3.75 percent, as investors bought into NESTLE that added 4.19 percent, NB that grew 0.72 percent, DANGCEM’s addition of 2.34 percent, CCNN; 13.04 percent, MANSARD; 20.25 percent, and CUSTODYINS; 0.29 percent increase all in the course of the previous week.

On the flip side, the Oil & Gas index shed 0.89 percent, driven by selloffs in MOBIL that fell 9.75

percent, TOTAL dropped 1.89 percent, FO depreciated 4.86 percent, and OANDO’s 3.12 percent decline.

Trading in the Top Three Equities by volume was Diamond Bank Plc, Access Bank Plc and Zenith International Bank Plc. They accounted for 799.472 million shares worth N6.103 billion in 3,313 deals, contributing 42.60 percent and 30.43 percent to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively.

UAC-Prop which added 26 percent in the course of the week topped 44 equities that appreciated in price, higher than 30 equities of the previous week.

With a loss of 12 percent, Cadbury led the week’s declining stocks which were 25 in number and, lower than 31 equities of the previous week, while 104 equities

remained unchanged lower than 112 equities recorded in the preceding week.

A total turnover of 1.877 billion shares worth N20.055 billion in 19,979 deals was traded during the week by investors on the floor of the Exchange in contrast to a total of 2.271 billion shares valued at N32.647 billion that exchanged hands previous week in 20,710 deals. This represents a decline of 17.4 percent and 18.9 percent in total volume and value traded in the course of the week respectively.

The Financial Services Industry measured by volume led the activity chart with 1.629 billion shares valued at N14.501 billion traded in 11,893 deals; thus contributing 86.80 percent and 72.30 percent to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively.

L-R: Mr. Olugbenga Ataiyero Head, Finance & Budgeting, Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON); Mr. Ahmed Kuru, Managing Director/CEO; Mr. Tajudeen Ahmed, Head, Real Estate & Construction and Mr. Aminu Ismail, Executive Director, AMCON at a media parley when AMCON released their 2016 Financial Statement in Lagos at the weekend.

Bonny Amadi The FMDQ OTC Securities Exchange has approved for registration in its platform, the commercial paper programme to be raised in future, of Rand Merchant bank Limited valued at N80 billion.

The Rand merchant bank CP Programme registration on FMDQ platform, purposefully positions Rand Merchant Bank to easily raise short-term

FMDQ endorses Rand Merchant Bank’s N80bn CP programme finance from the debt market at a time in the future it determines suitable, through CP issues, within the CP Programme limit.

In addition to the commendable and considerably efficient registration process, the quotation, on FMDQ, of the future CP

Summary of activities on NSE ASI DEALS VOLUME VALUE CAP

29,064.52 4,435.00 725,542,699.00 5,715,138,652.92 10,047,764,567,253.87

issues from the registered Rand Merchant Bank CP Programme, will provide stakeholders with continuous provision of invaluable information as part of the OTC Exchange’s commitment to organise govern and enforce transparency in the fixed income market space.

The approval to list the commercial paper programme by the OTC Exchange reflects sustenance of the FMDQ’s support for the development of the Nigerian debt capital markets.

This ensures that the OTC’s platform is made available for the registration, listing, quotation and trading of debt instru-

ments.

The FMDQ OTC Exchange is continually, serving to further boost confidence in the possibilities of the Nigerian financial market.

In line with its strategic objectives to support institutional growth and stimulate the continuous development of the economy at large, FMDQ has shown its steadfastness in realising these objectives through the promotion of product innovation and the championing of key market development initiatives, in order to ensure that opportunities abound for the markets under its purview.

FG to raise N117.9bn via T-Bills Wednesday

Bony Amadi

The federal government of Nigeria will this Wednesday 31 May 2017 raise a total of N117.9 billion through issuance of Treasury –Bills (T-Bills).

The T-bills which is a continuation of the government’s monthly fund raising exercise through h T-Bills, which has started generating reactions from prospective investors positioned to leverage on its higher rate of returns when compared with some debt instruments and equities investing would be delivered in three tenors.

The expected T-Bills according to their tenors are 91 days, N26.14 billion with indicative coupon rate of 13.0 -13.50 per cent, also, 182 Days tenor T-Bill of N11.05 Billion value and indicative coupon of 16.5 - 17.10 per cent and 364 Days T-Bills worth N80.00 Billion and with indicative rate of 17.9 18.30 per cent, To participate in this auction, investment companies have urged prospective investors to ensure funding their account and the also ensure completion of indication of interest forms in their respective websites, on or before 5.00pm on Tuesday, May 30th, 2017.

