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2019: Ex-First Ladies, former govs, others form new political party Tom Okpe Abuja

ÏÏÏ Ahead

of the 2019 general elections, a new political party known as Alliance for Feminine Agenda (AFA), was at the weekend born in Abuja, with some yet-to-be unveiled former first ladies and ex-governors behind the

move.

Already, a former spokesman to President Muhammadu Buhari in the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), Chief Denis Aghauya, a prominent chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC); Comrade Abdul-

MONDAY, JANUARY 16, 2017 VOL. 3. NO. 278

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GAINERS AS AT January 13, 2017 CONOIL

36.50

37.35 2.33%

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73.99

Continued on page 12

74.00

N150

LOSERS AS AT January 13, 2017 0.01%

JBERGER

36.66

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CAP

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Buhari to re-present Magu’s name to Senate Ï Action due to successes recorded by EFCC under Magu’s watch Ï Decision linked to support of Magu by Presidential Advisory Council on Corruption Ï Ag. EFCC boss has shown enough commitment, character and zeal for job – PAC Ï Opposition to Ag. EFCC chair’s confirmation crumbles

Tony Ailemen Abuja

ÏÏÏ There are indications

that President Muhammadu Buhari will any moment from now re-submit the Continued on page 6

Armed Forces 12 Remembrance Day: Nigeria to withdraw military contingent in Liberia, 2018 –FG

Buhari’s fight against corruption 6 not enough –Ex-Minister 7 Stakeholders predict more local airlines in 2017

Guided tour: FG rejects BBOG’s conditions 7 FCT NHIS 12 a sham –Minister

President Muhammadu Buhari laying a wreath in honour of Nigeria’s fallen heroes, during the 2017 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebrations at the National Arcade, Eagle Square Abuja… on Sunday.

Presidency warns against sale of SIP forms

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Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

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Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

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Editorial Diversifying Nigeria’s sources of power

T

hat Nigeria’s total power generation capacity is still below 5,000 megawatts is a well-known fact. It is, also, an incontrovertible fact that the country with 170million has the largest population in Africa Incidentally, all demographic forecasts predict the population to hit the 400 million mark by 2050, thereby making Nigeria the third most populated country after China and India. In spite of these scary forecasts, Nigeria still lags behind in the provision of power for her industrial and economic development. In fact, the country’s power output in relation to population ranks among the lowest in the world.

Surprisingly, past administrations had identified the impediments, which lack of adequate power poses to overall national development but made little or no efforts in addressing the handicaps.

This in spite of the fact that Nigeria has abundant resources such as natural gas, water, coal, solar, wind, biomass and even uranium for nuclear power. That is why the recent call by the Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr Ibe Kachikwu, for the diversification of power generation in the country is very apt. According to the minister, Nigeria should extend her energy generation needs beyond natural gas, oil and hydro and venture into other alternative sources that are abundant in nature.

He said such diversification into available resources would reduce the country’s dependence on oil and gas, thereby setting the stage for sustainable development. We cannot but agree with this submission. This is because available statistics show that energy sources for crude oil stand at-36 billion barrels, natural gas-1.80trillion standard cubic feet, coal and lignite-2.7 billion tonnes, tar sands-31 billion boe, hydropower-14, 750 megawatt, solar-7.0 kwh/sq meters per day, wind 2-4m/s at 10m height, biomass 320 million hectares including unspecified quantity of uranium.

There is no denying the fact that any country desiring to industrialise, must

have sufficient energy sources to achieve this. The problem is not the lack of energy sources in Nigeria but the political will to develop them for industrial and household use. Before the discovery of oil, Nigeria depended on coal and lignite for power generation. All that ended when oil and natural gas replaced coal, especially in the 1970’s. Even at that, generation and distribution of electricity was a Federal Government monopoly, which not only was inefficient but also avenues for rent seeking and massive corruption.

That led to outcries for their privatisation. We can say on good authority that even when such privatisation was to usher efficiency in the generation and distribution of electricity, the exercise was opaque and shrouded in mysteries.

That is why power output and supply remain at miserly level, while consumers pay exorbitant tariffs for power not consumed. Presently, energy companies are labouring under the weight of reduced power generation and lack of alternative sources to meet demands. It is therefore pertinent that such power sources as coal and solar remain the best options.

For example, Nigeria ranks as the seventh with the largest coal deposit in the world. Like her counterparts particularly South Africa, the United States of America, China, Indonesia, and Australia, Nigeria is overdue to join the comity of nations that generates power from coal. Moreover, unlike hydroelectric power station that takes from 6 to 8 years to build, coal-fire powered plants take less than three years to build.

Incidentally, about seven states have huge coal reserves with the potential to generate more that 6,000MW of electricity. It is, also, imperative that solar energy be explored as alternative source of energy, given that Nigeria boasts of unlimited sunshine all year round.

While doing so, we advise the authorities to seek out competent power providers with the competence and financial capacity to undertake such ventures.

Editor, Daily Rose Moses Deputy General Manager State House/Northern Bureau Chief Tony Ailemen Special Projects Editor Sam Nzeh Business Times Editor Andrew Odioko

Deputy Editor, Daily Ken Madueke

Group Managing Director Noel Anosike

News Editor Kelechi C. Ogbamgba

Group Head Commercial & Business Development Konnie Agu 09033765031

Group Political Editor Lateef Ibrahim

Ogun State Governor, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun, releases the pigeons of peace during the 2017 Armed Forces and Remembrance Day Celebration at the Arcade Ground, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Ogun State… on Sunday.

PHOTO: DAVID IDOWU.

Nasarawa State Governor, Tanko Al-Makura (right), displaying a plaque when Minister of Water Resources, Mr. Suleiman Adamu during a courtesy visit on Al-Makura … at the weekend.

Words On Marble :

Publisher/Editor in Chief – Fidelis Anosike Group General Manager Olisa Egbunike 08034004224

President Muhammadu Buhari (right) in a handshake with Senate President, Abubakar Bukola Saraki, during the 2017 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration at the National Arcade in Abuja… on Sunday. With them are Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara (left).

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Being rich is no longer fashionable if it cannot be used for human development.

Pastor Tunde Bakare

Pope John Paul II

What God purposed and did before time cannot be destroyed by time, because once upon a time, there was no time at all.

Christianity is called to offer a genuine ‘DNA’ for a universal humanity; a Trinitarian vision and life that can animate a civilisation of love.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

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Buhari to re-present Magu’s name to Senate Continued from page 1 name of Mr. Ibrahim Magu for consideration as chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

This new development, Daily Times gathered on Sunday, has been largely due to Magu’s rising public profile and the success recorded by the EFCC so far in the fight against corruption under his watch.

Several other factors are also said to be working for Magu, according to our source, one of which include the fact that the current administration has recovered several billions of Naira under Magu with which the government is partly funding the 2016 budget.

Villa sources revealed that the acting chairman of the EFCC met for several hours with the president recently, where he was able to explain his own side to the president, a development that helped to sway the president’s decision in his favour, The Daily Times gathered.

Only last week, the EFCC got a Lagos High Court presided over

by Justice Lateefat Okunu to convict one of the major culprit in the subsidy scandal, Walter Wagbatsoma and Adaoha Ugo-Ndagi, chairman and managing director, respectively, of Ontario Oil & Gas Nigeria Limited, along with their company in a N1.9 billion oil subsidy fraud case preferred against them.

The duo will today (Monday) be sentenced appropriately in what has been seen as a major breakthrough in the ubiquitous subsidy scams that had bled the nation’s economy under the last regime.

Contrary to earlier insinuations, fact available before the president indicates that Magu had surpassed previous heads of EFCC in terms of discipline amongst the current crop of EFCC core staff, as against previous records.

The Senate had late last year, said it was referring the request back to the president based on information at the disposal of the legislators, a situation that led the president to ask the attorney general and minister of justice to investigate the matter.

The Daily Times gathered that while investigations were on, several meetings also took place between the president and leadership of the National Assembly on the issue.

It was also gathered that the latest move was based on the position of the very influential members of the Presidential Advisory Council on Corruption (PAC) headed by Professor Itse Sagay.

The Daily Times gathered that

when the issue of Magu was tabled before the committee at its meeting with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, the committee was unanimous in asking the executive to explore every avenue to ensure that Magu scaled through.

The latest decision to re-submit Magu’s name, the Daily Times gathered, was also due largely to public opinion, which is said to favour the retention of Magu for the position.

According to our source, “that committee insisted that Magu has shown enough commitment, character and zeal for the job”.

The committee also advised the president to prevail on the Senate to rethink its earlier position not to confirm Magu as the substantive chairman of the anti- graft agency.

The Magu confirmation crisis has consumed former director of operation, whose names was

given simply as Ilyasu, an Assistant Commissioner of Police, who was said to have worked to undermine the current achievements of Magu.

Subsequently, a new acting director of operation, who was deputy director of operation to Ilyasu, ACP Mohammed Umar Abba, has been elevated to occupy the position in an acting capacity.

The Daily Times gathered that when confronted with the massive achievements of Magu just within a period of one year, the president was said to have been convinced beyond reasonable doubt that he should be allowed to continue.

“A lot of people are already of the opinion that if this man is not allowed to continue, everything this government has achieved in fighting corruption will go down the drains and the president does not want that,” a source said.

A source at the Presidency simply informed the Daily Times that the president is yet to forward the name but noted that anything can happen.

“As we speak, the name is yet to be submitted but as you know, we cannot tell what will happen in the next few days.

“Only recently, the president reassured the nation that his determination to wrestle corruption to the ground remains unshaken, adding that the fight, which will be guided by respect for the rule of law and due process, will not spare anybody or organ of government.

“It is a collective undertaking and resolve that must be seen to its logical conclusion in spite of certain distractions. The fate of our country lies partly in the success of this campaign. It will be unthinkable on my part to allow the boat of this crucial campaign promise capsize mid-stream.”

Despite several interventions by well-meaning Nigerians that the Magu be confirmed as the substantive chairman of the EFCC, the issue had been kept in abeyance since December 14, 2016 suspension of the issue by the Senate.

Not even the efforts of former Senate Leader, Ali Ndume, to get his colleagues soft pedal on the issue has yielded positive results.

Although the Senate said they had referred the issue to President Muhammadu Buhari for further considerations, there are indications that some persons close to the president are hell bent on easing out Magu from the EFCC. But The Daily Times Villa sources revealed that President Buhari in his usual “slow and steady” ways of handling issues is already engaging all relevant stakeholders, including the Senate to find ways out of the impasse.

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Buhari’s fight against corruption not enough -Ex-Minister Tom Okpe Abuja

ÏÏÏ Former

minister of State for education, Prof. Jerry Agada, has charged President Muhammadu Buhari to fine-tune his fight against corruption to give the people the confidence that he is sincere in his avowed determination to rid the country of the menace.

The ex-minister said to achieve that, the government must be ready to name and shame all those found guilty of corruptly enriching themselves and are being made to refund their stolen wealth to the coffers of government, noting that unless this is done such persons may be given

some responsibilities that requires trust by future government, where they may have an chance to steal more money.

Agada, who is currently the chairman of the Benue State Civil Service Commission, argues that without naming persons who are said to be refunding stolen funds back to the coffers of government, some people may have reasons to doubt the genuineness of government claims that funds are being refunded, since everything is shrouded in secrecy.

He said, “when they said they are recovering money from looters, we clapped hands for Mr. President, why not make them public so that we know who and

who is involved in this practice in case of another time, but the way all these things are, if we go into another dispensation, it will be the same people that will be there because nothing had been found incriminating against them.

“We do not really know who has returned what. The EFCC and other anti-corruption agencies have been talking about taking people to court and all that, who has been charged so far to show Nigerians that we are really fighting corruption. That is not to say the president is not doing his best, he is doing his best, but there is room for improvement.”

“If you put me in this place as the chairman of this commission

and I loot all the money available here, I think I have committed a grievous thing that I should not be given another opportunity whatsoever elsewhere anymore, because the other time I was there, this was what I did. If it was not brought out, then next time they will still bring me here because no one knew what I did when I was there.

“I took such money and had even returned it. Make everything public so that the whole thing will be clear to the people. That is why people talk of being selective and all that. Like I said, I want to believe that it is not the end. He is working towards taking better steps as far as fighting corruption is concerned.” .Full interview on Pages 10 &11

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

Guided Tour: FG rejects BBOG’s condition Patrick Okohue

ÏÏÏ The Federal Government has told the members of the Bring Back Our Girls Group (BBOG) that its condition set forth to participate in the guided tour of the North East with particular interest in the Sambisa forest to witness, firsthand, the efforts being made by the Nigeria Airforce in the search for the remaining missing Chibok Girls, was not acceptable to it as the tour will have to proceed as scheduled.

Responding to a letter from the BBOG group and signed by its coconvener, Mrs. Oby Ezekwesili, in response to an earlier one from the government inviting it to be part of the tour, the government through the Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said the tour could not be shifted because logistics have been fully activated to make it possible and changing the date of the tour will among other things mean extra cost to the government.

The BBOG group in response to the invitation from the government said that though they were favourably disposed to exploring the opportunity provided by the tour, but that there was a need to have a pre-tour meeting that will help it take a final decision on the invitation.

Insisting that the proposed meeting should be attended by the National Security Adviser (NSA) to the President and other officials of government including the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Army Staff and the Chief of Air Staff among others, the BBOG also insisted that the Chief of Army Staff must retract a statement where he allegedly accused them of involving in Social Advocacy Terrorism and apologies to them.

7 News

NSE: Stakeholders call for effort to address market challenges Bony Amadi

ÏÏÏ Stakeholders of the Nigerian stock exchange have called for collaborative effort of all stakeholders toward attaining market developmental imitative expected to enhance the capital market in 2017.

A stockbroker at the recent annual briefing by the CEO of the NSE applauded the exchange objectives set up for 2017 financial year, adding that the targets were germane but what remains uncertain is whether the exchange would be pursuing the agenda solely or in collaboration with other stakeholders.

“In pursuing this advocacy, it would

be done as a team, if stock exchange pursues these initiative alone, knowing that the benefit is for the whole market, the possibility of achieving very significant success would be limited”.

While urging that the 2017 market development initiative should be pursued as a team, the stock broker counseled that the stockbrokers would be taken along in the course of advocacy and tackling market growth programmes.

The broker urged the NSE to work towards accomplishing the objectives by identifying top priority areas for the 2017 and working towards attaining them with the stakeholders, after

which other issues would be addressed having earlier tackled the first phase of priority areas.

The broker pointed that the proposed listing by the MTN on the NSE was not based on their love for the nation’s economy or the market, but purely for the challenges besetting the company in recent times.

According to the dealing member of the NSE, once the exchange identifies ten challenges confronting issuers and together with the dealing members address the issues from different fronts, greater progress would be recorded, irrespective of prevailing issuers’ sentiments.

Mr. Lekan Bello, also a stock broker

L-R: Director of Pharmacy, Ogun State Ministry of Health, Fafiolu Olufemi, representative of the National Product Supply Chain Management Programme (NPSCMP), Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja, Mrs. Abdulhameed Wosilat; Ogun State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Adedayo Adeneye and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Kola Fagbohun, when a team from the NPSCMP paid Adeneye a courtesy visit in his office, Abeokuta, Ogun State...at the weekend.

said because of the challenges experienced by the market in 2016, some of the measures for market development in 2017 may face hitches because of collateral damage done to the nation’s economy in 2016.

He said that the low foreign direct investment recorded in 2016 and the ow penetration of the Nigerian market by foreign investors and Nigerians in the diaspora could be traceable to the uncertainty surrounding foreign exchange in the country, a situation he said still persists.

“When you have about three different exchange rates in the country, it will be difficult for foreign n investors to take their funds back, hence they don’t know the prevailing rate at any time” Uncertain if there is an agreement between the federal governments, the ministry of finance and the Nigerian Stock Exchange, Mr. Bello said that the government needs to be made to understand the need for unformed exchange rate for the economy and the market. “This will encourage the FDIs and they can plan” He said that the target foreign investments for the 2017 financial year could be hampered by policy issues, hence foreign investor may bring in funds based on one exchange rate and while repatriating their investment proceeds, are subjected to another exchange rate.

Bello however advocated for urgent need to harmonize the foreign exchange rates “There is urgent need for sustained engagement between the NSE and other institutions that regulate the financial industry for a more conducive operating environment for local and foreign investors”.

Presidency Warns Against Sale of SIP Forms

Stakeholders predict more local airlines in 2017

Tony Ailemen, Abuja

Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo

ÏÏÏ Presidency yesterday said no scheme under the Federal Government’s Social Investment Programmes, SIP, attracts an application fee Nigerians have therefore been advised to refuse paying anyone money to purchase forms under the programme.

This is just as the Presidency also yesterday, disclosed that five more states would be joining in the implementation of the Homegrown School feeding programme.

The Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the President, Laolu Akande, in a statement yesterday, said the statement has become necessary due to several public enquirers on the programme.

“We have been receiving reports about instances where Nigerians are being asked to pay application fees for SIP forms. We want to make it clear that such action is illegal and could warrant

criminal prosecution. “ Let us make this very clear: In order to benefit from N-Power, you don’t have to pay any application fees at all. The way to apply is to go online to the N-Power portal. But it is not open right now as we are still working on the 200,000 unemployed graduates already engaged.

Regarding the CCT, he also explained that there are no application forms or fees to be paid either. According to him, “we are using a Community-Based Targeting template of the World Bank and as we have explained this is the mode of identifying the poorest of the poor and the most vulnerable.

He observed that there were instances during the N-Power online application process when some leaders decided to gather information of their people and then upload them onto the N-Power Internet portal to meet the online application requirement.

“We don’t frown on such an effort as long as the information of the N-Power

applicants are properly in-putted online.

But we frown at anyone selling forms to Nigerians for this programmes,” he said On claims that some party agents have been involved in such illegal form sales, Akande said “the rule affects everyone. No one should sell forms for NPower or any of the President’s Social Investment Programmes. That is exploitation and it is fraudulent.”

On the progress so far recorded on the CCT, Akande said payment is now taking place in all the 9 pilot states, adding that altogether FG has already made cash available to keep the payments going.

Akande said while the CCT payments have started in the pilot states, not everyone in those states have been paid due to logistics and banking challenges. He disclosed that three banks Stanbic, Access and GTB have been very helpful in the process, including supporting the implementation of aspects of the CCT pro bono.

ÏÏÏ With recent Federal Government’s decision to grant foreign exchange concession to both local and foreign airlines in the country, there are indications that more airlines, especially, domestic carriers, may join Nigeria’s aviation industry in 2017.

Although, it is still uncertain which airline that would come on board next but industry sources are of the opinion that with high desire for investment and partnerships from foreign investors, new airlines may join the fray.

Some operators are considering bringing in light and fuel efficient aircraft in view of the current state of aviation fuel in the country.

Speaking on the possibility of new airlines, former Director of Flight Operations, Chachangi Airlines, Alhaji Mohammed Tukur, said that it is possible new airlines emerge or

resume operations because there is already a high desire for investment in the aviation industry by foreign investors.

His words: “There is possibility of more airlines because you have so many investors who are ready to come in and invest because I believe the polity favours foreign investors.

We at the aviation industry know how many people who are coming to us saying that they want to bring their aircraft and that they are looking for partnerships.

“If you know the number of companies all over the world wanting to come and invest in aviation in Nigeria, you will be surprised. Really, there are lots of possibilities that some airlines would resume operations soon.”

He however cautioned on the prudent management of airlines as the only way for survival in the aviation industry.

News 8

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration Nigeria will remain united no matter what, says Ambode Benjamin Omoike

ÏÏÏ Lagos State governor,

Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, yeterday, stressed the need for continuous remembrance of the fallen heroes, who laid down their lives for the unity of the country, saying the country must remain united to celebrate and honour them.

Speaking after performing the laying of wreath and release of pigeons in commemoration of the 2017 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration held at Remembrance Arcade, Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) in Lagos, the governor said the importance of the celebration could not be overemphasized as it signified the great sacrifice put in by the fallen heroes to ensure the unity of the country.

He said: “For every January 15, we come together to remember our past heroes and the whole essence of being Nigerians is for us to live as a united country and some people have laid their lives for us to be here today.

“It is important that we must continue to celebrate them and remind ourselves that the unity of Nigeria has no substitute and that is the reason we do this every year.”

Armed Forces Day: RSG sets up N100m empowerment for ex-servicemen Amaka Agbu PortHarcourt

ÏÏÏ In commemoration of

this year’s Armed Forces Day, Rivers State Government has initiated the sum of N100 million empowerment scheme aimed at improving the living condition of the families of late ex-servicemen and living legionnaires.

Addressing legionnaires at the 2017 Armed Forces and Remembrance Day celebration finale at the open court of the Government

the best ways to honour Nigeria’s fallen heroes is to take care of the loved ones they left behind by providing opportunities for their children, and empowering their widows, Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has said.

Speaking at an event to commemorate the 2017 Armed Forces Remembrance Day held in Sokoto Sunday, Tambuwal commended the military for their sacrifice in helping to secure the nation.

He said as people, who have given their lives to protect others, members of the armed forces deserve the nation’s gratitude at all times.

“Today’s event is significant because it shows that we are a people of history who also appreciate our history. It also shows that there are people who paid the supreme sacrifice

want the families they left behind to continue to suffer.

I urge the Nigerian Legion to carefully manage the empowerment scheme in a way that the wives of late ex-servicemen and other legionnaires will benefit and set up businesses to sustain them.”

He called on corporate citizens and privileged Nigerians to take practical steps to appreciate members of the Nigerian Legion and their families, adding that the remembrance of the sacrifices of living and

late members of the Armed Forces should go beyond the annual ritual of Armed Forces and Remembrance Day Celebration.

Governor Wike called on Nigerians to re-dedicate themselves to the service of the nation by following the examples of members of the Armed Forces and commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for dislodging Boko Haram from the Sambisa forest, pointing out that the feat would lead to increased peace in the country.

He lauded President Mu-

hammadu Buhari and the service chiefs for strengthening the Armed Forces to take up elements, who threatened the peace of Nigeria.

Speaking at the ceremony, chairman of the Nigerian Legion in Rivers State, Col. Wilberforce Josiah (rtd), commended Governor Wike for his support to the legion.

During the celebration at the Isaac Boro Park in Port Harcourt, Governor Wike inspected the guard of honour, took the national salute, and released the pigeons of peace.

Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal inspecting a guard mounted by soldiers during the 2017 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration in Sokoto.....yesterday

Tambuwal urges support for fallen heroes’ families

ÏÏÏOne of

House, Port Harcourt on Sunday, the state governor, Barrister Nyesom Ezebunwo Wike said the N100 million empowerment scheme was an appreciation of the fact that the late ex-servicemen and their living colleagues invested their lives in the sustenance of the country.

The governor said: “This empowerment scheme is to show the families of late exservicemen and their living colleagues that we appreciate the sacrifices they made for the country. We don’t

for us to get to where we are today as one, united and happy nation.

“We should continue to learn from their sacrifices to ensure that Nigeria remains a united country where everyone is enjoying the freedom as enshrined in our constitution.

We should at all times make our contributions to national development.

“On this important day, we should always continue to support their families and encourage the ones still in active service to give their maximum best in the service of the fatherland,” Tambuwal added.

This year’s event, which held at the Maigero Theatre Complex in Sokoto, featured medical outreach organized by the armed forces, parade and laying of wreath in honour of the fallen service men.

Atiku extols supreme sacrifices of Nigerian military ÏÏÏFormer

vice president and chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC), Atiku Abubakar, has commended the remarkable, incredible, unflagging and patriotic sacrifices of our military personnel in the line of duty and in the defence of the country.

The former vice president made the statement shortly after his arrival from an overseas trip at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, yesterday.

A statement released by his media office to mark this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day, quotes Alhaji Abubakar as observing that since end of the civil war in 1970, members of our armed forces have not faced greater

challenges than today in the face of counterterrorism war against the Boko Haram insurgents.

Atiku Abubakar says apart from sapping energy and resources, counterterrorism is one of the most stressful security duties, adding that the performance of our military personnel under these gruelling challenges “is admirable and praiseworthy.”

According to Atiku Abubakar, laying down one’s life for the sake of others is the highest sacrifices, explaining these officers and men are driven by sheer patriotism and love of fellow citizens.

He notes that any group of people who can overcome fear for the call of duty and love

of one’s country deserves the greatest honour, respect and rewards from their societies.

The Turakin Adamawa also states that he was impressed beyond words by the recent military successes against the Boko Haram insurgents, including the successful assault on the notorious terrorists den, the Sambisa forest, which he says has sent a clear message that criminals cannot defeat law and order permanently.

He pays special tributes to the officers and men, who lost their lives in the line of duty or battle field, and calls on the authorities to take adequate care of the families of fallen heroes.

The former vice president also says he is looking forward

to the day members of our military personnel would join the list of military inventors and designers such as Mikhail Kalashnikov of Russia, the designer of the famous AK-47 assault rifles. He says that the Defence Industries Corporation, Kaduna, should one day showcase the inventiveness, and technical acumen of our military.

The former vice president, while congratulating our gallant armed forces, advises the military leadership to create special units for research to help Nigeria produce its weapons, among others, locally, to reduce the pressure on the over dependence on foreign countries for weapons and equipment.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

Politics

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Lalong commends Buhari for successes on insurgency Plateau State governor, Simon Lalong has commended President Muhammadu Buhari for the successes so far recorded in the fight against insurgency and other security challenges in the country.

Lalong made the commendation on Sunday in an interview with newsmen after he laid a wreath at the tomb of unknown soldiers in Jos. The governor said President Buhari as the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces had provided the

needed direction in the fight against insurgency.

He added that with the President’s commitment, the military were able to flush out Boko Haram in their enclave in the Sambisa Forest.

He noted that “I am very excited with what the military have done, especially the release of some Chibok girls and the complete takeover of the Sambisa Forest.

“I commend the President, who is the Commander in Chief of the

Armed Forces and the entire military for the efforts in restoring peace in the country.

“I am particularly happy that Plateau has been peaceful in the last two years.”

The governor said that the state government was committed to the welfare of legionnaires and had made cash donations, a tractor and 34 seater bus to the legion on the day of the emblem launch.

On his part, Retired Col. Danladi

Rwang, the Chairman, Nigerian Legion, Plateau chapter, appreciated the state government’s efforts in catering for the welfare of legionnaires.

Rwang said that the ex-service men who were still strong could go back to the farm to produce food.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event featured gun salutes by the armed forces and release of pigeons to signify peace.

Igbuya extols Delta monarch at 100 The Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Monday Igbuya, on Sunday described the Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom, Ogoni- Oghoro 1, as an easygoing leader, friendly and effortlessly charming.

He also expressed his admiration for His Majesty’s leadership style, commitment to peace and high sense of patriotism.

In a congratulatory message to the Royal Majesty on the occasion of his 100th birthday and 29th anniversary of his ascension to the throne, Igbuya in a press release signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Ebireri Henry Ovie extolled the monarch’s exemplary dedication to service.

“Ohworode of Olomu Kingdom, HRM Ovie Richard Layeguen Ogbon, Ogoni- Oghoro 1, JP, OON remains the measurement of positive leadership, courage, accountability and performance in the country” he said.

He also commended the oldest reigning king in the state for preserving and celebrating the culture and tradition of Urhobo, mobilising Urhobo communities for developmental purposes and socializing the people.

Igbuya who acknowledged the erudition, modesty and charisma of the Ohworode commended him for responding to the needs of the people with understanding regardless of their appearance, reputation or mood.

He praised him for using his intellectual endowment for the boosting of community development and advancement of his people.

“I wish Your Majesty good health and happiness. I also wish the good people of Olomu kingdom peace, progress and prosperity” the message ended.

L-R: Lagos State governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, with Commissioner for Energy & Mineral Resources, Mr. Olawale Oluwo; German Ambassaor, Mr. Barnhard Schlagheck and the Acting Consulate General, Federal Republic of Germany, Mr. Jorg Steckhan during the Ambassador’s courtesy visit to the governor at the Lagos House, Ikeja, at the weekend.

PDP produces consensus candidate for Etsako byeelection in Edo Mr Jude Imagwe on Saturday emerged the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the Jan. 28, bye-election for the Etsako Federal Constituency in Edo. Imagwe, who emerged the party’s candidate through consensus, was the former Senior Special Assistant on Youths and Students Matters to Dr Goodluck Jonathan.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the seat for the Etsako Federal Constituency was declared vacant after the occupant, Mr Philip Shaibu was elected deputy to Governor Godwin Obaseki.

The Chairman, PDP Electoral

Committee, Mr Tony Omoaghie said that only one candidate was vying for the ticket, adding that delegates eventually harmonised the process.

“The process has been harmonised and delegates unanimously adopted Mr Jude Imagwe since there is no other candidates contesting for the seat.

“As the chairman of this electoral committee, I declare Mr Jude Imagwe as winner of the primaries,’’ he said.

Imagwe thanked the delegates for giving him the mandate and assured members that the party would emerge victorious come Jan. 28.

Bello

Ndume

I`ll stand by Buhari in case of political re-alignment, says Ndume The immediate past Senate Leader, Sen. Muhammad Ndume has pledged to stick with President Muhammadu Buhari in the event of any political realignment in the country.

Ndume, who represents Borno South in the Senate, gave the assurance in Maiduguri on Sunday while speaking with newsmen.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that speculations are rife that there are likely to be realignments by politicians toward the 2019 general elections in the country.

“I want to say that nobody has contacted me yet on any political realignment. But for Muhammad Ndume, whenever there is any political re-alignment, you will find me where President Muhammadu Buhari is, ’’ Ndume said.

He pointed out that his stand was predicated on the fact that President Buhari had been his mentor for a very long time.

“Buhari has been my long time mentor. When your mentor is on one side, you are expected to be with him no matter what,’’ Ndume said.

