Dtn 1 9 17

THE

DAILY

TIMES

NIGERIA INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER. EST. 1926 WWW.DAILYTIMES.NG https://plus.google.com/+DailytimesNgr/posts

dailytimesnigeria

&ƈƗéƆƋéE ƄƈƏë Buhari, Dogara, others preach unity, love among Nigerians

Ï ^ è ^#^è Ɛ ƆƏ ƇƆƋƈƅƈƐ ƐƆ ƓƈƐ LƑ Ƌƈƌ Ƈ ƈƐ ƇƑƋ Lateef Ibrahim/Tom Okpe/ Mathew Dadiya, ƄƑƉ Ɨ Segun Olaniyan, E Ɛ ƈ

ÏÏÏ

As Muslim faithful globally celebrate the Eid-el-Kabir festival, President Muhammadu Buhari, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara,

www.facebook.com/dailytimesngr

State Governors, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) among others have felicitated with them.

Buhari, in his message, appealed to all Nigerians to rise against the odds, keep their prejContinued on page 6

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2017 VOL. 3. NO. 438

N150

GLOBAL FINANCIAL/COMMODITY MARKETS

CURRENCIES/CBN: CBN: MƢƠǀêƤǀ ^&` #RGG `è Parallel Market: USD MƢÕƣ POUND Mƿƣƾ EURO MƿƢƿ NSE: d9 Ƣǀè ǀƠƿêÕƾ MARKET CAP ơƾêƾƿ 0L#_ RƃM Ƥêƿƾ R ƣêƢƢ COMMODITIES: Wheat nd ƿơƠêƾƠƃLj Rice nd ơƾêǀƾƃLj Cocoa nd ơèÖƿÖêƠƠƃ Coffee nd ơƾƣêǀƠƃdƅ ƍ Cotton nd ƣơêƢƠƃn ƈƐ Sugar nd ơƢêƢÖƃRƑ ƅƆ METALS: Gold nd ơƢƾƾêÖƠƃRƑ ƅƆ Silver nd ơƣêǀǀƃRƑ ƅƆ Copper nd ƢêƠƤƃRƑ ƅƆ ENERGY: Brent nd ǀƾêƿƣƃ^ è N/Gas nd ƢêƠƢƃ

2019: I’m not interested in politics, Dangote tells PDP Ï d ƕ ƈ ƍ ƈ ƈ Ɛ ƅƏƆ ƐƆ Ɖ Ƅ Ƈ Ə Mƈ ƆƏƈ Ï óM Ɛ ƈ Ɗ Ɛ Ɗ ƅ ƌƌƈƐƐƆƆ ƅ Ɛ ƅƐƆƗ ƌƆô Ï z Ə ƍ ƋƈƐƈƅƈ Ɛ Ɛ ƍ ƗƏ ƍƍƈ ƈ ƌƆ

Lateef Ibrahim, Abuja

ÏÏÏ Africa richest man and billionaire businessman, Alhaji Aliko Dan-

Continued on page 5

Users of substandard phones risk cancer éM 5 N30trn Customs probe: Indicted firms now refunding billions of naira to FG é dƆ ƐƆ 5 z _ë Mikel, Moses plot Lions’ fall in Uyo 30

` ƌ Ɠ ƈƐƈ Ƈ Ə ƄƑƕƆƏ LƑ Ƌƈƌ Ƈ ƈƐ ƇƑƋ ƅƆƋƆƄƏ ƐƆ &ƈƗéƆƋéE ƄƈƏ Ɛ Ɨ ƕ ƈ E Ə è ƆƏ ƆƏè R Ƒ dƐ ƐƆêêê j ƑƏ Ɨ ƕ

Police beef up security at NEMA hqtrs over possible IDP’s attack 27

2

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

3

4

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

5 News

2019: I’m not interested in politics, Dangote tells PDP Continued from page 1 gote, has declared that he has no interest in politics, advising that politicians and political parties should leave him alone and stop dropping his name.

Dangote, who in the President/Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dangote Group of Companies, specifically warned that nobody should set him on collision course with President Muhammadu Buhari and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The business mogul stated this while reacting to The Daily Times exclusive report that the Peoples

Democratic Party (PDP) and its leaders are mounting pressures on him to come and contest for the 2019 presidential election on its platform.

Dangote spoke during a telephone interview with The Daily Times in Abuja on Thursday.

Members of a think tank committee of the PDP put in place by former President Goodluck Jonathan were said to be wooing Dangote on the issue.

But Dangote has made it clear that his primary interest, which he had always made known to everybody, is business with the goal

of providing jobs for millions of people in addition to wealth creation.

He said: “I am an entrepreneur. My passion is to create jobs for Nigerians and not otherwise.”

He also disclosed that those who are jealous of successes so far recorded by him in business are the ones desperately trying to link him with the 2019 presidential election.

Dangote said: “I am not interested in politics and this is authoritative. No member of any think tank committee has contacted me. People should stop dropping my name for the

2019 presidency.

“This whole thing is an attempt by people who do not like me. They are doing all these with a view to putting me on collision course with President Muhammadu Buhari and the ruling party. They are people who are jealous of the successes I have so far recorded in business.

“My passion is for business development, provision of jobs and wealth creation, not politics.

“I have never shown interest in politics. Am not interested in politics. I am not a politician. My passion has always been business

and business.

“Buhari is like a father to me. Nobody should try to set me on a collision course with President Buhari.

That will not work. I have high regard and respect for the President.

“For emphasis once again, I am not a politician.

I can’t and won’t confront President Buhari. They should leave him out of any high wire politics and horse trading. I also seize this opportunity to warn name droppers to desist from their infamous act.

They should stop using my name for politics. They should not set me on collision course with President Buhari and the government in power”.

Continuing, Dangote said: “By the time the on-

going Dangote refinery in Lagos and the sugar projects come on stream fully, there will be a great positive development and thousands of jobs created that will change the narrative in the country. That is my passion”.

Ahead of 2019 general elections, high wire politics has begun while politicians have started endless meeting in order to position themselves for different elective posts.

But the sudden return of Buhari from medical vacation in London has changed the permutations as the President’s body language and the rousing welcome for him by the ordinary people are now causing some ripples in the political circles.

N30trn Customs probe: Indicted firms now refunding billions of naira to FG - Senate Chris Emetoh, Abuja

L-R: Chief of Training and Operation, Naval Headquarters, Rear Adm. Forguson Bobcil; U.K Foreign Secretary, Mr. Boris Johnson and Royal Navy liaison at Joint Maritime Sea Training Center, Commander Pete Quinn, during the courtesy visit of Boris Johnson to the Nigeria Navy in Lagos… on Thursday.

Users of substandard phones risk cancer -NCC ÏÏÏ as fake phones disrupt network services Tony Nwakaegho

ÏÏÏ The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has warned Nigerians against the using substandard phones.

The telecoms’ regulator said such phones have been linked to cancer diseases suffered by some Nigerians.

The NCC disclosed this in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti state, South west Nigeria, at a sensitisation and enlightenment programme for phone sellers at the Fayose Market in the state capital.

Against this backdrop, the commission also warned that it would soon begin clamping down on sellers of unapproved phones across the country.

An official of the Commission, Kunle Olorunfare, who addressed the traders

at the workshop organised by the Ibadan Zonal Office of the NCC, also identified unapproved phones as a major cause of network interruptions, which he said also have negative implications on the health of users.

Olorundare lamented that fake phones had “taken over the markets; and were causing colossal damage to network services and health of users.”

He warned that sellers of unapproved ICT products were running foul of the NCC Act; and could face prosecution or seizure of their wares if they did not stop selling such products.

He said that he had a list of all ICT products approved for sale and use in Nigeria, while admonishing the phone sellers to ensure the phones they pur-

chase from manufacturers and dealers were approved by the NCC. However, Mr. Ekisola Oladosu, who represented the Head, Zonal Operations of NCC, in his remarks, decried the proliferation of substandard phones and other ICT products in the country, assuring that NCC would “do all within its powers to check the situation.”

The Zonal Controller, NCC Ibadan Zonal Office, Mr. Olubunmi Bamijoko said the sales of unapproved phones, which are smuggled or imported into the country, negatively affect operator’s network and service delivery.

According to him, NCC was poised to ensure the eradication of unapproved phones through adequate

enlightenment, coupled with enforcement actions on sellers.

Responding on behalf of participants, the President, Fayose Market Traders’ Association, Mr. Kehinde Badmus commended the NCC for the enlightenment seminar and pledged that the Association’s members would cooperate with the commission to achieve its positive goals.

Badmus called for NCC assistance in facilitating proximate approved phone dealer centres within or around Ekiti state for easier access to approved products, and also for the commission to prevail on mobile service providers to establish communication masts at locations where such were not available.

ÏÏÏ The Senate Committee on Customs, Excise and Tariff and Marine Transport has vowed to continue its ongoing investigation into alleged N30trn revenue scam in the import and export chain.

The Chairman of the committee, Sen. Hope Uzodinma made this known while briefing newsmen shortly after its investigative meeting with some of the companies in Abuja, while also revealing that despite that some detractors had alleged that the investigation was a sham, some of the indicted companies had started refunding money running into billions of Naira to the Federal Government.

He said the interest of the Senate in the investigation was to assist the government to recover monies trapped in the import and export chain.

“There are allegations that the investigation is borne out of personal interest.

“Once a Senate in a committee of the whole passes a resolution such as this it cannot be termed as the decision of a single senator.

“You may not like my face as a person but it is important to look at the credibility of the work we are doing.

“This is so that together

we will succeed in making sure that the import export circle is sanitised, trade is facilitated and non-oil revenue is recovered and strengthened.

“In that manner, government will not rely so much on oil and with that whether crude oil is sold or not,” he said.

According to him, “As a result of this investigation the banks which are the authorised dealers in the export and import chain have been making effort to remit everything collected by them to the Central Bank.

“We are doing this on a friendly note because we do not want to send a wrong signal to the market.

“Although more funds other than the N120bn I announced some time ago have been recovered, but because we do not want to send the wrong signal we are limited to speak further on how much has been recovered so far. ‘’However, we will definitely come up with the figures recovered at the end of the investigation,” he said.

Uzodinma explained that the committee was saving the figures till the end of the investigation because some of the companies were quoted on the Capital Market and would not want to send panic to the market.

He also explained that the committee resorted to interfacing with indiContinued on page 7

News 6

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

Eid-el-Kabir: Buhari, Dogara, others preach unity, love among Nigerians Continued from page 1 udices aside and strengthen the bonds of friendship and unity to keep our country together.

The President expressed the firm belief that Nigeria can make rapid progress on all fronts if we re-enact the exemplary virtues, typified

by Prophet (Abraham) Ibrahim, through his sacrifice, patience, steadfastness, generosity and obedience to Allah’s command and constituted authority.

He harped on the need for Nigerians to see themselves as brothers and sisters from the same heritage, who must come to terms with the African proverb that ‘‘a family tie is like a tree, it can bend but it cannot break.’’

The President, who has already travelled to his Daura in Katsina country home for the celebration, said in his message: “I felicitate with you all, particularly the Muslim faithful, on the celebration of this year’s Eid-El-Kabir.

“I congratulate our Muslim brothers and sisters who are currently in Saudi Arabia to participate in the rites of the Hajj.

“From the outset, I want to use this opportunity to thank all Nigerians who prayed for my recovery and have continued to extend their goodwill and support after my return to the country.

“Indeed your fervent and sincere prayers, which cut across religion, political and ethnic divides, has energised me to re-dedicate myself and this administration to the task of building a great Nigeria.

“On the joyous occasion of this year’s Eid-El-Kabir celebration, I appeal to all Nigerians to rise against the odds, keep our prejudices aside and strengthen the bonds of friendship and unity to keep our country

Buhari

together.

“For Muslims all over the world, this celebration is to commemorate the trials and triumph of Prophet (Abraham) Ibrahim.

“As we celebrate, I sincerely believe that our nation can make rapid progress on all fronts if we re-enact the exemplary virtues, typified by Prophet (Abraham) Ibrahim, through his sacrifice, patience, steadfastness, generosity and obedience to Allah’s command and constituted authority.

“We must learn to see ourselves as brothers and sisters from the same heritage, who must come to terms with the African proverb that ‘‘a family tie is like a tree, it can bend but it cannot break.’’

“Once again, I assure you that this administration, which has made the security, economic well-being and prosperity of all Nigerians its priority, will not rest on its oars until we see the Nigeria of our dream.

“I wish everyone happy Sallah celebrations”, he added.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, on his part, admonished the Muslim faithful to use the Eid- el-Kabir Sallah festival to promote unity, tolerance, peaceful co-existence and the spirit of sacrifice.

In a statement to mark this year’s Eid el-Kabir Sallah celebration, issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Mr. Turaki Hassan, the Speaker, said Nigeria could only fulfil her great potentials as a nation if citizens continue to foster unity, peace, security and stability as well as show greater respect and love for one another.

His words: “This is a moment for sober reflections; I enjoin you to use the period to uphold the spiritual benefit of the celebration by

extending a hand of friendship and solidarity across all divides and imbibing the spirit of sacrifice and obedience to the higher authority as exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim and upheld by Prophet Muhammed”.

While wishing the Muslim Ummah a blessed and peaceful Eid el-Kabir Sallah celebration, the Speaker reiterated his call for sustained prayers for the leadership of the country at all levels.

“This is an opportunity for us to reflect and pray for our nation; pray for our dear President for God’s guidance and good health and pray for all those in leadership positions so that God in his infinite mercy will continue to guide them as they steer the affairs of the country,” he added.

Also, the former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku

Abubakar, in his own message, pointed out that protecting the image of Islam is the greatest challenge facing the Muslim faithful today in the light of the activities of extremists who are bent on destroying every humane virtues of the religion.

The former Vice President advised Muslims to reclaim the religion which is being hijacked by violent extremists whose atrocities portray Islam in bad light.

The Wazirin Adamawa expressed sadness that the activities of these violent extremists have economically destroyed the North in particular the Northeast and disrupted its social life.

“As a citizen of the Northeast, I have a firsthand experience of the impact of terrorism on our people’s daily lives”, he said.

Atiku thus called for

rigorous scrutiny and vigilance to guard against the influence of extremism, including exposing innocent students and followers to their virulent ideas.

He advised parents to be wary of letting their children follow any preacher and thereby, falling victims of indoctrination, warning that poisonous ideas are as destructive as a bomb.

The Waziri Adamawa also called on Muslims to show increased commitment to peaceful co-existence and tolerance in line with the demands of the Muslim faith and Nigeria’s complex diversity.

According to him, love and peace should not only be preached, but must also be put into practice for the sake of sustaining the peace in our land.

The former Vice President advised Nigerians to

eschew religious bigotry, and condemned politicians who use ethnic and religious sentiments to gain power.

According to him, identity politics founded on religious loyalties rather than competence and commitment to unity is a threat to our democracy and progress.

He wished his fellow Muslims a happy and hitchfree celebration.

The Governor of Katsina State, Hon. Aminu Bello Masari , in his own Sallah message, called on fellow Nigerian Muslims to use the occasion to rededicate themselves spiritually, morally and physically to enable the country surmount the many challenges threatening its corporate existence.

Continued on page 7

Travelers await vehicles for Eid el-Kabir at Nyanya Motor Park in Abuja… on Thursday.

You are mischievous, misleading the public -Rector tells ASUP ÏÏÏ The Rector of the Fed-

eral Polytechnic, Bauchi Engineer Shuaibu Musa has called on striking academic and non-academic staff of the institution to call off their indefinite strike, saying that they should consider the plight of the students who are currently at home.

Engineer Shu’aibu Musa, made the call, Thursday while reacting to an earlier press conference by the Joint Action Committee of Academic (JAC) of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Senior Staff Association of Nigeria of Polytechnics (SSANIP) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated

Institutions (NASU), led by ASUP Chairman, Comrade Ahmed Musa Mukaddas.

The rector noted that the issues of non-implementation of promotions for 2014, 2015 and 2016 , arrears of 2014, 2015 and 2016, nonpayment of salary shortfall for 2016, non-payment of academic and peculiar allowances raised by the three unions of the polytechnic were national issues affecting all polytechnics across the country.

He said “the unions demands for industrial action are loaded with misrepresentations and mischievous statements of facts, which have succeeded in misleading the general public, rather than edu-

cate it on their grievances.

At best, one can describe these notices as contrary to established Nigerian Labour and Industrial Relations Laws” “On the issue of nonimplementation of promotions and promotions arrears, It is on record that the federal government has recently acknowledge its liability to these claims requesting all ministries, departments and agencies to compile same and present to the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation through a circular dated July 4, 2017”.

Engineer Shuaibu said that the polytechnic had written and made several follow-ups to the Office of

Budget of the federation, the National Board for Technical Education, the federal ministry of education and the National Assembly over the issue of non-implementation of promotions and promotions arrears.

Speaking on the issue of non-payment of Salary shortfall for 2016 and February, 2017, Musa maintained that it was a common knowledge that all MDAs experienced shortfalls in 2016, adding the Federal Government set up the Presidential Initiative on Continuous Audit , PICA to verify the claims by MDAs, with PICA visiting the polytechnic to verify its own claims.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

7

News

Eid-el-Kabir: Buhari, Dogara, others preach unity, love among Nigerians Continued from page 5 In a statement made available to newsmen, signed by the Senior Special Assistant on Media, Abdu Labaran, the Governor observed that special religious occasions such as the Eids and Christmas call for as much sober reflection.

“It is important that we do not allow religious, ethnic or regional differences to blind us from our commonality, shared values and shared space.

“As a vehicle for the advancement of humanity, religion should accordingly be used as a unifying not dividing force for the good of all”, he added.

While lauding the patriotic zeal of Nigerians, Governor Masari also urged for continued understanding and prayers for the health of President Muhammadu Buhari and the well-being of Nigeria, noting that prayers and constructive criticism can go a long way in adding value to where the nation wants to be.

The Governor also cautioned against actions, statements and utterances that are capable of jeopardising the corporate togetherness of Nigeria as united country, saying that “we must avoid recklessness, and exercise restraint and caution in all we do and say, regardless of what

our grudges may be since the collective well-being of Nigeria is greater than our individual or regional aspirations.”

In its Sallah message, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) through its national chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun felicitated with Muslim faithful in the country on the joyous occasion of Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

The occasion, second of two Muslim holidays celebrated worldwide each year, the party chairman said in his speech in Abuja on Thursday that we should be reminded of the significance of the festival.

The APC said: “As we gath-

er around family and friends to celebrate Eid-el-Kabir, we should be reminded of the significance of the holy festival which is to celebrate the love and grace of Almighty Allah to mankind through sacrifice, devotion and faith irrespective of our ethnic and religious affiliations.

“We urge Nigerians to use the opportunity of the holy celebration to rededicate themselves to selfless sacrifices for the benefit of our neighbors’ and indeed the progress of country”.

The party called on Muslim faithful and all Nigerians to pray for the wellbeing of Nigeria and the good health of President Muhammadu Buhari.

L-R: Deputy Director, Appointments and Promotions, Civil Defence, Fire, Immigration and Prisons Services Board (CDFIPB), Mr. John Onuh; Director/Secretary of CDFIPB, Mr.Sunday Ogu; National Coordinator, Nigeria Youth Advocacy for Peace and Development (NYAPD), Dr. Ugbede Paul and Coordinator of Northern Zone, NYAPD, Comrade Salahuddeen Shuaibu, during the presentation of Award of Excellence to Mr. Sunday Ogu by NYAPD in Abuja… recently.

N30trn Customs probe: Indicted firms now refunding billions of naira to FG -Senate Continued from page 5

vidual companies rather than meeting with them in group, adding that the strategy had yielded positive result.

He said, “The companies are now free to admit and some of them have promised to make payments. Today alone three companies came

with receipts of payment. ‘’If we did not embark on this investigation we would not make these recoveries. ‘’Through this investigation we have helped the Federal Government to recover some money and we are sure that government will recover more money because we have detailed information that will aid

more recovery. ‘’The companies so far are no longer contesting most of the documents of infractions we confronted them with.’’

The chairman called for the support of relevant stakeholders including the media in the ongoing investigation.

He added that the coun-

try would not be able to make the necessary recovery if Nigerians were not committed in ensuring that national interest was continually protected.

He said though Nigeria was populated enough be known as the giant of Africa, there was a need for commensurate commitment by citizens.

On its part, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in its Sallah message, advised Nigerians that the period should also be for not only celebrations and merry making, but also for sober reflection and desire, indeed, efforts to get closer to God Almighty in our actions and utterances by exhibiting the quintessential values of love, peace and good neighbourliness, all of which are encapsulated in the fear of God, adding “We should also use the occasion to rededicate ourselves to His service by striving to continue to serve humanity irrespective of tribe, creed or political leanings”.

The PDP, in a statement by its National Chairman, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, said: “God in His infinite wisdom and mercy has created us the way He has, with all our diversities, and has decreed that we exist in this highly endowed nation as each other’s keeper.

“The best way to express our gratitude to Him is to continue to live in peace and keep on harnessing our diversity in order to explore and exploit the numerous opportunities He has endowed our nation with, in positive ways.

“And as our country grapples with various challenges of development, this is also an apt period for all of us to pray earnestly to God to continue to bless Nigeria as well as guide and guard it.

“I also wish to congratulate our pilgrims for the God-given opportunity to perform this year’s Hajj and also urge them to, as part of their rituals, pray for the continued peace, security, development and prosperity of our dear country. I also wish them a successful as well as fruitful Hajj, and a safe return home”.

The Governor of Enugu of State, Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, also felicitated with Muslims on the celebration of Eid-el-Kabir, urg-

Dogara

ing them to use the period to continue to promote and abide by the core values of Islam for the sustenance of peace, progress and unity of the country.

Gov. Ugwuanyi in a Sallah message noted that there is every reason for the country to celebrate the goodness of God, pointing out that the continuous engagement of both Christians and Muslims in prayers for the sustainability of the peace, unity and development of the country, has ultimately proved that with God all things are possible.

While wishing all Muslims the guidance, blessings and protection of Allah, the governor called on Nigerians to continue to love and live in peace and harmony with one another irrespective of religious and sociopolitical differences, saying that the country’s source of strength is both in its diversity and a commitment to ensure that “the labour of our heroes past shall never be in vain”.

On his part, the former Governor of Ogun State, Otunba (Engr.) Gbenga Daniel, congratulated Muslims on the celebration of this year’s Eid-el-Kabir, urging them to imbibe the spirit of sacrifice, forgiveness and selfless service as part of the virtues of Islam.

Otunba Daniel, in a goodwill message signed by his Media Officer, Ayo Giwa, stated that Muslims should be guided by the spirit of the festival, which was a symbolic demonstration of total obedience to the will of Allah, kindness to one another and service to humanity as exhibited by Prophet Ibrahim.

Eid-el-Kabir, according to the former Governor, goes beyond festivity but rather, to embrace love, eschew bitterness and offer prayers for genuine peace, unity and progress of Nigeria and its leadership at all tiers of governance.

Daily Times Nigeria 0ƏƈƗ ƕè dƆƍƐƆƌƄƆƏ ơè ƾƠơƣ

Army officers combat competition ends in Lagos Iniobong Iwok

ÏÏÏ The 81 division of

the Nigerian Army Lagos, Officers combat proficiency competition which began last Monday and hosted by the 9 brigade Ikeja, ended yesterday.

In his closing remark, the General Officer Commanding of the division, Major General Peter Dauke, reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Army to the continue training of junior officers for the task ahead, adding that they were future leaders of the force.

Dauke commended the competitiveness of the competition and the enthusiasm of the participating officers, adding that objective of the competition had been achieved.

He charged the officers to remain discipline and discharge their duties in a professional manner, adding that the division has commence preparation for pending operation stressing that officers should remain Focus and dedicated to Service in the period leading to and the operation which would be tasking.

8 News

Soldiers kill deputy Boko Haram leader, 5 others

Andrew Orolua, Abuja

ÏÏÏ

The Nigerian Army said on Thursday that six key leaders of Boko Haram and several militants have been killed in an Artillery and Nigerian Air Force bombardment during an operation in the North East.

Among those killed were the alleged deputy Hisba leader of Boko Haram, Man Tahiru, and other top commanders of the insurgent group who also reportedly

fell in the operation were identified as Abu Dujana, Man Chari, Malam Abu Sa’ad and Goni Bamanga. Several members of the terror group were also killed in the operations conducted during the week in an intense effort to bring the eight years insurgency to an end.

The Director of Nigerian Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Sani Usman, said in a statement that the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Air Force

(NAF) carried out heavy artillery bombardments and air interdictions to hit targets believed to be hideouts of Boko Haram leaders.

The statement reads: “Based on information received about the location of some suspected top Boko Haram leaders, the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Air Force have been carrying out heavy artillery bombardments and air interdictions on registered targets that have killed a large number of Boko Haram

terrorists, including some of the group’s key leaders.

“The Nigerian Army artillery using Multi-Barrel Rocket Launchers has lobbed many rockets over the suspected location the terrorists’ leaders are hiding.” According to the statement, “Video clips obtained on battle damage assessment showed a clear success of the exercise.

More details of successes achieved will be made available as the operation continues.”

Concerned APC groups call for the rejection of Nwoye’s candidacy Ïd ƕ Ɔ ƈ ƗƑƅƆƗ ƒ ƐƆƏ ƓƈƐ ƌ Ɔƕ Ï#Ɔƌ Ɨ Ƒ ƍƆ ƈ Ƈ MƓ ƕƆ è dƆ Ɛ Ə Ɨƕ nƄ Myke Uzendu, Abuja

ÏÏÏ

The emergence of Comrade Tony Nwoye as the flag bearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has generated a lot of controversy as several groups within the party called for the rejection of his candidacy in the forth coming November 18 Anambra state governorship election, accusing him of anti-party activities, monetary inducement of voters and membership of a secret cult.

The Anambra All Progressives Congress Forum Abuja led by Chief Obum Ozuanwu; the All Progressives Congress Voters Club led by Ifeanyi Obinna; South-East All Progressive Congress Forum led by its Coordinator, Mazi Chuzzy; and Igbo/Yoruba Unity Forum, led by Godwin Okafor called on the party’s Na-

nƄ

tional Working Committee (NWC) and the Presidency to reject the emergence of Nwoye as the party’s flag bearer as well as the suspension of both Nwoye and Senator Andy Uba from the party.

In a statement signed by Mazi Chuzzy on Thursday in Abuja, the group called for the cancellation of the primary election that produced Comrade Nwoye, and appealed on the NWC to order for a re-run in which Senator Andy Uba and Hon Tony Nwoye would be disqualified from participating.

The Spokesperson of the groups called for their suspension for openly sharing money to procure votes at the venue of the primary election and even asking delegates to take pictures of their votes in order to collect more money after voting.

