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THE

DAILY

TIMES

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

dailytimesng

19.00

19.89

4.68%

WAPCO

Oguntade Ismaila

ÏÏÏ How sick can a society get if

a hungry seven-year-old boy can be burnt to death for allegedly attempting to steal garri from a shop? That was the question that

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0.23%

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2016 VOL. 2. NO. 236

NSE QUICK BITE 44.10

came to the fore on Wednesday as news broke of the burning to death a 7-year-old boy by a mob in the Orile area of Lagos.

According to the information made available to The Daily

Former PPPRA chairman, Gbadamosi, dies at 72 12

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GAINERS AS AT November 16, 2016 INTBREW

Recession: 7-yr-old boy burnt alive for attempting to steal garri

STANBIC

16.50

LOSERS AS AT November 16, 2016 15.98

-3.15%

FO

94.00

87.02

-7.43%

NYSC:

We can only mobilise 86,000 corps members Ï 84,000 others to wait till January Ï Cites lack of funds for action Ï Accuses states, LGAs of shirking responsibilities Ï Decries poor facilities at orientation camps, appeals for support

Lateef Ibrahim and Mathew Dadiya Abuja

ÏÏÏ Director

General of

National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig-Gen Suleiman Zakari Kazaure, has said that the scheme’s Continued on page 6

L-R: Vice Chancellor, Lagos State University, Prof. Olanrewaju Fagbohun; Guest Speaker & Chairman of UBA Group, Mr. Tony Elumelu; Chancellor and Chairman of the Lecture, Justice George Oguntade (rtd); Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Deputy Governor Office, Mrs Yetunde Odejayi, at the 1st Distinguished Lecture of the university delivered by Elumelu... on Wednesday.

Bill on Maritime University passes 2nd reading 12

Senate fails to stop ASUU’s 12 warning strike

Protesters occupy NASS over high pay of political office 12 holders

Rivers indicts 7 army for re-run elections’ killings

El-Rufai is an ingrate, perpetual betrayer –Timi Frank

6

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Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

Page Three

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PHOTO TIMES

Editorial Public Private Partnership in power sector

R

ecently, the Minister for Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola called for Public Private Partnership (PPP) in financing projects and providing infrastructure in the power sector.

Speaking at the opening of a two-day European Union (EU)-Nigeria business forum in Lagos, the minister listed areas of investment to include distribution companies needing capital for purchase of meters, gas supply, generation companies, Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), rural electrification and promotion of coal and solar power.

We cannot but agree with the minister on the need for such partnership if country is to solve the embarrassing epileptic power supply that been its lot over the years. Without doubt, PPP is as a long-term contract between a private party and a government entity, for providing a public asset or service, in which the private party bears significant risk and management responsibility, and remuneration is linked to performance.

This arrangement is based on the recognition that both parties can benefit from pooling their financial resources and expertise to improve the delivery of basic services to all citizens. There is no doubt that governments alone cannot meet the constantly growing demand for electricity and therefore need to look for support from other sources. As government revenues continue to dwindle, partnerships become imperative as means of providing a continued and improved level of service at reduced costs.

No doubt, advantages of PPP include removing the responsibility of funding the investment from the government’s balance sheet; introduce competition; adopt managerial practices and experience of the private sector; restructure public sector service by

embracing private sector capital and practices and to achieve greater efficiency in providing public services.

Definitely, the infrastructure stock, particularly in the power sector is far from being adequate, especially when compared to countries such as Brazil, Turkey, India, and South Africa.

This sad development is responsible for the declining manufacturing and industrial productivity in the county. When the former Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) was unbundled more than five years ago, to make way for private sector initiatives, rather than improve, the situation has been getting worse by the day.

There is no denying that the dearth of qualitative manpower needed to run the present day power sector, is sorely lacking. For a start, there are three key areas where Private Public Partnership can be effective within the Nigerian power reform. The first is in gas production and transport.

Another area is in the main trunk pipeline for transportation of gas.

The government and private sector can undertake such projects to ensure that the gas pipelines for transportation of gas are constructed. Clearly, there are three areas where PPP financing can help to achieve speed and efficiency in project development, construction and operation along the value chain of the power sector.

For example, there is a ready market for solar power developers to operate in, in view of the huge demand for power supply; high population density; and the fact that solar power projects take less time to reach commercial operations compared to the conventional gas-fired generation.

Therefore, solar is a major energy resource in Nigeria from a geographical perspective. Analysts have projected that Nigeria could generate600, 000MW by deploying Solar PV panels from just 1 percent of Nigeria’s land mass.

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President, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote (right) and Governor of Sokoto State, Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal during a condolence visit to Tambuwal over the death of Alhaji Ibrahim Dasuki, in Sokoto … on Wednesday.

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L-R: Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Muhammed; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr. Okechukwu Enelamah and Minister of Interior, Lt.-Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (rtd), at the Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja… on Wednesday.

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

Former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubkar (right), in a handshake with Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano during the 5th edition of the Zik Lecture Series at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka… on Wednesday.

With them is Sen. Ben Obi.

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Goodluck Jonathan

Matthew Ashimolowo

Julius Nyerere

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

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

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

4

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

FROM THE AR CHIVES

4, died, 7 vehicles burnt as truck crashes in Lagos

Joy Anyim

Four persons has been feared dead as truck laden with diesel crashed along Lagos-Ibadan expressway burning six vehicles on the bridge.

Witnesses said the incident occurred around 2am, when the diesel laden truck lost control and rammed into other vehicles in front of him and caught fire.

When our correspondent visited the scene yesterday some officials of rescue team were seen evacuating the burnt vehicles and the remain of those who lost their lives to the inferno.

It was learnt that some travelers were trapped in the traffic, forcing them to pass the night on the road.

Mr. Adeshina Tiamiyu , the General Manager of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency said, as an agency it would be difficult for them to ascertain the cause of the incident.

“Immediately we received a distress call about the incident, we moved in fast because it was a multiple accident that ignite fire from laden truck, we put off the fire and discovered that

Edo College Old Boys Association (ECOBA) holds Annual Dinner The 2016 edition of the Edo College Old Boys Association (ECOBA) annual dinner is scheduled to hold on Saturday 26th, November 2016 at Metropolitan Club, Victoria Island, Lagos at 6pm under the distinguished chairmanship of Ambassador Vincent Okobi.

The annual event which is an opportunity for members of ECOBA and their wives to re-unite and be updated on the activities of the association and the school would also be used to confer awards on deserving members.

The 2016 awards recipients would include the Deputy Managing Director, United Bank for Africa (UBA), Mr. Victor Osadolor, who has distinguished himself in the banking profession and Rev. (Dr.) John U. Aire who would receive life time achievement award.

The Chairman of ECOBA, Lagos Chapter, Mr. Godwin IzeIyamu stated that this year’s edition would be worthwhile as activities that would lead to the development of ECOBA and the school would be on the front burner.

He added that this year’s recipients deserved the awards because their outstanding achievements have brought great honour to

their alma mater and are therefore worthy to be celebrated.

As a tradition, the life time achievement award is bestowed on deserving old boys who have made exceptional life time contributions to a profession, industry, government, arts, sciences, business or any vocation, and doing so have brought honour to Edo College.

On issues facing the school, IzeIyamu said a lot has been done in enhancing the educational standard of their alma mater, but ECOBA could not afford to rest on its oars as more issues facing it would be discussed in order to place the school ahead of others in the country.

three dead bodies were buried under the burnt truck those who died in the explosion is a driver, two motor boys and one bloated body floating in the river.”

What we are doing now is recovering process and removed the burnt trucks from the road to allowed free flow of vehicular movement, because the accident have caused serious traffic in Lagos and environs.

Tiamiyu also appealled to truck’s drivers union to educate their men on the way they drive the articulated vehicles, because they are still other road users on the road, what we are witnessing today would have been avoided if the drivers drive with caution on the road.”

“We are aware that there is road construction going on the corridor, and diversion of vehicles but the driver too should drive with caution.”

According to Rasak Fadipe, the Lagos State fire service director, we are the first agency that arrived at the scene when we received the distress call to put out the fire.

He said: “The first thing we did was that when we arrive the scene was to quench the fire,

we quickly put out the fire the laden diesel truck ignites other vehicles on the road, the diesel truck and stationery vehicle was the one burning when other vehicles ran into them.”

Fadipe said, about six vehicle was consumed in the fire, Police, FRSC, Nema, Lasema NSCDC Trace we are all on ground to battle the fire because of the importance of the road to Lagos State.

Also corroborating the other rescue agency, the sector Commander of Federal Road Safety Corps, Mr. Hyginueus Omeje said they mobilized to scene to work with other response teams to put out the fire.

“The driver of the diesel truck was said to be on speed when he lost control and rammed into other vehicles which later resulted into serious explosion that engulfed six other vehicles in front of him.”

“We cordoned off the road from Alausa to the expressway to control the traffic in and out of Lagos and people coming into Lagos from Ibadan axis, that is how we have been able to manage the traffic with the effort of other sister agencies we have been able to battle with.

YDP expels leader, 7 others over anti-party activities Mathew Dadiya, Abuja The Young Democratic Party (YDP) has expelled its National Leader, Henry Nwabueze and seven other National officers over what it described as ‘anti-party activities.’

The party in a communiqué issued Wednesday after its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held in Abuja and signed by its National Chairman, Comrade Bishop Emmanuel Amakiri, stated that Henry Nwabueze, Huldah Lynns Ihetuge Deputy National

Welfare Officer, Isaac Samiya Nwachukwu the Vice National Coordinator South, Barr Maxwell Aneto, Deputy National Legal Adviser, Chinaka Moses Ezenwa, the Vice National Organising Secretary South, Evelyn Okere and Collins Okelu have been expelled.

The Chairman said: “We have continued to remain resolute in our party and we will not entertain anti-party activities.

The party has achieved a very good mile stone because the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was present

when we made the decision following a motion raised by Tosan Harryman Blessing which was seconded by Usman Haruna.”

YDP said it regretted that the expelled members, could decide to act contrary to the constitution of the party that appointed them into office and called on other members to desist from anti-party activities.

The communiqué advised its members to stick to the code of conduct signed with INEC and shun negative acts in the forthcoming Ondo state governorship election.

Minister lauds artifacts rescuers, assures of more ties Tom Okpe, Abuja

Ize-Iyamu

5 News

The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has commended the members of the Artifacts Rescuers Association of Nigeria for playing a strategic role in the preservation of the nation’s cultural heritage, saying the ministry will continue to partner with them to retrieve and preserve stolen artifacts.

The Minister stated this in Abuja on Wednesday when members of the association paid him a courtesy visit in his office.

“Once again I want to thank you for the role you have played in ensuring that our artifacts are retrieved and I want to say it publicly that we are ready to cooperate and work with you in terms that will be mutually acceptable to all the parties.

“We recognize that we need

you to achieve our own mandate and aspirations and at the same time you also need us as the repository of the cultural heritage of the country,” he said.

Alhaji Mohammed also said the illegal trafficking of artifacts remains a bane of the nation’s quest to leverage on its heritage and drive tourism, lauded the critical role being played by the Association to reverse the trend.

News 6

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

El-Rufai is an ingrate, perpetual betrayer –Timi Frank ÏÏÏ The suspended Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Timi Frank, has described the governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai as “an ingrate and perpetual betrayer,” even as he called on President Muhammadu Buhari to be wary of him.

Frank, who was reacting to a well reported statement credited to the governor accusing the former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, of corruption, wondered where Governor el-Rufai got the guts to challenge the man (Atiku), who brought him to the limelight through appointment in the Bureau for Public Enterprises (BPE).

In a statement signed in Abuja yesterday, Frank said Alhaji Atiku remains the most investigated politician in the history of Nigerian politics and that he has not been found wanting in any of the allegations leveled against him.

Frank said: “el-Rufai’s latest outburst is not surprising because of his antecedent of betraying all his known benefactors, both in politics and in private life.

“It is on record that the likes of former President Olusegun Obasanjo will not be surprised because he has once betrayed Baba.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, who brought back el-Rufai from exile can’t forget in a hurry how this same man betrayed him.

It is a matter of time el-Rufai will also betray President Buhari once the President is no longer in power.

According to Frank, “the huge task of governance for which elRufai has practically failed woefully in Kaduna is supposed to be paramount to him instead of deploying his strongest power against Turaki Adamawa, who is far above the governor in all levels.

“Just two days ago, more than 45 innocent citizens of Kaduna lost their lives immediately el-Rufai launched a billboard in Southern Kaduna apologising for his maladministration.”

While calling on Nigerians to disregard whatever the governor might have said about the former Vice President, Frank also called on the Governors’ Forum and leadership of the APC to call Mallam el-Rufai to order.

“Even if el-Rufai does not respect Atiku as a person, he should respect the institution and the position the former Vice President held in this country.”

Frank also cautioned the governor not to drag President Buhari into whatever controversy he has with the former Vice President, saying “Atiku has supported the President and he will continue to support him to drive the change mantra of APC.”

‘We can only mobilise 86,000 corps members’ Continued from page 1 2016 budget can only take care of 86,000 corps members for now out of the 170,000 awaiting call-up.

The Director General stated this on Wednesday during a media parley in Abuja. He however said that the remaining 84,000 would be called up in January, 2017 for Stream Two as “the Federal Government has directed the Scheme to mobilise every eligible member,” who would miss their call-up batch, which has now been divided into Streams One and Two respectively.

The scheme, according to the NYSC boss, is supposed to be a collective responsibility of the three tiers of government but has been left for the Federal Government alone.

This has impeded on the prospect of smooth operation of the scheme as the states and local governments have buckled under

the weight of paucity of fund, Kazuare said.

He explains: “It is pertinent to state that the NYSC Act has clearly stated the responsibilities of all three tiers of government in the operations of the Scheme. In as much as the Federal Government takes the lion share, the provision of orientation camp facilities, post-camp accommodation and transport of corps members, logistics support for inspection of corps locations material support for community development service and security of corps members are the responsibilities of states and local governments.

“However, most of the states and local governments do not live up to these responsibilities in the erroneous assumption that the NYSC is a project of the Federal Government alone. This attitude is most glaring in the limited capacity and quality of facilities in most orientation camps across

the country, hence our inability to accommodate more than seventyeight prospective corps members in one orientation course.

“I therefore use this medium to appeal to the states and local governments, who are not discharging their statutory responsibilities to reconsider their stance and support the scheme in the effective mentoring of the future leaders of Nigeria.”

For some time now, the NYSC has been in the news over its presumed inability to mobilize all qualified prospective corps members for the batch ‘B’ service year. As much as there is always public interest in the affairs of the scheme, there is the need to put the facts in their right perspective and clear the lingering doubts. The NYSC is prepared as always to mobilise all qualified graduates for the next service batch. However, it must be emphasised that as a budget-depen-

dent organisation, the scope of our activities is facing financial constraints like every other government agency in the present recession.

In the 2016 budget, provision was made for the mobilisation of a total of 210, 000 corps members.

However, the figure for both 2016 Batch A and Batch B has more than doubled the original projection. Like we did before the 2016 Batch A orientation course, we have appealed to the government for special intervention grant to mop up excess of this figure. So far, we have received the green light from the relevant government agencies to prepare for the mobilisation of all qualified prospective corps members.

However, the limited cumulative capacity of the orientation camps nationwide, necessitates a second stream orientation course for the 2016 Batch B, which is being planned for January.

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa (right), presents a magazine to the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Hakan Cakil, during a courtesy visit on Dabiri-Erewa in Abuja… on Wednesday.

Recession: 7-yr-old boy burnt alive for attempting to steal garri Continued from page 1 Times, the 7-year-old boy was burnt alive for allegedly attempting to steal garri, a popular staple, from the trader in the area.

Though there were conflicting reports, especially concerning the age of the victim or what he actually stole, eyewitnesses said he was caught while trying to break into a shop where foodstuff are sold in the early hours of Tuesday, November 15, 2015.

The suspect, it was gathered, was nabbed by some men in the area, who descended on him and beat him to a pulp before hanging a tire on his neck and setting him on fire, despite pleas by many to hand him over to the police since he had not actually committed the crime.

This is not the first time sus-

pects have been lynched to death in the most gruesome of manners with the crowd often not wanting to know what offence they committed before killing them.

Speaking on the incident, Police Public Relation Officer (PPRO), Lagos State Command, Dolapo Badmos, a Superintendent of Police, confirmed the incident, adding that the Command received the report through the social media.

However, she said the Commissioner of Police, CP Owoseni, has directed the DPO in-charge of the jurisdiction to investigate and brief the command on the matter.

She said if such incident actually happened, residents should be rest assured that the perpetrators will be arrested and prosecuted.

Dolapo also said the command

will not tolerate jungle justice to be meted out on anyone, regardless of any offence such person committed.

Meanwhile, reacting to the photographs of the victim posted by the Director of New Media, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Deji Adeyanju, on his twitter handle, Nigerians on Wednesday, expressed shock, describing the act as a dastardly.

Reacting on his twitter handle, @OlisaOsega, Mr. Olisaemeka said: “I’ve always said this, Jungle Justice is a barbaric act that must be condemned by all, see what was done to a 7-yr-old because he stole garri.”

One Aliu writing @aliiyu, said: “Phone, garri, money… Whatever he stole, that’s a child for God’s sake.” He added: “This is hard to stomach... A 7-year-old killed

because of garri. For God sake!!

People are evil… Poverty is not an excuse!!

Akpos @officialsimcard wrote: “Steal billions and become a chairman in your area, and chieftaincy bestowed on you by your people. Steal garri and be burnt, Jungle Justice.

Oluwashina @Nijafineboy wrote: “If you were one of those that killed that boy over garri, or you just even watched, you are going to hell.”

Reacting, Cheyee b @Cheyee_B wrote: “You people will be running after politicians stealing our billions and you burnt someone for stealing garri or cell phone....,” adding, “jungle justice isn’t the solution, be it garri or cell phone, Seven years or 30 years.... He doesn’t deserve to be lynched or burnt. It’s so wrong

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

Lagos seals 6 events centres, night clubs Benjamin Omoike,

ÏÏÏ The Lagos state Min-

istry of Tourism Arts and Culture, on Wednesday, commenced a clampdown on tourism and hospitality establishments with records of non-compliance with statutory process of registration and payment of annual permits.

The Ministry officials led by the Head of Hotel Licensing Directorate, Ms Barbara Wey, sealed 10 Degrees event Center on Billingsway, Balmoral and Yard 158 party halls situated at Kudirat Abiola Way, all in Oregun area of the state.

The team also sealed Haven event center situated

at Ikeja, GRA, for refusal to register the party and event center after several notifications and contravention notices served by the State Government since Y2012.

The team carried out a similar exercise with the shutdown of Cave and Vegas night clubs at Ikeja.

The Ministry has vowed not to relent in the effort to ensure all tourism and hospitality establishments in the State comply with statutory registration and payment of all dues and permits. All defaulting tourism and hospitality operators were enjoined to comply with the registration process and payment of all accrued dues in Lagos.

Police chief urges more public co-operation, support Oguntade Ismaila

ÏÏÏ

The Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Area “G”, Ogba Lagos Command, Mr. Lanre Ogunlowo, has shed light on the formation of the Eminent People Forum by the current Inspector General of Police, Idris Ibrahim, saying it is neither a rival nor an alternative to the Police Community Relation Committee (PCRC).

Ogunlowo, explained that the forum is part of the IGP’s community policing approach in tackling crime and criminality in the society and also bridge the gap between the police and the public.

Speaking yesterday at the meeting of the Alakuko Division chapter of the forum, the police chieftain emphasised that its importance is to seek for more cooperation and support of the public in the task of battling crime to a standstill and ensuring in the society.

He averred that the crime rate in the state has reduced drastically with the improved support and cooperation by members of the public since the inauguration of the forum by the IGP and replicated in all the divisions.

His words, “Let clear an impression among our people about the Eminent People Forum. It is not an alternative to PCRC but to bridge the gap between

police and the community and to request for more cooperation and support from them. Also, it is a community driven initiative and not a police affair thing.”

Pointing out that police alone cannot curb crime in the society, Ogunlowo solicited for more support and cooperation from members of the public, emphasising that such gesture would be to the benefit of the communities.

“Residents know the communities more than the police and the different challenges, policemen are visitors and could be transferred at any time.

But whatever the good work that is done in the communities by them is to the good of the residents”, the Area Commander stressed.

While reacting to a complain that criminals always find their way back to the community almost immediately after arrest, Ogunlowo explained that the duty of the police begins with arrest, investigation and ends with the prosecution in the law court, adding that it then becomes the duty of a magistrate or judge to grant an accuse person bail, which he said it is a constitutional right.

He therefore urged residents not to be discouraged from given useful information to the police, assuring such information would be treated with utmost confidentiality.

7 News

Rivers indicts army over re-run elections’ killings Ïz Ɛ ^ ƅ ƈƆƇƐ ƈ è Ɛ ƆƏ ƐƏƈƆƗ Ƈ Ə ƌƑƏƗƆƏ Amaka Agbu, Port Harcourt

ÏÏÏ

The Rivers State Executive Council on Wednesday accepted the recommendation of the Commission of Inquiry which indicted the Nigerian Army as being allegedly associated with various acts of murder, malicious destruction of property, and assault in the March 19, 2016, rerun elections in the state.

Addressing journalists after the Rivers State Executive Council meeting presided over

by Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike at the Executive Council Chambers of the Government House, Port Harcourt, Com-

missioner of Information, Dr. Austin Tam-George, said that the Rivers state government has, therefore, directed the State Attorney General to file cases bordering on the enforcement of fundamental human rights for victims of the acts of violence allegedly committed by the Nigerian Army.

The State Executive Council of the State accepted the recommendation of the Commission of Inquiry that the Nigerian Army’s participation in the rerun elections was illegal.

It further accepted the recommendation that in line with several court judgments, the Nigerian military should not participate in elections.

The state Executive Council has also directed the Attorney General of the State to prosecute the 2015 All Progressives Congress (APC) deputy governorship candidate, Honourable Asita Okorie, for the murder of an NYSC member at Akinima in Ahoada West Local Government Area during the March 19, 2016 rerun legislative elections.

The council gave the directives in line with the recommendation of the Justice Monima Danagogo Commission of Inquiry into the violence and killings that characterised the March 19, 2016, rerun elections in the State.

The Rivers State Executive

Council also directed the state Attorney General to prosecute one Mr. ThankGod Ode for an alleged attempted murder in Ogonokom, Abua Odual Local Government Area.

The Council also directed the Attorney General of the state to prosecute Mr. Barry Mpigi for the murder of a pregnant woman whose name was Mrs. Baby Nzuuga in Kpite Tai. The commissioner again said that the Justice Monima Danagogo Commission of Inquiry indicted several politicians and state institutions over their roles in the destruction of lives and property during the March 19, rerun elections.

L-R: Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose; his Bayelsa State counterpart, Seriake Dickson; National Publicity Secretary of PDP, Mr. Prince Dayo Adeyeye and others during the tour of ongoing projects in Ekiti State… on Wednesday.

$30b loan: Throw out request, PFN tells Senate Moses Oyediran, Enugu

ÏÏÏ

The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), on Wednesday, urged the Senate to reject any pressure being mounted on it to approve President Muhammadu Buhari’s $29.6b loan request.

It could be re-called that the presidency has been holding series of consultations with the Senate leadership after the request was turned down.

However, in a statement made available to journalists in

Enugu, Chairman of the PFN in the state, Rev. Dr. Godwin Madu said Buhari should suspend the borrowing plans.

He said the President should instead “use the recovered loots for implementing its policies. It will not be nice at this time of recession to go borrowing for any reason when there are billions of Naira so far recovered from individuals and corporate bodies.

“The Senate should not approve it because it is not to the best interest of the country.

Such move will further ruin the future of this country.”

The Christian body equally condemned the release of five suspects in the murder of an Igbo woman in Kano, Madam Bridget Agbahime.

“How can this type of thing happen in Nigeria? We can’t imagine an authority of the state making a no-case submission in favour of suspects who already confessed to the murder.

“The person killed is a human being; this further puts to

question the integrity of the judiciary because in the first case, the magistrate court lacks the jurisdiction to try murder cases.

“Our stand is that the National Judicial Council, NJC, should summon and investigate the magistrate in question”, the PFN declared.

While commending Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for ensuring security of lives and properties in the State, the Christian body called on other Governors in the South-East “to do everything.

8

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

Politics

s

My life under threat –Ondo APC spokesman, Adesanya The Ondo State Publicity Secretary of All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Abayomi Adesanya, yesterday raised the alarm over threats to his life by unknown persons.

Addressing journalists in Akure, Adesanya said he had been receiving strange calls from some private numbers on his cell phone threatening to “teach him a lesson” by silencing him from being a consistent critic.

He said apart from the strange calls, some armed men in police bulletproof uniform, had in the morning of Wednesday, Nov. 9, discreetly came to

his house in Akure.

Adesanya said the armed men asked one of his neighbours for his apartment in the storey building.

“I was not at home when the armed men came to my house, but they met one of my neighbours, a heavily pregnant wife of a police officer, who relayed the message when l came back from an early morning exercise.

“My neighbour said the three uniformed men discreetly gained entrance into the compound and began searching into the storey building to identify my own rented flat.

“I was told they (uniform men) saw my vehicle inside the compound and asked after the owner of my car and apartment by pointing to my vehicle and asked ‘where is the owner of this car? “That is the person we are looking for, but the woman told them I was not at home.

“She told me that the three armed men claimed to her that they are from the Police Area Command Office, Akure.

“Also, a woman adjacent to my house confirmed to me that the armed men came in a green and yellow Ondo State

taxi coloured car which was parked in front of her shop.

“Immediately, I called the Area Commander, ACP Olatoye Durosimi, who promised to investigate the matter.

“I went to the Area Commander’s Office at about 3.00 p.m. the same day to inquire from him the outcome of his investigation, but he told me the armed men are not his men.

“Some people are after my life and I don’t know them. I have been receiving strange calls, harassments while driving these days. Honestly, my life is in serious danger,’’ he said.

Adesanya appealed to security agents in the state to come to his aid by ensuring his safety and that of his property as the governorship election approaches in Ondo State.

Adesanya was a foundation member and House of Assembly Candidate in the defunct Action Congress (AC) in 2007 and was also a prominent member of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).

Confirming the report of the incident, the Area Commander in Akure, ACP Olatoye Durosimi, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that investigation by the police revealed that the armed men were not officers of the command.

Relations between executive, legislature healthy –APC Tom Okpe, Abuja

Former Vice President and chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar (5th from right) with his former class mates of Class of 1965, Adamawa Provincial Secondary School, Yola when he hosted them to a lunch, at his residence in Jimeta-Yola, Adamawa State

Orji Kalu dumps PPA, joins APC Tom Okpe, Abuja In what seems to be part of the political re-alignment going on across the country, the former governor of Abia State, Chief Orji Uzor Kalu has formally defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), assuring that his coming in would add value to the party.

Kalu who joined the APC after denouncing the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA), a party

he founded in 2006, promised to work along with other party bigwigs from the zone to deliver the South-East to the party, stressing that he is not someone that can be pocketed by anybody considering his political history.

Speaking during his formal reception by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party led by the national chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun at the national secretariat of the party in Abuja yesterday, kalu assured the party that 4000 members have

decamped with him stressing that his coming to the party was a reflection that the APC was a gathering of true Nigerians and he naturally had to align with them.

“Today is a happy day and I want APC to be all inclusive, no matter our tribe, religion or our special status. I want to thank the national chairman for having this opportunity to personally welcome us.

“I am coming in and God will help me to bring value. Between Sunday when I registered at Igbe-

re my polling unit and now, there are 4000 new members already registered with the APC in Abia.

“I am sure you know nobody can pocket me in Nigeria or make me say what I don’t want to say or do what I don’t want to do. So, if our Bishops and Pastors in the Pentecostal churches see my face here, they will see the face of a true Nigerian because they will know that I have gone to where all true Nigerians are gathering because that is where we ought to be,” he said.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has assured Nigerians that relations between the country’s three arms of government, particularly the Executive and the Legislature is healthy and strong without bias and sentiments.

The party chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun gave this assurance in a statement released at the party secretariat in Abuja on Wednesday in reaction to a statement credited to a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) suggesting a rift between the executive and legislature following the Senate’s return of the list of non-career ambassadors to the Presidency for review.

The Senate, in the adopted report of its Committee on Foreign Affairs stated on Tuesday that the decision to return the list followed petitions received on the nominations and went ahead to propose that the Presidency review the ambassadorial list.

The party said the attempt by the PDP to give the Senate action a political coloration and other negative interpretations are unnecessary and misleading.

“President Muhammadu Buhari is a democrat and does not subscribe to the idea of controlling the National Assembly as was the practice with the PDP during its 16-years misrule of the country.

“Respect for the principle of Rule of Law and the constitutional provisions of Separation of Power between the three arms of government is a better practice and also healthy for our democracy. The powers and duties of the three arms of government are clearly spelt out in the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and President Muhammadu Buhari respects them,” the chairman said.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

Politics 9

What is happening in APC is intrigues, not crisis - Famoruwa

Hon. Ajibola FamoruwaistheHouse of Representatives member representing Atakumosa East and West and Ilesha East and West Federal Constituency of Osun State in the House of Representatives.

In this interview with HENRY OMUNU, he speaks on the state of infrastructure in the country, relations between the legislature and executive, state of affairs within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other sundry national issues.

From recent happenings, all is not well within your party and Nigerians have this belief that they voted for change and that what they are seeing now is not what they voted for. What is your reaction on this?

If you want to discuss the APC, then you must have to go to the genesis. How did this party come on board and who are the stakeholders? We have the ACN, we have the ANPP, we have the CPC, we have the new PDP and some part of APGA. It will actually take a lot of time for these people to hinge into each other. It is not something that you can say within two or three years; I know my people in ACN, I have a lot of trust in them, they have been together for years, I would still be more comfortable in their company.

