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AfDB plans to invest $35bn to boost economic growth in Africa Mathew Dadiya, Abuja The African Development Bank (AfDB) has said it will invest a whopping $35billion over a period of 10 years to boost economic growth in the African continent, adding that the development will raise Africa’s GDP to above $5.6 trillion.

The AfDB noted that Africa needs https://plus.google.com/+DailytimesNgr/posts

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to industrialise and add value to everything that it produces from agriculture, to minerals, oil, gas and metals.

AfDB’s President, Dr Akinwunmi Adesina, disclosed this at the end of the annual Board of Governors meeting in Busan, South Korea, at the weekend, adding that the continent must focus more on

Continued on page 4

WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2018

VOL. 3

NO. 665

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FG, PDP in war-of-words over Buhari’s broadcast President’s speech will be his last in office – Secondus Keyamo: No, Buhari will have easy win in 2019

Senate President, Bukola Saraki (middle) during his surprise visit to Super Eagles ahead of the team’s Russia 2018 World Cup trip in Abuja... on Tuesday.

Again, court affirms Anosikes’ ownership of Daily Times g5

N481bn budget padding: Court orders FG to prosecute senators g 21

Recruitment: FRSC gets 10,000 applications in 2 days g6

Access Bank, 25 global banks to develop sustainable industry goals g B6

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Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30 , 2018

Green tea

Incredible Green Tea benefits

The many well-researched health benefits of green tea make it a great beverage to include in your diet for the prevention and treatment of cancer, heart problems, cardiovascular diseases, high cholesterol levels, rheumatoid arthritis, infection, tooth decay, and many others. Green tea contains an antioxidant called epigallocatechin-3 gallate (EGCG), which is also helpful in treating a variety of diseases.

What is Green Tea? Unbeknownst to many, green tea actually comes from the same plant from where normal tea is obtained. Scientifically, it is known as Camellia sinensis. In fact, it is the same tea but it is processed differently. The normal black tea is obtained by fermenting the tea leaves. This fermentation changes its color and flavor while raising the level of caffeine and tannin in it. On the other hand, in the case of green tea, the tea leaves are dried or slightly steamed but not fermented. This is what makes it look green when it’s brewed.

Green Tea nutrition facts Along with caffeine, which gives green tea its characteristic taste, bitterness, and stimulating effect, green tea is also rich in a group of chemicals, called catechin polyphenols (commonly known as tannins, which contribute to bitter taste and astringency). These catechin polyphenols include catechin, epicatechin, epicatechin gallate (ECG), epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and various proanthocyanidins. They are also known as flavonoids and are very powerful antioxidants.

Flavonoids, together with some amino acids like thiamine, are responsible for the potent flavor of green tea.

Furthermore, green tea also contains amino acids such as theanine, butyric acid, and lignin; xanthine alkaloids such as adenine, dimethylxanthine, theobromine, theophylline, and xanthine; pectin (also found in fruits); saccharides (sugar), chlorophyll, and triterpene saponins. Vitamins, like vitamin A, B1, B2, B3, C, and E are also found in green tea. After that impressive [1] list, perhaps you can begin to understand how packed green tea is with nutrients and beneficial components.

Health benefits of Green Tea The health benefits of green tea are primarily due to its antioxidant properties that come from its caffeine, catechin polyphenols, and theanine content. The major health benefits stemming from its antioxidant content are listed below.

Delays aging The free radicals created in the body are responsible for corroding the body in various ways, one of which we see as the signs of aging and its related symptoms. Antioxidant-rich green tea neutralizes the oxidants or free radicals present in the body. The catechin polyphenols present in it are hugely responsible for its antioxidizing effects, the most powerful among them being the epigallocatechin gallate. Therefore, regular consumption of green tea can effectively delay the signs and symptoms of aging.

Has stimulating effect One of the primary reasons for the popularity and consumption of all kinds of tea by human civilizations is its stimulating effect. This effect, again, is due to the caffeine and tannins present in the tea leaves. Caffeine and tannins, despite their potentially adverse effects on health, in the long run, act as very powerful stimulants. That is why a cup of tea makes you feel fresh and highly energized. Tea is an easy and ideal solution to counter fatigue, laziness, sleepiness, and lack of energy, and to improve blood circulation. This is why it is so popular with a wide variety of people in various industries, including professionals, housewives, students, and anyone else who has ever felt a bit drowsy during the day!

Boosts immunity Research shows that people who regularly drink green tea do not fall victim to common bacterial and viral infections as easily as those who do not add it to their diet. It boosts the immune system.

The catechins, present in green tea, prevent bacteria and viruses from attaching themselves to cell walls in order to infect them. These catechins also counter the toxins released by microbes. This antimicrobial property also protects you from bad breath, dysentery, diarrhea, tooth decay, indigestion, flu, cough and cold, and colitis, all of which are caused by the microbial and fungal action.

Astringency This is yet another powerful benefit of green tea. Astringent substances trigger contractions in muscles and tissues while toning up muscles and skin. Even if you do not wish to drink green tea, a simple, daily mouthwash with it can cause sufficient contraction in your gums to keep them firm and tight on the teeth, thus preventing loosening and loss of teeth. You can also wash your hair with green tea and feel it grow stronger and

healthier every day.

Prevents cancer Apart from causing premature aging, free radicals are also responsible for causing certain types of cancer. The catechins present in green tea neutralize these free radicals, prevent the formation of carcinogens like nitrosamines and reduce the risk of cancer for people who regularly consume it. Green tea is now being clinically used and prescribed as a home remedy to aid in the prevention of cancer, particularly for those patients at high risk for cancer in the colon, rectum, pancreas, and intestines.

Reduces cholesterol levels Green tea has been shown to be effective in reducing cholesterol levels to some extent, probably due to its alkalinity.

Improves cardiac & arterial health Certain components in green tea prevent thickening of the blood, thereby reducing chances of atherosclerosis, thrombosis, as well as cardiac and cerebral strokes.

Controls diabetes If not taken with sugar, the alkaline nature of green tea helps reduce the blood glucose level. Moreover, the antioxidant and astringent qualities of green tea ensure good health and better functioning of the pancreas. Improving the function of the pancreas means a more efficient and regulated secretion of insulin and the subsequent improvement in decomposing and absorbing of sugar. This increase in effective functions can help prevent the onset of diabetes.

Weight loss Believe it or not, green tea also helps people lose weight by enhancing the rate of metabolism, thereby promoting a faster consumption of the fat storage of the body. Recently, green tea has replaced many other beverages as it helps in weight loss. Drink a cup or two of green tea every morning and you are bound to lose a few pounds of excess weight over a week or so.

Boosts stamina & endurance Just have a cup of hot green tea after some rigorous exercise and you will be ready for a few more sets in no time. Furthermore, it effectively counters muscular pain due to overexertion of muscles. Although green tea isn’t widely consumed due to the presence of energy drinks in the market, if you visit Japan and China, you will see that green tea is the premier beverage used by practitioners of martial arts and various other sports.

3 Wellness Detoxifies the Body Green tea is the best cure for particularly savage hangovers and fatigue caused by the consumption of alcoholic beverages and lack of sleep. Start your hangover with a large cup of green tea with lemon, and the hangover will quickly fade to a bad memory. Green tea with lemon juice is a very good and popular remedy to eliminate the exhausting effects of alcohol almost instantly.

Types of Green Tea Green tea has four main varieties prepared in Japan, which depend upon its leaf-length, method of processing, and season of harvesting. They are as follows; Gyokurocha: In this variety, the tea leaves are plucked from the tip of the branches. When brewed, the color is clear green. Being picked from the tip, this variety has the best taste and fragrance, and this variety is also considered the best in terms of health. Furthermore, it is less bitter, as it contains lesser tannin and caffeine since the plucked leaves are younger and still budding. The only drawback to gyokurocha is the high cost, but as we all know, truly high-quality solutions for health never come cheap!

Sencha: Sencha comes from the same plant, but in this green tea variation, the leaves are from the middle of the branch and are bigger, older, and less tender than Gyokurocha. This variety gives a clear, light green tea when brewed as well. Naturally, it is more bitter and stronger than the former variety.

Being of less noble origin (middle of the branch) and having more caffeine and tannin, it is cheaper and more popular than Gyokurocha.

Bancha: Bancha is made from the tender twigs of the tea plant which makes it very strong and bitter. When brewed, it gives a golden brown tea.

This is an even cheaper version of green tea than the previous two.

Matcha: This is the leftover powder of green tea, also called “Dust”. It makes a beautifully green-colored tea and forms a lot of foam (froth), but has a weaker aroma than the leafy varieties.

This variety of green tea is very popular in traditional ceremonies and is sometimes also called Ceremonial Green Tea. It is far less bitter than the other three varieties, so when you sip it, it seems to hold a natural sweetness, particularly if you are familiar with the other varieties.

Houjicha: Also spelled as “Hojicha”, this is not a pure or absolute green tea. Rather, it is a mixture of green tea and powdered roasted cereals such as wheat, barley, or rice. The quality and price of this variety depend upon the percentage or ratio of green tea to cereal content. The better ones, which have more green tea in them, are more expensive and have a greener look when brewed; on the other hand, those with higher grain contents yield a golden brown color and are cheaper.

Genmaicha: Like Houjicha, this is not a pure tea either. It is a mixture of green tea and roasted brown rice. Upon steeping, it yields a golden yellow tea, very pleasant in both taste and aroma due to the presence of roasted brown rice.

Decaffeinated Green Tea: This is not a specific variety, but it is worth mentioning here. Any of the above varieties can come in a decaffeinated form.

Other Varieties: The chief varieties mentioned above are blended in different combinations to produce much more varieties with different names, the number of which makes it pointless to list here.

Basically, go to a tea shop and explore for yourself!

Risks The risks associated with green tea are the same as those associated with any other kind of tea (common black tea, White Tea etc.) and are primarily due to the content of caffeine and tannin. The contraindications may vary with the percentage of caffeine and tannins in it. Most people might be familiar with these adversities, but it is still important to review and summarize the components responsible, as well as the associated risks.

Fun fact Do you know what the term “cha” means, which is often found in the names of various qualities of green tea such as gyokurocha, sencha, bancha, matcha, and houjicha? It simply means “tea”, and tea is extremely popular all over India as “cha” (in Bengal & adjacent states) and “chai” in other areas.

Just some fun facts for you to share with other tea lovers over your next cup of green tea!

Source: Organicfacts.net

News 4

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

AfDB plans to invest $35bn to boost economic growth in Africa Continued from page 1 industrialisation to boost economic development.

Adesina said that the region was “de-industrialising”, calling on continents’ leaders to learn from Korea, China and Japan.

According to him, between 2012 and 2018, Africa’s industrial value-added declined from $702bn to $630bn.

He said in Nigeria, the value-added dropped by 41 per cent, South Africa by 26 per cent with both Egypt and Algeria declining by 67 per cent respectively.

This is even as he noted that Morocco’s industrial

output expanded by 16 per cent while Ethiopia’s valueadded grew five-fold.

Ethiopia, the region’s second most populated country, is currently subSaharan Africa’s fastest growing economy.

The bank plans to invest $35bn over the next 10 years to help the region industrialise as the bank allocated $1.2bn to industrialisation in Africa.

Adesina said, “The plan should help Africa raise its industrial gross domestic product a little more than $700bn today to over $1.72trn by 2030.

“Africa needs to move up the bottom to the top of the

global value chains.

“To drive its industrialisation process, Africa must quickly build a globally competitive, welleducated, highly skilled workforce for the future; and the future already here. We cannot afford to waste any more time.

“Africa should also invest more in education and training to further build the “skills of the future”, which will help “the industrial revolution in the future”.

But he warned that industrialisation can be harmful for the environment and called for countries to “pay careful attention to less polluting energy pathways.

Democracy Day: FG, PDP in war-of-words over Buhari’s broadcast Less than 24 hours after President M u h a m m a d u Buhari addressed the nation, the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described the Democracy Day address as uninspiring, hollow, full of self-praise and false performance claims, without addressing issues agitating the minds of Nigerians.

The party while stressing that President Buhari was celebrating his last Democracy Day in office as a sitting president added that the address was seasoned with a list of phantom projects and “executive regurgitation,” inherently designed by President Buhari’s handlers to sway Nigerians and divert attention from the many failures of this administration.

But the federal government has said that the commemoration of this year’s Democracy Day is a celebration of freedom, a salute to the resilience and determination of Nigerians and a recommitment by Government to keep its promise to lead Nigeria into a new era of justice and prosperity.

President Buhari had in his Deomcracy Day address, said that public safety and security remains the primary duty of this Government.

Buhari said, ‘’Before this Administration came into being 3 years ago, Boko Haram held large areas of land spanning several Local Governments in the

North East. ‘’Today, the capacity of the insurgents has been degraded leading to the re-establishment of authority of government and the release of captives including, happily, 106 Chibok and 104 Dapchi girls, and over 16,000 other persons held by the Boko Haram’’.

On the fight against corruption, Buhari said that his administration through the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has recovered of Billions of Naira, as well as forfeiture of various forms of assets.

“This, alongside other efforts, has improved Nigeria’s international image and regional cooperation,” he stated.

Buhari also said that his administration has retained the services of one of the world’s leading assets tracing firms to investigate and trace assets globally.

He said, ‘’This is in addition to the exploitation of provisions of existing Treaties, Conventions as well as Bilateral Agreements with Multilateral bodies and nations. Nigeria has also signed Mutual Legal Assistance Agreements to ensure that there is no hiding place for fugitives. ‘’This Administration has therefore focused on revamping the ailing economy it inherited

PHOTO TIMES

in 2015.

In 2016, Government executed an expansionary budget and developed the Strategic Implementation Plan. For the first time, 30% of the budget was earmarked for capital expenditure which represents an upward review when compared with the 2015 budget.

The SIP was followed by the development of a comprehensive medium term plan – the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan 2017 – 2020’’.

The president added that the Sovereign Wealth Fund project portfolio under his watch has expanded with an injection of US$650 million so as to strengthen its investment in local infrastructure, power, health, reconstruction of Abuja-Kano road, LagosIbadan Expressway, East West Road (Section V) and the Mambilla Hydroelectric Power project as well as the construction of the 2nd Niger Bridge.

But the opposition PDP in its reaction by its National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus, said that never again would a nondemocrat be given access to power like President Buhari to put the country in such jeopardy.

According to the PDP National Chairman in a statement by his media aide, Ike Abonyi, Nigerians are anxiously looking forward to the opportunity to dispense with the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC and the President.

The opposition party

Continued on page 5

Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki (2nd left) and members of the Not Too Young To Run movement, during a courtesy visit on Saraki in Abuja.

Group Deputy Managing Director, Access Bank Plc, Roosevelt Ogbonna; His Excellency, Irish Ambassador to Nigeria, Sean Hoy; Group Managing Director, Access Bank Plc, Herbert Wigwe and Representative, Nigeria Enterprise Ireland, Thessa Brongers Bagu during a courtesy visit to the Bank’s Head office in Victoria Island...on Monday.

From L-R: Head of Civil Service of the Federation Mrs. Winifred Oyo-Ita, Wife of Speaker House of Representatives Mrs Gimbiya Dogara, Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo and Secretary to the Government of the Federation Mr. Boss Mustapha at the 2018 Democracy Day Interdenominational Church Service at the National Christian Centre, Abuja on Sunday Picture: Speaker’s Media Office.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

5 News

Again, court affirms Anosikes’ ownership of Daily Times Strikes out suit seeking to stop newspaper’s publication Tom Okpe, Abuja An Abuja Chief Magistrate court has struck out a suit seeking to stop Folio Communications Plc from publishing Daily Times of Nigeria.

This is the fifth time different courts have delivered similar rulings, thereby affirming the paper’s ownership by the Anosike brothers.

In the latest ruling which was obtained on Monday His Worship R. J Egbe of Magistrate Court 13 Wuse Zone 2 Abuja said he was aware that there was an ownership dispute existing between Folio Communications Plc and Sen. Ikechukwu Obiora on Daily Times of Nigeria as well as Consent Judgement entered between the two parties following resolution of the matter by stakeholders in 2006 which from records has not been vacated by any court of competent jurisdiction and therefore cannot grant the plaintiff’s prayers to stop the publication of Daily Times.

“However, I cannot feign ignorance or pretend that there is more to it. The totality of the evidence before me by way of affidavit evidence and exhibits particularly, exhibit 6, seems to me that there is an ownership dispute of the plaintiff between the defendants and the deponent to the counter- affidavit. The tort of passing - off can only be derived from the right of ownership.

Therefore, it is my view that it will be meaningless to deal with the right of passing off without

the right of ownership. It will amount to placing something on nothing and a sheer waste of time and energy which this Court is not ready to embark on. The case is therefore struck out.

Earlier, the Magistrate had also thrown out counter affidavit tendered by plaintiffs following argument by counsel to the Anosike’s that having heard addresses by both side, he should not have allowed the tendering of more documents and affidavits.

His worship therefore struck it out saying “I agreed with the defendants’ counsel, after parties had argued their cases, I could not have asked parties to adduce further or additional evidence to substantiate or support their case at the expenses of any of

parties. That was not my intention.

My intention was strictly to be addressed on how a judgment of a competent Court could lapse by operation of law and or effluxion of time without more. Therefore, the plaintiff’s further counter affidavit and all the exhibits attached thereto is struck out.

The defendants through their Counsel filed a Notice of Preliminary objection dated and filed on the 22nd of February, 2018 against the suit of the plaintiff on eight (8) grounds as in the face of the preliminary objection. The preliminary objection is brought pursuant to section 251(1)(e) and (3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended.

In support of the notice of

Governor, Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right), with the President of Conference of NonGovernmental Organisations, (CONGOs) Comrade (Mrs.) Daisy Idufueko Abiola, during the courtesy visit by the new executive members of CONGOs to the governor at the Government House in Benin City, Edo State.

FG, PDP in war-of-words over Buhari’s broadcast Continued from page 4 added that “no line in the supposed Democracy Day Address” did the President address the issue of justice for victims of human rights abuses, illegal arrests and detentions as well as killings in Benue, Taraba, Zamfara, Kaduna, Plateau, Borno, Kogi and Yobe States, amongst sundry infractions.

“Mr. President, on Democracy Day, had no words of assurance on the unrelenting violation of our constitution; assault on the National Assembly and erosion of personal freedom of citizens.

“Mr. President’s handlers chose to subject him to a fantasy trip, making false performance claims with phantom projects, muddling up economic statistics and ended up worsening his already diminished public perception.

“PDP notes the fact that the President had no committing words towards the conduct of

preliminary objection is 28 paragraph affidavit deposed to by Israel Dinne including Financial Bid Opening for Daily Times of Nigeria Plc which contains four Official Receipts of Bureau of Public Enterprises; Share Sales/ Purchase Agreement between Bureau of Public Enterprises and Folio Communication Ltd for the purchase of 233,745,640 Ordinary Shares of Fifty Kobo each in the issued and Paid up Capital of the Daily Times of Nigeria PLC dated the 21/6/2004; Letter of Divestment of interest in DSV Ltd dated 2005; Settlement Agreement between Folio Communications Ltd and Chief Anthony Idigbe ,SAN and the Daily Times of Nigeria PLC and DSV Ltd and Hallmark Bank PLC and Bureau of Public

free, fair and credible 2019 general elections, apparently overwhelmed by the avalanche of his public rejection ahead of the polls,” the party stated, adding that it was largely due to the aforementioned missteps that it “advised President Buhari not to border to address Nigerians on Democracy Day”.

Secondus urged Nigerians to take their destiny in their hands by collecting and properly using their PVCs to save democracy and indeed save Nigeria.

“If Democracy must survive in our country, we must do away with APC and Nigerians are ready and willing to do just that because they cherish democracy as the best form of government.

“Going by their poor record of performance in the last 36 months, and the determination of Nigerians to put the country in the right footing, this is the last Democracy Day this President will mark.

“Their agenda now is

to intimidate, harass and scare opponents to create a Police state with the aim of turning the country into one party state but it must be resisted by Nigerians who passed similar road before and came out victorious.”

When contacted over the issue, the Director, Strategic Communications for President Buhari 2019 presidential campaign, Mr Festus Keyamo (SAN), faulted the claim of Secondus, insisting that Buhari will have an easy win in 2019 and will return to power.

Keyamo added that the voice of Secondus does not represent the voice of the masses.

The senior advocate said, ‘’The voice of Secondus represent the voice of the PDP which has died long ago in the minds of Nigerians.

“Secondus is speaking for the dead and not the living. He should know that Buhari will have an easy contest and return to power in 2019.”

Enterprises and Nigeria Stock Exchange and Nduka Obaigbena in addition to exhibit 6 which is a consent Judgment of the Federal High Court Lagos delivered on the 24/4/2006.

Also filed with the Notice of preliminary objection was a written address which the defendants’ Counsel adopted along with the notice on the 13/4/18 where the defendants Counsel formulated a lone issue for determination by this court, to wit: Whether the Magistrate Court has jurisdiction to entertain this suit.

In arguing his issue, the defendants’ counsel submitted that the Court lacks the jurisdiction as section 251(1)(e) and (3) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria reserves it for Federal High Court. He argued that jurisdiction is the foundation upon which a Court of law is vested with authority to adjudicate on matters and referred the Court to a plethora of cases, including Madukolu V Nkemdilim (1962 )1 All NLR 587.

On the other hand, Counsel to Ikechukwu Obiorah argued that it is the claim of the plaintiff that determines the jurisdiction of the Court and neither the defendant’ statement of defence nor the defendant’s misrepresentation of the plaintiff’s case and referred the Court to the cases of Aremo V. Adekanye (2004) 13 NWLR (pt.

8910)572 and Abubakar v. Usman (2009) 6 NWLR (pt. 1136)68 amongst others.

He submitted that the Court has the requisite jurisdiction to entertain the suit as same is found on the tort of passing - off under section 13 (a) of the District Court Act. The plaintiff counsel urged the court to have recourse only to the plaintiff’s pleas and dismiss the preliminary objection.

But in his ruling the Magistrate said that there was something curious about the presentation and claims of the plaintiff which he noted was rather self contradictory. He said, “However, while reading through the processes, paragraph 5 of the plaintiff’s counter - affidavit aroused the curiosity of the Court.

Para. 5. reads, (quoting statement of plaintiff) “I am aware that Folio Communication ltd could not meet terms of a consent judgment entered at one point in the past and same lapsed by operation of law and effluxion of time.”

The Magistrate therefore stated that the quoted paragraph indicates clearly, an acceptance

by Ikechukwu Obiorah that there was an existing consent judgement as claimed by the Anosike’s, adding that “This paragraph necessitated the Court’s directive to be addressed. Both parties filed and adopted the addresses on the 14/5/18. The plaintiff counsel however files a further counter affidavit and Exhibits attached hereto which the defendant counsel objected to, ruling also that there was no need in the first place to allow plaintiff file further affidavit.

We won’t tolerate sexual abuse in IDP camps - NAPTIP DG Doosuur Iwambe, Abuja The Director General, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, Dame Julie OkahDonli, has said that the agency will no longer tolerate sexual abuse on Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and other less privileged persons in the society.

Describing the act as a crime that should not be swept under carpet irrespective of the status of the offender and the circumstances, OkahDonli warned that NAPTIP has reactivated its working relationship and collaboration with diverse partners and other sister security Agencies as well as several caregivers working at the various IDP camps with a view to unmask any act of abuse within those locations.

The NAPTIP boss gave the warning during a visit to the new Kushingoro IDP camp located in Abuja on Tuesday to celebrate the 2018 Children’s Day as well as the Democracy Day with the victims who were

mostly women and children.

The NAPTIP boss stated that the present security challenges that have displaced thousands of persons across the Northern parts of the country does not mean that those affected by the insurgency have lost their rights.

She said, “I want all Nigerians to know that these sets of people who are victims of insurgency and other security challenges have their rights intact as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. So, they should be respected and accorded the desired rights and privileges like other citizens of the country.

“NAPTIP will not tolerate any act that constitutes any form of abuse in any of the camps. Their present predicament is nothing but just a bend in their journey of life; it is not the end of their life.

“Let us join hands to restore hope to them, let us join hands to put them back on the track so that they can contribute their own quota to the development of the nation.

“As a focal Agency that is

committed to the protection of Nigerians, NAPTIP has strengthened its partnership and working relationship with other sister Security Agencies working inside the various camps as well as Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and other relevant partners with a view to nipping any act of abuse in any of the camps in the bud”.

She called on the IDPs to avail them of the opportunity of staying at the camp to develop themselves in skill acquisition in order to be selfreliance.

Speaking on behalf of the IDPs, spokesman of the victims, Mr. Philemon Emmanuel from Borno State thanked the NAPTIP Director – General for visiting them as well as donating large quantity of essential consumable to them, saying that they will never forget the gesture.

He also called on other government agencies and corporate bodies to emulate the gesture.

Highpoint of the visit was the presentation of basic items to the victims.

News 6

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Democracy Day celebration: Ikpeazu lists achievements Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu on Tuesday rendered an account of his stewardship in the past three years, highlighting the successes recorded on the five pillars of his development agenda.

Ikpeazu, who addressed clergymen, traditional rulers, Abia residents from different walks of life and newsmen at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia, spoke on his achievements in agriculture, oil and gas, commerce,

industry and education.

The event was part of the activities organised by the government to mark the Democracy Day celebration and three years of his administration.

He also spoke on the administration’s performance on health, road infrastructure and security, which he described as the enablers that drove development in the state.

He spoke extensively on the government’s achievements in the

development of small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) in Aba, the industrial hub of the state.

He said that currently, two million pairs of shoes were being exported to other parts of Africa weekly from Aba. He said that no fewer than 250,000 people were directly engaged in SMEs in Aba, theereby creating millions of jobs for the people.

The governor explained that the administration placed greater emphasis

on Aba because it had the potential to boost the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR).

He said that it was the expectation of his administration to raise the IGR from about N500 million to at least N1.8 billion monthly from Aba. “If we get Aba right, we can generate enough IGR to develop the state, without depending on the monthly Federal Allocation to the state.”

Ikpeazu said that he his

Recruitment: FRSC gets over 10, 000 applications in 2 days Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo The Federal Road Safety Corps FRSC has recorded over 10000 successful application forms, two days after it commenced its recruitment process.

The figure was revealed yesterday by the Corps why refuting the allegation that FRSC recruitment portal has crashed.

In a statement issued yesterday and signed by Corp

Public Education Officer, Corps Commander Bisi Kazeem stated that “Our attention has been drawn to the rumour going round that the Corps recruitment site crashed few hours after it went live. We are much disturbed that, an online media will go to the press because of few complaints from people that could not get through either as a result of congestion or network . We even learnt that contrary to instructions, some applicants are using hand held phones instead of

computer”.

Kazeem said the online media platform left out the experience of thousands of applicants that are getting through second per second which they are monitoring at their situation room created mainly for recruitment purposes.

“Contrary to the speculations, we are pleased to inform you that the site has been stable with thousand applicants already acknowledged on the database. Furthermore, there is need to state categorically

that there is a dedicated site for the recruitment (www.recruitment. frsc.gov.ng) which is totally different from the frsc official website (frsc.gov.ng) which so many applicants are using”, the Corps stated.

For the avoidance of doubts, Kazeem added “we have received more than 10. 000 successful applications from applicants within one day and half window , specifically about 6000 today from our back end” .

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres decorates a Nigerian ‘blue helmet’ (peacekeeper) Olufunmilayo Ajibike Amodu, serving at the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali, for her contribution to peace in Mali during the 2018 UN International Day of UN Peacekeepers, in Mali...on Tuesday

UN scribe decorates Nigerian peacekeeper Olufunmilayo Amodu UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has awarded a medal to a Nigerian peacekeeper, Cdr. Olufunmilayo Amodu, serving with the UN Stabilisation Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) for her outstanding service.

The medal is an acknowledgement of the contribution of Nigeria to UN Peacekeeping Operations to ensure global peace and security.

Guterres also awarded a medal to appreciate the outstanding service of Maj. Mohammad Khan from Bangladesh, a military staff officer based at MINUSMA Force headquarters.

The decoration was part of activities to honour the service and sacrifice of peacekeepers around the world to mark the 2018 International Day of UN Peacekeepers.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the UN will also honour three fallen Nigerian peacekeepers at the event on June 1, at the UN headquarters in New York.

They are Lt. Col. Ali Suleiman, who

served with the UN Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Others are Warrant Officer Remmy Amakwe, who was deployed with the African Union–United Nations Mission in Darfur; and Mr Kolawole Shogaolu, who served in a civilian capacity in the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in Mali.

Speaking after receiving the award, Amodu said: “The medal is very important. It symbolises what it is to be a peacekeeper at MINUSMA. Receiving it from the Secretary-General is a very unique privilege.

“The terrorists are not relenting in what they are doing. And obviously, we are not backing out in what we have come to do”, she added, underscoring the worrying security situation in Mali.

She further said: “The UN is all about peace. And when there is peace, there is development.

“When there is peace, there is promotion of technology. When there is peace, every other thing works the way it should work.

“And for any person who would want to join MINUSMA, you should have at the back of your mind that when you are coming, it is to support the peace process.”

NAN reports that more than one million men and women have served under the UN flag, saving countless lives just as over 3,700 blue helmets have paid the ultimate price over the past seven decades.

Troops with the mission have increasingly become the target of attacks.

Meanwhile, Guterres attended a ceremony at MINUSMA’s base in Bamako where he paid tribute to fallen peacekeepers and laid a wreath at the memorial inside the camp, engraved with the names of those killed in the service of peace.

“Dear peacekeepers, you have demonstrated that you are capable of all forms of sacrifice. For many of your colleagues, this has meant the supreme sacrifice of giving their lives to protect the lives of Malian civilians.

“I want to thank you very much for this effort; these sacrifices, to pay tribute

to you, and to say how proud I am to work with you.

“As peacekeepers, you are the foremost symbol of the United Nations itself”, Guterres said.

Also, Mahamat Annadif, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General in Mali and Head of MINUSMA, said that honouring the fallen “warms the hearts of their comrades and encourages us to continue to defend even more resolutely the values of the United Nations”.

Guterres was accompanied on his visit to Mali by Under Secretary-General for Field Support, Atul Khare, Head of UN Peacekeeping Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, and the Executive Director of UN Children’s Fund, Henrietta Fore.

He was received at the airport by Malian President Ibrahim Keita.

He was also scheduled to meet with Keita and other Malian officials as well as UN officials working in the country.

UN has declared the north-west African country as the most dangerous place in the world to be a ‘blue helmet’ as 21 troops and seven civilians serving with MINUSMA died in 2017.

administration had completed 60 roads in different parts of the state, using “Grade A” contractors.

On education, he said that government emphasised the retraining of primary school teachers, in collaboration with an Australian-based non-governmental organisation.

According to him, 1,700 teachers have benefitted from the programme since its inception about two years ago.

He said that 34 schools were currently undergoing renovation, while government was also buillding model schools that would be second to none.

He also spoke on the performance of the state on the primary school feeding programme, saying that Abia was the only state in the federation that was feeding from primary four to six pupils.

The governor said that his administration was collaborating with some Abia medical practitioners in the Diaspora to provide free medical services to the aged as well as mothers and children.

He said that 250 nurses had been trained to move from house-to-house to provide care to the aged and that an additional 500 nurses would be trained to boost the exercise.

He said that the objective was to achieve an increase in people’s life expectancy from the national life expectancy of 55 years to at least 70 years.

Ikpeazu said that government was building a specialist hospital in Umuahia for the care of mother and child to reduce the mortality rate in the state.

He said that his administration had provided an enabling environment for economic growth and urged youths to take advantage of the opportunities to grow their businesses.

Meanwhile, the governor expressed deep regret over his inability to pay pensions and teachers’ salaries promptly.

“I am deeply touched by the plight of pensioners because they deserve to be treated better and fairly.”

He blamed the development on paucity of funds and the huge wage bill of about N2.7 billion he inherited from the previous administration.

He said that the figure came down to N2.1 billion after he introduced biometric verification of workers.

“I will continue with the verification.

No amount of propaganda will make me to abandon it,” IKpeazu said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Democracy Day celebration began with an interdenominational thanksgiving service.

The event was attended by the Deputy Gov. Ude Oko-Chukwu, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Chief Chikwendu Kalu, state Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, Chief Johnson Onuigbo, and Chairman, SouthEast Traditional Rulers’ Council, Eze Eberechi Dick.

Others included the Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Emmanuel Agomuo, and South-East Chairman of CAN, Bishop Goddy Okafor, among other clerics.

Rep. Ossy Prestige (APGA), representing Aba North and South Federal Constituency at the National Assemblyman was also present at the ceremony.

In a brief remark, Prestige said that it was imperative for office holders to realise that after elections, they should become less partisan in order to serve the people, irrespective of their political affiliation.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

7 News

Democracy Day Celebrations

Saraki tasks Nigerians on defence of democracy

Tunde Opalana, Abuja

Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has advised Nigerians not to take for granted the continued democratic dispensation the country has been enjoying for the past 19 years but guard against actions, statements and moves which can truncate the political

process.

While congratulating Nigerians on the 19th anniversary of unbroken elected government in the country, Saraki advised the people to always be vigilant and speak against antidemocratic policies and actions which are capable of subverting rule of law.

This was contained in a statement issued by his

Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yussuph Olaniyonu.

Saraki also canvassed strict adherence to the principles of rule of law, separation of powers, sovereignty of parliament, independence of the judiciary, and freedom of the press, adding that “our constitutional institutions must be preserved and

protected”.

“As we celebrate democracy today, I congratulate our people and express my conviction that this system of government is the best so far invented. However, it goes beyond the conduct of elections to put leaders in office. Democracy involves strict adherence to rule of law as against the rule of

men. It is about respect for due process and following laid down procedures. It is about respect for and building of institutions.

“That is why we cannot be celebrating Democracy Day without canvassing for caution on some recent negative developments in our polity, particularly as we prepare for next year’s general elections. These include abuse of office in a manner that suggests persecution and oppression of perceived enemies, stifling of free expression, undermining of democratic institutions, and impunity on the part of certain persons who behave as though they are above the laws of the land.

“These developments should be of concern to all democrats. Other political and opinion leaders who

decided to veil their sight as if they are not seeing these infractions on democracy and choose to keep quiet, should know that they equally pose danger to the survival of our country.

“History will not be fair to us if we allow our complacency to jeopardize democracy. We all must be able to speak out with strong voice on issues that constitute a danger to democracy.

Eternal vigilance, they say, is the price of liberty.

“At this point, let us remember and salute our heroes of democracy, those who toiled and paid different prices for us to have elected government, particularly, those who paid the ultimate price with their lives. Their labour shall definitely not be in vain.

Okowa salutes Deltans, says better days ahead Nosa Akenzua, Asaba

Greywolf empire has learnt its voice to Nigerians to empower themselves by registry and collecting their Permanent Voters Card (PVC) towards the forthcoming general election in 2019. The company held a walk yesterday across Alimosho ‎local government, tagged “Walk for PVC”. In Lagos...on Tuesday.

Photo: Olatunji Wale

In 3 years, my biggest achievement is security -Ambode

Benjamin Omoike, Lagos

Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, has described the security of lives and property of residents as the biggest achievement of his administration in the last three years, saying it was gratifying to note that the state is now the safest in Africa.

Speaking at the commissioning of a Forward Operating Base (FOB), of the Nigerian Army in Epe, governor Ambode said the combined investment of his administration in the security architecture of the state and efforts of security agencies had resulted in peaceful atmosphere for residents and visitors.

The governor, who recalled the days of kidnapping, cultism and other security challenges in Ikorodu and Epe axis, said it was satisfying that the activities of criminal elements such as militants, among others had

been confined to history in the state.

“As I mark my own three years in office, I can say significantly that if there is anything that I have actually achieved in these three years is the security and safety of lives and property in Lagos state.

“There is no way that could have been possible and that is why I say it quietly and openly if not for the support and cooperation of all the security agencies and most significantly the efforts of the Nigerian Army which is actually hidden underground but visibly seen by everything that is going on here,” he said.

Recalling his early days in office, the governor said his first major task was how to address kidnapping and other nefarious activities perpetrated by militants in Ishawo axis, adding that a Military Base was eventually set up as well as Military Operation code-

named “Operation Awatse”.

“At the beginning, the issue of kidnapping and cultism was actually in this eastern axis between Epe and Ikorodu but with the efforts that we have seen and visible to all of us, it has become a thing of the past and we are very grateful to the Nigerian Army.

“I want to quickly recollect that my first task was the issue of kidnapping that was so notorious in area of Ishawo in Ikorodu and there and then, we had the support of the Nigerian Army to set up a small base and we had to also take over property of some of those militants to accommodate the Military Base,” he recalled.

He said crime rate had drastically reduced in the State, and that no efforts would be spared in sustaining the peace in the state.

While alluding to how former military barrack in Epe was closed, Governor Ambode

described the commissioning of the FOB as historic and significant considering the fact that it was witnessed by traditional rulers and community leaders in the area, saying the development was a new dawn for community relationship with the Army in the axis.

He lauded the General Officer Commanding in charge of 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Enobong Udoh, for his steadfastness in promoting peace in the state, just as he reiterated commitment to continually support the Military and other security agencies in the state.

Earlier in his remarks, Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Tukur Buratai, commended governor Ambode for the support to security agencies and the massive infrastructural development across the length and breadth of the state, saying the initiatives of the governor were laudable.

Delta State Governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has congratulated Deltans and Nigerians as the nation mark Democracy Day celebrations.

The Governor thanked the citizenry for their support for his administration in the last three years and enjoined them to uphold the prevailing peace in the state and the Niger Delta, adding that development can only take place in a peaceful environment.

