Dtn 10 11 15

Reps leadership crisis: 1Ƅ Ɖ Ƅƈ ƌƈƋ è Ƌ ƕ Ƌƈ Ɛ Ƅ ƕƅ ƐƐ ƅ ƌƌƈƐƐƆƆ ƈ Ƒ ƑƏ Ɛƈ Henry Omunu, ƄƑƉ

ÎÎÎMajority Leader of

the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila and some of his loyalists on

Monday boycotted the inauguration of the 97 standing committees of the House. This is sequel to their complain of lopsidedness and being sidelined in the constitution of

the committees by Speaker Yakubu Dogara.

Before the boycott on Monday, Gbajabiamila had officially written to the Speaker complaining

about the manner the chairmen and deputy chairmen of the House committees were chosen without inputs Continued on page 6

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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2015 VOL. 1. NO.227

GAINERS

N150

LOSERS

NSE GAINERS AND LOSERS AS AT 9th November 2015.

UNILEVER

31.43

33

1.57%

PZ

24.32

25.5

1.18%

7UP

191.01

185.06

-5.95%

DANGCEM 163

162

-1%

UACN

27.73

29.1

1.37%

CCNN

7.93

8.73

0.8%

NB

136.02

135

-1.02%

ETI

18.15

-0.35%

18.5

Buhari removes Lamorde Ï M ƌƆ 9ƄƏ ƈƌ L Ƒ ƅƐƈ &0 Ƅ Egena Egena, ƄƑƉ and Akinjide Akintola, G

ÎÎÎPresident

Muhammadu Buhari on Monday relieved the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Lamorde, of his position.

President Buhari also appointed Mr. Ibrahim Mustafa Magu as the acting anti-graft agency.

Magu, an Assistant Commissioner of Police, replaces Lamrode who is due to proceed on terminal leave ahead of the expiration of his tenure in February 2016.

This was contained in a terse statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina.

The statement read: “President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the appointment of Mr. Ibrahim Mustafa Magu as the Act-

ing Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

“Mr. Magu, who is an Assistant Commissioner of Police is to take over from Mr. Ibrahim Lamorde who is proceeding on terminal leave ahead of the formal expira-

tion of his tenure in February next year.”

Magu will be the fourth person to head the anti-financial crime outfit since its establishment by the administration of former PresContinued on page 2

0 ƏƌƆƏ Lƈ ƈ ƐƆƏ Ƈ Mƈ ƆƏ #ƆƋƐ è 1 Ɨ ƓƈƋƋ RƏƑƄƆƄƆè ƈ Ɛ Ɔ ƅƅƑ ƆƗ Ƅ Ɣè Ɛ Ɛ Ɔ ƗƆ Ƈ ƗƑƅƐ jƏƈƄƑ Ƌ ƒƆƏ ƋƋƆ ƆƗ Ƈ Ƌ Ɔ ƗƆƅƋ Ə Ɛƈ Ƈ ƆƐ Ɨ ƅƅƆƍƐ ƅƆ Ƈ Ƅ ƑƐ MƣƠ ƌƈƋƋƈ ƄƏƈƄƆè ƈ ƄƑƉ Č L Ɨ ƕê

Photo: TEMITOPE BALOGUN

TSA: M Ƈƈ Ɔ dƊƕƆ Ɗ MƿƄ g 17

JJC:

9 Ƌ ƒƆ ƓƈƐ g L1 ƌƑ ƈƅ

0 ƕ Ɔ ƍƆƏ Ɛƈ ƑƐ ƅƏ Ɛƈƅ ƒƆƏ ƌƆ Ɛ – Dr. Orire g8

U-17 World Cup:

^ƏƆ ƈƗƆ Ɛè # Ə è 1 ƒ è Ɛ ƆƏ Ƌ ƑƗ 1 ƋƗƆ & ƋƆƐ g2

News 2

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Buhari replaces Lamorde Continued from page 1 ident Olusegun Obasanjo.

No reason was given by President Buhari for the surprise sack of Lamorde, who led the EFCC for four years.

Last August, Lamorde denied allegations that $5bn (£3.3bn) had gone missing at the commission.

In August, a Senate committee said it was investigating charges that assets and cash recovered by the EFCC had been diverted under Lamorde’s watch but the anti-corruption Tsar described the charges as a smear campaign.

A Senate Committee hearing had in August spearheaded the probe and start-

ed work but which Lamorde declined to attend.

There were allegations that Lamorde allegedly diverted the sum of N1 trillion from monies the Commission seized from those it has been probing.

Lamorde ought to have faced the Senate in August 25 to clear himself of the allegations against him, whereas there were discordant tunes among Senators on whether he should be probed or not.

Specifically, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Caucus led by Minority leader, Senator Godswill Akpabio and Senators of “Unity Forum” had kicked against the probe of Lamorde, alleging procedural error in the

probe of a petition against him.

Speaking with newsmen, the Chairman of the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, confirmed that the probe of the petition against Lamorde will begin next week.

Anyanwu said the tight schedule of the Senate was responsible for the delay in starting the probe.

He disclosed also that the Senate has ratified the procedural error on the petition against Lamorde.

According to him, the Senate decided to delay the Lamorde probe because of the just concluded Ministerial screening.

The author of the petition

against Lamorde, George Uboh, had told the Committee that EFCC diverted the offshore seizures from a former Governor of Bayelsa, the late Diepreye Alamieyeseigha.

The petition reads in part: “In a December 2011 letter EFCC sent to the Chairman, House Committee on Drugs, Narcotics and Financial Crimes, EFCC stated that the aggregate recoveries from 2004 to 2011 (8 financial years) was N1,326,754,554,482.80.

“EFCC did not mention where the N1.3 trillion recovered was remitted to.

EFCC’s claim that it did not recover up to a trillion naira is complete false.

“In EFCC’s `Summary of

EFCC Monetary Recoveries 2003-March, 2013’ (11 financial years), EFCC stated that the aggregate recoveries was N497, 385,427,485.63. EFCC did not mention where the N497.3 billion recovered was remitted to.’’

Uboh queried how recoveries of eight financial years will be more than recoveries for 11 financial years by over N 800 billion.

He wondered why recoveries for the same years differed on different reports.

Making reference to a letter allegedly written by a former EFCC Chairman, Farida Waziri, to then President Goodluck Jonathan, Uboh said the commission recovered over N975 billion between 2004 and 2007.

He added that EFFC recovered 316,137,596 dollars (N48.9bn), 32,106,510 Euros (N7.3bn) and 1,252,974 Pounds (N4 billion) between the three years he cited.

“Total recoveries to be remitted as confirmed by EFCC are: N1.995 trillion, N48.9 billion, N7.3 billion and N4 billion totalling N2.051 trillion.

“After recovering over 2 trillion, how did the funds melt away?

“Two access bank recovery account statements tendered herein show opening balances of -0- as at 1 July, 2004, but no transaction occurred until June/July 2008.

“These transactions are expunged. Where are the funds deposited between July 2004 and June/July, 2008?

“EFCC diverted and concealed N779 million of recoveries from Tafa Balogun in its record,” Uboh wrote.

The petitioner urged the committee to compel EFCC to remit N2.051 trillion to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

He urged that Access Bank be compelled to bring complete and unadulterated statements of EFCC accounts from 2004 till date.

The petitioner added that Aminu Ibrahim and others, who audited EFFC’s account be made to come before the committee and shed more light on discrepancies relating to EFFC recoveries in question.

Pro-Biafra protest grounds Aba L-R: Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki; Vice-President, Yemi Osinbajo; President, Muhammadu Buhari and New INEC Chairman, Prof.

Mahmood Yakubu and other INEC Commissioners after their swearing-in ceremony at the Presidential Villa Abuja… on Monday.

Ï dô& Ɛ ƒ è R ƆƖƆè Ɛ ƆƏ to meet over protests Sunday Nwakanma, Aba and Val Okara, Owerri

Commercial activities U-17 World Cup: Buhari, Dogara, Govs, others laud Golden Eaglets ÎÎÎ in Aba, Abia State, were on

Egena Egena, Abuja

ÎÎÎEminent

Nigerians including President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday saluted the Golden Eaglets for their victory over Mali to clinch the Under-17 FIFA World Cup in Chile for a record fifth time.

Others who lauded the world champions for their feat included an elated Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, Governors Akinwumi Ambode of Lagos and his Rivers State counterpart, Nyesom Wike.

The first time the Eaglets won the cup was the maiden edition in 1985 when President Buhari was Head of State.

A statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina said Buhari believed that by their triumph in Chile, the Golden Eaglets had shown the world that the indomitable Nigerian spirit was alive and waxing stronger.

“For the President, the Golden Eaglets’ latest victory on the global stage is an affirmation of the significant progress Nigeria is now making towards positively redefining and rediscovering its potential for greatness in the comity of nations.

“President Buhari applauds the exemplary zeal, determination, commitment, hard work, patriotism and

soccer artistry which the youthful Golden Eaglets put on display throughout the tournament to win the championship for a record fifth time,” the statement noted.

The President, according to the statement, noted with delight that the Golden Eaglets not only won the coveted Under-17 FIFA World Cup, but were also bringing home highly-valued individual awards such as the Golden Boot won by Victor Osimhen for being the tournament’s highest goal scorer and the Golden Ball, won by the team captain, Kelechi Nwakali for being the best player.

It said President Buhari trusted that if all other Ni-

gerians imbibed and exhibited the doggedness, determination and patriotism displayed by their youthful compatriots in Chile, Nigeria would surely make faster progress towards becoming the strong, united, peaceful, secure and prosperous nation envisioned by its people.

Buhari applauded the exemplary zeal, determination, commitment, hard work, patriotism and soccer artistry which the Golden Eaglets put on display throughout the tournament to win the championship for a record fifth time.

The President joined other proud Nigerians in awaiting Continued on page 14

Monday, grounded following protests by pro-Biafra groups led by the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB).

This is even as South East governors, leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and other stakeholders are to meet in Owerri, the Imo State capital, to find a lasting solution on the activities of the proBrafra groups in the area.

MASSOB had at the weekend called on residents of the city to come out in protest against the continued detention of Director of Radio Biafra, Mr. Nnamdi Kanu on Monday.

All the markets in the city including Cemetery, Ari-

aria, Etche Road, Ekeoha Shopping Center and Ahia Ohuru were shut down by the MASSOB members while police shot tear gas to disperse the crowd around the park area in Aba Town Hall.

The protesters moved from one market to another to enforce compliance with the Ariaria International market as take off point.

They took over the city as early as 8am.

The protesters had weekend warned residents of Aba to stay indoors on Monday as the protest would continue.

Though Umuahia, the state capital, was peaceful, the demonstration in Aba was overwhelming as over 3 million MASSOB members some of them dressed Continued on page 6

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

3

Politics Page Three Æ s Editorial Rising Diabetes among Nigerians

O

n Saturday November 14, 2015, the international community will be marking World Diabetes Day. It is a day set aside to sensitise people on the dangers of diabetes and how to guard against the life threatening disease. The theme for this year’s Diabetes Day is “Healthy living and diabetes”.

Diabetes is described a group of metabolic diseases in which the person has high blood glucose (blood sugar), either because insulin production is inadequate, or because the body’s cells do not respond properly to insulin, or both. Patients with high blood sugar will typically experience frequent urination, as they also become increasingly thirsty and hungry.

Throughout the world, number of diabetic patients continue to rise.

In Nigeria, there is an estimated 4 million diabetes patients; even as more than 11 million others who have high blood sugar are currently undiagnosed. It is sad that at least one in every two people who have this condition in the country do not know.

This constitutes a major challenge to the healthcare system since this chronic condition can lead to serious long-term health problems. These problems can include kidney failure, blindness, neuropathy and even amputations due to poor wound healing and/or circulation. Persons with diabetes have high blood sugar because their body cannot move sugar from the blood into muscle and fat cells to burn or store for energy, and because their liver makes too much glucose and releases them into the blood.

Experts say there are two major types of diabetes. These include Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes can occur at any age, but it is most often diagnosed in children, teens, or young adults. Under this condition, the body makes little or no insulin. Type 2 diabetes is more common as it often occurs in adulthood, but because of high obesity rates, teens and young adults are now being diagnosed with the disease.

Incidentally, the rising incidence of diabetes has been associated with increasing urbanisation and lifestyle factors. Medical experts posit that healthy eating is a cornerstone of healthy living — with or without diabetes. However, if one is diagnosed with diabetes, he or she needs to know how foods affect his or her blood sugar level. It is not only about the type of food but also how much and the combinations of food It is therefore suggested that patients plan for every meal to have good mix of starches, fruits, vegetables, proteins, and fats. It is especially important to pay attention to the types of carbohydrates, even as some carbohydrates, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, are better for sufferers than others. Moreover, it has been noted that physical activity is another important part of diabetes management plan. When you exercise, your muscles use sugar (glucose) for energy.

While individuals are advised to regularly check for signs of diabetes, it is also imperative that the authorities strengthen the country’s healthcare system especially at the primary level in order to contain the disease.

Before the anti-graft war is bungled Sam Nzeh

ÎÎÎUnless

something is done and urgently, the probability is high that the anticorruption war of the present administration may be bungled by the very agencies and officers charged with the responsibility of prosecuting the war.

This is in view of the shoddy manner most of the prosecuting agencies and officials have continued to carry out their work, which on many occasions had resulted in a number of the corruption cases being unnecessarily delayed or thrown out of the courts and those charged therewith freed.

Just on Monday, the Federal Government docked the erstwhile Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Elder

Godsday Orubebe, before the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) in Abuja on a four-count criminal charge bordering on money laundering and alleged bribery to the tune of N70 million.

Sadly, the prosecution counsel, Mr. Musa Ibrahim Usman, failed to produce witnesses against Orubebe, an action which infuriated the chairman of the CCT, Justice Danladi Umar, who is presiding over the case.

Berating the prosecution counsel, Justice Umar said: “I am not happy that the witnesses are not here today. The prosecution had ample time to assemble its witnesses but failed to do so. I want you to take this case very serious”.

Not a few Nigerians are on the same page with Justice Umar for scolding the prosecution counsel over his failure to produce witnesses against the former

Words On Marble :

Niger Delta Affairs minister.

The prosecution counsel’s failure to produce witnesses against Orubebe, is another example of how agencies and officials charged with prosecuting the anti-corruption war inadvertently bungle the fight.

So, before the anti-graft war is bungled, agencies and officials charged with the responsibility of prosecuting the battle should do proper homework before bringing cases before the courts. This will include proper and detailed investigation, building up water-tight cases, and assemblage of credible witnesses among others. This way, they will be able to hold their onions in court and secure needed convictions which is the visible evidence that the anti-corruption war is on course.

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Mathew Kukah

Chris Okotie

Nkeuruka Onyeajeocha

“Governance is about creating safe spaces where citizens can thrive and achieve their goals.”

“Every nation faces some daunting odds at some point; the important thing is for them to overcome such hurdles and move on”.

‘’A nation that does not produce will not prosper economically’’.

4

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Fly Arik,

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News 6

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Reps leadership crisis: Gbajabiamila, loyalists boycott committees inauguration Continued from page 1 from all principal officers of the House.

The House leader further accused the Speaker of deliberately alienating principal officers of the House from the selection process and constitution of the committees.

But the Speaker had responded to the allegations, describing Gbajabiamila’s claims as false.

Dogara’s media aides, in the wake of Gbajabiamila’s

claims had released two memos showing that the appointment of committee heads was jointly done by the leadership of the House comprising all principal officers at a scheduled meeting.

The memos were a letter of invitation sent to all the nine principal officers (including Gbajabimila) dated October 21, 2015 and signed by the Chief of Staff to the Speaker, Hon. Jerry Manwe. They were to consult on the appointment of com-

mittee heads on October 22, 2015.

The other memo was a list of attendance containing the names of all the nine principal officers dated October 22, issued after the meeting.

However, at Monday’s inauguration which was witnessed by Senate President Bukola Saraki, former principal officers of the National Assembly, senior and top government officials as well as representatives of the service chiefs and heads

of para-military units in the country, Gbajabiamila was conspicuously absent from the House chamber where the event took place.

Daily Times learnt that his absence wasn’t unconnected with alleged plans by the aggrieved House Leader to hold consultations with All Progressive Congress (APC) leaders at the party’s national headquarters over the current imbroglio in the House where he was also billed to address the press.

Apart from Gbajabiamila, other notable lawmakers who shunned the inauguration are the Deputy Minority Whip, Chukwuka Onyema, Sunday Adepoju, Garba Datti, Ayo Omidiran and Ali Madaki.

Delivering his inauguration address, Speaker Dogara declared that the constitution and appointment of heads of the House standing committees was done in consultation with the principal officers of the House.

Dogara further said that the House Committee on Selection has also concluded the selection of the membership of the special and standing committees of the House, adding that the decision to formally inaugurate all the committees at once was borne out of the need for the committees to hit the ground running and the need to save cost and reduce legislative time that may be spent in inaugurating each Continued on page 14

Pro-Biafra protest grounds Aba Continued from page 2

L-R: Mr. Ahmed Tijjani Aliyu; wife of Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mrs. Gu Pehiua; National Woman Leader, APC and President, Conference of African Political Parties (Women Wing), Dr. Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu and Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency, Mr. Gu Xiaojie during a dinner in honour of Dr. Ramatu held in Abuja… at the weekend.

in the movement’s uniform including members from Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Rivers and Cross River states members marched from the popular Ariaria International market, through Faulks, Brass and Okigwe roads to the park.

They also blocked Port Harcourt Road, Eziukwu, Milverton, Asa, Azikiwe and Uratta. All the vehicles plying the routes were forced

to park as they marched on foot. The protesters carried placards with the inscription, “Free Nnamdi Kanu;” “Give us freedom,” among others, and chanting solidarity songs like, “as from today, no more zoo,” “Ihenile zuroke n’ala Biafra, “No more zoo, no more zoo, no more zoo,” among others.

However at the time of filing the report, no death had been recorded as the protest Continued on page 14

Buhari seeks prosecution of electoral offenders Ï nƏ Ɔ ƏƆƇ Əƌ Ƈ Ɛ ƐƆ ƆƋƆƅƐ Ə Ƌ Ƅ ƗƈƆ Egena Egena, Abuja

ÎÎÎPresident

Muhammadu Buhari on Monday called for the prosecution of electoral offenders by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), saying that the country needed to move away from mere cancellation of results and ordering of fresh elections.

He said this was the way to go if the country’s electoral system was to be given the needed vigour.

President Buhari stated this while swearing-in the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral

Commission (INEC), Prof.

Mahmood Yakubu and five National Commissioners of INEC in the Aso Council Chamber of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

He said: “Another area of concern is the justice administration of the Electoral Tribunals. It is long overdue that our justice system addresses these shortcomings. It is not just enough for an election to be cancelled and a new one ordered.

“It would be much better if all whose actions or inaction that led to the cancellation of such election are to be investigated and if cul-

pable prosecuted, whether they are individuals as candidates or party agents, Institutions such as political party, electoral body, or public officers as electoral staff or security agents.

“Similarly, perpetrators of electoral violence and thuggery should not be spared. Unless our system stops covering up all forms of electoral malpractices we can hardly get it right.

No system endures with impunity.”

The President, who also pledged to respect the independence INEC in fulfilment of his campaign promise, said that his gov-

ernment would not by any means interfere with the Commission’s operations.

His words: “In the conduct of elections we promised to respect the independence of our electoral body, INEC. We promised noninterference in its activities and above all we promised to encourage them to conduct transparently free and fair elections. I hereby pledge to keep that promise.”

Accordingly, he urged the Commission not to allow itself to be unduly influenced or subjected to the control of extraneous forces.

“You must respect the law and we will hold you bound by the oath which you have just taken. The

Nation has reposed a lot of trust and confidence in you. You cannot afford to fail,” he charged the new officials.

The President also frowned against State Electoral Bodies that hide under the cover of legal technicalities to deny citizens their rights, vowing that the Federal Government would protect the citizens at all times.

“I am aware of the Federal Government’s constitutional constraints in its engagement with the State’s Electoral Bodies. But the government has a social responsibility to protect the democratic rights of all.

“I am of the view that it is totally unacceptable

to hide under the cover of the technicality of law to deny the citizens’ rights,” he stated.

To that extent, he said that the Federal Government was considering a different strategy of engagement with State Electoral Bodies to make them come to sync with INEC with regard to credibility and acceptability to Nigerians.

Buhari noted an unfortunate trend in almost all the States, whereby the party of the sitting government would win all the Council Elections.

He said: “While there is nothing wrong with that if it is the true wish of the people, but majority of Nigerians more often than not

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10 , 2015

7 News

Ado-Ekiti market demolition: Fayose makes traders unhappy Gbenga Sodeinde

Ado Ekiti Hundreds of displaced traders at the demolished Oja Oba market in Ado Ekiti, on Monday, were thrown into a helpless situation as they lamented how some of them were stranded in the new locations without shops and space to display their wares.

Some others also lamented lack of facilities such as toilet, water, and security. This was the situation when journalists visited the new locations at Awedele and Agric Olope markets, built by the administration of Dr. Kayode Fayemi’s government.

Governor Ayo Fayose had, on Saturday, ordered the demolition

ÏÏÏ

of the market to give way for new structures.

Also, some of them lamented that they were yet to be allocated space where they could pack and display their wares, while some others complained about lack of good road networks, pleading with the government to attend to all their needs to help their plight.

Fayose, who spoke through his Commissioner for Information, Mr. Lanre Ogunsuyi, however, pleaded for understanding for discomfort being encountered at the new locations by the resettled traders, saying changes naturally has its own inconvenience, and urged the traders to bear with the government.

L-R: Founder, Centre for Values in Leadership (CVL), Prof. Pat Utomi; British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) Technical Committee Member, Mr. Fatai Afolabi; Secretary to the State Government, Adamawa State, Engr Umar Bindir; General Manager, BATNF, Ms. Abimbola Okoya, at the CVL Economic Growth Celebration (Agriculture Sector) held at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos… on Monday.

Ambode, Utomi for Lagos 2015 Press Week lecture, award

FG arraigns Orubebe at CCT

Oluwaseyi fadoro

Abuja

ÏÏÏMr. Akinwunmi Ambode, the

Lagos state Governor and Prof.

Pat Utomi, are expected at this 2015, annual Press Week, award night, slated for this week, being organised by the Lagos State Governor’s Office Correspondents, (LAGOCO), an offshoot of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).

Announcing the commencement of the press week programme at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa, Ikeja, the Chairman,of LAGOCO, Mr. Joshua Bassey, said the week had commenced with a walk against sexual abuse and domestic violence, while the association would, on Wednesday, visit an orphanage

home to donate various food stuff and other items.

He said the lecture and award ceremony, which was the grand finale, was slated for November 13, 2015, at the Combo Hall, LTV Complex, Lateef Jakande Road, Agidingbi, Ikeja, at 3 p.m.

He said that the lecture with the theme “Reducing Cost Of Governance: Socio-Economic Implications For Nigeria”, would be delivered by a renowned political economist – Professor Pat Utomi, The occasion will be chaired by Otunba Henry Ajomale, Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC), in Lagos State while Ambode will be the Special Guest of Honour.

Suswam loses bid to stop probe

ÏÏÏThe

former governor of Benue State, Gabriel Suswam, has lost his bid to stop the probe instituted against him by Samuel Ortom, his successor. Ortom constituted an investigative panel to determine the actual level of indebtedness of the state and verify government’s assets. The panel was also directed to investigate those responsible for lease or allocation of real property belonging to the state government.

But Suswam instituted a suit at the state high court, seeking a leave of the court to disband and set aside the inquiry against him. In his application, Suswam alleged that the commission was set up to

Suswam

witch-hunt, smear his name and destroy his legacy. He argued that the commission was incapable of exercising judicial powers and lacked constitutional powers to investigate or adjudicate upon the issues submitted to it for inquiry. He claimed that his administration was transparent and rendered periodic account of its stewardship to the state throughout his eight years in office. Arguing that the resources of the state were judiciously used under him, Suswam prayed the court to grant his application by quashing the commission. But in his ruling, on Monday, Adam Onum, the presiding judge, vacated the order on the commission and ordered resumed sitting of the commission with immediate effect. Onum declared that the commission could issue letters of summon on individuals. However, he agreed with the applicant that the commission was not vested with the power to issue warrant of arrest on anyone.

Andrew Orolua

ÏÏÏ

The Federal Government, on Monday, arraigned former minister of the Niger Delta, Godsday Orubebe, before Code of Conduct Tribunal in Abuja for alleged N70 million bribe and non-declaration of assets.

A four-count charge was preferred against Orubebe by the Federal Government on October 30 at the tribunal.

At the resumed hearing, on Monday, the charge was read to Orubebe and he pleaded not guilty.

Consequently, prosecution counsel, Musa Ibrahim Usman, requested for a short adjournment to enable witnesses testify as they were not present in court.

Defense counsel, Selekeowei Larry (SAN), did not object to the adjournment, but told the tribunal that he was ready for the trial.

The tribunal chairman, Umar Danladi, however, frowned at the prosecution for not making the witnesses available.

“The essence of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act is

to dispense with every criminal case. That is why it provides that on arraignment or anytime an accused takes a plea, the prosecution must be ready to open its case by producing its witnesses. The case is hereby adjourned till November 26 for a definite hearing,” the tribunal held.

In the charge sheet that was signed by Peter Danladi of Code of Conduct Bureau, on October 18, on behalf of Attorney General of the Federation, Orubebe was alleged to have, while he was the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, on or about June 29, 2011, made a false declaration in his Asset Declaration Form by failing to declare plot 2722 Kyamu District, in Abuja, on assumption of office on September 26, 2007.