Though the people in ANPP are now my friends because now we are in one party, the people in CPC are now my friends because we are now in one party, but the people in ACN that we have been together for long, I will still have much trust and confidence in them. This is normal and I think that is what is playing out within the party. The President has been in ANPP, he has been in CPC and he is now in APC. So, he will naturally be more comfortable in the company of those people; it will take a lot of time before he can actually embrace people that he has not really met before, maybe because of circumstance at that particular time just to win election we came together. Then, when it comes to problem, we don’t have a perfect n ACN, there were some little crisis

but the way we managed it people may not really notice it.

You want to be governor, I want to be governor, I want everybody to notice me more than you and you want people to notice you more than me.

There will be a lot of rivalry and that is what is playing out now, it is part of politics. I don’t see it as a problem. We are members of the same family, both the executive and the legislature and even the parent body that brought all of us together, APC. I believe that we are members of the same family. Anything you are noticing, maybe crisis or so, it is not really crisis, it is intrigues and intrigues are part of politics.

Is that the reason why we have the like of Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State complaining that some APC members are aggrieved over the sharing of positions at the federal level?

You know how the 8th Assembly came on board; you know this so called intrigue we are talking about on the election of leadership, so you cannot really rule it out. For example, there is what they call compensation, if some people work for me I want to compensate them either they are members of my party or they are not members of my party, so that is what has been playing out.

I think Mr. President got it wrong from day one, for him to have not really shown interest in the leadership of the 8th Assembly. That doesn’t mean you want to lord your opinion on them.

As an engineer and member of the House Committee on Works, considering the state of our roads, what would you say are the challenges?

Like you said, I have passion for works. So as an engineer, really it is one of the things I supposed to show much interest in. Coming down to our state of roads in Nigeria, I think we have some basic problems. If you look at some other countries where they have their road infrastructure working well for them, they don’t rely on government subvention to service and manage such roads. But here in Nigeria, we rely solely on the stipend that comes from the government to maintain our roads, which to me is nothing to write home about. Road infrastructures requires special attention, but before we even go into that, let us talk about our budget system; in road construction you know you have less than six months of active work, the contractor cannot really work during the raining season. That is there is a limit to the amount of work that the contractor can really carry out during the raining season. So we have four,

Famoruwa five months and a maximum of six months of dry season for them to work. And, if you look at our budget system in Nigeria, mostly we pass our budget during the raining season and by the time they release funds during the raining season, the contractor may not have access to the funds to work with. And besides that appropriation; for example, if you have a project of N2billion and the contract period happens to be 24 months, it means we are expecting the contractor to deliver in 24 months and by the time we are appropriating funds for such a project in the budget, we appropriate N300million. And if you are appropriating N300million, it means that the project will last for six or seven years.

No contractor will use his personal money or take a loan facility from anywhere to come and sponsor

We are members of the same family, both the executive and the legislature and even the parent body that brought all of us together, APC. I believe that we are members of the same family.

Anything you are noticing, maybe crisis or so, it is not really crisis, it is intrigues and intrigues are part of politics

roads. This is the problem we are having in the area of roads that has been causing confusion. Then coming to the funding, we don’t have enough funds to fund our roads, but I believe very soon if the House can graciously pass about two or three bills that are coming on very soon, I mean the public hearings are coming up very soon on road management funds. If we can pass this into law, there will be certain amount of money reserved for road maintenance apart from what comes from government through budgetary allocations.

So getting this fund will enable us to maintain our roads and maintain it well. This is how things are done in some other climes. I know in the 7th Assembly I happened to be privileged to work in the committee of works, we went to about three or four countries; South Africa, Zimbabwe, Malaysia where we realised that their road infrastructure is well managed and it is working. We realised that in Zimbabwe for example, every year they have $2billion assigned to their roads, not through budgetary allocation but they have a tax attached to roads infrastructure and the money they realise from this; the minimum they can get in a year as at then was $2billion. If we can have such system in Nigeria, then we can have a special fund going into road infrastructure and it would be easier for us to maintain our roads.

What’s your take on the recent borrowing plan by the federal government?

I think borrowing is one thing, using the funds judiciously is another

thing. If we borrow to develop our infrastructure, personally, I don’t see anything bad in that. If we are borrowing money we should know what we are using it for; we have a lot of challenges in Nigeria and one of our challenges is what we have just said, no roads, infrastructure is very poor, very bad; the power sector is nothing to write home about.

So, if we can access these funds and channel it towards those areas; you know one thing I realized is this, if we can fix our power alone our problems are solved. If you are talking of unemployment it is gone because if there is power today, a lot of things would come up, most of the industries that had folded up because of the power situation in Nigeria, all of them will come back, they will employ. We have a lot of small scale industries springing up from every corner of the country. There are lots of things that people can use power for, we now run such businesses on generating plants, which makes it too expensive for them to operate optimally and that is one of our problems. So if we can get a facility to fix all these areas to me I think it is a welcome development.

You made mention of a road management fund that is reserved for road maintenance. It appears to me that this would increase the hardship of Nigerians especially if you recall that we used to have toll gates and the attendant increase in the cost of transportation?

Let us look at it from this way, from the toll management that we had in the past, that one is being handled by the government and you know any business that government ventures into in Nigeria will always collapse. Everybody will see that as an opportunity to take their own share of the national cake.

But this time around, what we are advocating is this; let us concede some of these major roads, not all roads, we cannot start with all roads at a goal, let us consider the major roads, concede it in a PPP platform, to someone that would maintain it.

That is the way this thing is done in other countries where things work for them. For example, let us say from Abuja to Lokoja, we can concede it to a contractor or an investor, who has an agreement with the government, who is going to toll it and must maintain that road. The contractor will use his or her money as an investor to make sure he puts the road in normal shape; he does a standard road at a cost and he has an agreement with the government that this is how we are going to recoup our money over a particular period of years and for that period CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

10 Politics

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

‘What you see in APC is intrigues, not crises’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

the roads.

Are you suggesting we concession all major road routes?

We will start somewhere. Even in the US for example, there are some roads that you go that you will pay, there are some roads that you will take that you won’t pay; the option is yours. If you want to go through a tolled road, you know the facilities you are going to get from that road, you pay for it; the road is okay, the wear and tear on your vehicle would be reduced, you get to your destination in a reasonable time. Then, if you cannot afford that road, you go through normal roads where you would be moving from one pot hole to the other, where you will spend three hours instead of one hour, where a lot of things will happen, the option is yours. But, I think it is time we take that bull by the horn, that we lay this foundation, let us start somewhere. Like taking Lagos State for example; if you look at Ajah-Victoria Island way now, there is another route that you can take now if you don’t want to pay money.

Nobody will harass you, but if you are taking that standard road you must pay. Initially people resisted it, there were series of protests, but at the end of the day they came to face the reality and said yes, we have options, if you know you can afford this, go through this way but if you cannot, take the other way. I think we need to go that way and to me that is the best way for us so that one, we will have enough funds to maintain these roads.

One of our problems in this part of the world is our maintenance culture which is very poor, very bad in all ramifications. I lodged in one hotel in Venice some years ago, we went for a programme and I asked them and they told me that that hotel has been in existence for over 100 years and if you still look at that hotel today, it would look as if it is a new hotel. But enter our hotel here in Nigeria and give them two-three years after commissioning, everything will start depreciating because nobody bothers about maintenance; the televisions in the rooms won’t work, they won’t charge their bed spreads, and a lot of things would be non-functional.

So, our attitude to maintenance is very bad. But, if we concede those roads to private investors, they know that it is part of their responsibility to maintain the roads because in the first instance, they will use their money to put the road in place and they want to recoup their money and so they must maintain it.

I want to take you back again to this borrowing plan; even the issues you pointed out as part of the necessities why the government should borrow such money. Is it safe for me to say

that you are tilted towards asking the National Assembly to approve the borrowing plan?

Personally, I don’t oppose it and I won’t oppose it and I would even encourage our people to support the idea. But the only thing I would have loved the executive to do is to break down the details. If you look at the letter sent to the Senate, at the last paragraph of the letter, they said some documents were attached to those letters, but at the end of the day no document was attached. So if I find myself in their shoes I would also turn it down; you said some documents are attached to this letter but those documents I don’t have access to it, let me have the documents and then look at the break down before I can pass it.

Some people are worried that part of the problem over the borrowing plan is that it neglects some geo-political zones in terms of addressing the infrastructure deficit?

This is a nation, you cannot borrow such an amount of money and divert it to a region, it must cut across.

One of the challenges we have is that of nepotism and not following due process. Now, some people believe that the beneficiaries of the concession arrangement are milking the country; in the power sector people are calling for the revocation of those assets. How do you allay these fears?

We have a general problem in our system that is a societal problem; there is a serious problem in our society and I am guilty of this and everyone is guilty of this. And, if you ask me what is that societal problem? For example, now as an honourable member, immediately I got elected into this office, all my family members believe that their problems are over; they want to bring all their problems to me to solve. So, if you are telling them that no, this thing doesn’t work like that, they will say what do you mean? When this particular person was there this is what he did. I know a lot of family members that have been quarreling with me that now that you supposed to have done this thing and that, why are you wasting money on this and that; look that is the first problem we are facing. But, I think one thing we need to do as a nation; we need to imbibe the fear of God in whatever we are doing. If you have the fear of God, you will try as much as possible to be fair.

So, all you are saying about favouritism; in the past if we have been doing it wrong, please let us change now and my appeal is to everybody because this is the era of change.

Let us do things differently from the way we have been doing them in the past. Let us put round pegs in round holes; let us consider people that actually have capacity to do this job.

Tinubu

Someone came to this office, someone I know very well and he said he wanted to bid for a building contract and I said give me samples, give me list of projects you have done in the past and he started giving excuses.

I told him, this thing you have not done it before, you don’t know how to do it, why are you venturing into it? Leave these things for the professionals, those who know how to do it. He said if I get it, I can sell it; that is the problem. And at the end of the day whoever you sell it to will want to make his own profit and at the end of the day would give us sub-standard structure.

So, one of our problems is let us

Oyegun

do things right and I believe the present government is doing that.

At times, leadership matters. For example, if you are entering an agency and I happen to be your boss and I say to you from those projects get me N10million, you are not a fool, you want to make N10million for me and make another N10million for yourself and at the end of the day, I won’t be able to query you. But, if our leaders doesn’t show interest in these things and believe that we must do things and do it rightly, honestly we will get it right. If there is no undue interference from the leadership; if you put someone on a particular desk, allow

him to do his work, don’t interfere and don’t introduce anybody to him. If leadership doesn’t show interest, you allow it to go to the best and the most competent firm to handle a particular job then we will get it right.

Would you support very strong policies measures to be put in place for saboteurs of such policies, including tackling corruption, what would be your contribution?

If I have my way, I won’t advocate for capital punishment but for live imprisonment.

Ondo guber: Sheriff’s flag off, a charade, says Makarfi’s faction Lateef Ibrahim, Abuja

The Senator Ahmed Makarfiled National Caretaker Committee, NCC, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described as a charade, the flag off of campaign of Ondo State governorship election by Senator Ali Modu Sheriff on Monday in Akure.

The NCC of the PDP said this in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Prince Dayo Adeyeye.

However, the Senator Sheriff’s faction, while reacting through one of its members, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh said the opinion of Nigerians was that the PDP should move above the issue of National Caretaker Committee headed by Senator Makarfi.

Ojougbo dubbed the NCC of the PDP as a distraction to the wellbeing of the party.

The Makarfi faction equally accused Sheriff and his group as working for the All Progressives Congress (APC), pointing out that they have devoted the entire campaign on the attack of Governor Olusegun Mimiko who is the outgoing PDP governor of Ondo State without a word of condemnation of

the APC led Federal Government.

The statement reads, “We also wish to ask teeming members of our party and other stakeholders in the Nigerian project to reflect over the so called campaign done by the Modu-Sheriff team in Akure on Monday.

“At the charade called campaign flag-off, not a word of condemnation was uttered by the ‘PDP members’ against the APC government, but rather, abusive words were hurled at Governor Olusegun Mimiko, the Chairman of PDP Governors Forum, whereas, the contestant, the so called PDP members are to wrestle for people’s vote with, is an APC candidate. What an irony,” it said.

Continuing, the Makarfi faction maintained that it remains strong to the ideals of PDP founding fathers, and assured that it would never submit the independence of the party to “those who are struggling to trade away the soul of the party to their masters.”

Senator Ali Modu-Sheriff and his ilk, the statement noted, are known enemies of the party, planted to destabilize it.

It added, “We say clearly that not for once has Modu-Sheriff and his

team of confused travelers said a word against the mis-governance of the APC. We are not surprised because we know it’s suicidal for a servant to criticise the master,” it said.

But Dr Ojougboh, in a statement on behalf of the Sheriff’s camp, stated that his faction received a report from a committee, which he said toured the six geopolitical zones of the country where “the grassroots are of the opinion that they no longer want a cash and carry style administration of the party as exemplified by the National Caretaker Committee, which is viewed as a faction belonging to the bourgeoisie and not the grassroots.”

Ojougboh however failed to disclose the chairman of the committee or any or its members, or when it was set up.

He said, “Members of the party noted that what is needed in PDP is transparency and not a situation where officials would be bribed for tickets to contest public offices.

“They also expressed the views that some governors posed destabilizing danger to the existence of the party, by promoting impunity and corruption.”

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

11 News

Erosion: Reps investigate contractors’ abandonment of projects Emmanuel Iriogbe, Abuja

ÏÏÏ

The House of Representatives on Wednesday mandated its Committee on Environment and Habitat to determine what led to the abandonment of the reclamation contract of a project awarded in 2010 in some communities in Edo state.

This is as the House also urged the Federal Ministry of Environment to work out pro-active measures to tackle the perennial flooding caused by changing climatic conditions and increasing urbanization.

The House resolution followed a motion sponsored by a member representing Esan West, Esan Central and Igueben Federal constituency, Edo state, Rep. Joe Edionwele titled; “Devasting Gully Erosion/Perennial Flooding in Esan West, Esan Central and Igueben Federal Constituency of Edo state.

According to the House member, gully erosion as a major environmental problem that constitutes a threat

to the continued existence of human communities in the rural and urban areas in the country, has greatly devastated towns and villages in the Constituency by washing away houses, farmlands and roads.

He recalled that the devastating gully erosion

which ravaged Ibore-Irrua and also Eguare-Ewu communities in 2010 led to the award of contract, under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Environment, for the reclamation of the land, but that so far, no appreciable work has been done and the contractor has

abandoned the work.

He informed the House that Ewu community has become a pathetic case as the town has been divided into two with some communities unable to connect with their kiths and kins in other parts.

“I must bring to the notice of this House that Ewu

community is presently divided into two separate communities as a result of the gully caused by erosion.

Residents of Idunwele community can nolonger assess the market in Ehanlen and also have easy access to the palace located in Eguare because of the Deep gully”.

L-R: Guest Lecturer, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi (left), Emeritus Prof, Oladipo Akinkugbe and Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Prof Idowu Olayinka at the 2016 convocation lecture of the university in Ibadan… on Wednesday.

Nigeria may not get out of FEC approves trade agreement recession in 2017 – MAN with Singapore, Qatar ÏÏÏThe

President, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Dr. Frank Jacobs, says with the current economic situation, the country may not be out of recession in 2017.

Jacobs told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja that there was the need to introduce policies and initiatives to control the economy.

Jacobs said that government needed to take steps to shore up the manufacturing sector by ensuring that the concessionary Forex allocation to the sector was effectively implemented.

He said that interest rates needed to be reduced to not more than five per cent and more development banks should be established to provide long-term funding for manufacturers to encourage more investment.

“One cannot say for sure that the recession will be over in 2017.

“Manufacturers are now patronising the parallel market for their Forex requirements but this is at a very

high exchange rate. ” Unfortunately, after production, consumers may not be able to purchase such products, which may lead to the closure of some of the factories.

“I have not seen anything to suggest that, at least not from the perspectives of the manufacturing sector, ” Jacobs said.

He said that from all indications, “it appears that the Forex situation in the country had not improved.

Jacobs said that there seemed to be no respite in sight, considering the price of crude oil in the international market and the activities of militants in the Niger Delta.

He said that the development of support infrastructure should be fast attacked to facilitate the country’s industrialisation effort, adding that this would enhance the economic situation of the county.

Recently, economic experts predicted that 2017 would be tougher than 2016, adding that the economy might not recover until 2018.

Tony Ailemen, Abuja

ÏÏÏThe

Federal Executive Council (FEC) yesterday approved the signing of a fresh trade agreement that will see improved business relationships between Nigeria and Singapore as well as Qatar.

Approving the new bilateral agreement between the federal government and Singapore yesterday government explained that the new policy is aimed at avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of physical evasion of taxes on income and capital benefits between the two counties.

Minister of Finance,Kemi Adeosun, stated this while briefing State House Correspondents after the weekly federal Executive Council meeting presided over by Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo.

The Minister explained that the objective of the agreement is to facilitate more trade between the countries by ensuring that nationals or enterprises from either coun-

try are not taxed twice on income or profits derived from each of the countries.

She noted that the agreement will encourage more direct foreign investments into Nigeria, allow investors to know what their tax obligations will be and ensure sustainable tax regime for each country.

“The basis for which we choose to sign this agreement with Singapore is that Singapore is a major trading partner with Nigeria. They buy oil from us. Petroleum export to Singapore for the last five years is about N264 billion and we import about N311 billion worth of goods from them. It is our major trading partner and we needed to have this bilateral agreement.

It is basically to ensure companies are not taxed twice but it also ensures companies cannot evade tax when trading between the two countries.”

The Minister of State for Aviation, Hadi Sirika, who also briefed, disclosed that FEC approved bilateral air service agreement with the

State of Qatar, Singapore and Nigeria.

“Of course, Singapore is becoming the most efficient and the biggest hub around the far eastern part of our globe, serving New Zealand, Australia, Japan, China, Singapore, Indonesia etc.

“We thought that in our efforts to also create a hub within Nigeria, the entire Africa, we will leverage on the opportunity to create air services between the two countries, and Qatar being in the middle east with robust aviation and strong carrier with ability to move goods and services in a very efficient and fast manner and also high value commodities by air, we saw the need to sign some agreement so that it will define how we are going to do businesses between Nigeria, Qatar and Singapore.”

Sirika disclosed that President Muhammadu Buhari has already approved that air services agreement which will now go to the National Assembly for ratification.

Placardcarrying pensioners protest in Osun Sodiq Adekunle, Osogbo

ÏÏÏOsun state pensioners

who retired between 2011 and 2012, on Wednesday, protested the non-payment of arrears and gratuity.

As early as 7:00am, they had gathered at Fakunle and subsequently marched through Alekuwodo-OkeFia, old-garage and later to Ola-Iya. When they got to Olaiya junction, the protesters sensitized the public on their agitations. They however, disturbed the free flow of traffic.

Carrying placards with various inscriptions, the petitioners sang anti-government songs and condemned Governor Aregbesola.

The protesters accused the Osun state governor, Rauf Aregbesola, of deliberately impoverishing them and refusing to honour his agreement with them.

The protesters also lamented the poor treatment being meted out to them by the Governor.

They specifically rejected the 50 percent pension currently paid to them.

Addressing journalists at the protest ground, chairman for the 2011 and 2012 pensioners, Mr. Ilesanmi Omoniyi, the pensioners threatened that they would disrupt government activities if their gratuity and full pension are not paid.

Omoniyi alleged that Governor Aregbesola deliberately excluded them from benefitting from the N34bn bailout fund released to him by the Federal Government.

He complained that some of the pensioners have died untimely while others were ‘between life and death’.

“Majority of the pensioners have one ailment or the other and they cannot afford to buy drugs as a result of non-payment of their gratuity and 50 per cent payment of their pension,” he said.

Reacting to the protest by the pensioners, Director, Bureau of Communication and Strategy, Office of the Osun Governor, Semiu Okanlawon, said Osun pensioners have reasons to appreciate Aregbesola’s commitment to their welfare.

News 12 Senate fails to stop ASUU’s warning strike Olufemi Samuel, Abuja

ÏÏÏ Efforts by the Senate to me-

diate in the crisis between the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU over the on-going warning strike by the latter suffered a setback on Wednesday as the union insisted the strike must continue.

The Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, who was mandate by the upper chamber, had called a meeting of stakeholders including representatives of the Federal government and those of ASUU to find a common ground for ending the strike which ASUU commenced yesterday.

The universities teachers had hinged the reason for declaring the strike on non-implementation of agreements the federal government had entered with them in 2009.

Senators led by Saraki had had a closed-door session lasting more than three hours with the stakeholders whereas the ASUU’S national executives led by its National President, Professor Biodun Ogunyemi, insisted that the warning strike would continue.

He said at the end of the marathon meeting, “we thank the Senate for coming into this matter and we are ready to cooperate with them but as things are now, the warning strike continues until we get across to the larger body of the Union for any possible change of action.”

However, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Tertiary Education and Tetfund, Senator Jibrin Barau who was at the meeting declared to journalists that resolution would soon be arrived at with the striking lecturers on the need for them to stop the strike.

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Protesters occupy NASS over high pay of political office holders #Ɔƌ Ɨ ƗƆ Ɛ ƍƆ ƋƐƕ Ƈ Ə ƍƆ ƍƋƆ Ƈ Ƒ Ɨ ƑƈƋƐƕ Ƈ ƐƆ Ƌƈ ƍƑƄƋƈƅ ƇƑ Ɨ

Henry Omunu, Abuja

ÏÏÏ A civil society pressure group, the “Occupy NASS”, on Wednesday, made good its threat to paralyze activities at the two chambers of the National Assembly. The group was protesting against what it called the bad leadership and the bogus remuneration of elected and political office holders.

The group caused the main entrance into the National Assembly Complex to be shut for the second day running.

The protest, led by renowned socialite and musician, Charles Oputa, popularly known as

Charly Boy, is seeking a downward review of salaries and benefits for politicians in the country.

The protesters, made up of mainly youth and women, are demanding the death penalty for people found guilty of stealing public funds and engaging in corruption, and are also tasking the Buhari administration to administer a 70 per cent cut in the salaries of all political office holders.

As a result of the protest, human and vehicular traffic into the National Assembly has been disrupted as lawmakers and staff now alternative routes to gain access into the complex.

A female protester, who was interviewed by reporters, said that the group decided to embark on its action because of the need to promote accountability and good governance in the country.

The protester, Joy Amadi said that “Occupy NASS is a protest against corruption, political criminality and bad leadership. Just as the current government stands out to fight corruption, we also want to join hands with the administration to make Nigeria a corrupt free nation.”

She accused politicians of having extorted Nigerians over the years through fat salaries

Gbadamosi dies at 72 ÏÏÏ Industrialist Chief Rasheed

dƆ ƐƆ ^ƏƆ ƈƗƆ Ɛè #Əê ƄƑƄ Ɗ Ə ƑƊ Ƌ d Ə Ɗƈ æƋƆƇƐçè ƈ Ɨ ƊƆ ƓƈƐ Lƈ ƈ ƐƆƏ Ƈ dƐ ƐƆ Ƈ Ə &ƗƑƅ Ɛƈ è ^Ə Ƈê Ɛ ƕ ƓƑƊ ƇƐƆƏ ƌƆƆƐƈ ƓƈƐ ƏƆƍƏƆ Ɔ Ɛ ƐƈƒƆ Ƈ Ɛ Ɔ 0ƆƗƆƏ Ƌ 1 ƒƆƏ ƌƆ Ɛ Ɨ Ɛƈ Ƌ ƆƔƆƅƑƐƈƒƆ Ƈ Ɛ Ɔ ƅ ƗƆƌƈƅ dƐ ƇƇ n ƈ Ƈ n ƈƒƆƏ ƈƐƈƆ æ dnnç ƍ ƏƐ Ƈ ƆƇƇ ƏƐ Ɛ ƍƏƆƒƆ Ɛ Ɛ Ɔ Ɠ Ə ƈ ƐƏƈƊƆ Ƅƕ dnn ƈ ƄƑƉ Č zƆƗ Ɔ Ɨ ƕê zƈƐ Ɛ Ɔƌ ƏƆ ^ƆƏƌ Ɔ Ɛ dƆƅƏƆƐ Əƕè Lƈ ƈ ƐƏƕ Ƈ &ƗƑƅ Ɛƈ è #Əê 0 Ƌ ƗƆ Ɔƌƈé& Ɨ ƆƏ Lƈ ƈ ƐƏƕ Ƈ G Ƅ ƑƏ Ɨ &ƌƍƋ ƕƌƆ Ɛ ƅ Ƒ ƐƆƏƍ ƏƐè #Əê ƋƆƌƆ Ɛ 9ƋƋ ê

Bill on Maritime University passes 2nd reading Chris Emetoh, Abuja

ÏÏÏ The Senate, on Wednesday,

passed for second reading a bill seeking to establish a Maritime University in Okerenkoko, Delta State.

Sponsored by Senator James Manager (PDP-Delta South) titled “A Bill for an Act to establish the Maritime University of Nigeria, Okerenkoko and for other matters connected thereto.

2016 (SB 295)” according to him, would provide a legal framework for Maritime University which actually started-off and was functional, using a benefitting temporary site at Kurutie until sometime in January, 2016.

Manager in his lead debate while urging his colleagues to support the Bill, noted that the University has been shut down and student have been at home.

and allowances while the majority of the citizens wallow in poverty and have remained unemployed.

Another protester, Ignatius Adeleke said the group was committed to ensuring the main entrance into the assembly complex remains shut until the leadership of the National Assembly agrees to listen to their demands.

He declared that “we will not leave this place until our demands are meet. We have suffered for too long while our politicians are living in affluence.

We will not take it anymore, there has to be a change in attitude.”

He stated that the objectives for which the university is established are among other things; to encourage the advancement of learning and to hold out to all persons without distinction of race, creed sex or political conviction, the opportunity of acquiring a higher education in Maritime technology, and to develop and offer academic and professional programmes leading to the award of diplomas, first degrees, post graduate research and higher degrees with emphasis on planning, adaptive technical, maintenance, development and productive skills in the engineering, scientific, and allied professional disciplines relating to Maritime resources with the aim of producing socially mature men and women with capability not only to understand, use and adapt existing technologies in the mari-

time industry, but also improve on them and develop new ones.

According to Manager, The University will act as agents and catalysts, through post graduate training, research and innovation for the effective and economic utilization, training and exploitation and conservation of the country’s maritime resources, adding that it would as well offer to the general population particularly the maritime industry, as a form of public service, the results of training and research and to foster the practical applications of the training.

“It will help to establish appropriate relationships with other national institutions involved in training, research and development of technologies in the maritime sector and identify the technological problems and needs of the maritime in-

dustry and to to find solutions to them within the context of overall national development”.

He added that siting the university in Delta State will bring about the much desired development to the area, create direct or indirect jobs and also reduce restiveness in the region while transforming educational fortune of the nation’s youths.

Supporting the Bill, Senator Foster Ogola (PDP-Bayelsa West) said that the bill needed to be supported massively since the university is already in existence and only requires legislation to give it legal backup.

“The University is well sited with provisions of relevant departments. Nigeria will reap huge benefits by its establishment as it is being established for manpower development in the maritime industry”, He noted.

Gbadamosi is dead. He died aged 72.

His death was announced by the Lagos Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Steve Ayorinde on Wednesday night on his twitter handle.

Ayorinde said, “Lagos State Government mourns the passing of a leading industrialist, art patron, former minister and Co-Chairman of Lagos@50, Chief Rasheed Gbadamosi .

“Chief Gbadamosi will be remembered for being a true Lagosian, a nationalist and art aficionado. His remains will be interred at 2pm today.”

Gbadamosi was a former Minister for National Planning and a former chairman of the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA).

Before his death, he was the Co-Chairman of Lagos@50.

Gbadamosi

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

13

14 Opinion

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

Trumpeting the US Elections

L

Okey Ndibe

ast week, the Republican Party presidential candidate Donald Trump stunned much of the world—and, likely, himself—by defeating his Democratic Party rival, Hillary Rodham Clinton, in one of the most contentious elections in American history. Trump’s triumph—considered highly unlikely by most pundits and pollsters—will be the subject of scholarly essays, as well as popular and research tomes.

Entirely unheralded, Trump’s election is certain to send students of American presidential politics back to the drawing board.

For months, Mrs. Clinton—whose husband was a beloved president from 1993 to 2003—led in virtually all the reputable polls. The few polls that had Trump leading were derided for their faulty methodology.

In much of popular perception, the last three months of the presidential campaigns resembled a veritable coronation—of Mrs. Clinton— happening in agonizingly tedious slow motion.

Of course, the Democratic candidate’s campaign had its wrinkles.

She was dogged by questions about her decision, when she served as President Barack Obama’s Secretary of State, to use a private email account to conduct her official business. Did her action enable such powerful nations as China and Russia to hack her correspondence and compromise US interests? The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigated her—twice. And twice, FBI director James Comey concluded there was nothing in her email transactions to warrant indictment.

Still, it’s likely that Mrs. Clinton was hurt by her response to the email controversy. She seemed to balk at the idea of releasing all the emails to investigators. She “outed” Colin Powell as the person who advised her to use a private email.

She claimed that tons of the email had been deleted, an assertion that proved misleading. And she told investigators numerous times that she could not recall key details of certain issues.

There was nothing she did that a battalion of male American politicians have not done, or would not do. Yet, as the first American woman to bear a major party’s flag in an election, such peccadilloes as fibbing, evasiveness and concealment—rather commonplace among male politicians, including her husband—were held against her.