MƓ ƕƆ

Rƕ dƐ ƐƆ 1 ƒƆƏ Əè dƆ Ɛ Ə Ƅƈ Ƌ Ɖƈƌ Ƅƈ æƋƆƇƐçè ƈ Ɨ ƊƆ ƓƈƐ Ɛ Ɔ `Ɔ ƈ Ƌ #ƈƏƆƅƐ Əèn ƈƐƆƗ M Ɛƈ 9 ƗƑ ƐƏƈ Ƌ #ƆƒƆƋ ƍƌƆ Ɛ RƏ ƈƖ Ɛƈ ænM9#Rçè LƏê CƆ Ɗ ƋƆè ƗƑƏƈ ƅ ƑƏƐƆ ƕ ƒƈ ƈƐ Ɛ Ɛ Ɔ 1 ƒƆƏ Əè Ɛ Ɛ Ɔ 1 ƒƆƏ ƌƆ Ɛ 6 Ƒ Ɔè Rƕ dƐ ƐƆČ ƏƆƅƆ ƐƋƕê

Ajimobi has destroyed 167 years of tradition in Ibadan -Group alleges Patrick Okohue

ÏÏÏ

. Following the conferment of Obaship on 21 chiefs by the Oyo state government a Yoruba group, Ibadan Maja Maja Group (IMMG), has accused the state governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, of destroying 167 years of Ibadan tradition.

The group, in a press statement signed by its Coordinator, Adeshina Akinpelu, and made available to journalists stated that the action of the governor state governor amounts to deliberate destruction of culture and tradition of Ibadan people.

“Governor Abiola Ajimobi will go down in history as a governor who because of cultural ignorance or should we political sentiment has deliberately destroyed the 167 years of Ibadan tradition,” Akinpelu said.

According to him, Ibadan had an established system of succession that

is not only unique but is different to what obtains in other Yoruba towns.

“Since 1850, Ibadan had established an unusual succession principle, which is quite different compared with other traditional Yoruba rulers because it alternates between two lines.

“Any potential candidate for Olubadan stool goes through stages of chieftaincy promotion, thus meaning that just about any male born titleholder of the metropolitan center is a potential king. That is why ascension to position of Olubadan is devoid of any rancour or crisis.”

Akinpelu, who condemned the action of the governor, also accused of not being sincere with review of Ibadan chieftaincy. “And for our dear governor to have not only reviewed the system but also conferred Obaship to chiefs and accelerated crowning ceremony despite two pending court cases smacked insincerity and

also showed that the Governor has no regards for the judiciary. Unfortunately, this is capable of causing crisis and disunity among Ibadan sons and daughters. The action of Senator Abiola Ajimobi is one capable of disrupting the peace that is prevalent in Ibadan and its environs,” Akinpelu said.

He added: “The entire members of Ibadan Maja Maja Group, (IMMG), both home and abroad believe that there is no real Ibadan indigene who would dare venture into a tradition that has been in existence for 167 years. With this action coming from our Governor; it is very important for us as real Ibadan indigenes to launch an investigation into the indigeneship of Senator Abiola Ajimobi.

The reason is that, no real or true Ibadan indigene would ever venture into a tradition that is naturally selfreformed.”

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

9 News

ÚÁÏÿ˄!+UY˄ÏĘ Ýá˄¯È˄!ÏÝ ˄(ÜèÝáɾ˄ (eU+q ˄íݦ á˄RÝ á¯ È ÿ

L-R: A textile garment management consultant, Mr. Musa Rubin and South-West Regional Coordinator of Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mr. Babatunde Faleke, at the opening of USAID/West African Trade and Investment Hub, Ghana, organised by NEPC in Lagos… recently.

ɼq Èèá˄è È ¦ Ýá˄áèÏÚÚ ˄¥ÝÏÇ˄ íÿ¯È¦˄ ¯¦ Ý èè á

ÏÏÏ

As a way of contributing to the promotion of the principle of accountability and transparency, a non-government orgainsation, Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has appealed to the Presidency to deploy officials of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to Nigeria Police Force Headquarters and state commands to take inventory of donations and cash payments made to the Force by corporate bodies and individuals.

Besides, the rights group has resolved to send a letter to the Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole, urging him to partner with the National Assembly to introduce a legislation banning the sale of cigarettes to teenagers by ensuring that when in doubt, cigarettes’ sellers should demand for birth certificates from the customers before selling as is the practice in most developed societies. The group said this policy will check health hazards and reduce incidents of social maladies.

The pro-transparency and nongovernmental organisation made the observations on the need to post officials of FIRS to the Force headquarters and state commands of the police against the backdrop of the allegation that the Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, diverts at least N10 billion monthly generated from sundry payments

by crude oil companies, Embassies and rich individuals to the police for deployment of armed security operators to work for these patrons.

HURIWA recalled that Bauchi State-born Senator Isah Hamma Misau alleged that 50,000 policemen are attached to oil companies, banks, and private individuals with regular payments made to the police authorities even as these monies are estimated to run into billions of naira and are diverted.

In a media statement calling for a thorough investigation of the widespread allegation of diversion of billions of revenues, HURIWA called on President Muhammadu Buhari to direct the FIRS and the joint tax board to post trusted forensic account officers to the police formations so official receipts are issued for all payments and the revenue paid directly into the treasury single account (TSA).

In the statement, the National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko and National Media Affairs Director, Miss Zainab Yusuf, HURIWA expressed shock that President Buhari has so far maintained loud silence to the cacophony of corruption allegations made by a Senator against the Inspector General of police.

“HURIWA is by this statement tasking President Muhammadu Buhari to set in motion a machinery for the comprehensive investi-

gation of all the claims and counter claims made by Senator Missau against IGP and the belated and seemingly diversionary accusation against the Senator for being a deserter. Nigerians need to get full disclosures regarding the very damaging corruption allegations made by Senator Misau against IGP,” the statement read.

HURIWA stated that it is a notorious fact that Embassies, crude oil prospecting companies and rich individuals are protected by the armed guards posted by the office of the Inspector General of Police and it is known that these corporate individuals and organisations pay some forms of fees to the police.

Boko Haram: Hunters beg for operational vehicle to fight against insurgents

Tom Garba, Yola

ÏÏÏ

The Bachama hunters association in Numan,Adamawa further restated their commitment never to give up support in the fight against insurgents.

According to their leader, Mr. Hassan Mijah, their readiness and willingness is being discouraged with the lack of operational vehicles and stipends to encourage them for the herculean tasks of fighting insurgents.

The leader is pleading with the present government of Adamawa state and willing organizations, individuals to provide them with operational vehicles for roving around.

Mijah made the appeal on Saturday in an interview with our reporter in Yola that villages of Adamawa state are still prune to the insecurity threats of Boko Haram and there must be a way out to ensure Peace and tranquility in all parts of the state.

Hassan, who is the ‘Sarkin Baka’

of the Bachama kingdom said that the vehicle would also facilitate their spontaneous response to flash points.

He said that the hunters would take care of fueling and maintenance of the vehicle if granted to them.

The leader also commended the state Government for inventing much in the security operations in the state.

Mijah also commended the Hama Bachama, Stephen Irimiya for always supporting the hunters with logistics and moral advice.

Eid al-Kabir: Abuja residents laments price increase of food items Tom Garba, Yola

ÏÏÏThe Francesca Iwambe, Abuja

As the Eid al-Kabir is celebrated around the world today, Muslims all over the country are in the final phase of their preparation to make this year’s celebration glamorous despite the economic downturn the country is facing.

Our Correspondent who went round town to get a feel of the preparations, reports that commercial activities are in top gear in many markets in the metropolis, with people buying and selling essential items, especially food and drinks, in bulk in preparation for the Sallah.

However, this year’s Sallah appears to wear a different look as buses loaded with people going on Sallah vacations in their respective home towns is yet to be noticed, which is quite unusual.

Some of the Muslim faithful who spoke with the Daily Times expressed their gratitude to God for keeping them alive to participate in the fasting as well as celebrate the sallah.

“A lot of blessings come with the observation of Ramadan, I thank God for keeping me and my family alive to participate this year and pray we receive the blessings,’’ Adamu, a meat seller in Garki market said.

Hajiya Saadatu Aminu, a civil servant, said she was also happy to witness the end of Ramadan, but lamented the high cost of food stuff and other goods in the market.

News 10

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

Ahead of Sallah celebrations: Katsina police warn miscreants Segun Olaniyan, Katsina

L-R: Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA), gubernatorial candidate, Anambra State, Mr. Godwin Chukwunaenye Ezeemo; Civil Servant, Mr. Charles Okolo; Vice President, Amichi Development Union(Youth Wing), Mr. Christian Azuka Geoffrey; Chief Mike Umeh and C.E.O. Chisco Transport, Chidi Anyaegbu, at the stakeholders summit themed: Amichi Youths Decides Let’s Move Amichi Forward, organised by Amichi Youth Wing in Anambra State… on Thursday.

Nigeria requires more FDIs to boost economic activities –Udoma Mathew Dadiya, Abuja

ÏÏÏ

The federal government has expressed willingness to work with the British authorities to stimulate more Direct Foreign Investments (DFIs) in Nigeria by the private sector; the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma, has said.

The minister, at a meeting in Abuja on Thursday, told a delegation of British government officials led by the Secretary of State for International Development, Priti Sushil Patel, that the Nigerian government was intensifying efforts at ensuring the ease of doing business in the country and would welcome more foreign investments.

Patel and her team are in Nigeria to have an on-the-spot appraisal of the situation in the North East of the country to enable the British government

decide on how to assist the Nigerian government in addressing the situation in the region as well as other development initiatives.

Acknowledging the various interventions by the Britain in aid of the country’s developmental challenges, the minister said that although Nigeria would appreciate more foreign aids from the British government, it would be looking more in the area of investments from companies in that country coming into Nigeria.

He explained the Nigerian government’s efforts towards ensuring ease of doing business and particularly mentioned the creation of industrial hubs in the six geo-political zones of the country that will have all the basic infrastructural facilities required for manufacturing to thrive smoothly.

The British authorities, he said, could help in encouraging

manufacturers in the United Kingdom to outsource some of their productions to Nigeria and take advantage of the special economic zones.

The Minister said that the Nigerian government is committed to creating a successful economy pointing out that the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) launched early this year is meant to serve as a vehicle to drive government’s diversification policy.

Senator Udoma said the Federal Government had constituted an Inter-ministerial Task Force (IMTF) under the Chairmanship of the Minister of State for Budget and National Planning to properly handle and coordinate humanitarian assistance efforts to the North East to ensure proper delivery and effective utilization of funds and materials.

Patel assured that the British government will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with

Nigeria in addressing its humanitarian and developmental challenges, “as Nigeria’s success is Britain’s success too.”

She said Nigeria is DFID’s second largest financial aid programme in the world which shows the commitment of the British authorities in assisting the country’s development efforts.

She also spoke of continued efforts to work together to resolve the country’s challenges in a more structured way.

The Secretary of State said her team will discuss further with Nigerian authorities to look at more proactive ways of dealing with the fallouts of the North East crisis, “as well as what more could be done in the areas of investment in education, international partnerships, capacity building, scaling up of farming in the local communities among other development issues.”

Sallah: STF, Police reads riot act, ban tricycle, motorcycle, fireworks, others

Kingsley Chukwuka, Jos

ÏÏÏThe

Special Task-Force (STF) mandated to restore peace in Plateau and some parts of Bauchi state, on Thursday said operators of tricycle (popularly known as Kekenapep) and motorcycles are restricted for two days being Friday and Saturday, to ensure a hitch free Sallah celebration.

The Plateau STF, which is now

also in-charge of four local government areas in Southern Kaduna, said the use of fireworks, hate speeches, street procession and over-loading of vehicles during the celebration is prohibited, adding that worshippers should not hesitate to submit themselves for screening before entering Mosque and any other worship center designated for prayers.

The task-force Commander, Major-General Anthony Atolagbe, stated this while addressing journal-

ists, after a parade of ‘Show of Force’ within the Jos metropolis to demonstrate the readiness of the force to combat any act of terror during the Sallah period, saying that the taskforce will guard and sustain the relative peace that is being enjoyed in the state presently.

The General said, “while assuring Plateau residents of adequate security during the Eid-el-Filtr celebration, the STF enjoined residents to support the Force with timely informa-

tion on the movement of suspicious and strange persons around them”.

Atolagbe was also quoted to have felicitated with Muslims as they celebrate this year’s fitr sallah.

Similarly, the Plateau State Police Command has ordered tight security at all prayer grounds and recreational parks ahead of the celebration, directed all area commanders and divisional police officers to deploy enough officers at strategic locations to forestall any security breach.

The Katsina state Police Commissioner, Usman Abdullahi, has warned trouble makers, social miscreants and hoodlums against fomenting trouble during the Sallah festive period.

Similarly he added that, the Command in partnership with other security agencies are fully prepared to ensure safety of life and property of the citizens before, during and after the celebrations.

The state Police boss gave the warning in his Sallah message to felicitate with the Muslim ummahs in the state on the celebration.

In a statement made available to newsmen, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Gambo Isah said, the Command warns “potential trouble makers, social miscreants (otherwise known as Kauraye) and hoodlums not to foment trouble during this festive period as the Command, in partnership with other security agencies, are fully prepared to ensure safety of life and property of the citizens before, during and after the celebrations.

Eid El Kabir: Glo urges prayers for national unity

ÏÏÏ

Telecommunications giant, Globacom, has sent a congratulatory message to Muslims on the occasion of this year’s Eid El Kabir celebration which is commemorated yearly after the Holy pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina

by Islamic faithful.

Globacom in a press statement from its corporate head office in Lagos also enjoined Muslim Ummah in Nigeria not to relent in their prayers for the unity, peace and prosperity of the country.

While congratulating Muslims who successfully performed the Holy Pilgrimage, the company called on them to seize the opportunity of the festival, also referred to as the Feast of Sacrifice, to offer thanks to Almighty Allah for the progress recorded so far by the government in its bid to return peace to parts of the country formerly decimated by insurgency.

“We urge you all to use this occasion to continue your supplications for the peace and prosperity of the nation, while being your brothers’ keepers and helping one another to surmount current challenges in the country”, the network said.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

Politics After over 100 days of medical sojourn in London, President Muhammadu Buhari was treated to a tumultuous welcome by his supporters. What does this tell you about his popularity viz-a-viz complaints of hunger and hardship in the country?

The kind of reception the President received when he came back is a testimony to the fact that he still has a solid support base. It is apparent that he has a solid support base. Most of his well-wishers and supporters defied all odds to come out and receive him and to rejoice with him that he is back hale and hearty to continue with his assignment of governance, which they bestowed on him.

But in a democracy we know that it is not everybody that voted for Buhari. A large chunk of the people that have expressed their grievances against his absence is also a testimony that there are people from day one who never supported him. But there are some people who did not vote for him yet have also shifted base to support him because of his style of leadership.

We might as well say there are some people who voted him but are no longer supporting him. But we cannot rule out the overwhelming support that he has amongst Nigerians. On the issue of his sojourn in the UK, quite a number of people expressed dismay that he left the office for a long time, but one cannot rule out the fact that he handed over to a credible acting president. Again, the credit goes to him because he had the prerogative of choosing his vice president. So this is a testimonial to the right choice he made because I don’t see any vice president in the history of this nation that has so much been tested in the face of all the challenges we have in this country; a vice president that has a full hand over from the president and had the responsibility of running the country.

Even the Senate has attested to the fact that Professor Yemi Osinbajo has done very well under the current circumstances. But the credit must go to the man that selected him as vice president. If he had made a wrong call in choosing the vice president, a lot of things would have gone wrong. So credit must go to President Buhari to have chosen a vice president that held forth in his absence.

The President in his nationwide broadcast declared that Nigeria’s unity was non-negotiable; that it has been settled. Don’t you think this statement is capable of stifling the views of various nationalities and groups agitating for restructuring?

I don’t think it will stifle anyone. What he said was not debatable is the unity of Nigeria and anybody who is a Nigerian and believes in the national anthem and the pledge is saying what President Buhari said. The national anthem and pledge did not say the unity of the nation is compromisable; does it not reinforce the essence of one indivisible Nigeria? So, I think he said what all of us ascribed to, but he did not say people should not express themselves.

I listened to the address and I recall where he said, he realised the fact that in a democracy people will hold divergent opinions, but they should express themselves through the legitimate processes and channels and should not cause anarchy and bloodshed in the nation. And now, restructuring in my opinion should not

11

s

Nigeria needs modulated approach to address restructuring -Rep. Amuda-Kannike Rep. Abubakar Amuda-Kannike is the deputy chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Works. He represents Ilorin East/South Federal Constituency of Kwara State and is a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC). In this interview with HENRY OMUNU he speaks on agitations for restructuring, the APC’s posture, President Muhammadu Buhari’s declaration on Nigeria’s unity and the ongoing constitution amendment by the National Assembly. form to discuss them more than the National Assembly. We as legislators can go back to our constituencies and hold town hall meetings and get their opinions about restructuring and what their perception is. I think it was the British High Commissioner to Nigeria that said that if you assemble nine Nigerians and asked them a question about restructuring, they will give you about 10 different opinions.

That is how diverse the opinions can be.

Some people are talking about restructuring by focusing on the economic concept; some are focusing on security, others on land, and others on resource control.

There are different perspectives and I quite agree with the President that there is no better platform of debating restructuring than the National Assembly and National Council of State.

AMUDA-KANNIKE

mean secession; restructuring does not mean we should break the entity called Nigeria. There are people that are talking about Biafria, who want to secede and break away. I think that is another discourse and there are people who are talking about restructuring under the entity Nigeria, devolution of powers to states from the Federal Government.

What the President was saying is that the unity of this nation is not negotiable; you can’t put the unity of this nation on the table for discussion. And I think there is no better time for him to reinforce it than now. Because we are all living witnesses to the antics of those who want to secede.

With due respect to those who want to secede, their manner and approach is endangering the entity called Nigeria and Nigerians. In this age and time, I don’t think we should be fanning the embers of war. Even without war, we are already not doing too well. Are people looking at nations that are at war? Do they know how long it takes to come out of a war? For the people who witnessed the civil war, they know how long it took Nigeria to get over it.

The question is have we even come out of it fully? So, what the President is saying is not negotiable is the unity of the nation.

But he is not saying people should not agitate or express their feelings on the issues of devolution of powers and all that. In fact, he advised them that under the cur-

To me, in as much as change is desirable, modulated change is preferable. So, we need to take some steps and see how they will impact on our unity and commonwealth. And then it will give us the confidence to take the next step. Constitutional review happens in every assembly. I can say as compared to the past constitutional reviews, this particular one has taken the boldest step in addressing our problems as a nation. rent circumstances, the National Assembly and the council of state are the best platform for people to express their concerns about restructuring, which is the truth because these are organised structures. We as representatives were elected by the people to represent them.

Yes, in the past, there were documents that came out of the various national conferences and these documents contain fantastic suggestions. In my opinion, these documents or suggestions can be brought back to be discussed at the level of the National Assembly. There is no better plat-

The National Assembly just rejected the devolution of powers in the recent amendment of the 1999 Constitution.

Do you think the legislature as it is presently constituted can give Nigerians justice regarding their agitations?

In my opinion, if we are truly representatives of our people and in a situation where we are to vote for or against, the people that said nay to devolution of powers represent the opinion of the majority of Nigerians. That is not to disrespect or impugn the opinion of the minority. In a democracy, the majority will definitely carry the day and the minority will have their say. A typical example is Britain. It was a thin difference between those who voted to leave the EU and those who voted to stay. As close as it was, the majority had their way. And I have not seen anybody that has come up with comprehensive statistics to convince me that the people who want devolution of powers are more than those opposed to it.

So, to me it is justice as far as representation is concerned because every average representative must have felt the pulse of his constituents, must have gone to interface to get their views on what to vote for.

Even if one could not do a town hall meeting, he or she must have spoken to some opinion leaders who are representatives of the people. So these are some of the things that reflected in the constitutional review. You can see that already, there are steps towards restructuring.

What I know if I am told as a Nigerian to review the result of the voting on those constitutional issues, I would say the Senate and House of Representatives are taking a cautious step towards restructuring, because they have already agreed that state electoral commissions should be abolished; they have agreed that local governments should be fully independent.

These are very bold steps. They shied away from the issue of Land Use Act because we all know how sensitive it is. Even CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

12 Politics Patrick Okohue The battle for the national chairmanship of the main opposition party in the country, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has begun in earnest.

Those interested in the coveted position have started lobbying of party chieftains across the nook and crannies of the country. This follows the Supreme Court’s recent ruling, which put to rest the 14-month power tussle between Senator Ali Modu Sheriff and the former Kaduna State governor, Senator Ahmed Makarfi. The Supreme Court last month declared Makarfi who is the National Caretaker Committee Chairman of the party as the authentic chairman and dismissed the earlier claim to the position by Sheriff.

At the August 12, 2017 non-elective convention of the party in Abuja the party through a voice vote unanimously extended the tenure of the national caretaker committee of the party by four months and expectedly the new executive of the party will emerge at an elective convention in November this year.

The party has resolved that its presidential candidate in 2019 will come from the Northern part of the country while the national chairmanship position of the party has been zoned to the South.

However the South West are laying claim to the position of National Chairmanship of the party because prior to the aborted convention of the party in Port Harcourt last year, the position had been zoned by the Southern PDP leaders to the South West. To the South West leaders of the party, this decision is still binding.

Supporting this position recently during a press conference in Lagos, a member of the party’s Board of Trustee, Chief Ebenezer Babatope said given the chairmanship position of PDP to the South West region is the righteous path.

“Our party, the Peoples Democratic Party was in power for 16 years of unbroken democratic governance. In this particularisation, every zone in this pluralistic nation had enjoyed the significant helmsmanship of our party’s apex leadership except the South West.

“This is troubling. This is not fair. This is unacceptable. This much we will fight against with all our strength, with all our energy and with all our purposeful dedication.

“There is no doubt about it: it is our turn.

Now it is our right as the people of the South West to mount the apex leadership of our party.

“Now, this much is our position. Now this much is our pursuit. Now, this much is our absolute declaration: We need the best of us. We are resigned and resolved to bring out the great personality that will seize the moment and steer our party back to national leadership and purposeful renewal.”

In the South West region, about five aspirants are said to have begun consultation

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

George, Daniel, others jostle for PDP national chairmanship

GEORGE

DANIEL

ADEDOJA

and lobbying of the party leaders across the country to seek their support for the coveted position. They include former Governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel who has recently been appointed to head the reconciliation effort in the region; former Deputy National Chairman of the party, Chief Olabode George, former Minister of Education, Professor Tunde Adeniran; former Minister of Youth Development, Professor Taoheed Adedoja (PTA) and former Lagos State PDP governorship candidate, Mr. Jimi Agbaje.

Of these lot, George seems to have taken a bold step to achieve his chairmanship ambition as he had already put in place a campaign team led by Chief Ebenezer Babatope. The campaign team has also begun extensive lobby to achieve victory for its candidate.

Canvassing support for George’s ambition in Lagos, Babatope said the PDP at this trying time needed the experience of George to steer its ship to success.

“In this firm resolve and contemplative clarity, we hereby proclaim and assert that Chief Olabode Ibiyinka George is the best candidate for the job,” Babatope said.

He said PDP can be enhanced and renewed towards the winning ways only “when we bring out the tested, the proven, the matured and the responsible person to lead us to electoral victory in 2019.

“This is not the time for trial and error.

This is not the time for some crude illogic experimentation.

“We dare not fail. We dare not falter. We dare not temporize nor make the wrong move. Chief Olabode Ibiyinka George is now the man of destiny. He is the right choice for our party now in this challeng-

ing time,” Babatope further said.

“Our resolve is not frivolous. We are very serious. We want the best for our party. We want the best for our nation.

“We have weighed Chief Bode George on all complementary criteria for our party’s leadership. He is proven and tested. He is serious and dedicated. He is honest, fair, smart, sharp, intelligent, humble, sincere, patriotic, accommodating, selfless, candid, totally resolved on justice and fair play.

“This is the man that can now help our party to resuscitate and renew itself along the line of a triumphant new beginning.

Our challenges are many. The road ahead is still very rough and unclear. Nothing yet is certain,” Babatope said.

Listing the achievements of George in the past, Babatope said in 2003 he coordinated and brilliantly marshalled the PDP’s victory in the South West where the party won five out of the six states.

He said, “George is an instinctive peace maker whose historic effort brought together the Ife people and the Modakeke people to a permanent peace table, thereby banishing forever the internecine war that had disrupted and destroyed the peace of both communities for decades.”

He said the Yoruba people have clearly and boldly made their choice “at the Akure declaration where the genuine and legitimate leaders of our people gave a resounding consensus to the candidacy of Chief Olabode George as our choice for the chairmanship job.”

While those clamouring for George are showcasing his experience in the party having been the National Vice Chairman South West, Deputy National Chairman ( South) and later National Deputy Chairman of the party, those backing Adedoja

and Agbaje are of the opinion that their youthfulness will provide them enough energy to run the affairs of the party.

Adedoja is also banking on his good and long term relationship with Northerners as he speaks Hausa fluently and recently married from Borno State.

Professor Adeniran who is also a member of the party’s BOT is maintaining a low profile campaign and those routing for him are also of the opinion that his experience will be an asset for the party. He had earlier contested for the National Secretary position of the party.

Speaking on the issue on whether the party need a youth to steer its ship as being canvassed by some party members, the National Vice Chairman of the PDP SouthWest, Dr. Eddy Olafeso dismissed the argument of old and fresh blood, saying the party has not agreed on any criteria to be used in deciding who leads the party, saying such position is alien to the party’s constitution.

“Nobody votes by age but by experience, competence and capacity to deliver,” he said He said that the race is open to the entire South since the presidency had been zoned to the North but that the South West is currently negotiating across the South with the motive to convince other regions to support its ambition.”

The Lagos State PDP governorship candidate for the 2015 election, Mr. Jimi Agbaje is also maintaining a low profile campaign and according to him individual ambition is not the utmost for now, but rather a collective effort to ensure that the South West got the position for itself by interacting positively with other zones in the South saying “this is what should be paramount and what I hold in high esteem for now.”

‘Nigeria needs modulated approach to address restructuring’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

with things like resource control and 13 per cent derivation, which is addressing the comparative disadvantage and advantage of places where these resources are located is still a matter of debate.

What if you now take that bold step?

To me, in as much as change is desirable, modulated change is preferable. So, we need to take some steps and see how they will impact on our unity and commonwealth. And then it will give us the confidence to take the next step. Constitutional review happens in every assembly. I can say as compared to the past constitutional

reviews, this particular one has taken the boldest step in addressing our problems as a nation. So, for me, I can say this is change in the right direction, but it is a cautious step. And in a country as diverse as Nigeria, we need to be cautious and it is safer. And with time we will make sure that all interests are protected.