In a statement on Monday in Asaba, by his Chief Press Secretary, Charles Aniagwu, the governor reiterated his administration’s determination to upscale service delivery and infrastructural development as the administration enters the last year of the current term.

“Recall that our administration met a difficult economic situation which was made worse by the destruction of oil facilities by agitators, but many thanks to our brothers who heeded to our appeals for peace.

“With the return of peace to the state and the Niger Delta region ane with an improvement in our resources, we have been able to award over 193 roads and drainages with more than 90 of them completed. Several schools have also been rehabilitated with our Technical Colleges revamped to meet the modern day realities.

“With a deep sense of gratitude to God

Almighty, I thank you all for your support to my administration in the past three years. I appreciate immensely the unalloyed support and cooperation that our administration has enjoyed from Deltans. I salute our collective resolve to continue to live together in peace.

“I assure Deltans, that we remain irrevocably committed to the delivery of our strategic wealth creation projects as encapsulated in our S.M.A.R.T Agenda.

Our wealth and job creation schemes have continued to make impacts in the life of our youths and women to the extent of attracting partnership from the World Bank. In the coming year, we shall continue to explore more ways to improve on the empowerment programmes. I thank the illustrious and hardworking youths as well as leaders of the Niger Delta for ensuring and maintaining the prevailing peace in the region”.

The Governor commended the Federal Government for their efforts in ensuring lasting peace in the oil rich Niger Delta region especially on the commencement of academic activities at the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko.

“It is imperative to commend the Federal Government for their collaboration with state governments in ensuring the enabling peace and attracting investments and development to the region.” the statement said.

News 8 2019: Group opens campaign on PVC collection Idu Jude, Abuja A group of young professionals has said that the idea to launch ‘the Participate Movement’ a non-governmental organisation is to encourage Nigerians to actively carry out their civic duties.

The ideology-driven campaign’s focus is to increase PVC collection among registered voters.

In a statement, Jude Feranmi, the group’s spokesman, said: “The kind of politics that is only geared to serve personal interests, funded by public treasury and marred with irregularities is not sustainable.

The group, said that Nigeria needs an urgent shift from the current style of politics that is bereft of ideology where platforms are just mere office-seeking spaces.

It further stated that the movement is meant to show a new direction on how politics should be played.

“We are focused on increasing collection of permanent voter cards in the short term, while we decide on a permanent political participation structure, after the 2019 polls.

This is a political movement with the mission to redefine Nigerian politics by building a formidable grassroots base, ready to challenge for elections in the medium term.

“The Participate Movement is a gradualist approach to working the grassroots, enabling leaders and the kind of politics that delivers economic empowerment for the citizens.

It also revealed that the movement aims to build a network of committed funders; lower/middleclass Nigerians, interested in participating in politics and funding an extensive grassroots network.

“We will work together on cultivating the trust of Nigerians in the grassroots and will be patient in enabling new leaders interested in creating local cells in selected states.

“Participate funding will be transparent to members as use of funds will be available to its members.”

The movement said it hopes to reach two million Nigerians and will launch in at least 10 states before the end of 2018.

Through local community outreaches, the group said it will encourage Nigerians to collect their PVCs and participate in the next general election.

Feranmi said members of the public interested in joining the movement can do so via participate.ng.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Biafra: Sit-at-home, forfeit your shop, Gov Umahi tells traders Charles Onyekwere, Abakaliki Ebonyi State Government has warned that traders who close their shops to observe the sit-at-home order of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) on Wednesday May 30,2018 would forfeit their shops forever.

The state Governor David Umahi, stated this at the occasion marking this year’s Democracy anniversary and three years of his administration held at the Ngele Oruta Township stadium Abakaliki ,noting that such order would not be

observed in the state.

“We were terribly marginalized during our days in the old Anambra, Enugu and Abia state and seriously making efforts to find our feet which make us need no distraction.

He noted that any trader that closes shop on the day would forfeit it forever and any protest would be decisively dealt with.

“Ebonyi citizens should go about their businesses peacefully and safely and if the south east governors say we don’t want IPOB activities, it does not mean that we are

happy with the zone’s marginalization in the country,” he said.

He noted that the way IPOB was pursuing the course was not right and the Ohanaeze Ndigbo took the right action in the comity of Ndigbo sons and daughters.

“We call on the Federal Government (FG) to look into the plight of south east and address the issue of margnalisation because we believe in one Nigeria and sanctity of human lives.

Umahi commended the organizers of the event and the chairmen of the 13 Local

Government Areas (LGA) for its success noting that mobilization of citizens was awesome.

“I demanded for 1million people to be mobilised for the event but I am told that you mobilised 1.2million which demonstrates your belief and commitment that our government is of divine mandate.

The governor used the occasion to mention his government’s achievements in education, health, agricultures, infrastructural development, commence and industry, human empowerment among

others.

Former Senate President and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, congratulated citizens of the state and entire Nigerians at the occasion, “We have a unique way of celebrating the democracy day as I am proud to be a citizen of Ebonyi and also proud to be associated with the Chief David Umahi-led administration.’’

Anyim who is the chairman of the occasion, told the people that the governor would surpass his present achievements during his second term in office as the governor.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (2nd left); Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukar Yusuf Buratai (2nd right); General Officer Commanding 81 Division, Nigerian Army, Major Gen. Enobong Okoh Udoh (right) and Alara of Epe, Oba Kamorudeen Animashaun (left) during the commissioning of Forward Operating Base of the Nigerian Army, Epe. . . on Monday

Amnesty Int’l report on Army mischievous -Group Mathew Dadiya, Abuja A group, Professionals for Better Nigeria (PBN), has condemned the recent report released by the Amnesty International (AI) on the operations of the Nigerian Army describing it as false, mischievous and malicious allegations made to undermine the efforts and sacrifices that have been made by the Nigerian Army to rid the country of criminal elements and terrorists in the country.

The group said that the Nigerian Army are carrying out their responsibilities in line with its assigned constitutional role of the protection and safeguard of the territorial integrity of the country and the protection of lives and property.

PBN National Coordinator, Diokpa Obi Iwanka and Comrade Chimeze Oyiuke Publicity Secretary in a statement on Tuesday, said the reports by Amnesty International against the Nigerian Army “is a systematic ploy and agenda orchestrated in order to change the narrative against the Nigerian Army and win the support of its citizens in the fight against the Boko Haram insurgents.”

According to PBN, as champions of transparency, accountability and good governance in Public Service and the total wellbeing of Nigerians for the development of the country, the reports from Amnesty International is not only biased but unpatriotic and a smear campaign of

calumny against our hard fighting and patriotic Nigerian military, whose only crime is not allowing the Boko Haram insurgents to override the territory and occupy the Nigerian state.

The statement read: “It is on record that whenever the insurgents have an upper hand, the AI says nothing, but when the Nigerian Army is having its way on ravaging and decimating the terrorists, AI comes into the foray, to bash and accuse the Nigerian Army of crimes against humanity. It is obvious that AI has continued to undermine the sovereignty of Nigeria by leading a psychological war on terror against the people of Nigeria while the insurgents are on the battle front to capture the

territories.

The deliberate blackmail, witch-hunt is unfortunate and mischievously carried out by AI against the Nigerian Army since 2011. The said report is not only spurious, wicked and mischievous but a fabricated fallacy by a frustrated human rights body in its deliberate plans to change the positive and proactive narrative of the Nigerian Army and portray it in bad light by undermining its constitutional responsibilities in favour of the Boko Haram insurgents, for its own personal agenda and self-serving.”

PBN therefore, urged Nigerians to be vigilant and not to be hoodwinked by these reports from AI as “they are not patriotic and do not have the interest of the nation at heart.

“We salute the Nigerian Army gallantry, patriotism, new sense of urgency, transparency, rules of engagement and the direction in the fight against the insurgency and criminalities across the country.

“The enormous improvement in military equipment, fire power and the overall capabilities displayed in military operations is a welcome development supported by all Nigerians.

“As an advocacy organ, we condemn in strong terms, the intemperate castigation, malicious reports deliberated orchestrated to smear the hard earned reputation of the Nigerian Army across the globe for its sterling antecedence over the years.’’

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

9 News

Democracy Day Celebrations

Gov Ugwuanyi pledges more democracy dividends Moses Oyediran, Enugu It was a festival of gratitude and jubilation at the event marking the 2018 Democracy Day celebration in Enugu State as Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi reassured people of the state of his administration’s firm resolve to continue to

put them first and fulfill its promises.

Addressing the people of Enugu State at the colourful and well attended ceremony, Governor Ugwuanyi in his address christened “a festival of gratitude”, listed the numerous achievements his administration has recorded so far in all spheres

of development to improve their living standard as the true heroes of democracy.

The Governor who was overwhelmed by the large turnout of leaders and people of the state at the event expressed immense gratitude to them, adding that it was also “a day of gratitude to God Almighty

from whom all blessings flow and whose ceaseless grace has continued to sustain and give us a lifting up in the midst of the current economic realities”.

He congratulated President Muhammadu Buhari, his deputy, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; the leadership and members of the National Assembly; the Chief

Justice of Nigeria and the entire judiciary; fellow governors, among others on the nation’s 19th Democracy Day celebration and third anniversary of the present administration.

The governor stated that his administration has made tremendous progress in the past three years in spite of the

challenges it was confronted with at inception in 2015 such as the “huge debts profile of the State breathing down our necks, huge salary and pension arrears confronting us in the midst of economic crunch and very depleted revenues from the centre occasioned by the fall in oil revenues”.

Gov Ortom lauds labour for patience, understanding Chiangi Avese, Makurdi Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has praise the organised labour unions in the state for their

patience, endurance and avid understanding with his administration.

Ortom, who was speaking on his achievements in the past three years in office at this year’s

democracy day celebration in Makurdi acknowledged that the state ranks 3rd among the states that lags behind in payment of wages to workers.

He lamented that, “the

administration came into office amidst challenges ranging from months of salaries arrears at the local government and state levels, fiscal deficit, dwindling revenue, some uncompleted

L-R: Wife of Abia State Governor, Nkechi Caroline Ikpeazu; Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu and his deputy, Ude Oko Chukwu, during the Democracy Day Celebration at the International Conference Centre Umuahia, Abia State...on Tuesday.

My administration has delivered, says Ajimobi Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi, has declared that his administration has delivered dividends of democracy to the people of the state in the last seven years.

In a statement by his Special Adviser, Communication and Strategy, Mr. Bolaji Tunji, on Monday, gave his administration a pass mark, particularly in infrastructure development, security, education, agriculture and health care.

He said his government had built more roads than all the previous administrations combined since the inception of the fourth republic.

He listed some the completed roads to include the dualisation of strategic township roads

in Ibadan such as Toll Gate interchange-Challenge; New Garage-Toll Gate Interchange and Onireke-JerichoAleshinloye- Dugbe-Agbarigo Road, as well dualisation of major township roads in Oyo, Ogbomoso and Iseyin.

Ongoing roads include Eleyele-Ologuneru-Eruwa road, dualisation of Saki township roads, Idi-ApeBasorun-Akobo-Odogbo Barracks Junction Road; GateOld Ife Road-Alakia, as well as the expansion of Oke Adu-Iwo Road, the governor disclosed.

He did not leave out the construction of the Mokola flyover, the first to be done by any civilian administration in the state, as well as the revived Ibadan Circular Road project,

which had remained a dream in the last 15 years, adding that the first phase of the project has been awarded to ENL Consortium Limited at the cost of N70bn, under a build, operate and transfer arrangement.

The governor also said the infrastructure upgrade included the urban flood management initiative targeted at checking the reoccurrence of the 2011 flooding in Ibadan, which consumed many lives and property.

He said the government had also tackled the perennial water shortage, which residents of Ibadan had been experiencing, by carrying out wholesale rehabilitation of Asejire Waterworks and also recently flagged off rehabilitation works on the Eleyele Dam, which

was badly hit by the 2011 flood disaster.

According to Ajimobi, the state also recorded milestones in education with “the floating of the Education Trust Fund through which stakeholders now collaborate with the government to improve service delivery and boost the standard of education in the state”.

“This is aside the establishment of the Oyo State Model Education System Initiative (OYOMESI), which seeks to inculcate moral values in students and the School Governing Board (SGB) policy, which is a participatory model that brings together all stakeholders in the education system in the management of public secondary schools.’’

rural roads, electricity and water projects, over-bloated wage bill, political violence amongst other factors that posed formidable obstacles to the smooth take-off of government”.

With this the governor pointed out, it has not been easy to navigate the ship of the state without pains to him personally and some vital sections of the state community.

He said, “Friends who like me, leaders of thought, as well as religious leaders in the state have never let a moment of their time with me pass without entreatment of me to do all within my power to pay salaries. In the past five months, I have ensured that salaries are paid at every end of the month.

This I hope to continue even as I find ways to offset the back log of the arrears outstanding”.

The governor said labour in the state has been understanding and above all, very supportive in these very difficult times and wish he could do better to put smiles on workers faces.

Gov. Ortom said, his

administration has taken steps since inception to drastically reduce the cost of governance. This informed his administration’s decision to free funds to be channeled towards critical infrastructure and development of human capacity to stimulate economic growth and development.

“We believe in providing solutions to developmental challenges by being innovative and courageous while rallying the political will to take tough decisions which we feel are in the best interest of the people who willingly gave us their mandate to serve them”.

Gov. Ortom enumerated his achievements to include massive overhauling of public primary schools through SUBEB after raising N3.8 billion as counterpart funding which generated an additional N7.6 billion. These funds were invested into construction, reconstruction, and rehabilitation and equipping of 740 primary schools across the three Senatorial Zones of Benue.

APC govt deserves pass mark -Niger Speaker Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Alhaji Ahmed Marafa, has said the All Progressives Congress (APC), led government at the Federal and State levels has done fairly well in three years to warrant another term in 2019.

Marafa made this known in Minna while speaking with journalists on the occasion of Nigeria’s 19 years of uninterrupted democratic rule.

He stated that three years was not enough to fully assess the present government given that the opposition spent 16 years in power.

According to him “in fairness to my party, the APC, 3 years is never enough time for one to fully assess a government.

“This is even more

so when you consider the fact that a particular government was in power for 16 years.

“This government came into power with unprecedented levels of expectations from Nigerians, so at the end of at least 8 years, I believe Nigerians would be able to assess us more comprehensively.”

He noted that the party deserved another shot at power in 2019 to consolidate on the gains recorded so far.

“We have done relatively well in 3 years and I think we have a good score card we can present anywhere to deserve another term.

“To be honest, we have done excellently well in some areas and deserve a pass mark in other areas,’’ he said.

News 10 Group seeks probe of alleged sexual abuse on IDPs Idu Jude, Abuja Again the Nigeria army under the leadership of General Turkur Burutai, has come under heavy criticism championed by a group of human right watchers under the aegis of Access to Justice (AJ), who had described the Federal Government dismissal of Amnesty International reports of sexual abuse of the IDPs by the Nigerian soldiers as kneejerking.

The group, had reiterated its commitments to ensure that justice is done to all the IDPs being used as sex doles, thereby urging the Nigerian government to institute a probe panel to ensure that such soldiers are brought to book. It also suggests that the federal government should suspend Tukur Buratai, chief of army staff, over a recent report released by Amnesty International.

The Amnesty report contained alleged sexual abuse and exploitation of internally displaced persons in the northeast by soldiers and members of the civilian joint task force.

The federal government of Nigeria through the Minister of information Alhaji lai Mohammed had denied the allegation saying it was a target to malign the Nigerian army.

In a statement by Joseph Otteh, convener of AJ, the group said a responsible government cannot dismiss reports of horrendous crimes against its citizens without investigating them.

Otteh said the knee-jerk reaction has cheapened the lives and dignity of all whose stories were the subject of the allegations.

“In this case, a government which vaunts that it takes human rights abuses seriously has committed itself to the position that that allegations of serious atrocities made against agents of the state are unfounded without lifting a finger to verify them,” Otteh said.

“The grounds for dismissing the report are deplorable.

Government says proper description of such people constituting the source of information was not provided.

That objection is abjectly ludicrous, even more so for a government that is supposedly promoting a whistle-blower’s policy and protecting the identities of persons who provide information to it on criminal activities.

“How is it tenable for government to request for sources of information in the 21st century before it can act on complaints of the possible commission of war crimes, particularly when those sources can be exposed to further traumatisation or possible destruction should they be revealed?

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

3 feared killed in Delta kingship tussle Nosa Akenzua, Asaba No fewer than three persons were on Monday night feared killed over an age long kingship tussle in Abala community, Ndokwa East local Government Area of Delta state It was gathered that the victims were allegedly shot by unidentified persons after a caucus meeting held by a faction of elders of the community over the tussle while they were on

their way home They were said to have been rushed to a nearby hospital in Abala lifeless where the doctors are said be battling to save their lives hitherto But chief Edwin Uzor,Special Adviser to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on Rural Development, Peace Building and conflict Resolution told Our reporter “the situation in Abala is tensed but we as a government has waded into it,the persons that were shot are not sure will

survive it,it is a total break down of law and other in the community” and called on the elders of the area to look inward, and create the enabling environment for government to resolve the crisis He said that with peace in the area, meaningful development would come to the community as well as attract investors for development Investigation revealed that three ruling families, Umu Nkini,Umu Iyesele,and Umu

odume have been locked in Kingship tussle over ten years ago,a dispute that had allegedly claimed the lives of Six persons including the recent three persons alleged to have been feared killed on Monday night Speaking to our reporter the Iyase of Abala Kingdom, Chief uche Nwadialor Michael said “we are Happy the state government has stepped into the crisis, it aged long, Some many things have been destroyed including lives,

we also thanked the state government for moving into the crisis, the crisis would soon be over” The police spokesman in the state, DSP,Andrew Aniamaka who spoke to our reporter said “ the police have moved into the crisis, we have arrested some persons, and investigation is ongoing, those they shot were taken the hospital, but in critical conditions, we will ensure law and order is restored in Abala community.”

Governor State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (right) presenting a gift to the Assistant Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps, Michael Olagunju (left), during a courtesy visit to the Governor to Introduce the Newly Zonal Commander Officer Federal Road Safety Corps Zone 11 at the State Secretariat Abere, Osogbo

Security agencies intensify synergy to fight crime in Bayelsa The heads of the various security agencies in Bayelsa State have resolved to raise their level of synergy in the fight against crimes and criminalities, particularly in the areas of armed robbery, piracy, cultism and kidnapping.

This was part of the decisions reached at the 42nd State Security Council meeting held in Government House, Yenagoa.

In a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Chief Boma Spero-Jack, the various Security Commanders assured members of the public that concerted efforts are being made to bring about permanent peace in

Amassoma community and its environs.

While urging all parties to remain calm, law abiding and cooperate with the security agencies in the maintenance of peace in Amassoma and other parts of the State, they

also warned the youths not to allow themselves to be used by self-seeking individuals and desperate politicians to foment trouble.

The statement also urged youths across the State to engage themselves in

meaningful ventures by taking advantage of the numerous opportunities provided by the State Government to better their lives, stressing that, the Government is alive to its responsibilities of protecting lives and property of the

citizens.

The security commanders restated their resolve to preventing crime and criminality at all times, adding that, they will also ensure that, those, who run foul of the law, are brought to justice.

Gov Bindow pardons 33 prisoners Adamawa State Governor, Muhammadu Bindow, has ordered the release of 33 prisoners serving various jail terms in prisons across the state to commemorate this year’s Democracy Day. A statement signed by the State Commissioner of Information and Strategy,

Ahmad Sajoh, said the beneficiaries were from five prisons in the state.

“His Exacellency, the Executive Governor of Adamawa State, Sen. Muhammad Umar Jibrilla Bindow, acting on the advice of the Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy,

and in exercise of the powers conferred on him by Section 212 (I) (d) of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended, has ordered the release of 33 reformed prisoners in commemoration of the 2018 Democracy Day..

“The release is to take effect immediately and all other

legal formalities have been concluded with the Nigeria Prison Service.”

The prisoners released, all of them males, comprised 14 from Yola Prison, nine from Jada Prison, six from Mubi Prison, three from Numan Prison, and one from Jimeta Prison.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday May 30, 2018

Politics

11

Righteous leaders will deliver ideal democracy- AbdulLateef

Lawmaker commends Buhari for renewing hope in democracy broadcast

Benjamin Omoike

The message of President Muhammadu Buhari to Nigerians on the occasion of the nation’s democracy day is a demonstration of purposeful leadership, candor, honour and courage, this is the view of Hon. Tunde Braimoh, a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Braimoh, who is the Chairman, Lagos State House of Assembly Ad hoc Committee on Information, Strategy and Security gave this commendation in a statement he issued on Tuesday in Lagos.

The lawmaker, representing Kosofe Constituency II in the Assembly was reacting to President Buhari’s national broadcast to commemorate the 19th year of Democracy and his third anniversary in office.

“By that insightful speech, the President has displayed great intuition and has rekindled the hopes of the common man.

“Standing on the tripod of security, corruption and the economy, the President lucidly addressed the worries and concerns of not a few countrymen and women,” Braimoh said.

The lawmaker commended Buhari over dimensioning of government activities on security to include the subdue of insurgency, capacity for the military and “de-radicalization’ of the insurgents by way of rehabilitation.

He lauded the President for not attributing the successful strides on security exclusively to himself or to his government, but to the cooperation and collaboration of ‘elders and good people ‘ of the affected areas.

Braimoh added: “The President rightfully regaled in the popularly and internationally acclimated prowess of his administration in combating corruption; one of the major banes plaguing our polity.

“Wastage, leakages and pilferage are perhaps the most afflictive of our economic problems. His speech portends great hopes as he gave indication of renewed and even exponential efforts to tackle the hydra headed monster of corruption.

“Perhaps the most heartwarming part of the President’s speech is on the economy.

The President spoke glowingly on his administration’s efforts to create wealth and reduce poverty.”

The lawmaker also commended the government for supporting the weak, the vulnerable, the youths, fresh and non graduates alike to find their feet According to him, the school feeding programme is promoting healthy living and providing jobs.

The lawmaker, who lauded the President for unprecedented investments in transportation, added that the importation of rice is reduced by 90 per cent.

According to him, this has thereby impacted the foreign reserve and by implication the economy.

Braimoh said: “His announcement on the “Not Too Young To Run Bill “ depicts a father of the nation with undying love for the youths manifesting his eagerness to transmit power whenever expedient.”

The President, in his nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, expressed his recommitment to achieve the three cardinal points of security, corruption and economy to lead the country into new era of justice and prosperity.

In his scorecards, Buhari said that his administration had delivered on security, fight against corruption, employment, transport, power, education among others and was working hard to revamp the economy.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Dr. AbdulHakeem AbdulLateef, has enjoined Muslims and all righteous people in Nigeria to participate actively in the political arena; saying as a people, Lagosians, and indeed Nigerians, would not experience ideal democracy needed to bring the desired socio-economic development, infrastructural growth, prosperity and happiness, if this is not done.

While delivering his keynote address titled, “Morality, The Missing Element in Nigerian Politics”, at a recent Ramadan Lecture organised by the Yaba College of Technology Muslims Alumni Association, AbdulLateef said, “The people who have the fear of Allah, knowledgeable, righteous and have all it takes to govern and put things right, remain apathetic and disinterested, abandoning the political landspace to those who are there for selfish desires and personal gains.

“The vast majority of those who are active in politics today do not fear Allah, as they are there for business, cannot keep promises and would not be able to bring the necessary changes for which the masses clamour. Indeed, they cannot give what they do not have.

“It is for this reason that as blessed and favoured as Nigeria is, with abundant human and mineral resources, including petroleum and gas, clement weather and extremely good arable land, the country has continued to lag behind in virtually everything because most people are unmindful of the bounties of Allah, ungrateful of Allah’s abundance of blessings and made wrong all what

AbdulLateef Allah has made right for them,” he said.

AbdulLateef said these set of leaders whom had no fear of God, had by their own hands brought untoward circumstances to reign in the land and allowed all manner of vices such as terrorism, kidnapping, unemployment, inflation, fear, disillusionment, apathy and hunger to prevail, unfortunately.

The Commissioner strongly advised that righteous, God-fearing individuals should fully participate in politics, contest for elective positions

and support the people with the fear of God through their voices and votes, so that the people would actually experience the favourable consequences of their actions.

While making reference to Quran 16 verse 11, he said, “The Almighty Allah will not change the condition of the people until they themselves see the evil they have brought upon themselves and reverse the trend by being upright.”

He stated that the participation of God-fearing people had become paramount and that if the desired

results must be achieved, Muslims must move away from their current state of disinterestedness in politics and take leading roles in this regard; contest, support and elect those who fear Allah and those with the necessary qualifications, attitude, love and care to lead and govern.

He added that the people could not continue to be disenchanted and expect different results.

“Mosques are more than polling centres in Nigeria, and Muslims must use these channels to propagate the required knowledge and importance of political participation, he advised.

He stressed that Muslims must operate from “the Manual”, which would provide the required knowledge before they could be effective leaders at home, work place, the political arena and do the right things. He charged Muslims to demand and support people with the highest levels of qualifications and requirements, and in doing so, give priority to those with the fear of Allah.

He said Ramadan is about Takwa or the fear of Allah, adding that it should not be viewed mainly as abstinence from food and other pleasures but application of all what is pure and just as decreed.

Opportunities, he said, abound in Nigeria and if activated, would usher in a new era of accelerated development and appropriate democratic practice. “The Nigerian Muslims must therefore think out of the box and give good values, show transparency and honesty to strengthen family, social, religious and political institutions,” he said.

Nwokedi declares for Imo guber race, vows to liberate state from bondage, poverty Patrick Okohue An Igbo leader in Lagos, High Chief Chika Nwokedi has declared his interest to contest the governorship seat of Imo State in the 2019 general elections, promising to liberate Imolites from bondage and poverty and create jobs that would empower the people.

Nwokedi who is also the president of Igbo socio-cultural group, Ndigbo Buru Out Lagos, made the declaration at his office in Ikotun Lagos in the presence of a large crowd of supporters who gathered to give support to his ambition.

The Ideato born politician

who holds the title of Okpoko of Obodoukwu, said his decision to contest the Imo governorship position was a divine call from God, noting that if voted into power his administration would focus on building industries that would create jobs for the teeming youths of the state, while fixing infrastructures across which according to him had become dilapidated.

Nwokedi berated successive administrations in Imo State for betraying the trust of the people, while stressing that it was time the youths take over the mantle of leadership in the country.

The business mogul, who did not reveal the political platform

through which he intends to actualise his ambition, denied being sponsored by a god-father, stressing that he was only interested in issues based campaign rather than personality attack.

He said, “I cannot sit and watch my people suffering daily because of bad governance without any remedy; and that was why when I had the divine call from God I obeyed.

It is time the youths take over power, what is happening is that our leaders are betraying the trust of the people and you can see the bad roads, schools everywhere as a sign,” Nwokedi said.

Nwokedi

Patrick Okohue

Politics 12

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Lagos APC women threaten to protest naked against state’s deputy speaker Stories: Patrick Okohue Crisis in the Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) went deeper yesterday when hundreds of women supporter of the party Congress threatened to protest nakedly to the Lagos State House of Assembly over their disagreement with deputy speaker, Wasiu Eshilokun.

The women who are majorly from Lagos Island Local Government ward C1 who had already kick started protest to register their displeasure stormed the office of the former governor of the state, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, at Idowu Taylor, Lagos Island.

They claimed that the Lagos State deputy speaker had embarked on various moves to arrest them following the tiff that erupted between him and a faction of the party at the ward.

Recall that the ward congress that was conducted at the ward early May led to an intervention of the party’s national leader, Bola Tinubu, who waded in to settle the matter.

But women of the party at the ward insisted that Eshinlokun is yet to yield to Asiwaju’s resolution, thereby threatening to arrest them with police.

They alleged that the deputy speaker had contacted Area G police command at Ogba, Lagos to effect arrest of the women especially one Mrs Ola Williams who is also known as Iron Lady.

At the protest, the women also concluded to walk naked to the Lagos State House of Assembly in other to show to the Speaker of the House and other members how the deputy speaker had attempted to take lives out of them.

Mrs Muinat Iginla, the leader of the group that protested, told our correspondent that lives of women in Lagos Island Local Government were in danger in the hands of Eshilokun.

“We cannot seat and fold our arms over this case and that is why we are here to see our father, Asiwaju Tinubu.

Eshiloku has already contacted police and they have called us that they are coming to arrest all of us and we

are waiting, but before we start, we decided to come out and tell Asiwaju, so that he will not feel disappointed in us. We are ready to walk naked to the House of Assembly to protest how he has been disturbing our lives.

Narrating what led to the matter, Muinat said “This issue is bothering on the last ward congress that we held early this month. We have served him for good twelve years while he maltreats us as he like, but in the congress, we told him that what we want is that position of women leader should be given to our daughter and leader, Ola Williams aka Iron lady.

“At initial he agreed with us because he saw that our group was more than his faction, but later, he changed the name of Ola Williams with Rukatyat.

This issue was later resolved by Asiwaju who said the position should be given to Williams. But after this, he started threatening us and our people that we will all be arrested.”

The leader of the group also alleged some hoodlums sponsored

by Eshinloku had also threatened to

kidnap Mrs Williams.

Meanwhile, one of the workers at the office of Asiwaju Tinubu, who was simply identified as Motunrayo has assured the women that the issue will be resolved by the office of the former state governor.

Motunrayo, admonished the women to maintain peace while fighting for their right.

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Commissioner of Justice, Adeniji Kazeem, has also admonished the women to maintain peace while conveying their grievance across the leaders of the party.

Adeniji who was represented by Mr Wale Ojora, at the state Ministry of Justice, iKeja, promised the women that the issue will be looked into appropriately.

Meanwhile, all efforts to reach the Lagos State Deputy Speaker, Honourable Eshinloku was not successful as he was not reachable via mobile phone as at press time, our correspondent will still make efforts to get his side of the story.

APC women from Lagos Island Local Government protesting against Lagos Assembly Deputy Speaker at the office of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu in Lagos

Lagos Speaker bemoans neglect of legislative summons, hijacks of Mace Urges media, CSO to help save democracy

Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has bemoaned the rising incidents by public office holders of ignoring legislative summons by parliaments, especially at the national level, describing it as a dangerous trend in democratic practice.

Obasa also frowned at the rising incidents of mace snatching now prevalent across many legislative houses, appealing to media practitioners and members of the Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to help protect the Nigerian democracy and prevent its collapse.

Obasa made this plea at a parley with select media practitioners and some CSOs in the state at the Assembly premises.

The lawmaker, who spoke against the backdrop of recent snatching of the mace at the Senate and Gombe State

House of Assembly and also summons by the National Assembly to the Inspector General of Police and some other government officials that were ignored, said the legislature remains the kernel of democracy.

Speaking of the achievements of the House, Obasa said that the House had served the state and met the hope of the residents in the last three years.

“We have formulated laws for the growth of the state, and in the last one year, we have passed nine bills into law and 45 resolutions. Some of these issues affect the environment, transport, power, arts among others.

“No meaningful development can take place in an unsafe place, we have equipped fire service for flood disasters under the year.

“CSOs and media have played great

roles in the promotion of democracy, bridged the gap between the electorates and the government as the watchdogs.

“Legislature is the basis of democracy, I call on you to rise up to protect our democracy,” he said.

The Speaker said that the House had worked hard for the growth, development and peaceful co-existence of the state.

Obasa said that the House had been able to serve the state by working together in collaboration with the executive arms in the interests of our state.

One of the participants at the parley, Prof Ishaq Akintola, an academic and Director, Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) commended the House for its achievements and peace in the last three years.

Akintola, who commended the House for its support for the Lagos State University (LASU), added that the increase

of maternity leave for women by the state government from three to six months was a giant stride.

Dr Qasim Akinreti, the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Lagos State Chapter, urged the House to come up with a bill on prompt payment of salaries of journalists.

Akinreti, who advocated for special salaries for journalists in state-owned media, harped on Media Enhancement Act. Mrs Titilope Akosa from Centre for 21st Century Issues, urged the House to intensify efforts in ensuring that members of the public participate in law making processes through ample notices.

Akosa, who urged the Assembly to look into gender equality and opportunity bill, advised that the state budget should be made available online for CSOs to do analyses and proper monitoring.

Daura stakeholders endorse Masari’s second term bid, urge Abdullahi to run for Senate Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Daura, Katsina State have endorsed Governor Aminu Bello Masari for a second term in office and also called on the Executive Secretary, Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission (LSWRC), Mr. Ahmed Kabiru Abdullahi to contest the vacant senatorial seat.

The APC chairman, Mai’adua Local Government Area, Alhaji Nura Koza who made the endorsement, said Masari has done well adding that he deserves a second term.

He cited the example of the Koza circular road built at over N2 Billion which he said has improved the living standard of the people and impacted positively on their commercial activities.

He said the stakeholders of the APC are giving the governor 30 days ultimatum to heed the call by over 38 associations and declare to re-contest the gubernatorial election in 2019.

The APC chairman in the local government also called on Arc Ahmed Kabiru Abdullahi to contest for Duara Senatorial District seat which has become vacant following the demise of Sen. Mustapha Bukar, the Senator representing Daura zone at the Senate.

Koza said Abdullahi has the character to continue the good work the late Sen Mustapha Bukar was doing at the Red Chamber.

“We have confidence in you, Arc. A.K. Abdullahi, we know you will continue the good work of the late senator and we are giving you this mandate to carry on. We pray for the soul of Senator Bukar to continue to rest in perfect peace, Amen.”

“We are calling on the people of Daura Senatorial District to support Abdullahi as we call on him to contest for the Senate seat,” Koza added.

On his part, Abdullahi has said that he will consider the call of the people to represent them adding that the developmental stride of the Masari led administration has given him the confidence to go into the race.

Abdullahi said: “We the entire people of Mai’Adua, Shiroka, Koza and Jardede are calling on our amiable governor, Rt. Hon Aminu Bello Masari to contest for a second term in office,” he said.

Abdullahi, after a tour of Masari’s development projects, said: “Governor Masari has been constructing roads, rehabilitated schools and equipped our hospitals with modern facilities worth billions of naira, I took a tour to the state to see for myself what the governor has been doing and I am satisfied that Masari is working.

“We enjoy the roads to the extent that we almost missed our way during the tour. His developmental strides are visible for everyone to see. He is doing exactly what the Katsina State people elected him to do,” Abdullahi said.

“I contested against Masari in 2015, but what I have seen has made me to support him and believe in his administration,” Abdullahi added.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

13

Editorial Commentary OUR POSITION

U

APC parallel congress and matters arising

ncertainty is the feeling at the All Progressives Congress (APC) offices across the country as the gladiators explore more suitable means of getting hold of the party structures at their wards. The ruling party seem to be in a more serious situation ahead the 2019 general elections as a result of primary election fallout emerging from several states.

The just concluded Ward, Local and State congresses of the party tells it all as the crisis ridden party was accused of election manipulations, thereby giving birth to disaffection and alienation among party faithful. This however, portends danger, as many party members have withdrawn their loyalty to the party while others are threatening to pull out and join the opposition for 2019.

The National Publicity secretary of the party, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi said before the commencement of the congresses that the party will not settle for parallel congress, saying that, ‘APC rejects parallel congresses, The only congress recognised by our party is the one organised by the committee that our party had set up”.

Abdullahi further said that any other congress than the one approved by the party, is an exercise in futility.

Despite the party’s rejection of the parallel congresses, some states still went ahead to hold it going against the party’s directives.

The state congresses of the party ended in predictable confusion in many states with crisis rocking the party, prompting parallel state executives in many states in largely peaceful gatherings.

Kwara State, which like Lagos had not recorded a division in the ward and local government area congresses, also witnessed a division after some stakeholders, led by the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, conducted a parallel congress.

However, the mainstream of the party converged with

Senate President, Bukola Saraki, Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed, National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, all members of the National and State Assembly and major stakeholders at the Congress at the Banquet Hall, opposite Government House, Ilorin.

The congress returned Alhaji Isola Balogun Fulani as Chairman and all the other 34 members of the former executive.

In Ondo State, the atmosphere was not different as hell was let loose when thugs invaded the venue of the congress held at the BTO Event Centre, Akure.

The thugs, numbering no fewer than 25, chased the delegates out of the hall, destroyed the ballot papers, and upturned the tables, chairs and electronic equipment in the venue.

Senator Ajayi Boroffice and a former deputy governor of the state, Alhaji Alli Olanusi, who belong to the faction and were on their way to the congress, made a quick u-turn following the disruption of the state congress.

Plans by the NWC for a unified fresh ward and local government congresses in Rivers State were unsuccessful after allies of the Senator Magnus Abeled tendency boycotted the fresh ward congresses. It however, resorted to seek court intervention and to stop another election.

Those aligned with Senator Abe said they kept away based on the fact that the matter is subjudice and that it will suspend participation in any congresses pending the court hearing on the dispute coming up in June.

In Ebonyi State, parallel congresses were held with associates of the Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, and those of Senator Julius Ucha, converging in two different venues.

It was the same tale of acrimony in Oyo State where parallel executives at different congresses, separately championed by Governor Abiola Ajimobi and the Minister of Communication, Adebayo Shittu, were held.

Historical Times in Pictures

In Adamawa State, parallel congresses were held by camps loyal to Governor Mohammed Jibrilla and his predecessor, Murtala Nyako.

In Anambra State, stakeholders, however, returned the immediate past executive based on consensus.

In Enugu State, the story was different as it was gathered that the quick intervention of security operatives and some party officials prevented members of the congress committee and INEC officials from been mobbed by suspected hoodlums. With the dignitaries and the accredited delegates out of the way, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vincent Onyeama, and his group took control of the venue and held a factional congress.