He also did not declare it while leaving office (at the end of his tenure), on June 29, 2011, and thereby committed an offence under Section 15 of Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act Cap C15 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 and as incorporated under paragraph 11(1) & (2) of part 1 Fifth Schedule

to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).

The offence is punishable under Section 23(2) of the CCB & T Act and as incorporated under paragraph 18 of part 1, Fifth Schedule to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

Orubebe, as a minister, was alleged to have, while at Niger Delta Affairs, on or about June 29, 2011, made a false declaration in his asset declaration form by failing to declare plot 2059 Asokoro district, Abuja, on assumption of office on September 26, 2007 and on June 29, 2011 and thereby committed an offence under Section 15 of the CCB & T Act, Cap C15, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 and as incorporated under paragraph 11(1) & (2) of part one Fifth Schedule to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), and punishable under Section 23 (2) of the CCB & T Act and as incorporated in paragraph 18 part 1 Fifth Schedule to The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

PDP to immortalise Pwajok – Secondus Chijioke Kingsley Jos

ÏÏÏThe Acting National Chair-

man of the People Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Uche Secondus, said, on Monday, that the PDP would immortalise the name of the late Sen. Gyang Nyam Pwajok, who contested the April 11, 2015 governorship election, under the platform of the party.

Secondus, who was represented by the National Treasurer of the Party, Alhaji Buhari Bawa, stated this at the residence of the deceased, in Jos, the Plateau State capital, as the head of a del-

egation from the Party’s National Secretariat Abuja, to condole with widow and family of the late Pwajok.

Secundus said, “The death of Pwajok is a great loss to the PDP, his family and the nation at large.

We have lost a great pillar, especially at this time that the party is undergoing restructuring. The national body of the party will immortalise him, even if the Plateau people did not do it”, he said.

Also at Pwajok residence, was the Executive Chairman of Bassa Local Government, Hon. David Racha, who led a delegation of elders and party official to the

family of the deceased.

Racha while praying for the repose of Pwajok, called on the people of the state to pay attention to what God is saying at this time.

According to him, “God is probably using the death of our brother to speak to us just as He did in the Bible days. Pwajok is a figure that would have united the ethnic groups in Plateau. He believed in what he stood for,” he said.

He called on the people of Plateau to look beyond ethnicity, in other to achieve a purposeful and united state, which was the bedrock of progress.

8

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Politics

Æs

Ambode not a noise maker

where to look to block leakages and save valuable funds. By financial re-engineering and reviewing the revenue framework of the state, he has been able to save the N3 billion monthly.

This means there will be more funds to inject into capital projects and to finance the N25 billion employment Trust Fund he promised during his campaign.

His good managerial skill has helped manage Lagos State workers without seeking for the Federal Government bailout.

Within a short time in office, he also approved the release of 11 billion naira for the payment of arrears of pensions owed since

Gbolahan Bakare Lagos today remains the most important state in Nigeria and can only be led by the most courageous and innovative leaders. Its cosmopolitan nature and complexities make it a tough place for anyone to control, hence politics in the Big City is fierce and unforgiving. Only the bold can survive it.

When Akinwunmi Ambode took over control of the state as Governor from his brilliant predecessor, Babatunde Fashola, on May 29th 2015, he knew exactly what he would need to do to keep the 21 million Lagosians safe and prosperous. He knew he was slipping into very huge shoes. Being a former Auditor General of the state, he knew

Ambode

2010.

Understanding a busy state like Lagos needs a good security to enables its citizens walk freely without fear of being attacked, he established an integrated security and emergency control platform, which is aimed at strengthening the security apparatus in the state, Equipment and vehicles of various needs donated to all he security agencies to enable a good discharge and delivery of their job. The general hospitals are not left out as the governor has worked tremendously in CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

Fayose is operating an autocratic government – Dr. Orire Dr Andrew Adebayo Orire is the spokesman of Ekiti APC elders and chieftain of the party. In this interview with Gbenga Sodeinde, he spoke on fayose’s one year in office. Excerpts: Your assessment of Governor Fayose’s one year in office as Governor of Ekiti State?

I congratulate him for his one year in office having been able to escape the impeachment plot against him; he has been able to show his true colours to the people of Ekiti that he is a fake; he has been able to prove to the whole world that he is still the same old Fayose in a renewed anti social intent and modus operandi. He has been able to prove to the people who voted him that they made a mistake in voting him into power; he has been able to prove to the whole world that Ekiti voted for disgrace, lies, dishonour deceit and disorder.

For instance, look at the way he painted the Ekiti debt profile. Dr Kayode Fayemi truly went for a loan of N25 billion to use for some capital projects in the state, and he has paid more than one third of the loan. And this is despite the fact that the allocation that was coming to the state that time which was during Jonathan government was far less than was comes to states now. Despite this, Fayemi was paying the senior citizens,

Fayose

Orire

(the aged) monthly, what we called social security; he was paying unemployed graduates N10,000. every

month; Fayemi was doing YICAD, and financing youths in commercial agriculture and yet he was ser-

vicing the loan and he never owed workers salary. Not until after election that Fayose cried to the banks

and the banks stopped assisting.

Due to the delay in the federal allocation to the states and except for just that one month, Fayemi never owed any workers’ salary.

So, Ekiti people have now discovered and they have been able to know through his rough deals, through his rough speeches, through his rough unpremeditated and unthought-of- outburst that the people of Ekiti state have made a great mistake voting him in as their Governor. Look at the few projects he is doing, some of them are hijacked project from the university or from grants that were giving to the state otherwise he has not done anything with the money he received. He is operating a solo and autocratic government, government of noises and deceit.

I am happy that the whole people CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

‘Why Buhari may not succeed with anti-graft war’

Buhari

Senator Hama Isa Misau of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has raised doubt about the ability of President Muhammadu Buhari to successfully prosecute the anti-graft war by selectively targeting individuals.

Citing the case of the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, Mis-

au, who represents Bauchi Central Senatorial Zone, noted that the declaration of assets case against Saraki at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) was being manipulated.

Misau, in a statement, added that a script had been written based on mischief, and ill-will and is being acted in all the courts before whom

the matter has been taken.

“The impression I am getting is that some people are playing God, believing that they can determine the fate of Saraki and they are using the judiciary as instrument of witch-hunt and persecution.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

9 Politics

Fayose’s government is of deceit, lies, says Orire CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

are seeing it now, the teachers are seeing it now, the civil servants are seeing it, the iyalojas are seeing it and they are seeing the difference. They can see through his antics now; the only thing is that he cannot come back and canvass for votes again in Ekiti. I do not see anything to be proud of in his administration. Immediately, you get out of this state, and you say you are from Ekiti state, people will laugh at you sarcastically, and they will say Fayose’s state? With emphasis. Ekiti is a sorry state now, we are not addressing agriculture, industrialization; we are not facing reality, even the federal allocation that is coming from Abuja, he will paint the picture as if there is no allocation to the state, he will always tell that Ekiti is a debtor, whereas the money the predecessors borrowed had a term and you can renegotiate instead of making noise, which he said he had done, then where is the debt? Where is our allocation going to? Who is he deceiving? Let him do something if he has anything to do and move the state forward.

Your view on the airport project embarked upon by Fayose?

I want to believe that Airport Project is a federal project. To me as an Ekiti man who does not believe that Ekiti should remain backward, I don’t see anything bad in an airport project, but that is not our priority for now. What are the immediate and longtime gain that we will have from this project that you are going to pay through the nose to do? If you can afford it fine, and if it is not going to eat into the salaries of workers, and allowances of the people, fine, if it is not going to jeopardize progress and growth of the state, fine. But if you are going to borrow to do an airport, when you do not have anything to export with it, when you do not have anything to carry with it, its a mistake. How many people are traveling outside Ekiti State in the plane now? The one in Akure is an example. If you are going do it better and cheaper and much more easily than Akure, fine. If you are going to have products that will be ferried out with it or that will be transported out with it and that will bring profit to Ekiti, fine. But if the immediate and the long time gain does not justify our having to struggle and suffer to pay for it, it is better for him to get it of his mind, but if he can achieve it easily; If it

Fayose can be done without us suffering; I think at least to beautify the state, I mean just to add beauty to the state he could go ahead with it but if we have to pay through our nose to do it, I say for now, it is not expedient and airport project is not our priority in Ekiti for now and is not what we want for now, rather, it is simply a conduit pipe which Fayose plans to use to siphon our money.

What are the things that Ekiti want for now or that he should do for Ekiti for now?

Ekiti does not have one single operating industry, why can’t he

face industrialization? Ire burnt brick was completed by Fayemi, why cant’t Fayose make it function? Agriculture is done in a shabby, shameful and inadequate manner in Ekiti State, why can’t he face agriculture? We have water, we have land, we have the sun we have everything, but we are wallowing in poverty when we should be swimming in abundance. Talk of tourism, the last government of Fayemi did much on tourism why can’t Fayose maintain it? Why can’t we do something that will accommodate and fix our children who are jobless into good jobs cre-

ated by us through industrialisation? We can even assist people into good commerce, we can do it with minimal amount of money.

With participation, with cooperation, we can do a lot, there a lot of things he could do to make our teeming young unemployed graduate work. You don’t have to make noise when you are working, people will know when are working.

In fact, there are a lot I can do as a person with what Ekiti has as at present that within the next one or two years that people will be proud of Ekiti, he should sit down and think, and if he lacks idea, let him come and meet us, we will give him ideas.

This is our state and whatever we do now, our children will meet it.

Some of the states that we started together, some of them are making great profit, it is like when you give N10,000 to two boys, one of them went back to farm with N10,000.

Made a farm, planted cocoa, and worked assiduously on that cocoa farm for N10,000. In the next 10 years, he will be making N100,000 on that cocoa farm every year, and you give the same N10,000 to another one who went to the market, eat, buy groundnut and womanise with it. In another 10 months, he would be down broke and will be making noise, rabblerousing, turning himself into a tout; that is exactly what we are doing here in Ekiti State. Let’s look around, the day this our governor was eating CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

Ambode not a noise maker CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

the health sector. Governor Ambode provided 26 Transport Ambulances distributed deployed across the hospitals.

He added 20 new mobile intensive care ambulances to the 16 his predecessor provided making a total of 36 mobile intensive unit ambulances in the state.

Many roads are under construction or repairs, as the governor has instructed the heads of all local government and local council development areas to fix 2 roads in their various local governments to make the state motorable.

Governor Ambode has taken a tour of some major roads to ascertain their state and device a better way to put them to order without affecting the Lagosians. Such roads include Ejigbo- Ikotun Road, OkotaCele Road, MetalBox Road and Acme Road Ikeja re currently being rehabilitated, Brown street, Oshodi, Ladipo street as well as Mushin road are not left out. He has committed N1.386Billion to road construction and rehabilitation.

All these and many more the Governor has done in less only his first quarter in office. Akinwumi Ambode is a performer not a noise maker.

There is no doubt he will deliver the dividends of democracy to the people. He has started well and will definitely end well.

‘Why Buhari may not succeed with anti-graft war’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

“What is happening is not a war against corruption. It is a war against Saraki using corrupt means to hound him to submission. This means however has grievous implication for the proposed anti-corruption agenda of the Buhari administration because you cannot successfully prosecute anti-graft war by selectively targeting individuals,” he said.

Misau, however, maintained that the Senate would continue to support its President as a result of the injustice being perpetrated against him.

He added that his colleagues, who witnessed the proceedings at

the Tribunal on the three different occasions Saraki appeared before it were convinced that the defendant was only being targeted because he is Senate President.

“The body language of the Tribunal Chairman clearly shows that he cannot do justice to the defendant in the present case,” Misau noted.

He urged those behind the scheme to bring Saraki down to desist as their actions have implications for APC, the government and the nation.

“Their actions portend that there is continued division within our great party and a divided party cannot effectively run a good government. Also, they are creating a wrong impression that

Buhari the executive and judiciary are ganging up against the legislature.

More importantly, they are reducing the War against corruption to a selective war designed to suppress political opponents.

“Why are they targeting Saraki?

They thought they could use the Tribunal to achieve what they could not achieve during the election of the leadership of the Upper Chamber of our legislature. Saraki has continued to be popular among senators and party members who are impressed by the leadership he has displayed in all circumstances, issues and cases.

“His handling of the ministerial screening and constitution of committees have shown that he is an asset to the Senate, the APC and the country. I urge President Muhammadu Buhari to check those who are using his name to perpetrate and perpetuate injustice to stop. The President as a leader should not turn away while this misdeeds continue,” Misau added.

Politics 10

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Politics of debt figures in Ekiti The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti has taken the state governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose to task over the ongoing confusion over the actual debt profile of the state.

In the last two weeks, Fayose has given two contrary views on the actual debt profile of the state, setting tongues wagging about the real financial situation of the state.

Consequently, the APC in Ekiti State told Governor Fayose to stop deceiving Ekit people over unrestrained reeling out of inconsistent debt figures that has become a permanent feature in his public speeches, saying ‘nconsistent debt figures and deliberate bogus and unrealistic projects by Fayose is a ploy to self enrichment’.

It said the people are not fooled by the recalcitrant posturing in government, warning the governor to stop treating Ekiti people as children with scant capacity for reasoning.

Reacting to the recent declaration

by Fayose that the state’s debts had risen to N252 billion, Publicity Secretary, Taiwo Olatubosun, said in a statement that the governor had turned himself to a “master juggler in a dishonest public show where two plus two may not be four”.

Regretting that the governor had turned the state to a public square for spinning of incredible fables, Olatunbosun said: “It is laughable that Governor Fayose has turned himself to a jester on street shows with toddlers as his audience who chuckle at gestures but lost at the grappling with the content of the drama.

Fayose “At assumption of office, Fayose told the world that former Governor Kayode Fayemi left N86b. Later, he sat up to reduce it to N56b and now, he has announced another figure of N252b that will be redeemed in 2036, all in an attempt to hide behind debt profile to deny people real development while living in private comfort as planned.

“He has come out again with the debts that will be redeemed in 2036 we wonder whether he will still remain the governor till 2036 and as such he is handicapped by debt burden to fulfil his obligations to Ekiti people,” he noted.

Olatunbosun said Fayose’s motive for his current lie was to deny the past political office holders payment of severance allowances

Fayemi even though payment of severance allowances were captured in the bailout cash so that he can help himself with the cash thinking the unsuspecting Ekiti people would not know.

The APC spokesman regretted that the governor had abandoned governance for theatrics all intended to punish Ekiti people in pursuit of his selfish motives. The Governor has refused to engage Ekiti youths in rewarding ventures like commercial agriculture instead; he has embarked on bogus projects like the construction of an airport in an agrarian state so that he can enrich himself and his immediate family.

“It is regrettable that the administration of Governor Fayose has

turned Ekiti State to a trading post using massive and reckless propaganda and mindless lies to deceive the people on the financial status of the state in order to put people in permanent state of flux so that they won’t be able to demand for their rights and fulfillment of campaign promises.

“We want to make it abundantly clear to Ekiti people that Fayemi left a debt of N18.5b as he explained to the whole world on the floor of the Nigeria Senate chambers during his ministerial screening session and this has not been controverted.

“It is gratifying that Fayemi did not borrow to pay salaries; he borrowed to implement development projects and the projects are there

across the state for the people to see,” he said.

Olatunbosun urged the governor to take his mind off endless pursuit of private comfort at the detriment of the collective interest of Ekiti people, saying endless lies on imaginary debts to create alibi for nonperformance was a callous scheme to deny the people their rights while the governor lived in opulence.

“The governor takes N250 million as security vote every month.

He travels to Dubai every month after collecting federal allocation.

While Ekiti youths have become arms bearers as Fayose’s thugs, his sons ride around in multi-million naira posh cars while he has also sacked thousands of youths in empowerment schemes introduced by Fayemi.

“He reversed workers promotions and cut in the running grants approved for civil servants while he cancelled the monthly payment of N5,000 to the elderly introduced

by Fayemi after deceiving these elderly people that he (Fayose) would increase the pay to N10,000 during campaign.

“All these are hallmarks of wickedness and mindless pursuit of private comfort while the rest of the people suffer.

“The governor must pay severance allowances to the past political office holders as captures in the bail out protocol and we call on workers to insist on the payment of their entitlements while Ekiti people should demand for performance and should not be deceived by Fayose’s endless lies on debts profile of the state,” Olatunbosun concluded.

Fayose is operating an autocratic government – Dr. Orire CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

groundnut and banana in the market was the day his counterpart governor in Kaduna was having a round table meeting for the grand plan for the development of his state, roads, industrialisation, agriculture and all the rest, so you can see the difference.

While Fayose was telling everybody to come out and prevent him from being impeached, the same period, the other governors were planning how they will develop their states, so whatever you sow you will reap. When you sow wind, you are going to reap whirlwinds, its not about gangsterism, making noise about and calling himself, Oremekunnun, Oremekunnu indeed! Oremekunnu that is flying on plane all about, Oremekunnu

that is drinking with N250,000 every night. No, that is not Oremekunnu, and Ekiti can no longer be fooled. Real Oremekunnu would actually work for the mekunnus to have something on his table, and in another two years. Even if not immediate, would be seen as a civilised person teaching his followers civilised way of life.

How would you react to Fayose’s persistent outburst and criticism of President Buhari?

He is just trying to make some opposition noise which would not pay him. At a time the PDP, his party had to dissociate themselves from his noise, you see that nobody is bothered about his noise, because everybody knows that his noises are ranting and railing of somebody who is crying for recognition by all means. It does not

move APC, neither does it move Buhari a dime. If you can call your own mother somebody who wear pampas, why should another person of that age bother about you, if you can abuse Obasanjo anyhow, who is Buhari that you can’t talk to anyhow? But there is a culture in Nigeria, there is a culture in Yorubaland, and in Ekiti that forbids you from being rude to your elders. Everybody knows that it is not Ekiti people that is abusing Buhari, so nobody takes Fayose serious at all. Buhari never answered him, Lai Muhammed does not even respond, the media advisers and assistants to Buhari never had his time. With these, he should have known that his noises doesn’t move anybody.

But recently, Buhari’s Senior Special Assistant, on media,

Mallam Shehu Garba warned Fayose over his statement on the financial state of the federation?

In the first instance, what does Fayose know about the financial state or state of the account of the nation? Mallam Shehu must have responded to that because people might have been misinformed, and is not as if they are taking him serious because of what he says, it is because of the wrong impression that such reckless accusation could send to a lot of people in Nigeria and outside Nigeria. As a Governor, you should know that whatever you say would have an effect, and very serious effect on the populace within and outside.

So, you would find out that it is not his noises that attracted the media aide of the President, in fact that

is even one among 10 out of his unwarranted outbursts, and that was part of Fayose`s ploy to cover up.

Everybody knows his antics.

Everybody knows his antecedent, and everybody who is sensible enough knows what he is doing in the government right now. Everybody knows that if you are talking of honesty, and sincerity of purpose. You cannot come to Fayose; he is just undoing himself. But as a brother, I will just advise him to keep quiet. But you know, you cannot talk to him like that, he will see you as opposition; he will say no body can suppress him; he will say nobody can close his mouth, so let him continue to open his mouth, and its in the Bible, out of your belly, you shall be fed.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

11 Politics

Biafra: PDP, APC tango over strategy The ongoing protests over defunct Republic of Biafra in some parts of the east appears to have been politicised as the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are bickering over tactics adopted in resolving the development.

As to be expected, in Nigeria, everything is usually politicised by groups or individuals in order to gain undue advantages over the other. It does not matter the magnitude of the situation, what matters to politicians is the mileage they stand to gain from the situation.

On the Biafra issue, the PDP has claimed that it is deeply concerned about the unfolding political events and developments in the South East and South South of Nigeria.

According to it, it is not comfortable with the methods being applied by the President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government in handling of restive youths in the South South and South East geo-political zones, who are agitating under the Biafra movement, and urged the President to personally intervene as the matter affects the territorial integrity of Nigeria.

The party said it is concerned that the Federal Government and its agencies have failed to approach the situation with the inclusiveness and seriousness it deserves, but have instead been resorting to the use of security forces.

PDP National Youth Leader, Hon. Abdullahi MaiBasira said in a statement that President Buhari and his party should be held to account for the escalation of the agitation, which threatens the unity and national security interests of

Arase Nigeria as an indivisible entity.

The party said it observed the seemingly lack of any clear-cut policy direction that concerns the development, mainstreaming and inclusion of young people in the country by the Federal Government, a worrisome issue that brings to question APC’s campaign promise to generate and give 3 million jobs annually to Nigerian Youths.

“The fact that none of the President’s ministerial appointees confirmed by Senate is below 40 years also puts to question APC’s belief for the next generation of leaders, mentorship and transfer of responsibility.

So far, the resultant effect of this lack of clear-cut policy is the stagnation of the economy and laying-

Odigie-Oyegun off of thousands of people from their jobs.

“Rather than the use of force as an option which usually fails as a solution in this type of self inflicted socio political problem, President Buhari should as a matter of national interest and practical necessity, make haste to call representatives and leaders of the South East for discussions before the situation deteriorates”, the party said.

The PDP said, “President Buhari and his party should know that sidelining any section of the country is bound to generate unhealthy relations among all integral parts of the Nigerian people.

“Finally, as young people who believe in the present and future stability of Nigeria; we urge President Buhari to see himself as the

Secondus father of the nation and try to open his heart to all by carrying everybody along and through that, create enabling environment for peace, progress and development in the interest of all”, the statement said.

Over the weekend, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Solomon Arase, warned that enough is enough for the youths from the eastern part of Nigeria parading themselves as promoters of Biafra.

The IGP, who spoke to Channels Television earlier on Sunday, cautioned the youths against obstructing the peace of the land.

His warning is coming against the backdrop of massive protests for the actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra in Asaba, the Delta State’s capital, Awka, the capital of Anambra State and again in

Enugu on Sunday.

Although there were earlier reports on Sunday that 125 pro-Biafra protesters were arrested, the police spokesman in Delta State, Celestina Kalu, said nobody was in the custody of the Police Command in Delta State.

It is the second time in two days that the police are issuing a warning to the group.

On Friday the Nigeria Police Force had issued a warning to the youths calling for the recognition of the Indigenous People of Biafra, saying that their planned “planned one-million-man march is illegal”.

In a strongly-worded statement, Mr. Arase said that the protesters, from the south-eastern region, would be provoking the law if they do not stop such protests or call.

Orire: Fayose’s government is of deceit, lies CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10

But, don’t you share the belief that every Ekiti person may suffer as a payback for their governor’s negative outburst against the President?

No! No! You see, People outside are just surprised that Ekiti could make such a person their governor. They are surprised that Ekiti could have a governor that does the opposite of what you expect from an Ekiti person, they are just surprised. These people are human beings, they are not animals, so majority of them that can read paper know what is right, so they will never underrate an Ekiti man just because their governor has

said ill of a person. Nobody has underrated me because my governor has spoken ill of the President and I want to believe that the people know that not every Ekiti man is like Fayose.

Is this how the whole thing will continue?

No, there is a way out. Now that 2018 is around the corner, the way out is that henceforth, Ekiti will never present or vote anybody like Fayose again. Secondly, there is nobody who does not live in Ekiti who must become governor again in Ekiti. Election should not be all about N2,000, N1,000 or N5,000 before voting or after voting excise.

Every Ekiti person must sit up now and ensure that anybody who

don’t live in Ekiti does not become governor in Ekiti again. If anybody wants to rule Ekiti and he is a son or a daughter of somebody, let him come and live in Ekiti for five years, so that we will know him very well and he will know us and our problems. Let us know whether he is a genuine business man or a genuine lecturer, or other professional, not the boys who will just come from nowhere, without antecedent, with money that we don’t know how they have gotten it, they will just come and be messing up our lives.

That is exactly what we are saying, and that is what everybody in Ekiti is now saying. The People of Ekiti are now saying that they have

seen it, they have seen it in Fayose, they have seen it in Kayode Fayemi. They have seen in it in Segun Oni, and they have seen it in Niyi Adebayo. The people of Ekiti are making up their minds now, and if you go out in Ekiti, I think you will have heard them saying it that this coming one they are going to vote in somebody who had lived in Ekiti, who have known Ekiti and who Ekiti people have known for long, so that they will not be taking us for a ride again, and I want to talk to Ekiti people, think well now, according to Femi Falana, he will say shine your eyes. I want Ekiti people to shine their eyes now so that they will not make the same mistake they made in voting Fayose, let us

for once come back home and pick somebody among us. Let us pick somebody who is verseed in Ekiti, who knows Ikole, who knows Oye, who knows Ikere and who knows the problems in the state. Somebody who knows me and you very well, not a Lagos based, somebody who knows all the towns and villages and other places in Ekiti, such a person will know what to do solve their problems. We have made mistakes in bringing somebody from Lagos or Ibadan to come and be our governor in Ekiti. So let us for once be realistic and choose from amongst us at home, a home based and see the difference, and that is all we want to talk about in this coming elections in Ekiti.

News 12

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

NERC fines Abuja Disco with N18m over electrocution of eight-yr-old Augustine Okezie Abuja

ÏÏÏThe Nigeria Electric-

ity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has imposed an N18m fine on Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) following electrocution of an eightyear- old Faith Yakubu at Anguwan Dodo, Gwagwalada, FCT, which is within the company’s distribution franchise area.

In a statement, made available to newsmen in Abuja on Monday, the NERC said it has through its resolution, upheld the

recommendations of its Panel Report of Accident Investigation which found the distribution company liable of negligence.