He said that he had always stood by the truth in all his endeavours.

“I am an extrovert personality, and I have always stood on the side of the truth. Maybe that is why I sometimes ran into troubled waters,’’ Ndume said.

He said he had no political ambition or plans for 2019 because he believed in destiny.

According to him,” I always want God to decide for me in any circumstance. I never planned to be a senator at the onset, it was God`s decision.’’

He said that his original plan was to be the Chairman of Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

“My ambition was to be a grassroots politician where I can be the Chairman of Gwoza LGA and construct access roads from the hills. But God made me a member of House of Representatives, ’’ Ndume said.

He added that even in 2011, his target was to retain his seat at the House of Representatives, whereupon his constituents asked him to move to the Senate.

Politics 10

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

Buhari’s fight against corruption not enough- Prof. Agada The Executive Chairman Benue State Civil Service Commission, Professor Jerry Agada recently spoke with TOM OKPE in an exclusive interview on some national issues. The former Minister of States for Education, Chairman National Commission for Colleges of Education and former chairman Association of Nigeria Authors bared his mind on security issues in Benue State and the nation in general.

Since your emergence at the Commission as the chairman, how has it been with the office and the state civil service generally?

We have been trying since our inauguration, on the day of the inauguration; the governor specifically mentioned that he was bringing us to reposition the state civil service as so many things had gone wrong previously. Since then, we have been trying, seeing the problems on ground and a lot of changes taking place.

Firstly, this place was so dilapidated, we informed the governor and he came here himself to visit and see things for himself and the state of dilapidation and that was the first time the governor of the state visited this place since it was built in 1991 and commissioned by the then Military President, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida. No other governor has been here after that.

Governor Ortom came here to see things for himself the other day and has since given directives that renovation should commence immediately. So you can see that the place is looking more habitable and better. We on our part, there were series of jobs undone before we came in. There was recruitment into the School of Nursing to meet their accreditation requirements before we came. The first thing we did was to do the regularisation in terms of that appointment.

We also carried out recruitment into the School of Health Technology, Agasha again to meet up the accreditation requirement; also permanent secretaries’ letters of appointment pending has been issued. We have done all that and other things pending like office files untreated. On my coming into office, some promotions that were hanging are being worked on now and so many other things, just to make sure that the State Civil Service Commission takes a good shape that will be a pride to everybody in the state.

As a PDP federal and state Stalwart, how do you compare the governance of the APC today with the PDP? You might not have known that at the last re –run of the Senatorial election in zone C, many things happened and that was when I defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) due to so many factors. I am now a chieftain of the APC in Zone C and the state.

I can tell you that governance under Gov. Ortom have been found more ideal and interesting to me. He has been very transparent in his governance of the state and carries people along. He ensures that things are done according to the rule of law which is the essence of any governance, to be more meaningful to the people. If you do things with impunity, they will surely not go well. He has put everything based on transparency of course with the fear of God as you know he is a man of God who has dedicated the entire state to God and has been ruling with the fear of God. You know in a democratic dispensation like ours, oppositions will be saying their own and all others for sake of freedom of

Agada

speech and expression, but I have found that the man is doing what he preaches. Of late there have been rumors about the amount of monies paid on Paris refund debt, there was a publication in one of the national dallies, before that publication, stories were all over the place that Ortom has cheated the state without anyone knowing what was happening. Some say the total sum of N64billion had been misappropriated, when the publication came out, the same people vindicated him saying “For ones, Ortom has said the truth”.

These are the things I found interesting about his governance of the state or his administrative style. To me, things are going well.

Does the state have issues with staff

salaries, and what is being done to ameliorate it?

Of course, problems of staff salaries were on ground even from the last administration before this, all he (Governor) has been doing is trying to settle the backlog of arrears and I am aware that up till now, some amount are still outstanding, but I think salaries were paid for two months before Christmas and he has been promising that he intends to clear the backlog and whatever is outstanding very soon. I do know that salaries had been outstanding; you will not hear the state Labour congress making noise because he is in synergy with them. If allocation comes, they are part and parcel of the allocation committee,

The present administration came with the mantra of change and because of that, there has been a great expectation for this much desired change. I think the feeling in most people is that the change is not coming as expected, but you know the journey of a thousand mile starts with one step; so I want to believe that the government is trying especially with issue of corruption

so that each person will see what has come, what is going for salaries and other state affairs. Because everybody is in the picture, nobody feels cheated, so the labour appreciates whatever situation of things as the governor himself has made it a priority; very soon, whatever is outstanding will be cleared.

What is your general view of the present administration?

The present administration came with the mantra of change and because of that, there has been a great expectation for this much desired change. I think the feeling in most people is that the change is not coming as expected, but you know the journey of a thousand mile starts with one step; so I want to believe that the government is trying especially with issue of corruption. When our President came corruption was his main agenda and he said he was going to fight it to a standstill. I think that is what he is doing. The truth of the matter is that there are complaints here and there especially as the fight is being taken. For instance, if there are people in the administration that are involve in one deal or the other, the expectation of the ordinary man will be that the way the President stands as far as corruption is concerned such people should not be mentioned near him. But when it is obvious that there are cases of proof, you will see that they will be given different interpretation.

When such a thing does not apply at the other side, people feels that the corruption fight is one sided, that it is not being fought with genuineness. But like I said, since the President is not God, he cannot see everywhere, so the ones he can tackle, he is tackling them depending on his methods which might not be generally accepted. He is doing it but I think there is still room for improvement as we are fighting corruption. Take for instance some people who had been mentioned in one corruptive way or the other like Rotimi Amaechi, they started giving other reasons and even apart from that, when they said they are recovering money from looters, we clapped hands for Mr. President, why not make them public so that we know who and who is involved in this practice in case of another time, but the way all these things are, if we go into another dispensation, it will be the same people that will be there because nothing had been found incriminating against them. We do not really know who has returned what. The EFCC and other anti corruption agencies have been talking about taking people to court and all that, who has been charged so far to show Nigerians that we are really fighting corruption. That is not to say the President is not doing his best, he is doing his best, but there is room for improvement.

Do you then believe that the fight against corruption is selective as people insinuates from different quarters that some looters are paying back their looted funds quietly?

CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

11 Politics

‘Ortom is redefining service in Benue’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10

It is about the same view I had expressed earlier, if you put me in this place as the chairman of this commission and I loot all the money available here, I think I have committed a grievous thing that I should not be given another opportunity whatsoever elsewhere anymore, because the other time I was there, this was what I did. If it was not brought out, then next time they will still bring me here because no one knew what I did when I was there. I took such money and had even returned it. Make everything public so that the whole thing will be clear to the people. That is why people talk of been selective and all that. Like I said, I want to believe that it is not the end. He is working towards taking better steps as far as fighting corruption is concerned. For now, this is the opinion of the ordinary man, we hear from people their complaints, and these are the sort of things we see. If it is selective, some people are involved, it was not like these. In re- run elections, the confidence people have is not there because of their belief that things are not done correctly. Like I said, the name Buhari is so clean and respected that people ordinarily will not want to associate such a thing with his administration. So as things are happening, people are watching and they are not happy.

You are well involved with the writers association and as a onetime president of the Association of National Authors (ANA), how has it been combining it with the civil service and the LNG which you are also one of their anchor men?

I always tell people that writing comes through passion and through that passion you have the inspiration to write. It is part and parcel of you, it is not something you keep aside somewhere and you will say let me go to Abuja and pick it up. You discover that my involvement with ANA is age long.

If you remember, when I was a Minister of states for Education, I was also the National vice president of ANA, the only one that had been given that position in absentia. I remember as a Minister, the day we were to carry out our annual convention in Owerri, I was asked by the Federal Government to go the United States of America on a national assignment. I was already gunning for a National position of the association; my colleagues seeing my commitment of not abandoning them decided to give me the position.

When I left office as Minister, I also became the National president and in the November 2016 Convention, I was given a fellow of the association.

The LNG, Nigeria price for Literature which is endowed by the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), the three members of the Board that administers the price which is the highest in Africa which monetary value is $100,000 is also about the ninth Literary price in the world. We are only three members, Professor Ayo Banjo who was two time council chancellor of the University of Ibadan, and we have Professor Ben Elube, another professor Emeritus and me. We were the three members of the advisory Board that administered the price. It was something we never joked with. I am saying all these because it does not interfere with what I do like being the chairman of the Benue State Civil Service Commission. The point is that writing being my passion is not something I can run away from. You cannot talk of writing without reading, whatever you write must be read

Buhari

Ortom

I can tell you that governance under Gov. Ortom have been found more ideal and interesting to me. He has been very transparent in his governance of the state and carries people along. He ensures that things are done according to the rule of law which is the essence of any governance, to be more meaningful to the people. If you do things with impunity, they will surely not go well. He has put everything based on transparency of course with the fear of God therefore, we advocate for the revival of reading culture among Nigerians for it is when that culture is there that you can have people to write for people to read.

What is your take on insecurity, both at the state and national level and what do you suggest as way forward?

The security matter is seriously a problem, I am happy that the present administration is tackling it properly, the way things are happening, this morning I was discussing with some friends about herdsmen issue and the way they attack people. Think about places like Agatu, Taraba and all over the country then you begin to wonder, where were these people before now? Why is it that it is now that they are making themselves relevant making the whole place ungovernable? Is it that nothing can be done about it? Government is trying like the case of Agatu, the Nigerian Army has stationed I think some troops there to avert whatever occurrences.

Even other places where these cases are rampant, but they are still causing their havoc,

so you ask, what is happening? How do they come, where do they come from, if they come from outside, which boarders do they come in through? You will be told of ECOWAS treaty of free movement and all that. We are told that these so called herdsmen are not the normal herdsmen we know. We had mingled with the Fulani herdsmen and there has never been any quarrel but this time around, these ones go with AK47 and all sorts of dangerous weapons and ammunitions and you wonder what is happening. The Boko Haram insurgency in the North East, government will tell us that they have been dislodged, but every day we hear about their dirty operations on innocent Nigerians, when will it stop?

The security concern is much on the ground, though we give kudos to our Military men for doing the best that they are doing, curtailing and defeating Boko Haram. You cannot say defeating Boko Haram will bring to an end security problem in the country, No; something needs to be done seriously.

In the state, a lot of security meetings

takes place almost every day, when the present governor came up, the first thing he did was the granting of amnesty to some people who have been keeping guns, killing innocent people about. Through that program, a lot of weapons were received and since then, this ugly incidence has reduced. Other security issues like the herdsmen massacre in Agatu and all over the state, you do not hear much of that these days, because of the actions that the governor has taken. I was informed that last night there was a meeting at the Government House which lasted till after mid night between our governor and some stake holders and governors of neighboring states, because of herdsmen’s attack. Col Jando (Rtd), Special adviser to the governor on security matters went round the state and neighboring states to establish security committees.

There are security activities on daily basis in the state to see that all went well in and around the state to make sure we do not live in fears anymore.

My advice to Nigerians generally and Benue State is that everybody should be patient and calm as we all are feeling the present situation. With hard work and true dedication to God, it will all be over soon.

Government on the other hand should look at the other side of fighting corruption for it is when people are alive that we will be free of corruption. Federal Government should think of other policies that will alleviate the suffering of the people so that we all shall have a sense of belonging in one Nigeria. So many things on the ground, inflation rate, unemployment rate, currency rate and so on, something needs to be done and quickly.

People should also learn to help themselves, government cannot do everything, and we have been advised to go to the farm, let us try to utilise what we can do to help ourselves and government. Government can only pay salaries, but how many people are on salaries. Government is trying but should try more because they are the father of all.

News 12 Armed Forces Remembrance Day: Nigeria to withdraw military contingent in Liberia 2018 –FG ÏÏÏ Nigeria has set 2018 date for the withdrawal of the country’s last military contingents serving under the United Nations Mission in Liberia.

President Muhammadu Buhari stated this yesterday when he spoke via video conferencing, with the leader of the Nigerian Soldier and Force Commander for the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL), Major General Salihu Uba. The event took place shortly after President Buhari performed the wreath laying ceremony for the 2017 Armed Forces and Remembrance Day celebration in Abuja.

The solemn event was witnessed by top government officials led by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, the Senate President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria, the Service Chiefs and the Inspector-General of Police, ministers and other top aides of the president.

In the course of the solemn event, President Buhari spoke via video-conferencing to Nigeria troops in the Sambisa forest, United Nations Mission in Liberia and the Commander of the Operation Lafiya Dole, based in Yola, the Adamawa state capital.

Those who were on hand to receive the president message were commanders in the three locations namely: Major General Victor Ezugwu, Acting GOC, 7 Division, Nigerian Army (Sambisa Forest); and Air Commodore Charles Owoh, Air Commander, Operation Lafiya Dole, Air Force Base Yola.

Speaking with Major General Uba, the Force Commander for the United Nations Mission in Liberia, the president expressed his appreciation to soldiers for maintaining high sense of discipline, professionalism and patriotism in the course of their activities.

“We thank God and we thank technology. I can see you and I can hear you. I am impressed with the turnout of your men and I thank you for keeping the flag flying on the performance of Nigerian military in the United Nations peacekeeping operations.”

He assured that “God willing, as you briefed us, in 2018, the last contingent of Nigeria troops in Liberia will come back.”

Also speaking with the Nigerian Soldiers inside the Sambisa forest, the president commended officers and men of the 7th Division of the Nigerian Army, for their recent exploits that had restored peace to the troubled north eastern region.

Daily Times Nigeria L Ɨ ƕè C Ƒ Əƕ ơÕè ƾƠơƣ

2019: Ex-First Ladies, former govs, others form new political party Continued from page 1 lahi Jabi; a prominent politician, Hajia Halima Turaki; a wellknown lawyer, Barrister Florence Wogu; Gladys Abubakar; Hajia Binta Umar; Hajia Gambo Abubakar; Hajia Jumai Lawal Yusuf; and Princes Thomas, among others were at the inaugural meeting held in Abuja at the weekend.

At the meeting, which had in attendance other prominent members from all the 36 states of the federation and FCT, the party however said it is reaching out to prominent Nigerian women and men like former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan; former Minister of Finance, Ngozi OkonjoIweala; former Minister of Petroleum, Mrs. Allison Madueke, and many other women to join the feminine party.

The new political party has also agreed to approach the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the next seven days for registration.

Speaking on the ideology of the yet-to-be registered political movement, Chief Denis Aghauya, who presided over the meeting said: “It is an ideology driven by women in alliance with the men and youth to ensure justice, equity and unity for the purpose of achieving a new dawn in the polity so that we can achieve an ideal society different from what we have witnessed since the independence.”

For Hajia Halima Turaki, the founder of Voice of Women in Nigeria Leadership Initiative, the

party when registered will bring on board an ideology with “the role of a mother who helps when the situation is at the critical stage. The current political parties have failed us and the country is in dire need of mothers’ help”.

She said it will also be part of the party’s policies to put an end to agitations for 35 per cent affirmative for women, believing that both men and women should be equal in running the affairs of the nation.

Also speaking, another prominent member, Barrister Florence Wogu, revealed that when the party comes on board, it will pursue the idea of part-time legislature, adding that “It is part of our plans to have all the lawmakers having offices at their various constituencies and only have to come to Abuja whenever the need arises for meetings.

“Women should not be relegated to the background. We don’t believe in affirmative action. Both

men and women should be equal.

“Our idea is to put food on the table for everybody. We should identify the potency of children, provide quality education for them and engage their minds with productive thinking, “she said.

They have, however, set-up four sub-committees, which include manifesto committee, contact and mobilisation, finance and constitution committees to make its activities run smoothly.

`ƆƍƏƆ Ɔ Ɛ ƐƈƒƆ Ƈ ƌƄƏ dƐ ƐƆ 1 ƒƆƏ Əè ƈƆƇ zƈƋƋƈƆ RƄƈ è #Əê MƊƆƌ RƊƆƊƆè Ƌ ƕƈ ƓƏƆ Ɛ ƈ ƑƏ Ƈ Mƈ ƆƏƈ ô Ƈ ƋƋƆ ƆƏ Ɔ ƗƑƏƈ Ɛ Ɔ ƾƠơƣ ƏƌƆƗ 0 ƏƅƆ `ƆƌƆƌƄƏ ƅƆ # ƕ ƅƆƋƆƄƏ Ɛƈ Ɛ ƋƆƔ &ƊƓƑƆƌƆ dƎƑ ƏƆè ƓƊ êêê dƑ Ɨ ƕê

FCT NHIS programme a sham –Minister Idu Jude, Abuja

ÏÏÏ The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mallam Mohammed Bello, is seeking a total review of the National Health Issuance scheme in the FCT, which he said its initial purpose has been defeated due to the level of gullibility and insincerity of the coordinators nation wide.

Bello made this call when the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Scheme, Professor Usman Yusuf paid him a curtsey visit.

Malam Bello said the feedback he has been receiving from enrollees of the Scheme has not been encouraging, especially with regard to the quality of drugs being provided to them.

The Minister wondered why

patients would be asked to purchase drugs from third parties outside of the scheme, despite making part payments to hospital managements in addition to their contributions to the National Health Insurance Scheme.

Bello urged the organisation to also tackle the issue of the perception in the public that drugs in the NHIS system are always of low quality types because this is what the feedbacks usually reveal.

According to him, “If the funding or contribution being made by the enrollees is the issue, then it is very important for us to tackle that because it is not appropriate for them to pay for portion of the services in the hospitals and then they go outside to pay for other services. That makes it difficult for the physicians and for

you the agencies moving these services to really profile your patients properly, because parties that are under your supervision as well as parties that are not under your supervision are giving services. So, it becomes difficult for you to detect issues of maybe wrong diagnosis or wrong prescription.”

Reacting to the suggestion that Desk Officers should be assigned to healthcare facilities nationwide to monitor the services being provided to subscribers of the NHIS, the Minister said the FCT Administration would give full support to any idea that could help improve services to the residents.

His words: “The bottom line is service delivery and the feedback from the general public, not only in FCT but so many other states

have not been encouraging. For the Scheme to succeed, we as the operators, the policy makers and more importantly, those in enforcement and supervision are the key and that’s why we whole heartedly support your vision and requirement to assign Desk Officers in all the hospitals nationwide”.

“The FCT will naturally key into it and provide you the necessary support. The advantage you have is that being stationed in the FCT, you could always use the facilities you have in the FCT to try all the new ideas and interventions you want to do and we will support you so that the FCT will be a model that you will always showcase to other states when you go for advocacy or when you invite them to Abuja,” the Minister stressed.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

13

14 Opinion

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

Donald Trump and his “America First” policy

U

Msgr Livinus Ukah

nder a scheme of interdependence, sharing helps to reduce problems.

A country with a sense of sharing reduces poverty in its midst. The same principle applies to communities, societies, age-groups and families. In this critical time we need to share what we have with others. We have many displaced persons in our midst. We have husbands who used to be breadwinners, but are now jobless. Some businesses have collapsed, making people financially distressed.

Many people have become sick because of the distressful conditions they have found themselves in life.

During Gowon’s regime, the economy was booming but with no sense of direction. And at that time Nigerians used to travel to London for shopping, and Nigeria’s naira was stronger than the American dollar. The past glories are in conflict with what we are experiencing now. There are crises that even affect marital relationships and family cohesion.

Many homes have broken down because of lack of coping mechanisms. The economic and political crises have shattered many people’s values when they do not know how to re-root themselves in God and rely on him for better condition. Sharing is needed today in families.

Those who are gainfully employed need to understand that no one likes to be poor. When a man who used to be rich loses his job because of economic problems in the country, the other partner should understand that it is not the end of life. In such circumstances, couples need espirit de corps to wait patiently on the Lord.

Many women who have become breadwinners today make their husbands uncomfortable by not respecting them any longer as heads of the family. A woman who can, should help her husband bring his business back to life again. There should be a sense of sharing and belonging. When there is no sharing, there is no progress. Sharing is spiritual. It makes us feel a part of each other. Sharing fosters healthy climate and promotes family cohesion and development. A family that shares is a healthy family.

A nation that shares is a healthy nation. In summary, whoever has should be ready to help those who “have not.” In these difficult times, families should have ways of keeping their family economy strong.

Don’t give up your husband or wife on your way up. You might need him or her on your way down.

What is happening in Nigeria today needs a reduction of anxiety and coping mechanism to survive, otherwise one dies in vain waiting

for the government that will come immediately to solve our numerous problems. We need to build up the economy with the government by working hard because working hard leads to a healthy economy. This is a new kind of realism that will help us recover our economy. The role of rich men or money bags in Nigeria is calling for attention. The rich cannot be happy with their wealth if the nation is plunged into a serious economic depression. Today we have millionaires and billionaires in Nigeria, but their wealth have no worth if they cannot use it to help their nation and the people.

Being rich is no longer fashionable, if it cannot be used for human development. Trump’s campaign was against the establishments, Wall Street and the chronic Capitalists that have no eyes to the poor, the peripheries and the neglected Americans and he said, he will establish them when he becomes the President.

Looking at how the Western media see Trump, no one would believe what is on board now, seeing Trump basking in political glory. Trump, who has a main stream politics populism, anti-semantic, anti- Muslim, xenophobic, created home for white supremacy, a member of K.K.K. (Klu Klux Klan).

Most of these traits are found in the people he appointed in his cabinet. With all these negativities around him, he won the election to be an American president. The world received his victory with

skeptical smile and some feel America has lost international standard.

Many questions are being asked; has democracy lost its ontic values, what about British Empire of the world, Common Wealth of nations.

Can one be proud again to answer children of common wealth?

Will the Colonial structures be a thing of the past? The illegal people in America would be victims of Trump’s new social construct, “America First”. Also the new marriage of Trump with Puttin is nightmarish, will it not lead to a diminishing return? Is America going to lose in a world stage? The children’s dream of going to America may be a mirage for America may no longer be a free world again. Will Trump and his Political proselytes achieve all these before his tenure ends? Or does his statements or his promises have placebo effect? The guess is ours. One may ask: Is Trump’s cabinet a gerontocratic government or a government without the academia? A little act of human kindness will go a long way. We cannot realize more if we retreat into our own world of isolation, locking our boundaries and looking at the strangers through a magnifying glass.

In the case of Nigeria, we are still battling with primitive accumulation of wealth and aping democracy.

The new in politics are not thinking like Trump who says that, he will better his people first but they enter politics to have their larges.

They are there to become economic

colossus and loose a sense of sharing what they have with their subjects or creating better conditions for everybody. To be rich is to make sacrifices to better the country and its people. The rich nation creates international trade to help the poor countries and help in their development. When this populist sinks into isolationism, the world loses its sense of sharing with the other world. It looks like each country is on its own and democracy is being questioned. Democracy loses its sense of being the government of the people by the people and for the people. Imagine Greece, the home of democracy but a populist ideology has penetrated into it.

Who knows the next ideology that will be invoke in future. Will the third world be everlasting victims of these ideologies? There is power and money in these ideologies. He that follows Russian ideology would be accepted in the kingdom of socialism. And he that follows liberal democracy would be accepted in the kingdom of materialism. But in reality, these are not achievable.

Sharing in the real sense of it is borrowing and giving as a charity with strings attached is perpetual slavery. The war in Syria has lasted for five or six years with Russia helping them and here there is no winwin situation. President Assad will pay dearly for assistance received from Russia. The deaths incurred will extend to the next generation.

One would ask what victory is if not psychological.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

15 Opinion

Is there an Obama legacy in Africa?

I Simbo Olorunfemi

n a matter of days, President Barack Obama will be stepping down after eight years in office. It is difficult to effectively capture the significance of his election and time as president in words. As he put it, many “still can’t believe we pulled this whole thing off.” But it was done.

Barack Obama has carried himself well, even in the face of disrespect to his person from some quarters. Time will only help a proper appreciation of the great work he did.

Many Africans were naturally ecstatic at the election of Barack Obama. Hope was rekindled in many. Expectations, of all sorts, shot high about what an Obama presidency would do for Africa.

Eight years after, many are disappointed. In Nigeria, some are unhappy with him for not visiting the country while in office. In Kenya, he is noted as not doing much for his ancestral country.

Some even argue that it is difficult to identify a coherent Obama policy on Africa. But that won’t be correct. President Obama might not have been very upfront with his Africa agenda, but he did initiate a number of programmes aimed at address-

ing some fundamental problems that the continent faces.

In 2013, Barack Obama launched ‘Power Africa’ with the goal of doubling access to electricity in subSaharan Africa. With this, more than $7 billion in investments are expected to be made over five years, with the objective of increasing access to electricity by at least 20 million new households and businesses. In 2015, the initial goal was tripled to 60 million electricity connections and 30,000 megawatts of energy.

I do not know the level of progress that has been made with ‘Power Africa’ but that the programme seeks to address the lack of access to electricity speaks to the depth of thought and deliberation on what ails Africa under the Obama presidency.

But it is the attention paid by Barack Obama to leadership and entrepreneurship training for African youth that is most worthy of attention and celebration, for me.

He participated in the Global Entrepreneurship Summit in Kenya.

But the defining Obama legacy in Africa is the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), launched in 2010, and targeted at the next generation of African leaders, to enable them “spur growth and prosperity, strengthen democratic governance, and enhance peace and se-

curity across Africa.”

However it is the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders, the flagship programme of YALI that best highlights the Obama legacy in Africa.

Inaugurated in 2014, the fellowship annually provides “up to 1,000 outstanding young leaders from SubSaharan Africa with the opportunity to hone their skills at a U.S. college or university with support for professional development after they return home.”

Each Mandela Washington Fellow takes part in a six-week academic and leadership institute at a U.S. college or university in one of three tracks: Business and Entrepreneurship, Civic Leadership, or Public Management. Following the academic component, the Fellows visit Washington, D.C., for a Summit featuring networking and panel discussions with U.S. leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors.

The Fellows, who are between the ages of 25 and 35, are chosen on the basis of their records of accomplishment in promoting innovation and positive change in their organisations, institutions, communities, and countries. Last year, fellows were chosen from all 49 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, including some with disability.

About 2,000 young Africans have

directly benefited from the programme, apart from the hundreds of thousands who are part of the YALI Network. Another 1,000 will be a part of the fellowship this year.

I have interacted physically and virtually with some of the Fellows.

The BringBackOurGirls campaigner and coordinator of ‘Adopt-ACamp’, Bukky Shonibare, is one of them. The brilliant Diran Adegoke is another. Edeh Catherine, a lawyer and disability rights advocate who has bravely defied hearing disability to make tremendous impact in her community, is another beneficiary of the programme. These are lives that have been positively touched by the programme initiated by Barack Obama. They have, in turn, taken on the baton, doing their bit in inspiring others and touching many more lives in the process.

It is in choosing to touch the lives of young Africans, raising leaders and entrepreneurs who can impact lives and widen the net of impact that Barack Obama leaves a legacy in Africa. It is in the symbolism of the audacity of hope that he planted a seed in the heart of many young Africans. It is the grace and panache with which he carried himself, going high when it was easy to go low, that he leaves a legacy for the world about the African spirit.

Obazee: Accounting for God’s money on earth

J

Jibrin Ibrahim

im Obazee, the recently sacked Executive Secretary of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria is a man with unlimited capacity to provoke agency. He got an alarmed President Buhari only a few hours to leap into action and sack him over an impending war he was provoking between the Administration and Nigeria’s Christian Community when people woke up to realise that the revered general overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God was not retiring from office due to divine revelation but due to injunctions from Mr. Obazee.

It would be recalled that when the Emir of Kano was governor of the Central Bank and made major revelations of mega corruption against the then Jonathan Administration, in the comfort of law which guarantees the tenure of central bank governors, it was the same Mr. Obazee who emerged out of no where to create conditions for the sack of Sanusi Lamido Sanusi. Obazee had no qualms or fear in accusing him of financial recklessness and seeking to interrogate him.

In October 2015, the FRC under Obazee also suspended Atedo Peterside as the chairman of Stanbic IBTC, citing infractions in the 201314 financial statements of the bank

as the reason for its decision. He directed the bank to restate and to reissue its 2013-14 financial statements and imposed a fine of N1 billion on the bank. He also suspended Sola David Borha, the group managing director and other staff. He is a man with no fear of action, even if often the actions he takes are misguided or not clearly thought out.

One of Obazee’s most dramatic actions was in relation to civil society and religious organisations.

Late last year, he directed not-forprofit organisations, including churches and mosques, to comply with a corporate governance code stipulating a maximum term of 20 years for heads of such entities. It was a decision that normally should have been considered and taken by the Corporate Affairs Commission, which regulates charities in Nigeria, but as they were not willing to act, Obazee acted. On the basis of his action, Enoch Adeboye, who had spent over 20 years as the general overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), decided to hand over the baton to Joshua Obayemi to head the Nigerian church.

When people realised that the change of guard was an Obazee, and not a spiritual, revelation, there was deep anger, which President Buhari understood immediately, and for once acted fast by removing Obazee

and approving the reconstitution of the board of FRC. His rashness aside, Mr. Jim Obazee has raised issues of accountability that should not be disregarded in the review process that is to follow.

When public funds are involved, government needs to ensure proper accountability.”

In this regard, it’s worthwhile recalling the story of Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, general overseer of a pentecostal church then based in a disused cinema in north-east London. He was running one of the United Kingdom’s richest religious institutions, the Kingsway International Christian Centre, in Walthamstow. It emerged in 2009 that he had filed company accounts, which revealed a £4.9 million profit over the previous 18 months. It also had asset of £22.9 million – more than three times the amount held by the foundation, which maintains St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. As the boss, Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo had placed himself on a salary of £100,000 in conformity with his preaching that God wants his people to be rich. The Church was registered as a charity and its wealth was derived mainly from its 8,000 congregation that gave £9.5 million in tithes and offerings in the 18 months to April 2008, dwarfing the £33,000 that the average Church

of England congregation gave over the same period. While British Churches were dying, this Nigerian Church was flourishing with active members who were paying money to the Church.