Meanwhile, in Oyo State the new executives emerged through voice vote at the congress conducted by a fiveman APC State Congress Committee headed by Alhaji Abdullahi Gwarzo and monitored by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi, once noted that “politics is about give and take. It is about reconciliation and interest. The most important is to accommodate others”.

We are of the opinion that the APC should put its house together since it cannot go into the forthcoming general election with a divided house.

The party seems to have gone to sleep immediately after the 2015 general election and needs to wake up from its slumber before 2019.

It is recognised that the impunity of the yesteryears is been revisited by the ruling All Progressives Congress, and if the party is to win the 2019 election, it really needs to put itself together as a united and one indivisible solid party.

We therefore wish to remind the APC that Nigeria is tired of excuses. The party must act fast as the issue of parallel congresses must be addressed as the party prepares for 2019 polls.

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S I G N AT U R E Publisher

Folio Communications Plc

4 197 A rainy day on the outskirts of Benin City, Nigeria, in July 1974.

The opinions expressed in the articles published in this newspaper are solely those of the authors.

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

Opinion 14

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

We’re grateful to God for success rate of 3 years

L Yemi Osinbajo

et me say that it is a very special privilege and honor for me to host you at this very special occasion of the Gala night, in celebration of the democracy day and the third anniversary of our government.

It is a very special pleasure indeed and I say this on behalf of the President and Commander-in-Chief, President Muhammadu Buhari. For those of us in government, I think, it is an opportunity to thank God for the extraordinary grace that brought us here.

I for one can say that five years ago if someone had

told me that I would be Vice President at all, let alone celebrating three years in office, I would have doubted that they were thinking right, but here we are.

One of the reasons why I never thought I would be in politics is because I always thought I had enough baggage already. I recall that when I was about to rent a place to live, the landlord said to me that there were two kinds of tenants he didn’t want. He did not want a lawyer and he didn’t want an Ijebu man and I qualified on both disqualifications. So, now you can imagine what it is like to add one more – a politician, to all of that.

In fact, I was greatly discouraged when a

gentleman at an event like this, told a story about how an armed robber walked into a bank and there were three people standing there and he said to the first, pointing a gun at him saying, “Give me your money,” and the man said, “I am a doctor”, and he said “bring your money”.

The robber pointed to the next man and said, “I am sure you are a teacher, bring your money.” He went to the third person and said give me your money”, and the man replied, “I am a politician”, and he replied saying, “okay, give me my money”.

I think, with all these baggage, one must be careful about being a lawyer, a politician and then an Ijebu man.

But we have very good reasons to be grateful to God for the wonderful ways that he has worked with our government and ensured that in the past three years, we recorded such rate of success.

I was reminding someone two months ago that we are not even three years yet and we are being compared to some of our friends who have been in office for 16 years. It shows that we must be doing very well.

I really want to thank every one of you for making the time to come celebrate with us today, especially those who had to travel from out of Abuja to share this time with us, I want to just thank you and to wish you a happy democracy day.

Buhari and 3 years after

H

Emmanuel Onwubiko

ow democracies die’ is a new book by two respected political science scholars teaching in one of the Ivy League universities in the United States of America- Havard University, Professors Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblat.

A polish commentator by name Stan Tetenman did a very brief commentary on this important work of scholarship which follows the comprehensive scholarly work done earlier by Professor John Keane which he titled “the death and life of democracy”.

Tetenman whose write up featured in the www.sunjournal.com, said the book, “How Democracies Die,” is an interesting analysis of what is happening in this country (USA).

The authors say norms are important to a society. Two of the most important are mutual toleration and institutional forbearance.

The reviewer reported the authors as affirming that there are “Four measures on our litmus test for autocrats 1. Weak commitment to the democratic rules of the game (claiming voter fraud, wouldn’t accept results of election); 2. Denial of the legitimacy of one’s opponents (birther problem against Obama, locking up Clinton); 3. Toleration or encouragement of violence; (embraced and encouraged violence at rallies); and 4.

Readiness to curtail the civil liberties of rivals and critics (threatening media, claiming media lies).”

The reviewer quoted the duo as stating In their powerfully written book ‘How Democracies Die that President Donald Trump and many Republicans meet those four tests. How can they credibly defend this country’s democracy?, he asked rhetorically.

“Politics should not be an “I win, you lose” situation. Politics should be reaching what is the best compromise for the good of this country. Rivals in the political process should be treated with mutual toleration and respect.

Those are not in the Constitution. They do set a standard for how politicians should behave to make democracy function”.

“Partisan hatred threatens the spirit of the Constitution. It can subvert the system of checks and balances. If norms of mutual toleration and respect are abandoned, this nation will cease being a democracy”.

But wait a minute! These authors could

have expanded the scope of their academic enterprise to go beyond the shores of the Trump’s America and to capture the developing trends in a place like Nigeria which Donald Trump once called “a shithole country”.

Be that as it may, the writers of this scholarly work have also covered the broad representation of how Nigeria’s democracy is dying incremental death. All those four factors highlighted in the new book by the two Harvard university professors of Political Science, as significant signs of dying democracies are present in huge quantity in Nigeria as I write.

First, the fundamental indices alluded to in that book are in large supply in Nigeria of today and many more are replicated such as the persistently annoying blame game that the current government in Abuja has elevated to a statecraft. For the better part of the last three days, Nigerians have been inundated by a government sponsored propaganda and campaign of calumny targeted at the major opposition Peoples Democratic Party which had peacefully handed over power to this administration in 2015.

Secondly, as Nigerians have been told to take a holiday on May 29th 2018 to mark the so-called democracy day, Nigerians in their millions are in total agreement that democracy is fast collapsing under the watch of the man some few percentage (15 million out of 180 million) gave the mandate in the year 2015 to run the administrative structure of the federal executive arm of government for four years.

Recently, a poll conducted by one of the respected online newspapers has it that majority of Nigerians think that corruption, has become widespread even as insecurity and unemployment have expanded in the last three years. The popular omline medium reported the majority opinions of those who partocipated in the opinion poll as arguing that the economy is at an all time low. These feelings of a collapsing economy even has some semblance of official stamp going by the frightening statistics that emanated from the International Monetary fund (IMF); World Bank and the local National Bureau of Statistics(NBS).

Even by the very modest and indeed conservative estimation of the publicly funded National Bureau of statistics, the rate of poverty and unemployment amongst

Nigerians have ballooned beyond control just as the stark reality of job losses in the last three years have become very disturbing. 9 million Nigerians have lost their jobs in the last one year.

By some considerable estimate, it is stated that virtually all the states but few are insolvent and can’t meet their financial obligations without federal allocations. Some States that got the so called Paris Fund refund running into billions of Naira couldn’t still pay their workers due to manifest corruption on the part of the State governors. One of the governors who is even the Chairman of the cartel called Nigerian Governors Forum was accused of diverting billions of cash from his state’s treasury and is building a hotel in Lagos even as he had recently bought up a choice housing assets in the United States of America. Die to the existence of section 308(1) of the Constitution which grants some 76 executive power holders in Nigeria (President;Vice president; Governors and their deputies) this indicted governor from one of the poorest states in the North is still walking around a free man. That section of the Constitution i cited is the beginning of the institutionalisation of inequity in Nigeria.

Sadly, inequalities and inequities have widened beyond control just as the rate of violent killings of the citizenry has become a common place thus negating the primary purpose of government which is the protection of lives and property.

Nigeria under the current dispensation has also become a large killing fields with crimes and criminality becoming the order of the day with the heads of the various security organizations unable and unwilling to discharge the legal functions for which they were appointed to do in the first place.

The reoccurring decimal of official corruption and the total lack of transparency in the procurement mechanisms applied by government, have led to the expanding frontiers of insecurity and collapse of good governance in all of Nigeria without exception. The defence sector and the police are some of the most corruptly administered agencies of federal government. Almost all of the major defence procurement are marred by massive corruption.

So it can be submitted beyond any shadow of doubt that Nigeria’s social and political manifestations of collapse have by

far surpassed the estimation made by some academic scholars including the two Havard University Political Science Professors who had affirmed that even in the developed Western societies, inequality and difference has increasingly become present.

Michael O’Shaughnessy and Jane Stadler wrote in their book “media and society”, fourth edition that: “looking at the world globally, and at individual Western societies, it soon becomes evident that there are major social inequalities. Societies consist of a complex network of group with different – sometimes competing, sometimes overlapping-interests”.

Some of these groups according the aforementioned authors are advantaged (in terms of such social goods as housing, education, and life opportunities) by virtue of their birth, their wealth, their class position, their skin colour, and their gender.

Consequently, there are advantaged and disadvantaged groups in society, or, to put this another way, dominant and subordinate groups.

The authors of Media and Society states that three major areas of social division are class, gender, and race, although in some contexts religion, age, sexuality, caste, and education can be equally divisive in ways that are often closely related to these three primary categories.

“Class, race and gender frequently restrict or create opportunities for individuals and groups to flourish and to attain coveted positions in society”.

“Since the beginnings of colonial explorations of the rest of the world by Europe in the sixteenth century there have been major differences in wealth between different countries and cultures. While you might imagine that the world is becoming more economically equal in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, the opposite seems to be true, as evidenced by the data from the website of New International Magazine.”

“Inequality is on the increase. In 1976 Switzerland was 52 times richer than Mozambique; in 1997 it was 508 times richer.

Two hundred and fifty years ago, the richest countries were only five times richer than the poorest, and Europe only twice as rich as China or India (New International, www. newint.org/index4.html).”

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

15 Column

Shina Peters at 60: A life in music Times Columnist reuben abati

‘

It was not just music; it was music as meaning, as psycho-motor, spatial, kinetic exploration, a combination of man and notes in the interrogation of sense and emotion. Both men and women latched on to every element of that album

,

I

consider it a great privilege to count Shina Peters, the Afro-Juju maestro, who turns 60 this week, as one of my friends and brothers.

Dele Momodu has already penned a short tribute in his honour and a committee of friends is planning a day of tributes to coincide with his birthday on May 30. Shina Peters deserves to be celebrated, honoured and serenaded for his contribution to the arts, his place in Nigerian music, his originality and his humanism. I met Shina Peters in those early days of becoming.

I was a graduate student at the University of Ibadan and sitting through classes in musicology taught by Esi Kinni Olusayin, one of our teachers in the team-teaching component of Theatre Arts Theory and Criticism, I had begun to take a special interest in that aspect of criticism and the ethnographic accent that Nigerian-American Ms Olusayin placed on it. Now, ethno-musicology is not a joke, but what is relevant in this piece is how I developed interest in the study and the critical analysis of music.

And it just happened that I wrote in those days very actively for the Nigerian press – Daily Sketch - where I did book reviews, almost weekly, Nigerian Tribune where I also wrote reviews and essays, The Times Literary Supplement anchored first by Afam Akeh and later Dapo Adeniyi, and of course the seminal Guardian Literary Series anchored by Ben Tomoloju where literature was promoted and rigorous intellection was allowed, and The Guardian opinion pages where the most serious debates in the country were conducted in a very serious manner by the country’s best and brightest.

When Chinua Acehbe writes that there was once a country, there was indeed once a country – a country where talent flourished, where the town enriched the gown and vice versa and indeed, where it was not a sin to subdue the consciously material life and seek things of the elevated mind. It was in that context that I met Shina Peters. My childhood friend, Kayode Ajala, was the editor of Hints magazine. He and Dele Momodu were the youngest editors in Nigerian journalism at the time. Our boss at Hints magazine where I was Contributing Editor was Dr. Ibe Kachikwu. Hints was a romance magazine, indeed that magazine reinvented romance journalism in Nigeria.

When Kachikwu was not attending to his daily job as a legal adviser in Mobil, he joined us at Hints, to produce a magazine that became a bestseller in Nigerian higher institutions. We were a great team because there was no publisher-staff relationship. Dr, as we called him was part of the team. He wrote columns and stories like everyone else. He joined in the proof-reading of stories. He took an interest in everything, and even joined us in the staff canteen. He was our mentor.

Hints magazine was about journalism but it was also family, a significant event in the lives of everyone who worked there.

It is not an accident that the magazine produced quite a number of superstarsChidinnma Awa-Agu, Amaka Obiofuma,

Hetty Ajayi, Onah Dike, Ekerete Udoh, Kayode Ajala, Chim Newton, Toni Kan Onwordi, Helon Habila, Peter Nkwoche and so on.

Then Shina Peters happened. No, scratch that. He emerged. He evolved.

In 1989, Shina Peters released an album which he titled Ace (Afro—Juju series 1).

It was not his first foray into music. He started music at a very young age, music being the only thing he had ever done in his life. He served apprenticeship under Chief Ebenezer Obey and later joined General Prince Adekunle’s band where he learned to play the guitar and the piano and sing. He was the superstar of the Adekunle band: young, but dexterous on the guitar and the piano. Artists are peripatetic spirits: they listen only to the Muse that controls them. The Muse that guides every artist is unique. The muse is transcendental.

Shina Peters soon left General Prince Adekunle and he teamed up with a colleague of his, Segun Adewale to form a band that was known as Sir Shina Adewale and the Superstars International. It was a case of talent meeting opportunity; the partnership was electrifying; this combination of talent in a formal sense was perhaps the first of its type in the history of juju music in Nigeria. Students of business partnerships would find in the Sir Shina Adewale example a useful case study in why partnerships fail in Nigeria or generally in business. In the course of a study of the Odutola brothers, which produced a co-authored book with my colleague and friend, Sesan Ajayi, a book that was commissioned by General Olusegun Obasanjo as he then was, we had observed that even biology does not mitigate the challenges of partnership. In the Shina Adewale case, the partnership produced extremely beautiful music: nine albums in all and all masterly experiments in sound, meaning and entertainment.

Segun Adewale led the vocals; Shina Peters anchored the instrumentation. The two friends soon fell apart, and that was a tragedy for Nigerian music. Both men could not manage their success and their ego. Sir Shina Adewale remains a lost opportunity in Nigerian music and a bad script in the study of business partnership.

The two men took juju music beyond the tradition already established from Roy Campbell to Ebenezer Obey and Sunny Ade, and then ruined it.

Shina Peters put into the partnership his mastery of instrumentation; melody and the rhythmic blend. Segun Adewale brought a rich, seductive, soulful voice that fitted naturally into Shina’s style, all laced with rich philosophy – a striking and intimidating combination of Ebenezer Obey, Prince Adekunle and Sunny Ade. If both had remained together, they would both have emerged as the best thing that ever happened in juju music. But they blew it. I don’t want to take sides. But Shina Peters’ position is that Segun Adewale eventually began to think that he was the secret of the team’s success. It is perhaps Karmic that Segun

Adewale practically vanished along the line, after the break up, and that Shina Peters evolved, even if I consider his collaboration with Segun Adewale, the most original phase of his career, and a significant moment in the evolution of juju music.

Shina Peters evolved through Ace, and that was the point at which we met. When the album titled Ace was released in 1989, there had been nothing like it, before it, or after it. Ace was not exactly juju – Shina Peters named it Afro-juju, to be interpreted in this analysis as a medley, a fusion, hitherto unseen, of rhythm, syncopation, polyphony and dance with a touch of meta-spatial incandescence.

This originality probably explains the popularity of the album. It was not just music; it was music as meaning, as psycho-motor, spatial, kinetic exploration, a combination of man and notes in the interrogation of sense and emotion. Both men and women latched on to every element of that album. Something new had happened again in the juju arena and the public could not have enough of it. Juju music is ordinarily sedate, more of sense than instrumentation and kinetics, but Shina Peters blended it all; he stretched the limits of the genre, he did to juju music what Fela did to highlife. Ace won double Platinum.

Shina Peters became a phenomenon.

He sold newspaper copies.

Hints magazine unleashed us on him. Dr Kachikwu wanted every possible story on this phenomenon. Kayode Ajala had a supply of status cars. Money was also not our problem. He and I followed Shina Peters everywhere. We became his friends and brothers. It was during this period that I knew the likes of Segun Awolowo (met him earlier in Ogun State University), Femi Otedola (then of Impact Press in Mushin), Lanre Tejuoso, Kweku Tandor, Abayomi Jolaoso, Dotun Olaribigbe (Lobito Disco), Dele Momodu, Mayor Akinpelu, Gboyega Okegbenro, Kunle Bakare, Dayo Olomu, Wale Olomu, Wale Oluwaleyimu, Eko Round City (later Eko Kashoggi), a long list of society women, part of that routine of course also included nights in hotels, trips to clubs, joints, breakfasts in baby mamas homes and all of that. That was also when I learnt to drink beer – from a glass to half-bottle until I chose Star - Shine Shine bobo - as my favourite brand, and practically became a connoisseur. We sat behind the stage and encouraged Shina Peters and wrote stories. We followed him everywhere. Ajala and I eventually became a member of his inner circle.

We could enter every room in his house.

Shina Peters is an open, unpretentious artiste. He worshipped his parents. He was devoted to his wife, Sammie who also supported him with the fanaticism of a disciple. He loves what he does –music.

In those days, he invited us to listen to his albums before they were released.

After Ace and Shinamania however, Shina Peters could no longer reproduce the magic of the moment that brought

him to international limelight. I may be wrong, but I attribute this to his departure from Sony Music. Art is essentially collaborative. It is an ensemble enterprise.

When a critical link disappears, the implications may be far-reaching. The Sony Music team of Mrs Keji Okunowo, Laolu Akins, Tony Alenkhe provided a natural home for Shina Peters’ talent. His exit from that home robbed him of the necessary support to fill the vacuum that had been created by the illness that took Sunny Ade out of the scene for a number of years. Sunny Ade’s return and Shina’s exit from Sony music changed the game.

As someone who can claim to know Shina Peters, off and on the scene of play, I state that there are many lessons that younger musicians can learn from his career and experience. My last major piece on music in Nigeria attracted very emotional responses from young Nigerian musicians. I predicted at the time that many of those egoistic and noise-making musicians would eventually end up as complete nobodies and that only artists of real talent would survive. I believe I have been proven right. Music is not noise, it is about meaning. It is about ability, talent and relevance. Shina Peters continues to remain relevant because he is a man of true talent. His staying power is the product of his professionalism and his ability to reinvent himself. His commitment to the juju genre is impressive. In those days, he actively encouraged younger musicians particularly Dele Taiwo, and other younger juju musicians.

He can be sensitive, nervous about competition, and often insecure, but he has no doubts about his talents and capabilities. This is the source of his strength and staying power. He may not have produced any other platinum music for a while, but he has done much better than his contemporaries in the face of the competition of the musical genres: in the past it was juju vs. fuji, now the landscape is much wider and the competition is much stiffer than can be possibly imagined. When we eventually do a stock-taking of the evergreens in Nigerian music, Shina Peters and his oeuvre will certainly be close to the top of the list.

That at 60, he already has an assured place among the masters is a remarkable achievement and on that I congratulate him. Star! SSP! Happy birthday, sir.

II. Kunle Ajibade at 60: A life in Journalism Kunle Ajibade is also 60. He turned 60 on May 28. I really don’t know what to say about this one. He cannot sing. He does not dance. He does not smoke. He does not drink. He does not know how to steal or cheat. I have known him for about 30 years and I have never caught him with a girlfriend or a side chick other than his wife. He has very naughty friends like me but he has refused to allow our shortcomings to rub off on him. I have never heard of any scandal about him, really. He has never raised his voice in anger in my presence either.

He is generally known as a gentleman and that is who he is – a humanist and a gentleman. Kunle Ajibade is the author of two books- Jailed for Life and What a country! And a patriot - With all that this country has done to him, he and his wife have refused to quit or give up.

He was jailed for life by the Abacha government for an offence he never committed. He was not even the one they were looking for, he just happened to be in the office and they took him.

Providence came to his rescue and he has never complained since then. Kunle Ajibade is a special breed. I admire him for his strength of character, his intellect, simplicity, and self-discipline. What connects us is his intellect.

News 16

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

APC govt has failed on economy, says parties Tom Okpe, Abuja The administration of the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by President Muhammadu Buhari, has been rated low on national economy as the Country celebrates its democracy day with political parties and politicians giving their assessment of the state of affairs in Nigeria with the impression that the party has not done well.

The National Chairman of the African Democratic Party (ADP), Sani Yagbaji, said in an

interview yesterday in Abuja that apart from the opportunity it offered for freedom of choice and end to military rule, the democratic experience has been very turbulent.

“You see, if you look at the value of Naira which is the measure or determiner of productivity up of the economy, If anything, it has gone down, and by the day, it is going down.

So, democracy has not really brought much to the people in terms of economy - I am talking in terms of deliverables, in terms on the economic impacts on the

people.

He said: “You can talk of freedom, that yes, you have freedom of choice, but even that freedom of choice, is also to a large extent being hijacked by rigging. So, often than not, you don’t find the wishes of the people expressed, what is happening is different from what people want”.

On how he would describe the last three years of the APCled administration, Yagbaji said: “I think what has happened to Nigeria is a tragedy. Three years of APC is a tragedy because

you know what I mean, it is a tragedy. Tragedy in the sense that, things that the government should do have not been done.

“Three years on, they are still making appointments.

Key political, economic positions, statutory bodies that are supposed to really guide, manage and advise on how the economy should be run. Still, some of them are not yet on board”.

On his part, the Labor Party National Chairman, Abdulsalam Abdulkadir said the country has witnessed

abuses of human rights and disrespect to rule of law lamenting what he described as growing poverty and suffering in the country.

“There is nothing to celebrate on this democracy day, what we are witnessing is mere civilian rule but with military mentality.

What we have, there is no respect to law and order. You can see the report of the international human rights organization on the rate of abuses in the country. In terms of development, Nigeria is still backwards, we are still a

consumer nation with not much local products to export. There is poverty everywhere and people are suffering terribly in this country.

“On the wellbeing of the people, most state governments owe workers salary and pension. As a result many pensioners are dying out of hardship and frustration. The way forward is for Nigerians to prepare to install a new government that will remedy the shortcomings of the APCled administration in 2019”, he said.

Non-interruption of democracy, proof of overwhelming popularity -Obaseki Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has described Democracy Day as a day of extreme significance to Nigerians and urged support for the system

of government in order to enlarge its associated gains.

Obaseki who said this in his Democracy Day Message in Benin City, noted that: “This day is one of extreme

significance in our history as a nation as it marks the return of power to the people.”

He maintained that “Despite the challenges we have faced in our effort

to firmly establish our democratic institutions and deepen the values, the non-interruption of our democracy since 1999, is proof of its overwhelming

popularity and acceptance.”

He added: “It has proven to be the best form of government for human development and advancement because it

President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, with Super Eagles players and officials during his visit to the team ahead of their Russia 2018 World Cup trip, in Abuja yesterday.

encourages the participation of everyone in the society and we are happy that it is now firmly rooted in our country.

“In Edo State, we have taken development to the grassroots in recognition of the fact that power belongs to the people.

“We have institutionalised our relationship with all Edo people and residents in every ward of the state by appointing aides who report the needs of our people in every ward, directly to me.”

The governor said “the duties of the 192 special assistants in the state’s 192 wards complement those of the elected local government councillors and chairmen, who have since embarked on the transformation of our 18 local government areas, following the successful local government polls.”

He further said that the appointment of the aides was informed by his administration’s “recognition of people power in a democracy.”

He called on “all Edo people, Nigerians and friends of our dear country to support our effort to strengthen our democratic institutions to deliver the dividends of democracy to every nook and cranny of the state.”

Bayelsa Deputy Gov hails military for promoting stability in Nigeria Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah, (rtd), has called on the people of the state to collaborate with the government at all levels to ensure that, democracy thrives as it is the best system of government that guarantees the rule of law and participatory governance.

Jonah, who made the call while speaking at the Thanksgiving Service, as part of activities marking Democracy Day celebrations at the King of Glory Chapel, Government House, Yenagoa, noted that, democracy should not be regarded as an end in itself, but a means to an end towards improving the living standards

of the citizenry.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Francis Ottah Agbo, said, Rear Admiral John Jonah acknowledged the nation’s military for its significant contribution towards safeguarding democracy, attributing the prevailing peace and stability of the country to the gallant efforts of security agencies in combating insecurity across Nigeria, especially the Boko Haram insurgency.

On the part of the state government, the Deputy Governor noted that, the restoration government from inception, placed premium on security by making robust

investments in the sub sector, describing security as a precondition for any meaningful development to take place.

His words:”Democracy should not be taken as an end; it can only be a means to an end. The end is what we have defined as human security.

Before we came on board, one of our campaign slogans was, zero tolerance to crime. At that time, the Niger Delta area was described as the epicentre of maritime criminality and a hub of transnational crimes.

“The records are there.

That was one of the reasons Governor Seriake Dickson declared from the beginning, that there will be zero tolerance

to crime and criminality. A lot was put in place; in the riverine area, Doo Akpor came to be to support the security agencies to make sure that life become more meaningful for our people.”

“We all have to put on our thinking caps to make sure that democracy survives and we must give credit to the military for their efforts in contributions in nation building. So we must praise the military while celebrating democracy.”

The Deputy Governor, who also commented on the Children’s Day celebration, called on parents, caregivers and other stakeholders to impart the virtues of righteousness, discipline

and respect for constituted authorities in the younger generation towards ensuring that they become responsible citizens in society.

Making reference to the recent disturbances at the Amassoma community, Rear Admiral John Jonah, stressed the need for people to reflect on past experiences such as the Odi invasion by the military and draw lessons from the incident.

Lending her voice to the Children’s Day celebration, wife of the State Governor, Dr. Mrs. Rachel Dickson, urged parents and guardians to pay more attention to children and demonstrate love to their families as it is the basic foundation of society.

Dr. Dickson who described children as gifts from God, reemphasized the need for them to be honoured and celebrated at all times, noting that, as future leaders, parents owe children, the right to life, quality education and care.

In a sermon, titled, “A People under God,” Chaplain of the King of Glory Chapel, Bishop Doutimi Egbegi, said as offsprings of God, people must submit themselves to His will to overcome all challenges.

Bishop Egbegi who quoted copiously from the scriptures, enumerated the benefits of allowing God to take charge of their lives, including restoring lost glories and enjoying God’s presence at all times.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

17 Feature

Top 10 activated charcoal uses, benefits Activated charcoal is a potent natural treatment used to trap toxins and chemicals in the body, allowing them to be flushed out so the body doesn’t reabsorb them.

It’s made from a variety of sources, but when used for natural healing, it’s important to select activated charcoal made from coconut shells or other natural sources.

One of the most popular activated charcoal uses is for the safe and effective treatment of poisoning and drug overdoses. It’s used in emergency trauma centers across the world. In addition, it’s used to reduce bloating and gas, lower cholesterol, treat bile flow problems safely during pregnancy (intrahepatic cholestasis) and even prevent hangovers.

Research shows that activated charcoal works better than stomach pumping (gastric lavage) in some situations.

So, how does activated charcoal work? Activated charcoal works by trapping toxins and chemicals in its millions of tiny pores. Typically, however, it’s not used when petroleum, alcohol, lye, acids or other corrosive poisons are ingested.

It doesn’t absorb the toxins, however.

Instead it works through the chemical process of adsorption. In the body, absorption is the reaction of elements, including nutrients, chemicals and toxins, soaked up and assimilated into the blood stream. Adsorption is the chemical reaction where elements bind to a surface.

The porous surface of activated charcoal has a negative electric charge that causes positive charged toxins and gas to bond with it. The nooks and crannies in activated charcoal are created through a heating process.

It’s also important to note that activated charcoal is not charcoal used in your barbecue grill! Barbecue charcoal is loaded with toxins and chemicals and should never be consumed.

Whenever you take activated charcoal, it’s imperative to drink 12–16 glasses of water per day. Activated charcoal can cause dehydration if adequate amounts of water aren’t consumed in tandem. In addition, this helps to flush out the toxins quickly and prevents constipation experienced by some individuals.

In addition to being a safe and effective treatment for poisonings and the removal of toxins from the system, additional activated charcoal uses include deodorizing and disinfecting, and it’s an important step to treat Lyme disease.

Here are the top 10 activated charcoal uses: 1. Whitens Teeth Have your teeth become stained from coffee, tea, wine or berries?

Activated charcoal helps whiten teeth while promoting good oral health by changing the pH balance in the mouth, helping prevent cavities, bad breath and gum disease.

It works to whiten teeth by adsorbing plaque and microscopic tidbits that stain teeth. This activated charcoal use is cost-effective and an all-natural solution for a bright smile.

To whiten your teeth naturally, wet a toothbrush and dip into powdered activated charcoal. Brush teeth as normal, paying special attention to areas showing the most staining. Sip a bit of water, swish through mouth thoroughly and spit. Rinse well, until spit is clear.

For best results, brush your teeth with activated charcoal powder 2–3 times per week.

Note: Be careful, for it can (and will) stain grout and fabrics. Protect counters, floors and clothing before using. If you have crowns, caps or porcelain veneers, it’s possible that activated charcoal will stain them. In addition, if your teeth

Activated charcoal

become sensitive, quit using it.

2. Alleviates Gas and Bloating One activated charcoal use often overlooked is to alleviate uncomfortable gas and bloating. It works by binding the gas-causing byproducts in foods that cause discomfort.

A study in the American Journal of Gastroenterology found that activated charcoal prevents intestinal gas following a typical gas-producing meal.

(3) Dosing recommendations to alleviate gas and bloating: Take 500 milligrams one hour prior to a typical gas-producing meal, with a full glass of water. Follow with an additional glass of water immediately thereafter to help get the charcoal into your system, where it can bind with gas-producing elements.

3. Treats Alcohol Poisoning (and Helps Prevent Hangovers) While activated charcoal does not adsorb alcohol, it does help quickly remove other toxins from the body that contribute to poisoning. Alcohol is rarely consumed in its pure form; mixers that include artificial sweeteners and chemicals are common. Activated charcoal treats poisoning by removing these toxins.

In addition, when activated charcoal is taken at the same time as alcohol, some studies show it can significantly reduce blood alcohol concentrations.

(4) Princeton University’s First Aider’s Guide to Alcohol indicates that activated charcoal is administered in some situations related to alcohol.

(5) This includes if the individual is unconscious or showing signs of acute alcohol poisoning.

4. Mold Cleansing Most people don’t think about mold living in their bodies, but it can. Toxic mold causes depression, kidney and liver failure, decreased brain function, heart disease, eye irritation, headaches, vomiting, impaired immune system function and severe respiratory distress.

Homes that have flooded, or even those with small leaks under a subfloor or in the walls, can create an environment where mold can thrive.

Poor ventilation contributes to the problem, and bathrooms, basements and laundry rooms are particularly prone to mold growth.

If there is visible mold in your home, it must be mitigated properly.

It’s important to wear gloves and a protective mask to keep from inhaling toxic mold during cleanup. Activated charcoal, baking soda, apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil and borax can be used to clean mold off hard surfaces and keep mold from growing in the future.

If you or your family experience symptoms including wheezing, rashes, watery eyes, coughing or headaches that aren’t explained in other ways,

your home should be evaluated for mold spore levels, even if no visible mold is detected. It can thrive behind drywall, under floors and in ventilation ducts.

5. Water Filtration Activated charcoal traps impurities in water including solvents, pesticides, industrial waste and other chemicals.

This is why it’s used in water filtration systems throughout the world.

However, it doesn’t trap viruses, bacteria and hard-water minerals.

According to a study published in the Journal of the Canadian Dental Association, activated carbon filters (activated charcoal), removes some fluoride. (6) Avoiding fluoride and detoxing from it is important for oral health, proper immune system functioning, and healthy kidneys and liver.

Drinking water is essential to good health; however, typical tap water is toxic and laden with chemicals, toxins and fluoride. Ingestion should be limited whenever possible. Activated charcoal water filters are available for whole-home systems, as well as countertop models. Drink 8–10 glasses of pure water per day to help soothe the digestive tract, fight fatigue, keep organs operating, and provide lubrication for joints and tissues.

6. Emergency Toxin Removal As mentioned above, one of the most common activated charcoal uses is to remove toxin and chemicals in the event of ingestion. Most organic compounds, pesticides, mercury, fertilizer and bleach bind to activated charcoal’s surface, allowing for quicker elimination, while preventing the absorption in the body.

Activated charcoal is also used in the event of an accidental, or purposeful, overdose of many pharmaceutical drugs and over-the-counter medications. It’s effective for aspirin, opium, cocaine, morphine and acetaminophen. It’s important that the proper amount is administered as quickly as possible — definitely within an hour of ingestion.

In the event of poisoning, call 911 immediately. Proper dosing is imperative. According to the University of Michigan Health System, 50 to 100 grams (not milligrams!) is used in cases of poisoning in adults and 10 to 25 grams for children. (7) In addition, activated charcoal can be used in cases of food poisoningwhen nausea and diarrhea are present. Adults take 25 grams at onset of symptoms or when food poisoning is suspected, and children should be given 10 grams. Increase dosage as necessary.

Remember, it’s essential that adequate water is consumed when activated charcoal is taken.

7. Skin and Body Health Activated charcoal uses extend beyond internal applications. For

external treatments, it’s effective at treating body odor and acne and relieving discomfort from insect bites, rashes from poison ivy or poison oak, and snake bites.

After a mosquito bite or bee sting, mix one capsule of activated charcoal with ½ tablespoon of coconut oil, and dab on affected area. Reapply every 30 minutes until itching and discomfort are gone. As activated charcoal stains nearly everything it touches, wrap with a bandage.

To treat bites from snakes and spiders, including the Brown Recluse or Black Widow, you want to cover a larger area than just a small bandage, as the bacteria and viruses that lead to tissue damage need to be mitigated quickly.

Create a wrap out of fabric that’s big enough to go around the affected area twice. Dab the mixture of coconut oil and activated charcoal on the fabric, and wrap. Secure with bandages. Reapply every two to three hours, rinsing well between applications.

To treat acne, mix one capsule of activated charcoal with two teaspoons of aloe vera gel, and smooth over face. Let dry and rinse off completely.

The activated charcoal binds with environmental toxins and dirt that contribute to acne. It’s also good for spot treatments.

8. Digestive Cleanse Activated charcoal uses help promote a healthy digestive tract by removing toxins that cause allergic reactions, oxidative damage and poor immune system function. By removing the toxins from your system, you can reduce joint pain, increase energy and increase mental function.

Environmental factors, including pesticides on food, chemicals in the water we drink and exposure to mold, create a toxic burden in our bodies.

It’s important to routinely cleanse the GI tract to support overall health and wellness. To complete a digestive cleanse with activated charcoal, take 10 grams 90 minutes prior to each meal, for two days.

During the cleanse, eat only organic fruits and vegetables, grass-fed meat and wild fish. If during the cleanse you find you are constipated, this is a sure sign you’re not consuming enough water!

Drink a glass of warm water with a slice of lemon and a touch of honey every half hour until constipation is relieved.

9. Anti-Aging Activated charcoal uses include helping prevent cellular damage to kidneys and liver, as well as supporting healthy adrenal glands. It’s imperative to cleanse toxins and chemicals routinely from the body. Activated charcoal benefits major organs by helping the body flush out the toxins and chemicals that cause the damage.

Aging is a natural part of life, but due to the toxic load we are exposed to through food, our homes and workplaces, and our environment, to prevent pre-mature aging we must get rid of them.

For this activated charcoal use, take two capsules per day after exposure to nonorganic foods, heavy meals or after contact to other toxins. This supports better cognitive function, a reduction in brain fog, healthier kidney and liver function, and a healthier gastrointestinal tract.

10. Reduces High Cholesterol Studies around the world show that activated charcoal reduces bad cholesterol and increases good cholesterol as much as some prescription medications. In one study, total cholesterol decreased by 25 percent, LDL cholesterol decreased by 41 percent, while HDL increased by 8 percent — in just four weeks.

Study participants took three doses of eight grams each for the period of the

study. As mentioned below, don’t take activated charcoal within 90 minutes to two hours of taking any prescription medication or supplements as it can prevent proper absorption.

Activated Charcoal for First Aid I recommend activated charcoal as a part of first aid kits, both at home and at work. In the event of an emergency where toxins, drugs or chemicals are ingested, it’s imperative to call 911 immediately.

If you have activated charcoal on hand, be sure to tell the operator; the operator may advise to administer it prior to the first responder’s arrival.

Depending on the amount of toxins or chemicals ingested and types of toxins, multiple doses may be required.

At the hospital, physicians are able to administer more as needed.

Activated Charcoal & Good Bacteria If activated charcoal is so great at getting rid of toxins and bad bacteria then you may be wondering does activated charcoal absorb beneficial bacteria as well? Well first off, remember that charcoal is adsorbent rather than absorbent. At least one study published in The Journal of Veterinary Medical Science demonstrates that activated charcoal may be able to somewhat differentiate between what it should and should not adsorb.

The researchers conducting this study found that “activated charcoal showed lower binding capacity to the normal bacterial flora tested than that to E. coli O157:H7 strains.” So it appears as though toxin-producing strains of E. coli were more likely to be adsorbed by the activated charcoal while normal bacterial flora in the intestine including Enterococcus faecium, Bifidobacterium thermophilum, and Lactobacillus acidophilus were more likely to be left alone.

This is a very interesting finding, but it doesn’t mean you should take your activated charcoal and probiotics at the same time! So does activated charcoal counteract probiotics? Due to charcoal’s adsorbent nature, it’s recommended that all supplements including probiotics are not taken together. Waiting a minimum of 90 minutes between taking probiotics and taking charcoal is best to maximize the benefits of both.