The APC has set up a committee on restructuring. In the event that the committee recommends restructuring, will the party abide by it?

I would say that my opinion about restructuring is progress in motion, that all segments of government in this country

are able to be effectively governed in the best interest of the people for the people.

And we are trying to make sure that every level of elections in this country is truly a reflection of the opinion of the people. I am aware that APC, my party has set up a committee to look at restructuring; I earlier cited what the British High Commissioner said about Nigerians. I believe the APC as a party is trying to create a platform for people to ventilate and express themselves so that we can understand what a common and popular opinion about restructuring is all about. So, the party has a platform of pushing agenda for its supporters and Nigerians, it is ventilating

restructuring. I think it is a very healthy thing to do. I think what the committee is going to do is not to determine whether it is for or against restructuring. The party has already decided on restructuring and devolution of powers is just one aspect of restructuring. I narrated other aspects that have been taken care of by the constitutional review. So, the committee will address other aspects of restructuring.

So, what the committee will do is to come out with a guide for the party. Again, the APC is being very sensitive to the feelings of Nigerians by setting up this committee and it should be applauded. The APC is very proactive and this is commendable.

Page Thirteen

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

s

Editorial

13

PHOTO TIMES

Hate speech: The beginning of the end

A

week before the arrival of President Muhammadu Buhari from his 103 days medical vacation, the then Acting President Yemi Osinbajo had sent a draft bill to National Assembly which, when passed into law, will criminalise or outlaw hate speeches in the media-print, broadcast or social media. This was in reaction to an alarming attack on people on the basis of their tribes, religion and gender. He had remembered that Rwanda’s genocide started from vulgar vituperation against one another on the basis of the aforementioned natural attributes. He even equated hate speech with terrorism. But how did we get here?

We arrived at this port because of politics of hatred, antagonism and bitterness that have become the stock– in–trade of Nigeria’s politics. These had reached a crescendo towards 2015 general elections. Issues and parties’ manifestoes were relegated to the background while tribal and religious matters were kicked to the front burner. Certain sections of the country would not bear sight of power being retained in a certain part of the country, while certain parts of the country would not accept power being taken from where it then resided. And so the foot soldiers of both camps went into the trenches and there they have been, ever since.

There is a Yoruba adage that a King is not abused in his presence. But today, our Kings are being abused right in their presence, calling to question our age-long cultural values and orientation. I remember the then spokesman of APC who incidentally is the spokesman of this government, threatening to form a parallel government if APC failed to win 2015 election. There were threat and counter threats from both sides of the divides. But as the then President Goodluck Jonathan promptly conceded defeat even before the last count of the 2015 Presidential election results and congratulated General Muhammadu Buhari (GMB) as he then was. It was like cold water had been poured on a raging fire or so we thought.

Shortly after President Buhari

Publisher/Editor in Chief Group Managing Director Noel Anosike Publishing Executive Enyinne Onwunwanne Group General Manager Olisa Egbunike 08034004224 Head, Operations Isaiah Udo 08033230673

mounted the saddle, he embarked on foreign tours in his effort to market Nigeria of his dream. It was in one of such trips that he was quoted to have said that those who gave him 5% votes should not expect to be favoured in equal measure with those who gave him 97%, whatever that would sum up. That assertion must be admitted to have given rise to this round of tirade exchanges in conventional and social media.

To mark the beginning of the end of hate speeches, there is no need of law or enactment from the National Assembly. There is no need to unleash the police or military on the citizens.

What is required and urgently too, is the soothing words of our President to the ‘5%’ voters who have felt alienated and ostracised by no less a person than the President.

No President / Prime Minister in this country or any other country for that matter, ever won election squarely and evenly, Balewa did not, ditto Shagari, Obasanjo, Yar’Adua and Jonathan. But once an election is won, the winner becomes a President of all and the father of the whole country. He becomes the President of those who voted and those that did not vote for him.

That is the way to unite Nigerians. The Acting President who has reverted to his post as Vice President must prevail on his boss to be more conciliatory and sensitive in his approach to issues of National importance. He must be manifestly seen to live to his inaugural statement of “I belong to everybody, I belong to nobody”. He must not take governmental criticisms to mean “hate speech”, for most of the positive adjustments this government has done so far could be attributed to those criticisms than praises. Nnamdi Kanu, militants in the Niger Delta, Arewa Youth etc could be reined in through kind words and egalitarian assurances by the President.

All policies in education and employments which seek to favour a particular section or sections of the country must be discontinued. If these are done, it will surely mark the beginnings of the end of “hate speech” in our country. Welcome back once again Mr. President.

Technical Adviser To Publisher Innocent Nwankwo 08033072614 General Counsel: ELIAS MORDI & CO 08068613825

Editor, Daily Tony Amokeodo 08038099089

Deputy Editor, Special Projects Lateef Ibrahim 08037872585

Managing/Special Project Editor Sam Nzeh 08050220692

Features Editor Gbubemi God’s Covenent Snr 09095489889

News Editor Kelechi C. Ogbamgba 08050220561

Ag. Head, Graphics/Design Sunday Gabriel Idagwu 07030881423

More info: www.dailytimes.ng https://plus.google.com/+DailytimesNgr/posts https://twitter.com/DailyTimesNGR

L-R: Minister Counsellor of the European Union to Nigeria, Mr. Kurt Cornelis and Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, during the Minister’s visit to Government House Port Harcourt… on Thursday.

L-R: Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo; Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun and Akarigbo of Remoland elect, Prince Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, when the Akarigbo elect visited the governor in his office… on Thursday.

Words On Marble :

– Fidelis Anosike Group Head Finance/ Administration Tobi Oyeniyi 07060528139

Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo (5th left); Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun (5th right); Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh and others, during the 15th Annual Meeting of ECOWAS Bank for Development and Investment in Abuja… on Thursday.

dailytimesng www.facebook.com/dailytimesngr

STATEMENTS BY THOSE WHO MATTER

Mathew Kukah

Ibrahim Babangida

Wole Soyinka

“The world can provide for the need of everybody but cannot provide for the greed of everybody.”

“The work of Nigeria is not complete for as long as there is any one Nigerian who goes to bed on empty stomach.”

“The greatest threat to freedom is the absence of criticism.”

Opinion 14

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

Nigeria: A rich country inhabited by poor people

B

Norbert N. Ogakwu

y relevant indicators of progress and development, Nigeria is a poor country. A sorry situation! The country has virtually lost control of the commanding heights of its economy. That is why the country is paradoxically so rich, yet so poor.

Those days are now gone when the concept of measuring economic progress relied on the index of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as the only tool.

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) introduced the concept of “Human Development” as a more realistic measure of economic progress.

This shift in concept is justified from experiences in many countries which record stupendous growth in their GDPs while the majority of their citizens wallowed in abject poverty. This is a classical example of what is often termed as “economic growth without human development.”

It is against this background we should further examine in some details, the current state of the Nigerian economy after five decades of efforts to develop it.

Using these Human Development indices, various surveys conducted by National and International Agencies have concluded, rather sadly, that Nigeria’s socioeconomic progress remains very

unsatisfactory.

This unfortunate state of affairs is as paradoxical as it is embarrassing especially in view of all known indicators that Nigeria would become a great African country within a very short time after independence in 1960.

It was anticipated that political freedom at independence would usher in new thinking and new policies which together would bring rapid transformation of Nigeria from exploitation and under-development as a former colony.

Nigeria’s poor development performance could be explained from a number of perspectives including the facts that since 1960 to date Nigeria had not experienced the kind of stable political atmosphere necessary for orderly continuity of good governance for development and growth expected in truly democratic societies.

Also, Nigeria’s colonial history and heritage unfortunately provide the conducive atmosphere for neocolonial interests to manifest and thrive. These interest have been deeply entrenched and have so far continued to undermine Nigeria’s self esteem and self reliance. They have aggravated the country’s overdependence on foreign ideas and foreign technology, depriving her the freedom from control and manipulation of neo-imperial agencies like the World Bank, IMF etc.

That’s not all, instability in the Nigerian polity could be both the cause and the effect of bad governance with all the other attendant ills such as corruption, inept leadership, poverty and general insecurity.

Though it is easy to look back into the history of Nigeria and its development, it is far more difficult to look into its future in the face of all the odds that have so far continued to challenge it.

Whilst some hold the view and genuinely believe in the Nigeria project, there are those who believe that it could not possibly succeed and therefore the sooner it is terminated the better for its component parts.

On an optimistic note, some however are of the view that nations are not necessarily built overnight, arguing that nations usually evolve from the hard work, sacrifices and resilience of their own peoples.

Whichever side of the position one takes, we cannot ignore the fact that the most important factors against a politically stable Nigeria since 1960 are becoming more virulent than ever before. These include tribalism, ethnicity, bigotry, corruption and sectionalism in our national life. These core diseases which today deny good health for the Nigerian State are gradually being enlarged to incorporate additional factors such as religious differences and exclusiveness in the ownership of resources which in normal inter-

national law and convention should be shared as common heritage regardless of their location.

No one can conduct the affairs of any office satisfactorily whether in government, private business and even civic organisation if the first, middle and the last concern of such an individual is how he or she can extract ultimate personal material benefit from routine transactions.

This description typifies common practices in most private and public organisations.

The country has ethical problems of monumental dimensions, which are presently the product of political instability, miss-application of resources and unethical behaviour.

Morality is weak and in existence are deprivation, stagnation, poverty.

The enormity of the challenge posed by this state of affairs appears underated by successive governments over the years as the menace developed.

Amongst the greatest social and economic problems in Nigeria which must be tackled is that of breakdown in morals, work ethics, discipline, social responsibility and general civility among its citizens.

These negative vices affect the soul of the nation. The Nigerian state is no doubt unwell, and when the soul suffers, the body complains.

Norbert N. Ogakwu,(Esq.)is managing partner N.N.Ogakwu & Co. Asokoro, Abuja.

President Buhari still doesn’t get it

A Ikechukwu Amaechi

fter listening to President Muhammadu Buhari’s three minutes, fifty-six seconds national broadcast on Monday, August 21, his first since coming back to the country from a 103-day medical tourism in the United Kingdom, I concluded that he still does not get it.

I doubt if he ever will.

Prior to his speech, I was not overtly hopeful I would hear anything grand, ennobling and soul-lifting.

Yet, after a three-month absence from duty post, during which time he presumably had time for sober reflection on what ails the country of 180 million people over whose affairs he superintends, I had hoped he would have realised the need to calm frayed nerves and bring people together through moral suasion.

How wrong I was.

But again, this is not the first time Buhari would wrong-foot me.

I voted for him in 2015 despite his unflattering reputation as a closet dictator when he was military head of state between December 1983 and August 1985.

My reason for voting for him was simple.

President Goodluck Jonathan had become so ineffectual that handing him another four years would be, in my thinking, ruinous to the country. Buhari was, for me, an antidote to the bad governance staring us in the face under the Goodluck era.

I reasoned that age would have mellowed Buhari – the man Nobel

Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, once described in very unflattering terms long before the 2015 election – and that he had possibly purged himself of bigotry and raven dogmatism.

It took me only a couple of weeks into his presidency to conclude that electing Buhari president of Nigeria in the 21st Century may well be a potential national rabbit hole that could lead, and has indeed led, to some weird places and issues.

I had hoped that being president at 72 years would make a world of a difference in Buhari’s style and outlook without reckoning with the words of wisdom by former United States First Lady, Mitchell Obama, at the national convention of the Democratic Party on September 5, 2012 that, “Being president doesn’t change who you are, it reveals who you are.”

Being a civilian president has revealed how provincial, insular and bitter Buhari has become over the years.

He saw the pan-Nigerian mandate given to him at the poll, not as a tool to unite a highly fractious country but to fan the already smouldering embers of disunity.

And that, perhaps, is the greatest tragedy of this dispensation.

It is a mix of the highhandedness, lack of empathy, arrogance, and even ignorance that Buhari brought to bear on his presidency that has brought us to this sorry pass, which is proving to be Nigeria’s biggest political train crash since after the civil war.

Imagine what would have happened if, one week after taking

the oath of office as President and Commander-in-Chief of this country, Buhari had flown to Port Harcourt for a town hall meeting with stakeholders from the region to deliver a speech like this: “Fellow citizens, I am glad to be here with you today. It is not by accident that I am visiting barely one week after assuming office. I have come specifically to solicit your support in this onerous task of rebuilding our dear country.

“It is a task that requires all hands on deck. My major opponent at the election is your son but, as in every contest, there must be a winner and loser(s). In a sense, however, there is only one winner in this instance – Nigeria.

“And because we are all Nigerians, we are all winners; because what is at stake is our collective destiny, our shared values and vision of a prosperous country.

“So, I have come to ask for your hand of fellowship. Whether you voted for me or not, I will be the president of this great country for the next four years and, therefore, I will be the president of both those who voted for me and those who didn’t.

“Now that the election is over, it is time to go to work for the sake of our dear country and we need the support of all.”

And then he leaves Port Harcourt for Enugu to deliver the same message of hope.

Rather than doing that, Buhari went abroad to lecture the international community on how best to share the spoils of office with his misguided 97 per centversus 5 per cent formula, forgetting that the

national values and patrimony he has been called to allocate belongs both to those who voted for him and those who didn’t.

He even queried what the Igbo want in their own country, forgetting that crude oil – Nigeria’s biggest foreign exchange earner, with which he will take care of the so-called 97 per cent in his column, to the exclusion of others – is extracted from the areas he vowed to discriminate against, particularly the South South.

The result of such thoughtless disposition to nation-building and inclusive governance was immediate and dramatic. The spectre of virulent separatist agitations reared their heads again.

Buhari does not get it. That is the simple truth. He is too far gone on the supremacist boulevard to retrace his steps. Anyone waiting to see him as a conciliator, peacemaker, and pacifier may well wait for eternity.

And that is another tragedy of the macabre dance on national display, because, at his age, Buhari is the father of the nation literally and metaphorically. As a father, he should be a force for good, a causal agent of unity, and a national healing balm to assuage the grievous wounds inflicted on many by acts of injustice, bigotry and prejudice.

But any iota of doubt he will ever change was erased by the speech he gave after his return from London. It was full of fury, threat and innuendo.

Ikechukwu Amaechi writes from Lagos

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

15 Column

Dirty secrets in the cut-off war

Conversation with Azu 040817

A ‘

Even in the past when JAMB took on the arbitrary role of fixing cutoff marks, the universities still set their own cut off marks and admitted whomever they wanted. Under an incredibly fraudulent system known as discretionary admission, the universities could admit candidates far below any advertised cut-off mark. The intakes often included candidates without even the basic credit passes.

’

nyone reading the papers last week will be forgiven to think that the worst demons from hell have descended on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).

I have never liked JAMB, not because I ever attempted to take its exam or failed it. I guess I’m like most direct entry students who think JAMB is one of the useless bureaucracies that have robbed universities of their brains.

But the universities have always loved it because its obtrusiveness guarantees a balance of shady aspirations. Either through JAMB or through vice chancellors, the worst candidates can get admission, whether they pass or fail entrance examinations.

Some public universities have even created a slew of backdoor short-term programmes to short-circuit minimum entry qualification or any entrance examination. And the private universities are always waiting in the wings to harvest from the misery of those who fail to get a place in the few notable public universities. It’s cash-andcarry.

As another admission season approaches, the chicken is coming home to roost and Vice Chancellors are conveniently pretending that they had no hand in muddying the nest.

The widespread headline that JAMB had lowered university cut-off mark to 120 – and that other tertiary institutions had followed suit – was produced by the vice chancellors and co. and shamefully promoted by the press.

The inside story is far less flattering. About ten days ago, JAMB convened a stakeholder’s meeting in Abuja to discuss the procedure for the 2017 admissions into universities. That would have been unthinkable in the early days of JAMB. All that the Board was required to do back then was to conduct examinations and release the results to the universities. The 13 Vice Chancellors that played a major role in founding JAMB did so because they needed a clearing house to

prevent duplication, which had become a serious problem.

It made sense. But as time went on, however, the JAMB tail began to wag the university dog and the Abuja meeting of ten days ago was supposed to be yet another moment for the tail to play.

But JAMB Registrar and former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Ishaq Oloyede, appears to have demurred, pressing for something different. Instead of JAMB performing its self-appointed role of fixing cut-off marks, he suggested that the Vice Chancellors, Provosts and Rectors present should take the lead, but warned that, this time, the schools would be bound strictly by whatever they submitted. A computerised Central Admissions Processing System was also going to be installed to create a more transparent process.

Even in the past when JAMB took on the arbitrary role of fixing cut-off marks, the universities still set their own cut off marks and admitted whomever they wanted. Under an incredibly fraudulent system known as discretionary admission, the universities could admit candidates far below any advertised cut-off mark. The intakes often included candidates without even the basic credit passes.

Such backdoor candidates were then allowed to “regularise” their results before graduation when a reconciliatory list entitled “Late Application by Institution” is sent to JAMB for “regularisation” yearly. Virtually all the universities are involved in this fraud, which shuts the door against hundreds of thousands of qualified candidates.

In 2016, for example, six of the country’s top universities presented a backdoor list of 385 students – from those who scored below cut off to those who didn’t even take any entrance examination – to JAMB for “regularisation.” Ahmadu Bello University topped the

list with 246 students; University of Nigeria, Nsukka, 52; Obafemi Awolowo University, 33; University of Benin, 28; University of Lagos, 14; and University of Ibadan, 12.

It was worse in the polytechnics, where four notable polytechnics admitted 3,489 students through the backdoor. Kaduna Polytechnic admitted 985 students by just winking at them; Yaba Polytechnic, once the pride of the nation, trucked in 930; Ibadan Polytechnic ferried in 903; and Delta State Polytechnic, Ozoro, bussed in 671 misfits.

Why are we splitting hairs over cut-off point? High or low, the schools have perfected how to get around it and the only reason there is so much noise this time is that they know that their days are numbered.

At least two Vice Chancellors present at the Abuja meeting informed me that it was not JAMB but the administrators comprising the Vice Chancellors, Provosts, Rectors and Registrars present who lowered the cut-off points after they were informed, among other things, that the “Late Application by Institution” list will no longer apply.

If JAMB wants to be taken seriously, it should immediately publish the list of all cut off points submitted by the schools and also advise them to publish the names of students admitted and their scores on their websites. That way, every candidate becomes a monitor and a potential whistle blower.

An open review/ranking system by an independent private sector group could also help shed light on the education market, and over time, moderate demand and supply.

Before we miss it, however, cutoff point is a symptom of the malaise in our higher schools.

There must be very few countries, if at all, like Nigeria where former Heads of State, their deputies and former senior govern-

ment officials own and operate some of the best private schools, set up with the funds raked in from the ruins of public schools.

When public officials began to undermine the public school system only to set up their own schools after leaving office, it was clear we were heading for trouble.

But that’s not the end of it.

After the ding-dong between the missions and governments at the state and federal levels left schools in the lower rung severely damaged, universities, especially, became the new nannies.

Whereas the number applying to higher education across the UK, for example, has fallen with more and more opting out to explore the world after functional, basic education, the yearly university rush in Nigeria can only accommodate less than 25 percent of the ever increasing applicants.

The system is broken. With the lower levels bereft of a modicum of functional education and technical and vocational colleges a shadow of themselves, only universities appear good enough to quench the incredible appetite for worthless certificates.

Unfortunately, the universities cannot cope with the influx and standards have gone down. So too have the scores and cut-off points regardless of what is advertised.

Sure, there are a few universities struggling against the odds but they are overwhelmed by mediocrity among even their own staff and faculty. Were these fellows to be tested, they might even score lower than the backdoor candidates we’re concerned about.

The controversy about cut-off points and the threat to go to war over scores miss the point. Our school system is broken and in need of urgent repairs.

Ishiekwene is the MD/Editor-In-Chief of The Interview magazine and board member of the Paris-based Global Editors Network

16

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

17

18

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

FEATURES

s

Reliving the sacrifice and love of Sallah

Ladesope Ladelokun and Oyindamola Idris

Another Sallah is here!

And beyond the traditional slaughtering of rams and fanfare that accompany Eidel Kabir celebration (otherwise known as Kadha), Muslims across the world today, September 1, 2017, make the most of the opportunity the celebration provides to show love to one another and swam praying grounds to perform the obligatory rakah and worship Allah.

Islamic scholar, Abdul-Fatai Akanbi, bubbling up for the outing this Friday morning, told The Daily Times that the Eidel-kabir festival is celebrated two months and 11 days after the Eid-el-fitr, which is also the 10th day of Dhul hijjah, the last month in the Islamic calendar to commemorate the obedience of Ibrahim to sacrifice Ismail his son, as commanded him by Allah.

Abudl-Fatai Akanbi reiterated that Muslims celebrate Eid-el-kabir to commend the act of sacrifice of Ibrahim with his son (Ismail). “The day was a sad day for him, that is why Muslims are not meant to eat before going for eid prayer; they are enjoined to know that, if not that Ismail was replaced with a ram during the day of sacrifice, they would have been sacrificing their sons in place of rams today.”

Akanbi further explained that it is important for all Muslims who are financially capable to buy a ram for the annual festival with the intention of sacrificing it to Allah to shun ostentatious display of wealth.

“Muslims are therefore expected to share their rams into three equal parts; one part for himself and his family, the second part for his friends and neighbours who are not financially buoyant to buy ram, while the last part should be given to the poor and needy.

“These pieces of meat are not meant to be kept for use on other occasions; it should be shared immediately among people and should not be kept at home for more than 3 days.

“The kind of animal that can be slaughtered for this festival are known as halal (accepted in Islam); and the animal can be a ram, cow, goat, sheep, or camel,

as the case may be.

Therefore, haram (forbidden) animals like pigs, dogs etc, must not be killed.

“Muslims should always remember the origin of these festivals and therefore not cross the line of decency when celebrating,” Akanbi said.

Muslims are enjoined not to celebrate this festival in a forbidden way by going to dance club, drinking alcohol and other forms of atrocities that are unacceptable in Islam.

According to records, the Islamic lunar calendar, Eid-elkabir falls on the 10th day of Dhul hijjah while it varies on the Gregorian calendar; therefore, one cannot determine the celebration of the festival with that of the previous year.

Origin of Sallah Assistant lecturer at the University of Lagos, Mallam Abdulhakeem Qaseem, defined Eid-el-Kabir as a celebration of obedience to God and its attendant gains.

“Eid-el-Kabir, also known as festival of sacrifice, originated from the life of prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) who had a dream directing him to sacrifice his son, Ismail, to the cause of Allah.

He told his son about it and the son obeyed his father by accepting that he should be used

as a sacrifice to his Lord,” he said.

Another scholar who spoke to The Daily Times, Adebisi Mustapha, said God reminded Ibrahim of his promise to sacrifice his only son to Him when his son, Ismail, was just six.

“But when Ibraham attempted to kill Ismail with his knife, the knife failed to function. Before that, the devil had tried to dissuade him from sacrificing his only son, reminding him of how long it took him to get his son, but Ibrahim responded by stoning the devil. That’s why people stone a particular pillar as part of Hajj rites to re-enact the encounter of Ibrahim with the devil.

“But, as Ibrahim tried to kill his only son, God sent Angel Gabriel to give him a ram to replace his son. Immediately, he untied his son and they left the desert for home. That’s why Yorubas call the celebration “Ileya”, Mustapha said.

Anyone who refuses to make the necessary sacrifice, it was revealed, would be accountable on the Day of Judgment.

Mustapha said further: “Any Muslim who is capable of getting an animal to slaughter must take part in it, while people who are not financially capable don’t need to inconvenient themselves in the name

of sacrifice, for Allah sees all minds and intentions.

“Also, anyone who is financially capable but refuses to make the sacrifice will be accountable on the Day of Judgment, but the most important thing is that every Muslim to have knowledge of the origin of the festival and the sacrifice required in Islam,” Mustapha said.

He said further that some may Muslims go into unscrupulous acts just to take part in the slaughtering of animal slaughtering. “Some go as far as borrowing the money they

use in buying the animal. “No matter the number of animals one slaughters or how big it may be, what matters most to Allah is the intention towards the sacrifice.

“The quantity of fur on the animal skin will be the number of reward Allah will give to the person who make sacrifice on the day of the festival. Also, the blood that pours out of the animal will be like a river that will wash away the sin of the person that makes the sacrifice with a clean heart,’’ he concluded.

Here is wishing every Muslim family a happy Sallah.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

Features 19

Help! Nigerians are still living with siren madness Babalola Mujeeb In all the years since Independence, the illegal use of siren in the country has been one issue that refused to go away; the misuse of siren by both the authorised and unauthorised body has continued unabated and has remained a nuisance and society risk to the electorate.

The device, which produce loud and prolonged signal designed to alert or warn motorists and pedestrians of the approach of an emergency, or forcefully demanding a privileged right of way to dignitaries like Mr. President, Vice President, Senate President, Speakers of both houses of assemblies, etc.

On approaching emergency requiring the right of way, such privileges are accorded to ambulances carrying accident or related victims, fire fighting vehicles, bullion vans or any vehicle carrying a pregnant woman in labour, etc.

But following the emergence of money bags, average politicians, even pastors who love to flaunt their wealth and overblown personalities, the siren became a gadget of intimidation and outright harassment of the general members of the Nigerian public.

An assistant traffic officer in Lagos, Mr. Tunde Owolabi who spoke to The Daily Times on this persistent nuisance said in all his six years of service, he had

encountered many challenges concerning sirens.

“The misuse of siren started as a habit by government officials; even so-called “high ranking” officers in the civil service.

They make use of the siren even when going to their offices, homes and also from different official meetings.

“Most times, they use it to draw attention to themselves; at other times, they use it as a means to avoid staying lawfully behind vehicles on the road, thus, causing congestion and inconvenience to other road users,” he said.

Cause of accidents Identifying unlawful use of siren as one of the many causes of

road accidents, the traffic officer said the blare of siren on a normal day, causes some motorists to lose concentration and thereby lose control of the steering.

“You will understand that not every motorist on the road is perfect; some are even learners just trying their hands on the busy road. One unlawful aspect is that of other motorists, especially commercial vehicle drivers and some hardened private drivers who take opportunity of a siren blaring vehicle; they race right behind the siren vehicle and cause more chaos in the traffic.”

Another traffic officer who spoke in confidence frowned at the practice.

“I see the misuse of siren as a

way of intimidating and causing panic to a common man in the society.

Nigeria is a nation of ethnic diversity, consisting of personalities with heterogeneous characters. These set of people employ illegal use of the siren to show off their wild nature and characters,” he said.

Beside the stated hazards above, the misuse of siren has also been known to cause health problems to members of the public.

