Dtn 23 12 15

FG, States, LGAs share 369.882b as Nov. allocation Mathew Dadiya, Abuja

ÎÎÎThe Federal Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) on Tuesday distributed a total sum of three hundred

and sixty nine billion, eight hundred and eighty two million naira (N369.882 billion) to Federal, States and Local Governments for the month of November inclusive of Value Added Tax

(VAT).

Chairperson of FAAC and Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, who presided over the Committee at the Federal Ministry of Finance head-

quarters in Abuja alongside the Accountant General of the Federation, said that the gross statutory revenue Continued on page 6

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015 VOL. 2. NO. 7

GAINERS

N150

LOSERS

NSE GAINERS AND LOSERS AS AT 22nd December 2015.

FO

254.1

273

18.9%

NB

116

121.8

5.8%

GUARANTY 20

19

-1%

PORTPAINT

3.58

3.42

-0.16%

MOBIL

120

130.2

10.2%

WAPCO

92.25

94

1.75%

PZ

28.31

-0.67%

ZENITHBANK

13.83

13.7

-0.13%

28.98

Buhari unveils N6.08tr ‘Budget of Change’ Ï z ƏƊ è ^ ƓƆƏ Ɨ 6 Ƒ ƈ è &ƗƑƅ Ɛƈ è #ƆƇƆ ƅƆ ƆƐ Ƌƈ ƏƆ Ï ƑƗ ƆƐ Ɛ Ɔ ƑƏƆ ƈ ƅƋƑ ƈƒƆ Ə ƓƐ è Ɖ Ƅ ƅƏƆ Ɛƈ Ï ^ƏƆ ƈƗƆ Ɛ ƒ Ɠ Ɛ ƏƆƅ ƒƆƏ ƋƋ Ƌ ƐƆƗ ƇƑ Ɨ Ï Ƒ Əƈô ƾƠơÕ ƄƑƗ ƆƐè Ƅƈ ƇƏ ƑƗ – PDP Lateef Ibrahim, Olufemi Samuel and Henry Omunu, Abuja

ÎÎÎPresident

Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday presented the

2016 Appropriation Bill to a Joint Session of the National Assembly, pegging the total expenditure by his administration for the year at N6.08 trillion.

The President said the budget, tagged “Budget of Change”, is based on a revenue projection of N3.86 trillion, entailing a deficit of N2.22 trillion.

In the budget as presented by President Buhari, Works, Power and Housing was allocated N433.4 billion; Education recieved N369.6 billion Defence was allocated

N294.5 billion while N221.7 billion was allocated to Health.

Buhari, who was roundly apContinued on page 6

R^& gB1 forecasts oil demand to rise to 97m bpd by 2020

How g 8 Ladoke Akintola was killed – Son FG declares Dec. 24, 25 & 28 public holidays g13

Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki (middle) in a handshake with President Muhammadu Buhari during the presentation of 2016 budget at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja... on Tuesday. With them is, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara.

Photo: TEMITOPE BALOGUN.

FG files fresh charges against Nnamdi Kanu, 2 others g12

Kehinde gL1 Bankole: Acting like a lady, thinking like a man

2

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

3

Politics Page Three Æ s Editorial Probing the Onitsha, Zaria killings

D

efinitely, this is not an auspicious time for the Federal Government to keep silent or play the ‘Ostrich’ over the recent killings of citizens by the Nigerian Army. About a week ago, soldiers attached to the 302 Artillery Regiment in Onitsha, Anambra State opened fire on members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who were jubilating following the unconditional release of the Director of Radio Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, by a Federal High Court in Abuja.

As a result, more than 10 persons were murdered in cold blood, even as dozen others sustained very serious wounds. As Nigerians were trying to figure out what happened, the Army again struck in Zaria, Kaduna State, killing hundreds of Shiite Islamic Movement members who were holding a peaceful procession.

The genesis of what looked like a massacre had been blamed on the altercation between some soldiers and members of the religious sect.

According to eyewitness accounts, trouble started when soldiers in the convoy of the Army Chief of Staff, Gen. Buratai accosted the sect’s leaders and demanded that they leave the highway so the entourage would pass. In heat of the argument, some of the soldiers opened fire on members of the sect leaving trails of deaths and mayhem.

Not remorseful of their action, the soldiers invaded the residence of Zakzaky Ibrahim, leader of the Shiite Islamic Movement, and killed his wife, Zeenat and son, Aliy. It would be recalled that the Army killed three of Zakzaky’s sons in a similar attack in July 2014. We are disgusted at these extrajudicial killings by the Army and call on the Federal Government to immediately institute commissions of inquiry to

investigate the killings and unravel the circumstances with a view to bringing the perpetrators to justice.

The Nigerian Army cannot be allowed the discretion to act with impunity in a country that claims to be a democracy. The duty of the military is to protect the country from external aggression and not to appropriate the duties of the police in the maintenance of law and order. For example, those shot and killed at Onitsha were unarmed youths that did not pose any security threats to the Army or any other individual.

To have shot them at close range is not only premeditated, it smacks of callousness, barbarism, insensitivity, unprofessionalism, wickedness and lack of regard for human lives.

Definitely, we are not the only one saying so, even as Nigeria’s bilateral and multi-lateral partners have condemned the conduct of the military as both brutal and disproportionate.

Definitely, the Army cannot hide under the nebulous Rules of Engagement (ROE) to kill people at will. Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended), grants every citizen an unconditional right to freedom of expression, even as section 40 guarantees freedom of association. There is no reason to disbelieve that both IPOB and Islamic Shiite Movement were acting within the law when the Army opened fire on them.

It bears repeating that Nigeria is ruled by law state and not by gun for an institution of government to abridge the fundamental rights of other citizens under guise of protecting the state from insurrection.

We therefore call on the President Muhammadu Buhari administration to speak up on these matters with a view to putting to rest the insinuations of being behind the massacres.

Deputy Editor/Southern Bureau Chief Sam Nzeh Deputy Editor/Northern Bureau Chief Lateef Ibrahim

Group News Editor Segun Adio Politics Editor Akintola Akinjide Business Editor Friday Atufe Head, Graphics/Design King Ododoru

Group Managing Director Noel Anosike

ÏÏÏLast week Monday, a

very ugly side of the nation’s law enforcement officers was on display, making many to wonder if this is a glimpse of what Nigerians should expect in the days ahead.

That day, security operatives re-arrested the immediate past Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Patrick Akpobolokemi, outside the premises of the Federal High Court on Oyinkan Abayomi Drive in Ikoyi, Lagos.

The former NIMASA DG, who was dressed in white that day had just been released from the

prison custody on Friday after he perfected a bail of N50 million granted him

by Justice Buba.

He had resisted the move to re-arrest him, claiming that he was on bail, but he was pushed, overpowered and bundled into a waiting bus by security operatives, while his lawyer, Dr. Joseph Nwobike (SAN), looked on helplessly.

Clearly, the manhandling of Akpobolokemi revealed the deficiencies of the security operatives in involved and added to the already bad image of the nation’s law enforcement outfits.

All well-meaning persons must rise to condemn such actions at least to make many of the nation’s security operatives who feel they are above the law and trample on the rights of citizens to retrace their

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steps.

These overzealous security officers must realise that their actions are bad publicity for the government as well as their respective outfits. They must know that every accused person is presumed innocent until the court rules otherwise and they must learn to treat accused persons with dignity at all times.

The High Commands of the nation’s law enforcement agencies should also drum into the ears of the operatives the need to respect the dignity of accused persons while carrying out their duties. No security operative should under the guise of discharging his/ her duty to trample on the rights of citizens. So, enough of these over-zealousness on the part of our security officers.

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Publisher/Editor in Chief – Fidelis Anosike Editor Biodun Durojaiye

Overzealous security personnel: Sign post of the future?

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Wole Soyinka

Ayo Fayose

Mike Omeri

”Once an idea has taken off, you may defeat those behind it in a war but that does not mean the end of the idea.”

“If in three days, INEC could not conduct credible election in Bayelsa State of just eight local governments, one wonders what will happen during the general elections in 2019?

“Our national challenges cannot and indeed will not be overcome with groups, regions resorting to violent quest for secession. History shows clearly that every part of this great nation needs the other parts”.

4 4

Daily Times Nigeria Daily Times December Nigeria 23, 2015 Wednesday, Friday, November 13, 2015

‘PEACE ADVANTAGE’ Frequent Flyer Program

Overview PROGRAM OVERVIEW The Air Peace “Peace Advantage” Frequent Flyer Program is a customer initiative by Air Peace to show appreciation to & continuously reward its frequent flyers for their patronage from inception of Air Peace flight operations. The Peace Advantage FFP offers distinctive value to frequent fliers by delivering ‘recognition’, ‘rewards’ and differentiated service levels with an integrated customer interaction strategy to allow for continuous customer expression & feedback via a unique smartphone app (Android/iOS/blackberry 10 versions) and a dedicated website.

The “Peace Advantage” FFP aims to clearly communicate to Air Peace customers the value Air Peace places on their patronage & Air Peace’s commitment to building long lasting mutually beneficial relationships with its customers. The basic principle being that – The More You Fly with Air Peace, The More You Get Back From Air Peace.

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EARNING “PEACE POINTS” Peace Points are awarded to program members for flights flown as follows

The “Peace Advantage” program has 4 Member levels - Peace Bronze, Peace Silver, Peace Gold & Peace Platinum with the following benefits – TIER BENEFITS & QUALIFICATION

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All individuals / passengers above 16 years of age will be eligible to enrol in the Peace Advantage Program, whilst to cater for our numerous passengers with families, Family Memberships will be allowed for passengers / individuals below 16 years of age, who will be enrolled under a parent / adult utilizing the Family Membership option.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

5

News 6

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Buhari unveils N6.08tr ‘Budget of Change’ Continued from page 1 plauded by legislators as he presented the budget, arrived the National Assembly Complex at 10.00 am as scheduled and was ushered into the Green Chamber by the Senate President, Bukola Saraki and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara.

The budget is also to run on benchmark of $38 per barrel notwithstanding the sharp drop on oil price to $32, as well as a production estimate of 2.2 million barrels per day.

The government, Buhari said, will focus on non-oil revenues by broadening the Nigeria’s tax base and improving the effectiveness the revenue collecting agencies to raise funds for the bud-

get’s implementation.

The President told the legislators that the deficit projection in the budget is equivalent to 2.16% of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and will take the country’s overall debt profile to 14% of GDP. He said the deficit will be financed by a combination of domestic borrowing of N984 billion, and foreign borrowing of N900 billion totaling N1.84 trillion.

He said on the medium term, the government expects to increase revenues and reduce overheads, to bring the fiscal deficit down to 1.3% of GDP by 2018.

He said while the oil related revenues are expected to contribute N820 billion to the budget, the non-oil revenues, comprising Company

Income Tax (CIT), Value Added Tax (VAT), Customs and Excise duties, and Federation Account levies, will contribute N1.45 trillion.

The President said his government in strict compliance with the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007 and public expenditure reforms has projected up to N1.51 trillion from independent revenues.

Most importantly, the President expressed conviction in the Treasury Single Account, which according to him, will bring significant improvements in the collection and remittance of independent revenues.

He vowed to ensure a prudent management and utilisation of the national resources for the public good, describing the budget as one of his administra-

Long queue of vehicles at the Oando filling station, Berger, Lagos… on Monday.

Buhari tion’s early decisions with the adoption of a zero based budgeting approach.

Buhari said the 2016 budget is specifically targeted at ensuring the revival of the economy, deliver inclusive growth to Nigerians and create a significant number of jobs.

Photo: BOLAJI OLASUNKANMI

FG, States, LGAs share 369.882b as Nov. allocation Continued from page 1 of N297.450 billion received for the month of November was lower than the N400.310 billion received in the previous month by N102.860 billion.

Giving the breakdown of the N369.882 billion statutory revenue shared, Federal Government received N139.501 representing 52.68%; State Governments got N70.757 billion representing 26.72% while the Local Government Councils received N54.551 also representing its 20.60%.

From the VAT sharing formulae, Federal Government got N8.810 billion representing 15%; State governments received N29.367 billion representing 50% while the Local Government Councils got N20.557 representing 35%.

Mrs. Adeosun also noted that there was revenue loss of $1.3 million as a result of drop in average price of crude oil from $47.315 in August to $46.96 in September, 2015.

The non-oil sector recorded a revenue collection of about N104.212 billion with

a significant improvement more than the previous month of November.

The On-going maintenance and the shut down and shut-in of production for repairs at different terminals during the month continued to impact crude oil and gas revenue negatively.

Also, there was revenue loss of $19.43 million as a result of reduction in Federation Export even though the average price of crude oil increased from $46.96pb in September to $49.58 in October, 2015.

The non-oil revenue re-

corded a decrease of about N114.2 billion in comparison to the previous month’s revenue.

The distributable Statutory Revenue for the month of November is N297.450 billion. Also there is exchange gain of N4.921 billion which is proposed for distribution.

The total revenue distributable for the month including VAT is N369.882 billion.

She disclosed that, for the month of November 2015, the gross revenue accrued from VAT was N61.181 bilContinued on page 12

He said: “As we focus on inclusive growth, we are conscious of the current rate of unemployment and underemployment.

This is a challenge we are determined to meet; and this budget is the platform for putting more Nigerians to work.

“I can assure you that this administration will have a job creation focus in every aspect of the execution of this budget. Nigeria’s job creation drive will be private sector led. We will encourage this by a reduction in tax rates for smaller businesses as well as subsidized funding for priority sectors such as agriculture and solid minerals.

President Buhari also reiterated his resolve to wrestle corruption to standstill in Nigeria, vowing never to be deterred in the process.

He vowed to pursue the recovery of looted funds, which he said belong to the people of Nigeria, “No matter where it is hidden, no matter how long it will take”.

Buhari, who said his government has been demonstrating a strong will to fight corruption, noted that the scale of corruption and impunity during past governments has been responsible for the economic challenges Nigeria is passing through at the moment.

Buhari expressed regrets on the hardship being faced

by Nigerians with the current scarcity of fuel across the federation, just as he apologised on behalf of his government for the agonies the lingering problem has inflicted on Nigerians.

He attributed the fuel scarcity, which he noted has been causing social dislocation, to market speculators and resistance to change by some stakeholders.

He said the government was working very hard to end the shortages and bring fuel to the pumps all over the country.

The President, promised to recruit and train 500,000 unemployed graduates and NCE holders as teachers to address the chronic shortage of teachers in public schools across the country.

Those to be recruited, according to him, will be deployed to primary schools for the purpose of enhancing the provision of basic

education especially in the rural areas of Nigeria.

He said: “We also intend to partner with State and Local Governments to provide financial training and loans to market women, traders and artisans, through their cooperative societies. “We believe that this segment of our society is not only critical to our plan for growing small businesses, but it is also an important platform to create jobs and provide opportunities for entrepreneurs”.

According to the President, for the Budget 2016 to respond positively to its planned implementation, the Government Integrated Financial Management Information Systems (GIFMIS) would be deployed to improve financial management.

He said also that the established Efficiency Unit is working across MDAs to identify and eliminate wasteful spending, duplication and other inefficiencies.

“We have engaged costing experts to scrutinize the 2016 budget proposals. They have already identified certain cost areas that can be centralized for economies to be made.

On plans by the government to diversify the economy, Buhari harped on the need for restructuring of oil and gas sector, which he noted has been marred by corruption and plagued with inefficiencies.

He disclosed that he had already directed the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) to adjust its pricing template to reflect competitive and market driven components.

“We believe this can lower input costs and attain efficiency savings that will enable PPPRA to keep the selling price for all marketers of petrol at N87 per liter for now,” he said.

Furthermore, Buhari said: “To deliver our development objectives, we have increased the capital expenditure portion of the budget from N557 billion in the 2015 budget to N1.8 trillion, in the 2016 budget. Distinguished and honourable members of the National Assembly, for the first time in many years, capital expenditure will Continued on page 12

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

NASS to amend Constitution to ensure budget implementation Henry Omunu & Olufemi Samuel, Abuja

ÎÎÎThe National Assembly

is contemplating amending the 1999 Constitution to redefine what constitutes a financial year to aid in the strict implementation of the Appropriation Act by the federal government.

House of Representatives Speaker, Yakubu Dogara disclosed this on Tuesday, while giving the vote of thanks after the presentation of the 2016 budget before a joint session of the National Assembly by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Dogara, who said that the proposed amendment will

be effected after due consultation with the executive, maintained that a budget can only be measured by how well it is implemented, rather than by what is contained in the budget.

Accordingly, he said that the National Assembly will diligently scrutinize the budget proposals before passing the budget into law in good time to facilitate its early implementation.

“In this regard and in order to aid Mr. President to execute and implement the budget, it may be necessary to take a second look at the constitutional definition of a financial year.

“Section 318 of the con-

stitution defines a financial year to mean any period of 12 months beginning on the first day of January in any year or such other date as the National Assembly may prescribe.

“The National Assembly, going forward, may need therefore, to prescribe another date as the financial year in line with provisions of Section 318 of the constitution, whenever the budget is not passed before January 1 in any given year. The letter and spirit of the constitution requires that the financial year shall not be less than 12 months. The date of commencement of the financial year may change but

not the 12 months period”, the Speaker declared.

He added that if the proposed amendment is passed, it may become imperative that the 2016 budget may commence 12 months from the date it is signed into law by the President, as according to him, the “budget may have a realistic chance of implementation when the executive has 12 uninterrupted months to execute it”.

Dogara said the change agenda of the Buhari administration can only be realised for the benefit of the Nigerians when the policies and programmes of government are faithfully executed.

7 News

Christmas: OPSH shows force to warn trouble makers

Gen. Tagbo Ude

Chijioke Kingsley, Jos

ÎÎÎThe Joint Military Task

Force, code named, Operation Save Haven (OPSH), deployed to restore peace on the Plateau, on Tuesday, warned those whom are anticipating to foment trouble during the yuletide season to relocate from the state, as the STF is committed to protecting the people of Plateau during the Christmas and New Year celebration.

The Commander, OPSH,

Major Gen. Tagbo Ude, saluted the effort of his men in keeping to the rules of engagement while carrying out their duties, praising their courage and determination in ensuring that Plateau now enjoys a relative peace.

In his words, “I thank you for the job done so far. But we shall not sleep until the people of Plateau are able to sleep with their two eyes closed, especially in this yuletide season”, he said.

While addressing a joint security personnel shortly after returning from parading the town in a show of strength, Gen. Ude is also quoted saying that “in as much as relative peace has returned to the state since he took over office in August 2015, OPSH will not relent until peace is fully restored in Plateau”, he emphasised.

Ovation Publisher showers encomium on Adenuga ÎÎÎEncomiums

L-R: General Overseer, Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye; Ogun State First Lady, Mrs. Olufunso Amosun; Ogun State Governor, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun; Former Head of Interim Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan; Chief (Mrs). Bola Obasanjo and Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, at 2015 Ogun State Christmas Carol held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, Ogun State… on Tuesday.

Photo: DAVID IDOWU

Anambra Gov launches aerial battle against criminals Nkiru Nwagbo, Awka

ÎÎÎThe Anambra State gov-

ernor, Chief Willie Obiano has added aerial surveillance to his war against criminals in the state.

Speaking to Journalists Tuesday on the development, the state Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr. Uju Nwogu said the governor had to procure a special police helicopter to carry out aerial surveillance of the entire state during the Yuletide season in order to

tighten the screws on security in the state.

Nwogu said the helicopter surveillance team would be feeding intelligence gathered from the skies to the Special Police Patrol cars on the ground in order to ensure a comprehensive coverage of the state.

She said the police authorities had to oblige the governor’s request for the police aerial surveillance helicopter because of the governor’s antecedent in crime fighting.

“We want to give Ndi Anambra a crime-free Christmas. With the Helicopter Squad in the air and the Special Patrol cars on the ground, Anambra shall continue to maintain its position as the safest state in Nigeria”, the Commissioner said.

It would be recalled that two weeks ago, Obiano donated 25 Special Americanstyle Patrol cars to the State command of the Nigerian Police to enable it sustain the crackdown on criminals

in the state.

The Police was also equipped with speed guns to track down over-speeding vehicles and Alcohol Testing Devices to checkmate drunk driving.

Similarly, the governor had temporarily opened two flyovers at Aroma and Amawbia junctions along the Awka/Onitsha Highway in Awka, the state capital, to ease up traffic congestion usually experienced in the area during the Yuletide season.

came the way of the astute businessman and Chairman of Globacom, Dr. Mike Adenuga, Jr. (GCON), for his support and philanthropic initiatives across the African continent.

Leading other dignitaries to shower praises on Adenuga, the Publisher of Ovation Magazine, Chief Dele Momodu, who spoke, while presenting a N1million cheque to the Proprietor of Abolarin College, Oke Ila Orangun, Oba Adedokun Abolarin, at the 2015 edition of the Globacom-sponsored

Ovation Carol, held last Sunday at Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos, said that Dr. Adenuga’s lifestyle is a summary of inimitable charity.

Momodu, who said at the carol with the theme, “Christmas in Lagos, it’s all about hope”, that Dr. Adenuga epitomises unequalled charity and love for the good of others which has made him to make unobtrusive impact on the lives of thousands of Nigerians through his numerous business concerns and in his personal capacity as a philanthropist.

Patriotism is a duty of all citizens, says Ndoma-Egba Akor Ejumene, Abuja

ÎÎÎFormer Majority Leader

of the Senate, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, has said patriotism is an obligation that every citizen owes to his or her country.

The ex-Senate Leader stated this in an interview in Abuja, against the backdrop of a recent award on patriotism, bestowed on him by the Coalition of Civil Societies and Media Executives for Good Governance (COCMEG), “for his patriotic legislations and people-oriented

leadership.”

Ndoma-Egba, a three-term Senator between 2003 and 2015 said: “I feel humbled by the award that one’s modest contributions even after leaving office are being recognized and acknowledged.

It is good to know that even while you were doing those things people were watching.

However, I must say that patriotism is a duty that every citizen owes to his/her country, and it has nothing to do with whether or not you are occupying an office. For me, I am a Nigerian.

8

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Politics

Æs

Balarabe Musa: We will contest all elections and bring desired change

Balarabe Musa

Prof Yakubu

Following last week’s order of the Federal High Court which cancelled the de-registration of three political parties, the chairman of one of the parties, Peoples Redemption Party, (PRP), Alhaji Balarabe Musa has assured Nigerians that his party will bring the desired change and not the cosmetic ones being witnessed in the country today.

In an interview with Daily Times, Musa, a former governor of the old Ka-

duna State who was ecstatic about the court judgment said all the other parties were relics of the old colonial political parties it was only the PRP that was distinctively different and would bring the desired and real changes into the country.

He said the party was already planning to field candidates in all subsequent elections in the country since the court has ordered INEC to “restore all our rights and privileges in every re-

spects”.

According to him, the last de-registration by INEC was the fourth one since the party was founded in 1960, pointing out that despite all these setbacks, the party continued to wax stronger which was why it was able to win two states in 1979- Kano and Kaduna states despite the overbearing posture of the then National Party of Nigeria (NPN).

CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

How Ladoke Akintola was killed – Son Remi Oladoye Ambassador Yomi Akintola, the eldest son of the former premier of Western Region, Late Samuel Ladoke Akintola has given a vivid recollection of how his father was killed by the military who staged the first coup against the civilian government in Nigeria in 1966. He spoke ahead of plans to celebrate the 50th remembrance anniversary for the late tempestuous but flamboyant politician. It was the first eyewitness account from the inside of those dark fearful days.

Akintola who also went down memory disclosed that their family maintained a cordial relationship with the Awolowo family said the family had nothing against the Awolowos. The feud between Chief Obafemi Awolowo, first Premier of Western Region and Akintola his former deputy who later mounted the saddle as premier threw the region in multiple crises leading to the trial and imprisonment of Awolowo for treason. The aftermath of this was a series of national calamities including the first bloody military coup which swept away many political figures in the land including Akintola.

“Giving account of how his father, the former premier was killed, the former Nigerian Ambassador to Hungary said: “I was at the Premier Lodge with my father but in different sections; one

Senator Ighoyota Amori

Jubilation, lamentation in Delta over Appeal Court ruling

Ladoke Akintola for the children and the other for the premier and his wife.