Investment One commences compulsory BV verification Bony Amadi Investment One has said that in compliance with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) directive to all capital market operators, it has commenced compulsory updating of Bank verification numbers (BVN) by clients.

The company through its Customer Relationship Management, has revealed that “It is now compulsory for all investors to update their investment (fixed income, stock broking, mutual funds etc) account by providing their Bank Verification Numbers (BVN).”

Investment One disclosed that the directive was in furtherance to the directives of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) that all Capital Market Operators (CMOs) should adopt verifying their clients’/customers’ true identity on the Nigerian Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) website via their Bank Verification Numbers (BVN).

It emphasized that investors should download its Account Update Form within 30 days to update their r investment records, adding that all completed forms should be submitted along with a valid means of identification and utility bill, where ones address has changed, to any of its offices or via email to customer care.

19-Feb 22-Feb 25-Feb 28-Feb 03-Mar 06-Mar 09-Mar 12-Mar 15-Mar 18-Mar 21-Mar 24-Mar 27-Mar 30-Mar 02-Apr 05-Apr 08-Apr 11-Apr 14-Apr 17-Apr 20-Apr 23-Apr 26-Apr 29-Apr 02-May 05-May 08-May 11-May 14-May 17-May 20-May 23-May 26-May

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 15, 2017

NSE All Share Index

29,500 Naira Value (m)

27,000

22,000

`

B5

99,000

79,000

59,000

24,500 39,000

19,000

(1,000)

B6 Insurance Axa Mansard, Linkage Assurance sustain growth momentum Insurance stocks on the equities market last week sustained buoyancy as top insurance companies constitute 20 per cent of the top ten gainers table for the week ended Friday 26th May 2017.

While the banking stocks contributed 20 per cent of the top ten gainers for the week, driven by gains recorded by FBN Holdings which gained 0.88 or 21.95 per cent to close at N4.89 per share and Gtbank that also gained N3.78 or 12.00 per cent to close at N35.28 per share, 20 per cent of insurance companies also made the top gainers list for the week.

Axa Mansard recorded growth by N0.32 or 20.25 per cent to close at N1.90 per share, while Linkage Assurance plc also appreciated by 0.05 kobo or 8.62 per cent, to close the week at N0.63 per share.

The Insurance sector has sustained impressive growth in a ll measuring indices year to date, reflecting the new investment and earning opportunities as investors positions to take better advantage of low hanging position of insurance stocks and value creation.

Regency Alliance shareholders commend N200.1m dividend payout Afolabi Adesola Shareholders of Regency Alliance Insurance Plc has applauded the board and management of the company for declaring a dividend for the year ended 2016.

The shareholders who unanimously approved a total dividend payout of N200.06 million, translating to three kobo per 50 kobo share, the company’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), held in Lagos last week, appreciated the consistency in given out returns on their investment.

In reaction, the Group Managing Director, Biyi Otegbeye, said it’s the company delight to give out a dividend to its esteemed shareholder while urging them to trade the company’s shares so that it’s price would improve on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

Speaking on the 2016 financial result, the Acting Chairman of the company, Baba Gana Kingibe, explained that the company’s performance improved modestly during the year, noting that profit after tax increased by 41.18 per cent from N333.7 million in 2015 to N470.6 million in 2016.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

Lasaco Assurance announces ex-Dividend date Stories by Bonny Amadi Shareholders of Lasaco Insurance Plc are positioning to raise critical issues in the company’ 2016 financials as the company prepares for its Annual General Meeting scheduled to

hold on 5th July.

This was coming as the company has announced its exdividend dates which positions investors to take positioning advantage of its corporate action, before the closure of its register for dividend payments.

Lasaco Assurance for the 2016 financial year ended 31 December, has made dividend proposal of 3 kobo per share for shareholders whose names appear in the company’s register by the date of its closure.

The company in a recent

statement to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) announced 19th – 23rd June 2017, as ex dividend dates, following which the company’s Annual General Meeting will hold on 5th July 2017, while dividend Payment Date , will be affected on 14th July 2017.

L – R: Chairman, Custodian and Allied Insurance Plc, Dr Omobola Johnson, and Managing Director/CEO, Mr Wole Oshin at the company’s AGM in Lagos, recently.