A medical practitioner, Dr. Femi Olusoga of Tip Top Healthcare services in Lagos, pointed out that a hyperacusis patient that is allergic to loud sounds can easily breakdown at the blar-

ing of a siren. “Noise pollution is another hazard caused by use of sirens in the public,” he said.

Another medic who spoke to our correspondent, Dr. Charity Samuel, said the misuse of siren can cause Anaphylactic Shock (AA) which can cause such patient to patient to fall and slump on the roadside; it can also result to death on the spot.

A stakeholder, Mrs. Folorunsho Adeoti, who decried this practice, said the use of siren anywhere in the world is to announce a cogent emergency. “Incessant misuse of siren is mostly common among government officials, especially the Nigerian police force when on patrol.

They become impatient when on the road so they blare the siren to avoid being stuck in the traffic. They are the first traffic law breakers, when it comes to traffic rules,” she told The Daily Times.

A source from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), said the misuse of siren is more common among influential members of the public. He gave example of ordinary general manager (GM) of a company with an official car attached with security personnel who uses the siren incessantly on roads as a way to race through the traffic always.”

He concluded that governments should revisit the use of siren law again and impose stiff penalties on serial offenders, regardless of their status.”

News 20

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

Eid-el-Kabir: Abuja residents lament price increase of food items Francesca Iwambe, Abuja

ÏÏÏAs the Eid-el-Kabir is

celebrated around the world tomorrow, Muslims all over the country are in the final phase of their preparation to make this year’s celebration glamorous despite the economic downturn the country is facing.

Our Correspondent who went round town to get a feel of the preparations, feelings, and expectations for the Sallah reports that commercial activities are in top gear in many markets in the metropolis, with people buying and selling essential items, especially food and drinks, in bulk in preparation for the Sallah.

However, this year’s Sallah appears to wear a different look as buses loaded with people going on Sallah vacations in their respective home towns is yet to be noticed, which is quite unusual.

Some of the Muslim faithful who spoke with the Daily Times expressed their gratitude to God for keeping them alive to participate in the fasting as well as celebrate the sallah.

“A lot of blessings come with the observation of Ramadan, I thank God for keeping me and my family alive to participate this year and pray we receive the blessings,’’ Adamu, a meat seller in Garki market said.

Hajiya Saadatu Aminu, a civil servant, said she was also happy to witness the end of Ramadan, but lamented the high cost of food stuff and other goods in the market.

She said that the high cost of goods would limit the fun and merry celebrations for her and many other families that were struggling to live daily.

She said, “all praises is due to Allah. “My issue now is the price of things in the market; so many families cannot afford to buy the few things they need for the sallah due to the cost of foodstuff and other goods.

Another Garki resident, Ahmed Abdul lamented the high cost of goods saying, he is still expecting a miracle from God to enable him celebrate with his family.

“We are still expecting God’s miracles in our family, because we have not prepared at all.

“Now that ram is costly, the one I priced yesterday was going for N70,000, and I don’t have such amount. I am still looking for cheaper price even if it is small. I don’t mind any for now” he said.

Another resident of Chika,

a satellite town in the FCT who also lamented the increase on price or goods and commodities said, “I don’t understand what is wrong this year, but I still give thanks to Almighty Allah for life. I thought we are the only ones affected, but when I asked other people how they are preparing, they all gave the same story. It’s quite bad because before, we would have bought ram at least a week before Sallah. But here we are this year no traces of ram.

Mr. Sulaiman Kazeem, who came to came to buy ram at Karu Ram Market, said that the prices of rams in the market were on the high side.

“In fact, we thought because there is scarcity of funds in circulation, prices of rams will be affordable.

“I came to this market with N45, 000 thinking that I will get a medium price ram at the price.

“To my surprise, the least medium ram here cost N60, 000 this is too much.

“The dealers should consider the fact that there is no money, everybody is just trying to kill ram to mark the festival,” he said.

Kazeem said that he needed to add another N15, 000 to the money he brought to the market in order to buy his choice ram.

Alhaji Wada Abdullahi, the Chairman, Karu Ram Market, Abuja, complained that the high cost of transportation fares and feeding contributed to the high cost of livestock.

Abdulahi however said that the price would come down after the festive period.

Meanwhile, owners of some of the fun centres visited are optimistic of patronage during the celebration, with many already putting things in shape in great expectation.

Musa Bello, FCT Minister

Man caught, lynched for gay practice in Imo

ÏÏÏA

38-year-old married man, Ogoke Levi, who hails from Okwuohia Village in Obowo Local Government Area in Imo State has been caught in homosexual act while sleeping with a fellow man, a staff of his company, Uchenna Okafor in his house.

It was further gathered that Levi asked Uchenna to

come to his house for the collection of N10,000 requested

by Uchenna the previous day and the young man obliged because of a hiden agenda.

On getting into the house, Uchenna and Levi started a romance. During the ensuing pleasures, it was their pleasurable noise that attracted passers-by who broke into the house and caught them

in the act but before raising the alarm Uchenna escaped through the back door but Levi was caught.

Because it is an established culture in the community that anyone caught in a homosexual or bisexual act would be buried alive, Levi was dragged outside his house and badly beaten by an irate mob that had already gathered.

Though, he eventually ran for his Life , his car was burnt to ashes.While speaking, his wife, Mrs. Chinonso Augusta Ogoke, said that she was never aware that her husband was involved in gay practice.

Members of the community are still searching for for both Uchenna and Levi who are nowhere to be found.

Car set ablazed by angry mob Inset: Mr. Ogoke Levi

Hotelier fights AMCON officials over attempt to seal-up company Esther Taiwo

ÏÏÏOfficials

of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) stormed the Best Western Plus Hotel at 12, Allen Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos early Wednesday morning, in an attempt to forcefully seal up and take over the hotel belonging to the Chairman, Suru Group, Mr. Edward Akinlade, for allegedly owing Oceanic Bank (now Ecobank) the sum of N15.4 million.

It took the timely intervention of his lawyers, Mr., Akinlade himself to forestall the take over the hotel, as Federal High Court Baliffs, policeman and officials from AMCON attempted to serve the management of the hotel with a May 2017 Judgment of Justice M.B. Idris, who presided over the case.

But when the lawyers of Suru Group checked the judgment, they realised that they weren’t included in the law suit filed by AMCON that had the Inspector General of Po-

lice, Commissioner of Police, Lagos Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and the Lagos State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCD), which made their move appear suspicious as the Lagos State High Court is currently on vacation.

Mr. Akinlade was so angry that he physically refused the Court Bailiff and the police from sealing off the gate of the hotel with chains because, according to him, “this is an injustice.”

According to him, “this AMCON takeover is illegal, we were still waiting to go back to court on October 3rd, 2017 for a case we filed against AMCON at the Federal High Court, only for AMCON to turn around and come up with a judgement that does not concern us”.

Attempts to get the AMCON officials to speak were rebuffed as they said they weren’t ready to talk to the

press.

It took the physical refusal of the Suru boss to allow AMCON officials seal up the place and the presence of the media who took photographs of the drama, scared away both the AMCON officials court baliffs and the police as they quickly left the scene.

According to the company secretary, Mrs. Peace Anomneze, in August 2015 the matter was dismissed before Justice Idris because they brought originating motion before the court and parties have exchanged affidavit evidence so there was no case.

She said for AMCON to join themselves in the matter that is pending, the company has taken application and the matter has been adjourned to October 3, 2017 for ruling.

“Only for us to come here this morning and we saw different applications that we are not part of, they cannot come to a property we are not a party to and take over, the applications they brought are

suingState Police Command, General of the Corps, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, I believe is very illegal for them to take another step when the case is still before Justice Suleiman” “We told Justice Suleiman that the application before him seeking for the same relief has been dismissed before his brother Justice Idris and if they are not comfortable with it they should go to court of appeal that is what the law says because a court of competence jurisdiction cannot interpret the same judgment it should be a higher court, luckily for us it is the same case that has been dismissed that is still before the court,” she said.

Mrs. Anomneze said the company is contesting this application because they are not party to it adding that normally the company should be a party to that application but in this case it is not party therefore AMCON’s action is illegal.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

21

22 Public Notice BLACK SKIN AND PRESERVATION FOUNDATION

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

THE ADEYEMI OKUPE FOUNDATION

AYETORO-YEWA CENTRAL INITIATIVE FOR DEVELOPMENT

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

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

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. DAMIAN IHUEFOH UDEH 2. JUSTINA ISIOMA MOMIFE 3. EGBICHI UCHE AKINSANYA 4. OBIANUJU CHINYELU OKPALA 5. EUCHARIA OGOCHUKWU UDEH.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. OKUPE ADEYEMI OLUWOLE 2. OLASEGUN BABATUNDE ONAKOYA 3. OLUWOLE OSEYEMI IRENE 4. ODETOYE TOPE ABIMBOLA

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. HRM OBA AZEEZ ISHOLA ADELAKUN - CHAIRMAN. 2. ELDER KUNLE IDOWU AMOSUN - VICE CHAIRMAN. 3. DR. IZIAQ ADEKUNLE SALAKO - SECRETARY. 4. RT. HON SURAJ ISHOLA ADEKUNBI - MEMBER. 5. ELDER ABRAHAM OLUSOLA ADEYEMI - MEMBER.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PROMOTE THE DIGNITY AND UNIQUENESS OF BLACK SKIN AMONG AFRICANS AND NON-AFRICANS .

2. TO SENSITIZE AND FOSTER EDUCATION ON THE IMPLICATIONS OF USE OF ANY CHEMICALS THAT BLEACHES AND ALTERS BLACK SKIN COLOURATION INCLUDING TO CONTRIBUTE TO ANY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT. 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.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PROMOTE AND ENHANCE LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE 2. TO TEACH YOUTHS AND YOUNG ADULTS BASIC ETIQUETTE AND RESPONSIBLE BEHAVIOUR 3. TO SERVE AS MENTORS TO YOUTHS AND YOUNG ADULTS 4. TO SUPPORT PROJECTS AND PROGRAMMES THAT PROMOTES COMMERCIAL INTERACTION AND THE WELLBEING OF YOUTHS AND YOUNG ADULTS 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: TUNDE ONAKOYA ESQ. MESSRS SEGUN & SEGUN, LEGAL PRACTITIONERS, 08033355266

SIGNED: SRJ LEGAL PRACTITIONERS www.srjlegal.com .

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

AKPAGIEGBE CHARITY CLUB

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. MR. BABATUNDE SAMSON ASENUGA 2. PROF.OLUSEGUN OLUYEMI MATANMI 3. PROF.ABIODUN AKINPELU 4. PROPHET DR. SAMSON ADEBAYO 5. MR ADEKUNLE JOEL OGUNLADE 6. MR TAIWO SULAIMON BALOGUN AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. PROMOTING AND ENSURING PEACE AND UNITY IN NIGERIA 2. ADVOCATING ONE NIGERIA 3. PEACEFUL CONFLICT RESOLUTION 4. ADVOCATING AGAINST CRISES, CONFLICT AND TERRORISM. 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.

CAC/IT/NO: 45239

NEW NAME ALPHA AND OMEGA CARE FOUNDATION FOR THE NEEDY

OLD TRUSTEES HARUNA ADAMU MR. - RESIGNED SHAKA AWALIENE (BARR.) - RESIGNED MUSA SAMU (ENGR.) - RESIGNED USMAN OKOKO (ENGR.) - RESIGNED ALHAJI DAUDA JAWARA - RESIGNED

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO FOSTER UNITY AND INITIATE COMMUNAL DEVELOPMENT OF AYETORO-YEWA LAND. 2. TO PROMOTE THE CULTURAL AND TRADITIONAL VALUES OF AYETORO-YEWA LAND IN NIGERIA AND TO THE REST OF THE WORLD. 3. TO RESUSCITATE THE RICH CULTURE YEWA PEOPLE. 4. TO SHOWCASE THE RICH CULTURAL VALUE AND THE TRADITIONAL INHERITANCE OF YEWA PEOPLE. 5. TO PROMOTE LOVE, PEACE AND CO-OPERATION AMONGST THE VARIOUS ETHNIC GROUPS IN YEWA LAND. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE CAPTIONED ORGANIZATION HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR CHANGE OF NAME, CHANGE OF TRUSTEES, AMENDMENT OF CONSTITUTION, CHANGE OF CHAIRMAN AND SECRETARY. OLD NAME AKPAGIEGBE CHARITY CLUB

6. CHIEF AFOLABI OLALEYE - MEMBER. 7. CHIEF ABIOLA FAGBIRE - MEMBER. 8. CHIEF WAHAB OLOYEDE ELEGBEDE 9. ALH. IBRAHIM DENDE EGUNGBOHUN 10. ALHAJA ANIFAT OLUWAYEMISI ABASS

NEW TRUSTEES CLEMENT ADOGAMHE DAKO - APPOINTED PROMMES DAKO - APPOINTED

SECTIONS OF THE CONSTITUTION TO BE AMENDED PREAMBLE AND ARTICLE 1 TO ARTICLE 16, AND THE CHANGE OF THE WORD ‘CLUB’ TO ‘FOUNDATION’ WHEREVER IT APPEARS IN THE CONSTITUTION. 1) THE REASON FOR CHANGING THE TRUSTEES IS: TIME CONSTRAINT. 2) THE REASON FOR THE AMENDMENT AND CHANGE OF NAME IS TO CONFORM WITH THE NEW IDEALS AND GOALS OF THE ORGANIZATION. ANY OBJECTION TO THE ABOVE CHANGES SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI CRESCENT, P.M.B. 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLIC NOTICE

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT GIRL’S COLLEGE -NEW BUSSA-1989 ALUMNI ASSOCIATION THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. ADEBOBOLA DIANE ADAIBO 2. ALTINE ALHERI JOHNSON 3. OLUWASOLA MABADEJE 4. KHADEEJAH ADEBISI ABDULSALAM 5. ROLI BERNICE OBASEKI 6. VALERIE INYANG FASHANU 7. UYI JENNIFER ODUWA-MALAKA 8. OLANIPEKON MORENIKE AKINOLA THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1) TO IDENTIFY THE NEEDS OF THE SCHOOL AND SEEK WAYS TO ASSIST THE SCHOOL TO MAINTAIN ITS HIGH STANDARD OF EDUCATION. ANY OBJECTION(S) TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRARGENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B. 198, GARKI, ABUJA WITHIN TWENTY-EIGHT (28) DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: BARR. J. GREG (SOLICITOR)

SIGNED: TRUSTEES.

SIGNED: SHAKA AWALIENE (BARR.) (SOLICITOR)

BREAKTHROUGH CHRISTIAN CENTRE AND MIRACLE MINISTRY

RIVER JORDAN DISCIPLESHIP MINISTRY WORLDWIDE

IFEANYI MBARIE FOUNDATION

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

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.) PASTOR SAMUEL EDEM 2.) PASTOR AGNES ANTHONY 3.) PASTOR EKENE NELSON 4.) PASTOR LAWRENCE AKPAN 5.) BRO. CHRIS NWANOBORO

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PROPHETESS UDOKA ADAEZE JULIET. 2. PASTOR NWANKWO NORA NNEOMA. 3. APOSTLE JAMES-OWEN, CHRISTIAN.

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.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: I) TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST TO THE WORLD II) TO WIN MANY MORE SOUL FOR SECOND COMING OF OUR LORD CHRIST JESUS THROUGH EVANGELISM, REVIVAL AND MEDIA OUTREACH. 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.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PREACH & WIN SOULS FOR JESUS CHRIST. 2. INVOLVEMENT IN CHARITY EVANGELISM FOR THE WELLBEING OF THE POOR AND DESTITUTE. 3. GLOBAL COMMITMENT TO MISSIONS AND CHRISTIANIZATION OF ALL. 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.

TRUSTEES ARE: 1. MR. IFEANY HOPE MBARIE - (CHAIRMAN) 2. MRS IFEANYI MBARIE UDOKA LILIAN. AIM AND OBJECTIVE: TO SEE TO THE GENERAL WELFARE OF THE LESS PRIVILEGED NIGERIAN 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: GEN. SECRETARY

SIGNED: APOSTLE JAMES-OWEN, C. (08063497117)

SIGNED: SECRETARY

LOSS OF DOCUMENT

ASSOCIATION OF PRIVATE BUSINESS OPERATORS OF NIGERIA

JOURNALIST ESTATE EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION OF AREPO OGUN

This is to inform the general public that the original title documents for the property at Block 95,Flat 3,Abesan Estate Ipaja,Alimosho Local Government Area,Lagos State,belonging to my late husband Mr.David Oladele Ogundele (deceased) is missing.

All efforts made to trace the documents proved abortive..

If found,please return to the nearest police station or the undersigned.

By this notice,the general public is informed that any dealing whatsoever on the said documents and property other than the wife of the deceased will be illegal.unlawful and of no effect.

Signed; Mrs.Funmilayo Ogundele.( Wife of the Deceased ) 3, Adeyomi Street, Iyana Murtuary, Abeokuta,Ogun State.

The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

The general public is hereby 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 1. PRINCE BABATUNDE OLUWO- CHAIRMAN 2. ELDER JAMES OKAFOR 3. CHIEF MIKE OKOCHA - SECRETARY 4. ALHAJI HASSAN HASSAN 5. BARR. ADEBIYI ODUGBESAN

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Otunba Segun Runsewe 2. Fadugba Olufunke Adedayo 3. Ajayi John Olulope 4. Eziashi Patrick Okafor 5. Buoro Valentino Eshimakhe 6. Ige Godwin Oladele 7. Okereke Sylvester Chukwuemeka

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO FOSTER UNITY, HARMONY, PEACE AND CORPORATION AMONG MEMBERS. 2. TO PROMOTE AND SAFE GUARD THE INTEREST OF MEMBERS. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication Signed : SECRETARY

ABDULLAHI WAZIUR

OWEZIE BLESSING

ISHOLA ADENIKE

CHINONSO DARLINGTON

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ABDULLAHI DAMAGE AND I WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ABDULLAHI WAZIUR AHMAD. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. F. C. T. A AND GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OWEZIE BLESSING ONYEANUSI NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OWEZIE BLESSING. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ISHOLA ADENIKE NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS RAHEEM ISHOLA ADENIKE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS CHINONSO CHIDI KALDU NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS CHIDI CHINONSO DARLINGTON THAT BORN ON 12TH APRIL 1990.

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

MRS OWOLABI ADENIKE

DANIEL OGHENEMARO

MORILI LYDIA AKONI

OLAIDE OPEMIPO

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS ADEALU ADENIKE AMOKE, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS OWOLABI ADENIKE AMOKE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ODEH OSBERT OGAGA, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ODEH DANIEL OGHENEMARO. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MORILI ADELEKE NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MORILI LYDIA AKONI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ADUBI OLAIDE OPEMIPO NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS BURAIMOH OLAIDE OPEMIPO. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To assist in advancement of education in Nigeria.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission Maitama Abuja within 28 daysof this publication SIGNED: Onu Eke Uche Esq

AGRICULTURAL UNITED AGOOWU FARMER’S DEVELOPMENT SOCIETY This is to notify the general public that the above named, has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Ogunsola, Moses Olalekan Olusola -Chairman 2. Ojebisi, Adeniyi Felix 3. Deji, Olanike Fasilat 4. Olawoyin, Segun 5. Adetunji, Martin Akinfenwa 6. Obende, Mike Ojo 7. Ashamu, Rebecca Olabisi THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. To foster unity and progress among farmers for agricultural development Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication SIGNED: SECRETARY

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

UGWUNTA FAITH CHIOMA

OGUNMODEDE AKEEM ADENIYI

I formerly known and addressed as ADENIYI AKEEM now wish to be known called and addressed as OGUNMODEDE AKEEM ADENIYI. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

I formerly known and addressed as UGWUNTA MALAIKA CHIOMA now wish to be known called and addressed as UGWUNTA FAITH CHIOMA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

ECHETEBU IFUNANYA AUGUSTINA

ADEBOWALE TITILOPE HOPE

I formerly known and addressed as ONUORA IFUNANYA AUGUSTINA now wish to be known called and addressed as ECHETEBU IFUNANYA AUGUSTINA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

I formerly known and addressed as TOLUWASE TITILOPE HOPE now wish to be known called and addressed as ADEBOWALE TITILOPE HOPE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

OKWODU MARVELOUS CHUKWUJEKWU

OKONKWO BENJAMIN OFORKANSI CHIJIOKE

I formerly known and addressed CHUKWUJEKWU OLIVER OKWODU. now wish to be known called and addressed as OKWODU MARVELOUS CHUKWUJEKWU. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

I formerly known as ABASS ISA OFORKANSI wish to be known and addressed as OKONKWO BENJAMIN OFORKANSI CHIJIOKE . All former documents remain valid, general public please take note.

OGUNDAINI OLUMUYIWA ADEBISI

JONAH EZEKIEL OBHU

I, formerly known and addressed as OGUNDAINI MUYIWA OLUWASHEUN, now wish to be known and addressed as OGUNDAINI OLUMUYIWA ADEBISI. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as ODODO EZEKIEL OBHU, now wish to be known and addressed as JONAH EZEKIEL OBHU. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

MRS. NWACHUKWU LOVETH CHINAZO

MISS AGBO CHRISTIANA UZOAMAKA.

MRS IROEGBU OLUWAYEMISI DEBORAH I formerly known and addressed as Miss Olobele Oluwayemisi Deborah now wish to be known called and addressed as Mrs Iroegbu Oluwayemisi Deborah.

All former documents remain valid. General public take note EMEKA OGEY ARIGUZOR

I formerly known and addressed CHUKWUEMEKA OGECHUKWU ARIGUZOR now wish to be known called and addressed as EMEKA OGEY ARIGUZOR. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

AZUBUIKE IBIJOKE SARAH I formerly known as AJAYI IBIJOKE SARAH wish to be known and addressed as AZUBUIKE IBIJOKE SARAH . All former documents remain valid, general public please take note.

ESSIEN HAPPINESS NDIFREK

I formerly known and addressed as AKPAN, HAPPINESS CHARITY now wish to be known and addressed as ESSIEN HAPPINESS NDIFREK. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS MADU LOVETH CHINAZO, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. NWACHUKWU LOVETH CHINAZO. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MRS CHUKWUEMEKA CHRISTIANA UZOAMAKA, now wish to be known and addressed as MISS AGBO CHRISTIANA UZOAMAKA. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

MRS OCHI UKAMAKA ETHEL

ELEKWE LAWRETTA NNEKA

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS UGWU UKAMAKA ETHEL, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OCHI UKAMAKA ETHEL. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as ELEKWE MARYANN NNEKA, now wish to be known and addressed as ELEKWE LAWRETTA NNEKA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS NMADUBUEZE MIRRIAN NWAEMEZIE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ONYESOH MIRRIAN NWAEMEZIE. All former documents remain valid. General Public should please take note.

ADDITION OF NAME

JAMES SAMUEL ADEDAYO OLAOLUWA I formerly known called and addressed as OGUN SAMUEL ADEDAYO. Now wish to be known called and addressed as JAMES SAMUEL ADEDAYO. OLAOLUWA. Former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

I formerly known called and addressed as PAULINA PHILIP OTETE, now wish to be known called and addressed as PAULINA PHILIP MAPEREMI. All former documents remain valid, authorities concerned and general public should please take note

That I was formerly known and addressed as JAJA EMMANUELLA that I now wish to add AMABIBI to my former name that I now wish to be known and addressed as JAJA EMMANUELLA AMABIBI. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

OGECHUKWU ANTHONIA I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ANYANECHE OGECHUKWU ANTHONIA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ONYEJEGBU OGECHUKWU ANTHONIA. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE NOTE.

MORILI LYDIA AKONI

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS Morili Adeleke NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS Morili Lydia Akoni. All Former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

DBEGOTIN EDUCATIONAL FOUDATION This is to notify the general public that the above named, has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

TRUSTEES 1. PROF NANA TANKO - CHAIRPERSON 2. AMEDU JEREMIAH OSENI - SECRETARY 3. MONIDAFE. S SUNNY 4. DANLADI EMMANUEL 5. MRS STELLA NUHU 6. OLANIPEKUN REGINALD AIM AND OBJECTIVE 1. TO PROVIDE EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS FOR LEARNING. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication SIGNED: SECRETARY

Army officers combat competition ends in Lagos

Iniobong Iwok

MRS ONYESOH MIRRIAN NWAEMEZIE

PAULINA PHILIP MAPEREMI

I formerly known and addressed as ITEIRE GRACE OGHENEROBO now wish to be known called and addressed as IFEJIKA GRACE OGHENEROBO. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

AUAJUO GLADYS CHIKAODI

GLORY GBODE

I formerly known and addressed as ETHELBERT GLADYS CHIKAODI now wish to be known called and addressed as AUAJUO GLADYS CHIKAODI. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

I formerly known and addressed as GLORY UDOH now wish to be known called and addressed as GLORY GBODE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

OLABIYI OLABISI ELIZABETH

OKAFOR MANEL ONYEKA

I formerly known as Olabiyi Olabisi Enitan AND Ogundeji Olabisi Ruth wish to be known and addressed as Olabiyi Olabisi Elizabeth. All former documents remain valid, general public please take note.

I formerly known and addressed OKAFOR MAREEL ONYIN now wish to be known called and addressed as OKAFOR MANEL ONYEKA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

OKOLI ESTHER IFEOMA

EGBUCHILAM STELLA IFEOMA

I formerly known and addressed as CHINKATA ESTHER IFEOMA now wish to be known and addressed as OKOLI ESTHER IFEOMA. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

I formerly known as NWAKA STELLA IFEOMA wish to be known and addressed as EGBUCHILAM STELLA IFEOMA. All former documents remain valid, general public please take note.

MRS AMOS VIVIAN CHIDIMMA

STELLA UZOMA ISICHEI-ANAIDE

MRS. JULIET UKWUOMA NWAOGWUGWU-TIMOTHY

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OKORIE VIVIAN CHIDIMMA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS AMOS VIVIAN CHIDIMMA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as STELLA UZOMA OKOYE now wish to be known and addressed as STELLA UZOMA ISICHEIANAIDE. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS JULIET UKWUOMA NWAGBARA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. JULIET UKWUOMA NWAOGWUGWU-TIMOTHY. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

MRS NWODO NKECHINYERE GRACE.

KALU LAWRENCE UGOCHUKWU.

MRS CHUKWUMBA CHINENYE CONSTANCE

I, formerly known and addressed as LARENCE SHARON, now wish to be known and addressed as KALU LAWRENCE UGOCHUKWU. My correct date of birth 04/04/1993.

All former documents remain valid.