She faced other challenges. Her opponents alleged that, as Secretary of State, she had failed to create a strong enough wall between government business and the fortunes of the Clinton Foundation, founded by her husband. No smoking gun was ever found, but Wikileaks (which seemed to take an inordinate inter-

est in the election) released email that suggested that her office took favourable notice of certain individuals who had made handsome donations to the Foundation. Beyond the desperate avalanche of Wikileaked documents, a tribe of authors published books that accused Mrs. Clinton of crimes, light and grave. One of the most widely circulated books, Clinton Cash, was made into a documentary available on YouTube. It purports to establish that Secretary Clinton used her office to grant favours to individuals and countries that gave huge donations to the Clinton Foundation or paid astonishing speaking fees to former President Bill Clinton. Nigeria came up in the category of Mr. Clinton’s high speaking fees. He reportedly collected $1.4 million for two talks in Nigeria, said the author of Clinton Cash. That’s $700,000 a piece. And the author further claimed that the former president’s going rate at the time was a figure just north of $200,000.

Some commentators have blamed Mr. Trump’s shocking routing of Mrs. Clinton on racism and misogyny. I believe those factors were present. After all, however well President Obama has done in office—bringing back the US economy from a deep recession, for one; restoring dignity and intelligence to the White House—there were some Americans who treated him as an interloper, indeed as an alien who had stolen his way into the sanctum sanctorum of American power.

Mr. Trump was a major, apparently widely admired voice for those Americans who regard Mr. Obama as an impostor. In fact, his political credentials were secured by his illogical contestation of the incumbent president’s birth in the

US, a condition necessary to hold the highest political office in the US. Did he believe it, or was he venting a mischievous, even diabolical untruth out of racial animus? If he did believe it, then his mental capacity is called into question. If he was merely out to make political capital out of an assertion he knew to be false, then we must chalk up his moral deficit.

It’s clear that many voters were unwilling to cut Mrs. Clinton a slack they routinely offer to her male counterparts, including her main opponent and vanquisher in last Tuesday’s election. It was as if voters were determined to forgive Hillary little or nothing, but to hold little or nothing against Donald. I can’t claim to know why exactly. Some wise pundits have suggested that the Republican candidate’s counterintuitive style—making enemies of Mexicans, Muslims, strong women, immigrants—translated into a move of genius: consolidating his white, working class base while grabbing enough votes from among the groups he pilloried to coast to victory.

I’d suggest that Mrs. Clinton also had a hand in her disastrous outing. Following her party’s convention—during which documents released by Wikileaks proved that the party establishment undermined her main primary challenger, Bernie Sanders—she might have hit the ground running. Instead, she sometimes came across as smug, carrying on as if she’d bagged the election. As Mr. Trump traversed the country, speaking at rallies and risking saying foolish things to the media, she preferred to zip from one fundraising event to another. It was as if she believed that the candidate with the most cash would be the automatic winner. That poor choice

sustained the impression, justified or not, that the Clintons were too obsessed with cash. Not only did she cocoon herself in fundraisers, she also kept reporters at bay, doubtless dreading questions about Benghazi, the email controversy, and the Clinton Foundation.

My hunch is that her instincts proved self-sabotaging. And when she finally began to engage with voters, she appeared to play shy of trumpeting her own qualifications.

Rather, her campaign often resorted to the argument that Mr. Trump was simply a scary—or scarier—prospect. I wonder if her campaign’s appeal to the benignity of her negativity—as opposed to the malignancy of Mr. Trump’s—did not contribute significantly to dooming her quest.

Whatever one’s take on last week’s electoral contests, it seems to me that Nigeria has several lessons to learn. First, contrary to the impression that INEC often leaves, elections can—and should—be smooth affairs. As results rolled in last week and it emerged that Mr. Trump was going to win, the US stock market went into shock, and at one point was down more than 700 points. Yet, once the networks reported that Mrs. Clinton had called her main opponent to congratulate him—and after Mr. Trump’s calm, gracious post-victory speech—the market rallied, soaring to a record high the next day.

It all goes to show what happens when a people have achieved some sense of national pride and identity.

Mr. Obama, who had fought hard to prevent a Trump victory, spoke in a conciliatory, statesmanlike manner, further steadying nerves. US national interests trump Trump and Clinton and Obama. It’s a lesson we need to imbibe in Nigeria.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

15 Opinion

When we live for others

S

Stephen Lawani

ome weeks ago, I watched in utter amazement, the grieving people of Thailand. They wore black clothes and openly cried and wept. They had lost their king and mourners in their thousands, lined the streets to watch the royal convoy carrying the body of King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

I also read the moving tributes of mourners and that got me thinking. It was a practical devotion, appreciation and love for a leader and monarch who meant a lot to his people.

I decided to leave out other condolences from European and Asian royals, world leaders and the UN General Assembly and Security Council that stood in silent tribute because I am concerned with the honour at home.

It is important for me to state at the onset that King Adulyadej was neither faultless nor blameless. As a king, he must have stepped on toes. His reign, no doubt, positively affected the lives of many of his people and their generous public and private show of emotion validates this thinking.

The people of Thailand may not have the kind of problems

Africans have but they are human beings like us. They are perceptive and discerning, so when they are treated well by their leaders, they react spontaneously.

I have read and witnessed wild jubilations that erupted in many African countries at the death or overthrow of an elected leader or a despot. This contrasts sharply with the Thailand experience where citizens showed genuine love to a departed leader even at the ripe age of 88 years. What this means is that in most countries in our continent, including Nigeria, those in public office hardly earn the support and love of those they lead. They are, for the large part, disconnected from the people.

Many people may have forgotten but some of us in politics today cannot easily forget the heroic and patriotic roles of Nigerians and even foreigners in the build-up to Nigeria’s return to democratic government in 1999. At that moment of grave national crisis, these characters played great roles. I still remember some of them in the independent media and civil society groups but sadly, nobody remembers or celebrates them today.

But we are still a country with a rich history. Like King Adulyadej of Thailand, many Nigerians remember our founding fathers with fond

memories. I am afraid no Nigerian leader today can inspire that near cult followership, devotion and popularity of political actors of the First Republic.

This commitment is not in short supply among our people. Some Nigerians in their small corners are volunteering and working very hard for our country, even without government support. Many heroic feats by patriots in various spheres of life occur daily but are largely unrecorded. These exploits is the foundation for my hope.

I am happy that this national bravery is going places. One of such acts of heroism takes place every day here in Abuja. We are all witnesses to the laudable activism of Bring Back Our Girls (BBOG) campaigners in the last two years or so.

These activists have remained resolute and true to their commitment to the return of over two hundred school girls who were abducted from their school in Chibok by Boko Haram. We have all seen in the group, a steady progress in strength, dedication and purpose even in the face of unwarranted insults, abuse and name-calling.

Nigeria has enormous challenges no doubt. We have earned more revenue than most African countries but this did not translate in better living conditions for the gen-

erality of our people. Unlike some countries in our continent, we are daily confronted with a myriad of manmade problems like nepotism, ineptitude, bigotry and religious particularity.

In our country today, people do not generally think highly of their political leaders like the Thai. So if we all agree that our leaders nowadays cannot inspire as much hope and devotion like our heroes past, then we must quickly get to work.

Leaders must study and apply the principles of balance in leadership and followership which centres on the concept of power and responsibilities. In addition, our country has to evolve a leadership selection process for occupiers of public offices.

This is the only way to prepare and sustain those who are qualified and ready to serve.

This is the challenge. And we must begin to live for others if we hope to make sense of our existence.

In the words of Gina Marie Warswick, an American school teacher, “a life of service to others is the life which makes a difference, not a selfserving life of materialism, fanciful travel and fun”.

Lawani, former Deputy Governor of Benue State is an industrialist and philanthropist.

The rise, fall and exit of Sultan Dasuki

O

Jaafar Jaafar

n April 20, 1996, a small chartered aircraft carrying some key Sokoto figures landed on the tarmac of Sultan Sadiq Abubakar III Airport, Sokoto.

Aboard the aircraft were Sarkin Sudan Shehu Malami, the late Ibrahim Gusau, and a former governor of Sokoto State and Abacha ally, Attahiru Bafarawa.

Shortly after the arrival of the aircraft, the then governor of Sokoto State, Col. Yakubu Muazu, clearly acting on a script, summoned Sultan Ibrahim Dasuki, alongside the commissioner of police and director of SSS, to an “emergency meeting” in the Government House.

Moments after Sultan left his palace to attend the “emergency meeting”, with a coterie of aides and array of palace courtiers, a detachment of mobile policemen took over the palace.

On reaching the military administrator’s office, all the aides were locked in a hall, while the Sultan’s briefcase (containing his hypertension drugs) was seized, and his flowing coat (alkyabba) stripped.

Before he could protest, the bewildered Sultan, then 70, was led into the military administrator’s office.

After a brief meeting, the Sultan was ushered out of the governor’s office by the then Commissioner of

Police, Abubakar Tsav into a waiting grey-coloured Peugeot 505.

The vehicle zoomed off toward the airport around 1:30pm, from where he was taken to Yola, and later on to Zing in Taraba State.

Dasuki was subsequently accused by the military government of unauthorised travels, interference in government affairs, invitation of foreign dignitaries without permission, the lack of respect for government, misappropriation of funds, among others.

There have been different accounts on why the late Sultan was deposed by the Abacha regime.

While some attributed his ouster to the implication of some of his companies in the fraud unraveled in the financial sector by Abacha’s Failed Banks Tribunal, others believed Dasuki’s alleged “interference and lack of respect for Abacha” cost him the most influential throne in Northern Nigeria.

But an equally deposed traditional ruler, the Emir of Gwandu, Mustapha Jokolo, had a different belief expressed in a 2006 interview with the Sun newspaper.

“Aliyu Dasuki, his (the late Sultan Dasuki’s) nephew and son-in-law who is married to his daughter was classmate to General Abacha in Kano,” Jokolo said.

They were classmates and friends.

It was Abacha who introduced Aliyu

to General Babangida. And through him, Aliyu was getting contracts. He was a businessman. Now, Aliyu was very close to Abacha.

“Only God knows what went on between the two of them. So, any business that was going on, Aliyu was the front. So, Aliyu became sick, terminal illness, he eventually died.

Abacha came to claim that there was some money that Aliyu was keeping for him in a Swiss account. Sultan Dasuki was then the Sultan of Sokoto. Sultan Dasuki told him that if it was true that he had any money with Aliyu, he should swear to an oath, he would arrange for them to get the money.

“But Abacha felt this was business between two friends which was an illegal business which did not require oath. They did not swear to any oath because it violates the Qu’aranic injunction. There was no evidence for Sultan Dasuki to give this money to Abacha.”

After his banishment to Zing in Taraba State, the late Sultan was kept incommunicado in a three bedroom bungalow for months without access to his family. He remained there until the military regime of Abdulsalami Abubakar set him free after the death of Abacha.

Born on December 31, 1923, in Dogon Daji village of Sokoto, Dasuki had early Quranic and elementary school education in this village. He

rose to become the private secretary to the late Premier Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Resident Officer of Jos Province, a diplomat, permanent secretary and later after retirement, a business tycoon with a wide network of friends within and outside the country.

The emergence of Dasuki as the 18th Sultan of Sokoto after the death of Sultan Abubakar III on November 1, 1988 came as a rude shock to the people of Sokoto State and sparked violent riots in the seat of the caliphate. This, perhaps, was largely because his predecessor had many brothers, 52 children, and dozens of direct cousins who were closer to the succession line than he was.

After the tension that greeted his ascension died down and several peace meetings with the ruling houses of Abdullahi and Aliyu, Dasuki’s coronation ceremony took place on March 15, 1990.

Dasuki’s reign from 1988 to 1996, saw to sweeping changes and remodelling of the architectural design of the Sultanate. Perhaps because of his wealth and influence, Dasuki rose from a relatively obscure ruling house of Buhari to become one of the most powerful Sultans in the history of Sokoto Caliphate.

Aged 93, Dasuki died on Monday in Abuja after a protracted illness.

Jaafar Jaafar, a public affairs analyst writes from Abuja.

16

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

Features

A high-level delegation with the Prime Minister of Senegal (middle) at the conference...

Last Friday, at the landmark West African Regional Conference on One Health in Dakar, Senegal, ministers of health, agriculture and wildlife renewed their commitment to working together to prevent and respond early to public health threats across West Africa.

The collaboration comes as the region approaches the three-year mark since the first Ebola case in the recent outbreak.

At the occasion, was a total 38 ministers from 16 West African countries, all of who pledged to improve capacity at the national and regional levels to prevent, detect and respond to emerging public health threats.

Organisers of the event that had Nigeria ably represented, noted that taking a coordinated approach to human, animal and environmental health which actually represents the “One Health” approach, will ultimately improve health security and emergency preparedness in the region.

Representing Nigeria at the conference were: Mrs. Olubunmi Ojo, Director, Disease Surveillance, Ministry of Health; Dr. Evelyn Ngige, Director, Ministry of Health; Mrs. Olufunmilayo Adetoro-Sanni Adeniyi, Ministry of Health; Dr. Gidado Muhammed, Chief Veterinary Officer/EPI and Dr. Columba Teru Vakuru, Deputy Director, Epidemiology & Wildlife.

Human, animal and environmental health

One Health, as gathered by The Daily Times, is an approach that calls on policymakers and health practitioners to consider the inextricable link between human, animal and environmental health when designing public health systems, research and programmes. In recent years, 75 per cent of emerging infectious diseases have originated in animals or animal products.

In fact, it is believed that Ebola spread to a young boy in rural Guinea from an infected animal, sparking an epidemic that infected more than 28,000 people, including in the capital cities of six West African countries. By taking an integrated approach to public health, communities and countries can identify outbreaks in animals before they spread to humans, a communiqué released after the conference stated.

17

s

Photo: WHO.

African leaders on emergency response to health The conference, hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission, in collaboration with other regional and international partners , The Daily Times gathered, is the strongest political commitment to One Health in West Africa to date. On Friday, therefore, the 38 ministers from 16 countries in West Africa, endorsed the communiqué, pledging their commitment to implement the One Health approach both within and across countries.

“This is a critical step forward toward implementing the WHO’s Regional Strategy on Health Security and Emergencies 2016-2020, which was agreed upon at the 66th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in August,” The communiqué noted.

More so, “Disease outbreaks and public health crises, many of which began in animals, have taken lives and livelihoods, severely impacted our industries and economies, and taken a serious toll on our already-stretched public health workforces,” said Dr Matshidiso Moeti, the World Health Organization Regional Director for Africa. “With so much at stake, the world simply cannot afford to take a crisis-by-crisis approach to health security. Strong systems and coordinated efforts are needed, both within and between countries, to detect, report and control the spread of diseases that affect animals and humans.”

According to participants, West Africa is currently tackling outbreaks of several zoonotic diseases, such as avian influenza in poultry in Cameroon and Nigeria and Rift Valley fever in Niger, as well as vectorborne public health threats, such as the recent emergence of the Zika virus strain

from Brazil in Cabo Verde and Guinea-Bissau. These diseases impact not only health, but also food security and economic security.

For example, the Ebola outbreak cost Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone nearly US$600 million in lost gross domestic product, while avian influenza has cost the region tens of billions of dollars since 2013, Daily Times learnt.

Misuses of antibiotics

Additionally, the overuse and misuse of antibiotics in animals and crops is resulting in the emergence of antibiotic-resistant disease pathogens, which is rendering common infectious diseases and bacterial infections more difficult and expensive to treat. The communiqué signed by ministers will help bolster the regional coordination and strong systems that are needed to help prevent and stop disease outbreaks.

The agreement also announced the creation of framework that will help countries work together across sectors and borders to ensure effective integration of human,

Disease outbreaks and public health crises, many of which began in animals, have taken lives and livelihoods, severely impacted our industries and economies, and taken a serious toll on our already-stretched public health workforces

animal and environmental health efforts.

Ultimately, this will provide the basis for countries in West Africa to conduct joint preparedness and response planning at the country and sub-regional levels, which will help manage outbreaks before they become national and international crises, participants said.

Specifically, member States party to the agreement, it was also learnt, have pledged to carry out national risk assessments and set up alert mechanisms for both common and emerging disease outbreaks within their territories. Daily Times gathered that governments will be tasked with integrating laboratories for human and animal samples to improve the timely diagnosis of diseases and track the spread of drug-resistant pathogens at the national level, a crucial step in the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Prioritisation of health security

According to a Press Release at the end of the conference, “together, these commitments will generate renewed momentum for West African countries to prioritise health security and pandemic preparedness, stressing that “ultimately, this will help drive progress towards existing commitments and initiatives, such as WHO’s International Health Regulations (IHR), a legal tool that helps to ensure countries are better equipped to prevent, report and respond to public health risks that could cross borders and threaten people worldwide.”

WHO’s leadership in convening last week’s meeting on One Health aligns with its commitment to improve the region’s ability to avoid and manage public health emergencies, as laid out in the game-changing Transformation Agenda launched by the African Region last year.

Features 18

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

Nigerian envoys and need for proper orientation For Nigeria to achieve greater image building and robust international relationships among the comity of nations, its ambassadors should be well honed in public relations, writes, Nduka Uzuakpundu

Geoffrey Onyeama, Foreign Affairs Minister

Rotimi Oladele

One of the major challenges being faced currently by Nigeria is how well to help her image.

Since assuming office, President Muhammadu Buhari has tended, in some instances, to play the role of country’s leading ambassador.

In that capacity, he has tried to explain to Nigeria’s trading and development partners that Nigeria was a resilient country and one with which that they could still do an honest business. That’s in spite of the current deep recession, Boko Haram terrorist attacks in the North-East geo-political zone, herdsmen-community conflicts, rumblings and economic sabotage in the Niger Delta region and the ongoing anti-corruption campaign.

While there’s some hope that all these issues would be managed properly by the Buhari administration, the President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relation (NIPR), Dr. Rotimi Oladele, thinks that alongside whatever panacea that may be applied by the Buhari administration, there was also a pressing need to inject a massive and efficacious dose of public relations in managing the domestic and foreign affairs of the country.

Speaking on the occasion of the maiden edition of the Annual Conference of Directors and Heads of Public Relations in Nigeria, held in Lagos, Oladele – the 13th president of the NIPR – offered that Buhari should make it mandatory for future ambassadors-designate of the country to have

some training in public relations skills for a minimum of one month.

He reasoned that this was because such would-be envoys were going to represent the country within Africa and abroad and be managers of the country’s resources under their control.

Oladele’s position came against the backdrop of some ambassadors-designate who unable to recite the national anthem, explain what initiative that they would take to press some form of damage-control diplomacy and a burning desire by the NIPR to recapture the Nigerian turf, where the public relations officials of federal, state and local government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) corporate organizations – including secondary and tertiary in-

stitutions, are products of the NIPR. It’s not just enough to send ambassadors to foreign countries; such individuals should have a working knowledge of the Nigeria’s cultures and how they should be projected to foreigners.

At the same conference themed: “Making an Enduring Change for National Reputation through Professionalism”, the Provost of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Ogba, Lagos, Mr. Gbemiga Ogunleye, was of view that the furore generated by the recent “sting operation” by the Directorate of State Security (DSS) against some allegedly corrupt Judges would have been avoided had the agency married information management – an aspect of Public Relations – as part of its anti-corruption strategy.

Participants at the conference of agreed that the DSS and the Nigerian Judiciary needed to have public relations specialists, from now on, if only to avoid the furore caused by the rude invasion of the residence of seven Judges by the DSS and the attendant bad press it drew for the country.

For a former NIJ provost, Mr. Dayo Duyile, PR practitioners need to carry out research into diverse departments of Public Relations, as a way of showing the light for the rest of society to follow. It helps, he said, the challenges of knowledge, builds a bridge or cordial ties amongst Public Relations outfits and specialists and industries; just as it steels the confidence of industries, consumers and the public in Public Relations experts.

Aside that, the NIPR should press its position, as a body that should play a leading role in the accreditation and regulation of the Public Relations curriculum of tertiary institutions, so said a former journalist, author and member of the NIPR, Dr. Jossy Nkwocha.

He said, “The intent is to shift away from what he called, “archaic studies in tertiary institutions, in favour of modern trends between theory and practice.”

StarTimes wins most rewarding brand award at BJAN 2016 Frontline digital TV network operator, StarTimes, has received another medal for service excellence and further boosted its growing profile in Nigeria.

The pay TV company has again been awarded as the Most Rewarding Brand (Sales Promotion), for its Copa America campaign by Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN) last Saturday in Lagos. She was also honoured as a special nominee for Most Impressive Customer Care Award.

The award ceremony, which held in Lekki, was the grand finale of the fourth Annual Brand and Marketing Conference of Brand Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN), organized to reward outstanding

brands and service providers across the business sectors and industries.

The colourful ceremony was attended by many dignitaries and business leaders, including representatives from leading household names such as StarTimes, Stanbic IBTC, CBN, NBC, NCC, Fidelity bank, Ntel and others.

StarTimes was awarded for its numerous rewarding customer campaigns and ground-breaking innovations in the pay TV industry. Recently, StarTimes introduced new channels including CNBC Africa, FOX Life, NatGeo Channel, Bollywood Africa and others. In the same vein, StarTimes recently announced opening 13 of its top channels to digital TV subscribers for 168 hours of free viewing in

November.

StarTimes Head of PR, Israel Bolaji, stated: ‘StarTimes is so excited to be recognized and awarded by BJAN for its excellent offerings to subscribers in Nigeria. This is another high-profile award we are getting this year and this will further propel us to do more. We will not spare any effort to offer rich, diverse and high quality digital television experience to Nigerian and African viewers.”

He said, StarTimes will continue to offer subscribers the best in class of pay TV experience with world-class channels for drama, sports, kiddies, news, music and religion. We are keen to continuously enhance access and improve digital television experience for our subscribers.

Mr. Israel Bolaji (M), StarTimes Head of Public Relations, receiving the award from James William, while Ms. Laura Okoro, BJAN Vice President, looks on at the Brand Journalists’ Association of Nigeria award night in Lekki, Lagos, on Saturday.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

19

Crime

Man arrested with 15 rifles, got N30m as political thug Joy Anyim A suspected notorious kidnapper, armed robber and political thug, Zakeri Yua Isiaka, who has been allegedly terrorising residents of Kogi and other neighbouring states, has been arrested by the police.

Luck ran out of the suspect, when he was arrested by operatives of the Inspector General of Police Special, Intelligence Response Team, (IRT), recently, on the Okene-Akure Highway.

The suspect was said to be in possession of 15 assault rifles, including an Ak47 rifle, which was snatched from the police during an encounter with the gang, including several magazines and ammunition, a police source disclosed.

Information had it that in July 2016, Zakeria and some of his boys attacked a team of Inspector General of Police Intelligence Response Team operatives who were in Kogi State to rescue a middle-aged man, Edward Abutu Amedu, who was kidnapped and was being held in a camp controlled by Zakeria.

In that operation, two of his boys, were arrested from their hideouts at the outskirt of Egume and Anyingba towns in Kogi State.

The Daily Times learnt that policemen attached to the Inspector General of Police Intelligence Response Team on Sunday, October 23, 2016, had also gone in search of Zakeria who had been identified by his other gang members as the kingpin.

The search, which took weeks, paid off, as he was trailed by the IRT, and was arrested on Okene – Akure High way, while on his way to Akure, Ondo State, in November.

According to the suspect, who claimed to be a father of fifteen children: “ I am 30years-old; and I am from Odu-Ochelle Village in Dekina LGA of Kogi State. I am married to nine wives and I also have 15 children. I am a secondary school dropout and I went into farming after I left school. I engaged in farming activities at Iseyin, in Oyo State, for about eight years before I went to Port Harcourt, Rivers State, and joined the Ateke Tom’s camp of the Niger Delta Militant.

“When I got to Port Harcourt, I was squatting with a boy from my home town since I had no job, then, I started visiting an Indian helm joints to smoke and I discovered that the people coming to the joint were mainly into oil bunkering. I told them that I wanted to join them and they started beating me. They thought I was an informant, I was taken away and beaten for one week before a guy who identified himself as an Ateke-Tom’s boy, took interest me, then, he allowed me to join them. They taught me how to handle fire arms; and we did lots of oil bunkering and I was making close to N3million on each trip that we made.

“After I made my money I came to Abuja and settled down. I built a house and then I went into car dealership. I was buying and selling cars. I also came back with three guns and I kept them in the village. Because at that time the sitting governor had given guns to all the thugs in my state and since they had killed my blood brothers, I thought it wise to have my own guns, so as to protect myself with it.”

The suspect also revealed that he had used his guns to protect the vote of his people. He said “during the election I protected ballot boxes from politician’s thugs. When Captain Idris Wada and Prince Audu contested in 2011 elections, I went back home and still protected the votes of

Zakeri, inset: IGP Idris

my people. I made sure I used my guns to prevent my people’s vote from being subverted, in fact in that election, one of my friends was even killed.

After that election, I came back to Abuja, went back to my business, and I bought motorcycles to engage my people and also give them a means of livelihood.

According to him, “I was also married to three wives then. Before the 2015 general election, PDP and APC thugs had a fight and I came back home and fought for APC and I defeated the PDP. It was then that it became obvious to my APC party men that I have become a very powerful thug.”

He said, “When the 2015 election campaign started Prince Audu gave me N30million to work for them in the presidential election. We worked for them and they won. But my younger brother, named Farouk, was killed in front of my father.

He was picked up in his room where he was sleeping with his wife and he was killed and they made away with his body.”

He added, “When it was time for the governorship election, Prince Audu also called me to work for him and he mobilized me with the sum of N20million, I went home worked for him and he promised to make me the Chief Security Officer

of the State, Kogi youth leader and he also said I would be collecting revenue from farm products in Kogi State. We worked and Audu won, I mobilized people to vote for Audu all over Kogi State. I was also ambushed and almost killed by Ugwuaraka, who supported PDP. But after Prince Audu died and Yayaha emerged as the governor, I made efforts to reach out to him and to let him know that I was in support of his government.

But the people I was sending to the governor weren’t giving him the right information.”

Zakeri said that, “They made him understand that since I was very close to Prince Audu and his family and that I was very angry with the way his family has lost out of power, following their father’s death and that I will never work for him,

“I was also married to three wives then. Before the 2015 general election, PDP and APC thugs had a fight and I came back home and fought for APC and I defeated the PDP.

rather, I will make the state ungovernable. But these were all lies, the people I have been fighting with are the PDP thugs, who wanted to kill me and since APC came into power, I have called on all my boys who are into armed robbery to stop because I have repented my sins.”

He said, “Few weeks before the last governorship election, some of my boys from Okene, who used to rob in my area, I advised them to quit robbery because, I discovered that people of Kogi State wanted change and they were accepting what I was telling them; and I knew that if APC wins I and my boys will enjoy, but they refused, so I tricked them that I had job for them and when they came to my town, I took them to a hotel, and they parked their operational vehicle and their rifles within the hotel premises, but while they were inside, I called some of my boys and we stole all the rifles in their vehicle. I control all the APC thugs in Kogi State and since I repented I have been seriously out working against crime.”

Continuing, he said, “Any of my boys who does kidnapping, I used to arrest and hand them over to the police, but in most cases, the police would release the person after collecting money from such person, so what I do now is that if I arrest you for kidnapping in my domain, I will kill you. You can ask the police in Kogi state about this and they will confirm it. After all I did, the state governor didn’t find it necessary to appreciate my efforts simply because I believe at I am fully in support of Prince Audu’s son, Mohammed, in becoming the governor, but that is not true. My loyalty is to the APC.” Zekari also said that before his arrest in April 2015, few weeks before the election, he and members of his gang robbed a vehicle carrying huge amount of money in Abuja. He added that he made over N50million from the operation and that he narrowly escaped death, as one of his gang members also attempted to kill him.

He said, “ It was Dan that brought the job to me. He told me that some politicians were moving money around Abuja, and it seems that the money was meant for election. We mapped out a strategy and we sighted the vehicle approaching us, we double crossed it and we snatched the vehicle from the driver. After the operation, I kept three Ghana Must Go back for myself and I gave Dan and others involved two Ghana must go to share. But, while we were sharing the money, one of Dan friend, who had a gun with him wanted to shoot me and he ended up shooting himself.

Another operation I did was in Okene, I did that job with ‘Black,’ and we made N10, million from that operation.”

He also added that he lost seven of his rifles to the police in Niger State, after they arrested his younger brother, who used one of his guns to snatch a car, “ After the Kogi East election was cancelled and the reelection was about coming, I gave seven of my rifles to my manager and when I was away for the election, my younger brother took one of the guns and gave it to a Yoruba boy, who used it to snatch a car, and after it was snatched, the boy was arrested; and he led them to my car stand in Abuja, where police seized all the vehicles in the stand and they also carried away my seven rifles.”

On how he thinks peace and security could be restored in Kogi State, Zakeri said the government needed to offer amnesty to anyone carrying gun in the state, explaining that there were so many guns in wrong hands in the state.

Crime

20

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

N190m fraud: EFCC closes case on Ex-HoS, Oronsaye Oguntade Ismaila Hearing on a case of abuse of office and fraud brought against Stephen Oronsaye, a former Head of Service, HoS, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, continued on Tuesday, November 15, 2016, with the prosecution presenting its sixth witness, PW6, Hamad Bello, for cross-examination.

Oronsaye, who was also the chairman of Presidential Committee on Financial Action Task Force, PCFATF, is facing a 2-count charge before Justice Olasumbo O. Goodluck of the Federal Capital Territory High Court sitting in Maitama, Abuja.

He is being accused of allegedly taking undue advantage of his office to receive N190million, part of a N240million grant for the committee, received from the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, and converted same to personal use.