Staco’s 2016 financial results reflects depressed P/L Staco Insurance Plc has reflected wariness of the Nigeria’s operating environment, as key performing indices in its 2016 audited financial year result receded notable decline.

The company’s result for the period ended 31 December 2016 released recently by the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) showed that both the group’s and the company’s performances tilted same direction, except for other income which recorded remarkable boost compared to 2015 year performance.

The company’s Group’s gross premium for the 2016 financial year depressed by 12.67 per cent to N5, 403,082 from N6, 187,201 recorded in 2015.

The company’s gross premium also followed the same trend with 16.33 decline to N4,794,411, against N5,730,161 posted in 2015.

Net group’s premium earned

closed at N3, 598,024, against N4, 683,245 in 2015, indicating 23.17 per cent decline, while for the company it stood at N3, 111,769, from N4, 312,426 in 2015, a 27.84 per cent decline.

Investment income for the group dropped in 2016 by 52.13 per cent, to N146, 550 million from N306, 154 million in 2015, it however recorded higher loss by 55.89 per cent for the company, as investment income closed 2016 at N129, 671 million, against N293, 970 million in 2015.

Other income both for the group and the company recorded remarkable growth, while the group’s other income grew by 151.43 per cent to N145, 753 million, from N 57,969 million in 2015, that of the company grew by 276.03 per cent, to N145, 114 million, from N38, 591 million in 2015.

Net underwriting and claims expenses for the group however dropped by 22.88 per

cent, to N2, 086,087, from N2, 705,068 in 2015.

The group posted loss before taxation of (Loss)/profit before taxation N1,720,684, from N168, 610 million reflecting 1,121 per cent change.

Gross written premium in 2016 stood at N5, 403,082, while N6,187,201 was recorded in 2015, reflecting -12.67 per cent drop. For the company, it dropped to N4, 794,411 from N5, 730,161 posted in 2015, indicating -16.33 per cent decline.

The company’s net premium earned closed the 2016 financial year lower at N3,598,024 , against N4,683,245 in 2015, reflecting decline by -23.17 per cent.

Net premium earned for the company closed 2016 at N3,111,769 , while in 2015 it was N4,312,426 , this shows -27.84 per cent decline on net premium earned.

Daily Times recalls the Insurance Company changed its

name to STACO Insurance Plc by special resolution on the 30th of October, 2006 following the merger of Standard Trust Assurance Plc and Summit Insurance Company Limited as a result of the directive by NAICOM on the increase in share Capital of insurance companies in Nigeria.

The company became listed on The Nigerian Stock Exchange on 25th June, 2007 The Company has a partly owned (60%) subsidiary known as Staco Insurance Company (Sierra Leone) Limited. The subsidiary was floated as a private limited liability company on 27th February, 2008 and is a composite insurance company engaged in the provision of life and nonlife businesses to retail and corporate customers in Sierra Leone, West Africa.

(Loss)/profit before tax (1,720,684) 168,610 -1120.51% (1,783,598) 62,340 -2961.08%.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

B7 CSR

Between CSR and transparency in emerging markets Stories by Godwin Anyebe

The concepts of Corporate Social Responsibility, Business Ethics and Corporate Governance – as practiced in Nigeria and the West African region remain a major source of concern to stakeholders. The way businesses in emerging markets cope with these challenges – both effectively and ineffectively – reveal many of the “new dynamics of management. As a matter of fact, analysts are of the view that, CSR abuses and business ethics transgressions in Nigeria and beyond may be more widespread and more tolerated; if measures are not put in place to properly checkmate the activities of CSR. For these analysts, the situation is impossible to quantify, especially within local regulatory frameworks and where there are few active and independent journalists.

Daily Times findings reveal that corruption, the abuse of human rights, a lack of data protection, financial fraud, copyright

piracy, low levels of transparency and high levels of anonymity, workplace discrimination, oppressive economic colonization, an absence of fair competition, poor levels of corporate governance, no respect for intellectual property, the perpetration of monopolies and the tolerance of leaders of dubious accountability and respectability among others, are the reasons for lack of transparency in CSR .