According to the resolution on the accident, “AEDC shall pay Eighteen Million Naira (N18, 000, 000. 00) as compensation to the family of Faith Yakubu and communicate same to the Commission accordingly, besides, AEDC should ensure that the surviving four month old child undergoes medical check-up in a recognised hospital and evidence presented to the Commis-

sion for further directives.”

AEDC was further directed to carry out regular safety enlightenment campaign in accordance with the Nigeria Electricity Safety Manual and Nigeria Electricity Safety Code.

The distribution company was also expected to adequately train its staff on market regulations, as well as ensure that its marketing units are provided with competent technical staff with the sole responsibility of carrying out the function of connection and disconnection of customers when

all conditions for disconnections in line with NERC’s regulations have been met.

Recall that little Miss Faith Yakubu, met her death when a staff of AEDC disconnected the wire feeding the Yakubus’ residence over allegation of accumulated bills and left the wire lying on the ground, even as he failed to disconnect supply from the transformer. The deceased, in her innocence had grabbed the wire in an attempt to cross over the naked wire when she got electrocuted. The baby on her back survived the accident.

Police task Lagosians on reporting crime on social media ÏÏÏThe

Lagos State Police Command, on Monday, urged residents of the state not to report traffic robbery and other crimes first on social media but to the nearest police station.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Joseph Offor, who made the appeal on Monday, said the reports would help the police in strategising on how to combat crimes and forestall occurrence.

The State Commissioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni, had lamented that Nigerians were fond of reporting crimes first on the social media.

Offor noted that reporting first to the nearest police sta-

tion would help the police to prevent further occurrence.

He also spoke about how some distress calls were actually blown out of proportion and advised the residents to always verify their information before causing panic.

The PPRO added that making false reports of crime incidents on social media was a cheap blackmail against the leadership of the Nigeria Police.

Offor said: “People should endeavour to report every road traffic robbery to the police station so that we will know who to hold responsible. “This will help us to strategise and come against those people behind the crimes.”

Xmas: Airline operators rule out fare increase

ÏÏÏThe

Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), on Monday, assured air travelers that fares would not be hiked during the forthcoming Christmas season.

The President of AON, Captain Nogie Meggison, gave the assurance in an interview with the newsmen in Lagos. Meggison said: “We will not hike air fares during the yuletide period.

“We just want our passengers to know that we are available for business.

“We are ready for the influx of passengers.

“The more the passengers, the better for us.”

According to Meggison, L-R: Corporate Relations Director, Mr. Sesan Sobowale; Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Peter Ndegwa; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode; Special Adviser to the governor on Overseas Affairs and Investment, Prof. Ademola Abass and Mr. Cephas Afebuameh during a courtesy visit of Guinness Nigeria Plc to the governor at the Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos… on Monday.

Another Boko Haram linchpin nabbed at check point ÏÏÏAnother

wanted suspected Boko Haram terrorist, Ishaku Wardifen, was on Monday nabbed by vigilant troops of the 23 Brigade Special Battalion at a checkpoint in Maiha, Adamawa State.

Buratai

Wardifen was among the 100 Boko Haram members declared wanted by the Army last month.

One of the terrorists declared wanted, Chindo Bello, was on Sunday caught by vigilant airport security operatives at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, in Abuja.

Bello was about boarding an Aero Contractors flight to Lagos when he was apprehended.

Preliminary interrogation on Monday revealed

that Wardifen is a Cameroonian citizen.

Visual matching with photographs on the poster of the 100 declared suspected Boko Haram terrorists wanted list released by the military authorities last month, shows that he clearly resembles the suspect on serial number 22 on the list.

The suspect has been handed over to military intelligence for further investigation and possible prosecution.

A statement by the Nige-

rian Army on Monday said: “Nigerian Army would like to once more call on all citizens and all well-meaning residents of our country to continue to be more vigilant and security conscious to enable us rid our great nation of the menace of terrorism and insurgency.”

One of the terrorists declared wanted, Chindo Bello, was on Sunday caught by vigilant airport security operatives at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

Iwo stands still for new monarch ÏÏÏThe

ancient city of Iwo, in Osun State, stood still on Monday when the Oluwo-elect, Prince Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi, entered triumphantly into the town for the installation process.

Major streets in the city, witnessed heavy traffic jam as the convoy of the Oluwo snaked through Orieru, Odo-ori, Ile-omosan and Ojaba axis of the city, where people lined up the streets to welcome the new monarch.

The installation ceremo-

the airlines are working with various aviation agencies towards ensuring that air travelers enjoyed smooth flight during the period.

He stated that airline operators had held series of meetings to find ways of reducing the cost of operations.

“We are working on it to see how we can open a clearing house where we all can share passengers, but we are in Nigeria where the credit system is still very dicey,” Meggison said.

He advised government to formulate policies that would support the growth of the aviation sector.

ny followed the approval of the appointment of the new monarch by the Osun State government after the completion of due process by the kingmakers.

The Oluwo-elect, in an open roof Lexus Sport Utility vehicle, raised his clutched fists to acknowledge cheers from the people after about three hours drive to get to the palace, was however, turbaned by the League of Imam and Alfas, led by Sheik Imran Adio.

The turbanning ceremony was followed by the symbolic traditional decoration of the monarch with “Akoko” leaf by the Oosa of Iwo Kingdom, Chief Bello Orobimpe.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

13 International

Myanmar opposition party coasts home to victory in polls ÎÎÎMyanmar opposition leader

Aung San Suu Kyi’s political party has won the first seats in what is expected to be a landslide victory in Sunday’s parliamentary elections.

Election officials announced Monday that the National League for Democracy had won 12 lower house seats in the main city of Yangon.

These first official election results were announced shortly af-

ter Aung San Suu Kyi expressed confidence her party would win the historic vote in a speech to supporters outside NLD headquarters in Yangon, but she did not claim outright victory with the votes still being counted.

“Until this time the election results have not been declared,” she said. “I think everyone already knows or has guessed what the election result is.”

Htay Oo, the chairman of the ruling military-backed Union

Solitary Development Party, said on Democratic Voice of Burma TV that he lost his own seat in the election, and admitted that the ruling party had “lost more seats than [it] has won.”

Another losing USDP lawmaker was parliamentary speaker Shwe Mann, who was considered a candidate for president.

Election officials delayed the announcement of election results, expected Monday, until later in the day without giving a

reason.

The Myanmar Times said the NLD has issued a formal complaint to the Union Election Commission over a change in election procedures. The party said the UEC has instructed local election officials to send election results directly to the commission’s offices in the capital Naypyitaw, instead of sending them first to local and state election authorities.

Myanmar’s National League for Democracy party leader Aung San Suu Kyi leaves party headquarters after addressing supporters about the general elections in Yangon, Nov. 9, 2015. Her supporters on Monday were confident the party had won a landslide victory.

Iran, Israel violence on agenda for Obama - Netanyahu talks ÎÎÎU.S.

President Barack Obama is hosting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for talks Monday as the Israeli leader makes his first visit to Washington since the United States and five other world powers signed a nuclear deal with Iran.

Netanyahu was among the most vocal critics of the July agreement, saying it would not slow Iran’s work toward a nuclear weapon and would put Israel in danger. He highlighted his concerns in an address to the Republican-controlled U.S. Congress in March during a trip where he did not meet with Obama.

The White House said the Iranian deal will be among the regional security issues that Obama and Netanyahu will dis-

cuss in the meeting that will also be attended by U.S. Vice President Joe Biden.

Hours before he left Israel, Netanyahu said the talks would focus on “strengthening the security” of Israel. He said Israel’s security is something the U.S. has always been committed to, with the goal of maintaining Israel’s comparative military advantage in the face of a changing Middle East.

Israel already receives more than $3 billion a year in U.S. military aid, and officials say Netanyahu hopes to get that raised to $4 billion to $5 billion annually. The current 10-year arrangement expires in 2017.

“I believe that this meeting is important in order to clarify the continuation of American aid to Israel in the coming decade,”

Britain, Russia fly more citizens home from Egypt ÎÎÎMore

Russian and British tourists were due to leave the Egyptian resort town of Sharm el-Sheikh on Monday as investigators continued to work toward a conclusion about what caused an October 31 air disaster that killed 224 people.

At least a dozen flights were scheduled to depart Monday afternoon from the Sharm el-Sheikh International Airport to Moscow and various airports in Britain.

Britain’s embassy in Cairo has been careful to label the departures not as evacuations but as tourists going home at the end of their trips. Still, the Foreign Office is advising against “all but essential travel by air” to or from the Red Sea destination because of the “significant possibility” that the Russian Metrojet crash was caused by an explosive device.

The tragedy prompted some European air carriers to curb or cut flights to the longtime tourism magnet at the southern tip of the Sinai peninsula.

British Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond said by the end of Sunday, 5,000 British citizens were to have left the Red Sea destination.

A British tourist looks at a flight information panel at the airport of Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, Nov. 7, 2015.

A British tourist looks at a flight information panel at the airport of Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, Nov. 7, 2015.

9 killed in Burundi bar attack

ÎÎÎGunmen stormed into a bar

Obama

Netanyahu Netanyahu said.

U.S. officials say a new defense deal will not be finalized during the Obama-Netanyahu meeting, their first since October 2014, but that an agreement is being crafted.

in Burundi’s capital, Bujumbura, late Saturday, killing at least nine people.

Witnesses said the attackers ordered people sitting outside to come inside the building; then opened fire, killing seven instantly. Two died later from their wounds.

Witnesses told the French news agency AFP the gunmen wore police uniforms.

International concern is growing about the increase in violence in the central African country, following President Pierre Nkurunziza’s election to a third term in office.

State Department spokesperson John Kirby said Saturday the United States is “particularly concerned... inflammatory rhetoric” by some government officials and a planned security crackdown this weekend are increasing the

risk of mass violence in Burundi.

The government has ordered people to hand in their weapons or face consequences.

U.S. President Barack Obama says he plans to remove Burundi from a U.S. trade preference program because of the worsening crackdown on the political opposition there, after Nkurunziza’s return to office.

The decision by Nkurunziza to run for a third term sparked anger from many Burundians who said he was violating the constitution and the Arusha Accord that ended the country’s 13-year civil war.

Obama said the violence in Burundi “worsened significantly” during Nkurunziza’s election campaign.

Clashes between police and protesters, and fear of unrest has prompted some 200,000 Burundians to flee the country, with most going to Tanzania or Rwanda.

News 14

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Pro-Biafra protest Reps leadership crisis: Gbajabiamila, loyalists boycott committees inauguration grounds Aba Continued from page 6

Continued from page 6 committee independently.

Noting that some commentators have decried the large number of House committees as being too unwieldy, Dogara said “this criticism, even though, apparently well intentioned, misses the point. Experience gained from the operation of committees since 1999, shows that some committees’ functions and mandates are very wide indeed and cannot be effectively supervised and oversighted by a single committee.

He argued that there is no

way a single committee can adequately oversight the numerous federal agencies because House members also have other issues that may arise from plenary sessions, like lawmaking and other representational responsibilities to attend to.

“It is to ensure value for money for Nigerians, and that our laws and policies are implemented faithfully, that many committees have been created. The need also of more effective and efficient legislative oversight activities also informed this action.

“Undoubtedly, the leg-

islature remains the only institution with appropriate constitutional and statutory powers to check the executive branch and ensure that it discharges its mandate to the full benefit of all Nigerians. It is important to note that the change promised Nigerians can only endure and outlive any government that introduced it only when it is anchored on legislation and not mere policy.

“Policy changes can easily be changed by an incoming government. Change itself must be regulated, so that our people would not

face the dangers of unregulated change. That is why the legislative institution is central to the future we seek as a people.

“It is necessary to point out that the splitting of committees has not resulted in increased cost of running the House. The committee clerks and other staff of the committees are sourced from the existing pool of staff that are paid salaries and allowances already by the National Assembly. The committee members are already paid salaries also by the National Assembly”, Dogara added.

Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko (right) receiving report of the chieftaincy commission of inquiry on recognition, adjustment, elevation/upgrading from the Chairman, Justice Chris Ajama at the governor’s office in Akure… on Monday. With them is, Member of the Committee, Steve Adebowale

was peaceful. The number of protesters appeared to have overwhelmed the security agencies as they were nowhere to be seen.

Reacting, the Abia State government described the news of the protest as rumour, just as it lauded Aba residents for resisting the call to partake in the protest.

In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Godwin Adindu, he said the state was calm and peaceful. He accused the opposition of masterminding the protest as a disguise for their plan to cause breach of the peace.

Meanwhile, worried by the activities of the proBrafra groups in the South East zone, Chairman of Governors Forum of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Imo State Governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, on Monday, called for a meeting with governors for the zone, leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and other stakeholders to find a lasting solution on the activities of the pro-Brafra groups in the area.

Gov. Okorocha, who had earlier disassociated the governors and leaders of the zone of the growing protest of the pro-Brafra groups, described the activities of the separatists as embarrassing, disturbing, counter-productive and distractive.

According to him, the pro-Biafra protests could not be in the interest of the South-East people but were only sending wrong signals to the rest of Nigerians.

He said that it has become increasingly necessary for the governors in the zone, Ohaneze leaders and other stakeholders in the area to meet, to call a spade, a spade.

It is also expected that at the end of the Owerri meeting, the governors and other leaders will take a common position and will also invite the leaders of the pro-Biafra groups for a meeting, to let them know the socio-economic and political implications of their activities including their demand for sovereignty in a united Nigeria.

He said the governors and leaders in the zone could no longer sit and watch the whole situation degenerate and also noted that the Igbos as a people cannot afford to have its own kind of Boko Haram.

He also wondered why the pro-Biafra apologists kept quiet all these years only to resume their violent protests and activities this time and few months after the new administration in the country came on board.

Okorocha had earlier met with the security chiefs in the state on how to ensure that the pro-Biafra protests across the South-East states at the moment won’t be experienced in Imo State.

Buhari, Dogara, Govs, others laud Golden Eaglets Continued from page 2 the Golden Eaglets arrival to a heroes’ welcome from a joyous and grateful nation.

The Speaker, Hon. Dogara, in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Mr Turaki Hassan congratulated the Golden Eaglets saying they had done Nigeria and Nigerians proud.

“I congratulate the nation’s U-17 national team over this historic victory over Mali.

“You have done us proud and demonstrated that with hard work and unity of purpose, we can surmount our

challenges and emerge victorious as a nation.

“I doff my hat for these young patriots, who have written their names in gold in the annals of Nigeria’s soccer history,” he said, adding that the team played the classical Nigerian pattern of football against their opponents.

“I want to use this medium to call on authorities of the nation’s football and other sports to harness talents of young men and women in our country.

“Football has over time proved to be one thing that continues to unite Nigerians.

“We should emulate the

Golden Eaglets who thought of different background and religion put aside their differences to win this prestigious trophy for Nigeria.

“These young men have proved their mettle; we all need to encourage them to go for higher heights.

Governor Ambode, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Habib Aruna, said the resilience of the Eaglets to go all the way to defend their title which they won in the UAE two years ago was typical of the Nigerian spirit in the face of any daunting challenge.

“This is another eloquent testimony to the fact that Ni-

geria is a great country with enormous potential and we can achieve anything and everything if we are united and determined towards a course or a target.”

“In the opening minutes of the final match when the Nigerian team lost a penalty, they did not lose their heads, but remained focused on the task. Even when they went two goals ahead, they didn’t allow complacency to set in.

This is commendable and inspiring and I can only hope that it signals the beginning of the return to the glory days of Nigerian football”.

“On behalf of the good people of Lagos State, I con-

gratulate the victorious team, the technical team and all the backroom staff for this feat”, the Governor said.

Gov. Wike in a statement issued by his Special Assistant (Media), Mr Simeon Nwakaudu, in Port Harcourt expressed happiness with the team for doing the nation proud saying the players would become world stars soon because of the professionalism they displayed.

It said that the state government would continue to promote sports and use it to empower youths in line with its development blueprint.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) said the superla-

tive performance of the Golden Eaglets that saw them winning the just-concluded 2015 FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Chile epitomises the can-do spirit of Nigerians.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party also said the harvest of honours by the team is a reflection of the nation’s ongoing rebirth under the Administration of President Buhari, who incidentally was also the leader of the country when it won the inaugural Under-17 World Cup, known then as FIFA Under-16 World Championship, in China in 1985.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

15 Opinion

Buhari: We who are about to die salute you

S

Baba Isa

ince the return of democracy in 1999, Nigeria has not had a prepared president. That is a president who was willing and yearning to become one before being elected. Buhari is a president who spent a lot of time thinking hard about what he wants to do for the country, how he wants to do it and with whom before being saddled with the responsibilities. Obasanjo never thought of being the president before he was released from prison and forced to occupy Aso Rock. Yar’Adua never told anyone he wanted to be president but the authorities wanted him to be one. Goodluck Jonathan was the most unprepared of all. In fact, he became everything he never said he wanted to be, from governor to Vice President and all the way to President.

I am not saying they did not have their personal dreams and wishes before they became presidents. But becoming a president demands deliberate planning and long-term yearning that should allow for a well-documented articulation of such a wish.

So, when Buhari presented himself for the elections in 2015 for

a record four times, I thought we had a prepared man for the office. I thought no man would run for the president four times without having a well-prepared team to execute the duties of the president speedily, efficiently and effectively. This supposed preparedness was Buhari’s main selling point..

Therefore, I was not impressed when it took months after winning the elections for Buahri to send the list of his ministers to the Senate.

For a man who first contested for the president in 2003, such shoddy preparedness was inexcusable on any ground. I consider all those talk of the president being slow, steady and tactful as glorification of tardiness.

In the movie ‘The Meeting”, Rita Dominic said, “Weekend is a long time in government.” In addition, truly five months is a very long time in government. I am still even trying to wrap my head around how a president who has four years to deliver his campaign promises will spend five months to assemble his ministers.

43-year old Justin Trudeau was elected the Prime Minister of Canada on 19 October 2015 and when he was sworn in on 4 of November 2015, less than three weeks after, he announced his cabinet of 15 men

and 15 women. However, after waiting for months what did our slow, steady and tactful president give us? A bunch of old faces, no youth and a sprinkle of women.

I am concerned with how tardiness has become the hallmark of governance in Nigeria and Buhari is taking this red tape and ‘slowness’ to new heights.

Being slow is very often, a symptom of internal confusion. Sadly, it is only in politics that people will have the liberty of wasting time without result. Buhari’s praise singers are ‘forcing’ us to equate slowness with wisdom.

Moreover, this is supposed to be PDP’s fault. That is what we keep hearing from the President and his men. The PDP destroyed the country so fast, so the President has to be slow to fix a destruction that happened so fast. PDP might be responsible for the mess in the country but certainly; they are not responsible for the governance of the country today.

Recently the president said he would never stop talking about how PDP ruined this nation. Is this another way of admitting he cannot fix it? Maybe, it is to keep this as an excuse of his inability to fix it perpetually in our minds.

Now we hear that some of the

ministers designate will not have portfolios. I wonder what will qualify one minister to have a portfolio and another not to.

In ancient Rome, gladiators, who are usually slaves, stand upon the sand of large amphitheater to fight themselves to death while the crowd cheer. Before they commence their bloody fight, they will lift up their heads and address their Lords and Masters saying: “We who are about to die, salute you!”

The fate of the gladiators might not be very different from the fate of Nigerians. We stand in the sand with sweat on our brows, tilling the arid ground and drinking the aroma of unending struggles.

APC and the President media handlers have the proclivity of being ridiculous most times. How else can one describe the story they tried selling us about Buhari administering the country with his body language? Many “miracles” were ascribed to this amusing body language. Let the APC give us a blueprint to work it. Free us from being gladiators and killing each other in the sand while you watch. Take our salute but free us from the prophecy of death.

We, who are about to die, salute you!

Nigeria: Paradox of Africa’s largest economy When a king has good counsellors, his reign is peaceful - African proverb

W Toyin Adinlewa

hen Democracy is such a government that I have found so interesting but often disturbing, perhaps because of the privileges it gives to all and sundry within any democratic system, regardless of some individuals.

Such is the reality of Nigerian politics where members of a failed and defeated party, better put, are tongue-lashing the current government for being sincere with Nigerians and their international allies on the reality of our economy.

Recently, while reacting to the latest statement of President Muhammadu Buhari that Nigeria, with abundant human and natural resources, is broke and cannot pay cabinet ministers, the PDP, in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh, said the President’s unwary statements have become very serious clog in the wheel of progress, eroding the confidence of both domestic and international investors.

He said instead of making efforts

to harness resources and grow the economy, the president has rather continued to apply himself, to demarket the nation and scaring away investors through negative labelling of Nigerians.

Expectedly, Buhari, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina lambasted PDP-led government under Dr Goodluck Jonathan for lying to Nigerians about the buoyancy and vibrancy of the economy.

The president said he would not in the guise of “marketing” the country, refrain from telling Nigerians and the world the emerging truths about the abject state in which years of plundering by a PDP leadership.

Metuh seemed to be protecting Nigeria economy from being demarketed but quick to forget that a nation cannot thrive by calling white for black.

However, this shameless PDP’s attack on the president raises so many questions: When does telling the truth become unhealthy portrayal of one’s nation? I mean why would a country still regarded as a pride of Africa descends so low by lying to trusted allies for wooing investors?

Metuh and his party own Nige-

rians reasonable answers to these questions. and with a sense of urgency. administration.

Meanwhile, a critical assessment of the Jonathan administration, especially his last two years, clearly revealed that a methodology was adopted to obfuscate the plundering and treasury looting. Actually, economy was buoyant and vibrant but they were equally plundering it, leaving nothing for the masses.

This big lie was branded the largest economy through rebasing by Jonathan so-called economic group headed by Dr Okonjo-Iweala. You would recall that at a time when indices were showing negative, monies not being remitted to the government coffer, allegation of money laundering and many discerning Nigerians getting curious, economy was rebased and declared the largest in Africa, 26th in the world based on a bigger GPD However, the paradox is that, a bigger GDP also implies an upward revision in per-capita income, which was ignored. There is no corresponding shift in the actual income, earnings, productivity and wellbeing of Nigerians yet the shout of Nigeria economy being the largest

in Africa permeated every nook and cranny of the world.

My problem really was not against re-basement, but the way it was used to becloud Nigerians of the economic realities. Jonathan and his team caused the current economic woe leading to a situation where some states owe up to seven months salaries and the federal government being unable to pay workers.

So Metuh should know that he and his party has no moral standing to challenge any statement by Buhari for the purpose of telling Nigerians the current economic situation. We are in the era of change where transparency and accountability are primed; where there is no room for any secrecy.

We are no longer living in their creation-the “Republic of liars” (courtesy of Prof. Wole Soyinka)- a construction in the PDP 16 years of misrule with no sustainable development to show for it whether in power sector or infrastructure.

Nigerians through the last general election demolished such republic, and now expect the current administration to be truthful and transparent in the course of building the country we all envisage.

16

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

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Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

17

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TSA: CBN fines Skye Bank N4bn Adesola Akindele Following the sanction placed by the CBN on two major financial institutions: First Bank and UBA, the apex bank has ensnared yet another bank namely Skye Bank with the fine of N4 billion for non- compliance with the TSA directives given by the federal government.

In a circular from CBN, addressed to the Chairman, Board of Directors of Skye Bank, a fine of N4,005,228,976.35, which it said represents 10 percent of the unremitted funds belonging to Federal Government MDAs was placed on the bank and the amount would be debited from Skye Bank’s current account with CBN. The bank which confirmed that it was fined for failing to render appropriate returns on some public sector funds as required by the CBN provided more clarification on the issue which it called a mixup, saying that it did not at any time conceal any information from the CBN as adjudged.

The confirmation which was through a publication placed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange

website on Monday 9th November explained that: “The sum of N40 billion for which the bank was penalized consists of various NNPC account balances, NNPC Pension Funds Accounts, and National Assembly Legislative Aides account balances.

That on October 7, 2015, the bank rendered returns on all remitted and unremitted amounts to the CBN, including the balances in the above accounts.

On October 9, 2015, the bank received a communication from the NNPC forwarding a letter from the Accountant General of the Federation on the treatment of NNPC funds. By the communication, the bank was advised that an 18 business day window had been granted by the Vice President within which a plan for the orderly withdrawal of the NNPC funds would be implemented.

In rendering the returns requested by the CBN via its directive of October 14, 2015, the bank relied on the letter from the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation as advised by the NNPC, and backed out the NNPC monies from those that were required for the immediate

implementation of the TSA arrangement.

The bank however continued to render daily returns of all MDA moneys in its custody to the CBN, including those whose status under the TSA were not yet clear. We continue to render all due returns daily.

The foregoing shows that the Bank did not at any time conceal information from the CBN in relation to the amounts in question.”

The publication which was signed by the Company Secretary; Abimbola Izu and its Group Managing Director/ CEO; Timothy Oguntayo further stated that “It is also important to note that a significant portion of the moneys for which the penalty was applied are NNPC Pension Funds and National Assembly Legislative Aides account balances.

These organs have since been confirmed by the CBN that they are not Federal Government agencies and amounts erroneously transferred to the CBN on them by some banks have been refunded.” Explaining that the According to the bank, engagement with the CBN has commenced to seek review of the penalty imposed.