Bello, an operative of the EFCC, while being cross-examined by Oronsaye’s counsel, Kanu Agabi, SAN, said that he instructed a ‘Post

Oronsaye

No Debit’ (PND) on the supposed committee account in Access Bank when he realised through investigations, that the opening of the account was not authorised by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, AGF. Bello said,“I discovered that the defendant withdrew about N86mil-

lion from the committee’s account in Zenith Bank, which was not accounted for. He made promises to bring the documents justifying the withdrawal but he never did.”

According to him, “We wrote to the office of AGF asking if it authorised the committee’s to be account opened in Access Bank, to which

the defendant is a sole signatory, and in their response, they stated that they only authorised the opening of the committee’s account in Zenith Bank. They also provided the details of the account, as well as the funds in it.”

The PW6 went further to tell the court that, the defendant, (Oronsaye), made several withdrawals from the Access Bank account, using one Friday Oge, who took the cash to him.

He said that, “We also observed that equivalent of the withdrawn sums were paid into his personal account on same date.“N50million cash was given to the defendant from the Office of the National Security Adviser, ONSA, which he paid in tranches of N9million into the fraudulent committee account in Access Bank.”

At the end of the cross-examination, counsel to the EFCC, O. I. Bukar, declared that, “the prosecution shall be closing his case”.

Justice Goodluck, thereafter, adjourned the case to December 9, 2016, for defense.

Ogun community panics over robbers’ threat letter Ï`Ɔ ƈƗƆ Ɛ è ƑƍƍƋƈƅ ƐƆè Ƈ Ɛ Oguntade Ismaila Residents of Anglican Road Ilupewo community in Ado- Odo Otta local government area, a boundary community between Lagos and Ogun states, are deserting their homes, following a spurious letter circulated in the community by suspected armed robbers.

Consequently, the residents in the quiet community have resorted to prayers and fasting following letters, as a way of seeking spiritual support to ward of the suspected criminals from carrying out their threat to attack them.

It was gathered that the letters were pasted on their doors by the suspected armed robbers that they would attack the residents before Christmas.

The letter, which was written in Yoruba language and typed in capital letters, it was further learnt, was sighted by our correspondent who learnt that the suspected criminals were “Strong men of the road that own the night.”

Investigations showed that the suspected criminals had warned

the residents to prepare for them, as they would soon storm the community to steal money and other valuables, more so as they needed to celebrate the coming Christmas in grand style.

The letter read in part, “Notice to Anglican Road Community. (We are the strong man of the road).

Happy Christmas and New Year in advance. We that own the night are writing you with our whole heart that we are coming to visit you. You should prepare for us and alert your vigilantes.

It added that,”We know you have a formidable vigilantes, however, if two iron touch each other, one will bow. We don’t want to hear that there is nothing at home. That is why we are notifying you people with our information. If you hear a knock on your doors, in your own interest, kindly open your house or you will be wasted”.

However, our correspondent gathered that the letter also had two incorrect mobile numbers belonging to the armed robbers.

But, a landlord in the area who identified himself as Mr. Femi Mar-

Ahmed Iliyasu

tins, said, “ We are used to pilfering of properties in our community, but we woke up on Tuesday morning to see letters pasted on our doors.

About 60 houses on Anglican Road had the letters pasted on their doors.

We hurriedly called a meeting, and we had reported the matter at the Sango police Station.”

He said the residents suspected

that that the hoodlums live among them and they can strike anytime.

However, it was gathered that the police are patrolling the community, but this did not stop the hoodlums, as they attacked the home of the local chief, despite police presence.

It was also gathered that residents who usually switched off their generating sets by 11pm., due to epileptic power supply to the area, were now forced to switch off by 9:30pm while business owners hurriedly locked the shops by 6pm.

A tenant in the area who identified himself simply as Jide, said,” I have told my wife to relocate from the area for now. I don’t want anything bad to happen to my family.

The community is deserted, and we are appealing to the government to beef up security in our community.”.

When contacted, the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Police Command, Mr. Ahmed Iliyasu, assured the residents that security had been beefed up in the community, adding that the police were aware of the letter, and would be fully prepared for them.

‘Sales boy connived with robbers to attack boss’ Joy Anyim Three men, who specialize in breaking into shops at the Mushin and Ladipo auto parts market in Lagos state, are telling the Federal Special Anti- robbery Squad, FSARS, officials, Adeniji Adele Lagos, how they perpetrated the act.

The suspects were arrested, following a tip-off that they were allegedly breaking into a building material stall to cart away valuables and cash, but luck ran out on three members of the six-man gang, as they were nabbed in the act.

According to the police, the suspects and their gang members were allegedly behind series of burglary cases at Mushin and Ladipo market. However, following interrogation, the suspects, who gave their names as Ebuka Ubajide, Ifeanyi Okoye, and Emeka Ilebunam stated that their leader one Chibuzor got the guns and cutter they use to break into the shops.

Two of the suspects, Ebuka Ubajide and Emeka Ilebunam confessed that they are sales boys at the Ladipo market. Ebuka who claimed he has been to two robbery operations with the gang revealed that Emeka hired them to rob his boss, so they can make quick money.

Ebuka Ubajide, who claimed to be 24, said, “ I am from Anambra state. I am a sales boy in Ladipo market. I met one Ekene while I was serving my master at the market.

However, sometimes last month, I asked Ekene how life was treating him and he said I should meet him at Isolo after the day’s job. I got to the spot where he was and I saw his friends with him. One of his friends called Chibuzor took us in his car for operation at Mushin where were broke into the shops and stole money.

He said, ”The second operation at Ladipo market was orchestrated

by Emeka. We met at our usual spot at Isolo and Chibuzor asked Emeka what the job was. Emeka told him that he was helping his boss to sell building materials. Chibuzor said Emeka will take us to his master’s shop and that was how we got them.

Chibuzor brought out the guns and the cutter, but as we were about to attack the shop that night, police men came from nowhere and attacked us. Chibuzor and two other guys escaped, but we were not lucky.”

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

STERLING BROTHERS CLUB OF NIGERIA

REFORMED TRADERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA

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

The general public is hereby notified that the above named organization has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part “c” of the companies and allied matters Act of 1990.

The Trustees are.

1. Victor Eze 3. Ndubuisi Nchekwube 5. Vincent Okafor.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Amb. Edi Bright Chinedu 2. Austin Nwachukwu 3. Ihuoma Chukwu 4. Anayo Chikezie 5. Solomon Nmelusum

2. Onyeka Mbagwu 4. Uzoma Ajagbah

Aims and objectives 1. To promote unity, peace and progress amongst members and the general community.

2. To create room for exchange of ideas and opportunities for the progress of member.

3. To promote and enhance the socio-cultural and economic development of members.

4. To encourage and contribute to charity for the benefit of the needy.

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

SIGNED: S. Chidozie Orekwu.

COMFORT ACHOBA OJONILE

MARY EMMANUEL ONYEKE MARY EMMANUEL ONYEKE, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MARY OJNUGWA EMMANUEL, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MARY EMMANUEL ONYEKE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. THE GENERAL PUBLIC AND AUTHORITY CONCERNED SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

EKWENEM LETICIA CHIZOBA

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:1. To promote welfare and general well being of all members.

2. To promote peace, unity and progress among members.

3. To ensure good relationship between the traders and general public.

4. To interface, champion traders challenges and support government programs.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to registrar general Corporate Affairs Commission plot 429, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street maitama Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.

Sign: President

COMFORT ACHOBA OJONILE, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS OMAIYE COMFORT OJONILE, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS COMFORT ACHOBA OJONILE. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. THE GENERAL PUBLIC AND AUTHORITY CONCERNED SHOULD PLEASE TAKE NOTE.

I, formerly known as Miss OKAFOR LETICIA CHIZOBA wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. EKWENEM LETICIA CHIZOBA. All former document remain valid, general public please take note.

President Secretary

AGBOLABORI AYOTUNDE KEMI.

I, formerly known as Oshinowo Ayotunde Kemi wish to be known and addressed as Agbolabori Ayotunde Kemi. All former document remain valid, general public please take note.

ALIU WAIDI ABBEY

I, formerly known and addressed as, KARIMU ALIYU WAIDI, now wish to be known and addressed as, ALIU WAIDI ABBEY. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

AJAYI TITILOLA VIVIAN

I, formerly known as MISS OWOSENI TITILOLA VIVIAN wish to be known and addressed as MRS AJAYI TITILOLA VIVIAN All former document remain valid, general public please take note.

STELLA IFEOMA ISAAC

ODIMEREHINWO OLUWATOBI JAMES

I formerly known and addressed as STELLA IFEOMA ALOZIE. Now I wish to be known and addressed as STELLA IFEOMA ISAAC. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note

I formerly known and addressed as ODIMEREHINWO OLUWATOBI JOHNSON now wish to be known and addressed as ODIMEREHINWO OLUWATOBI JAMES All former documents remain valid.

General public to please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as OYEDEJI MATHEW OLUWASEGUN now wish to be known and addressed as OGUNBITAN MATHEW OLUWASEGUN. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

ORHENA MARTHILDA IEMBER

AUGUSTINE FAVOUR CHINYERE

OLANREWAJU VICTOR OLUWADAMILARE

I was formerly known and addressed as OKE OLABODE OLATUNJI ,now wish to be known and addressed as OLANREWAJU VICTOR OLUWADAMILARE ,all former document remain valid general public take note

ISAAC OMIETE MAJOR I, formerly known and addressed as, OGAIYIBO MAJOR, now wish to be known and addressed as, ISAAC OMIETE MAJOR. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

PAUL ISIBOR MICHAEL

I, formerly known and addressed as, ODIBOH MICHAEL, now wish to be known and addressed as, PAUL ISIBOR MICHAEL. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

OSARENMWINDA UCHECHI EUCHERIA

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS ABEL UCHECHI EUCHERIA now with to be known and addressed as MRS. OSARENMWINDA UCHECHI EUCHERIA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

FOR SALE

I was formerly known and addressed as HAPPINESS BRIGHT, now wish to be known and addressed as ORHENA MARTHILDA IEMBER, all former document remain valid general public take note OSUMBELE RAPHAEL KELECHI

I, formerly known and addressed as, NWOKORO RAPHAEL KELECHI, now wish to be known and addressed as, OSUMBELE RAPHAEL KELECHI. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

I, OKORIE EZINNE KALU, AND EZINNE KALU, refer to one and same person but, now wish to be known and addressed as, OKORIE EZINNE KALU. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

OLORUNSHOGO OMOSALEWA JULIANA

I, formerly known and addressed as AKINDELE OMOSALEWA JULIANA but now with to be known and addressed as OLORUNSHOGO OMOSALEWA JULIANA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

FOR SALE

OGUNBITAN MATHEW OLUWASEGUN

I, formerly known and addressed as, UBI CHINYERE VERONICA, now wish to be known and addressed as, MRS. AUGUSTINE FAVOUR CHINYERE. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

OKORONKWO IHECHINYERE CHIOMA GOODNESS

I, formerly known and addressed as, MISS. IHEANACHO CHIOMA GOODNESS, now wish to be known and addressed as, MRS. OKORONKWO IHECHINYERE CHIOMA GOODNESS. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

ACHUSIM CHINOMSO JUSTICE I, ACHUSIM CHINOMSO, AND ACHUSIM CHINOMSO JUSTICE, refer to one and same person but, now wish to be known and addressed as, ACHUSIM CHINOMSO JUSTICE. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

This is to inform the general public and authorities concerned That I am the same person bearing both ANOSIKE OBINNA CHRISTOPHER and ANOSIKE OBINNA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

FOR SALE

MARIAM AHMED TIJANI

I, formerly known and addressed as, MARIAM USMAN, now wish to be known and addressed as, MARIAM AHMED TIJANI . All former documents remain valid. General public should take note DANIEL ADETOUN ARIKE

I, formerly known as MARY ADETOUN ARIKE OYELADE wish to be known and addressed as DANIEL ADETOUN ARIKE. All former document remain valid, general public please take note.

PEACE PETER EZE

CHIGOZIE :I formerly known as PEACE CHIGOZIE PETER EZE now wish to be known as PEACE PETER EZE. Former documents remain valid. General public take note.

21

SABBATH COMMUNITY COVENANT ORGANISATION INT”L THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT N0. 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES 1.SENIOR APOSTLE ONYEKABA LINUS CHUKWUDUM 2.APOSTLE UNACHUKWU CAJETA 3.SNR. APOSTLE OKOLO PAUL OGOEGBUNAM 4.PASTOR MADUBUGWU GIBSON UZOCHUKWU 5.PASTOR EGEMBA OKECHUKWU ERIC 6.CHIEF ELDER OKUMAH OKWUCHUKWU JACOB 7.PASTOR MOSES AKPONWA 8.ARCH MOTHER ADILI THERESA OKUNNA. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1.TO LIVE IN LOVE & UNITY FOR THE PROSPERITY OF THE COMMUNITY & HER PEOPLE 2. TO PROPAGATE THE SABBATH FAITH & SOUND DOCTRINE TO THE WORLD 3.TO TURN SINNERS BACK TO THEIR CREATOR VIA EVANGELISM ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO REGISTRAR- GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION MAITAMA ABUJA, WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION SIGNED: APOSTLE YAQOBH -- 08063497117 UBUANE VICTOR OKPEAFOH

ADEOLA OLANIKE

I, formerly known and addressed as, UBUANE VICTOR OSEMUDIAME, now wish to be known and addressed as, UBUANE VICTOR OKPEAFOH. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note

Formerly known as MISS OLANREWAJU ADENIKE YETUNDE now to be addressed as MRS ADEOLA OLANIKE .All former douments remain valid. General public note

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

SABINA GEORGE NSUNGUSI UBA: I, formerly known and addressed as MISS. SABINA CHIZOBA UBA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. SABINA GEORGE NSUNGUSI. All former documents remain valid. Ebonyi State University, Multi-choice Nigeria and the general public take note.

This is to confirm that MERCY EMMANUEL OKON and GLORY EMMANUEL OKON refer to one and same person,now wish to be known and addressed as MERCY EMMANUEL OKON. All former documents remain valid.

Banks and general public should please take note.

UMEORA UKADIMMA ANGELINA

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KOREDE HENRIETTA MATONM

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OGBONNAYA LILIAN CHIZITERE

ABILO CHIDOME ISHMAEL IZIBEYABOKUME

IFEOMA ODENIGBO CHUKWUDI OGUAMALAM

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JUDITH UWUMA CHARLES EMMANUEL

JEPHTHER OBINNA NJOKU

OKORIE JESSICA CHINELO

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ADDITION OF NAME

I, OBIOHA GOODLUCK EZINWANYI, wish to add, EZINWANYI, to my name which was formerly, GOODLUCK OBIOHA. I now wish to be known and addressed as, OBIOHA GOODLUCK EZINWANYI. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as, MISS. JUDITH UWUMA AWOWO, now wish to be known and addressed as, MRS. JUDITH UWUMA CHARLES EMMANUEL. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

ABOSI JOSEPH ONYEKACHI

I, ABOSI JOSEPH ONYEKACHI, wish to add, ONYEKACHI, to my name which was formerly, ABOSI JOSEPH. I now wish to be known and addressed as, ABOSI JOSEPH ONYEKACHI. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

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THANKGOD JOSHUA KRUKRUBO. I, THANKGOD JOSHUA KRUKRUBO, Wish to add, THANKGOD, to my name which was formerly, JOSHUA KRUKRUBO. I now wish to be known and addressed as, THANKGOD JOSHUA KRUKRUBO. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

OLATUNBOSUN KAYODE KABIRU

I formerly known and address as Olatunbosun Kayode Adeola now wish to be known and address as Olatunbosun Kayode Kabiru.

All former document remain valid. General public should please take note.

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

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Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

BETHEL FOR PERSONS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS FOUNDATION This is to inform the General Public that the above named FOUNDATION has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. RASHEED OMOLARA RUKAYAT. 2. ALIKORI UFUOMA AUSTIN. THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE IS:To care for the emotional needs of the disable.

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

SIGNED BY : Barr. Innocent John Ukwetang. O8037978991.

AFRICA DEVELOPMENT FORUM.

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.

Trustees: (1) Dr. Don McWarra (2) Dr. Sani Sufi Ahmad (3) Matthew Ahkere Oriere.

Aims and Objectives: 1. To provide a mirror for development and window of broad participation in the transformation process around Africa.

LET MY PEOPLE GO DELIVERANCE MINISTRY

WISDOM MOUNTAIN MINISTRY

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.

This is to inform the general public that the above named Association has applied to the corporate Affairs commission for registration under part’ C’ of the company and Allied Matters Act of 1990 .

TRUSTEES 1. PROPHET DONATUS ABUA 2. APOSTLE MRS ANNE-FIDEL UGBO 3. CAPTAIN PATRICK NKRAH

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1) KUNLE OWOEYE- Chairman 2) OLAYINKA EMMANUEL - Treasurer 3) OLUBUNMI OWOEYE- Member 4) MEZE EGBE- Secretary 5) KOLAWOLE ADIGUN-Member

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

(AIMS & OBJECTIVES) 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES; 1) TO PREACH THE WORD OF GOD 2) TO PROPAGATE THE WISDOM OF GOD BY THE APPLICATION OF THE WORD OF GOD.

Signed Secretary

SIGNED: SECRETARY.

Signed : Barr. Ine Wiche.

Any objections to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission plot 420 Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi street Maitama Abuja within 28days of this publication.

UNIVERSAL CHERUBIM AND SERAPHIM GOSPEL MISSION

CHRISPRENEUR ENTREPRENEURSHIP EMPOWERMENT.

MARINE COASTAL CONSERVATION SOCIETY OF NIGERIA.

The general public is hereby informed that the above has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

The general public is hereby informed that the above has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

The general public is hereby informed that the above has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1. Adelegan Gbenga Francis 2.Adelegan Bosede Eunice 3. Ayokunle Noah 4. Olabode Raphael Jimoh 5. Akinsonu Deborah Oladuro 6. Ayantade Sunday.

TRUSTEES ARE. 1. NWAIWU CHRISTOPHER NDIDI 2.NWAIWU BLESSING IJEOMA .

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PROF. OLAJIDE AYINLA (CHAIRMAN) 2. MOJISOLA O. ADEGBILE (SECRETARY) 3. GBENGA ADEGBILE (TREASURER).

4. DR. KOLA K. AKINROYE (MEMBER)

AIM AND OBJECTIVE : To proclaim the gospel of our lord Jesus Christ.

Any objection to the above 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.

RIVERS PORTS TRANSPORTERS ASSOCIATION This is to inform the general public that the above named Association has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Austin Enebeli C. (President) 2. Joe Emeka Nnabugwu (Secretary) 3. Christian Anagha 4. Nemuel Chibueze 5. Emeka Nkwor

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES. TO HEIP THE LESS PRIVILEDGE IN OUR SOCIETY. 2.TO GIVE SUPPORT AND ENHANCE THE WELBEING OF THE NEEDY. 3.TO ENHANCE THE INTELLECTUAL CAPACITY .

Any objection to the above 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

OBINNA OBIEKWE 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 TRUSTEES ARE: 1. OBINNA OBIEKWE 2. IJEOMA RICHARDS 3. MRS EBELE EZEAMALU

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To protect the welfare of members.

2. To make port transportation easier.

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

AIM AND OBJECTIVE: 1. Helping the less privileged in Anambra State go back to school.

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

SIGNED: SECRETARY.

EDO GRANITE AND SAND CONTRACTOR ASSOCIATION This is to inform the general public that the above named Association has applied for registration with Corporate Affairs Commission under part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Acts 1990.

Trustees are.

1. EBOIGBE FLORENCE. 2. ARIA ELIZABETH. 3. EDOMWONYI ROBINSON AVBEN 4. AHANNON SUNDAY SAMUEL. 5. EDERARO JULIE 6.IDONI SUNDAY AIKPOHOGUIYE. 7. OSAGIE ESTHER I. 8. GIEHOR ELIZABETH. 9. ABUMA JOSEPHINE EGBERAMWEN 10. OKODUWA OYENMWEN CLUDER AIMS and OBJECTIVE. 1. To foster unity among members.

2. To ensure progress and enhance development 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, Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.

Signed: IDONI SUNNY AIKPOHOGUIYE

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Barry Avotu August Johnson 1st 2. Zuriel Anyaole Johnson 1st The aim and objectives: 1. To Preach the gospel of Jesus Christ to the world 2. To restore man’s honour and dignity through the gospel of Jesus Christ Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General of Corporate Affairs Commission Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: Secretary

AIMS AND OBJECTIVE S: 1. TO HELP IN PROTECTION OF NIGERIA SEAS AND SHORES 2. TO CONSERVE AND SUSTAIN THE MARINE WILDLIFE FOR FUTURE GENERATION 3. TO CREATE AWARENESS OF NEED FOR CLEANER AND HEALTHIER SEAS 4. TO PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE FISHERIES 5. TO CREATE AWARENESS OF MARINE ECOSYSTEM MANAGEMENT/CONSERVATION. Any objection to the above 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 Secretary

LIFE AFTER ABUSE 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 Trustees Are: 1. SAMUEL YISA ADEIZA - CHAIRMAN 2. LAYENI MUNIRAT AJOKE - SECRETARY 3. LAWAL DAMILOLA ASISAT - FINANCIAL SECRETARY 4. SANNI OLUFEMI SAMUEL - TREASURER 5. LAYENI HALIMA OYEBOLA Aims And Objectives: 1. To provide emotional support and assistance to survivors of sexual abuse and other forms of abuse 2. To rehabilitate and empower survivors of sexual abuse and other forms of of abuse.

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: Secretary

BRIGHT STONE CHAMBERS OF GOOD FRIEND’S CLUB OF NIGERIA

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. KELECHI PETER IHEOFOR 2. HOPE MADUABUCHI IGWE 3. CELESTINE MBAKPOBE 4. STANLEY UZOUKWU. The aim and objective: 1. To Provide an avenue of assisting members of the club and the less privileged Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General of Corporate Affairs Commission Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: Secretary

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17 , 2016

Igbo leaders meet in Jos, task FG on good governance Chijioke Kingsley, Jos

ÏÏÏ

Igbo leaders in Nigeria and in the diaspora known as (Ndi Eze Igbo N’uzo Ije), have tasked the Federal Government led by President Muhammadu Buhari to look closely to the issues affecting the Igbos in Nigeria with the view to address them.

Ndi Eze Igbo stated this at the end of their two day meeting, which also saw the election and swearing in of new executive committee members of the association.

In a communique issued at the end of the two-day convention and signed by the newly emerged President, Eze Boniface Ibekwe, the Igbo leaders agreed on a six point resolution as problems affecting the Igbo nation which need to be treated urgently by President Buhari-led government.

The communique stated that the deplorable state of the roads and infrastructural decay in the South East geopolitical zone, is to be fixed as a matter of urgency. The members of the association also noted with profound regret that their repeated requests for more political appointments have not been addressed by the President.

Others are: The call for the Igbo nation to live in harmony with their host communities and for the South East Governors to work harmoniously with their citizens as their Northern and South-West counterparts are doing in good governance, to enable their citizens enjoy the dividends of democracy, like good roads, water and electricity.

House probes FERMA over N8bn refund to federation account Henry Omunu, Abuja

ÏÏÏ

The House of Representatives on Wednesday resolved to set up an ad hoc committee to investigate what led the Director General of the Budget Office, Ben Akabueze to instruct the management of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to return N8billion out of the N10.3billion released to the agency back to the federation account.

The ad hoc committee when constituted according to the House resolution will investigate why the helmsman of the budget office gave such an order considering the deplorable state of roads in the country, especially with the Yuletide season fast approaching and report back within one week.

This resolution was sequel to the adoption of the motion sponsored by Rep. Agbedi Frederick (PDP/ Bayelsa), complaining about the unilateral action

of the chief executive of the budget office to direct heads of public agencies to remit back into the federal treasury, funds already released to them to execute capital projects contained in the 2016 budget.

Leading debate on the motion, Rep. Agbedi said that “there is a worrisome developing trend where the director general of the budget office of the federation directed the chief executive of FERMA to remit back to the treasury capital funds already released to them.

“The director general of the budget office directed the managing director of FERMA to remit to the treasury N8billion out of the N10,339,549,201 already released to the agency vide warrant N0.

W01/00006938 for the execution of capital projects leaving it with only N2.3billion.

“But due to the compelling need for FERMA to repair and maintain dilapidated roads across the nation, the Na-

tional Assembly graciously approved a total of N21,816,546,653 out of which only N10,399,549,201 was recently released this October to the agency for execution of some critical projects which include so many failed and bad roads across the country.

“As it is, FERMA had already prioritized its capital projects while it has advertised in line with the Procurement Act 2007, just as contractors desirous to work for the agency have spent earned monies to buy tender documents which they are now bound to lose by the directive from the budget office.”

The lawmaker added that the “funds already released to FERMA were part of the funds already appropriated for FERMA in the Appropriation Act of 2016, passed by Parliament, which is already a law and that any amendment to this law can only be carried out by the National Assembly.”

Wife of the Governor of Bauchi State, Hajia Hadizah Abubukar (middle) with some women during the distribution of nutritional meals to mal-nourished children at Alkaleri L.G.A of Bauchi State… on Wednesday.

Umahi vows to sign death warrants for kidnappers, robbers Chijioke Kingsley, Jos

ÏÏÏ Gov. David Umahi of Ebonyi has

vowed to sign the death warrants of persons convicted of kidnapping, cultism, armed robbery and other crimes in the state.

He made the pronouncement when he visited the 20-kilometre rice field disputed by the Onweonweya and Mkpumekweoku communities in Izzi Local Government Area.

Umahi remarked that in keeping with the government’s prison decongestion programme, murder, armed rob-

bery, kidnapping and related cases must pass through the entire judicial process.

“We will not pardon such convicts whether they have repented or not, as our red biro will come out to sign anything for a man convicted of these crimes.

“We can only encourage their speedy trials but if they are found guilty, we will beg God and sign for such lives if the courts say so.

“When one experiences the kidnap of a relation, the person will understand the trauma people pass through on such occasions.

“We can show mercy for other crimes but they must be based on merit,” he said.

He urged the people of Mkpumekweoku to be calm in the face of provocation, noting that the government would not entertain reprisal attacks.

“We must bring the perpetrators of this act to book and I trust the commissioner of police to ensure that this is achieved.

“We have to live in peace and take advantage of our programmes to keep busy but not to make trouble,” he said.

He thanked the commissioner of

police and his officers for their prompt intervention, urging them to ensure adequate security in the affected areas.

The Caretaker Chairman of the council, Mr. Richard Idike, thanked the governor for the visit, noting that it shows his passion for the people’s wellbeing.

“The dead were hacked to death and covered with grasses on the disputed land.

“The dispute has spanned more than 30 years with all efforts to settle it by stakeholders proving abortive,” he said.

23 News School heads charge FCTA over shortage of teachers Idu Jude, Abuja

ÏÏÏ

Principals of secondary schools in the Federal Capital Territory under the aegis of All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS) have called on the FCT Minister, Malam Muhammad Bello to recruit more teachers as part of efforts to bridge the gap in students enrollment.

The group also called on the FCT Administration to establish more secondary schools to meet the geometric demands for admission in both junior and senior secondary schools in the nation’s capital.

President of All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools, FCT chapter, Malam Mohammed Ladan, who made the call yesterday in Abuja at the opening ceremony of Mandatory Continuing Professional Training Programme (MCPT) for North Central zone, noted that the call has become necessary in view of the diet in the teaching profession.

In view of the security challenges in most public schools, ANCOPSS tasked the FCT Administration to embark on perimeter fencing of schools yet to be fenced and completion of ongoing projects in some FCT secondary schools.

The group, however, commended the FCT Minister for regular and prompt payment of teacher’s salaries despite the recession, regular promotion of teachers, human capital development through capacity building for teachers and subsidy for feeding of boarding school students in the Federal Capital Territory.

Ladan further noted that the annual workshop was organised with the aim of making principals better administrators with a view to improving teaching and learning in public schools, adding that principals are saddled with the responsibilities of coordinating all that makes teaching and learning possible in the school system.

Earlier, the FCT Minister, Malam Muhammad Bello, while commending ANCOPSS for the initiative of training principals of schools, also noted that no nation, desirous of functional growth and development can afford to ignore the education sector.

According to him, “it has also been said that no nation can rise above the quality of its teachers. It therefore stands to reason that for any meaningful growth and development to take place in the country, its teachers must be kept abreast of the best and latest innovations in their fields. This can only be achieved through constant training and retraining.”

News 24

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

We’re investigating cases of ritual killings in Kwara -NSCDC

Spiritualist dupes woman after 3 days marathon sex

Kehinde Akinpelu,

Oguntade Ismaila

Ilorin

ÎÎÎThe

Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC),kwara State Command yesterday said it was investigating cases of suspected ritual killings in addition to curbing “pocket of vandalism and adultration of lubricating oil” in the state.

The state’s commandant of the corps, Mr. Idiba Pedro ,said this when he received newly elected executive members of the correspondents’ chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Kwara state chapter in his office.

Ideba said the command, under his leadership had stepped up it operation in combating crimes in line with its core mandates, assuring the federal government that it would not regret the reasons for which the core was established.

The commandant said though, the crime level in kwara is very low compared to other states of the federation where he had served, “there are still some crimes that you cannot imagine.

“We are investigating cases of ritual killings, pocket of vandalism and adultration of lubricants oil”,he said.

The commandant said the command has zero tolerance for

corruption and had developed a slogan which goes thus: “Collect Bribe, You Die to” constantly remind officers and men of the corps to shun corrupt tendencies.

Chairman of the correspondents’ chapel, Mr. Layi Olanrewaju had praised the command

Jos

ÎÎÎ

The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Plateau state chapter, has rejected the Judgment delivered by the Chief judge of Plateau state, Mr. Justice Pius Damulak, against Mrs. Sarah Chuwang as the sitting Chairman of AFAN in Plateau state.