Addressing this issue, an expert in marketing communication field, Bernard Okhakume told Daily Times that, “while, corruption may be seen as one of the most important issues, and may be a way of life in countries with low salaries but powerful officials – and greedy business people, Human rights abuse is an ongoing issue, and is seen as especially negative by individuals and group. Financial scandals and fraud have been sending shock waves throughout Nigeria and beyond, with billions of dollars simply going missing. Copyright piracy is not unknown

in Nigeria, but the scale can be alarming, together with the issue of transparency and ease of doing business in entering several emerging economies, often related to governance. Prospects of equal opportunities for members of different races are an important issues when it comes to transparency in CSR.” According to him, “Economic dominance by some Western countries – and China – in many emerging countries is seen as an example of the economic colonization of one country by another, raising several CSR issues, including protection or the matter of unfairly excluding competition. The concept of corporate governance used to be a preserve of the West, but is gradually impacting developing countries, especially those trying to attract foreign investment, and is especially concerned with ensuring independent management control. Intellectual property is another concern, and so are stateendorsed monopolies. “Greater transparency is an unstoppable

Indomie kicks-off 2017 Independence Day Heroes Award

L - R: Product Manager, Indomie, Mr Onome Asagbra; Group Public Relations and Events Manager, Dufil Prima Foods Plc, Mr Tope Ashiwaju; Head of Marketing, Indomie, Mr Manpreet Singh and Managing Director, BD Consult Ltd, Mr Tola Bademosi during the 2017 Indomie Independence

Dufil Prima Foods Plc, makers of Indomie instant noodles brand has announced the kick-off of the 10thedition of its Multi Million naira corporate social responsibility initiative; tagged Indomie Independence Day Award (IIDA). The award is geared towards the recognition of children who have against all odds exhibited extraordinary acts of bravery in the face of danger/societal challenges.

Speaking recently to the newsmen at the national press conference in Lagos to kick-start the commencement of the search and call for entry for the prestigious award for deserving Nigerian children, the Group Managing Director, Dufil Prima Foods Plc. Mr. Deepak Singhal who was represented by the Head of Marketing, Indomie, Mr. Manpreet Singh said, “This year’s edition of the award will mark the 10thyear of the noble initiative

which has affected lives of many Nigerian Child. As a way of commemorating the 10th year edition of the award, 1ten winners will be rewarded with millions of naira worth of scholarship as against the usual three winners in previous editions. This means that, ten winners will be awarded from the three categories of the award - Physical bravery, Social bravery and Intellectual bravery.”

According to him, “So far, a total of twenty seven children have received the award and have had their names engraved in gold in our hall of fame as heroes of Nigeria and we are about to start the process of discovering the next set of ten heroic children for the Indomie Independence Day Award for Heroes of Nigeria which holds in October this year.”

In his address,Group Public Relations and Events Manager, Mr. Tope Ashiwaju pointed out that the

2017 edition which marks the 10th edition of the laudable initiative is going to be grand as the company is set to award educational scholarship worth the sum of over 10million naira to the heroes that will emerge during this year’s award ceremony.

Speaking on the Award Categories, Ashiwaju explained that thePhysical Bravery category will acknowledge kids who at great personal risk, saved lives or by their actions prevent extensive damage to property or others. He added that the Social Bravery category will celebrate kids who work against social evils such as child marriage, illiteracy and environmental concerns etc. in a sustained manner while the Intellectual Bravery category will recognizechildren with innate ability and have performed remarkably despite physical, mental, emotional or financial limitations.

force. It is the product of growing demands from everybody with an interest in any corporation - its stakeholder web - and of rapid technological change, above all the spread of the Internet, that makes it far easier for firms to supply information, and harder for them to keep secrets.”

He pointed out that, “firms now know that their internal emails may one day become public knowledge, for instance, and many big companies must coexist with independent websites where employees can meet anonymously to air their grievances.

With greater transparency will come greater accountability and better corporate behaviour.

Rather than engage in futile resistance to it, firms should actively embrace transparency and rethink their values and generally get in better shape.”

Also speaking on this issue, a public affairs analyst, Pwano Maxwell said; “we have companies that are breaking the mould and are moving beyond corporate social responsibil-

ity to social innovation. These companies are the vanguard of the new paradigm. They view community needs as opportunities to develop ideas and demonstrate business technologies, to find and serve new markets, and to solve longstanding business problems. The government must as matter of desperate policy enact laws to support such companies for transparency to prevail.”

“In terms of power and influence you can forget about the church, forget politics. There is no more powerful institution in society than business... The business of business should not be about money, it should be about responsibility. It should be about public good, not private greed.

Business has a responsibility beyond its basic responsibility to its shareholders; a responsibility to a broader constituency that includes its key stakeholders: customers, employee, NGOs, government - the people of the communities in which it operates.” He added.