The British Charity Commission objected to how the Church leadership was using the money which they believed belonged to members and not the leadership.

They ordered Ashimolowo to repay £200,000 after it emerged he used church asset to buy a £13,000 Florida timeshare and £120,000 on his birthday celebrations, including £80,000 on a car. The Charity Commission ordered the Church to appoint new trustees and removed Ashimolowo as chief executive of the Church.

Nigeria, according to Forbes, is the world leader in terms of the wealth of pastors. They claimed three years ago that our richest pastor is Bishop David Oyedepo of the Living Faith World Outreach Ministry, aka Winners Chapel with an estimated net worth of $150 million. He is followed

by Chris Oyakhilome of Believers’ Loveworld Ministries, a.k.a Christ Embassy with an estimated net worth of $30 million to $50 million. Then Temitope Joshua of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) who is worth $10 million to $15 million,then followed by Mathew Ashimolowo and Chris Okotie.

16

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

TIMES AGAINST CORRUPTION N1.9bn subsidy fraud: Adaoha Ugo-Ndagi gets sentence today Justice Lateefa Okunu of the Lagos High Court will today, sentence Walter Wagbatsoma and Adaoha Ugo-Ndagi, chairman and Managing Director, respectively, of Ontario Oil & Gas Nigeria Limited, along with their company, in a N1.9 billion oil subsidy fraud case preferred against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC. This followed the inability of the Judge to pronounce the sentence to be meted out to the convicts, as Adaoha Ugo-Ndagi slumped in the dock on hearing of her conviction the during the proceedings, last weekend.

Following the development Justice Okunnu, could not give her sentence, in order to allow Ugo-Ngadi get proper medical attention and appear before the court, before proceeding with the sentence.

According to a statement by the EFCC, the judgement represented a dramatic climax to a trial that actually began on August 1, 2012 when they were first arraigned before Justice Habeeb Akiru, of the Lagos State High Court, Ikeja, for the fraud.

It was reported that by Reuters in May 2012, that “$6.8 billion fuel subsidy fraud scandal was heaping pressure on Nigerian under the regime of former President Goodluck Jonathan, who was under pressure to prosecute top officials involved in the scam or face mass protests.

The former President, it was alleged, could not initiate their prosecution as “many of those implicated

are allies he is unlikely to go after if wants to keep his power base intact.”

Following the huge public outcry, “string of investigations, audits and committees were set-up to investigate the fuel subsidy scheme” A summary of the findings of the committees set up to investigate subsidy regime between 2009-2011, showed that the period was fraught with “endemic corruption and entrenched inefficiency”.

It was reported that “Investigators looking into the subsidy found importers were being paid for 59 million liters a day, while the country only consumes 35 million” “Mismanagement and theft by fuel marketers and government officials cost $6.8 billion over three years -- about a quarter of Nigeria’s annual budget.”

“Nigeria spent 2.587 trillion Nigerian naira ($16.46 billion) on the fuel subsidy in 2011, 900 pct more than the 245 billion naira in the budget. The overspend is equivalent to over half of the 2011 federal budget.”

The NNPC was accountable to no one under the period as it owed the government 704 billion naira for various violations of the subsidy scheme and it owes a string of fuel traders, including Trafigura, $3.5 billion -- about the amount in the Excess Crude Account, meaning that Nigeria essentially has no savings.

THE then Oil Minister, Diezani Alison-Madueke had a conflict of

interest by being both on the board of NNPC - a fuel importer - and the supervisor of the subsidy regulator, the Petroleum Products Pricing and Regulatory Agency (PPPRA).

The number of fuel importers rose from 5 in 2006 to 10 in 2007, 19 in 2008 and 140 in 2011. This decision taken

by PPPRA was one of the biggest causes of fraud. Many firms only existed on paper and collected subsidies on fuel that never existed.

In one example of mismanagement cited, “the accountant-general’s office made 128 subsidy payment transactions of 999 million naira each in the space of 24 hours between January 1213 2009 -- equal to about $6.36 million almost every 10 minutes”

EFCC graduates 331 operatives

As part of efforts to beef up its manpower, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC has graduated 331 cadets of the Detective Assistant Grade, trained alongside 1498 officers of the Nigerian Air Force at the Ground Training School, Nigerian Air Force Base, Kaduna.

A statement by the EFCC Spokesman, Wilson Uwujaren, described the colorful passing out parade as the climax of the 6 months rigorous training program put up to equip the officers with the relevant skills of law enforcement.

Speaking at the occasion, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall S. B. Abubakar, who doubles as the Reviewing Officer, congratulated the operatives of the EFCC for their gallantry and brilliance.

“I want to congratulate the operatives, I am sure you will find the training useful in your career”, he said.

Abubakar, while listing the qualities exhibited by the new operatives of the EFCC said, “I have been briefed

that you demonstrated commitment, hard work and courage during training. These attributes are essential in your career progression”.

He expressed delight over the collaboration among law enforcement agencies which made NAF to train EFCC operatives alongside NAF recruits adding that, “this cooperation remains a practical step towards enhancing inter-agency partnership,

necessary to effectively respond to the national security imperative”.

Abubakar admonished all the graduands to be loyal to the federal government by being patriotic, vigilant and be of good conduct. He also charged them to always remember that their duty is to protect all Nigerians irrespective of their ethnic or religious inclinations.

The Acting Chairman of the

Justice Lateefa Okunnu took over the case on February 26, 2013 when the accused persons were re-arraigned along with Fakuade Ebenezer, an employee of the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency, on an amended eight-count charge bordering on conspiracy, obtaining property by false pretence, forgery and altering of documents, convicted them of all the charges.

In a terse ruling, Justice Okunnu, found Ugo-Ndagi and the billion oil magnate who was absent in court, guilty, while acquitting Ebenezer, the third defendant.

The trial judge held that: “The defendants defrauded the Federal Government of N340 million in the third quarter of 2010 and N414 million in the fourth

EFCC, Ibrahim Mustapha Magu, who was visibly excited, in his speech, expressed his satisfaction with the training hoping that the synergy between the two organizations would be sustained.

The newly graduated operatives comprise of individuals who were picked from across the 36 states of the federation and the FCT through a rigorous screening process that featured aptitude test, fitness test and oral interview.

The operatives include 51 females and 280 males.

Three individuals: Mustapha Suleiman, Ogbuefi Wisdom and Ogbaji Paul were recognized for their exceptional performance in all written examinations and practical tests and for high degree of discipline, physical fitness and demonstrable leadership.

Highlights of the event include the silent drill, quick match and different military demonstrations.

As a demonstration of the bond between the EFCC and Nigerian Air Force, the acronym of both organizations was displayed in the silent drills.

17

s quarter of 2010”, noting that according to audit reports by Akintola Williams Delloitte, they did not remit an excess of N754 million to government Wagbatsoma, according to Justice Okunnu, knowingly received the sum in excess of what Ontario Oil and Gas Nigeria Limited was entitled to, and “in my opinion, he contributed to the false pretence.”

She further noted that Ugo-Ndagi being the “alter ego” of Ontario Oil and Gas Nigeria Limited, was aware of the shady deals, and so was complicit in the company’s illegal acceptance of N942 billion as subsidy payment instead of N602 million.

Justice Okunnu, further noted that the prosecution, led by Rotimi Jacobs, SAN, provided incontrovertible evidence, detailing how the convicts discharged much lesser quantity of petrol, and presented a shore tank certificate that was forged.

While recalling that in the course of trial, a prosecution witness gave evidence as to how Ontario Oil and Gas paid N37 million for 12 million litres of fuel in a throughput agreement with Integrated Oil and Gas, but later collected subsidy for 19 million litres, the trial judge noted that in another transaction, the company collected subsidy for 19 million litres, yet it paid a throughput agreement with Obat Oil worth N28 million for 10 million litres of fuel.

“Another prosecution witness, Obinna Ukonu, a store officer at Integrated Oil and Gas, gave evidence that Ontario brought in 12 million litres of fuel via a mother vessel, MT Pacific, and then a daughter vessel, MT Union Brave. The same quantity was “trucked out” by the company,” the judge held.

Theft: Navy hands over 3 suspects, 4 vessels to EFCC As part of efforts to beef up its manpower, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC has graduated 331 cadets of the Detective Assistant Grade, trained alongside 1498 officers of the Nigerian Air Force at the Ground Training School, Nigerian Air Force Base, Kaduna.

A statement by the EFCC Spokesman, Wilson Uwujaren, described the colorful passing out parade as the climax of the 6 months rigorous training program put up to equip the officers with the relevant skills of law enforcement.

Speaking at the occasion, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall S. B. Abubakar, who doubles as the Reviewing Officer, congratulated the operatives of the EFCC for their gallantry and brilliance.

“I want to congratulate the operatives, I am sure you will find the training useful in your career”, he said.

Abubakar, while listing the qualities exhibited by the new operatives of the EFCC said, “I have been briefed.

18 Times Against Corruption

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

EFCC docks suspected land racketeer over issuance of dud cheque The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has as part of its anti corruption war, arraigned one Olajide Dele Oyegbami, before Justice A. A. Aderemi of the Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan, on a 2-count charge bordering on issuance of dud cheque.

Oyegbami, an alleged serial land racketeer who was recently arraigned for a similar offence was docked following the conclusion of investigation on a petition alleging that he sold a plot of land to the petitioner sometime in October 2015.

Few weeks after the purchase of the plot of land, and construction work had commenced, Oyegbami allegedly instructed the petitioner to stop work claiming that a woman (one Mojirade Adesokan) was in court over the said plot of land adding that, he didn’t know anything about the land dispute until November 2015.

Investigation however revealed that Oyegbami was privy to the case instituted by Adesokan and actually collected money for the sale of the said plot of land notwithstanding the restraint order placed on it by court.

The petitioner, having invested about N4million on the land in dispute, approached Oyegbami for a refund, but the defendant after much pressure issued two separate cheques for N1million and N1.5million which upon presentation at the bank were dishonoured by due to insufficient funds in the account.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge pressed against him.

In view of his plea, counsel to EFCC, Cosmas O. Ugwu, prayed the court for a trial date. But, the defence counsel, S. O. Sanni, informed the court that he had a pending application dated January 4, 2017 which was filed in court and served on the prosecut-

ing counsel same date.

Moving the application, Sanni prayed the court to admit his client to bail.

Justice Aderemi granted bail to the accused in the sum of N200,000 (two hundred thousand

naira) with two sureties in like sum. The sureties who must be civil servants working in the state, not be below salary grade level 10.

The case has been adjourned to February 27.

Abba Kyari can sue Sahara Reporters –Minister Minister of Foreign Affairs,Geoffrey Onyeama, has hinted that the Chief of Staff to the President, Alhaji Abba Kyari can sue Sahara Reporters arguing that “Because a lot of people do not bring libel cases against media houses, they think they can write whatever they like.”

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, stated this as he described as totally untrue, claims that the Nigerian High Commission in London settled the medical bills of the Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari, on his medical trip to London, late last year.

The report, he said was a blatant falsehood , really defamatory.

As we all know, in most of these industrialized countries, if you want medical treatment, or hospital room reserved for you, they will require medical insurance of that country.

If you have do not have, they will require a deposit or a guarantee.

Our embassies and high commissions around the world are there to assist Nigerians.

He described the “report was a blatant falsehood , really defamatory” “As we all know, in most of these industrialized countries, if you want medical treatment, or hospital room reserved for you, they will require medical insurance of that country” “Because a lot of people do not bring libel cases against media houses, they think they can write whatever they like” Mr. Onyeama while explaining what must have transpired, said the High Commission has a responsibility to take care of Nigerians by guaranteeing such treatments According to him” If you do not have, they will require a deposit or a guarantee. Our embassies

Geoffrey Onyeama

and high commissions around the world are there to assist Nigerians.” “ All that happened in the case of the Chief of Staff when he went to the U.K. for medical treatment was that before he arrived, the

high commission guaranteed that he will pay his hospital bills and that was all” He revealed that “ a letter was written to the hospital that this person is a high official and we guarantee that he will settle his bill” He added that “On that basis, they reserved a hospital room for him and afterwards, he settled his bill. During the time he was in London, he never asked the high commission to even provide a car for him. He made his arrangements” He noted further that “ It is extremely unfair that such defamatory article would have come out. It has no iota of truth in it” “He had never made any contact with the U.K. for the one and a half years he has been in office” But whether the top aide to the President will accept to follow the advice and sue the online media organization remains to be seen.

EFCC will never go against the law –P.H zonal leader In the wake of recent spates of protects over the actions of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC), against alleged violators of the nation’s financial regulation, the agency has reiterated that the anti-graft is a law abiding agency, which will never victimize anybody.

An Operative of the EFCC, Usman M. Muktar, stated this when he received scores of protesters

under the aegis of “’Coalition of Civil Rights Oraganisations, Concerned Youths and the Ijaw Nation Worldwide” The group had thronged the Port Harcourt Zonal office to protest what they called undue harassment of the former first lady, Patience Jonathan.

Muktar who represented Ishaq Salihu, Zonal head, told the protesters that the EFCC performs its duties within the ambits of

the law. He assured them that their letter will be forwarded to the appropriate authority.

Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo, a self-acclaimed ambassador who led the protesters said they were making a repeat of their protest to the Commission because of the continuous harassment of Patience Jonathan, the former First Lady and her family. “It has never happened in Nigeria.

No former first lady has been ha-

rassed like this.”

In their protest letter, the group alleged that there are “attempt to desecrate the person of Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan by treating him and his household as common criminals and that there is no respect for a man who had meritoriously served the country. The group said if these actions were not stopped, it may elicit further actions which will not be to anybody’s interest.

How Badeh used loots to build churches, mosques The trial of a former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Air Chief Marshal Alex S. Badeh (rtd), had continued on January 12, 2017 with a prosecution witness, Joseph Okpetu, giving insight into how his company, Havco Nigeria Limited was paid the sum of N100million to build churches, a mosque and a civic centre in Badeh’s village in Adamawa State.

Okpetu who continued his evidence as PW13 while being led in evidence by counsel to the EFCC, Rotimi Jacobs, SAN, said, “I constructed a village house for the first defendant, Alex Badeh, between 2008 and 2012.

The fixings, features and painting were done in 2012. We also built a mosque opposite the house.

“After the construction of the house, a thanksgiving service was held. We (Havco) renovated the church where the thanksgiving took place. My company was also given the responsibility to provide tables and chairs for the thanksgiving.”

According to him, between N5million to N8million was spent on renovation of the church used for the thanksgiving.

“Apart from the village house, we built a mosque, two churches and a civic centre for skills acquisition in Bintin Village. All these cost N100million. I was paid in three installments of N40million, N30million and N30million.”

Okpetu further narrated how his firm received N14million for building a house for the officer-in-charge of the Joint Armed Forces in Mubi, Adamawa State.

He also told the court that he imported materials, plants and equipment for Badeh’s Kantiye Farm in Nassarawa State.

Answering questions on his connection to Badeh’s company, Iyalikam Nigeria Limited, Okpetu said: “I do not know Iyalikam, but I was paid from Iyalikam Nigeria Limited the sum of N30million in 2015”.

When asked about the structure of his company, Dilplast Nigeria Limited, the witness responded: “Before 2015, the share structure of my company, Dilplast Nigeria Limited, was four million shares to me, three million shares to Alex Badeh (Jnr) and three million shares to Kamtufa Badeh. Now, I own six million shares, while Kamtufa Badeh owns three million and Victoria Okpetu and Architect Dan Williams own 500,000 shares each.

Kamtufa, who according to Okpetu is Badeh’s son, contributed a house given to him by his father to Dilplast.

However, in a dramatic turn under cross-examination and given the witness’ previous performance in the stand on Tuesday, Okpetu’s testimony took yet another direction.

Responding to questions from Akin Olujimi, SAN, the PW13 said that he was not stable psychologically when he made his statement at the EFCC, a response which made Jacobs jump to his feet.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

Future of higher education in Nigeria lies on private varsities –NUC secretary Sodiq Adekunle, Osogbo

ÎÎÎExecutive Secretary of

the National University Commission (NUC), Professor Abubakar Adamu Rasheed, has said that the future of higher education in Nigeria depends on how Fountain University and other private varsities in the country are managed.

He said this while delivering the convocation lecture of Fountain University in Osogbo, Osun State capital.

During the convocation, a total of 198 graduands got first degrees with honourary degrees conferred on two eminent Nigerians - AlhajiSakariyau Olayiwola Babalola and Mallam Yusuf Olaolu Ali (SAN).

While Babalola, who is the Deputy President-General of Nigerian Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) was conferred with Doctor of Science, Ali who is the Pro Chancellor of Osun State University was conferred with Doctor of Letters.

They were both awarded for their respective contributions to educational development in the country.

According to the NUC executive secretary, the number of universities in the country are too small to carter for the number of candidates seeking admission.

He called on individuals and organizations to invest in education by establishing private universities.

He stated that the country currently has over a hundred universities to carter for a population of over 180 million people.

Health Workers Equipped with Modern Skills in Kano Yakubu Salisu, Kano

ÏÏÏ

Kano state government has said it is determined to introduce more techniques that would shape the horizon and skills of its health workers to function effectively, in view of the global change and development.

Kano state commissioner for health, Dr. Kabir Ibrahim Getso, made the disclosure during a 5-day workshop on task shifting and sharing policy domestication held in Zaria, Kaduna state.

At the forum jointly organized by the federal ministry of health, Kano state ministry of health, Maternal Newborn & Child Health2 (MNCH2) and Women for Health (W4H) organizationsDr. Getso said the purpose of the workshop was to bring all the different health cadre together and shift some of the responsibilities to other categories of health workers after undergoing rigorous training that would improve efficiency in health care delivery.

He also said the presence of private universities in th country would aid favourable competition among Nigeria and other countries across the globe.

He expressed concern over inability of many private universities to fill their admission quota.

He said most of the private universities could only fill 40 per cent of their quotas.

While saying that “the future of higher education in the country lies with how the private universities are managed,” the NUC added, “There is need to ask questions about why

the private universities are unable to fill their quotas despite that there is admission demand. This is a very serious issue and NUC and JAMB are worried about this.”

This as he said that a summit to review how private universities could cover-up for the over population experienced by federal universities would hold this year.

He disclosed that the summit expected to be conveyed by the NUC would also fine-tune the activities and operations of private universities in a bid to assist them to be able to attain

their goals.

He assured the private universities of the NUC’s support, saying that the commission was ready to assist them to survive and sustain their operation.

“We shall convoke a summit for private universities early this year to consider how best the private universities could operate and function maximally to be able to help the country,” he said.

The acting vice chancellor of the university, Professor AbdulLateef Usman, reiterated the commitment of Fountain University to academic excellence.

L-R: National president, Miners Association of Nigeria, Alhaji Sani Shehu; Executive Director, Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, Mr.Waziri Adio and Managing Partner, Zenera Consulting, Mr. Meka Olowola, at the 5th Sustainability in the Extractive Industries Conference in Abuja… recently.

DESOPADEC boss fights back ÏÏd ƑƐ Ɨ Ɠ Ɔ ƗƎƑ ƏƐƆƏ

Isaac Olamikan, Warri

ÏÏÏ

Following the protest by aggrieved staff members of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) last Monday, which led to the disruption of the operations at the headquarters of the Commission in Warri, managing director of the outfit, Mr. Williams Makinde, over the weekend, ordered the shutdown of the facility.

Daily Times gathered that the closure was neccesitated by the need to safeguard the properties and other valuables of the commission, which some miscreants could destroy while capitalising on the crisis.

Though he denied owing the workers’ salaries, the embattled managing Director has promised to address the issues raised by

the staff at the appropriate time.

It would be recalled that aggrieved workers of DESOPADEC had last week, shutdown activities at the commission’s headquarters over what they alleged to be non-payment of “13point” bonus (Christmas bonus) for Year 2016 as well as other welfare allowances.

The staff, who carried placards with inscriptions such as,” Governor Okowa, pay attention to DESOPADEC Staff Welfare”, “Pay Pensioners their money.”

“Okowa Where is our 13-point bonus?” “We need our promotion for the past 8years,” chanted solidarity songs and danced through the Esisi office of the commission to its headquarters adjacent the Nigeria Navy Ship, NNS Delta.

In a chat with Daily Times, one of the staff, Comrade Darlington Erhijakpor had disclosed

that the staff of the commission were going through hardship as a result of the non-payment of the 13-point bonus by the Governor Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa’s-led administration.

He also noted that the DESOPADEC Staff and pensioneers have not been paid their salaries and gratuities.

“We don’t know where our pension goes to after they deduct our monies at the end of every month,” he stated.

He accused the government of hiding under the cloak of recession as well as failing to show concern to their welfare, which according to him, is their fundamental right. He however warned that the DESOPADEC head office remains shut until Governor Okowa is ready to pay attention to their plights, including their welfare.

19 News 2017 Armed Forces Remembrance Day:

ABSG assures families of fallen war heroes of care Sunday Nwakanma Umuahia

ÏÏÏ Abia

State government has said it will not abdicate its duty in catering for the families of fallen war heroes in the state.

The state governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, handed down this assurance in Umuahia on the occasion of this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day, appreciating also those who are alive and still working for the country.

Ikpeazu, who was represented by his deputy, Ude Oko Chukwu, said the occasion marks the end of weeklong activities to mark 2017 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, stating that it is the duty of leaders in the country to ensure that efforts of the heroes past are not in vain.

The heroes, he said made sacrifices to ensure that the country is intact as one, while some paid the supreme price to ensure Nigeria remain in one piece.

He described the sacrifice as enormous, which resulted in making thousands of women widows and children, orphans.

He described the occasion as one meant to remember heroes, dead or alive, who have been there for the country right from the first world war through the second world war to the Nigerian civil war and who had done well.

Speaking with newsmen after the occasion, which featured minimal speeches, the chairman, Nigerian Legion, Abia State, Lt. Col. Sam Aboaja (rtd), pleaded with the state government to assist them in acquiring land for a permanent site as the legion in the state is not comfortable with their present office location.

According to him, their welfare should be paramount in the minds of leaders in the state, having sacrificed so much for the country, stating that they deserve a better treatment.

20

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Prince babatunde omojola 2. Aminat omojola 3. Samuel omojola 4. Whesu samson 5. Rev. Olaniyi olufunsho AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. Signed: Trustees

CHANGE OF SURNAME

The family of EMMANUEL JOSHUA of Neke-Uno Nike in Enugu East L.G.A. Enugu State formally known and addressed as EMMANUEL NGWU, henceforth wish to be known and addressed as JOSHUA as their (Surname). All our documents bearing NGWU remain valid. General public should please take note.

Signed: Mr. Emmanuel Joshua For the family

21

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

Trustees 1. Dr Marcus H. Nachesson - Chairman 2. Muhammed Ibrahim- Secretary.

3. Amb. Sule Buba.

4. Rev. Fr Ejike Mbaka 5. Bishop Paul Zamani 6. Sheik Yusuf Sambo 7.High Chief Dr. Harry Akande.

8. Prof. Ango Abdullahi 9.Hon. Adamu Maina Waziri 10.Chief B.M Auta Aims Initiating programmes that will promote Peace unity in diversity in Nigeria 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

ROOT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS REVIVAL MINISTRY

ABBOT GIRLS SECONDARY SCHOOL IHIALA OLD GIRLS ASSOCIATION.

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

CECILIA EBUN CHARITY 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 FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER THE PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. OKUNOROBO KENNETH 2. OKUNOROBO PATRICIA 3. OKUNOROBO ISOKEN JULIET 4. OKUNOROBO OMORUYI JOEL 5. OKAFOR PATIENCE EBELE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To preach, teach and propagate the total and undiluted gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ both within and outside the country.

2. To build a church where true believers in the word of God can gather together to worship God. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. MRS JACQUELINE IKEOTUONYE OFFIA 2. BARR MRS ANTHONIA TABANSI OKOYE 3. MRS HELEN UZO NWOKO 4. HER EXCELLENCY MRS AUGUSTINA EZEH 5. MRS RITA OPARAOCHA. AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. TO CATER FOR THE WELFARE OF MEMBERS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: TRUSTEES.

Signed: MIKE MOGHALU, ESQ

SAMMY SOTOMI CHARITY FOUNDATION

APOSTLE EMMANUEL ETIM MINISTRY.

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

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

The Trustees Are: 1. Mr. Sammy lrebami Akanni Sotomi 2. Miss Mary Kehinde Sotomi 4. Brigadier General Yusuf Kamal Ishola

3. Miss Victoria Mbang 5. Mr Segun Balogun.

Aims And Objectives: 1. To contribute financially to the improvement of all human endeavour, protect and preserve the environment, public life, habitats, community health and promote good public order.

2. To render financial help to orphanages, orphans, less privilege persons, sick, elderly, disable persons and those in need of urgent medical assistance in Nigeria.

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: BARRISTER VICTORIA MBANG

LOSS OF DOCUMENTS THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC OF THE ORIGINAL C OF O NO 9401 IN RESPECT THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT KETERENGWARI,MINA NIGER STATE ,BEARING THE NAME PETER MAJOR OKOROAFOR, SOLD FOR MR EBERE OJIMADU NWEZE.ALL EFFORTS MADE TO TRACE THE SAID DOCUMENT PROVED ABORTIVE .IF FOUND PLEASE RETURN TO THE NEAREST POLICE STATION OR BARR BOB JAMES. GLOBAL INITIATIVE ON GENDER RESPONSIVENESS AND DEVELOPMENT THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED BODY HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

TRUSTEE 1. Gbadegesin Adefemi Ademola - ( President) 2. Eniola Dorcas Adesina. - ( Vice President) 3. Olanrewaju Akindele- Obe 4. Ayoleyi Sehindemi Secretary Aim and objective 1. Promoting gender responsiveness 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. Signed SECRETARY

Trustees are: 1. Emmanuel Ishie Etim. -(Chairman) 2. Yonas Fasil Salelew. - (Secretary) 3. Joseph Edet Edem Aims.

1. To preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. Signed: Olusola Bukola. 08034923860 TRINITY INTEGRATED COLLECTIVE EMPOWERMENT FELLOWSHIP. THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

The Trustees Are: 1. Ogunbuyide Oluwasola Stephen.

2. Adebolarinwa Adedoyin Elizabeth.

3. Omotuyi Sunday.

4. Olamolu Ebenezer Temitope.

5. Owoseni Ayokunle Taiwo.

Aims And Objectives: 1. Provision and facilitation of vocational education to promote self employment.

2. Youth development and leadership education to promote nation building.

3. Provision of adult education to promote literacy.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. Signed: Trustees.

EMPATHY DRIVEN WOMEN INTERNATIONAL INITIATIVE The general public is hereby notified that the above named body has applied to the Corporate affairs commission Abuja for registration under the part C of the companies and allied matters act 1990.

Trustees 1. URI NGOZICHUKW UKA 2. CHIDINMA AWA - AGWU 3. ADA DIKKO UJU 4. TOYIN ERIYE 5. JAYAIKE BENJAMIN Aim and objective 1. To empower physically challenged women including professional and working women Any objections to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar general corporate Affairs commission plot 420 tigris crescent off aguiyi ironsi street maitama Abuja within 28days from the date of this publication.

Signed: NNENNA NWAOKOBIA

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. RAYMOND ADEFUNKE FRANCISCA 2. RAYMOND OLUYEMI OLUBUNMI 3. ADEGITE ADEKUNLE VINCENT 4. ADESANMI RAYMOND ADEGBUARO SAM 5. AKINGBADE EMMANUEL K AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PROMOTE ANY CHARITABLE PURPOSES FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE COMMUNITY IN NIGERIA IN PARTICULAR THE ADVANCEMENT OF EDUCATION AND THE RELIEF OF POVERTY AND DISTRESS 2. TO FOSTER THE IDEA OF VOLUNTARY AND COMMUNITY SERVICE PARTICULARLY AMONGST YOUNG PEOPLE BY PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES AND GUIDANCE 3. TO PROVIDE OR ASSIST IN THE PROVISION OF FACILITIES TO HELP AND EDUCATE YOUNG PEOPLE TO DEVELOP THEIR PHYSICAL, MENTAL, AND SPIRITUAL CAPACITIES THAT THEY MAY GROW TO FULL MATURITY AS INDIVIDUALS AND VALUED MEMBERS OF SOCIETY. ANY OBJECTIONS TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET MAITAMA ABUJA WITHIN 28DAYSFROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY.

NETWORK FOR THE PREVENTION OF SCHOOL DROP OUTS The general public is hereby informed that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part “C” of the Companies And Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. CHIEF UJU UDEME 2. MR. STEVE AZUBUIKE 3. OKPAH EMMANUEL 4. CHIEF G. C. UGORJI 5. ASHIBUOGWU PATRICK AZUKAEGO AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:1, to help fight poverty in Nigeria 2, to engage student in educational and social programs 3, to help in the development of youths in the community and households 4, to create Peace among youths and human right awareness Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication SIGNED:- SECRETARY ASSOCIATION OF PROGRESSIVE TRADERS IDUMOTA LAGOS CHANGE OF TRUSTEES This is to inform the general public that the above name Association has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for change of its Trustees due to the removal of a Trustee.

The Old Trustees Are: 1. Peter Egbuna - Retained 2. Ifeanyi Anekwe - Retained 3. Silas Anagu - Retained 4. Augustine Ifenatuora - Retained 5. Basil Odinamba - Retained 6. John Arinze - Retained 7. Francis Ilochonwu - Removed 8. Leonard Ibeachu - Retained 9. Patrick Imaezue - Retained 10. Ikelie Aduaka - Retained 11. Chris Amakeze - Retained 12. Eric Ilechukwu - Retained 13. Alexander Onue - Retained 14. Christian Okosa - Retained The New Trustees Are. 1. Egbuna Peter Ikechukwu 2. Anekwe Ifeanyi Fransis 3. Anagu Silas Nwachukwu 4. Ifenatuora Augustine Ndu 5. Odinamba Basil Emeka.