“Suddenly, I heard a phone call rang out and it was Mrs. FaniKayode around 2 and 3pm that was calling. She started shouting on phone saying: “some strange people have kidnapped my husband, where is baba (Chief Akintola)”? “I went straight to my father’s bedroom who came to pick the call and assured her that nothing would happen to her husband and that she should keep calm”.

“After speaking with her on phone, he called the security

“I was not a toddler and not that old when all these happened.

I was there with my father when he was killed and its so unfortunate that I didn’t know how to live my life afterward but God kept me and my other siblings to survive the negative experience.

I am grateful that I am also able to guide my siblings to become what we are today”, he added.

Speaking on the alleged feud between the families of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, his father’s former boss, before

For the Urhobos of Delta State, gloom and lamentation have been the order of the day since last Saturday when the Appeal Court in Benin nullified the election of their son, Senator Ighoyota Amori who had been declared winner of the March 28, 2015 election for the Delta Central Senatorial District by the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC).

Amori of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had defeated Mr. Ovie Omo Agege, a former Secretary to the Government of Delta State and candidate of the Labour Party. But the court annulled the victory of Amori, as declared by INEC and upheld by the elections petition tribunal.

The Appellate Court had in a suit number CA/B/EPT/337/15 dismissed Amori and PDP’s Notice of Appeal requesting it to

CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

Chief Awolowo people. As he dashed out to call the security people, shooting had started at this time. I was back at my section and suddenly, a wardrobe blocked me, my younger sibling, wife and my son from going outside the room”.

He continued: “The shooting ensued for about two hours. Later, he went out and the shooting subsided but by the time we went out, we saw him lying dead in a pool of his own blood on the floor, apparently shot dead during the heavy shooting. We had no option than for my wife to cover him with her clothes.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

9 Politics

Balarabe Musa: We will contest all elections and bring desired change CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

He said the party realised that in 1983 after its alliance of its leader, Aminu Kano with other progressives like Obafemi Awolowo and Nnamdi Azikiwe against the ruling NPN, that no good electoral process can emerge unless after a revolution whether peaceful or otherwise.

He said this was why in concert with Section 40 of the 1979 Constitution, the party has remained both a political party and a movement and would continue to contest elections in the country, adding that the PRP remains the only progressive one at the moment committed to equality, fairness and dignity of man.

He was confident that with the realignment of forces, the real progressives would still carry the day to change Nigeria unlike those chanting change without any cause.

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja last week annulled the de-registration of three political parties by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) thus withdrawing the power granted INEC in the Electoral Act 2010 to deregister political parties.

The affected parties are Peoples Progressive Party (PPP), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) and Better Nigeria Progressive Party (BNPP).

Delivering judgment in a suit – FHC/ABJ/CS/806/14 dated October 29, 2014, jointly filed by the three deregistered political parties against INEC and the Attorney-General of the Federation, challenging the decision by INEC, Justice Ademola Adeniyi, held that the offending section of the law, Section 78(7)(ii) of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) is unconstitutional, invalid, null and void to the extent of its inconsistency and a violation of the provisions of Sections 1(3), 40

Jubilation, lamentation in Delta over Appeal Court ruling

Balarabe Musa

Prof Yakubu

and Sections 221-229 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).

The court also held that INEC cannot deregister the political parties, except in accordance

with the provision of the Constitution of Nigeria.

Justice Adeniyi also set aside the purported deregistration of the three political on the basis of Sections 78(7)(i and ii) which

was done without affording the parties the opportunities of being heard, saying INEC’s actions amounted to gross violation of Sections 36 and 40 and Sections 221 and 222 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Further to his judgment, the court granted an order nullifying the purported deregistration of the three political parties by INEC, declaring same to be illegal, unconstitutional, null and void.

The court further issued an order directing and mandating INEC to restore the political parties and to continue to recognize and deal with them as political parties in Nigeria.

The Judge also gave an order of perpetual injunction restraining INEC from further attempting to implement and/or enforce the said deregistration policy against the political parties, their offices, properties and assets.

SHIITE MUSLIMS/Military clash, diversionary – Ex-Presidential candidate Former Presidential candidate of the National Action Council (NAC), Dr. Olapade Agoro has described as diversionary, recent clash between the Nigerian Army and the members of the Shiites Muslim group that has claimed many lives in some parts of the North.

Agoro, in a statement said it was curious for discerning minds for such a deadly clash to occur at a time when revelations of monumental proportions were being made at the ongoing trial of people implicated in the $2.1 billion arms scandal.

According to him, the revelations appear like an unbeliev-

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

dismiss Omo-Agege’s appeal on grounds not considered by the tribunal.

The three-man panel had Justice Theresa Abadwa from Imo State as its Chairman, Justice Jonah Adah from Benue as member and Justice H. Barka who read the judgement.

Delivering its judgement, the Appeal Court found Omo-

Buratai

Dasuki

able horrifying horror story, the weight of which will no doubt make the worst of criminals anywhere in the world shrug that at a time our gallant soldiers and

innocent citizens are mercilessly getting killed by faceless enemies of humanity, some political

Agege’s appeal meritorious and consequently granted all the reliefs pleaded by Omo-Agege and the Labour Party.

The reliefs included: “That it may be determined and declared that the 1st Respondent, Chief Ighoyota Amori, of the Peoples Democratic Party, the 2nd Respondent, was not duly elected or returned as the Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District of Delta

State, not having polled the highest number of lawful votes cast at the Delta Central Senatorial election on March 28, 2015 and April 25, 2015.

“That it may be determined and declared that the Petitioners polled, scored or received the highest number of lawful and/or valid votes cast at the Delta Central Senatorial District election conducted by the 3rd Respondent on March 28,

CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

Ladoke Akintola

‘Shooting lasted for over two hours’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

they fell out, he said: “I will say the Akintola family had nothing against the Awolowos and anybody that has that impression should look back into history.

“Akintola was leader of the Youth movement, and the movement was the one that gave birth to politics in Nigeria. And when people were calling Akintola to lead the party, he conceded it to Awolowo, to show his loyalty to him.

“Its so unfortunate that people did not appreciate Awolowo when he was alive but in death, unlike Nnamdi Azikiwe who was celebrated during his lifetime. Awolowo and Akintola tried their best for this region and their legacies are what we are still enjoying till today.

“I and late Segun Awolowo (Awolowo’s son who died early) were like Siamese twins, we do spend our holidays and do things together, his death was shocking. It was after his death that I was hospitalised for about nine months and doctors could not ascertain what was wrong with me”, he stressed.

Speaking on plans to celebrate 50 years remembrance anniversary of the slain former premier, the chairman planning committee, Mr. Yemi Adedokun said: “we are set for an elaborate celebration with a lecture slated to hold on January 14, 2016.

2015 and April 25, 2015.

“That it may be determined and declared that the 1st Petitioner, Barrister Ovie A. OmoAgege, having polled, scored or received the highest number of valid votes cast at the Delta Central Senatorial District election conducted by the 3rd Respondent on March 28, 2015 and April 25, 2015 is the duly, lawfully and CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

Politics 10

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Ondo PDP, APC bicker over defection of leaders to APC The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State are now at each other’s throat following the decamping of two prominent leaders of the PDP to the APC in the state.

While the PDP says the defection of the erstwhile Senator Ayo Akinyelure who represented Ondo Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly and Pius Osunyikanmi, DIrector of Technical AIDS Corps to APC was because the duo believed they must be part of the “curious change” agenda of the opposition party in the state, the APC said it was a welcome development.

In a statement by PDP’s Director of Publicity, Ayo Fadaka, he said the action of the two former members of the PDP in the state was propelled by their personal goal and desperate individual ambition.

Last Sunday, Akinyelure and Osunyikanmi had issued a joint statement tagged: “Our journey of Change Begins” to describe their porting from the PDP to the opposition APC in the state.

The duo said their decision was taken after several months of wide consultations with their esteemed leaders in the constituents and followers in the state.

“We are most delighted to announce our formal declaration for the APC in Ondo State. This declaration, which has ignited the fire of passionate endorse-

Buratai

SHIITE MUSLIMS/ Military clash, diversionary – Ex-Presidential candidate CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

Odigie-Oyegun

ments across the state, followed our historic disengagement from the PDP. “The mood in Ondo State, as clearly expressed in the last general election, shows that the people truly want a change. In spite of the fact that we have a PDP government in the state, our people voted massively for President Muhammadu Buhari of the APC. “That situation has not changed. In fact, the calls for total change at all levels of governance

Secondus

in the state are getting more stringent due to the failure of the PDPled state government to deliver democracy dividends to the people”, they affirmed.

The former PDP members added that since they are progressive politicians with track records in people’s welfare and empowerment, they cannot but identify with a political platform that is poised to change Nigeria for good.

“Therefore, our decision to align with other genuine progres-

sives in the APC is hinged on the need to engender good governance in our state, put the state in the mainstream of national politics and foster regional integration which has long been frustrated by the current selfish and egocentric leadership in Ondo State”, they stressed.

They, however, said their journey of change has just begun with their epic declaration noting that CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

Jubilation, lamentation in Delta over Appeal Court ruling CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

validly elected Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District of Delta State.

“That it may be determined and declared that the Certificate of Return given/issued by the 3rd Respondent to the 1st Respondent, Chief Ighoyota Amori, of the Peoples Democratic Party as the winner of the Delta Central Senatorial District election conducted by the 3rd Respondent on March 28, 2015 and April 25, 2015 and Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District is null, void and of no effect whatsoever.

“That it may be determined and declared that the 3rd Respondent shall forthwith issue

Senator Ighoyota Amori

Mr. Ovie Omo-Agege

the 1st Petitioner, Barrister Ovie A. Omo-Agege, with a Certificate of Return as the duly elected Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District of

Delta State.”

Following the judgment, supporters of Omo-Agege and the Labour Party have erupted in wild jubilation across Delta

State, unlike the gloom that had taken over in Urbobo as a result of the judgment.

Reacting to the verdict on Sunday, Omo-Agege said in a statement, that the ruling will no doubt give hope to the people of Delta Central Senatorial District who have been denied the fruits of their labour.

While saluting the steadfastness and courage of his party members throughout the period the case lasted, he said; “For those who were knocked down, harassed, beaten, tear-gassed and intimidated during the election by those who wanted to impose themselves on us, but never gave up, this victory is yours.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

team players ganged up to share among themselves over US$2 billion meant to procure arms and ammunitions to be used by our soldiers to bring an end to the insurgency plaguing the nation like never seen before.

He described as intriguing, shocking and embarrassing, the current Dasukigate’s show of shame, which he said oozes out corruption odium into the nation’s polity; which revealed that “a lot of Nigerian political leaders are bloodhounds, a congregation of useless blank cartridges, human values destroying pests”.

He said it therefore becomes worrisome why the ongoing Shiite Muslims crisis in Zaria, Kaduna State should happen coincidentally at this particular time in Nigerian history when a government is decidedly and seriously out to bring into public glare the names and faces of those involved in the scam that had made lives unbearable for us all.

According to him, it showed that those already mentioned and others directly involved but yet to be mentioned in the US$ 2 Billion Arms deal scandals “are no doubt religious- financially powerful people with potentialities to cause destabilising mayhem anytime, anywhere unless proper care is taken against them soonest.

He said care must therefore be taken that they are not allowed to run free as it will never be an easy task to quickly quench a raging bush fire adding that commonsense should dictate “to the pests in human skins, and corrupt elements devoid of good understanding to stand tall and firm in support of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration’s determined crusade against evils of corruption in the nation, ensuring that it must be a war to be won at all cost”.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

11 Politics

Jubilation, lamentation in Delta over Appeal Court ruling CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10

You never gave up on me.”

But Amori described the court’s judgment which sacked him from the Senate as “judicial rascality, judicial somersault and judicial award of ruling” in favour of his opponent.

An obviously embittered Amori said that the judgment which ousted him from office was a judicial somersault and miscarriage of justice since the same Appeal Court had on Monday December 14, 2015 earlier affirmed his victory by dismissing in its entirety the appeal brought against him by the APC candidate in the senatorial election.

According to him, the outcome of the Appeal Court case didn’t reflect the yearnings of the people of Delta Central Senatorial District who, he said, gave him their mandate to represent them in the Senate on Saturday, March 28 and Saturday April 25, 2015.

In a statement he personally signed, Amori stated that despite the antics and desperation of the opposition parties in the twice conducted senatorial election, the people of Delta Central with determination gave their

Senator Ighoyota Amori votes to him as PDP candidate in the election because of their confidence in him to offer them the needed representation in the Senate for the advancement of the Urhobo nation.

“My victory in the twice conducted senatorial election was affirmed by the Election Petition Tribunal which sat in Asaba the capital city of Delta State in two separate judgments against the opposition parties,

the All Progressives Congress, APC, and the Labour Party in the tribunal.

“The Appeal Court sitting in Benin City, Edo State on Monday, December 14, 2015 further affirmed my victory by dismissing in its entirety the appeal brought against me by the APC candidate in the senatorial election.

“Regrettably however, same Appeal Court five days after re-

versed itself when it ruled in favour of the LP candidate in the election by upholding all the prayers in his petition. Without equivocation, I wish to state that the judgment of Saturday, 18th December, 2015 marked a twist in the political history of the Urhobo nation.

“What transpired at the court that day, in all sense of purpose, amounted to judicial rascality, judicial somersault and judicial award in favour of an obvious loser who came a distant second.

Truly, the judgment is a miscarriage of justice,” Amori said.

According to him, “The judgment which was delivered in about two minutes and delayed for more than two hours, with six other cases pending for determination by same Appeal Court points to the Biblical inscription of the: Voice of Jacob but, the hands of Esau.

“The judge, who perhaps delivered the fastest judgment in the judicial history of Nigeria, had declined to read the judgment on the excuse that the other two members of the Appeal panel queried him why he alone delivered the previous judgment which went in my favour against the APC candidate.

“The same judge, two hours

later, made a U-turn by delivering the judgment in the absence of the other two members of the panel in a scenario that appears as though he was acting on orders from ‘Power from above’.

“The judgment, no doubt, is a major setback to our collective will to right some of the wrongs bedeviling the Urhobo nation and forge a common front in the determination to advance the socio-economic development of the Urhobo nation.

“It has once again denied the Urhobo nation the needed representation and leadership in the Senate at this crucial stage of our nationhood.

“I deeply appreciate the countless visits, phone calls and text messages from far and near in show of solidarity and condemnation against the Appeal Court ruling that has further put a taint in the nation’s judiciary.

“As a law abiding citizen, I wish to sincerely appeal for calm particularly from Nigerians, Deltans and particularly my Urhobo brothers and sisters over the outcome of the Appeal Court judgment.

“All hopes are not lost at all.

Continue to have faith in me and together we shall overcome this temporary setback”.

Ondo PDP, APC bicker over defection of leaders to APC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10

they shall keep their followers abreast of other milestones as history unfolds in the politics of the state.

Moreover, Fadaka noted that although the PDP lost the Ondo Central Senatorial election where it fielded, Ayo Akinyelure, a one term senator because the people of the district were yet to forgive him for voting in favor of the Child Marriage bill during his tenure in the National Assembly.

He lambasted Osunyikanmi, who was once a stooge to Governor Olusegun Mimiko for defecting to the APC because he remains an appointee of the Federal Government and desirous of keeping his job.

“For us in the PDP, we have since discarded and obliterated them from all our scheemings and

Odigie-Oyegun

Secondus

planning as much more reliable people have since replaced them in their respective local governments.

“We therefore declare that these men who were truly acolytes of Dr. Mimiko, who is solely responsible for their emergence on our

political space, owe all their political contents and relevance to him, have just began a journey into political irrelevance, and as such are bereft of any capability to injure the spread and influence of our party in this state”, Fadaka said.

According to him, the APC

should not rejoice yet at the coming of the two former close ally of Governor Mimiko as it would witness more turmoil when the PDP will again vanquish the party in Ondo State before and after the next year gubernatorial election.

But the APC in the state has welcomed the defection of both Osunyikanmi and Akinyelure to the party.

The Chairman of the party, Isaac Kekemeke, in a statement by the Director of Media and Publicity, Steve Otaloro, saluted the courage of the two former PDP stalwarts in their resolve to align with the change agenda of the APC controlled federal government.

“I salute their courage and their resolve to align with the change agenda of the APC Federal Government and determination to work with others in the APC to

effect the necessary change in the administration of Ondo State come 2016”.

Kekemeke said as a party poised to take government in Ondo State and change the socio-economic fortunes of the citizenry of the state, their decision to join hands with us is a morale booster.

“We assure them that the APC in the state is open, ready and prepared to accept them into its fold and treat them with all the respect they deserve.

“This present move by these gentlemen and their supporters should serve as an encouragement and eye-opener to all progressives still in the PDP and other parties to do the needful- join the APC”, he added.

He urged the new decampees to take action by joining hands with the APC to end the strange rule of “one man” in the state.

News 12

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

FG files fresh charges against Nnamdi Kanu, 2 others ÎÎÎThe

Federal Government has slammed six fresh criminal charges against the Founder of Radio Biafra and leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

Embattled Kanu was charged before the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court alongside two others, Benjamin Madubugwu and David Nwawuisi. they were accused of committing treasonable felony, an offence punishable under Section 41(C) of the Criminal Code Act, CAP C38 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria.

The case was mentioned before Justice Ahmed Mohammed on Tuesday. When the matter was called up by Justice Mohammed neither the prosecuting counsel nor the accused persons were present in court.

However, one Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor announced appearance for the defendants, even as he queried the seriousness of the federal government to prosecute the matter.

Ejiofor insisted that the fresh charges were nothing but a ploy by the government to ensure continued

detention of the accused persons, especially Kanu, who was earlier granted bail by the same high court.

Detrained Kanu had been released unconditionally by a Federal High Court on December 17.

Justice Mohammed explained that though the matter was slated in the court’s cause-list for mention, he said it was obvious that the prosecution was not notified.

He, therefore, adjourned the case to Wednesday (today), saying a date for the arraignment of the accused

persons would be communicated to all the parties.

The fresh six charges, it was gathered, concern allegations of treasonable felony, maintaining an unlawful society and illegal possession of items, among others.

The charges were filed by the office of the Attorney General of the Federation, and signed by the federal Director of Public Prosecution, Mohammed Diri.

The allegations include a plot by Mr. Kanu and some persons now at large to cause crises that might

L-R: Director, Corporate Communications & CSR, Airtel, Mr. Emeka Oparah; Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Airtel, Mr. Segun Ogunsanya and Director, Arrow of God Orphanage, Mr. David Ogo-Tsegah during the presentation of gifts to kids of the orphanage home at Ajah, Lagos… on Tuesday.

FG, States, LGAs share 369.882b as Nov. allocation Continued from page 6 lion as against N60.197 billion distributed in the preceding month resulting in an increase of N0.984 billion.

The Committee disclosed that the sum of N6.330 billion was refunded by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to Federal Government.

Giving a further breakdown of the distributed revenue, the minister said that there was an exchange gain of N6.995 billion which was

proposed for distribution.

For the revenue collecting agencies, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) received the sum of N2.024 billion representing 4% cost of collection, Nigeria Customs Service got N3.417 billion representing 7% cost of collection while the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) also got N1.589 billion representing 4% cost of collection.

The 13% derivation of mineral revenue of oil and gas amounted to N25.611 bil-

lion was equally given to the oil producing states.

According to the minister, intermittent shut-down and shut-in of production for repairs and maintenance at different terminals during the month continued to impact crude oil and gas revenue negatively.

The Finance minister also revealed that the Excess Crude Account (ECA) remains unchanged with the sum of $2.255 billion.

The Minister disclosed that as at Tuesday, salaries

of workers in federal, states and local government areas were being paid, saying “people have started getting alerts and by Wednesday (today), those who have not gotten should be able to receive alerts.”

“Non-oil sector is now really making a difference more than ever. It has a very positive side of our long term prospect of the economy. They are more sustainable and significant than the oil; we want to build sustainability”.

force the President and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, to concede certain parts of Nigeria to a purported Biafra

nation.

Mr. Kanu was also alleged to have been maintaining unlawful society and retaining items belonging to IPOB, among others.

Buhari unveils N6.08tr ‘Budget of Change’ Continued from page 6 represent 30% of our total budget. In future years, we intend to raise the percentage allocation for capital expenditure”.

He announced the increased capital expenditure commitments to critical sectors such as Works, Power and Housing – N433.4 billion; Transport – N202.0 billion; Special Intervention Programmes – N200.0 billion; Defence – N134.6 billion; and Interior – N53.1 billion.

He said: “We will devote a significant portion of our recurrent expenditure to institutions that provide critical government services. We will spend N369.6 billion in Education; N294.5 billion in Defence; N221.7 billion in Health and N145.3 billion in the Ministry of Interior.

This will ensure our teachers, armed forces personnel, doctors, nurses, police men, fire fighters, prison service officers and many more critical service providers are paid competitively and on time.

On borrowing, the President said: “Our 2016 borrowings will be principally directed to fund our capital projects. Furthermore, the sum of N113 billion will be set aside for a Sinking Fund towards the retirement of maturing loans; while N1.36 trillion has been provided for foreign and domestic debt service.

He added: “The answers to our problems are not beyond us. They exist on our farmlands; our corporations; in the universities, in the hearts and minds of our entrepreneurs; through the gallantry of our Armed Forces; and the resolute spirit of Nigerians, especially the youth, who have refused to give up despite all the obstacles confronting them.

“This Budget proposal, the first by our Government, seeks to stimulate the economy, making it more competitive by focusing on infrastructural development; delivering inclusive growth; and prioritizing the welfare of Nigerians. We believe that this budget, while helping industry, commerce and investment to pick up, will as a matter of urgency, address the immediate problems of youth unemployment and the terrible living conditions of the extremely poor and vulnerable Nigerians”.

Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described the N6.8 trillion 2016 federal budget presented to the National Assembly

by President Muhammadu Buhari as a big fraud and an executive conspiracy tailored towards mortgaging the future of the nation.

The party said this in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh, in Abuja.

The opposition PDP queried President Buhari’s decision to borrow N2 trillion, the biggest in the history of the nation, as the height of recklessness and deceit from a government that trends on propaganda.

It berated the Federal Government for trying to use their bogus welfare programme and phantom capital projects as cover and conduit to siphon the funds to satisfy partisan interests, particularly to settle huge campaign debts.

The statement by the PDP reads: “It is obvious that this budget is an extension of the campaign promises of the APC government, presented as a manifesto filled with bogus promises which implementation will be inconclusive, thereby allowing the APC to once again deny their promises.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

13 News

Anambra: Appeal Court bars Ekwunife, PDP from re-run

Moses Oyediran Enugu

ÏÏÏThe

Court of Appeal, sitting in Enugu, has stopped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its Senatorial candidate for Anambra Central, Mrs. Uche Ekwunife from participating in the re-run election set for early next year.

In the certified true copy of the lead judgment delivered on December 7, 2015 by Justice A.D. Yahaya with two others, Justices T.O. Awotoye and B.G. Sanga respectively, obtained from the court, Tuesday, the appellate court set aside the

decision of the lower tribunal that sat in Awka which affirmed that Mrs. Ekwunife was validly nominated as candidate of the PDP for the senatorial seat.

Justice Yahaya declared that “Whether it was the “National body of PDP in Anambra State,” the “5man National Assembly Electoral Committee, or the care-taker committee that conducted the primary which produced the 11th respondent as the nominated candidate of PDP to contest the election, it is immaterial; since by paragraph 25(1) of exhibit R1, it is the state special congress that should conduct election into

the primary for the purpose of nominating a candidate to contest election into the National Assembly.”

The court ruled: “The 11th respondent was therefore not the product of a valid primary and was therefore not duly and legitimately nominated. That has disqualified her from contesting the election into the Anambra Central senatorial District.

“I must observe that a lot of the political parties in this country have still not yet stabilized, unfortunately. There are still a lot of acrimonies in the running of their affairs, and as affairs, and as a result factions of

the parties exist with various grudges mostly bordering on imparity.