Chivita 100% offers refreshing boost for complete breakfast breakfast as studies have shown that it adequately refuels the body, enhances mood, improves concentration, helps maintain a healthy weight, and is the foundation of a healthy diet.

According to them, they form an important part of a healthy breakfast because they are excellent sources of minerals, vitamins and fiber. Nutritionists recommend daily intake of hundred percent fruit juices to complement fruits because they are made from real natural fruits and offer the range of nutrition benets whole fruit offers.

To this end, the newly launched BreakfastWithChivita100% television advertisement meant to drive awareness initiatives for a complete healthy

breakfast aptly showcases why having a complete breakfast good for a healthy living.

Speaking on this development in a statement released recently to newsmen in Lagos, Head of Marketing, Chi Limited, Mr. Probal Bhattacharya said; “Breakfast gives us a chance to start each day with a healthy and complete meal. Chivita 100% fruit juice is a convenient, delicious and nutritious beverage to complement breakfast. Through our new #BreakfastwithChivita100% campaign, we have reiterated the value of Chivita 100% as a healthy breakfast addition. Chivita 100% offers active and health-conscious consumers a range of refreshing and nourishing fruit choices for a complete breakfast diet”.

Shoprite Nigeria Makes Large Donation To Aun’s Feed And Read Program Shoprite has donated goods valued at N2-million to the American University of Nigeria’s Feed and Read Program.

According to a statement issued recently in Lagos by Shoprite, the items, which included perishable and non-perishable food, beverages, and toiletries, will be used by the program to help vulnerable children in the North-Eastern part of Nigeria, where an estimated 78% of 6-17 year olds cannot read. The statistics for girls and women are even worse.

The low literacy and numeracy rates are compounded by the number of children who are displaced, separated from families

or orphaned; large numbers of displaced teachers; and schools that have been destroyed or closed due to violence in the area, said Shoprite management The program teaches beneficiaries how to read and provides them with a meal every day. It is aimed at preparing them to move into mainstream schooling and/or finding employment.

The donation reflects Shoprite Nigeria’s support for the aims of the Feed and Read program and the incredible hard work and persistence of its team. Shoprite Nigeria is committed to supporting initiatives which benefit the communities in which it operates.

B8 Business Feature

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

Ten years of MMA2: The good, bad and ugly side of PPP Following the recent celebration of a decade anniversary of the operation of MMA2, a private investor’s terminal in Nigeria, CHUKWUEMEKE IWELUNMO, looks into the Public Private Partnership arrangement which brought about the project, and reports on two sides of the concession that pitched stakeholders against one another.

In a situation where resources at the disposal of the government to meet heavy demands for financing and effectively execute infrastructure projects is finite and lacking, the resolve to encourage Private Public Participation (PPP) in public business cannot be overemphasised.

PPP was established in the United Kingdom in 1992, through Private Financing Initiative, (PFI) the programme was aimed at encouraging public private partnership in the country.

Toeing the same line, the federal government of Nigeria during the administrations of Generals Ibrahim Babangida and Abdusalami Abubakar engaged private sector to participate in government business by introducing the Public Enterprises Decree which later became (Privatisation and Commercialisation) Acts 1999.

While it became obvious that the need for PPP in the country has become the real way to pursue if the nation has to bridge the infrastructure gap and advance economic and social development, the Federal government conceptualised an agency that would engender a comprehensive competitive and attractive PPP industry with the view to attracting significant Private sector resources for infrastructural development. This therefore led to the establishment of Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC)

by Chief Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, through Infrastructure Concession Regulation Commission (ICRC) Act of 2005 and later the Public Procurement Act of 2007 (Due Process).

The ICRC with key strategic objective to accelerate investments in national infrastructure through private sector funding, by assisting the federal government and its Ministries, Departments and agencies (MDA) to implement and establish effective PPP process.

The scope of the federal government’s programme for PPP is the creation of new infrastructure and key expansion and refurbishment of existing assets at the federal level.

The ICRC is the designated national authority for the regulation of PPP in Nigeria. It is to foster inter-agency collaboration in the delivery of PPP. Experts who argued in support of PPP option over traditional public procurement claimed that its introduction is the most effective and efficient ways of improving public infrastructure and stimulating economic development in an increasingly interdependent global economy. They claimed that Government revenues are finite and PPPs compliments Government’s investment in infrastructure.