6. Arinze John Nwoye 7. Ibeachu Leonard 8. Imaezue Chigozie Patrick 9. Aduaka Basil Ikelie 10. Amakeze Christopher Chuks 11. Ilechukwu Eric Ifeanyichukwu 12. Onueh Alexander Nwafor 13. Okosa Christian Chukwuemeka 14. Okeke Jude Chukwuemeka.

Any objection should be forwarded to the Registrar-General Corporate Affairs Commission. Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maltama,P M.B.198. Garki, Abuja within twenty-eight (28) days of this publication.

SignedMIKE MOGHALU,ESQ solicitor.

GODWIN NYAMEH GONMAG FOUNDATION. This is to inform the general public that the above named BODY has applied for Registration to the Corporate Affairs Commission under part “C” of the Companies Allied Matters Act 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. Mr Godwin Eli. Nyame 3. Bashir Lawan

2. Bar. Aiden Anthony 4. Mr. Ezekiel Yazen

Aim and objectives 1. To provide skill acquisition and job creation program for women and youth in Taraba state and Nigeria.

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: Barr MERCY.

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Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

BEULAH LAND OF GRACE BIBLE CHURCH

THE EXALTED FAMILY OF CHRIST CHURCH

CHRIST OF NAZARETH LOVE MISSION

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

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

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

Trustees 1. APOSTLE BAZAH STEPHEN. - PRESIDENT 2. PST. (MRS) ESTHER BARIYAA STEPHEN. - VICE PRESIDENT 3. EVANG. BAZAH -SNN DEMKPOA DESIRE. - SECRETARY 4. PST. (MRS) DORIS V. BAZAH. - TREASURER 5. BRO. YAABARI THANKGOD DEEYEE. - MEMBER

Trustees 1. BISHOP NGOZI ELETUS. - PRESIDENT 2. PASTOR. AUGUSTINE WISDOM. - VICE PRESIDENT 3. PASTOR ENGR. MUNACHIMSO HERBERT. - SECRETARY 4. REV. MRS. MARYUKACHIELETU. - TREASURER

Trustee 1. REV. CHUKUMA A. EMMANUEL. - PRESIDENT 2. PST. SAMSON N. EMMANUEL. - VICE PRESIDENT 3. PST. MRS JANE U. EMMANUEL. - SECRETARY 4. MRS. CHIDEBERE D. ALIKO. - TREASURER

Aim and objectives 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESuS CHRIST TO THE WHOLE WORLD 2. TO DEFEND THE ORIGINAL FAITH Any objection to the Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: SECRETARY

Aim and objectives 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESuS CHRIST TO THE WHOLE WORLD 2. TO DEFEND THE ORIGINAL FAITH Any objection to the Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed SECRETARY

LIBRATION FIRE AND MIRACLE MINISTRY

THE LORD’S PORTION WORLDWIDE MINISTRY

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

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

Trustees 1. EVANG. MAUREEN FAITH ONYEMA. - PRESIDENT 2. PST. CHARLES O. ONYEMA. - VICE PRESIDENT. 3. EVANG. ANASTASIA IJEOMA ONYEMA. - SECRETARY 4. EVANG. ONYEKA C. EZE. - TREASURER. Aim and objectives 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESuS CHRIST TO THE WHOLE WORLD 2. TO DEFEND THE ORIGINAL FAITH

Trustees 1. PST. INNOCENT OTUTU OCHIAKU. - PRESIDENT 2. PST. MRS TOSAN FAVOUR OCHIAKU. - VICE PRESIDENT 3. PST. SUNNY ADE AKOMA. - TRESURER.

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.

Aim and objectives 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESuS CHRIST TO THE WHOLE WORLD 2. TO DEFEND THE ORIGINAL FAITH

Signed: SECRETARY

Signed: SECRETARY

BLAZE CITY DELIVERANCE WORLDWIDE MINISTRY

GRACE WINNERS CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY

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

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

Trustees 1. PST. ROBERT SUNDAY ODOH. - PRESIDENT 2. EVANG. BRAYE PROMISE ROBERT ODOOH. - VICE PRESIDENT 3. SIS MERCY ROBERT ODOOH. - SECRETARY 4. ELDER. KELVIN OSAIN. - TREASURER

TRUSTEES 1. PST. JOHN ROTJI. - PRESIDENT 2. PST. EDNA ROTJI. - VICE PRSIDENT 3. SISTER EVANGLINE. - SECRETARY 4. BROTHER. JOSIAH EZIKWA. -TREASURER

Aim and objectives 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESuS CHRIST TO THE WHOLE WORLD 2. TO DEFEND THE ORIGINAL FAITH Any objection to the Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: SECRETARY

CHRIST ANOINTED CALLING MINISTRY WORLDWIDE

Aim and objectives 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESuS CHRIST TO THE WHOLE WORLD 2. TO DEFEND THE ORIGINAL FAITH Any objection to the Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed SECRETARY

THE CHOSEN GENERATION PENTECOSTAL MISSION

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

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

Trustees 1. PST. BARNABAS ONUOHA. - PRESIDENT 2. EVANG. GODGIFT ONUOHA. - SECRETARY 3. CHI AMAKA ONUOHA. - TREASURER.

TRUSTEES 1. PST. GODSTIME OSINACHI. - PRESIDENT 2. PST. (MRS) CHIKOADI OSINACHI. - VICE PRESIDENT. 3. EVANGELIST MARTIN IWU. - SECRETARY 4. SIS. PRECIOUS GODSTIME. - TREASURER.

Aim and objectives 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESuS CHRIST TO THE WHOLE WORLD 2. TO DEFEND THE ORIGINAL FAITH Any objection to the Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: SECRETARY

BLESSED CHILDREN HOMES FOUNDATION

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

Names of board of trustees 1)Amuda Oluwakemi.

2)Amuda Owolabi 3)Amuda Oluwatoyin.

4)Amuda Adeniyi 5)Adenaiye Blessing Funmilayo. -(Secretary) 6. Amuda Adenike. - (Chairman)

Aim and objectives 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESuS CHRIST TO THE WHOLE WORLD 2. TO DEFEND THE ORIGINAL FAITH Any objection to the Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed SECRETARY

CREATIVE YOUTH AWARENESS FOUNDATION (CYAF) This is to inform the general public that the above named has applied for registration to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration. Under part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

TRUSTEES 1.

Collins Nwigbara (President) 2.

Felicia Fomsi (Secretary) 3.

Vivian Nwigbara (Financial Secretary)

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.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1.

To provide creative, inspiring and knowledge based awareness to all.

2.

To provide street counseling service among teeming youths and depressed individuals.

3.

To provide free business referral and errand support service to clients and businesses for the purpose of mutual satisfaction so as to earn public support.

4.

To involve youth in economic empowerment initiative in order to create jobs and tackle the issue of youth restiveness.

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

Signed: Barr. Sola Bankole

Signed: Secretary

Aim and objective 1. To help the motherless and less priviledge

Aim and objectives 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESuS CHRIST TO THE WHOLE WORLD 2. TO DEFEND THE ORIGINAL FAITH Any objection to the Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: SECRETARY

GOD’S GLORIOUS TRUMPET MISSION This is to inform the general public that the above named BODY has applied for Registration to the Corporate Affairs Commission under part “C” of the Companies Allied Matters Act 1990.

TRUSTEES 1. PST. EDEVO JOSEPH. - PRESIDENT 2. PST. MRS. EDEVO CHRISTIANA. - VICE PRESIDENT 3. PST. OGODO RICHARD. - SECRETARY 4. PST OGHOIFO OYURUME. - TREASURER Aim and objectives 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESuS CHRIST TO THE WHOLE WORLD 2. TO DEFEND THE ORIGINAL FAITH Any objection to the Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed SECRETARY

JESUS WAY CHARISMATIC CENTRE

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

TRUSTEES 1. REV. PETER ODOEMENAM. - PRESIDENT 2. PST. MRS. EDERE A. P. ODOEMENAM. - VICE PRESIDENT 3. ELDER CLIFFORD OKECHUKWU. - SECRETARY 4. BROTHER. PROMISE NWAKAMMA. - TREASURER . Aim and objectives 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESuS CHRIST TO THE WHOLE WORLD 2. TO DEFEND THE ORIGINAL FAITH Signed: SECRETARY

MATERNAL HEALTH AND CHILD RIGHTS NETWORK This is to inform the general public that the above named BODY has applied for Registration to the Corporate Affairs Commission under part “C” of the Companies Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. HALIMA ABDULKADIR ALFA 2. MRS. S’ADAT ABDULLAI IBRAHIM 3. MRS. ROSE AKPA 4. JEMILA ALFA 5. HAJIA BINTU LABARAN KAGO 6. PROF. LADI HAMALAI 7. PROF. MUHAMMAD TOAFIK LADAN 8. HAJIA AMINA NAMADI SAMBO 9. DR. IDRIS OMEDE 10. HAJIYA INNA MARYAM CIROMA 11. MRS. LYDIA ADUKU 12. MRS. ADAKU OBAJE THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To empower abused, estranged and less privileged and young girls with skills and education counselling to fend for living.

2. To operate skills acquisition centres towards the goal of poverty alleviation.

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

Signed: Secretary

DIVINE FIRE REVIVAL MINISTRY.

The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Degree No. 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE; 1. PASTOR IGWILO, QUINTUS - PRESIDENT. 2. IGWILO, ROSELINE - SECRETARY. 3. UCHEGBU, PATRICIA CHIKA. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ; 1. To preach the gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ.

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

SIGNED ; PRESIDENT.

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Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

EKWUNIFE CHRISTIANA CHIZOBA

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS NWEKE CHRISTIIANA CHIZOBA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS EKWUNIFE CHRISTIANA CHIZOBA. All former documents remain valid. Customary Court of Appeal Awka, Banks, Federal College of Education (T) Gombe and General public should please take note.

NWOSU EBELE GLORIA.

I, formerly known and addressed as AGUMADU EBELE GLORIA now wish to be known and addressed as NWOSU EBELE GLORIA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

WILL JORDAN ERHABOR.

ANYADIEGWU CATHRINE IGBONAKA

I formerly known AYIKA IGBONAKA CATHRINE now wish to be known as ANYADIEGWU CATHRINE IGBONAKA. Former documents remain valid. Banks and general public take note ANYAEGBULEM NKEMJIKA ONYINYE GIFT

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ILO NKEMJIKA ONYINYE GIFT now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ANYAEGBULEM NKEMJIKA ONYINYE GIFT. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

JOHN RAYMOND OJO

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to confirm and certify that INYAEGWU PATRICK, INYAEGWU KELECHI PATRICK and INYA EGWU PATRICK JUNIOR refer to one and the same person now INYA EGWU PATRICK. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

IWUOHA OGOCHUKWU BLESSING

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS IFEACHO OGOCHUKWU BLESSING now wish to be known and addressed as MRS IWUOHA OGOCHUKWU BLESSING. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

CLAUDIUS NKEM DANIELS

WILL: I, formerly known as, GODSWILL CHUKWUEMEKE ERHABOR, now wish to be known and addressed as WILL JORDAN ERHABOR. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

RAYMOND: I, formerly known as RAYMOND O. JOHN, now wish to be known and addressed as JOHN RAYMOND OJO. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CLAUDIUS: I, formerly known as CLAUDIUS NKECHUKWU NWAKA, now wish to be known and addressed as CLAUDIUS NKEM DANIELS. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

OKPARA CAROLINE JECINTA

IBRAHIM RAMATU ESTHER

OJERINDE MERCY ANUOLUWAPO

I formerly known and addressed as ANYEAJI CAROLINE JECINTA now wish to be known and addressed as OKPARA CAROLINE JECINTA All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as MISS ESTHER RANKIN UDOH now wish to be known and addressed as MRS IBRAHIM RAMATU ESTHER All former documents remain valid.

General public to please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as UDUAGELE MERCY ANUOLUWAPO now wish to be known and addressed as OJERINDE MERCY ANUOLUWAPO All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

OYEDIRAN OLAOSHEBIKAN IFE

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss. Famuyide Olaoshebikan Ife now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Oyediran Olaoshebikan Ife. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note.

PERES BENEDICT JOHN. Formerly known and addressed as JOHN BENEDICT, now wish to be known and addressed as PERES BENEDICT JOHN. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as OGUMBA NWASUNDAY OKONKWO, now wish to be known and addressed as OGUMBA VIRGINIA NWASUNDAY. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

DANIEL JAMES UDOH

JUDE OKOEBELLE.

Formerly known and addressed as MONDAY JAMES UDOH, now wish to be known and addressed as DANIEL JAMES UDOH. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

OGUMBA VIRGINIA NWASUNDAY

JENNIFER OBIOMA ASEGWU.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME This is to confirm and certify that NWABUEZE UGWUOKE CECILIA, NWABUEZE CECILIAand NGOZIKA CECILIA NWABUEZE refer to one and the same person now NWABUEZE CECILIA. All former documents remain valid. Banks and General public should please take note.

OKAFOR BRIDGET EKENEDILICHUKWU.

OKORIE: I, formerly known as NWACHUKWU OZIOMA OLIVE, now wish to be known and addressed as OKORIE OZIOMA OLIVE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

AMBROSE BUKUNMI GLORIA

DAVID ABAKWANE I formerly known and addressed as ABAKWANE WILLIAMS BALA now wish to be known and addressed as DAVID ABAKWANE All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as IBRAHIM ABDULAI ATONDA now wish to be known and addressed as IBRAHIM ABU ATANDA. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as OLUBORODE BUKUNMI GLORIA now wish to be known and addressed as AMBROSE BUKUNMI GLORIA. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

OLAGUNDOYE OLUWASEUN IFEDAYO

I formerly known and addressed as OLADUNJOYE OLUWASEUN IFE now wish to be known and addressed as OLAGUNDOYE OLUWASEUN IFEDAYO. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

MOHAMMED SHAMSIYA

Formerly known and addressed as BITRUS RIFKATU, now wish to be known and addressed as MOHAMMED SHAMSIYA . All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME/ CORRECTION OF DATE OF BIRTH

Formerly known and addressed as OKOEBELLE LOUIS, now wish to be known and addressed as JUDE OKOEBELLE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

EKE IFEANYI KINGSLEY

AHMED FOLASHADE AMINAT

Formerly known and addressed as EKE FRIDAY KINGSLEY, now wish to be known and addressed as EKE IFEANYI KINGSLEY. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as AHMED FOLASHADE TEMITAYO, now wish to be known and addressed as AHMED FOLASHADE AMINAT. All former documents remain valid. GT Bank and the general public take note.

MASHO SUNYOH

MOGBONJUBOLA TOSIN PETER Formerly known and addressed as OGUNDELE TOSIN MUSA, now wish to be known and addressed as MOGBONJUBOLA TOSIN PETER. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

AKANDE OMOTAYO DEBORAH.

OGUNDEKO MOTUNRAYO SHERIFAT

Formerly known and addressed as OLOWO MOTUNRAYO SHERIFAT, now wish to be known and addressed as OGUNDEKO MOTUNRAYO SHERIFAT. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

FASUGBE HALIMAH OLAYEMI.

Formerly known and addressed as OLUSOLA OMOTAYO AKANDE, now wish to be known and addressed as AKANDE OMOTAYO DEBORAH. All former documents remain valid

Formerly known and addressed as OLAWUNI ALIMAT OLAYEMI, now wish to be known and addressed as FASUGBE HALIMAH OLAYEMI. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

ADAZEE EDISON. I, formerly known and addressed as ENOGHEGHASE EDISON ADAZEE now wish to be known and addressed as ADAZEE EDISON. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as ALARAPE ALORE and ALORE FARUQ ALFA, now wish to be known and addressed as ALORE FARUQ ALARAPE. That my correct date of birth is 29 JANUARY 1968 and not 8 JANUARY 1968. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME/ CORRECTION OF DATE

AMOO RUKAYAT OYINKANSOLA.

Formerly known and addressed as MISS BALOGUN RUKAYAT OYINKANSOLA, now wish to be known and addressed as AMOO RUKAYAT OYINKANSOLA. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

GANIYU YUSUF AJIBOLA

Formerly known and addressed as GANIYU YUSUF ALARAN, now wish to be known and addressed as GANIYU YUSUF AJIBOLA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

ISHOLA ABAYOMI SODEEQ

I, formerly known and addressed as ABAYOMI ISHOLA SHIKEMI now wish to be known and addressed as ISHOLA ABAYOMI SODEEQ. All former documents remain valid.

The general public please take note.

OKORIE OZIOMA OLIVE.

I formerly known and addressed as MISS IBANGA GRACE MFON now wish to be known and addressed as MRS SYLVESTER GRACE MFON All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

Formerly known and addressed as OYENEKE STANLEY, now wish to be known and addressed as JENNIFER BENEDICT STANLEY CHINEDU. That my correct date of birth is 14 October 1994 and not 17 October 1983. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

IFEOMA FRANCES OKOSI Formerly known and addressed as IFEOMA FRANCES ENWONWU, now wish to be known and addressed as IFEOMA FRANCES OKOSI. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

SYLVESTER GRACE MFON

IGBOCHA CHIDINMA CYNTHIA

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS AMAECHI CHIDINMA CYNTHIA now wish to be known and addressed asMRS IGBOCHA CHIDINMA CYNTHIA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ANIEROBI BRIDGET EKENEDILICHUKWU now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OKAFOR BRIDGET EKENEDILICHUKWU. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note

Formerly known and addressed as JENNIFER OBIOMA IKECHELU, now wish to be known and addressed as JENNIFER OBIOMA ASEGWU. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as DAUDA NANCY NGAVOH, now wish to be known and addressed as MASHO SUNYOH. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

This is to confirm and certify that EZE ANTHONY ANEZICHUKWU OLU, EZE ANTHONY ANEZICHUKWU and EZE ANTHONY ANEZI refer to one and the same person.

All former documents remain valid. Banks and General public should please take note.

ONYEKA MERCY OKAFOR.

Formerly known and addressed as PRECIOUS OBI, now wish to be known and addressed as ONYEKA MERCY OKAFOR. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

OSHIFADE BABATUNDE SHUAYB

Formerly known and addressed as SHU’YB ABDUL YAKEEM, now wish to be known and addressed as OSHIFADE BABATUNDE SHUAYB. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

ANYANWU CELESTINA OLUMMA

IBRAHIM ABU ATANDA

ADDITIONAL NAME

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS IBE OLUMMA CELESTINA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ANYANWU CELESTINA OLUMMA. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as Omeje Kingsley Ebuka but want to add LEO to my name now wish to be known and addressed as Omeje Kingsley Ebuka Leo. All former documents remain valid. Federal Polytechnic Idah and the general public take note.

ADEYEMI MARIAM ADEWUNMI

AKINYELE ABIODUN GBENGA Formerly known and addressed as AKINYELE ABIODUN GBANGA, now wish to be known and addressed as AKINYELE ABIODUN GBENGA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Formerly known and addressed as ABDULFATAI ADEWUNMI MARIAM, now wish to be known and addressed as ADEYEMI MARIAM ADEWUNMI. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

ONWUDIWE BLESSING OGECHI

Formerly known and addressed as MISS. UBAH BLESSING OGECHI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ONWUDIWE BLESSING OGECHI. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CHIDI OKPARA

Formerly known and addressed as CHIDI CLETUS OKWARA, now wish to be known and addressed as CHIDI OKPARA. And that my correct date of birth is 21 September 1971. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

UDEOKA RACHAEL ADAEZE EZENWANYI

Formerly known and addressed as GODWIN NNENNA RACHAEL, now wish to be known and addressed as UDEOKA RACHAEL ADAEZE EZENWANYI. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

BOLARINWA NAFISAT OLAJUMOKE.

I, formerly known and addressed as OLUWAFEMI OLAJUMOKE NAFISAT. Now wish to be known and addressed as BOLARINWA NAFISAT OLAJUMOKE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note

ABDULROHEEM MISBAUDEEN ONAOPEPO

OLUWAFEMI RICHARD OGUNDE

I, formerly known and addressed as RAHEEM MISIBAU now wish to be known and addressed as ABDULROHEEM MISBAUDEEN ONAOPEPO. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as RICHARD AYODELE OLAIYA now wish to be known and addressed as OLUWAFEMI RICHARD OGUNDE. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note.

RAHMAN HALIMOT-SHIJUADE.

Formerly known and addressed as KOMEJIHALIMOT SHIJUADE, now wish to be known and addressed as RAHMAN HALIMOT-SHIJUADE. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

SALIMONU ABDUL RASAKI IYANDA

Formerly known and addressed as BOLAJI RASAQ, now wish to be known and addressed as SALIMONU ABDUL RASAKI IYANDA. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

OMOLOLA OBIDIKE

Formerly known and addressed as OMOLOLA OMOTAYO, now wish to be known and addressed as OMOLOLA OBIDIKE (MRS).

All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

I am the same person bearing CLEMENT OKAMANTING ANARA AND CLEMENT ANARA. That any of my documents that bears both names remain mine and valid. General public take note.

BENJAMIN ADANNLA THERESA.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS UGONWA ADANNLATERESA now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. BENJAMIN ADANNLA THERESA. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note.

24

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

CHANGE OF NAME

I Was Former Known As Mercy Solomon Now I Wish To be Know As Mercy Solomon Friday.

Solomon Friday Are My Both Surnames, former documents remains valid.

General public please note.

AYO, OLASUPO KOMOLAFE

I, formerly known and addressed as AYODELE, OLADIPUPO KOMOLAFE, now wish to be known and addressed as AYO, OLASUPO KOMOLAFE. Former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

CHUKUALI JOY CHINYERE

CONFIRMATION OF NAME/IDENTITY

I, formerly known and addressed as CHUKUALI CHINYERE CHOSEN, now wish to be known, called and addressed as CHUKUALI JOY CHINYERE. All former documents remain valid.

General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

This is to confirm that I, STOCK MAAZI SYLVANUS JOSEPH is one and the same person popularly known and referred to as JOSEPH SYLVANUS. That all former and present documents bearing both names are mine and remain valid.

Access Bank Plc, other Banks and the general public should please take note.

SEUN CHARLES OGUN

ANYANASO CHIISOM LYDIA.

I, formerly known, called and addressed as OLUWASEUN CHARLES AKINKUNMI OGUNBOWALE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as SEUN CHARLES OGUN. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

JOHNSON TITILAYO ADEBIMPE.

I, formerly known, called and addressed as ANYANASO CHIISOM LOVETH, now wish to be known, called and addressed as ANYANASO CHIISOM LYDIA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

OYETI ARAFAT AJOKE.

AMIENGHEMEN BLESSING MONDAY

I, formerly known and addressed as AMIENGHEMEN BLESSING HANON, now wish to be known and addressed as AMIENGHEMEN BLESSING MONDAY. Former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

DOYINSOLA OLUWASEUN AINA

I, formerly known, called and addressed as DOYINSOLA OLUWASEUN KUFORIJI, now wish to be known, called and addressed as DOYINSOLA OLUWASEUN AINA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

WAHAB IYABO

I, formerly known and addressed as ARABA IYABO, now wish to be known, called and addressed as WAHAB IYABO due to change in my marital status. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

AJALOGUN OLUWATOYIN ELIZABETH

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OGUNSANYA TITILAYO ADEBIMPE, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MRS. JOHNSON TITILAYO ADEBIMPE. All former documents remain valid.

General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as KEMI SHOLOLA, now wish to be known, called and addressed as OYETI ARAFAT AJOKE. All former documents remain valid.

General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

Formerly known as AWODEIN OLUWATOYIN ELIZABETH, now wish to be addressed as AJALOGUN OLUWATOYIN ELIZABETH. All former documents remain valid. General public please note

CONFIRMATION OF NAME. This to certify that BAKIU, SUNDAY OJUA and OSUNG, SAMUEL ABANG refers to one and the same person. Now wish to be known and addressed as BAKIU, SUNDAY OJUA. All former documents remain valid. Banks and general public please take note.

OKEWU ALEX INNESTA. I, formerly known and addressed as Theophilus Okewu Apeh Gabriel, now wish to known and addressed as Okewu Alex Innesta. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as Muhammed Abdullahi, now wish to be known and addressed as Mohammed Abdullahi Usman. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

CORRECTION OF NAME

This is to confirm that I, GODWIN IBE and GODWIN ONYEKEREONWEYA, refers to one and same person but, now wish to be known and addressed as, GODWIN ONYEKEREONWEYA. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

I, CHARITY ABENA AHMED, wish to correct my name which was wrongly written as, ABENA AHMED, instead of, CHARITY ABENA AHMED. I now wish to be known and addressed as, CHARITY ABENA AHMED. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

IFEOMA PETER CHRISTIANA.

UMEODUM BENEDICTA CHISOM.

MOHAMMED ABDULLAHI

OLUCHI HAPPINESS JUDE

I, formerly known and addressed as, MISS. OLUCHI HAPPINESS EBUBEDIKE, now wish to be known and addressed as, MRS. OLUCHI HAPPINESS JUDE. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

WODI HOPE CHIBUZOR.

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

I, formerly known and addressed as, MISS. CHISOM BENEDICTA OJUKWU, now wish to be known and addressed as, MRS. UMEODUM BENEDICTA CHISOM. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, IWHIWHU HOPE CHIBUZOR, now wish to be known and addressed as, WODI HOPE CHIBUZOR. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

OFFOR CHRISTIANA ONYINYECHI

CHUKWU-OGBU UCHECHUKWU FIDELIS

NWADUKWE SANDRA CHINYERE

I, formerly known and addressed as ONUH ONYINYECHI CHRISTIANA, now wish to be known and addressed as OFFOR CHRISTIANA ONYINYECHI. All former documents remain valid. Banks andGeneral public should please take note.

Ogbu : I formally known and addressed as uchebuike ogbu now wish to be known and addressed as chukwu-ogbu uchechukwu Fidelis All former documents remain valid, banks and General Public should please take note.

ONYEBALU PASCHALINE CHINEDU

MADU BENEDETTE IFESINACHI.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS MADU PASCHALINE CHINEDU now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ONYEBALU PASCHALINE CHINEDU. All former documents remain valid. PPSMB and General public should please take note

I, formerly known and addressed as MADU SALOMI IFESINACHI, now wish to be known and addressed as MADU BENEDETTE IFESINACHI. All former documents remain valid.

First Bank and Generalpublic should please take note.

UWAKWE PATIENCE ONYINYECHI

I, formerly known and addressed as UWAKWE PATIENCE NDIDI, now wish to be known and addressed as UWAKWE PATIENCE ONYINYECHI. All former documents remain valid.

Banks andGeneral public should please take note

NWACHIE ROSEMARY .N.

I, formerly known and addressed as MADUBUEGWU ROSEMARY .N., now wish to be known and addressed as NWACHIE ROSEMARY .N. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OFFIAH SANDRA CHINYERE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS NWADUKWE SANDRA CHINYERE. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

UDENWA SOMTO ERNERST I, formerly known and addressed as UDENWA SOMTO LONGINUS, now wish to be known and addressed as UDENWA SOMTO ERNERST. All former documents remain valid. First Bank and ESUT andGeneral public should please take note.

ONUH SABINA I, formerly known and addressed as ONUH SABINA NWANKWOR, now wish to be known and addressed as ONUH SABINA. All former documents remain valid.

Banks and General public should please take note.

IKPE SUNDAY

Formerly Ikpe Sunday Akwa Now to be addressed as Ikpe Sunday. Former documents remains valid. General public please note.

EUNICE ANGIU

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS EUNICE UBI, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MRS. EUNICE ANGIU. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

DANIEL AGADA

I, formerly known and addressed as AARON DANU AGADA, now wish to be known, called and addressed as DANIEL AGADA. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

OLUFUNSO STEPHENSON AYINLA-STEPHENS

I, formerly known and addressed as MR. OLUFUNSO STEPHENSON OREPEKAN, now wish to be known and addressed as MR. OLUFUNSO STEPHENSON AYINLA-STEPHENS. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

CHANGE OF SURNAME

I, formerly known and addressed as Mustapha Wasiu Opeyemi, now wish to known and addressed as Opeyemi Emmanuel. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

ITAH EKENS NTENAH. I, formerly known and addressed as, MICAH ZOE EKENS, now wish to be known and addressed as, ITAH EKENS NTENAH. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

DANIEL YUSUF GOPUK.

I, formerly known and addressed as, JAN DANIEL YUSUF, now wish to be known and addressed as, DANIEL YUSUF GOPUK. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

EMEH SAMSON OBINNA.

I, formerly known and addressed as EMEH FAVOUR OBINNA, now wish to be known and addressed as EMEH SAMSON OBINNA.All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

WABAS ADAMS YAKUBU.

I, formerly known and addressed as ADAMU YAKUBU ZAMDIA, now wish to be known and addressed as WABAS ADAMS YAKUBU. All former documents remain valid. Fidelity Bank and General public should please take note.

ONYEMESIRI AWELE SANDRA

I, formerly known and addressed as MISSOGOCHUKWU AWELE SANDRA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ONYEMESIRI AWELE SANDRA. All former documents remain valid.General public should please take note.

SAKA AKEEM AKANNI.

Formerly Akeem Akanni Ayoola is the same person as Hakeem Akanni Aye Now wish to be addressed as Saka Akeem Akanni.

Former documents remains valid. General public please note.

EDITH GBEMISOLA ADEYEMI.

I, formerly known, called and addressed as MISS EDITH GBEMISOLA DANIEL, now wish to be known, called and addressed as MRS. EDITH GBEMISOLA ADEYEMI. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

ANTHONY EMMANUEL JAMES

I, formerly known and addressed as IKWUJE JUNIOR EMMANUEL, now wish to be known, called and addressed as ANTHONY EMMANUEL JAMES. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

ANENECHUKWU CHINENYE DORATHY

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS AMOKE CHINENYE DORATHY, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ANENECHUKWU CHINENYE DORATHY. All former documents remain valid.