First Bank and General public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS EZEMBA CHINENYE CONSTANCE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS CHUKWUMBA CHINENYE CONSTANCE. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

The 81 division of the Nigerian Army Lagos, Officers combat proficiency competition which began last Monday and hosted by IFEJIKA GRACE OGHENEROBO

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS CHUKWU NKECHINYERE GRACE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS NWODO NKECHINYERE GRACE. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

SALAKO OLUWATOSIN OLUFUNKE

MES. NWANNE NWANNEKA ANGELA

I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS Miss Okoye Nwanneka Angela NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS Mes. Nwanne Nwanneka Angela.

All Former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

officers, adding that objective of the competition had been achieved.

He charged the officers to remain discipline and discharge their duties in a professional manner, adding that the division has commence preparation for pending operation stressing that officers should remain Focus and dedicated to Service in the period leading to and the operation which would be tasking.

SARUMI SAMIAT ADEPEJU I formerly known and addressed as SARUMI ISLAMIAT ADETUTU now wish to be known called and addressed as SARUMI SAMIAT ADEPEJU. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

the 9 brigade Ikeja, ended yesterday.

In his closing remark, the General Officer Commanding of the division, Major General Peter Dauke, reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Army to the continue training of junior officers for the task ahead, adding that they were future leaders of the force.

Dauke commended the competitiveness of the competition and the enthusiasm of the participating

CHINWENDU NNEKA CHILAKA

I formerly known, called and addressed as CHINWENDU NNEKA OSUH, Now wish to be known, called and addressed as CHINWENDU NNEKA CHILAKA. All documents bearing my former name remain valid, general public should please take note.

Public Notice 23

I Formerly known and addressed as Awoseemo Oluwatosin Olufunke now wish to be known, called and addressed as Salako Oluwatosin Olufunke All documents and certificates bearing my former names remain valid. Banks, Immigrations, Relevant Authorities and the General public Please take note.

KHETH’IMPILO HEALTH FOUNDATION

OKWESILI QUEENDALINE NKEIRUKA

I, formerly known and addressed as CHIDILE QUEENDALINE NKEIRUKA, now wish to be known and addressed as OKWESILI QUEENDALINE NKEIRUKA. All former documents remain valid. Banks and General public should please take note.

IROH PRINCE IFEANYI

I formerly known as AMOGU PRINCE IFEANYI wish to be known and addressed as IROH PRINCE IFEANYI. All former documents remain valid, general public please take note.

ODIFA FUNKE ABIGEAL

I formerly known and addressed as OKE FUNKE ABIGEAL now wish to be known and addressed as ODIFA FUNKE ABIGEAL. All former documents remain valid.

General public to please take note.

OBINNA NWOKWU I formerly known as ISRAEL OBASI now wish to be known as OBINNA NWOKWU. Born on 15-03-1995. former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

GLOBAL LIGHT LEADERSHIP FOUNDATION

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

This is to notify the general public that the above named, has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. DR (MRS) CECILIA MOTHIBI-WAGBAFOR. 2. CHIEF EWIE AIMIENWAUU - CHAIRMAN. 3. DR OYEBOLA GBENGA OYEBANJI - SECRETARY. 4. DR (MRS) AFOKOGHENE RITA ISIAVWE. 5. DR BONAVENTURE AMANDI EGBUJIE.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.Samson Emmanuel (President) 2. Pastor David Abraham (Chairman) 3. Prof. Makut Makwin 4. Prof Adebayo Paul Adejola 5. Barr. Mary Owoyele( secretary) 6. Mr. Ezra Marut 7. Mr. Chris Adebayo 8. Mrs olubukola Emmanuel 9. Barr. Nweze Onyinye Jane (miss)

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PROVIDE QUALITY SERVICES FOR THE SUPPORT AND MANAGEMENT OF HIV/ AIDS AND TB IN COMMUNITIES AND HEALTH FACILITIES. 2. TO PROVIDE OF COMPREHENSIVE FAMILY CENTRED HIV PREVENTION, TREATMENT, CARE AND SUPPORT SERVICES. 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, FCT WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: IKE NWAZOIGWE IKE ESQ. 08038993459, SOLICITOR.

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To inculcate on people the essence of good leadership and how it can be actualized.

2. To care for its members.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication SIGNED: BARR.ONYINYE NWEZE 08038232092

24 Public Notice GOD’S OWN DELIVERANCE BIBLE CHURCH INTERNATIONAL The general public is hereby notified that the above named Church has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Decree No. 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Apostle Dr. Essien, Daniel Jacob 2. Snr. Deaconess (Mrs) Essien, Lucy Daniel.

3. Akpan, Immaculata Effiong.

4. Essien, Abigail Daniel.

5. Mrs. Asukwo,Christiana Kingsley .

AIMS/OBJECTIVES: 1. To preach the gospel 2. To deliver the oppressed from the powers of darkness 3. To establish Churches in the various parts of the Country

.

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

Signed: Apostle Dr. Essien , Daniel Jacob General Overseer

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

I BELIEVE IN AFRICA CHILD INITIATIVE

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

BOARD OF TRUSTEES ARE 1. OMOTOLA OLASUNBOH ONIGBANJO. 2. YVETTE RENEE GAITHER. 3. AMU JIMMY JATT. 4. YINKA LAWANSON LAMBOGINNY. - PRESIDENT. 5. LERATO MLAMBO. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE 1. TO ESSENTIALLY HELP EVERY CHILD IN ACHIEVING THEIR GOALS RESPECTIVELY WHILE STRIVING TO REACH THEIR GOALS. 2. TO SERVE AS A PLATFORM TO REECHOED THE VOICES OF AFRICANS IN PROMOTING SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND LEADERSHIP TO BRING SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS TO AFRICA’S CULTURAL, EDUCATIONAL, ECONOMIC AND DEVELOPMENT PROBLEMS. 3. TO PATRONISE AFRICAN PRODUCED GOOD AND SUPPORT RURAL COMMUNITIES IN HAVING ACCESS TO GOOD HEALTH AND QUALITY EDUCATION ACROSS AFRICA. 4. TO CREATE A PLATFORM FOR AFRICAN LEADERS AND STAKE HOLDERS TO STRENGTHEN INSTITUTIONS MAKING THEM MORE ACCOUNTABLE AND EFFECTIVE AND ALSO TO PAVE THE WAY FOR FUTURE LEADERS. 5. TO FACILITATE STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAMS BETWEEN INSTITUTIONS IN AFRICA AND ABROAD AND ALSO REEMPHASIZED THE NEED FOR RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT. 6. TO EMPOWER WOMEN IN RURAL COMMUNITIES. ANY OBJECTION(S) TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, PMB 198, GARKI, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION.

MOVERS CHRISTIAN SOLDIER MINISTRY

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

TRUSTEES ARE: 1. BABALOLA EZEKIEL OLUWAMUYIDE 2. GBENGA EMMANUEL BABALOLA AIMS: TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST.

Aim: To preach the gospel.

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.

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

Signed; Trustees

WORSHIP FEST HOUSE MINISTRY

This is to inform the General public that the above MINISTRY has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for CHANGE OF NAME , and CHANGE IN TRUSTEES under Part C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

CHANGE OF NAME: Worship Fest House Ministry to Worship Festival House Initiative.

CHANGE IN TRUSTEES: 1. Oyebanjo Emanehi Hannah - Retained 2. Akhimen Cletus Omonfumah Blessing - Retained 3. Oyebanjo Ayodele Olusegun - Retained 4. Isika Macdonald Kanayo - Retained 5. Ero Jane Onivie - Retained 6. Ifeanyi Onyiriuka - Removed 7. Aforonwa Chukwuma - Retained THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To organize and promote praise and worship events with a view to tapping into the glorious power and wonder of involuntary acts or of difficulties connected with the issues of life for which they seek answer.

2. To bring people together to worship God through music 3. To introduce Jesus Christ to persons who are suffering from any physical, mental, emotional or health challenge as a result of voluntary /involuntary acts of difficulties connected with the issues of life for which they seek answer .

4. To preserve and protect the spiritual health, that is body, spirit and soul of men, women and children from every depression and oppression of the devil.

Any objection to the CHANGE OF NAME and CHANGE IN TRUSTEES 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: SAO NOMINEES

THEOPHILUS VERA

UGBODAGA ELVIS PETER

I, formerly known and addressed as, ONYINYECHI RITA ONYEMAUWA, now wish to be known and addressed as, THEOPHILUS VERA. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, UGBODAGA ABU PETER, now wish to be known and addressed as, UGBODAGA ELVIS PETER. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

MRS.OYEBAMIJI OMOLAYO OLUREMI

TSUME BENJAMIN SUGHNE

I formerly known and addressed as Miss .Taiwo Omolayo Oluremi. now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs.Oyebamiji Omolayo Oluremi. All former document remain valid. General public please take note.

I formerly known and address as TSUME BENJAMIN now wish to be known and addressed as TSUME BENJAMIN SUGHNE. All former document remain valid.

General public should please take note.

ADEREMI BUKKY ESTHER

AFFIRMATION OF NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as SOBOGUN BUKKY ESTHER, now wish to be known, called and addressed as ADEREMI BUKKY ESTHER. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

That I am the same person bearing SAKA OLATUNJI YUSUF and LAWAL OLATUNJI YUSUF, now wish to be known, called and addressed as LAWAL OLATUNJI YUSUF. That all documents bearing my former names remains mine and valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

NWABUEZE-ONWUDINJO NKEMJIKA

CORRECTION OF NAME

That I was formerly known and addressed as ONWUDINJO CHRISTOPHER NKEM, NKEMJIKA ONWUDINJOH, ONWUDINJO NKEMJIKA CHRISTOPHER and NKEM .C. ONWUDINJOH. That henceforth, I now wish to be known, called and addressed as NWABUEZE-ONWUDINJO NKEMJIKA. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

This is to confirm that the name AROGUNDEDE OLADIPO BIDEMI FAITHand OLADIPO BIDEMI FAITH, refers to one and the same person, now wish to be known and addressed as OLADIPO BIDEMI FAITH, All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

1. ELIJAH OLUWAFISAYOMI OLUWADUNSHIN 2. NWAKA CHINEDU ANTHONY 3. AKINNIRANYE JOYCE 4. EMMANUEL EFFIONG AIMS: TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: TRUSTEES

SIGNED BY: TRUSTEES.

This is to inform the general public that the above named Ministry has applied for registration to the Corporate Affairs Commission, under part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Acts 1990.

(1) Apostle Elisha Okiki Olatunji (2)Ayodeji Elizabeth (3)Salawudeen idayat (4)Ojediran Mary Blessing (5)Oladiti Oludele (6)Ojediran ThankGod Ebunlomo

FIRE BRAND ARMY EVANGELICAL MISSION This is to inform the general public that the above named Mission has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Acts of 1990.

FAMILY CHANGE OF SURNAME WE, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS AKWU FIDELIA UCHECHUKWU AKWU KINGSLEY CHIDOZIE AKWU ONYEKACHI DAVID AKWU IFENYINWA MONICA AKWU LOVETH NNENNA AKWU IFEOMA CLARIS AKWU FLORENCE CHIAMAKA AKWU ENOCH AKACHUKWU AKWU ONYEDIKACHUKWU ELVIS AND AKWU FAVOUR EKENEDILICHUKWU NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS CHUKWUNWIKE FIDELIA UCHECHUKWU CHUKWUNWIKE KINGSLEY CHIDOZIE CHUKWUNWIKE ONYEKACHI DAVID CHUKWUNWIKE IFENYINWA MONICA CHUKWUNWIKE LOVETH NNENNA CHUKWUNWIKE IFEOMA CLARIS CHUKWUNWIKE FLORENCE CHIAMAKA CHUKWUNWIKE ENOCH AKACHUKWU CHUKWUNWIKE ONYEDIKACHUKWU ELVIS AND CHUKWUNWIKE FAVOUR EKENEDILICHUKWU ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

CORRECTION XXXXOF NAME

I, IBRAHIM MOHAMMED, wish to correct my name which was wrongly written as, IBRAHIM MOMODU MOMODU, instead of, IBRAHIM MOHAMMED, in my BVN details.

I now wish to be known and addressed as, IBRAHIM MOHAMMED. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

AKINWALE OLUWASEUN AYOBAMI

I, formerly known and addressed as AKINWALE OLUWASEUN RACHEAL OMOLADE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as AKINWALE OLUWASEUN AYOBAMI. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

JOSHUA OSAHENOMAN MATHEW That I, KIMBERLAY MATHEW is the biological mother of JOSHUA OSAHENOMAN MATHEW with International Passport No. A02130314.

That he was formerly known and addressed as JOSHUA OSAHENOMAN OLUWASEGUN ENOHIESE. That henceforth he wish to be known and addressed as JOSHUA OSAHENOMAN MATHEW. All documents bearing his former names remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

CORRECTION OF NAME

This is to confirm that my name was wrongly written as MMADUEKEH UGOCHI PRISCA instead of MADUEKE UGOCHI PRISCA PERPETUA, now wish to be known and addressed as MADUEKE UGOCHI PRISCA PERPETUA. All former documents remain valid, WAEC, NECO and the general public should please take note.

YAA HAYYU YAA QOYYUM ASALATU PRAYER SOCIETY TRUSTEES. (1)ALH. KOLAPO, RAFIU OLUWATOYIN - CHIEF MISSIONER/FOUNDER. (2) ALFA TESILIM, KEHINDE. A. - MISSIONER. (3)ADEBOWALE BUSARI -CHAIRMAN. (4) AIYEDUN, ISIAKA TAIYE - VICE CHAIRMAN. (5) SANNI RAHMAT ADESHOLA - SECRETARY. (6) ADEBISI, AYOKE MUJIDAT - TREASURER. (7) YUSUF ZANAB BOLANLE - FINANCIAL SECRETARY. (8) OKE, OLANREWAJU ADAM - P. R. O. (9) GBADAMOSI JELILI - MEMBER. OBJECTIVES. (1) TO PROMOTE THE TEACHINGS OF THE HOLY PROPHET MUHAMMED (SAW) AND HIS JUMAH. (2) TO PROMULGATE THE CORE OF ISLAMIC CULTURES AND VALUES.AMIC CULTURES AND VALUES. SIGNED : BARRISTER KINGSLEY EDIALE 08023279496. 08065538310

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

MRS. STEPHANIE LOUIS EKANEM I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Efiokanwan Ekpo Ekpenyong, now wish to be known as Mrs. Stephanie Louis Ekanem. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

EDIONGETE BONGTO ETANG

MRS. CHIOMA URSULA DONALD-MUOTTOH

I, formerly known and addressed as, NOBLE BONGTO ETANG, now wish to be known and addressed as, EDIONGETE BONGTO ETANG. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

CORRECTION OF NAME

CORRECTION OF NAME

I, AMADI, QUEEN ORITSEGBUBEMI, wish to correct my name which was wrongly written as, AMADI, QUEEN O., instead of, AMADI, QUEEN ORITSEGBUBEMI, in my BVN details. I now wish to be known and addressed as, AMADI, QUEEN ORITSEGBUBEMI. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

My name was wrongly written as AGORO AMINAT FOWOKE OLAIDE instead of AGORO AMINAT FOWOKE, now my correct name is AGORO AMINAT FOWOKE. All former document remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME/CORRECTION OF DATE OF BIRTH

KIMBERLAY MATHEW

I formerly known and address as EZE BLESSING ,now wish to be known and address as HARUNA BLESSING BINTA. My Date of Birth was wrongly dated as 12/02/1996,my correct Date of Birth is12/02/1993. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

I, formerly known, called and addressed as PATIENCE ENOHIESE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as KIMBERLAY MATHEW. That I am the owner of International Passport No. A01532156. All documents bearing my former names remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

OSHODIPE BASIRAT OLUFUNMILAYO

SHOROYE IYABO OLUBUKOLA

I, formerly known and addressed as OMOTUNWASE BASIRAT FUNMILAYO, now wish to be known, called and addressed as OSHODIPE BASIRAT OLUFUNMILAYO. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as ONCHE OTTO OLUBUKOLA, now wish to be known, called and addressed as SHOROYE IYABO OLUBUKOLA. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

MRS. EMELDA UBORCHI

MISS. NZECHUKWU CHINASA PRECIOUS

I formerly known and addressed as MISS EMELDA OHAMARA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. EMELDA UBORCHI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as MISS NZECHUKWU FAVOUR PRECIOUS, now wish to be known and addressed as MISS. NZECHUKWU CHINASA PRECIOUS. All former documents remain valid. Abia State University Uturu, Banks and the general public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, MISS. CHIOMA URSULA EZEILO, now wish to be known and addressed as, MRS. CHIOMA URSULA DONALD-MUOTTOH. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

CORRECTION OF DATE OF BIRTH

I, PRINCE DAVID, wish to correct my date of birth which was wrongly written as, 1st day of January, 1968, instead of, 14th day of August, 1955, in my PVC details. My correct date of birth is, 14th day of August, 1955.

General public should take note.

IKERU CLEMENT CHUKWUNONSO

I, formerly known and addressed as ILODINIBE AUGUSTINE NONSO, now wish to be known, called and addressed as IKERU CLEMENT CHUKWUNONSO. All former documents remain valid.

General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

I AKINSOLA AKINWALE OLUWAGBEMIGA JOSEPH, wish to hereby restate that I am the same person as - AKINSOLA AKINWALE JOSEPH and AKINSOLA OLUWAGBEMIGA AKINWALE. All documents previously used in this regards however,still remain valid. General public please take note.

MRS. NWANKWO CHIAMAKA SANDRA

I formerly known and addressed as MISS HUMPHREY CHIAMAKA SANDRA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. NWANKWO CHIAMAKA SANDRA. All former documents remain valid. Banks and the general public should please take note.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

25

News 26

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

Ambode donates N5m to widow of burnt kidnap victim

Benjamin Omoike

ÏÏÏLagos

State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, has donated N5million to the widow and children of Osaze Omorogbe, a community leader killed and burnt by kidnappers for leading security agents to foil their operation.

Presenting the cheque to the widow and children on behalf of the governor at a solemn ceremony at the family’s residence in Isawo, Ikorodu, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Community & Communications, Mr. Kehinde Bamigbetan, praised the late Omoregbe for his heroic role.

Bamigbetan was received by the Chairman of the Community Development Associa-

tion, Mr. Ahmed Yusuf.

Reading the condolence message personally signed by the governor, the Special Adviser said the late Omoregbe paid the supreme sacrifice while responding to the government’s charge to community development associations to support its effort to rid the State of kidnappers.

Part of the condolence message read, “It is with deep grief that I share your sorrow on the unfortunate death of your father, husband and breadwinner, Mr. Osaze Omoregbe.

“At a time our administration is consolidating partnership with our communities and their courageous and committed leaders, your benefactor stood up to be counted.

He supported the forces of

light seeking to crush the notorious kidnappers who had turned your neighbourhood into a jungle of death. In that patriotic response to our call to join hands and collectively secure our communities, he paid the supreme price.”

Receiving the cheque, the widow, Mrs. Omodunni Omoregbe, who was short of words, broke into tears.

Speaking on behalf of the LCDA, the Chairperson, Mrs. Jumoke Ademehin-Jumbo, thanked the Lagos State Government for coming to the rescue of the family.

Bamigbetan, who led a delegation including the Senior Special Assistant on Community Affairs, Alhaji Tajudeen Quadri; the Chairperson of Ikorodu West Local Council

Development Area, Mrs. Jumoke Ademehin-Jumbo; the Chairperson of the Community Development Committee, Alhaja K.A. Damole and their teams, prayed at the graveside of the deceased.

The deceased is survived by his wife, and two children, Adesuwa and Osaze.

The late Omoregbe, who led the security committee of the Olorunsogo Community Development Association, had alerted the police on hearing heavy bullet shots of kidnappers seeking to capture a victim.

On arrival, the police and soldiers asked him to lead them to the area. All of them were ambushed by the kidnappers and killed.

Buyers at rams market, Madalla, in preparation for the Eid el-Kabir celebration in Niger State… on Thursday.

EU water project: Wike releases N100m counterpart funding

Amaka Agbu, Port Harcourt

ÏÏÏSix

oil bearing communities in Rivers State will now heave a sigh of relief following the approval for immediate release of N100million as the second tranche counterpart fund for the Rivers State Government/ European Union Niger Delta Support Programme (RSG/EU NSDP) for water and sanitation projects in their areas.

The State Government had earlier released the first tranche of counterpart fund of N100million to the EU Development Partners. The two benefiting local government areas are Akuku-Toru and Opobo-Nkoro covering Opobo/Nkoro LGA: Opobo,Nkoro and Kalaibiama (2) Akuku-Toru LGA : Abonnema, Kula and Abissa.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Minister Counsellor of the European Union to

Nigeria, Mr Kurt Cornelis to the Government House, Port Harcourt, on Thursday, Governor Nyesom Wike noted that the fact that the State Government paid the first tranche of 50 per cent, proved its commitment to the project.

He said: “I have given the authority that by tomorrow the second tranche of N100million be paid. Be rest assured that whatever needs to be done, would be done. I commend the EU for this programme. We will never be a state that will be backwards in water and sanitation projects.”

The governor urged the implementers of the Niger Delta Support Programme component 3 to be transparent as when awarding contracts for the projects.

“Water and sanitation remain key because they are close to the health of our communities. After this project, we

expect the EU to give the state more grants, so that we can extend this to more local government areas,” Governor Wike said.

Earlier, the Minister Counselor of the European Union to Nigeria, Mr. Kurt Cornelis called for firm commitment from the State Government on the payment of the remaining 50 per cent counterpart fund for the RSG/EU NDSP Water and sanitation projects in Two LGAs. According to him, the payment is required to determine the scope of the programme.

He said that contracts for the programme would be signed on October 26, 2017.

He stated: “In principle, we need confirmation of that payment, if we are to carry out 100 per cent of the works. We need to take a decision today about the final scope of projects in Rivers State.”

Earlier in June, this year, the leaders of the six benefitting communities had expressed fears that the Rivers State government mmight be dropped out of the N1billion European Union, EU, water projec, if the government failed to pay the balance of N100million, being part of its commitment to the scheme by the end of that month.

In a press conference addressed then by the Chairman of the Federation of Water Consumers Association, Chief Iwarimie Diri, on behalf of the beneficiaries said that the project was an EU sponsored water scheme the heavily impacted by pollution areas which were seriously in dire need of drinkable water.

He explained that the project estimated at about N1billion was to be carried out by the EU, the Rivers State Government, and the communities which had their own individual commitments.

12 artistes storm Enugu for Glo Mega Music nationwide tour

ÏÏÏ

Twelve artistes, made up of seven top of the range musicians and five Nollywood icons, are set to storm the Coal City Enugu for the Glo Mega Music Nationwide Tour where residents of the city will be treated to uncommon funtainment on Saturday.

The flagship show of Globacom, which is designed to entertain subscribers of the network across 27 cities and locations within the country, kicked off in Awka, Anambra State capital, on April 15.

Coincidentally, three of the musicians who will perform in Enugu, Runtown, Phyno and Flavour, grew up in the Coal City. They also developed their music careers there and are regarded purely as “042” boys, a term used to refer to artistes who grew up and started their musical journey in Enugu, which in the yore days of analog telephony, had the code, ‘042’.

The A-List musicians billed to perform at the show scheduled for 4.00 p.m., according to Globacom, are Korede Bello, Runtown, Tuface, Timaya, Phyno, Flavour and Olamide.

Ebube Nwagbo and Uche Jombo will anchor the show, while three other Nollywood icons, Angela Okorie, Patience Ozokwor, a.k.a. Mama G, and Richard Mofe-Damijo, will make celebrity guest appearances to spice up the fun at the Golden Royal Hotel, Enugu, venue of the show.

The company explained that, “Enugu show is loaded and we are hopeful that our esteemed subscribers who will be thronging the venue of

the show will have adequate value for their time”.

“Enugu is very strategic to the Glo business and these artistes are ready in all ramifications to give all the people coming for the show worldclass entertainment. Incidentally, three of the artistes, Runtown, Phyno and Flavour, had their formative years in the city. For their fans in the city and beyond, the show affords them the rare opportunity of touching base with their icons”, the statement added.

Speaking on the show, Flavour said: “I am very excited to go to Enugu. This is like going back to my roots and I cannot wait to see not only my fans in the city but those old folks we grew up together in Enugu. It is going to be a show like never before for all of us”.

Runtown and Phyno who spoke separately on what their fans should expect at the show declared that they had been looking forward to the show since the bookings were confirmed as it would be a home-coming venture for them.

Glo Mega Music Nationwide Tour is designed by Globacom to reward its subscribers across the country for their loyalty to the Glo brand over the years. It is a free show but, to attend, subscribers have to use a credit of N2, 000 for data or voice calls within a month. Once subscribers meet this criterion, they are expected to send a text message “MUSIC ENUGU” to a short code 207 and they will get a free invite.

Ikpeazu empowers state environmental agency, ASEPA Sunday Nwakanma, Umuahia

ÏÏÏ

The Abia state government, Wednesday empowered the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency, ASEPA with 3 new refuse compactors, 2 roll off trucks and 4 refuse buckets to help it in effective discharge of its duties.

Handing over the items to the new General Manager of the agency, Victor Apugo at the Government House, Umuahia, the Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu urged the agency to make effective use of the items to keep the environment clean.

Governor Ikpeazu who spoke through his Deputy, Rt Hon Ude Okochukwu said the agency is being reorganized to ensure that Abia remains one of the cleanest

states, assuring that more of the items will be procured in due course to embolden the agency the more.

Receiving the keys to the trucks, the new ASEPA General Manager, Victor Apugo thanked the Governor for providing them with the materials to work with and promised to work hard to keep the environment clean.

He said that environmental management is not a political issue but one that involves all hands to be on deck.

Victor Apugo was recently appointed by the governor as the GM of the agency to replace his senior brother, Prince Ikechukwu Apugo.

Ikpechukwu Apugo, before now was the boss of the state governor in the agency when the governor was in charge of Aba area.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

27 News

Police beef up security at NEMA hqtrs over possible IDP’s attack

Myke Uzendu, Oluchi Okorafor, Abuja

ÏÏÏ

The headquarters of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has been fortified with a detachment of police team from the FCT police command following incessant attack on Aid workers by Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).

Daily Times monitoring team that visited the NEMA headquarters in Abuja observed heavy presence of Police personnel in two police trucks as well as those of Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) who were also at the premises to provide the needed protection.

A source close to NEMA disclosed that since the attack on Aid workers started in the IDP camps in Maiduguri, the management of NEMA decided to request for the presence of more security personnel at the headquarters and around all NEMA offices across the federation to avoid possible attack on NEMA staff and facilities.

The sources further said that NEMA staff are even

more cautious as they carry out their daily activities although they were not being molested by the police.

“The police are here because of security issues in the Northeast. Are you not aware that some UN workers were attacked in the IDP camps? That may be why the management ordered for more security personnel to protect the office” Daily times was informed.