This was contained in a press statement signed by the state chairman of AFAN, Mrs. Sarah Chuwang, and made available to our correspondent.

The statement noted that the entire membership of the AFAN as well as the national body has rejected the court decision ruled by the Plateau state Chief Judge to throw out Mrs. Sarah Chuwang as chairman of AFAN. The statement also read that an appeal has been filed with the Court of Appeal, Jos division against the judgment as well as for a stay of execution.

Also, the National Electoral Committee Secretary, Tunde

to take their cases to Civil Defence.”

During the visit, executives of the correspondents chapel and senior officers of the commands interact and asked questions and clarifications on gray areas and issues bothering on professionalism.

A cross section of participants at the annual stakeholders’ summit of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Abuja… on Wednesday.

Farmers group rejects Plateau CJ’s judgment, retains chairman Chijioke Kingsley,

for ensuring good working relationship with journalists in the state even as it commended the corps for its doggedness in fighting crimes.

He said “because of the civil manner in which officers and men of corps carry out their duties, many people now prefer

Arosanyin, has also written to the Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Agriculture Plateau State, Mrs. Lynda Barau, stating that Mrs. Sarah Chuwang remain the chairman of AFAN known to the National body.

Arosanyin said that “the national office is not aware of any election before now, therefore anybody that claims to be AFAN executive officer in Plateau state outside the leadership of Mrs. Sarah Chuwang is not recognized by the National office”.

Recall that Mr. John Goting Jiler and his group were said to have installed themselves as new leadership of AFAN in the state and has dragged the executive headed by Mrs. Chuwang to court seeking to ratify their installation.

However, the National Vice President AFAN, Mrs. Nana Aisha Bashir, has also disowned Mr. John Goting Jiler and his group, stating that AFAN has disassociated itself from all activities concerning Mr. Jiler.

ÎÎÎ

A spiritualist, Lukman Olanrewaju, has been arrested for deceiving a woman, Adeniran Mutiat Jumoke, into having a 3-day marathon sex with him in the Ikotun area of Lagos.

It was gathered that the young woman had approached the 35year old fake spiritualist to help her cure her abject poverty. Oyostate born Olanrewaju was however said to have prescribed a three-day marathon sex deliverance and a payment of N208, 000 to end Jumoke’s state of abject poverty. The sum was said to be for the purchase of some materials for prayers.

He also told her that she will also embark on spiritual deliverance which involves doing things extraordinary. The suspect then informed her that he will engage her for sex for three days and thereafter, perform other rituals after which she will become rich at a certain period. She gave him the money and did other things he requested including sleeping with her for three days.

But after few days, her situation did not change, instead it became worse. When she went to complain, she could not find Olanrewaju at the Abaranje house where the rituals were performed. It was then she realized that she had been duped.

Private varsities should benefit from TETFUND - VC Joy Anyim

ÎÎÎThe need for the inclusion of

private universities among the beneficiaries of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) has been re-emphasised by the ViceChancellor of Mcpherson University, Seriki Sotayo Ogun state, Professor Adeniyi Agunbiade.

Adeniyi, who stated this during a pre - convocation press conference at the school Senate chamber on Tuesday, maintained that private universities cannot sufficiently carter for their needs with students’ fees.

According to the Vice- Chancellor, despite the economic recession in the country, MCPHERSON University has chosen not to toe the part of sister institutions that have increased their fees. This, he said, was because the university was not found to make profit but to raise leaders that will prefer solutions to the many issues in the country.

“MCPHERSON University wasn’t created to make profit, our vision is to build a People of Excellence and Integrity for Service as well as provide qualitative, functional and sound education with Godly virtues that will prepare men and women for leadership and positive impact on the Society and Integrity for Service.

The fees paid by student can’t totally take care of the running cost of the institution and this is why I have using this opportunity to once again State that private universities ought to be benefitting from TETFUND”, he said.

Speaking on the maiden convocation ceremony and lecture titled ‘Food Security and Terrorism: Way out for Nigeria’, the VC disclosed that the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh, will be doing justice to the topic Saturday 19th November 2016. He further revealed that of the 42 students who had been admitted into the university at her inception in 2012,

about 100% of them would be convoking from the Colleges of Social Science, Humanities and Biological Sciences.

He also revealed that the event will also include the investiture of the new Chancellor, Dr. Christopher Kolade.

Noting the achievement of the institution in the last four years of her birth, the Vice Chancellor said. “ we have established a forum called the Parents Consultative Forum which is a means of involving and getting parents/ Guardians involved in the affairs of their children.

We also have the Brain Trust which is a culture of celebrating excellence and creating avenue for healthy academic rivalry. Exemptional abilities in academic performance is recognised. The initiative focuses on students with GPA of 4.5 and above at the end of each session. This earns them an Invitation for a sumptuous Dinner with the VC and a letter of commendation to each of them.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

25 News

Atiku at Zik’s Lecture, advocates free education in Africa Alphonsus Nweze Awka

ÏÏÏ

Former Vice President of Nigeria and chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Atiku Abubakar, has called for primary and secondary education to be free and compulsory across the African continent.

Atiku made the call at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka in Anambra State, in his capacity as chairman of the 2016 Zik

Lectures hosted by the Faculty of Social Sciences of the University. The remark was titled ‘Crisis, Education and Africa’s recovery’.

According to the former Vice President in a Press Release made available to The Daily Times by the Atiku Media Organisation, “free and compulsory education would enable every African child to acquire basic education to help the continent produce an enlightened citizenry,” adding that free education is the norm in

those countries that we (Africans) look up to as models for development.

On a personal level, the Turaki Adamawa revealed that it was free and compulsory education that transformed his life and equipped him to play the kind of roles he now plays in society rather than having to end up as a rural person in the old Adamawa province of Northern Nigeria.

For this reason, according to him, he has devoted

much of his philanthropic endeavours to investment in education, which led to the establishment of an educational village in his native Yola community, in Adamawa State, where students, irrespective of their background and means, are provided with quality education from kindergarten to university.

He says further that “in the educational village that I established in Yola, our focus is not just providing students with high

quality education from kindergarten to university, we are also focused on providing them with the skills to become leaders in their various communities and countries. That is why we involve them in the lives of the surrounding community so they become part of the solutions to the challenges those communities face. Thus, critical thinking, problem solving and leadership development are integral parts of their educational experience.”

L-R: National Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Oyegun; Abia State APC Secretary, Dr. Chidia Maduekwe; APC chieftain, Amb. Sam Nkiri; former Abia State Governor, Dr. Orji Kalu and APC chieftain, Chief Olagunsoye Oyinlola during Kalu’s defection to APC in Abuja... on Wednesday. Photo: TEMITOPE BALOGUN.

MASSOB-BIM set to celebrate Ojukwu’s 4th year memorial anniversary Sunday Nwakanma Umuahia

ÏÏÏ

MASSOB-BIM says it is set to celebrate Dim Chukwuemeka Odimegwu Ojukwu’s 4th year memorial anniversary, come November 26.

Briefing newsmen in Umuahia, Abia State on Wednesday, MASSOBBIM said the memorial anniversary will take place at the Ojukwu memorial library, Owerri, Imo State, the MASSOBBIM zonal information officer, Ansalem Ogbonna, said the group “is expecting people from all walks of life to celebrate with us including our neighbours.

The zonal information officer regretted that the present politicians have forgotten the giant strides of late Ikemba, recounting that when the “hatred was much on the Igbos, Dim Ojukwu planned to pull his people out of Nigeria.

“He did this to save us from being wiped out totally from earth. But it is unfortunate that the war ended with no victor, no vanquish and we continued to exist as one Nigeria until his death. But that problem of envy, severally planned intrigues against the easterners, unprovoked massacre, total annihilation, which

he frowned at has always been in existence.

“I am very surprise that up till this present time, our politicians have forgotten this Nostradamus of Africa and the second god of Ndi Igbo.

According to him, “Ojukwu who sacrificed his life, money and everything for his people supposed to be remembered and honoured.

Moses was honoured by the Israelites for saving them from the hands of the Egyptians. King Darius honoured Mordecai for saving his life.

“Ojukwu tried to save us from being wiped out by the Hausas/Fulanis, therefore MASSOB-BIM

has vowed to give honour to whom honour is due.”

Ogbonna said that Ojukwu deserves a life honour, adding “we have slated 26 November of every year for his remembrance. And in Biafra we must ensure that the history of Dim Ojukwu is among the Major Courses/subjects to be studied in every academic curriculum.

Therefore on 26th November, 2016, MASSOB-BIM will celebrate Ojukwu’s 4th year memorial anniversary at the Ojukwu memorial library in Owerri. It is where we built an everlasting auditorium in memory of the late people’s general.”

Isiala Ngwa North Killing:

Go after the arsonists, Ikpeazu tells police

ÏÏÏ

Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has instructed the state’s Commissioner of Police to fish out the arsonists and murderers that set parts of the office of the chairman of Isiala Ngwa North local government ablaze, killing two workers in the office.

The Governor, who spoke after he was briefed by the Commissioner of Police on the measures taken so far in unraveling those behind the dastardly act, commiserated with the families of the dead and vowed that those behind the dastardly act will not go unpunished.

A statement issued by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Enyinnaya Appolos, said the Governor insisted that politically motivated violence of any kind will not be tolerated in the state. The Governor also warned politicians and their supporters to desist from acts of violence in pursuit of their political ambitions.

FG begins assessment of abandoned projects

ÏÏÏThe Ministry of

Budget and National Planning says it has begun the assessment of abandoned projects in the country to find ways of deriving maximum benefits from them.

The Director of Administration in the ministry, Mr. Christian Ezeilo, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja that all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) had been directed to do same.

“If you look at what is going on, every MDA has been asked to come up with the list of all abandoned projects so that we can look at them critically.

“We need to look at them critically and see the ones that the private sector can help the government to

complete and those that the government can also complete,’’ Ezeilo said.

According to him, some of the projects have lasted for years and the government will need to complete them.

Ezeilo, however, said that the ministry would also partner with the private sector to develop some infrastructure in the country.

The director said the ministry had built the capacity of staff in some key MDAs on how to package bankable infrastructure Public Private Partnership (PPP) projects.

He listed some of the heavy infrastructure MDAs as Works, Aviation and Transport, Water Resources.

26

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

Health

s

Lifestyle modification, the best treatment for diabetes —Expert Edokpolor Osayande

An Endocrinologist at the General Hospital Gbagada, Lagos, Dr. Isiba Abiola has urged Nigerians on lifestyle modification, exercise, saying it is the best treatment for diabetes mellitus.

Abiola also cautioned on eating over processed food, as its contains mostly starch and glucose that increases the blood sugar in the body.

Speaking with Daily Times, she made it clear that diabetes Mellitus remains a chronic disorder that affect almost every part of the body which includes the brain, eyes, heart, kidney, mouth and muscles, amongst others.

“Diabetes is the persistent increase in blood sugar, when the blood sugar is very high above the normal limit , the blood glucose contract itself to the cell as each organs are body made up of the cell and tissues. The body cell deposit substances that disturb and reduced the structure of that organ, while the blood vessels in the kidney are been distorted and reduced the functions of the kidney.

“However, Nigerians should eat high fiber diet like vegetable food which contains fiber and protect the glucose from carbohydrate foods like Fufu, Eba, Amala and pounded yam, adding that these food with vegetable helps to slow down the absortion rate of the glucose.”

Diabetes mellitus occur as immune disorder in children when the pancreas are not secreting enough insulin and on the contrary, the insulin secreted are not been used, then the glucose in the blood continues to accumulate and causes a rise in the blood

Blood peessure check

sugar which is not hereditary in children.

Abiola further said that for adult having diabetes, “ it does not just start in one day but it begins from five to ten years backward which the blood sugar must have been accumulating, as the case of hereditary may occur, when both parent of a person have diabetes.

Speaking on the cure and medication, she said that children with high blood sugar level should take insulin while adult should take blood sugar lowering tablet.

“When the blood sugar level stabilizes, patients are advised to continue with their medication, ‘however we are going into what is called patient self-care which is to educate patients to

have a knowledge of what the state of the health situation, why they are in such situation and when the patients are feeling well. Then, they should still be monitored to see if the blood sugar is within the normal rate but if it becomes stable for a long time you can stop the medication with the prescription of a medical practitioner.”

Adding, the endocrinologist said, once a patient does not know about his or her health status, complication may set in.

The expert however called for more awareness and self-education about diabetes.

She urged the government to organize more screening and awareness programmes.

“The screening is for everyone

to know his or her status, take proper care of those who have diabetes and educate the people.”

Currently, of the 7 million persons that are diabetic in Africa, 1.7 million are Nigerians, but as a result of adoption of Westernised dietary habits, physical inactivity leading to overweight and obesity, the burden of the disease that has silently been on the increase over the years is expected to explode over the next decade, says the World Health Organization (WHO).

The WHO Global report on diabetes that underscores the enormous scale of the diabetes problem, and the potential to reverse current trends, notes that the creation of a combination of fiscal policies, legislation, changes

to the environment and raising awareness of health risks works best for promoting healthier diets and physical activity at the necessary scale.

According to the latest WHO data, 422 million adults have diabetes while 1.5 million deaths are directly attributed to diabetes each year. The WHO fact sheet on diabetes shows that 1 in 3 adults aged over 18 years is overweight and 1 in 10 is obese.

Prevention of diabetes or delay in the onset of diabetes and the development and progression of its complications can be achieved through healthy diets, regular physical activity, maintaining a normal body weight, avoiding tobacco use and monitoring bloodsugar levels.

The signs of diabetes include frequent urination, recurrent thirst, intense hunger, weight gain or unusual weight loss (for people with type 1 diabetes), increased fatigue, irritability, blurry vision, delay healing of cuts and bruises, sexual dysfunction etc.

The WHO Director-General, Dr Margaret Chan said: “Diabetes and its complications impact harshly on the finances of individuals, their families and the economies of nations. People with diabetes who depend on life-saving insulin pay the ultimate price when access is lacking.

“As part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Member States have set an ambitious target to reduce premature mortality from NCDs – including diabetes – by one third; achieve universal health coverage; and provide access to affordable essential medicines – all by 2030. We have an enormous task at hand,” she stated.

LagosVegFest holds healthy lifestyle festival

Lara Adejoro

The organisers of LagosVegFest is set to hold the third edition of festival on healthy lifestyle and plant based diet.

The 3-day festival will hold at Freedom Park, Lagos on November 18-20 with exhibitors, workshops and exercise sessions.

In its third year running, the LagosVegFest (LVF) secured a partnership with Lagos @50, the

anniversary celebrations by Lagos State Government.

According to the co-organizer of the festival, Hakeem Jimo, “More and more Nigerians are becoming aware of how to improve their health. We are delighted to see this festival of healthy lifestyle growing and we need to reach many more. There still ways to many unhealthy habits that bring burden to our people.”

Jimo said, at LagosVegFest, people will experience the amazing benefits and great taste of a plant based diet as well as exercise and other healthy products.

This 2016 edition will host some of Nigeria’s best businesses in the health and wellness industry, international guests, vegan lifestyle enthusiasts, and thought leaders in sustainable living.

“Dr. Aris Latham is expect-

ed all the way from Panama.

Latham is the founder of Sunfired Foods and is a famous raw food chef. He will give live cooking demonstrations during the 3 day festival.

“More than 25 exhibitors have confirmed their participation showcasing mostly Nigerian made products and services – almost all of them being small and medium enterprises.”

This year’s theme of the Lagos-

VegFest is ‘Green Living & Yoga’.

Yoga has become a popular way to stay healthy and fit for Nigerians and over a dozen Nigerian yoga teachers will offer free classes over the 3 days showing the variety of the practice.

This year’s LagosVegFest will mark the official launch of ‘VegMeat / Vegetarian Chunks’ a retail product that makes healthy cooking available to all Nigerians.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

27 Health

180 countries adopt landmark public health decisions on tobacco control Lara Adejoro

After one week of heated negotiations and intrigues, governments representing nearly more than 90 percent of the world’s population who attended the seventh session of the World Health Organization’s global tobacco treaty negotiations in New Delhi adopted policies that will protect public health over the narrow interests of the tobacco industry.

These include tools to hold Big Tobacco legally liable for the harms of its products, recover healthcare costs, facilitate access to justice for victims of tobacco-related disease, and safeguard public health policymaking from the industry at the national level.

Governments unanimously adopted the suite of public health measures over the objections of the tobacco industry.

Throughout the negotiations to the treaty, formally the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), the industry tried to undermine the talks via government delegations, industry front groups, lobbying, and other means. Despite these tactics, governments adopted decisions, like advancements on legal liability, that could provide precedent for holding other industries accountable

Lara Adejoro The 2015 Nigeria Malaria Indicator Survey (NMIS) report has shown that there is a 35% decline in malaria prevalence in the country since the last malaria indicator survey conducted in 2010.

The survey also showed a

Anopheles mosquito

Ï j ƋƗ Ɛ Ƅ ƅƅ ƈ ƗƑ ƐƏƕ ƋƆ ƋƋƕ Ƌƈ ƄƋƆ Ƈ Ə Ɛ Ƅ ƅƅ Əƌ for the environmental and public health harms they cause.

“The tobacco industry is the single largest barrier to tobacco control policies globally— and these negotiations were no exception,” said John Stewart, deputy campaigns director at Corporate Accountability International. “We applaud the delegates that stood up to the industry and rejected their rhetoric. It is thanks to them that governments have now adopted some of the strongest measures yet to protect millions of people’s lives.”

At the negotiations which held 7-12 November 2016, governments agreed to expand the expertise and case studies available to file legal and civil suits against Big Tobacco. The decision, which advances Article 19 of the global tobacco treaty, opens the door for governments to sue the industry and recoup millions of dollars for the health care costs associated with tobacco use. It could also provide precedents for people to pursue legal liability for other industries that affect public health and the environment, like the fossil fuel industry. To date, a handful of countries have utilized the principles contained in Ar-

Tobacco

ticle 19. For instance, Canadian smokers recently won a $15 billion payout from the industry, after an historic 17-year legal suit.

“At these negotiations, governments said ‘enough is enough’ when it comes to tobacco industry interference in their public health policies,” said Philip Jakpor, Nigeria spokesperson of Network for Accountability of Tobacco Transnationals (NATT). “To-

gether, they advanced policies that will push Big Tobacco out of the way, and let public officials do their jobs: saving people’s lives.”

“For years, the tobacco industry has intimidated countries with threats of legal suits for their common-sense public health laws,” said Hellen Neima, tobacco control advocate from Uganda. “At these negotiations, governments set the stage for the kinds of

legal challenges that have the potential to bankrupt the tobacco industry in the years to come.”

Governments also advanced policies to protect public health policymaking from the tobacco industry. The decision, which advances the backbone of the global tobacco treaty known as Article 5.3, will establish a centralized knowledge hub for research and expertise on Big Tobacco’s attempts to water-down policies related to tobacco control. It directly addresses the industry’s long history of interference in public health. For instance, last year, a British American Tobacco whistleblower revealed that the corporation had bribed an FCTC official to represent its interests at negotiations for the Illicit Trade Protocol.

Additional outcomes included ensuring that the FCTC Secretariat joins the UN treaty on Business and Human Rights as an observer, advancements to the Illicit Trade Protocol and protections against the industry’s use of trade and investment partnerships to undermine public health laws and identifying means to strengthen implementation of the treaty at the national level.

Survey shows 35% decline in malaria prevalence in Nigeria

marked decrease in the prevalence of the disease among children under five and major improvements in prevention

and treatment.

According to the report, “Overall 27% of children age 6-59 months tested positive for malaria by microscopy in the 2015 NMIS. Malaria in children is most common in Kebbi (64%) and Zamfara (63%) while less than 10% of children tested positive for malaria in Kogi, Borno urban, Abia, Imo, Rivers and Lagos.”

The survey was implemented by the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP), Federal Ministry of Health, National Population Commission (NPopC) and the National Bureau of Statistics.

During the launch of the report in Abuja, the Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole,

said the 2015 NMIS was different from that of 2010 because its data was disaggregated to provide state specific indicators which also provided the opportunity to develop state specific malaria control strategies as the country moved towards malaria elimination.

He said there were a lot of improvements in most malaria indicators between NMIS 2010 and NMIS 2015.

The percentage coverage of households with at least one long lasting insecticidal net increased from 42% in 2010 to 69% in 2015 while percentage utilization of the nets by under five children increased from 29% to 43%, he said.

He also said percentage uti-

lization by pregnant women increased from 28% in 2010 to 49% in 2015, adding that access to intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in pregnancy increased from 13% to 37%.

The minister said it is noteworthy that prevalence of malaria parasites among under five children decreased from 42% in 2010 to 27% in 2015.

He said in spite of the improvements, the country was still far from the vision of a malaria free Nigeria, adding that the report should help government and partners reappraise its efforts to fight malaria in line with the current National Malaria Strategic Plan.

Foreign 28

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

Trump rebuffs reports of shaky presidential transition ÎÎÎDonald Trump, United States

president elect appeared to be irritated at U.S. news media accounts that his transition was in turmoil after his aides pushed out two of his national security advisers from the transition group.

Trump however said that the presidential transition is going on unhindered, “It is going so smoothly.”

The U.S. President-elect Donald Trump said on Twitter late Tuesday that the week-old process of transferring power from President Barack Obama’s administration to his is going fine.

“Very organized process taking place as I decide on Cabinet and many other positions,” Trump wrote. “I am the only one who knows who the finalists are!”

Twenty minutes earlier, the Washington Post published on its website a sharply critical op-ed by former Republican national security official Eliot Cohen who wrote that he would not recommend that conservatives serve under Trump.

He said he had talked with nu-

Philippines, US future relation uncertain following Trump’s victory ÎÎÎ

A sense of uncertainty has gripped the Philippines following the election of Donald Trump as U.S. president last week.

Analysts and Philippine officials say a Trump presidency could bring about changes in relations between the two traditional allies, including bilateral economic and security ties.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has drawn closer to China in recent months, while openly feuding with President Barack Obama. Diplomatic relations between Washington and Manila soured after Duterte lashed out at the U.S. for criticizing his bloody anti-narcotic crackdown, which has left more than 4,000 dead since the campaign was launched in July.

Duterte this week said he hoped he would get along well with Trump. “Oh I’m sure. We don’t have a fight. I can always be a friend to anybody, especially to a president, chief executive of another country,” he said.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte

merous world leaders since his stunning upset victory a week ago in the lengthy 2016 presidential election campaign, including those from China, Russia, Britain, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Australia and New Zealand.

Cohen said there is always a level of disorder during the post-election transition that eventually works itself out, but that he believes this is not a normal transition and Trump’s will not be a normal presidential administration.

“Nemesis pursues and punishes all administrations, but this one will get a double dose,” he wrote.

“Until it can acquire some measure of humility about what it knows, and a degree of magnanimity to those who have opposed it, it will smash into crises and failures. With the disarray of its transition team, in a way, it already has.”

Before the election, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie was leading the transition team, a role he took on after months of supporting Trump when his own bid for the Republican Party nomination failed.

Donald Trump He was replaced Friday by Vice President-elect Mike Pence, who the Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday went on to order the removal of all lobbyists from the transition staff. Trump has promised to “drain the swamp” with a series of gov-

ernmental reforms that include restricting government officials from becoming lobbyists after they leave office. But those efforts may complicate his ability to fill the many positions that will be vacated when Obama’s term ends in January.

Putin withdraws signature from International Criminal Court ÎÎÎPresident Vladimir Putin has

announced that Russia henceforth will no longer participate in the International Criminal Court, as it has opted out.

Putin signed a decree Wednesday removing the country from the first legal body with permanent international jurisdiction to prosecute genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes.

Putin’s decree was published on the Kremlin’s website and a statement from Russia’s foreign ministry said, “The court did not live up to the hopes associated with it and

did not become truly independent.”

According to reports, Moscow is not “happy” with the way the ICC has treated Russia’s war with Georgia in 2008, adding it failed to see the actions by the Tbilisi government against civilians in South Ossetia - a pro-Moscow region.

“In these conditions we cannot speak of trust in the international criminal court,” the ministry said.

The decree comes a day after the U.N. General Assembly’s human rights committee backed a decision condemning Russia’s “temporary occupation of Crimea.”

Russia President Vladimir Putin

EU unveils new security check system for travelers ÎÎÎThe

European Union on Wednesday revealed plans for a fresh system of security checks on travelers allowed to enter Europe without visas in a move to crack down on fundamentalists.

People from 60 visa waiver countries, including the U.S., will have to pay 5 euros ($5.36) and fill out an online form to obtain clearance to travel within Europe’s 26-nation ID check-free area.

The EU’s security commissioner, Julian King, said that “by spotting problem individuals and stopping them from coming, we’ll enhance Europe’s internal security.”

The automated system would cross-check travelers against visa, criminal and stolen document

databases. The European Commission says filling out the form should take less than 10 minutes.

It will be valid for five years and multiple trips. Most people should get immediate approval, although some requests could take 72 hours to come through.

The EU’s top migration official, Dimitris Avramopoulos, said the system will help identify people who “may pose security threats, also irregular migration, or health risks, before they arrive at our borders. It will bridge somehow the existing information gap by gathering information that could be vital to national authorities.”

The United States introduced a similar travel authorization system after the Sept. 11 attacks.

In the past, EU officials routinely complained that it was tantamount to reintroducing visas.

But the deadly attacks on Paris and Brussels last year, in which a total of 162 people were killed, have spurred Europe’s own security clampdown.

Plans are also in the pipeline for an entry and exit scheme that would check all travelers, including European citizens, entering or leaving the passport-free area known as Schengen. That system is aimed at catching so-called foreign terrorist fighters who train or wage war in Syria and Iraq.

The Commission hopes that both this system and the new travel clearance will be up and running in 2020.

Final 3 Minnesotans to be sentenced in Islamic State case ÎÎÎ

Sentencing hearings are wrapping up for nine men convicted of plotting to travel to Syria to join the Islamic State group.

The final three defendants - Guled Omar, Mohamed Farah and Abdirahman Daud - will be sentenced Wednesday. Prosecutors say the 22-year-old men are part of a group of friends in Minnesota’s large Somali community who inspired each other to join the militant group.

Six men who pleaded guilty were sentenced on Monday and Tuesday.

Omar, Farah and Daud took their case to trial and were convicted of conspiracy to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization, as well as a more serious count of conspiracy to commit murder outside the U.S. That count carries a possible life sentence, but prosecutors are seeking sentences of 40 and 30 years.

Pakistan holds military drill near Indian border amid tensions ÎÎÎPakistan’s military has con-

ducted a major exercise of ground and air power near the border with India, showcasing “combatreadiness of the armed forces” amid heightened tensions and fears of another war between the rival nations.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif along with his military Chief General Raheel Sharif inspected the exercises, with foreign ambassadors also in attendance Wednesday in the central Khairpur Tamiwali region.

The drill, called Thunder Lightening (Raad ul Barq), involved combat aircraft, tanks, artillery, mobile missile launchers and other heavy weapons.

At the exercise, Sharif warned the Kashmir border situation “remains sensitive” and blamed India for committing “grave violations” of a mutually agreed ceasefire there. He was referring to a 2003 ceasefire truce that has been rendered ineffective in recent months.

He said the military exercise shows “Pakistan is ready to confront any ambitious and reckless move by its enemies.”

Pakistan’s Army Chief General Raheel Sharif

Pinnick tasks Falcons ahead AWCON 2016 ANDREW EKEJIUBA

H

ours before the Super Falcons departure for Cameroun to defend the Africa Women Cup of Nations (AWCON) title, NFF President Amaju Pinnick was at the team’s camp to offer words of motivation and encouragement.

Pinnick told the reigning African champions that the federation is fully behind them and that they are as impor-

tant as any other National Team.

“We are totally behind you and we cherish you as much as we cherish all other teams, and we are always proud about all you have achieved which remains a record in the continent of Africa.

We are hopeful that you will remain the champions of Africa after the finals in Cameroun.

“We do not take you for granted. We will always treat you as the champions that you are and hopefully, our financial

situation will improve very soon and we will be able to practically demonstrate how much we treasure you,” Pinnick said.

The NFF boss then prayed with the ladies and reiterated that the Federation has great plans for them and Nigeria women football going forward.

The NFF President’s visit was one of numerous morale–boosting visits by the Nigerian authorities to the Super Falcons, with the country’s Vice Presi-

dent, Professor Yemi Osinbajo also visiting the ladies and promising Government support and encouragement penultimate Tuesday.

Super Eagles’ Technical Adviser, Gernot Rohr has been to the Falcons’ training twice, stating that he is very confident they can bring home the Cup to Nigeria from Cameroun.

The Africa Women Cup of Nations will take place from November 19 to December 3, 2016.

Page 29

Pinnick

Thursday, NOVEMBER 17, 2016

ANDREW EKEJIUBA

T Legends Wrestle for National Unity:

Ultimate Commander storms U.S for preparation

Ultimate Commander

he Universal Professional Wrestling Federation (UPWF) World Heavyweight Champion, Osita Offor, also known as De Ultimate Commander, jetted-off to United States on Wednesday to continue preparation for the forthcoming international wrestling festival, tagged ‘Legends Wrestle for National Unity’.

The festival holds from December 6 to 10 in Enugu.

The championship being bankrolled by the Enugu State government, according to the organisers, would be used to honour Nigeria’s past and present heroes.

Speaking to Extra Time before his departure to United States, De Ultimate Commander disclosed that he would train with some of the best American wrestlers for three weeks before coming back to the country on December 7.

“While in the U.S, I will take part in some training fights before leaving for Nigeria on December 5 with the top wrestlers billed to fight at the Legends Wrestle for Unity festival. We hope to arrive in Nigeria on December 7,” he said.