BABALAKIN

In Nigeria, PPP was initially conceived to attract Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs). Nigerian PPP network is designed to bring all states of the federation together and address the PPP in their domains for the good of the nation.

In a PPP, the private sector partners with agency of government to finance the development or rehabilitation of public infrastructure and or deliver social services typically provided by public sector.

PPP takes on a variety of concession models such as Build Operate and Transfer (BOT), Build Operate and Own (BOO) Loan Build Operate and Transfer (LBOT) etc.

Components of PPP include service contracts, management contracts, affermage or lease contracts, build operate and transfer and similar arrangements, concessions and joint ventures.

Ideally every option of PPP implies varying levels of responsibilities and risks to be undertaken by the private operators together with difference in structure and contract forms.

In practice, concession makes the private sector operator (concessionaire) responsible for the full delivery of services in a specific area including operation, maintenance, collection, management and construction and rehabilitation of the system.

Importantly the operator is responsible for capital investment.

All though the operator is responsible for providing the assets such assets are publicly owned even during the concession period.

The public sector is responsible for establishing performance standard and assuring that the concession meets the standards. In essence the public sector’s roles shift from being the service provider to regulating the price and quality of service.

The concessionaire collects tariffs directly from the system users.

The tariff is typically established by the concession contract which also includes provisions on how it

may be charged over time.

In rare cases, the government may choose to provide financial support to help the concessionaire fund its capital expenditures. The concessionaire is responsible for any capital investments required to build, upgrade or expand the system. And for the financing those investments out of its resources and from the tariffs paid by system users. The concessionaire is also responsible for providing working capital.

A concession contract is typically valid for 25 and 30 years. This is so, for the operator to have sufficient time to recover capital invested and earns appropriate returns over the life of the concession.

Where or if necessary, the public authority may contribute to the capital investment. This can be an investment ‘subsidy’ (viability gap financing) to achieve commercial viability of the concession. Alternatively, the government can be compensated for its investments by receiving a commensurate part of the tariff collected.

Looking at the concession agreement between Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and Bi- Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL) operators of the Murtala Muhammed Domestic Airport Terminal two popularly referred to as MMA2,on the bases

MMA2

of the aforementioned conditionality one could see clearly that the beautiful and ugly side of concession in Nigeria.

One clear fact about the concession agreement which all the parties involved are pleased with is that it on the Build Operate and Transfer (BOT) model. However, the issue of the life span of the contract, and scope of activities of the concessionaire remain issues of great controversies which have led to many litigations and counter litigations between FAAN and BASL. The claim by experts that concession, BOT model has its strength over other type of PPP in that it is an effective way to attract finance required to fund new constructions or rehabilitate existing facilities came to bear following the reconstruction of the burnt domestic terminal of Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos.

With paucity of fund at the disposal of the federal government at that time and even now, attempt to embark on such project would have been forlorn. The decision of the Federal government to embrace the option of encouraging private sector through PPP into the reconstruction of the burnt terminal made it available for use within few years after the inferno was a wise on.

According to former President of Aviation Round Table (ART) Capt Dele Ore the project is a welcome one which has become a benchmark for anyone who might want to work in that direction.

“When that terminal a few years ago got burnt the Federal Government refused to reconstruct that place and of course there were attempts at reconstructing it without success until Bi-Courtney came and rescued the nation by putting up the magnificent edifice.

We saw brilliance and capacity in the magnificent edifice. But suddenly trouble came over the length of the life of the contract. This disturbed me a lot. We have seen what we can call a benchmark and whoever wants to do anything in that direction must do something

better. The issue all over the world today is that government has no business in doing business. Concession is the best way to go if we want to stop or bridge existing infrastructure gap,” Ore Said.

Another key advantage of the concession arrangement according to Chief Executive Officer of Centurion Security, Group Capt John Ojikutu (Retired) is that it provides incentives to the operator to improve efficiency and effectiveness since gains in efficiency translate into increased profits and return to the concessionaire and government. He said through a well implemented concession agreement, revenue would be boosted and while development be spurred.

This, Ojikutu regretted has not been the case in Nigeria because of government policy and the bureaucracy as well as greed of those within and outside the system who do not believe in transparency.

“Everyone be it those in government or outside, the concessionaires, have seen the money, I mean real money, in the aviation sector.

That is why no one wants to let go.

It is unfortunate that because of inconsistency in government policies and the insincerity of those behind the implementation of those policies, Government and the concessionaires are not making enough money from system.

The money is finding its way into the pockets of some individual.