ÏM j RLd ƑƆ M è MTN, wants fine annulled Tony Nwakaegho and Adeshina Oluwaseyi MTN Chief Executive Officer Sifiso Dabengwa has resigned over the $5.2 billion fine imposed on the Nigerian subsidiary of the company by the Nigeria’s telecom regulator, Nigerian Communication Commission,(NCC).T MTN is facing the $5.2 billion penalty for failing to disconnect customers with unregistered SIM cards.

“Due to the most unfortunate prevailing circumstances occurring at MTN Nigeria, I, in the interest of the company and its shareholders, have tendered my resignation with immediate effect,” Sifiso Dabengwa said.

The company said that Phuthuma Nhleko who is a nonexecutive chairman at present would be the executive chairman in a temporary capacity for six months, as the firm would be looking for a new CEO. Nhleko served as non-executive director and chairman of MTN from July 2001 until June 2002 and thereafter as an executive director, group president and CEO until March 2011. He has subsequently chaired the Group in a non-executive capacity for the past two and a half years.

In his reaction, a rival company, Vodacom boss Shameel Joosub said the resignation of MTN group chief executive officer Sifiso Dabengwa is a “loss to the industry,” “I think Sifiso is a stalwart of the industry, and ob-

MTN CEO Resigns over $502bn fine viously he’s had a lot of success over the years. No benefit for Vodacom,” Joosub added.

When asked as to whether the problems MTN are experiencing in Nigeria were benefiting Vodacom in any way from a competitive viewpoint, Joosub said: “No, I don’t think so. I think for me it’s more important that we’re consistently executing our strategy, and we don’t really focus too much on what’s going on outside there.

“Obviously, you have to be cognisant of what your competitors are doing, but I think you have to really execute very well on your plan,” Joosub added.

In a related development, the National Association of Telecommunications Subscribers (NATCOM) has sued both the MTN Nigeria Communications Limited (MTN) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) at a Federal High Court in Ikoyi-Lagos, for alleged neglect and “untold injuries” to Nigerian subscribers.

NATCOM also wants the court to declare the N1.4trn fine imposed on the MTN as illegal, unconstitutional, null and void.

Reacting to the fine slammed on MTN by NCC, NATCOMS national president, Chief Adeolu Ogunbanjo stated that they have instituted a case at the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos on Friday, November 6, 2015 on suit number FHC / L / CS / 1663 / 2015 on the estimated N1 trillion fine against MTN.

Business News 18

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

NABG supports CBN on Forex restrictions, defence of the Naira Ï Ɔ L n ƑƆƎ #ƏƎƃ ƍƆƃ Rƍ Ɔ ƎƆ

Emefiele, CBN Governor

Charles Okonji Nigeria Agribusiness Group (NABG), an agribusiness sector operators’ platform, led by Mr. Sani Dangote, has reinstated support for the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) foreign exchange restriction policy as well as the refusal of Bank to devalue the naira as suggested by international finance institutions and multi-lateral agencies.

The CBN has in the past few months been under intense pressure over the decision to ban sourcing of foreign exchange for the importation of 41 items for which Nigeria has comparative advantage as well as its resistance to international pressure for the

Stock market report

devaluation of the nation’s currency.

The NABG Chairman stressed that his group believes that the CBN forex policy, especially as it affects commodities like tomato puree, rice, palm oil and other agric produce is the correct step to save the nation’s economy from impending crisis and return it to the path of sustainable growth.

Sani Dangote who was part of the panel at the 4th EU-Nigeria business forum in Lagos said; “We commend the Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele, for taking this bold step. We have companies who employ thousands of Nigerians; we have small farm holders who will produce for the country’s need. We cannot do

this overnight but it has to start from somewhere and if the federal government kills the incentives to start from the grass root level, you can never reach the level to be self-sufficient.”

He said the decision by CBN is the right move required to stimulate local production, maintaining that allowing imports would only suppress local production.

He noted; “If we do not stimulate it now, when shall we do it?

Once you allow some imports to come in and be dumped on the local market it, will certainly suppress local incentives and indigenous initiatives, and there is no way any investor will deploy resources to develop the sector, there is no way the local farmers, rural farmers will find the opportunity to grow.”

According to him; “This is a right step forward, whatever Nigeria has the capacity to produce must be encouraged to grow, whether we have trillions of dollars in the government coffers or not, the federal government should continue with this policy until local capacity is enhanced.”

Dangote urged the CBN to make more capital to fund the available farmers to grow in order to achieve the nation’s quest for economic diversification, adding that that it was heartwarming that the apex bank recently agreed to provide funds for tomato out-growers in the country toward enhancing their capacity to boost output and meet the requirements of tomato processing companies in the

country.

He called on the commercial banks and other financial institutions in the country to support the efforts of CBN in funding agricultural enterprises in the country.

“To do this, there is need to empower seed development, empower research development institutions, enhance mechanization, training for the farmers and provide affordable long-term loans for farmers. If these are done, I can guarantee that in the next one year or two, we will see a very high level of change in terms of the capacity to produce,” he noted.

The NABG chairman however noted that the group signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a Dutch Organisation, Top Sector Agric Food, the agribusiness development unit of the Dutch government, to facilitate and encourage the growth of agribusiness in Nigeria, ranging from livestock to horticulture and other agro-allied industries, pointing out that this move by the group would expose Nigeria’s agricultural sector to global opportunities while also bringing investment opportunities into the country.

Dangote indicated that the group has entered into similar partnerships with other foreign organisations, including Adepta of France and the Kenya Agribusiness Group, while stating that plans were afoot for similar MoUs to be signed with Irish and UK agribusiness groups.

Md& d9 ƕƄƃƉƆ Ƅ ƞêƞƠü

ÏM Ɔƍ ƋƉƏƊƊƄƎ Ǝ Ƌ ƍ ƉƉƄƉ Ɗ ƍƈƄƎ ƐƄƍ Ɖ Ƒ Ƌ Ǝƍ Ƅ Adesola Akindele The equities market resumed the week on a negative note as lead indicators depreciated 0.03 per cent. The All Share Index lost 7.31 points to close at 29,168.04 points against 144.4 points gained last Friday to close at 29,175.35 points.

The market capitalization dropped N2.5 billion to close at N10.027 trillion against N49.6 billion gained previously to close at N10.029 trillion.

Price movement on the equity board showed that Oando Plc led

25 gainers with a 10.10 per cent or 78 kobo gain to close at N8.50 per share, followed by Cement company of Northern Nigeria Plc which added 10.09 per cent or 80 kobo to close at N8.73 per share, while Fidson Health Care Plc increased 9.96 per cent or 28 kobo to close at N3.09 per share.

Diamond Bank Plc appreciated 9.54 per cent or 25 kobo to close at N2.87 per share, while Ikeja Hotel Plc grew 5.00 per cent or 16 kobo to close at N3.36 per share.

Conversely, Caverton Plc led 15 equity losers with a loss of 4.71 per cent or 13 kobo to close

at N2.63 per share, followed by Wema Bank Plc which lost 4.04 per cent or 4 kobo to close at 95 kobo per share, while Evans Medical Plc dropped 3.70 per cent or 2 kobo to close at 52 kobo per share.

Seven Up Bottling Company Plc declined 3.12 per cent or N5.95 to close at N185.06 while Skye Bank Plc decreased 2.06 per cent or 4 kobo to close at N1.90 per share.

In all, a total of 1.13 billion shares worth N14.68 billion were exchanged by investors in 2,713 deals against 997.8 million shares

worth N6.12 billion exchanged by investors in 2,711 deals last Friday.

In a related development, the Naira on Monday continued to slide at the parallel market as operators of Bureau de Change (BDC’s) suffered low patronage.

It exchanged for N232 to the dollar on Monday afternoon as against its previous value of N231.

However, it appreciated at the official interbank window as it exchanged for N196.98 to the dollar as against its previous value of N197.

Olaoluwa, BoI MD

R9 ƊƄƄƎ M ƉƉƓƑ ƕ Ǝ 0`900 ƼƞƟƾ Mutiat Alli As part of the Nollywood interactive sessions with corporate Nigeria, Bank of Industry, BOI, will be engaging filmmakers through meet and greet session at the forthcoming Africa International Film Festival, AFRIFF. The forum, which will take place at the Eko Hotel and Suites today (Tuesday), from 3pm to 5pm, is expected to provide a platform between filmmakers and staff of the bank to interact better on the much publicized BOI NollyFund (BNF), an initial programme limit of N1.0 billion and a single obligor limit of N50 million for individual loans.

The special product programme enables Nigeria’s leading movie producers receive financial support to produce international quality films and screen them through various platforms of movie distribution available both in Nigeria and internationally.

AFRIFF will provide the first largest platform to discuss the opportunities therein for filmmakers through in an informal setting.

Notable filmmaker, Kunle Afolayan is one of the filmmakers who have accessed the fund for their different projects. Afolayan’s movie, The CEO, for which the loan was obtained, is predicted to be one of the best panAfrican movies to come out of Nigeria.

Interestingly, the Bank has already accredited some reputable Distributors such as G-Media, Filmone Distribution Company, Silverbird Distribution Company and Genesis Deluxe Distribution Company, as well as Studio Operators such as Fans Connect Online Nigeria Limited (i.e. Afrinolly), Kingsley Ogoro Productions Limited and 4Screams International Nigeria Limited) to support this initiative.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

19 Maritime

Ambode

Ambode to Apapa tank farm owners: Build loading bays in 90 days or be shutdown

Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode has given all tank farm owners in Apapa area of the state 90 days ultimatum to build loading bays or be shut down. The governor also announced fullscale enforcement of the Lagos Road Traffic Law that restricted okada riders and tricycles from plying certain routes in the state.

Ambode, who addressed a press conference at the State House, at Ikeja warned that any tank farm that failed to provide a loading bay after the expiration of the 90 days grace would be shut down by the state government.

He also warned all tank farm owners to desist from allocating pick-up papers to trucks beyond and above their daily capacity as is the case presently.

The governor said he met with tank farm and petroleum tanker owners three months ago and asked them to come up with solution for the traffic gridlock, but lamented that till date, they had not come with any solution to solve the problem at hand.

Ambode stated that one of the areas of concern looked into at the meeting was the non-conformity with requisite conditions on the use of the seaports by the various elements operating in and out of the ports. Some of the areas, he said, include lack of due diligence in granting approval for the construction of tank farms, such that areas dedicated for trucks holding bays were being used for other purposes; refusal by importers of cargoes on board vessels rather than transporting the cargoes to

the warehouses, from where upcountry trucks would have loaded them instead of the ports, among others.

“This state of affairs that has accentuated traffic gridlock in Apapa and its environs is no longer tolerable to the state government. All necessary arrangements have been made with the relevant regulatory institutions to sanction defaulting port users, importers, tank farms owners, terminal operators and shipping companies, among others.

Also, Ambode decried that it had become evident that traffic crimes and robbery were easily traced to the menace of okada riders and street hawkers, saying that in addition to okadas being used for crime, commercial buses were a menace on the state’s roads.

“They have become very reckless and lawless. Many road users, especially those who should know better, seem to have also joined them in breaking traffic law. This government is totally committed to the security of lives and property as well as enforcing the rule of law.

We will not allow a few notorious elements in our midst to cause a breakdown in law and order and upset the peace that we are used to in the state,” he said.

The governor reiterated the commitment of his government to making life easier for the people, saying that “as much as we want to be civil, everybody should know that this will only apply to law abiding citizens.

a statement issued in Abuja, decried the suspension of the grant and stressed that it was convinced that the only way out for Nigeria to disentangle itself from the shackles of mono-economy was for the government to diversify the country’s export sector.

Olarewaju said, “This (suspension) is having a negative effect on the non-oil sector in particular and the economy in general. Huge backlog of unutilised NDCCs amounting to over N150bn for over two years has paralysed the operations of exporters. “After the (former) Minister of Finance placed an embargo on the utilisation of the NDCC as from Janu-

ary 2014, there had been a huge backlog of unutilised NDCCs running into tens of billions of naira.

Of this backlog, only about N5bn was approved for utilisation.

The backlog of unutilised NDCCs at the end of 2013 was about N150bn. Further to this, there was a huge backlog of the NDCCs yet to be processed as of January 2014 when the embargo was placed.” He urged the government to instruct the Nigeria Customs Service to accept the utilisation of the NDCCs for duty payment as per the extant policy, adding that the Federal Ministry of Finance should treat the backlog in a time-bound manner.

Osinbajo: FG will review auto policy

Secretary, Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mohammed Badamasuyi, said, “Government is aware that low patronage is one of the challenges confronting the domestic automobile industry in Nigeria. In this regard, this administration will lead the campaign of buying made-in-Nigeria vehicles through public procurement to stimulate the industry.” The vice-president also said the government would will collaborate with the local automobile industries and banks to provide interested individuals with soft loans to enable the masses to purchase locally-made cars at discounted prices and pay over a period of time. He expressed concern over the high cost of import-

ing vehicles into the country and its impact on the economy, adding that the government was seeking ways to improve the auto policy to address the problem. “Government will seek new ways of improving the Automotive Industry Development Policy in order to protect the industry. The high cost of importing fully built vehicles and used cars into the country is having serious impact on the economy. This trend would be reversed as quickly as possible.” For instance, he lamented that the nation was currently importing about 400,000 vehicles annually with a total bill of about N1.2 trillion, which made the sector the second largest consumer of foreign exchange. The vicepresident, however, noted that Nigeria remains a large market for the auto industry with a population of over 170 million people and a viable middle class. “It is on record that about 10 million cars currently exist on Nigerian roads, creating a large market for spare parts,” he said. And part of measures to improve the situation, he said the government would continue to use fiscal and non-fiscal measures to reduce the influx of the nation’s market with used cars and encourage vehicle manufacturers to establish auto assembly plants in Nigeria.

“In addition, the government will ensure that existing incentives in the auto sector are implemented and new ones initiated to encourage automobile and spare parts manufacturers,” he said. He also said the Federal Government would lead the purchase of madein-Nigeria vehicles through public procurement.

The backlog of unutilised Export Expansion Grant (EEG) of the Federal Government amounting to over N150bn has crippled the operations of exporters in the non-oil sector, the Organised Private Sector Exporters’ Association has said. According to the association, the $2bn growth recorded in the country’s non-oil exports from 2006 to 2013 is being hampered by inconsistency in implementing the Federal Government’s policy on non-oil exportation.

The Executive Secretary, OPEXA, Jaiyeola Olarewaju, explained that the extant policy on the EEG and the utilisation of

the Negotiable Duty Credit Certificates had been put on hold; a development that he said had impacted negatively on the activities of non-oil exporters in Nigeria.

The Federal Government introduced the EEG in 1999 to encourage non-oil exports and cushion the effect of cost disadvantages faced by Nigerian exporters due to infrastructural deficiencies. The grant was disbursed in the form of the NDCC and was utilised by beneficiaries for the payment of customs and excise duty on their export shipments.

The scheme was, however, suspended in January 2014 for it to be reviewed. But OPEXA, in

Osinbajo

Stories by Funmi Coker

Top functionaries of the Federal Government may be compelled to buy made-in-Nigeria vehicles as official cars and other uses as a part of measures to boost local production of automobiles. Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo made the declaration in Abuja at the opening of the 17th edition of the Abuja International Motor Fair penultimate. He has also hinted about plans to review the nation’s automotive policy introduced in September 2013 to curtail the influx of used and fully assembled vehicles. Osinbajo, who was represented at the event by the Acting Permanent

N150bn unused grant cripples non-oil sector

Olarewaju

Energy 20

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Forte Oil, Total Nigeria get new Directors Management of Forte Oil Plc has approved the appointment of Anil Dua as a non-executive director of the company following the resignation of Mrs. Korede Omolaja from the board of the company.

The company said in a statement that Omolaja’s resignation and the appointment of Dua took effect from October 30, 2015.

Mr. Anil Dua has a BA (Honors) Economics from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi University and also has a Master’s degree in Economics from the Delhi School of Economics, India.

In a related development, Total Nigeria Plc has notified The Nigerian Stock Exchange of the appointment of Ms. Christie

Hein as a director of the company with effect from 28 October 2015.

Ms. Christie Hein is a graduate of Business Administration from the Friedrich-Alexander University, Erlangen-Nurnberg/Trinity College, Dublin.

Prior to joining Total, Ms. Hein started her career in 1998 at Bahisens Kefsfabik, Hannover as a trainee graduate.

In 1995, she joined Babcock Borsig Oberhausen rising to become the Managing Director of an affiliate. She began her career with Total in 2003 in Total Deutschland, Berlin as Head of Control/Risk Management. In October 2006 she was transferred to Total Raffinage Marketing, Paris as Financial

Controller and then Head of Treasury Unit of Total Refining and Marketing. She became the Head of Governance and Financial Control Unit in the Supply Marketing Division in the Head Office in 2012.

Akin Akinfemiwa, CEO Forte Oil

Tinubu, GMD/CEO Oando

Oando repays $100m Afrexim facility Stories Opeoluwani Akintayo Oando Energy Resources (OER), an upstream subsidiary of Oando Plc, has announced the repayment of its $100 million African Export-Import Bank (Afrexim) loan facility.

The loan was utilized for the financing of the landmark $1.5 billion acquisition of the ConocoPhillips Nigerian Oil and Gas business in July 2014.

The company stated this in a document obtained from its website, adding that combined with cash on hand, OER’s net debt position now stands at $500 million; down 44 percent from $900 Million outstanding at the completion of the COP acquisition.

The report noted that, “Confidence in the operations and asset quality of OER by international financial institutions has been further strengthened, notably due to OER’s operational performance in the last 12 months in spite of crude downturn.”

“OER has achieved significant

milestones in the course of the year, including the generation of cash inflow of $283million from the reset of oil hedges; the commencement of production at Qua Iboe, which added 2,500 b/d to OER’s gross total taking it to 53,169 b/d; and finally an increase in 2P reserves by 82% to 420.3mn boe.

A $91 million RBL Upsize was arranged by Standard Chartered Bank and African Export-Import Bank with participation from Standard Bank of South Africa Limited, Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc, and Natixis; while the proceeds, along with cash on hand, were used to repay the $100 Million Afrexim facility,” the report said.

The repayment of the loan comes on the heels of the recent N184 billion 2014 loss declared by the company.

The company also released its half-year unaudited results for 2015, showing another loss after tax of N35.12 billion from a profit after tax of N8.980 billion in the corresponding period in 2014.

L-R: Head, Strategic Brand Management, Access Bank Plc, Mr Amaechi Okobi; Chief Executive Officer, Anadeo Communications, Switzerland, Mr Christophe Amenc and Executive Director, Personal Banking, Access bank Plc, Mr Victor Etuokwu, at a press briefing for the forthcoming 2015 Access International Conference, in Lagos recently

Shell, NCDMB lay foundation for industrial park Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC) and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) have laid foundation for a mini industrial park in Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital.

The park which is a major step towards the attainment of Nigerian Content goals saw three Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMS) utilised by Shell for its operations-Alcon, Fiddil, Prime Atlantic-each getting a land space measuring 1800 square meters within Shell’s Industrial Area to build their facility and domesticate some of their services.

The Shell promoted industrial park was in furtherance of the NCDMB’s Equipment Components Manufacturing Initiative (ECMI) introduced in 2011 to encourage OEMs and their rep-

resentatives in Nigeria to set up facilities for manufacturing of spare parts and accessories of equipment required for oil and gas operations.

In his speech, the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Mr. Denzil Kentebe said the project reaffirmed Federal Government’s vision to use Nigerian content as an instrument for the industrialization of the Nigerian economy, listing targets of the initiative to include transformation of representatives of OEMs from “marketers to manufacturers and maximize retention of industry spend within the economy, on procurement of equipment, manufacturing, supply, installation and after sales services.

He identified other targets to include reversing the trend of equipment rentals by Nigerian companies by encouraging Ni-

gerians to acquire equipment for activities such as drilling services and construction.

He commended Shell for being one of the first stakeholders to embrace the ECMI, having proposed and obtained approval from the Board in 2012 for the OEM domestication program.

He enjoined other stakeholders of the industry to embrace such collaborative efforts in a bid to jointly develop the local supply chain.

The Managing Director and Country Chair of SPDC, Mr. Osagie Okunbor described the initiative as a key intervention of the Shell Companies in Nigeria to support Nigerian Content Development, adding that it would improve cycle time, enhance service delivery and engenders other long term economic benefits including employment opportunities for Nigerians.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

KPMG vs FRC: Court fixes Nov. 12 for hearing

Peter Fowoyo

ÏÏÏHearing of

a motion for interlocutory injunction, in a suit brought by KPMG Professional Services and Mr. Ayodele Othihiwa against the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC) and its Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Jim Osayande Obazee, has been fixed for November 12 by a Federal High Court, Lagos.

Justice Ibrahim Buba, while restraining the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC) and its Executive Secretary and CEO, Mr. Jim Osayande Obazee, from taking any action, sanction or measure against KPMG Professional Services and Mr. Ayodele Othihiwa, a partner in the firm, pending the hearing and determination of the suit filed by the applicants.

The interim order of the court granted was sequel to an application argued before the court by

Barrister Chuka Ikwuazo from the law firm of Aluko and Oyebode, urging the court to restrain the respondents from taking any sanction and also order an accelerated hearing of the suit when the respondents must have been served all the ‘originating processes’ in the matter.

The interim order was the second granted by the court against the FRC, within 48 hours. On 4th of November, Justice Buba also ordered the FRC to maintain the status quo in a related case filed by StanbicIBTC. The case is now pending before the court. KPMG and its Partner had filed an application for the enforcement of their fundamental rights following the FRC letter of 26 October, 2015, which it called a final notice and its ‘regulatory decision’ conveyed in another letter of 30 October, on the financial

statements of StanbicIBTC Holdings Plc for 2013 and 2014.The FRC, in one of its regulatory decisions had suspended Othihiwa “until the investigation as to the extent of the negligence of KPMG Professional Services is ascertained”.

KPMG and Othihiwa contend that the FRC decision was published and issued without informing or notifying them of the nature of the allegations made against them and inviting them to respond to the allegations.

FRC decision, KPMG and Othihiwa claimed not only violated their constitutional right to fair hearing, but also Section 62(2) of the Financial Reporting Act, which spells out the procedure to be adopted by the FRC in investigating a professional body for any ‘complaint or dishonest practice, negligence, professional Misconduct or malpractice’.

The section states that FRC shall “notify the professional whose conduct, act or omission is under investigation of the nature of the complaint and it shall summon or hear the professional”.

The applicants contended that FRC and Mr. Obazee, did not only breach this section, but they also breached Section 15(2) b of the FRC Act, which states that a Technical and Oversight Committee shall review “ sanctions to be meted out to any professional accountant, professional or public interest entity”.

KPMG and Othihiwa further claimed that even where the Technical and Oversight Committee had ratified the decision of the FRC, the FRC had failed to exhaust the provisions of its own law, by allowing them to exercise their right of appeal to the Technical Committee and by subjecting its decision to the approval of the FRC

2016 Ondo guber Poll: Akure indigenes eye Mimiko's seat 'Tosin Ajuwon Akure

ÏÏÏThe

L-R: Consultant to Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission (LSWRC), Dr. Akomeno Oteri; National President, Association of Waterwell Drilling Rig Owners and Practitioners (AWDROP), Mr. Michael Ale; Vice President, AWDROP, Engr. Dayo Opeyemi; National Director, Planning and Strategy, AWDROP, Engr. Tunde Soyinka; Executive Secretary, LSWRC, Arc. Ahmed Kabir Abdullahi; Head, Technical Services Directorate, LSWRC, Mr. Somiyewo Okikiola and Ag. President (National), Nigeria Water and Sanitation Association (NIWASA), Mr. Konyebagu Raphael, at a retreat of LSWRC with theme: ‘Ground Water Quality Control Regulation’, held in Lagos... recently

Lagos raises the alarm over rising fire outbreaks Oluwaseyi Fadoro

ÏÏÏIn its determination to en-

sure safety of lives and property, the Lagos State Fire Service has organised a one day workshop on fire safety and management to curb the tide of incessant fire outbreak being experienced in the state.

The event which took place at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja, was themed ‘strategic fire control’. According to the State Director of Fire service, Rasak Fadipe, the workshop was timely and in line with the policy thrust of the administration on safety advocacy as it covered tropical topics such as fire hazards identification and control, risk assessment and control as well as first aid. Others

are firefighting and evacuation techniques and fire drill.

He said fire is one of the longest tool and friend of human being which presence has continually been felt in homes, industrial productions, thereby contributing immensely to the economic growth of the nation. Noting that contrary to the stereotype belief, fire outbreak and other related incidents are not divine, but are primarily caused by human factors, which he listed as carelessness, recklessness, negligence and above all, negative behaviours toward safety as contributory factors to fire outbreaks.

Fadipe disclosed that the state government has accorded prior-

ity to fire prevention and disaster management, as the directorate of fire service is undergoing aggressive transformation through human capacity building and appreciable number of modern firefighting equipment that enables them to respond swiftly to distress calls. “Safety doesn’t go on holiday, my men respond to distress calls at all time. As fire fighters we work round the clock to prevent colossal loss of lives and properties. Lagosians should not hesitate to call any of our area offices to report any trace of spark” he expressed.

He lamented the increase in numbers of avoidable fire outbreaks and which has become a source of concern to the government.

traditional ruler of Akure Kingdom, Oba Ogunlade Aladelusi Aladetoyinbo has again reiterated that the next governor of Ondo State must emerged from the Akure Division.

Oba Aladetoyinbo, who spoke to journalists in Akure, the state capital, expressed disgust at the level of marginalisation of bonafide indigenes of the division since the creation of the state.

He disclosed that this is the best time for Akure sons to rise up and contest the forthcoming governorship seat of the state.