“This may just simmer many times but when elections are nigh, and the parties fail to put their acts together, to constitutionally arrive at properly-nominated candidates, disastrous consequences cannot be avoided. The courts would not hesitate, in pursuance of their Constitutional roles, to strike down actions of parties that do not conform with the law of their constitution and guidelines. This obviously results in serious financial losses to the parties, the party members and the

country as a whole, when circumspection would have avoided it.”

Justice Yahaya further said that “nomination is part and parcel of qualification to stand for an election and since an election can be challenged on the grounds of lack of qualification, it follows that the appropriate forum to challenge it after the election is held, is the Election Tribunal, especially where the challenger is from a different political party and may not be aware of the defect in qualification and have sufficient interest, until the person being challenged contests and is declared the winner thereof.

Benue: Group drums support for David Mark Tom Okpe Abuja

ÏÏÏNational

President of the Opiatoha We Ema K’Idoma”, a social Cultural Idoma group in Abuja, Chief Ogli Bernard Adakole has called on the Idoma Nation to rally round the former Senate president, Senator David Mark in the upcoming senatorial re-run election in the Benue South senatorial zone of Benue state.

Speaking to Daily Times in Abuja after its end of year dinner on Monday, Chief Adakole said, “We need to vote Senator Mark back to the senate considering his wealth of experience in governance and administration which has no equal in Idoma land”.

FG declares Dec 24, 25, 28 public holidays Lateef Ibrahim, Abuja

ÏÏÏThe

L-R: Manager, National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Mrs. Ebele Nwokoye; Retail Head, Abuja & North of First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Mr. Sunday Egele; one of the winners of the FCMB Millionaire Promo Season 2, Nwachukwu Enyinnaya; Regional Director, Abuja & North of the bank, Mr. Mustapha Lukman and Deputy Director, Consumer Protection Council, Engineer Shamm Kolo, during the cheque presentation ceremony to the winner in Lagos...on Tuesday.

Federal Government has declared December 24, 25 and 28 as public holidays to mark the Maulud Nabiyy, Christmas Day and Boxing Day, respectively.

The Minister of Interior, Lieutenant-General Abdulrahman Dambazau (rtd), made this known, on Tuesday, in Abuja, in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr. Bassey Akpanyung.

According to the statement, “The Federal Government has declared Thursday, 24th December, 2015 as public holiday to mark Eid-El-Maulud celebration.

“Friday, 25th and Monday 28th December, 2015 have also been declared as public holidays to mark Christmas and Boxing Day celebration.”

Dambazau, therefore, enjoined Muslims and Christians to pray for the peace and unity of Nigeria during the period.

Niger govt urges citizens to FG to recruit 500,000 unemployed be vigilant at Christmas ployed graduates and NCE graduates as teachers Pita Chikwem, Minna

ÏÏÏNiger state government

on Tuesday advised the people of the state to strengthen their vigilance in this festive period and provide the security agencies with information on any suspicious act that may cause trouble during the celebration.

The Commissioner for information, Culture and Tourism, Mr Jonathan Vatsa in a statement, said that the government is always ready to leverage on the already established synergy with the security organizations in the

state to provide security but the people have a role to play.

Vatsa stated that for the security agencies to effectively carry out their duties in a well dignified manner the people must be ready to cooperate with them by providing the necessary information on undesirable elements and their acts in the state.

He noted that though the state has always being peaceful but the people should not take any unusual occurrences them for granted because those who want to breach the security of the state may want to hide under the yuletide to commit crimes.

Akinjide Akintola

ÏÏÏIn a strategic move to tackle unemployment figures in the country, President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday, announced plans by his administration to recruit 500,000 unemployed graduates as teachers next year.

Presenting the 2016 budget estimates to the National Assembly, the President, who said this would be done in conjunction with the states and local governments, added that

the new intakes would be recruited, trained and deployed to primary schools to improve educational standards.

His words: As we focus on inclusive growth, we are conscious of the current rate of unemployment and underemployment.

This is a challenge we are determined to meet; and this budget is the platform for putting more Nigerians to work. I can assure you that this administration will have a job creation focus in every aspect of

the execution of this budget. Nigeria’s job creation drive will be private sector led. We will encourage this by a reduction in tax rates for smaller businesses as well as subsidized funding for priority sectors such as agriculture and solid minerals.

“As an emergency measure, to address the chronic shortage of teachers in public schools across the country, we also will partner with state and local governments to recruit, train and deploy 500,000 unem-

holders. These graduate teachers will be deployed to primary schools, thereby, enhancing the provision of basic education especially in our rural areas”.

Buhari

News 14 Yakubu Salisu

ÏÏÏThe

Kano State Police Command said, on Tuesday, that it had adopted proactive security measures to ensure peace and security before, during and after the Christmas celebration.

It has, therefore, banned any form of procession, be it political, religious or social rally, without its permission as anyone who organises such gathering would be arrested and prosecuted under the Public Order Act.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Yuletide: Police ban processions, deploy special squads in Kano Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Katsina, told newsmen this, shortly after a security conference which took place at the Command’s Headquarter Officers’ Mess to review its activities as the year draws to an end.

According to him, the Command had deployed

adequate and special squads like the counterterrorists squad, the ambush squad, anti-kidnapping unit, Explosive Ordinance Department and the Mobil Police Unit to strategic locations, to deal, decisively, with anyone who attempts to break the law or pose any form

of threat to public peace, as the Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and the New Year holidays, respectively.

He called on the general public to be vigilant during these periods, and report to the nearest police station and other relevant security agencies any sus-

picious person or object found around their places of residence or community, as the police were ready to respond fast.

Katsina further stated that his Command had succeeded in dislodging criminal elements from the Fargore forest where they perpetuated crimi-

nal acts, like kidnapping, robbery and cattle rustling; that residence of the area who had to fled their homes due to incessant attacks were now returning home. He said his men would continue to provide maximum security to the entire people of the state.

Tinubu urges more care for the elderly

Mutiat Alli

ÏÏÏSenator

Oluremi Tinubu has said that she there was a need to make adequate provision for the elderly citizens in the country, with attention on social security benefits to meet their medical care and basic needs, such as food and shelter.

This she made known, on Tuesday, at the 16th town hall meeting, and fourth edition of the elderly citizen’s assistance scheme with a theme titled: “Elderly Care – A Challenge for our Future”; held at Eko Hotel and Suites with highly visible members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in attendance.

Tinubu noted that “there was a need for us to revere and celebrate our highly esteemed elders, because they are our reservoir of wisdom and knowledge,” while noting, also, that the inability of our culture to recognize the old people’s home had no

doubt imposed a lot of challenges on the care of the elderly in Nigeria.

This year witnessed the attendance and beneficiaries of over 5, 000 elders above the age of 65 from the Lagos State Central Senatorial District, who got gift items and refreshed with various delicacies.

Tinubu encouraged youths to show love, patience to the elderly; treat them with respect and make them feel loved as members of the community.

She equally urged the elderly to feed well on fruits and vegetables, so as to help their health.

L-R: Lagos State Commissioner for Wealth Creation, Mr. Tunde Durosinimi-Etti; Elder Tayo Soyode and Convener of ‘Elderly Citizens’ Assistance Scheme, (ECAS) Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, at the 16th edition of Lagos Central Senatorial District Town Hall Meeting held at Eko Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos…on Tuesday. Photo: OLAWALE ROTIMI.

FCT APC sets up reconciliation c’ttee Idu Jude Abuja

ÏÏÏIn further measures to

see a total victory in all the six area councils of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) its chapter of the All Progressive Congress (APC), has set up a seven-man rec-

onciliation committee to see all inclusive campaign against the opposition.

Speaking to the media shortly after the party meeting, on Tuesday, the party public Relations Officer, Mr. Adaji Usman, said that the plan was to ensure total vic-

tory over the opposition in the forthcoming election.

He said that the party had pledged a total revamp of the FCT that was dead under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Usman said that, in the FCT, the APC was set for

development revitalisation, equitable housing policies, an end to unlawful land grabbing, as was obvious during the sixteen years of the PDP era. The party, he said, would improve upon security, as well as implement the original master

Plateau commissioner warns against redundancy Chijioke Kingsley,Jos

ÏÏÏThe Commissioner of

Works and Transport, Plateau State Hon. Pam Dongs has called on the staff of the ministry to rise up to their responsibilities and work towards ensuring that they delivered on the policy trust of Governor Simon Lalong.

He said this during his

handing over ceremony conducted between him and the Permanent Secretary, Engr.

Sunday Hyat, on Tuesday, at the state secretariat.

He solicited the co-operation of the staff, stressing that a lot of water had passed under the bridge during past administration as it related to a lack of good will, and undemocratic conducts in the

execution projects.

He promised to be zero tolerant to the Change policies of the All Progressives Congress (APC) government, and he challenged the staff to be up and doing, saying “my friends are those that work hard and I respect labourers, he said.

He said government would ensure maintenance culture

on the roads to ensure they were well managed to avoid accident and loss of life.

“If we allow our deplorable roads to remain unrepaired, many Nigerians will die as a result of accidents.

It is shameful that Nigeria of today, cannot effectively provide qualitative social amenities to cater for the well-being of its citizenry”,

he added.

“I want everybody to ensure punctuality and work hard.

Anyone found wanting will face the law.”

Hyat expressed confidence in Dong’s ability to turn around the ministry, saying that the ministry’s prime target would be on roads and bridges.

JABU honours Gen Adebayo ÏÏÏThe

immediate past Commander Nigeria Army Education Corps, Major- General Dapo Adebayo, was recently honoured with a doctorate degree in entrepreneurship

by Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji Arakeji, in Osun State.

The award was presented at the 6th Convocation of the university.

Commending the awardee, the Vice-chancellor of the University Professor Sola Fajana stated that “honour must be given to whom that deserved it”, saying that as a financier of the university you have contributed immensely to its growth, since its inception.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

15 Opinion

Arms Scandal: Why did Buhari not tell us he benefited?

What is it about the government and its agents and employees that they can lie to us with impunity, but we risk being sent to jail if we lie to them? (Andrew P. Napolitano)

Temple Ubochi

N

owadays, we read only of accusations and denials. Who received what, when, how and why and who is saying the truth and who is lying?

We are told that Sambo Dasuki has been singing like a bird, and has been implicating those who received cash from him. One of those, he implicated was President Muhammadu Buhari. Dasuki alleged that Buhari received five cars and $300,000 cash from the fund as compensation over Boko Haram’s attack on him. He also told us that his Bullet proof car was also replaced with new ones”!

I thought it was only an allegation until Buhari came out to say that he received only two jeeps and no cash from Dasuki. Therefore, Buhari received something at all. Why did he not ask questions about the

vehicles until he was implicated?

Buhari’s defence was that as a former head of state, he was entitled to three vehicles, from the federal government every four years. But, the issue is that the replacement of his vehicles is due in 2016, because, he got new ones in 2012, and, it is the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, and not that of the National Security Adviser, that gives the vehicles out to former presidents. Therefore, it was illegal for Sambo Dasuki to purchase new jeeps for Buhari, and for him to accept them. In fact, Dasuki procured bulletproof vehicles for all former heads of state and presidents of Nigeria, including Obasanjo, and all of them are guilty, for accepting vehicles from a wrong hand.

The point is that even if Buhari received only a pin from Dasuki, and the money in buying it was from the arms purchase fund, Buhari is as guilty as those who received more from the fund are.

(QED) I remain to be deceived, and just like Mahatma Gandhi, “I will not let anyone walk through my mind with his or her dirty feet.” The point

is that Buhari is guilty, if he took the vehicles from the NSA and not from the Secretary to the Federal Government. Buhari has stirred up a hornet’s nest, and nobody knows where it will all end. That is why one needs a clean hand to fight corruption. How can Buhari defend the fact that he benefited from the office of the former National Security Adviser against the convention of dealing with the office of the SGF? The game is just starting.

When Buhari wanted to re-open the Halliburton scandal, the three former heads of state involved, IBB, Abdul Salam and Obasanjo, warned that “he who lives in a glass house should not throw stone”, as they have his service records as the petroleum minister from 1976; as head of state from 1983, and as chairman of Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF) during the Abacha regime. That kept Buhari at bay and he never talked of Halliburton scandal again. Buhari should also know that Goodluck Jonathan, as president from 2010 to 2015, also has his service records during the above-mentioned periods, and has said nothing yet. Buhari cannot

fight corruption without submitting himself for scrutiny. That is why it underscores the need for a more neutral and transparent body like an independent National Truth Commission to examine all issues relating to handling of security votes and campaign funding without interferences from the government.

EFCC has taken Dasuki to court, and he pleaded not guilty to all charges. He has also protested that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had prior subjected him to “media trial”, and that such a treatment might jeopardise his defence.

I hope this government will take this case to court immediately, so that we will know who is telling the truth. This government’s whipping up of cheap sentiments to cover its incompetence will not stick. The government should get down to business of alleviating the sufferings and hardship Nigerians are going through on daily basis, as noise making will not help it out.

If Dasuki and others are guilty, including Buhari and even Jonathan, all of them should be locked up and the key to their cells thrown into the ocean.

Northern Nigeria: Talakawa and the coming revolution

H

Otunba Ilemobade

uman rights what is not will be self-evident with the reverse approach by defining what human rights are in the broader sense of the term.

It is however inherent or left to the readers to decipher and discern what human rights are not, given the definition that would be provided based on the United Nations conceptualisation. ‘’The term “human rights” was mentioned seven times in the UN’s founding Charter, making the promotion and protection of human rights a key purpose and guiding principle of the Organisation. In 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights brought human rights into the realm of international law. Since then, the Organisation has diligently protected human rights through legal instruments and on-the-ground activities’’. ‘’Human rights are rights inherent to all human beings, whatever their nationality, place of residence, sex, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, language, or any other status. We are all equally entitled to our human rights without discrimination. These rights are all interrelated, interdependent and indivisible.

Universal human rights are often

expressed and guaranteed by law, in the forms of treaties, customary international law, general principles and other sources of international law. International human rights law lays down obligations of governments to act in certain ways or to refrain from certain acts, in order to promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms of individuals or groups’’.

Broadly speaking governance is about human rights. Mostly all revolutions in world history were precipitated by human rights related issues, notably amongst such revolutions are the American revolution, French revolution, even recently the Tunisian revolution sparked by self immolation of Mohamed Bouazizi, Phillipines revolution with the assasination of Beningno Aquinos in 1983, Iran Islamic revolution in 1979 led to the overthrow of the Sha Reza Palavi dynasty.

Revolution is like a wild fire, an insignificant spark can snowball into something cataclysmic precipitated by human rights violations within the realm of social, political, religious, and economic frameworks, thereby laying a solid foundation for a groundswell of revolutionary opportunism.

The incident or altercation that took place in Zaria, Kaduna between the Shia movement and

the Nigerian army was a vivid reminder of what led to the Boko Haram insurgency that has become an uncontrollable cancerous growth on the nation geopolitical space.

Mindful of that scenario we need to tread carefully in finding solution to this new conflagration.

Note: Right to life subsume freedom from extra judicial killings.

Too many sources of conflagration in Northern Nigeria but not enough fire brigades, we might think the altercation between the Shia and the Nigerian army is an isolated phenomenon.

I must confess we are wrong; there are growing pockets of dissatisfaction amongst the Talakawas in the North against the hegemonies and the obvious inequality, and the grinding poverty striking. In addition, for the Talakawas, religion provides an avenue to find meaning or philosophical explanation for vicissitude of life.

The hegemonius relationships between the feudalistic traditional institution in Northern Nigeria and the Talakawas are already under stress since the people have started questioning the relevance of those institutions openly.

What we are witnessing is beyond the immediate conflict on ground.

It is in the interest of the Northern Nigeria traditional institutions to quickly intervene positively in the

ongoing Shia/Military conflict in other to achieve self-preservation in the face of an impending peoples revolution.

Where you have poverty mixed with religion, a nexus for fundamentalism can be created easily especially when there are outside interference as we are witnessing from the Iranian government pronouncement on the issue coupled with media analysis by various Shia scholars who saw the incident as a conspiracy triangle amongst CAN, Sunni Islam, and Nigeria army. Do not forget that we have had Hezbolla elements arrested in the North of Nigeria in recent past with piles of arms in their houses.

This again is a manifestation of the danger we are facing when human rights violation of the kind we are witnessing i.e Shia/military altercation leading to grand massacre is not checkmated, because outside interference can lead to Lebanon or Syrian catastrophe.

Just imagine an alliance between Boko Haram and Shia militia in the North of Nigeria, that is a deadly combination we do not need now.

This is not a good season for our leaders in Nigeria we do not need additional crisis. However, it is an historic moment to show the people of Nigeria that they will take the high moral ground in finding solution to this national issue.

16

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Education Times Æ s

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

17

Buhari promises 500,000 graduates teaching job soon Sam Nzeh President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday promised that 500,000 unemployed graduates and NCE holders would soon be recruited and deployed across the country to teach in the nation’s schools.

The President, said in his 2016 Budget speech to the joint session of the National Assembly in Abuja, adding that the recruitment of teachers for the schools is an emergency measure to address the chronic shortage of teachers in public schools across the country.

“We also will partner with State and Local Governments to recruit, train and deploy 500,000 unemployed graduates and NCE holders. These graduate teachers will be deployed to primary schools, thereby, enhancing the provision of basic education especially in our rural areas.”

The President also disclosed a cash transfer programme which will include the provision of free education for science, technology and education students in tertiary institutions is being developed by the government.

He said: “Through the Office of the Vice President, we are working with various

.Offers free education to science, tech students

L-R: Wife of General Overseer, Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries, Dr. (Mrs.) Shade Olukoya; Wife of the Governor of Lagos State,Mrs. Bolanle Ambode; General Overseer, Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries, Dr. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya; Sen. Remi Tinubu and Vice Chancellor, Mountain Top University, Prof. Elijah Ayolabi, at the first matriculation ceremony of the Mountain Top University, Mowe-Ibafo, Ogun State... on Monday.

development partners to design an implementable and transparent conditional cash transfer programme for the poorest and most vulnerable.

This programme will be implemented in phases. Already, the compilation of registers of the poorest persons is on-going.

“In the coming weeks, we will present the full programme, which will include our homegrown public primary school feeding and free education for science, technology and education students in our tertiary institutions. Indeed, this will mark a historic

milestone for us as a nation.’’

The president also said the Federal Government would collaborate with states and local governments to tackle the “chronic shortage’’ of teachers in public schools across the country.

He said that under the partnership, government planned to recruit, train and deploy 500,000 unemployed graduates and NCE holders to strengthen basic education, especially in rural areas.

Okojie flays ASUU criticism of FG panels on 10 varsities …says FG as visitor to varsities can question VCs Augustine Okezie Abuja The Executive Secretary of National Universities Commission (NUC), Professor Julius Okojie, has openly disagreed with the Academic Staff

Union of Nigerian Universities (ASUU), over its insistence that the governing councils of federal universities are better placed to investigate and discipline Vice Chancellors rather than the Federal Government.

Okojie, who rose to the defense of the Federal Government on the matter on Tuesday in Abuja at a special end of year luncheon organised for Education Correspondents, maintained that as visitor to the universities, government has the right to institute investigations into the activities of the vice chancellors and that those having integrity questions against them had no choice than to de-

fend themselves.

Recall that UNIABUJA chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Nigerian Universities (ASUU) had in Abuja criticized the Minister of Education, Alhaji Muhammed Adamu Adamu, for setting up visitation panels to investigates alleged cases of immorality and other misdemeanors leveled against Vice Chancellors of 10 universities including UNIABUJA. The chairman of the branch, Dr. Ben Ugheoke, told the Daily Times in an exclusive chat that the work of the panel could have been better handled by the governing councils of these universities, who have the statutory

mandate to do so, than spending government time and resources by constituting separate panels.

He said: ’’We know that they will claim to be fighting corruption through this way, but they can never win the war because you can’t fight corruption and succeed rather they should create an enabling environment that will expose corruption’’.

On the suggestion that those petitioning the Vice Chancellor were already indicted in the yet- to be released white paper written by the last visitation panel on the university, the ASUU UNIABUJA boss maintained that the petition seems to have come mainly from some

aggrieved members of Senior Staff of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), adding that their petition against the present Vice Chancellor, Professor Michael Adikwu, stands to fail because of his performance so far.

Meanwhile, a Senior staff in the Federal Ministry of Education, who pleaded anonymity on the matter, also told the Daily Times, when contacted, that the Minister’s action is being misconstrued because he had to act quickly on the petitions and that some of the council members where equally petitioned hence it will be wrong to ask them to handle the matter.

Education Times 18

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Aregbesola urges state governors to revamp Basic education Augustine Okezie Abuja

Executive Secretary,Tertiary Education Trust Fund (Tetfund), Prof. Suleiman Bogoro (left), Governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola, during Governor’s courtesy visit to Tetfund headquarters at the weekend in Abuja...Photo: TEMITOPE BALOGUN.

NUC boss urges private varsities to subscribe NgREN services Augustine Okezie Abuja The Executive Secretary National Universities Commission (NUC) Prof Julius Okojie, has urged states and privately owned universities to subscribe to the services offered by the Nigerian Research Education Network (NgREN) in order to benefit in several ways including resource sharing and internet connectivity.

Okojie, who made the appeal in Abuja while inaugurating the board of NgREN headed by him, said the delay in the payment and subscription to Nigeria Research and Education Network (NgREN) from the connected 27 universities and unsubscribed 61 privately owned and state universities in the country has caused enormous network challenges related to funding.

The NgREN is a broadband MPLS based network. It pro-

vides an elaborate infrastructural backbone to interconnect all research and education institutions in Nigeria. It also links them up with other NgRENs worldwide.

He regretted that efforts by the universities from other fund raising agencies to settle their subscription fee due to the network proved abortive, noting that efforts are ongoing to overcome the changes.

“The network has been experiencing challenges related to funding as the subscription fees due to the network from the universities have not been forthcoming.

“Although the universities have requested the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) to pay their subscriptions out of their allocations, this has not been actualised due to the nature of operation of TETFund.

“The challenges facing NgREN are not insurmountable. They need to be tackled

by the stakeholders collectively. The new board is therefore charged with the responsibility to pick up from where the previous board stopped.”

Okojie also disclosed that the first phase of the network connecting 27 Federal universities, NUC Secretariat and Secretariat of the Committee of Vice Chancellors have been completed, adding that NgREN was established to address the connectivity and ICT service needs of Nigeria education and research institutions.

“NgREN aims to provide an efficient network for the research and education community in addition to promoting linkages and collaborates between the research community, industries, government and other international research and education communities in order to transmit research to commercial products for the benefits of the nations,” he added.

29.33% get credit in English, Maths as WAEC releases 2015 Nov/Dec WASSCE results Sam Nzeh A total of 67,713 candidates, representing 29.33 percent of the total 237,154 candidates that sat for the 2015 November/ December West African Secondary School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) examination obtained credits in 5 subjects and above, including English Language and Mathematics.

This was disclosed in a statement by the Council’s director of Public Affairs, Mr. Y.D. Ari, at the weekend. This followed the release of the results on Thursday which showed that 79,490 candidates out of a total

of 237,154 that sat for the examination obtained six credits and above. This represents 33.51 percent of the total number of persons that sat for the examination.

Announcing the release of the results earlier on Thursday, the new Head of Nigeria National Office (HNO), WAEC, Mr. Olutise Isaac Adenipekun, revealed that 113, 573 candidates obtained five credits, representing 47.88 percent of the 237,154 that took the examination.

Adenipekun further disclosed that 146, 253 candidates, representing 61.67 percent obtained credits and above in 4 subjects, while 175,718 candidates repre-

senting 74.09 percent obtained credits and above in three subjects. A total of 20, 304 candidates, representing 84.46 percent obtained credits and above in two subjects, he added.

According to the HNO, the results of 28,768 candidates, representing 12.13 percent, are being withheld for further investigation in connection with various cases of examination malpractice. He said reports of the investigation will be presented to the Nigerian Examinations Committee (NEC) of the Council for consideration, adding that the decision of the committee will be communicated to the affected candidates in due course.

Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, has urged his colleagues to focus on revamping basic education in their respective states as a sure way of ensuring that that products that acts as feeder pillars to the universities are of higher quality and standards.

