Dtn 25 12 15 by Daily Times of Nigeria

30 dead, 40 injured in Anambra gas explosion Ï ǀ ƊƈƋƋƆƗ ƄƑ ƍƋƑ Ɔ ƈ Ɛ RƉƈ `ƈƒƆƏ Dilionye Dilibe, R ƈƐ

ÎÎÎTragedy struck on Thursday in

Nnewi, Anambra State when Chikason Gas plant exploded leading to the death of no fewer than 30 people,

while another 40 sustained various degrees of injuries. Also, five persons lost their lives early Thursday morning on the Onitsha-Enugu expressway, as a

commuter bus heading towards Enugu plunged into Oji River, near Anambra State. Continued on page 6

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2015 VOL. 2. NO. 9

GAINERS

N150

LOSERS

NSE GAINERS AND LOSERS AS AT 23rd December 2015.

273

286.65

13.65%

NESTLE

790

800

10%

121.8

115.72

-6.08%

DANGCEM 153

MOBIL

130.2

143

12.8%

WAPCO

96.8

2.8%

28.31

26.9

-1.41%

GUINNESS

123

152.3

-0.7%

122.5

-0.5%

We’ve ‘technically’ won Boko Haram war – Buhari

Ï ^ƏƆ ƈƗƆ Ɛ ƑƏ Ɔ Mƈ ƆƏƈ Ɛ ƆƔ ƈƄƈƐ ƒƈƏƐƑƆ Ƈ Ƌ ƒƆè ƉƑ ƐƈƅƆè ƆƏƒƈƅƆ Ɛ Ɛ ƆƏ Ï ^Ə ƕ Ƈ Ə Ƒ Əƈô ƒƐ Ɛ ƈ ƑƋƆƐƈƗƆ – PDP ÎÎÎPresident

Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday said Nigeria has “technically” won the war against Boko Haram, just as he urged Nigerians, in a Christmas message,

to rededicate themselves to the virtues of peace, love, honesty, justice, equity, piety, humility and service to others. The President, in an interview

posted by the BBC on its website on Thursday, asserted that the Boko Haram insurgents have been technically defeated, even though suicide bombers remain a threat

Buhari’s remarks came days before the December 31 deadline given by his government to the military to defeat the insurgents, and a day after Minister of Infor-

mation and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed said that the Nigerian military had met the December Continued on page 6

FG to create ƾǀƠè ƠƠƠ Ɖ Ƅ ƒƈ Ə ƈƋ ƗƆƒƆƋ ƍƌƆ Ɛ gB1

Merry Christmas

0ƏƆ ƍƏ ƅƆ Ƈ Ə ƌƆ Ɨƈ 1999 Constitution begins g 8 ƍƍƆ Ƌ Court g6 ƇƇƈƏƌ RƊ Ɠ #ƆƋƐ ƒê

Christmas lighting decorations at Eko Hotel roundabout, Ajose Adeogun, Victoria Island... on Wednesday night.

Prince Samuel Adedoyin: Photo: Olawale Rotimi

Army to Shi’ites: dƐ ƍ ƈ ƅƈƐƈ ƅ ƌƌƆ Ɛ g

Mƈ ƆƏƈ ô & ƐƏƆƍƏƆ ƆƑƏ &ƔƐƏ ƏƗƈ ƈƏƆ @ 80 gL1

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

Politics Page Three Æ s Editorial Time to revive the coal industry

ecently, some retired workers of the Nigerian Coal Corporation, Enugu, lamented the continued neglect of the coal industry, in spite of its undisputed place in the industrialisation of Nigeria. The retirees are piqued by the fact that the Federal Government has over the years played politics with the resuscitation of this vital sector, to the detriment of the country and citizens. Definitely, we are also at sea in knowing why the government had since end of the Nigeria Civil War in 1970 refused to revive the existing coal mines. As at last count, Nigeria has large deposits of coal in Enugu, Kogi, Delta, Plateau and Benue states. It is estimated that the country has coal reserves, estimated to be at least 4 billion metric tons, even as the discovery of bituminous coal suitable for use in coke production for the iron and steel industries opens up potential new domestic markets. Incidentally, Nigerian coal is one of the most bituminous in the world owing to its low sulphur and ash content and therefore the most environmentally friendly, given the campaign for cleaner source of energy in the recent past. There is no denying the fact that coal is used as fuel and in industrial production of tar, gas and non edible oils. Arguably, the neglect of coal remains the most singular impediment to attainment of full and constant electricity supply in the country because of the direct bearing on other economic indicators like employment rate and low capacity utilisation in the manufacturing sector. For long, experts have argued against the reliance on gas for power in prefer-