General public please take note.

FUNMILAYO NIKE OGUNBO.

I formerly known and address as Funmilaayo Nike Adenuga now wish to be known and address as Funmilayo Nike Ogunbo.

All former document remain valid.General public should please take note NWANKWO MARGRET OTUOMASIRICHI VICTOR.

I, formerly known and addressed as, MISS. NWANKWO MARGRET OTUOMASIRICHI, now wish to be known and addressed as, MRS. NWANKWO MARGRET OTUOMASIRICHI VICTOR. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

OLAOLUWA ABIMBOLA AFOLAKE.

OYEBOBE ADEKEMI OMOLOLA

I, formerly known, called and addressed as ASAOLU ADEKEMI OMOLOLA, now wish to be known, called and addressed as OYEBOBE ADEKEMI OMOLOLA. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

INYANG MICHAEL-TIMOTHY.

I, formerly known, called and addressed as INYANG TIMOTHY ANIESUA, now wish to be known, called and addressed as INYANG MICHAEL-TIMOTHY. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

This is to confirm that I, AGIENDE CECILIA USHIE is one and the same person bearing AGIENDE CECILIA AWOBIWON. That I now wish to be known, called and addressed as AGIENDE CECILIA USHIE. That my correct date of birth is 11th day of January, 1972. All former documents remain valid. General public and Authorities Concerned should please take note.

ANYANWU JULIET IJEOMA.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OBASI JULIET IJEOMA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ANYANWU JULIET IJEOMA. All former documents remain valid.

Nursing and Midwifery Council Of Nigeria and general public please take note.

EUCHARIA MEMMA BOBMANUEL

I, formerly known and addressed as, MISS. EUCHARIA MEMMA ANUMS, now wish to be known and addressed as, EUCHARIA MEMMA BOBMANUEL. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

ENOBONG OTUEKONG ATTAH.

I, formerly known and addressed as, MISS. ENOBONG MOSES AKWA, now wish to be known and addressed as, MRS. ENOBONG OTUEKONG ATTAH. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

OBOH MUJIDAT OMETERE.

I, formerly known and addressed as JAYEOLA ABIMBOLA AFOLAKE, now wish to be known and addressed as OLAOLUWA ABIMBOLA AFOLAKE. All former documents remain valid. Banks andGeneral public should please take note.

I, formally known and addressed as Momoh Mujidat Ometere. Now washes to be known and addressed as Oboh Mujidat Ometere. All documents remain valid. The General public should take note.

MANUKWEM FLORENCE CHIGOZIE

ANEKE TOCHUKWU BERNABAS I, formerly known and addressed as ANEKE MONDAY BARNABAS, now wish to be known and addressed as ANEKE TOCHUKWU BERNABAS. All former documents remain valid.

Banks and General public should please take note

I, formerly known and addressed as MRS. EMMA-MANUKWEM FLORENCE CHIGOZIE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. MANUKWEM FLORENCE CHIGOZIE. All former documents remain valid. INEC, Zenith Bank Plc and general public please take note.

OKEKE EBUKA SAMSON I, formerly known and addressed as OKEKE CHUKWUEBUKA MICHAL, now wish to be known and addressed as OKEKE EBUKA SAMSON. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

ANYA OGBONNA.

I, formerly known and addressed as ANYA OGBONNYIA NKEMDILIM, now wish to be known and addressed as ANYA OGBONNA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

OZOR SYLVIA ONYINYECHUKWUKA

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OGU SYLVIA ONYINYECHUKWUKA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OZOR SYLVIA ONYINYECHUKWUKA. All former documents remain valid. First Bank, General public should please take note.

EZENWUGO HELEN.

I, formerly known and addressed as EUCHARIA .O. ONYIA and HELEN EZENWUGO NNEKA, now wish to be known and addressed as EZENWUGO HELEN. All former documents remain valid. Banks and General public should please take note.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

Jaiz Takaful unveils Profitsharing Insurance concept in Nigeria ÏÏÏ Jaiz Takaful has rolled out first-of-its-

kind insurance products intended to share profits with Participants/Clients.

Takaful is an Islamic insurance concept based on the Islamic principle of Taawun known as mutual benefits. Takaful subscribers have a bond among themselves as Participants who agree to jointly indemnify the loss or damage that may inflict upon any of them out of the funds or Contribution pool. Most importantly, at the end of a business year, any profit made under Takaful will be proportionately shared among its participants and shareholders in relation to the scale of their investment.

The contract of Takaful as a business venture is based on the Islamic profit sharing of Al-Mudarabah principle. Subscribers of Takaful shall be entitled to share profits on contributions paid in consideration for their participation in Takaful products, to be provided by Jaiz Takaful Insurance Plc subject to declaration of profit at the end of the financial year.

Takaful operations will in, no doubt, change the dynamics in the Insurance industry where individuals who were hitherto very skeptical about the conventional insurance now have Takaful as an alternative, in addition to a speedy settlement of claims as well as distribution of profit to participant at the end of the year.

The Managing director/ Chief executive officer of Jaiz Takaful Insurance, Momodu Musa Joof, said that their products are inspired by the need for customers to benefit from the contributions they pay as policyholders. He added that the concept is very transparent and practical. Takaful has come to address all the objections about conventional insurance (Riba, Interest, Maysir).

Jaiz Takaful Insurance is a public limited liability company registered with Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and regulated by National Insurance Commission (NAICOM).

It is among the first full-fledged Takaful insurance providers in Nigeria which are shariahcompliant and it is now open for business to Muslims and non-Muslims across Nigeria and beyond.

The company’s general Takaful insurance products include; Motor Takaful: (Comprehensive, Third party, Fire & Theft and Third Party only); Fire and Miscellaneous accident Takaful: (Fire & Allied Peril, Burglary , All risks, Fidelity Guaranty, Public liability, Group personal accident, Goods in transit, Money Takaful, Professional indemnity);others are Engineering Takaful: (Contractor’s plant and machinery Contractor’s all risk, Machinery breakdown, Electronic equipment); Marine Takaful: (Marine Cargo & Hull).

Jaiz Takaful Insurance Plc is a premier Shariah- compliant general & family (Life) insurance operator. It was established to provide unique Islamic concept of shariah compliant insurance products in Nigeria with the insight of expansion in West Africa as an international leader in Takaful.

OMOTOSHO ABOYEJI MATHEW.

I formerly known and address as OMOTOSHO ABOYEJI MATTEW,now wish to be known and address as OMOTOSHO ABOYEJI MATHEW. All former document remain valid.

General public should please take note.

25 News

House Of Reps vacant seat: Titus Akhigbe, Benin

ÏÏÏ All Progressives Congress,APC,

has elected Hon Johnson Oghuma, as its candidate for the January 28 byeelection for Estako Federal constituency in the National Assembly.

The primary, which held at Ikelebe Sports Arena in Auchi at the weekend, Oghuma scored 334 votes to defeat Blessing Agbomhere who polled 75 votes.

Chairman of the APC electoral committee, Senator Ibn Na’ Allah, who declared Oghuma winner said 411 delegates were accredited but 409 votes were valid.

Senator Na’ Allah said two votes were declared invalid.

According to him, “I hereby declare

Johnson Oghuma winner of the just concluded primaries. This is just a first step to the election proper. I urged all the party members to close ranks and ensure that your candidate emerge victorious in the main election.”

Before the elections were concluded, Agbonmhere stormed out of the Ikelebe Sports Arena at Auchi, venue of the APC primaries.

Agbomhere told newsmen that the primary was rigged in favour of his opponent.

He said party leaders were at the gate to identify delegates instead of using proper means of identification.

According to him, “I disagree with this election. There is compromise in this primaries. It is no longer free and fair. The delegates are being manipulat-

ed. There is no means of identification to know the real delegates.

“This election is not free. I am calling for the cancellation of this primaries.”

Security personnel formed a wall around Senator Na’ Allah to prevent any physical confrontation.

Senator Na’ Allah refused to succumb to the demands of Agbomhere and insisted that the primaries must continue.

His words, “I am here to do an assignment and we will do it. There is a right of appeal. Security agents, go and provide enabling environment for us to continue with our work.”

The ensuing chaos caused fears and panic among party members.

Security agents were at alert but the Auchi Vigilante Group stopped at-

tempts to stop accreditation by Agbomhere supporters.

Agbomhere waved a broom he held as he danced round the field calling for the cancellation of the primaries.

Chief of Staff to Governor Godwin Obaseki, Taiwo Akerele who was present at the primaries said the protest of Agbomhere was normal in any electoral contest.

State Chairman of the party, Barr.

Anselm Ojezua, described the primaries as transparent. He described Agbomhere`s action as unfortunate.

Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party,PDP, has picked a former President of the National Association of Nigerian Students, Mr. Jude Imagwe, as its candidate for the Estako byeelection Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi, releasing pigeons to signal the end of this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day in Abakaliki… on Sunday. With him are Director of Protocol, government House, Austin Udude(2nd left); Commandant of Nkwagu Military Cantonment, Patrick Kulawe (2nd right) and Chairman of the state’s Council of Traditional Rulers, HRH Ezeogo Nkpumah (right).

NDUKA CYNTHIA IFEANYINWA

I, formerly known and addressed as NDUKA CYNTHIA BEAUTY now wish to be known and addressed as NDUKA CYNTHIA IFEANYINWA. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note.

RASHID GRACE SOLOMON

I, formerly known and addressed as RASHID FOLUKE CELINA now wish to be known and addressed as RASHID GRACE SOLOMON. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note.

CHUKA JOHNNY CHUKWUKA.

OBIANUJU PATIENCE CHUKWUKA

I formally known and addressed as Mr.Chuka Johnny Arungwa. Now wish to be known and addressed as Mr Chuka Johnny Chukwuka. All former documents remain valid. University of Calabar and University of Lagos, National Open University of Nigeria and the general pubiic please take note.

I formally known and addressed as Mrs Obianuju Patience Arungwa.Now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Obianuju Patience Chukwuka. All former documents remain valid. Caleb University Imota Lagos State, Federal University of Technology Owerri and University of Lagos and the general public please take note.

EKPE-DOMINIC HELEN OGECHI

ANGBIANGER SAMUEL IBHADE

I, formerly known and addressed as IHUNDA OGECHI HELEN now wish to be known and addressed as EKPE-DOMINIC HELEN OGECHI. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note.

BURAIMOH FOLAKEMI BASIRAT

I formerly known as BASIRAT FOLAKEMI OKANLAWON wish to be known and addressed as BURAIMOH FOLAKEMI BASIRAT. All former documents remain valid, General public please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as IKHELOA IBHADE VIVIAN now wish to be known and addressed as ANGBIANGER SAMUEL IBHADE. All former documents remain valid. The general public please take note.

ADDITION OF NAME

Mark: This is to inform the general public that I, formerly known ,called and addressed as Popoola Olasubomi now wish add Mark to my name.

I now wish to be called and addressed as Popoola Olasubomi Mark. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note

ABDULWAHEED OLADIPUPO AROMIRE

Formerly known and addressed as MARIAM SIDDEEDAH ABDUSSALAM, now wish to be known and addrressed as ABDULWAHEED OLADIPUPO AROMIRE. All former documents remain valid.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

That I ISHOLA WAHAB JIMOH is the same person bearing AJADI WAHAB OLAOLU . All Documents/ Credentials bearing these names remain valid, general public please take note.

NWOSU ESTHER ONYEDIKACHI

I formerly known as Miss Okoronkwo Esther Onyedikachi wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Nwosu Esther Onyedikachi .All former documents remain valid, General public please take note.

OKONKWO SANDRA IFEOMA.

I formerly known as Okolie Sandra Ifeoma. now wish to be known as Okonkwo Sandra Ifeoma.

Former documents remain valid. General public take note

TRIBE OF CHRISTIANS INTERNATIONAL CENTRE. The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Degree No. 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE; 1. EKPE SYLVESTER OGHENEOVO - PRESIDENT. 2. OKARA CORDELIA - VICE PRESIDENT. 3. UDENSI MOSES IDEABUCHI - SECRETARY. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ; 1. To support youths and adults in their self discovery.

2. To assist youths and adults in actualizing their visions and purpose in life using available information.

3. To give leadership skills and trainings to youths and adults.

4. To expose creative ways of gaining financial freedom and helping business startup.

5. To assist youths and adults in their spiritual, emotional, and personal self development.

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 ; PRESIDENT.

GOD CHOSEN GREEN ESTATE OWNERS ASSOCIATION. The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Degree No. 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE;

1. NDEM EDET EFEFIONG - CHAIRMAN. 2. ONYOKOKO INNOCENT OKPAKO - SECRETARY. 3. FRIDAY ADAMA. 4. CHIBOGU ANTHONY IKECHUkWU .

5. DINBO EDWARD. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ; 1. To foster peace and unity among members of the association.

2. To protect the interest of its members.

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

SIGNED ; CHAIRMAN.

26

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

Features

s

Ensuring Naira stability through BDCs’ uniform exchange rate The exchange rate policy in Nigeria is to preserve the value of the local currency, while maintaining a favourable external reserves position and ensure external balance without compromising the need for internal balance and the overall goal of macroeconomic stability. MOTOLANI OSENI, critically looks at the effects of uniform Exchange Rate for Licensed Bureaux De Change operators in ensuring Naira’s stability.

The road to exchange rate stability in Nigeria has been rough and rigorous, due to the sharp drop in crude oil prices and the nation’s external reserves hence, this has led to the depreciation of the local currency, Naira, at both the official and parallel markets.

But recently, the Association of Bureaux De Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON) launched a Uniform Weekly Exchange Rate for Licensed Bureaux De Change portal to enforce same-rate for operators.

To this end,stakeholders have applauded ABCON’s consistent support for the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN’s) policies and ongoing plans to boost public confidence in the registered BDCs. It is worthy to note that the foreign exchange (forex) market is driven by information flow and investors’ sentiments. However, the type of information available to local and international investors helps to swing rates. It, therefore, follows that positive information flow translates to better pricing for the naira and vice versa.

Indeed, ABCON, which is the umbrella body for all central bank licensed BDCs, believed that its newly introduced portal would enable BDCs to achieve same exchange rate for the naira against the dollar across all licensed operators.

According to ABCON President, Alhaji Aminu Gwadabe, it would bring exchange rate convergence, eradicate currency speculation and ensure speedy recovery for the naira against the dollar. He said such feats are in line with the plan by the Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, to stabilize the naira and boost investors’ confidence in the economy.

“The purpose for launching the BDCs Weekly Rate was to make it a reference point for realistic rates in the market that would boost foreign investment inflows and displace the damaging effect of foreign media platform, like Abokifx.com to the economy”, he said.

Gwadabe added that, with the gradual recovery in crude oil prices, enhanced commitment of the CBN to economy diversification, which has led to rising production of local rice and drop in import bills, as well as, the political will of President Muhammadu Buhari to implement key economic reforms, the task of achieving a single determined exchange rate, will be realised.

He urged the media to adopt a single rate in their reporting, and always quote rate on the ABCON website- www.abcong.ng for consistency and uniformity of reporting.

The ABCON chief reiterated the need for the public to deal with CBN-licensed BDCs only, and urged the public to report errant operators for necessary sanction. “ABCON

Emefiele

Gwadabe

wishes to reiterate its willingness to embark on a comprehensive media campaign on the roles, activities and location of members nation-wide, so as to provide a guide to the public in dealing with only CBN-licensed BDCs and for the public to report any errant operator for necessary sanction,” he said.

Gwadabe said that CBN implements between N500, 000 to N2 million fines against BDCs that violate regulatory policies, and while such operators may also face license suspension.

He called on the media to support ABCON’s determination to highlight positive rates development in the market through the BDCs Weekly Rate for media coverage, which was launched at the event, saying that,.

The ABCON boss said there was need for the CBN and Federal Government to harmonise the multiple official exchange rates in the country and adopt a unified rate for transactions.

Calling for the adoption of a single forex market rate system, he said licensed BDCs will post an exchange rate each Monday on its website from January 16 to “highlight positive rate development in the market” and counter domains such as, Abokifx.com, which publishes ‘high’ unofficial prices daily.

Trading in the parallel market became more regular since 2014 after the CBN strengthened capital controls as crude oil prices dropped. Dollar trades for about N490, compared with the official rate of about N315. The BDCs will initially quote a rate of N399, Gwadabe said.

Stakeholders applaud ABCON’s move

Former Executive Director, Keystone Bank, Richard Obire, said that ABCON’s implementation of the unified rate across all CBN- registered BDCs will bring sanity to the forex market.

Associate – Research, Eczellon Capital Limited, Mustapha Suberu, said there was need to allow a transparent price discovery in the market, which he believed, would stimulate dollar inflows into the economy and subsequently lead to local currency stability.

Managing Director, Afrinvest West Africa, Ike Chioke, said the incorporation of a longterm diversified strategy in fiscal policy is required to cushion shocks in various segments of the economy and revive the naira.

To him, the persistent pressure on the naira could have been minimised, if a counter fiscal policy had been developed, as the CBN cannot continue to defend the naira with foreign reserves.

“To reduce this pressure, an inward looking policy (tax incentives, infrastructure development and production subsidy) should be emphasised to reduce the dependence on imported goods”, he said.

He said that asides from oil receipts, the development of the agricultural sector will, in the short-term, reduce the forex burden of food imports and on the long run, enhance foreign receipts if its comparative advantage in the sector is efficiently deployed.

Diaspora remittances Nigerians in Diaspora had in 2015, sent home $21 billion, which boosted the local forex market in 2016, figures released by Senior Special Assistant to the President on

Foreign Affairs and Diaspora Matters, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, have shown.

Dabiri-Erewa said: “In 2016 ,they remitted $35 billion, which is higher than what was remitted in 2015. This remittance by Nigerians living abroad is the highest in Africa and the third largest in the world.”

But Gwadabe said that less than five per cent of the 2016 Diaspora funds were captured officially by the CBN because of exchange rate divergence, which discourage Nigerians in Diaspora from sending their funds home through official channels.

He said that harmonisation of the multiple exchange rates in the country, would make the rate for Diaspora remittances attractive to Nigerians in Diaspora.

He said the ABCON was working very hard to build public confidence in registered BDCs because the forex market is driven by perception, adding that the ideal rate for the naira is $400 to dollar, even as speculation is hurting the local currency. He wants the CBN to stop banks from selling Personal Travel Allowances and Business Travel Allowances to travelers and assign the role to BDCs. Building economic buffers to save naira Gwadabe urged Nigeria to build strong buffers, so its currency can withstand headwinds that come during economic crisis.

Automation of BDCs’ operations Gwadabe said there was ongoing automation of BDCs’ operations, which would help online real-time operations and enhance compliance among operators. These, he said would boost transparency of operations, ease of public accessibility of BDCs’ procedures, returns rendition and regulatory supervision.

He said the BDCs are also advocating being the sole handler of Personal Travel Allowances and Business Travel Allowances.

He said the BDCs are also raising their operational modalities to ensure that operators become agents of International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs).

The ABCON boss believes that despite the challenges facing the economy, the CBN and BDCs will continue to work together and find sustainable solutions that can help the country wriggle out of the ongoing forex crisis and achieve full economic recovery.

“We have continuously assured the CBN and taken appropriate measures to ensure that purchased funds are disbursed to end users and for eligible transactions only. We also render weekly returns on purchases from the banks to Trade and Exchange Department of the apex bank. We also ensure strict compliance to the provisions of the anti-money laundering laws, observance of appropriate Know-Your-Customer principles in the handling of forex transactions,” he said.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

A vandalised bus

27

Features

A vandalised car

How cultists left Mowe in tears, sorrow Ladesope Ladelokun The fast-growing Mowe community, in Obafemi Owode Local Government ,Ogun State, last Tuesday, January 10, 2016, was in disarray, following a bloody confrontation among rival cult groups.

The town, located on the LagosIbadan transport corridor, was shaken to its foundation, when scores of heavily armed thugs invaded the town, causing mayhem, deaths and destruction to properties.

The street urchins, numbering about 70, The Daily Times gathered, raped, looted and vandalized properties, causing residents to run helter-skelter in order as they scampered for safety.

With annoyance and frustratation, and with anger etched on their faces, people of the area shouted in disbelieve, as scores of valuables were destroyed without blinking an eye by the rampaging thugs, forcing youths of the town, led by the youth leader and Otun Baale of the town, Chief Suleiman Adewunmi, shortly after the attack, to respond to the mayhem by combing Ashimolowo, Imedu nla, Ofada roads, and other communities in the town.

Their mission: To smoke out thugs suspected to be members of Eye confraternity and give them a dose of the terror they unleashed on the hapless and innocent residents.

But, sadly, the havoc caused by the sons of dog could not be reversed. Like time, the lives lost couldn’t recovered.

A victim of the attack, Ibrahim Hassan, who had different degrees of deep cuts, following the attack, tells his own story: ‘‘I was just in my shop in the evening, when the boys came. They had their faces covered, I didn’t know where they came from. Before I knew what was happening, they started stabbing every part of my body. My drugs were inside, I left hospital yesterday,” he said.

When asked if he knew anybody that was killed, Ibrahim said, ’’Yes. My friend

Adukwuru

and kinsman, Tairu, who sells suya down this street (pointing) was stabbed in his ear, jaw and head. Even, his fingers were chopped off. His family took him home (Sokoto) for treatment, but he died on the way.’’

Charles Adukwuru, who is alive to tell his story, despite the fact that he was stabbed and dispossessed of his personal effects, said that, ‘‘I travelled to Anambra for Christmas and New Year celebrations. The day I returned to Mowe was the day I the inci-

dent happened. As I left Mowe Bus Stop and moved towards Mowe market, some boys accosted me, beat me , collected my phone, took my wallet that had my international passport in it, including other documents and seven thousand. And they still stabbed me on my head. You can see for yourself,’’ he said.

For Joke Yemi, who studies accounting at the Kwame Nkrumah University, was, however lucky, as men of the Nigeria Police rescued her.

According to her, ‘‘It started around

But, the traditional ruler of Mowe town, Baale Olutunde Babatunde Ojelade, said it was the first time the town would experience such invasion.

10:25 p.m. on Monday. They threw bottle at my shop, but policemen came to our rescue before they unleashed mayhem.

Then, on Tuesday morning, as early as 5:a.m., they started robbing and attacking people. But, I heard two people were killed at the other side of Mowe.’’

Meanwhile, some other residents of the town, who pleaded anonymity, accused some traditional leaders of the town of aiding and abetting cult activities.

But, the traditional ruler of Mowe town, Baale Olutunde Babatunde Ojelade, said it was the first time the town would experience such invasion.

He further stated that the hoodlums that laid siege on the town were not residents of the town. Reacting to the allegation that some traditional rulers shielded the cultists in the town, he said, ”Go to Mowe Police Station and ask if I have ever bailed cultists or made any attempt to release any cult member. This is our town, I can’t do anything to undermine the peace of the town. There was a time some cultists were trying to disturb the peace of this town; I led the some of our people alongside policemen to chase them away. In fact, one of the people we sent out of this town still threatened me through a text message last week.

He added: ‘‘Our town is very peaceful, nothing of such has ever happened.

Those that came to attack Mowe are not from this town. Some of them came from Ibadan, Oshogbo and other places. And we tried our best to keep the situation under control. We ran to government and we are thankful that we were protected. We thank the Divisional Police Officer and the Commissioner of Police for sending their men to protect us; and some people have been arrested. Those arrested, I believe, will tell us where to get others.

However, efforts to get the Divisional Police Officer of Mowe Police Station, Mr. Francis Ebuoma, to speak on the matter proved fruitless, but police sources at the station, confirmed the incident saying that efforts were on to track down the fleeing culprits.

Daily Times Nigeria Monay, January 16, 2017

South Sudan seeks new resolution as mandate for more UN troops expires

Gambia’s presidential inauguration to proceed as planned ÏÏÏGambian

Displaced people are passed by a United Nations vehicle while walking towards a U.N. camp in Malakal, South Sudan

ÏÏÏSouth

Sudan’s government is seeking new resolution for the worn torn country as it claims that the U.N. Security Council mandate to send a new contingent of 4,000 peacekeepers to boost existing force has expired.

This was coming as U.N. mission in South Sudan said in a statement that its mandate to increase the protection force had been extended by the Security Council to December 2017.

Minister of Information Michael Makuei told the Associated Press that Dec. 15th was the expiration date for the deployment of peacekeepers to bolster the existing 12,000 U.N. troops in South Sudan. He said a new resolution is needed for the additional troops.

The U.N. mission in South Sudan responded in a statement saying that its man-

date to increase the protection force had been extended by the Security Council until December 2017.

The U.N. Security Council decided in August to send additional peacekeepers after clashes killed hundreds in South Sudan’s capital Juba. South Sudan initially objected to the force and has delayed its deployment.

In October, U.N. peacekeeping chief Herve Ladsous told members of the Security Council behind closed doors that it appeared South Sudan’s intent was to “delay the deployment and reduce the political impact of the” regional protection force as much as possible, while stringing along negotiations to “avoid triggering punitive measures,” according to a copy of his statement obtained by AP. South Sudan’s civil war began in December 2013 and has killed tens of thousands of people.

US 146 years animal circus show to shut down in May

ÏÏÏAn American insti-

tution, the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus says it is shutting down in May, closing what it has promoted as “The Greatest Show on Earth” after 146 years.

The show is also adjudged by animal right groups as the saddest show on earth for wild animals.

Ringling Bros. has been the target of extended protests for its use of animals in its show, with animal rights groups contending that forcing them to perform is cruel and unnecessary.

Executives at Feld Entertainment, the owner of the traveling road show watched

by millions of Americans through the decades, said the circus is closing for a variety of reasons, declining ticket sales after the circus ended its popular display of elephants, changing entertainment tastes, high operating costs and prolonged battles with animal rights groups over using animals in the show.

Company chairman and chief executive Kenneth Feld said, “This has been a very difficult decision for me and for the entire family.”

Ringling Bros. has two touring circuses and will perform 30 shows in major cities before ending its operations on May 21.

28 Foreign News

president-elect Adama Barrow spokesman confirmed Sunday the upcoming inauguration will take place on January 19, despite President Yahya Jammeh’s refusal to step down from office.

“Jammeh’s term shall end on the 19th and the same date president-elect Barrow’s term begins.

Nothing will change that.

He will be sworn in and shall assume office on that date without fail,” spokesman Mai Fatty told AFP. Barrow flew into Senegal after West African regional bloc ECOWAS failed to persuade Jammeh to hand over power when his current fiveyear term of office ends dur-

ing the coming week.

Barrow is in Dakar as of Sunday, just after midnight,” according to APS agency.

It was not immediately clear why the presidentelect traveled to Senegal, but sources said he felt vulnerable given a lack of security.

“The Senegalese president accepted the request [to host Barrow until inauguration] of his Liberian counterpart Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the current ECOWAS president,” it added.

Barrow met Saturday in Mali with world leaders during the annual FranceAfrica summit in Bamako.

The presidents of France and Mali, Ibrahim Boubacar Keita and Francois Hol-

Gambian President-elect Adama Barrow

lande, both called on Jammeh to step down when his current five-year term of office ends.

Barrow was officially declared the winner of last month’s election by a slim margin.

Jammeh, who has been power in Gambia since a coup in 1994, originally

accepted defeat, but later reversed himself and filed suit to challenge the results, citing voting irregularities.

Edward Gomez, a lawyer for Jammeh’s Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and Construction, filed a legal complaint against the electoral commission about a week after the election.

Trump says democrats ‘most angry’ that working class voted for him Five days ahead of his inauguration, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump remained fixated Sunday on how he pulled off last November’s stunning upset to win a four-year term in the White House.

In a pair of comments on his Twitter account, the Republican Trump said his Democratic opponents “are most angry that so many” of the party’s faithful, working class voters who supported President Barack Obama, a Democrat, in his two successful presidential campaigns, turned against Democrat Hillary Clinton and voted for him.

“With all of the jobs I am bringing back to our nation, that number will only get higher,” Trump declared.

He added, “Car companies and others, if they want to do business in our country, have to start making things here again. Win!”

US president elect Donald Trump

During his 10-week transition to the presidency, Trump has attacked car manufacturers, including Toyota and General Motors, two of the world’s largest, for announcing plans to expand their operations in Mexico rather than in the U.S. He praised

Ford and Fiat-Chrysler for their expansion plans in the United States.

Post-election polls showed that Trump won the election by successfully wooing many blue collar workers in the country’s industrial heartland. That gave him

an edge in states that helped him win the election in the Electoral College, which determines the outcome of U.S. presidential contests, even as Clinton prevailed over Trump in the national popular vote by nearly 3 million votes.

Britain hints at a Brexit negotiating strategy

Britain’s Prime Minister Theresa May

Britain could change its economic model to regain competitiveness if it were to leave the European Union without an agreement on market access, British finance minister Phillip Hammond said in a German newspaper interview published Sunday.

In a thinly veiled threat that Britain could use its corporate tax as a form of leverage in Brexit negotiations, Hammond told Welt

am Sonntag he hoped Britain would remain a European-style economy with corresponding tax and regulation systems.

“But if we are forced to be something different, then we will have to become something different,” Hammond said when asked directly about Britain’s plans to lower corporate tax.

“If we have no access to the European market, if we are closed off, if Britain

were to leave the European Union without an agreement on market access, then we could suffer from economic damage at least in the short-term,” he said.

“In this case, we could be forced to change our economic model and we will have to change our model to regain competitiveness,” Hammond said. “We will change our model, and we will come back, and we will be competitively engaged.”

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

29 Interview

Nigerians should explore opportunities of pilgrimage to Israel –Uja Executive Secretary, Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission, Rev. Tor Uja, whose responsibility include overseeing the overall welfare of Christian pilgrims to the Holy Land, is also seeking to tap into the Israeli Agriculture during pilgrimages. In this Interview, with IDU JUDE, Uja, says he has lined up new innovations and activities for next year Sir, six months after your appointment, how have you faired on the job?