Another staff, who wishes to remain anonymous also revealed that The Director General, Mustapha Yunusa Maihaja, gave approval for the redeployment of extra security personnel to provide extra cover to the management, staffs and NEMA facilities.

When our reporters placed a call on the Head of Media and Publicity of NEMA, Sani Datti, he said that all was fine and that there were no problems.

You may wish to recall that The World Food Programme (WFP) and the United Nations serving in an IDP camp at the Gubio camp in Maiduguri, suspended food due to incessant attack on the aid workers by the displaced persons.

Katsina to assist in the rehabilitation of army barracks Segun Olaniyan, Katsina

ÏÏÏ

The Katsina state government has promised to assist in the rehabilitation of bad structures at the Nigeria Army 35 Battalion barracks along Jibia road in the state.

State governor, Alhaji Aminu Bello Masari, stated this on Thursday while speaking at closing ceremony of One Division inter-brigade officers combat proficiency competition 2017 held in Katsina.

Masari who noted that, some of the structures need total face-lift to make them habitable, commended the officers and men in securing the state.

According to him, the Army in recent years has fulfilled it’s mandate to defend the integrity of the country, but however lamented that, signs of cattle rustling through the emergence of some criminal elements were on-going at the popular Rugu forest.

He urged the Army and other security agencies to

remobilize to sustain and maintain peace to ensure the complete dismantling of these miscreants across the state.

Earlier, the General Officer Commanding One Division of the Nigeria Army kaduna, Major General Adeniyi Oyebode applauded the development efforts recorded by the present administration led by Governor Aminu Bello Masari in the state.

Oyebode however promised that, the Nigeria Army would not relent in its efforts in defending the integrity of the country by ensuring peace and security.

In a welcome address, Brigadier-General Olatunji Akinjobe appreciated the contributions of all, adding that, the inter-brigade competition drew participants from the rank of major and below.

Four army formations from Kaduna, Kano, Sokoto and Niger states participated in the competition, however 3rd Brigade, Kano emerged as the overall winner.

Travelers await vehicles for Eid el-Kabir celebration at Zuba garage in Abuja… on Thursday.

Owoseni hands over to new Lagos police boss Joy Anyim

ÏÏÏ

The new Commissioner of Police for Lagos State, Ag/CP Edgar Imohimi, has taken over and resumed official capacity as the boss of the Lagos State Police Command, Ikeja on Thursday.

Despite the uncertainty that had trailed the redeployment of the former state police boss, CP Fatai Owoseni, and the resumption of the new police helmsman, the latter had successful handed over to Imohimi formally.

The new state police boss received the hand-

over note in a very smooth and short arrangement at the state headquarters.

The Inspector General of Police had, through a police wireless message with number DTO: 29817/18/2017, redeployed Owoseni out of Lagos and posted to the Force Headquarters, Abuja, where he will work at the Force Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Department, FCIID. The signal also ordered the posting of Imohimi Edgar to take over as the new Commissioner of Police, Lagos state.

Until his new posting, Imohimi was the Deputy

Commissioner of Police in-charge-of Operations in Lagos state and participated in no small measure to deal with the dreaded Badoo cult and militant kidnappers within Ikorodu axis.

The new police boss also served as the Divisional Police Officer of Shomolu Police Division, Seme Police Division, Ikeja and Surelere Police Divisions, between 2003 and 2011, as a Chief Superintendent of Police. Upon his b promotion as Assistant Commissioner of Police, he was posted Area ‘A’ Command, Lagos.

The1984 graduate of Art from the University of Jos was enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force as a cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police, on February 2, 1986.

Imohimi is said to be highly trained on Community and Intelligence Gathering Policing, and organised the first Community Policing summits in Ikeja GRA, Lagos State.

He hails from Eme-Ora town in Owa West Local Government Area of Edo state and has a distinguishing ability in Community Policing and a very disciplined officer to the core.

Group tackles Senator Misau over comment on Okiro, urge him to clear self

Patrick Okohue Following the faceoff between the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Ibrahim Idris, and Senator Isah Hamma Misau, over allegations of corruption on one hand and desertion of duty on the other, a group, Salvage for Development Initiative (SDI), has challenged the Senator to clear his name and explain how he managed to contest election in 2011 when he was discharged from the force in 2014, among other issues.

The group at a press conference addressed in Lagos by its Program Director, Abdul Lateef Sanni, and National Secretary,

Hammed Temilade, wondered how and when DSP Mohammed Isah Hamma changed to Senator Isah Hamma Misau, without any official change of name notification published in any newspaper submitted to the Nigeria Police Force and for the general public? Asking, “what documents/certificates did DSP Mohammed Isah Hamma tender to the party and INEC for clearance as Hamman Isah Misau to stand for election?”

The group also wondered why the Senator would drag a former IGP and Chairman of Po-

lice Service Commission (PSC), Sir Mike Okiro, who left the force in 2009, accusing him of not accounting for N300million voted for security during the 2011 National Convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), when the appointment was as a private citizen.

Picking holes in the accusations of the Senator, the group said, “It is highly laughable that Senator Misau alleged that the IGP makes N10 billion monthly, and by extension, N120 billion every year from posting and promotion of police commissioners and use of the police by cor-

porate organisations and highly placed individuals across the country without concrete evidence.

One would have expected him to corroborate his claim by coming up with verifiable proofs if to be taken seriously.

Senator Misau

News 28

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

Travelers await vehicles for Eid el-Kabir celebration at Ijora Motor Park in Lagos… on Thursday.

Kaduna partners firm to boost telecom services in 15 LGAs Tony Nwakaegho with Agency Report

ÏÏÏThe

Kaduna state government is working with a telecom company, TYDACOM to mount 40 masts across the state to boost telecom services in 15 local government areas of the state.

Mr. Sheyin Olufade, technical assistant to gov. Nasiru ElRufai on Inter Agency Support, told newsmen in Gyuibi village,

Kudan Local Government, after the flag off of the project.

Olufade, said that the project, being implemented in partnership with TYDACOM Telecommunication Company, would also enhance security and the state’s economy.

He explained that the aim is to promote businesses and prompt response to security concerns in any part of the state.

“Primarily they should expect three things: One is improved service on the GSM

phone, improvement on their social economy, because they would be able to communicate better – their business, farming gets improved- and also better security,” Olufade said.

According to him, work on the installation would be completed within four months and would create jobs for local people.

Managing Director of the company, Prof. Akin Akiniyi informed newsmen in an interview that the project would

Fish out perpetrators of Ugborodo killings, leaders tell Police Nosa Akenzua, Asaba

ÏÏÏLeaders

and Stakeholders of Ugborodo Community in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State have called on the security agents, particularly the State Police Commissioner, Mr. Zanna Ibrahim to fish out the perpetrators of the recent community crisis where two persons were allegedly killed in leadership tussle.

Mr. Austin Oborogbeyi, Chairman of the Ugborodo community told journalists yesterday in Asaba that the death of the two persons cannot be swept under the carpet, urging the security operatives to go after one Benson Omadeli Olajori, spiritual head in the renewed leadership conflict. He alleged that for the prompt backing of the police, the corpse of drowned Mayomi after it was recovered from the waters was almost hijacked by the attackers with the intention

of destroying the likely evidence against them.

Oborogbeyi further alleged that: “five victims were kidnapped by the attempts, detained and later taken to the residence of Benson Omadela where they were thoroughly beaten, and caused bodily injuries before being rescued”.

But in a swift reaction, Benson Omadeli Olajori on a telephone denied the act, saying: “I was not in town, I have been away, so I cannot comment on what is actually happening at the moment.”

As it were, Benson Okoturo and Samuel Mayomi were said to have died over Tuesday’s armed youths repelling of the 52 – man UCMC, and other indigenes on a ferry for a meeting in the community to unveil UCMC road map for meeting its one year mandate of restoring lasting peace to the community, torn apart by the protracted leadership struggle.

cover 15 local government areas in the state that have poor telecom access.

“Traditionally over the years, they have been trying to provide coverage for these local government areas, but the investment involved is so much and the return so small, but we can do it.” Akiniyi said.

The Village Head of Gyuibi, Malam Lawal Aliyu, lauded government for the project and urged people in the area to support it.

Lagos chief drums support for council boss Jide Oke

ÏÏÏA

Ambode

Community leader and High Chief of Mopo Akinlade in Eti-Osa East Local Council Development Area of Lagos state, Chief Sakirudeen Adekunle Akinlade, has called on the people of the council areas to give their total support to the administration of Hon. Rafiu Olufunmi in his efforts to take the council to greatness.

The High Chief said that Hon. Rafiu Olufunmi as a formidable and trusted politician will use his wealth of experience in the public and private sectors to developing the potentials of the local council and also prove his mettle of reliability and success in office.

Speaking in an interview, Chief Sakirudeen Akinlade said he was confident of the capability of the new chairman to bring thorough development and restoration of greatness to Eti-Osa East Local Council Development Area.

Nigeria to launch expanded water, sanitation, hygiene initiative - Minister Ebelechukwu Ibeneme, Abuja

ÏÏÏThe

Minister of Water Resources, Engr. Suleiman H. Adamu has described the Partnership for Expanded Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (PEWASH) initiative that would soon be launched as one that will help the nation in addressing it’s water and sanitation challenges towards meeting it’s Sustainable Development Goals on Sanitation in 2025 as well on Water supply in 2030 in both rural and urban areas respectively.

The minister who made this statement in Sweden during the 2017 World Water week conference with theme, “Water and Waste: reduce and reuse, touches the very core of our daily lives” lamented the pathetic situation of water supply and sanitation sub sector. According to him, Nigeria is taking a critical look at the Water Supply and Sanitation sub-sector by launching the PEWASH document to bring efforts of federal government, states government and other critical stakeholders in the water sector together on strategic roles each is to play in addressing the pathetic situation of the sub-sector.

Engr. Suleiman

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

29 Foreign

RSF charges Eritrea to provide clue on detained journalist Bonny Amadi with agency reports

ÏÏÏThe fate of

journalists detained by Eritrea government since 16 years has continued to generate global attention, as voices continue to rise on the where about of the detained journalist.

Media rights advocacy group, Reporters without Borders (RSF), has raised its voice with issue of a statement tasking the Eritrean government to make known the whereabouts of the journalist who has been held for sixteen years.

A journalist with Swedish and Eritrean nationality, Dawit Isaak, was arrested in 2001 during a political crackdown in Eritrean nation.

RSF’s call coincided with this years’ commemoration of the ‘International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances.’ The group listed Eritrea and Algeria as some of the African countries that make journalists disappear The journalist helped found the Eritrean newspaper Setit, he was awarded UNESCO’s Guillermo Cano World Press

Freedom Prize in 2017. The United Nations earlier in May 2017, reiterated a similar call to the Eritrean government to provide information on the 52-yearold.

Since his arrest, Dawit along with ten other journalists on terrorism charges, he has been held incommunicado, without access to his family or lawyers.

The detained journalists are being held over demands for democratic reforms.

“Information obtained by RSF suggests that seven of these 11 journalists have already died in

detention. According to the account of a former prison guard in 2010, the last time Isaak was seen alive, the journalists had been kept in inhuman conditions – handcuffed, isolated, and exposed to terrible heat,” a statement by the group said.

RSF said despite its information requests to Asmara having received zero response, it was committed to continued efforts to ensure he was not forgotten like hundreds of journalists made to disappear by governments around the world.

Hassan

Somalis protest transfer of opposition leader to Ethiopia torture chamber

ÏÏÏSomalians have sustained

criticisms on recent transfer of opposition leader, Mr. Abdikarin Sheikh Muse of the Ogaden by the country’s government to Ethiopian torture chamber.

Outrage has continued in Somalia following the reported transfer of a citizen to neighbouring Ethiopia. The detention and subsequent transfer of Mr. Sheikh Muse of the Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) has been labeled by the people as a breach of national and international laws.

According to agency report, the transfer of the opposition to Ethiopia started early last week of August but was confirmed by ONLF in a statement issued on Thursday. The statement directly accused Somali President Mohammed Abdullahi ‘Farmajo,’ of complicity in the said transfer. It also listed as accomplices, Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khayre, National Security Advisor Gen. Bshir Mohamed Jamac-Goobe and head of the state intelligence agency Abdullahi Mohamed Ali.

Castro

Ethiopia mourns Fidel Castro ÏÏÏThe Ethiopian government

has officially sent condolences to Cuba following the death of ‘Ethiopia’s great friend,’ former Cuban leader, Fidel Castro. Castro died late Friday at the age of 90. A condolence message from President Mulatu Teshome and Prime Minister, Hailemarian Desalegn, described Castro as a great friend of the country who stood by Ethiopia during its hard times. Castro – who had survived many assassination plots – was the longest serving non-royal leader of the 20th Century.

President Malatu said, ‘‘Castro was a friend of Ethiopia who helped it defend its territorial integrity.’‘ For his part, PM Daselegn said, ‘‘Castro was a great friend and leader who stood by

Ethiopia during a difficult time.’‘ Ethiopia and neighbouring Somalia are at different poles with respect to Castro’s role in the 1977 Ogaden war, the involvement of Cuba is on record to have helped the losing Ethiopian army to defeat Somalia and thus annex the Ogaden plateau.

Hailemariam further expressed belief that the strongly binding people-to-people relations of the two countries will continue in education, health and other sectors in the future.

Fidel Castro is reputed as leader of the Communist revolution.

He ruled Cuba as a one-party state for almost 50 years before his brother, Raul Castro, took over in eight years ago. Castro bowed out of office due mainly to ill health.

Cameroon releases imprisoned Anglophone activists ÏÏÏ

Biya

Outcry by the international community over hard handling of Anglophone agitation for self-determination has filtered into the conscience of the Cameroonian government, that it ordered release of imprisoned activists.

Cameroon’s President Paul Biya ordered the release and dropping of all charges against arrested leaders of the Anglophone Southwest and Northwest regions to demonstrate commitment to international outcry for release of the detained activists.

Agency report said that the order which was read on Wednes-

day on Cameroon’s state radio, said the decision was taken by the government to address the concerns of the people from the Anglophone regions.

The leaders cited in the order include Lawyer Felix Nkongho, Dr Neba Fontem, Ayah Paul Abine and radio talk show host Mancho Bibixy among others who were facing charges at the Yaoundé Military Tribunal.

They were arrested late last year and accused of inciting violence during the protests in the North West and Southwest regions against alleged govt bias on the English speaking people of Cameroon.

Friday, September 1, 2017

EXTRATIME

Andrew Ekejiuba

T

30

he finals of the on-going Season 15 of the annual Bishop Mike Okonkwo Football Competition will be decided on Saturday, September 2, at the Yaba College of Technology, Lagos playground.

The final match which will be between FC Bethel and Young Talent 99 FA will be preceded by the third place match to be played between Synergy Ultimate Strikers

Okonkwo tourney ends Sept. 2

and Young Stars FC. To get to the finals, Young Talent 99 FA recorded a slim 1-0 victory over hard-fighting Young Stars in one of the semi- final matches while FC Bethel defeated Synergy Ultimate Strikers by 3-1 in the second semi- final match decided at the practice pitch of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Lagos.

Speaking ahead the finals, Chairman of the Local Organising committee of the tournament, Deacon Malachy Ndubuzor, expressed happiness that the competition which started more than three months ago with 64 teams has not recorded any major injuries noting that he looks forward to an entertaining final.

He also announced that as part of the activities lined up for the finals, there will be a novelty match between pastors of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM) and SWAN team as well as an exhibition match between TREM Football Academy and Cowbell Academy amongst other side attractions.

Okonkwo

Pinnick

Mikel

Play with passion, Pinnick urges Eagles Ben Nwachukwu, Abuja

P

WCQ: Expectations

as Mikel, Moses plot Lions’ fall in Uyo Andrew Ekejiuba with Agency Report

A

s Nigerians await the victory of the Super Eagles over Indomitable Lions, Nigeria captain John Obi Mikel has urged his troops to be focused when they face Cameroon in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in Uyo today.

Nigeria captain John Obi Mikel has urged his troops to be focused when they face Cameroon in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The Super Eagles will face off with the reigning Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champions Cameroon in back to back World Cup qualification Group B matches.

Nigeria will play host to the Indomitable Lions in Uyo today, while the return leg encounter is scheduled to be played in Yaounde next week Monday.

Mikel, who represented Nigeria at the 2014 FIFA World Cup finals in Brazil, says they are targeting nothing but a victory over Cameroon at home.

“There is always a motivation going to the World Cup. World Cup is the best tournament in the world and everyone wants to be there,” Mikel stated.

“I think for most of the players here, it’s going to be their World Cup and we are ready to make sure that Nigeria qualify.”

The Super Eagles are placed at the top of Group B standings with six points. They are four points ahead of second-placed Cameroon with four games left.

Meanwhile, Super Eagles midfielder Moses Simon says they respect Cameroon, but they want a win.

Simon has admitted today’s 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier is not a fixture for the faint-hearted as they will do everything to grind out a positive result.

resident of the Nigeria Football Federation and Member of the CAF Executive Committee, Mr. Amaju Melvin Pinnick has charged the Super Eagles to commit heart, soul and spirit to today’s 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against the Lions of Cameroon in Uyo. Six –pointer Nigeria are four points better than second –placed Cameroon, who arrive with the toga of African champions and believe their physique and aggressive play would prove a mountain to surmount for the hosts today.

Pinnick, who is also a Member of the Organizing Committee for FIFA Competitions, told Extra Time that the much –respect Nigerian spirit that conquers so many adversities will see the three –time African champions through, but insisted the Eagles must approach the game with a never-say-die mentality at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

NBBF crisis: NOC begins dispute resolution – Gumel

Andrew Ekejiuba

T

he Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), will soon begin the process of dispute resolution between the Tijjani Umar and Musa Kida led boards after basketball world governing body, FIBA, mandated it to ensure peace return to the administration of basketball in Nigeria before November 30. FIBA through its General Secretary, Patrick Baumann, in a letter addressed to both parties said failure for an amicable resolution between Umar who was elected in Kano on June 12 and Kida in Abuja on June 13 will see it resort to wielding the big stick including sanctions.

But Engineer Habu Gumel, the president of the NOC, which is the only body recognised by the international body to resolve the matter broke silence in Abuja stating that the process for the resolution of the dispute will soon commence even as the NOC was aware of the threat by FIBA.

Friday, September 1. 2017

EXTRATIME

31

PREMIERSHIP TRANSFERS… PREMIERSHIP TRANSFERS… PREMIERSHIP TRANSFERS…

Liverpool signs Oxlade-Chamberlain from Gunners L iverpool have completed the signing of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain from Premier League rivals Arsenal for a reported fee of £35million.

The 24-year-old signed a long-term contract with Jurgen Klopp’s side on deadline day in a deal it is believed could reach a value of £40m, having passed a medical while on England duty at St George’s Park.

He had been tipped to join Chelsea after turning down a new contract offer from the Gunners worth a reported £180,000 per week, but he is thought to have rejected the champions’ advances in favour of a move to Merseyside.

“I’m currently away with England, so I’m at St George’s Park,” Oxlade-Chamberlain said in a message to Liverpool supporters.

“Firstly, I’m delighted to have signed

for Liverpool and a big thank you to everyone here at the FA that has made this possible, using the facilities. It has been a massive help.

“I’m not going to say too much today; I’m here with England and we’ve got two big games coming up, so I want to focus on them. But I can’t wait to get to Melwood.”

Oxlade-Chamberlain adds to Liverpool’s previous signings of Mohamed Salah, Andrew Robertson and Dominic Solanke.

Stories by Frank Jumbo with Agency Reports

Oxlade-Chamberlain’s departure comes after a turbulent start to Arsenal’s season saw them lose two of their first three Premier League games, including Sunday’s 4-0 humiliating reverse at Anfield.

Liverpool, meanwhile, have seven points from a possible nine and have also sealed qualification to the Champions League group stage since the start of the new campaign.

Alex

Tottenham completes Aurier capture

Utrecht

Man Utd sends Willock to Utrecht

T

ottenham have confirmed the signing of Paris Saint-Germain defender Serge Aurier for a reported fee of £23million.

The right-back completed his move on deadline day and signed a five-year contract with Mauricio Pochettino’s side after he was granted a work permit. Aurier was linked with a host of clubs from around Europe, including Spurs’ Premier League rivals Chelsea and Manchester United. “This is a huge and exciting opportunity at a massive football club and I am determined to prove myself as a professional both on and off the pitch,” he told reporters. “This is a fresh start for me and I will do everything to make the Spurs fanbase, which is huge and diverse, proud of me.

“The fans are the most important people at any club and I am looking forward to showing them and everyone at Spurs the real Serge Aurier.”

The 24-year-old’s signing adds to a busy end to the transfer window for Tottenham, who brought in Juan Foyth from Estudiantes on Wednesday and have also landed Davinson Sanchez and Paulo Gazzaniga over the last week of the window.

Aurier joins Kieran Trippier and youngster Kyle Walker-Peters as Spurs’ right-back options following the sale of Kyle Walker to Manchester City last month,

M

anchester United have loaned midfielder Matty Willock out to Eredivisie outfit Utrecht.

Willock, 21, will spend the 2017-18 campaign with Utrecht, who finished fourth in the Dutch top flight last season.

He is yet to make a first-team appearance for United, but did make the bench for two Premier League games last season.

Willock was on the books of Arsenal as a youngster, where his brother Joe remains. Their sibling Chris left Arsenal for Benfica in June.

“Matty is a versatile midfielder who played for Manchester United over the past few years and enjoyed a part of his football training at Arsenal,” said Utrecht boss Erik ten Hag. “In Manchester he has not yet managed to step up to the first team, but we are confident having seen him many times in the Premier League youth teams play to promise that he can add value to Utrecht.”

Aurier

which was reportedly worth £50m.

The Ivory Coast international played 22 Ligue 1 games last season and spent three years at PSG after

joining from Toulouse initially on loan in 2014. He won the league twice, among a total of 11 domestic trophies.

Published by FOLIO COMMUNICATIONS LTD, Lateef Jakande Road, Agidingbi, Ikeja. email: info@dailytimes.ng Tel: 08038099089.

Editor Daily: TONY AMOKEODO

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2017

VOL. 3. NO. 438

Price: N150

Reminiscence of Nigerian Polity

Flashback in Times: September 1, 1966

News Hotline: 08050220561 Advert Hotlines: 08086296714, 08033228839

Scrapping of the unitary system of government as reported by the The DAILY Times of Nigeria edition of Thursday, September 1, 1966, today is a pointer to the fact that Nigerians are change lovers and mongers and that the various calls for the restructuring of the country is never out of place; but another desire in the citizenry for a drastic change in their own country.

Business Times Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

NACHO boss charges staff on vigilance against prohibited items Page B2

Index rises for fifth consecutive month to 53.6 in August –CBN

What kills inequality (1) Page B8

Page B3

Azuri, NDPHC unveil PayGo solar Simon Ugwu Azuri Technology in partnership with the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), has inaugurated its PayGo Solar Home Systems in Nigeria, to deliver affordable, clean energy to 20,000 rural households living without electricity.

Under Nigeria’s Renewable Energy Policy, the government aims to increase power generation from renewable energy sources from 13 per cent in 2015 to 23 per cent in 2025; and 36 per cent in 2030.

Azuri’s PayGo Solar Home sys-

Ï Ƒ ƈ Ɔ è ƌƆ è ƐƑƗƆ Ɛ Ɛ Ə ƆƐƆƗ tems have the capacity to power four LED bulbs providing up to eight hours of lighting, a radio and a USB port with charging cables for mobile phones.

Customers pay a monthly topup rate via mobile money for 36 months after which time the unit can be unlocked and the customer owns the unit.

The deployment of 20,000 Azuri solar home systems is expected to create 500 direct jobs, including solar installer and agents and

5,000 indirect jobs.

Small businesses will be able to stay open for longer hours after sunset, students can continue their studies in the evening, and off-grid families can charge phones or listen to radios in their own homes.

Azuri has carried out successful pilots within several communities in Abuja, Kwara, and Osun states, installing nearly 200 solar home systems, just as the launch of the Azuri Quad system, last

year, has helped boost the country’s economy, which fell into recession in 2016.

The General Manager, West African region, Azuri Technology, Vera Nwanze, said the PayGo solar system has made it possible for students in Nigeria’s rural areas to study at night, and excelling in schools, while the system has also helped parents save money as well as reduce the health hazards associated with kerosene explosions and others.

Lƈ ƈ ƐƆƏ Ƈ jƏ ƍ ƏƐ Ɛƈ è `Ɛê 6 ê ` Ɛƈƌƈ ƌ Ɔƅ ƈè 6ƈ &ƌƈ Ɔ ƅƆè j Ɔ dƑƋƐ Ƈ d Ɗ Ɛ è Ƌ Ɖƈ LƑ ƌƌ Ɨ d ô # ƄƑƄ Ɗ Əè `ƆƅƐ Əƃ ƈƆƇ &ƔƆƅƑƐƈƒƆè Mƈ ƆƏƈ ƋƋƆ Ɔ Ƈ ƒƈ Ɛƈ jƆƅ Ƌ ƕè Əƈ è ƍƐ ƈ ƄƗƑƋ Ƌ ƌƈ L ƌƌƆƗè #ƈƏƆƅƐ Ə 1Ɔ ƆƏ Ƌè Mƈ ƆƏƈ L ƏƈƐƈƌƆ Ɨƌƈ ƈ ƐƏ Ɛƈ Ɨ d ƇƆƐƕ Ɔ ƅƕè #Əê # ƊƑƊƑ ^ƆƐƆƏ ƈƗƆ Ɨ &ƔƆƅƑƐƈƒƆ dƆƅƏƆƐ Əƕè Mƈ ƆƏƈ d ƈƍƍƆƏ ô Ƒ ƅƈƋè ƏƏƈ ƐƆƏ 6 ƆƋƋ Ɛ Ɛ Ɔ ơǀƐ M Ɛƈ Ƌ Ƒ ƅƈƋ jƏ ƍ ƏƐ Ɛƈ LƆƆƐƈ ƈ d Ɗ Ɛ è d Ɗ Ɛ dƐ ƐƆêêêƏƆƅƆ ƐƋƕê

FG promises to partner Britain over foreign investment Mathew Dadiya, Abuja

The Federal Government said it will work with the British authorities to stimulate more Direct Foreign

BUSINESS TIMES Business Editor Ganiyu Obaaro Deputy Business Editor Azubike Nnadozie Asst. Business Editor Simon Ugwu Capital Market Editor Bonny Amadi

Investments (DFIs) in Nigeria by the private sector.

The Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma, who said this at a meeting in Abuja on Thursday, told a delegation of British government officials led by the Secretary of State for International Development, Priti Sushil Patel that the Nigerian government was intensifying efforts at ensuring the ease of doing business in the country; and would welcome more foreign investments.