Also speaking on the festival, Enugu State Sports Commissioner, Charles Ndukwe, said the ‘Legends Wrestle for National Unity’ aims at leveraging on the uniqueness of sports, as a universal language, and wrestling, which is a cultural sport in Nigeria, will help preach to the country’s youths the importance of national peace and unity.

He further revealed that one of the events lined up to herald the festival is the handing over of the unity torch to Enugu State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, by the Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, after which the torch will travel through the six geopolitical zones and back to Enugu.

“There is also an essay writing competition for Unity Schools across the country, which theme is, ‘The Role of Sports in National Unity.’ This will enable the youths lend their voice to the project,” Ndukwe concluded.

Pillars close to signing Grant eyes AFCON glory with Black Stars Enyimba quartet G F ormer Nigerian champions, Kano Pillars, are inching closer to securing the signatures of four players from rivals, Enyimba.

After putting five players in the transfer list ahead of the new Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season, Enyimba quartet of Chinedu Udoji, Kamal Sikiru, Emmanuel Anyanwu and Abdulrasak Aliyu have agreed personal terms with the Kano club.

However, reports revealed that the deals for the players, now free agents following the expiration of their contracts with former CAF Champions League winners, Enyimba, is not cast in stone yet as the four men are expected to officially

sign for two to three years each.

It is believed that the recent hiring of former Enyimba manager, Kadiri Ikhana, by Kano Pillars may have influenced the decisions of the four players to move to the north following a disappointing last season with the Aba club in the NPFL especially.

The potential signing of the four players by Kano Pillars will represent a huge coup in the Nigeria topflight as Udoji, captain of Enyimba and Anyanwu are the Aba club’s first-choice centre-backs.

Kano Pillars finished last season in seventh place in the top division and are now looking to challenge for the title next term by bolstering their squad.

Udoji

hana coach Avram Grant has shrugged off questions over his future and says he wants to take the team to Africa Cup of Nations glory in 2017.

The Israeli has come in for criticism following Ghana’s poor recent performances. The Black Stars notably lost to Egypt last weekend to put their hopes of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup in danger.

The Ghana FA was set to discuss the coach’s future in their next executive meeting, but Grant says he would rather focus on the upcoming AFCON. “Yes, we have the African Cup. Our target is very clear. I always want to finish my contract. Our contract is the African Cup that was two years and three months,’’ Grant told reporters. ‘’I want to win the African Cup. It will not be easy - there’re other good teams

but this is possible and I want to do it. ‘’In football you cannot think beyond two, three months. Two, three months too much. Let’s do what we need to do at the African Cup and then we think about what’s next.’’

Ghana will face Egypt, Uganda and Mali in the group stage of the 2017 AFCON.

Grant

30

Thursday, November 17, 2016

EXTRATIME

ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE… ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE… ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE

Klopp

Klopp in anxious wait over injured Lallana

L

iverpool boss Jurgen Klopp faces an anxious wait to discover the extent of the injury Adam Lallana suffered playing for England.

The 28-year-old limped off after 25 minutes of England’s 2-2 draw with Spain at Wembley

on Tuesday.

Liverpool travel to Southampton on Saturday to play Lallana’s former club in the Premier League.

Lallana has been in impressive form of late and scored England’s opening goal from the penalty

spot, after Jamie Vardy had been pulled down when latching on to a through pass from the Liverpool midfielder.

But 15 minutes later Lallana went down under a challenge from Thiago Alcantara and was unable to continue.

Vardy scored a second for England just after the break, but two late goals from Iago Aspas and Isco earned Spain a draw.

Lallana has scored six times for club and country in 15 appearances this season.

Williams takes Swansea role S wansea have confirmed the appointment of England U-20 coach Paul Williams as their new assistant manager.

Williams will join the Swans ahead of Saturday’s Premier League trip to Everton after leaving his position with the Football Association.

Williams, 45, has signed a two-and-a-half year contract with the Swans, working as number two to the Welsh club’s manager Bob Bradley, who was appointed last month.

“I am excited about having the chance to work with Paul,” Bradley said.

“There have been discussions from the start

about adding one more member of staff so that we would have one more coach on the pitch every day.

“The first month here was very busy, but this international break has given us the opportunity to finalise discussions, and we are pleased that Paul can join us.

“He gained a lot of Premier League experience in his playing days, while he has also done a lot of good work as a coach.

“For instance, he helped bring through some very good players during his time at Southampton, while everything I have heard

Howe hails

about the work he did with England has been positive.

“He has done a lot of on-field coaching, and that’s what we are looking for. I am excited to have another guy on the field alongside me and Alan Curtis.”

Williams played for Derby, Coventry, Southampton and Stoke, before embarking on a coaching career.

He has worked in the United States, with Southampton’s academy and latterly the FA, where he assisted Aidy Boothroyd with England Under-20s.

Wilshere’s work ethic E

ddie Howe has praised Jack Wilshere for his dedication and integration into the Bournemouth squad since arriving on loan from Arsenal.

The England midfielder has enjoyed a promising start to his stint on the south coast after regaining his fitness and was recalled to the national side for the last international break, having missed out on Sam Allardyce’s only England squad in August.

Howe says that while he always knew of Wilshere’s technical ability, it has been the 24-year-old’s work ethic that has most impressed the Bournemouth boss.

“His quality on the ball, his technical ability, is second to none and I think he is so comfortable he’s made us a totally different team with the ball,” Howe said.

“What’s pleasantly surprised me has been his mentality, his attitude to training, his ability to mould himself to the team, to fit into that team ethic that we have.

“His defensive performances have been of the highest class, so I’ve been really, really pleased with him and it’s been great to work with him.”

Howe believes Wilshere is benefitting from being able to concentrate on

football away from the pressure of being at Arsenal.

The Cherries manager added: “The thing for us was to get Jack to enjoy his work, his training, try to get his mind off everything that goes around that - he’s under a lot of pressure, he’s under the microscope with everything he does.

“I think he can achieve anything that he wants. He’s been hampered by serious injuries and when you’ve been out of football for two years, it’s a very difficult thing to pick up your highest level, so he’s building towards that and he’s improving every game.”

Wilshere

Man United target Napoli star Hysaj Manchester United are considering a €30m bid for Hysaj according to reports.

The Albanian made the move to Naples from Empoli in 2015, along with Coach Maurizio Sarri. Napoli paid the Tuscan club €5m for the highly-rated 22-yearold, but President Aurelio De Laurentiis wants to hang on to his asset. United boss, Jose Mourinho wants to bring Hysaj to Manchester, but the player remains a key figure in Napoli’s defence.

Chelsea in hot chase for Inter’s Brozovic

Brozovic Chelsea are preparing a move for Inter Milan midfielder Marcelo Brozovic.

Reports revealed that Chelsea are ready to make a 20m euros offer to Inter Milan in a bid to sign Brozovic in January. The Croatia international is high on Antonio Conte’s wish list for the January transfer market and it appears the Blues will do everything to try and bring him to Stamford Bridge.

New EFL format proposals scrapped

Radical plans to revamp the English Football League system have been scrapped after talks between the EFL Board and Football Association (FA) broke down. In May the EFL Board revealed proposals to create a new division, expanding the overall number of member clubs from 92 to 100, split evenly across five leagues as part of the body’s Whole Game Solution. However, one condition of the fresh format was a need for the FA to reschedule FA Cup fixtures for midweek to free up further weekend slots for league games, which has proven an insurmountable obstacle in negotiations.

Thursday, November 17, 2016

EXTRATIME

EURO…EURO… EURO…EURO… EURO…EURO… EURO…EURO… EURO…EURO…

Messi beats Ronaldo to greatest player award Aurier accepts Drogba’s rebuke

S

erge Aurier says he welcomed the advice of Didier Drogba over his behaviour after being admonished by the former Ivory Coast star.

Aurier continues to attract criticism following an infamous incident last season, when he directed homophobic slurs at his then Paris Saint-Germain coach Laurent Blanc and team-mates in an interview broadcast on social media platform Periscope.

The right-back, who was disciplined by the club, has found himself embroiled in several other controversies on and off the field, prompting a measured rebuke from his former international team-mate this week.

“When you have youngsters shouting your name and asking for autographs, you need to watch what you do,” Drogba told reporters when asked about the 23-year-old.

Barca announce lucrative Rakuten shirt deal Barcelona have announced a deal which will see Japanese company Rakuten become the club’s main global partner and shirt sponsors from the 2017-18 season. The agreement, which also sees Rakuten named “global innovation and entertainment partners”, will ensure the brand’s name appears on Barca matchday jerseys for an initial four years, with the option of a fifth.

Rakuten will replace Qatar Airways as shirt sponsors, with the new deal worth €55million per season.

Celtic play down B Gerrardlink C eltic manager Brendan Rodgers has refused to be drawn on whether he will try to lure Steven Gerrard to the club in January.

The 36-year-old midfielder confirmed he is parting company with Los Angeles Galaxy at the end of his 18-month contract, which expires at the turn of the year.

Gerrard, who won 114 international caps for England, worked with Rodgers for three years when the pair were at Liverpool.

Bookies have made Celtic favourites to sign Gerrard in the January transfer window, while Newcastle, where another former Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is in charge, have also been linked with the player.

While Rodgers reiterated his praise for the Anfield icon, he insists any business involving recruitment will be conducted in private by Celtic.

Gerrard

Messi

arcelona superstar Lionel Messi has beaten Real Madrid rival Cristiano Ronaldo to the title of the greatest player of the last 10 years.

The 29-year-old forward recorded a landslide win, which had drawn more than 27,000 votes from across the globe by the time that the poll closed at 12.00CET on Tuesday, with the diminutive No.10 claiming an impressive 49 per cent majority share (12,800 votes).

Ronaldo may have pipped Messi to top spot in this year’s Goal 50 to equal the Argentine’s record of four wins but the Real Madrid ace had to settle for second place here, on 39%, with 10,234 votes.

Both Andres Iniesta and Zlatan Ibrahimovic finished on 3% but it was the Spanish midfield maestro who claimed third place, having drawn 851 votes to the Swedish striker’s tally of 693.

The six other candidates all picked up a 1% share but it was Madrid defender Sergio Ramos (379) who took fifth place, by a margin of just 39 votes from former Barcelona playmaker Xavi (340).

31

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Pinnick tasks Falcons ahead AWCON 2016

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Nigeria’s Falconets celebrate their win over Canada.

Yusuf

ANDREW EKEJIUBA

FIFA U-20 WWC:

Dalung,

Danjuma hail Falconets win

Neymar

T

he Honorable Minister of Youth and Sports Barrister Solomon Dalung has congratulated the spirited performance of the Falconets at the ongoing 2016 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Papua New Guinea.

In a message to the Peter Dedevbo-led team, Dalung said the 3-1 win over Canada is coming at the right time after the victory recorded by the Super Eagles in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State on Saturday against Algeria.

“The result can’t come at a better time after the World cup qualifiers victory against Algeria on Saturday in Uyo. It has once again given Nigerians home and abroad hope that the team can challenge for the title,” he said.

Dalung commended the team for their resilience and ability to triumph in the face of adversity after bouncing back from a goal down to defeat Canada by 3 goals to 1 courtesy of goals from Chinaza Uchendu, Joy Bokiri and Chinwendu Ihezuo.

According to him, the defeat against Japan in their opening match of the competition was not the true reflection of the overall ability of the team.

With a seemingly tough task in their last group game against Spain who currently occupy the top spot in Group B following their victories over Japan and Canada, Dalung charged them to go for the maximum points which will boost their chances of advancing to the next round of the competition.

He urged Nigerians to continue to support the team irrespective of the outcome of their last match against Spain as he explained that participation at this level in sports is for developmental purposes.

Meanwhile, former Super Falcons head coach, Christopher Danjuma has described as true Nigerian character the Falconets’ heart-warming win against Canada.

Danjuma said though majority of the Falconets are rookies compared with the opponents they still went ahead to prove their worth with a resounding victory against Canada.

Falconets will confront the group’s leaders, Spain in a-must-win clash on Sunday at the PNG Football Stadium in Port Moresby to stand a chance of progression to the next stage of the biennial football showpiece.

Business Times Daily Times Nigeria

FG to provide 490,000 jobs through ICT Page B2 – Ngige

Competition law to better Nigeria’s business environment Bonny Amadi Stakeholders in Nigeria’s industrial sector have emphasised the need for quick passage of the competition and consumer protection bill, which stands not only to benefit business organisations, but the larger society and the economy.

At a forum organised by the private sector coalition in Lagos on Wednesday, stakeholders said that while lack of enabling law on competition has frustrated many companies from Nigeria, many companies have exploited the lacuna to exploit consumers and frustrate likely competitor, while many other local companies have been forced to close down due to competition with imported goods or monopolists operating in the country.

Resident, Cuts’ International, Consumer sovereignty organisation, Mr. Leonard Ugbajah said that the competition and consumer protection bill, government sponsored, was presented to the national assembly during the terminal period of the Jonathan’s administration, and was not given attention, but has been represented to the national assembly as a private member sponsored bill.

He said that the bill has passed first reading in the Senate and has been referred to a commitCONTINUED ON PAGE B2

FG recovers N4.2bn from collecting banks

Thursday, November 17, 2016

FG partners World Bank to revamp irrigation schemes

Page B3

Page B8

Nigeria needs 180,000 MW of electricity - GenCos Ïd ƕ ƓƆôƏƆ ƏƆ Ɨƕ Ƈ Ə ƗƏƕ Ɔ Opeoluwani Akintayo Association of Power Generation Companies GenCos, has said the country needs 180,000 megawatts of electricity to be sufficient.

The body made this known

through its Executive Secretary of the Association, Dr. (Mrs) Joy Ogaji on Tuesday in Lagos. According to Ogaji, the need for 180,000 megawatts electricity was due to Nigeria’s 180 million population.

“The rule of thumb for an in-

dustrial nation is about 1MW for every thousands of the population. This puts Nigeria’s energy needs in about 180,000MW range given its population of about 180 million. The Federal Government has a target of 40,000MW by the year 2020.”

“It is not about projecting the megawatts, we should also put other building blocks which goes with generating the megawatts such as a firm, independent and knowledgeable regulator, a default proof payment plan, firm payment guarantees and incentives for investors. In summary, government providing an enCONTINUED ON PAGE B2 CONTINUED ON PAGE B2

NRC

Left: Deputy Director (Admin and Human Resources) Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) Mr Bashar Abdulmalik, Director of Finance NRC; Mr Felix Njoku and Managing Director, NRC Mr Fidet Okhiria during the first meeting with the staff at the NRC headquarters in Lagos on Wednesday

Mauritius hosts Afreximbank structured trade finance training Banks and other financial institutions involved in financing trade in Africa will gather in Mauritius from 21 to 24 November for a seminar organized by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) to enhance Africa’s capacity to take advantage of opportunities offered by structured trade finance to boost trade in the face of challenging global econom-

ic environment of contracting demand and creeping protectionism.

According to information released by the Bank, Rameswurlall Basant Roi, Governor of the Central Bank of Mauritius, will chair the opening ceremony. He will be joined by Kee Chong Li Kwong Wing, Chairman of State Bank Mauritius (SBM), Caroline Abel, Governor of the Central Bank of

Seychelles, and Kutoane Kutoane, Chief Executive Officer of the Export Credit Insurance Corporation of South Africa.

The Afreximbank 2016 Annual Structured Trade Finance Seminar will expose the more that 100 trade finance practitioners expected to attend to the fundamentals of structured trade finance.

Afreximbank President Dr. Bene-

dict Oramah said in Cairo today that the organization of the seminar was motivated by the Bank’s goal of “strengthening the capacity of its partners and clients in understanding trade and trade related project financing issues as they affect Africa,” particularly given the widening trade financing gap and the challenge of increasing the continent’s share of global trade.

The President added that the seminar would provide “a platform for African bankers and other trade finance practitioners to meet and network, thereby making a major contribution in boosting African trade,” pointing out that many participants had gone on to successfully meet client trade finance needs by tapping into such contacts to facilitate cross-border business transactions.

Business News B2

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

Competition law to better Nigeria’s business environment CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1

NDDC

L-R: The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Mr. Nsima Ekere and the Chairman of the Commission’s Governing Board, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, during an extra-ordinary meeting of the board in Abuja on Monday.

FAAN commissions carousels, conveyor belt at MMIA Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN has commissioned three ultra-modern carousels and conveyor belts at the D-Arrivals of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

FAAN said this was in a bid to conform with global trends and International best practices.

A statement signed by the Ag.general manager, corporate affairs of FAAN, Mrs Henrietta Yakubu stated that the commissioning of the facilities will reduce delays and fast track departure formalities of arriving passengers.

Mrs Yakubu noted that the facility was one of many projects embarked by the federal government to facilitate passengers’ facilitation at the airports to keep pace with the growing traffic which has been on the increase since the commencement of the remodeling project, and the immense growth of the country as the fastest growing economy in Africa.

According to her: “The timing of this world class facility is in consonance with the Authority’s readiness to thrill her esteem airport users with a fascinating travel experience especially with the approaching festive season usually associated with increased inbound passengers and luggage.

She assured all airport users of improved quality services in line with global best practices, stressing that FAAN is not unmindful of the need to provide world class facilities inspite of the economic challenges facing the country.

The carousels were commissioned by Engr. Ephraim Nwodo, general manager, mechanical on behalf of the Authority.

tee for scrutiny, while the House of bill is now undergoing public hearing, having passed two readings in the House of Representatives.

Ugbajah said that even through there are organisations that may be feeding fat on exploitation of monopoly status, the bill has gained the support of cross section of trade groups, and hence there disentwining voices against the bill have waned significantly.

FG to provide 490,000 jobs through ICT – Ngige Joy Ekeke The Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, has announced that the Federal Government will create about 490,000 jobs through its recently launched Smart Farmers ICT platform.

He made the remark at the 30th Lagos International Trade Fair, with the theme: “Positioning the Nigerian Economy for Diversification and Sustainable Growth,” over the weekend.

Urging Nigerians to embrace positive change towards job creation in a bid to turn around Nigeria’s fortunes, Ngige stated that the government is deter-

mined to fight unemployment.

The Minister said, “Prior to the discovery of oil in Nigeria, the bedrock of the economy was agriculture. At independence, agricultural accounted for 70 percent of GDP. 25 years after independence, we experienced an ugly reversal with food items accounting for over 50 per cent of imports.

“When we say agriculture holds the key to effective, functional and sustainable economic diversification, we are sure of our convictions.”

It will be recalled that a Media aide to the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, Laolu Akande, had recently disclosed that 200, 000

Ngigie graduates had been employed by the Federal Government to work as teachers and agriculture extension workers across the country.

NCC charges start-ups on efficient innovation The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on Wednesday advised Small and Medium Entrepreneurs (SMEs)/ young innovators to come up with efficient innovations that would benefit the country.

The Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Prof. Umar Danbatta, gave the advice in Bangkok, while showcasing applications of eight Nigerian SMEs/young innovators to the ICT international community.

The showcasing took place at the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) Telecom World, 2016, which began on Nov. 14.

Danbatta said that an efficient and effective innovation would

attract investment for the good of the developer and the country.

The regulatory body sponsored eight start-ups to ITU Telecom World, 2016, to showcase their applications/products to attract investment.

Danbatta noted that the products of the innovators were still at the prototype stage, and should be made effective and efficient when taken to the next stage.

The executive vice president said that the innovators had demonstrated groundbreaking and entrepreneurial skills that would go a long way in accelerating the desired change in the country.

According to him, acceleration of innovation drives change in the way things are done, ensur-

ing a more effective and efficient manner. ”I have seen that these very proud Nigerians have come up with innovations that will make a difference on the way and manner we do certain things. ”Our mandate is to identity innovations, accelerate the process of innovations in order to improve on the national system of innovations for the country. ”There are agencies of government in the country that are responsible for the escalation of these innovations to the next stage. ”We do the headhunting to find out young Nigerians with very bright ideas that they have translated into innovations.

According to him, the competition and consumer protection bill is to be administered by the federal Competition and consumer protection board, and adjudicated by the umpire, the Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal.

He said that the bill when passed into law, will ensure that companies does not enjoy monopolist status to exploit consumers and frustrate other entrepreneurs working towards the nation’s economic development.

Nigeria needs 180,000 MW of electricity - GenCos CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1

abling environment and avoiding interference, focusing on policies and giving direction.”

“More often than not, the GenCos have sufficient generated power available, without the capacity to transmit and distribute to the final consumers, all the effort is wasted. That is the scenario; that is the basic dilemma the industry faces.

180 million megawatts of electricity is a far cry from the barely 5000MW presently being generated by the GenCos. Towards supply of electricity during dry season in Nigeria, the GenCos said they are committed and ready to improve power generation through all power plants including its Hydro Power Plants companies across the country.

Emphasizing this, she added that the Hydro (water source) Power segments among the power Generation Companies are up to the tasks as all mechanisms have been put in place to ensure optimal supply of power to the grid during the yuletide period and beyond.

“The Hydro GenCos are very much aware that due to the cessation of rain during the dry/ harmattan season, power supply is usually a challenge. Knowing this, adequate water conservation plans have been put in place to ensure optimal generation. This has been on-going and we intend to keep improving our efforts during this period of year.”

“Furthermore, we have serious engagements with the gas suppliers through the Gas aggregator (GACN) to lessen related challenges within our control. We believe that this will ensure that our gas supply does not suffer any fatal disruption as necessary to balance the generation within this period.”

Money Market B3

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

Three banks report N1.02trn bad loans Stories by Motolani Oseni As the nation and private businesses operating in the country continue to source for way out in the current economic recession, Diamond Bank Plc, Ecobank Plc, First Bank of Nigeria Holdings Plc and recorded over N1.02 trillion Non-performing Loans in nine months of 2016, investigation by our correspondent has shown.

This represents an increase of 221 percent from N316.9 billion recorded in the 2015 corresponding period.

The weak macroeconomic indices in 2016 (rising inflation, foreign exchange scarcity, Gross Domestic Product contraction) continue to affect these financial institutions’ business activities and performance.

FBN Holdings in the nine months ended September announced that its Non-performing

Loans significantly increase by 550 percent to N616.7 billion compared to N94.9 billion recorded in nine months of 2015.

The increased bad loans of FBN Holdings in the period raised its non-performing loans/ gross loans to 25 percent in third quarternine months of 2016, above the five percent threshold of the Central Bank of Nigeria.

On the $400 million Atlantic Energy loan, management of FBN Holdings had said that the recovery progress was significantly slower than anticipated.

“The current challenges in the upstream oil & gas sector coupled with the cloudy outlook for crude oil prices may stall the remediation of this loan and management may have to increase the credit provisions for the loan by end of 2016 financial year,” researchers at CardinalStone explained.

“However, there was good

news on the Aiteo’s credit facility as the company ramped up production from 20,000 bpd to 90,000 bpd. According to management, the restructuring of this loan should be finalized in a few weeks,” the firm stated.

“In all, we expect coverage ratio to improve marginally upon the completion of the restructuring of Aiteo’s credit facility but we remain wary of Atlantic energy loan and the impact on shareholders’ funds if the bank is to make full provision for this asset.”

For Ecobank, the pan-African bank Non-performing Loans stood at N284.1 billion ($930 million at N305.5/$) in nine monthsof 2016, as the financial institution said it was primarily driven by deterioration in economic conditions.

“We are working hand in hand with our clients to address problem loans across all of our

businesses. The non-performing loans coverage ratio was 67percent compared to 73per cent in September 2015,” the bank explained.

In a decisive approach in managing loans book, both financial institutions made huge provision for bad loans.

Furthermore, Diamond Bank Plc for the period recorded N116.1 billion Non-performing Loans from N38.1 billion in nine months ended September 2015.

Although total comprehensive income declined by 26.3 per cent year on year to N13.2 billion, with profit before tax shrinking to N3.5 billion on the back of impairment charges as the bank opted for prudent provisioning by cleansing its books of assets with poor quality, thus paving the way for operational efficiency and improved earnings for the business years ahead.

CIBN holds 2016 bankers’ dinner The Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Mr. Godwin Emefiele, Lagos State governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode; President of Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Chief Nike Akande; and all bank chief executives, among other dignitaries, are expected at this year Annual Bankers Dinner in Lagos.

The industry annual event is put together by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), and will hold on Friday, November 18, 2016.

According to the institute, “The high point of the event is when the apex bank governor will use this unique forum to unveil the apex bank’s fiscal policy direction for the banking and finance services industry for 2017 in line with the Federal Government’s vision to combat the current economic recession.”

Emefiele will deliver a keynote address on the “State of Banking Industry and the Economy, while Mrs. Akande, a former minister who now presides over LCCI will propose the toast at the event.

Mr. James F. Entwistle, the U.S Ambassador to Nigeria will propose the Toast to the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Stakeholders in the finance Sector, top Government functionaries, and eminent personalities from selected Private Sector on matters affecting the banking industry are all expected at this year dinner.

First Bank enhances savings culture among Nigerian youths Diamond Bank MD, Uzoma Dozie

First Bank MD, Adesola Adeduntan

Ecobank MD, Charles Kie

FG recovers N4.2bn from collecting banks The Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) on Wednesday said it had recovered N4.2 billion in remittances from collecting banks into the federation account.

Mr Shettima Gana, the commission’s acting Chairman, said this while inducting the lead consultants and other auditors on the verification and reconciliation of revenue collections and remittances by the collecting banks.

The collecting banks collect excise duties and taxes on behalf of

the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).

He said that the money was recovered during the exercise that was carried out on banks’ collections of these taxes and duties between January 2008 and June 2012.

Gana said that there was about N20 billion that was still outstanding but had not been recovered from the banks.

He also said that the success recorded in the first phase of the exercise made the National Econom-

ic Council (NEC) approve a second phase which would cover July 2012 to December 2015.

Gana said that the commission had the constitutional mandate to monitor accruals into the Federation Account and disbursements of the revenue.

“Several years ago , the commission observed discrepancies regarding the excessive charges, Commission On Turnover (COT) for collections and delayed remittances made by banks on behalf of FIRS and NCS,’’ he said.

Gana ‘

First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to drive financial literacy among the youth and the unbanked segment of the economy.

Speaking at the World Savings Day event in Epe , the bank’s Head Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability, Ismail Omamegbe, said the Bank was totally committed to deepening financial inclusion in the country.

He also stressed that the bank would continue to work towards this aspiration by extending banking services to the under-banked businesses, communities and individuals across the country with our extensive network of over 750 branches. “First Bank would continue to assist the Nigerian child and young adult to build a prosperous future by extending financial education and services to them early in life”, he said.

Capital Market B4 Banking Sector procures 30.5 % total capital import in Q3 Ï ƍ ƏƐƇ Ƌƈ ƈ ƒƆ ƐƌƆ Ɛ ƈ ƆƎƑƈƐƈƆ Ƈ ƋƋ Ɛ ƈ Ɔ ƕƆ Ə Ƌ Ɠ The banking sector with $555.52 million, or 30.49 percent of the total capital imported into the country in the third quarter of 2016, regained its position as the sector to import the largest value of capital, according to the capital importation report from the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

The data shows that the total value of share capital imported was $646.28 million, which represents an increase of 85.72 percent relative to the previous quarter.

Meanwhile the report also noted that portfolio investments in equity dropped by 11 percent to $201 million. According to the report, the third quarter was the first since 2007 Q2 in which Equity was not the largest part of portfolio investment.

It said much of the quarterly increase in the value of capital importation came from debt financing adding that this was the first quarter on record in which no capital was imported in the form of FDI. Inflows into equities were $201.12 million in the Q3, compared to previous highs of $4.930billion in Q1 of 2013 and $3.875 billion in second quarter of 2014.

While inflows into equities fell, the total capital imported into the country in Q3 rose from the level in Q2. According to NBS.

dƐ ƏƈƆ Ƅƕ Ƈ Ƌ Ƅƈ ƗƆ Ƌ The equities market continued downward Wednesday as the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) key indicators depreciated by 0.79 percent.

Month to date (MTD) investors have recorded N529.8 billion in equity price losses.

The All Share Index (ASI) closed at 25,653.14, against 25,857.06 which opened the market. The ASI lost 0.50 percent on Tuesday, while YTD (year to date) loss stood at 10.44 percent.

The ASI shed 203.92 points compared to 129.75 points, while the market capitalization dropped N70.2 billion to close at N8.830 trillion, bringing a total investment depreciation of N529.8 billion since the beginning of November.

The price movement table showed that six companies gained against 33 losers. 7up led the declining stocks by 9.74 percent to close at N129.36 per share, this was followed by Transcorp Hotels that shed 9.66 percent to close at N4.77 per share and Paintcom that lost 9.52 percent to close at 76 kobo per share.

Transcorp and Forte Oil likewise dropped 7.59 and 7.43 percent each to close at 73 kobo and N87.02 per share respectively.

On the other hand, Fidson Healthcare Pharmaceuticals led

the gainers chart with a 4.88 percent growth to close at N1.29 per share, followed by International Breweries with a gain of 4.68 percent to close at N19.89 per share, and Union Bank of Nigeria 3.37 percent growth to close at N4.30 per share. Eco Transnational Incorporated added 2.00 percent to close at N9.71 per share and Africa Prudential Registrars emerged the top fifth gainer with an appreciation of 1.15 percent to close at N2.63 per share.

Market performance as measured by the total volume traded,

dropped to 145.7 million units valued at N1.350 billion in 2,421 deals compared to 189.7 million units valued at N905.1 million exchanged in 2,417 deals, in previous session.

Zenith Bank emerged the most traded stock for the day with 19.3 million shares valued at N272.1 million. Access Bank followed with 16.9 million shares worth N91.3 million, while UBA traded 12.6 million shares valued at N53.8 million.