Aregbesola, who made the call in Abuja while on a courtesy visit to the Executive Secretary of Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Prof.

Suleiman Elias Bogoro in his office, said that his government has invested massively in the basic education sector through construction of needed infrastructure and capacity building for students and the teachers alike.

Meanwhile, the governor has assured that his administration has no plans of merging higher institutions in the state but rather rejigging those that are lacking in standard to be more relevant and better situated to serve the needs of the state.

He said: “Contrary to popular misconception on our higher education policy, we are not merging any school rather we are strengthening the relevance of our higher education to their immediate community and society.”

“We don’t believe we must do it like the others, our Colleges of Education, Polytechnic and Universities must directly impact on society and needs, so we will design policies that will suit our own environment and help community and society at large,” he said.

While seeking for more intervention on the higher institutions from TETFund, Aregbesola said his government is willing to fraternize with the agency to get the best for the higher institutions in the state.

The governor, while noting the commitment of his administration to basic education said: “We have invested in basic education and this has not allowed us to invest as much as we would in higher education, we will need your support to meeting our needs.”

Prof. Bogoro in his remark commended the governor for his good education policies especially his commitment at the basic education level.

The future, according to TETfund boss, lies in the basic education without which it cannot go far.

While promising to look into the governor’s request, Bogoro said: “I have noted your priorities and will be sharing it with the relevant department on how TETFund will make a contribution to add to what you have been doing at higher level.”

Fidelity Bank hands over renovated Ibafon School Sam Nzeh Fidelity Bank Plc, at the weekend, handed over a renovated, fully equipped block of classrooms to Ibafon Primary School, Ibafon, Ajeromi Ifelodun Local Government Area in Apapa, Lagos State.

According to the bank, the decision to embark on the project was borne out of the realisation that the education sector remains critical to driving socio-economic development.

The school project was initiated and implemented by the staff of Apapa Region of bank under the auspices of the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP).

Speaking at the occasion, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc, Nnamdi Okonkwo, said that the project is part of efforts aimed at improving the education sector in the country, noting that Nigeria’s quest to be among the leading global economies will be a mirage without a formidable workforce, a spin -off of a sound education sector.

He explained that the FHHP is the Bank’s approach to giving

back to the society.

Okonkwo, who was represented by Obaro Odeghe, Head, Apapa Regional Bank, enjoined other private organisations to partner with the government in its efforts to revive Nigeria’s ailing educational system and bring back its lost glory. He promised that the Bank will return next year to renovate the other blocks of classrooms and equip them with state-of-the-art furniture and equipment.

In his remarks, the Local Government Education Secretary, Solomon Aboluwodi, commended the bank for undertaking such a monumental project in the local government.

He noted that the financial institution is already trailing the blaze in the CSR space and called on other corporate bodies to emulate Fidelity Bank.

According to him, “if we have up to five organisations like Fidelity Bank in our different communities, the society will be a better place”.

To this end, he emphasised that everyone has a role to play in developing the society and no one should neglect his part.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

19 Education Times

Inside Campus Æ s UNIBEN students urged to fight against corruption Richard Enake & Ezekiel Efeobhokhan (UNIBEN) Students in the country have been charged to rise to the occasion of engaging the ruling class of the nation who seem to be taking the nation for a ride with their corrupt practices.

The charge was made by Reverend David Ugolor, Executive Director of Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ), at a programme organised by the Secretary of the Student Union Government (SUG), Emmanuel Ndueche University of Benin penultimate Saturday, at the Akin Deko main Auditorium of the university.

The programme tagged ‘FEDx UNIBEN’ had as its theme, “Breaking from the Norm”. While giving the welcome address, the convener, Ndueche said the aim of the event was to open the eyes of the students of the university to break from the normal routine of going to school, graduating with good grades, getting a good job, marry and then die.

“We need to start using our God-given talents to effect positive change in our environment,”

he said.

Speaking to the students of the university, Rev Ugolor said that everywhere in the world, the onus is now on the students to engage politicians towards ensuring the proper implementation of the budget and advocate for their rights, but it is sadly not so in our clime. He said that students have the potential to cause positive changes in the polity given the adequate knowledge needed.

Going further, he said that the pivotal role of the students and youth in making positive change possible is the reason why his non-governmental organization (NGO) has decided to align with the students to tackle corruption in the country.

His words: “We can’t afford to be silent in the face of the worrisome level of corruption in our country. We call on students to align with us so that together, we can set Nigeria free from all sorts of corrupt practices. In your little way, join the anti-corruption project by registering with anticorruption movements and get active. You can start with your student union by ensuring that capable hands are elected to lead you.”

ACE, Ohio varsity partnership on agric get Ondo govt’s nod Tosin Ajuwon Akure

Sir (Prof.) Victor Uwaifo and UNIBEN SUG Secretary General, Emmanuel Ndueche Speaking on the steps to ensure achieve significance, Pastor Benson Akhigbe, Founder, Living Your Dreams Initiative, harped on the need for students to write down their value system and walk with it. He said that it is ones value system that determines the reason he/she does the things they do in life.

He implored the students to grow their capacity because it is when their capacity is grown that they can begin to see the things around them that others don’t see, and begin to see the opportunities around them that others don’t see.

His words: “What is your drive in life? Is it pleasure, possession or position? If you are driven by these factors, even if you are successful, there will still be an emptiness deep down in you”.

Also speaking at the event, a respected musical icon, a professor and a sculptor, Sir (Prof.) Victor Uwaifo, shared from his wealth of experience with the students.

He spoke on the concept of Vocation. According to him, he

noticed his numerous talents at a young age but was tempted to abandon some of his gifts until he read about Leonardo Da Vinci’s exploits in various fields of life.

“You can explore all the talents in you and still be a success so long as it makes life worth living and fulfilling. The worst plan is better than no plan at all”, said Sir Uwaifo.

The event also saw the presentation of awards to the winners of the William Obong Memorial Essay Competition organised by the office of the Secretary General of the Student Union Government, University of Benin. The first prize got a branded laptop.

Other activities marking the event were spoken words, and other display of talents from UNIBEN students.

Speaking at the event, a final year student, Emeka Onyeji stated that the event was a great one.

“The Secretary General has done greatly. The essay prizes were very encouraging and I hope the next executives do something

Olabisi Onabanjo University inducts 107 new medical doctors …as Oduwole Adebisi emerges overall best student The Provost of the Obafemi Awolowo College of Health Science, Prof.

Thanni, has urged the newly inducted medical doctors of the need to discharge their duties effectively as they join the country’s labour force. He made this known at 22nd graduating set of doctors inducted at an august occasion held recently at the main auditorium of the institution in Sagamu,

L-R: Mrs. Shittu, Mr. Suliaman Alli, Dr. Yomi Shittu and Mrs. E. O Alli at the ceremony Ogun State.

With over 107 inducted medical doctors, Miss Oduwole Adebisi emerged the overall

best medical students having excelled in areas such as biochemistry, surgery, medicine, physiology amongst others.

Speaking with one of the gradaunds, Dr. Oriyomi Shittu, who disclosed that after spending several years in school, he finally made the list of those celebrated as a certified Medical Doctor, adding “I can’t wait to contribute to the medical services in the country”.

Commenting on this year’s set of graduates, the provost however envisaged that this set has been one of the best having recorded a large number of graduands and also that knowledge impacted into them will show when they begin to make major impacts in the states and outside the shores of the country.

The partnership between the Adeyemi College of Education (ACE), Ondo State and the University of Ohio, America, to expand $30 million grant for agriculture revolution has received a boost from the Ondo State government.

Speaking, Governor Olusegun Mimiko, who received the delegation of the principal officers of the college and the foreign emissary, led by Prof. Olukoya Ogen, lauded the management of Adeyemi College of Education (ACE) Ondo State for the innovation and pledged to provide enabling environment to the agricultural revolution which will take place in the institution.

Mimiko assured the delegates that the project will have easy start off since there are available sustainable infrastructure provided by the state in such direction; and hopefully, will lead to a partnership between the state government and the institution in the nearest future.

He noted that the availability of the Cargo airport in Akure, the state capital, and the deep sea port in the south senatorial district of the state, will in no small measure assist in exporting their finished products to all parts of the world.

Also, Prof. Olukoya Ogen, hinged the institution’s decision on the existing relationship with Ohio State University, which predated 1964 and attracted some benefits to the institution.

The provost disclosed that the agricultural bail out drive led to the partnership with the American government, which awarded the $30 million grant and partnership with the agricultural department of the Ohio State University in America.

He affirmed that the partnership will create employment opportunities and save the country from the current oil depression.

Prof. Mark Erbaugh, and Prof.

Chris Igodan, both lecturers in the Ohio State University in the Agriculture department explained that Agriculture is most important to the country’s economy.

20

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What was the N500m given to universities by FG for?

Sarah ODEDE

How many schools in Lagos benefitted from Eko project? ÏÏÏ I was happy when I read

a report in the TIMESEARCH column some time ago on issues concerning education in Nigeria and I was so delighted.

I would want the TIMESEARCH to help throw more light on the issue of some schools purported to have gotten some millions of naira under the Lagos Eko project.

Please, I want to know how many schools received the money from the project, when was this, and which year was this achieved by the schools.

Nigerians would want to know more about the benefiting schools and why they were given such enormous amount of money.

TIMESEARCH has been my favourite column since I discovered it February this year.

The column is very educative and informative, please keep the flag flying. Nigerians need information regarding everything we do on daily basis especially in this era of social media being in vogue.

Mr. Joseph Ani 36 Aina Street Lagos While making inquiry at the Lagos State Ministry of Education as regards the issue raised by Mr. Ani, an official who was said to be the only authentic source to comment on the issue told the TIMESEARCH that it was true that a total of 134 junior and senior secondary schools in Lagos

I was one of the candidates who wrote the WAEC examination last year and the result was released recently without my own.

I immediately contacted the school where I wrote the examination, but to my surprise, the Principal of the school, (names withheld) told me that it was only the WAEC that could answer my question, as regards the release of my result.

I tried to make her see reasons with me, but my efforts

State in August last year received the sum of N268 million under the Lagos Eko Project.

The official, who craved anonymity, revealed further that “among other things, the money would help in boosting the standard of education in public schools in Lagos State.

In reply to a question, the official said: “The Lagos Eko project is a partnership between the Lagos Sate government and the World Bank to enhance learning outcomes of the 639 public junior and senior secondary schools. It complements efforts of the state government towards improving the overall standard of education.”

“The benefiting schools were rewarded for displaying improved performances over a sustained period of time, both in different aspects of their engagements both quantitatively and qualitatively.”

It was also revealed that the then governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola, at that time described the event as an investment in education that would be sustained to promote the quality of education offered in the state public educational institutions.

As for the project, the official who said that it was an innovation designed to bring competition to public schools performance evaluation, as a way of improving the quality of leaning outcomes and inspiring better results, expressed excitement over the enthusiasm shown by the mangers of the schools teachers and students.

“We did not want to fall into any trap or any error of issu-

21

Ambode

ing grants and promoting complacency. We wanted competition because we know that if there is competition, there will be improved productivity. So every school gets its annual grant, but by this competition that has been induced by the Governor’s Award, successful schools now get an extra grant, according to the former Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola,” he added.

Answering another question, the official told the TIMESEARCH that the then governor of Lagos State observed that no education district has won the award concurrently since the initiative started in 2010, which means that the improved performance has moved from Education District Five, who were the first winners in 2O11, to Education District Two, who were the winners in 2012 and to Education District One in 2013 among others.

“So it is very true that 134 public schools got the sum of money under the Lagos Eko project. It was not a rumour, it is a fact”, concluded the official.

I would be happy if the TIMESEARCH could use its good offices to find out from the National Universities Commission what the N500 million awarded to some universities in the country is for. Is it for the establishments or the replacement of fees paid by students of the various universities?

In order words, does it mean the universities would not charge fees from their students or what?

Of what use was the money disbursed to the universities? And how many universities benefited from this gesture by the Federal Government?

I am an undergraduate of one of the universities (names withheld), Please TIMESEARCH, let me know the universities that were given this money. May be, the university I attend is one of the lucky ones to be honoured by the Federal Government.

I am curious, please let me know to enable me know if really the Federal Government is up to the task of universities in this country.

Steve Nwosu P.O. Box 3329 Onitsha, Anambra State At the National Universities Commissions Headquarters in Abuja, the enquiry of Mr. Nwosu was tabled before a top official of the Commission who preferred anonymity on hearing the nature of the inquiry.

The official told the TIMESEARCH without hesitation that in May this year (2015), the Federal Government actually approved the sum of N500 million as administrative and running

costs for the four Federal Colleges of Education upgraded to the status of universities of education.

The money was not granted to any established universities apart from the four Federal Colleges of Education upgraded to university levels.

According to the official, the Colleges of Education are Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo, Federal College of Education, Zaria, Federal College of Education Kano, and Alvan Ikoku College of Education Owerri, Imo State.

As for the amount of money disbursed to the four new universities, the official had this to say, “The then Minister of Education, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, made Nigerians understand that the Federal Government had directed TETFund to disburse the approved sum to each of the institutions.

The old laws establishing the Colleges of Education would be repealed in due course and the appropriate legislations will regularize the universities of education, according to Shekarau.

In fact, Shekarau said the ministry made concerted efforts to get the Federal Executive Council to approve the upgrading because of the need to promote teacher education, the official said.

As to what necessitated the upgrade, the official said that the upgrade would attract more Nigerians into the teaching profession with a view to producing first class brains as teachers.

Concluding however, the official added that the National Universities Commission and the National Commission for Colleges of Education supervised the transition of these institutions to their new status.

Please WAEC, what happened to my result? failed, as the principal has since then refused to see me or talk to me even on phone.

I would be happy if the TIMESEARCH could please come to my rescue to enable me take the necessary steps towards admission into a university of my choice.

The last WAEC I wrote was my third attempt and the

Council kept withholding my result without being involved in any malpractice.

Please, I need my result, TIMESEARCH come to my aid.

I am tired of this examination body withholding my results every year.

This is frustrating, please help me out this time around.

Akinbayo Akinleye

227 Abino Street Surulere, Lagos The complaint of Mr. Akinleye was taken up with the West African Examinations Council Headquarters, Harvey Road, Yaba, Lagos with the Public Relations Department, from where it was disclosed that there was nothing the Council could do to help the complainant because the Council does not deal

with individuals but with the bodies that registered them for the examination.

The complainant was meant to understand that some results were being withheld pending when the Council concludes its investigations if some traces of malpractice is discovered. In the absence of this, the Council would release such results.

22 Public Notice FOUNTAIN OF GRACE HOLINESS DIVINITY ASSEMBLY.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

ROTJI ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT INITIATIVE.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990

THE TRUSTEES ARE: SALAMI ISRAEL CLEMENT (2) SALAMI DORCAS OGOMU (3) SALAMI OZOYA OGECHUKWU

NAMES OF TRUSTEES = (1) HASHEM ROTJI JATAU (2) MARCY MOYER JATAU (3) RITJI BETHUEL JATAU (4). KANKE JATAU (5) NENGAK JATAU (6) RITTKATMUM JATAU

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST ALL OVER THE WORLD. 2. TO TAKE CARE OF THE WELFARE OF ITS MEMBERS. 3. TO ESTABLISH LOCAL BRANCHES FOR THE PROPAGATION OF THE GOSPEL WORLDWIDE. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION SIGNED: SECRETARY

CHRISTIAN DEVELOPMENT COUNSELORS FOUNDATION. THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990 TRUSTEES ARE: 1.REV. OKOGBUE LUKE UGOCHUKWU - PRESIDENT. 2.MRS. OLUCHI FAITH UGOCHUKWU - TREASURER. 3.MR. HENRY IKECHUKWU EMEH - PRO. 4.PASTOR KENNETH CHINEDU ONWE - VICE PRESIDENT. 5.ELDER SUNDAY EZERA - SECRETARY. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES TO PROMOTE GOD FEARING LEADERSHIP. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION

ASSOCIATION OF MARITIME MEDIA STAKEHOLDERS.

TRUSTEES: (1) MR RAY UGOCHUKWU (2) DAVID OLADIMEJI (3) MR INNOCENT CHUKWU (4) MR UDOCHUKWU ONYEKA (5) MR ADEBIYI OSIJO.

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

SIGNED TRUSTEES YOUTH DEVELOPMENTAL PROFICIENCY AND TRANSFORMATION INITIATIVE

TRUSTEES: 1PASTOR SUNNY NWACHUKWU 2.PASTOR MRS OLUCHI NWACHUKWU 3.MRS CHINWE ARISA 4 ELDER IGWEU DANIEL TOCHUKWU 5 ELDER PHILIP CHIAGHA.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES TO PROMOTE VOCATIONAL AND INFORMAL TRAINING THROUGH WORKSHOPS AND SEMINARS. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION

SIGNED: SECRETARY

OSUMENYI ENYIUKWU BRETHREN THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990 TRUSTEE: 1. MR. JOVITA CHIDIEBERE OGBOLOAGHA -CHAIRMAN 2. MR. OJIEGO EMEKA JUDE 3. OZUEORAH AUSTIN CHUMA AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO PROMOTE AND SUPPORT THE WELFARE AND INTEREST OF OSUMENYI INDIGENES. 2. TO MAKE CONTRIBUTION FOR THE PROMOTION AND ADVANCEMENT OF CHARITABLE AND BENEVOLENT ACTIVITIES IN OUR TOWN OSUMENYI. 3. TO PROVIDE A FORUM FOR SOCIAL AND CULTURAL INTERACTION AMONGST THE ELITES AND NON-ELITES, THE RICH AND THE POOR IN OUR TOWN.

SIGNED: SECRETARY

EUGENE AND BETSY OBA FOUNDATION THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990 TRUSTEES: 1. MRS THELMA ENIE 2. MR. JONATHAN OBI 3. MISS AWELE OBI 4. DR. (MRS) NKECHI BETSY IZUOGU 5. REV. CYRIL ABIAZIE IZUOGU 6. MATHIAS LOTONGO ENIE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES TO HELP THE LESS PRIVILEGE IN THE SOCIETY.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION

SIGNED: SECRETARY.

SIGNED: BARR. UCHE IZUOGU

OUTLOOK CHRISTAIN CENTER

ILOSIWAJU PROGRESSIVE II SOCIETY.

NO 12 IVBIORE QUARTERS, OREGBENI ESTATE, IKPOBAHILL, BENIN CITY, EDO STATE

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CHURCH HAS APPLIED FOR APPOINTMENT OF TRUSTEES TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C. OF THE COMPANY AND ALLIED MATTERS.

The general public is hereby noticed that the above named society has applied to the corporate affairs commission for registration under part ‘C’ of the companies and Allied Act 1 of 1990.

TRUSTEES: 1, Jimoh Isiaka 2, Adelodun Raimi Akanbi 3, Adeshina Sikiru Sadiq 4, Sulieman Saliu Iyanda 5, Abdukareem Muritadoh

TRUSTEES 1. PASTOR JULIUS IZEKOR 2. MRS STELLA EZE 3. MRS. HOPE OSAZUWA 4. MR. LUCKY IMOUKHUEDE 5. MRS. ESTHER IZEKOR

AIMS & OBJECTIVE: 1, To ensure best maritime practices 2, To ensure equity in maritime practices 3, To áct as maritime advocacy.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST ALL OVER THE WORLD. 2. TO TAKE CARE OF THE WELFARE OF ITS MEMBERS. 3. TO ESTABLISH LOCAL BRANCHES FOR THE PROPAGATION OF THE GOSPEL WORLDWIDE.

SIGNED: SECRETARY

The general public is hereby notified that the above Foundation has Applied to the Corporation Affairs Commission Abuja for Registration Under Part “c” of the Companies and Allied Matters Acts, 1990.

GRACE TABERNACLE OUTREACH AND RESTORATION INTERNATIONAL.

AIMS 1. TO PREACH AND PROPAGATE THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST 2. TO WIN AND DISCIPLINE SOULS FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD 3. TO ESTABLISH AND MAINTAIN CHRISTAIN MISSIONS AND MINISTRIES 4. TO PRINT, PUBLISH AND DISTRIBUTE GOSPEL LITERATURE MATERIALS. 5. TO TRAIN AND ORDAIN DEDICATED MEN AND WOMEN FOR THE WORK OF THE GOSPEL. ANY OBJECTION TO THE REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJE WITHING 28 DAYS OF THE PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

AIMS & OBJECTIVE: 1, To promote unity among the members 2, To promote cordial relationship among the members.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar general corporate affairs commission plot 420 tigris crescent of aguiyi ironsi street maitama Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.

SIGNED TRUSTEES

HOUSE OF GRACE IN CHRIST MINISTRY

HEALING FOR ALL GILEAD CHURCH INTERNATIONAL

This is to inform the General Public that the above named MINISTRY has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990.

This is to inform the General Public that the above named CHURCH has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE 1. EFEDJARE EFE 2. EWELE HENRY EHI 3 FELIX OVWIGHO ASAKPA 4 GBOGUREN SILAS

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. HASSAN OLAWUNMI DEBORAH 2. BAMISEBI HELEN OLAJUMOKE 3. HASSAN OLAYINKA FOLAJIMI

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1 To help less privilege youth 2 To breed the future leader 3 To help youth for the upliftment of their profession

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:1. To preach the word of God 2. Edification of the body of Christ 3. Reaching out to soul globally 4. Perfecting of the saints through the Word of God.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. PASTOR EJIKE SAMSON OKOYE 2. MRS. MARY BLESSING OKOYE 3. MRS. ADESIMILOLA ROSELINE SALAKO 4. MR. TEMITOPE LEONARD SPENCER 5. MR. GODWIN GIDEON CHUKWUEBUKA

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 twenty eight (28)days of this publication.

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

This is to inform the General Public that the above named INITIATIVE has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration of trustees under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990 (as amended).

SIGNED: TRUSTEES

SIGNED BY: HASSAN OLAWUNMI DEBORAH

UGBOR DANIEL I formerly known and addressed as UGBOR KELLY DANIEL, now wish to be Known and addressed as UGBOR DANIEL. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note

CHINWENDU NWORAH CHUKWUNONSO

I formerly known and addressed as CHINWENDU FAITH NWORAH, now wish to be Known and addressed as CHINWENDU NWORAH CHUKWUNONSO . All former documents remain valid.

The general public should please take note

INNUNG BONIFACE BONIFACE I formerly known and addressed as INNUNG BONIFACE ANIEDI, now wish to be Known and addressed as INNUNG BONIFACE BONIFACE. All former documents remain valid.

The general public should please take note

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:1. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication SIGNED BY:MAURICE A. MICHAEL EDIDIONG & CO. 08024057909

AGBOOLA OLUSOLA JOEL

OJO ARINOLA ABIBAT

SALISU LAWAL

I formerly known and addressed as SHOLA JOEL, now wish to be Known and addressed as AGBOOLA OLUSOLA JOEL. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note

I formerly known and addressed as MUSTAPHA ABIBAT ARINOLA, now wish to be Known and addressed as OJO ARINOLA ABIBAT. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note

I formerly known and addressed as SALISU LAWAN DIDE, now wish to be Known and addressed as SALISU LAWAL. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note

ENYIDEDE STANLEY

ODUMOSU AYISAT ADUNNI

EMMANUEL FATIMA GOODNESS

MRS AGBALE MARGARET IWEGBU

STELLAMARIS AHMADU

I formerly known and addressed as ENYIDEDE STANLEY UDOCHUKWU, now wish to be Known and addressed as ENYIDEDE STANLEY All former documents remain valid.

The general public should please take note

I formerly known and addressed as AFUAPE AYISAT ADUNNI now wish to be Known and addressed as ODUMOSU AYISAT ADUNNI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note

I formerly known and addressed as ABU FATIMA, now wish to be Known and addressed as EMMANUEL FATIMA GOODNESS. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note

I formerly known and addressed as MISS MARGARET OLATUNBOSUN AGBALE, now wish to be Known and addressed as MRS AGBALE MARGARET IWEGBU. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note

I FORMALLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS STELLAMARIS IBEGBULAM NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS STELLAMARIS AHMADU. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE

PLACE YOUR

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

23 News

Edo: 2016’ll be tough, says Oshiomhole Titus Akhigbe, Benin

ÏÏÏGovernor Adams Osh-

iomhole says the year 2016 would be tough going by the crisis in the economy, triggered by a sharp decline in the national revenue by more than 55 percent. He was, however, optimistic that, even so, his government would perform well.