Patel and her team is in Nigeria to have an on-the-spot appraisal of the situation in the North East

of the country to enable the British Government to decide on how to assist President Muhammadu Buhari-led government to address the situation in the region, as well as other development initiatives.

Acknowledging the various interventions made by the British Government in aid of the country’s developmental challenges, the minister said that although Nigeria would appreciate more foreign aid from the British Government, it would be looking more in the area of investments from companies in that country coming into Nigeria.

ULC sets up 15man committee on industrial action Joy Ekeke The United Labour Congress have set up a 15-members committee that would commence the industrial action if the Federal Government fails to meet the union’s demands within two weeks.

This was contained in a statement signed by the General Secretary of United Labour Congress, Comrade Didi Adodo and made available to journalists.

The statement read, “It is a large committee made up of 15-members drawn from some industrial unions who are affiliates of the ULC. It is headed

by Comrade Kasimu Kadiri; the General Secretary of Steel and Engineering Workers’ Union of Nigeria {SEWUN} and a National Vice President of the ULC as the Chairman; and Comrade Onyeka Chris; Deputy General Secretary of ULC as the Secretary.

“ULC wants to be prepared to ensure that we carry out an industrial action that would be very effective and compel the Federal Government and governors to listen to the cries of Nigerian workers and masses.”

The labour movement said it is their duty to assist the government on enhanced governance in order to break the shackles of suffering which under-develop-

CONTINUES ON PAGE B2

Infinix unveils cinematic Hot 5, Hot 5 Lite, partners Jumia, Slot

By Tony Nwakaegho Infinix Mobility, a forwardthinking technology company, has added to its flagship with the release of one of its super dynamic smartphone ‘the Hot 5 and Hot 5 lite’.

The Communication Manager Miss Olamide Amosu, Infinix Nigeria while brief journalists in Lagos said that the new device from the Infinix Hot series is themed ‘My mobile cinema’ to create a new mobile experience for customers in Nigeria.

“It is also a follow-up to the last

release of “Hot 4 series” and it comes with a 5.5” HD display, dual-front speakers, Dirac 3D Stereo features and 4000mAh battery life for the best cinematic experience.

“5.5” High Definition Screen for users to have a wonderful cinema experience on their mobile devices. Dirac 3D Stereo Surround redefines the audio and visual entertainment capacities on mobile device with the highimpact 3D stereo surrounding.

Regarding this new introduction to the family of smartphones from Infinix, Miss Amosu, said CONTINUES ON PAGE B2

Business News B2 Infinix unveils cinematic Hot 5, Hot 5 Lite, partners Jumia, Slot “the Hot 5 and Hot 5 Lite are set to up the scale of mobile entertainment for the Nigerian populace. They are capacitated to deliver the top-notch audio-visual appeal to the public and change the general feeling about watching movies on mobile phones. At least, the big screen, Dirac Stereo technology that creates a highgrade entertainment experience and the dual front-speakers will see to that. Furthermore, the 16GB ROM and 2GB RAM provides enough room to do more”.

She stated that Infinix unveils the first mobile cinema smartphone with its retail partner’s online ‘Jumia Nigeria’ and Slot as its offline partner, adding that both partners have made it their mission to offer Infinix customers the best service also making available the Infinix Hot 5 to customers all over Nigeria. Infinix Nigeria makes the Hot 5 available at a retail price (N37, 500).

However, the Hot 5 Lite will hit the market only (N32, 000).”

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

NACHO boss charges staff on vigilance against prohibited items Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo Acting managing Director of the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company plc (nahco aviance), Mrs. Folashade Ode, has tasked always educate and update themselves on prohibited items on the export list so as to guide against taking them from shippers.

This is just as she revealed that due to changing market conditions and in line with the duties and responsibilities of the Board

of Directors of NAHCO Plc, the Board has decided to re-align the top management as part of the reorganization process to reposition NAHCO for better performance.

Ode, who also tasked the staff of the Company on vigilance and dedication to duty, spoke while on a visit to some units within the Company and them that it is important for them to be very vigilant stating that the Company appreciates the efforts they put into their work and that they should not rest on their oars.

Ode who was named MD/ CEO in an acting capacity in a notice received at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) on August 7, 2017, told staff at the Export Warehouse of the Company that they should at all times adhere strictly to the guidelines governing the exportation of cargoes through the warehouse.

She reminded staff that they should always educate and update themselves on prohibited items on the export list so as to guide against taking them from shippers.

Ode

Ace comedian, Bovi Ugboma flanked

by Glo subscribers, Adama Edi and Muhammad Musa, at the Suleja, Niger State edition of the mega comedy show currently touring the nation... on Sunday.

Again, Air Peace rewards customers with free tickets Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo Nigeria’s leading airline, Air Peace has again issued hundreds of free economy and business class tickets to its customers under its Frequent Flyer Programme (FFP) tagged “Peace Advantage.”

In August 2016, the carrier also rewarded its customers who had earned enough points under its loyalty scheme. About two months after in October, Air Peace also compensated all passengers on two of its delayed Abuja-Lagos flights. A total of 196 passengers affected were compensated.

Vice Chairman of Air Peace, Mrs. Alice Onyema, who was on one of the affected flights, made the announcement to the surprised passengers. The flights, the airline said, were delayed due to unfavourable weather and VIP movements.

In a message to over 500 new beneficiaries by the carrier’s Loyalty Support Team, the airline said the free tickets were its way of rewarding them for keeping faith with it.

Kaduna set to improve ULC sets up 15- man committee telecom services in rural areas on industrial action Abiodun Oyindamola, with Agency report

The Kaduna State Government is working with a telecom company to mount 40 masts across the state to improve telecom services in 15 local government areas of the state, an official said on Wednesday.

Mr Sheyin Olufade, Technical Assistant to Gov.Nasiru El-Rufai on Inter Agency Support, told newsmen in Gyuibi village, Kudan Local Government, after the flag off of the project.

He said that the project, being implemented in partnership with TYDACOM Telecommunication Company, would also enhance security and the state’s economy.

According to him, the aim is to promote businesses and prompt response to security concerns in any part of the state.

“Primarily they should expect three things: One is improved service on the GSM phone, improvement on their social economy, because they would be able to communicate better – their business, farming gets improvedand also better security.” Olufade said.

He said that work on the installation would be completed within four months, adding that it would create jobs for local people.

In a separate interview with newsmen, Managing Director of the company, Prof. Akin Akiniyi said the project would cover 15 local government areas in the state that have poor telecom access.

“Traditionally over the years, they have been trying to provide coverage for these local government areas, but the investment involved is so much and the return so small, but we can do it.”

Akiniyi said.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1

ment has foisted on Nigerians.

The union added, “For the avoidance of doubt, we want to reiterate that if these demands as once again stated below are not met on or before the expiration of this ultimatum on the Friday, the 8th of September, we shall be forced to embark on this nation-wide strike.”

Parts of the labour demands include: Federal Government should ban the stationing of the Army and Police in workplaces and factory premises. It also said that it would stop employers who are now colluding with the Army and other security agencies from setting up garrisons in factories for the purposes of intimidating and harassing workers.

The union also demanded that,“That the Government

should demand that the Federal Ministry of Labour sets up a task force immediately to carry out factory inspections as most of our factories are death traps.

“An immediate review of the privatization of Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) is needed to save Nigerians the agony of suffering under the suffocating darkness, which the GENCOs and DISCOs have foisted on the nation.

“The immediate payment of all the arrears of salaries owed Nigerian workers at all levels of government without exception. ” The Federal Government honours its 2009 agreement with university lecturers under the umbrella of ASUU quickly and commence negotiations with them on new issues so that our universities will re-open amongst others.”

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

Stories By Motolani Oseni In order to save the Nigeria currency, Naira, from a looming fall during the long holiday declared by the Federal Government of Nigeria for this year Eid-el- Kabir celebration (Muslim festival), the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on Thursday, gave the currency breath of live with fresh injection of $297million, totaling $547million into the foreign exchange market in one week.

This is even as the Naira, further extended gains at both the parallel market and at the Nigeria Autonomous Foreign Exchange Fixing (NAFEX) window, while traded at 365 to the dollar at parallel market against 366 on Wednesday and remained unchanged at 359.00 at the autonomous window.

B3 Money Market

Eid-el Kabir: CBN saves Naira from looming drop, injects $547m in one week ÏM ƈƏ ƅƋ Ɔ Ɛ ƢÕǀ Ɛ ƍ Ə ƋƋƆƋ ƌ ƏƊƆƐè ƐƆ ƗƈƆ Ɛ M 0& However, with this new forex intervention, the retail Secondary Market Intervention Sales (SMIS) segment of the forex market received a boost on the last trading day of the week, while the total intervention for the week hit $547million.

Confirming the figures, the CBN spokesman, Mr. Isaac Okorafor, the Acting Director, Corporate Communications Department disclosed that the Bank was resolute in its determination to in-

tervene in the forex market with the aim of uplifting the naira exchange rate, boost liquidity in the forex market and ensure timely execution and settlement for eligible transactions.

The spokesman also expressed confidence that the interventions will continue to guarantee stability in the market and ensure availability to individuals and business concerns with genuine demand for Forex transactions.

It will be recalled that the

apex bank had, on Monday, intervened in the Inter-Bank Foreign Exchange Market to the tune of $195m in three segments.

In the wholesale segment of the inter-bank Foreign Exchange market, it sold $100m and also uplifted the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and invisible segments, with the sum of $50m and $45m respectively.

Okorafor, while responding to media enquiries earlier in the week had hinted that the apex

bank would increase liquidity in the market in the coming days, noting that the move by the CBN is necessary to enhance stability in the FX market.

It would be recalled that the apex bank on Monday; intervened in the market with $250m, as the Small and Medium Enterprises got $100m; and invisible segments uplifted with $85m and $65m respectively.

Mr. Okorafor said that the apex bank would pump even more li-

PARALLEL MARKET

nd# 9Mj&` ME ƢÕƠ G 1Rd ƢÕǀ nC ƢÕǀ ^6 ƢÕÕ

1 ^ ƿÕƢêÕ ƿƣƾ ƿƣƾ ƿƣƿ

&n` ƿƾÕêƣ ƿƢƾ ƿƢƾ ƿƢƢ

FOREIGN EXCHANGE RATES M RƇƇƈƅƈ Ƌ ` ƐƆ

` ƐƆ Ɔ æüç ƢƠǀêƤǀ Ơ

NAFEXFX Window

` ƐƆ æ ç Ɔ æüç RƍƆ ƈ Ƌ ƈ ƢÕƠêƣÖ ƢǀÖêÕƣ Ơêƾơ ƠêơÖ

ƔƔƔ

Index rises for fifth consecutive month to 53.6 in August –CBN êêê ƅ ƌƍƑƐƆƏè ƐƆƔƐƈƋƆè ƅƆƌƆ Ɛè Ɛ ƆƏ ƏƆƅ ƏƗ Ə ƓƐ The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has said Purchasing Manufacturing Index (PMI) Expands for Fifth Consecutive Month to 53.6 Index points in August, indicating expansion in the manufacturing sector.

The PMI is an indicator of the economic health of the manufacturing sector, which is based on five major indicators — new orders, inventory levels, production, supplier deliveries and the employment environment.

According to the latest PMI released by the CBN on Thursday, 12 of the 16 sub-sectors reported growth in the review month in the following order: computer & electronic products; appliances and components; chemical & pharmaceutical products; textile, apparel, leather and footwear; electrical equipment; printing & related support activities; paper products; nonmetallic mineral products; food, beverage & tobacco products; furniture & related products; cement and plastics & rubber products.

But the remaining 4 sub-sectors con-

CBN GOVERNOR

Godwin Emefiele

tracted in the order: transportation equipment; primary metal; petroleum & coal products and fabricated metal products.

In the same vein, the production level index for manufacturing sector grew for the sixth consecutive month in August 2017.

According to the CBN PMI report for August, “At 57.4 points, the index indicated an increase in production at a slower rate, when compared to its level in the preceding month. 11 of the 16 manufacturing subsectors recorded increase in production level, one remained unchanged and the other 4 declined during the review month.”

At 52.3 points, the new orders index grew for the fifth consecutive month.

Six sub-sectors reported growth, 1 remained unchanged; while nine contracted in the review month According to the report, the supplier delivery time index for the manufactur-

ing sector, at 52.0 points in August 2017, rose for the third consecutive month.

Nine sub-sectors recorded improved suppliers’ delivery time, two remained unchanged while five sub-sectors recorded delayed delivery time.

The report explained that employment level index in August 2017 stood at 51.5 points, indicating growth in employment level for the fourth consecutive month.

“Of the 16 sub-sectors, seven recorded growth, four remained unchanged while five sub-sectors recorded decline in employment level over the preceding month,” the report said.

For the inventories index, the report

by CBN said, “At 54.9 points, inventories index grew for the fifth consecutive month, and at a faster rate when compared to its level in July 2017. Thirteen of the 16 sub-sectors recorded growth, one remained unchanged while two subsectors recorded decline in inventories.”

Capital Market B4

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

Bony Amadi

NSE suspends trading on Avon Crown Bonny Amadi In pursuant to scheme of merger between Avon Crowncaps & Containers Plc and majority of equity holders of the company, Wilko Corporation, the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) has suspended trading on the company’s share, a move that may eventually lead to delisting.

The NSE, in a statement signed by Acting Head, Listings Regulation Department, Mr. Godstime Iwenekhai notified dealing members of the exchange on the prevailing halt on any transaction on the shares of the exchange, commencing 31 August 2017.

“Dealing Members are hereby notified that trading on the Shares of Avon Crowncaps & Containers (Nig.) Plc (‘’the Company’’) on the Floor of The Nigerian Stock Exchange (“The Exchange”) has been suspended effective today, 31 August 2017” said NSE. The exchange said that the trade suspension is in compliance with the approved Scheme of arrangement between the Company and holders of its fully paid ordinary shares which will lead to the voluntary delisting of the company from the official list of The Exchange.

Daily Times Nigeria recalls that Wilko Corporation, a private company incorporated in the Bahamas, holds majority shares in Avon Crowncaps.

In a notice to the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, through its stockbrokers, CSL Stockbrokers Limited, Avon Crowncaps said the restructuring proposal, will involve the acquisition of the entire141.16 million ordinary shares of 50 kobo each belonging to the minority shareholders, which represents 20.64 percent of the company’s issued share capital.

The Nigerian stock Exchange has given explanation on what caused disruption of trade on Thursday August 31, which led to the extension of closing hour of trading to 3.00pm.

A reliable source from the Exchange told Daily Times Nigeria that the brief disruption was a mere technical hitch, but was resolved soon after and trades were executed accordingly.

A source said, “ It is a mere technical problem, which often happens when you want to log in to your email or accounts, it was gathered that the development made traders not to be able to log in, but this was sorted out immediately it was identified.”

The source said that said that what happened was a mere tech-

NSE explains disruption on trading activities nical challenge, and that the NSE did not trigger the circuit breaker, a devise usually employed to halt severe market depression.

“The NSE did not apply the circuit breaker, it was a technical problem and was immediately resolved and trading resumed. Because of the brief delay caused by the disruption, trading was extended by 30 minutes.”

Daily Times Nigeria gathered that the disruption stalled market operators from entering their trades, as man-

dates could not be entered or executed.

Around 2.pm on Thursday, a market operator affected by the trade disruption said, “Please, be informed that the glitch has been resolved and Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) trading system is back up. You can now go ahead and place your mandate using the easy trade platform.

The closing time for the market has also been extended to 3.00pm.’’

Earlier, the market operator had reported that it was

unable to present report to its clients on trading progress with updates on orders, offers and execution deals, primarily due to technical problem of the NSE trading platform.

Daily Times recalls that the Nigerian bourse has had no course to trigger the circuit breaker since January and as market has remained upbeat, may not have any need to deploy the market movement device control, going by sustained upbeat of the equities market.

Trading floor

Rights Issue: Union Bank gets SEC’s nod to raise N50bn Afolabi Adesola Following the announcement that it will float an N50 billion Rights Issue in 2017, Union Bank has received approvals from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), to move forward on raising the Tier 1 capital.

The lender, in a statement, said it anticipates that the Rights Issue

SEC, DG, Gwarzo

will be open for subscription this September.

During the offer period, 12.1 billion ordinary shares of 50 kobo each, will be available at N4.10 per share, on the basis of five new shares for every seven shares held.

The Qualification Date for the Rights Issue had already been announced by The Nigerian Stock Exchange, as August 21, 2017.

Commenting on the SEC approval, Mr. Emeka Emuwa, Chief Executive Officer said, “The approval of the Securities and Exchange Commission brings us to the final stages of this important transaction for Union Bank which is critical to our short to medium term business objectives.

The capital raised from the rights issue will support our strategy to accelerate business growth and position Union Bank as a leading commercial bank in Nigeria.”

Investors lose N393bn as Equities market closes August depressive Afolabi Adesola A total of N393.6 billion has been recorded as losses by investors on the Nigerian Stock Exchange, in the past four trading sessions, as the four days, last trading session of the month, closed on a bearish note.

Nigeria’s capital market is closed for the Muslim Eid-ul-Kabir holiday, on Friday(today) and Monday, meaning all sessions in the last trading week in the month of July closed nega- ASI tive.

The equiDEALS ties market perfor mance on Thursday VOLUME was attributed to profit taking VALUE and investors need for liquid cash, hence the CAP

sell offs in stocks that had appreciated in previous sessions.

The Consumer Goods’ sector recorded the highest loss of 1.03 per cent, while the insurance index led the day’s sectoral gainers with 1.39 per cent.

Although market breadth improved as 27 gainers were paired against 20 losers. Julius Berger led the day’s losers with a depreciation of 5 per cent to close at N32.49

Summary of activities on NSE 35, 504.62

2,263.00 266,505,858.00 4,036,009,777.21 12,237,477,313,305.48

per share, Cadbury dropped 4.97 per cent to close at N11.47 per share and SCOA Motors declined 4.97 per cent to close at N3.25. Morison Industries fell 4.65 percent to close at 82 kobo and Stanbic Bank depreciated 4.33 per cent to close at N38.27 per share.

On the other hand, Continental Reinsurance Plc led the gainers with an appreciation of 5 per cent to close at N1.47. It was trailed by Nigeria Police Force Micro Finance Bank which grew by 4.46 per cent to close at N1.17, and Fidson added 4.38 per cent to close at N3.34 per share. Jaiz Bank gained 4.05 per cent to close at 77 kobo per share while Transcorp advanced by 4 per cent to close the day at N1.30 per share.

At the end of the day’s transactions, investors, in 2,263 deals, traded a total of 266.5 million shares valued at N4.04bn, as against a total of 239.9 million shares valued at N2.9bn traded by investors in 4,371 deals on Wednesday.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1 , 2017

B5

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

dƐ ƏƈƆ ƕ &ƄƆƏƆ ƈƄƑƖ Ə A group of vibrant women under the auspices of Women In Hospitality Nigeria (WIHN),held its maiden seminar to address the problems faced by women in the hospitality sector.

Speaking at the seminar, which took place at Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos, President and Founder WIHN, Amaka AmatokwuNdekwu, said the WIHN has a mission to inspire and empower women in the country while promoting gender diversity and leadership in the industry.

Amaka, who spoke on the theme: “Operating in the Nigerian Hospitality Industry: Challenges and Solutions,” stated that the core values of WIHN are accountability, encourage collaboration and partnership, emulate excellence, empower members, sustain integrity and inspire the younger generation to develop a career in the hospitality and tourism industry rather than view it as a means to solving their current unemployed status.

She said: “We also want to be seen as strong professional women passionate about unlocking our untapped potential with a determination to contribute to the growth and development of the hospitality industry in Nigeria and hopefully outside Nigeria.

“We intend to be change agents and be a voice against the victimisation

B6 Tourism

WIHN group aims to drive up hospitality industry in Nigeria

WIHN group at a recent seminar in Lagos

and stigma on women working in the hospitality industry thereby creating a paradigm shift in the perception of women engaged in the hospitality and tourism industry. Most of our junior colleagues barely know how to handle these situations, which at best, I would say are not just terrible, but traumatic, they end up becoming victims of direct or indirect forms of sexual harassment which in turn gives the industry females an uncomfortable and deplorable image.

“We shall stand as one voice and one body to protect our women, advance their knowledge and en-

courage them attain leadership positions by providing platforms to achieve this whilst raising women with integrity possessing immense drive and passion to prosper and excel within the industry without resorting to compromise,” she said.

Also, at the event, the Senior Special Adviser to Cross Rivers State Governor on Hospitality, Justina Ovat, while speaking on “Calabar, Its Value Chain in Tourism and Hospitality, said the state has evolved from being known for its food and women to be recognised as a state known for tourism and hospitality; adding that it

has become one of the foremost tourist destination in the country.

She stated that for the hospitality industry in the country to grow, there is a need for collaboration between the government and the private sector in order to drive the sector noting that without the synergy between both parties the industry might find it difficult to move forward.

“The private sector will always drive the hospitality and tourism sector but the government has the responsibility to provide the enabling environment for them. And in return the private sector must ensure that they pay their taxes for

the government to improve on the facilities and even create more. That synergy must be there between the private sector and the government” she said.

Ovat added that, “The hospitality industry is a very interesting industry it is an industry which possibilities abound, the possibilities are endless. Is it the food sector, accommodation sector or the amenities sector? There are a lot of sectors to go in this industry. So many hotels spring up everyday, most hotel owners do not even know what they are doing, so some people can go into management consultancy, some people an even go into training. You can be the one who supply amenities to these hotels. You can go into supplying of food, not all hotels must have a restaurant.

“And talking about Cross River state, you know we are very vast in hospitality and tourism. For the ease of accessibility to our tour sites, the Federal Government and the state government are doing a lot regarding access roads, feeder roads into the tour sites. Most tour sites are way out of town. Like the Obudu Mountain Resort for instance, is 6 hours

from the Calabar metropolis, coupled with bad roads.

“But our governor is planning to introduce the Cally Air that can convey tourist into the state and to Obudu mountain resort.

So, with these possibilities people can come into the state by all means. Also we are dredging the sea port so all means into the state could be accessed,” she stated.

Also speaking at the event, CEO LAC Management Consultants, Christine Plaatjies noted that one of the core challenges facing the hospitality sector is the service offered by to guests at hotels in the country.

She said every organisation has a service culture and should be inculcated in the staff in order to sustain efficient service delivery.

She added that workers’ attitude is one of the core obstacle preventing the organisation from achieving its financial goal.

Other speakers at the event included Director of Government Affairs, WIHN, Dr. Peju Afanu, CEO, Jumia, Omolara Adagunodo; Managing Director, Joblink Recruitment Agency, Mary Tokunbo Dinah.

Nothing Hill: Ambode showing commitment to tourism development - Melaye Ïd ƕ ƒ Ƒ ƈ ƅƏƆ ƐƈƒƆ ƈ ƗƑ ƐƏƕ Ɛ Ƅ Ɛ Mƈ ƆƏƈ ô ƈƌ Ɔ Ɔ Ɖ ƌƈ Rƌ ƈƊƆ Senator representing Kogi West Senatorial District, Mr. Dino Melaye, has lauded the various initiatives of Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, towards the promotion of tourism and entertainment, saying that the governor has demonstrated rare commitment to moving the sector forward.

Speaking at the 51st edition of the popular Notting Hill Carnival in the United Kingdom, Melaye said Ambode deserved to be commended for his commitment to the development and promotion of tourism and culture as an alternative way of job creation and youth empowerment.

He said it was on record that the governor had been using the rich artistic potential of the state as a veritable tool for branding and for polishing the image of Nigeria abroad.

While addressing severalf people at the Carnival, the serving Senator said the governor’s exemplary achievements in the area of culture and tourism promotion was a shining example of how a state could develop and distinguish itself among its peers.

In its second year running, Lagos State Government supported the Lagos Corner, a section of the Notting Hill Carnival, which is famous worldwide as Europe’s biggest street party that celebrates Afro-Caribbean culture and lifestyle.

“I’m impressed with what Lagos State Government is doing here.

This is a huge platform for the promotion of our culture and creative artists. I must commend Governor Ambode for his rare commitment to this initiative; and for providing a rallying point for Nigerians in the UK and those visiting to have a voice and quality presence at this

extraordinary gathering,” Melaye said.

In apparent reference to The Lagos Street Party, a yearly showpiece that made its debut in December 2016, the Senator said with what he saw in London, Lagos State should organise a carnival that will attract the attention of the world to Nigeria’s rich culture and artistic talents.

“I want to congratulate Lagos State for taking the lead in tourism and entertainment in Nigeria. Thumbs up to Lagos State, thumbs up to Ambode and thumbs up to the All Progressives Congress (APC) party. With this fantastic outing, I also congratulate Nigeria for having a governor like Ambode. There’s no country like Nigeria,” the Senator said.

Melaye urged Nigerians in the Diaspora to show more interest in the developments being recorded in the country, saying that very soon, they would see that the APC means well in

Nigeria.

Similarly, Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Steve Ayorinde, said the huge presence of Lagos State at the carnival and the suc-

cess it recorded was “a demonstrable evidence of Governor Ambode’s commitment to promote tourism and entertainment as alternative to oil and gas in Nigeria.”

Property B7 Stories by Babajide Okeowo A report, The Broll SubSaharan Africa Snapshot 2017, has predicted that the real estate sector in Nigeria is expected to record modest growth, as the country climbs out of recession.

The Snapshot, which is a halfyear overview for both investors and occupiers in the sector, contains overviews of the economy, as well as the industrial, office and/or retail markets in Nigeria.

According to the report, in the first half of 2017, no new office deliveries were recorded, however around 52,000m2 of Agrade office space is expected to be delivered to the core markets of Ikoyi and Victoria Island,

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

Real estate sector to record modest recovery - Report

South west Nigeria, over the next 6 to 12 months.

Specifically, relocations by corporate from B-grade and standalone buildings to better quality space in A-grade buildings in Victoria Island and Ikoyi remained a key theme in the first half of 2017. These relocations continued to be driven by more favourable leasing terms in the market as a result of the vacancies in recently delivered buildings.

Throughout the first half of the year, there was also re-

surgence in demand for larger office spaces in the occupier market. Whilst smaller office requirements of 200m2 to 500m2 held sway, enquiries and transactions for spaces exceeding 1,000m2 were noted in the core markets of Ikoyi and Victoria Island.

The snapshot noted that the new forex window opened by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, for investors is also expected to revive some confidence, as landlords are now able to carry out dollar-based transactions and

meet other financial obligations much easier. As some landlords look to benchmark their rents with the rates offered on the forex window, rents, which are quoted in dollars, but paid in naira might trend higher as this window offers a devalued naira rate.