This is not the best for the survival of the sector,” Ojikutu lamented.

He went further, “But if concession agreements are well drafted and implemented without ambiguities, the government and the concessionaires would make their returns within the specified period of time. But because the whole thing is planted on deceit, there is confusion everywhere. Hence both FAAN and BASL are engaged in avoidable revenue losses on the concession.”

Equally the transfer of the full package of operating and financing responsibilities enables the concessionaire to prioritise and innovate as it deems most effective.

Going with Capt Dele Ore position, the public enterprises is less concerned about returns on investment which is a priority to private sector operators. He noted that since BASL wants quick, commensurate and appreciable returns on its investment in the concession, it cannot afford to do anything below what would spur effectiveness in the system.

Despite all the strength noted in the concession agreement between FAAN and BASL on the operation of MMA2, the concession is seen more as a curse rather than a blessing to the two actors when viewed from the numbers of litigations the two have been embroiled in the last ten years the concession subsists.

While concession has been seen by experts as a great impetus to economic and social development in an emerging economy, embarking on it has been described as walking a minefield of unfamiliar forest. It has a lot of risk factors.

Life&

TIMES Monday, May 29, 2017

Chioma

Omeruah Why people find it difficult to believe me when I’m serious

L4

P

L2

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

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T E A M

Daily Times Heroes Awards 2017:

Daily Times Nigeria

Monday, May 29, 2017

L3

The winners, their imprints the Editorial department, where he became a reporter, then on to regional correspondent and assistant editor. Jose was in Benin covering a commission of inquiry when he was summoned

Ismail Babatunde Jose, the icon of the pen profession The story of the humongous conglomerate - The Daily Times of Nigeria Plc, will not be half told without the impact of literary luminary and icon of the pen profession, the late Alhaji Ismail Babatunde Jose.

Patriarchs of the literary world described the late Alhaji Ismail Babatunde Jose as “the mighty tree whose seedlings sprouted other titans of the profession”. He was the doyen of Nigerian journalism whose exploits spanned all of three decades.

Cecil King of the Mirror Group (UK) it was, that appointed Jose as editor of The Daily Times in 1957 (haven bought the then 21-year-old Daily Times 10 years earlier in 1947); this happened at a time when

car that was waiting for me,” Jose wrote in his autobiography, Walking a Tightrope (1987).

Heart pounding, he was taken to see the visiting chairman, the fearsome Cecil King. He told Jose, “As the chairman of the biggest publishing company in the world, I know how to assess the ability of my employees. I am not Times. As Nigeria moves towards independence, it is imperative for the paper to move forward with it. But that means having an editor who knows the country, the people and their leaders well, backed by professional experience and competence. Well, all these. I therefore appoint you the editor.”

Jose nearly collapsed with surprise, but recovered quickly enough to demand boldly that if he was to be “king”, then he wanted to rule as well, which meant that the British editorial adviser must go. King chuckled at this and agreed that if Jose managed matters well, the editorial adviser would depart within a year.

newspaper then in existence in the West Coast of Africa.

Jose eschewed partisan politics – something that of the time and craved professional excellence instead. The one-year attachment he enjoyed at the had prepared him for the enormous task.

Under Jose, The Daily Times sold 200,000 copies a day, while its sister paper,

Babatunde Jose a week. The discovery of oil in Nigeria coincided with the growth of the two papers and advertising revenue poured into their coffers.

Jose used the money wisely to attract young graduates, whom he shaped into irreverent reporters and columnists politicians and military men of the time who ruled the country after it achieved independence from Britain in 1960. He set up a training institute to teach his recruits the tricks of the trade.

Checklist of those Jose mentored

was not a graduate, but he was sounder than many professors. He encouraged intellectualism in Nigerian journalism and produced an array of highly successful journalists, many of whom have also gone on to establish their own newspapers and produce many other journalists.”

obtained employment with Dr. Nnamdi death marked the end of a great era in journalism history in Nigeria. Though he

to The Daily Times in 1941 as a technical trainee. His writing ability was noticed, however, and he was soon transferred to

Times grew and grew. It became a wholly-owned Nigerian enterprise.

Jose was appointed managing director in 1962, and chairman in 1968. He created at least 15 new titles and by the time he was deposed in March 1976 – after disgruntled employees had encouraged the military government to seize the majority shares in the company – The Daily Times was unarguably the most successful African-owned businesses on the continent.