Speaking during a meeting with traditional rulers from Edo Central Senatorial District, on Tuesday, he said that “it is clear from all indicators that the coming year is likely to be very tough with the continued

decline in revenue and rising expectation on the part of our people and with many state governments, local governments, and perhaps, even some federal agencies, defaulting in the payment of salaries and allowances.

“The level of strike activities in the economy is going to be very high, and the level of unemployment is already unacceptably high and it could get even higher.

“So we have a lot of challenges ahead, but I am very confident that the President is determined and has the political will to do the need-

ful and ensure the country remains stable and safe.

The rest of us, as state governments, have responsibilities, working with the local governments and your good selves, the traditional rulers, to ensure that there is peace.

“In Edo State, we have done our best, even as things are, to ensure that we pay salaries as and when due. I believe our civil servants, teachers etc. have been paid and have got their alerts so they would have something to celebrate their Christmas, but it not likely to be so in many

other states, but we are the heartbeat of the nation. We must be positively different from the rest. So, we are trying to ensure that we sustain this tradition of meeting our wage obligation, because if we do not, I am clear that the consequences would be harsh. But thank God, the year is ending, on a happy note, as in Edo State, we have paid our salaries before the Christmas.”

Oshiomhole gave an assurance to the royal fathers of his commitment to the completion of the EmuOhordua Road, and the construction of a bridge to

link the two communities, saying “the whole idea is to integrate the communities by facilitating movement between them. The bridge will be done in the new year.

We have to get the engineers to review the design in the light of the way the road is now, and you will see work starting there within the first quarter of next year.”

The Onojie of Opoji, HRH Aidenojie Ehidiamen, who spoke on behalf of the traditional rulers, expressed appreciation to the Governor, saying “before your administration, there was no government that has done

anything like this, but you have started well with us and we want this rapport which you have come to establish in Edo State, and we want it to be a continuous one.

Oshiomhole

Ekiti CJ frees 28 awaiting trial inmates

Ebonyi rated high on transparency watch

Gbenga Sodeinde, Ado Ekiti

ÏÏÏResult

Jacob Ogodo, Abakaliki

ÏÏÏEkiti

State Chief Judge, Justice Ayodeji Daramola has ordered the release of 28 awaiting trial inmates from the Federal Prison in Ado Ekiti.

The Chief Judge gave the order after reviewing cases of the 284 Awaiting Trial Inmates in detention during his visit to the prison.

14 of the inmates were unconditionally released by the Chief Judge while the remaining 14 inmates were freed based on the advice of the State Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) that they had no case to answer, with One other inmate was however also granted bail.

Moses Oyediran, Enugu

ÏÏÏGovernor Ifeanyi Ug-

wanyi of Enugu State has approved N220, 000.00 per session to each of the 38 pupils of Inland primary school, Imilike-Enu, Udenu Local Government Area, who were awarded scholarship by the immediate past Governor Sullivan Chime, at the at the grand finale of the 2015 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial and National Assembly campaign.

He disclosed this through the Executive Secretary, Enugu State Scholarship Board, Mrs. Loy Agu, said the handover of cheques to each of the pupils was in fulfillment of the state government promise made during the campaign of Ug-

L-R: Chairman, Forte Oil, Mr. Femi Otedola; Proprietor, Abolarin College, Orangun of Oke-Ila, Oba Dokun Abolarin; his wife, Solape and Ovation Publisher, Chief Dele Momodu during the presentation of one million naira cheque to Abolarin supported by Glo at the Ovation Carol held at Eko Hotels, Victoria Island, Lagos… on Sunday.

of a survey conducted by a non-governmental group, Citizen Anti-Corruption Volunteer Corps, has rated Ebonyi State high on the ladder of transparency and accountability in the management and administration of public funds.

Also enjoying the enviable position with Ebonyi in the survey conducted this year are Rivers, Lagos and Kaduna .

The respondents of the survey were residents of the 36 states of the federation who were interviewed by CACVC.

Ugwuanyi redeems scholarship promise to 38 pupils wuanyi at the local council headquarters, Obollo-Afor.

She advised parents of the 38 pupils to make sure that the pupils were guided properly to enable them reap, in full, the scholarship to university level.

Agu urged the parents to adhere to the terms and conditions of the scholarship scheme, explaining that the major task of the pupils was to excel in their studies from elementary to university level on any course of their choice.

She explained that each of the pupils would get N25, 000 per session at primary school level, N45, 000 at secondary school level per session and N150, 000 at uni-

versity levels per session.

“I insisted that the children be accompanied by their parents to let them understand the terms and condition of the scholarship scheme.

“Any beneficiary, who fails twice in a class, may lose the state scholarship.

By the time the beneficiaries complete senior secondary school certificate and fails twice to gain admission into any university in the country, the board may also withdraw the scholarship from the candidate,” she said.

Agu warned parents not to tamper with the funds released to the pupils, adding that there were several cas-

es where parents channel the funds to other things at the detriment of its sole purpose, which was against the law of the scholarship board. Any parent caught in that act would be prosecuted according to the law as the fund was purely for academic purpose.

She also said that the board carries out an annual verification of the pupils through their report cards and visits their school to ensure that what the pupils submitted was correct, authentic at both primary and post-primary schools.

Also speaking during the ceremony, the Chairman Udenu Local Gov-

ernment Council, Mr. Amaechi Nwodo, thanked the state government for fulfilling its promise to the pupils of Inland primary school, Imilike, adding

that he had never doubted the state government in fulfilling the scholarship awarded to the pupils by former governor Sullivan Chime.

OGBAKU UNITY FORUM THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990 TRUSTEES. 1.MR.EGBO SOLOMON UGOCHUKWU 2.UDEH FRANCIS EKENE 3.OKEKE STANLEY 4.UDEONWE NONSO AIMS AND OBJECTIVES TO PROMOTE UNITY AMONG MEMBERS ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION SIGNED: SECRETARY

News 24

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Families of dead Ebonyi LP supporters warn protesting youths Jacob Ogodo Abakaliki

ÏÏÏFamilies of

the nine Labour Party supporters in Ebonyi state who died in auto crash on the way to witness appeal court judgment in Enugu over the state governorship election, on Tuesday, alleged that the youths who pro-

tested against the deaths of the nine persons were mocking the victims of the auto crash.

Thousands of youths in the state had at the weekend took to the streets of Abakaliki and protested the auto crash, accusing the governorship candidate of the Labour Party in the last general elec-

tion, Chief Edward Nkwegu and former governor of the state, Chief Martin Elechi of shedding blood of the people through incessant road crashes in the state.

Addressing newsmen in Abakaliki on Tuesday, the family members of the victims, including Philip Mgbada, Edward Nwenu,

Michael Nwambam, Ogbonna Ikechukwu and Emeka Nwaji, said the protesting youths were mocking their eight sons and a daughter who died in the ghastly accident.

They recalled that over 90 persons had lost their lives in auto crashes in the state in the last five months without anyone

accused of being behind them and wondered why the current one involving their nine relatives were politicised. ‘’People should stop making mockery of our dead family members. We are seriously mourning our relatives who lost their lives in the auto crash some persons are busy

ANACOWA crisis over

Delta Speaker lists ways to good leadership ÏÏÏAn insight into the robust and pleasant relationship between the legislature and executive in the state was given by the Delta State House of Assembly Speaker, Hon. Monday Igbuya.

The Speaker, in an interactive session with key local government functionaries in Delta State said, “the bitterness that has pervaded the passing of state appropriation bills and other bills as experienced in some states has been clearly absent in Delta State”.

“Since the creation of Delta State, the legislature and executive have continued to enjoy a cordial relationship which has translated to the rapid development of the state” he said.

Igbuya, who harped on the need to maintain the status quo stressed on the three broad duties of the legislature, which include law making, representation and oversight.

ÏÏÏOne of

L-R: Executive Director, Business Development, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Haruna Jalo Waziri; President, NSE, Mr. Aigboje AigImoukhuede; Titi Ogungbesan; Dolapo Akanni; Bimbo Moronkola, and Idris Toriola, all of Stanbic IBTC Stockbrokers Limited at the 2015 NSE CEO Awards held in Lagos… on Monday.

‘Lagos Hajj scheme’ll benefit the poor’ Benjamin Omoike

ÏÏÏThe

Commissioner for Home Affairs in Lagos State, Dr. Abdulateef Abdulhakeem, has said that the Hajj Contributory Scheme which was launched by the Lagos State Ministry of Home Affairs, in conjunction with the Muslim

Pilgrims Welfare Board, is aimed primarily at assisting intending pilgrims of the lower cadre fulfil their religious obligations.

Speaking at the launch with the theme “Pay small small” which was held at De Renaissance Hotel, Ikeja, Abdulkareem said it was important to carry

all and sundry along in the scheme.

“This partnership is particularly of immense benefit to those who cannot afford to make their dream of going to the holy land possible through outright payment of needed fees, while their rich counterparts are able to do so.

Women, equal partners in nation’s development – Group Tunde Fapounda

ÏÏÏNigerian

women elites who have made success in their different endeavours’ have been urged to as a matter of urgency, provide the platform for girls and young ladies alike to become stakeholders in the development of the country.

The call was made by Alhaja Aishah Zakariyau,

mocking them through protest. ‘’We are not happy about this. We wish to sound warning to those concerned to stop mocking us over the death of our sons and daughter. ‘’Further attempt to this kind of demonstration will not be kindly taken’’, they warned.

Chairperson of Shafaudeen Young Women Association at the 2015 anniversary of Shafaudeen in Islam Worldwide held in Ibadan, Oyo State, saying: “It is important for women who do reach the top despite the odds, to help build an overall environment in which all women can thrive.”

She acknowledged that women empowerment has gone beyond gender equal-

ity but rather its benefits are unlimited as it will engender the female folk to be useful partners in the growth and development of the society.

She reiterated the importance of having virtuous women in the society, saying: “We need mothers who are capable of being character builders, patient, loving, strong and true, whose homes will be uplifting

power in the race. It is now time to create a world where every little girl can fulfill her potential without impediment and prejudice”.

She challenged women to come out and take their rightful place. Her words: “Across board, we need women who can take risks, women who are ready to step out against all odds and let courage conquer stupidity”.

Ambode

the founders and leader of the Association of Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association (ANACOWA), Chief Rasaq Aliu Adisa has said that the quarrel between him and the chairman of the association, Alhaji Sulaimon Raji, over election of principal officers has been amicably settled by the Lagos State Chairman of Road Transport Employers Association Nigeria, RETAN, Alhaji Musa Mohammed.

Chief Adisa, who was reacting to a publication claiming division among members of ANACOWA, stated that as a law abiding citizen and loyal member of the association he would never go against constituted authority.

He assured Alhaji Sulaimon Raji Jafo and other executive members of the association of undiluted loyalty and support in running the affairs of ANACOWA. Chief Adisa also explained that he has discontinue the suit filed at Badagry High Court on the matter.

WOMEN FOR POSITIVE PEACE BUILDING INITIATIVE THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990 TRUSTEES: 1. HRH ALH DR MUHAMMADU SAMBO HARUNA, EMIR OF WASE. 2. REV MOSES J. EBUGA. 3. IMRAN ABDULRAHMAN 4. MRS JUSTINA MIKE NGOBIA. 5. HAJIYA KHADIJA HAWAJA GAMBO. 6. LANTANA BAKO ABDULLAHI. 7. ALH SAIDU MUSA AIMS AND OBJECTIVES TO PROMOTE PEACE AMONG WOMEN IN OUR SOCIETY. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION SIGNED: SECRETARY

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

25 Opinion

The Beat Goes On (I)

ÏÏÏ In the spate of a week,

the news from the health sector hasn’t been encouraging - women demonstrated against maternal mortality to the Lagos State House of Assembly. Also patients and their relatives ‘complain of services as facilities wear out at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital’. But Prof.

Onyebuchi Chukwu, former Minister of Health, declared, ‘We are making progress in the health sector’.

When Eedris Abdulkarim sang ‘Nigeria jagajaga, everything scatter, scatter’, the then Head of State, Olusegun Obasanjo (OBJ) rained abuses and curses on, not only the musician, but also on his parents. Any other voice that disagreed with OBJ received the same treatment. It’s on record that at the end of OBJ’s eight-year stay in Aso Rock, everything in Nigeria was ‘jagajaga’ - no social infrastructure: security, provision of basic amenities - healthcare, water, electricity. Alas!

The Nigerian Health System used to be the cynosure of the eyes of powerful nations in the world. We had the best Medical Doctors, Nurses and other Health Workers that Africa could boast of.

Our medical students were second to none. They could conduct spot diagnosis of ailments that took other nations countless hours and supportive equipment to diagnose.

Our Pharmacists, Nurses and even Physiotherapists were also the best on the continent.

In the early 1980s, many of these health workers found greener pastures in other parts of the world such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, USA, Germany, Namibia, South Africa, Papua New Guinea, Australia, New Zealand and United Kingdom.

For the treatment of the minor cold, our statesmen and women (now joined by those who have lined their pockets with money from the cookie jar be they mere ministry workers or contractors) just fly ‘abroad’. To know what steps should be taken to restructure, strengthen, monitor and evaluate health services to Nigerians I spoke with Dr. Tony Marinho, specialist in obstetrics and gyneacology and Dr. Gboye Afolabi, specialist in public health. The two men in the course of their medical profession might have met or/and interacted with Prof.

Isaac Adewole, current Minister of Health. I share the first part of their ideas and suggestions here-below.

Dr. Marinho sees health as the total wellbeing which includes transport, living conditions, power and water supply and national hygiene targets like sanitation in schools and number of houses with toilets. He suggests that once these are fixed there will be reduction in the

Adewole

traffic of patients coming to hospitals. Health Budgets worldwide, he says, are 1520% of budget. Ours has always been much smaller and funds available to support various health policies and guidelines supervised by the Health Ministry at Federal, State and Local Government levels are misapplied.

Therefore we are in deficit and need even more than 25% to ‘catch up’.

Dr. Gboye Afolabi says that according to the World Health Organization, a health system consists of all organisations, people and actions whose primary intent is to promote, restore or maintain health. Also included in the health system are efforts to influence determinants of health as well as more direct health improving activities. The main goal of the nation’s Health System is the improvement of health indicators such as neonatal, infant and childhood mortalities, maternal mortality rates and all other health statistics. Health system includes

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Health Financing, Staff, Instrumentation, Health Administration, Non-health origins of diseases, Research and Development, Health Economics, Health Management and Information, now Health Robotics, Climate Change and Health, Meteorology and Health and many other issues. Afolabi says that we therefore need to urgently deliberate on the entire health system as a well-designed, efficient, effective and functional entity, rather than as a set of interventions targeted to specific diseases or as discrete functional areas.

He suggests that researches are mostly needed on: i. Non-communicable Diseases ii. Women’s Health iii. Obstetrics and Gynecology iv. Mental Health, v. Nutrition and diets, vi. Medical engineering, vii. Sociology, viii. The environment (air pollution - lead, cadmium and

other metals in the air) A vital area which is calling for attention now is the domain of developmental origins of health and disease.

Afolabi believes there should be greater focus on early development of children, especially girl-child education which is a form of safety net. He says there are huge income disparities, inadequate access to diets because of poor living conditions where girls and women are not educated. Women with no education have low income leading to under-nutrition among their children. Therefore education fosters better nutrition. An educated girl is most likely to slide into high income earning group, be more informed about childbearing and recognise early obstetric danger signs. She is more likely to avoid risky sexual behavior.

Dr. Marinho would want there to be supervised supervisors to ensure that work goes on efficiently and bottlenecks removed from the health care system. He goes on to say that quality control, targets, time and motion studies are important in ensuring that the engine of health keeps moving. He suggests Maternal and Infant Mortality meetings wherever there is a labour ward.

Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mr. Mudashiru Obasa, who met with the protesting women mentioned earlier on is reported to have told the women that there were general hospitals in all local governments in the state and that there was hardly any local government in the state where there was no general hospital. Dr Afolabi has got news for Mr. Speaker - ‘Many decision makers have this erroneous belief that by building hospitals, they have provided health for the people, but

nothing is as far removed from the truth as this fallacy. Health system is much more than just building. The health system is certainly much bigger than talking about public health units and hospitals.’ Dr. Marinho also touches on many health facilities nationwide e.g. unused operating theatres and equipment that fall below minimum health standards and suggests that these facilities lacking in service should be closed down temporarily at least. Dr. Afolabi says that most health workers are located in the urban areas of Nigeria but most preventable deaths and diseases occur in the rural areas. Health workers should be encouraged to work in rural areas. These health workers posted to or residing in the rural areas should be compensated and given more incentives by the Federal and State Ministries of Health.

Radical or Rascal?

‘I’m a radical Emir’, says Alhaji Muhammad Sanusi II, Emir of Kano, once known as SLS. Who but a radical emir would ride a camel to the durbar marking the last Eid-El-Kabir in Kano? Your subjects hail your ‘sense of innovation’ which ‘is adding value to the culture’. Looks like since you came to the throne you’d been bringing shades of many colour. Some would say riding a camel as against a horse to a durbar was an act of rascality. The Kano youth, before that day, had never seen an emir on a camel. They now have tales to tell future generations their excitement of that day.

I hope they won’t remember that just few days after the durbar, SLS took a 4th wife, an 18year-old bride.

O’Yemi Afolabi could be reached at: oyemiajike@ gmail.com; Twitter: @ oyemiajike

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26

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Features Æ s

The first high profile personality lookalike Daily Times featured early in the outgoing year was a striking real life Baba Iyabo Olusegun Obsasanjo lookalike, Mr. Lawrence Adesoji Adediji. To shoo 2015 into the recess of history this Christmas week and spice up the season, features editor, GBUBEMI GOD’S COVENANT SNR again presents an astonishing Comrade Governor Adams Oshiomole lookalike. Here, let’s meet Adams Oshiomole’s ‘twin’ brother.

When our features team picked their way down the slope that started from Funmilayo bus stop, Ogba in Lagos to the unmarked Community Street at the belly of Okeira that used to be a thick swampy terrain, No. 26 was not easily distinguishable as no house there carried the Street’s name.

Kudos to the cellphone age; when our correspondent called his number, lo, a man stepped out from a nearby house that, the first question anyone would ask naturally would be: what could Gov Adams Oshiomole be doing here?

When the man waved our team to come on over, even his voice had that hoarse resemblance that would be taken for the Edo State governor’s voice.

Who is this man? Where did he spring from and how can anyone explain this genetic link that paired two people with ethnic and professional diversity as one, almost?

Let’s do the pairing ourselves: While Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole was born 1952 at Iyamoh, near Auchi in Edo State, his identical twin-brother (almost) Ahmed Usman was born in 1961 in Okene town, Okene Local Government Area of Kogi state.

Comrade Oshiomole is currently the Governor of Edo state living in government house, Benin City, Ahmed Usman is a plumber living in a rented room at 26 Community Street, Okeira, Ogba in Ikeja for six years on.

While Oshiomole was born Muslim but was led to Christianity by his late wife Clara who died of cancer aged 54, Ahmed Usman was also born a Muslim and married a Muslim woman. His first born is now 17 and Ahmed wants him to study medicine and be a doctor.

Education After his secondary education, Oshiomole worked for a while

God must have good reasons for making us look alike – Adams Oshiomole’s ‘twin’ brother

Ahmed

Gov Oshiomhole

Plumber Ahmed Usman

before he proceeded to study at Ruskin College, Oxford in the United Kingdom where he majored in economics and industrial relations. He also attended the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru. In May 2015 he married a young model called Lara Fortes.

Ahmed Usman started his primary school at Anglican primary school and went on to complete his secondary school education, both at Mafoluku in Oshodi, Lagos.

After his secondary education Ahmed undertook to learn plumbing work in the absence of

money to further his education.

Today he is a husband and a father to three children and a professional plumber who does maintenance work and also takes on complete plumbing network of blocks of flats as the case may be.

Different strokes for different

strokes, you might say, but let us get to know more about Ahmed Aliu. At what time did you realize you and Gov Oshiomole look twin brothers?

“It is a long time now, since Oshiomole was a labour leader at the NLC around 2003 or so. From when the man became popular people began to look at me with surprise and saying that I must be Oshiomole’s brother.

“Before then I didn’t even know I looked like anyone beside myself. You know I am not particularly handsome so the idea of even thinking about it did not occur to me.

“But when the comment grew everywhere I went I became curious. I used to look at his photograph very well when he appears in newspapers and sometimes on television; that is when he was making trouble with government or companies.”

What were your thoughts when you first saw his photo?

“I was surprised of course; I just can’t think why we should look alike so much. I am not from his town and we are not even from the same tribe or state. I just took it as one of the things about life that nobody can explain, but I think God must have good reasons why he made us look alike.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

27 Features

Community road residence of Ahmed and family

It would be very interesting to meet Gov Oshiomole CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26

Hilarious and uncomfortable moments “One fellow once put my face on face book and someone wrote on the social media that one day he will dress me up like Oshiomole and take me to meet him in Benin, but he never showed up.

“One time also, I was warned be careful where I go or how I move about because kidnappers may snatch me believing I must be the Governor’s brother. So it has been fun, but it has not been easy. Only God has protected me.”

Would you like to meet him, really?

“Why, yes of course; it would be very interesting to meet Adams Oshiomole one-on-one, but that will take money and connection. I imagine you cannot just walk up to government house in Benin (I don’t even know where that is because I have never been to Benin all my life), then say you want to see the governor.

“Even though we look alike, I do not have the heart to walk up to him like that, unless someone who is connected to him will take me there. Some overzealous security man could throw me out. So if that can be done, I think I will look forward to meeting him.”

Probing to see if this man shares any trace of Gov Oshiomole’s no-nonsense-character, Ahmed revealed that he may not be a labour man but he hates anywhere a fellow man or woman is shortchanged or harassed in any way.

“Although I don’t have his background and power to make things happen, but in this my small

community, I don’t take it kindly when anyone is cheated that I know of. I will challenge whoever it is, but I do it with caution. If I don’t say it out I will feel very angry with myself.”

Commenting on death warrants Oshiomole signed which resulted in the hanging of some criminals condemned to death by the courts, Ahmed said he would do same in the Governor’s shoes without hesitation.

“Yes; why not? Why should a criminal who has probably killed somebody and condemned by a legal court be kept alive? I will surely sign it. Yes, if I find myself in his position I will sign the warrant so that the person who killed another person must die also.”

If and when you meet Gov Oshiomole face-to-face, what exactly would you say to him?

“I will tell him how people have been telling me wherever I went that I must be your brother; they don’t even believe me when I say we are not related.

“I will also tell him of the danger I faced because people warned that kidnappers may snatch me thinking I am really your relation. So for good and for danger, I have been in a spot because God decided to make us look like each other.

“I will ask him for his opinion, and after I hear him out, I will wait and see what he will do for me, because I am a common plumber and living in a rented room with my wife and three children. I too can do with a change of position and environment.”

On Lagos State Government

“I wish they will do better according to their election promises. If a man promise something to the people and they believe him and vote for him, he must fulfill the things he said he will do.

“Like this our road, if I were a governor and I had promised I will asphalt this road and I am not able do so, I will tell the people why I cannot do so, and after that I will resign.”

Message to Oshiomole: “I really look forward to meeting Gov Oshiomole, not only because we look alike so much, but also because God must have reasons for making us look alike.

I am daily bombarded by people who call me Adams Oshiomole instead of my real name, Ahmed; yet I am here suffering lack of everything.

“How can a person that looks so much like me be a governor and it does not rob off on me and my family? Even if on account of my work as a plumber, let him make a difference. I can work for government as a plumber: I know my work very well.

“That is my message to him.

Thank you.”