For the industrial market, Broll stated that there is a significant mismatch between the demand and supply of stock in the market, but increased activity in the industrial sector will hinge on sustainable poli-

cies to revive the industrial and manufacturing base of the country.

This would be strengthened by investment into adequate attendant infrastructure (roads, rail, ports, power, etc.) that can lead to the repositioning of the sector. Whilst the current government’s plan to diversify the economy and reduce the country’s dependence on imports is a step in the right direction, the full impact on the industrial sector would be better determined over the long-term.

Building collapse: Institute indicts regulating agencies

L-R: Mrs. Tonne Saheed, Senior Project Officer, Leadership Empowerment and Resource Network[LEARN]; Mr. Tope Ashiwaju, Group Public Relations and Event Manager, Dufil Prima Foods Plc; Miss Oyibo Edisere LEARN Student; Mrs. Aderonke Oguntoyinbo, Project Manager, LEARN and Master Sulaimon Jamiu, a student at the presentation of Cheque to LEARN Initiative by Dufil Prima Foods Plc in Lagos.

Real estate tip How to recognise early signs of a distressed building Incidents of building collapses in Nigeria have become a serious cause for concern; and when they occur, they caused sorrow, tears, and blood.

In more grievous cases, entire families and their properties are lost to the incidence.

However, the fatalities that accompany each building collapse can be eliminated or minimized if early warning signs of a distressed building are heeded.

Here are some warning signs to take seriously; Major cracks in the wall A crack in the wall of a building is a natural sign that the structure is unable to accommodate the movement or load to which it is subjected. When acrack appear in the walls of a building, it is either a structural crack or a non-structural crack.

While structural cracks appear as a result of incorrect design, faulty construction or overloading, non-structural cracks appear due to internally induced stress on the materials used in constructing a building.

Thermal movement remains one of the most potent causes of cracks to appear in the walls of buildings. If overlooked, this could eventually lead to the collapse of the building.

Mould, water stains on walls and collapsing ceilings There is usually one way mould and rot are caused – Water got to a part of the house that should not be wet. Professionals prefer to call this ‘moisture penetration.’

When there is an excess of moisture that can’t escape within the structure of a house, it is called a damp.

The natural tendency of moisture is to spread out from wet parts of a house to the dry areas.

The moisture would also move downwards with the under the influence of gravity. Your house construction should allow for this.

Gaps between floors When there are gaps between the walls and floors of a building, you must understand that this is a structural defect that could end very badly. Uneven

spaces and sloping floors are not to be taken lightly. For instance, take a look at the house from the street. Is the front entrance straight? For contemporary homes, sloping floors are a really bad sign.

Deteriorating support structure Deterioration can result due to different reasons including; Substandard materials used: As building components fail, they can directly impact on the exterior walls. The collapse of interior floors can push against masonry exterior walls; and this eventually paves the way for the collapse of buildings.

Tears and fissures in foundation structures: This can also happen when fissures appear in welds of steel during construction or over time. A building is likely to undergo progressive collapse when a primary structural element fails, resulting in the failure of adjoining structural elements, which in turn, causes further structural failure culminating in a building collapse.

President of Nigerian Institute of Architects, (NIA), Tonye Briade has said out that the incessant cases of building collapse in the country are serious indictment on the relevant regulating agencies in the real estate sector.

This is even as he called for an audit of the agencies so as to enhance and their relevance to national development.

According to Braide, if Nigeria is aspiring to be one of the leading 20 nations in architecture, we must rise to collectively stop the spate of building collapse in Nigeria. “The buildings are coming down at an average rate of one per month with great fatalities. This is totally unacceptable for a country repositioning towards becoming relevant in global affairs in the industry. It means that something is critically wrong with the structure of building construction administration”, he said.

Extolling the role of architecture in construction technology, Braide said architects are not taking the blame for the crumbling buildings in our cities

away from design failures, but building collapse is also due to poor governance structures in the construction process than architectural design failure alone.

His words: “So we may ask who has charge to establish and enforce good governance in the construction process. When a person presents himself for a job he cannot do, it is corruption and Nigeria has the mechanism to fight and contain corruption.

“This when extended to the regulatory process in the construction industry will create a pathway to stop the continuing collapse of buildings and make our Country Great Again Architecturally”, he noted.

Recall that another three-storey building collapse happened few days ago in Ojo area of Lagos State. There were, however, no casualties as residents have already deserted the building located at No. 21 Saka Okoro Street, Ilufe Road, Alaba International Market, Ojo. It was gathered that the building caved in on Tuesday morning in a partial collapse.

B8 Enterprenuership Inequality abounds across the world, but there are also issues about what kills inequality, as espoused here.

Redistribution’s violent History: World War II devastated the economic infrastructure of Germany and Japan. It flattened their factories, reduced their rail yards to rubble, and eviscerated their harbors.

But in the decades that followed, something puzzling happened: the economies of Germany and Japan grew faster than those of the United States, the United Kingdom, and France. Why did the vanquished outperform the victorious?

In his 1982 book, The Rise and decline of Nations, the economist, Mancur Olson, answered that question by arguing that rather than handicapping the economies of the Axis powers, catastrophic defeat actually benefited them, by opening up space for competition and innovation.

In both Germany and Japan, he observed, the war destroyed special-interest groups, including economic cartels, labour unions, and professional associations.

Gone were Germany’s partisan unions and Japan’s familycontrolled conglomerates; the U.S. Teamsters, the United Kingdom’s Society of Engineers, and France’s Federation of Building Industries all survived.

A generation after the war, only a quarter of West Germany’s professional associations dated back to the prewar era, whereas, a full half of the United Kingdom’s did. Olson’s findings had a disturbing implication: in politically stable countries, narrow coalitions of business lobbies hold back economic growth through self-serving policies, and only a major military defeat or a grisly revolution can overcome the resulting inefficiencies.

Back when Olson was writing, few economists cared about economic inequality in advanced countries; unemployment and sluggish investment were the problems of the day. To the extent that experts did focus on inequality within countries, they did so with respect to the late industrializers, where migration from poor villages to richer cities was accentuating income disparities. Even there, however, inequality was considered a temporary side effect of development; the economist

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, September 1, 2017

What kills inequality (1) elites to find ways to equalize opportunities, and to do so before driverless cars, automated stores, and other technological advances complicate the task. A humanoid robot works side by side with employees in the assembly line at a factory in Kazo, north of Tokyo, Japan. The bloody history he recounts suggests that reducing inequality will be difficult, even in the best of circumstances.

But he also exaggerates his case; there are reasons to believe that societies can reform without an instigating catastrophe.

Mancur Olson Simon Kuznets argued that it dissipated with modernization.

Had Olson considered inequality, he might have noticed that World War II had two other curious economic consequences.

First, the devastation reduced inequality—not just in the defeated countries but also in the victorious countries, and even in neutral ones. Second, these reductions proved temporary.

Around the 1970s, developed economies started becoming less and less equal, defying Kuznets’ celebrated hypothesis.

Such puzzles lie at the heart of The Great Leveler, an impressive new book by the historian Walter Scheidel.

Scheidel proposes that ever since foraging gave way to agriculture, high and rising inequality has been the norm in politically stable and economically functional countries. And the only thing that has reduced it, he argues, has been some sort of violent shock—a major conflict such as World

War II or else a revolution, state collapse, or a pandemic. After each such shock, he writes, “the gap between the haves and the have-nots had shrunk, sometimes dramatically.” Alas, the effect was invariably short lived, and the restoration of stability initiated a new period of rising inequality.

Today, the risk of violent shocks has fallen considerably. Nuclear deterrence has made great-power war unthinkable, the decline of communism has rendered wealthleveling revolutions unlikely, powerful government institutions have staved off the risk of state collapse in the developed world, and modern medicine has kept pandemics at bay. However welcome such changes may be, Scheidel says, they cast “serious doubt on the feasibility of future leveling.” Indeed, he expects economic inequality to keep rising for the foreseeable future.

The Great Leveler should set off loud alarm bells. Scheidel is right to call on the world’s

The march of inequality Jumping across civilizations and eras, The Great Leveler finds example after example of periods of rising inequality punctuated by cataclysmic events that suddenly flattened distributions of income and wealth. The range of evidence is breathtaking.

Scheidel tracks the distribution of wealth between 6000 BC and 4000 BC through indications of physical well-being, such as skeletal height and the incidence of dental lesions; signs of conspicuous consumption, such as lavish burials; and evidence of entrenched hierarchies, such as temples.

He estimates inequality in the Roman Empire by looking at the assets of top officials and influential families, as reported in censuses. He measures Ottoman inequality by turning to records of estate settlements and official expropriations. For premodern China, fluctuations over time in the number of tomb epitaphs, which only the rich could afford, serve as a proxy for the shifting concentration of wealth. Specialists in particular eras and regions will undoubtedly

quibble with some of Scheidel’s assumptions, inferences, and computations. But no reasonable reader will fail to be convinced that inequality has waxed and waned across time and space.

Scheidel also seeks to explain what causes inequality. Thomas Piketty, in his best-selling Capital in the Twenty-first Century; answered the question by arguing that the rate of return on investment generally exceeds the rate of economic growth, causing people with capital to get even wealthier than everyone else.

Scheidel accepts this mechanism but adds others.

The most basic one involves predation. Until recently, the only way to become fabulously rich was to prey on the fruits of others’ labor. Cunning people grabbed power and then accumulated wealth through taxation, expropriation, enslavement, and conquest.

They also monopolized lucrative economic sectors, largely for the benefit of themselves and their relatives and cronies. Exercising all this power—and holding on to it—required maintaining a military capable of overpowering challengers, which itself served as an instrument of further predation.

In ancient Rome, Scheidel writes, “commanders enjoyed complete authority over war booty and decided how to divide it among their soldiers, their officers and aides who had been drawn from the elite class, the state treasury, and themselves.”

In the modern world, too, authoritarian states with ruling cliques preserve political power and acquire immense wealth through violence; consider China, Egypt, Russia, and Saudi Arabia.

Today, the risk of violent shocks has fallen considerably. Nuclear deterrence has made great-power war unthinkable, the decline of communism has rendered wealth-leveling revolutions unlikely, powerful government institutions have staved off the risk of state collapse in the developed world Nwaodu Chukwuemeka, is a consultant with IDEAS Exchange Consulting, Lagos. He can be reached at nwaodu.lawrence@hotmail.co.uk (07066375847)

Life&

TIMES Friday, September 1, 2017

You will never know what you can do if you don’t try –Monique Imoni Ededuan L P

2&3

Interview L2

Daily Times Nigeria

Friday, September 1, 2017

You will never know what you can do if you don’t try –Monique Imoni Ededuan Having started her business with the sum of Ten thousand naira, Monique Imoni Ededuan has proved to the society that one can succeed if you are determined and dedicated. She is the CEO of Rentadress Nostress Limited, a leading bridal shop that established a Non-governmental Organisation called Independent Woman Initiative where women are being empowered and encouraged not to remain idle and be independent. In this interview with ABIMBOLA OBATAYO, she spoke about her love life and also elaborated on how she scaled through and stands tall after a year of establishment. and they were just occupying space in my closet. After praying and seeking Gods face on what I should do, one you start renting wedding dresses? I called two friends of mine who had just gotten married to put up their dresses for rent. They quickly jumped at the idea as long as they were going to make money from their dresses. The knowledge and experience I have, paved way for me to set up the business and by the special grace of God, Rentadress Nostress Ltd established in 2016 has rapidly grown and evolved with store outlets in Lagos, Abuja and Accra Ghana.

What gave you the impression that the business would thrive despite that you started small?

The faith and trust I have in God to bless and prosper

Who is Monique?

Monique Imoni Ededuan is a Christian, an entrepreneur, a business development consultant, inspiration speaker and philanthropist. She is currently the CEO of Rentadress Nostress Limited, a fast growing bridal one stop shop that specializes precious money by enabling them rent their dream luxurious wedding dresses as against expending it all on a new dress.

She is also the Founder of the Independent Woman Initiative, a business and entrepreneurship network and private NonGovernmental Organization that was founded in 2016. On the family side, Imoni is the fourth child of a family of six growing up in Lagos. She is a graduate of History and International Studies from the prestigious Delta State University, Abraka.

She is happily married to the love of her life.

How did you come about Rentadress Nostress Limited?

I had just resigned from my job three months before marriage and as a business development manager; I thought I was going to get another job almost immediately. I applied to several organizations; I kept hearing they will get back to me.

After applying and waiting for four months, I had become fully dependent on my husband for everything. This situation was not funny to me as I have never being idle since I graduated from the university. I decided to do something about my situation. I had two wedding dresses I bought for my wedding

Life&

I had only N10, 000 to start the business, the most important factor is I know who I am. Everything I do prospers. Most people are amazed when they read or hear that I started the bridal store with only N10, 000 which seems almost impossible. Well what N10, 000 could do for me was to get an affordable mannequin which was about what I needed to showcase the two wedding dresses I had. I knew I could work from the comfort of my house. I turned my dining section to my show room. I took advantage of the knowledge I had with growing businesses and products and knew the fastest way to get my clients was to engage them online. With my Samsung smart phone I took pictures of the dresses, set up a Facebook and Instagram account for Rentadress Nostress and started uploading pictures. Every tool available to me was useful and today I am thankful I was not discouraged by the little capital I had.

Was your husband in support of the business in the beginning?

My husband is my greatest supporter but that is after he truly understands whatever I decide to do. When I told him I wanted to start renting dresses, he was surprised because

a lucrative one, I completely forgot what the word lucrative meant because I had hoped he will be excited to know I want to start something. I had to convince him to allow me try at least and still search for the job. He did and is also happy he did not discourage me from giving the business a try.

Why did you divert from your course of study in school?

I studied history and international studies in Delta State University Abraka. I had plans to apply for a job at the Institute of Foreign Affairs but I got job as a sales executive in a Telco Firm before I graduated from the university. It was

a holiday job and my school was on strike back then. I was the best sales executive in the company which made the CEO secure my job when I came back after graduation. Then I got referred to another start up Telco Firm by a Zain manager whom I reported too. I grew and became great at sales and promoted to sales manager. I had no fore knowledge on anything bridals; I learned everything on the job. You will never know what you can do if you do not try. In the nearest future, I see myself occupying positions that involve international relations. So yes I will practice my course in future Rentadress Nostress Ltd is over a year with branches in the country and beyond, what is your driving force and how did you attain such heights within a short period?

Yes I started in February but registered the company in August 2016. Like I mentioned earlier I have this understanding that I succeed at everything. I am a very hardworking lady. I worked under the close supervision of my former boss Otunba Abdulrahman Odunowo who groomed me to always see

out well as planned. He just keeps pushing. This has helped me a lot to keep pushing no matter the setbacks or challenges concerned to see me succeed also gives me strength carry on.

Daily Times Nigeria

Friday, September 1, 2017

Interview L3

‘It’s normal when men pass compliments on women’ You started the business with ten thousand naira, what were the challenges when you started?

I faced quite a number of challenges when I started.

Firstly I needed to have a minimum of 10 dresses to suit them in the beginning I had to do a lot of convincing to get brides to patronize me. The Idea of ladies renting their wedding dresses was unwelcomed as it was a thing ladies were ashamed of. Even when they end up renting, they would request we do not upload their pictures on social media. This was to be a major setback so I started the campaign of spend less and look fabulous when you rent a wedding dress from us. Gradually the clients back then so I had to work extra hard to be online at least 15hours daily to talk about our services. I was blocked on several platforms because I tried to advertise our bridal services. Location was another challenge, I would drive

space.

Did you venture into this business because it was something you love to do or you did not want to become a liability?

I started the business because I wanted to move myself and co-dependent. I wanted to add value to my home as well. I also have other responsibilities that if I continue to anything about the Bridal business. All I knew were the basics to starting up any business. So I had to research of the business. I am passionate about succeeding so I have come to love the business. The joy of

meeting brides to be daily and being part of their love story is an honor.

How did you meet your husband?

This part is very interesting because we met at the entrance of a bank in 2012. I was trying to get inside but the security door would not allow me as it kept insisting I had metal object on me. While the queue was building up behind me, a guy tapped my hand and metal I needed to take off. I turned and started to question why he touched me and the next thing is everyone was apologizing on his behalf.

He was shy and embarrassed and I was asked to use the exit door to go into the bank. Inside the bank I walked up to him to apologize for the scene while he also apologized for touching my down but while I left the bank I wrote my number on a sheet of paper, went through the annoying door and gave the security man at the door. I told him if the guy I had issues with earlier should pass through the same door, he should give him the paper. The next day I got a call from my husband and the rest is history.

With the time spent together, what is his kind of person and how has marriage been?

The times spent with my husband have been amazing. We have our challenges and we used to quarrel a lot when we just got married. This was because we wanted to enforce our policies on each other hence we would have arguments and sometimes not talk to ourselves. With time and consistent commitment to making the marriage work, our communication and understanding of marriage has improved and we have become best friends. He is the quiet one at home while all I want to do is talk about everything. I am blessed to be his Queen while I honor him as my King.

What are your hobbies?

Whenever I have spare time, I watch movies, I also read books and articles, I love to travel and visit new places.

About the Independent Woman, what intrigued you to start such Initiative?

The independent Woman Initiative was borne out of my desire to help and empower women currently going through liberate themselves from their situations. I decided to use my story of how I started my business with N10, 000 to encourage women out there that they also can start a business, trade or skill with little or no help. This will help them break out from and purpose that most times threatens their marriages, self-

How has it been so far?

The maiden edition of the Independent Women Conference took place in Lagos on the 29th July 2017. We had in attendance over 250 women. Amongst them were nursing mothers, workers, career women, youth corpers, and graduates. We had speakers share their personal stories attendance was the Lagos State Employment Fund team led by the Director of Programs and Coordination, Mrs Teju initiative to empower businesses in Lagos State by providing loans to Startup businesses, Small and Medium Enterprises and MEs. We are passionately committed to the purpose of empowering women by inspiring them in birthing their

dreams, unleashing their potentials and stir them to become valuable to themselves, families, communities and the world.

through this program?

At the maiden edition of the Independent Women Conference, a total of N560,000 was given to 30 women who submitted their business ideas upon registration to start their dream businesses. Three major fashion houses fashion designers. We have a two-pronged program dedicated to raise the next generation of Independent Women tagged SHE LEARNS. SHE LEARNS School Schorlarship is an initiate that sponsors 20 young ladies to tertiary institutions. The candidates are selected across Nigeria and adequate funding is committed from their admission to graduation. SHE LEARNS Vocational Scholarship is a skill acquisition program that caters to 50 women annually. We help these candidates identify their These women are selected across Nigeria; in line with our core mission to empower them to become entrepreneurs.

You are a successful businesswoman and beautiful, how do u handle male admirers?

Anything of value is attractive so it is normal when men pass compliments. I try to be polite as much as I can and thank them for their admiration.

on it?

A breakdown in communication in my opinion is a major reason for abuse in marriage. I believe that a poor pattern Domestic abuse occurs every day everywhere in the world. Women are the most victims of domestic violence while the children are the worst affected. It is my prayer that women will learn to bridle their tongues while men will domestic violence.

Society Gist L4

Daily Times Nigeria

Friday, September 1, 2017

Ajibade Alabi

When London socialite, Islamiat Bewaji married

Family, friends remember Late Iyalode Adunni Bakonle

It was gathering of who is who in society weeks back at the Wahab Iyanda Folawiyo Mosque in Surulere,Lagos when London big babe, Islamiat Be-

It was no surprise that the late Lagos Society Matriarch, Iyalode Adunni Bankole who died 2years ago, was remembered at her mother s 8 day

her long time beau, Shehu Ahmad a top Muslim cleric in Ilorin Kwara State The event which was yellow and white affair had prominent London socialites, Lagos celebrities of note and many Nigerian businessmen in attendance The event which was delayed from 10 am to 1pm had the handsome

groom looking good in white expensive guinea brocade. He was ushered This is the traditional way of ushering the bride and groom in Kwara State. The bride followed suit few minutes later and she looked beautiTo say that the grown suited Islamiyat is good stature will be an understatehis eyes off her as she took her seat beside her.

Socialite, Abiodun Adejayan steps up Dukdex and bar ...Launches new instrument of the widely patronized Lounge and bar with new set of instrument The Lagos born socialites who left the country after completed his degree in Statistics from University of Ibadan many years ago disclosed to Daily Times that he decided to add more glamour to the Lounge so as to live up to his taste and

Abiodun

London based society big boy Abiodun Adejayan who recently returned to the country to set up a classy Lounge Bar in his area, at Lafenwa Itele, Ogun State, despite having a choice of having the Lounge erected in classy area of Ikoyi, Ikeja, Island among others classy area has steps up the look

be here instead of island, Ikeja or Ikoyi, Lekki because I found out that there is no standard lounge in this areas, so I decided to bring it down here so that what other people are enjoying outside we too will be able to enjoy it here, also this place is my home I am homed here so I believed it will be better for me to do such a thing here so we could enjoy it together here, but having said that I need to lift it up to the standard I do see while I was in abroad and also to the one we have in Ikoyi, Ikeja, Island and so other one, reason while I just brought in a new musical instrument. So any musician that come here to play now we not have the problem of instrument, we have also concluded our chalet for any of our customer who feel like taken a He also spoke about their plan of bringing one big artiste here.

We are still talking to small doctor and some other artiste. But I believe we are getting there�

for her soul, while all her friends came out to attend Though people may quickly forget the dead, but Iyalode Adunni s legacy could not be easily forgotten in a hurry.

She was known among her friends as a pillar of support, who always stood with them irrespective of tribe or religion Many society women who are close friends of the late Lagos society matriarch stormed Shebar Event Centre along Mobolaji Bank Anthony road, Maryland

Late Adunni Bankole

Double celebration at C&S ...As Queen Esther band and holy Mary band celebrated their 7th band anniversaries

20th August 2017 will forever remain ever green in the minds of the members of C&S movement church Ayo ni o, divine blessing cathedral victory district AIT road Alagbado Lagos, as both Queens Esther band and Holy Mary celebrated their 7thband anniversary According to Queen Esther band secretary Laide Gold, anniversary celebration is a way of giving thanks to God for his mercies over years.

Cherubim and seraphim starts band anniversaries celebration immediately after lent to show gratitude

to Almighty God for the gift of live.

This year turn out to be celebration of the Giants because the duo bands Holy Mary and Queen Esther are the mother of all female bands which attracts so many well-wishers that came to celebrate with them.

The great gospel musicians were not left out the like of great Ajomale of C&S Surulere district headquarters and Evangelist Dare melody entertained worshipers with their music.

The choir masters of the church Sola olutunde cap it all with the chorister band.

Daily Times Nigeria

Friday, September 1, 2017

Ajibade Alabi

Society Gist L5

Has love gone sour between Nenesi Ibru and Shina Rambo?

Wedding party 2 to be screened in 15 territories With the several buzz

towards

the

second following the success of its prequel is set for a

later this year and will be available in 15 territories

territories at the end of its Speaking on the state and very soon you will see

Nenesi Ibru is the beautiful daughter of

good enough for foreign on at least 15 international

Indimi celebrates life @70

How Kessington Adebutu spends big at Lagos Island Club Chief Kessington Adebutu popularwhose business conquest has earned haustible list of rich and successful part of Chief Adebutu that is not known to those who are not privileged to be can tell you for free is his unbelievably -

-

-

Adebutu

we will get you posted!

Mixed Gist L6

Daily Times Nigeria

Friday, September 1, 2017

Mutiat Alli

Who Wants To Be A Millionaire’ returns with Airopay Sponsorship

Terry Apala out with new single ‘Mgbor’

...As winning prize gets increase Popular

Nigeria

TV

be making a return on air, following a sponsorship deal organizers sealed ship with Ultima Limited, after former sponsor,

and dedication to qualductions are well known, the partnership agree-

of the press at the partnership announcement

the winnings sums of contestant who make

where in the world, renders services which

ticipants who engage in

-

being the king of his sound and peoand name because of his unique and The song is a testament of his growing status and the deserved recogni-

-

A Millionaire will start works with the highest

-

show is much bigger, richer and better, as Ai-

Tade Ogidan wraps up ‘Gold Statue’ filming

move the traditional barriers associated with e-

tor offering secure, fast tutions, and communithrough bank accounts

IFLIX, Asia’s subscription video on demand giant unveils in Nigeria

After several weeks of rigorous production, veteran and award winning filmmaker, Tade Ogidan has wrapped up the shoot of his new

Media and Infotech Limited, the world class production will also be filmed in other locations including The movie featured a stellar cast

ful, crediting its success to crucial

Tade Ogidan

TV shows, Documentaries and cartoons for as low emerging markets, announced the launch

professional team so we were able fessionalism and the cast also were fection, we have brought together a couple of co-producers on this proj-

a search for a statuette believed to

Ogidan further revealed that the plan is also to premiere the movie in as well as private premieres in Ni-

The online video streaming platform which boasts of partnerships with over 220 studios and distributors allows users have access to international, regional and local content which ranges from Asian, European, American and African movies,

subscription service is targeted at the mass marke ria, we have a lot to offer from our wide range of movie selection from around the

Daily Times Nigeria

Friday, September 1, 2017

L7

Review in retrospect

Tango with me!! More than just an emotional film, a movie with a difference Initial release: 2010 Running Time: 110 minutes Screenplay: Femi Kayode Director: Mahmood Ali-Balogun Budget: N100Million

Bamigbetan Bukky

Movie Review

Date Night: Every promise counts in relationship The movie date night reveals the challenges individuals face in their relationship even though they the lives and the revelations of the strangers and

Producer: Mercy Aigbe-Gentry Director: Pascal Amanfo Script: Patrick Nnamani Cast: Uche Jumbo, Mercy Aigbe, Bolanle Ninalowo, Kenneth Okolie, Allwell Ademola, Pascal Amanfo Year of release: 2017

Michelle confronted him out of annoyance and he

movie 5/10

Relationship L8

Daily Times Nigeria

Friday, September 1, 2017

Nwaokocha Daniel

Developing your child’s potential In these days, we tend to see a lot of parents who always compare their children or their child to another

blame falls more on the parents. So, as parents, part be anyone that they want to be. In order to do that, we have to help them recognize and develop their

weaknesses is the most important part of developing

potentials.

1. Let them Explore

learn new skills, discover their abilities and talents. reading than watching the television.

3. Support their Decisions

wasted their childhood trying to protect them.

2. Encourage Reading

play and develop conversational skills by asking

when they can as this is a great bonding activity for families. Wisdom and knowledge and embedded in the sheets or books. Let them spend more time

4.Set Goals Together

and is a great motivator towards reaching their

into the world with a loser mindset.

5.Teach Commitment Commitment is what keeps achievers moving

So whatever activity, hobby, sport or interests they

Lastly, always remember to be a good role