"Next year governorship election is our time, and we are ready.

It is time for an Akure man to become governor of the state after 39 years of creation.

"We have six divisions in Ondo state, the Ondo division, Okitipupa division, Owo division, Akoko division and Akure division. "It is only Akure division that has not produced a governor since 1976 that the state was created. This is like a contribution", he said.

Mimiko

21 News PCRC boss urges Govts to recognise community policing Augustine Okezie

Abuja

ÏÏÏThe

FCT Co-coordinator of Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), Professor Nick Eze has called on governments at all levels to recognise community policing as a sustainable alternative to guaranteeing the safety of lives and property Professor Eze, who made the call in Abuja during an award ceremony organised to reward prominent citizens who assisted the police in ensuring the security of the territory said recognising the efforts made by these men and women would go a long way in ensuring that plans by government to promote a stable and virile society is realised.

He said: “Community policing efforts help identify criminals, provide neighborhood watch and ensure peaceful society. Governments should recognise community policing, secure informants and stop exposing them from being hunted down by criminals.’’

Prominent among the award recipient is business mogul, Chief Tobias Obiechina who was given the Peace Ambassadors Award for supporting the police, and the local Vigilantes, in ensuring communal security in Iddo division of the territory.

UNIABUJA to establish School of Pharmacy

Augustine Okezie Abuja

ÏÏÏThe authorities of

the University of Abuja have announced plans to establish a school of Pharmacy as a complement to its existing College of Health Sciences.

A press statement signed by the varsity’s Deputy Registrar, Information and Publications, Malam Waziri Garba, and made available to newsmen in Abuja on Monday said the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Michael U. Adikwu, has already inaugurated a six-man committee to that effect which will work out modalities for the successful take-off of the Pharmaceutical Sciences programme, in order to support already existing four new programmes namely: Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, Engineering and Agriculture, which have been approved by their relevant professional bodies.

He said, ‘’the Committee would utilise existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on academic matters between the University and the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD), Abuja, to facilitate the commencement of the pharmaceutical programme’’.

News 22

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Insurgents flee Borno communities ÏÏÏMilitary authorities

L-R: Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Mathew Hassan Kukah; Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano and his Deputy Dr. Nkem Okeke during Bishop Kukah’s courtesy visit to the Government House, Awka... on Monday

House arrest: Dasuki sues FG, alleges threat to life Andrew Orolua Abuja

ÏÏÏEmbattled

former National Security Adviser (NSA), Colonel Sambo Mohammed Dasuki (rtd) has sued the federal government for a breach of his fundamental human rights to dignity and security of life.

He has therefore asked the federal high court which last week granted him three weeks permission to travel abroad for medical treatment, to grant an order enforcing his fundamental human

rights.

Specifically, Dasuki has asked the court for a mandatory order compelling the Federal Government and its agents especially the operatives of the Directorate of the State Security Service (DSSS) to vacate his house located at 13, John Kadija Street, Asokoro with immediate effect.

In the suit, filed by his counsel, Mr Ahmed Adeniyi Raji, SAN, Dasuki pleaded with the court to stop the siege laid to his house and to remove all impediments, human and

THE MERCY OF GOD MOUNTAIN DELIVERANCE AND PRAYER MINISTRY This is to inform the General Public that the above named Ministry has applied for Registration to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja, under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act No 1of 1990.

The Trustees Are: 1, Arowosegbe Ebenezer - Chairman 2, Arowosegbe Aderonke Abisola - Secretary 3, Owotomo Ademaja Oyewole 4, Talabi Funmilayo Musiat 5, Adekoya Abayomi Olusola.

Aims & objective: 1, To win souls for our Lord Jesus Christ 2, To establish and maintain branches and missions in Nigeria and overseas where converts and interested persons could gather to worship.

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

Signed: Trustees

CHINWE FLORENCE UMAR I, formerly known and addressed as Chinwe Florence Ezete, now wish to be known and addressed as Chinwe Florence Umar. All former documents remain valid.

Nigerian Navy and general public take note.

OJEIU OHIOMERO JABAL I, formerly known and addressed as Mr. Evbouan Ohiomero Solomon now wish to be known and address as Mr. Ojeiu Ohiomero Jabal, all former document remain valid. General public take note.

non-human barricade and bulwarks said to have hindered him from travelling since November 3 when the court granted the permission for him to travel abroad for treatment of his prostate cancer.

In a motion on notice filed pursuant to section 36(5) 37 and 41 of the 1999 constitution and sections 1(1) and (2) and 266 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015, the ex NSA also sought for order of the court extending order of November 3 permitting treatment of his ailment abroad.

The motion on notice was premised on five grounds including the request to enforce the three-week permission granted him by the court on November 3 to keep a re-rescheduled medical ap-

pointment with his physician abroad.

He claimed that the Federal Government acting through the operatives of the DSS and other security agencies have frustrated the said order by barricading his apartment since the permission was granted.

The ex NSA also requested the court to extend the order of November 3 since it could not be implemented due to the action of the security agents.

Dasuki further asked the court to dispose with his appearance in court for the purpose of this application because of the alleged constant threats to his life from the security agencies.

PETERS EFOLI OKOI I, formerly known and addressed as Liman Joyann now wish to be known and address as Peters Efoli Okoi, all former document remain valid. General public take note.

Dasuki

KOURSON OLALEKAN

OYEDELE ADUNOLA

I, formerly known and addressed as Olalekan Mabohunje Jeremiah, now wish to be known and addressed as Kourson Jeremiah Powel Olalekan. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as Ogunkoya Aderonke Adunola, Now wished to be Known and addressed as Oyedele Aderonke Adunola. All formal document remain valid. The general public should please take note.

in Borno on Monday said suspected Boko Haram terrorists had fled their camps in Bitta and Damboa axis in the state.

Col. Tukur Gusau, Media Coordinator of ‘’Operation Lafiya Dole’’, the military formation against the insurgency, made this known in a statement in Maiduguri.

Gusau said that the insurgents fled their area on Sunday on sighting Nigerian troops advancing towards the locations, adding that in fleeing, the terrorists abandoned food items they had looted earlier and personal effects. ``In furtherance to ongoing operations to clear Boko Haram activities in the North-East, troops of 25 Task Force Brigade on Sunday conducted clearance and confidencebuilding operations in Bale, along Bitta and Damboa Axis.

``The Boko Haram terrorists on sighting the advancing troops toward their location, fled in disarray abandoning looted food items and other personal effects, including a grinding machine, dane guns and bicycles,’’ he said.

He said that troops had continued to dominate the terrorists, clearing their camps, adding that the troops were denying the insurgents freedom of action and frustrated their ‘’intents and acts.’’

Gusau said that the ‘’Theatre Commander’’, Operation Lafiya Dole, Major-General Yusha’u Abubakar, had lauded the performance of the troops, and had urged them to set themselves towards achieving the deadline for ending insurgency. ``The troops are in high spirit and their fighting efficiency remains very high,’’ he said.

Give Boko Haram final push, Buratai tells troops ÏÏÏThe Chief

of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Tukur Buratai, on Monday urged troops in the Northeast to remain focused in their final push to end insurgency in the country.

Buratai, who visited the front line unit of 113 Task Battalion in Gubio Local Government Area of Borno, commended the troops for the successes recorded so far. ``You have done well and you must maintain the tempo. ``You must be on the offensive and waste no time in giving a final push in ending Boko Haram.’’

He assured the soldiers that there was no cause for alarm over their salaries and allowances, stressing that the issue was being sorted out. ``There may be a little delay, but everything is being sorted out’’, Buratai

Buratai

said.

The Army chief was also at the 118 Task Force Battalion, where he urged the troops to sustain the final offensive against insurgents.

Buratai also visited the site of the newly formed 23 Task Force Brigade located in Jakana, and participated in a night operation with the troops of 29 Task Force Brigade along the Jakana axis.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

23 News

Ex-Police officers seek scheme’s exit from PENCOM Olabisi Olajenmi

to pay the 53.37% pension increase, which took effect from June1, 2010 as already enjoyed by others, and pensioner increase of 15 % and 33% of 2007and 2014 respectively as even pointed out by Pencom.

The association also urged the federal government to bring police retirees to the main body of Nigeria Police for uniformity.

It also urged the federal, state and local governments and various organisations to consider the retired police officers for appointment, since they were credible, educated with vast experience in various field.

Don’t sell your PVCs, Audu tells Kogi electorate

enable them perform their civic rights on November 21governorship election.

He admonished the electorate to reject N5, 000 for sales of their PVC, noting that anyone who sell his/her PVC would not be able to vote on the day of election.

Audu called on the people to come out and vote for him and his running mate, James Abiodun Faleke, come election day.

ÏÏÏThe

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Malam Garba Shehu (2nd Left); American freelance lournalist and Resource Person, Eduardo Cue; Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry Of Information, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan; U.S Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. James Entwistle; NUJ President, Mr Waheed Odusile; Chief Press Secretary, Ministry of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr Mohammad Sule and Participants, at a workshop organised by the U.S embassy for Government spokespersons, in Abuja… on Monday

Anambra group aids sickle cell patients Nkiru Nwagbo

Awka ÏÏÏThe Association of People Living With Sickle Cell Disorder (APLSCD), in Anambra State, on Monday, paid the tuition fees of 40 of their members in primary and secondary schools for 2014/2015 academic session.

APLSCD equally doled out what it termed ‘bursary’ to ten undergraduate students of the association, just as it promised to do more in nearest future.

The Co-ordinator of the association, Aisha Edward, while disbursing the cash to her registered members stressed that it was part of her effort to champion the course of sickle cell disorder patients in the country before she could join her ancestors.

Her words: “This is an ecstatic moment for me. I am so delighted to see this day. My heart is full of joy. I believe that if I should die now, my mind will be led to rest. This is because it is first of its kind, with a non-governmental organisation (NGO) embarking on scholarship for sicklers in Nigeria. My dream

to cater for the welfare of my people relegated to the background by fake NGOs, government, society and some family members had been fulfilled. I found this association to reach out to sickle cell disorder patients in Nigeria at their various point of needs.

“We do the job for ingenuity, love and passion to save souls. I dispensed the cash to enable the dropouts to return to school. Some of these ones have been withdrawn from school voluntarily and involuntarily sequel to financial crisis.

Apart from this cash, our association, which is only 3 months old, had secured 21 jobs for members in Anambra State, trained 10 on skills acquisition through the Anambra State’s First Lady’s café, and we are not relenting till we wipe out the inhumane genotype from the faces of the earth through our intense sensitisation and awareness programmes, as well as putting a long-lasting smile on the face of my colleagues who are the sufferers.”

Edward further enjoined government, at all level, lawmakers,

public and private institutions, tradition and religious institutions to key into their sermon of ‘no marital vow’ to intending couples whose genotypes are incompatible with a view to ending the proliferation of the sickle cell anaemia gene.

She said that there was a need for legislations to be made, enacted and enforced, and for relevant stakeholders in the society to assist sufferers of the disorder through the association via training, empowerment and scholarship as that would encourage them to have a healthy impact on society.

Edward regretted that Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development had constantly turned deaf ears to their gathering, wondering how they would easily discover their needs having found it difficult to fulfill their promises to attending their programmes “considering a series of letters of appeal for support and invitations to our programmes, thanksgiving and stakeholders’ meetings”.

Police foil attack on commercial banks in Ebonyi Jacob Ogodo

Abakaliki ÏÏÏEbonyi State police Command has foiled a planned attack on Commercial Banks in Afikpo, following the invasion of the area by heavily armed robbers.

The incident which claimed the life of a police officer paralysed commercial activities as roads and streets in the area were deserted.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. George Okafor, who said this in Abakaliki, noted that the hoodlums, who were about 20 in number invaded Afikpo town from Ikoro-Uko area of Cross Riv-

er State.

“The hoodlums whom I can call militants, came on two speed boats armed with several General Purpose Machine guns, grenades, among other sophisticated weapons.

He noted that they anchored at Okporikpo beach in Afikpo where they launched their attack at the Ndibe and Unwana beaches.

“When the militants noticed that the police had cordoned the entire areas, after receiving information from the people, they started shooting sporadically and we fired back, repelling them in

the process,” Okafor said.

He noted that the Command lost an inspector during the shoot-out and could not confirm whether any one of the robbers was injured or killed.

“Apparently angry that the indigenes informed us of their movements, the militants destroyed several shops around the beaches and set 10 motorcycles and a police van on fire. Okafor denied the report that the hoodlums robbed several banks and carted huge sums of money, insisting that the police prevented them from entering Afikpo.

Association of Retired Police Officer, under Pencom, Kogi State Chapter, has appealed to Federal Government and all concern authorities to unchain the retired police officers from Pencom/ Pension Fund Administrator as it has done to sister organisations.

The Chairman of the Association, Mr. Alexander Yusuf, told newsmen, in Lokoja, on Monday, that this would enable the retirees to complete their various buildings and live a normal life.

The association, therefore, appealed to the federal government

Monday Agu, Jnr

ÏÏÏThe

standard-bearer of All Progressive Congress (APC) in November 21 governorship election in Kogi State, Prince Abubarka Audu, has urged the electorate not to sell their Permanent Voter Cards to anyone who offered them money.

Audu who gave this advice while addressing a crowd of at Ceremonial Square, at Okpo, the Headquarters of Olamanboro Local Government Area, on Monday, stated that the time had come for the people of state to join the change train.

He explained that the only way to vote for change was to keep their Permanent Voter Cards to

Henry Omunu

Abuja ÏÏÏFormer Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chibudom Nwuche, has said that standing committees of the National Assembly enhance the efficiency and performance of the legislature in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities.

Nwuche, who said this on Monday, in Abuja, at the inauguration of the 97 standing committees of the House by Speaker Yakubu Dogara, said committees provided a better forum under which legislators could tackle certain matters than under a general atmosphere such as the plenary.

Speaking on the theme: “The role of committees in a presidential system of government”, he asserted that globally, parliaments are relying more on committees to discharge their functions efficiently.

The constitution of committees by parliament, he said, enabled lawmakers to develop specialised knowledge of the matters under

Audu

C’ttees enhance performance of legislature – Nwuche their jurisdictions, monitor ongoing governmental operations, identify issues for legislative review, gather and evaluate information and recommend courses.

“When committees are properly organised and constituted, they become vital tools for oversight functions. This is because committees are the right channel for executing oversight functions by the legislature.

“As it is, legislative oversight committees allow for division of labour that promotes specialisation and legislative expertise, all of which accelerate productivity.

“Again, committees promote informal discussions of issues among committee members, while making parliamentary debate less cumbersome, manageable and decorous.

News 24

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Why Umahi was rated among worst performing govs – Ebonyi govt Ogodo Mbam

ÏÏÏEbonyi State Govern-

ment has said that Centre for International and Advance Professional Studies (CIAPS), short-listed Governor David Umahi as among the five worst performing governors in Nigeria because the state government refused to yield to its alleged demand of paying money to be given a favourable publicity.

The government disclosed that CIAPS allegedly

requested the state government to make a bi-annual payment of N10 million, so that Ebonyi and its Governor would be given positive publicity through ranking him amongst the best Governors in the federation.

In a statement issued on Friday last week, by CIAPS’s Co-ordinator, Mr. Olumuyiwa Ayoola, which was published by some national dailies, the Centre rated Governors Udom Emmanuel (Akwa Ibom), Abdulaziz Yari

(Zamfara), Idris Wada (Kogi), Ibrahim Geidam (Yobe) and Dave Umahi (Ebonyi) as the worst performing among the 36 state governors in the country. The governors of Kaduna (Nasir El-Rufai) and Sokoto (Aminu Tambuwal) states, were rated as the first and second best performing governors with 72 per cent 64 per cent, respectively.

The study tagged, “Governors Performance Index,” is a monthly performance review of what governors

across the country doing as conducted by the Lagosbased CIAPS. The report noted that the variables used as indexes for performance were “mathematically calculated.”

Ayoola stated that the variables had been skewed to place emphasis on “payment of salary, new projects, education, security and leadership by example.”

A statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation,

A cross section of North West civil service pensioners on queue,during the nationwide verification in Kaduna State… on Monday

New LASTMA boss talks tough on traffic regulations Alade Tasma

ÏÏÏNew

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Mr. Chris Olakpe, has declared that the control of snarled traffic situation in the state was now a do-or-die assignment for him and the officers of the agency and was very much ready to make enemies among residents of the state, as he would step on toes in the cause of his duty in the way the agency would confront the situatıon, henceforth.

Olakpe, who was summoned by the Lagos State House of Assembly to ex-

plain what the agency was doing to arrest the worsening traffic situation, stated this in a question-and answer-session at plenary on Monday. He requested for a three-month period to put the sıtuation under control.

Olakpe, a retired Assistant Inspector of General (AIG) 0f Police, told the law-makers that he was not new to Lagos having been born in there and vowed that there would be no waivers in the enforcement of traffic laws in the state under his leadership. He promısed a strict compliance with the traffic laws and disclosed that he had

warned his friends and family members not to call him over any erring motorists, who fell afoul of traffic laws, just as he also vowed to deal with deviant and corrupt LASTMA officials.

“I am an advocate of reward for good work and punishment for evil work. I can dismiss any officer on the spot and we are going to revive LASTMA within a short period of time. We will give the authority the impetus it needs. Once you are dismissed, your name would be published in the press and in our gazette.

There would be reduction of ranks of offending officers. I will warn my men,

China-Africa trade volume hits $300bn

ÏÏÏYang Fuchang, former

Chinese Deputy Foreign Minister, on Monday said China's trade with African states may hit 300 billion dollars mark at the end of 2015.

Yang stated this at the opening of the 4th China-

Africa Industrial Forum (CAIF) in Beijing.

He said that activities of the forum had grown about 10 times in the last decade, noting that forum, established in 2000, had served as an important and effective platform for facilitating

China-Africa cooperation.

He disclosed that China's trade with Africa recorded 10 billion dollars in 2000, and by 2014, the figure grew to 220 billion dollars. ``China is seeking to raise 400 billion dollars by 2020.

seriously, and I will visit the Provost Marshall of the Nigerian Army for his support and any military man that beats a LASTMA official would be dealt with.

“I have friends in the Nigerian Army and the Police as a former police spokesman. We also plan to go to Ajah to do a participatory observation of what is going on there,” he said.

Olakpe appealed to the state government to provide designated bus stops and vowed that any motorist, who plies one way or BRT-dedicated lane would have his or her vehicle impounded and the owner would have to pay a fine.

``Statistics show that China's trade with the European Union stood at 467.3 billion Euros in 2014 and 590.68 billion dollars with the U.S,’’ he said.

Yaun said that most African nations were developing economics and are in the early stage of industrialization.

Senator Emmanuel Onwe, said the report was a sensational falsehood parading as news.

Onwe said that one Kunle, who claimed to be working for CIAPS, approached him on October12, 2015 and demanded a collaborative effort between the government of Ebonyi State and CIAPS which he rejected.

“He proposed that Ebonyi and its Governor would be given positive publicity through ranking him

amongst the best Governors in the federation, in return for a bi-annual payment of N10m to CIAPS. He proceeded to demand for a downpayment of N5 million.

Umahi

LASG calls for creation of data bank for churches, mosques ÏÏÏThe

Lagos State Government on Monday called for the creation of a data bank for churches and mosques in the state to ensure adequate security in places of worship.

The Commissioner for Home Affairs, Dr AbdulHakeem AbdulLateef, made the call at a stakeholders' meeting with representatives of the Muslim Community and Christian Associations in Alausa, Ikeja.

AbdulLateef said the essence of the meeting was to discuss ways to enhance security in places of worship, as well as foster better relationship between religious organisations and the state

government.

He implored the religious leaders to create a web portal to ensure easy collation of data of all existing places of worship, toward ensuring adequate security.

The commissioner urged religious organisations to establish volunteer schemes in communities, which would serve as first emergency responders during disasters, to complement the efforts of existing state agencies.

He said that the initiative, if implemented, would help to provide a more cordial platform for peaceful coexistence among people of different faith.

Group urges Ugwuanyi to run all-inclusive govt Moses Oyediran

Enugu ÏÏÏThe Business Community in Nsukka Local Government Area, Enugu State. has called on Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi to give residents of the state a sense of belonging irrespective of their political affiliations.

President of the Allied Business Community, Nsukka, Comrade Augustine Okagu, made the call in his acceptance speech shortly after his re-election.

He maintained that the time for politicking was over, noting that it was now time to advance the course of the state through a partnership without bounds.

Okagu, his Vice, Ichie Theophilus Agbo and the General Secretary, Comrade Ojobo Godwin, among

other exco members, were returned unopposed for a second tenure, through voice vote of the delegates.

While commending Barr.

Okey Ezea for withdrawing his petition challenging Ugwuanyi’s election, Okagu said, “now that Ezea has taken such bold step, we urge the Governor to throw his doors wide open and allow useful contributions from every well-meaning resident of this state.

“We have seen that the Governor has good plans for the people of the state; all we are asking is that everybody should be carried along”.

He, however, drew Ugwuanyi’s attention to the neglect of the businessmen in Nsukka, with regards to loan facilities for Small and Medium Entrepreneurs (SME).

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Law Æ s

Agbakoba

I support decentralized, not central federalism-Agbakoba Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former President, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in this interview with PETER FOWOYO, said although the country ‘has been hit by a tidal wave of big shocks’, it is too early to assess this administration. He also spoke about federalism, anti corruption war, war against terror and other salient issues.

You are amongst the few that agree that 100 days is too early to judge the president. How would you assess this government six months after?

No, 100 days is not too early.

100 days is a good length of time to judge a president. But on what parameters? My parameter of judging President Buhari’s 100 days is different from the parameter that I see in the media. They want to know where the ministers are and what is new. They are judging him on physical parameter while I am gauging his effectiveness on intangible parameters. What I see different is Buhari’s understanding of the Nigerian mindset and tackling it first before addressing other issues. It is the succeeding period that will be judged. Firstly, the people need to be patient for the appointment of his ministers. If the ministers fit the

mindset that he has developed, it will be wonderful but if the ministers are the same typical ministers that we see, that will be below the laid down expectations and mindset of the people.

I also expect the dismantling of the corporatist government.

Nigeria is a corporatist country meaning that we are interested in corporate wellbeing. The Nigerian society cares for the elites and is not interested in the common man. This was also one of President Barak Obama’s challenges. President Obama shows interest in the welfare of the common man while the republicans are interested in the corporate wellbeing. Buhari campaigned on the agenda that he shall include the common man. He said that he would identify vulnerable Nigerians.

He has set the target at 25million people and will dedicate finances towards their needs. We

have to see that happen. Social issues also have to be addressed, issues such as health, education and what policies the President is going to run on.

The problem is that Nigeria is a very sick country and the president’s prescriptions to cure this sickness and ensure its future must be addressed. It is sick because no Nigerian leader has understood how to manage Nigeria’s diverse peoples. Can Nigeria be governed from Abuja?Is this government going to look at how to decentralize power? We are about six kinds of people in about 300 ethnic groups. Are we going to have these groups empowered in a way that the difference that various groups feel will lead to chaos and civil unrest? The issue of religion is a good example. The only reason sharia is causing problem is because if a state declares that they want sharia, it causes ten-

‘‘I want us to deconstruct our top federalism and send power down to the bottom. Like in education, it should not be a federal issue; it should be something for the states. It should be state matter. Roads and hospitals are other examples.

There are many things that should actually not be the federal’s purview but the state’s.’’

25

sion across Nigeria because religion is in the constitution and it is almost like a national issue.

But if religion is made to be an issue for the state, it becomes the problem of the state because it will not affect other regions.

So when you decentralize and make issues peculiar to those who require it, then it is not a national problem. A lot of our problems that are national are not national.

In this view you support people that have been pushing for decentralized federalism…

Yes, I support decentralized federalism and not central federalism where everything is looking at the top. I want us to deconstruct our top federalism and send power down to the bottom. Like in education, it should not be a federal issue; it should be something for the states. It should be state matter. Roads and hospitals are other examples. There are many things that should actually not be the federal’s purview but the state’s.

Thus should the federal transfer these responsibilities to the state, so that the federal can concentrates on fewer things that affect all of us?

What is your view about the recent appointment that the president made recently?

It is too early to speak on that.

The government is at its early stages. I know that it may look as if it is one-sided but I will like to see all the ministers appointed first before I can comment.

Because of the appointment, some are already saying that Igbo’s are being marginalized …

I don’t believe in that. This is why I say that that has been the old talk. Marginalization has been an issue that politicians use to promote themselves. So I won’t buy that. I will buy it at the end of the president’s appointment. When he has finished making all the appointments and this pattern shows, then I can say there is a problem. But now it is far too early.

All I see the president doing now is changing the mindset.

All the politicians that are from my town, how have I benefited?

Honestly, that is the least of my problems. I don’t care where you come from. We are 170million Nigerians, I will tell you that 169.5million Nigerians will not give a hoot where anybody comes from. The few politicians who are looking for opportunities are responsible for winding us up to think like them or

Continued on page 26

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

27 Law

our economy in danger of running out of steam, cash — Agbakoba Agbakoba

Continued from page 25 to start seeing things which are not there. If we are truly looking forward to a new Nigeria, we have to be patient. If the President, with his eyes open, throws away a massive opportunity to be a great Nigerian leader, I will be surprised and disappointed.

So I am not going to judge him on the 100 days or six months that he has made sectional appointment. Let’s allow him to run his course.

On the part of being patient, a lot of Nigerians had hoped that Boko Haram should be a foregone issue by now and recently he promised that the military will end boko haram

by December, do you think by saying that the president is on the right path?