Activated Charcoal Side Effects For the activated charcoal uses mentioned here, it’s generally deemed safe for most individuals. However, it’s always good to be aware of any medical conditions such as intestinal bleeding or blockages, holes in the intestines, chronic dehydration, slow digestion, or a recent abdominal surgery, as they may affect how activated charcoal reacts in your body. (11) Additionally, activated charcoal can interfere with the absorption of nutrients, supplements and interfere with prescription medications. Take activated charcoal 90 minutes to two hours prior to meals, supplements and prescription medications. Potential adverse interactions with the following drugs can occur: • Naltrexone (used for alcohol and opioid dependence) • Acrivastine • Bupropion • Carbinoxamine • Fentanyl • Hydrocodone • Meclizine • Methadone • Morphine • Morphine Sulfate Liposome • Mycophenolate Mofetil • Mycophenolic Acid • Oxycodone • Oxymorphone • Suvorexant • Tapentadol • Umeclidinium • Acetaminophin • Tricyclic antidepressants • Theophylline

Feature 18

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Corruption: Major ingredient in Nigeria’s codeine abuse crisis

By Yomi Kareem Nigeria’s drug abuse problem has been put under the spotlight by a new investigative documentary.

Across several major Nigerian cities, many young adults are known to be addicted to several illicit drugs but, in recent years, opioid-based cough syrups in particular have become a serious menace.

In Sweet Sweet Codeine, an investigative documentary by the BBC, reporters secretly film staff of three major pharmaceutical companies offering to sell thousands of codeine-based cough syrup bottles in illicit deals. The complicity of these companies which produce cough syrups locally helps explain the widespread availability of the drugs despite a government ban on over-the-counter sales.

The documentary is the first for BBC’s Africa Eye, a new TV investigations strand, the latest in BBC’s expansion across Africa.

With local pharmaceutical production unregulated by government, cough syrups are being produced on an industrial scale. While drug makers are legally bound to only supply to pharmacies which in turn sell to patients with prescriptions, corrupt staff are taking advantage of the high demand on the black market and running parallel drug syndicates. Following the BBC investigation, Emzor Pharmaceuticals, one of Nigeria’s largest, has suspended the distribution of codeine cough syrup. It came after an Emzor executive was filmed cutting a deal to illegally supply cough syrup bottles.

Nigeria’s health ministry has also announced a ban on importing and producing codeine-based cough syrups.

Catching them young The target market in the illicit codeine trade typically consists of teenagers and young adults looking for a cheap high. At a price of around 1,000 naira ($3), codeine is exactly that.

Even though it is illegal to sell codeine cough syrups without

Cough syrups

a doctor’s prescription, the drugs remain widely available. It is common to find them casually consumed, sometimes as part of mixtures, at local bars and parties.

Taking codeine has become “cool” as pop culture references about the opioid have proliferated, particularly in the booming Afrobeats scene . “Diet“, an Afrobeats song with the refrain, “on a Codeine diet” has become a big hit for three of Nigeria’s biggest pop stars while the risque music video for Science Student by Olamide was banned by Nigerian media regulators. Codeine references also litter American hip hop as several big name artists, including rapper Lil’ Wayne, have released codeine-inspired tracks.

The thousands of young Nigerians already addicted are at risk of suffering from effects of sustained opioid abuse ranging from schizophrenia to organ failure.

The problem is more acute in Nigeria’s vast north where millions of young adults are unemployed. Its prevalence is also rooted in cultural nuances: with the sale of alcohol

banned across most northern states mainly for religious reasons, young adults and teenagers often turn to cheap opioid-based drugs, especially codeine cough syrups, as an alternative. Those who cannot afford codeine syrups turn to more extreme options including lizard dung and cobwebs.

Isa Mohammed, a Kanobased pharmacist attributes the rampant abuse in the north to “access and supply”.

Last October, Nigeria’s senate claimed around three million bottles of codeine syrups were consumeddaily in two northern states alone.

A measure of the scale of the problem, last month, the anti-drug agency seized a truckload of 24,000 bottles of codeine cough syrups in a single incident. The effects of the access to the cheap opioid on a mostly Muslim youth in the wake of poverty and a lack of employment, Mohammed says, “is disastrous.”

Bureaucratic bottlenecks Nigeria’s government made little progress in curbing the problem. A ban on over the

counter sales hardly dented the problem as unregulated production and illicit trade ensure that the drug remains available. It’s unlikely that the ban on sales without prescriptions has been implemented at all of the thousands of drug stores across the country.

Beyond attempting to stop over the counter sales without prescriptions, the government had been slow to act until the ban yesterday (May 1).

Indeed a committee was set up in January to look into codeine abuse but its findings and recommendation, initially expected six weeks later, have not been published by the health ministry.

Over Nigeria’s borders, neighboring countries face a similar opioid crisis with Tramadol, a cheap but addictive pain relief medicine. Benin, which borders Nigeria’s west, is the second largest destination for Indian Tramadol globally.

Some of the worst affected countries in West Africa are yet to make significant progress in tackling the opioid abuse.

Local advocacy groups recommend regulating

production and distribution of drugs as a better solution to the opioid abuse problem.

Adeyemi Oluwatosin, editorin-chief of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, says one way to do that is by finally adopting the national drug distribution guidelines—a policy to regulate the distribution of drugs and eliminate open drug markets as well fake drugs. Five years after it was first proposed however, the policy remains unimplemented.

As for Mohammed, an outright ban alone will only be a temporary fix if government does not take on the much tougher problem of regulation.

Addicts, he says, will likely turn to abusing other drugs, some with worse effects.

“Banning codeine is not the issue, regulation of drugs is what we need,” he tells Quartz.

“If we’re not regulating, then we’re just wasting our time and people will keep dying.”

Kazeem is a reporter at Quartz, covering Africaspecific stories on politics and how it intersects with business, innovation, startups and culture

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Education LASU remains the pride of Lagos – Ambode Stories: Esther Taiwo Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, has said that the state remains committed towards making the Lagos State University (LASU) the best in global ranking.

Ambode, who was represented by his deputy, Dr. Idiat Adebule, said this at the university’s 22nd Convocation for Higher Degrees.

“We have a responsibility to continue to ensure that the academic standard of this institution is sustained, ‘’ the governor said.

According to him, the government will continue to make education a priority through initiatives and strategies to drive growth and development.

Ambode urged graduating students to prove themselves by putting the knowledge they acquired to good use for economic development and promotion of peace and progress of the state and country at large.

“LASU is an institution of pride to us in the state as it has continued to

produce employable and qualified manpower for both the public and private sectors.

“To you the graduands of today, the university had prepared and certified you fit to enjoy the life ahead.

“It is now left for you to prove yourselves and put the knowledge acquired to good use for the promotion of economic development, peace and progress of the state and the country at large.

“You are also required to maintain the integrity of the certificate issued to you by the university, ‘’ he said.

The governor lauded the efforts of the university management and governing council.

Ambode urged both the management and the governing council to continue to key into the vision of the administration by producing the manpower needed to facilitate and improve productivity.

In his address, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olanrewaju Fagbohun, said the university was proud of the graduating students.

Fagbohun said the graduands were

adequately tutored, nurtured and assessed before certifying that they were worthy in both characters and learning.

He promised that the institution would continue to produce highlyskilled and qualified manpower for the development of Nigeria, Africa and the entire global community.

The vice chancellor said that the university graduated 8,028 postgraduate students for the 2016/2017 academic session.

According to him, 7, 982 were postgraduate students and 46 PhDs. Prof. Adebayo Ninalowo, ProChancellor and Chairman, Governing Council of the university, said there were rooms for strategic expansion and qualitative academic research in the institution.

Ninalowo said the institution had constituted a committee with the mandate to develop a strategic plan for setting up an endowment fund to complement the efforts of the LASU Directorate of Advancement (LASUDA).

According to him, this is because

the state government’s subvention and Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) were not enough to achieve the strategic plan mapped out for the institution.

He, however, lauded the state government, the Federal Government, National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).

Ninalowo also commended Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), National Economic Empowerment and Development Strategy (NEEDS) Assessment and other government agencies for their support to the university.

The university graduated 29,710 students for the session and 26 students made First Class division.

Also, 21,481 graduands are for the first degree; 201 for diploma; 7,982 for Post- graduate and 46 PhD graduands.

Adetoro Ogunsanya of the Department of Business Administration, Faculty of Management Science was named the best graduating student with a Cumulative Grade Point Aggregate (CGPA) of 4.78.

L-R: Registrar, Covenant University, Dr. Olumuyiwa Oludayo; Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Shalom Chinedu; Pastor Niyi Beecroft, the representative of the Chancellor, Covenant University; and the inaugural lecturer, Professor Samuel Azubuike Iyase, during his lecture at the university ...recently.

Unique School rewards excellence, awards brilliant students Motivation, they say, is an elixir for greater success as it encourages hardwork.

This, according to the principal, Unique Height School, Mrs. Oluwakemi Onochie, explains why the school management usually sets aside a day annually to honour its brilliant students referred to as Unique Scholars.

At the honour roll award/prefects inauguration held at the school premises in Isheri Magodo, Lagos, the principal explained further that the day is a special day adorned with the garment of success and festooned with the colour of distinction and a day of excellent fete

stressing that it is a unique occasion for the unique students.

“Honour roll award in Unique Height is in its 7th edition this year. It is put together to reward students who cumulatively scored ‘A’ grades in not less than 10 subjects including English and Mathematics at the Junior Secondary School level and ‘A’ grades in not less than seven subjects including Mathematics and English at the Senior Secondary School level”, she said.

Such scholars, according to her, are distinguished from other students with their Blue ties different from the conventional wine-coloured tie worn by

other students.

Chief Executive of Unique Height School, Mrs. Ebun Ayere-Alatise, said the honour roll award has encouraged healthy competition among the students as it encouraged them to work harder.

“When we started seven years ago, there were only 13 scholars but today we have 33 which means students are now striving to also wear the Blue-Tie as a mark of honour and Distinction, so what this has achieved for the school is that we are raising brilliant future leaders and parents are also reaping the fruits of their labour,” she said.

Chairman, Parents/Teachers

Association, Mr. Adeniran Omoya, said the event helps students to compete favourably as it serves as a source of motivation for them.

“My son who is in primary school has been telling me that he will be attending Unique Height Secondary School and has vowed to win the Blue Tie, so the event encourages healthy competition among students and builds the spirit of excellence in them. I want to advise parents to always come together and cooperate with the school and not derail from its policy because it is what we get from the children that is our own value and reward for our labour on these children”, he said.

19

FUNAAB Alumni supports students with 10 mini buses

As part of efforts to boost transportation of students within and outside campus, FUNAAB Alumni Association has supported the institution with 10 mini Suzuki branded shuttle buses to join its fleet of buses.

Presenting the buses to the ViceChancellor, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Professor Kolawole Salako, the President of the Alumni Association, Mr. Olusola Tobun, stated that the shuttle buses are meant to support movement of students within the University and it’s neighbourhood like Isolu, Harmony Estate, the First Gate, Hostels, Farm, and other locations.

Mr. Tobun disclosed that the Association is also considering bringing in long buses while adding that their fares would be affordable.

Responding, the Vice-Chancellor thanked the Association for the noble gesture which he said was timely and helpful, particularly in addressing the transportation challenge which has been giving Management concern.

He said: “Last week Monday we had just seven buses working but by today we can boast of about twelve that are working and more are still being repaired. Apart from that the security men internal and external are taking care of coordinating activities around camp junction and moving students to a location where there won’t be congestion and where there won’t be any problem”.

Professor Salako pointed out that so far, this has assisted in alleviating the traffic jam that was experienced last week at Camp junction, adding that “more buses are on the road now, the organisation is better and Management has started reviewing students Time Table so that we don’t have too many students coming to the park at the same time. We are going to engage the Student Union to sensitize the students to always come in such a way that the batches will be convenient for the buses to pick them according to their time table”.

Lauding the Association further, Professor Salako disclosed that only recently, the Alumni donated the sum of one million naira to the University for the Computerization of the Exams and Records Unit to facilitate the processing of transcripts.

He assured the Association of the highest level of transparency in the utilisation of the fund, adding that a committee which would include two Alumni would be set up to oversee the spending of the funds and report to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor(Academic) and the Registrar.

The Vice-Chancellor solicited for more support, saying, “We will be expecting more support from the Alumni. My thanks to every Alumnus, those around and even those in diaspora and we want to believe we would have stronger ties”.

Education 20

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

LASU VC harps on importance on peace to development

Students of Unique Group of Schools Isheri-Magodo, Lagos, decorated by the school management with blue ties during their honour roll call award ceremony for scoring As in 10 subjects including Maths and English...recently.

Ex-VCs urge women to break the glass ceiling Stories: Esther Taiwo Former Vice Chancellor of Covenant University, Ota in Ogun State, Prof Aize Obayan, has called on women to go beyond where they are and break new heights.

Obayan made the call at the Career and Professional Women conference titled “Beyond the Glass Ceiling” organised by the Africa Leadership Development Centre of the Covenant University in Ota. According to her, women must put

their skills and strategies together to break the glass ceiling and go beyond cultural, social and religious issues imposed on them to keep them down.

“There is something beyond the glass ceiling that we can begin to access.

As women we need to focus on how to harness our strengths and enhance them instead of concentrating on our challenges, let us try to find out what makes the other gender thrive”, she said.

Buttressing her points, former Vice Chancellor of University of Uyo, Prof.

Comfort Ekpo, said it has been predicted that the disparities between male and female will take 40 years to close.

She also urged women to break through the barriers that keep them from rising to the upper rungs of the corporate ladder regardless of their qualifications and achievements.

In her own submission, Chairperson Women in Management, Business & Public Service (WIMBIZ), Mrs. Olubunmi Abiderin-Talabi, highlighted some factors responsible for gender disparity

such as progeny, public policies, choice of partner, patriarchy among others.

She however called on women to break the barriers by speaking up on policy formation, support other women, stop underrating themselves, get a mentor and mentor others and network.

She also warned women to always leave their crowns at the door which means no matter their achievements, they should always remember they are wives to their husbands and accord him due respect.

6 schools for PZ Cussons Chemistry Challenge final Six candidates representing both public and private schools in Lagos State have scaled through to the finals of Nigeria’s leading pure science competition, PZ Cussons Chemistry Challenge (PZCCC).

After an impressive participation at the different stages of the 2018 edition of the competition, six students have now qualified for the finals to compete for the grand prize of N1,000,000 and a chance to be crowned the PZCCC Champion for 2018.

The competition which began in March saw over 3000 registered candidates sit for the first stage across eight locations in Lagos state viz Agege,

Epe, Ikorodu, Ojota, Oshodi, Island, Agboju and Surulere.

The ‘jostling’ at the first stage saw 97 students qualify to another round of written test to get the best 24 out of the 97. The top 24 at the third stage were further tested in Practical Chemistry at one of the best laboratories in the state.

Driven by its primary objective to promote Girl child education in Nigeria, the PZCCC continues to grow in leaps and bounds, as this years’ edition saw a considerable increase in the number of females that registered for the competition. This shows a remarkable improvement in the awareness and acceptance of the competition among

secondary school females.

An initiative of the PZ Cussons foundation supported by Premier and Nunu Milk, the PZCCC has built a reputation as the No. 1 platform for supporting the learning of Chemistry in Secondary Schools.

This year’s overall top three winners will receive N1,000,000; N750,000; and N500,000 respectively. The champion also goes home with a trophy. Additional prizes also include laboratory equipment for the schools and cash prizes for their respective teachers.

The PZ Cussons Chemistry Challenge Competition has tweaked the adage

that says, “Every teacher’s reward is in heaven”, by creating a platform for rewarding teachers here on earth. On stage at the finals, our top 6 teachers from the online Teacher’s Aptitude Test would have a chance to compete for a chance to be rewarded and crowned our PZCCC 2018 Teachers’ Champion.

PZ Cussons Nigeria Foundation, custodians of this competition have a strong track record of helping Nigerian communities by supporting projects in the areas of education, potable water, health and empowerment. The PZ Cussons Chemistry Challenge Competition is now in its sixth edition.

Vice Chancellor of the Lagos State University (LASU), Prof. Olanrewaju Fagbohun, has called on stakeholders within the University community to allow peace and tranquility to reign on campus for development to take place.

The VC made this call while addressing members of the University community at the coconut breaking ceremony as part of activities marking the 2017 convocation.

According to him, the development being witnessed in LASU presnetly is as a result of the ongoing peace being currently enjoyed on campus, saying that LASU is striving to become one of the best universities in Africa.

“My appeal to everyone is that we should not look back despite the challenges we are facing and we should not expect the University management to meet all our demands; even in our respect homes, we cannot expect to get all that we want”, he said.

Prof.

Fagbohun however assured them that what LASU will ensure to do is to be transparent, accountable and be fair to all as he urged the students not to allow anyone to use them to disrupt the ongoing peace on campus by causing crisis which will only prolong the academic calendar and deprive them from graduating at the right time.

President of the Lagos State University Alumni Association, Major General (rtd) Cecil Ezekaete, described the annual coconut breaking event as significant because it signifies the end of a session and ushering in new one.

He said the event also signifies peace, unity and development on campus as he thanked the Vice Chancellor for rebranding LASU and given it a new name. “ In those days employers of labour used to push aside certificates of LASU graduates and consider other graduates for employment but today the image of LASU has changed and gone are the days when the university was synonymous to crisis’, he said.

He also urged staff unions to cooperate with the University management, saying it is about give and take, thus they should give room to constructive engagement, spirit of togetherness and unity.

EDUMARK urges corporate organisations to support education Foremost education consulting firm, EDUMARK, has called on corporate organisations to lend more support to the education sector by going beyond donating blocks of classrooms and libraries to schools and get more involved in the sector.

Addressing journalists recently in Lagos in preparation for the 10th annual Total School Support Seminar/Exhibition (TOSSE) slated for June 7 & 8, 2018, Chief Executive of EDUMARK, Mrs. Yinka Ogunde,

said there are various problems plaguing the education sector on a daily basis.

“We see the range of challenges that confronts both public and private schools. We also come across numerous organisations and individuals with creative ideas that have the capacity to transform the sector, so we decided to create a platform that will bring together all key stakeholders in the education community”, she said.

Ogunde said such stakeholders

include school owners for them to acquire better entrepreneurship/ leadership skills, principals and school administrators to become better managers of human and material resources as well as teachers to take them through various sessions that will inspire and encourage them to become exceptional teachers.

Also parents and school support staff to provide them a unique learning experience, stressing that TOSSE has continued to add value

to a sector that holds the key to the development of the nation.

The CEO added that some of the topics that would be examined at the seminar include Wealth Building and Management for Education Entrepreneurs, Developing a Positive School Climate, Create an Ownership Mindset in your Team, Teaching with Joy: A Personal Experience and Rich Teacher, Poor Teacher: What Exceptional Educators Know but do not Tell among others.

She said educators are expected from various parts of the world such as UK, Togo, South Africa and Finland.

Some of the speakers at the event include Bisi Soji-Oyawoye; Executive Director, John Maxwell Team; Taiwo Akinlami, Child Right advocate; Funmi Tells, Educational Consultant; Funke Fowler-Amba, Director, Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls and Joachim Atunwa, Rector, Advertising Academy of Nigeria.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

21 Change of Names

N481bn budget padding: Court orders FG to prosecute senators Peter Fowoyo, Lagos Two years after allegations of padding and stealing of N481billion from the budget levelled against some principal officers of the National Assembly, a Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos has ordered President Muhammadu Buhari, to without any further delay, order security and anti - corruption agencies to forward to him (Buhari) reports of their investigations.

Justice Mohammed Idris, also mandated the federal government to ensure the prosecution of lawmakers over their alleged involvement in the stealing of a sum to the tune of N481bn from the 2016 budget.

The court specifically asked President Buhari to, “Direct the Attorney-General of the

Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, and/or appropriate anti-corruption agencies to without delay commence prosecution of indicted lawmakers.”

Justice Idris arrived at the decision consequent upon a mandamus suit no FHC/L/ CS/1821/2017 and instituted

by Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP).

The court also ordered President Buhari to, “Direct the publication of the report of investigations by security and anti-corruption bodies into the alleged padding of the 2016 budget.”

In the action initiated against the President, the AGF, Justice Idris declared that in the exercise of his executive powers, President Buhari has a duty to ensure compliance with the provisions of article 22 of

SOUL PLANTING BIBLE MINISTRY

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

TRUSTEE, 1,SANNI ADELEYE ADEBAYO,(EVANG).

2,SANNI OLUBUNMI MARY ,(EVANG MRS).

3,OMOTADE ADEPOJU AIM AND OBJECTIVE TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAIMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION SIGNED: SECRETARY

the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

The court further held that President Buhari is “expected to use his executive powers for the public good of Nigeria.”

The judge granted an order directing Buhari to, “Urgently halt alleged attempt by some principal officers of the National Assembly to steal N40 billion of the N100 billion allocated by his government as ‘zonal intervention’ in the 2017 budget.

“To closely monitor and scrutinize the spending of N131billion (accrued from increased oil bench mark) allocated for additional non-constituency projects expenditure, to remove the possibility of corruption.”

Justice Idris also held that, “SERAP, being a human rights non-governmental organization

has sufficient interest in the way and manner public funds are being utilized in this country.”

Article 22 of the African Charter provides that, “All peoples shall have the right to their economic, social and cultural development with due regard to their freedom,” and that “States shall have the duty, individually or collectively, to ensure the exercise of the right to development.”

In his reaction, the Deputy Director of SERAP, Timothy Adewale argued that, “This judgment confirms the pervasive corruption in the budget process and the prevailing culture of impunity of our lawmakers as well as the failure of the authorities to uphold transparency and accountability in the entire budget process and implementation.

“The judgement is an important

DIVINE LABOURERS MINISTRY THE 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 BOARD OF TRUSTEEMADUABUCHI EZEMOUKWE: CHRISTIAN OKORONKWO: SUNDAY ADENIJI: PASTOR MRS STELLA ELUMEZE: PASTOR JOHN ELUMEZE. AIM AND OBJECTIVES: TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST FOR THE PRINCIPLE PURPOSE OF SOUL WINNING. ANY OBJECTION/S TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET, PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DAY OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED BY: TRUSTEES

step towards reversing a culture of corruption in the budget process that has meant that many of our lawmakers see the budget more as a ‘meal ticket’ to look after themselves than a social contract to meet people’s needs and advance equity and development across the country.

“This is a crucial precedent that vindicates the right to a transparent and accountable budget process and affirms the budget as government’s most important economic policy document, which is central to the realization of all human rights including the rights to health, water, and education.

“SERAP will do everything within its power to secure the full and effective enforcement of this important judgment.”

The Daily Times recalls that SERAP last year filed the suit after the organization said it received “credible information from multiple sources that the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have completed investigations into the allegations of padding of the 2016 budget, completed their reports, and indicted some principal officers of the House of Representatives and the Senate and that the accounts of some of the principal officers containing allegedly illicit funds have been frozen, and that the case files for the prosecution of those indicted were ready.”

The suit filed on SERAP’s

behalf by its counsel, Mrs Joke Fekumo read in part: “Unless the principal officers indicted in the alleged padding of the 2016 budget are prosecuted and any stolen public funds recovered, the Federal Government will not be able to stop padding of future budgets.

“Alleged corruption in the budget process will not just melt away or simply evaporate without addressing the fundamental issue of impunity of perpetrators.

“Addressing alleged corruption in the budget process by pursuing prosecution of indicted principal officers of the National Assembly will provide an important opportunity for the Federal Government to reignite the fight against corruption and fulfil a cardinal campaign promise, to show that the Federal Government works on behalf of the many, and not the few, as well as jumpstart economic activities and break the back of the recession.

“Publishing the report of the investigation of the alleged padding of the 2016 budget, and prosecuting suspected perpetrators are absolutely important to avoid another padding, which the Federal Government can ill afford.

“The allegations of crime of budget padding against the indicted principal officers of the National Assembly is a gross deprivation of the good people of Nigeria’s legitimate wealth and natural resources.

OKOH DAVID

SIMON IKECHUKWU

UZOR FLORENCE

ALIEZE EMMANUEL

OLUWATOBI OLAYINKA

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THIS IS TO CERTIFY AND CONFIRM THAT MISS EBEOFOR JULIANA NMEKADIMMA, MRS NTAGU JULIE CHINAZOM AND MRS NTAGU JULIE NMEKADIMMAREFERS AS ONE AND THE SAME PERSON NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS NTAGU JULIE CHINAZOM NMEKADIMMA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AS MISS NWACHUKWU ANGEL NKIRU NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS OJILE ANGEL NKIRU. FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AS MISS UMEH GINIKACHUKWU JESSICA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS ORJI GINIKACHUKWU JESSICA. FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OKAFOR LOUISA NNEZE, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ONUOHA LOUISA NNEZE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

FREE SPACE

UWAJE OKECHUKWU

SILIFAT AMOKE

AJAYI ADEBAYO

ODUSANYA KAFAYAT

FALILAT ALABA

ABIODUN SOLAPE

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS UWAJEH CHRIS NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS UWAJE OKECHUKWU CHRISTIAN.ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS SILIFAT AKINYODE. NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS SILIFAT AMOKE AKINYODE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AKINTAN ADEBAYO DEBORAH. NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AJAYI ADEBAYO DEBORAH. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS GANIYU KAFAYAT BOLANLE. NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS ODUSANYA KAFAYAT BOLANLE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID NYSC, TEACHING SERVICE COMMISSION ( OGUN STATE AND GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS FALILAT ALABA OLASENI NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS FALILAT ALABA ADEGBOYE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AKINSOMISOYE SOLAPE JULIET NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ABIODUN SOLAPE JULIET. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID, GENERAL PUBLIC TO PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

AREMU GLADYS

BUNMI KAFAYAT

ADEJUWON ADEWOLE

ADEYEMI FOLASHADE

OYEDELE CHRISTIANAH

ODO SCHOLASTICA

I, FORMERLY OLIVER GLADYS OLUSHOLA BABALOLA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AREMU GLADYS OLUSHOLA BABALOLA. FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC NOTE.

FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS BUNMI KAFAYAT BABATUNDE NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS BUNMI KAFAYAT BABATUNDE OLATUNJI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OLAWALE ENITAN ADEJUWON NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ADEJUWON ADEWOLE ENITAN. BORN 27TH FEBRUARY, 1994. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. BANKS AND GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

I, FORMERLY MISS ODUNUKAN FOLASHADE MARY NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS ADEYEMI FOLASHADE MARY. FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC NOTE.

FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS BANKOLE CHRISTIANAH NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OYEDELE CHRISTIANAH OMOBOLANLE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS AGBO SCHOLASTICA,NOW WISH TO KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ODO SCHOLASTICA NGOZI. ALL DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

GHEREJE TOYIN

I

FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ADESANMI TOYIN FUNMILAYO, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS IGHEREJE TOYIN FUNMILAYO. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE

IMOH ALABA

J

FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS JIMOH ALABA OLUWAGBENGA, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS JIMOH ALABA BENJAMIN. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

CORRECTION OF NAME

EMMANUEL CHIOMA

MY NAME WAS WRONGLY WRITTEN ON SOME OF MY DOCUMENTS AS TAJUDEEN ADEYEMI AFEEZ INSTEAD OF TAJUDEEN ADEWUNMI AFEEZ. THAT MY CORRECT NAME IS TAJUDEEN ADEWUNMI AFEEZ. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS DURU CHIOMA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS EMMANUEL CHIOMA RUTH. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

IKUFISILE REMILEKUN I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OYEUSI REMILEKUN BUKOLA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN CALLED AND ADDRESSED AS IKUFISILE REMILEKUN BUKOLA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

OYEWOLE OLUWAGBENGA MY NAME WAS WRONGLY WRITTEN AS OYEWOLE GBENGA INSTEAD OF OYEWOLE OLUWAGBENGA OJO. HENCEFORTH I WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OYEWOLE OLUWAGBENGA OJO. FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID.GENERAL PUBLIC NOTE.

Companies Registration 22 VOICE OF JESUS EVANGELICAL MISSION CAC/IT/NO/ 5544.

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

THE OLD TRUSTEES ARE: 1. ELDER CHRISTIAN MAMA NOW ELDER PASTOR CHINWEUDO CHRISTIAN - RETAINED 2. BROTHER FRANCIS ADIGHIBE - REMOVED 3. PASTOR CHUKWURA DAVOU - REMOVED 4. BROTHER GODWIN OKAFOR - REMOVED 5. REV. IFEANYI UHIARRA - REMOVED 6.ELDER MOSES IGHEKPE - REMOVED 7. PASTOR ASIAN NYA - REMOVED THE NEW TRUSTEES ARE: (1) REV. DR IKECHUKWU OBIOHA (2) REV. DR JAMES CHIABUOTU UGWUBUJO (3) REV. IKECHUKWU NWAOSU. THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES REMAIN THE SAME ANY OBJECTION TO THIS APPLICATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION MAITAMA ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION SIGNED: M I ADAH ESQ

GOOD GOD GOOD PEOPLE ASSEMBLY

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

TRUSTEES ARE (1) PASTOR AUGUSTINE NDUBUISI ODUMA (2) MRS. ESTHER EJURA NDUBUISI (3) PASTOR LAWRENCE ODUMA. AIM AND OBJECTIVE: TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED BY BARR. MONDAY AKOH 08068242312

REJOICE FAMILY CHURCH INTERNATIONAL

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990 TRUSTEES: 1). EMMANUEL BEM ATOOKO (FOUNDER/CHAIRMAN) 2). ATOOKO ABIGAIL (SECRETARY) 3). IORKPILIGH AGWAZA MANASSEH 4). KAI ORGA 5). JOHN GABRIEL AYEMELE 6). EDIAGBONYA OSAYOMWANBO 7). EVELYN ERDOO NGAKOHOI 8). MOSES BUA AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1.

TO PREACH THE WORD OF GOD ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

AGASAPO-OHEPO OGU CULTURAL AND TRADITIONAL RELIGION PRACTITIONERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED SOCIETY HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO 1990 WITH THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION. BOARD OF TRUSTEES: 1. AWUSINU TOYIN - CHAIRMAN (BOT) 2. PETER SAMUEL M. THOTU - VICE CHAIRMAN (BOT) 3. AWUSINU IYASHA OPE - PRESIDENT 4. HUNVO JOSEPH GBEDAWAN - VICE PRESIDENT 5. OKODE ABIODUN EMMANUEL - SECRETARY 6. TAKORO HUNVU STEPHEN - ASSISTANT SECRETARY 7. GATHONU SEGUN DAVID - TREASURER 8. KURUYO METONU SENU - FINACIAL SECRETARY 9. HUNWI IDOWU JOSEPH - P.R.O 10. HUNWI AVOSEVU TONUEWA - EX-OFFICIO AIMS & OBJECTIVES: THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF THIS ORGANIZATION ARE: 1. TO FOSTER UNITY AMONG OGU CULTURAL AND TRADITIONAL RELIGIONS PRACTITIONERS, 2. TO UPHOLD, PROMOTE AND PROTECT THE VALUES OF OGU TRADITIONAL RELIGION AND CULTURAL HERITAGE SUCH AS AGASAPO-OHEPO, OTOPO, AJARA, MAGE, AJAWHETO, ODUDUA, OTHAN, KONKONTO ETC 3. TO STRENGTHEN DIALOGUE AND COOPERATION IN ORDER TO CREATE A POSITIVE, INCLUSIVE AND COLLABORATIVE PEACE MEDIATION PROCESS THAT IS SUSTAINABLE FOR OGU CULTURAL AND TRADITIONAL RELIGION PRACTITIONERS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRARGENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SAMUEL PETER - 08023763364

THE PRIPE FOUNDATION

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. BAIYEKUSI JOSEPH - CHAIRMAN. 2. BAIYEKUSI CHRISTINE - SECRETARY. 3. ONWUEGBUZIE HENRIETTA NGOZI - VICE CHAIRMAN. 4. MOMOH SULEIMAN OMONE OGIE - MEMBER. 5.FAWEHINMI ABAYOMI STEVENS - MEMBER. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO EMPOWER MEN AND WOMEN WITH COGNITIVE SKILLS THAT WILL CAUSE POSITIVE TRANSFORMATION AND MAKE VISIBLE IMPACT IN OUR SOCIETY. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, P.M.B. 198.GARKI, ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY.

SAVE OUR SOCIETY ORGANIZATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE-NAMED ORGANIZATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART C COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO.1, 1990: TRUSTEES ARE: 1. MARYAM JAMILA MOHAMMED - CHAIRMAN. 2. JAMES ADEWALE ADEYEMI - SECRETARY. 3. FARIHA SANI ABDULLAHI. 4. FATIMA BASHIR DALHATU. 5. HAFIZ ZAKARI MUHAMMAD. 6. HALIMA IBRAHIM ISMAIL. 7. KHADIJAH ISIAKU MUHAMMAD. AIMS & OBJECTIVES: TO CREATE CONSCIOUSNESS AND RE-AWAKEN THE SOCIETY ON THE NEED FOR MORAL REARMAMENT, PROMOTION OF ETHICAL VALUES AND CONDUCT NECESSARY FOR SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC WELLBEING OF THE SOCIETY. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL OF THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, P.M.B.198, MAITAMA, ABUJA, WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

SANCTUARY OF DIVINE INTERVENTION CHURCH

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

TRUSTEES ARE: 1. REV. FAVOUR BARISI LEDOR 2. ISHMAEL GODWIN BARIDIDUM 3 NGARA BARIKULA MONDAY 4. ISHMAEL VICTOR KPOBARI. 5. ISHMAEL BLESSING AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST TO EVERY NATION, KINDRED, TONGUE AND PEOPLE THROUGHOUT THE WORLD (REACHING THE UNREACHED THROUGH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST) 2. TO RECONCILE MEN UNTO GOD; ESTABLISHING THEM THROUGH HIS WORD AND DELIVERING TO THEM THEIR INHERITANCE IN CHRIST.

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

HOPE GIVERS NIGERIA INITIATIVE

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990 TRUSTEES: 1. GABRIEL SEGUN ADEYEMI 2. GODSHONOUR ONUCHUKWU MBA AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO HELP THE LESS PRIVILEGED IN THE SOCIETY ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

VOLATILE VESSELS MINISTRY

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. EVANGELIST LILIAN OKORO 2. BARR. SALOME ADAEZE MADUBUIKE 3. MR. SUNDAY MADU 4. PAULINE EJEMEH 5. DR. SABINUS IKEDI NWOKO 6. ENGR. EMELDA CHINYERE MADUBUIKE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PROPAGATE THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST IN THE WORLD 2. TO MINISTER THE GIFTS OF GRACE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT TO PEOPLE ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: BARR. ARINZE J. UZOCHUKWU 08038466838 (SOLICITOR)

MOUNTAIN DEW ANOINTED MINISTRY INT’L THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. EVANGELIST NGOZI OKPARA 2. EMELDA CHINYERE MADUBUIKE 3. MR JOSIAH IKEDI 4. MRS FIDELIA CHIDIMMA NZEH 5. DR. DANIEL OBINNA MADUBUIKE 6. MRS VIVIAN NJOKU AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PROPAGATE THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST IN THE WORLD. 2. TO MINISTER THE GIFTS OF GRACE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT TO PEOPLE. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: BARR. ARINZE J. UZOCHUKWU 08038466838 (SOLICITOR)

Daily Times Nigeria

Wednesday, May 30, 2018

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

TRUSTEES: 1. OLUMBA CHUKWUEMEKA BENJAMIN..... CHAIRMAN. 2. NJOKU BLESSING ONYEKAOZURU... SECRETARY. 3. OLUMBA EZINNE VERO... MEMBER. 4. ONYE JOSHUA CHINEDUM.... MEMBER. CHAMBERS 080367436I0 AIM AND OBJECTIVE: TO PROPAGATE MESSIANIC JUDAISM IN AND THROUGH JESUS CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: DONATUS C. UGWU ESQ. VIVA

CARE FOR NEIGHBOUR 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.

TRUSTEES ARE: 1. DAVIES ISRAEL CHARLES .................(CHAIRMAN) 2. ABEGUNDE MICHAEL ABIODUN..... (VICE CHAIRMAN) 3. CHARLES TOM MIYENE .................(TREASURER) 4. ALEX-HART MAUDLYN BALAFAMA ...(SECRETARY) 5. NTIMA OKORO ULA. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. TO FOSTER UNITY, PEACE AND LOVE AMONG NEIGHBOURS. 2. TO CARE AND LOVE EACH OTHER FOR THE PURPOSE OF LIVING IN GOOD HARMONY. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: CHAIRMAN.

REHOBOTH GLORY CHRISTIAN CHURCH (RC: 75336) THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR CHANGE OF NAME, ADDITION OF TRUSTEE AND AMENDMENT OF CONSTITUTION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

CHANGE OF NAME, ADDITION OF TRUSTEE AND AMENDMENT OF CONSTITUTION OLD NAME – REHOBOTH GLORY CHRISTIAN CHURCH TO NEW NAME- SURE HOPE OF GLORY CHURCH OLD TRUSTEES 1.