The mysteries of genetics Daily Times sought the view of a steward of the mysteries, a cleric and geneticist, Mr. Ovie Daniels who threw some light into the capacity of the God to confound science and reason by the works of His hands. Hear him: The Creator is God of multiduplicity; there is no character in the Bible you cannot see in our world today. We have seen some local Yoruba or Igbo woman paint

At one time I was warned to be careful where I go and how I move about because kidnappers may snatch me believing I must be the Governor’s brother. So it has been fun, but it has not been easy. Only God has protected me – Ahmed Usman their faces, draw eyelashes in a crazy way and wear wide earrings - and you remember Jezebel in the Bible, yet the women may be stark illiterates but yet she will have the same nature and penchant to exhibit all that jezebel did in the Scriptures – and God has been doing things like that either for positive or negative.

On the issue of lookalike, it just goes to show that, apart from the formal training, there are some

Ahmed, wife and daughter

information that clearly show that behavior and character are not relative; you do not get it from anybody otherwise you will not have Obasanjo lookalike having the same mannerism and temperament with Obasanjo when nobody in his family ever had it.

It is just one of those things that show the supremacy of God and to show that our knowledge is still very limited compared to what God has established.

Eagles S

Igbonu

Page 28

forward, Igbonu buries dad

uper Eagles striker, Sylvester Igbonu’s dad died on Saturday, November 19 and was buried in his home in Owerri.

The Russian-based star striker, arrived in Owerri with top Super Eagles players, like Izunna Uzochukwu, Lukman Haruna, and other top Russian-based stars, as well as President-General of the Nigeria Football Supporters Club, Rafiu Ladipo, among other eminent personalities for the final burial

rites of his late father Pa Basil Chukwuemeka Igbonu.

The bereaved Nigeria international said: “I am currently with my family in country town Amachara Umuchima compound in Ihiagwa in Owerri West Local Government area in Imo State for my dad’s final burial, in this grieving moment. My darling dad was my biggest motivation.

“My dad was my best friend. All I have done and all I will do in my life will be to make him proud.”

Chelsea will improve, says Courtois g 31

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Wolfsburg promise

Flamingoes face Namibia in World Cup clash

N

Osimhen

igeria’s female U-17 team, the Flamingoes, will host Namibia in a 2016 World Cup qualifier in the weekend of January 8 and 10 in Abuja.

The Flamingoes, who reached the quarterfinal of the World Cup last year, have been training in Abuja ahead of the two-legged qualifier under the watchful eyes of Coach Bala Nkiyu, who was also in charge of the team last year.

The 2016 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup will be hosted by Jordan.

first-team football

ANDREW EKEJIUBA

G

erman Bundesliga Wolfsburg have promised U-17 World Cup star Victor Osimhen firstteam football when he clocks 18.

The record-breaking Osimhen has visited Wolfsburg and a verbal agreement has been agreed between the German club and his representatives and he is expected to sign a professional contract next year December, when he will be 18.

“One thing that was crucial in our discussions with Wolfsburg is that he will be part of the first-team squad as soon as he

turns 18. This is very key to his development,” said one of his representatives, Ariyo Igbayilola.

Wolfsburg and English Premier League outfit Arsenal are in a straight fight for the signature of the U-17 World Cup sensation with one of the youngster’s handlers disclosing it is now “90% certain” the lad will be headed for Germany.

Osimhen and his team are due back in Nigeria from Germany soon.

The young striker is vying for the CAF Youth Player of the Year along with Eaglets skipper Kelechi Nwakali, who was voted the MVP of the 2015 U-17 World Cup.

Akwa Utd yet to get reward for historic cup win

Akwa United line up before a match.

Osimhen

A

month after they won a historic Federation Cup, Akwa United players are yet to get the reward of a house and two million Naira each promised by State Governor Udom Gabriel Emmanuel.

Akwa beat Lobi Stars 2-1 to win the 2015 Federation Cup in the final played at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos on November 21.

Players of the team revealed that they are yet to get the two million Naira and house promised each of them by the governor as a reward for clinching a firstever.

“Up till now we haven’t been given the house and the money the governor promised us for winning the Federations Cup,” lamented one of the players.

“Our families and friends don’t believe us that we are yet to get the largesse as they see us as liars. We are pleading to the governor to fulfill these promises and make us smile.”

Another player said the promises raised

Female U-17 team

their hopes, but they are down as these pledges have not yet be redeemed.

It was also gathered that the players were only paid half salary for the month of November with an excuse from the management that they do not have money to pay full salary.

Meanwhile, champions Enyimba have completed the signing of Dare Ojo to beat Sunshine Stars to the highly-rated Kwara United midfielder.

Ojo posted an eye-catching performance with some spectacular goals and all-round displays even though Kwara made a prompt return to the lower league.

Sunshine were also closing in on Ojo before Enyimba swooped on the midfielder.

Enyimba have also signed former Nigeria U-20 midfielder Oladapo Olufemi from another relegated club, Bayelsa United.

Olufemi, who was once on the books of Belgian giants Anderlecht, has also featured for Shooting Stars.

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

EXTRATIME

Eagles star,

Omagbemi

Simon weds

cheats death in Super League playoff

heartthrob Dec 29

Super Eagles forward Moses Simon will marry his heartthrob Sarah in Ibadan on December 29.

Several Eagles officials are expected to grace the occasion.

The engagement was staged in Abuja earlier this year.

It has been a most eventful year for Kaduna-born Simon after he helped Gent to clinch the Belgian league championship and established himself in the Super Eagles.

He also featured at the 2015 FIFA U20 World Cup in New Zealand.

F

k c a i D faces ‘heavy’ cor r uption charges

F

Simon

29

ormer IAAF president, Lamine Diack, has been hit with heavier charges suggesting he was an active participant in connection with cover-ups of Russian doping.

An official with the Paris financial prosecutor’s office said

that Diack is now accused of “active corruption.” He had previously been accused of “passive corruption.”

The official told foreign media that the new preliminary charges center on suspicions that Diack bribed Gabriel Dolle, the IAAF’s former anti-doping chief who is also under

Diack

investigation, to delay reporting of violations by Russian athletes.

The official was not authorised to be publicly named speaking about an ongoing investigation.

The preliminary charges allow magistrates more time to investigate before deciding whether to send a case to trial.

ormer Nigeria U-23 striker Dudu Omagbemi cheated death on Sunday while in action for Goa FC in the Indian Super League playoffs final.

Goa FC lost 3-2 to Chennaiyin FC after Goa led 2-1 till 90th minute.

Omagbemi lasted for nine minutes after he was unconscious following an incident.

The former Wisla Kraków of Poland forward was hit with elbow on the neck by an opponent and he blacked out for several minutes.

“How we lost the trophy was frustrating because we were almost there till the concluding minute,” Omagbemi said.

“I played just nine minutes because of an accident in which I was hit on my neck by a player and that was all I knew because I was unconscious for minutes.

“I regained consciousness inside the ambulance on the way to the hospital and I asked what happened and where I was. They then explained to me what went wrong.

“They examined and scanned my head as they told me I hit my head on the ground, but the scan showed no issue that I am okay. I thank God.”

30

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

EXTRATIME

Strootman pays tribute to Roma

Neymar

Dybala, Neymar can be Ballon d´Or contenders –Veron

P

aulo

Dybala h a s t h e potential to challenge for the Ballon d’Or in a similar manner to Barcelona star Lionel Messi, according to former Argentina international Juan Sebastian Veron.

Dybala endured a tricky opening to his debut season in Turin as Juventus’ Serie A title defence got off to a stuttering start - the 22-year-old forward initially struggling for starts under Massimiliano Allegri.

However, the former Palermo striker has since become a regular feature for the champions, who have surged to fourth after seven consecutive league wins.

Dybala has scored three times in his last five outings - boasting 10 goals in all competitions - leaving Veron to suggest the forward and Neymar could consistently challenge for the Ballon d’Or like Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

When asked if Dybala and Neymar were set to become longterm rivals like Messi and Ronaldo, former Inter and Sampdoria midfielder Veron said: “The talent is there, then it depends on continuity, the victories, the trophies.

“Messi is Messi, but it would be nice if, after Leo, there was another Argentinean to dominate.

He should be left alone, but I have great hope for Dybala.”

J

Strootman

R

oma midfielder Kevin Strootman has issued a message of thanks to the club and its supporters as he continues his recovery from knee surgery.

The Netherlands international has been unable to play this season after a third operation to correct a problem with his knee cartilage but he insisted he has never felt forgotten at the Stadio Olimpico.

“I feel really supported by the club. From

the first surgery until now they’ve always supported me: the directors, the coaches, my team-mates … everybody who’s involved at the club.

“Also the supporters, I get a lot of support from them, especially in the tough periods like when I had to have another surgery.

“The support that I get from everybody feels so good, and it gives me a lot of confidence and power to come back.

“We’re now three months after the surgery and up to now it’s gone really well. I have to see where we stand after four months and then I can say when I can start to train with the team.

“I feel good, I feel fit and I feel confident. I think that’s important, I didn’t feel that way before the surgery.”

Strootman, briefly returned to action at the beginning of this year after a ligament injury only to break down again.

I Melo hit with three-game ban

Melo

uventus director Giuseppe Marotta believes Inter remain favourites for the Serie A crown, despite his club’s sevenmatch winning streak.

Mario Mandzukic scored twice as in-form Juve prevailed 3-2 against Capri on Sunday, while league leaders Inter lost 2-1 at home to Lazio ahead of the Christmas break.

Juve’s come-from-behind win over the weekend saw the Turin-based club move within three points of Inter but Marotta told reporters that, “Inter are the team to beat.

“Mancini is clever to try and downplay their position by saying that the championship is a straight fight between Fiorentina, Napoli and Juventus.

nter midfielder Felipe Melo has been banned for three matches following his high kick on Lazio captain Lucas Biglia.

The Brazilian - who three minutes earlier had clumsily given away the deciding penalty - planted a boot on his opponent’s shoulder towards the end of Inter’s 2-1 defeat at San Siro and was issued a straight red card for the offence.

Serie A have now deemed that the incident classifies as “deliberate violent conduct” and have issued a three-game suspension, meaning Melo will sit out the clashes with Empoli, Sassuolo and Atalanta in January.

Roma striker Edin Dzeko has been given a two-game ban, meanwhile, as a result of “repeatedly addressing the referee with abusive language” in the 2-0 win over Genoa on Sunday.

The Bosnia-Herzegovina forward will miss the trip to Chievo on January 6 and the home clash with AC Milan four days later.

Atalanta have also been slapped with a €15,000 fine after supporters were found guilty of “chants expressing discrimination relating to territorial origin” against Napoli.

Inter still favourite for Scudetto, says Marotta “However, Inter are a club with a rich history with a very experienced coach who has assembled a squad of players with, if not the highest quality, a highly competitive spirit.”

Juve have won eight of their last nine games, easing the pressure on Coach Massimiliano Allegri, but Marotta said the club never considered letting go of last season’s Serie A-winning coach.

“Football today burns too fast,” the 58-yearold said. “A few negative results and clubs are plunged into a crisis. It’s up to the leaders not to

listen to criticism which is why we shut up like a clam and maintained our support for our coach and the team.

“We have been rewarded with an upturn in results and performances and that has come through patience and the great professionalism of Allegri.

“At this moment I don’t think there is any need to be active in the January transfer window as I believe we are strong enough.”

BRIEFS Gotze steps up Bayern comeback

W

hile the rest of the Bayern Munich squad is enjoying a mid-season break, attacker Mario Gotze is stepping up his recovery after a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Gotze injured his groin representing Germany in a 1-0 Euro 2016 qualifying defeat against Republic of Ireland in October.

Perez: Madrid are the symbol of Spain!

R

eal Madrid president Florentino Perez believes his club are the symbol of Spain and thus have an obligation to set an example for everyone else. Madrid are the most successful side in European football thanks to a combined 10 European Cup and Champions League trophies, but they have been criticised this season with the Spanish capital club third in La Liga under embattled Coach Rafael Benitez.

Mancini denies squad disharmony at Inter

R

oberto Mancini has rubbished claims of a rift within the Inter squad following their defeat at home to Lazio. Inter crashed to a 2-1 loss against Lazio on Sunday, which was followed by reports Mancini and some of his players were involved in a spat during and after the Serie A clash. Felipe Melo conceded a penalty in the dying stages as Lazio stunned the league leaders, with Mancini later saying the Brazilian’s stupidity ruined Christmas for the club.

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

EXTRATIME

BRIEFS

T

hibaut Courtois says Chelsea have the quality in their squad to start climbing the Premier League table under interim manager Guus Hiddink.

The Blues beat Sunderland 3-1 on Saturday in their first game after Jose Mourinho left the club following a dismal run of results that left Chelsea languishing in the bottom six of the table.

With that win under their belt, Belgium international Courtois believes things will start to get better under Hiddink, who will now begin his second short-term stint at the club with a trip to Watford on Boxing Day. “He was here before, he did very well and I think he’s a very good manager,” Courtois told reporters. “Hopefully together we can climb back up the table and we’re looking forward to starting working with him.

“Obviously when a manager goes it’s a difficult situation.

Everybody is sad about what

Ozil on

track for Assists Record

M

esut Ozil is on course to break the Premier League record for

assists.

The Arsenal midfielder set up Aaron Ramsey for the Gunners’ second in their 2-0 win at Aston Villa on Sunday, making it 13 assists in 15 Premier League appearances this term for the German.

Ozil has more assists than any other top-flight player this term by some distance - Everton’s Gerard Deulofeu is second with seven and he is just seven behind the record, held by Arsenal’s Thierry Henry.

Ozil has 22 Premier League matches left this season to surpass the 20 assists recorded by Henry in 2002/03.

However, the case of Chelsea’s Cesc Fabregas last season suggests it won’t necessarily be straightforward for Ozil to break the record.

The Spanish midfielder had 15 Premier League assists to his name in the first half of 2014/15.

He managed just three more after New Year’s Day, finishing two short of Henry’s record mark.

31

Henry slams Van Gaal over use of Martial

F

ormer Arsenal forward Thierry Henry has slammed Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal’s use of Anthony Martial.

Martial, a €50million signing from Monaco in the off-season, had gone nine games without a goal in the Premier League before Saturday’s 2-1 loss at home to Norwich City.

The France international has often been played out wide under Van Gaal, but Henry believes the 20-yearold should always be the focal point of United’s attack.

Chelsea’ll improve, says Courtois happened because we haven’t played well and won games, so we have to react and do better.

“Whatever has happened with

Mourinho stays in the past and now we want to work hard with the new manager to get a good result against Watford.”

Pedro denies Chelsea exit talk

Courtois

And the goalkeeper is keen for Chelsea to now build on the positive showing against Sunderland in a bid to save their season.

o nh uti Co focused on trophies for Reds P hilippe Coutinho is confident Jurgen Klopp can help him win his first major trophy with Liverpool this season.

The Reds are currently ninth in the Premier League table, but are through to the semi-finals of the Capital One Cup - where they face Stoke City in January - and have drawn German side Augsburg in the last 32 of the Europa League.

Liverpool also meet League Two

side Exeter City in the third round of the FA Cup next month.

After arriving at Anfield from Inter Milan in January 2013, Liverpool came agonisingly close in 2013/14 when they finished second to Manchester City in the Premier League and Coutinho believes Klopp’s arrival has revitalised the squad.

“We’re all focused on fighting for trophies and I think we have a great chance in the competitions

B

oudewijn Zenden says criticism of manager Louis van Gaal from explayers is not helping Manchester United’s situation and claims the Christmas period could be make-or-break for his fellow

Only wins can save Van Gaal –Zenden

helsea winger Pedro says he is eager to begin work under Guus Hiddink and has denied suggestions he wants to leave Stamford Bridge. Injury problems and the Premier League champions’ dismal domestic form has made the former Barcelona forward’s start to life in England a difficult one. Some reports have claimed Pedro could consider quitting the club as soon as January but the Spain international insists he is relishing the chance to play under the new boss.

Forlan warns Cavani over EPL interest

D Philippe Coutinho (left) has flourished under Jurgen Klopp. we’re in,” Coutinho said.

“I’m very grateful to the club and now I hope to be able to help the team win trophies, it’s very important to keep battling.”

Coutinho has been in fine form this season and has scored four goals in nine games since Klopp took over as manager in October, with the German making him a focal point of Liverpool’s attacking play.

The 2

Dutchman.

The pressure has been cranked up on Van Gaal following a six-match winless streak and a run of three consecutive defeats,

Van Gaal

C

iego Forlan would recommend a move to the Premier League for former Uruguay team-mate Edinson Cavani, but says the Paris SaintGermain striker is comfortable and enjoying his football in France. Cavani has long been linked with a move to England’s top flight - with Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal all rumoured destinations over recent seasons. Despite questions over Cavani’s future, Forlan suggested his former Uruguay team-mate should think carefully before contemplating an exit.

including a loss to Wolfsburg that eliminated United from the Champions League, in their last three outings.

There has been speculation United could turn to Jose Mourinho, who left Chelsea by mutual consent last week, to replace Van Gaal if results do not improve.

United greats Paul Scholes and Roy Keane are among those to have taken aim at Van Gaal’s methods this season, public criticism Zenden believes has been unhelpful.

But the former Netherlands international - who played

under Van Gaal during his time at Barcelona - knows the manager must pick up points in matches against Stoke City, Chelsea and Swansea City to disprove his doubters.

“He has the crowd against him and there’s pressure on him and the management. Explayers having their say isn’t making it any easier,” Zenden said.

Although speculation over Van Gaal’s future is rampant, Zenden believes United’s hierarchy are satisfied by the manager’s work.

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WEdnESdaY, dEcEmBER 23, 2015

VOL. 2. NO.7

Diack faces ‘heavy’

Price: n150

g

Melo

29

hit with three-game ban g 30

corruption charges

FIFA: My

presidential ambition on course

—Platini

M

ichel Platini called Fifa’s eight year ban a “kick in the teeth” but vowed in an interview on Tuesday to fight on for the presidency of world football’s governing body.

The Fifa vice president and Uefa leader condemned the ethics committee that banned him on Monday but said he would “fight to clear my name.”

Platini’s lawyer has said his client still hopes to stand in the FIFA presidential election despite being hit with an eightyear ban from football.

Platini and Sepp Blatter were the presidents of UEFA and FIFA respectively before being banned from all footballing activity on Monday.

FIFA’s ethics committee handed down the punishment for a conflict of interest in a two million Swiss franc (£1.35 million) payment that is also being investigated by Swiss authorities.

The ban is a massive blow to Platini, who had been hoping to succeed Blatter by winning the Feb. 26 election next year.

The former France international, who described the process that condemned him as a “real farce,” is currently forbidden from standing in the FIFA presidential election.

But one of his lawyers, Thomas Clay, believes Platini could yet get his name on the ballot paper if his appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) is successful.

Michel Platini has begun an eightyear ban from football.

“The schedule is tight but it only needs the CAS to give their verdict around January 15-20 -- which

is quite possible in the state of proceedings -- so that Michel Platini might be authorised to compete,” Clay told reporters.

“He hasn’t given up on his schedule at all. That he wants to be cleared is obviously a major concern for him but that doesn’t mean that he has given up on his FIFA candidacy.”

Prince Ali bin al-Hussein, Jerome Champagne, Gianni Infantino, Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al-Khalifa and Tokyo Sexwale are currently the five confirmed candidates to stand for the FIFA presidency.

Business Times Daily Times Nigeria

Job creation: Presidency engages private sector Page B2

Stanbic IBTC appeals court ruling on Starcomms private placement Page B4

2016: FG promises genuine reforms to boost investment Page B3

Nigeria can generate $8bn from commercial gas in 15 years - Minister Nigeria can generate 7.5 billion dollars in 15 years if the government can end gas flaring and utilize gas for commercial purposes, Minister of Environment, Mrs. Amina Mohammed, has said.

The minister made the statement yesterday in Abuja while briefing newsmen on the outcome of the Paris Agreement on CONTINUED ON PAGE B2

ETI appoints Charles Kié MD designate of Ecobank Nigeria

to reflect the fast changing market fundamentals.

It is also necessary to underscore that in subsequent years, the dynamics of non-OPEC supply were clouded by uncertainties.

However, OPEC says the medium- to long-term analysis and trends from this year’s WOO remain relevant.

Some specific highlights from the 2015 WOO include OPEC’s stand, that global energy demand is set to increase by almost 50 percent in the period to 2040, with the overall energy mix continuing to be led by fossil fuels at almost 78 percent; combined.

Oil and gas are expected to account for around 53percent of the global energy demand by 2040, while medium-term oil demand is revised upward, compared to the WOO 2014, rising above 97 million barrels a day (mb/d) by 2020.

OPEC also said oil demand was projected to be at 110 mb/d by 2040, and long-term demand would be dominated by the developing Asia region, which accounts for 70 percent of the increase by 2040.

WOO 2015 also stated that nonOPEC liquids supply increased from 56.5 mb/d in 2014 to around

Board of directors of Ecobank Nigeria has announced the appointment of Mr. Charles Kie as the new Managing Director Designate of Ecobank Nigeria Limited effective January 1, 2016 subject to the approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria and other regulatory requirements.

Mr. Kie was successfully selected as Managing Director after a rigorous selection process which included both internal candidates within Ecobank as well as external candidates.

Prior to this new appointment, Mr. Charles Kie was the Group Executive, Corporate and Investment Bank for Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI), responsible for leading the Ecobank Group’s Corporate and Investment Banking business across the global network of 40 countries, 36 of which are in Africa.

Mr. Kie represents ETI on the Board of Directors of EBI.SA, the Ecobank subsidiary in France as well as Ecobank Development Corporation (EDC), the investment banking arm of the Ecobank Group.

Mr. Kie joined Ecobank in October 2011 as Chief Operating Officer of the then Ecobank Capital, and was subsequently appointed the Head of the Group’s Corporate Banking business.

Before joining the Ecobank Group, between 2008 and 2011,

CONTINUED ON PAGE B2

CONTINUED ON PAGE B2

Charles Okonji

“Instead, we turned around to import fuel and pay huge subsidies to fuel importers thereby wasting huge scarce foreign exchange as subsidy. MAN believes that the downstream petroleum sector should be privatized in order to save the country from wasting the huge forex paid as subsidy.”

“Some years back, many refining companies applied for licenses and we do not know what happened to those applications or why those companies that were granted licenses did not start operation? Why does the Govern-

ment have to subsidize fuel imports when such subsidies, some of which are even ambiguous, would have been channeled to streamlining the refining capacities of existing refineries or even establishing new ones? The solution appears to tilt towards the privatization of the sector so that Government would hands off subsidy payment.” He said.

Udemba advised that to avoid perceived abuse of foreign exchange allocation and save the Naira, the management of forex which is vested on a Committee

L-R: Anyanwu Camillus, Surveilliance & Enforcement unit, Consumer Protection Council; Ope Wemi-Jones, Group Head, Inclusive Banking, Access Bank Plc; Victor Etuokwu, Executive Director, Personnel Banking, Access Bank Plc; Celine Loader, Board Advisor, Corporate Strategy & Business Development, Seplat and Osayi Alile, former Chairperson, WIMBIZ, at the final draw of Access Bank’s Women Let’s Save promo in Lagos recently.

OPEC forecasts oil demand to rise to 97m bpd by 2020 Opeoluwani Akintayo Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) has said mediumterm oil demand would move upward from the current 31.5 million to 97 million barrels per day by 2020.

This is contained in the 2015 OPEC World Oil Outlook (WOO) which will be launched today in Vienna, Austria.

First published in 2007, the WOO offers a thorough review and assessment of various scenarios related to the mediumand long-term development of the upstream and downstream

Jacobs

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

sectors of the oil industry.

The publication is a reference tool which provides keen insights into key industry issues, such as demand and supply, refining, investments, costs, policies and sustainable development. It also outlines the challenges and opportunities that the industry may face in the future.

In this year’s WOO, given the ever-shifting dynamics of today’s global oil market, alongside the need to freeze the outlook’s modeling processes and certain assumptions by midyear, some of the short-term numbers have naturally shifted

Petroleum subsidy, a major source of forex wastage — MAN

Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has warned that the on-going subsidy on importation of petroleum products is a major source of forex wastage in Nigeria.

Dr Frank Udemba Jacobs, President, MAN, who stated this in a statement made available to Daily Times, noted that Nigeria should not have relied on fuel importation to meet the fuel requirement of the nation, stressing that a number of refineries owned by Nigeria currently lying waste.