Buhari is taking the right steps but if I were him, I would not have given a date. Fighting terrorism is not easy. If I were in his shoes, all I would have said would be that I can see a more aggressive strategy to combat BOKO HARAM but there is no way Boko Haram will be eradicated by December. Even the Americans have not been able to achieve that in the case of ISIS or Al Qaeda. If it is ended by December, that would be fantastic.

If Boko Haram is not conquered by December, do you think this can aggravate Nigerians since we have seen how anxious people are for all the blasts and killings to end? Do you think this will make people not to believe in Buhari if this promise is not met?

Yes, that is part of the danger in giving a time limit to something as crucial as this. Even though I think he did it to show the Boko Haram people that we are really going to get you. It is a gamble that he has taken and. hopefully,

he can achieve it. But if I were to advise him, I would not have put a time frame. I would have said that by December,boko haram would be sufficiently degraded not to do much harm. I would not have said they will disappear

by December. Having said that, he had better do all he can to degrade boko haram by December.

You are an active member of the national confab, what is your view about the conference?

I was at the national conference and at the NBA conference held in Abuja, President Buhari promised to take the issue of corruption very serious. As you can see, he started by changing the mindset and it has worked, the next thing he needs to do is to build institutions to make sure that the mindset does not get derailed. He needs to make sure that the institutions that fight the war against corruption, like ICPC, EFCC, the police are well funded and independent and that no one interferes with their work. They should also be allowed to do their work without fear or favour.

Some people are of the opinion that probing should not be the primary assignment of a government, but to focus more on the people’s welfare.

Do you share this view?

Probing is a blind fold. You probe without fear or favour.

If someone is guilty, then the person should get ready to be probed. On the part of laying too much emphasis on probing; in the context of Nigeria being a very corrupt country, you cannot help it. I will wish that the probe issue is not the key highlight of government. It will be good to have it go along with other things, I agree with you there. The president’s function is to deliver a comprehensive package, probing, fighting corrup-

tion; development; new energy sources, education; welfare to the poor and so on. Though they came into power with a very lean financial base, I think if the government is looking at targeting 25million very frail and volatile Nigerians, they should have announced it. It would have helped.

Part of the campaign pledge is 5,000naira for the very vulnerable like those unemployed, elderly people. It will be good to announce that now. When I chaired the NBA conference that the vice president attended, he said so.

He said that the government is going to be very strong on social welfare. I like this government because it agrees with my soul.

Just like in the Christian world, there are different kinds of Christians. In the political world also, there are different kinds of politicians. This government is called the left of center. It is a social democracy government.

Former president Jonathan’s government was right of center.

His, was a corporatist government. This present government is saying they will include everybody while the other former governments were saying they will only cater for only a few. The government that caters for all is likely to be popular. So if president Buhari is able to achieve the agenda that he promised, he will be a very popular person. We are waiting to see. This is why I say it is not easy to judge him on 100 days. If he does not achieve what he promised, it will be business as usual. In Nigeria only very few like chief Awolowo have been able to keep to his promise.

But do you think it is right for a government to probe individuals?

I will be against probing individuals. I will be against the president probing anybody. That is not his function. The function

of the president is to recognize that there is corruption. Next thing is appoint good people to fight this corruption. And not for the president to say “go after Olisa Agbakoba.” It is for those people that have been given the job to, without reference to the president, do what they have been appointed to do, otherwise it will become selective. That was the problem with Obasanjo’s anti-corruption programme because it appeared selective, i.e it appeared as if it was being targeted at certain people. Nobody should be targeted in the anti-corruption war. It is when you erect the net, if you are corrupt, the net will catch you. But not that you are taking the net to Olisa’s house. You erect the net for everyone and if you are not corrupt, it won’t catch you.

I will personally recommend to the president not to mention anybody’s name. Buhari should set up a strong anti-corruption framework.

One of the things people used to point accusing finger at Buhari is the issue of declaring his assets publicly, what do you think his asset declaration has proved?

If I were in a public office I will declare my assets too. If you are not afraid, that is when you can declare your assets before you entered office and after you leave office. That is one of the strongest evidence that a man wants to be clean. Since Buhari and his Vice have done this, it will come natural for others in government to do the same. This is a good example of leading from the front.

Do you think the country can progress economically under President Buhari?

Nigeria has been hit by a tidal wave of big shocks.

The first shock to the Nigerian system is that we are in a post oil economy. The second shock is that our oil resources have gone out of fashion as the world moves from smelly hydrocarbon oil to clean shale oil. Nigeria produces smelly hydro carbon

oil that are no longer attractive in the international market. We are having trouble selling our oil. The second big shock is that we are no longer an oil economy.

We are now in a post oil period.

The third shock is that our economy is in danger of running out of steam and cash.

These three shocks will have a profound effect on Nigeria unless well managed.

How can President Buhari handle these Shocks?

The President must go back in history and borrow a leaf from President Roosevelt who ably dealt with the shock of the great depression that ravaged the United States of America when he became the US President in the 1930s.

In order to manage the shocks, the president must rally Nigerians to the tough decisions he must make. The President will need the National Assembly fully behind him. The President, like President Roosevelt, is encouraged to make an emergency proclamation before the National Assembly and present a profusion of executive orders and legislative proposals touching on the critical pillars of Nigeria’s political infrastructure.

What are the critical pillars of Nigeria’s political infrastructure?

The most critical pillars are the political arrangements and agreements that bind Nigerians in one nation. We have not lived in peace and harmony. Nigeria is a fractured and divided nation. The Amalgamation agreement of 1914 failed. The colonial agreements in the shape of orders in council promulgated by the English crown failed us.

The post-colonial constitutions and their military counterparts all failed. The result has been long years of national disorder and disharmony that has impeded economic development and political stability. This is a challenge the President elect must engage as soon as possible.

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

EXTRATIME

27

PINNICK:

PMB deserves place in Guinness Book of Records ANDREW EKEJIUBA SPORT EDITOR

P

resident Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) is worthy of a bold mention in the Guinness Book of Records, according to NFF President Amaju Pinnick.

Pinnick spoke in Santiago on Monday morning as he boarded a flight to Buenos Aires on their way back home from a success story at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile.

“Yes, it is a success story as you just mentioned, but it would not have ended that way without the great support that the Nigeria Football Federation continues

to receive from the President Muhammadu Buhari– led Federal Government.

“In fact, the Nigeria Football Federation is dedicating this triumph to President Buhari. He is a man of history. He was there when the first set won the trophy in 1985 as military Head of State; now he is here as civilian President when the Class of 2015 emerged victorious. Seriously speaking, I don’t think there is any Head of State or Government in the entire universe who has this honour, and for this, our PMB deserves a place in the Guinness Book of Records.”

Pinnick, whose one –year administration can now point to successes at the African Women Championship (Namibia 2014), African Youth Championship

(Senegal 2015) and now the Eaglets’ triumph (aside qualifications for several major tournaments), insisted on Monday that the masterstroke for the Eaglets’ confident and determined approach was President Buhari’s call to the team a day earlier.

The NFF President assured that his administration would be strongly involved in the players’ development, unlike what happened in the past.

Pinnick, a member of the Organizing Committee for the FIFA U-20 World Cup, and who joined the dignitaries to hand out the medals in Vina del Mar on Sunday, hinted that the NFF already has other targets in its immediate radar.

Adenuga

delighted with Eaglets victory ANDREW EKEJIUBA

S

ports philanthropist and Chairman of Globacom, Dr. Mike Adenuga Jr (GCON) has congratulated the Golden Eaglets, President Muhammadu Buhari and the people of Nigeria on the victory of the U-17 team at the just concluded FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile.

He told Extra Time that the young lads have done exceptionally well to bring honour to their fatherland.

The Golden Eaglets defeated

Mali on Sunday in an-all Africa final by 2 goals to nil to cap their impressive run in the tournament in Chile.

The victory has made Nigeria the most successful country in the history of the tournament. The Golden Eaglets have won the cadet World Cup trophy for a record fifth time after first winning it in 1985 in China, 1993 in Japan, 2007 in Korea and 2013 in UAE. Nigeria also equaled the record of Brazil (1997 and 1999) by becoming the second team ever to retain the U-17 World Cup. In addition, Victor Osimhen with his ten goals entered the record books as the highest overall goals scorer in the history of the competition.

“It was indeed an unlimited performance by our dear Golden Eaglets. I congratulate them for emerging World champions. Once again, they have done exceptionally well to

T NOA celebrates Golden Eaglets victory

he Director-General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr Mike Omeri, has congratulated Nigerians, particularly the Golden Eaglets, on their victory as champions in the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile.

This is contained in a statement

by Mr Paul Odenyi, NOA Assistant Director Press, in Abuja on Monday.

Omeri commended the team for a job well done, and hailed the com-

Buhari

Izilein calls for proper management of Eaglets’ success

Victor Osimhen bring honour to Nigeria and Africa.

We are proud of them,” Adenuga said.

He said that Globacom, the major sponsor of Nigerian national football teams, would continue to contribute to the development of football which has always been the greatest unifying factor in the country.

“We congratulate President Muhammadu Buhari and the leadership of the Nigerian Football Federation for the moral and financial support that propelled the boys to global success,” he added.

mitment, vitality and vigour displayed by the Eaglets on their way to victory.

He said that they represented the mood of patriots and desire of citizens for a peaceful and united country.

The director-general said the Eaglets were determined to win the trophy and gave all they have to achieve the dream.

Izilein

A

former coach of the Golden Eaglets, Godwin Izilein, has advised the Sports ministry to properly manage the Eaglets’ victory at this year’s Under-17 World Cup finals in Chile.

The Eaglets emerged world champions when they defeated their Malian counterparts by two goals in the final match of the justconcluded U-17 World Cup in the early hours of Monday in Chile.

Izilein, who gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Benin, said that Nigeria’s declining soccer moments would experience a resurgence, “if the current victory was well managed’’.

The tactician said the nucleus of the Eaglets should be well-guided and nurtured into the under-20 national team.

“Some of these boys can even break into the Super Eagles. These boys should not be neglected like we used to experience previously.

“The football authority should learn to manage this big success by guiding and counselling the boys not to rush into mushroom clubs abroad.

“They should be given full attention and proper guidance as regards their professional careers, for optimum productivity,” he said.

Izilein, however, suggested that the coach should be allowed to remain and groom more talent at that level.

Meanwhile, Dolphins FC of Port Harcourt Manager, Stanley Eguma, on Monday urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to guide players of the victorious National U-17 team, the Golden Eaglets, to successful careers.

Eguma told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Port Harcourt that after winning the FIFA U-17 World Cup, the Federation should ensure that the players were properly managed for future international engagements.

28

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

EXTRATIME

GuARdIOlA Kane

Kane: Chelsea can compete for top four!

T

ottenham striker Harry Kane insists Chelsea should not be written off in the race to finish in the Premier League’s top four this season.

The reigning champions have suffered seven defeats in their opening 12 league matches this term and sit 13 points adrift of fourth-placed Manchester United.

Spurs, by contrast, have not lost since their opening day trip to Old Trafford and a 1-1 draw at Arsenal on Sunday means they are just three points off the Champions League qualification places going into the international break.

Kane, however, believes Chelsea are more than capable of turning their season around to compete for the coveted top spots on the table, with the two teams set to meet at White Hart Lane on November 29.

“Obviously they’re not playing very well at the moment but I wouldn’t write them off,” he said.

“They were champions last year for a reason. We’ve just got to concentrate on ourselves, try not to think about the teams around us.

We’re playing very well, we’ve got great belief and we’ve just got to keep trying to move up that table.”

According to Kane, Tottenham’s form so far in 2015-16 proves they belong among the elite.

could dump Munich for Man City —Sagnol F

ormer Bayern Munich defender Willy Sagnol believes Pep Guardiola could leave the Bundesliga champions for Manchester City at the end of this season.

Guardiola’s contract with the club is due to expire in June and the former Barcelona coach is yet to com- mit his future to the Allianz Stadium outfit.

Bayern,

according to chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, will open talks with their head coach during German football’s winter break.

Sagnol though would not be surprised if Guardiola walks away from the club at the end of what is his third campaign in charge.

“Guardiola should leave Bayern if he feels that he has done everything he could,” Sagnol said.

“He should start a new project if that’s the

Guardiola case. Coaches always think about projects.

“I reckon Manchester City would be a bigger challenge for him than Chelsea or Paris SaintGermain. There is still plenty of work to do there.

They have not won any major trophies yet.”

Guardiola has guided Bayern to consecutive Bundesliga titles since his appointment in 2013, while also winning the DFB-Pokal, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.

Outcast Michu leaves Swansea S

wansea City have parted company with striker Michu in an effort to help the Spaniard find a new club, having fallen out of favour at the Liberty Stadium.

Michu was left out of Garry Monk’s squad for the current Premier League campaign, having been on loan at Napoli last term, and

has been allowed to leave in order to help secure a new club in the January transfer window.

“Both parties have reached a financial agreement over the remainder of the 29-year-old’s contract, which ran until the end of this season,” read a Swansea statement.

“The agreement will allow Michu to become a free agent and assist him to find a new club straight away in order to kick-start his playing career again in January.”

Michu arrived in Wales from Rayo

Smalling hails Red devils defence

C Michu

hris Smalling has hailed Manchester United’s defensive strength following their 2-0 Premier League win at home to West Brom on Saturday.

Louis van Gaal’s men have kept five consecutive clean sheets in all competi-

tions and Smalling is delighted to be part of such a strong defensive unit.

“Over the last year we have had a very good record and in the last month we’ve had many clean sheets and as a back four, that’s really pleasing,” Smalling told reporters.

“We’ve been able to do that

Vallecano in 2012 and scored 22 goals in his first season, including one in the League Cup final success against Bradford City.

Goals soon dried up for the onecap Spain international, however, and a loan spell in Serie A failed to inspire a return to form as he made just five appearances in an injury-hit time in Naples.

Monk confirmed prior to the season that Michu’s career with the club was all but over, stating his squad

even when we’ve had a few changes in the back four and have stuck together. Everyone knows their jobs so it’s great to be a part of such a good defensive unit, especially knowing that we’ve always got that chance of scoring at the other end if we can keep it tight.

“I think a lot of managers say that it starts from the front and us as defenders know it helps our job when the front two strikers put that pressure on. If they can do that it makes our job a lot easier. You know that without the whole team working together, it’s a very hard job for the defenders, so everyone plays a part.”

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

EXTRATIME

29

GERMAN FA BOSS

NIERSBACH resigns

W

olfgang Niersbach has resigned from his position as president of the German Football Association (DFB).

On November 3, investigators searched the premises of the DFB headquarters in Frankfurt, as well as the homes of Niersbach, his predecessor Theo Zwanziger and former general secretary Horst Schmidt.

Prosecutors are looking into allegations that the organisation

Niersbach

secured the hosting rights for World Cup 2006 by corrupt means.

The DFB stated its intention to cooperate fully with the investigators, and Niersbach has now left the role while denying any personal wrongdoing.

The outgoing president stated his decision was made in order to “protect” the DFB, and he vowed to continue contributing to the investigation where possible.

“I was there from the first day of the bid for the 2006 World Cup, all the way to the final documentation of that summer fairy tale, and have worked all these years and at all times not only with great passion but always cleanly, confidently and correctly,” Niersbach said in a statement.

“I can say with a clear conscience that I have absolutely nothing to be personally reproached for.

“It is more depressing and painful for me to be faced with procedures nine years later over a time when I was not involved. I make it clear once again, unequivocally, that I had no knowledge of the background of the cash flows.

“To protect the DFB and the office, I step down with a heavy heart as DFB president. Nevertheless, I will contribute anything for a comprehensive explanation of the processes.”

SORIANO OPEN TO BARCA RETURN

R

ed Bull Salzburg star Jonatan Soriano admits he would be open to a return to Barcelona

in January.

The 30-year-old impressed during his time with the Barcelona B squad between 2009 and 2012, but failed to break through to the first team under Pep Guardiola and left for Austria in January three years ago.

Soriano has been a revelation during his time in the Bundesliga, winning the domestic double three times and scoring a total of 144 goals in 160 appearances in all competitions for Salzburg.

Barca have been linked with a number of attacking players ahead of the January transfer window, including Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Robin van Persie, and Soriano has confirmed he would listen to any offer.

“It’s not easy, knowing that you come to Barca to be a reserve, to assume that you won’t play,” he told reporters.

“Now I know that I play every weekend and I feel important, but if Barca called, it’s pretty clear: I would say yes.”

Soriano

Soriano has also backed Celta Vigo star Nolito, a team-mate of his at Barca B, to prove a shrewd signing should he return to the club.

Neymar

MATA hails

NEYMAR’S

masterstroke M

anchester United attacker Juan Mata voiced his admiration for Neymar in the wake of the Brazil international’s wonder-goal in Barcelona’s 3-0 win over Villarreal on Sunday.

The 23-year-old led his team to victory after a difficult first half and netted twice after the break, with his second goal a particular highlight.

R

eal Madrid midfielder Casemiro has defended Cristiano Ronaldo against recent criticism and is confident the Portugal star will be in great form for the Clasico with Barcelona on November 21.

Ronaldo has netted eight goals in 11 La Liga appearances so far this term, but failed to find the net in seven of those games.

The 30-year-old put in an underwhelming performance in Sunday’s 3-2 loss to Sevilla, yet Casemiro believes there is no reason to worry.

“Cristiano is in very good form,” the Brazilian midfielder said.

“I’m positive that he’s going to have an excellent game against Barcelona because he’s the best player in the world.

“We’re unhappy with the result against Sevilla, but we have to start thinking about the Clasico

Neymar produced an audacious flick over the head of a hapless Villarreal defender after being set up by Luis Suarez, before spinning and volleying past Alphonse Areola, and Mata was in awe of the forward’s spectacular move.

“On top of the table, Barcelona were successful in a complex game against Villarreal, a very competitive and talented side,” Mata said.

“Once again, Neymar showed how

lethal he is. A top-class player. His second goal was a master stroke.”

Whereas Barcelona saw off Villarreal, Real Madrid were beaten 3-2

by Sevilla and Mata was impressed by Unai Emery’s men’s performance.

“Meanwhile, Real Madrid were defeated in Sevilla,” the Spaniard added.

“The local team was intense and competitive, and Yevhen Konoplyanka, spectacular.”

RONALDO

will be great in Clasico,

says Casemiro now.

“There’s no better match to that for bouncing back. We’re capable of winning.

“We’re Real Madrid and we’ve already shown in La Liga and the Champions League that we’re capable of playing well.”

Madrid sit second in the table heading into the Clasico with 24 points from 11 games, trailing Barcelona by three points.

Ronaldo

Zambrotta tips Milan for UCL return

G

ianluca Zambrotta thinks AC Milan can secure a return to the Champions League this

season.

Milan failed to earn a place in Europe for the first time since 1998-99 after

finishing 10th in Serie A last term.

Sinisa Mihajlovic has since taken the helm and guided the club to sixth in the table after 12 games, with a 0-0 draw against Atalanta on Saturday extending their unbeaten run to five

games.

And Zambrotta – who spent four seasons with the San Siro club between 2008 to 2012 – believes, while the weekend’s result shows they can still improve, Milan are capable of making a

return to continental competition.

“The draw against Atalanta proves that there’s still a lot of work to be done, but Milan have found a certain continuity over the last five games,” the 38-year-old told reporters.

30

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

EXTRATIME

EXTRATIME

VOX POPULI

Following the superlative outing of Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets at the just concluded FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile where the team won the tourney for a record fifth time, the duo of OREKYEH VIVIAN and BOLAJI AFOLABI sampled public opinion on what the Federal Government should do for the team on arrival to Nigeria on Wednesday. Excerpts:

Gbenga Harris The Golden Eaglets did well and I expect the Federal Government to take care of the players. They should also appreciate them with gifts and should be well monitored so that they won’t go astray!

CHILE 2015: NIGERIANS URGE FG TO REWARD EAGLETS

Mr. Temitope Eniola Sulaimon Abiodun

Initially, I never thought the Eaglets could perform wonderfully well in Chile because our players have disappointed us so many times, at the senior level. The Eaglets really performed well and I want the government to take good care of these boys. The victorious Eaglets squad will surely one day represent us well if they are allowed to graduate to the Super Eagles.

I am very happy about the outcome of the match and the Eaglets were super! I just want government and the NFF to allow the players graduate to Super Eagles. The 2-0 win over Mali at the final was an indication that the team is destined for greatness. Both the coaching crew and the players made us proud of being Nigerians, so I

Isaac Ayo

I don’t have much to say about the team, but the only thing I can say is that those boys performed well. I want government to support them. I am not saying that the NFF should disband the current Super Eagles team, but the Eaglets should not be left out in Nigerian football development because they are good!

Mr. Idowu Abogunde Our Golden Eaglets were spectacular in Chile; they showed Mali that Nigeria is a great footballplaying nation. The jersey no 9 and 7, I really liked them and I want the government to train them and not to abandon, so they can help represent our country in future.

want government to give the players financial assistance which they will need later in future.

Maureen Ukachi I want to say consistently for five times this crop of Eaglets have been winning and making Nigeria proud; it shows that they are energetic lads who are committed in their chosen profession. Thus, it is high time that government should make commitment in terms of reward; by giving landed property and they should also promote them to the Flying Eagles squad.

Abuka Omota

Chidiebere Uzor

It was a great feat that Nigeria lifted the U-17 World Cup a record fifth time on Sunday. That is what we always want our boys to do for us and I want the government to train this boys in every way possible.

NFF should let them become the future Super Eagles players we are looking forward to instead of these old players we have.

The final match between Nigeria and Mali was so interesting and it is one match I won’t forget easily in years to come. I think the government should motivate the boys so they can bring more World Cup trophies to the country at higher level. Nigerian Under-17 players are great!!!

Erinfolami Kayode

Actually I’m very happy about the match Nigeria won because the Eaglets had an impressive outing against the Malians. The first half was difficult and tight, but we thank God we smiled at the end of the day. Government should appreciate the players, not only with money but to monitor and nurture them to stardom.

Charles Eze Government shouldn’t allow these guys to go unrewarded; they should nurture them to the U-23 team. Also, I’m sure that more than half of them will be good to make the future Super Eagles team if encouraged.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

31 Opinion

Abolishing Judges and Professors’ 70 years retirement age ÏÏÏOne of the

Polycarp Onwubiko

administrative faux pas of the military oligarchs was the raising of the retirement age of court Judges and Professors to 70 years of age irrespective of the number of years worked in the public service. This is contrary to the provisions of the Public Service Rules [PSR], which stipulates that 60 years should be the statutory age while 35 years should be for service for other public servants.

The amendment to increase the statutory age of retirement for judges by the aberrant military oligarchs was arbitrary. Rather, it was a decree rammed into the country’s laws due to the selfserving manipulation of lawyers who laid mischievous claim that judges get increasingly matured; akin to the proverbial old wine that tastes better as it is being stored in the wine cellar for longer years.

The fact remains that if the proposal is tabled in the legislature for the desired review, the masses would have been afforded the opportunity to brainstorm on the merits and demerits of the proposal. So many administrative aberrations churned

out during the military regimes were due to deft and sinister manipulations of pressure groups.

The outcomes have been causing seemingly intractable administrative problems in the state and federal public services. For instance, disparities in salaries and allowances of some worker in the MDA’s have become reference points for industrial actions, which lead to strike actions.

For instance, the judicial workers in Anambra State have been on strike to compel Governor Willy Obiano to pay salaries equivalent to federal workers. This is blackmail borne out of the so-called quest for the independence of the judiciary, which is a fall-out of the unitaryfederal contraption created by the military regimes backed by Northern Moslems who abhor call for True Federalism.

It does not require rock science to observe that the premise whereby the military regime raised the retirement age of court Judges to 70 years was fundamentally flawed.

Pervasive corruption in all the segments of the Nigerian society involves the Judges. For instance, the intractable electoral malfeasance during elections usually ends up in the election tribunals where

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The country is facing a time bomb in pervasive unemployment due to distortions in the economy.

It is highly infuriating that very old men would be sitting tight on the government jobs in the stupid pretext that they are being progressively being “wizened” on the job.

observations revealed that judgments were more often than not for the highest bidders.

There were instances where some governors who looted public funds were freed, while

they were convicted in foreign countries.

Qualification for being a judge is 10 years’ service practice.

It is fallacious to argue that judges who have worked for years in the public service cannot adjudicate on all cases before them. Certainly, it will not take judges to attain the ages of 65-70 years to be efficient in rendering credible judgments; in other words, an honest and diligent judge at 55 years cannot be different from one at 69 years.

Therefore, President Buhari should face this reality, dump the makebelieve and abolish the 70 years retirement of judges. The impression has been that judges are paragons of integrity and on the pedestal with the gods.

The country is facing a time bomb in pervasive unemployment due to distortions in the economy. It is highly infuriating that very old men would be sitting tight on the government jobs in the stupid pretext that they are being progressively being “wizened” on the job.

Searing facts compound the supposed maturity that goes with 60 years plus for judges. There have been manipulations in the public service records in northern states to give multiple promotions

and advancements to their officers and arrange their transfer of service to the federal public service. The consequence is that other officers from the southern part of the country would be superseded.

For instance, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, the northerners have held CJN for over 20 years; and even with prospects for more years. It is not that the northerners read law more than other ethnic groups but the deft manipulations and some self-serving subtle provisions in the inherently flawed 1999 Constitution.