PASTOR ABIOLA OLUSOLA OLATUNJI - RETAINED 2. PASTOR MRS ABIADE FOLASHADE OLATUNJI - RETAINED 3. ENGR. CELESTINE KAINE CLIFFE - RETAINED 4. MR ONYEKACHI ELEZIENYA - RETAINED 5. MRS EGBUKA BLESSING ADA RETAINED 6. EGBETADE EMMANUEL ADEMOLA RETAINED NEW TRUSTEE OHAKA CHUKWUMA AMBROSE - APPOINTED ANY OBJECTION TO THIS CHANGE AND ADDITION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: HYBRID SOLICITORS 08036362308

ALEMA OF WARRI FOUNDATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990 TRUSTEES: 1. CHIEF EMMANUEL ORITSEJOLOMISAN UDUAGHAN CHAIRMAN/FOUNDER 2. MR. FELIX UDUAGHAN - SECRETARY 3. MR. WILLIAMS ORITSEFEMI FRANKLIN - MEMBER 4. MR. AMOS EYITOMI UDUAGHAN- MEMBER 5. MR. JOHN TORITSEJU UDUAGHAN - MEMBER 6. MR. GOODLUCK TSERUNDEDE UDUAGHAN - MEMBER 7. MR. JOHNSON OFEORITSE UDUAGHAN – MEMBER AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO HELP THE LESS PRIVILEGED PEOPLE IN THE SOCIETY 2. TO CARRY OUT OTHER CHARITABLE WORKS ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

EQUIPPING HOUSE MINISTRY

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1) OLAYIWOLA OLAWALE OLATUNDE 2) OLAYIWOLA FOSOLA VICTORIA, 3) OLUWATUYI ADEPEJU ROSELINE 4) OLA TEMITOPE OLUFUNMILAYO. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO EVANGELIZE BY LETTING PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT THE LOVE OF JESUS CHRIST FOR THEM. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, P.M.B. 198.GARKI, ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

23 Companies Registration

EDITH OMOKHUWA

TIJANI FAUSAT

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

TEMITOPE KAFILAT

ABRUGE JOY

AKAGHA GODSPOWER

FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS EDITH OMOKHUWA OBOH, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS EDITH OMOKHUWA EBUETSE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS TIJANI FAUSAT ADUNNI, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS TIJANI FAUSAT ARIKE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

THIS IS TO CONFIRM THAT OSUMAH YUSUFF IS THE SAME PERSON AS OSUMAH OSHIORHENUA YUSUFF & USMAN YUSUFF. HENCEFORTH I WISH TO BE NAMED AND ADDRESSED USMAN YUSUFF. ALL DOCUMENTS BEARING THESE NAMES REMAIN VALID AND SHOULD BE TREATED AS ONE PERSON. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS TEMITOPE KAFILAT MUMUNEY NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS TEMITOPE KAFILAT QUADRI ADEMOLA ADEBOYE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS NWOKOLO JOY AGBOGHOROMA, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ABRUGE JOY. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AKAGHA CHIGEMEZUMKPAM CHIBUIKEM, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AKAGHA GODSPOWER CHIGEMEZU. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

OKAFOR VIVIAN

GODWIN CHUKWUEBUKA

CORRECTION OF NAME/BIRTH DATE

OKWUONU OGECHUKWU

ABIMBOLA PEACE

OLANSO OLABISI

FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS NSOFOR CHUKWUEBUKA IFESINACHI, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS GODWIN CHUKWUEBUKA IFESINACHI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT MY NAME WAS WRONGLY WRITTEN AS BAMGBALA ASHANI BASIRAT ON MY BVN INSTEAD OF IBRAHIM ASHANI BASIRAT. MY CORRECT DATE OF BIRTH IS 04 JUNE 1965 AND NOT 01 JANUARY 1980. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS NWAKWEGU OGECHUKWU MAUREEN NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OKWUONU OGECHUKWU MAUREEN . ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MATTHEW PEACE UDOKA, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ABIMBOLA PEACE UDOKA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AFOLABI EUNISE OLUFUNKE, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OLANSO OLABISI FUNKE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ESTHER CHIEHIURA OKAFOR, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OKAFOR VIVIAN ESTHER. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

GOD FIRST EVANGELICAL DELIVERANCE MINISTRY

BEAUTIFUL GATE TEMPLE ALADURA AGO OSEESE

MOLDING YOUTHS FOR TOMORROW INITIATIVE

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

TRUSTEES ARE : 1. PASTOR ANDREW OLUREMI OGUNDIPE 2. LADY EVANGELIST COMFORT MONISOLA OLUREMI OGUNDIPE 3. MR STEPHEN OLUWAPELUMI OGUNDIPE

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

TRUSTEES ARE : 1. OLUTOYOSI OSISANYA 2. OPEOLUWA OSISANYA 3. HOSSANA ANUOLUWAPO OSISANYA 4. OLUSOLA OLUSEYI OSISANYA 5. POPOOLA JESUTOMI OSISANYA 6. ADEDOYIN OSISANYA

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Daily Times Nigeria

Wednesday, March 30, 2018

Peace-building and good governance for sustainable development in Nigeria Continue from previous page

content breeds injustice and exclusion, nurtures political instability and erodes regime legitimacy.

Hence, no doubt a more useful concept would be that which qualifies governance, such as a notion of “good democratic governance”. In a transitional democracy, such as Nigeria’s, whatever else governance could be, it must include a democratic content: it must be participatory, with bottom-up processes and it must have inclusivity (cited from Jega 2017a).

Sustainable Development Globally, the failure of successive development programs to address threats to lives, property and livelihood, or human security, especially in the developing world, combined with the effects of climate change, devastating wars and civil strife, gave rise to concerns about sustainable development. The United Nations and its agencies have since the Rio De JeneroSummit in 1992 been in the forefront of promoting and pursuing the Agenda for sustainable development. Over time, a consensus has emerged that global development challenges cannot be effectively address in silos, and by national governments individually acting on their own. Rather, international collaboration, cooperation and partnerships are most desirable for setting sustainable development goals and agenda for actualizing them. This led to the commitment to achieve the Millennium Development Goals by 2015, arising from the UN Millennium Summit in 2000; and subsequently the adoption ofthe 2030 Agenda for Sustainable development in September 2015.

Sustainable development can be defined as a process through which societal resources are prudently harnessed and utilized to address the fundamental human needs of the present, without compromising or undermining those of the future generations. (UN World Commission on Environment and development, 1987). It is seen as the best means of addressing global challenges, which threaten or undermine human security.

Sustainable development and peace building are interconnected. UNDP has posited that ‘sustainable development and sustaining peace are two sides of the same coin” (Martinez- Soliman and FernandezTranco (2018).

To elaborate, perpetual conflicts threaten, erode or undermine capacity to pursue stable development processes. They have been disruptive and have occasioned tremendous suffering for many globally.

They have adversely affected the attainment of the objectives of sustainable development. It is in this context that the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which focuses, among other things, on the goal of creating “peaceful, just and inclusive societies”, recognizes the intricate connection between peace and sustainable development. It is targeted to “address major global problems, such as accelerated global warming, growing inequalities, poverty, gender based discrimination, violence and conflicts, and structural flaws of the global economic and financial system” (UN 2017). The principal goal of the 2030 Agenda is said to be “shifting the world on a sustainable and resilient path”.

The three core dimensions of sustainable development, namely, economy, society and environment, are all negatively affected by conflicts, and they need peace to strive and flourish (Anan, 1998). As Orebiyi and others have noted “Without peace, development is not possible” and “without development peace is not durable” (2013: 185). They point to how ‘internal conflicts introduce tremendous uncertainty into the economic environment, making both public and private investment riskier”, and thus driving away investors; and they also observed that ‘progress is impeded or threatened by conflict’, drawing upon empirical evidence by Collier (2003) which shows how “one year of conflict reduce a country’s growth rate by 2.2 %”.

Peace building contributes to sustainable development in many fundamental respects, including the following: - ‘It improves inclusion of parties in decision and policy making’

Saraki

- ‘It readjusts public perspectives toward long-term issues rather than short-term coping mechanisms’ - It helps to ‘build confidence among all stakeholders, from civil society to government, to donors and international organizations’ - It helps to restore normalcy and revive mutual trust for sustained livelihood and coexistence Peace Building and Good Democratic Governance for Sustainable Development: The Nigerian Contextual and Situational Analysis Countries that are branded in the literature of democratization as democratic (in contrast to authoritarian) are classified into three: Mature Democracies, Flawed Democracies and Hybrid Regimes. Countries in the hybrid category are often also classified as fragile democracies. Nigeria is both a hybrid and fragile democracy. For example, it is classified by the Economic Intelligence Unit’s Democracy Index as fragile, along with 14 other African countries, out of a total number of 39 globally as can be seen from Table 1.

Table 1. Economist Intelligence Unit Democracy Index 2017 Type of regime No. of countries globally No. of countries from Africa Index category 1.

Full Democracies 19 1 8.1 – 10 2.

Flawed Democracies 57 8 6–8 3.

Hybrid Regimes 39 15 4.0 – 5.99 4.

Authoritarian Regimes 52 24 Less than 4.0 Source: Wikipedia.org Democracy Index This is because, among other things, Nigeria’s electoral democracy, launched in 1999, has for long been lacking in electoral integrity, resulting in bad governance and somewhat undemocratic mode of governance. And it is fragile, also because of its ethno-religious diversity, which is characterized by deep fissures and acute fault-lines; lack of electoral integrity, which undermines the legitimacy of elected governments; and on account of reckless, bad governance, which characterized most of its 58 years of independence from colonial rule. Indeed, as a transitional democracy, Nigeria, as Larry Diamond has observed, is being “haunted by the specter of bad governance…governance is drenched in corruption, patronage, favoritism and abuse of power” (2017, 119).

Nigeria is not only a fragile state, it is also categorized as a volatile and potentially explosive country. The Fund For Peace 2018 Fragile States Index has placed Nigeria on category 9 out of 11 (i.e. Alert, with a score of 99.9!), in which there are 19 countries world wide, and along with Libya and Liberia!

Additionally, the Mo Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG) 2017 ranks Nigeria number 35 out of 54 African countries, with a score of 48.1, below the African average of 50.8. Now, while the good

news is that Nigeria is said to witness ‘increasing improvement’ since 2007, the bad news is that the rate of increment is only +0.38! A lot, a lot more is desired in this regard.

Also, the Electoral Integrity Project’s Year in Elections 2017 report indicates that Perception of Electoral Integrity (PEI) Index ranks Nigeria number 15 out of 47 African countries, a ‘moderate’ classification.

All these clearly show that there is much that is desired in Nigeria with regards to human security, governance and electoral integrity. Indeed, the prevalence of corruption, as indicated by the poor ranking of Nigeria on the recently released Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index (CPI), which is 27/100 points and ranked 148 out of 180 countries, further complicates the issue of bad governance through a massive hemorrhage of resources, which could otherwise have been channeled into meeting citizens’ basic needs in human security. In the circumstances, peace building, good democratic governance and sustainable development are desirable objectives to be pursued with vigor, passion and commitment.

These poor global rankings highlighted in the preceding paragraphs are depressing for a country with such a high potential a remarkable leadership role in Africa. No doubt the ‘Giant of Africa’ is faltering.

Although Nigeria’s situation with regards to instability could be said to be, in relative terms, characterized by ‘low-intensity’ conflicts (e.g. in contrast to civil wars), these conflicts nonetheless have devastating consequences, in terms of losses of lives, destruction of property and negative impact on economic growth. As Keuleers has observed, “where safety is routinely and casually under threat, it will be impossible to generate lasting improvements in most aspects of peoples lives” (2018: 1) It is ironic that we have to apply the notion/ concept of peace building to address Nigeria’s perennial conflicts, even though technically, the country is not a post-civil war or post-conflict society in the conventional definitions of these, in which the concept is normally applied.

The reality, however, is that the perennial nature of our crises and the fragility of our systems, institutions and structures, circumscribed as they have been by bad governance, require a serious focus on peace building and the restoration of normalcy in these areas. An Agenda for peace building and Sustainable Development must compliment, if not replace, our failed national integration and forging of national unity projects. It is therefore essential to provide enduring security, to build peace and to pursue sustainable development agenda more vigorously, throughout the country, but especially in those areas, or states with perennial violent conflicts.

In this context, good democratic governance is the best framework and the foundation for peace building and sustainable development. That is what Nigeria needs and that is what we should focus on, in nurturing and institutionalizing.

To be more specific, for example, peace building is necessary in the North-East geo-political zone, as normalcy returns, as Boko Haram insurgency is degraded, and in the post-Boko Haram insurgency dispensation; as well as in areas drastically affected by herders-farmers conflicts and other forms of perennial communal or ethno-religious conflicts, such as Plateau, Nassarawa, Benue, Kaduna and Zamfara states. Indeed, peace building is also required in the Southeast and South-South geopolitical zones, to deal with the Agitation for Biafra, Niger delta militants, and other forms of militancy. Even more significantly, sustainable development goals and agenda must be combined with peace building for long-term turn around of these conflict-ridden areas.

Sustainable development goals and objectives have to be incorporated and reflected in the three core components of peace building, namely, Disaster relief, macroeconomic reform and post-conflict reintegration (Smoljan (2003/2010).

Doing this, effectively and efficiently in the current state of affairs in Nigeria, however, would

require significant up scaling of good, democratic governance in the polity. If truth is to be told, there is a remarkable deficit of good governance, not to talk about good democratic governance in Nigeria. The chaos, inadequacy, inefficiency, corruption, inequity and lack of participation and inclusiveness, which characterize provision of disaster relief in the conflictridden areas is illustrative of this. Indeed, judging from this, it is very difficult to see how, beyond disaster relief, programs and projects of peace building and sustainable development in these areas could be successfully brought to fruition without remarkable doses of good democratic governance.

Improved governance in all its ramifications is key to peace building and sustainable development in Nigeria.

Recommendations: Arising from the preceding discussion, the following recommendations are pertinent.

1.

Nigeria needs to develop capacity, institutions, structures and processes of peace building for sustainable development domestically.

Nigeria has made substantial contributions subregionally and continentally, to peacekeeping and peace building. But it seems to lack capacity, effective means and mechanisms of peace building and conflict resolution domestically. This needs to be remedied as a matter of urgency.

2.

State governments should establish conflict resolution and peace building agencies, as a panacea for perennial conflicts and insecurity, such as famers-herders conflicts and communal disputes and conflicts. These should then develop transparent and inclusive partnerships with stakeholders and civil society organizations to engage in dispute and conflict resolution, as well as peace building and community reintegration 3.

The governance architecture, processes and institutions need to be remarkably improved upon, to effectively drive peace building and sustainable development. In line with the goal of Agenda 2030, i.e. of having “peaceful, just and inclusive society”, we must work harder to institutionalize good democratic governance.

Governance must be transparent, participatory, inclusive, equitable, fair and just. We need to institutionalize good democratic governance, as we deepen our democracy, rather than leave governance at the mercy, goodwill, pre-disposition or, indeed, idiosyncrasies of elected legislative and executive office holders.

4.

Governments at both federal and state levels need to recognize that peace building and sustainable development are indeed two sides of the same coin: no peace without sustainable development vice versa. Attention therefore has to be focused more on creative and enduring ways of pursuing development programs and projects on a sustainable basis, while simultaneously building peace in the conflict raged areas of the country.

What can be termed as preventive or proactive peace building agenda also needs to be developed and deployed in not only post-conflict areas, but also in all conflict prone areas, which are so many, given the predisposition and the predilection of the elite to mobilizing ethno-regional, communal and religious identities to ignite conflicts 5.

The fight against corruption has to be intensified in all its ramifications. There are many successes achieved, which are commendable but the magnitude of the problem on the ground is turning these into drops in the ocean. Indeed, it needs to be recognized that corruption has virtually become a way of life in virtually all of our public institutions at federal and, more so, the state, level.

We have cast the searchlight upon embezzlement at the echelon of public service, which is very good.

But we also need to cast searchlight on bribe giving and bribe taking in the day to day running of the public service, especially at the middle and lower levels: this has become a way of life. This seemingly ‘low-intensity’ type of corruption has devastating consequences on governance. This dimension of Continue on the next page

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

25 for the record

Peace-building and good governance for sustainable development in Nigeria Attahiru Jega I am feel greatly honored with the opportunity to deliver this lecture, and I wish to thank the Federal Government, in particular, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, for graciously extending the invitation to me. I wish all my compatriots a happy Democracy Day, with best wishes for many happier returns! I know that there are Nigerians who hold the view that there is no cause for such celebration. They are entitled to their opinions, but I believe that such a perspective is grossly misplaced. We should substitute pessimism with optimism. I believe that, we are entitled to this celebration somewhat akin to the late Chinua Achebe’s proverbial lizard that fell off an Iroko tree; for those of you who read Things Fall Apart, if you recall, it felt entitled to nod its head and praise itself, even if nobody else did. Nigeria’s return to civil rule in 1999 and the subsequent sustenance of formal, if not substantive, electoral democracy for close to 20 years, given our past experiences with either colonial or authoritarian military rule, is no doubt something to celebrate, especially in a country where, if the truth be told, there is a dearth of things worthy of celebration. But Nigeria has come a long way in the quest to fulfill the aspirations of citizens for democracy. No doubt, given Nigeria’s potential, things could have been better, but there is no need crying over spilled milk. I am glad that things are not worse than what we have today. We should just try harder to make things much better than they have been with sustained incremental, irreversible positive changes. And this is where the theme of today’s lecture becomes pertinent, especially if posed as a question: how can Nigeria attain enduring peace, predicated on good, democratic governance and sustainable development?

While in a celebratory mood, we must also use today’s occasion for sober reflections on outstanding challenges, and on what we can, and must, do collectively to address them. I hope what this lecture contains contributes in this regard.

What I intend to do in this presentation is a broad sweep, to explore the connection between, or the interconnectedness of, three concepts, which are contemporarily, of paramount importance in discussing the political economies of countries such as Nigeria, namely: Peace building, Good [democratic] Governance and Sustainable development.

I begin with conceptual clarifications and broad situational analysis. Then I zero down on the interconnectedness of these three conceptsas applicable to the Nigerian context. Finally I offer some recommendations for improvement and conclude withbrief remarks.

Peace Building Peace building is a concept often used in the context of post- civil war or post-conflict situations, to address factors that cause or exacerbate inequity, conflict and violence. It is aimed at bringing about enduring peace, to prevent recurrence of conflicts and violence. It is also about “mitigating risk of conflict and preventing a relapse of conflict dynamics”. Additionally, it is about “transforming socio-economic environmental systems so that they sustain progress and equitable opportunity” (Anan 1998).

Peace building, in its conventional usage, is essentially reactive, coming after humanitarian rescue, disaster relief, peace making and peacekeeping. Although peace building is a concept often used in the context of post-civil war societies, I believe that it is applicable to diverse, conflict ridden or conflict prone societies, such as Nigeria, where perennial conflict, even if comparatively of “low intensity” type, disrupts communities and undermines sustainable development. It also need not just be reactive; it can be proactive and preventive.

It can be aimed at bringing about enduring peace, or to prevent conflicts from occurring in the first place.

Martinez-Soliman and Fernandez-Taranco of the UN have estimated that globally, ‘more than 1.4 billion people, including half of the world’s extremely poor people, live in fragile and conflict-

Buhari

Jega

affected settings’; with about 244 million on the move, 65 million of whom are being forcibly displaced. By 2030, this number is expected to grow by 82% (2017).

Most of these conflicts are caused essentially by civil wars and other civil strife. But there are also countries characterized, or affected by, comparatively, lowintensity conflicts, with devastating consequences.

In Nigeria for example, in the past decade or so, massive destruction of lives, property and means of livelihood, as well as displacement of people has occurred caused by the Boko Haram insurgency, the ‘herders-farmers’ and other forms of conflict. These have serious implications for conflict resolution, peace building and socioeconomic development in the affected places, as well as for the nation as a whole.

Peace building entails three main aspects: Creating trust; building processes and institutions of reconciliation and cooperation; and reviving socioeconomic activities for sustainable means of livelihood. Thus, wherever violent conflicts disrupt communities and livelihoods and undermines peaceful coexistence amongst diverse groups of people, not just civil wars, the concept of peacebuilding is applicable for return to normalcy and/ or rebuilding trust and confidence for sustainable mutual coexistence.

Governance, Good Governance and Good Democratic Governance In a presentation in December 2017, I noted that: Social science concepts are often ambiguous and defiant of precise definitions. The concept of governance and most especially the popularized notion of “good governance”, are clear examples of opaqueness and ambiguity of such concepts (Jega, 2017a).

I waded through the literature and separated the husk from the grains and present in this section what I consider to be the best and most useful definitions and conceptualization of governance and good governance.

Governance is often confused with government.

But, as Heywood has noted, “’Governance’ is a broader term than government”, in the sense that it “… refers, in its widest sense, to the various ways through which social life is coordinated [in a given polity]. Government can therefore be seen as one of the organizations involved in governance…” (2015: 84). In this sense, government is the organizational platform of governance in the public sector, as “market” is the organizational platform of governance in the private/economic sphere, and “networks” are the organizational frameworks for governance in the civil society sector.

According to Schneider: The broadest meaning of governance is the production of social order, collective goods or problem solving through purposeful political and social intervention, either by authoritative decisions (hierarchical governance) or the establishment of selfgoverning arrangements (2014, 130).

The World Bank popularized the concept of “good governance” in the 1990s, following the failure of the SAPs in the 1980s, emanating from the “Washington Consensus”, to address the economic crises in Africa and other developing countries. It defines good governance as: The traditions and institutions by which authority in a country is exercised. This includes (1) the process by which governments are selected, monitored and replaced, (2) the capacity of government to effectively formulate and implement sound policies, and (3) the respect of citizens and the state for the institutions that govern economic and social interactions among them (Working Paper No. 2196, 1991).

In the crisis and adjustment period of the mid 1980s, the Washington Consensus served as the framework for the intervention activities of the World Bank and other international economic development institutions in the “economic development” of African countries, such as Nigeria (World Bank 2000). It pushed for “massive deregulation of markets, tightening of public spending, guarantees for property rights and large scale privatizations” as the requisite conditions for economic growth and development (Rothstein 2014a: 144).

The notion of “good governance” evolved with the failure of SAPs to catalyze economic growth and development in the so-called developing countries.

Since the 1990s, scholars have attributed the failure of the Washington Consensus strategy to the lack of functional, or weakness of, institutions and have been preoccupied with the search for measures and mechanisms of reforming public institutions and making the delivery of public sector services to the public more transparent, accountable, efficient and cost-effective through reform processes. As Rothstein has noted, ”since the late 1990s, economists and political scientists alike have started to argue that dysfunctional government institutions play a central part in many of the world’s most pressing economic and social problems” 2014b: 5). Hence, panacea was seen as “good governance”, which can remove distortions in the public sector and restore functionality of institutions. Thus, “good governance” became the framework within which to introduce market mechanisms into the public sector governance processes. Many conceptions of “good governance” abound, as summarized by Rothstein: from good governance as small government, to good governance as the absence of corruption, to good governance as the rule of law, good governance as democracy, to good governance as government efficiency, etc. (ibid. 2014a: 146-152).

In advancing the case of good governance, many other concepts are also bandied about; such notions as “devolved governance” related to organization of public administration; “delegated governance”, in regulatory policy; and new issues were introduced to “fiscal governance” (Hardiman 2014:236). In particular, under the framework of “good governance”, African countries were guided

to “bring managerialism into the public bureaucracy” and introduce “public management reforms” which have the objectives “of increasing efficiency, cutting costs, and helping the public sector to deliver highquality service” (Pierre 2014: 188 &190).

In any case, good governance came to mean the absence of bad governance. Characteristics of “bad governance” are identified as: lack of accountability and transparency, interference with the rule of law and corruption. Indeed, bad governance is perceived as the inability of public institutions to manage public affairs and public resources, and the failure of a government to meet the needs of society while making the best use of all the resources at their disposal.

Thus, in World Bank’s conceptualization, Good Governance is about making government “smaller and leaner” for cost effectiveness and efficiency in public services delivery. And the focus is on institutional arrangements, a rather very narrow approach.

Ironically the World Bank’s conception of “good governance” is applicable within the contexts of both democratic governments and authoritarian regimes, with profound contradictions being evident.

Cutting costs, “rolling back” the state, efficiency, institutional capacity building, were pursued vigorously at the expense of inclusivity, participatory processes, bottom up approaches and to some extent, even transparency and accountability. Thus, good governance is stripped off its normative democratic content.

An alternative broader definition based on a holistic approach, offered by Rothstein and Teorell is rooted in the basic norm that characterizes the system as a whole; and that places premium on the objective interests of the citizens, rather than the narrow interest of ruling cliques. According to them, that basic norm is “impartiality in the exercise of public power”. They expatiated this basic norm, the core of good governance, as follows: When implementing laws and policies, government officials shall not take anything about the citizens or the case in to consideration that is not before hand stipulated in policy or the law (2008, 130).

While good governance is desirable, especially as rooted in the basic norm, as articulated by Rothstein and Teorell, what is even more desirable in my view, is Good Democratic Governance, which is an essential requirement for progress and development of a modern nation-state. Good democratic governance incorporates aspects of efficiency and effectiveness in governance, inclusive and participatory governance, responsible and responsive leadership, as well as “the impartiality of the institutions that exercise government authority” (Rothstein and Teorell 2008, 165). The need for a democratic content to governance cannot be over-emphasized, especially in diverse, fragile democracies, such as what we have in Nigeria.

Now, failure to recognize the need for, and infuse ‘good governance’ with democratic content in terms of consultation, representation and inclusiveness, to my mind, is responsible for the failure of World Bank’s efforts to have desirable people-oriented transformative effects, in African development.

From this premise, I argue that, good democratic governance, and not merely ‘good governance’ in its narrow definition, is what is an essential requirement to catalyze peace building and sustainable development. To pursue effective peace building and sustainable development programs, effective planning, sound institutions and structures, as well as all-encompassing partnerships, consultations and dialogue are necessary. Only good democratic governance can guarantee that. Good democratic governance nurtures participatory, inclusive, responsible and responsive harnessing of societal resources for efficient and impartial delivery of public goods and services and facilitates economic growth and sustainable development, in order to satisfy the fundamental needs and aspirations of citizens.

Contrarily, ‘good governance’ devoid of democratic Continue on the next page

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Daily Times Nigeria

Tuesday, March 26, 2018

Peace-building and good governance for sustainable development in Nigeria Continue from previous page

corruption also requires urgent attention, and should be the second and more intensified phase in the on-going fight against corruption. In some cases, the giving, demand for and taking of bribes appears like a normal occurrence, clearly driven by impunity. In the National Assembly for example, some committee chairmen have gained notoriety for this unwholesome conduct purportedly in the course of conducting ‘oversight’ or appropriation duties. All the heads and CEOs of government departments and Agencies, as well as Vice Chancellors of universities whom I have spoken with have harrowing tales of brazen extortion by some committees of the National Assembly. These corrupt practices impunity must stop. Like Oliver Twist, those patriotic Nigerians who like and appreciate the current effort of Mr. President in tackling cases of high-profile embezzlement, would ask for more effort targeted at these brazen acts of corruption which are becoming routinized.

On another note, there is no reason to be defensive about reports by organizations, such as Transparency International or Human Rights Watch and others, when they indict our country. They may embellish or misinterpret some evidence, but the basic reality remains, there are so many things that are going on, that are wrong and condemnable, and that we need to be reminded of. The challenge is to keep addressing these, with focused incremental positive changes and generation of incontrovertible evidence, so as to remove the opportunity to cause mischief by these organizations.

6.

General governance reforms are imperative, and urgently desirable, for our country to improve its profile towards good democratic governance.

Reform of the public services is necessary for efficient, effective, inclusive and impartial discharge of their mandates. And, the security architecture in general and the Nigeria Police in particular need urgent and substantial reforms to improve and reposition them to be more effective in protecting lives and property, safe-guarding national security, enforcing the rule of law and dealing decisively with criminal impunity.

The rule of law is the foundation of sustainable development, human security and peace building.

The police in particular and the security agencies in general must be repositioned to induce and/or compel compliance with the rule of law and prevent or penalize, as appropriate, its breaches. Above all, they must demonstrate competence, professionalism and impartiality in the discharge of their responsibilities.

Significantly, the judiciary also needs to reform and

improve upon the administration of justice, to speedy up the process and ensure that justice is not, willfully or inadvertently, denied.

7.

Perceptions may be deceptive but we seem to be treating such weighty issues with devastating consequences as the so-called ‘herders – farmers’ conflicts with kid gloves. We must put on the right kind of gloves to fight these at all levels, local and federal and we must adopt a long-term perspective in doing this. No doubt, the root causes relate to climate change, environmental degradation, desertification, dwindling of ordinarily finite resources and consequent migrations and the pressures they exert on land and other resources. But there are other underlying causes, as well as immediate causes, which can be addressed in the short- to medium term by policy, by law enforcement and by mediation, through conflict resolution and peace building mechanisms and structures. No matter how passionate and emotive the issues may seem to be we must only have recourse the rule of law in protecting fundamental rights of citizens.

8.

We need to continue to expand the scope of inclusivity of governance in Nigeria, by giving more women and youth greater roles and responsibilities in the public services and public offices. The “Giant of Africa” is lagging far behind in this regard. In particular, our so-called ‘youth bulge’ should be seized upon as a demographic asset and appropriately utilized, to prevent it from becoming a liability and formidable security threat.

9.

Ultimately, attention has to be focused on strengthening electoral integrity and deepening democracy, as the framework for engendering good democratic governance in our country. I recently gave a Lecture under the auspices of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, titled “Towards Elections with Integrity in 2019: Challenges and Prospects” (see Jega 2018a)in which I made several recommendations on how best to improve the integrity of our elections in 2019 and beyond.

However, four key challenges, which currently pose serious concern for INEC as it prepares for the 2019 elections are: Violence, increasing spate of hate speeches, delay in the amendments to the electoral legal framework, and security deployment for elections.

Recent rancorous, even violent, party congresses portend danger for the general elections. If parties cannot successfully and peacefully organize congresses, it is doubtful if they can engage with other parties in elections with civility and peacefully.

This needs to be addressed.

The increasing spate of hate speeches by political,

References Anan, K. 1998. Report on the Causes of Conflict and the Promotion of Durable Peace and Sustainable Development in Africa. New York: UN. A/52/871-s/318.

Assa, J. 2017. “Integrating Peacebuilding and Sustainable Development Policies in Less Developed Countries”, in Journal of Peacebuilding and Development, Volume 12, pp. 103-107.

Collier, P., and V. Elliot. 2003. Breaking the Conflict Trap: Civil War and Development Policy. Washington DC: World Bank and Oxford University Press.

Diamond, L. 2017. “A quarter-century of promoting democracy”, in Journal of Democracy, 18.

Economist Intelligence Unit. Democracy Index 2017.

Electoral Integrity Project. The Year in Elections 2017. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University.

Fund For Peace 2018 Fragile States Index.

Jega, A. M. 2017. “Electoral Integrity in Africa: Lessons from Nigeria’s 2011 and 2015 General Elections”, AIG Inaugural Lecture at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford, March 1.

Jega, A. M., 2017a. “Governance Reforms and Human Security in Nigeria”, Keynote Address delivered at the 10th Annual Forum of the Laureates of the Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM) 2017

Dogara

religious and opinion leaders, is another issue of major concern. These incite and mobilize citizens a long fault-lines cable of exacerbating crises and conflicts. Ways and means need to be found to tame hate speechbefore the general elections.

The unwholesome delay in the amendment to the electoral legal framework (Constitution and the Electoral Act) is also worrisome. It is necessary to urgently conclude this, because there are some provisions in the extant laws, which require repeal or amendment, so as to improve the integrity of our elections. Such current provisions, as the one pertaining to internal party democracy, run-off elections and bye-elections threaten conduct of elections with integrity and should be addressed urgently. In any case, Nigeria is a signatory to ECOWAS and AU protocols / declarations, which require that amendments to the electoral legal framework should be concluded at least (or not later than) six months to general elections.

It is also desirable to pay attention to the challenge of neutrality, professionalism and impartiality of the Nigeria Police and the other security agencies in their engagement with elections. In 2015, this engagement was remarkably much better than 2007 and 2011 and the working relationship between INEC and security agencies as coordinated in ICCES, was partly contributory to the integrity of those elections.

Ways and means need to be explored to ensure that the Police and the security agencies display greater

Award Winners’ Lecture and 2017 NNOM Investiture, December 5-7, 2017.

Jega, A. M. 2018. “Significance of Political Stability to Good Governance and Economic Development”, contribution to a Panel Discussion at the Lagos-Kano Economic Summit, Epe Conference Centre, February 28 – March 2.

Jega, A. M., 2018a. Towards Elections with Integrity in 2019: Challenges and Prospects.Founders’ Day Lecture, Nigerian Institute for Advanced Legal Studies. Abuja: NIALS. Keuleers, P. 2018. “Why Peace Building is Part of the Sustainable Development Agenda”, Inter Press Service, Thursday, May 24.

Lederach, J. P., 2017. Chapter 7, “Resources: Making Peace Possible”, in Building Peace: Sustainable Reconciliation in Divided Societies. Washington DC: USIP. Martinez- Soliman, M. and O. Fernandez-Tranco, 2018.

“Sustainable development and sustaining peace: Two sides of the same coin”, UNDP. Mo Ibrahim Foundation. 2018. The 2017 Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG).

Orebiyi, T., Orebiyi A., and S. Fogbonjaiye. 2013. “Preventive Peace Building and Sustainable Development in Africa”. Review Article in Journal of Business Administration and Management Sciences Research. Volume 8, August, pp. 178-186. [Online].

impartiality, professionalism and neutrality in the 2019 elections.

There is no over-emphasizing that, as the 2019 elections approach all hands need to be on deck for continuous improvement of the integrity of our elections. The more the integrity of our elections, the better, more responsible and responsive our elected office holders, and indeed our entire governance system and processes, would be.

Conclusion Having established the interconnectedness of peace building, good democratic governance and sustainable development, and having reviewed the current state of things in Nigeria presently, with recommendations for improvements, two pertinent points remain to be made in conclusion.

First, Given our diversity, which has historically been complicated by mutual suspicions and fears, and bedeviled by perennial conflicts, we must nurture and develop the infrastructure for peace and we must invest massively in peace building and in sustainable development. As Lederach has observed: “without adequate resources [devoted to peace building], explicit preparations, and commitment over time, peace will remain a distant ideal rather than a practical goal” (2017: 87). That would only undermine the prospects for sustainable development. As things stand now, we don’t seem to have invested sufficient energy and resources to domestic peace building, notwithstanding the reputation of our country in sub-regional and continental peacekeeping and peace building. We must therefore try harder in this regard.

Second, and finally, the major challenge of our time is how to make Nigeria more peaceful, just and inclusive, especially for those ‘most at risk of violence, injustice and exclusion’, and how to embark on a solid pathway to sustainable development.

Only good democratic governance can provide the appropriate framework for meeting this challenge on a sustainable basis. But this is not a manna that can fall from heaven while we all “siddon look”!

It is a product of concerted vigorous struggles by progressive, patriotic and democratic forces in our country.

God Bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Thank You. Jega, a former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and a lecturer at the Department of Political Science, Bayero University, Kano, delivered this piece during the 2018 Democracy Day lecture at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, on Monday, May 28, 2018

Rothstein, B. and J. Teorell. 2008. “What is Quality of Government?

A Theory of Impartial Government Institutions”, in Governance: An International Journal of Policy, Administration and Institutions.

Volume 21, Issue 2, April, pp. 165-190.

Rothstein, Bo. (2011): The Quality of Government. Corruption, Social Trust, and Inequality in International Perspective. Chicago and London: The University of Chicago Press.

Scheider, V. 2014. “Governance and Complexity”, in Levi-Faur, D. The Oxford Handbook of Governance. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Smoljan, J. 2010. “The Relationship between peace building and development”, in Journal of Conflict, Security and Development, Issue 2. [Online].

UNESCO. 2017. Moving Forward the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. New York: United Nations United Nations. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development A/ RES/70/1. New York. [sustainabledevelopment.un.org] United Nations. 2017. The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2017. New York: United Nations Uvin, P. 2012. “The Development / Peacebuilding Nexus: A Typology and History of Changing Paradigms”, in Journal of Peacebuilding and Development, Issue 1, pp. 5-24. [Online].

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

27 for the record

There will be prosperity in Nigeria – Buhari My Dear Nigerians!

Today marks the 19th year of our nascent democracy and the 3rd Anniversary of this administration.

I am thankful to Almighty God for bringing us thus far. This administration came at a time that Nigerians needed Change, the Change we promised and the Change we continue to deliver. We have faced a lot of challenges on this journey and Nigerians have stood by us in achieving the three cardinal points of this administration namely; Security, Corruption and the Economy.

2. The commemoration of this year’s Democracy Day is a celebration of freedom, a salute to the resilience and determination of Nigerians and a recommitment by Government to keep its promise to lead Nigeria into a new era of justice and prosperity.

3. Public safety and security remains the primary duty of this Government. Before this Administration came into being 3 years ago, Boko Haram held large areas of land spanning several Local Governments in the North East.

4. Today, the capacity of the insurgents has been degraded leading to the reestablishment of authority of government and the release of captives including, happily, 106 Chibok and 104 Dapchi girls, and over 16,000 other persons held by the Boko Haram.

5. In order to minimize the impact of the insurgency on Internally Displaced Persons, Government has established secure IDP Camps and has improved the mechanism for the distribution of basic aid, foods and essential commodities using various strategies in collaboration with local and international Organizations.

6. Efforts are in process for resettlement of IDPs in their home communities by providing schools, hospitals, clinics, water and sanitation to facilitate a quick return to economic activities. Government is similarly implementing de-radicalization and rehabilitation programmes to facilitate sustainable peace and development.

7.

The unfortunate incidences of kidnappings, herdsmen and farmers clashes in several communities which have led to high number of fatalities and loss of properties across the country is being addressed and the identified culprits and their sponsors shall be made to face the full wrath of the law. All the three tiers of Government are presently engaged with communities and religious organizations to restore peaceful co-existence among Nigerians.

8.