CONTINUED ON PAGE B2

Business News B2

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Petroleum subsidy, a major source of forex wastage — MAN

ETI appoints Charles Kié MD designate of Ecobank Nigeria

CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1

CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1

Charles Kie was Group CEO of Groupe Banque Atlantique, based in Togo and then Cote d’Ivoire.

Groupe Banque Atlantique (now majority owned by Banque Centrale Populaire of Morocco) had operations in 8 countries in West Africa and 1 in Central Africa as well as a representative Office in Paris (France).

Mr. Kie also had a successful career with Citibank between 1997 and 2008, rising to the position of CEO of Citigroup West Africa between 2004 and 2008. Mr. Kie is a graduate of Ecole Superieure de Commerce d’Abidjan (Cote d’Ivoire), has an MBA from the London School of EconomicsNew York University Stern-HEC Paris, and an MSc from the University Of Clermont Ferrand France. He has attended the Harvard Business School- Advanced Management Program. An Ivorian national, Kie is fluent in both English and French.

OPEC forecasts oil demand to rise to 97m bpd by 2020 CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1

60 mb/d in 2020, a downward revision of 1mb/d compared to the WOO 2014.

By 2040, non-OPEC liquids supply is expected to fall below 60 mb/d, as OPEC’s crude expands by 10 mb/d to a level of 40.7 mb/d by 2040 – an increase of 1 mb/d compared with last year’s publication.

The long-term value of the OPEC reference basket is assumed to rise from more than $70/b in 2020 to $95/b by 2040 (both in 2014 dollars).

OPEC said it was important to stress, however, that the assumed prices do not represent a price forecast or a desired price path, as they are a working assumption for the reference case scenario.

The 2015 WOO also stated that at the global level, oil-related investments required to cover future demand for oil over the forecast period 2015–2040, is estimated at almost $10 trillion at 2014 prices even though economic situations in member countries of OPEC have been thrown into turmoil following the continuous drop in oil prices in 2015.

Buhari

Job creation: Presidency engages private sector Joy Ekeke Deputy Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, Mr. Rahman Ade Ipaye, has said job creation as a top priority of the Buhari Administration required private sector partnership.

This has informed the setting up of a job creation co-coordinating hub within the Office of the Vice President. The Job Creation Hub, JCHub is to synergize the efforts of government to facilitate the creation of sustainable jobs for the millions of unemployed Nigerians as a demonstration of the Government’s commitment to solving this problem.

Mr. Ipaye said this yesterday at a high-level meeting between public and private stakeholders on the development of a “Strategic Framework for Job Creation and Youth Employment in Nigeria.”

He also emphasized the importance of Industry partnering with the Federal Government to outline a realistic Job Creation Implementation Plan that could take deal decisively with the urgency of the unemployment situation.

The roundtable which was hosted at the State House Banquet Hall, Aso Villa, Abuja, was to validate and gather inputs from both the public and private sector participants on the job creation strategic framework that is currently been finalized by the Job Creation Unit of the Presidency working with global development

experts – the Dalberg Global Development Advisors in collaboration with the UK Department for International Development (Dfid) and Ford Foundation.

“We also gathered to map out ways the public, private and social sectors can play a key role in working together to drive job creation in Nigeria,” Ipaye said.

According to the Senior Special Assistant Job Creation and Youth Employment in the Presidency Afolabi Imoukhuede, the goal of the JCHub is to, among other things, achieve the following objectives: “Coordinating Hub which brings together stakeholders to pool resources, influence and knowledge of exciting market opportunities and initiatives in a systemic manner, leveraging on Government’s renewed focus and investment.”

In conjunction with relevant MDAs, create the enabling levers for effective education to employment solutions to scale up in other to actualize the shared National vision of Job Creation & Youth Employment.

He also said the functional goals of this JCHub will include but not limited to: “Engagement with employers (big/medium/ small) to facilitate linkage of youth to training and employment and providing them economic incentives that are tied to desired outcomes of improving the skills competency and certification systems and job placements.”

chaired by the Governor of the CBN should monitor utilisation of forex by recipients by remitting funds directly to the beneficiary company overseas.

According to him, the country cannot afford to allow the Naira to flow freely without any check, stressing that MAN believes that this arrangement will allow the exchange rate to be determined by the market but with some moderations.

He added; “This will also leave room for investors to be attracted to invest in the country. This will also assist in checking the ugly situation that took place during the SAP era where, as a result of devaluation, over 60 per cent of small and medium scale industries closed down because of their inability to sustain their operations.”

“The solution appears to tilt towards the privatization of the sector so that Government would hands off subsidy payment. Re-

striction on dollar inflow should be lifted but this should not preclude CBN’s duty of investigating sources of such incomes.”

Udemba said to avoid perceived abuse of foreign exchange allocation and save the Naira, the management of forex which is vested on a committee chaired by the Governor of the CBN should monitor the utilisation of forex by recipients by remitting funds directly to the beneficiary company overseas.

“MAN would like to advise CBN to stop funding Bureau de Change market. It is difficult to understand why in the first instance, those outfits should depend on official allocation of forex by the CBN for their survival.

The bureau de change market should provide alternative funding window to the economy, in which case, they should source their forex independently from other sources and supply to the forex market,” he noted.

Nigeria can generate $8bn from commercial gas in 15 years - Minister CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1

Climate Change.

The agreement provides a framework for keeping average global temperature below two degrees Celsius.

Mohammed said that the Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) submitted

by Nigeria as its contribution to the agreement was aimed at reducing emission by 20 per cent by 2030.

Reduction of emission, the minister noted, could act as catalyst to achieve economic diversification and assist economic restructuring in a way that would facilitate inclusive growth with vast opportunities.

She listed some of the opportunities to include substantial increase in the use of climate smart agriculture through irrigation systems, climate resilient crops and broader Sustainable Land Management (SLM) practices. ``Given the climate risks that Nigeria faces, this is the only way in which the government ambitious Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA) can be delivered,’’ she said.

Mohammed listed other opportunities to include diversifying the energy mix with emphasis on renewable energy and efficient gas power. ``In particular, we plan to generate around 13GW of off-grid solar power, delivering energy

access to the poorest communities in a cheaper, healthier manner with less emission,’’ she said.

The minister also stated that reducing emission would create greener, more resilient and pleasant cities to live in. ``Nigerian cities are now adopting global best practices with low-carbon transport solutions. ``For example, bus rapid transit system is already in operation in Lagos. ``More can be done and will be done to promote urban transit solution that will reduce emissions and unblocks congestion and provide huge stimulant to productivity,’’ she said.

To deliver the agenda for change, Mohammed stressed the need for the nation’s climate plans to ``align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).’’

Amina Mohammed

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

B3 Money Market

2016: FG promises genuine reforms to boost investment Stories by Motolani Oseni Federal Government has said it is poised to bring about genuine reforms to boost and improve ease of doing business in the country.

Speaking yesterday at the 12th Annual Corporate Financial Reporting Summit, organized by Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC) with theme: “National Code of Corporate Governance For Nigeria: A New Dawn in Compliance” The Minister of Industry Trade & Investment, Dr. Ikechukwu Enelamah, stated the current administration was aiming at enhancing investment climate in Nigeria, adding that relevant stakeholders need to consolidate the efforts of the government to ensure provision of enabling investment environment in the country.

The minister who was represented by a director in the Ministry of Industry, Trade & Investment, Alhaji Ajiya Mamman, noted that the on-going unification of codes of corporate governance for private and public sector entities in Nigeria and appropriate regulation was

Heritage Bank restates commitment to SMEs NIBOR as @ Dec. 22, 2015 Tenor

Rate (%)

Change (%)

1M

1.1461

0.14 ?

2M

1.2318

-0.18 ?

3M

2.8964

-0.02 ?

6M

5.0635

0.31 ?

9M

7.783

0.56 ?

12M

8.2569

-0.25 ?

L-R: Divisional Head, Retail Bank, Fidelity Bank Plc. (FBP), Richard Madiebo; Regional Manager, Anglophone West Africa, MoneyGram, Kemi Okusanya; Executive Director, Lagos and South West (FBP), Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe and Regional Bank Head, Apapa Regional Bank (FBP), Obaro Odeghe at the unveiling of brand New KIA RIO (Grand Prize) for the MoneyGram Scratch and Win promotion held at the Bank’s Head Office in Lagos on Tuesday.

the foundation for creating the enabling environment for businesses to thrive, stressing that it is important to clear unambiguous and documented policies by which enterprises are regulated.

While commending participants, the minister stated:” I am

confident that the proper implementation of this National Code of Corporate Governance will lead to further attraction of foreign direct investment with the resultant effect on employment generation for Nigerians.”

Earlier in his welcome address,

the Executive Secretary/CEO, FRC, Mr. Jim Obazee Osayande, pointed that the annual corporate financial reporting summit has, in the 12 years of its existence, continued to assume its place due largely to the fact that its objective support consultation

Heritage Bank Limited has restated its commitment to the development and sustenance of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises as a major plank to address youth employment in the country.

Managing Director of the bank, Mr. Ife Sekibo stated this at the final of the Next Titans, a Proudly Nigerian Entrepreneurial Reality Television show

by FICOMMS International last Sunday as Davies Okeowo, CEO of Redbrooks Consulting, beat three other finalists to win the prize money of five million naira and a Ford coSport.

Sekibo, who was represented

by Davidson Regah, Divisional Head, Retail Banking/SME development, explained that the support for SMEs stemmed from

the bank’s mission to create, preserve and transfer wealth across generations. “This is the reason why from inception, Heritage Bank decided to rise up to the occassion and made a commitment to helping young people and young businesses to realise their dreams and goals by partnering with its customers, inclusive of young people and SMEs to create, preserve and transfer wealth across generations, he said.

He added that the bank’s participation and in the Next Titans TV Reality contest as lead sponsor is to reinforce its promise of supporting the sector and fight unemployment in the country.

He listed the various efforts the bank has put ion place to

strengthen entrepreurship development in the country to include its agreement with the National Youth Service Scheme, NYSC, which led to the setting aside of N200 million young graduates with brilliant and feasible business ideas.

Other SMEs support from the bank include the establishment of the Paris Klub Scheme which is a platform to cultivate real partnership with Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, MSMEs. Membership of the club gives access to loan support through the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN’s Single Digit Loan Fund. It also facilitates business

Money Market Indicators (%) Month

January

February

March

Inter-Bank Call Rate

10.21

23.5

12.59

Monetary Policy Rate (MPR)

13

13

13

198.6185

Treasury Bill Rate

11.2

10.88

10.77

1.6023

1.6063

Savings Deposit Rate

3.48

3.47

3.76

0.3057

0.3157

0.3257

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.61

8.47

8.42

WAUA

270.5555

271.2458

271.9361

3 Months Deposit Rate

9.64

9.54

9.02

YUAN/RENMINBI

30.4813

30.5595

30.6377

6 Months Deposit Rate

9.74

9.46

9.88

RIYAL

52.2197

52.3529

52.4861

12 Months Deposit Rate

9.51

9.37

9.52

DANISH KRONA

28.6904

28.7636

28.8368

Prime Lending rate

16.86

16.77

16.9

SDR

272.026

272.72

273.4141

Maximum Lending Rate

25.97

26.33

26.61

Date

Currency

Buying(NGN)

Central(NGN)

Selling(NGN)

12/9/15

US DOLLAR

195.97

196.47

196.97

POUNDS STERLING

295.4444

296.1982

296.952

Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR)

EURO

214.058

214.6042

215.1503

SWISS FRANC

197.6102

198.1143

YEN

1.5982

CFA

mentoring programmes through seminars, workshops and talk shows.

The bank also sponsors the Enterprise Development Center’s Enterprise Clinic christened Enterprise Stories which airs on Tuesdays on the Inspiration Radio Station. Your Timeless Wealth Partner is also another platform through which the bank helps to improve the business and lifestyles of customers.

Mr. Mide Akinlaja, the Executive Producer of the Next Titans thanks the bank for the immense support given to the project.

Inflation Rates (%)

-2015

CBN Exchange Rates

of stakeholders in the financial reporting process.

According to him, it is gratifying to note that a number of issues discussed at last year’s summit are now apparatus and pillars of current institutional reforms worthy of celebration because of their far-reaching impact on financial reporting impact on financial reporting in Nigeria now and in the immediate future.

While acknowledging that corporate governance is a central and dynamic aspect of business, Obazee said it failures have now been proven to be at the very heart of the financial shenanigans, accounting scandals, corporate collapses and financial crisis all around the world.

This, he stated has led to interest in corporate governance growing at an exponential rate, adding that improvement in corporate governance practice are being orchestrated at a global level.

“International bodies such as the Organization for Economic Development (OECD) are enhancing their acceptable standards of corporate governance,” he said.

2015

Month

January

February

March

All Items (Year on Change)

8.2

8.4

8.5

All Items (12 Months Avg. Change)

8.1

8.1

8.2

Food (Year on Change)/1

9.2

9.4

9.4

Food (12 Months Avg. Change)/1

9.5

9.5

9.5

All Items Less Farm Produce (Year on Change)/2

6.8

7

7.5

All Items Less Farm Produce (12 Months Avg. Change)/2

6.9

6.9

6.9

All Items Less Farm Produce and Energy (Year on Change)/3

7.1

7.1

7.5

All Items Less Farm Produce and Energy (12 Months Avg. Change)/3

7.1

7.1

7.1

Capital Market B4

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Stanbic IBTC appeals court ruling on Starcomms private placement Stories by Adesola Akindele Stanbib IBTC said it has exercised its constitutional right of appeal in relation to a judgment given by the Honourable Justice John Tsoho of the Federal High Court, which ordered the bank and Starcomms to pay the sum of N1.3 billion plus interest for alleged breach

Sola David-Borha

of a 2008 contract in a suit involving a former Group Managing Director of Afribank Nigeria Plc, Patrick Olayele Akinkuotu and his company, Long Term Global Capital Limited.

The bank said it believed it had legitimate basis for lodging its appeal, affirming that, as joint issuing house with Chapel Hill Advisory Partners Limited,

it did not misrepresent any facts in the investor letter issued in relation to the private placement nor was such letter fraudulent.

Stanbic IBTC’s maintained that “its appeal is being made with the utmost respect for our judicial system and we continue to maintain that we are a law abiding corporation, operating to high ethical standards.”

Stock Market Report Index rises by 0.7% Nigerian Equities market’s gaining streak was extended to the second consecutive day. The All Share Index appreciated 0.7% to close at 26,918.22 points as N65.2 billion was gained by investors bringing total market capitalization to N9.3 trillion.

At the end of Tuesday’s trading, the Oil & Gas index gained the highest amongst sectoral indices (4.6 percent) due to bargain hunting in MOBIL which added 8 .4 per cent and FORTE OIL which gained 7.4 per cent.

The Consumer Goods and Industrial Goods indices also closed positive adding 1.8 per cent and 1.2 percent respectively.

On the flip side the Banking and Insurance sector indices were the only sector losers, depreciating 1.7 percent and 0.5 percent on account of loses in Guaranty which dropped five percent and Continsure which

lost 4.6 percent of their share value.

Market breadth closed positive with 19 gainers against 16 losers. Top three gainers were Etranzact Plc., with an increase of 9.6 per cent followed by Unity Bank Plc., which added 8.9 per cent, while Mobil Plc., gained 8.5 per cent.

On the other hand, Transcorp Plc led the day’s 16 losers with a decline of 8.3 per cent, trailed

by Guaranty Plc., which depreciated by 5.00 per cent, while Africa Prudential Registrars Plc., dropped 4.85 per cent of its share value.

At the end of the day’s transactions, investors on the Nigeria Stock Exchange had in 2,683 deals traded a total of 397.3 million shares worth N2.6 billion compared to a total of 196 million shares worth N2.4 billion traded in 2,387 deals previously.

L-R: Mr. Olumide Orojimi, Head, Corporate Communications Department, The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) and Pai Gamde, Head Human Resources, NSE led other staff of the NSE to visit Regina Mundi Home for the elderly, in Lagos recently as part of the activities for the annual NSE Employees Give Back.

Matthew Reed resigns from MANSARD Board AXA Mansard Insurance has announced the resignation of Mr. Matthew Reed, a non-executive director from its board of directors.

The announcement which was signed by the Company Secretary, Omowunmi Mabel Adewusi and its Chief Executive officer Yetunde Ilori, also noted the appointment of a new, Mr. Jad Ariss.

The Board of AXA Mansard

Insurance at its 64th Annual general Meeting unanimously approved the appointment of Mr. Jad Ariss as a non-executive director subject to regulatory approval by National Insurance Commission (NAICOM).

Mr. Jad Ariss has been Chief Executive Officer for Middle East, Gulf and Africa at AXA Group since September 2015.

Mr. Ariss serves as the Chief Operating Officer at Axa France.

Mr. Ariss served as the Chief Executive Officer of AXA Enterprises and deputy Chief Executive Officer of AXA France.

Mr. Ariss has been with the AXA Group for almost 25 years, having joined in 1991 as Chief Financial Officer of AXA Global Risks. He also serves as a Director at L-A Finances SA. He served as a Director at Paris Re Holdings Ltd. since October 22, 2004.

FCMB assures youth of support for national development First City Monument Bank (FCMB) Limited has restated its commitment to support initiatives geared towards youth, sports and overall national development.

The assurance was given by the Group Managing Director/ Chief Executive of the Bank, Mr. Ladi Balogun, during the closing ceremony of this year’s COPA Lagos Beach Soccer

tournament held in Lagos recently. The tournament organised by Kinetic Sports Limited and sponsored by the financial institution for the fifth consecutive year.

Defending champions, Cote D’ivoire retained the trophy this year, while the Super Sand Eagles of Nigeria came second. Koblan Assouan of Cote D’ivoire was voted as the Most

Valuable Player. The tournament featured the national beach soccer teams of Nigeria, England, Cote D’ivoire and Lebanon. The Beach soccer teams of Barcelona Football Club of Spain, Kano Pillars, Shooting Stars Sports Club and Pepsi Academy; all of Nigeria, also participated in the highly colourful and entertaining 3-day soccer fiesta.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

B5 Capital Market

NSE DAILY ACTIVITY SUMMARY ( EQUITIES) 22-12-2015

Maritime B6

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Obama

Nigeria’s oil faces competition as US begins export Stories by Funmi Coker Nigeria’s crude oil, which has been struggling to sell in recent months, may suffer further setbacks in the global market following the lifting of the ban on the United States oil exports.

The US Congress had on Friday approved the lifting of the ban as part of a $1.1tn spending bill, which included a provision that would allow the export of

APM Terminals Apapa Limited has achieved ISO 28000:2007 Security Certification, issued by Lloyd’s Register Quality Assurance Limited.

The ISO Certification is a security management system including those aspects critical to the security assurance of the supply chain, specifically the handling of containerized cargo.

The shipping company, which operates the busiest container terminal in West Africa, is the only company in Nigeria which has earned the ISO 28000:2007 certification.

This distinction reflects the commitment of the company, part of the APM Terminals Global Terminal Network, to perform at the highest international standards, and recognized best practices in theft prevention, cargo security, and supply chain integrity.

The Head of Security APM Terminals Apapa, Ayo Olatubosun noted that the United States Coast Guard and the Nigeria Maritime Administration and

US crude for the first time in more than 40 years. The bill was later signed by President Barack Obama.

Nigeria recently lost its biggest customer, the US, which now buys only a small amount of Nigerian crude oil due to the dramatic rise in domestic shale production.

The growth in US light sweet crude oil production has resulted in a sizable decline in the country’s imports of crude grades of similar quality, such

as Nigeria’s.

The sustained decline in crude oil prices since June 2014 has exacerbated the dwindling fortunes of the Nigerian crude, with the nation’s crude differentials trading at a 10-year low.

A lot of Nigerian crude is said to be currently floating on ships with a significant amount finding home in storage tanks rather than in refineries as a result of the supply glut in the global market, which is dominated by largely by light sweet crudes.

Terminal operator obtains ISO 28000:2007 certification Safety Agency (NIMASA) had approved and commended the security measure for cargo handling at the terminal.

He added that the company was determined to achieve higher security levels in the interests of the country, and of our customers.

Also, the Managing Director of the company, Mr. Andrew Dawes said: “While global trade poses security risks ranging from theft to terrorism, this ISO certification shows that we have identified the critical aspects of the security of the cargo within APM Terminals Apapa, and have set into place the security policies, procedures and controls required to manage secure and safe terminal operations” APM Terminals Apapa is the largest of the three container terminals serving the Apapa/ Lagosport complex, handling about 700,000 TEUs in 2014, in-

cluding more than half of all containerized imports into Lagos.

APM Terminals Apapa is the largest container facility by capacity of the three serving Lagos, Nigeria’s largest city and business center. With a container throughput of about 700,000 Twenty Equivalent Units (TEUs) in 2014, APM Terminals Apapa, is the busiest container terminal in the West African Region, handling 50per cent of Lagos inbound containers.

A $350 million investment and expansion programme since 2006 by APM Terminals Apapa has resulted in container volumes more than doubling and productivity increasing significantly, with waiting time for vessel berthing eliminated.

Regular rail service, running weekly to Kano, 960 kilometres (600 miles) from Lagos was also established in August 2013.

Sifax Group has repositioned its business practices and transit from a Nigerian business brand to a global brand.

Already the company is well represented in countries such as Ghana, United Kingdom, America, and Morocco among others.

The Executive Vice Chairman of the Group, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi who disclosed this at the rebranding media launch said the purpose of the rebranding was to incorporate all the subsidiaries that Sifax represents in order to create a world class brand that would be recognised locally and internationally.

Afolabi, who was represented by the Managing Director of Sifax Shipping, Mr. Markus Brinkmann, said that the new identity would also include a new website that will created very soon.

He noted that since inception of the company in 1988, the group had developed from a local company into an international brand.

Afolabi stressed: “This is what we are trying to achieve with this new unveiling of the new look/identity, a new website will be published online very shortly as well. With this new design, we are trying to incorporate all the subsidiaries that Sifax represents, from the airport to the seaport, from the offdocks to haulage and logistics services.

“We are trying to incorporate our customers into our very critical company setup so that customers that see us at the airport remember when they see us on the road with our haulage fleet or when they come along the port at Ports & Cargo. “We are trying to unveil a worldclass brand that should both locally and internationally be rec-

Afolabi

Sifax Group internationalise operations ognised not just here in Nigeria but of course in other places where we are represented such as Ghana, United Kingdom, America, Morocco and so forth.

“We are trying to include all the subsidiaries in this new brand under the heading of Sifax Group. Of course, we strive to encourage therefore all customers to work with us, attract more foreign businesses to enter into this striving Nigeria business market.”

Already, the group’s subsidiary, Ports and Cargo Handling Services Limited, operators of Terminal ‘C’ at the Tin Can Island port, has injected about N11.98 billion in both human and materials/infrastructural facilities, a development that has contributed to the elevation of its terminal operations in Nigeria to a world standard.

Also, $15million was invested in the modernisation of the terminal into a world class facility.

The terminal is equipped 26 Hyster and Kalmar Reach Stacker handlers, four (4) freight lifters (empty container handlers), 17 general cargo forklifts, 27 terminal tractors, 32 terminal tractor trailers and 35 Iveco trucks.

Also, the Group’s Executive Director, Human Resources and Administration, Dr. Phil Ofulue noted that the new identity signifies the intention of the company to transit from a Nigerian business brand to a global one and the dynamism and innovation for which the company is noted for.

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

B7 ICT

FG insists on MTN’s payment of $3.9b fine

L-R: Mr. Tonye Cole, CEO, Sahara Group, and member of panel of judges for the Next Titans; Mr. Davies Okeowo, winner of the Next Titans and Mr. Davidson Regah Divisional Head, Retail Banking/SMEs of Heritage Bank, the lead sponsor of the project in Lagos recently.

Stories by Tony Nwakaegho Mr. Adebayo Shittu, minister of Communications has said the federal government would neither be cowed nor threatened by MTN’s court action against the N1.4trn (about $5.2 billion) fine which was later reduced to N780 billion ($3.9 billion), insisting that the telecommunications company risks another fine if it fails to pay on

Obi Worldphone launches new smartphones Mutiat Alli Obi Worldphone, the global smartphone company has made a private yet memorable entry into Nigeria with the official unveiling of its latest smartphones – the Obi World phone SF-1 and SJ1.5 along with an exciting line up to be introduced in the months to come.