Instead of dumping the constitution, the majority members in the National Assembly choose to panel-beat the fundamentally flawed constitution to sustain the Federal-Unitary contraption.

President Buhari should retire these judges so that the younger ones would be promoted. The constitution should be amended to revert the retirement age of all public servants including professors to 60 years and 35 years of service. The myth of matured intellectual knowledge is a farce in this age of profound knowledge via the internet. At best, the retirement of professors should be reduced to 65 years of service.

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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2015

VOL. 1. NO. 227

Price: N150

MATA HA ILS NEYMAR ’S MASTERSTROKE P.29 President Muhammadu Buhari (left) in a warm handshake with NFF boss, Amaju Pinnick

, K C I N N PI L I A H E AMUNEK R E T F A I BUHAR P U C D L WOR H P M U I TR

RONALD O WILL BE GREA T IN CLASICO , SAYS CASEMIR O 9

P.2

ANDREW EKEJIUBA SPORT EDITOR

P

resident Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) has been singled out as a major factor that helped the Golden Eaglets to win a record fifth FIFA Under-17 World Cup at Chile 2015 following their 2-0 win over Mali at the Estadio Sausalito in Vina del Mar on Sunday.

NFF President Amaju Pinnick was full of praise for President Buhari for speaking passionately via Skype to the squad ahead of

what was only the second–ever all-African final, adding the team has achieved beyond expectations.

“This is a sweet victory and I want to use this opportunity again to thank President Buhari for his support and fatherly role which inspired the players to give their best against Mali,” said Pinnick. “After Mr. President spoke with the players yesterday, the boys assured me they were ready to die on the pitch to achieve victory and I’m happy they gave their all.”

The NFF boss was also full of praise for Amuneke and confirmed the former African Footballer of the Year will continue to be

in charge of the U-17 National Team with additional responsibility of joining the technical staff of the Flying Eagles.

“Again, I’m happy for Amuneke for doing a wonderful job with this team and as a reward for his hard work, I have the approval of the board to announce that he is going to continue as the Head Coach of the Golden Eaglets.

“Apart from that, he is also going to be an assistant coach to the U-20 team and I want to also announce that the technical crew and backroom staff of the Golden Eaglets will remain intact for future assignments because they have shown a sense of responsibility on this job,” Pinnick added.

Reacting, Coach Amuneke said at the post match conference that he was just happy to have led Nigeria to victory yet again after he assisted Coach Manu Garba to win the last edition in the United Arab Emirates. He also gave big kudos to President Muhammadu Buhari for taking time out of his very busy schedule to speak with players and officials on the eve of the Final Match, saying it was a huge inspiration.

“I’m happy tonight that I have helped these players to write their own story here in Chile because this is important for their career and I also want to thank everybody who has contributed to the success of this team; the coaching crew and the backroom staff.

“When we arrived here, I said it was our responsibility to help these players achieve their dreams and tonight I’m happy that they have been able to achieve one of their dreams as football players,” Amuneke stated.

Meanwhile, the victorious Golden Eaglets will return to Nigeria via Abuja aboard Emirates Airline on Wednesday. The team flew out of Santiago on Monday to Buenos Aires where they will connect a flight to Dubai. In Dubai, they would spend Tuesday night, before proceeding to Abuja on Wednesday.

Life&

Times Tuesday, November 10, 2015

JJC:

In love with music

Interview L2

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Born and raised in the Northern part of Nigeria, Abdul Rasheed Bello, better known by his moniker, JJC, is a songwriter, rapper, singer and music video director whose musical career has spanned over 17 years. JJC is famous for his role in developing some of Africa’s finest music exports such as D’banj, Don Jazzy and many others following his creation of defunct music group, 419 Squad.

In this chat with MUTIAT ALLI, JJC discussed his recently released album, love life, challenges returning to Nigeria, among other sundry issues. Excerpts:

Life &

T E A M

What has kept you going?

I grew up to love music and I made it my passion. For me, doing music is like having fun. People always see me as very energetic on stage and in my music videos. It’s simply because I love what I am doing. I am full of life and vibrancy.

What will you say set you apart from other artistes?

I am very different, because my orientation in life is different. I grew up in the United Kingdom (UK) where I learnt a lot about music at a very young age. I was signed by Sony Music while I was 22. I was also writing songs for record companies.

Majority of Nigerian music is based on dancing, and that’s not really a lot of message. That is where I stand out because lots of my songs have messages that impact lives.

Does that mean you don’t like making dance music?

Not everyone in Nigeria like my music because they assume I don’t do the kind of music people really want to hear which dance music is.

I did venture into it once and had lots of fun. I express myself in my own capacity. ‘Feeling you’ and ‘Eru’ were more of dance tracks, but it still passed messages.

You have been in Nigeria for a while, what are the challenges compared to when you were in London?

My biggest challenge coming back to Nigeria is the fact that I didn’t grow up in Lagos. I didn’t even grow up in Nigeria. Even though I come to Nigeria once in a while to promote my music, I really don’t know a lot of people in the industry. I have also come to notice that people do things based on ‘we-we’ levels. It is all about who you know or who you grew up with or schooled with. Everybody have their own struggles and mine is totally different. I felt like a fish out of water when I moved back to Nigeria. Lot of people know me, but I don’t know lots of them. Sometimes, people think I am arrogant, but they don’t know the real me. It hasn’t been an easy journey at all these periods but I got to know who my real friends are and those who are truly there to support me.

What gave you that hope to hang on?

I believe that life is the survival of

JJC: Doing Music cost me my love life

the fittest. Only the strong survives in tough situations. I have been in the industry for over 17 years. I am sticking to my love and passion. I am not just an artiste because I do a whole of stuffs in music. I edit, I direct and at a point, I shoot my videos. I believe that hard work would see me through. Presently, it is not really paying me to do my music in Nigeria but costing me more. I am hoping that it pays me very soon. Everybody’s breakthrough point is coming, I see mine close too. I feel so happy right now. My music is doing well, my family is doing well. Two years more, I would be 40. But I don’t intend retiring yet but God is the planner.

My life is like a Nollywood movie, while God is the director. I turned my passion into profession. Something I have always loved doing as a little boy, something I always do for fun, now I am using it to make money and inspire a whole generation of people.

I always feel happy because I know I have achieved something. Even if I am not big, I know I have inspired and created big artistes in the world, not just in Nigeria.

At 38, any marriage plans yet?

I have been in love with the idea of love, but it is very hard to attain if

Music Correspondent Akintayo Opeoluwani

Movie Correspondent Mutiat Alli

you are not focused. To be in love, you need to put in lots of hard work.

I have been selfishly in love with my music career. That was one of the biggest problems I have had in my relationships. My last relationship met with brick walls because I intended to come to Nigeria in 2011 to pursue my career. In other words, music has cost me my love life. People in our kind of career find it hard to find a companion. I am hoping that I would find the right person but it is hard within my circle.

Does that imply you are only having fun now?

Yeah, I would say so. I am focused on my career because music makes me happy but my relationship doesn’t. My partners always groan over my love for music. I pray I get to a place in my career where I can relax and have a good relationship.

Fortunately for me, I had my kids when I was quite young. I have three kids, my first daughter is already 18. That’s why I am more relaxed.

My kids come first in everything. My youngest child is already 10 and they gave me all the love and support I need to face my music.

You have featured Kate Henshaw on several of your

Society Correspondent Isaac Oguntoye

projects, what is the attraction?

(Laughs). I saw an article about what she was planning to do for her state if she was given a chance to serve in the last election. She made them a lot of promises and I got hooked. I saw that as quite an inspirational speech, so I approached her and we did a song together which was titled ‘See Us Now’.

This is not the first time she would be featured in your music video, do you have a crush on her?

No! I actually saw Kate Henshaw’s performance once at a banquet and I thought she would be perfect to pass the message to the people. I like her uniqueness. I have been looking forward to a chance for Nigerian music industry and Nollywood to come together for the common good of the masses. With Kate, I have made that happen.

What are the immediate plans after the release of the ‘SKILLZ’ album?

I just shot a video with Kate Henshaw. It is an emotional and inspiring video to lift the hearts and minds of all Nigerians worldwide. It is a call to come together, support and also build a brighter future for

Photography Quadri Olowolagba

Graphics Gabriel Sunday

ourselves and our children. Kate was amazing like you’ve never seen her.

People should watch out for it. As for Motiwa’ with Olamide, I believe the video would turn out the best Nigerian video in recent times. The massive love and support I got was really amazing.

Was that a deliberate attempt to stage a party at the venue of your video shoot with Olamide?

It was an amazing night full of laughter and dance because we had over 300 hundred people in attendance. The video was shot by multi-talented music video director, Director Q while stars like Olamide, Presh of former KCpresh group, Mo Eazy, Sound Sultan, Tunde Ednut, Ketchup, Chuddy K and others came in to thrill fans and as well show support to me. I am so happy for the turn out.

Aside music, what else do you do?

Unfortunately for me, I don’t have any other passion outside the music industry. I direct music videos and I did that for a good part of 2011 and more in 2012. I also manage and develop artistes to maintain and pay my bills. All I do in life revolve around entertainment.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

L3Teen

Getting your teens out of depression

Ann Izedunor Teenage depression isn’t just bad moods and the occasional melancholy—it’s a serious problem that impacts every aspect of a teen’s life. Teen depression can lead to drug and alcohol abuse, self-loathing and self-mutilation, pregnancy, violence, and even suicide.

There are as many misconceptions about teen depression as there are about teenagers in general. Yes, the teen years are tough, but most teens balance the requisite angst with good friendships, success in school or outside activities, and the development of a strong sense of self. Occasional bad moods or acting out is to be expected, but depression is something different. Depression can destroy the very essence of a teenager’s personality, causing an overwhelming sense of sadness, despair, or anger.

Teenagers face a host of pressures, from the changes of puberty to questions about who they are and where they fit in. The natural transition from child to adult can also bring parental conflict as teens start to assert their independence.

With all this drama, it isn’t always easy to differentiate between depression and normal teenage moodiness, making things even more complicated. Teens with depression do not necessarily appear sad, nor do they always withdraw from others. Many rebellious and unhealthy behaviours or attitudes in teenagers are actually indications of depression. Teens depression is not a disease and neither

is it a sickness, it’s just something that bothers them and the only remedy is outspokenness. Once they release out the load that is weighing them down, they become well again. Teens need lots of love and someone who will always give them listening ears.

When parents refuse to pay attention to their teens, they become something else. When parents listen to their teens, they will find out they have been missing a whole lot. Teen’s depression is normal, they just want to be cared for. Depression in teens can result to: • Sadness or hopelessness • Irritability, anger, or hostility • Tearfulness or frequent crying • Withdrawal from friends and family • Loss of interest in activities • Changes in eating and sleeping habits • Restlessness and agitation • Feelings of worthlessness and

guilt • Lack of enthusiasm and motivation • Fatigue or lack of energy • Difficulty concentrating • Thoughts of death or suicide If you suspect your teenager is suffering from depression, speak up right away. Even if you’re unsure that depression is the issue, the troublesome behaviours and emotions you’re seeing in your teenager are signs of a problem.

Whether or not that problem turns out to be depression, it still needs to be addressed—the sooner the better. In a loving and non-judgmental way, share your concerns with your teenager. Let him or her know what specific signs of depression you’ve noticed and why they worry you.

Then encourage your child to share what he or she is going through.

Your teen may be reluctant to open up; he or she may be ashamed,

afraid of being misunderstood. Alternatively, depressed teens may simply have a hard time expressing what they’re feeling. If your teen claims nothing is wrong but has no explanation for what is causing the depressed behaviour, you should trust your instincts. Remember that denial is a strong emotion. Teenagers may not believe that what they’re experiencing is the result of depression. You can free your teen from depression if you give him\her listening ears.

Here are some tips on talking to your depressed teenager: • Offer support: Let him\her know that you’re there for them, fully and unconditionally. Hold back from asking a lot of questions teenagers don’t like to feel patronized or crowded, but make it clear that you’re ready and willing to provide whatever support they need.

• Be gentle but persistent: Don’t give up if your teen shuts you out

at first. Talking about depression can be very tough for teens. Be respectful of your child’s comfort level while still emphasizing your concern and willingness to listen.

• Listen without lecturing: Resist any urge to criticize or pass judgment once your teenager begins to talk. The important thing is that your child is communicating. Avoid offering unsolicited advice or ultimatums as well.

• Validate feelings: Don’t try to talk your teen out of his or her depression by force, even if his or her feelings or concerns appear silly or irrational to you. Simply acknowledge the pain and sadness he or she is feeling. If you don’t, he or she will feel like you don’t take his or her emotions seriously.

Teenagers deserve to be happy just like every other person. We all passed through the same stage in life.

Eyola L4

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Hairstyles to compliment your face type Eyola 1ne To identify the shape of your face, simply tie your hair back away from your face. Stand in front of a mirror and trace the outline of your face using lipstick, which should wipe off easily. Compare the characteristics of each face type (listed below) and choose the shape that is closest to your face.

2wo Face types: Diamond - Quite different from a round or oval shape, your cheekbones are significantly wider than your narrow chin and forehead.

Round - Your face is the shape of a circle, the length and width of the face are the same size. Your cheekbones are the widest part of your face and you have a tapering jaw and forehead.

Heart - You have a pointy narrow chin, strong cheekbones and a broad forehead - the widest part of your face.

Long - Similar to a rectangular shape, your face is elongated from forehead to chin. You have high cheekbones, a rounded jawline and a longer forehead.

Square - Your outline is not tall but wide - broad forehead, strong cheekbones and an angular jawline.

Oval - A well-balanced shape that resembles an egg. Your forehead is slightly broad and you have a tapering jawline and narrow cheekbones.

3hree Diamond: You look great in styles

Naomi Campbell

MoNique that frame the face. Bobs and fringes are flattering styles and you can enjoy a lot of different hairstyles as long as they don’t add too much volume to the top part of your face.

Short, layered and voluminous hair typically don’t suit your face.

4our (Pics: Mo’Nique) Round: If you have similar facial proportions to Mo’Nique, slim the face with long and wavy hairstyles and a layered side fringe, using a straightener to flick the ends on special occasions. Layering should begin from below the chin to avoid making the middle part of the face look wider. Another hairstyle worth trying is tying your hair into a high bun (that sits at the top of your head) or adding volume to the top of your head to elongate the face.

Unflattering styles include centre partings and chin-length bobs.

Rihanna 5ive (Pics: Naomi Campbell) Heart: You look great with a long (low-maintenance) fringe, long curly/ wavy hairstyles, short pixie cuts and layered shoulder-length hair. Make sure curls and layering start from the chin area to add volume and to balance out the face. Be inspired by fellow heart-shaped faces Halle Berry, Ciara and Naomi Campbell.

Queen Latifah

6ix (pics: Tyra Bank) Long: The goal is to add width to your face, preventing it from appearing even longer. Choose long-length hairstyles just below the shoulder but be aware that straight hair will only make your face appear longer.

Opt for feathered layers cut into long hair - starting from the cheekbones - and a longer fringe to cover larger foreheads; both styles will compli-

Tyra-banks ment your face and soften the jawline.

Avoid short cropped haircuts, centre partings and top buns that sit on the top of the head. Iman and Tyra Banks know just how to style their long face types to perfection.

7even (Pics: Rihanna) Square: Steer clear of short haircuts as this will only emphasize your square face. More flattering styles include feathering the hair, long-length hair (feel free to go as long as you wish but make sure that the shortest length sits at the jawline), wavy soft curls and a side parting. Take hairstyle cues from fellow square-face, Rihanna.

8ight (Pics: Queen Latifah) Oval: Like Queen Latifah, you can rock any hairstyle and all fringe styles.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

L5 Eyola

Relationship L6

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

How to keep your spouse safe Hussenat Ohize

Most ladies don’t know how to keep their spouse safe. It doesn’t mean you need to hide him away from friends and family but you need to make him not to look out. There are so many ways to keep your spouse safe.

COMMUNICATION is one of the keys you need to keep your spouse safe.

One must always have time to discuss particular issues with her spouse. Communication keeps relationship moving on because the couples would be able to understand each other better and if there is any agreement among themselves, the lady should be able to settle it with “Okay “, “I Understand” and “Am sorry”.

A lady could keep her spouse safe through different ways, by cooking, understanding, beauty, with the way she dresses, her hairdo, neatness, with the way she does her wonderful things. A lady should understand that her spouse is just like her pillar and she tends to help him in so many ways.

Most ladies don’t know how to keep their spouse; they believe since he loves me, he can’t be taken away; the guy has played his part loving the lady, so the lady has to play

her part trying to keep his love safe.

There are several ways to keep your spouse safe which includes:

Having time for your spouse: A lady needs to have time for her spouse. Most ladies think work is everything that one can’t even have time to talk some important issues with her spouse. Most ladies make their spouse talk to other ladies when the lady is not there for them.

Reduce friends (Opposite sex): As a lady, you need to reduce friendship with opposite sex. It might make your spouse feel jealous and want to cheat or find another girl because of that. If a lady needs a shoulder to cry on, there is nothing wrong with her spouse shoulder to cry on. He should be in the best position to make the lady happy.

Most ladies do have a guy best friend which is wrong; the guy would not end up being your best friend but your spouse. With that your spouse is getting away.

Be secretive: Mind what you tell your friends about your spouse. Most ladies out there are looking for the perfect guy that would take care of them, and you keep telling them that he takes you out all the time, gives you money every month. That is what all

ladies want, and most ladies would want to have him because of that. So ladies should be careful with the way they talk about their spouse to their girlfriends.

Mind your dressing: Ladies should mind the way they dress as they make other guys want to feel attracted to and it makes your spouse feel jealous because of that and making him believe you are cheating on him.

Mind the social network: Ladies should

mind the way they chat with the opposite sex on any social network, for example like BBM, Whatsapp and Facebook. Ladies are allowed to chat with the opposite sex but they should mind the way they chat; the words should not be negative but formal.

Neatness: A lady should be able to keep her body and sensitive parts neat. If the lady is dirty, it could drive the spouse away to another girl. A lady should try to be neat at all times to keep her spouse safe.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

L7 Movie/Music Chat

NIGERIAN CHART 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Davido-Dodo Timaya Ft.Don Jazzy - I Concur D’Prince-Oga Titus Phyno-Connect Dija Ft.Patoranking -Falling for you Flavour Ft. MI &Phyno-Wiser Skales-Lo le Waje Ft. Patoranking -Left for good Falz-Celebrity Girlfriend Ice Prince-Boss

MOVIE CHART Foreign 1.

Spectre

2.

The Peanuts Movies

3.

The Martian

4.

Goosebumps

5.

Bridge of spies

6.

Hotel Translyvania 2

7.

Burnt

8.

The Last Witch Hunter

YORUBA

9.

The Intern

1.

AMEEDA

10.

Paranormal Activity:

2.

ISEJU KAN

The Ghost Dimension

3.

OJIJI

4.

ADAYEBA

5.

OMOGE LEKKI

6.

OPAMBALA

7.

IFEKUFE

8.

ADUN AYE

9.

PEROSOKO

10.

ERU IFE

FOREIGN CHART 1.

Adele –Hello

2.

Justin Bieber-Sorry

3.

Drake-Hotline Bling

4.

The Weekend-The Hills

1.

5.

Justin Bieber-What do you mean

2.

THE VISIT

6.

Shawn Mendes-Stitches

3.

ONCE UPON A TIME

7.

Taylor Swift-Wildest Dreams

4.

A Soldier’S Story

8.

Fetty Wap Ft. Remy-679

5.

CODE OF SILENCE

9.

R.City Ft. Adam Levis

6.

CHAMPAGNE

-Locked Away

7.

MISS TEACHER

ENGLISH FIRST LADY

8.

BEYOND DISABILITY

9.

IF TOMORROW NEVER COME

10.

SILENCE

Television L8

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Showing on

Showing on

125 FOX Channel

107 M-Net Movie Romance

02:10

02:15

Tues, 10 Nov | 13SL

Tues, 10 Nov | 16SNL

‘S3/E4 - Full Moon Fever’. Bobby falls for Travis’ photography professor, but Travis refuses to introduce them. Laurie falls for a guy she’s never met when she begins a romance via Twitter.

In this introspective film, a young man has everything one could possibly want, but still isn’t happy. When he meets a woman from his past, he wonders if she is the missing piece. Rachael Taylor, Josh Lawson. (2012) Rob Sitch.

101 M-Net West

118 Telemundo

120 BBC Entertainment

128 SONY MAX

00:00 New Worlds 01:00 Time Of Death 02:05 Hours 04:00 MasterChef Australia 05:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 06:00 The Goldbergs 06:30 Mysteries Of Laura 07:30 Grey’s Anatomy 08:30 Stranded In Paradise 10:30 Mike & Molly 11:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 12:00 MasterChef Australia 13:00 NCIS: Los Angeles 14:00 Elementary 15:00 Chicago Fire 16:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 17:00 The Middle 17:30 MasterChef Australia 18:30 Modern Family 19:00 Two And A Half Men 19:30 The Blacklist 20:30 CSI: Cyber 21:30 NCIS: Los Angeles 22:30 Gotham 23:00 Twelve Monkeys

00:30 The Del Monte Dynasty 01:20 The Impostor 02:10 Labour Of Love 03:00 Part Of Me 03:50 Queen Of Hearts 05:20 The Del Monte Dynasty 06:10 Labour Of Love 07:00 Part Of Me 07:50 Queen Of Hearts 08:40 The Impostor 09:30 Forbidden Passions 10:20 Labour Of Love 11:10 Part Of Me 12:00 Queen Of Hearts 12:50 The Impostor 13:40 Forbidden Passions 14:30 Labour Of Love 15:20 Part Of Me 16:10 Queen Of Hearts 17:00 The Impostor 17:50 Forbidden Passions 18:40 Labour Of Love 19:30 Part Of Me 20:20 Queen Of Hearts 21:10 The Impostor 22:00 Forbidden Passions 22:50 Labour Of Love 23:05 QI 23:35 Top Gear

00:20 Most Shocking 01:10 Kenny vs Spenny 11:00 My Family

01:40 Freakshow

00:25 The Weakest Link

11:30 Hell’s Kitchen USA

02:10 Poorman’s Bikini Beach

01:15 Silent Witness

12:20 Top Gear

02:40 Upload With Shaquille O’Neal

02:10 Total Wipeout UK

13:15 Come Dine With Me

03:10 Hip Hop Squares

03:05 EastEnders

14:15 Hell’s Kitchen USA

03:40 Most Shocking

03:35 QI

15:05 The Weakest Link

04:30 South Beach Tow

04:05 Top Gear

16:00 EastEnders

05:00 Criss Angel Mindfreak

05:00 Spy

16:30 Deal Or No Deal

05:30 Exposed

05:25 QI

17:10 The Cube

05:55 Exposed

06:00 The Thin Blue Line

18:00 Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?

06:20 Video Zonkers

06:30 EastEnders

19:00 Dragons’ Den

06:45 Repo Games

07:00 Antiques Roadshow

20:05 Top Gear

07:10 World’s Wildest Police Videos

07:55 The Weakest Link

21:05 Hell’s Kitchen USA

08:45 The Cube 09:30 Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?

22:10 Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow

08:10 Disorderly Conduct: Video On Patrol

10:20 Deal Or No Deal

23:45 So You Think You’d Survive?

155 AfricaMagic World

154 Africa Magic Family

00:00 Tinsel 00:30 Living With Trisha 01:30 Family Ties 02:00 At Home With Joselyn Dumas 03:00 Good Morning Africa 04:00 Music Block 05:00 At Home With Joselyn Dumas 06:00 Good Morning Africa 07:00 Star Gist 07:25 Evanescent 08:35 Living With Trisha 09:25 The African Child 10:00 Good Morning Africa

11:00 Tinsel 11:30 Star Gist 12:00 Music Block 13:00 At Home With Joselyn Dumas 14:00 Prem 14:30 Jara 15:00 Family Ties 15:30 At Home With Michelle Attoh 16:30 Living With Trisha 17:30 Comfort Zone 18:00 Meet The Adebanjos 18:30 Jane And Abel 19:00 Tinsel 19:30 Star Gist 20:00 Airtel Touching Lives 20:35 Evanescent 22:00 Tyme Out With Tee-A 23:35 53 Extra

00:05 Noose Of Gold 00:35 Good Morning Africa 01:40 The Dzigbordi Show 02:30 Good Morning Africa 03:30 Good Morning Africa 04:30 Prem 05:00 Good Morning Africa 06:00 Johnbull And Rosekate 08:35 Prem

09:00 Good Morning Africa 10:00 So Wrong So Wright 10:30 So Wrong So Wright 11:00 Lies That Bind 11:30 Lies That Bind 12:00 Jara 12:30 Jara 13:00 Series TBA 14:00 53 Extra 14:30 53 Extra 15:00 Kakibe Ki 15:30 Noose Of Gold 16:00 Foot Print 16:30 Lies That Bind 17:00 Lies That Bind 17:30 Star Gist 18:00 Star Gist 18:30 Star Gist 19:00 Prem 19:30 So Wrong So Wright 20:00 Market Sellers 22:25 Series TBA 23:30 The Tracker

09:10 South Beach Tow 09:40 Most Shocking 10:40 Most Shocking 11:40 Video Zonkers 12:10 Repo Games 12:40 World’s Wildest Police Videos 13:40 Disorderly Conduct: Video On Patrol 14:40 South Beach Tow 15:10 Exposed 15:40 Criss Angel Mindfreak 16:10 1000 Ways To Die 16:40 Video Zonkers 17:05 Repo Games 17:30 World’s Wildest Police Videos 18:30 South Beach Tow 19:00 Disorderly Conduct: Video On Patrol 20:00 Don’t Trust Andrew Mayne 20:30 Impractical Jokers 21:00 Freakshow 21:30 Poorman’s Bikini Beach 22:00 Kenny vs Spenny 22:30 Tool Academy 23:20 The Real

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Tech Times Æ s

TT 1

Inye Kemabonta, Editor, Tech Times inye@technologylaw.com.ng

NCC plans new spectrum licences in 2016 to create robust infrastructure Stories by Tony Nwakaegho Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has declared that it would issue new telecom spectrum licences in 2016, to create robust internet infrastructure in all the 36 states in the country.