I want to commend members of the Multinational Joint Task Force drawn from Niger, Benin, Chad, Cameroon and our own country in collaboration with the International Community who are assisting in the fight against insurgency in the North East. I also commend the gallantry of members of our Armed Forces and other security agencies that have continued to provide security for lives and properties across the country. State and Local traditional authorities are helping with much needed intelligence in this fight against insurgency.

9. This administration is pained over the grievous loss of lives and properties occasioned by the carnage of insurgency and other forms of criminality in the country. I wish to assure Nigerians that we will not rest until all criminal elements and their sponsors are brought to justice.

Government is boosting the capacity of our security agencies through recruitment of more personnel, training and procurement of modern equipment, enhancement of intelligence gathering as well as boosting their morale in the face of daunting

challenges.

10.

The Niger Delta Region has enjoyed relative peace through social inclusiveness and cooperation of the Elders and the good people of the region.

Government is committed to implementing the comprehensive peace, security and development plan for the region. The environmental clean-up of the region which commenced with the launch in Bodo, Ogoni in June, 2016 is progressing satisfactorily.

Furthermore farming assets are being revived and investors in cocoa and palm oil plantations are showing serious interest.

11. The second primary object of this Administration is to fight corruption headlong. Like I have always said, if we don’t kill corruption, corruption will destroy the country. Three years into this Administration, Nigerians and the international community have begun to applaud our policies and determination to fight corruption. We are more than ever before determined to win this war, however hard the road is. I therefore appeal to all well-meaning Nigerians to continue to support us in this fight.

12. Various policy measures already put in place to stem the tide of corrupt practices are yielding remarkable results. Some of these key reform policies include: a. The Treasury Single Account (TSA) has realized Billions of Naira being saved from maintenance fee payable to banks. N200 Billion has also been saved from elimination of ghost workers in public service. b. The Whistle-Blowing Policy has helped to recover over N500 Billion; c.

The Presidential Initiative on Continuous Audit set up with a mandate to validate controls, assess risks, prune personnel costs, ensure compliance with Public Financial Management reforms has helped to identify and remove over 52,000 ghost workers from the Federal Government MDAs Payroll; d. The Voluntary Asset and Income Declaration Scheme (VAIDS) aimed at expanding tax education and awareness has offered the opportunity for tax defaulters to regularise their status in order to enjoy the amnesty of forgiveness on overdue interest, penalties and the assurance of nonprosecution or subject to tax investigations. e. The Sovereign Wealth Fund project portfolio has been expanded with an injection of US$650 million so as to strengthen its investment in local infrastructure, power, health, re-construction of Abuja-Kano road, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, East West Road (Section V) and the Mambilla Hydro-electric Power project as well as the construction of the 2nd Niger Bridge.

13. The fight against corruption through the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has resulted in recoveries of Billions of Naira, as well as forfeiture of various forms of assets. This alongside other efforts has improved Nigeria’s international image and regional cooperation.

14. We have retained the services of one of the world’s leading assets tracing firms to investigate and trace assets globally. This is in addition to the exploitation of provisions of existing Treaties, Conventions as well as Bilateral Agreements with Multilateral bodies and Nations. Nigeria has also signed Mutual Legal Assistance Agreements to ensure that there is no hiding place for fugitives.

15. This Administration has therefore focused on revamping the ailing economy it inherited in 2015. In 2016, Government executed an expansionary budget and developed the Strategic Implementation Plan. For the first time, 30% of the budget was earmarked for capital expenditure which represents an upward review when

Buhari

compared with the 2015 budget. The SIP was followed by the development of a comprehensive medium term plan – the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan 2017 – 2020.

16. The broad strategic objectives of the ERGP were to; Restore and sustain economic growth; Build a globally competitive economy; and Invest in our people. The implementation of the ERGP has started yielding results. The National Bureau of Statistics reports that the economy grew by 1.95% in 1st quarter 2018, which is a good performance when viewed against -0.91 in 1st quarter 2017 and -0.67% in 1st quarter 2016 respectively.

17. Our foreign reserve has improved significantly to 47.5 billion USD as of May, 2018 as against 29.6 billion USD in 2015. The inflationary rate has consistently declined every month since January, 2017.

18. Recently, Government conducted Focus Labs in three key sectors of the Economy namely, Agriculture & Transport, Manufacturing and Processing as well as Power and Gas. These have yielded significant prospects for investments and Job creation to the tune of US$ 22.5 billion with a potential for creating more than 500,000 jobs by 2020. These investment generation initiatives are expected to increase capital inflows in the form of foreign direct investment. There is a high prospect that the cumulative investments from this first phase of the Labs will hit US$39.2 billion by 2025.

19. Under agriculture, Nigeria continues to pursue a strategic food security programme built around self-sufficiency and minimization of import dependency.

As a result, rice importation from other countries has been cut down by 90% which has a direct impact on foreign reserves.

20. The Social Investment Programmes (SIP) has been created as a means to graduating our citizens from poverty through capacity building, investment and direct support. The major strategic objective is to restore livelihood, economic opportunities and sustenance for the poor across the country. The SIP programmes and projects include: a.

Home Grown School Feeding Programme - About 8.2 million pupils are currently being fed from 24 States of the Federation with over 75,000 Catering Staff engaged under the programme. b. The Conditional Cash Transfer has so far recorded over 297,000 caregivers and being trained by 2,495 Community Facilitators in 21 states. Less privileged

Nigerians are now being paid N5,000 monthly stipend in 9 pilot States of Bauchi, Borno, Cross River, Ekiti, Kwara, Kogi, Niger, Osun and Oyo. Eventually the scheme will cover all the 36 states of the federation including the FCT. c. Under the Government Enterprise Empowerment Programme - About 264,269 loans had been disbursed to 4,822 societies in the 36 States and FCT, while another 370,635 are awaiting release of funds. d. N-Power Job creation Scheme - is targeted at providing jobs for unemployed young graduates and has so far recruited 200,000 youths while the next batch of 300,000 have been selected, verified and would soon be deployed across the 36 States and the FCT. Furthermore, 20,000 nongraduate volunteers have also been selected to kick off the N-Build programme in collaboration with the National Automotive Design and Development Council and the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria.

21. In the area of power generation, Nigerians from all parts of the country continue to report better power supply and less use of generators. This underscores the effectiveness of the methodical plan to deliver incremental and uninterrupted power supply to our homes, markets, offices and factories.

22.

The country achieved 5, 222.3 MW representing the highest peak of power generated onto the national grid and delivered to customers in December, 2017. With new facilities, repairs and rehabilitations by Government and private investors, generation capability now exceeds 7,500 MW. 23. This Administration is committed to lawful interventions to ensure the operators of the distribution business live up to expectations especially in the areas of distribution capacity, service delivery, collection efficiency, and metering to eliminate contentious estimated billing.

24.

The Transportation Sector continues to undergo a series of reforms in order to sustain the international best practices and ensure safety and security. The nation’s major airports have witnessed reconstruction of runways, installation of navigational equipment and new international terminals due for commissioning in Abuja, Lagos, Kano and Enugu. Bilateral Air Services Agreements between Nigeria and the Governments of other countries will significantly open up new flight routes.

25. As a result of strict regulatory and

compliance policies, Nigeria retained her Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Category 1 status, after a routine international audit. Recently, a new Maintenance Repair and Overhaul facility with capacity for aircraft C-checks and other comprehensive levels of maintenance was established in Lagos. This would save the country an estimated $90m annually.

26. Giant strides have been recorded over the past three years to improve road transport infrastructure in all geopolitical zones of the country.

27. The Railway Sector has also received tremendous attention as this Administration is committed to the goal of linking all State capitals in the Federation by rail network to ease the movement of goods and passengers.

28. The Education Sector especially at tertiary level has continued to witness expansion in order to improve access to higher education by millions of youths in Nigeria. Over the last three years, Government has approved the establishment of 1 new Federal Polytechnic, granted licenses for the establishment of 4 State and 14 private-owned Universities as well as 12 private Polytechnics.

29. Government has also continued to support the implementation of various initiatives aimed at improving the quality of Basic Education delivery. Thus, it has ensured proper funding at the Basic Education level with the disbursement of N42.2 billion UBE Matching Grant to 26 States and the FCT, N851.5 million Special Education Grant disbursed to 23 States and private providers of Special Education and N2.2 billion Teachers Professional Development Fund to 33 States and the FCT. 30.

The Federal Government has continued to support fiscal sustainability at the sub-national governments through the implementation of the Budget Support Facility which was accompanied by the 22- point Fiscal Sustainability Plan. Thus, bailouts funds were made available to States to ease their fiscal challenges and other obligations including payment of salaries.

31. In addition, a total of 73 Ecological Fund projects for the control of gully erosion in different communities across all geopolitical zones have been completed in the last three years and are undergoing commissioning while 53 other projects are ongoing. The execution of these projects has generated 357 skilled jobs and 1,350 unskilled jobs during this period.

32. It is pertinent to also make mention of the immeasurable contributions of the Nigerian woman to national development and advancement of democracy, over the last three years. The government and people appreciate you all as mothers of our great country.

33. My dear country men and women, as we all celebrate our democratic experience, let us resolve to avoid hatred and intolerance; we can only achieve our objectives in an atmosphere of harmony and peaceful co-existence.

34. Finally, the up-coming months will usher us into another season of general elections. Let me use this opportunity to urge us all to conduct ourselves, our wards and our constituencies with the utmost sense of fairness, justice and peaceful coexistence such that we will have not only hitch free elections but also a credible and violence free process.

35. In few days to come, I will be joined by many promising young Nigerians to sign into law the “Not Too Young to Run” Bill 36. I thank you for your attention.

37. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Being the address by President Muhammadu Buhari in commemoration of the 2018 Democracy day celebration on Tuesday, May 29, 2018

28

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Foreign Affairs

Italy political crisis hits financial markets Fears over Italy’s political upheaval spread to Wall Street after Europe’s financial markets closed lower.

The prospect of fresh elections and the possibility of eurosceptic parties strengthening their position has raised concern about the eurozone’s stability.

The US Dow Jones index had shed 1.5% by midday, coming after Italy’s FTSE MIB closed down 2.7% and other main markets in Europe shed well over 1%.

A sell-off in Italian bonds saw the yield on two-year debt breach 2% It meant that short-term Italian bonds suffered their biggest one-day jump in 26 years.

Movements in bond prices are important as they affect the cost of borrowing for the government. Italy’s debt currently stands at 130% of its economic output.

The bond sell-off hit the share prices of European banks exposed to government debt, especially those in Italy. Banco BPM, Banco Generali, Unicredit and BPER Banca closed down between 5% and 6.7%.

On Wall Street, JP Morgan was

down 3.7%, and Bank of America and Citigroup were just more than 3% lower. Morgan Stanley fell 5.3%.

Falling bank shares dragged down Europe’s main share markets. At the close the UK’s FTSE 100 fell almost 1.3%, while Germany’s Dax was down 1.5% and France’s Cac 1.3% lower.

“It’s a market that is totally in panic”, said Giuseppe Sersale, a fund manager at Anthilia Capital Partners, who noted “a total lack of confidence in the outlook for Italian public finances”.

The turmoil was precipitated after the anti-establishment Five Star and League political parties abandoned their attempts to form a ruling coalition after a standoff with President Sergio Mattarella.

He had vetoed their choice of a eurosceptic economy minister, and appointed former International Monetary Fund official Carlo Cottarelli as interim prime minister with the task of trying to form a government.

But his term is likely to be cut short, as he will almost certainly lose a parliamentary vote of confidence. If he does, then new elections would soon follow.

Carlo Cottarelli

Speaker tasks ECOWAS parliamentarians on greater commitment to economic integration Adebisi Oyindamola, Abuja Speaker of the ECOWAS parliament Honourable Mustapha Cisse Lou, has called for greater commitment towards the socio-economic integration and free movement drive of the sub region.

He stated this at the end of the 2018 first ordinary session of the ECOWAS parliament, in Abuja.

In a tribute to the founding fathers of ECOWAS, Lou emphasised the benefits of the creation of an economic bloc capable of enhancing growth and speeding up economic and social growth of mem-

ber states.

“The parliament that I am chairing will push this struggle for the integration of our people trough inter Alia, the free movement of people and goods, parliamentary diplomacy, the oversight of programs and projects it the commission, because the achievement of the 2020 vision advocating the move from an ECOWAS of states to an ECOWAS of people requires greater contribution from parliament”, he said.

He further urged members of parliament in their respective countries to heed the call of the people

they represent, and not to be far from the needs of the people.

This he said will give new ways and views for an economic integration of inclusion.

“We should avoid being too farfetched from the problems of our populace, we should avoid being divided and inefficient” Earlier during the course of this year’s first ordinary session of parliament, some of the key note agenda were, the adoption of the revised organogram of parliament, review of parliamentary procedures in the adoption of the supplementary act in enhancing the prerogative of

parliament, seminars on the challenges and prospects of the single currency,enhancing the participation and representation of women in ECOWAS gender policy.

On the upcoming presidential elections in Mali, scheduled for June 19, Lou called on all political actors and civil society groups to maintain peace during the democratic process, while also congratulating the Members of the ECOWAS parliament for a fruitful deliberations.

High point of the event was a colorful cultural display and a rundown of upcoming events and sessions of the parliament.

Libya’s rival leaders agree to hold elections December Representatives from 20 countries - including Libya’s neighbours, regional and European powers, the United States and international organisations - were at meetings at the Elysee Palace on Tuesday.

“The parties have committed to set the constitutional basis for elections and adopt the necessary electoral laws by September 16, 2018, and hold parliamentary and presidential elections on December 10, 2018,” said a joint statement.

Libyan Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj said he was happy with the outcome of the meeting and was keen to see the agreement ratified by all stakeholders.

“We reaffirm the existence and the need for a constitutional basis to organise an election and the need for everyone to work hand-in-hand to make sure the elections are a success,” Sarraj said in a press conference shortly after the meeting.

Sarraj added that he had called on other rival leaders who attended the meeting to bring an end to the civil war in the country and put an end to the bloodshed in Libya.

Libya splintered following the 2011 NATO-backed revolt that toppled Muammar Gaddafi.

Since 2014 the North African nation has been divided into competing political and military factions based in Tripoli and the east.

The United Nations is leading an effort to reunify the oil-rich country and to organise national elections.

Libya is split between rival governments in the east and west, each backed by an array of armed groups.

Libya’s rival leaders agree to hold elections December Representatives from 20 countries - including Libya’s neighbours, regional and European powers, the United States and international organisations - were at meetings at the Elysee Palace on Tuesday.

“The parties have committed to set the constitutional basis for elections and adopt the necessary electoral laws by September 16, 2018, and hold parliamentary and presi-

dential elections on December 10, 2018,” said a joint statement.

Libyan Prime Minister Fayez alSarraj said he was happy with the outcome of the meeting and was keen to see the agreement ratified by all stakeholders.

“We reaffirm the existence and the need for a constitutional basis to organise an election and the need for everyone to work handin-hand to make sure the elections

are a success,” Sarraj said in a press conference shortly after the meeting.

Sarraj added that he had called on other rival leaders who attended the meeting to bring an end to the civil war in the country and put an end to the bloodshed in Libya.

Libya splintered following the 2011 NATO-backed revolt that toppled Muammar Gaddafi. Since

2014 the North African nation has been divided into competing political and military factions based in Tripoli and the east.

The United Nations is leading an effort to reunify the oil-rich country and to organise national elections.

Libya is split between rival governments in the east and west, each backed by an array of armed groups.

Libyan Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

29 Foreign Affairs

Burundi ‘insulted’ by French gift of donkeys to village Burundi has ordered the quarantine of 10 donkeys donated to a village in the East African country by France, sparking a debate if there was a subliminal message behind the gift.

The donkeys, bought in neighbouring Tanzania, were given to residents of a village in Gitega province as part of a project by a local NGO to help women and children transport agricultural products, water or wood.

However, a presidential adviser described the project as “an insult to the nation”.

Gabby Bugaga, spokesman for the Senate president, also wrote on Twitter the French were “taking us for donkeys”.

“Be honest, is the donkey a symbol of a quality or a flaw,” he wrote.

Donkeys are not indigenous to Burundi.

On Sunday, Agriculture Minister Deo Guide Rurema asked a local administrator to “facilitate the immediate withdrawal of all donkeys that have been distributed ... without respecting the technical procedure of the distribution of exotic animals”.

Last Thursday, the day the project was inaugurated, French Ambassador Laurent Delahousse praised “the introduction of the Land Cruiser of the animal kingdom to Burundi”.

After the controversy,

Arkady Babchenko

Russian journalist shot dead

Delahousse said to his knowledge “all procedures were respected”.

A European diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AFP news agency Burundi was hitting back at France over a statement it made criticising a referendum earlier this month. The vote reformed the constitution allowing President Pierre Nkurunziza to seek

another two terms in office so he can potentially remain in power until 2034.

The diplomat said a similar project involving donkeys in Ruyigi province, financed by Belgium, had not been met with any problems.

Burundi was plunged into crisis in 2015 when Nkurunziza sought a third term in office,

sparking protests and violence that killed at least 1,200 people and displaced 400,000 others.

The International Criminal Court has said it is investigating alleged state-sponsored crimes against humanity in the country.

In 2017, Burundi became the first nation to leave The Haguebased court.

Source: Al Jazeera

US vows to continue trade actions against China The United States said on Tuesday that it still holds the threat of imposing tariffs on $50 billion of imports from China and will use it unless Beijing addresses the issue of theft of American intellectual property.

Washington will also press ahead with restrictions on investment by Chinese companies in the United States as well as export controls for goods exported to China, the statement from the White House said.

The announcement on Tuesday restated comments by administration officials that both the tariffs and the restrictions remained in place even after the United States and China sketched out a deal this month to reduce China’s $375 billion trade surplus with America.

A list of potential tariff targets has already been published by the United States Trade Representative and it largely includes intermediate

goods used by companies to make other products as well as some consumer goods like televisions.

Even though Washington had not withdrawn the threatened tariffs on imports from China, Beijing reacted harshly to the announcement, saying it was surprised by Tuesday’s statement and would defend its interests.

Threats of a trade war between the United States and China had hit financial markets hard, although now most economists believe the two will manage to avoid a major economic conflict.

China has repeatedly said that it will push ahead with its development of high-tech industries and will not back down in the face of what it sees as threats from Washington.

The two countries earlier this month agreed to look at measures to reduce China’s trade surplus with the United States in a move

that appeared to reduce the risk of a trade war between the world’s two largest economies.

That deal was separate from the U.S. investigation into China’s alleged theft of intellectual property.

Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross is to visit Beijing this week to try and get China to agree to firm numbers for additional U.S. exports to the country. The United States had wanted China’s trade surplus with America to shrink by $200 billion in two years, a figure seen as fanciful by most economists and trade experts.

There is room to increase exports to China by selling more agricultural commodities and energy products and China has agreed in principle to import more, but the two sides do not have a firm agreement.

Economists estimate that U.S. exports could rise by up to $90 billion over a period of years.

Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross

Russian journalist Arkady Babchenko has died after being shot at his home in Kiev, according to police.

Mr Babchenko, 41, was reportedly found bleeding in their apartment block by his wife and died in an ambulance.

After writing about a crashed Russian military plane in 2016, Mr Babchenko said he received death threats and left his home country.

He previously worked as a presenter on Ukrainian channel ATR TV, and has written about his military service.

Ukrainian law enforcement confirmed his death in a Facebook post, written in Ukrainian.

Kiev police chief Andriy Kryshchenko also told the media they suspected Mr Babchenko was killed due to his “professional activities”.

Mr Babchenko has criticised the Kremlin in recent years, standing in opposition-led elections against the government in 2012 and denouncing Russia’s actions in Syria and eastern Ukraine.

In December 2016, Mr Babchenko wrote a Facebook post about a crashed Tu-154 transport plane, which fell into the Black Sea while carrying a Red Army choir to Syria.

He claims this Facebook post, in which he described Russia as an “aggressor”, led to death threats and abuse from the Russian state, writing in a piece for The Guardian that this forced him to leave “a country I no longer feel safe in”.

While studying law in Moscow aged 18, Mr Babchenko was conscripted into the Russian army and served in the Chechen wars in the 1990s.

His memoir, One Soldier’s War, chronicles his experiences in the conflict, which claimed the lives of tens of thousands on both sides.

He then became a journalist, working for a number of different outlets.

Mr Babchenko even wrote for the BBC, reporting from the scene of a Ukrainian army helicopter shot down in the east of the country in 2014.

Source: BBC

TIMES SPORTS

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

DRC Coach: We didn’t come to win Super Eagles The Head Coach of the visiting Democratic Republic of Congo national team, Florent Ibenge, says the friendly match his team played with the Super Eagles was not to win the Nigerian team.

Ibenge told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Port Harcourt on Tuesday that the game was to prepare the Nigerian team for the World Cup. “We did not come to win the Super Eagles of Nigeria but to give her a good match that could prepare the team well for the

World Cup in Russia.

“We came to give the Super Eagle a good match to prepare and strengthen her for the World Cup. “Nigeria has a good team and it was necessary to play a good game to put the team in a good shape for the World Cup,” he said.

Gernot Rohr, Head Coach of the Super Eagles, said that his players did well even though some of them just came in from China for the match and were looking tired.

Rohr said that his boys scored a wonderful goal but could not score another before a penalty was awarded against them.

“We didn’t win the match but it was an interesting test for everybody, especially for some players we did not know so well and I am satisfied with their performance.

“We did not have the profile I saw in the center-forward but now we have found it.

“In this game we also saw that we have some problems with our full back, we will work on it, as we have few days to be ready,” he said.

According to Rohr, Victor Moses, Mikel Obi and Odion Ighalo will be part of a game on June 2 in London as part of preparations for the national team.

“I think the team will be better in that game than what we have now but it was interesting to see everybody play today,” he added.

The Super Eagles coach disclosed that Moses Simon had taken a second medical opinion in Abuja and if it was same with the first one, it would not be possible for him to be in London.

NAN reports that the international friendly match between the Super Eagles and the DR Congo national team at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt ended 1-1.

William Ekong scored for Nigeria in the 15th minute of the first half while Mpoku PaulJose equalized for the Congolese with a penalty in the 77th minute.

Francis Uzoho gets Gernot Rohr backing to be Super Eagles No 1 at World Cup Gernot Rohr has hinted young goalkeeper Francis Uzoho looks set to be in goal for Nigeria at the World Cup. The 19-year-old Uzoho has kept the country’s four friendlies and Rohr said this could be an indication he will be first choice in Russia.

“It’s an indication (he could be No 1),” Rohr admitted.

“He hasn’t played too much with us as he came after the World Cup qualifiers “We wanted to see the young goalkeeper play for the first time in Nigeria “I think he did well, he did what he had to do.”

Uzoho did not keep a clean sheet on his home debut and was lucky the referee overlooked what looked like a penalty caused by him in the second half of Monday’s friendly against DR Congo.

Ikechukwu Ezenwa, Dee Ajiboye and Daniel Akpeyi are the other goalkeepers on the Eagles squad preparing for the World Cup.

Celestine Babayaro backs Nigeria to ‘do exciting things’ at World Cup Nigeria ‘could go on to do exciting things’ at the Russia 2018 World Cup, according to ex-international Celestine Babayaro.

The Super Eagles have had a turnaround since Gernot Rohr took charge in 2016 as they qualified for the global showpiece with ease.

They face Croatia, Iceland and Argentina in Group D. However, contrary to verdicts that Rohr’s side would find it tough in the group, the former Chelsea defender is backing the side to pull through.

“I think the team will do OK because they have looked good in the friendlies,” Babayaro told Sky Sports.

“They were two down against Argentina but came back to win 4-2. Lionel Messi

was not playing but Sergio Aguero was there. They also beat Poland in Poland with Robert Lewandowski playing.

“The team is looking good under new manager Gernot Rohr. He has done tremendously well with the players and I am really excited to see what they can do at the World Cup. “Some people are calling it the group of death but I can see them coming through that which would be brilliant. If they can do that then they could go on to do exciting things.”

The three-time African champions best appearances at the global tournament were in 1994, 1998 and 2014 where they got to the round of 16; feats they would be eyeing to eclipse when the event starts in June.

Egyptian lawyer slams €1 billion suit on Sergio Ramos over Mo Salah injury An Egyptian lawyer has filed a €1 billion (£873 million) lawsuit against Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos following his challenge on Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah during Saturday’s Champions League final.

Salah was forced off after just half an hour of the match in Kiev due to a dislocated shoulder which he suffered when being dragged to ground by Ramos.

The injury has left the Liverpool talisman as a major doubt for Egypt’s World Cup campaign, and Egyptian lawyer Bassem Wahba has claimed that he will now seek compensation over the incident.

“Ramos intentionally injured Mo Salah and should be punished about his actions. I’ve filed a lawsuit and a complaint to FIFA,” he claimed on Egyptian television channel Sada El-Balad.

“I’ll ask for compensation, which

could exceed €1 billion, for the physical and psychological harm that Ramos gave Salah and the Egyptian people.”

Salah remains “confident” that he will still be fit in time for this summer’s World Cup, which begins on June 14.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

31 Times Sports

Dalung tells NFF to shelve election plans for World Cup Sports minister Solomon Dalung has asked the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to shelve plans for elections to their executive committee and rather focus on ensuring the Super Eagles shine at the World Cup in Russia.

The NFF electoral committee has released a timetable of the NFF polls fixed for September 29 in Katsina.

But Dalung has argued all that could wait until after the Eagles World Cup campaign and after legal advice has been received on a recent Supreme Court ruling against the NFF. “The FIFA World Cup and elections cannot be pursued concurrently, therefore all issues on the next elections into the NFF board should be suspended pending the outcome of legal advice from the Attorney-General on the decision of the Supreme Court on the current crises in the Federation,” he said.

He urged that all efforts should be tailored towards mobilizing support for the team to the World Cup which is the most important and paramount thing to do at this time.

DR Congo FA backs Super Eagles to make Africa proud in Russia

The Federation of Congolese Football Federation, FECOFA, has wished the Super Eagles a successful outing at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

The Leopards forced the Super Eagles to a 1-1 draw in a pre-World Cup friendly game at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, Port Harcourt on Monday.

William Troost-Ekong put the Super Eagles ahead in the first half – his

first international goal for Nigeria, while Ngulubi equalised for the visitors from the spot in the second half.

“MERCI BEAUCOUPS @thenff @NGSuperEagles a good standard game for both our teams, help sharpening abilities and Skills for future competitions Bonne Chance #Nigeria 4 #Russia2018 Make #Africa proud,” reads a tweet on the official Twitter handle of FECOFA.

The Super Eagles who are one of the five teams representing Africa at the World Cup, will play in Group D along with Argentina, Croatia and Iceland.

Their opening game is against Croatia on June 16 in Kaliningrad. They will clash with World Cup newcomers Iceland on June 22 in Volgograd before confronting Argentina in their last Group D match in Saint Petersburg on June 26.

Novak Djokovic beats Dutra Silva in French Open first round Novak Djokovic opened his French Open campaign with a comfortable 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 victory over Brazilian Rogerio Dutra Silva on Monday.

The 12-time Grand Slam winner was well below his best on Court Philippe Chatrier, though, and dropped serve three times against the world number 134 Dutra Silva.

Djokovic, whose form has been steadily improving since returning from a right elbow injury earlier this year, was still far too good for his opponent and will next play either David Ferrer or qualifier Jaume Munar.

“It was good to start this year with a win. I wasn’t at my best, he played with a lot of spin. I didn’t play very well, but I won in three sets,” said the 31-year-old.

The Serbian has not won a major title since completing the career Grand Slam at Roland Garros in 2016, and lost in last year’s quarter-finals to Dominic Thiem.

Real Madrid Football Academy takes off in Port Harcourt The President of Confederation of African Football, Mr Ahmad Ahmad, on Monday performed the groundbreaking ceremony of the Real Madrid Football Academy in Port Harcourt.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the groundbreaking ceremony of the Academy was jointly performed by officials of Real Madrid Football Club and Confederation of African Football.

NAN reports that the foundation laying ceremony, which took place at the precincts of Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt, was attended by the President of Nigerian Football Federation, Mr Amaju Pinnick and the President of International Sports Press Association, Mr Gianni Merlo.

NAN reports that others present at the occasion included the President of International Sports Press Association

Africa, Mitchell Obi, International Sports Writers, Ex-internationals and top officials of Real Madrid Football Club.

The CAF President during the foundation laying ceremony noted that the academy was not only for Port Harcourt or Nigeria, but for the entire African continent.

Ahmad said the Real Madrid Football Academy would promote international football best practices in the continent as well as raise future stars.

He said that the timing of the construction of the academy was a proof that it was ordained by God. The initiator of the Real Madrid Football Academy and Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike noted that the academy would help in building a new crop of International stars across the country.

The Governor said the Academy would be opened to all Nigerian children with special

opportunities for those from Rivers whose resources would fund the project.

“When we initiated this laudable project, people doubted it, making different cynical comments, however, today, this project has come to fruition. It will be a solid foundation for our children.

“We are proud to be associated with the best club in the world, therefore, we will groom the best set of footballers,’’ Wike said.

He said the project would be completed in seven months.

The Governor stressed that children who would be admitted into the school would be between the ages of eight to 16years.

“Sports is a catalyst for development, what we are doing is for the interest of everybody, to tell our footballers, we will do everything to support you,” Wike added.

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Published by FOLIO COMMUNICATIONS LIMITED. Operational Headquarters: Lateef Jakande Road, Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos Corporate Office: 9 Osun Crescent, MaItama, Abuja Email: info@dailytimes.ng Managing Editor: BONAVENTURE MELAH, Tel: 08036062975, Email: bonamelah123@gmail.com

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Business Times Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

DPR seals 19 gas outlets in Ogun

Oil price drops as Saudi-Russia output plan shock Investors

MRO to save $90m annually for aircraft C-checks

Focus Labs to create over 500,000 jobs by 2020 - FG Mathew Dadiya, Abuja President Muhammadu Buhari led government is expected to create more than 500,000 jobs by 2020, through the help of focus labs which will reduce the rate of unemployment in the country.

The Federal Government had recently conducted focus labs in key areas of the economy which are agriculture, transport, manufacturing and processing,

power and gas.

Buhari, during his democracy broadcast on Tuesday stated that these sectors have yielded significant prospects for investments and job creation to the tune of $22.5bn with a potential for creating “more than 500,000 jobs by 2020”.

He said that these investment generation initiatives are expected to increase capital inflows in the form of foreign direct investment with a high prospect that the

cumulative investments from this first phase of the Labs will hit US$39.2 billion by 2025.

The present administration created the N-Power Job creation scheme which is targeted at providing jobs for unemployed young graduates.

The President said that so far about 200,000 youths have been recruited while the next batch of 300,000 has been selected, verified and would soon be deployed across the 36 States and the FCT.

Furthermore, 20,000 nongraduate volunteers have also been selected to kick off the N-Build programme in collaboration with the National Automotive Design and Development Council and the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria.

Buhari maintained that his government has recorded giant strides in the past three years in improving the welfare of Nigerian youths and will continue to do more for the country as a whole.

L-R: Group Executive, Treasury & Financial Institutions, First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Ini Ebong; Prince and Princess Aderemi of Praxitelles Limited; Gbenga Shobo, Deputy Managing Director, First Bank of Nigeria Limited and Olusegun Alebiosu, Chief Risk Officer, First Bank of Nigeria Limited, at the Voice of The Customer forum convened by FirstBank in Lagos ...on Wednesday.

Borno: Dangote feeds IDPs, donates N7bn for Ramadan The Aliko Dangote Foundation has launched its 2018 Ramadan Food Distribution Scheme, just as its support for the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), in Borno state hits a staggering N7 billion.

This gesture came as the Foundation will, next month, commission its 200 housing units worth N2 billion.

Also, the food distribution exercise would cost the conglomerate N150 million, the Managing Director/CEO of Aliko Dangote Foundation Zouera

Youssoufou has said.

Ms Youssoufou, who was speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Maiduguri, the Borno state capital said the items that were being distributed to the IDPs include: Rice, Sugar, Salt, Spaghetti, Semolina, Wheat Meal, Maize and Millet.

She said the philanthropic exercise was meant to complement the effort of both state and federal governments.

“We are supporting government reconstruction and rehabilitation

effort,” she said.

She said about N7billion relief items has so far been donated to the cause of the IDPs in the state.

Mrs. Youssoufou, who was represented at the event by the Programmes Operations Manager of the Foundation Musa Bala said the gesture was a continuation of Foundation’s charity works in the state.

Governor Kashim Shettima, in his remarks, said that the Borno

State Government and its people were grateful to Mr. Dangote for the gesture.

He said Mr. Dangote is the single largest benefactor of the IDPs after the Federal and state governments since the emergence of insurgency in the Northeast.

Thereafter, the Governor, alongside other dignitaries at the occasion inspected the Dangote Housing Estate which will be commissioned by Alhaji Aliko Dangote next month.

We investigated 534 cases, secures 4 convictions through Whistleblower – Adeosun Mathew Dadiya, Abuja Minister of Finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun has disclosed that investigation on 534 cases out of a total 1,231 communications on the whistle-blower policy have been concluded with four convictions secured.

Adeosun said that the ministry of finance undertook 791 investigations out of 1,231 tips the Ministry got, saying that 10 were presently under prosecution and four convictions have been secured.

The Minister who spoke through her Special Assistant, Media, Oluyinka Akintunde said the policy is designed to support the fight against graft by exposing financial crimes and rewarding credible informants of such malfeasance.

“Working through PICA, the Ministry has received 8,373 communications as a result of the Whistleblower Policy on contract inflation, ghost workers, illegal recruitment and misappropriation of funds.

“Under the Whistleblower Policy, the Federal Government has recovered directly, as a result of tips received from whistleblowers, the sum of N7.8 billion, US$378 million and GBP27,800.

In May 2018, the Government paid N439,276,099.86 to about 14 whistleblowers who gave specific tips on tax evasion. From the specific information provided on companies which underpaid their taxes, the Government was able to recover the sum of N13.8 billion as a result of those specific tips. The Whistle-blower policy has helped tremendously in facilitating recoveries of ill-gotten funds and assets”, he revealed.

On tax compliance, Akintunde said the robust implementation of the Voluntary Asset and Income Declaration Scheme (VAIDS) has seen an increase in the number of tax payers from 13 million before the assumption of office by the incumbent administration to 14 million in 2016 and 19.3 million in 2018.

“It is instructive to note that some local and foreign companies are now disposed to the VAIDS initiative, and have started to regularise their tax status.

Business News B2

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

‘Obaseki’s devt architecture stimulates growth, investor confidence’

GIFSEP, others urge AfDB to stop funding coal powered plants in Nigeria

Motolani Oseni

Motolani Oseni, Lagos

The Chief Executive Officer and Chairman, Akogate Ventures, Mr. Felix Aganbi, has said Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki’s development architecture has continued to stimulate economic growth and boost the confidence of local investors in the state.

Aganbi, who operates an integrated water factory in the state, disclosed this on Monday to journalists in Benin City, Edo State capital.

He noted that the governor came into power with much expectation from the people in relation to his background and experience in the private sector and has not failed in delivering on his mandate.

“He has remained professional in his engagements with the private sector. He has been able to prove that individuals from the private sector can come into governance and make a difference,” he said.

He commended the governor for bringing a new breath of life to governance, adding, “We have seen how

he has brought professionalism into public administration. He has been able to show us that if we do the right thing, we will get the support of most people.

“Obaseki has shaped how government should bring great value to the people. I have great respect for the Governor for what he is doing and what he has achieved.”

Noting that infrastructural and industrial projects are becoming the hallmarks of the administration, he said, “We are seeing the roads that are being constructed, how new areas

are springing up with the governor’s developmental strides. The effort on the Benin Industrial Park will, for instance, improve the human capital development indices in the state. All these have given the people a sense of belonging, and the conviction that power truly resides with the people.”

He added, “Those of us who have investment in the state are benefitting from developmental strides recorded in the state. As more investors locate their businesses in the state, the market for our product also expands.”

Oil price drops as Saudi-Russia output plan shock Investors Oil headed for its longest run of losses since February as investors weighed Saudi Arabia and Russia’s proposal to boost output to ease concerns over supply shortages.

Crude futures in New York slid 1.6 percent on Tuesday after tumbling 4 percent on Friday. Saudi Arabia and Russia said on Friday that they may restore some of the output halted as part of a deal between OPEC to make up for potential losses from other members, most notably Venezuelan supply and Iran. There was no settlement Monday because of the U.S. Memorial Day holiday and all trades will be booked Tuesday.

Crude earlier this month rose to the highest level in more than three years after U.S. President Donald Trump decided to reimpose sanctions on Iran and as

Venezuelan output continues to fall amid an economic and political crisis. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. is maintaining its bullish view on prices, saying an output increase from Russia and Saudi Arabia would only offset involuntary production declines, and demand is still strong.

“Oil fell in a panic sell-off on expectations Saudi Arabia and Russia boosting output will loosen the balance between supply and demand,” Takayuki Nogami, chief economist at state-backed Japan Oil, Gas & Metals National Corp., said by phone from Tokyo. “Now the market is digesting that information.”

Prices Slide West Texas Intermediate for July delivery fell as much as 3.1 percent to $65.80 a barrel before trading at $66.80 a barrel on the New York Mercantile

Exchange as of 1:44 p.m. in Tokyo. Futures are headed for a 5th straight session of declines, the longest such stretch since Feb. 9. Prices dropped $2.83 to $67.88 on Friday, the biggest loss since July 5.

Brent futures for July settlement added 23 cents, or 0.3 percent, to $75.53 a barrel on the London-based ICE Futures Europe exchange. Prices on Monday lost $1.14 to $75.30. The global benchmark crude traded at a $8.72 premium to WTI for the same month.