Jose also served his country as president of the Ahmadiyya Islamic movement and on many committees and industry organisations. He received honorary doctorate of law from the University of Benin. Unusually for a Muslim, he received the Pope Pius medal for fostering religious understanding.

Jose married twice and was blessed 10 2008.

Interview L4

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 29, 2017

What makes B.I.G so special;

Why people find it difficult to believe me when I’m serious –Chigul

Chioma Omeruah or Chigul as she is popularly known is the multi-lingual Nigerian female comedian whose attribute of perseverance, hard work and talents in music, drama and comedy have paved way for her not just as a comedian of note but as an all-round artiste. She is well-versed in the art of quality entertainment as she is in her command of the various languages she speaks. Speaking in an interview reveals what makes the movie, Banana Island Ghost, B.I.G, so special.

W e saw some pretty amazing stunts in the trailer of the B.I.G Movie, how were you able to achieve those things?

Yes, we had stunt coordinators from South Africa like Brenda and Cathia; two amazing, awesome women who had worked on movies like Mad Max and Resident Evil. So they know they jobs. You watch action sequences on TV and in the movies and you see a realistic slap. We literally learnt how to take a punch, how to give a punch, how to react. Those things are quite technical and I realised it was more than I thought. I thought it was just going to be Jackie Chan karate. It is very different and very structured and it was quite disciplined. It was very easy to watch how disciplined they are and see how disciplined I need to be.

It was something that brought out another part of me that I did not know existed. It was very trying and tasking, but end of the day.

As an entertainer, how did you feel to participate in a movie like this? and I have been a part of it from inception; like going through ideas on what to do. When BB wrote it and he things, going ahead and having table reads, sitting down and tweaking... so I feel like this is really a part of my life and I feel like this is also like my baby as well. So it is a lot

for.” It is supposed to make you laugh, make you think a bit, touch your heart a little bit and all.

But basically, I just want people to laugh and be happy and be entertained. That is what my job is as a comedian; this is what I am supposed to do. So I want people to watch it and just laugh their heads off.

Aside the element of comedy present in the movie, what would you say the movie took out of you?

First of all, like BB the director had said, there is a

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difference between a house and a home because Ijeoma, my character in the movie, wanted so much to

aspects of Chigul that come into Chioma because they are one and the same. I think people who live with me would tell you that “She is like this all the time.” I just feel like

home where there is love, where there is support and family and that is what is important at the end of the day. At the end of the day, it is you, me and all of us as opposed to material things. It is people, relationships, family, friends... those are the things we sometimes take for granted, not houses and other things. All those things will go away, but we are what we have. That is why even as Nigerians, we have to understand that we need to love people and understand each other even with our differences in culture and religion and all that. At the end of the day it is about the relationships. That is what is important, that is what matters.

Are you saying that in Nigeria, this movie is something we all need to see to address some of our differences as a nation?

Actually, it is about love at the end of the day. We all need it, we all want it, we all want acceptance and

almost everything I do. I entertain, so I am like this all the time. I can be giving this interview and I am not keeping a straight face.

Do people take you seriously?

Not all the time. You know, I have a problem with that, really, I just want to sometimes be serious, and people will say “Oh, now she is talking seriously.” But even now, you are not taking me seriously and I am trying to be serious.

See! (Laughs) It never seems to work, but we just try our best.

So what are your expectations from the movie?

Well I just want people to go and see it. Please, go and

touched. I want people to leave the cinemas and say “I I want to watch it again, it makes me laugh...” And you think about certain scenes in it and you laugh.

Based on your experience on this movie, which would you pick, stage or screen?

You know stage is always harder; you know in stage there is no cut and redo, you are giving it like that from your heart and soul.

Film makes it look cute, stage is the gritty one. What you give is what you give and I

day two...”I think at the end of the day, stage is always going to be harder. But I think the most because it is still hard work, learning lines is still hard work, and being able to improvise is still hard work sometimes. They both take things out of you because you have to put you 125% into whatever you do. But as a stage actor that has done stage before, I think stage is harder. But this one was

Hey, you never know, B.I.G 2 maybe, Banana Island Ghost 2, on a different level, a different angle of the You are so funny; off stage is this your personality?

The thing is, Chioma is my real name. So there are

it. Take your mother, take your father, your grandmother, just go and see it, help my market, biko.

How about your love for music?

It is still there, even in the movie, you will hear me sing. I got to expose that part of myself. I think this movie brought out so many parts of Chigul that people do not know.