In a brief but exciting session the Vice President, Mobility Africa, Praveen Rane took questions from guests. He stated that the name ‘Obi’ is derived from the word ‘Mobile’ excluding three letters and the flagship brand name SF-1 is derived from San Francisco, the city in the Silicon Valley where the phones are designed.

Co-founded by John Sculley, prominent tech investor and former CEO of Apple and Pepsi-Cola, Obi Worldphone offers a smartphone experience that is rich, personal and elevated. Designed by renowned San Francisco-based design studio Ammunition, Obi Worldphone SF-1 and SJ1.5 are set apart by iconic industrial de-

deadline.

Shittu stated this in reaction to the suit instituted by the telecom operator at a Lagos High Court.

Mr. Victor Oluwadamilare, special assistant on Media to the minister however, admitted that MTN had the right to seek court’s interpretation if it feels unsatisfied with the action of the regulator but made it clear that nothing would stop the government from imposing additional fine on the

sign. Both devices come loaded with Obi Lifespeed, a custom user interface for Android that unifies the software and hardware experience. Obi integrates design with high-end technology from Qualcomm, Dolby, Sony, Corning Incorporated, Google, MediaTek, Japan Display, Inc. and Samsung to deliver a powerful performance, which appeals to the young, and aspiring tech-savvy population globally.

According to IDC, Nigeria saw year-on-year smartphone shipments grow by 135% in Q1 2015, making it one of the biggest markets in West Africa for the sector.

As consumers in Nigeria continue to leverage the improving connectivity infrastructure and the opportunity to process information on-the-move, Obi Worldphone aims to occupy a niche segment by being the first to bridge the gap between premiumdesign high-priced smartphones and generic design low-price smartphones with its new range.

Commenting on Obi’s entry into Nigeria John Sculley said: “Obi Worldphone offers a great proposition for tech-savvy consumers in Nigeria, who want to experience the best technology available in the smartphone market.

operator, at the expiration of the deadline.

“It is the right of MTN to approach the court but there was an infraction, which MTN admitted to have committed before it pleaded for leniency that led to the reduction of the fine from N1.4 trillion to N780 billion and the subsequent December 31, 2015 deadline to pay.

“If it has decided to go to court, it is still within the ambit of the

law. I will not intervene, since they have gone to court, we will allow the court to decide if it is right for MTN to commit those infractions and breach the laws of the land,” the minister said.

He also said that “it is unwise for MTN to go to court after the Federal Government had magnanimously reduced the fine. It will surely be fined for violating the rule at the expiration of the deadline, should it fail to pay the initial fine.”

Meanwhile, MTN, yesterday, also insisted that its action was induced by commitment and belief in the long term sustainability of its business.

Amina Oyagbola, company’s Human Resources & Corporate Services Executive, said “the N780 billion fine has potentially dire consequences for the company, its employees, partners, stakeholders as well as the entire Nigerian telecommunications industry.

“Being a significant contributor in Nigeria, MTN has an obligation to protect the interests of its ecosystem of millions of Nigerians who are directly and indirectly affected by its business operations and continuity.”

Oyagbola added: “the decision to seek judicial determination was reached after careful consideration of all factors, including

extensive attempts at a sustainable resolution. It is important to state that seeking judicial determination was a last resort. We hold the Nigerian Government, its national objectives, laws and regulations in the highest regard.”

She, however, added that notwithstanding the action, the company will continue to engage with the Nigerian authorities in an effort to reach an amicable resolution in the interest of all stakeholders.

The NCC sanctioned MTN for refusing to remove over 5.1 million unregistered telephone subscribers from its network.

The regulator fined the telecoms operator N1.04 trillion, but later reduced it by 25 per cent after the intervention of President Muhammadu Buhari, amid pressure and negotiations from the company’s parent body in South Africa.

The NCC also reviewed the deadline from November 16 to December 31, 2015.

Ahead of that date, the MTN Group, last Thursday, said in a statement from Johannesburg, South Africa, that it was taking legal action over the matter and subsequently filed the suit at the weekend, lining up about six Senior Advocates of Nigeria, (SANs).

IT investments in Nigeria to hit $5.3b by 2016 Information technology (IT) investments in Nigeria will attain $5.3 billion in 2016 as organisations increasingly embrace digital transformation initiatives in a bid to streamline their costs and bolster flexibility according to technology research and consulting services firm, International Data Corporation (IDC).

Mark Walker, IDC’s associate vice president for Sub-Saharan Africa speaking in Lagos at an event to announce a series of ‘IDC FutureScape Predictions’ for the year ahead said, “Some combinations of the technologies of the 3rd Platform – namely mobility, cloud, Big Data analytics, and social business – sit at the heart of most digital transformation efforts across Nigeria.”

He said, “Smart City initiatives, whether greenfield or brownfield, are driving greater adoption of 3rd Platform technologies as well as a deeper paradigm shift on the part of governments, technology users,

and vendors. Indeed, the success of Smart City initiatives will play a role in Nigeria’s digital transformation journey in 2016.”

IDC’s country manager for West Africa, Bola Adisa, said, “In Nigeria, the democratisation of information is preparing the country for a digital future and enabling it to become included in the digital economy.”

IDC predicts ICT spend in Nigeria would grow 6.5 per cent year- on- year (YOY) in 2016, with mobile devices responsible for much of the increase.

The emergence of the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem is another key facet of the digital transformation revolution beginning to take place in Nigeria.

IoT applications in the government, retail, transportation, manufacturing, and utilities verticals would offer the greatest growth opportunity for vendors operating in Nigeria, while security is expected to form a key component of any robust digital transformation strategy.

On his part, Oluwole Abegunde, a telecommunications research analyst at IDC West Africa, said cost-optimisation efforts and a lack of skills would drive demand for security services in the years ahead, while the proliferation of IoT technologies would push concerns around privacy and physical security to the top of the ICT agenda.

“The adoption of IoT will accelerate the rate of digital transformation in Nigeria as organisations and stakeholders seek actionable insights from the high volumes of data that will inevitably be generated by the proliferation of connected ‘things’ such as mobile devices, wearables, and sensors,” Abegunde said.

“These insights will transform the way businesses and government organisations interact with customers, citizens, suppliers, and even employees, helping them to become more agile and innovative than they could have previously imagined,” he said.

Aviation B8

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

IATA identifies safety as critical to flight operations L-R: Wing Comdr.Nuhu Hassan, Dir. Of ATS, NAF,Sqn. Ldr. Ian Partridge, Chief of Staff, British Military Advisory Team, M. M Issah, Dep. Comptroller General, NCS,, N. A Ibrahim, Dep. Comptroller Gen, NIS, NAMA MD, Engr. Ibrahim Abdulsalam, DG, NCAA, Capt. Usman Muhtar, Gp. Capt. Simon Peter, Military Commandant, Nnamdi Azikiwe Int. Airport, Abuja and Mr T S Minti, Director, Enforcement, National hqtrs, DSS, during the demonstration of Aircraft e-Clearance Module to Defence Corp and other security agencies by NAMA in Abuja.

Stories by Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo International Air Transport Association, IATA, has identified safety to flight operations as the major priority of the international airline body.

This is just as the organisation said that collaboration was key for aviation development.

Speaking to journalists in Lagos, the Area Manager, South

West Africa, IATA, Mr. Samson Fatokun declared that the major key issues in aviation were to continually improve aviation safety, increase value through partnership, protect the interests of the industry and reduce environmental impact.

On the IATA Operation Safety Audit, IOSA, Fatokun disclosed that there are a total of 392 airlines on IOSA registry, adding that of this number, 244 are

members while 148 non-members.

He hinted that Nigeria has three airlines; Aero, Arik Air and First Nation as members of IOSA, which indicated their level of safety.

Fatokun revealed further that airlines that are on IOSA registry from available records had fewer accidents in 2014 when compared to other airlines that are not members.

In his statistics, Fatokun cited the accident level in AfricaIndian Ocean, AFI, Region for non IOSA members that stood at 19.62, while the accident recorded in the same region for IOSA registered airlines stood at 1.95 per cent In Middle East and North Africa, MENA, region, the IATA official disclosed that the accidents from non-IOSA member airlines stood at 9.69 per cent while air-

lines on IOSA registry recorded 1.52 per cent in 2014.

Non-members of IOSA in the NASIA region recorded 5.95 per cent accidents while IOSA registered recorded 0.52 per cent On the whole, he stated that non-registered airlines recorded 3.37 while IOSA registered recorded 1.08 accident rate in 2014 Speaking on IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations, ISAGO, which he said was aimed at improving safety and cutting airline costs by drastically reducing ground accidents and injuries, Fatokun, said that ISAGO has 316 ground handling companies on registry with additional 172 Ground Service Providers, GSPs, in 203 airports across the world.

He said that the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company, NAHCo, and Sky Way Aviation Handling Company, SAHCOL, are on ISAGO registry for the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA, Lagos.

On the IATA Billing and Settlement Plan( BSP),he stated that before IATA registration in Nigeria less than 100 Nigerian travels could sell international airlines ticket but that in 2014, through IATA BSP, over 700 Nigerian travel agents have unlimited access to international airline’s tickets.

Dana Air bags excellent domestic airline carrier of the year award Dana Air has been awarded domestic airline carrier of the year award, in recognition of its exceptional customer service, innovative online products and efficiency, in an event organized by AES Excellence Club at by the City Mall, Lagos.

The AES award is an initiative designed by the AES Excellence Club to reward, celebrate, encourage and project to the world individuals and organizations which made eminent contributions towards the development of our country in their various fields of endeavour.

AES Excellence Club stated that Dana Air emerged after a thorough and rigorous screening

exercise by our team of assessors which was later subjected to verification through a public survey.

Dr. Godwin Omene while presenting the award to Dana Air said: this award is presented to you as a result of your outstanding customer service and efficiency. You came back with impressive innovations and we want you to keep it up’’ According to Dana Air’s Accountable Manager, the airline is honored to be named domestic airline carrier of the year by AES Excellence Club. ‘’We are honored to have been named domestic airline carrier of the year by a credible organization. The award is a vote of

confidence in our service delivery and customer experience and our goal is not to improve on our quality in-flight service and customer service, but to continue to create innovations that will set us apart’’ Meanwhile, the airline in its determination to make the Christmas and New Year holidays a special one for kids and guests, has revealed that from 19th December 2015, it is offering kids travelling on its flights a special in-flight package. The airline also revealed that business class passengers will be treated to specials meals while members of its frequent flyer program will benefit from its ongoing double miles promo.

LR, Mr Simon Tumba of SY&T Communications, Accountable Manager and Managing Director, Aero, Capt Russel Lee Foon and Peter Omata, Head Ground Operations Aero Contractors at a media briefing in Lagos on Bauchi Aero flight.

NAMA e-clearance gets local, international accolades

The recently deployed aircraft e-clearance web portal by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) in collaboration with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has continued to attract commendation and buy-in from stakeholders even as they say the internet solution will go a long way in reducing time constraints and also

make for efficiency in processing entry and landing permits for non-scheduled foreign aircraft into the country.

These recent commendations came during the demonstration of the e-clearance module to National Air Defence Corp and other security agencies by NAMA at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Conference Centre and Suites,

Abuja.

Speaking at the event, the Military Airport Commandant, Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, Group Capt. Simon Peter said “the aviation industry globally has gone digital and what NAMA has done by deploying the e-clearance portal is the way forward because apart from facilitating the process of

getting the clearances, it also helps to improve the country’s rating on the ease of doing business,” adding that the internet solution will also improve security because all security agencies now have copies at the same time the checks are going on, so it make it easier, better and faster for us to work and I think it is a good way to go.

Life&

TIMES Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Kehinde Bankole: Acting like a lady, thinking like a man

Interview L2

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

I’m a greedy perfume lover — Kehinde Bankole Nollywood screen diva, Kehinde Bankole is a Nigerian model and television host who made her debut in the entertainment industry in 2003. Ever since, she has upped her talents, storming several movie sets depicting top-notch acting prowess and bringing characters to life. In this chat with ABIMBOLA OBATAYO, she takes us through her basic fashion routines, her love for good books amongst others. Excerpts:

What is your beauty routine?

I’m not sure that I have a beauty routine. I use a lot of natural oils and drink a lot of water.

The DIY, “egg white, milk and honey” moisture blend. It fades off spots nicely.

Desert Island essentials Water, a bible, my perfume, Mascara and My book.

Do you highlight your eyes or your lips?

I touch up right under the eyes and just above my cheeks.

What beauty secret have you inherited from your mother?

Less is more! Moisture is very good for the skin.

Your most recent beauty discovery?

Who is your beauty icon?

I have four actually. My mum, Halle Berry, Meagan Good and Kim Kardashian, so let’s call them kimgoodMumberry!

Would you have cosmetic surgery?

Not certain I would.

What makes you feel glamorous?

My skin!

Do you have a signature scent?

Errrr… No, I’m a greedy perfume lover.

Why have one when you can have many.

Kehinde Bankole

Kim-Kardashian

Beauty treatment you swear by?

The natural “eggwhite, milk and honey treatment”.

Do you have a tip for body confidence?

Self-love is key.

Body beauty secret?

A great diet keeps the body healthy; so, keep it natural and healthy.

What self-help books have inspired you?

What kind of diet suits you?

I’m not a fussy eater. A good balance of all essential nutrients keeps me healthy.

Tea or coffee?

Piercing The Darkness, Woman Thou Art Loosed, ‘Think like a Man, Act like a Woman’.

Tea, if I have to choose.

Designers’ outfit you love to wear?

I wear whatever suits me. I’m waiting for someone to win me over and get me glued to theirs.

Do you take vitamins?

Yes. How do you relax?

I love watching movies…it relaxes me.

Life &

T E A M

Tea

Movie & Music Correspondent Mutiat Alli

Society Correspondent Isaac Oguntoye

Photography Quadri Olowolagba

Think like a man

Graphics Sunday O. Emmanuel

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

L3 Global Fashion

Hammed Oyindamola & Adesewa Agboola

LookbookRevamp unveils new collection As 2015 wraps off, Lookbook-Revamp has unveiled yet another 2015 latest collection tagged ‘The Tempest’. The Port Harcourt based women swear brand shows off stunning vintage pieces in a detailed shoot for the impressive collection.

Set against an exotic and elegant background with stunning details for collection of the modern woman who isn’t afraid to own her style.

“The tempest collection is inspired by the costume, soul and essence of ‘Miranda’ – the daughter of ‘Prospero’ in the Shakespearean epic – “The Tempest”. The story is explicitly concerned with its own nature, drawing inspiration from art, beauty, dreams and romance”.

Braid Revamp

Rita Ora shows off vicious look for Elle Canada 2016 cover Chef Daniel

Michelin Star Chefs arrive Nigeria for Butterscotch evenings Michelin Star Chefs Tom Wolfe and Daniel Ayton arrived the Murtala Mohammed International Airport on Monday December 21, 2015 for the biggest concert of the year.

Reknown for adding a touch of theatrical to every event, Chef Tom Wolfe merges the finest form of dining with a touch of exquisite performing arts which always results in a twoin-one experiences delighting a multitude of senses. His unique Dining skills are what people are certainly looking forward to at the 3rd edition of the Butterscotch Evenings taking place today, Wednesday, December 23, 2015.

An experienced chef with almost 30 years extensive experience in fine dining as well as banqueting operations, Daniel Ayton has been privileged to cook for their Majesties the Queen, Prince Philip, Prince Charles, Duchess of Cornwall along with their guests, the President of South Africa and 12 Heads of State in 2010 on Commonwealth day, and many more heads of state during the 2012 Olympics. Daniel has been part of the filming of the TV series final for Master Chef in 2008 and 2013, hence, bringing an enviable touch of royalty to the Butterscotch Evenings.

British pop singer, Rita Ora showed-off her eccentric look in a fierce haircut look for Elle Canada February 2016 cover issue. The pop singer who chose different sexy looks for the feature dished in an exclusive interview with the magazine on fame and her career and ‘wanting the attention’.

She rocked a perforated detailed green crop top over matching skirt paired with a statement choker showing off her incredibly toned body wearing a bleached out pixie cut for the cover in a flawless glowing makeup look.

Braids all the way Braids are an easy and pleasant way to forget about hair styling for months, give your hair some rest and protect it from harsh environmental factors. Braided hairstyles make space for creativity. There are many interesting braiding techniques to make every head unique. Besides, you can experiment with highlights, natural or curly texture, clips, patterns, shapes, etc.

Here are some awesome ways you can style your braids: Ò goddess Braid Ò side swept braids Ò front bun Ò scarf up-do Ò box braid bang Ò braided pompadour and bun Ò fish tail side bang Ò low bun.

Yemi Alade

Brandy

L4

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

GETAWAY WEEKEND WITH BMW @ EPE RESORT

Offer valid while stock lasts

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Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

L5

BMW 6 SERIES

www.bmwnigeria.com/6series

Sheer Driving Pleasure

brate this season by buying BMW 6 Series from haris Motors and Enjoy 2 Nights at the prestigious RESORT, Opposite Lagos State Driver’s Institute, Lagos.

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Fashion score sheet L6

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Mutiat Alli & Oyindamola Hammed

Glitz and Glamour from the Best of Nollywood Red carpet moment It was indeed a night of fun and razzmatazz as top celebrities in the showbiz business all gathered at the Dome, venue of the 5th edition of the Best of Nollywood awards (BON) hosted by the Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko. Life &Times brings to you moments from the red carpet.

Dayo Amusa Score: 6/10

Fathia Balogun Score: 7/10

Ibikunle Score: 9/10

Mide Martins Owo Score: 6/10

Sadiq Daba Score: 5/10

Iyabo Ojo Score: 7/10

Gbenga Adeyinka Score: 9/10

Lateef Adedimeji Score: 9/10

Yemi Blaq Score: 8/10

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

L7 Fashion

Skin Affair with L’Avyanna

Organic essential oils guaranteed to brighten the skin naturally The current trend of skin bleaching in Nigeria has increased the number of skin whitening products in the market, many of which contains dangerous chemical substances but yet, tagged as natural. There is a lot wrong with wanting to change our skin colour including the risk involved. However, we cannot deny consumers who are simply looking for bright glowing skin. This article presents organic essential oils that are guaranteed to give you just that. Essential oils are powerful substances often organically generated but has been known to cure and remedy illnesses and skin problems. We have selected these six essential oils for their brightening properties which combined with amazing carrier oils like almond, coconut and olive oil. It is very important that you dilute your essential oils as using them directly unto skin can be dangerous so, please take caution.

These brightening essential oils are, Lemon, Galbanum, Lavender, Rose, Sandalwood and Jasmine.

LEMON – We all know and love lemon in Nigeria as well as its brightening properties. It helps to rejuvenate dull skin. Regular use of lemon oil on your skin helps to lighten the complexion

of the skin and protects your skin from various problems. We still have to be careful with Lemon oil because of its acidic nature which may cause skin irritation as well as its photosensitive nature. Mix not more than 4-5 drops of lemon essential oil in a tablespoon of water or other carrier oil to use it on skin. Check out L’Avyanna Vitamin C Face Serum which contains Lemon Peel Extract as well as L’Avyanna Antioxidant Wakame Face Wash with Lemon essential oil.

GALBANUM - this is another excellent essential oil which was used by the Greeks to cure acne and to improve the texture of the skin. Mix few drops of galbanum essential oil in any carrier oil and rub it on your skin. Within few days you will notice the enhanced brightness of the skin.

LAVENDER - This essential oil is being used to solve the various skin problems from time immemorial.

Lavender oil has antiseptic and antifungal properties which help to cure various skin problems like sun burn, blemishes, acne scars, hot rashes, etc. Massage lavender oil on your skin to overcome these skin problems and to get a brighter skin enhancing the natural glow of

property which rejuvenates dull and dry skin. Regular use of sandalwood oil brightens your skin and makes it very soft. The use of sandalwood essential oil is very easy. Mix sandalwood oil with water in 1: 10 ratio. Mix well and massage that oil on your skin daily. You will notice a brighter skin within few days. Sandalwood essential oil is extracted from sandalwood.

it. But before using the lavender oil, you have to mix it in either base oil or in water. Take ½ cup warm water and add 5-6 drops lavender oil in it. Massage it on your skin. Or you can mix this lavender oil with coconut oil, pine oil or chamomile oil. See L’Avyanna Lavender Face wash for Complexion Balance.

ROSE - We all know rose for the popular rose water which we often use as toners. Rose essential oil is derived from rose petals. The best Rose oils in the market are quite expensive. Rose essential oil not only has beautiful fragrance, it also strengthens gums, tones and lifts skins. It prevents and cures wrinkles of the skin and cures loss of firmness of skin and muscles.

But like other essential oils you need to dilute it too.Rose oil blends and works well in chilled milk. Take a cup of chilled milk and add 10 drops of rose water in it. Mix well.

Massage this oil all over your body everyday. It helps to enhance the brightness of the skin and makes your skin petal soft.

SANDALWOOD - Some say that Sandalwood oil is perhaps the most widely used essential oil. It solves various types of skin problems and side by side it also enhances the brightness of the skin. Antibacterial,

antifungal and antiseptic property of sandalwood essential oil cures acne, pimples, blackheads, white heads and other skin problems like magic. It also has anti-aging

JASMINE - Jasmine essential oil is extracted from the flowers.

It has a pleasing and sweet smell which uplifts your mood. Antiseptic quality of jasmine also cures acne scars and other fungal infections very effectively.Regular massage of jasmine oil brightens your skin and makes it flawless. Mix jasmine oil in pure water before massaging it on your skin. Jasmine oil also blends well in orange juice, watermelon juice, green coconut water, etc.

In conclusion - Please always research properly and seek proper guidance before venturing into such home remedy.

We will advise you seek the guidance of professionals who are licensed to give such advice.

Contact support@lavyann a.com for an advice. L’Avyanna has got Licensed Global Tutors who can be of help for consultations and trainings to gain skills in this area.

Go bold with big round Hoop earring!

Ann Izedunor Big round hoop earrings are fashion jewellery made into the shape of a circle which you insert into your ear holes. Many times, these big round earrings are larger than the wearer’s ears but can be quite light. Wearing round big hoop earring is a sure way of instantly drawing attention to a pretty face or a nice haircut, or even a new eye shadow! Big round earrings add drama and they are even an excellent fashion statement jewellery that gives a whiff of fresh air to any plain outfit!

Big round earrings are versatile and perfect with any party outfit, and even when you want to look sassy and dressed up. They also complement a wide face, because when compared to smaller and thinner earrings, they won’t make your face shape look too big in

Earrings

comparison and also tricking the eyes into seeing that your face is smaller. Big round hoop earrings are the best! And they are simply unique. Here are some reasons why this awesome round big earrings are the new germ in fashion and one of the favourite accesso-

ries you can’t afford to miss out: It draws attention to the face: -Just like any statement earring, round earring have an uncanny ability to draw the eye towards the face. But unlike a chandelier or stud earring, hoops are in the shape of a circle and so they are

extra complementary to the jaw and cheek bones, thereby defining your features with both the shape and shade they create.

They are fool proof: -Big hoop earrings are simply classic and they can never go out of style. It all depends on how you style them,

they can be dressed up or down and they are also perfect for a night out or just to grab a coffee.

But the good thing is that they are super difficult to get wrong. And that’s because they look good with virtually anything.

They are an ode to the ’90s:- Big hoop earrings are one of those fashion styles from decades that have been easily overlooked and it didn’t necessarily go out of style but rather lost popularity. Well, this is the time to start rocking big hoop earring again. Hoop earring don’t necessarily have to be super large and graze your shoulder; but instead they just have to feel comfortable on you and also make you feel confident and important in what you are wearing. And that’s the most important thing. So get yourself ready and have fun with the earring!

Television L8

Daily Times Nigeria Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Showing on

Showing on

125 FOX Channel

107 M-Net Movie Romance

02:10

02:15

Wed, 23 Dec | 13SL

Wed, 23 Dec | 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