It has been most engaging thing that anyone can do in life. It is also an interesting thing seeing oneself being in the forefront of bringing Nigeria to God and also to see that the image of the country is reckoned with before the foreign nations.

How was your experience like during your visit to the Holy site?

It was a visit to several Nigerian camps in Israel, Rome and Greece, which I fought for its being.

The pilgrimage to Syria, Egypt and Turkey, has to be suspended because of the civil war going on in Syria and its neighbouring countries, and going to such countries in the past, was for the pilgrims to equip themselves with the history surrounding the Holy land, but they have to restrict pilgrimage now to countries of Biblical importance.

And you can agree with me that Nigerians are, currently enjoying all the applications to the sites, which also help them in religious building. So, I went to visit them where they were. During the period, we introduced a weekly prayer convocation on Mount Zion. This prayer programme, has to be improved next year, because we have contracted the service of two churches volunteering to help organize the prayer sections. The prayers are segmented into two, one by 9.00am, and other section, by 2.00pm. Each prayer section comprises about 3,000 pilgrims on pilgrimage.

How would you manage the airlifting of pilgrims and other operations without government’s subventions?

This is a very terrible challenge, and it is no longer like in those days when government gave financial approvals to the Commission. Over the years,Federal Government and states sponsor group of people or individuals to the Holy land, but for the reason of recession, many more, especially, government and agencies, have abruptly stopped.

Our constraint now is on how to reach out to private organizations, churches, business communities, as well as, professional bodies to come forward and sponsor us. However, we thank the Federal Government for at least helping us in the area of naira to dollar exchange in the same rate; and to enable us to meet obligations.

I can tell you that this must continue because, Nigeria is the only country of the World that embarks on National spiritual programme at Holy Lands.

What gains are open to Nigerians who visit the Holy Land?

Number one, is to Market Christ, which God himself said that everyone he created should bear him witness on earth and by ensuring that two elements are assured. Number two, is to ensure that pilgrimage is not turned to a social jamboree or social adventure, and that people who are involved are those who propagate Christ the more by depicting that Nigeria is a peaceful and stable nation.

So, we are carrying a two-way thing, Nigeria and Christ. I must tell you that this is our calling to carry our nation to Christ.

How would you react to a report that Nigerian pilgrims are being led by historian tour guides with no Christian background?

Uja

To the best of my knowledge, Nigerians are being led across the Holy Lands by Christians in Israel, not just Muslim historians as tour guides, and it is expected that people did not just come to Israel for jamboree, but for spiritual upliftment.

So, it should be a misplacement of priority should the tour guides be non-Christians. And before now, we held a meeting with the Israeli authorities on who should lead our pilgrims.

As a matter of fact, from next year, we would make sure that there should be a mixture of Israeli and Nigeria tour guides, but, this also would be streamlined, because the authority told us during the meeting that the intending Nigerian tour guides should also be trained in Israel before they kick-start such job.

What are your plans for the sustenance of youths’ pilgrimage of your predecessor?

When I took over the mantle of leadership at NCPC, I noticed the programme was held only at once, and when I came on board, I made sure the second phase took place. This is because, it is a laudable programme initiated to see that the Nigerian youths tapped from the Israeli agricultural programmes.

In fact, the NCPC has prioritized the youth pilgrims and in such manner, from next year, should have 65% of Nigeria annual pilgrims centered on youths.

It is in this regard that we have initiated a five finger-approach to pilgrimage programmes beginning from 2017. These are, the youth, women, Nigerian leaders and the professional bodies. The inclusion if the need be, is for the general this category is for those who may have no opportunity of falling among the five cardinal groups. We tar-

get the youths because, it is the cheapest and most beneficial. We are targeting the university students, secondary school students, this is because we are trying to strengthen and centre the youths’ pilgrimage on skills’ acquisitions, which on each training. They will be issued with certificates of participation.

This change in ideology, is targeted at empowering and helping to equip Nigeria’s future generations on how to be self- sufficient, this would cub unemployment in the country, making use of all the vast lands in the country and natural seasonal rain, unlike the Israeli that has to go extra mile in transforming a desert into irrigation farming.

Developmentally, this administration, like I said before, when we assumed duty, thought of areas of transforming the pilgrimage programmes, just like the Israeli has done to transform the pilgrim ritual into achieving two things, which are to make the Holy Land a tourist site, as well as, making it a pilgrimage site. It is important also to note that much as Nigerians go to the Holy land, something is supposed to be obtained; and, that is our main objective. Israel is a place where someone goes and come back empty.

Tell us some of your experiences in the Holy Land?

My experience in the Holy land is that the Bible is stronger than the Holy site. This is because, one should not focus on the site or he or she would lose the taste of the pilgrimage. These are two different items; the site and the Bible. Pilgrims should pay more attention to the Bible, because the sites are more or less tourist sites nowadays.

What are the requirements needed from

pilgrims going to Israel?

The requirements for pilgrimage is predicated on knowing Christ. The underlining factor is that they can go and learn about Christ. You and I know that there are people who go there with the intention to abscond.

The first step is to apply and face the medical screening panel, this process takes one to other routine checks before being allowed to pay pilgrimage fees before the issuance of visas. These processes must be followed, because records had shown that people even absconded on arrival in Israel. We can even deport people on arrival to Israel, if one is discovered to having another intention apart from the proposed pilgrimage, not even on arrival in Israel, so, one can face deportation at any point.

How would you like Nigeria to be seen during and after your tenure?

I would like to see that pilgrimage is synonymous with the greatness of Nigeria. That the country, does not miss out on the real reason for embarking on the spiritual adventure. I would like to see my country called the best democratized and best economy in the entire World, a nation where God has his torch felt.

How many pilgrims have you lifted so far?

We have airlifted about five thousand (5,000) pilgrims since this year’s programme began, and there are 2,000 intending pilgrims that are awaiting airlifting that will end in December; and you can see that this year’s number is relatively low because of economic recession.

Tell us about the challenges you face in airlifting pilgrims?

We have major challenges, which are infrastructure and screening of pilgrims. Very stressful to screen pilgrims.

Early in 2017, we are putting up a place called, Christian pilgrims orientation centre, It is a measure put on ground to cushion the effect of delay at the airport orientation, which we hope would end this year. We are preparing a place to that effect and even if it fail to be fully ready by next year, we will quickly rent a place to be orientating intending pilgrims before they depart to the airports.

What legacy would you like to be remembered for?

I have held so many positions before my calling to work in the house of God. As the youngest Commissioner in the old Benue State, I had always liked to leave a good footprint; and I think that such achievements found me favour before God. I have always been a Christian, who wishes to interface with other Christians around the World.

I want to build an NCPC that will run by itself; when I leave, I would like an auto pilot plane, well programmed to get to its destinations without hiccups. I think that it can be achieved, if we are allowed to implement all that I have lined up.

I want to tell you here that we are already making contributions to the growth of the economy and the creation of employment through agricultural growth, this is because, most of our trainees in the last youth pilgrimage exercise, where many got certificates in making fishes, potatoes and others are happy. If the churches can as well go into farming, then, most of the pilgrims will do some exploits.

I admire

S

uper Eagles attacker Kelechi Iheanacho has revealed that his childhood hero is Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney.

The 20-year-old Manchester City starlet is regarded as one of the Citizens’ most promising prospects after scoring 20 goals in 54 appearances for the club, many of those off the bench.

Despite City having a number of top strikers over the years, from teammate Sergio Aguero to Carlos Tevez, the Nigeria

Rooney — Iheanacho Page 30

international idolised forwards from City’s biggest rivals while growing up in Nigeria.

Iheanacho also admitted that he idolised legendary Ivorian striker Didier Drogba when he was at Chelsea.

“I think I was watching Didier Drogba and his team at Chelsea, and Wayne Rooney at Manchester United as well.

“They are great players that I am looking up to as well, pick up lessons from them and put in my football in the Premier League,” Iheanacho told the

Premier League’s official website, www. premierleague.com.

Iheanacho’s position as Aguero’s back-up at City could be under threat with the arrival of another young striker, 19-year-old Gabriel Jesus from Brazilian side Palmeiras.He has scored eight times so far this campaign, the last coming in City’s 3-0 win at Hull City.

The 20-year-old has twice won Caf’s Most Promising Talent of the Year award, in 2013 and 2016.

Iheanacho

Monday, January 16, 2017

S

uper Eagles assistant coach Imama Amapakabo has singled out Bafana Bafana of South Africa as the main rivals for qualification to AFCON 2019 in Cameroon.

South Africa stopped Nigeria to AFCON 2015 in Equatorial Guinea and both teams are again drawn in the same qualifying pool with Libya and Seychelles.

The overall winners of the 12 qualifying groups and three best runners-up will join hosts Cameroon for the tournament proper.

The qualifiers will start in June, according to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) after yesterday’s draw in Gabon.

“This is a fair group. I am not taking anything away from the other teams, but I think South Africa will be the team for us to battle for the AFCON ticket,” Imama told AfricanFootball. com “Not taking anything away from Seychelles and Libya. But we will play all the teams with the same level of preparation.”

Nigeria have failed to qualify for the last two AFCONs and so will be under added pressure to ensure they reach Cameroon 2019.

Amapakabo

Imama picks South Africa as Eagles rivals for AFCON 2019

Ideye nets double as Wenger pleased with Iwobi’s improvement Olympiakos draw A

B

rown Ideye continued his fine form in the Greek Super League as he scored twice for Olympiakos in a 2-2 draw at Platanias FC on Saturday.

The Nigerian international striker scored twice inside the opening 13 minutes of the match to hand his club a 2-0 lead at the Perivolia Municipal Stadium.

The 28-year-old found himself with space and time inside the box after four minutes into the contest and applied the finish with precision from the centre of the box of Platanias leaving goalkeeper Dimitrios Sotiriou with no chance to keep out his attempt.

Eight minutes later, it was

Ideye popped up again at the right place and at the right time inside Platanias’ penalty area to prod the ball straight down the middle past Sotiriou for his brace and Olympiakos’ second of the game from Alberto De La Bella’s assist.

But Platanias had other ideas as they cancelled out Ideye’s two goals in the space of four crazy minutes close to the break to earn a 2-2 draw.

Georgios Giakoumakis and Giorgos Manousos scored for Platanias to render Ideye’s goals earlier only good for a point.

Ideye has now scored 12 goals in 14 Super League appearances for Olympiakos this season and Ideye leads the scorers’ chart in Greece.

rsenal manager Arsene Wenger is convinced Super Eagles star Alex Iwobi is making inroads in his professional football development.

Iwobi was one of Arsenal’s best performers on Saturday as they hammered Swansea City 4-0 away from home in the Premier League.

Iwobi had a shot deflected into the net by Jack Cork in the 54th minute before seeing his cross turned home by the luckless Kyle Naughton, 13 minutes later.

Wenger was pleased to see his Nigerian charge influence matters in the opponent’s final third.

“Alex Iwobi has started to score goals and that is a good sign for us.

“Overall, I am convinced that when you are always in the box (and) when you force your opponents to dive at your shots, sometimes it goes for you and sometimes not.

“Today (on Saturday), it went for us,” Wenger told Premier League TV after the game at the Liberty Stadium.

Iwobi has scored twice in 17 Premier League appearances for Arsenal this season

Iwobi

Monday, January 16, 2017

EXTRATIME

31

EURO......................EURO....................EURO..........................EURO......................

Bayern

complete swoop for Hoffenheim Bayern Munich have reached agreements to sign Hoffenheim duo Niklas Sule and Sebastian Rudy at the end of this season.

Sule, a 21-year-old centre-back has secured a five-year deal for an undisclosed transfer fee.

Midfielder Rudy, 26, moves on a free transfer and will spend the next three seasons at the Allianz Arena.

Bayern CEO Karl-HeinzRummenigge said: “We are very pleased and happy that Niklas Sule and Sebastian Rudy come to FC Bayern.

“The transfer of two players of the German national team is an investment in the future of the club.

“Sebastian Rudy comes for free, for the transfer of Niklas Süle we have found a fair and serious solution with TSG Hoffenheim.”

Rudy added: “Switching to Munich is an absolute dream for me. I want to win titles there.”

Sule won his first and, as yet, only Germany cap in the friendly against Finland last August, while Rudy has played 14 times for the world champions.

Both men have been first-team regulars this term, with Hoffenheim lying fifth in the Bundesliga and remaining unbeaten at the midseason break.

Ancelloti

Cavani wants PSG stay P

aris Saint-Germain striker Edinson Cavani has indicated his desire to extend his contract with the Ligue 1 champions.

Cavani has been in prolific form this season, scoring 24 times in 25 matches, although the Uruguay star sparked rumours of unrest when he reacted angrily to being substituted in Saturday’s 1-0 win at Rennes.

I am okay with

Torino move – Hart

J

oe Hart says this season has taught him that football is crazy but insists his loan move to Torino now feels “like a normal move” in his career.

The England goalkeeper has been a key player in a Torino side that side that sit eighth in Serie A following his surprise loan move from Manchester City in August.

Hart has settled into life in Italy, but refused to be drawn on his future beyond the end of this season.

“Being here is my life,” he told reporters. “Sometimes football is crazy, I have learned that. Now I find it a normal move in my career.

“I am only thinking about Torino because my focus is on today. That’s not to avoid answering the question, that’s just how I work.

“I have a contract with City, and

I had to be 100 per cent to stay at Boca — Tevez

Carlos Tevez explained his decision to move to the Chinese Super League, claiming he could not remain at boyhood club Boca Juniors if he was not 100 per cent.

Tevez completed his lucrative move to Shanghai Shenhua from Boca in December last year, joining the influx of stars in China.

The 32-year-old is reportedly the highest-paid player in the world as a result of the transfer but the former Juventus, Manchester and Manchester United forward said it was difficult to leave Buenos Aires.

“I had to be 100 per cent,

Both Cavani and head coach Unai Emery played down the flashpoint, with the former Sevilla boss describing it as “normal”, and the 29-year-old forward told Telefoot his satisfaction with life in the French capital has him hankering after a new deal “My stats are good,” he said. “But this is not what concerns me most.

and I could not be just 99 per cent because otherwise it was bad for the club,” Tevez said in quotes published in thedia.

“That is what happened to me. I always thought that if I was not 100 per cent I could not stay at the club.”

Tevez continued: “It’s hard to communicate that one is no longer a player of the club he loves.

“Sometimes one has to make a decision and it is because you know what it is to be on a day to day at the club he loves and pressures that one has within the club, and with all the love and support they gave me.

we will know everything else in the summer. For now I am with Torino and I am thinking about Torino - that’s it.”

Torino’s good form across October and November has fallen away and Sinisa Mihajlovic’s side have won just one of their last six games in all competitions, but Hart has been impressed by the Serbian coach’s approach to the game.

Hart

Cavani

What interests me is that PSG can win and be champions.

“I want to stay in Paris. I am doing very well here and I love this city so I think all conditions will be there to extend. I had a meeting with the president and I hope that it will happen.”

PSG are back to within two points of Nice ahead of the leaders playing

Metz on Sunday, with their bid for a fifth consecutive Ligue 1 title having stuttered despite Cavani’s supreme form.

The former Napoli man is a fan of the changes in style Emery has implemented since replacing Laurent Blanc at the helm during the close season, even if the benefits have not always been readily apparent.

Chinese FA changes rule on foreign players

T

he growing legion of lucratively rewarded foreign stars in the Chinese Super League could be checked by new rules introduced by the Chinese Football Association.

According to multiple reports, CSL rules will be changed so that teams can only field three overseas players at any given time, with five allowed in the matchday 18.

Last season, CSL clubs operated under the “four plus one” quota, where five foreign players were allowed in the squad with one of those from another Asian Football Confederation. Under the new regulations, the Asian player quota is set to be abolished.

Additionally, teams must now select a minimum of two under-23 players in their matchday squads, with

one in the starting XI. The likes of Carlos Tevez, Oscar and Axel Witsel have led an impressive haul of top-level players moving to China over recent weeks, while reports of Chelsea striker Diego Costa having a fallout with head coach Antonio Conte came amid speculation over the Premier League leaders’ top scorer being the subject of CSL interest.

A change in the rules six weeks before the start of the news season could mark a change in approach and Shanghai SIPG technical director Mads Davidsen tweeted his surprise at the news.

Shanghai currently have Brazilian trio Oscar, Elkeson and Hulk on their roster, along with Ivorian forward Jean Evrard Kouassi and Uzbek midfielder Odil Ahmedov, and Davidsen wrote: “

Published by FOLIO COMMUNICATIONS LTD,

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Editor Daily: ROSE MOSES

MONDAY, JANUARY 16, 2017

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Ideye nets double as Olympiakos draw

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T

FC Ifeanyi Uba team

Shocker as Ifeanyi Uba

abandon opening match CAF presidency: Madagascar

FA boss wades in C

AF have confirmed Madagascar FA president Ahmad Ahmad will be the only candidate to challenge incumbent Issa Hayatou for the CAF presidency on March 16 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The contest will be for the 2017-2021 tenure.

CAF have ruled that henceforth the maximum tenure is three terms of four years each for the President. The 70-yearold Hayatou from Cameroon has been CAF President since 1988.

He was acting FIFA President in 2016 when Sepp Blatter was

banned.

In 2015, CAF decided that officials could serve beyond the age of 70, which has now paved the way for Hayatou to contest again.

CAF executive committee member Ahmad is in his third period as Madagascar FA boss.

He will not contest to retain his Southern Zone seat on the CAF excos.

In other elections in March, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) president Amaju Pinnick will battle incumbent Moucharafou Anjorin of Benin Republic in West Zone B.

P 30

Ahmad

he new Nigeria league season got off to a disgraceful start after FC Ifeanyi Ubah abandoned the opening game with hosts Kano Pillars leading 1-0.

Ifeanyi Ubah protested when they appear to have drawn level from a free kick just before the end of the first half.And three minutes after the restart, the Nnewi club walked out on the game apparently on an order from a top club official.

“This is a disgrace,” lamented Pillars coach Kadiri Ikhana.

“But we must commend the Kano fans that they did not allow hell to break loose as a result of Ifeanyi Ubah abandoning this game.”

Kano Governor Ganduje, chairman of the League Management Company (LMC) Shehu Dikko as well as several NFF executives were all at the game played inside packed Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano.

FIFA-badged referee Folashade Ajayi from Oyo Stateappeared to be overwhelmed by the occasion as she made several questionable calls.

The Anambra Times Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

Establish standard abattoirs, cattle AT 2 market, butchers urge Obiano

The Anazonwus, Ibeziakors: Celebrating enduring marriage, longevity AT 4

Obi of Onitsha lauds Anene, Red Cross over less-privileged Children’s welfare Alphonsus Nweze, Awka

ÏÏÏ The Obi of

The Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe (middle) with orphans and “special” children during a party for the children in Onitsha by the monarch in collaboration with the Red Cross, Anambra State chapter and Adona International Limited ...recently

Agency targets N20bn to boost MSMEs in Anambra

Alphonsus Nweze, Awka

ÏÏÏThe

The

Anambra

T E A M

Anambra State Government has reiterated its commitment to remain the choice destination for commerce in the country as it targets N20 billion to boost Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

The Managing Director, Anambra State Small Business Agency (ASBA), Mr. Clement Chukwuka, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Awka, the state capital.

Chukwuka said the agency targeted to raise N20 billion

in the next five years with the hope of generating more than N3 billion in 2017 alone.

“Governor Willie Obiano is determined to encourage investments and build institutions that will not only promote SMEs but outlive his administration.

“We are already working with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to raise more funds.

“In the past 19 months, the agency has so far funded in excess of 15, 000 people directly in the micro credit schemes and close to 200 for the SME which had further created chains of employment.

“We have also been able to put in place shoe manufac-

Special Projects Editor Sam Nzeh

Correspondents: Alphonsus Nweze Philip Balepo John Chinenye

turing cluster in conjunction with the Standards Organisations of Nigeria (SON) with more than a thousand shops built with little funds.

“They are expected to begin manufacturing of shoes for export.

“Asides from providing finance to entrepreneurs at nine per cent, we are also into mentoring and we plan to open up opportunities for fashion designers, mechanics and artisans this year,’’ he said.

He said that the State Government and the CBN had empowered entrepreneurs and revived moribund industries with the provision of N2 billion loans through the agency since June 2015.

Chukwuka also disclosed that the agency planned to establish ASBA Business Academy “where for instance, we bring in those artisans in

conjunction with the Ministry of Science and Technology to train and certify them”.

“ASBA is a development financial institution of the state created to cover areas of industrialisation, value added chain programmes, artisans, science and technology, oil and gas, and manufacturing sectors.

“Major Anambra rice millers and the clusters that export vegetables from the state overseas are funded by the agency to boost the agricultural sector,” he said.

He disclosed that micro credit entrepreneurs who applied for funds received between N100, 000 and N500, 000 while between N5 million and N50 million was approved to successful applicants under the SMEs. He stressed that ASBA had been able to impact more than 60, 000 businesses directly and indirectly in the state.

Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemaka Achebe, in collaboration with the Red Cross, Anambra State chapter and Adona International Limited have feted physically challenged children from 25 less privileged homes in the state during the New Year festivities.

In a brief speech at the occasion, the monarch lauded the founder of Adona International Foundation, Ambasdador Afolabi Joyce Anene and the Red Cross in the state for packaging the programme for the physically challenged and less privileged children during the yuletide.

The Obi of Onitsha challenged other privileged members of the society to emulate the gestures of the organisers so as to give less privileged children the opportunity to have a sense of belonging during yuletide celebrations.

The Chairman of Anambra State branch of Red Cross Society, Justice Paul Obidigwe (rtd), in his speech, said if individuals show love and affection to their own children, they therefore should extend same to less privileged children.

He contended that it is the responsibility of the public to extend their love to these less privileged children in the manner they showed love and affection to their own children.

Justice Obidigwe however expressed happiness that there are people who still come to the motherless homes to drop something for the children there, some yearly, some monthly depending on their conviction.

The chairman said the children pray for these people and one good thing is that that their prayer is always portent even as he lauded the sponsor of the gettogether for the children.

In her speech, Ambassador Afolabi Joyce Anene, said that for 18 years her organisation has been involved in the welfare of the less privileged children, organising parties for them during festivities.

Ambassador Anene, who said she is a specialist in special children, stated they have been organising such events in other parts of the country like Abuja and Lagos and decided to bring it home this year.

The Anambra Times 2

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

Establish standard abattoirs, cattle market, butchers urge Obiano

ÏÏÏThe

Butchers Association in Anambra State has appealed to Governor Willie Obiano to establish a cattle market and functional abattoirs in the state.

The president of the association, Chief Felix Ononenyi-Ikenga, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Awka on Thursday.

He said that the non -existence of a cattle market in the state was not good

for a state of its status with no less than 35 registered slaughter facilities.

Ononenyi-Ikenga said that the lack of herding facilities had also affected the prices of cow meat negatively as people could not bring in cows to the state in large quantities.

He also said that the state government had not been assisting its members to keep their operational environment across the state healthy

despite the taxes and levies they paid.

He said that the association’s members had successfully sunk boreholes to provide water in not less than 80 per cent of slaughter slabs in the state.

Ononenyi-Ikenga said most of the facilities in the state were clean adding that his members were healthy.

“It is unfortunate that we do not have a cattle market in Anambra, we want the state government to estab-

lish one for us so that we can operate at an advantage like our members in other states.

“A cattle market will make us expand our scope and reduce the price of meat for our people.

“Again, past administrations had promised to establish abattoirs in the state but it has remained at the promise level. As I am talking to you now, there is no single standard abattoir

anywhere in Anambra State.

“We expect the state government to help us clean our slaughter-slab environments. What we have and how they are maintained are all our efforts; the government does not contribute to it.

“We thank the governor for his support but we want his administration to pay attention to some of our challenges which I raised here,” he said.

Obiano lauds Armed Forces for curbing insecurity, insurgency …As Anambra marks 2017 Armed Forces and Remembrance Day celebration John Chinenye Awka

ÏÏÏAnambra State on Friday joined Vice Chairman, Anambra State chapter of the Red Cross, Prof. Emeka Katchy ( 2nd from right) with other officers of organisation during an event in Onitsha...recently

Nawfia mass return was not to dethrone Igwe –PG Alphonsus Nweze Awka

ÏÏÏ The President General of Naw-

fia Community in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State, Chief Nonyelu Okoye, has emphatically stated that the 2016 community’s mass return was not organised to dethrone the traditional ruler of the community, Igwe Chijioke Nwankwo.

Speaking with newsmen in Nawfia in reaction to Igwe Nwankwo’s allegation that the mass return was purposely organised to undermine his authority as the traditional ruler of the community, Comrade Okoye said the Igweship of the community was not in dispute.

He said: “What we did was a triennial mass return that has not been held for about 30 years now and we used it to launch a new N100 million ultra-modern town hall. Nobody is plotting to dethrone Igwe. He remains

the Igwe. The mass return in question was never a cultural event, the masquerades he was talking about were side attractions of the event. What we did fell within the administrative portfolio of the town union”.

Continuing, Comrade Okoye said “his throne is not contestable but he should affirm it constitutionally”, implying that the traditional ruler should agree with the constitution of the town.

Contributing, a philanthropist in the town and cousin to the monarch, High Chief Victor Nwankwo, thanked God for the successful mass return and launch of N100 million ultra -modern town hall, saying that his interest is to give his God–given wealth towards the development of his community.

On the allegation of dethronement, he said: “The Igwe is in our family already so how would I or any other member of the family plan to dethrone him. I will not be deterred from assisting to develop my commu-

nity. I want to build a Catholic Church because we have only one in the community and a lot of people from this side of the community are suffering trekking under rain and sunshine and I purchased a land which I handed over to the church but the Igwe stopped the work and demolished the perimeter fence. For three consecutive years now, I have procured and shared 120 tricycles to people in the town on ballot arrangement and he demanded to have five of them but I refused because they were meant for charity and he took offence. I have even extended the balloting of Keke to other communities like EnugwuUkwu and Abagana”.

Chief Nwankwo said in addition, he has also donated about 700 wheelchairs to less privileged in Uturu, Abia State and offered university scholarship to the youths of the community and beyond.

“A road I was constructing including a

bus-stop which I named after our Blessed Virgin Mary because I am an ardent believer in her, the monarch stopped work on it as he sees my good works as plans to dethrone him,” he said.

In his speech, the chairman of the 2016 Mass Return, Dr. Moguluwa Shedrack Chukwuma, said that they officially invited the monarch when he led a delegation of the Committee to hand over the letter of invitation, which he rejected.

Dr. Moguluwa said Igwe Nwankwo did not only reject the letter but also took his boys to pull down the bill board they mounted. He insisted that the mass return was never a cultural event but developmental, arguing that such events as Ofala, Iguaro, and new yam festival among others can be classified as cultural events. He added the mass return was meant to bring members of the community together and raise money to develop the town.

Awka indigenes hail Obiano, seek more govt presence ÏÏÏThe

Awka Ambassadors Club of Nigeria, a non-governmental elitist association made up of Awka indigenes, has celebrated its twenty five years of inauguration with a renewed commitment to the socioeconomic development of the Awka Community and its humanitarian

disposition.

The event which held recently attracted personalities such as the Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, the member representing Awka south and north constituency in the House of Representatives, Chief Anayo Nnebe, his

Anambra East and West counterpart, Chief Tony Nwoye, and the grand patron of the association, Lt. Gen. C .I.Obiakor (rtd), among others.

The forum provided an opportunity for indigenes of Awka to assess government’s presence in the state capital.

Speaking to newsmen, the president of the club, Chief Collins Iloanya, confirmed that Governor Willie Obiano has done a lot to change the face of Awka more than other previous administrations in the state, adding that the governor is giving attention to some inner roads in the city.

the country for the Wreath Laying and Parade ceremonies to mark the end of 2017 Armed Forces and Remembrance Day Celebration.

The event which took place at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, witnessed parade formation by Nigerian Army, Navy and Nigerian Legion and was earlier inspected by the Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano, represented by his Deputy, Dr. Nkem Okeke.

Present at the event were the state heads of security agencies, including the Army, Navy, Police, Federal Road Safety Corps, and Civil Defence among others.

Others were government officials, traditional rulers, captains of industries, to mention a few.

Speaking at the event, Governor Obiano said the day was significantly set aside to remember and honour the sacrifices rendered by the Nigerian Armed Forces, in which some lost their lives in discharge of their duties.

Governor Obiano noted that the Armed Forces had made the nation proud in their recent effort to arrest insecurity and other insurgence in the country.

The Governor stressed the need to adequately cater for the welfare of security agencies, adding that the state government would always promote their interest by giving them a pride of place due to their relentless commitment in safeguarding the state.

He maintained that the present peace and security in the state were as a result of their doggedness and sleepless nights in ensuring safety of Anambra people, promising that the state would continue to sustain her present security situation in the country.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

The Anambra Times 3

JDPC, monarchs, PGs meet over SDGs

Philip Balepo, Onitsha

ÏÏÏThe

Justice, Development and Peace Commission (JDPC) in Onitsha has proved why it is the foremost non-governmental organisation down East of the Niger by taking the initiative to invite the various community leaders in Anambra State for an on-the-ground assessment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a special focus on the leaders in Diaspora, before they return to their bases.

The global agenda of the SDGs is meant to be translated to every sector for inclusive participation and development of the communities. And since the Diaspora contribute a lot towards community development, from their branches, making it possible for their communities to enjoy the good things of life like those in the cities, it became important to meet with some of them and share ideas and experiences.