Futures for September delivery climbed 0.5 percent to 465.2 yuan on the Shanghai International Energy Exchange.

The contract dropped 3.1 percent to 462.8 yuan on Monday, when trading volume rose to the highest levels since the futures debuted on March 26.

On the Table

OPEC and its allies are likely to gradually raise oil output in the second half, Saudi Energy Minister Khalid AlFalih said last week at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum in Russia. He and his Russian counterpart Alexander Novak said that while scaling back the supply caps was “on the table,” no decision had been made.

“While all roads are pointing to OPEC raising production, the real question is by how much,” Stephen Innes, head of trading at Oanda Corp., said in a note.

The plan for OPEC and its allies to boost output once more follows growing concerns that oil prices at current high levels will erode consumption, and that Venezuelan and Iranian barrels being removed from the global market will create a demand and supply deficit.

Ivorian miner seeks $375m Bauxite venture Lagune Exploitation Afrique in Ivory Coast said it is in talks with a unit of Sumitomo Corporation about a partnership for the development of a bauxite deposit and the construction of two alumina plants for 218 billion CFA francs ($375 million).

Lagune Exploitation is developing the 34.5 million metric

tons Benene deposit in the country’s east that will produce 750,000 tons of the alumina-making ingredient and 350,000 tons of calcinated metal in a year, Chief Executive Officer Moumouni Bictogo said Monday in an interview in the West African nation’s commercial capital, Abidjan. The company is also planning to build the two plants by

2025, he said.

Lagune is offering a 25 percent stake in the company, Bictogo said, declining to comment further on the nature of the talks with Sumitomo Corp. Africa (Pty) Ltd. Masafumi Tanimoto, general manager at Sumitomo’s liaison office for West Africa, declined to comment when requested at a function on Monday

in Abidjan.

Bauxite producers in Ivory Coast are ramping up production as China’s demand for aluminum is seen rising by almost half.

Neighboring Guinea is now China’s largest supplier of bauxite after overtaking Australia in 2017, shipping about 40 percent of total imports.

L-R: Grace Henshaw, Area Business Manager, Retail; Wole Abu, Vice President, Indirect Sales; Lynda Amaechi, Head: Retail & Airtel Express Shops (AES); Oladokun Oye, Head of Direct Sales, all of Airtel Nigeria and Tajudeen Akande, President, Lagos Country Club, during the presentation of 2018 Sports Award to Airtel Nigeria for its financial support to Sports Development in Lagos Country Club, Ikeja.

Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP), and 25 other environment based non-governmental organisations across Africa have called on the African Development Bank to stop financing coal fired power plants projects in Nigeria.

All the environmentalists called on the AfDB to increase funding for renewable energy.

Coordinator of GIFSEP, David Michael, disclosed during a press conference, at the weekend, saying that the groups had written a letter to AfDB demanding the phasing out of finance for coal powered plants projects in Nigeria and other African countries.

In a letter dated May 25, addressed to AfDB, Abidjan Còte d’Ivoire, GIFSEP and the other groups observed that in line with the bank’s “light up Africa vision,” the goal of ADB’s energy strategy is to help the continent achieve universal access to modern energy by 2025, including through harnessing Africa’s abundant renewable energy resources.

In view of this, the environmentalists wondered and raised the question as to why the AfDB was now funding outdated energy sources such as coal.

“Burning coal significantly raises the level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, along with numerous other toxic pollutants, it contradicts many of the African countries’ nationally determined contributions which pursue low-carbon development pathways, and defeats the uncompromising 1.5 degrees celsius tempremature goal asked for by African countries under the Paris Climate Agreement,” the groups stated.

Mutual Benefits assurance declares N5.15bn claims settlement, as PAT rises Motolani Oseni, Lagos Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc has paid a total of N5.15 billion to policyholders in the country in its efforts to regain confidence in the nation’s insurance sector.

According to the company, the audited financial accounts for the year ended December 2017 with the profit after tax of 176 per cent showed that shareholders of the company stand a chance of getting better investment returns.

Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi, Chairman of the company said: “Despite the tough business environment, we have been able to bounce back to profitability and delight our shareholders. Dividend of two kobo per share will be paid to our esteemed shareholders who have stood by us over the years” The result, which was released on the floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), revealed that profit after tax increased by 176 per cent to N1.02 billion in the 2017 financial year from a loss position of N1.35 billion in 2016.

It stated that gross premium written also appreciated by 16 per cent from N12.14 billion in 2016 to N14.03 billion in 2017, while underwriting income also grew by 10 per cent to N11.78 billion in 2017, against the 2016 figure of N10.70 billion.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

B3 Business News We’ll review aviation policy to meet UN standards – ICAO Idu Jude, Abuja

L-R: National Store Coordinator, SOS Village, Lawrence Agbaegbu; National Fund Development and Communications Coordinator, Gboyega Fadowole-Aje; Public Affairs and Communications Manager, Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC Ltd), Ifeoma Okoye and Senior Talent Acquisition and Identification Expert, NBC Ltd, Jolomi Fawehinmi during a visit to SOS Village by Nigerian Bottling Company Ltd in Lagos recently.

DPR seals 19 gas outlets in Ogun Abiodun Taiwo, Abeokuta The Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) has sealed 19 gas outlets in Ofada, Abeokuta, Isheri-Olofin Sango, Epe ,Mowe and Magboro areas of Ogun state for allegedly operating without approval.

The Operation Controller, Muinat Bello-Zagi disclosed this on Monday while briefing newsmen at her office in Abeokuta after a closed door meeting with members of Liquidfied Petroleum Gas Skid Owners Association ,Ogun State .

Bello-Zagi said that four persons were arrested during the operation amd have been handed over to men of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence for onward prosecution.

She said that DPR sealed three outlets in Ofada, 10 in Magoro, four in Sango and one each in Abeokuta and Isheri-Olofin areas.

According to her, the affected outlets’ sins include; operating in wrong places such as under high tension wire , residential areas , close to source of ignition and adjacent to bakery among others.

She said “DPR, Abeokuta has the mandate to regulate and monitor all oil and gas in Ogun State. We go on surveillance and also create awareness to the people.

“During our surveillance and monitoring, we discovered that these gas outlets were operating without approval. They operate in wrong places, some operate under high tension wire without a step back.

Others operate at residential areas, close to source of ignition and adjacent

to bakery” While speaking on the penalty for the erring operators, Bello-Zagi said three outlets out of the 19 sealed would pay fine of one million naira each for allegedly reopening their shops after they were sealed by DPR. She however, urged the operators to abide by the stipulated standard laid down by DPR which she said

include; getting the approval before the operation, locating LPG base 15 meters away from source of ignition The Chainman of LPG, Ogun State, Surajudeen Bada who lauded the DPR on its activities, however, lamented the duplication of efforts by many government agencies.

Bada who exonerated DPR from the allegation of extortion, said other

agencies which include NSCDC, Police, Fire Services, Standard Organisation of Nigeria Local government, ministry and signage among others visit his members outlets and extorted them.

He said “most of the agencies come to extort us. Until we have a body to regulate this and if the skid operation is eliminated, you can imagine what will happen to gas supply in Nigeria.”

Minister solicits capital allocation to ministry, agencies The Minister of Communications, Mr Adebayo Shittu has disclosed that inadequate capital allocation had hindered the ministry’s efforts at contributing adequately to national development.

Shittu said that the entire budget of the Communications ministry in 2017 was just a little over N6 billion, describing the allocation as inadequate to prosecute several initiatives that could turn around the ICT sector and country’s economic growth.

The minister who disclosed this in Ibadan at the end of a two-day retreat programme solicited more capital allocation to the communications ministry and its agencies for a greater contribution to nation’s economic growth.

The two-day event was attended by representatives of the Federal Ministry Of Communications, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and National Information Technology Development Agency(NITDA).

Others are Nigeria Postal Service (NIPOST), Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT), Galaxy Backbone and the private sector.

Stressing on the role of government to the ministry, Shittu noted that the role of government was to create a conducive environment for the business to thrive optimally, not engaging in the business of ICT. The minister, who stated that ICT was a catalyst to development, said that there was a need for the country to move from resource-based economy to a robust ICT-driven one.

“Nigeria has operated and relied on the resource-based economy in the last 60 years. The sole dependence on oil has never helped the country grow as expected.

“We have seen several countries across the world without oil and who have surpassed Nigeria in all indices of development,” he said.

The participants in their separate

interviews scored the retreat high, saying it created the most invaluable opportunity to review the mandate of the ministry and its agencies.

One of the participants, Mr AbdulKarim Baba, the Director, Strategy and Business Development (NIPOST), said, “The new products of NIPOST, namely Financial Inclusion, Addressing and Digital inclusion programmes. We are going to use our widespread infrastructure to assist government to achieve its ERGP. Baba said the newly expected NIPOST would be the fulcrum to achieve Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP), adding that ERGP was about inclusive growth up to the rural and underserved areas.

Also, Bimbo Abioye, Group Managing Director, Fintrak Software, buttressed that saying, “The private sector is looking forward to a more impactful provision of services in infrastructure that would enable growth within the economy.

Ibeto Cement gets $850m Milost Funding Ibeto Cement Company limited - a privately owned Nigerian producer of the building material, has signed a deal to received $850 million financing from Milost Global Inc to expand the activities of the company.

Bloomberg reports that Milost would provide $500 million in equity and $350 million as debt to the Nigerian cement

maker, Milost said in a statement on its website, citing a “binding” agreement by the two parties.

When the Daily Times placed calls to Ibeto Cement corporate office in Nnewi, Anambra State to confirm the development, the calls could not connect from the telephone numbers on its ’s website for its and there was no immediate

response to an emailed message.

The company operates a cementbagging facility in Port Harcourt and is currently rehabilitating Nigercem, a former state-owned plant in Nkalagu, which it acquired.

The announcement of a deal with Ibeto is coming weeks after Nigerian company Japaul Oil & Maritime Services Plc said it

was pulling out of a $350 million funding deal with the U.S. firm, citing what it called “red flags.”

Milost in March ended talks to provide $1 billion to Unity Bank Plc, alleging threats by some suspected shareholders.

The lender denied entering a binding agreement with the private equity firm, saying talks were only preliminary.

The Secretary General of International Civil Aviation Organisation, ICAO, Dr. Liu Fang, has said that the leadership is focused on protecting the skies with secure and efficient air travel across the world to meet up with the United Nations Security Council Standard.

Dr. Liu said during his remarks at the 2018 ICAO conference adding that since the 1970s, when commercial aircraft first began to be seen as legitimate and high value targets for terrorist groups, ICAO has made it a duty to continuously review how world governments and air operators work together to find an effective balance where air travel security and efficiency is concerned.

“We must consider these dual priorities against a backdrop where global dependence on air transportation is growing every year, in every region, and for both passengers and commodities,” Dr. Liu emphasized.

“Globally, modern aircraft carry no fewer than 10 million passengers and many thousands of tonnes of freight each and every day, so whether we are discussing business, tourism, or trade, any disruptions or delays in aircraft operations can pose serious and often cascading disruptions.”

She explained that it was the reason ICAO collaborates regularly with its 192 Member States, numerous industry groups, and other international organizations and associations to strengthen the aviation security system.

She added that ICAO’s newlyendorsed Global Aviation Security Plan had been specifically structured to enhance all related cooperation and risk and threat response coordination.

Additional references were made to the positive impacts ICAO’s security-related activities provide in support the counter-terrorism objectives reflected in UN Security Council resolution 2309 (2016).

Dr. Liu further highlighted the important role ICAO plays in improving the security and passenger processing aspects of contemporary customs and border controls through its Traveller Identification Programme (TRIP).

Dhe pointed out that the strategy, and how “all of thess work is keeping ICAO focused on the future and how to realize even more robust, riskbased, efficient and cost-effective global clearance processes.”

Among those in favour the skies panellists, included: Eamonn Brennan, Director General of EUROCONTROL; Angela Gittens, Director General of Airports Council International (ACI); Arnaud Feist, CEO, Brussels Airport Company; and Salah Awadh Alfarajalla, Senior VP Security and National Pilot Development, Etihad Airways, appreciated these and other keynote points.

Aviation B4

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

MRO to save $90m annually for aircraft C-checks Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo President Muhammadu Buhari has disclosed that a new a Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility with capacity for aircraft C-checks and other comprehensive levels of maintenance established in Lagos would save the country an estimated $90m annually.

In his his Democracy Day broadcast Tuesday, 29th May, 2018, President Buhari stated that the Transportation Sector continues to undergo a series of reforms in order to sustain the

international best practices and ensure safety and security.

He said the nation’s major airports have witnessed reconstruction of runways, installation of navigational equipment and new international terminals due for commissioning in Abuja, Lagos, Kano and Enugu, while Bilateral Air Services Agreements between Nigeria and the Governments of other countries will significantly open up new flight routes.

The President observed that as a result of strict regulatory and compliance policies, Nigeria

retained her Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Category 1 status, after a routine international audit.

According to the President: “Giant strides have been recorded over the past three years to improve road transport infrastructure in all geopolitical zones of the country.

“The Railway Sector has also received tremendous attention as this Administration is committed to the goal of linking all State capitals in the Federation by rail network to ease the movement of goods and passengers”.

From Left : Country Manager, Rwand Air; Ms . Ibiyemi Odusi; Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Rwand Air; Silver Munyaneza; Rwanda High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Stanislas Kamanzi, a pilot, Captain Joan Obasi, Representative of Minister of State Aviation, Engineer Mahmoud Ben Tukur and a staff of Connect Nigeria, Abdulrahman Suleiman Bawa during a dinner with stakeholders in Abuja.

Nigeria moving closer to national carrier establishment as minister meets Boeing The Federal government’s plan to establish a National Carrier is looking bright, as discussions with Boeing continue.

It would be recalled that during President Muhammadu Buhari’s last visit to the United State of America, a meeting with the American aircraft manufacturer’s management took place.

Another phase of the meeting with the aircraft manufacturing giant took place at the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja with Sen. Hadi Sirika, the Minister of State for Aviation at the weekend.

After the meeting with Boeing representatives, the minister said the new carrier will come on stream soon.

The Minister announced his meeting with

the Boeing team via a social media platform (Twitter). The minister stated that the meeting was in furtherance to the setting up of a new carrier. “This afternoon, I met with the Boeing team in furtherance to our set up of a new carrier soon”, said Sirika on his twitter handle, @hadisirika.

This statement corroborated a report early last week by Daily Times that the Minister was targeting December for the new national carrier to commence operations.

But some aviation unions have kicked against the establishment of a national carrier within the six months period saying that there was nothing on ground to show its preparedness.

The minister had already inaugurated a 9-man Fast Track Task Force emanating from a “National Carrier Brainstorming Meeting” to drive the establishment of the project.

Alh. Sabiu Zakari, Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Transportation; Capt. Muhtar Usman, the Director General, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority; Dr. Ibrahim Idris, Chief of Staff to the minister; Capt. Gabriel Tilmann (a representative of the National Carrier Transaction Adviser) and others were in attendance.

Boeing team members in attendance at the meeting were: Larry Tolliver, Director of Sales for Africa and John Fonvielle, Regional Director of Contracts for Africa.

South African Airways supports emerging businesses at NewBrandsXPO As part of activities to mark the 20-year anniversary of successful operations in Nigeria, and in fulfillment of the airline’s corporate social responsibility, South African Airways will be sponsoring five travel-related emerging brands to showcase their business at the NewBrandsXPO holding at the Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos from 29th to 30th June 2018.

The NewBrandsXPO is a one-stop shop for organizations seeking to launch new products and services in-market. Exhibitors will cut across different sectors including travel, financial services, IT & Telecom, consumer electronics & kitchenware, FMCG, health & wellness, personal care, apparel & fashion accessories, food & drinks, and many others.

Commenting on the gesture, Ohis Ehimiaghe, Regional Manager, West, North and Central Africa, South African Airways, said: “For two decades, South African Airways has been providing world-class air transport services to Nigerian travellers. We are, indeed, very grateful to our esteemed guests for their patronage and to the Nigerian aviation authorities for their support.”

“As a mark of our appreciation and commitment to the growth of the industry, we will be sponsoring five emerging travel-related businesses to participate at the NewBrandsXPO 2018. We identify with the vision of the organisers, which is to provide an ideal space for exhibitors and visitors to nurture the trust and confidence

necessary for the realisation of business goals, and we believe that the selected companies will benefit greatly from the experience.”

On eligibility and selection criteria, Olanrewaju Samson, co-promoter of NewBrandsXPO, noted: “To be considered for one of the five free exhibition slots at the South African Airways pavilion, duly registered travel product or service companies that have been in operation for not more than three years, and have online presence, can send an application toexhibit@newbrandsxpo.com on or before 8th June 2018 introducing their business.”

NewBrandsXPO is promoted by Heventin, a corporate event and brands activation company, and Uburu, an integrated marketing communications consultancy.

CPC DG, ICAO certified security specialist to speak at LAAC seminar Mr. Babatunde Irukera, the Director-General of the Consumer Protection Council (CPC) and Mr. Ayo Obilana, Chief Executive Officer, Selective Security International Limited are some of the key stakeholders in the Nigerian aviation industry to deliver papers at the forthcoming 22nd annual seminar of the League of Airports and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) in Lagos.

Irukera who is a Special Guest at the seminar with the theme: ‘Financing Aviation Development Through Private Sector Partnerships,’ would speak on the activities of CPC as it relates to aviation and air travellers’ protection from airlines and even government agencies.

Irukera in a chat with journalists recently had said that the council received the third highest number of complaints in 2017 from the aviation Sector.

He said the sector came after telecommunications and banking sectors, which had the first and second highest number of consumer complaints respectively.

The recent intervention of CPC in aviation industry had received mixed feelings from stakeholders and professionals in the Nigerian aviation industry. While some lauded the council for its role, others alleged that it was usurping the activities of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

The forum, would give Irukera the opportunity to shed more lights on the statutory role of CPC, not just in the industry, but in the country at large.

CPC is established under Consumer Protection Council Act, Cap 25, 2004 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, to promote and protect the interest of consumers over all products and services, including consumers in the aviation sector of the economy.

The council is also empowered to eliminate hazardous and substandard goods from the market, provide speedy redress to consumer complaints and end the unscrupulous exploitation of consumers, educate them and champion their interests at appropriate forum, and enforce all enactments aimed at protecting them.

Also, Obilana, the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) certified security personnel has confirmed participation at the seminar.

Obilana would present a paper on ‘Funding Perspectives of Aviation Security in Nigeria.’

Obilana who was also a former General Manager, Aviation Security, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) holds Bachelors and Masters Degrees from the Whitwort University, Spokane, Washington DC, United States.

In an email to the committee, said it was high time players in the sector focused more on security within the aviation industry.

He explained that his paper would delve on new strategies employed by unscrupulous elements to beat security networks in the sector while also looking at changes in aviation security after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

B5 ICT

Court orders NIPOST to become Nigeria’s biggest revenue earner – Adegbuyi Samsung to Stories: Ladesope Ladelokun, Lagos The Nigeria Postal Service (NIPOST) has hinted that newly introduced products and services, especially domestic money order would open up opportunities for the unbanked people in the rural areas and remote areas to send and receive money with ease, stating “NIPOST will soon join the league of Nigeria’s largest revenue earner.”

The Post Master General, Barrister Bisi Adegbuyi, made this known during a retreat for its top management in Abuja recently.

According to Adegbuyi, Nigeria is stands

to make at least N200 billion naira annually from the products.

He added that Nigeria ought to have started making the money via the domestic money order since last year, but for the International Postal Union directive that Nigeria allowed it reconfigures the technology behind it in tandem with standard of the IPU. Adegbuyi,it will be recalled, expressed the resolve of NIPOST to be one of the nation’s largest revenue earner at the Quadrennial Delegates’ Conference of Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporations and Government Owned Companies at Calabar, Cross river state recently.

According to him, “The NIPOST Bill currently with the National Assembly has the capacity to generate huge revenue for the country.

“We are not sleeping; we are doing everything possible as a management to see that the bill scales through.

“In this moment that the country is looking for alternative revenue sources, NIPOST will be one of the largest revenue earners for the country if the bill is passed,’’ he said.

He added that the bill was part of reforms embarked by the current management,noting that NIPOST would not be left behind in the current world of digital telecommunication.

R-L: Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; his Special Adviser on Agriculture and Food Security Programme, Prince Joe Okojie, and other participants at the Tropical Forest Alliance (TFA) 2020 General Assembly in Accra, Ghana.

pay $539m for copying iPhone features

After seven years of legal battle with rival Samsung, Apple has been awarded damages of $539 million. A jury, which deliberated for almost five days, backed Apple’s claim that Samsung had copied some of its technology used to power the iPhone.

It’s the latest verdict in a legal battle that began in 2011. Initially, Apple was seeking $2.5billion but was awarded about $1billion by a jury in 2012.

An appeal court determined Apple could not legally lay claim to the iPhone’s appearance. That meant Samsung was asked to pay about $548million.

Samsung believes it should only need to pay $28million for the parts it has used and not damages equivalent to the profits from the iPhone.

This may not be the end of the legal wrangling.

“Today’s decision flies in the face of a unanimous Supreme Court ruling in favour of Samsung on the scope of design patent damages,” Samsung said in a statement.

“We will consider all options to obtain an outcome that does not hinder creativity and fair competition for all companies and consumers.”

Apple welcomed the jury’s decision, saying: “Samsung should pay for copying our products.”This case has always been about more than money.

“Apple ignited the smartphone revolution with iPhone and it is a fact that Samsung blatantly copied our design.”

Google, Facebook accused of breaking GDPR laws Privacy group, noyb.eu has filed complaints against Facebook, Google, Instagram and WhatsApp within hours of the new GDPR data protection law taking effect.

The companies are accused of forcing users to consent to targeted advertising to use the services.

If the complaints are upheld, the websites may be forced to change how they operate, and they could be fined.

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a new EU law that changes how personal data can be collected and used. Even companies based outside the EU must follow the new rules if offering their services in the EU. In its four complaints, noyb.eu argues

that the named companies are in breach of GDPR because they have adopted a “take it or leave it approach”. The activist group says customers must agree to having their data collected, shared and used for targeted advertising, or delete their accounts.

This, the organisation suggests, falls foul of the new rules because forcing people to accept wide-ranging data collection in exchange for using a service is prohibited under GDPR. “The GDPR explicitly allows any data processing that is strictly necessary for the service - but using the data additionally for advertisement or to sell it on needs the users’ free opt-in consent,” said noyb.eu in a statement.

“GDPR is very pragmatic on this point: whatever is really necessary for an app is legal without consent, the rest needs a free ‘yes’ or ‘no’ option.”

Privacy advocate, Max Schrems, said: “Many users do not know yet that this annoying way of pushing people to consent is actually forbidden under GDPR in most cases.”

The complaints were filed by four EU citizens with local regulators in Austria, Belgium, France and Germany.

Analysts and regulators had expected complaints to be filed shortly after the introduction of the law, as organisations and privacy advocates argue over how the law should be interpreted.

Some companies based outside the EU

have temporarily blocked their services across Europe to avoid falling foul of the new legislation.

However, others such as Twitter have introduced granular controls that let people opt out of targeted advertising.

Companies that fall foul of GDPR can be in extreme cases - fined more than £17 million Facebook said in a statement that it had spent 18 months preparing to make sure it met the requirements of GDPR. Google told the BBC: “We build privacy and security into our products from the very earliest stages and are committed to complying with the EU General Data Protection Regulation.”

WhatsApp has not yet responded to the BBC’s request for comment.

Money Market B 6

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Access Bank, 25 global banks to develop sustainable industry goals Stories: Motolani Oseni Access Bank and 25 other leading global banks from 5 continents are re-defining banks’ purpose and business model to align the sector with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Climate Agreement.

Both the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement on climate change have set ambitious targets to deliver a sustainable future for all. As two thirds of worldwide finance is provided by banks, the global banking system will be instrumental in achieving these goals.

Twenty-six of UN Environment Finance

Initiative’s banking members are leading an initiative for banks worldwide to reaffirm their purpose and align their business practices with these objectives.

Convened by the UNEP FI secretariat, the banks are developing global Banking Principles that will: Direct banks’ efforts to align with society’s goals as expressed in the SDGs, the Paris Agreement, as well as national and regional frameworks.

Also, to set the global benchmark for sustainable banking; Drive ambition by requiring signatory banks to set goals for and report on their contribution to national and international social, environmental and economic targets; Ensure accountability and

transparency on banks’ impacts and challenge the banking industry to play a leading role in creating a more sustainable future Similar to the role the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) play for asset managers and the Principles for Sustainable Insurance (PSI) for insurance underwriters, these standards will address the longstanding need for an umbrella framework to cover all aspects of sustainable banking.

The process of developing the Principles will include consultation with a wide range of stakeholders, such as civil society organizations, banking associations, regulators and UN bodies.

The first in-person meeting of the participating banks took place in London on 19th and 20th

April. The group plans to launch the draft Principles for global consultation during the UNEP FI Global Roundtable 2018 on 26 November at PalaisBrongniart, Paris, France.

The GMD/CEO, Access Bank, Dr. Herbert Wigwe on the Bank’s participation in the development of these global principles said that “Access Bank remains committed to leading efforts in sustainable development across various industry platforms, forging new partnerships with the public and private sectors.

We are truly honored to be part of this group of forward-thinking banks working with the UN and other stakeholders to ensure a deeper understanding of the principles of Sustainability in the banking industry on a global level.”

L-R: Chief Risk Officer, Africa, UBA Plc, Ruben Andrews; Sales Manager, West Africa, SAS, Babalola Oladokun; Marketing Manager, Africa, SAS, Mabel Schrimpton; and Senior Business Solutions Manager, Pre-Sales Risk Practice SEMEA, SAS, Charles Nyamuzinga at the SAS Risk & Finance Analytics Roadshow in Lagos…recently

SMEs get free spare parts, discounts as auto loan hits market Leading commercial bank, Sterling Bank Plc has partnered with Tata Africa Services Limited to unveil a revolutionary auto loan scheme which offers free spare parts and attractive discounts to business owners in Lagos.

The novel financing scheme, which has a maximum tenure of three years, will sort out the logistic challenges facing business owners as they strive to get products to customers, complete projects, and transport employees.

First of its kind in the Nigerian market, the commercial auto loan scheme covers the acquisition of trucks, semi-trucks, compactors, buses, delivery vans, and others. It was envisioned to empower Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) to acquire operational vehicles which will in turn accelerate their growth through timely and hitch free delivery of products and services to customers.

Speaking during the unveiling ceremony by senior officials of Sterling Bank and Tata Africa Services, Executive Director, Retail & Consumer

Banking, Mr. Grama Narasimhan said, “We are delighted to partner with Tata Africa Services Limited to improve access to commercial auto loans and best-in-class operational vehicles to business owners in the country.

This scheme is close to our heart at Sterling Bank because the efficient delivery of goods and services as well as the development of every aspect of the transport value chain will elevate SMEs, boost trade, create jobs and economic opportunities.”

Encouraging business owners to take advantage of the scheme to enhance profitability, Mr. Narasimhan disclosed that interested customers are expected to contribute a minimum of 20 percent and/or a maximum of 80 percent of the cost of the vehicle while Sterling Bank’s funding is subject to change based on the borrower’s capacity.

He added that the financing arrangement has a maximum tenor of three years depending on the warranty on the vehicle and comes with a discount. Tata Africa Services is expected to

provide a discount on every vehicle financed by Sterling Bank and deliver the financed asset to the borrower within 24 hours of receipt of advice from the lender,” Mr. Narasimhan explained.

Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Suraj Prakesh, Auto Head, Tata Motors Limited said, “We are partnering with Sterling Bank to offer one of the best value propositions in commercial auto finance through our wide product range of cars, buses, semi-trucks, trucks, delivery vans and after sales services.

This proposition covers ease of acquiring operational vehicles on credit to meet business needs in 72 hours, discount on every automobile financed through Sterling Bank, free spare parts for all the automobiles and opportunity to acquire a maximum of three units of the different vehicle brands that are part of the scheme.”

Affirming Tata Motors Limited’s commitment to the production of best-in-class automobiles, Mr. Prakesh said, “We have proven ourselves in

various world markets like South Africa, Italy, Spain and the Middle East while competing with all major international brands. In these markets, we have continued to gain significant market share because we domesticate our operations. Same is being done in Nigeria which led to the recent roll out of 200 locally assembled vehicles as part of our commitment to Nigeria’s automotive policy. Our vehicles are cost effective and made to suite the Nigerian terrain.”

Yemi Odubiyi, Executive Director, Corporate and Investment Banking, Sterling Bank, said the partnership with TATA Motors Limited is in line with the bank’s intervention in sectors of the economy with the potential to create jobs and bring about economic growth for the country.

Remarkably, Tata is currently working on 1000 locally assembled vehicles as part of the effort to transit the transport sector from full import dependence to manufacturing with technology transfer to local players.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

B7 Business Features

Africa – An ideal market for brand holders and counterfeiters Vanessa Ferguson May 25, 2018 is celebrated as AFRICA DAY and marks the formation of the African Union. Africa has seen a vast increase in investment and growth over the past 50+ years and many companies have already mobilised to capture this emerging demand.

With the growing investment, Africa is being increasingly targeted as a market for counterfeit goods and merchandise as a result of the escalating urban populations’ growing demand for many goods not widely available, as well as the lack of means to buy them.

Whilst the demand is growing for branded goods, and the instances of infringing and counterfeit goods are on the increase, the various Intellectual Property Rights protection measures available to brand holders differ from country to country and remain largely inadequate in most African countries and vary from region to region. As a result, a “one size fits all” anti-counterfeiting strategy cannot be easily applied or adopted in covering the key regions and territories in Africa.

Furthermore, the market structure in Africa differs substantially from first world markets, such as Europe and America, and, as such, the best practices developed and applied in these territories cannot necessarily be adopted and applied in Africa with the same results and consequences.

A key understanding of Africa and its nuances is important in establishing an effective anti-counterfeiting strategy.

Although modern trade is growing, this is still small and under developed outside of South Africa. The most common and popular trading channels in Africa are the simple table top or small “spaza” shops, which are individually owned and managed by local entrepreneurs, set up on the side of the road or in local markets in order to capture the passing trade. These businesses are supported and supplied by an equally efficient network and welldeveloped informal distribution structure.

Furthermore, informal cross-border trade is important to Africa with many Africans involved in informal cross-border trade, which contributes a large portion of the economic growth, job creation and job security.

As a result, counterfeit goods are increasingly being sold, transported and distributed across African borders using these well-developed and largely uncontrolled informal trade routes.

An effective African anti-counterfeiting strategy should therefore not only be focused on the countries of relevance to the brand holders, but also the neighbouring territories, taking into account the retail structure, main trade channels and distribution routes in Africa.

As an initial step, brand holders should ensure that their primary trade marks are registered - not only in the main countries in

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right); with the World Bank Country Director for Nigeria and Coordinating Director for West Africa Regional Integration, Rachid Benmessaoud, after a meeting between the governor and the World Bank team, at Government House in Benin City.

which their goods or services are provided -but also in neighbouring territories.

Without the existence of a registered trade mark, it is almost impossible to act against counterfeiters in Africa, especially in those territories where common law rights or protection of well-known trade marks is not recognised. Copycat infringement is on the increase, where infringers will adopt a label that is a colourable imitation of the original label. As such, consideration should be given to the registration of the labels for the primary products to provide statutory protection against the use of a similar label or get-up.

Although Customs remains an important and critical element to an effective anticounterfeiting strategy, the relevance and success of actions by customs differs from region to region in Africa. Unfortunately

‘

not all territories have established Customs practices focused on the registration of brands and detention of suspect counterfeit goods and it is only possible to record brands with Customs in a handful of countries.

A strategy focused primarily on customs recordals and actions alone is not sufficient or recommended in Africa, particularly due to the inconsistencies in inspections and measures to stop counterfeits at the ports, airports and borders differ from region to region. In each region it is necessary to assess and work with local police services and regulatory bodies that have the capacity and infrastructure to tackle counterfeit goods in the region.

Steps should also be taken by brand holders to formalise and strengthen their own distribution channels in the region

Without the existence of a registered trade mark, it is almost impossible to act against counterfeiters in Africa, especially in those territories where common law rights or protection of well-known trade marks is not recognised

,

and across borders. Based on the demand for products, the informal distribution channels and methods are strong and well-entrenched in Africa, facilitating the trade in counterfeit and parallel goods.

Brand holders should first-hand build up understanding and knowledge of these distribution and retail channels in order to infiltrate and effectively act against key counterfeit role players. Such investigations and actions, however, take time, money and patience. A long-term approach, with consistent supported actions against retailers and suppliers alike, should be implemented, with a view to obtaining or extracting information on the source and supply of these goods.

In each territory, brand holders should adopt a zero-tolerance approach to anticounterfeiting and take action to the full extent of the law in the respective regions.

In such cases, where appropriate and feasible, brand holders should institute criminal or civil proceedings against known and identified offenders, especially in the case of repeat offenders or where other extenuating circumstances justify the spend and time taken in bringing these matters to finality. The continued prosecution of offenders will not only build up a valuable precedent of case law, but will also send a clear message to the market of the severity and consequences of dealing in counterfeit goods.

B8

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

ABUJA

THE HEART OF NIGERIA

The Abuja Times Daily Times Nigeria

Bello lauds FCTA staff for driving Change Agenda

AT 2

Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Behold! Abuja village where newborn twins are hanged to death ‘because they are evil’ AT 4 Abuja light rail commissioning gets June new date

FCT Minister, Malam Muhammad Musa Bello (middle)carrying out the final inspection before the take-off of the Airport train station in Abuja…on Friday.

The much awaited Abuja Light rail project in the Federal Capital Territory Administration waiting to be commission has finally been scheduled for commissioning at the end June 2018.

The Chief Resident Engineer with the FCT Transport Secretariat, Engr.

Anthony Agbakoba, disclosed this to journalists during a tour of the facilities within the twelve station of rail in Abuja, the nation’s capital.

Engr. Agbakoba, who stated the Abuja light rail project was hundred percent concluded, added that what remains is the finishing touches at the different train terminals that were at ninety nine point five completion that would convene passengers on arrival to the city town.

He also revealled that twelve coaches of the train had since arrived the country last year waiting to be put in operation.

The Chief Resident engineer further explained that the project when commissioned has the capacity to boost the social economic activities in the city and would also engage not less than seven hundred employee when in full operation.

Engr. Abgakoba stressed that the Abuja Light rail project is going to be the safer rail in the world when operation because it was designed in such a way that it would not run into moving cars.

FCT minister, Gov Bello move to resolve lingering border disputes Stories by Idu Jude, Abuja FCT Minister, Mallam Muhammad Musa Bello and Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubkakar Sani Bello, have moved to resolve the lingering border disputes between communities in Niger State and the Federal Capital Territory.

The two leaders gave this indication in a joint address to media men at the close of their meeting in Abuja recently.

Muhammad Musa Bello noted that Abuja is a creation of law and that the issues about its boundary are clearly stated in the laws of the land and therefore cannot be shrouded in confusion.

Musa Bello recalled that the easiest way out of the situation is to reactivate various institutional

frameworks set up to deal with such matters.

He said such a committee should be headed by very senior officials, such as the Secretary to the Niger State Government or the FCT Permanent Secretary while comprising all relevant officers of both administrations.

The Committee, he noted, should liaise with relevant Federal Government agencies like the National Boundary Commission with a view to working out a permanent solution to the issues.

The FCT Minister expressed readiness to remit all Pay As You Earn (PAYE) taxes due Suleja from workers who reside in Suleja but work in Abuja, adding that the FCT is always prepared to act in tandem with the provisions of the laws.

Abuja, the Minister disclosed,

had been approached earlier by the Chairman of Tafa LGA on the matter and that he had directed that FCTA should harmonise all claims and to do what was needful.

Malam Bello called on the local council officials of the border communities to rise up to the challenge of combating the menace of filth in the ZubaMadalla axis, as well as the encroachment of traders on the Madalla end of the Abuja – Kaduna Highway.

The FCT minister lamented how the road has become so congested that it is now a serious obstruction to traffic and posing a severe risk to life and property.

He thereupon, directed the Coordinator, Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), TPl Umar Shuaibu, to set machinery in motion to reclaim

the road and the adjoining shoulders.

He charged that the problem of filth in the border area was not a funding problem but that of political will by the Chairmen of the affected local councils on both sides.

Earlier, the Governor of Nigeria State, Alh. Abubakar Sani Bello said he was in Abuja in the quest for a peaceful resolution of the lingering border dispute between the two territories in Dakwa and Tafa Local Governments of Niger State as well as Gwagwalada and Bwari Area Councils of FCT. He noted that all the four council areas have continued to lay claims to the various disputed pieces of land and that there was need to deal with the matter in an amicable way.

He directed that all

developments on the disputed areas as well as allocations by both local councils in the affected communities be suspended pending the resolution of which local councils own the various parcels of land.

Governor Bello also noted that there was the issue of waste management especially in Zuba – Madalla stretch and the issue of PAYE tax remittances due Suleja Local Government from officers working in Abuja but who reside in Suleja.

He said the Chairman of Tafa Local Government would need the support of the FCT Administration in dealing with environmental sanitation and waste management in the area as facilities in Suleja are over stretched as a result of FCT workers.

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Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Bello lauds FCTA staff for driving Change Agenda Stories by Idu Jude, Abuja Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mallam Muhammad Musa Bello, has lauded the FCTA staff for their hard work and commitment to the development of the Federal Capital Territory and support to the Change Agenda.

Malam Bello made this commendation during the breaking of the Ramadan fast with a cross section of FCTA officials in his Life Camp residence last ecently.