ence of coal with abundant rich deposits scattered in different parts of the country. As it stands, Nigeria generates less than 5,000 megawatts of electricity, even as it is estimated that the country would require at least 40,000 megawatts to support its industrial and economic aspirations of being amongst the top 20 economies in the world by 2020. Comparatively, it has been estimated by experts that a coal fired plant would cost one-sixth of powering the same plant by gas and due to its use in driving rail trains, coal mining and processing is highly required. In addition, given the large deposits of brown coal in the country, Nigeria can cash in on foreign investors’ technology to produce coal pellets for industrial use, coal briquettes for domestic use to replace firewood and fight back desert encroachment and extreme weather conditions in the northern part of the country. Paradoxically and despite its potentials, Nigeria currently imports coals of various grades and quantities including coke, pellets, briquettes, Anthracite and form coke. This is even when Nigeria has the potentials for coal exports to countries such as Israel, Japan, Ghana, USA, Europe and India. As it stands, the coal industry faces some daunting challenges, which the government must address if the potential for coal utilisation is to be optimally exploited. These include creating and finding markets, increasing the productivity of the mines, reducing the cost of production through mechanisation and establishing a cost effective transportation system through an expansion of the rail system and port facilities for coal export.

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

ÏÏÏOn

Thursday, Nigeria’s opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gave President Muhammadu Buhari a rare Maulud ‘gift’ which was probably quite unexpected. The rare ‘gift’ was contained in a message issued by PDP’s national Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh. He had urged Nigerians, while waiting for the promised change from the President Buhari-led Federal Government, not to haul insults on the President, but collaborate with him to achieve the desired objectives. This is, no doubt, more than a ship-

load of cattle or any other presidential gifts around. Although the PDP spokesman devoted part of the statement to highlight some of the shortcomings of the present administration, most especially its ‘yet-to-befulfilled’ campaign promises to Nigerians, he still spared some positives for the President and his party, while calling on Nigerians to continue to show understanding with the new government. “The PDP calls on all Nigerians to use the occasions to reflect on those things that bind us together as a nation; show love to one another and commit the nation into Gods’ hands,” Metuh was quoted to have said. Rather than the trade-

Group Executive Commercial/ Business Developement Ifeoluwa Isijiola 08086296714 Group Head Accounts & Control Simpa Ajayi

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mark lampooning of the President, Metuh advocated patience and tolerance with the government. With these words, Olisa Metuh has won the hearts of many Nigerians even when there are many striking areas the Buhari government needs to buckle up. It is hoped that these soothing words are a reflection of robust criticisms that are to come in the New Year, and not mere Maulud message laced with innuendos. The ‘gift’ to the President should not be a Greek gift. Metuh is reminded that one of the drivers of a virile society is constructive and genuine criticism of government, and not propagandist postulations that the ruling party was accused of while in opposition.

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Words On Marble :

Publisher/Editor in Chief – Fidelis Anosike Editor Biodun Durojaiye

Olisa Metuh’s Maulud ‘gift’ to Mr. President

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Mathew Kukah

Eze Ilomuanya

Bola Tinubu

“I am not in any way saying that Kanu is innocent but in order to avoid upheavals and tension, the government should settle through engagement. We are not in a military regime. Dialogue is the solution.”

“We must also realise that no sacrifice made to keep Nigeria intact as a nation will be too much”.

“It is better that we remove fuel subsidy, not for the austere purpose of saving money but to use the money more wisely, that we might better save the people”.

Daily Times Nigeria Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015 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. The “Peace Advantage” Program rewards program members with an exchangeable loyalty currency called “Peace Points” for all their qualifying International, Regional & Domestic flights on Air Peace. Earned ”Peace Points” can be exchanged by program members for Air Peace flights nationwide, and in Future Air Peace promotional offers, gift merchandise, vouchers & other lifestyle related items from a dedicated online rewards catalogue – The Air Peace Loyalty Shop. In addition, program members will also be entitled to additional benefits – discounts & status benefits – from a network of Air Peace partners nationwide. 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

**Based on Availability

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 Friday, December 25, 2015

SUITES

HOTEL

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Plot 1415 Adetokunbo Ademola Street, PMB 12724 Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria, Tel: +23412772700-5 (ext,6124) +23414606100 -29 Fax +234 1 2704071 sales@ekohotels.com, reservation@ekohotels.com banquet@ekohotels, www.ekohotels.com

News 6

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

We’ve ‘technically’ won Boko Haram war – Buhari Continued from page 1 deadline to defeat the Boko Haram terrorists. According to the President, the Boko Haram insurgents were now unable to mount effective “conventional attacks”, saying “Boko Haram has reverted to using improvised explosive devices (IEDs).” “But articulated conventional attacks on centres of communication and populations... they are no longer capable of doing that effectively,” said Buhari. “So I think technically we have won the war because people are going back into their neighbourhoods.” In his Christmas message, Buhari said, ``I felicitate with all Nigerians,

especially our Christian brothers and sisters, on the joyous occasion of this year’s Christmas. ``On this occasion of the commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ, let us all rededicate ourselves to the virtues of peace, love, honesty, justice, equity, piety, humility and service to others which he taught. ``There can be no doubt that a greater manifestation of these virtues and ideals in our lives will immensely help us to become a more united, peaceful, secure and progressive nation.’’ Buhari also enjoined Nigerians to reach out in love and compassion to fellow Nigerians who were in distress at this period of the nation’s history.