The body took time to remind the communities that develop-

ment is still the watchword with total focus on creating strong communities and empowered citizenry. JDPC has actuality visited over 100 communities in Anambra State. And in that vein, the body seeks to know first: ‘What facility that will benefit every member of the community; second, the new way of handling projects and facilities and thirdly, following up on government allocation and service deliveries.’

Some of the invited communities in the diaspora gave accounts of involvements and proffered ways to better their lot.

Nnokwa was the first by Sir Ikechukwu Ozoije, a PresidentGeneral (PG) Emeritus. He spoke of the free annual medical care that his community receives from Lagos by some good-spirited indigenes, every December for the past three years.

The town boasts of functioning boreholes but has 17 electricity transformers that are more of white sepulchres than for power generation. He prayed JDPC to “beckon on the government to

Cleric tasks Nigerians on negative utterances Alphonsus Nweze, Awka

ÏÏÏA

clergy, Prophet Chinedu Strongson, has advised Nigerians to be mindful on the negative utterances they make against their leaders and the nation at large particularly now that the nation is facing economic recession.

The prophet, who gave the advice during a sermon, noted that there is always power in the spoken words.

Prophet Strongson of the Gospel Fire Cathedral, Nkwellle Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State said that the stage the entity called Nigeria is today needs more prayers than ever before.

The man of God said it has been revealed to him from Heaven that more hardship is going to befall Nigeria, stating that it is only the prayers of the saints that would save the nation from the unforeseen dangers ahead.

He attributed the miracles taking place in his church which have made entrepreneurs, the barren, the poor, the sick, the oppressed, the needy amongst others gets favours from God daily in Gospel Fire Cathedral to the presence of God in the Church.

He called on the sheep entrusted in his hands by the Creator not to see him as an ordinary man but as servant sent for the purpose of meeting with the

needs of the children of God. Revealing that all those who blasphemed God in Ogidi in the past, where the headquarters of the Church situates, were in unforgettable agony as rewards of refusing to obey the commandant of Him that made Heaven and earth.

Prophet Strongson said that God, through His word, created all that were created and therefore advocated for positive utterances from Nigerians and children of God in particular on any issue in this country.

He said God through him has embarrassed many of the faithful in the Church with meaningful miracles with that of one Mrs. Njideka Nwasike who testified that she came in contact with the Church in the year 2000, having searched for the fruit of the womb for donkey years without success until she came to the church as most marvelous in everybody’s eyes.

“But when I came to the Church, I was singled out and asked to sow seed and when I told the Prophet of God that I had nothing to sow as seed, I was told to keep cleaning the Altar. I had no other option than to obey and from that year till today, God has through Prophet Chinedu Strongson overloaded me with five male children,” she testified.

Members of the Justice, Development and Peace Commission (JDPC) and community leaders in Anambra State during a meeting in Onitsha ...recently create policies that would put food on the poor man’s table.”

The Amiyi town in Ogbaru has a reverse case as narrated by the President-General, Prince Nwanze Afubera, who said that they have serious security issues amidst light and uncompleted roads, for over four years.

Same fate befalls Akwu-Ukwu in Idemili South Local Government Area, whose President General, Chief Michael Anierobi, lamented the near-total abandonment of projects in his town.

Communities like Ossomala in Ogbaru, Oba and Uke both in Idemili North Local Government Area had good news for the house, while the Asaba President of Ossomala Development Union gave positive report of solar lights at the maternity by them; street lights from the Port Harcourt branch and water borehole from the Lagos branch.

The President of Oba Development Union, Pastor Ralph Onwudikpo, reported of bus stops built at the old road leading to Nnewi and some new boreholes

to alleviate water problems.

Uke is also experiencing a lot of inputs from the Diaspora. The President General Emeritus, Honourable Chuks Igboama, narrated the giant step Uke indigenes are taking with a big hospital and maternity project on-going presently. The newly installed chiefs and Ndi Ichie Ukwus by the Igwe in December 2016, have pledged to fence the new civic centre under construction via the N20 million Choose-Your-Project by Governor Willie Obiano.

However, for communities like Umumbo in Anyamelu Local Government Area and Ogwu-Ikpele in Ogbaru, borehole water remains a mirage as “the last borehole in Umumbo was dug during the Civil war and accessible roads are, as they say, ‘work in progress’,” in the words of Honourable Anthony Okafor, the President General of the town.

For Ogwu-Ikpele, Chief Francis Uzowulu, who is one of the community leaders in the town, told the house “that we have an

unending road project, dating back to the ‘70s and we last saw light (electricity) in 2013. Hardship seems to be our lot”.

The two traditional rulers at the event, Igwe Ikechukwu Chukwudubem, the Aboh I of Umumbo in Anyamelu Local Government Area and Igwe G. E. Okaa-Onwuogu, Igwe Orachili na Nagwu of Dunukofia Local Government Area highly commended JDPC for keeping faith with the ideals of MDGs and now SDGs, all for the growth and empowerment of the citizenry. They both pledged and promised that their “communities would strive to uphold the SDGs tenets of building, constructing and mostly sustaining for longevity and posterity those projects that offer quality to humanity.”

A professional, Mrs. Amaka Alor of Anambra State Library Board, Onitsha, spoke on the essence of libraries in schools and homes and the importance of reading and acquiring knowledge.

Judiciary commends Obiano over courts’ renovation, demands financial autonomy ÏÏÏGovernor Willie Obiano of

Anambra State has been commended for renovating nine courts in Onitsha and Nnewi magisterial districts.

The Acting Registrar, Mr. Nnamdi Mbanefo, in a statement he issued on Thursday in Awka, the state capital, said the governor’s action was evidence of the existing robust relationship between the state judiciary and the executive.

Mbanefo also lauded Obiano for approving the construction of three high courts in Ihiala, Aguleri and Ekwulobia including the construction of 14 new

magistrate courts across the state.

He said the funding for the projects was released to the judiciary in December 2016.

“A good look at the work done shows a total overhaul of the buildings concerned, the roofs of the buildings, two magisterial districts were completely removed and replaced.

“Others were either partially replaced or attended to according to their needs,” he said.

He however said there was still dilapidated infrastructure in the state judicial system.

He said that the immense

needs of the judiciary could only be met if the arm of government was granted full financial autonomy.

Obiano

The Anambra Times 4

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

The Anazonwus, Ibeziakors: Celebrating enduring marriage, longevity Alphonsus Nweze Awka

ÏÏÏ In an era when divorce is the

order of the day and marriages face stress, celebrating diamond and golden jubilees as the case of Sir Charles Chieka and Lady Anazonwu and Mr. Anthony and Justina Ibeziakor, is no doubt a mean achievement and calls for praising God. It is true that the scripture has said marriage is a life-long affair and even our own African tradition made us to understand that marriage should not be for a short while, but today due to many factors- civilization, increased education, crass quest for materialism, lack of fear of God and total disregard to our culture and tradition among others, marriages hardly stand the test of time.

But for the Anazonwus and Ibeziakors who have been married for 60 years and 50 years respectively, nothing or nobody thought it was possible than the author of marriage himself, the almighty God and so in December 2016 their children gathered friends and relations to thank God his favour and grace upon their parents all these years.

In his homily during the mass to celebrate Mr. and Mrs. Ibeziakor’s golden jubilee marriage, the Catholic Bishop of Nnewi, Dr. Odili Okeke, said the couple celebrated jubilee of love, togetherness, understanding and most importantly, living in love of Christ.

His Lordship said that the longevity of marriage was hinged on the fact that they were friends not just husband and wife.

“They have the joy of intimacy; always communicating the joy and love of God is the summary of their relationship”.

He then challenged couples especially the young ones and intending couples to emulate the virtue of love, friendship and communication in marriage in their relationship, for it to endure the test of time.

Mr. Ibeziakor, who was for a long time the Vice-Principal of Christ the King College, Onitsha under the late disciplinarian, Rev. Nicholas Tagbo as the principal, said the secret of their enduring relationship was God the author of marriage but stated that they complemented it with communication among themselves, forgiving each other and forsaking one another’s shorting comings because the will to forgive is the will to accept that you are not infallible.

He however said this was not

Mr .and Mrs. Ibeziakor cutting cake with children, grand children to mark their 50th marriage anniversary ...recently

Sir Charles and Lady Justina Anazonwu all that easy as it seemed but trusting God, they strived and he helped them.

“I grew up with my uncle, Chief Mbanefo, a great disciplinarian. I do not know but if you trust and believe in God sincerely, especially in Jesus Christ, he will sustain you. I tried to trust in God and He kept us going till this moment,” he said.

His wife, Elizabeth, who also went to school in England, said that they learnt how to settle their differences within themselves early in their marriage.

“Your parents will always take sides. Your friends will not give you proper advice. You should have good communication; com-

munication between two spouses will deepen their understanding.

Trust in God, settle your problem intimately,” she advised.

Speaking on behalf of their children, their first and only daughter, 49-year-old, out of five children, Mrs. Uche Onwuta, who herself has been married for 28 years with her husband in United States of America (USA), expressed excitement for the celebration of golden jubilee marriage anniversary of their parents.

Mrs. Onwuta said her husband and herself have learnt to solve their problems themselves, saying each of the partners should strive to find out what the other person needs and stressed that

marriage in itself is a sacrifice.

She said her parents have shown that with God all things are possible, advising young couples to face their problems squarely and communicate instead of going to third party.

For the Anazonwus, who celebrated their Diamond Jubilee, all glory must go to God for the gift of life and for making their marriage a huge success.

Sir Anazonwu said: “If you are doing good, continue to do it. If you are alive, thank God. If you are doing bad thing, stop it and repent”.

He said he cannot actually enumerate the factors that made their marriage successful, except

that with God all things are possible, but stressed the need for couples to trust God, get committed to making sure that the marriage succeeds and sacrifice for each other, stating that young couples should bear in mind that marriage is not bed of roses but with God on their side, they will overcome.

His wife, Justina, giving her impression of her husband of 60 years of marriage, said “if given the opportunity again, I will marry this man. We have seen it all, the good, the bad, the ugly but God has kept us and blessed us”.

Mr. Tony Nene Anazonwu, journalist and businessman, one of their seven children, was literally short of words in his appreciation to God almighty for sustaining his parents’ marriage for 60 years.

“I do know what I can say, only to thank God who has made this possible. It is not by anybody’s power, not theirs, not ours. That is why we chose today to thank God and invite our relations and friends to come and join us and thank this God who has made this possible,” he said.

But the two families are not just thanking God for granting their parents enduring marriage but also for giving them longevity. In a country where the average life span is 49 years, it is incredible and satisfying that the duo of Ibeziakors and Anazonwus have lived beyond the biblical age of 70 years.

Sir Charles Anazonwu will clock 89 years this year, while his wife Lady Justina Anazonwu will be 88 years. Mr. Anthony Ibeziakor is 81 years.

Business Times Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

Dangote opens 3,000 jobs truck assembly plant in Page B2 Lagos

Opeoluwani Akintayo Investigation by Business Times has shown how companies importing fuel into Nigeria went from only five in 2006 to about 200 as at last check in 2016.

Checks with the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) revealed that Nigeria had only five fuel importers in 2006. One year later, the number rose to 10. In 2008, the figure grew to 19, and by 2011, it reached 140. Additional report gathered by Business Times revealed that the figure is about 200.

Most of the companies joined the fuel import gravy train during the Goodluck Jonathan administration.

According to information, the rise was due to the importers interest in tapping into the fuel subsidy regime which sky rocketed during that period.

Interestingly, many of the importing companies are also included on the list of those indicted in the fuel subsidy investigations by the Buhari’s administration.

The oil subsidy regime between 2009 and 2011, saw Nigeria’s government paying importers subsidy for 59 million litres of fuel per day, a sharp contrast to the country’s actual consumption of 35 million litres.

In 2011, Nigeria spent N2.5 trillion on fuel subsidy, a 900 percent increase from the N245 billion in the year’s budget.

Companies importing fuel into

Expert predicts bleak outlook for real estate sector in 2017 Page B6

Naira hit N2.2tr in circulation, as CBN resumes dollar sales to BDCs Page B3

How fuel importing coys jumped from 5 to 200 Nigeria include Duke Oil Ltd, an oil trading arm of the NNPC, Oando, Sahara Energy, MRS Oil and Gas, AA Rano, Bono, Masters Energy, Eterna Oil and Gas, Cassiva Energy, Hyde Energy and Brittania U. Others are NorthWest Petroleum, Optima Energy, AMG Petroenergy, Arkiren Oil and Gas Limited, Shoreline Limited, En-

tourage Oil, Setana Energy and Prudent Energy, Trafigura Beheev BV (TBBV), among others.

Shockingly, the above companies, including others, estimated to be more than 30 companies were recently indicted in the subsidy scam after investigations.

Last week, the NNPC released the names of 39 winners for the sale and purchase of Nigerian

crude in 2017/2018. According to the contract, the deal will run for one year from January 1 for12 circles of crude oil allocation, involving 18 Nigerian companies, 11 International Traders, five foreign refineries, three National Oil Companies (NOCs) and two NNPC trading arms.

At least six of the companies listed were indicted or are still

Markie Idowu, Mr. Seyi Akinmusire (winner of the N100, 000 MoneyGram ‘Receive and Win’ Promo), the Group Head, Retail Banking, Skye Bank, Ndubuisi Osakwe at the cheque presentation event at Skye Bank Head weekend

50 companies bid for NNPC tug boat contract Simon Ugwu A total of 50 companies recently submitted bids to provide seaworthy tug boats on charter time basis for the maritime operational requirements of the Nigerian National

BUSINESS TIMES Editor Andrew Odioko Head Business Azubike Nnadozie Capital Market Editor Bonny Amadi

Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) in Lagos, Warri and Port Harcourt.

The Group General Manager, Public Affairs Division (PAD) made this known in Abuja.

“The public bid opening event which was held at the Abuja Corporate Headquarters of the Corporation had in attendance representatives of the bidding companies with officials of the Bureau of Public Procurement, Department of Petroleum Resources, Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initia-

facing charges for fuel subsidy fraud. These include Masters Energy, Oando, Eterna Oil and Gas, Seterna Energy, AMG Petroenergy, and Prudent Energy.

NNPC said all the contracts for the 2017/2018 crude trade were for 32,000 barrels per day except Duke Oil Ltd, an oil trading arm of the NNPC, which will be for 90,000 barrels per day.

tive, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, and some members of the civil society as observers,” he said.

Successful companies, according to him, will be engaged on a two-year term contract in the first instance with an option of renewal for a further one year.

“Winners are expected to provide services which include: aiding the berth and un-berth of all ships operating at the NNPC jetties/buoy, logistics support for safe ship-to-ship opera-

tions which covers movement of fenders, horses, documents, rigging and unrigging of fenders among others.”

Speaking recently at the public opening of the bids, NNPC Group General Manager, Supply Chain Management, Mr. Shehu Liman, said the corporation under Dr. Maikanti Baru, the managing director, was determined to instill and sustain the values of transparency, accountability and integrity in the procurement process.

CONTINUES ON PAGE B2

How #OccupyCBN protest flopped Simon Ugwu The attempted protest against the foreign exchange policies of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) tagged #OccupyCBN protest on Friday by a group allegedly led

by Deji Adeyanju failed, as it could not muster enough public support.

The Acting Director, Corporate Communications Department of CBN, Isaac Okorafor made this known in a

statement, describing them as “paid agents of selfish interests and the enemies of the Nigerian economy.”

He stated that the group was received by the policemen on routine duty at the junction and after waiting for five minutes left on their own.

“The group had been mobilizing Nigerians to join the protest. At about 9:30 am when about 12 people gathered at a juncCONTINUES ON PAGE B2

Business News B2

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

Cabotage Fund hits N30.7bn, disbursement begins soon – NIMASA The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has concluded necessary documentation needed for the disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF), currently estimated at more than N30.7 billion.

The Director-General of the agency, Dr Dakuku Peterside, made this known in Abuja at a News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Forum.

Peterside said that the fund came into being with the promulgation of the Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act 2003.

The fund, derived from two per

cent deductions from every contract awarded, was meant to help grow the capacity of indigenous ship owners’ intention and also provide the needed capital for them to acquire vessels.

“Now the minister has made regulations but with benefit of hindsight, we are looking at the regulations again. You will recall that there was a ship acquisition and ship building fund which is a precursory to the Cabotage fund.

“We have seen those funds and how they were operated and we have identified a few lacunas here and there.

“And so we want to do is to look at the guidelines again to ensure that we tighten certain knots and be ready to accommodate only credible ship owners, credible entrepreneurs so that they can access the funds, apply the funds for what it’s meant for and build capacity in terms of vessel acquisition.

“That is what we are doing with the CVFF fund. It’s there, we are trying to review the guideline and as soon as we review the guideline we will ensure that credible people have access to it. We believe that it will help them acquire more vessels and build capacity.

How #OccupyCBN protest flopped CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1

tion close the Women Development Centre in Central Area, Abuja, the leader of the group, told reporters that they were not coming to make trouble but rather to obtain explanations as to why the Naira should be allowed to weaken against the US Dollar. After waiting for five minutes left on their own,” he said.

“It will be recalled that the CBN had in statement alerted the public to an arranged protest by a paid group working for “powerful interests who want the CBN and Government to reverse the policy

on conservation of forex and sabotage the ongoing efforts to wean Nigerians from senseless importation. They want to create markets for importers to the overall detriment of the Nigerian economy,” he added.

The Ag Director maintained that no amount of blackmail will make the CBN allow a practice where by our farmers and industrialists who have invested heavily and employed our youths in the production of Nigerian made rice, fish, industrial starch, palm produce, wheat, tooth pick, wines, etc, would be made to close their farms and factories again.

Reappraise PHCN sale agreement, Labour urges FG

L – R: Sam Ndata, HEDGE Securities Ltd; Oscar N. Onyema, Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Stock Exchange; Chief Kola Jamodu, Chairman, PZ Cussons; Chrstos Giannopolus, Chief Executive Officer, PZ Cussons and Joyce Folake Coker, Human Resources Director, PZ Cussons on a factory tour to PZ Cussons on Friday in Ikorodu, Lagos.

Dangote opens 3,000 jobs truck assembly plant in Lagos The Dangote Group is to establish a truck assembly plant in Lagos, saving the country foreign exchange and creating 3,000 jobs in the process.

Specifically, the plant will be churning out heavy duty trucks for which conglomerate spends huge amount to import for products distribution in Nigeria and other African countries where it operates.

Dangote is partnering a leading Chinese Company, National Heavy Duty Truck Group Company Limited (SINOTRUCK) to produce several thousand of trucks used mainly for haulage business from its newly promoted assembly plant at Ikeja, Lagos.

The decision to go into the truck assembly plant project was informed by the need to conserve forex in view of the current economic recession that is facing the country.

The deal worth $100 million to create an assembly plant that will produce 10,000 trucks

per year was signed in May 2014 in China, making it the eighth of Shandong, China (SINOTRUCK), to be built abroad.

According to the deal agreement, the plant is 60% owned

by Dangote Group, trading under Dangote Industries Limited, leaving SINOTRUCK with the balance.

Consequently, Dangote Agro Sacks Limited, which occupied the Oba-Akran Ogba premises of the former Nigerian Textile Mills, until recently, has been relocated closer to the group’s major operational hubs, particularly the cement plants in Obajana, Kogi State and Ibeshe, Ogun State.

The assembly plant is expected to generate employment for an estimated 3,000 workers, when fully operational.

Nigeria remains one of the most important markets for SINOTRUCK, with Dangote Group operating the largest truck fleet in Africa with over 10, 000 trucks for the distribution of cement,

sugar, flour and pasta, and other of its products from its plants across the continent.

Chief Corporate Communication Officer of Dangote Group, Mr. Anthony Chiejina, confirmed the project has taken off and that when fully operational, the nation would be spared the huge amount of forex spent in the importation of the heavy duty vehicles.

Unimpressed with the performance index of electricity companies in the country, the Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Company (SSAEAC) has urged the Federal Government to re-examine the privatization agreement of the nation’s power sector.

Mr Chris Okonkwo, the President of the association, who made the call at an interactive session yesterday in Lagos, decried what he called the dwindling fortunes of the sector after the private sector took over on Nov. 1, 2013.

The Minister of Works, Power and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola, had on Jan. 9 told electricity distribution companies in the country to either improve their service delivery or quit business.

“We are working as hard as we can to make the environment more responsive to you and as I have said and will repeat that as pioneers, you will carry some burdens.

“You either improve your services or quit,” Fashola told the companies at the opening of the 11th Monthly Stakeholders meet-

ing in Lagos.

According to Okonkwo, three years after the distribution and generation companies took over the electricity sector, they have yet to meet the expectations of the people.

“We think it is time to reappraise the content of the agreement that handed over the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) to the private sector and its implementation.

“It is time to hold those who bought the power sector down for what they had signed that they will do. We want to know if they are doing well or not,’’ the electricity workers’ president said.

Apparently referring to Fashola’s warning, he said the government should not ask electricity investors to shape up, but to ensure that they implemented what was stipulated in the contract for the sale of the power sector.

Okonkwo criticised government’s plans to get N309 billion fund from the bond market to “finance shortfall” in the electricity market since it had already sold it to private investors.

50 companies bid for NNPC tug boat contract CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1

He noted that apart from providing a level playing space for all stakeholders, the public bid exercise is in conformity with existing Federal Government legislation on procurement which is also in tune with the NNPC standing regulations on procurement to ensure transparency and fairness.

The bid covered services like stand-by and positioning vessels at the Single Point Moring (SPM)

buoy, among other marine services.

Declaring the event open, Mr. Dalhatu Makama, Group General Manager, Marine Logistics Division of the Corporation, noted that the essence of the bid process was to ensure that companies with the requisite experience in maritime operations are given the opportunity to compete for the available service in a fair and transparent manner.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

Stories by Motolani Oseni The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has disclosed that an estimated N2.2 trillion was in circulation in December 2016, the highest in the year.

This is even as the apex bank will resume sales of dollar proceeds of international money transfer (IMT) to bureaux de change (BDC) operators this week.

According to the CBN website, the N2.2 trillion currency in circulation last month was 4.3 per cent over November’s N1.9 trillion quantum of paper money.

The CBN statistics showed that currency in circulation increased to N1.68 trillion in August, against N1.66 trillion it recorded in July. But in September, the local

B3 Money Market

Naira hit N2.2tr in circulation, as CBN resumes dollar sales to BDCs currency in circulation was N1.79 trillion while in October, it closed at N1.83 trillion.

However, in June the money in circulation dropped 3.6 per cent to N1.68 trillion from N1.75 trillion recorded in May, but stood at N1.76 trillion in April; N1.8 trillion in March; N1.7 trillion in February and N1.73 trillion in January.

Meanwhile, President, Association of BDC operators, Aminu Gwadabe, expressed optimism last week that the Naira would firm up against hard currencies significantly this week, as the foreign

exchange market open for operations today.

Gwadabe said that the CBN would be selling about $25 million to BDCs during this week, which he believed would help to reduce the lingering forex liquidity challenge in the market.

Therefore, he urged Nigerians not to panic as the CBN is working closely with the BDCs to ensure that the Naira recovers quickly.

Similarly, a group of researcher at InvestmentOne said, “This in our opinion should serve to improve foreign exchange liquidity in the system

as the BDCs operators serve the segment of the market not covered by the CBN. “That said, we however highlight the need for the CBN to review the current foreign exchange regime as a way to increase foreign exchange supply into country, which in turn would achieve the objective of gradual rate convergence across the various segments of the foreign exchange markets.”

Consequently, as at the close of the official interbank market for last week, the Naira traded range-bound all through

the week at the interbank market to end the week at N305/Dollar.

Against the Pounds and Euro, the local currency however depreciated by 0.03per cent and 0.84percent to settle at N382.61 and N334.59 respectively.

At the Bureau De Change (BDC) window, the Naira was sold at N399 to a dollar, while the Pound Sterling and the Euro closed at N600 and N515, respectively.

I shed -0.8 per cent week on week to close at N497 per dollar at the parallel market, as well as dropping -0.34per cent and 1.74per cent against

Godwin Emefiele, CBN Governor

the Pound and the Euro to end the week at N597 and N515 respectively.

Heritage Bank moves to deepen support to agric value chain

L – R (B) shows Mr. Uaboi G. AGBEBAKU, Company Secretary/ Legal Adviser, Nigerian Breweries Plc; Mr. Victor FAMUYIBO, Human Resource Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc; Mr. Oscar N. Onyema, OON, Chief Executive Officer, The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE); Mr. Nicolaas A. VERVELDE, Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Breweries Plc; Mr. Haruna Jalo-Waziri, Executive Director, Capital Market Division, NSE and Ade Bajomo, Executive Director, Market Operations and Technology, NSE at the Closing Gong Ceremony in commemoration of the company’s 70th anniversary at The NSE ...recently.

PoS in use down 6,490 in five months Point of Sale (PoS) terminals registered and deployed have declined by 6,490 or 4.8 percent, due to the recent neglect by merchants in the country as a result of excess charges imposed by the operators, investigation by Daily Times has revealed.

It would be recalled that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) introduced the PoS system in 2012 to further drive home its cashless policy aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s payment system.

The initiative, which has recorded remarkable success since its introduc-

tion rose in total value of transactions to N99.6 billion, while the deployment of PoS terminals rose from 5,000 to 153,167 by 2014. It further rose to 142,814 in June 2016 but dropped by over 6000 terminals to stand at 136,324

by November, 2016.

A merchant who simply identified herself as Mrs. Juliet told our correspondent that she and many other shop owners in Computer Village, Ikeja, Lagos had stopped using PoS for payments of goods purchased by her customers in the last few months due to the excess charges by the operating banks and

regulatory body.

Mrs. Juliet, a dealer in computers and accessories, at the weekend explained further that the CBN must intervene if they really want to actualize cashless economy and reduce to the barest minimum physical cash in the circulation.

“I have come to realize that when you use the terminal, the buyer of the goods will be charged with certain amount of money and likewise me the seller of the product will also be charged, this is not good,” she lamented.

“Therefore, I prefer customers paying for whatev-

er they buy with physical cash or better still do transfer to me and would not be charged, even though such buyer would be charged for using the service.”

Commenting on the declining deployment of the payment terminals, Chief Executive Officer, Electronic Payment Providers Association of Nigeria (E-PPAN), Mrs. Regha Onajite, who reacted to the development on phone, said there was a need for merchants to be encouraged towards registering and deploying more PoS terminals in order for the country to achieve a truly cashless economy.

Heritage Bank has concluded plans to revolutionize the agricultural value-chain, particularly in rice farming that will enhance agribusiness and aid economic development through its direct participation in the much lauded Anchor Borrowers’ Programme (ABP) of the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Group Head, Agriculture Finance, Heritage Bank, Olugbenga Awe, in a speech delivered at the third edition of Rice Investment Summit in Abuja in collaboration with New Partnership for Africa Development (NEPAD), said the bank’s drive to support rice production was borne out of the conviction that agribusiness is profitable and act of patriotism to achieve food security and sufficiency in the country.

He, however, noted that the challenges facing rice production were subset of myriads of constraints facing agriculture in general, as most farmlands are located in the rural areas with poor road network and electricity supply, majority are financially excluded with no access to banking services.

He hinted that Heritage Bank is effectively tackling the bottlenecks, since it has long identified the opportunities in agribusiness before the collapse of crude oil prices through its various

programmes, which will contribute to the projection for year 2020 in the production of 7.7million metric tons of milled rice or 10.8million metric tons of paddy rice at milling recovery ratio of 62per cent.

On the Heritage Bank’s involvement in ABP, Awe noted that the bank has strategically put in place measures to ensure fidelity to contract agreements and adherence to fair trade in making sure that farmers earn decent profit for their efforts, which is critical to the sustainability of the programmes.

According to him, the bank’s participation in the programme has paid off as we currently have a rich pool of farmers’ data to support grains production.

“The registered farmers in our database can easily be identified and trained with the support of extension services to plant any grains as the season demands.

This flexibility provides continuous cash flows to the famers and ensure that more farmers are enlisted to join the programme,” he said.

The group head, further disclosed, “In our quest to participate in the rice valuechain through the ABP, we supported hundreds of small holder farmers in various communities in Kaduna and Zamfara State.”

Capital Market B4 Stories by Afolabi Adesola The negative trend recorded in the stock market in the first trading week of the year abated last week, following increases recorded majorly in banking stocks.

Index movement shows the banking index recorded the highest growth last week with 3.27 percent while the ASeM index was next with a growth of 2.84 percent. The pension index added 1.10 percent while the Premium, NSE 30, and Industrial Indices appreciated 1.38, 0.11 and 0.07 percent respectively.

Consequently, the NSE All-Share Index (ASI)

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

Banking, ASeM index, others buoy stock market performance grew 0.28 percent or 74.54 points to close last week at 26,325.93, while the yearto-date return improved to settle at -2.04 percent.

Market Capitalization also appreciated by 0.28 percent or N26 billion to close the week at N9.058 trillion.

Meanwhile, other indices that finished lower during the week were the NSE-Main Board, NSE Insurance, NSE Consumer Goods, NSE Oil/Gas and

NSE Lotus II indices that depreciated by 0.39 percent, 0.34 percent, 1.82 percent, 3.15 percent and 1.87 percent respectively.

Market breadth improved as price movement chart showed that 31 equities led by Diamond Bank appreciated in price last week, compared with 18 equities of the previous week. Thirty-four equities topped by Cutix Plc depreciated in price, against 31 equities of the previous

week, while 110 equities remained unchanged, in contrast with126 equities recorded in the preceding week.

Fidelity Bank topped the week’s activity chart, followed by, Omoluabi Savings and Loans and Diamond Bank. They accounted for 299.270 million shares worth N277.933 million in 1,029 deals, contributing 26.79 percent and 3.07 percent to the total equity turnover volume and

value respectively.

During the week, 1.117 billion shares worth N9.041 billion in 16,482 deals were traded by investors on the floor of the Exchange, contrasting with 4.319 billion shares valued at N7.376 billion that exchanged hands in the previous week in 9,330 deals.