The FCT minister said if he were to leave office anytime in the future, the gift he desires from FCT Administration is “the legacy of clean roads, less garbage on the streets, very beautiful and well-kept gardens with trees and flowers

as well as well trimmed and well mowed beautiful lawns.”

He charged FCTA workers to go the extra mile to ensure that this objective is achieved.

The minister thanked FCT workers for their support to the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, saying he would convey the message to the President that FCT workers are solidly behind him in the efforts that he is making to change the country for the better.

The FCT Minister said: “There is no doubt that all your work and efforts is gradually and surely being recognized because on a number of occasions now, when I meet people, we no longer get the kind of complaints and criticisms that the wider public used to give us in the past. So, this is a reflection that gradually

people are appreciating the work that all you are doing and I have to convey to you my appreciation”.

He reiterated the commitment of the FCT Administration to improve service delivery in the areas of waste management, facility management, and maintenance of the parks and gardens to ensure the overall cleaning and greening of the metropolitan city.

According to him, FCTA is working to ensure improved funding to its Secretariats, Departments and Agencies to effectively and efficiently deliver on this objective.

He said: “We have spent a lot of efforts and time on infrastructure activities and also reengineering of the various Agencies, Departments and Secretariats. But my appeal

to us is let’s go this extra mile and emphasize service delivery. That’s why most of the secretariats and even the agencies, you notice that we have deliberately funded you more than you were funded in the past. One is a reflection of the improvement in the revenue stream of the ministry, but more importantly is also to empower you to really do your work well.

“All of you that provide service, especially the metropolitan management council itself that handles waste, maintain our facility and undertake the greening of the city and the parks.

We really look upon you to improve on what you are doing because these are the areas that people will judge us.

“So, please I want to you to

encourage your staff to double their efforts so that you give me a very befitting farewell.”

Earlier in his remarks, the FCTA Permanent Secretary, Mr. Chinyeaka Ohaa, charged Muslims in the FCT to fulfill their religious obligations to their faith during the Ramadan fast, saying, “It’s always good to honour your creator and also come back to yourself and know whether you are living according to the standard given to us.”

He enjoined all present to work towards creating an enabling environment that will bring peace, promote brotherhood and unity in the country, adding that the FCT Administration will continue to support Mr. President in the divine mandate that God has given him to give direction to the country.

Special Adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina (2nd left), and Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu (right), with some female parliamentarians, who visited President Buhari at State House, Abuja...recently

Behold! Abuja village where newborn twins are hanged to death ‘because they are evil Since the abolition of killing of twins in Nigeria by Mary Slessor in the 19th century, communities in the heart of the FCT, are seen to still live in the past as giving birth to twins is still seen as taboo which leads to their killing instantly.

Kaida village in Gwagwalada Area Council of the FCT, recently, was discovered a sudden and unfortunate incident of killing of twins in the 21 Century by community health workers.

Were it not for an unexpected stroke of luck, the set of twins would, by now, have been hanged to death in Kaida Village, Gwagwalada, on the outskirts of Abuja.

According to Nkwasi Obim Nebo, a maternal health advocate and humanitarian worker who led a team of Peach Aid Medical Initiative comprising of medical doctors to the village, the mother of the twins walked up to her seeking help.

“As soon as we arrived the community, this woman

immediately handed us newly-born twin babies, asking us to take them away; they were only two days old. I asked her why she was giving up on her kids, she replied and said they will be killed in few days from if still with her.

“This is her 4th pregnancy, and her 4th set of twins also!

Oh yes! You heard me right!

Twins are considered as evil in this community since time immemorial, and are killed (hanged) on the third day after delivery,” the health

worker said.

Nkwasi Obim Nebo further narrated how the Peach Aid Initiative, comprising medical doctors from Garki Hospital, Abuja, and other medical personnel, distributed contraceptives to the villagers.

“During our health intervention at Kaida Village, Gwagwalada, FCT, we made sure every woman got their choice of contraceptives which will last for 5 years, and that the men present also got condoms as many as they wanted.

“We distributed clean delivery kits to prevent infection and bleeding at child birth; we checked their sugar level, and their blood pressure; we administered Vitamin A supplements for all the children between the ages of six months to five years.”

Since Mary Slessor stopped the practice of infanticide of twins among the Ibibio in the 19th century, numerous individuals and groups have followed suit with nationwide campaigns on the rights of twins to life.

FCT Health authority commissions emergency operation centre The Public Health Department of the FCT Health and Human Services Secretariat in conjunction with the National Centre for Disease Control has commissioned the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) to enhance capacity for disease surveillance.

Commissioning the centre, Secretary, FCT Health Human Services Secretariat, Barrister Amanda Pam, said the centre will facilitate real time live reporting during disease outbreaks and other health emergencies, which will translate to prompt response.

The Secretary, who was represented by the General Manager, FCT Hospital Management Board, Dr. Aminu Muhammed Mai, added that twenty-two participants drawn from the Department of Public Health, Primary Health Care Board and World Health Organisation are already undergoing five days training as directed by the National Centre for Disease Control.

Pam commended the good working relationship between FCT and NCDC which as the result of these meetings held recently, the two agencies come up with the idea of establishing the Isolation Centres in FCT. The technical working group has already been formed with the involvement of all stakeholders, she added.

Speaking earlier, Chief Executive Officer, National Centre for Disease Control, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, said that the Federal Capital Territory Administration and National Centre for Disease Control strengthened their relationship in four different areas namely Surveillance, Emergency Operation Centre, Treatment and Health care as well as Laboratory Services.

He added that the FCT Administration and his organisation are working seriously to ensure that the provision of state-of-Art facilities are provided for the benefit of FCT residents and Nigerians at large.

Dr. Chikwe further added that FCT is very strategic because it is the entry point and the seat of government “which is why NCDC decided to consider the project among the priority states just to be sure that we have the capacity here to protect the people residing and those coming into the country”.

In his remarks, the Director, Public Health Department, Dr. Humphrey Okoroukwu, said Public Health Emergency Operation Centre was a huge success to the FCT, adding that it will facilitate real time live reporting of health emergencies all over the FCT, leading to prompt response and minimal casualty, and that digital cameras to facilitate the process are already installed.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

The Abuja Times 3

Kwali council boss assures on improved healthcare The Chairman of Kwali Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Hon. Joseph K. Shazin, has assured residents of the area of improved health care delivery and more of other dividends of democracy.

Speaking at the inauguration of Local Emergency Routine Immunization Coordinating Centre (LERICC) in Kwali recently, the chairman noted that the health of the people was priority to his administration and he would do everything humanly possible make better primary health care delivery, despite the budgetary constrain.

Shazin said: “We took emergency measure to solve health problem and I can assure you now that the council budget has been passed which I believe to sign into law any moment

from now. We are set to tackle those problem and one of the promises I made was to procure 10 motorcycle for the health department for easy access to the villages once the allocation available”.

According to the chairman, the issue of manpower, security and cold chain would also be addressed without delay and promised that all generator would be put into use before next immunization, because LERICC was going to be a reappraisal center “to look at what you have done to achieve, what we have not achieved, what do we need, what we should do and not do”, charging the committee members to be up and doing.

The terms of reference of the committee includes coordinate all routine immunization activities within the council area and

ensure accountability, identify programme bottlenecks and barriers to high routine immunization uptake and design and implement strategies.

Also, they are to address these barriers so as to increase routine immunization coverage, monitor and evaluate routine immunization performance across the area council with the aim of making intervention where necessary as well as ensure that the reaching every ward (REW) strategy was fully operational among others.

The 13-member committee with membership drawn from various unit and division of council health department has the Head of health department, Dr. Adudu S. Adudu, as chairman and the project manager, Garba B. Daniya, as secretary with a member

each from FCT World Health Organisation (WHO) office and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA).

Earlier in his welcome address, the head of Health department, Dr. Adudu Adudu, said that the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) preceded the Local Emergency Routine Immunization Coordinating Centre (LERICC) and it was observed that the coverage and update was quite faulty, not encouraging and it has become a source of concern, so in June 2017, stakeholders met and discovered that despite huge investment and the supply chain of vaccine, the coverage was not improving and far below the expected rate.

“This necessitated the setting up of National

Emergency Routine Immunization Coordinating Centre (NERICC) in July 2017, with the mandate to all states and local government across the country to follow suit and in September, 2017, the secretary of Health and Human Service Secretariat (HHSS), Barrister Amanda Pam inaugurated the FCT emergency routine immunization coordinating Centre (FERICC)”, he said.

Dr. Adudu noted that LERICC was formed to revamp and re-launch routine immunization in the area council so as to plan and coordinate all routine immunization activities in Kwali area council.

He said it was an emergency coordinating centre not a committee because after 18 to 24 months the centre would collapse and continue the normal routine activities of immunization. Adudu commended the council chairman for all the assistance and support for effective and efficient health care delivery in the council so far.

In her goodwill message at the inaugural occasion, the World Health Organisation (WHO) FCT Coordinator, Dr. Furera Zakari, congratulated the council for being the second in FCT to inaugurate the LERICC committee after AMAC and thanked the council chairman for his effort in giving counterpart support on immunization without delay which had earned him 100 per cent in review rating.

“We are seeing all these and we are appreciating it”, she

said.

The representative of the Executive Secretary of FCT PHCB and the FCT (FERICC) Project Manager, Dr. Sebastine Esomonu, said: “What we are trying to do is to bring routine emergency immunization to fore front and it started from national to state and to local government, we are going to support you, encourage you to give you necessary technical support to ensure that you succeed in this emergency immunization you are going to enter”.

He said the essence of the emergency routine immunization was to find answers to questions like: what is our coverage, why is our coverage at this level, why is our cold chain not working, why is our data not coming as and when due, why are we not sending data when we are supposed to send it, adding that all these were going to be discussed on daily basis so that national coverage can meet 85% acceptable standard.

The FERICC project manager promised to give all the necessary support, the equipment, the manpower that was within reach and move round to all the area councils to see what was being done and give report to the national office accordingly.

The Supervisory Councilor for Health, Kwali Area Council, Mr. Friday Akawu, in his vote of thanks, expressed appreciation to the Chairman of the council for releasing funds to the department of health and mobilising the dedicated staff.

APC FCT ward congress: Candidates returned by voice vote

FCTA Permanent Secretary, Sir. Chinyeaka Ohaa (middle); National President, Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN) (2nd right) and other ANAN executives, when they paid the Permanent Secretary a courtesy visit in Abuja…on Friday.

FCDA/FCTA retirees smile to bank as Bello approves N700m benefits The 75 staff members of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) who were affected by the 2004 compulsory retirement exercise can now heave a sigh of relief as the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has approved the payment of over N700 million to the affected staff.

FCT Permanent Secretary, Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa, made the disclosure in his office at Area 11, Garki, Abuja at the sign off ceremony on the resolution of 2004 FCDA retirees matter while receiving the retirees

on behalf of the FCT Minister, Malam Muhammad Musa Bello.

According to the Permanent Secretary, the entitlements of the 75 beneficiaries would be paid directly into their accounts within two weeks.

The resolution of the matter, which had been a subject of litigation, had been stalled for fourteen years running, causing the affected officers all forms of hardship.

However, in keeping with the commitments of the present administration to the Rule of Law, the matter would be laid to rest, through the

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) window, to the joy of the affected officers and their families.

Sir Ohaa further explained that the Minister has graciously decided to give succour to the affected staff by applying human face to the issue.

He said: “The minister has graciously agreed to bring your challenges to an end, by giving human face to your issue.”

Earlier, the Chairman of the 2004 retirees, Engr. Audu Umar explained that the sign off ceremony is an indication that the present leadership

of the FCT Administration is indeed different and poised to address issues bothering on staff welfare.

He appealed to the Minister to grant long service award to the affected staff in view of their meritorious service to the nation.

Delivering a vote of thanks on behalf of the beneficiaries, Hajiya Hassana Ibrahim thanked the Minister, the Permanent Secretary and the entire management staff of the FCT Administration for taking the bold step to ameliorate their plights by approving the payment without further delay.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has elected executive council (exco) members of the party through voice vote even as party stalwarts adjudged the event to be the most peaceful and successful congress in Nigeria.

The voice vote, which did not involve ballot casting, saw all executive officials returned unopposed.

Some of them include Abdulmalik Usman (Chairman), Musa Ibrahim Jatu (Deputy Chairman), Hashimu Yakubu Shuaibu (Secretary) and Felix Udozie (Vice Chairman 1).

Others are Patrick Ogunyimi (Vice Chairman 11), Shuaibu Sabo Suleiman (Vice Chairman 111), Mohamed Adamu (Assistant Secretary), Prince Umar Bayero (Treasurer), Nasiru Oludemi as Financial Secretary, Hail-Mary Aipoh as Women Leader, Emmanuel Sheneni (Youth Leader) and Engr. Adaji Usman (Publicity Secretary).

However, the peaceful adoption process had pockets of dissenting voices as there were intermittent shouts of

‘’nay’’ in the midst of the ‘’yes’’ when names of the exco members were called out one after the other. No doubt, the majority had their way as is the norm in democracy.

The Yoruba community, however, voiced out their opposition to the adoption of Alhaji Nasiru Oludemi, popularly known as Baba Rana, for the position of Financial Secretary.

Speaking to journalists at the end of the congress, Engr.

Usman, commended loyal party members for achieving the feat, while describing the APC congress as one of the most peaceful throughout the country.

He called on other political parties to learn from the FCT chapter of the party.

“This is one of the most peaceful congresses organized by the party. I challenge other political parties, including the PDP, to emulate what we have done today”, Usman said.

On dissent by the Yoruba community, Usman said: “You cannot get it 100 per cent in a gathering of divergent opinions, but the most important thing is that the congress was successful and peaceful.

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Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

FCT minister calls for adequate funding of transport sector Stories by Idu Jude, Abuja To ensure an improved economy through all sectors, an improved transportation system, must be adopted by the Federal Government of Nigeria through adequate funding.

Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Malam Muhammad Musa Bello, gave this advice while insisting that government has business in business, especially when it comes to transportation in the country for the economic revival.

Malam Bello, who stated this at a recent two-day National Tourism Transportation Summit and Expo in Abuja, added: “Government must take responsibility for the development of the country’s transportation sector, but

not wait for private sector investments.”

Bello, who was represented by the FCT Administration (FCTA) Transport Secretary, Comrade Kayode Opeifa, explained that the transport sector was not commercially viable enough to attract enough private sector investors, which was why the FCTA “has taken it upon itself to develop an efficient intermodal transportation system in the nation’s capital.

He added: “I have heard a lot about PPP (Private-PublicPartnership), and I am going to say it here: I am in government and I have seen what is going on; we must not wait for PPP to develop our transportation sector, government must take responsibility to develop it.”

Further explaining why government must get involved in business in Nigeria, the

Minister said: “The return on investments in the transport sector is below the cost of borrowing. So, you may not see enough investors coming into that sector’’, noting that “it was for this reason that many airlines were struggling to survive around the world.”

He recalled that after terrorists hijacked two commercial planes to attack the World Trade Centre in the United States (U.S) on September 11, 2001, with that country’s aviation beginning to crashing, a development that caused the U.S government to intervene through nonrefundable grants which revived the sector.

The Minister therefore urged the Nigerian government to start thinking in that direction, saying: “The transportation sector must be seen as a security sector; it must also be

seen as a social intervention tool. This is because when you invest in that sector, the ripple effect is that tourism will grow, production will grow, cost of manufacturing will go down, and people will have extra money in their pockets.

“When people have more money in their pockets, they will spend more money to buy more. When they buy more, the GDP increases, and that is the message we are sending to the people in the tourism sector.’’

He also urged tourism stakeholders to join their counterparts in the transportation sector in preaching the message.

According to him, those saying “government has no business in business’’ must be told that that should not apply to the transport sector”.

FCTA Hajj commission calls for registration of pilgrims The FCT Hajj Commission has alerted its 2018 intending pilgrims to come forward and make payment for the registration as there is a limited seat allocation of just 2115.

According to the Commission in a press statement, the 2018 Hajj fare has been has been reduced to the amount of N1, 492,867.15 (One Million, Four Hundred and Ninety Two Thousand, eight hundred and sixty seven naira, fifteen kobo only), a reduction of N45, 351.47 (Forty Five thousand, three hundred and fifty one naira forty five kobo) only from the fare paid last year.

Last year’s pilgrims paid N1, 538,218.62 (One million, five hundred and thirty eight thousand, two hundred and eighteen naira, sixty-two kobo), and Flat Basic Travel Allowance of $800.00 (eight hundred dollars) only.

This development was as a result of concerted effort by the regulatory body to lessen the hardship of Hajj fare due to exchange rate and escalation of cost of services in Saudi Arabia due to introduction of various policies by the government of that country.

Old timers are to pay additional SR2000.00 (two thousand Saudi Riyals) which is equivalent to N163, 000.00 (One Hundred and Sixty Three Thousand naira only) as a levy imposed by Saudi Arabian government this year.

Already, the commission has secured comfortable

accommodation for this year’s intending pilgrims in Makka and concluded arrangement with service providers in Saudi Arabia on feeding.

The commission said it has also commenced Visa processing for the intending pilgrims and concluded first and second education and orientation exercise for 2018 intending pilgrims.

The next phase of Education and Orientation is scheduled to come up after fasting of the month of Ramadan.

It has also conducted the mandatory medical screening of the intending pilgrims and the team of Medical Doctors are still analyzing the lab results.

The commission said FCT seat allocation for this year is 2115 out of which over 50% have been sold as at closed of work on Friday and people are still coming, adding that it has collected more than 80% of passports of those who made deposit for the exercise and has commenced the processing of visa of those who completed their hajj fare.

“We want to use this medium to advice all those who have not balanced their Hajj fare to do so before 31st of this month in order to enable the board meet up with the deadline set by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria. All intending pilgrims who paid in excess would get their refund as soon as we conclude the compilation of their names and their banks details,” the commission added.

FCTA to close down unauthorised car marts -Bodinga

Ambassador of Congo to Nigeria, Mr.Jacques Obindza inspecting a guard mounted to honour him when the he presented the letters of recall of his predecessor and the letters of his accreditation as the Ambassador of Congo to Nigeria at the State House, Abuja...recently

FCTA bemoans loss of assets worth N5bn to vandals The FCT Administration has lamented the huge burden posed by the vandalism of public assets and critical infrastructure, which it has estimated to run into billions of Naira.

The FCT Minister, Malam Muhammad Bello, made this revelation during a paper presentation recently on the Protection, Preservation and Community Ownership of Public Assets and Critical Infrastructure, organised by the National Orientation Agency.

Malam Bello, who was represented at the occasion by the Director of Engineering, Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Shehu Ahmad Hadi, lamented that preliminary assessment of losses put the cost of replacement of vandalised, stolen or damaged facilities in the four major roads of FCT alone at over N5 billion.

This, he noted, is money

which could have been spent on executing new infrastructure or providing utilities in new districts. These include; the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX), Outer Northern Expressway (ONEX), Inner Southern Expressway (ISEX) as well as the Circular Road among others.

Concerned over the spate of sabotage and pillage therefore, Bello disclosed that FCT Administration has set up a Committee for the replacement, reconstruction and restoration of vandalised public assets and infrastructure in the Territory.

The Committee, which is headed by the Executive Secretary, FCDA, Engr. Umar Gambo Jibrin, is also to ascertain the scope of the challenge and to proffer long-lasting solutions to stem the negative development.

Bello said: “It is always saddening to witness incidents of pillage of major components

of public infrastructure such as railway lines and cables, bridge railings, manhole covers and communication ducts to mention but a few. These hoodlums sometimes dig deep into the ground to unearth armoured cables and puncture water pipelines to irrigate their farms or set up car wash centres.”

He disclosed that in the short run, security and surveillance have been beefed up around public assets and critical infrastructure in the FCT to apprehend and prosecute these hoodlums. In addition, the Administration is replacing some of these facilities with configurations that could not easily yield to hit and run theft among others.

While appealing for to residents to support the Administration’s efforts to combat this scourge, the Minister stated that a more

permanent solution to the problem both in FCT and in the country in general would include working to inculcate the spirit of community and people’s ownership of public assets and critical infrastructure in Nigerian citizens.

His words: “This could be achieved through strategic partnership between relevant government agencies, the security and intelligent agencies, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), traditional institutions, religious and community organizations to mention but a few.”

Speaking earlier, The DirectorGeneral, NOA, Dr. Garba Abari, stated that the widespread nature of the incidence of vandalism of national assets like oil pipelines, railway tracks, electricity poles and components has made it necessary to assemble stakeholders in the search for solutions to the menace.

The FCT Directorate of Roads Traffic Services (DRTS), popularly called Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO), is to intensify efforts to ensure that unauthorised car marts in the Federal Capital Territory are closed down to pave way for organised system where only genuine registered operators will be in the business.

Addressing the task team, the Director, Alhaji Wadata Bodinga, said the directive of the Secretary, Transportation Secretariat, must be fully implemented as it is aimed at bringing sanity to the sector which he described as a critical area as far as transportation service is concerned in every city.

Bodinga said the management of DRTS will not fold its arms while some people take over every space in the city displaying vehicles thereby, creating unnecessary traffic in the name of business without considering the plight of other road users.

He further explained that there is no reason why some people will go into any business of this nature without collaborating with those who have been into it as it is always

easy for governments to relate to an organized group than different individuals among other gains of working as a team.

He insisted that those who are not registered with the Directorate has no business displaying their wares in any part of the Federal Capital City as it is the responsibility of the Directorate to register or give permission for any automobile business within FCT and warned that anybody who does that is doing so at his or her own risk.

While responding, the head of the task team, Mr. Kenneth Iloduba assured the Director that they will not disappoint the directorate saying that they needed a little push for them to swing into action, especially as the logistics for the operation had been made available.

It would be recalled that the FCT Secretary Transportation, Comrade Kayode Opeifa, had earlier directed those involved in the practice to remove their vehicles from all unauthorised places on before March 5, 2018, as officials of the directorate and other relevant task forces were directed to mobilise to ensure compliance.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Life & Times

Why fulltime politics no go area for me -Mercy Johnson Black, Bold and Beautiful!! These attributions best describe delectable Nollywood actress, Mercy Johnson-Okojie, whose sojourn into Nollywood was not all rosy but her passion for the art brought her this far. Despite the challenges rocking several celebrity marriages, Mercy has been able to manage her homefront diligently. MUTIAT ALLI met with the beautiful Kogi State born superstar recently and she opens about her new movie ‘ The Lamb’, Marriage, and why politics is a no go area for her amongst others. Enjoy…

How long did it take to shoot the movie?

From conception to breathing, the movie took over a year.

Did you at a point get tired of the project, as it was taking too long?

No. I think I had so much faith on the project. I had responsibilities on my shoulders and I decided to see it till finish. It was a bit challenging but we fought it through.

Is this the first movie you’re producing?

No, it is my second actually.

What were the challenges you encountered while producing this latest epic movie, The Lamb?

O yes! There are always lots of challenges when you are filming. For a good start, I love to appreciate those that need to be appreciated, from the Chief of Staff, to his Excellency, to the sons and daughters of Kogi State; we got a whole lot of assistant during the filming. We appreciate them all. Their support and contributions, kind of made it so easy for me during the production, because we all want the outside world to come and see what we celebrate as a set of people. We were so excited to have top Nollywood actors come into the State to celebrate our culture with us through the production of a good movie for the big screen. We had some tiny issues here and there during production, but we scaled through. Now we are here to celebrate the success.

There are lots of tribes in Kogi State, why did you single out the Igala people to do a movie about them?

For me, it was more of showing to them that the Special Assistant to the Governor in Entertainment, Arts and Culture is not cut out for tribalism. It is not about the name Honorable but for us to bring up the entertainment sector in the state to an enviable stage that people would want to come and learn from us. So, if we had done an Ibira story, they would say ‘Oh, yes, no wonder. That’s where she is from’.

On that note, I said let’s do something from the Igala tribe. I told them to give me what they have and they were all pointing at different stories, then we picked one and made it a good film.

L1

Life & Times L2

Daily Times Nigeria

Wednesday, May 30, 2018

‘As a public figure, you can’t undermine the power of the media’ How then do you cope with your home front and duty roles as the SA to the Governor?

Well, it has not been easy but I’m a home girl.

There are priorities. God comes first, and then family and other things follow. Definitely the family has to be settled before we talk about work.

When I am not happy at home, then I can’t function properly in whatsoever capacity. God, family then others, it works well for me that way. As we are here right now, if I get a call from my children’s school about anything, I’ll push your phone away and run off (laughs).

Seeing some of your Social Media posts, one is forced to believe that you have more favoritism for your female children than your boy, could this be true?

Yes, people tell me that a lot. But I think my son is more inclined to his dad. The guys roll, then the ladies rolls (Laughs). The girls roll like me, you know snake can’t birth fish, but my husband is a very quiet person and my son is just like him. When it’s time to make noise, my team rolls along.

Away from family issues, what’s your say on Dino Melaye’s predicament?

I don’t want to talk about that please!

Now that you are working tirelessly for the

Kogi State government, after the appointment, would there be a time you will plunge into full politics?

No no no! Not at all.

What if your people beg you to join politics for their sake?

I’ll equally beg them not to beg me. I just don’t want to do politics at all.

Why? I can equally effect change in my community without holding any political post office. My husband is already a politician, but I’m not. I think it’s enough on my shoulders that I’m responsible for some actions in the State, also an influence to people as a film person. Everything you do is under scrutiny; that public eye is enough for me. I wouldn’t want to top it with political responsibilities. I can represent my community in a good light, help people, touch lives, do the best I can, and remain a good woman, but not with a political tag.

Are you scared of politics?

Well, I’m not scared. I’m just been careful.

For a while now, you have been under heavy public scrutiny, how have you been coping?

It has been God. No one can undermine the

media, you guys are powerful. There is no saying that I want to dodge the media, because I’m always as real as it comes. So, I’ll say it’s just God. On Instagram, you always show off your husband; so there is this believe that you’re out to mock those who are not as lucky as you are in marriage, what is your take on that?

My dear, I’m not in competition with anybody.

I always do me. Because I’m just myself. You can never tell what tomorrow will beget. I’m always me, even on Social Media.

Your kids will always want mummy around, how do you cope leaving them for days?

It has not been easy, but we are in the jet age. I’m a working mother. I have to work. However, like I said earlier, it’s all about scale of preference. I give everyone and everything its own time.

When should we expect another baby from you?

Sure. Very soon.

Are you not scared of the labor room?

I’m obsessed with children. While growing up, I always had it in mind that I’ll have four children. So, we still need one more to complete it (laughs). So, we can always play football correctly, 3 boys, 3 girls.

Daily Times Nigeria

Wednesday, May 30, 2018

L3 Society Circle Oracle D debuts with street banger, Oshaprapra That there is a long list of contemporary musicians across genres shaping the current soundscape of Nigerian entertainment industry at the moment is like stating the obvious. But the good news here is that, there is a new talent on the bloc which is Adesegun Adebayo Adebanjo popularly known as Oracle D. The Ijebu-Ode born rapper turned singer has been behind the scene for quiet sometimes now trying to perfect his

craft.

The fast-rising super dynamic singer who started from the street is not only battle ready to take his position in the highly competitive industry but ready to drop his street vibes single with video.

His new street hit banger is titled, Oshaprapra featuring another creative singer, Sk2nice.

In case you don’t know, WiseBee produced Oshaprapra that has been topping musical chart lately.

The Humanitarian, Muiz Banire Stories by Isaac Oguntoye

Wealth they say cannot be measure by the amount of money you have in your bank account rather by the number of people you elevate or support in their quest for success. This according to those closed to the National Legal Adviser of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Muiz Banire’s topmost priority.

This vision we gathered gave birth to forum form and supported by the former commissioner. The forum that is called United Action for Change has been at the forefront of every struggle of Nigeria youths in the aspect of making them a better and productive individual for the betterment of the society.

Some have attributed his silent in the political terrain lately to the fact that the philanthropist is focusing

more ongiving guidance to the younger generation. Recently, when he was asked if he’s going to accept a public, he said, “I don’t intend to. It is not my intention at all. In fact, age is even catching up on some of us. You know I am one of those people that believe in the ability and the capacity of the youth. As far as I am concerned, people of our age should leave the stage and give guidance to these younger elements.” He concluded.

At award ceremony, Ibidunni Ighodalo, again, recalls efforts to bear children It was a proud, but, nonetheless surprising moment for Mrs. Ibidunni Ighodalo. A prize in public was the last thing she expected.

Having worked closely with the organisers of the Runway Jazz; all week through the Masterclass and preparations leading to the show itself, it was astonishing how the award was carefully concealed until the last instance.

A woman of many parts, she only just agreed to venture out with her bridal wear, for the first time, which she is promoting under the brand name, Avant Garde. The previous day, she had participated in a training session to encourage budding entrepreneurs. At the end of the day, she lit the candle of joy for two participants by gifting them with wedding gowns worth N1 million each. It was an exciting and explosive highpoint at the training, particularly to the lucky ladies who knelt down to thank her again and again.

The dresses featured on the runway by Avant Garde by Elizabeth R were the fashion house’s high-end wedding dresses, designed in partnership with Walid Shebab Couture. For her first runway show, Ighodalo collaborated with Mr. Frank Osodi who provided the models, styled them and directed the runway flow. She described the experience as “truly magnificent feeling.”

Unknown to her, a beautiful plaque had been specially prepared with her name on it!

But the appreciation was not for the exquisite bridal collection, rather the debt of gratitude was being paid to her for being a pillar of support for many couples who are waiting to become parents.

Through her Ibidunni Ighodalo Foundation, IIF, a non-profit organization created to raise awareness on issues pertaining to infertility and to provide grants for couples that require fertility

treatments such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Intrauterine Insemination, she has continued to bring hope and joy to many couples.

For this effort, she was given the incentive of the Runway Jazz Humanitarian Award. The recognition insignia was handed over to her by the wife of the Vice President, Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo at the Convention Centre of the Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos. Among other interests, Ighodalo has become one of the most recognizable transmitters of charity, which includes, but is not limited to an orphanage.

GratefulforthefirstaccoladefortheIIFandcoming from an unexpected quarter, Ighodalo said she

was t

o

humbled

know that people took enough notice of the work of the foundation to reward it with such great honour and recognition. She compared the moment she was called up on the podium for the award to an “out of body experience.”

Being honest, she recounted the journey of the emergence of the foundation, which also blends into her arduous struggles to bear her own biological children. She said, “It brings back memories of my years of trying to conceive and have kids. It was in the process of going through those times that the foundation was birthed.”

From the moment the idea was conceived to the transformation of the idea to real output,

Ighodalo

acknowledged that she required a good deal of efforts to deal with various challenges. For the ability to overcome the various daunting tests, she said, “I thank God first because without Him none of these would be possible. Special mention must be made of the good people who have donated immensely to the foundation.

It’s amazing how people have supported the foundation. To the couple who celebrated their wedding anniversary, this award is for them as well because they donated towards IVF treatment for 20 couples. I am also indebted to my humble friends Tonye Cole, Mrs Titi Adenuga and Pastor Mattew Ashimolowo who were at the Parents-in-Waiting Conference and donated funds for treatment of couples. To my Instagram followers who have donated immensely to the foundation, this award is for all of you and I pray that the Lord will answer every prayer in your heart and put smile on your faces. To my special administrator, Dayo Richard who has poured herself into this task and finally to our partner hospitals who have bent over backwards to be a part of this journey of putting smiles on the faces of our couples, God bless you all. May you never experience barrenness!”

Recognising that she could not have done it alone, she praised the efforts of her team.

“I dedicate the award to God who has blessed us with children in the foundation. To all the families who are still expecting their bundles of joy, to the families who have received theirs and to everyone helping the foundation and donating from every part of the world and everyone working for the foundation, without their support, the IIF couldn’t have made it,” she said.

L4

Daily Times Nigeria

Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Society Circle Kehinde Afolabi steps out Stories by Isaac Oguntoye

The twin brother of one of the richest

philanthropists in the country, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, stepped out recently to honour late actress, Aisha

Abimbola.

The agile socialite was spotted with his entourage at the Lagos State Television during the candle light procession organized by Movie Ambassadors in honour for the late actress last Wednesday.

As usual, the Ken Dallas Hotel and Night Club boss was looking humble in the black t-shirt customized for the late showbiz star.

In case you don’t know, Kehinde Afolabi is a budding businessman and socialite, who enjoys partying a lot. He lives in Egbeda, a suburb of Lagos, and operates a chain of business, one of which is a hotel, Kendallas Hotel in Idimu area. The hotel, formerly known as Lumoja Hotel was reportedly bought for Kehinde by his twin brother.

Subomi Okeowo’s big dream!

Dreams are precious desires that every man wants to achieve with a great passion, and these are what may have informed the decision of this youthful and astute formidable man of milestones and honors; to veer into the rather murky waters of politics, more so at the highest rung of the pedestal, the presidency.

Are you amazed at this bold step of this simply resilient dude? Wait until you have glossed through his antecedents, both from origin, education, business and philanthropic gestures at his very modest age, when most of his peers are still struggling to eke a niche for themselves.

Very meticulous Olasubomi Okeowo is sure aimed for the high, going by his latest move, which is still awestriking many. The very

ambitious but not inordinate, well-focused Subomi has no doubt made a statement with his impeccable business and political resume over the years, you can give it to him any day.

Although many political observers and pundits have yet to come to terms with his ambition to occupy Aso Rock, come 2019, because of the delicate zoning system that has hampered many aspirants to the plum seat in Abuja, Subomi remains fastidious and resolved in his unalloyed ambition, going by the resilient way he has been going around with stakeholders and decision makers in the political arena, albeit subtly and methodical.

Like other nationalists of the past, he has been putting schemes and measures in place to actualize his dream.

How his ambition will fall in

place, will now depend largely on the political platform to launch himself, into the contentious presidential race that is silently but hotly being pursued by many in his ilk; but there are indications that he’s inching towards ADC, where he can have a soft landing.

The coming months will surely unfold gradually what Subomi Okeowo will be strategizing and formulating in his strides to make his dream come true in 2019.

The aphorism, ‘Not too young to run,’ may even come in his favour when the chips are down, as Subomi has been there done that on all fronts if the true must be told about his mission.

Okeowo Olasubomi, is the last son of Chief ATG Okeowo of Ogbogbo Ijebu, Ogun state.

His dad was the Civil Engineer of choice in the entire Western Nigeria when the Colonial Masters left. During the industrial revolution of the 60s and early 70s Late Engr Okeowo constructed Allen Avenue, Aromire, Oba Akran, the Sagamu Abeokuta expressway and many inter-city roads across Nigeria. Backed with this kind of background, Okeowo Olasubomi was forced to toe his father’s acumen in dint of hard work. Born in June 26th 1975, Okeowo first bagged a first degree in Philosophy from the then Ogun State University (now Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye,) after which he proceeded to study law at the prestigious University of London.

Otunba Rotimi Ajanaku’s generosity If cheerful giving and charity were to be a competition, then Otunba (Dr.) Rotimi Ajanaku would be one of the top winners.

His milk of kindness cannot be over emphasized. His love for humanity, despite his background and class strata, he is one man that loves equity. He can give his last penny just to make people around him comfortable.

Over the years, some naysayers have attached his generosity to his political ambition; far from it; ‘’Otunba Rotimi has been a cheerful giver right from his youthful days. ‘’We discovered the trait early enough in him. Seeing him give with so much joy is not a surprise to us.’’ A close family friend divulged.

Don-Dino as he is fondly called

in the social terrain, is a man blessed with so much humility a kind heart. He can’t stand the sight of his fellow human in distress, he is always ready to assist without resistant. Otunba Rotimi has always been guided by the biblical teaching in the holy book, which states that; ‘’But give that which is within as charity, and then all things are clean for you.’’

Dino has always attached his astronomic success in business to his cheerful giving which is one of the traits he inherited from his father.

To further portray his milk of kindness, we gathered that the reverend shrewd businessman and politician extended his kind heart to Islamic faithful, who are currently observing the one

month Ramadan fasting.

We further gathered that; despite being a devoted Christian, He shared bags of rice, Can Milks, Beverages, Live Ram and Cows, and other edible items to his Muslim constituents, within Ibadan Southwest/Northwest Federal Constituency Oyo State and Lagos State as well.

Otunba Rotimi has always been a quiet person, who loathes publicity, when it come to his charitable deed; he loves them private. From all indications, his political ambition, is currently gathering momentum. He has been showed massive love by his constituents; who promised to pay him back for his kind gestures over the years, with their massive vote in 2019 by clinching a seat at the green chambers.

African Brand Congress fiesta set to hold in Lagos Stories by Isaac Oguntoye

In a bid to educate, engage, and inspire brand managers, professionals in the pursuit of best practice in brand building and value creation, Mr. Desmond Esorougwe, the convener of African Brand Congress have called on the major brands, stakeholders in Africa to be part of this year African Brand Congress Fiesta.

The African Brand Congress Fiesta which take place at the

prestigious Eko Hotel & Suits, Lagos on 31st May, 2018 with the theme; ‘Africa is the Future of Great Brands’ will also feature the African Brand Leadership merit award is aimed at company chair, presidents, Directors, CEO, Managers among leading brands that believe in creating strong brands.

The focus of this one-day Africa Brand Congress in Nigeria according to the organizers will be to support brands in the journey of excellence in brand building

and also to be able to discuss and influence the issues of sharing African Brand future.

“The event which is the fourth edition will also provides the ideal opportunity for interaction among leading companies, Keynote interactive discussion, quality up to date case studies from leading organizations provides a close look at the improvement that the biggest companies in the market are currently implementing worldwide.”

The convener, Desmond Esorougwe concluded