Prof. Umar Danbatta, acting executive vice chairman, NCC, who made this known in Abuja, added that the commission was focused on providing a level playing field for all telecom companies and investors to maximise their investments in the sector.

The NCC boss said this would increase investments, expand broadband services, drive economic growth and development in the country.

He stressed that the overall target was to raise the sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to 25 per cent from the present 10 per cent.

“We shall continue to provide

the enabling environment to attain the prediction of 25 per cent by 2025. The commission is currently engaging the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) with a view to removing the barriers to infrastructure deployment such as fibre-optic cables, base transceiver stations (BTS) and others from their states,’’ he said.

In a related development, Mr Tony Ojobo, director, Public Affairs of the Commission, also said recently at an aside during the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) 21st anniversary in Lagos that NCC would roll out programmes to licence more spectrums in 2016.

“This will ensure that we have enough pervasive internet penetration to be able to implement policies that will guarantee good operating environment for telecom players.

“Nigeria has an array of telecom licences awaiting auctions from next year; they include the 2.6GHz band and Infrastructure

CTO Sec. Gen, others laud election of Festus Daudu as Chair of WRC-15

Taylor

companies (InfraCos) in the five geopolitical zones of the country.

“Others are the 5.4GHz band, 70/80GHz band as well as the 700/800MHz bands that NCC plans to tender to telecom broadband operators,’’ Ojobo said.

He said it was possible for the telecom sector to achieve its set target with proper implementation of proactive policies.

“Tax friendly policies should be encouraged and the issue of `Right-of-Way’ needs to be addressed. It is our wish that this dream of 25 per cent contribution to the nation’s GDP becomes a reality. Our commitment is to oversee the industry with innovative and robust regulatory processes, spiced with transparency, fairness and openness.

We will work to accomplish the commission’s mandate of providing choice for Nigerian consumers and businesses, gaining the trust of investors and the respect of the international community,’’ he added.

Secretary-General Shola Taylor and other Telecom Industry movers have commended the Government of Nigeria for election of Engr. Festus Daudu, as Chair of the 2015 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-15) in Geneva, Switzerland. Over 3,800 delegates from 162 Member States and many international organisations, including the CTO, are taking part in the event.

It is the first time for an African to be elected to this position in the 150 years history of the Geneva-based International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

Mr Taylor also congratulated Alan Jamieson from New Zealand and Daniel Obam from Kenya, both Commonwealth citizens, as tow of the vicechairmen for the Conference.

“I am delighted at the election of a Commonwealth candidate to chair this important Conference, and having known Engr Daudu for many years,

Danbatta

I have full confidence in his ability to steer the Conference successfully, especially when considering his calm and professional disposition”, Taylor said.

“This is a pride to Nigeria, Africa and the Commonwealth”, he added.

Early last month, Engr. Daudu took part in the Commonwealth preparatory conference convened by the CTO in London, and which resulted in a Commonwealth Action Plan for WRC-15.

In his opening remarks, Engr. Daudu said “The decisions we take here at this Conference are critical to our Administrations, to much of the telecommunications industry, and for the many other important uses of the radio frequency spectrum. They will further promote connectivity, directly affect the lives of our citizens and have important economic impacts in each of our countries.

“I also have to thank all the African Administrations for collectively putting my name forward and I thank my country Nigeria for giving me this unique opportunity to serve the global community.

“I must place my special thanks to one individual to whom I have been a professional colleague for many years now. He has nurtured me professionally and given me very useful advice from time to time. He encouraged me to be a leader and I am very proud of him. He is Engr. Shola Taylor, the new Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation. I salute you Mr Taylor”.

Houlin Zhao, Secretary-General of the ITU also shared his satisfaction at Engr. Daudu’s election: “Let me congratulate Festus Daudu for his nomination as chairman of WRC-15, as well as the vice-chairmen. Mr Daudu, I have every confidence CONTINUED ON PAGE TT 2

Tech Times TT 2

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

GSMA clarifies economic benefits of C-Band Spectrum for mobile broadband Stories by Tony Nwakaeho The use of additional C-band spectrum for mobile broadband in London and Shenzhen alone will generate an additional US$440 million (€400 million) of economic benefit whilst protecting the continued operation of incumbent services, according to a new report from the GSMA. The study, “Use of C-Band Spectrum for Mobile Broadband in Cities: London and Shenzhen”, developed by Plum Consulting with analysis from the GSMA and Huawei2, focuses on the impact of mobile operations in the C-band in London and Shenzhen.

The report findings were presented today at the Global Mobile Broadband Forum in Hong Kong, which coincides with the start of the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-15) in Geneva.

WRC-15 will be pivotal in determining future spectrum allocations for mobile broadband and C-band spectrum, which is under consideration at the Conference, will be key to meeting

Wang, President, Huawei Wireless

future data demand.

The report highlights an urgent need for regulators across the globe to address the allocation of spectrum required to meet the huge growth in mobile

data traffic, especially in densely populated urban areas.

C-band spectrum can provide large contiguous channels that support the delivery of high data rate services such as video.

Mobile data traffic continues to grow rapidly around the world.

According to Ofcom, monthly usage per active connection in the UK has risen by 50 per cent every year for the past three years and was over 0.5 gigabytes

by June 2014.

This puts a conservative estimate of total data traffic in London at 7 petabytes per month.

Over the next 15 years, Plum expects average annual growth in mobile data traffic in London to be 35 per cent and this is expected to grow at a similar rate in Shenzhen up to 2030.

The report shows that use of Cband spectrum for mobile broadband can be achieved through the development of sharing techniques to allow mobile services to co-exist with other users of the band, such as satellite and fixed link services.

Plum’s study and other independent studies3 show that Cband small cells can successfully co-exist with satellite services, provided that an exclusion zone of a 5-kilometre radius is established around the satellite installations. Similar provisions can

Ntel plans to launch services on 0804 mobile numbering plan

Abass

Mr. Kamar Abass, managing director of Nigeria Telecommunications (Ntel), the new entrant into the country’s telecommunications landscape said it plans to launch voice service on 0804 numbering plan, The voice service is so called,

designed for allocation of a unique national number to each subscriber connected to the national telephone system.

NATCOM Consortium, the new owners of Ntel resolved to go ahead with the use of already secured numbering plan

as against seeking for a new number as a cost saving approach.

The numbering capacity of the mobile numbering plan is 10 million lines.

The numbering plan provides, more importantly, a uniform dialing procedure for local calls; national long distance calls; and international calls.

Daily Times gathered that the numbering plan is part of licenses acquired from NITEL which was allocated to Mobile Telecommunications (M-Tel) the mobile arm of NITEL by Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) that is charged with the development of the National Numbering Plan for the Nigerian telephone network (both fixed and wireless) and ensuring the allocation of unique national numbers to each subscriber connected to the network.

Abass had said that there were still spaces in the marketplace for new SIMs; hence, Ntel as a new entrant had many opportunities.

The Ntel boss said that the

assets acquired from NITEL included cellular spectrum/microwave frequencies; telecom operating licences, international submarine cable, which is the SAT-3 and cell towers.

He added that the company also acquired fibre and duct network (including Right Of Way), prime buildings and satellite earth stations.

Engr. Samuel Adeleke, immediate past president, Internet Service Providers Association of Nigeria (ISPAN) urged Ntel not to follow already existing business model in the market if they are to attract subscribers.

“They have basket of licenses, huge capacity of fibre links across the country, if they can provide unlimited bandwidth at affordable price they will attract huge customers. 4G LTE is a good start, but they cannot survive on data alone they should provide voice service and to get smartphones that are compactable with 4G LTE is expensive, if they can come up with 4G LTE SIM and give to people with the device will be good,” Adeleke said.

be made to ensure the protection of continued operation of fixed link and point to multipoint services that use the band.

“Administrations around the world should make available larger amounts of contiguous spectrum to meet the demand for high speed connectivity in more densely populated environments. C-Band discussions during the WRC-15 offer a unique opportunity which should not be missed,” David Wang, President, Huawei Wireless Networks said.

Alasdair Grant, Head of Asia, GSMA said: “This joint report highlights the substantial social and economic benefits associated with mobile broadband use of the C-Band on a shared basis with existing services.

“C-band spectrum will better enable operators to provide consumers with high-speed mobile broadband in city centres.

“We urge governments to seize the opportunity at WRC-15 and allocate this critical spectrum to safeguard the future of the mobile internet and deliver its undoubted benefits to citizens worldwide.”

CTO SEC GEN lauds WRC-15 new Chairman CONTINUED FROM PAGE TT 1

in your abilities to ensure a smooth and efficient running of the conference over the four coming weeks.”

“I am confident that Festus Daudu will lead us successfully at this Conference,” Francois Rancy, Director of the ITU’s Radiocommunication Bureau added.

The Commonwealth countries will be meeting once a week during the Conference to continue to coordinate the views of Commonwealth countries during the Conference.

All leaders of the 6 regional groups – the Arab Group, CITEL, APT, ATU, RCC and CEPT all expressed individually their congratulations and confidence in Engr. Daudu to lead the Conference to a successful end.

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

TT 3 Tech Times

Sulaiman Chairs 7-man Board of Directors of Lagos Angel Network

Sulaiman

Stories by Tony Nwakaegho Following the outcomes of the inaugural meeting of the Board of Directors of Lagos Angel Network (LAN) made up of seasoned industry experts and professionals, the retired Country Managing Director of Accenture, Mr. Adedotun Sulaiman has been named as the chairman of the Lagos Angel Network

(LAN) 7-man board of directors.

Sulaiman who is a renowned management consultant and expert in organisational development, enterprise transformation and business process reengineering retired from Accenture in 2005 and presently chairs the board of several companies with a major emphasis on the emerging electronic payments industry and companies

in the entrepreneurial stage.

Aside this, the Executive Vice Chairman of Signal Alliance Limited, Mr. Collins Onuegbu was also named the Director in charge of Partnership & Sponsorship. Onuegbu is the founder of Signal Alliance Limited, a leading player the Nigerian technology industry. He is also founder of SASWARE, a technology investment company that provides seed investment to early stage startups in the technology industry.

Others are Messrs David Richards, Dipo Adebo, Tokunboh Ishmael, Segun Olukoya and Tomi Davies.

On his part, David Richards who was named Director, Memberships is a professional banker with several decades of experience across Africa. He co-founded Midas Merchant Bank and was its first Managing Director and was also the first Finance Director of the Niger Delta Exploration Company, a position he held until his retirement in 2008. He is a specialist in raising venture capital for the manufacturing, mining, and oil and gas industries.

Mr Dipo Adebo was given the responsibility on board to direct network’s processes, procedures and compliance with best practices. He is a respected architect and founder of DAA Architects, which specializes in hospitality and retail design who has undertaken several major hotel management chains including

Accor, Golden Tulip, Rezidor, and Hilton.

Worthy of note is Mr Tokunboh Ishmael who was given the responsibility for the network’s Financial Management practices, is a co-founder and Managing Director of Alitheia Capital, an investment management and advisory firm. She has advised on several acquisitions and also successfully raised over USD50million in funding in her previous roles as Managing Director of Avante Capital and Country Partner for Aureos Capital.

Mr. Segun Olukoya is joining the board as programme director with responsibility for coordinating the LAN Secretariat.

He is a partner and member of the founding team at Nextzon Business Services who specialises in corporate and competitive strategy development, business planning and setting up with a focus on corporate governance and organizational restructuring. He is a member of the Investment Committee of the Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund and also sits on the Board of One Credit Limited.

Tomi Davies is the Director responsible for Awareness, Education and International Relations.

He is the founder of TVC Labs, a technology business incubation organisation and has been involved in the world of information and communications technologies for over 30 years. He sits on the Boards of various compa-

NiRA attracts youths with ‘.ng Scout’, outlines rebranding plan The Nigeria internet Registration Association (NiRA) has introduced ‘.ng Scout’, as part of measures to promote .ng domain name registration and adoption in the country.

According to a statement contained in its e-newsletter, NiRA said that in recognition that appearances and perception are very important in domain name business, the executive board of directors have raised the profile of the .ng brand and galvanized the output of its mission and services at the NiRA Secretariat.

Confirming the new development, Mr. Sunday Folayan, president of NiRA, said that Board took the bold initiatives to re-

brand and project .ng.

“I call on all to join in this effort to grow the number of .ng domain names. It is our National resource, our property, let us support and promote it. Let us adopt the .ng brand as our online Identity.

“As part of our continuous business development strategy and being true to the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) plans of youth empowerment, NiRA has introduced “.NG Scout (NGS)”.

Folayan further explained that the NGS will create awareness of the .ng identity for Nigerians and achieve growth in the usage and acquisition of .ng do-

main name.

This would further, he said, create rapid economic growth and jobs through envisaged increase in the number of resellers, registrars, hosting companies, web designers/developers, app developers, etc.

According to him, there are other planned social media platform awareness programmes, which would be launched in the nearest future.

“We look forward to the creativity of the Nigerian youths that would be unveiled with all the planned programmes. These would improve the position of the .ng brand in the global arena.”

Folayan

nies including Sproxil Nigeria, Baas Online Properties, MBO Capital, Strika Entertainment, TechnoVision Communications, MoMo Academy and PeoplePrime. He is also the founding President of the African Business Angel Network (ABAN).

Speaking on this development, the chairman of the board, Mr Sulaiman, noted that they have pulled together a unique team of pioneers who will bring their knowledge, practical experience, passion and networks to support the realisation of LAN mission.

“We are in this for the long haul and have no doubt that our efforts will lead to the emergence of several transformational Nigerian businesses that will go on to become pan African champions in their chosen fields,” Sulaiman said.

The Lagos Angel Network (LAN) from a press statement issued by Moses Briamah is a “not for profit” entity that was formally incorporated in May 2015.

It has been set up for the purpose of organizing individual Business Angels to collectively invest in the most promising start-up businesses in Lagos. It is the first organised members’ only network in Nigeria specifically created to provide entrepreneurs with funding, mentoring and access to business networks.

LAN is also member of the Global Business Angels Network and the National Lead Member for Nigeria.

Tech Times TT 4

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Oracle Cloud Day 2015 Holds In Lagos November 17 Oracle has disclosed its readiness to host the 2015 Oracle Day in Lagos, Nigeria on November 17.

The Organiser of the Oracle Day with the theme, “Transforming Your Tomorrow”, said that with Cloud Computing becoming an increasing essential part of any enterprise IT foundation, it is crucial that business’ stay one step ahead in their Cloud Computing Strategy.

Oracle said it is committed to promoting a corporate culture that is centered on integrity, accountability and ethical business conduct.

According to the Company, on 17th of November at Intercontinental Hotel in Lagos, participants will find out how the latest updates in Oracle’s Cloud Computing solutions can help them deliver the experiences custom-

ers expect, the talent to succeed, and the performance the market demands.

The Oracle Cloud Day is set to deliver two cross industry tracks that you can move between in order to create your own agenda as well as multiple networking opportunities where you will be able to talk to experts and discuss experiences and challenges with peers.

During the event, participants will discover how they can: -Reduce risk and complexity by using the most comprehensive, secure SaaS, PaaS and IaaS cloud offerings on the market; Shorten the innovation cycle and accelerate time to market with boosted agility and increased reliability; Transform your business with cloud computing; and see how businesses have shifted from governance to guidance using the right technology and skills to drive growth.

Director, Regulatory Affairs, Airtel Networks, Mr. Justin Damsa; Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Networks, Mr Segun Ogunsanya and President, Association of Telecoms Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), Engr. Lanre Ajayi, during a courtesy visit of the association to Airtel to appreciate the telco’s support for ATCON’s 21st Anniversary held in Lagos, recently.

Makwakwa confirmed to grace A4AI-Nigeria Coalition meeting in Lagos

Makwakwa

Stories by Tony Nwakaegho The new Africa Regional Coordinator, Alliance for Affordable Internet (A4AI) Onica Makwakwa, has been confirmed to grace the next A4AI-Nigeria Coalition meeting, billed to take place in Lagos on Tuesday, No-

vember 24, 2015.

A press release on behalf of A4AI said Onica joined the organisation from Consumer International where, as the Head of Regional Office for Africa, she was responsible for the strategic leadership and overall management of the Africa regional Of-

fice, including, but not limited to, building relations with members and other key stakeholders, overseeing the implementation of the strategic consumer initiatives in food security and safety, financial services, consumers in the digital age, and consumer justice.

According to the statement, it is hoped she will increase A4AI’s visibility on the continent, extend the networks and contribute to even deeper A4AI research findings.

Onica has over twenty years professional experience in nonprofit management, project oversight, public policy and advocacy campaigns management, philanthropy and community relations, change and association management at director and executive levels in Africa and in the United States of America.

Onica who is based in Johannesburg at the moment, will make a telling contribution to the work the group is doing in Africa.

She will help improve the work of African based A4AI national coalitions and working groups, including those in Nigeria, increase visibility on the continent, extend networks and contribute to even deeper A4AI research findings.

Zhao

Best startups using technology to resolve refugees challenges to join CeBIT 2016 – ITU The International Telecommunications Union (ITU) has said that the best startups using technology to resolve the various challenges confronting refugees will be invited to join partners from the German Government at CeBIT, from March 14 to 18, 2016.

They will then work together according to a press release from the union and strengthen their concepts, building better and potentially entirely new startups as a community, adding that the best ideas coming out of CeBIT will join us for ITU Telecom World 2016 in November 2016 to network, showcase and pitch their ideas, participate in workshops, win seed funding, and benefit from a year of ongoing mentorship.

The Union noted that migration is one of the greatest global challenges of the 21st century, stressing that it comprises both the refugees who are forced to flee their home due to war or cultural or religious oppression and those who leave of their own volition because of economic or ecological reasons.

Each day another 40,000 people around the world leave their home to search for peace and security. Refugees face a unique set of problems. They need protection, education, food, water, shelter and long term solutions that reunite families, integrating them into new communities or return them safely home.

ICTs can help with many of these issues, and should be a key element in improving their lives.

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PERSONAL INFORMATION Name: Full name: Date of birth: Place of birth: Height: Playing position: Current team: Number: Youth career 2014–2015: Senior career 2015–Till date: National team 2013: 2015–Till date:

ABOUT

Kelechi Iheanacho Kelechi Promise Iheanacho October 3, 1996 (age 19) Imo State, Nigeria 1.85 m (6 ft 1 in) Striker Manchester City 72 Manchester City Manchester City Nigeria U-17 Nigeria U-20

Kelechi Iheanacho

Kelechi Promise Iheanacho (born October 3, 1996) is a Nigerian professional footballer who plays for English club Manchester City. He has made appearances for both Manchester City U-21 team and the senior side, as well as the Nigeria squad that won the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup and the Nigeria U-20 team at the 2015 FIFA U-20 World Cup. Iheanacho was called up to the Manchester City senior squad for the 2015–16 season.

As a youth Iheanacho represented Taye Academy in Owerri. His performances for Nigeria in the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup led to interest from clubs in Europe. In December 2013 Iheanacho travelled to England to discuss a move to Manchester City. He signed a pre-contract agreement with the club, stating his intent to formally sign for Manchester City on his 18th birthday in October 2014. As the year drew to a close, the Confederation of African Football named him the Most Promising Talent of the Year for 2013 at the CAF Awards.

Iheanacho joined Manchester City’s Academy on January 10, 2014. Before the 2014–15 season, Manchester City visited the USA on a pre-season tour. Though still not formally a Manchester City player, Iheanacho joined up with the squad. He played and scored in the first match of the tour, a 4–1 win against Sporting Kansas City, and scored again against A.C. Milan in a 5-1 win.

After the conclusion of the tour, Manchester City arranged for Iheanacho to train with Columbus Crew until mid-October. Delays in obtaining a work permit meant Iheanacho was unable to play in England until February 2015. He made his debut at under-19 level in a UEFA Youth League match against Schalke 04, but was injured after only 11 minutes. After his recovery, he began to represent Manchester City at both youth and under-21 level in the latter part of the season. He played in the FA Youth Cup final, where he scored, but ended on the losing side after Chelsea claimed a 5–2 aggregate victory. The following week he scored the only goal as Manchester City beat Porto in the final of the 2014–15 Premier League International Cup.

In July 2015, he was also included in City’s pre-season tour team in Australia. On the tour, he set up the first goal for Raheem Sterling against Roma and scored the second goal in the win against Roma in the 2015 International Champions Cup. He also set up Raheem Sterling for the 4th goal in City’s 8–1 victory against Vietnam. In City’s last pre-season game against VfB Stuttgart he came on as a substitute, scoring late on in a 4–2 defeat. Due to his impressive pre-season, Iheanacho was promoted to the Manchester City senior squad.

On August 10, 2015, Iheanacho was included in a first-team matchday squad for the first time in a competitive fixture, but remaining an unused substitute in their 3–0 win at West Bromwich Albion in their first game of the Premier League season. Nineteen days later he made his competitive debut, replacing Raheem Sterling for the final minute of a 2–0 win against Watford at the City of Manchester Stadium. He scored his first competitive goal on September 12, replacing Wilfried Bony in the final minute away to Crystal Palace and netting the only goal of the game.

Iheanacho scored his second goal for Manchester City against Crystal Palace again in the League Cup winning 5–1.

Iheanacho has represented Nigeria at youth levels from under-13 upwards. His first experience of a major international tournament was the 2013 African U-17 Championship in Morocco. For Iheanacho, the highlight was a hat-trick in a win against Botswana.

He dedicated his goals to his mother, who died two months before the tournament. Nigeria reached the final of the competition, where they were defeated on penalties by Ivory Coast.

Iheanacho played a significant role in the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup, where he won the “Golden Ball” awarded to the player of the tournament. Nigeria won the competition, in which Iheanacho scored six times, including a goal in the final, and provided seven assists. He was part of the Nigeria squad for the 2015 FIFA U-20 World Cup in New Zealand, and featured in two matches.

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ormer Executive Board member of world football ruling body, FIFA, Dr Amos Adamu has hailed the victorious Golden Eaglets for winning the FIFA U-17 World Cup for a record fifth time.

Speaking in an interview with Extra Time, the highly travelled sports administrator said the victory of the Eagles is a challenge to those who are in the habit of criticising the sports sector.

“Often times, I see some people critising and asking pertinent questions on what the sports sector has done for the country and I want to beat my chest with all sincerity that the sports sector has done a lot for the unity of this great

Adamu

nation.

“What the Eaglets did for the country in Chile in the early hours of Monday is a thing of joy and we are proud to be Nigerians!

“Winning a FIFA U-17 World Cup back-to-back is not any easy task and I want to ask these critics about what they have contributed to the success of this country’s economy?

“Those who are in the habit of saying Nigerian sports is going down should now have a rethink,” Adamu said.

The Eaglets success was also the first by Nigeria outside the Asian continent – all four previous wins having been achieved in China (1985), Japan (1993), Korea Republic (2007) and United Arab Emirates (2013).

The Eaglets march to the trophy was truly golden, with 23 goals scored in seven matches, and only five conceded.

Smooth–playing Eaglets captain Kelechi Nwakali was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament, as Osimhen also picked up the Second Best Player award alongside the Top Scorer’s gong. Aly Malle of Mali was third.

NFF President Amaju Pinnick was a proud man as he joined the top dignitaries in giving out the medals at the Estadio Sausalito in Vina del Mar.

Amiesimaka, Ladipo make case for victorious Eaglets

aglets Golden E ing fter winn a celebrate d rl o FIFA W the U-17 ile. h Cup in C

ANDREW EKEJIUBA SPORT EDITOR

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x-Nigerian international, Chief Adokiye Amiesimaka (MON) and President General of Nigeria Football Supporters Club (Worldwide), Dr Rafiu Ladipo has called on the Federal Government to appreciate immensely the efforts of the victorious Golden Eaglets for making the country proud at the just concluded FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile.

In obedience to the charge by President Muhammadu Buhari before they left the shores of Nigeria, the Golden Eaglets won the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile,

making it the record fifth time Nigeria would pick up the global cadet diadem.

Speaking to Extra Time, Amiesimaka said he was happy that the Eaglets won the trophy for a record fifth time for the country and they must be appreciated.

“It is a thing of joy that Nigeria has emerged victorious at this level for the fifth time and what baffled fans more was that these young lads exhibited great skills which took the soccer-loving world by storm.

“They exhibited better skills than the Super Eagles and that is why I’m advocating that these players should be invited to the

senior team immediately since the principle of the game is the same worldwide.

“On the contrary, I’m sad that we have not been able to translate excellence at this level from this youth level to the senior team,” he began.

Amiesimaka then called on the Federal Government to give scholarship each to members of the victorious team to enable the students among them complete their education. He advocated for other rewards to help appreciate the players for making the country proud.

“I want scholarships to be given to the players who are still in school to enable them complete their education.

“This can be followed by cash incentives of $50, 000 each to the players and their dependants to help them actualize their dreams, especially those of them that are not going to school, but are into other trades.