Gé`ë 0 Ƒ ƗƆƏè MƆƓ ƍƐƆƏ Ɗ Ɛ ƏƆè Gƈ Ɨƈ ƆƌƄƆì ƈƆƇ &ƔƆƅƑƐƈƒƆè dƐ Ƅƈƅ 9 j 6 ƋƗƈ ^Ƌƅè LƏ ê d Ƌ # ƒƈƗé Ə Ɨ &ƗƈƐ Əè 0 ƏƄƆ z ƌ ƇƏƈƅ è LƆƐ ƈƋ `Ɔ ƑƊ Ɛ Ɛ Ɔ ƋƋ ƇƏƈƅ 0ƈ ƋƆ Ƈ Ɛ Ɔ ƋƋ ƇƏƈƅ Ƒ ƈ Ɔ GƆ ƗƆƏ Ɠ ƏƗ Ɠ ƈƅ ƆƋƗ ƈ C Ɔ ƄƑƏ è d ƑƐ ƇƏƈƅ ƏƆƅƆ ƐƋƕê # ƒƈƗé Ə Ɠ Ɛ Ɔ ƋƋ ƇƏƈƅ Ƒ ƈ Ɔ z ƌ Ƈ Ɛ Ɔ Ɔ Ə Ɠ ƏƗê

ing Partner of Helios Investment Partners LLp, a private investment firm with its principal office in the United Kingdom, formed to pursue alternative asset class investments in sub-saharan Africa, specializing in investment in companies, growth capital for private enterprises, restructurings, joint ventures, startups and structured investments.

Prior to co-founding Helios Investment Partners, Mr. Soyoye was a principal responsible for Telecoms & Media Investments across Europe for TPG Capital.

dƑƌƌ Əƕ Ƈ ƅƐƈƒƈƐƈƆ Md& d9 #& Gd yRGnL& y Gn& ^

Equities Market: Investors’ lose N523bn MTD

STANBIC IBTC

GTB appoints Soyoye director The Guaranty Trust Bank Plc has appointed Mr. Babatunde T. Soyoye as an Independent NonExecutive Director to its board.

His appointment is to fill the vacancy created on the Board by the retirement of Mr. Andrew Alli, who was an independent non-executive director of the bank Mr. Soyoye is a seasoned professional with over twenty four years work experience, twenty one of which has been spent in investment/financial advisory services.

He is the co-founder and manag-

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

25,653.14 2,421.00 145,744,062.00 1,350,135,005.87 8,830,867,852,817.80

ASEA, SISI adopt common certification standard in capital markets African Securities Exchanges Association (ASEA) and the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI) have endorsed a common certification standard in capital markets, aimed at promoting professionalism.

The two organisations that promotes securities trading globally recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to provide an effective framework to develop a common certification programme across the 26 ASEA Member Exchanges.

The aim of the partnership is to promote professionalism and develop channels for capacity building and knowledge sharing to support the growth of the capital markets industry in Africa. ASEA and CISI will work together to provide a common cer-

tification framework for ASEA members enabling practitioners to achieve internationally recognised qualifications that are relevant to their job.

ASEA President and CEO at the Nigerian Stock Exchange Oscar Onyema, said; ‘We are pleased to welcome the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment as an Associate member of ASEA. One of the focus areas of my Presidency of ASEA is human resources development across member exchanges. I believe that trained practitioners and trusted individuals are key to boosting professionalism, and in turn enhancing the attractiveness of Africa as an investment destination. We look forward to working with the CISI and benefitting from their international footprint and globally portable

qualifications’.

Chartered MCSI, Global Business Director at the CISI Kevin Moore said; ‘We are delighted to have become part of the ASEA membership and to be able to offer our experience to introduce internationally recognised qualifications and certification.

“The CISI has been working internationally for 10 years and in Africa for three years. During this time we have supported the demand across the region to grow the financial services profession, to standardise the entry requirements by introducing certification and licensing and also realign professional and labour skills. We look forward to attending the ASEA Annual Conference at the end of November in Kigali and working in partnership with ASEA’.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

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NSE All Share Index

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29,500

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B5

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

Nigerian Breweries rebrands Goldberg as ‘Your Excellency’ Nigerian Breweries Plc recently rebranded Goldberg lager beer as “Your Excellency” in a new credential campaign launched in Lagos and Ibadan. According to the company, “Your Excellency”, as an appellation for Goldberg, reinforces its leading position in the market.

Speaking on this development, Corporate Communications/Brand PR Manager, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Patrick Olowokere said: “As you know, the honorific, “Your Excellency” is used to address the highest authorities in many political, religious and monarchical circles. As a beer brewed to golden standards by the master brewer, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Goldberg’s excellent credentials earns it the name “Your Excellency” among its peers.

B6 Brands & Marketing

Delay in reconstituting APCON threatens advertising practice Stories by Godwin Anyebe The non-constitution of the governing council of the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON) has become worrisome to those in the business. APCON came into being with the Advertising Practitioners Act No. 55 of 1988, as amended by Act No. 93 of 1992 and Act No. 116 of 1993 (now Advertising Practitioners Registration Act Cap A7 of 2004).

The law gives APCON powers to control and regulate all aspects and ramifications of advertising practice in the country.

APCON maintains a strong focus on its vision of promoting responsible and ethical advertising practice, acts as the conscience of society in matters of commercial communications and as a watchdog for consumers. It also manages the need and

interests of stakeholders in Nigeria’s advertising industry.

APCON works alongside specialized advertizing associations in regulating the conduct of their member organization to ensure a socially responsible practice. It also undertakes on pre-exposure approval of all advertisements, thereby checking abuses including misleading statements, spurious testimonials, visual and verbal exaggerations, misleading offers, immoral suggestions or pictures offensive to public decency, etc.

However, APCON, as a regulating agency, currently faces some challenges, one of which is the absence of a governing council. It would be recalled that the body was dissolved earlier this year alongside other government parastatals. This lacuna has become a source for concern among advertising practitio-

ners and Nigerian consumers at large.

Speaking on this issue to Daily Times, the president of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN), Kayode Oluwasona, said: “I must tell you I am worried as well as other members of the association. We are worried that the council has not been reconstituted as at now. The issue about this has much to do with the law.

I think we are trying to study it.

The council was reconstituted in March and shortly after, a new government came in. Naturally as you would expect of new regimes particularly when there was a change from one political party to another, government parastatals’ head had to change to reflect the new thinking. That is actually what happened in the case of APCON. Otherwise, the three year tenure of the last man

in Council should not have been in any way disturbed.

“I think the association believed that the APCON council is a professional one and should not have been misconstrued to be a regular public sector council.

If I may ask, why has the Central Bank of Nigeria governor not been changed? It is a different thing entirely. It is the same way we think APCON should be treated. However, it is still being debated as to what the law says or what kind of council is it.

“For us, being a professional council, you will definitely expect a negative backlash especially considering the fact that for almost 20 months that a new government had been in position and we have not had a council. It has really affected the progress, the development of the industry.

It has affected training and performance in the industry.”

Ribena Back to School Promo delights winners As more winners emerge in the Ribena Back to School Promo, accolades have continued to pour in for the brand from many parents and guardians after being rewarded with N100,000 cash scholarship for their children in the ongoing ‘Back to School Promo’.

Winners who emerged at the Ribena Back to School market activations in Uyo, Aba and Port Harcourt shrieked with joy and excitement as Ribena alleviated the financial burden of sending their children back to school.

The promo which commenced in August and ends this month is designed to reward children who keep drinking the vitamin C enriched drink. The Ribena ‘Back to School Scholarship’ promo allows everyone to participate with children as the key beneficiaries nationwide.

Apparently excited by the cash scholarship for her child, one of the winners at the Aba market activation, Mrs Ezinne Augustine, described it as the best thing to have happened to her in recent times.

According to Mrs Ezinner, “I did not believe the promo was real. I was at the market during the activation and decided to buy a carton for my daughter and to my surprise we saw the winning stick, texted the code and got N100,000 transferred into my account on the same spot,” she enthused.

Ayorinde

Lai Mohammed, Minister of Information which oversees APCON

Oluwasona

Garba Bello Kankarofi, APCON’s Registrar / Chief Executive

Mamador supports National Heart Awareness Campaign Sequel to the launch of its initiative, Mamador Million Hearts Mission, cooking oil brand, Mamador, has joined hands with the Nigerian Heart Foundation (NHF) to promote healthy heart habits among Nigerians.

The partnership will ensure that the brand actively supports the Nigerian Heart Foundation’s vision to propagate awareness for healthy heart habits amongst Nigerians through the National Heart Awareness Campaign. This campaign accords with the ongoing Mamador Million HeartsMission which was launched in August 2016. The Million Hearts

Mission is a campaign that seeks to reach and sensitize millions of consumers on the importance of a healthy heart, and has since engaged over 200,000 consumers via its free blood pressure and body mass index, checks while also sharing healthy recipes and tips on the importance of heart health.

Speaking recently in Lagos at the press conference to launch the National Heart Awareness Campaign, Category Marketing Manager, Mamador, Chioma Mbanugo, emphasised the brand’s interest in the wellbeing of consumers. According to her, there is a need to give high priority to

the care of the body especially the heart because of its centrality. In her words, ‘Mamador brand supports healthy heart habits and we are committed to the well-being of consumers. This has been evident in the campaigns we have embarked upon these past years, especially since the brand received the Nigerian Heart Foundation endorsement. Our decision to support the foundation on a cause as noble as this underscores the brand’s genuine interest and we couldn’t be more fulfilled for it.”

The Marketing Director, PZ Wilmar, Mr. Kalyan Bandyopadhyay, further stressed that the deci-

sion to support NHF’s quest along with the ongoing Million Hearts Mission campaign is to further reiterate the brand’s commitment to help consumers make healthier choices. ‘Mamador’s passion for the well-being of consumers is the reason we go the extra-mile to launch and support campaigns that are beneficial to them. The ongoing Mamador Million Heart Mission aims at providing consumers with heart healthy recipes that can be available locally for consumers to enjoy their foods without worries as well as daily healthy lifestyle tips that can be adopted in our everyday lives.

Motoring B7

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

Hilux, Ranger, L200 eye 2016 NAJA Awards Come November 24, 2016 inside the Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, the age-long rivalry between Toyota Hilux, Mitsubishi L200 and Ford Ranger for relevance in the utility segment will be rekindled when a winner in the Pick-up category will be announced by the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA).

Specifically, the old rivalry between Hilux and Ranger for the juicy Pick-up market has again taken the front burner as both automotive nameplates have been nominated including the Mitsubishi L200 for the 2016 Pick-up of the year award, which analysts expect to be one of the mostly keenly contested segments of the annual auto award.

In Nigeria, Hilux and Ranger were nominated for pickup of the year in 2015 edition of the auto award organised in Nigeria by NAJA and Toyota Hilux emerged the winner in 2015 ahead of other contenders.

Providing some of the striking features of the Hilux range available in two-wheel drive/4WD single and double cabins and petrol and diesel engines, Toyota Nigeria Limited says the strength of the vehicle lies in the vast volume of data the automaker has amassed in years of building reliable and rugged pickups.

The firm says, “All models feature a laser-welded high-tensile steel body and chassis that has been subjected to exhaustive CAE simulation resulting in light weight with excellent torsional rigidity for precise handling.”

Hilux has high-integrity cabin that protects its occupants and ensures the doors function normally after a collision to facilitate escape or rescue efforts. Other safety features include front and rear three-point ELR seatbelts, headrests, and an energy-absorbing steering column that contributes to the driver’s protection in a frontal collision.

Hilux Ranger

2017 Dodge Challenger earns “Five-Star” overall safety rating The 2017 Dodge Challenger has earned a five-star overall safety rating from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Five stars is the highest rating in the regulatory agency’s vehicle-evaluation program. “This proves the 2017 Dodge Challenger is much more than a great-looking car,” says Mike Dahl, Head of Vehicle Safety and Regulatory Compliance, FCA North America. “It reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional occupant safety in every vehicle segment.”

Nearly 60 percent of the sporty Challenger’s body structure consists of high-strength steel. This engineering strategy, combined with the careful integration of side-guard door beams, was critical to the car’s performance in NHTSA’s side-impact testing. The agency simulated collisions with a pole and with another vehicle at

closing speeds of 32 miles per hour and 62 miles per hour, respectively.

The Challenger’s rating for each: five stars. Supplementary restraint systems also contributed the car’s performance. Driver and front-passenger side air bags are standard equipment on all Challenger trim levels, as are front and rear side-curtain air bags.

In its assessment of the new Challenger, NHTSA notes the availability of Forward Collision Warning (FCW), which features forward-facing sensors programmed to detect the potential for certain types of frontal collisions. If a frontal impact with another vehicle appears imminent, the system pre-fills the Challenger’s brakes and transmits audible and visual warnings for the driver to respond. FCW is among more than 70 available safety and security features on the 2017 Dodge Challenger.

Nissan Patrol dares competitions with class-leading attributes Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo Nissan has for the umpteenth time tweaked its flagship SUV Patrol Y62 with unprecedented zest and ergonomics.

Now fortified with a futuristic look that stands out for its unique combination of the most recent technologies and new design DNA, Nissan says, the Y62 would chart a new growth path for the brand in Africa.

Nissan isn’t sparing anything to make the new Patrol a delight of car buffs with added feelings of top quality, superb luxury and class leading comfort in the longest established nameplate on the 4WD (Four-wheel-drive) scene.

Assembled in Nigeria at the Stallion NMN plant in Lagos, the new Y62 Patrol as it’s fondly called epitomises Nissan’s tagline: ‘Innovation that excites.’

Car enthusiasts would discover Nissan has shifted attention to user friendliness and flexibility of design to meet customers’ demands for daily usage and leisure activities.

“The new Patrol adapts to the needs of consumers by breaking away from its ‘previous off-roader’ status to become urbane-friendly SUV with far more refined proposition that offers a dramatically improved ride quality and fuel economy than its predecessor.”

Amit Sharma, Stallion NMN head of sales and marketing gave further insights to the new Y62, he described as a technological savvy SUV with all the expectancy of a luxury sedan.

He said the ambient lighting inside the Patrol welcomes the driver and occupants and creates an ambience of luxury and convenience that also turn off the lights

NISSAN PATROL AND INTERIOR

automatically after 30 seconds.

The Patrol isn’t just redefined luxury but imbued with all the trappings of opulence. Mr. Sharma said the quieter cabin was achieved using laminated glass, high tech insulation, aerodynamic design and rigid body while the cooling air from the side curtain vents significantly reduce sun heat from the side windows.

The inside temperature can be cooled down from 50 degree Celsius to 20 degree Celsius in three minutes,” the Stallion NMN sales and marketing helmsman added.

But why is the Patrol uniquely different from competitions? The automaker says: “the goal of the Patrol was to deliver power to the road in the most effective way possible.”

Some of the new technologies used include Independent Dual Wishbone Suspension in front and rear; Hydraulic Body Motion Control (HBMC); large diameter tyres; high body rigidity; large brake discs and callipers with hydraulic booster.

The HBMC which is rarely offered in most SUVs provides secure driving situations in the Patrol to guard against rollover when cornering at higher speed, thus ensuring better handling and control.

However, in off road driving, a different effect is sought to ensure wheels on one side or opposite sides of the vehicle always remain in contact with the surface to maintain traction (one vehicle, two different suspension requirements.) Suffice to say the Patrol is the first SUV to use HBMC system which is a superior system to the KPSS system in competitions.

Driving Tips

Before you drive, allow time for d elays This may seem like a nobrainer, but failing to give yourself a bit of breathing room when travelling to work or social engagements can create unnecessary stress, so allow time for unexpected delays. Make a habit of listening to traffic reports in order to avoid congested areas. If you do get stuck in traffic, however, the best advice is to relax and turn up the music. Getting worked up won’t get you to your destination faster – and may even result in an accident. If you’ve allowed some time for a delay it will significantly reduce your traffic-jam stress.

Get some rest Driving while tired can be stressful and dangerous. Getting a good night’s sleep before hitting the road is a good step towards staying calm and in charge on

the road. It’s just as important to rest regularly along the way of your trip. Certain Ford vehicles have alert systems that will keep track of your driving behaviour and alert you to take a rest if they sense you are starting to drift from side to side – a potential sign of driver fatigue.

Sound mind, sound ride Your car should always remind you why it’s awesome to drive.

The right playlist or the right radio station can help fend off stress and frustration in a traffic jam.

At a reasonable volume, this can help make the drive more pleasant and help you stay calm.

As you’re driving: Drive smoothly If burning fuel (and your money) is stressing you out as you sit idle in traffic, remember that

smooth driving can help decrease fuel consumption. There’s no reason to rush five metres forward only to stop again. Accelerating and braking smoothly in stopstart traffic helps make your tank go farther.

“When approaching a red light or a slow-down in traffic use your vehicle’s momentum and built up energy by taking your foot off the accelerator pedal early. Try and roll with stop-start traffic as smoothly as possible. Also try to change lanes early when approaching obstacles or turn-offs and always use your indicators.

This will make you a smoother driver and help you avoid a number of situations that can result in road rage. It may also save you money on fuel in the long run,” says Derek.

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

Don’t allow agric value chain to fold up, Akingbogun tells FG The Federal Government has been warned to retrace its steps concerning the nation’s agricultural value chain and agroallied sector by making foreign exchange available for operators to acquire processing machines and spare parts.

An Industrialist, Chief Tomi Akingbogun, who made this call, also advised the companies in the agricultural sector to reconsider their decision of halting production due to their inability to obtain foreign exchange for importation of machineries.

Daily Times recalls that at least one company, Erisco Foods, has decided to relocate tomato paste processing factory to China because of inability to access foreign exchange at the official rate.

Akingbogun said given the availability of abundant raw materials in the agricultural sector, there were alternative means through which the company could package its products, stressing that the companies in the sector should look inward to package their products, given the availability of plastic materials that could be recycled to package the finished products.

“An agricultural company should need minimal importation of raw materials; we have plastics in Nigeria that can be recycled to pack the tomatoes. Tomato is planted in Nigeria; we know they have to import the machines, but you don’t import machines every month for an industry,” he observed.

“Any country that is processing agricultural product in Nigeria or any agricultural company should be able to look inward and see what can be done. Recycled paper, plastic, and many other materials can be used to package the products. So I really don’t think a tomato company should fold up just because it cannot access foreign exchange, because tomato is a product that should not be imported.”

He noted that it was important for the relevant government authorities to listen to the complaints of the company, due to numerous challenges encountered by industrialists, adding that it was not a good environment friendly indicator that a company that started business some few months ago would suddenly shut down production.

Akingbogun stressed that the major problem faced by industries was the issue of multiple taxation, noting that companies were unnecessarily molested and intimated by some security agencies to pay taxes.

B8 AgriBusiness

FG partners World Bank to revamp irrigation schemes Stories by Charles Okonji The Federal Government has partnered the

World Bank to inject over $400 million for the rehabilitation of five irrigation projects in Northern Nigeria over the

AUDU OGBEH

Minister of Agriculture

next seven years.

The Project Manager, Bakolori Irrigation Scheme, Mr Lawal Maidok, who made the disclosure in Sokoto at the opening of a three-day meeting of the project’s fifth Implementation Support Mission of the World Bank on Monday, noted that the federal government would provide five percent of the funding, which would be used to resettle farmers affected by the project.

Maidoki, who also doubles as the Secretary, Change Management Committee of the project, noted that the rehabilitation would cover Bakolori Irrigation Scheme in Zamfara, Middle Rima Valley Irrigation Scheme in Sokoto, and Kano River Irrigation Scheme.

The rest are Hadeijia Valley Irrigation Scheme in Jigawa, and Dadin Kowa Irrigation Scheme in Gombe State.

He said further: “TRIMING

Nigeria annual post-harvest food wastage estimated at 45% As food insecurity situation and crises in the country continues to be a source of worry, a practitioner has stated annual post harvest food wastage in Nigeria at 45 percent.

The Chief Operating Officer of Cold Hubs, Mr Bright Igbokwe, who stated this, noted that the post-harvest wastage being recorded annually by the country is due to inadequate food storage facilities.

Igbokwe made the disclosure in Lagos at a one-day Seminar organized by the ConsulateGeneral of Germany in Nigeria and the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce.

The theme of the seminar, which was a continuation of the series of seminars being organized in Nigeria by the German Government, was ‘’Startups in Renewable Energy.’

Igbokwe ascribed the nation’s high post-harvest losses to the non-existence of a dependable cold refrigeration system in the country.

“Let me say that over 45 per cent of post-harvest food wastage is recorded in Nigeria annually due to lack of cold storage facilities. There is cur-

rently a huge energy deficit in Nigeria that is adversely affecting food production for the growing population,’’ he said.

He noted that it was very important for the governments and relevant bodies to urgently develop measures targeted at reducing post-harvest losses in the country, pointing out that the country currently needs a reliable cold storage system for her agricultural produce.

Speaking at the occasion, Mr Ekene Aina, Partnerships and Expansion Manager of Mobisol GmbH, Berlin, Germany, said that his company was

Tomato waste

ready to replicate its clean, affordable and reliable solar energy experience in East Africa in Nigeria.

According to him, the company’s Solar Home System business in East Africa is currently serving over 300,000 people with clean, affordable and reliable solar energy.

Aina, who said that his company was prepared to partner with Nigerian energy companies in improving the country’s energy supply, added that the company currently had branches in Rwanda, Tanzania and Kenya.

is a project of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources under the Department of Irrigation and Drainage, supported by the World Bank for improvement of Irrigation System Management in Nigeria.

“The Project Development Objectives include the improvement of access to irrigation and drainage services. It also aimed at strengthening institutional arrangements for integrated water resources management and agriculture service delivery in selected large-scale public schemes in Northern Nigeria.”

Mr David Casanova, Mission’s Team Leader, noted that the visit to Sokoto Rima River Basin Development Authority was aimed at assessing the progress made so far, with a view to ensuring successful implementation of the project.

FG to aid 100,000 farmers in Zamfara The Federal Government has reiterated its readiness to support over 100,000 farmers to enhance the cultivation of rice, maize and wheat in the 2016/2017 dry season farming in Zamfara.

The Director, Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Zamfara State, Alhaji Musa Raji, who disclosed this to newsmen said that the federal and the state governments would provide over 100,000 irrigation farmers with farm inputs at subsidised rate and capacity building to enhance agricultural production in the state.

“Last week, we trained over 150 agro-dealers who are going to provide agricultural services to farmers. We are now making preparations to train our staff, who are going to serve as extension officers, to train farmers in various agricultural activities.

Over 20,000 farmers have participated actively in the last wet season farming which had resulted in increase in agricultural production in the state,” he said.

The Edo Times

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

Obaseki will surpass ET 3 Oshiomhole - Sen. Obende

Edo guber: Ize-Iyamu tells supporters to remain calm

ET 4

Oshiomhiole’s legacies in Edo will outlive him -Aide

ÏÏÏ As

L-R: HRH Aliru Momoh, Ikelebe III, Otaru of Auchi; former Governor of Edo State, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, and his wife, Lara, at a “Welcome Home” reception organised for Oshiomhole after his 8-year service as Governor of Edo State, in Iyamho, ...on Saturday.

We will drive industrial revolution in Edo, Obaseki Stories by Titus Akhigbe Benin

ÏÏÏ Edo State Governor, Mr. God-

The Edo

T E A M

win Obaseki, has declared the resolve of his administration to rebuild Benin Technical College for the training of skilled technical manpower and job creation for the fulfillment of his campaign promise of industrial revolution in the state.

The Governor made the disclosure in Benin City when led a high profile delegation of the Executive arm of Government on an inspection of the Benin Technical College for an on-the-spot assessment of the condition of the school and the facilities therein.

Not pleased with the condition of the school, he said: “Look at what we have, it’s unacceptable.

We will take very, very drastic measures in the next few weeks.

We have to rebuild this institution and we have to bring it up so that it becomes the basis for training technical manpower we need to drive our industrial revolution in the state.”

Governor Obaseki, who was accompanied on the facility tour by the State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu; Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Barr.

Osarodion Ogie and the Chief of Staff, Edo State Government, Taiwo Akerele, further said: “In our election promise, you recall,

Special Project Editor Sam Nzeh

Correspondent Titus Akhigbe

we said emphasises was going to be on jobs. And to create jobs, you have to have facilities and institutions where you train people on practical knowledge on how to create work and create things and that is why we felt that the first point of call should be to find out what happened to our technical college which is supposed to be the institution to train skilled technical manpower and I’m sure, you will agree with me, that this is pitiable. It’s really, really sad.”

According to the Governor, “If you could see the quality of the infrastructure that was built 40 years ago, two of these institutions were donated by the Canadian Government to two African countries 40 years ago. If you look at the equivalent of this institution in Tanzania, it is producing highly qualified technical manpower in that country.”

He told the Principal of the School, Mrs. Bose Imafidon, who conducted the Governor and his entourage round the school, to submit the survey plan of the property through the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education to the Governor’s Office.

Places inspected were the technical session, Junior Secondary School and its extension, welding and technical workshop, which accommodates various machines and other equipment.

Also inspected were the Radio and Television, Electrical, Information and Communication workshops as well as staff quarters and the swimming pool, its pavilion and dressing room which were already overgrown by weeds.

The inspection revealed widespread dilapidation of infrastructure and technical facilities in the school.

Edo Indigenes both at home and in diaspora continue to pour encomium on the 8 years administration of Comrade Adams Oshiomhole whose tenure finally came to an end on the November 12, 2016, his Principal Security officer, Chief Mikailu Kadiri, on Wednesday, said the former governor had put in place legacies that will outlive him.

Kadiri, in an interview with newsmen in Benin City, Edo State, said Oshiomhiole administration which witnessed infrastructural development across the three senatorial districts of the state will always remain a reference point in many years to come even as he urged the new administration in the state to ensure that the legacies of the APC government is consolidated upon.

He said: “When we came on board 8 years ago, the state under the Comrade Governor had continued to witness development in all the sectors especially with the government huge investment in the educational sector, health, road construction and rehabilitation and urban renewal programme. These are some of the things the governor will be remembered for”.

The Security expert, who lauded the former governor’s investment in ensuring the safety of lives and property of Edo people, noted that the rate criminal activities since Oshiomhole took over the mantle of leadership in the state had dropped drastically thereby making Edo as one of the most peaceful and safest state live.

“You recalled that in the last few years, the rate of bank robbery, kidnapping has reduced due to the provision of logistics to security agencies in the state.

He said the commitment of the outgone governor in providing a conducive environment had paid off which he pointed is responsible for multi-national companies coming in to site industries in the state, adding that the foundation for a greater Edo State has already been laid for the newly inaugurated governor.

The Edo Times 2

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

Obaseki will deliver on campaign promises -Mayaki

Edo guber: Ize-Iyamu tells supporters to remain calm

ÏÏÏ John Mayaki, a former aide

Titus Akhigbe, Benin

Isaac Olamikan, Benin

of former governor of Edo State, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, has restated that the new governor of the state, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, would hit the ground running.

Mayaki told the Edo Times that the residents of the state should be on the lookout for the manifold of good tidings awaiting them in the coming years.

“The people of Edo State are in for a good deal in the years ahead. Governor Obaseki is go-

ing to hit the ground running.

“He has a lot of people-oriented programmes in the offing ranging from empowerment to skills acquisition.

“The governor is also concerned about the issue of unemployment. So, to address the issue, he has promised to create an enabling environment for foreign investors whereby they will come and set up businesses here and employ our youth.

“Also health facilities would be constructed or improved upon. A healthy populace is a thing of pride,” he asserted.

Edo gov seeks safe, clean, efficient environment for civil servants Titus Akhigbe, Benin

ÏÏÏ Governor Godwin Obaseki of

Edo State says the state will begin a process of instant rehabilitation of some of the public offices and restore the pride of the civil service, explaining that everything will be done so that civil servants can work in a safe and efficient environment.

Speaking during an inspection tour of offices at the Palm House Building, State Secretariat Building, Civil Service Commission and Staff Training Centre, in Benin City, on Tuesday, Governor Obaseki said: “Clearly you see, we have a major challenge. You do not expect people to work in this condition and get results. It is not the fault of any one in particular today because as you can see, this complex was designed and most of it constructed, almost 40 years ago. So, the decay started quite a while ago.

He continued: “What we need to do is go back to the drawing board very quickly and begin a process of instant rehabilitation of some of the offices and ensuring that we create a perimetre fence. We have to create this as an enclave, provide security, provide maintenance and all the facilities required so that our civil servants can work in a safe and efficient environment.”

“We need a total overhaul, not only cleaning, but the entire process. You could see squatters, you could see traders all over the place, and that in itself creates insecurity for people working here.

Governor Obaseki was accompanied on the inspection of offices by the Deputy Governor, Hon. Philip Shaibu; the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Osarodion Ogie; the Chief of Staff, Mr. Taiwo Akerele and the Head of Service, Mrs. Gladys Idahor.

ÏÏÏ

The PDP candidate in the September 28, 2016 Edo State governorship election, Pastor Osagie IzeIyamu, has appealed to all his supporters to remain calm, non-violent, hopeful and prayerful as he believes the Judiciary will vindicate him as the duly elected governor of the state.

Ize-Iyamu was speaking at the unveiling of the office of the Edo Mandate Recovery Centre by his supporters under the aegis of a coalition of civil society groups, students, activists, voters, traders, market women, politicians and stakeholders at the weekend in Benin City.

He said he was committed to the actualisation of the mandate freely given to him by the good people of Edo State who turned out en masse on September 28, 2016 to vote for him as the PDP candidate.

“I will do everything to ensure the actualisation of the mandate they gave to me. I cannot be compromised, I cannot be bought and I have faith in the judiciary. I have faith in God”.