The Financial Services Industry (measured by volume) led the activity chart with 903.696 million shares valued at N3.336

billion traded in 9,240 deals, thus contributing 80.88 percent and 36.90 percent to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively. The Conglomerates Industry followed with 67.147 million shares worth N109.014 million in 609 deals. The third place was occupied

by Consumer Goods Industry with a turnover of 59.710 million shares worth N4.002 billion in 2,686 deals.

Meyer Plc floats N218.6mn rights issue, Paint Manufacturer, Meyer Plc, has opened its rights issue of 291.5 million ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at 75 kobo per share.

The N218.6 million expected will assist the company with factory upgrading, amongst other company needs.

According to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) s weekly news report, the acceptance list for the offer opened on Monday 9th January 2017 and is scheduled to close on Friday 10th February 2017.

Meanwhile, a separate statement by the company stated that Mr. Bamidele Akinnola has been appointed as the Company’s new Managing Director.

The company also appointed Mrs. Ifetola Fadeyibi as the Company Secretary on November 8, 2016, adding that both appointments were approved by the Board of Directors on November 8, 2016.

According to the statement, Mr Akinnola started his career in 1995 with Cadbury Nigeria Plc, where he spent about 15 years.

In 2007, he was appointed Manufacturing Manager in charge of the Confectionery Business unit and had

a short stint as a consultant between October 2010 and December 2011 with Jetstar Consulting Ltd, Lagos a consulting firm providing Technical consulting services to a broad spectrum of clients across FMCG, Processing, Printing and Packaging businesses.

He joined UAC Foods Limited in 2012 as General Manager, Operations and was later that year appointed General Manager, Supply Chain in an expanded role that included Procurement, Manufacturing, Sales Operations, Logistics and Distribution.

Before joining Meyer Plc in October 2016 as Managing Director, he had a brief stint with Dansa Foods Limited as General Manager, Operations and later as acting Managing Director.

Mr Akinnola is said to be a highly focused and resultdriven individual with an unwavering passion for excellence. He has over 20 years’ experience across various industries. As a professional, he has achieved leadership roles in various areas of functional responsibilities in the corporate environment with track record of outstanding achievements.

Summary of trading activities on NSE ASI

26,325.93

DEALS VOLUME VALUE CAP

2,653.00 148,569,099.00 3,758,383,446.99 9,058,131,259,973.59

LEFT TO RIGHT: Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Enelemah Okechukwu, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment , DG Securities and Exchange Commission, Mounir Gwarzo and Zakari Baba MD Nigeria Commodity Exchange at the Inauguration of the Steering Committee on the revitalization of the Nigeria Commodity Exchange and Project Delivery Team in Abuja, recently.

SEC cautions investors against online currency venture The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Friday issued another circular urging the investing public to exercise extreme caution with regard to Bitcoin, crypto currencies and other online currencies as a vehicle of investment.

The SEC explained that many of the companies and entities promoting the use of crypto currencies have not been recognized or authorized by the Nigerian regulatory agencies to provide investment and finan-

cial services, hence the risk of loss of money and fraud looms.

The apex capital market regulator in its circular thus advised investors to confirm status of any financial institution as to their authorization by the Commission or other financial services regulatory authority.

According to SEC, “The attention of the Securities and Exchange Commission, has been drawn to radio advertisements and other modes of solicitations of the public to invest in crypto

currencies such as Swisscoin, OneCoin, Bitcoin and such other virtual or digital currencies.

“The public is hereby advised to exercise extreme caution with regard to digital (crypto currencies) as a vehicle of investments.

“This warning is in consonance with similar warnings issued by capital market regulators and Central Banks across the world over the past few years.

“The Commission wishes to alert the public that none of the persons, companies

or entities promoting crypto currencies has been recognized or authorized by it or by other regulatory agencies in Nigeria to receive deposits from the public or to provide any investment or other financial services in or from Nigeria.

The public should also be aware that any investment opportunities promoted by these persons, companies or entities are likely to be of a risky nature with a high risk of loss of money, whilst others may be outright fraudulent pyramid schemes.

21-Oct 24-Oct 27-Oct 30-Oct 02-Nov 05-Nov 08-Nov 11-Nov 14-Nov 17-Nov 20-Nov 23-Nov 26-Nov 29-Nov 02-Dec 05-Dec 08-Dec 11-Dec 14-Dec 17-Dec 20-Dec 23-Dec 26-Dec 29-Dec 01-Jan 04-Jan 07-Jan 10-Jan 13-Jan

B5 Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

Price Chg %

29,500 NSE All Share Index Naira Value (m)

13,000

27,000 9,500

6,000

24,500 2,500

22,000 (1,000)

`

Property B6

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

Stakeholders chart course for real estate sector Stories by Babajide Okeowo Stakeholders in the real estate sector have charted a developmental course for government to follow if the needed growth in the sector is to be achieved in 2017 while positing that if the sector is to successfully address Nigeria’s over 17 million housing deficits there should be policy driven incentives for private developers in order to attain affordable housing.

According to the stakeholders, the present government’s efforts at providing about 100,000 houses per annum still leaves a deficit of 700,000 housing units, which may not be attained without active private sector participation.

Some of the policies should in-

clude rebate for approval for mass or social housing, incentives for developers by lowering the market entry and ease of doing business, improving time frames for exports and imports and zero tariffs for renewable energy.

According to the Project Director, Arctic Infrastructure, Lukman Oshodi, the near absence of mortgage for housing coupled with the development of housing types without taking care of the low income has made accessibility to housing very difficult.

Oshodi therefore called for a review of the housing types in new housing programmes, which will include the enthronement of strong virile mortgage system as well as easier land acquisition.

According to him, new housing

programmes and urban renewals should not only consider the low income group because of their critical mass but should take their interests into consideration or be made a priority.

According to Director of Sustainability West Africa Lead, Ernst & Young, and member of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) Sustainability Policy Commission, Mr. Opeyemi Joseph Owolabi, the real estate sector is capable of bringing the country out of recession, while regretting that investment in government housing is speculative. He however called for mass approach to meet the housing demands.

According to him, there is need for social inclusion to capture the

informal sector that provides 85 percent of the labour force.

He also stressed the need for government incentives for developers by lowering the market entry and ease of doing business, improving time frames for exports and imports and zero tariffs for renewable energy.

Similarly, Head of affordable Housing unit of Lafarge Nigeria, Mr. Aurelien Boyer, thinks the expansion of microfinance for housing is a pragmatic solution to the explosion in rural exodus.

He urged government to borrow a leaf from Lafarge’s Easy Home initiative launched three years ago in collaboration with LAPO Micro Finance Bank which has produced 25,000 beneficiaries across the south west zone.

L-R: The Managing Director/CEO Lagos State Property and Development Corporation (LSPDC), Mr. Jide Sanwo – Olu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Physical Planning & Urban Development and Hon. Commissioner, Ministry of Physical Planning & Urban Development Mr. Wasiu Anifowoshe during a visit

by LSPDC to the Commissioner recently

Expert predicts bleak outlook for real estate sector in 2017

Adetunji

A real estate surveyor and valuer, Mr. Adediran Adetunji, has posited that the real estate outlook for the year 2017 is not as vibrant and buoyant as it is being made to look in some quarters while urging government to introduce and implement the right policies.

“It will be truly magical for real estate to bounce back to vibrancy and buoyancy in 2017. Unless there is a major policy shift in the direction of housing and infrastructure development, I don’t see the real estate sector prospering in 2017,” he said Speaking further, he urged government to introduce and implement the right policies that will enable the sector to achieve its huge potentials “Let me quickly add that the real estate sector is a highly specialised

area where government must introduce and implement the right policies. The government must engage the professionals in the industry for better results because you must listen to diverse opinions at times like this.

The Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers is veritably placed to give the government the much-needed advice on how to restore the real estate business into vibrancy, structure the mortgage institutions and increase our housing stocks.

Hitherto, the problems have been created by putting in place those who do not know much about real estate sector, hence you realise that most of the property developers are traders, otherwise, the issue of 17 million housing deficiency would not have arisen” he admonished.

He also called for government

investment in infrastructure development which in his opinion is capable of absorbing unemployed people “After the World War II, the western nations embarked on the Marshall Plan, which created enormous activities in infrastructure development. This is the sector with the ability to absorb a large chunk of unemployed people. We should look at the present situation as if we are emerging from war with the need for massive infrastructure development and similar activities. The government had introduced the Single Treasury Account; I will suggest that these funds should be administered by a few credible banks for government. with the mandate to allocate funds and loans to different sectors of the economy to create vibrant economic dynamics .

REAL ESTATE TIPS How to get Building Plan Approval In Lagos Processing a building plan approval is one of the most intricate aspects of erecting a structure.

Every idea starts with the gift of imagination! However, it has been proven that even the shortest pencil is better than the longest memory. Imagination needs to be captured otherwise it becomes a thing of the past.

In most countries, it is customary to obtain a permit or approval from appropriate authorities and Nigeria is not an exception.

A Building plan approval is necessary before construction can commence.

This is to ensure that building complies with building laws and codes and to prevent people from just constructing as they deem fit.

Hence, the very first thing to do when you want to commence construction is to obtain a Development Permit from the Lagos State Government and the office in charge is the Lagos State Physical Planning and Development Authority (LASPPDA), a parastatal under the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.

How to get your building approval: In get building approval in Lagos, the land in question, where the building is to be erected must first have a certificate of occupancy before your building plan can even be assessed by the appropriate bodies. Also, your land title determines the height and the density you can go, depending on the area the building will be or the kind of building you intend to put up.

Hence, the following documents must be submitted at the point of registration of all applications for building plan approval in line with the State policy on Operation 30 – 30; an acronym for speedy processing/approval of building plan applications: 1. Five (5) sets each of:detailing/calculations and letter of structural stability from COREN certified Engineer.

2. Survey 3. Title Document 4. Tax clearance and Government fee (In the case of individuals); the Government fee only comes to play after your building plan must have been assessed and marked for approval.

To be continued Next Week

Daily Times Nigeria Monday January 16, 2017

B7 Insurance

Why more Nigerians need insurance policies – PILA Mrs Justine Okoror, the President, Professional Insurance Ladies Association (PILA), has urged Nigerians to go for more insurance policies this year, despite the recession.

Okoror told newsmen in Lagos that payment of insurance premiums to secure life and properties had enormous advantages.

“Many think insurance business thrives on the economy and that it is a secondary issue.

“The first issue on the minds of citizens is survival before they consider protecting and providing for tomorrow.

“Nigerians, however, need to change their perceptions when it comes to insurance.

“Insurance provides mitigation against unexpected loss of life, property and things of value.

“What is the advantage of surviving now and losing all what one possesses at the end?’’ she queried.

Okoror urged citizens to take appropriate insurance policies to tackle unforeseen losses.

According to her, there is not a more appropriate time to take insurance policies than in a recession.

She said, “In recession, there is limited cash in circulation; one can hardly invest or purchase properties.

“So then, why should one not secure what he or she has?’’

Okoror said that some individuals, because of the harsh economic situation in the country, may want to abandon comprehensive insurance for third party insurance.

She decried such moves, saying that those individuals did not know the value of what they had.

L – R: Deputy President, Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB), Mr. Shola Tinubu; former Minister of State for Finance, Mr Remi Babalola, and NCRIB President, Mr Kayode Okunoren, discussing at the National Insurance Brokers Conference and Exhibitions held in Abuja, recently

Insurance: Rector identifies unethical practices as bane of growth The Rector, College of Insurance and Financial Management (CIFMS), Lagos, Mrs Yeside Oyetayo, has identified unethical practices as bane to the growth and development of the industry.

Oyetayo, who spoke to newsmen in Lagos, said that the college would not trade high ethical standards of its students with anything.

She said that the students on their first day in the college were made to know that insurance industry has zero-tolerance for indiscipline, so that they could sit up from onset.

“We told them, no matter the temptations and challenges; they

must not compromise the ideals of the profession.

“It is only by doing so that they can remain worthy ambassadors of the insurance industry, “she said.

She said that the college had partnered with various international organisations, such as GIZ, a German trade facilitation agency and Actuaries without Borders, a non-profit volunteer organization within the International Actuarial Association (IAA).

The partnership, she said was to develop, organize and promote the actuarial profession through the college Oyetayo said that the college is offering full-time and part-time

Linkage Assurance profit down 5.5 percent in 9’M 2016 Bonny Amadi, Adesola Afolabi Linkage Assurance has released its interim financial statements, for the period ended 30th September 2016, showing a profit of N616.1 million.

The profit represents a 5.5 percent decline from N651.8 million posted as profit for the corresponding period of 2015.

The results released on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) also showed that net premium income of N2.3 billion was realized for the period, signifying a 37.3 percent growth from N1.7 billion recorded as the net premium for the same period of 2015.

Management expenses of the company, however, grew by 3 percent to N794.7 million from N770.1 million, negatively impacting profit before tax that dropped 5.5 percent to N770.1 million from N814.7 million recorded for the corresponding period of 2015.

The company attributed management expenses as expenses other than claims, investments and underwriting expenses to include employee benefits, depreciation charges and other operating expenses. Management expenses are charged to profit or loss when the goods are received or services rendered.

Meanwhile, the company’s

shareholder’s funds settled at N16.9 billion, recording an appreciation of 4 percent from N16.3 billion recorded as at 31st December 2015.

Total Assets grew by 6.7 percent to N21.3 billion from N19.9 billion while Total liabilities settled at N4.3 billion from N3.7 billion.

Linkage Assurance was recently named with Equity Assurance and Universal Assurance as listed companies to exit the NSE Insurance Index, following the NSE’s bi-annual review of the composition of sectoral indices.

The NSE Insurance index comprises the top 15 most capitalized and liquid companies in the Insurance sector.

Diploma in Insurance and Certificate Courses in Risk Management, Pensions and Annuity and Islamic Finance and Takaful.

Furthermore, she said the college also conducts induction training for new recruits in the insurance industry.

“We are currently collaborating with some of the universities offering degree courses in insurance on our Diploma Programme to boost enrolment levels in our insurance courses.

“The programme is intense, consisting of 22 technical courses through which we deliver indepth training for 9 months to our students preparing them for a successful career in insurance.

“It is specifically geared towards assisting insurance and non-insurance graduates desirous of a career in insurance to attain professional qualification within a short time.

“I can boldly say that the objectives the programme have been met because of over 90 per cent success rate of our students in the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN) examinations held in April and October last year.

“Besides, over 75 per cent of our unemployed graduates have subsequently secured employment in various insurance companies and to this, we have delivered on our promises, “she said.

Japanese insurance firm replaces 34 staff with AI Science fiction has long imagined a future in which humans are ousted from their jobs by machines.

For 34 staff at a Japanese insurance firm, that vision just became a reality.

Fukoku Mutual Life Insurance is laying off the employees and replacing them with an artificial intelligence (AI) system that can calculate insurance payouts.

The firm believes it will increase productivity by 30%.

It expects to save around 140m yen (£979,500 / $1.2m) a year in salaries after the 200m yen AI system is installed later this month.

Maintenance of the set-up is expected to cost about 15m yen annually.

Japan’s Mainichi reports that the system is based on IBM Japan Ltd’s Watson, which IBM calls a “cognitive technology that can think like a human”.

IBM says it can “analyze and interpret all of your data, including unstructured text, images, audio and video”.

Fukoku Mutual will use the AI to gather the information needed for policyholders’ payouts - by reading medical certificates, and data on surgeries or hospital stays.

Business Interview B8

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, January 16, 2017

‘7,000 Megawatts is achievable in 2017’ – Afolabi Dr Ade Afolabi is the Chairman/ CEO, Dansaki Petroleum Limited, an integrated oil company, aiming to grow from upstream through the midstream to the downstream. He is a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Fellow of Nigerian Institute of Mechanical Engineers, and the past council chairman of Society of Petroleum Engineers. In this interview with Simon Ugwu, he spoke on issues affecting the Energy Industry – Excepts...

The Federal government targeted 7,000 megawatts of electricity generation by end of 2016.

The year remains two weeks to go and generation average only 3,000 megawatts. Will this be achievable in 2017, and what will the government do to surpass this target?

We are seeing an increase in production and reduction in the case of pipeline vandalism. The 7, 000 megawatts is achievable come 2017. The government should encourage gas to power producers. So that we can generate more power supply, so also the Discos should also improve revenue collection. They should embrace the Information Technology (ICT) being used now.

It will help. Eko Disco has embraced the technology and it is working for them.

Electricity generation and distribution companies said huge debts amounting to about N1 trillion militate against their anticipated performance and the chunk of this debt is owed by government ministries, departments and agencies. How will this be addressed in 2017?

They make enough provision for the distribution of oil and gas production. The government has to do something regarding settling the debt owed by its ministries, departments and agencies. It is very vital if the government wants a turnaround in the industry.

Vandalism of power equipment and energy theft through the bypass of meters and illegal connections has become a challenge. What is the way out?

The challenge can be overcome through the use of the latest technology in place. They need to get inspectors to follow through not just relying on information technology and sit back in the office. The inspectors should be goIng round to check the prepaid meter so that nobody bypasses the meter.

Oil production stands at 1.6 million barrels per day while targeted production is

Afolabi 3 million barrels. What can the government do to optimize production in 2017?

The industry is built on respect for the right-of-way. They should ensure that nobody passes or encroaches on the right-of-way. Anytime you allow squatters to encroach, they may build on the pipelines. The government has to devise a means that will prevent people from going close to the pipelines, using the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps. Anybody who goes close after all these efforts to deter people from going close should be arrested.

When there is fall in the oil price as being experienced now, Nigeria is hard hit. How can the government overcome this challenge in the future?

If there is a decline in the

price of crude oil, we should refine locally and also promote energy means. The refineries should be maintained, and also build new ones.

The Federal government through the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) still subsidizes petrol, do you subscribe to the full deregulation of the downstream?

Yes, I do subscribe to full deregulation of downstream.

Sometime in the past, around September 2015, petrol sold for N87 or N90 per litre without subsidy. The problem started when the issue of vandalism surfaced again. We couldn’t export the crude oil and we couldn’t refine locally. If we are sure of maintaining the present refining capacity, and we are anxious about the use of energy and build

more refineries, we will overcome the challenge.

Can you talk about or assess gas development and utilization and gas-to-power in 2017?

I think there is an enabling environment in gas production as there is willing-buyer, willing seller. It is just like crude oil now as we buy at the international market price. If it continues like that, it will encourage production.

Sourcing of foreign exchange and the exchange rate have become major challenges to marketers and others importing. How can the issue be addressed?

We really have to make them confident about the business they are into. The government should convince the public that it can provide the foreign ex-

change for their business.

Are there more investments in the Oil and Gas industry?

Are indigenous companies getting the benefits of divestments by the International Oil Companies (IOCs)? Why are the IOCs divesting?

The International Oil Companies (IOCs) are divesting because of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), which is yet to be passed. It keeps lingering at the National Assembly. It is creating uncertainty in the business environment. Also, the vandalism and oil theft contributed to the issues that made IOCs divest.

The government should create the enabling environment. The news emanating from those companies that bought from the IOCs are not encouraging. It is like they jumped into the transaction without proper feasibility studies.

What is the state of the search for oil in the Chad basin and in the North, generally?

We have seen those who started the search before Nigeria and they are still searching. So the government should not give up but I don’t want the government to put all the resources there.

The vandalization of oil and gas pipelines has been a major challenge, costing the nation trillions of foreign exchange. How can the problem be addressed?

We have to improve on the preventive mechanism in order to determine the spillage soon enough to be able to stop it.

There are ICT controls that will tell you when you are losing oil from the pipelines.

The Military Joint Task Force (JTF) has been destroying illegal refineries. What can the government do to occupy those idle hands come next year?

There should be public awareness to enlighten people to be law abiding. They should not engage in illegality because it doesn’t pay to be breaking the law. There are gainful ventures they can go into and they will be earning income from there.

Life&

TIMES Monday, January 16, 2017

Morachi

reveals there is no love in music industry

L2

P

Gist L2

Daily Times Nigeria

Monday, January 16, 2017

Mutiat Alli

Tanzanian act, Diamond Platnumz, Flavour ignite fans at AFCON opening At the ceremony

opening of this

of Nations (AFCON) which held over the weekend in Libreville, Gabon; Tanzanian favourite, Diamond Platinumz, highlife king, Flavour, ignited fans with their distinctive

dance move at the well-attended.

It is noteworthy to recall that the duo thrilled fans with their brilliant performance at the just concluded Glo-CAF Awards in Abuja; now they are set to electrify the opening ceremony of AFCON 2017.

on record and a letter to that effect then saw it as a threat to them and pull me down.

“I relieved myself of the task because there was no proper structure in place and there seems to be much

Alhaji Abass Akande Obesere, popularly known as the Vice Chancellor of Entertainment, has refuted a local report that the Fuji icon dumped the position of national president of Fuji Musicians Association of Nigeria (FUMAN) because he was not up to the task.

Alhaji Obesere, in an interview, said the reporter and his boss were just being mischievous by trying to misinform the public about his actions.

“The report was being sponsored by enemies of progress who are just al-

Life&

T E A M

for the position, I was selected based

wasting any time this year thrilling his cial dance remix to his well-received sinCount It All Joy EP. The upbeat love song attracted international attention from fans and fellow artistes as well. This led to the release of an afro version which was remixed by UK- based producers, Team Salut.

And now, demonstrating his versatility yet again, the Grafton records act released an electronic dance version that shows there are many ways to enjoy the same song.

Obesere refutes report he cowardly dumps FUMAN presidency

Obesere

Mr 2kay releases dance remix to hit single ‘In the morning’

and unnecessary distractions which could hinder my career,” he said.

However, a source who is in the know of how everything transpired from the beginning explained the choice of Obesere was backed by the Constitution of Fuman, adding that it did not go down well with some cabals.

The source, who pleaded anonymity, added that “the National Working Committee proposed Alhaji Abass Akande Obesere to the National Ex-

Mr 2kay

Morachi Returns with ‘Never Let You Go’, ‘On My Grind’ .... Says there is no love in music industry Veteran artiste, Morachi, is set to storm the industry and change the sound in music industry. The singer who captivated the

The singer who has been in the United States has returned to stake his claim and

by the new stars in the music industry as most of them rode on the waves of the them. be anybody. I want to be me. The passion and love I have for the industry have made here to take the industry to the next level. try,” he noted. the music scene years ago explained why

suddenly left the music industry. The kind Morachi

was picked as the national president of FUMAN and duly sent a letter to ees, in which Alhaji Seriki Ayinde knew about it.” when some of his competitors saw he was booming and began to see him as threat,” the source stated.

Entertainment Correspondent Mutiat Alli

Society Correspondent Abimbola Obatayo

drop. I knew my gift and wanted to do more by bringing out great sounds but I was hindered and a lot of things happened there-

to come to this industry. Nigerian music is No 1 in Africa. We even threaten the superpowers of music. We still need to show that

understand the industry then; I was trying to put my own sound. Now I know better”, said Morachi.

Morachi said that with the new sound,

The singer who fancies Flavour because of the Igbo mix, Kiss Daniel and Davido but said that there is no love in the industry as everyone is just interested in his work. He

he really is. “In 2017, I want to change the sound in the industry. Good music needs

competition with somebody else.”

Daily Times Nigeria

Monday, January 16, 2017

L3Nutrition

Gbemisola Soremekun

Reasons why should eat more vegetables Vegetables are a nutritional cornerstone that are planted and grown to be suitable to eat in different ways. When we talk about vegetables, because there are a lot of them that grow in the farm. While many think vegetables equate to a a wide variety of veggies available and you can use them in a number of different ways. Eating them raw in a salad, many can be lightly steamed or cooked and you can boost your consumption by juicing them, or add them to stews and soups.

Homegrown sprouts and fermented vegetables your diet.

As we have different tribes in this country, so we have different types of veggies in our counSo, therefore every tribe has their own veggies.

There are many ways to cook and eat vegetables, even doctors recommend one should eat more of veggies than any other food. Since most

low in net carbs (total carbs minus of vegetables can help you lose and manage your weight in more ways than one. Simply cutting net carbs actually help you achieve results rivaling more complicated diets. Previous has appetite-suppressant qualities that helps you feel more satiated, thereby preventing unhealthy snacking. Fiber also helps improve metabolic markers such as blood pressure, cholesterol your heart and cardiovascular health, and appears to reduce mortality from all causes.

cooked vegetable

ITS IMPROVES GUT HEALTH AND one of the most common bowel problems, impacting nearly 1 in 5 Americans

ideally constitute the bulk of your diet by volume.

body by as much as 84 percent.

-

can cause bloating and painful cramps. with almost all the vitamins and minerals your body needs to carry out its normal function.

help prevent this scenario, and promotes optimal gut health in general by nourish-

especially if you cut out net carbs and processed foods at the same time. Juicing tends to be particularly potent and quick-acting in this regard.

woman in your childbearing age or you

higher water and phytochemical content, vegetables help produce that healthy “glow.” As noted in the featured article, a “study” from St. Andrews University concluded that people who ate three additional daily portions of produce for six weeks were ranked as better looking than those with lower intakes.” The cause for this improvement?

The carotenoids pigments that give vegetables their red and orange colors also improve the color of your skin, rendering it more rosy and glowing. Many vegetables are also known for

-

of an overall healthy diet may reduce risk for heart disease, including heart attack and stroke. ukwu vegetable

an overall healthy diet may protect against certain types of cancers. vegetables and, may reduce the risk of heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. overall healthy diet may lower blood pressure, and may also reduce the risk of developing kidney stones and help to decrease bone loss.

and combat wrinkles.

calories per cup instead of some other higher-calorie food may be useful in helping to lower calorie intake. ewedu vegetable

is found in vegetables. Folate reduces the risk of birth defects during your

shown to boost endurance and speed up recovery include beetroot juice, tomato juice, and watercress. As reported in the featured article, one study “found that drinking 16 ounces of organic beetroot juice daily for six days helped men cycle up to 16 percent longer than they did with a placebo beverage”. Meanwhile 100 percent tomato juice has been found to reduce exercise-induced stress on the

vegetables

Wellness L4

Daily Times Nigeria

Monday, January 16, 2017

Natural ways to control sweaty palms and feet Soremekun Gbemisola

Sweaty palms and feet are a plague in many human beings and they affect their personal and social lives. Most of these people are embarrassed and shy away from their societies and personal contracts. several reasons like stress, hormone problem can contribute to this abnormal sweat. Some people started this sweaty palm from their childhood age, till they grow old. Different to reduce the quantity of salt they add in their foods just to avoid this abnormal sweat but get the same result. Many victims of this watery palm and feet have gone to hospitals, for different medical tests and have taken different drugs just to stop but still get the same result.

Instead of wasting your money on these drugs, here are some natural home remedies you can use to prevent this sweaty palm and feet successfully. These remedies are available in the house, and can be carried along with when you are on the move to get a perfect and quick result.

Here are some natural things you can use to control your sweaty palms and feet: WATER: Water is a free gift of nature, and it is one of the remedies for a sweating palm and feet especially for the people whose body get hot very fast. Drinking plenty cool water during the day is the best way to control this sweaty palm. At least drink 2-3 liters of water in a day, just to keep your body temperature under control.

GREEN TEA: Green tea has a medical as well as astringent that help in drying the sweat naturally and closing the pores. Green tea also helps to prevent excess oil and moisture from the skin, and prevent sweat from escaping into the surface of the skin. Drinking tea will also have a detoxifying effect on your body and this will eliminate the bad odor in your sweat and prevent bacteria action on the sweat as well. Take 2-3 cups of green tea every day and dab some green tea ice cubes in your hand every now and then to prevent sweaty hand.

ALCOHOL: Alcohol has a drying and dehydrating effect on the body and hence, it a wonderful natural remedy for treating sweaty palms. Rubbing alcohol or alcohol based product on the hand will immediately give a drying effect to the palms. It is recommended to use alcohol wipes every time to control the wet palm.

TACUM POWDER: Talcum powder is another simple and easily home remedy for treating sweaty palm. However, it is important to choose mild perfumes variety or non-perfumed talcum powder for this purpose as sweaty hands can smell; when the sweat is combined with the perfume in the talc. Baby powder is another good alternative as it is mildly perfumed. The talc in the powder helps in keeping the sweat under control by forming a layer over the skin surface and absorbing the sweat adequately.

BAKING SOADA: Baking soda

has good absorbing properties that will help in keeping the skin dry on the surface. Take some baking soda and mix with water, apply on the palm and rub your palms together to seal the surface with soda. This is just to prevent the sweat coming through to the surface, you can repeat the procedure often when needed to keep the sweating under control.

LEMON AND ORANGE PEELS: Powder lemon or orange peels too are excellent for controlling sweaty hands, they are very good because they leave your hand with fresh and a wonderful aroma. Take orange and lemon peel and dry them in the sun, this can be powdered and stored in airtight jars. When necessary, you can use it as a dusting powder of mix it with water and leave a coat on the hand then allow dry. The powder can be mix with baking powder and use for dusting and deodorizing your hand.

TEA BAGS: Tea bags too have a stringent property due to the tannic acid in it.

Application of the black tea bags helps in the shrinking of pores, and also in reducing the chances of sweat from seeping through the pores.

Take moist tea bags and hold them inside your palms for a few minutes every few

hour, black tea can also be used for rising or wiping your palms or soaking for half an hour every day to control the sweat. And here are some other ways you can also control your sweaty palm and feet to 45 minutes can provide relief from excessive sweating for several hours. hands and feet can help reduce excess sweat.

Remember to scrub and clean your feet, rather than just splashing water on them. affected areas. bathing, especially between the toes. materials. removing your shoes and socks.

when you need to.

occur, such as gloves, mittens and other items that cover your hands.

is often triggered by anxiety and stress. sweating, so stay away from such foods.