The PDP candidate, who appreciated the mammoth crowd of supporters who turned up for the unveiling ceremony of the Edo Mandate Recovery Group, appreciated all who have remained steadfast and committed to supporting him all this while.

He said: “Edo people should also

have faith, and on no condition should they resort to violence. It is going to be a long road and in the course of this journey, a man who did not win will be temporarily sworn in; but we must not leave the state. The will of God will be done at the end of the day”.

On the rationale for the office, Barrister Daniel Ogbegie, Esq, said the Edo Mandate Recovery Group was set up not to serve as a rival group to the PDP as a party but another platform to galvanise Edo people who would want to contribute their quota towards recovering Ize-Iyamu’s mandate.

He said: “We honestly believe that the movement to reclaim this mandate has gone beyond the PDP and Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu. It is a movement of all Edo people. A movement to protect the sanctity of our tomorrow, our collective destinies. So we as a group will serve as a veritable platform for the critical stakeholders in this mandate to synergize in ensuring resounding success in the aforementioned goals.

“As part of recovering this mandate, it is pertinent to also monitor the Government that has been inaugurated; not to give them legitimacy (they are already heavily yoked with the burden of illegitimacy hanging on them like the sword of Damocles, while sweating profusely as a result),

but to hold them to account to the people throughout the short period they will superintend over the affairs of the state”.

The high point of the unveiling of the office which featured the cutting of the tape by a Pentecostal Minister Bishop Iyobosa Atoe assisted by pioneer Secretary of the PDP, Deacon Bayo Ogbomosho, was the removal of the cellophane veil covering the giant billboard identifying the office.

Speaker after the other thereafter including leaders of the group condemned the INEC results which gave electoral victory of the September 2016 to Mr. Godwin Obaseki, the APC candidate who was sworn in on Saturday as the Executive Governor of Edo State.

Comrade Tony Osazuwa, who said the group was fully behind the PDP and Pastor Ize-Iyamu in its resolve to reclaim the mandate, through the election tribunal, added that on its membership were stakeholders drawn from the 192 wards across the state as well as over 300 support groups from within and outside the state.

Also speaking, Rev. Olu Martins said Edo State has never had it so bad with a leader in the person of the former governor of the state, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, whose eight year tenure as governor amounted to summary failure of governance.

Obaseki is a game changer – Ex-Edo Commissioner Isaac Olamikan, Benin

ÏÏÏ Former Commissioner for

Energy and Water Resources in Edo State, Mr. Washington Osifo, has praised the former governor of the state, Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole for his support for the emergence of Godwin Obaseki as his successor.

In a chat with the Edo Times in Benin City, Osifo said that the emergence of the acclaimed technocrat was God ordained.

His words: “The emergence of Godwin Obaseki as governor of Edo State was God ordained. He has always been with the Comrade Governor and has been a

key figure in the policy formulation in the state.

“Contrary to some claims, the new governor is not a greenhorn in politics. He is a game changer.

“Edo people should give him a chance to actualise his dreams for a better Edo State”.

He added that Obaseki, from all calculations, is the right choice to give Edo State the desired growth.

Osifo also has good words for the deputy governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu.

He described the former member of the House of Representatives as a pillar of strength in the fight for the return of democracy in Nigeria.

L-R: Former Governor of Edo State,Comrade Adams Oshiomhole; an Industrialist, Captain Hosa Okunbo; and Hon. Patrick Obahiagbon. at a “Welcome Home” reception organised for Oshiomhole after his 8-year service as Governor of Edo State, in Iyamho...on Saturday.

My dad warned me not to steal govt money –Gov. Obaseki Isaac Olamikan, Benin

ÏÏÏ Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin

Nogheghase Obaseki, has reiterated that his emergence as the governor is to give a fillip to governance by ensuring that the dividends of democracy gets to all and sundry without any hindrance.

The governor made the clarification while responding to goodwill messages during the luncheon party held in his honour at the Government House in

Benin last weekend.

Governor Obaseki disclosed that his father, Hon. Justice Andrews Otutu Obaseki, had implored him not to covert the treasury, to govern with the fear of God and to ensure that the dividends of democracy is made available for all and sundry irrespective of social status.

The governor eulogised former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon for

been his role model.

“I thank General Yakubu Gowon for his humble disposition. The general will not know the seed of humility which he sowed in me while he came to our house while I was a child,” Obaseki revealed.

He promised that henceforth he will ensure that everyone is allowed to offer practicable inputs in the affairs of the state.

Interview

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, November 17, 2016

3 The Edo Times

Obaseki will surpass Oshiomhole -Sen. Obende

Senator Domingo Alaba Obende, who represented Edo North between 2011 and 2015, in this interview with OLISA EGBUNIKE, TITUS AKHIGBE and ISAAC OLAMIKAN, wants the governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki, to build human capacity as a way of moving the state forward. Excerpts: Can you assess the outgone and just inaugurated administration of Mr. Godwin Obaseki in Edo State?

The transition from Comrade Adams Oshiomhole (outgone) to Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki (incumbent) governor in Edo State has been a very smooth process. Both of them have cordial relationship. As you are aware, for a greater part of the Oshiomhole administration, Godwin Obaseki as chairman of the state Economic Team worked hand in hand with Oshiomhole to the extent that there was virtually nothing done to impact on the lives of the people which

Obaseki didn’t know about.

How would situate the Oshiomhole administration?

Oshiomhole came, he saw and he conquered. Before Oshiomhole came, Edo State was going moribund. Today, everyone can see that life has returned to the state. For me, Oshiomhole’s performance has brought us this far. It is not everyone that starts strong that finishes strong. The things he learnt in his days as a labour leader he practically implemented them in Edo State. He is no doubt an achiever. If not for his enviable records, the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) would have found its way back to the Government House knowing how vicious their quest for power has always been.

How sustainable is the achievements of the Oshiomhole administration you are talking about?

Earlier, I said that Godwin Obaseki is not a neophyte, neither is he a stranger to how government works. Remember that he chaired the state economic and strategy team, so he is not going to operate as a total stranger when he is in office.

In fact, he should be in a better position to know how to correct

Obende the mistakes of the past. From this, you will agree that there will be sustainability in government. Obaseki has to do things in such distinct manner to avoid been continually compared to Oshiomhole. As a technocrat, I know that Obaseki will surround himself with capable hands such that whatever is Oshiomhole’s achievements would be surpassed.

What are the things that are lacking which you will

want the new administration to tackle?

I have an adage which I give always. Even when am campaigning, I say it: ‘if twenty people fall into a ditch and you attempt to bring them out at the same time, you will join them’. When Oshiomhole came, he met a lot of enormous challenges. To solve them, he had to prioritise which one to tackle first. He identified health, education, infrastructure and elements of human capacity building. You will agree with me that industrialisation needs good roads infrastructure.

Comrade Oshiomhole has been able to address this by doing road networks all over the state.

This is what is called creating an enabling environment for investment. Obaseki should make the construction of cottage hospitals in rural areas part of his agenda.

Flowing from your experience as a lawmaker, what area would you want the new administration led by Godwin Obaseki to concentrate on?

The major thing we lack in Edo State is human capacity building. If the brain is dead, then the individual is not functioning properly. I will advocate

Obaseki should make the construction of cottage hospitals in rural areas part of his agenda.

training and retraining of the civil servants in line with modern trends to solve the problem. I did Public Administration in my first degree while I did Public Service in my MBA. I know that there’s nothing known as service delivery in the states at all.

If you go to the different states, you’ll see the lukewarmness they attach to whatever they are doing. When a state has low productive staff, you know what that portends. Then there is the issue of wealth creation. You cannot create wealth for somebody whose brain is dead. Everything bothers on human capacity building. You have a couple of people collecting revenue. To me, that’s a dead brain job. You get these people trained and divert their attention to something productive. When they leave government, they will be proud of what they gained.

More sponsors needed to support growth of swimming in Nigeria - Tonjoor

25-year-old national swimming champion, Rachael Tonjoor is an Ijaw from Ofunama in Edo State.

In this interview with ISAAC OLAMIKAN, the graduate of the Benson Idahosa University, Benin, talks about the challenges she and other swimmers face in the country. Excerpts: When did you start swimming?

I started swimming at the age of 12. That was in 2003. I got encouragement from my elder sister, Joy, who was always telling me to escort her to the stadium where she practiced.

How was it like the first time you represented Edo State?

That was at the national sports festival held at Abuja. I was a bit scared initially but my coach told me that I should just compose myself and do it the way I do in training back in Benin. So, I kept to his advice and I regained my composure. Though I couldn’t win an individual medal but I got two medals - a gold and a silver - in relay races.

I took up the challenge to get an individual medal in the next sports festival held in Ogun State in 2006 where I won a silver medal in my individual race.

Since you started representing the country on the international scene which has been your most tasking outing?

That was the All African Games in Maputo in 2011 where I won a bronze medal in the 50 metres breast stroke. I was really tensed up qualifying for the final. Earlier that day, I had emerged sixth in the heats. So during the final race later that evening, I was feeling really jittery as we got set. I went into a marathon silent prayer before the race and God showed me His favour against all odds.

Does it mean you go into the ritual of praying before you start a race?

Well, you can say that. In the case of the race in Maputo, I was under a serious challenge to do well because during the previous All African Games in 2007, I did not win a

medal. So, I told God why I deserve a medal in 2007 and He answered my prayers.

So what would you say about the level of sponsorship and support for the game?

It has not been encouraging.

In Nigeria, swimming suffers neglect. The swimmers are not been developed by having regular competitions. We don’t have committed sponsors who will ensure that we are kept busy all year round. For instance, in a year, we normally don’t have more than one contest to participate in so as to keep us abreast of modern techniques in the sport.

Everybody concentrates on football which cannot fetch more than a medal in comparison to swimming where a lot of medals are available.

There is also the problem of lack of modern facilities. For instance, in Edo State, we have just a 20 metre pool which in this modern time is grossly inadequate. The in thing now is the 50 metres pool. So when we go for any competition, you will first and foremost learn how to do well in the 50 metre pool which your

Tonjoor opponents have already mastered.

We need more sponsors to support the growth of swimming in Nigeria. As we speak now, only the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) competition is held once in a year. So, in a situation where the competition is not held, like it happened last year, then we have nothing to keep us busy.

Have you had any recognition from the Edo State Government?

As at now, I don’t have any kind of special recognition from the Edo State government despite the

honour I have always brought to the state since my thirteen years in swimming. The only form of recognition was that my picture was emblazoned on the cover of a compendium published recently by the state government to showcase its achievements.

Of all your representation of Nigeria, which do you consider the most memorable?

That is my participation in the Rio Olympics in Brazil earlier this year. Though I did not win any medal but the experience of competing with some of the best in the world will be with me for a lifetime.

The experience was breathtaking.

Who is your role model in the sport?

My role model is a lady from Jamaica. She presently holds the world championship record in 50 metres breast stroke, my specialty.

I always watch the video of her performance to the extent that I copy every of her moves. I believe that if she, a black girl like me can do it, then one day, I will do it too.

The Edo Times 4

Assembly approves N200m worth of house for Oshiomhole

Ï#ƄƋƏƎƓ ƄƎ MƟƞƞƊ ƅ ƍ Ə Ƅ Titus Akhigbe, Ƅ Ɔ

ÏÏÏ Edo State House of Assembly

on Wednesday approved a pension benefit of a residential building worth N200 million for the immediate past governor of the state, Adams Oshiomhole.

The House also approved N100 million worth of house to his deputy, Pius Odubu.

It would be recalled that Oshiomhole and Odubu had last Saturday, November 12, 2016, completed two tenures of eight years as governor and deputy governor of the state.

If the law is assented to by the newly inaugurated governor of the state, Godwin Obaseki, the former governor and his deputy stand to enjoy the pension benefit of residential buildings worth N200 million and N100 million respectively.

The bill titled, “A bill for a law to amend the 2007 Pension Rights of the Governor and Deputy Governor Law” was approved by the House at the committee of a whole.

The only amendment to the pension rights of the governor and deputy was for the duo to enjoy residential buildings worth N200 million and N100 million respectively in any location of their choice in Nigeria.

Other benefits to be enjoyed by the governor are a pension for life at a

News

Daily Times Nigeria Thursday, Novemeber 17, 2016

rate equivalent to 100 percent of his last annual salary in addition to an officer not above salary grade level 12 as Special Assistant; a personal secretary not below grade level 10 who shall be selected by the former governor from the public service of Edo State.

He is also entitled to have two cooks, two armed policemen as security, three vehicles to be bought by the State Government and liable to be replaced every five years, three drivers who shall be selected by the former governor and paid by the state government as well as free medical treatment for the governor and his immediate family.

On the other hand, the deputy governor is entitled to 100 percent of his last annual salary as pension, a personal staff not above salary grade level 12 as Special Assistant, a personal secretary not below grade level 09 who shall be selected by the former deputy governor from the public service of the state, a cook, and two policemen as security.

Also approved for him include two vehicles to be bought by the state government and liable to be replaced every five years, two drivers who shall be selected by the former deputy governor and paid by the state government and free medical treatment for him and his immediate family.

Obaseki’s emergence dawn of new era in Edo-Isuku

Titus Akhigbe, Ƅ Ɔ

ÏÏÏ

The Executive Director, Edo State Internal Revenue Service, Prince Abubakar Felix Isuku, has described the inauguration of Mr. Godwin Obaseki as the democratically elected governor of Edo State as a dawn of a new era.

Prince Isuku in a statement in Benin City described Godwin Obaseki as a renowned economist, a consummate of human potentials and strategist.

He recalled the positive contributions of Obaseki when he held sway as chairman of economic and strategic team,

Edo State and chairman internally generated revenue team which were vital to the giant strides attained by the outgone administration of the comrade governor.

According to him, now that the man who was instrumental to the positive landmark achievements recorded by Comrade Adams Oshiomhole is now saddled with the responsibility of piloting the affairs of the state, then there is better chances of taking Edo State to the next level.

Prince Isuku expressed implicit confidence on the ability of Obaseki to consolidate on

the dividends of democracy to the people of Edo State in view of his sagacious commitment to industrialisation and economic prosperity.

Prince Isuku however on behalf of Ihievbe community in Owan East Local Government Area, congratulated the new governor as he settles down to govern the state.

The Executive Director, Edo Internal Revenue Service, called on the people of Edo State to extend the unflinching support and cooperation the comrade governor enjoyed to the new Obaseki-led administration.

Edo guber: jƍƆƂƏ Ɖ ƍ Ǝ ^ ô Ƌƍ ƓƄƍ è ƍƄ Ǝƍ Ɔ ^#^ ƅƍ Ɗ ƃ Ɔ Ƃ ƉƉ Ǝ Ƌ ƋƄƍ Titus Akhigbe, Ƅ Ɔ

ÏÏÏ The Edo State Election Peti-

tion Tribunal sitting in Benin, on Wednesday, granted an order to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Mr. Godwin Obaseki, restraining the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate in the September 28, 2016 governorship election, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, from utilising any equipment to examine, scan, or howsoever interact with the ballot papers used in the election unless the integrity of such equipment has been demonstrated and cleared by the Election Petition Tribunal.

After hearing the four paragraph motion and the sworn affidavit of the APC, the Hon. Justice A. Badamasiled Tribunal granted application and ordered that the PDP and Pastor IzeIyamu be made to supply the name,

model and serial number of the equipment they want to use in scanning the ballot papers at least two days before the scanning exercise can take place.

Significantly, the Election Petition Tribunal also ordered that the equipment should be demonstrated at the Independent National Electoral Commission’s offices in the presence of all the parties or their representatives with not more than five representatives each.

It would be recalled that Governor Godwin Obaseki, the candidate of the APC decisively won the September 28 Gubernatorial election with over 319,483 votes to defeat his PDP opponent, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, who polled a total of over 250,000 votes and was declared winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), on September 29, 2016.

L-R: Wife of Ogun Sate Governor, Dr. Olufunsho Amosun; Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun; a pupil, Samuel Iria; former Governor of Edo State, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole; a pupil, Omonuwa Avaluagbor and wife of former Edo State Governor, Mrs. Lara Oshiomhole, at the commissioning of the rebuilt Arinze Primary School, Benin City...recently.

&ƕ ƄƊƂƉƓ Ə ƋƄ ƕ ƅ ƍƊƄƍ dƋƄ ƈƄƍ

Titus Akhigbe, Ƅ Ɔ

ÏÏÏ Members of

the Edo State House of Assembly on Wednesday suspended the former speaker of the House, Victor Edoror (APC), representing Esan Central constituency for three months.

The former speaker was suspended over alleged failure to

Friends to honour newly appointed CPS

Titus Akhigbe and Isaac Olamikan, Ƅ Ɔ

ÏÏÏ Friends of newly appointed

Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Governor of Edo State, John Mayaki, will on Friday, November 18, 2016, honour him with a party.

The party, which will come up at the Nigeria Union of Jour-

nalists (NUJ) Press Centre in Benin, is expected to be graced by friends of the new appointee from far and wide.

According to Ofure Osehobo, who is one of the coordinators of the programme, “the decision to host John Mayaki is borne out of our desire to celebrate him.

“We have a saying that ‘hon-

our should be given to whom it is due. Mayaki has made us proud hence our decision to honour him by hosting him on a night filled with delicious meal, choice drinks, music and comedy.

“I assure you that it would turn out to be a night to remember for many years to come,” Ofure stated.

appear before ad-hoc committee set up by the House to investigate the alleged financial impropriety leveled against him while in office as speaker.

It would be recalled that Edoror was on May 3, 2016 impeached by the members of the House over alleged financial recklessness, high-handedness, and dictatorial tendencies among others.

At the impeachment, the embattled former speaker was suspended but the suspension was however lifted at plenary session on May 9, 2016 by the then new speaker of the House, Elizabeth Aitive.

At a plenary session on Wednesday, the speaker of the House, Justine Okonoboh, announced the suspension of the former speaker.

Okonoboh said the suspension was sequel to recommendation of the ad-hoc committee report on the allegations of financial impropriety leveled against the former speaker that he failed to appear before it to defend himself against the allegations.

The speaker also announced the dissolution of the house standing committees.

Edoror

Life&

TIMES Thursday, November 17, 2016

Dotman

I want to be an artiste that will make impactful song

L2

P

Interview L2

Daily Times Nigeria

Thursday, November 17, 2016

I ‘m not intimidated by any reigning actor

–Dotman

Oladotun Alade, better known as Dotman by his teaming fans is one of Nigeria’s newest entrants into the music scene. He is a song writer and rapper whose style of music differs him from others. Signed unto U &I music label, Dotman has carved a niche for himself in the industry within a short period of time, having worked on the singles titled, ‘ Yes Melo,’ which gained massive airplay across states. Dotman is better known for his versatility and wit as a lyrist and this was on full display with the audio & video release of the catchy single, “Akube”. In this chat with MUTIAT ALLI,

What has physics got to do with music?

Truly, Physics has got nothing to do music but because I and be proud of myself. So, being educated is key to realizing How did your parents take your decision of veering into music knowing how important education is?

doing music will stop me from practising my course of study.

Even with my decision to do music now, initially my parents were complaining but when they saw the passion and drive in it and at the same time, I am still doing well academically, they supported me.

How will you describe the journey so far since you veered into music?

woke up to see the popular American dance kids (The New Generation Dancer) did a video just two days after I released the video on YouTube and that triggered the trend and made other people to want to participate by sending in their own dance versions of the original video.

With just a viral song/ video; what is next for you?

Currently, I have another song with DJ Kaywise titled, well. Plans are already in the making to ensure the release of visual of the song and also more work is being doing done

amongst other; how do you intend to balance up with them in the industry even as a new entrant?

it was going to be a worldwide kind of thing. I am that kind of artiste that was just hoping and praying just to be famous and accepted. Although I knew with music, I was going to be successful but I never understood where God was taking me to

them as competitors because they are there doing what they should all do our best and let people decide which one is best for them.

How will you describe your genre of music? out attending so many competitions and I won most of them as being crowned an indigenous rapper. It will amaze you that my Afro beat tune has a touch of indigenous sound in it. I am just trying to maintain the tradition by letting people know more about indigenous artists.

Having worked with Olamide; which other act to do look up to working with?

of works I want to put out and as such, I will not want to do a

Life&

T E A M

maintaining the standard that has already been created.

Entertainment Correspondent Mutiat Alli

messages? go. I want my music to be listened to. I want my song to be heard and talked about by my children and grand –children.

Seriously, the only competition I can see is myself. I should be

my set out goal and what that means is that more works need to be done so that I can maintain the mileage the viral video got

they pull out; is that also applicable to you and your label?

First, I write my lyrics myself and in some instances, my label have a say in what I put out as songs because at times I may say something in my lyrics that is not marketable and as such

before the end of the year.

The industry is currently saturated with good talents

two years in the industry and I have achieved more than I had

is being accepted all over the world.

With your video going viral and generally accepted all over the world within a short period, how does that leverage make you feel knowing fully well that you are a newcomer in the industry?

I really appreciate the organizers of any award in Nigeria, I believe their aim is to commend our efforts and work but this days I see some of the organizers being biased in their judgment and it makes me want to lose believe in any award in Nigeria. There are times that people believe that this award is for one artist then they get to give it to another artist and it makes people start losing interest and belief in the award.

Simi to mention but few.

Society Correspondent Abimbola Obatayo

Photography Quadri Olowolagba

might not be able to listen to. I want to be that kind of artiste that will make impactful song and my song will still be remembered even when I retire.

What is your general view about the entertainment industry presently?

I am so glad Nigerian music is spreading everywhere around the world, across the borders and I must say this opportunity

who started music had laid down .So, I mean people like Fela,

world to want to listen to more of Afro beat. So, let me just say up and coming artists are now getting chance to sell our music all around the world.

Daily Times Nigeria

Thursday, November 17, 2016

L3 Gist

Mutiat Alli

RMD Turns Reckless Playboy in New Movie ‘Three Wise Men’

Abia State University agog for Glo Campus Storm

Veteran Nollywood actor, Richard Mofe Damijo, has been announced as lead actor in the upcoming 2016 com-

ence the fun and entertainment associated with Glo block-busting music show, Glo Campus

December 9, 2016.

popular Nigerian artistes will delight students

Zack Orji and Victor Olaotan.

Damijo portrays the character of Irikefe, a modern- day -

show, which had been held with pomp and

music.

Speaking on the show, one of the students, ing the show, said “I attended the concert at

his death so as to preclude his three children from inheriting anything belonging to him.

-

According to Globacom, the show will fea-

woman with strong religious beliefs. Victor Olaotan, on the band who takes utmost care of his bed-ridden wife – out of

-

streaks of hilarious escapades.

Directed by Patience Oghre Imobhio and produced by

Akunna Nworgu, Stanley Edirin Isokoh and a host of others.

feature dancing and singing competition, comedy, beauty pageantry and performance by top rated Nigerian music stars and music from upcoming artistes. dian, Gordons, and will parade top music stars lined up to thrill the crowd at the concert.

RMD

featuring some of the biggest industry names.

Malaika drops 23rd album, ‘Original,’ November 28th

-

-

2016 to release his anticipated

chance of winning N1 million in scholarships in addition to being signed on as Globacom

tend the concert to recharge their Glo lines with less entertainment.

Gidi Blues Shines at London Film Festival Gidi Blues brought glam and lots of laughter in London recently when it was screened to top Af-

In the statement released by songs will be released on the highlighted date by Babalaje Music.

Speaking on the content in the contents comprised what is hap-

which talked about happenstances within our society. It portrays more on Yoruba culture and how music tity. Original will blow your minds

bura. seasoned industry bigwigs for showcasing the

played wa Allahbura, in an unpre-

Gidi Blues, premiered June 2016 in Lagos within Africa, Europe, and America.

Shot in iconic locations of Lagos such as Idumota market, Makoko, Victoria Island, Isale Eko, tells the story of Akin, played by Gideon Okeke,

Gideon Okeke, Hauwa Allahbura & Director Femi Odugbemi dictable place.

It features a stellar cast made up of Bukky bura, Lepacious Bose, and cameo appearance -

accidentally meets an interesting beauty, Nkem,

AFRIFF 2016 opens with a bang in different ways.

-

duced the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, hammed noted that as the nation weans itself off its dependence on oil, it

-

-

Founder AFRIFF, Chioma Ude, Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed and Veteran actor RMD Africa.

from Las Vegas to Lagos and introduced Chike Okonkwo, a Nigerian -

-

Gist L4

Daily Times Nigeria

Thursday, November 17, 2016

Mutiat Alli

OC Ukeje renews endorsements deal with Multichoice OC his with would

Ukeje just renewed endorsement deal MultiChoice.

This be the celebrated

ambassador for the global media giant.

As part of his portfolio, the actor will be part of campaigns, attend and host their events and represent them across the globe.

“I am pleased to be part of

a brand that has contributed in no small measure to the development of media and entertainment in Africa. Here is to another successful year ahead,” he added.

With this renewed deal, OC Ukeje would be joining the likes of footballer, Odion Ighalo and others who have in the past represented MultiChoice in different capacities as ambassadors.

Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, Queen, Yeyelua Wuraola Ogunwusi and Queen Moremi contestants

Ile-Ife agog as Moremi Contestants storm the Palace It was nothing short of pump and pageantry a few days ago in IleIfe when over 50 beautiful, young ladies from eight States gathered at the Ile Oodua, Palace of the Ooni of Ife. They instantly became the cynosure of all eyes. His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, alongside is beautiful Queen, Yeyelua Wuraola Ogunwusi had invited the young ladies to a dinner and competition.

Speaking at the gathering, the Project Director, Dr. Kunle “my team and I cannot thank His Imperial Majesty and Yeyelua enough for this invitation to the ladies, for this project, and for their support thus far. They have both been a pillar of support and times I wonder how privileged I am to be given this kind of opportunity to serve. Moremi as we know was a warrior and we believe she should be celebrated. His Imperial Majesty would also be unveiling the Moremi statue, reputed to be the tallest statue in Nigeria, to

commemorate this event. Ile-Ife is gradually getting on the world map, and we are sure going to break more records,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, Ayo George of In-House

long time. A night of glitz and glamour. We have various celebrities and VIPs that would be gracing the occasion. Some of the VIPs include Alhaji Saheed Gbolahan who is the Chairman of Gastab Group of Companies, he is the Chairman of the day. We also have Chief Mrs Folasade Tinubu-Ojo; The Iyaloja General of Nigeria, she is the Special Guest of Honour. Yeyelua Wuraola Ogunwusi is the host and His Imperial Majesty, Ooni of Ife is the Chief Host,” he concluded.

Ile-Ife has become a tourist city since the enthronement of the Ooni of Ife and one can only look forward to many more cultural events that indeed celebrate our heritage and tradition.

OC Ukeje

Sylde, Popito other for Maze & friends concert It will be an evening of quality music, comedy and fun as Blow Records entertainment will be thrilling residence of Ojo at the popular New Planet of Maze & Friends concert billed to hold Sunday Nov 20, 2016.

According to the organizer of the event, Maze who disclosed to Life &Times that the motive of the event is to appreciate the love of the fans who have been supportive all through the year; although this is the maiden edition of the

Sylde

event as we hope to carry on in years to come.

Acts billed to thrill guests include Popito, DJ Wayne, Jaydon, and DJ 2Mins to mention but a few.

House on the Rock Prepares to Host ‘Revealing Jesus’ House on the Rock Church has announced the 11th edition of its annual gospel concert, “The Experience,” scheduled to hold on the 2nd of December 2016 at the Tafawa Balewa Square Lagos, Nigeria.

“The Experience Lagos”, as it is popularly known, has been home to thousands of worshippers every December as it heralds the festive vibes of Christmas. With over 750,000 worshippers gathered at the Tafawa wonder, gospel ministers across the world see this one- of- a- kind concert as a glowing platform for them to express worship. Last year, The Experience celebrated in awesome style, the shows that, there is no stopping the move.

The theme of the Experience 11 is

AMAA 2017: Organizers call for entry Organizers of the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) have announced the commencement of movie entry submission towards the 13th edition of the award. The organizers have, however, invited and documentary work for consideration in nearly for all submissions is 30th December 2016; a late entry deadline is 13th January 2017. Nominations will be announced on 15th April 2017.

The 13th Edition of the AMAAs will be held on produced and released between July 2015 and December 2016 may be entered for this celebration of African cinema.

The 2016 African Movie Academy Awards took place on June 11, 2016, at the Obi Wali International Conference Centre in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The exciting, sublime and glitzy event was hosted

by Mike Ezuruonye and Kgopedi Lilokoe. The

Revealing Jesus. The Senior Pastor of House on the Rock, Pastor Paul Adefarasin, explained that the purpose of this edition is to further reach the world with the message of the Gospel of Christ, in a fashion so simple, yet effective. He further emphasized that it is high time Christians stopped sitting in their corners and took centre stage to spread the Gospel of Jesus by truly Revealing Jesus.

“The Experience Lagos” always sets itself apart with its soul stirring mix of ministers, giving worshippers an incredible reason to look forward to the day. This year is no different as the lineup of both international and indigenous gospel artistes is

OC Ukeje Pastor Paul Adefarasin already fueling anticipation. Ministering are: Don Moen, Frank Edwards, Travis Greene, Tope Alabi, Micah Stampley, Cece Winans, and Donnie Mcclurkin! Also ministering are Gabriel Eziaschi, Eno Michaels, Chioma Jesus, Nwando, Tim Godfrey, Midnight Crew, Smokey Norful and Samsong.

The Experience which is a free concert, has grown to become the most anticipated gospel music event in Africa among Christians and non-Christians alike. It is reckoned as the largest gathering of people in a gospel music concert.

Pastor Paul Adefarasin has also reemphasized that everybody regardless of race, culture, religions or works of life, is invited to experience God at The Experience.