He, particularly, urged Nigerians to remember victims of terrorism and insurgency in the country, especially Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). According to him, the Federal Government will continue to collaborate with state governments and other stakeholders to ease the harsh conditions in IDP camps. He said his administration’s ultimate objective was to quickly end insurgency and return the IDPs to their homes. ``We must never again allow any group to hold the nation to ransom under whatever guise. ``Let us also not allow current socio-economic and security challenges to dampen

our expectations for a better Nigeria,’’ he added. The President stated that his administration had taken a number of measures to restore hope to the people. According to him, the 2016 Budget defines his administration’s commitment to giving Nigeria a new lease of life. ``Our change slogan is not a campaign gimmick but a promise that must be kept.’’ He further expressed the determination of the Federal Government to bring about tangible changes in the lives of all Nigerians. ``In this regard, efforts will be intensified to recover stolen funds, block revenue leakages and enthrone due process, transparency and accountability.

``Public office is a public trust that must be held to the highest ethical standards.” Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged Nigerians to pray for President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration in this Yuletide period, and not haul insults on him while they await the promises made to them by the ruling party. This advice was contained in a statement issued by PDP National Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh, which was made available to newsmen in Abuja, on Thursday. Metuh also urged Nigerians to use this year’s Eid-El-Maulud and Christmas to offer special prayers for the unity and stability of the nation as well as re-

commit their individual and collective security and economic welfare into the hands of God. The PDP said the special prayers became essential as the nation is now, more than ever before in dire need of divine intervention, especially as citizens cope with the sudden hardship occasioned by poor management of the nation’s economy in the last seven months. He also said the two important celebrations, coming at this trying time, offered the citizens an opportunity to put aside every political, religious and ethnic differences and unite against their prevailing common challenges. “Nigerians across board Continued on page 12

Appeal Court affirms Okowa as Delta gov. Ï 1 ƒê ƑƏ Ɔ R Ƅ ƏƑè RôƐƆ Ɛ Ɔ Ɛ Ɠ ƏƗ Andrew Orolua, Abuja

ÎÎÎThe

L-R. Founder of FCMB Group, Otunba Subomi Balogun; his wife, Olori Abimbola Balogun and Mrs. Olaronke Atere, during the Christmas Carol organised by Otunba Balogun at Ijebu-Ode, Ogun state… on Wednesday.

30 dead, 40 injured in Anambra gas explosion Continued from page 1 The Chikason Gas plant located around Traffic Light junction area of the town was gutted by a mysterious fire that engulfed the production section of the gas factory. The ugly incident reportedly claimed 30 lives including some staff of the company and customers. Firefighters who arrived the scene of the incident in three fire-fighting trucks laboured in vain to put out the fire as it raged causing monumental loss of lives and property.

As at 4:30pm, Thursday, the fire was still raging as people around the vicinity scampered for safety. Heavy smoke was seen billowing from the inferno which also left about 50 vehicles damaged. The charred bodies of the victims and other severely burnt persons were taken to Nnamdi Azikwe University Teaching Hospital, NAUTH, Nnewi. In another development, five persons lost their lives early Thursday morning on the Onitsha-Enugu expressway, as a commuter bus heading towards Enu-

gu plunged into Oji River, near Anambra State. Mr. Sunday Ajayi, Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Anambra State Command, who confirmed the accident said it occurred about 1:25 a.m. on Thursday. Ajayi said there were 15 passengers in the vehicle, out of which 10 were rescued and taken to hospital, while five were killed in the incident. He said the timely rescue operations led by the personnel of the FRSC minimised the number of casualties.

``The rescue at Oji River is still going on, we have been able to rescue 10 people alive and taken them to hospital, five were confirmed dead and the bus has been recovered,” he said. The commander said it was a ‘lone accident’ and blamed it on drowsiness of the driver, poor visibility and other dangers associated with night driving. He urged people who wished to travel to do so during the day time, and set out on time for journey that may stretch into the night.

Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja on Thursday affirmed the election of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa as winner of the April 11, 2015 governorship election in Delta State. This is even as Gov. Okowa while expressing gratitude to God for the ruling urged his opponents in the election, Chief Great Ogboru and Emerhor O’tega. To sheath their sword and join hands with him to work for the good of the state. The decision upholding Okowa’s election was contained in the eight separate appeals decided by the Court of Appeal in Abuja. The appeals were filed by Chief Great Ogboru and his party, the Labour Party (LP), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Emerhor and All Progressives Congress (APC), PDP vs Emerhor O’tega, INEC vs O’tega and two separate cross appeals filed by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. All the appeals had challenged the judgment of Delta State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal

which dismissed the election petitions filed by Labour Party and All Progressives Congress. Ogboru also challenged the validity of the election of Okowa, a former senator. The petitioner also wanted INEC to conduct a fresh governorship election in Delta State. But on October 26, 2015, the tribunal dismissed the petition for failure to prove allegation of substantially non-compliance with electoral law. Delivering the lead judgment, Justice Uwani AbbaAji, held that the tribunal was right to have struck out 27 paragraphs that raised new issues from the proof of evidence filed by the petitioner before the tribunal. In the unanimous judgment, the panel of five justices of the Appeal Court held that the petitioner had alleged corrupt practices, but failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt the malpractices and over voting. Justice Abba-Aji said the court also found that tribunal findings and its evaluation of evidences were not perverted. Continued on page 12

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

Okorocha urges Nigerians to pray for unity among leaders ÏÏÏImo

state governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, on Thursday, urged Christians in the country to pray for love, unity, and understanding among Nigerians, especially among the leaders. The governor also asked Christians in the state in particular to continue to pray more than they had done in the past, for the progress, development and prosperity of the state and her citizenry, in the coming years. The governor said Nigerians including the leaders need to love and understand themselves to appreciate the efficacy of a United Nation, and with such love and understanding, Nigerians both the leaders and the led, would see the insurgence in the

North, the militancy in the Niger Delta, the OPC activities in the South-West and the pro-Biafra protests in the South-East, as national challenges. With this scenario, he noted in his Christmas message that it would be totally wrong and indeed unacceptable to all patriotic citizens of the country, for the leaders from these parts of the country to be accusing and attacking themselves on the pages of newspapers of being behind the security challenges in their parts of the country. “To say the least, it is not advisable for the leaders in the North-East to be accused of being responsible for the actions of the Boko Haram apologists or the leaders in the South-East being accused of sponsor-

7 News

Ekiti finances: You won’t escape justice with your lies, APC tells Fayose Gbenga Sodeinde

Ado Ekiti

ÏÏÏThe All Progressives

Congress (APC) in Ekiti state has told Governor Ayodele Fayose that he will have his days in the courts over fabricated figures on the state’s debts to deceive the people and paint former Governor Kayode Fayemi in bad light. Reacting to the claims by Fayose’s media aide, Lere Olayinka, that Fayemi plunged Ekiti into debts without any commensurate development projects to show for it, Publicity Secretary, Taiwo Olatunbosun,

said in a statement that it was only the blind that would not see various development projects executed by the former governor. “Fayemi did not borrow to pay salary. He received awards from many international bodies, including the United Nations’ agency and top Nigerians, for the feats he recorded in development projects, the last being the award for the state that led in budget transparency among other states in Nigeria that Fayose tried to usurp. “Fayose lied that Fayemi at a point in time collected N9b as monthly federal al-

Fayose

location. The records are there that Ekiti monthly share of federal allocation remained N2.8b throughout and the biggest being

N3.2b when excess crude oil fund was shared among the states. “The former governor owed one month salary, and that was September 2014, and this was as a result of Fayose as Governorelect writing the banks not to honour Fayemi’s credit facility to pay workers salary and pay the banks back after receiving the allocation for the month in question,” Olatunbosun explained. He added: “Fayemi paid N2.2b monthly for salaries, pensions and subventions to higher institutions throughout his tenure.

NMA wades into doctors, Osun govt face-off Joy Ekeke

ÏÏÏThe

Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Osun state chapter, is set to intervene in the ongoing trade dispute between the state government and doctors in its employ. The NMA has therefore appealed to the Osun state government to return to negotiation table with the aim of resolving the ongoing strike action embarked upon by doctors in the state. Addressing newsmen in Osogbo on the threat of termination of appoint-

ment of the doctors by the state government over their two months strike, the NMA state chairman, Dr. Surah A. Ogunyemi, said NMA is willing and ready to cooperate with the government to bring to an end the crisis under an atmosphere of peace, mutual trust, understanding and respect. TIJANI FALILAT ADEBISI I, formerly known and addressed as Aderibigbe Falilat Adebisi now wish to be known as Tijani Falilat Adebisi. All former documents remain valid.

CONFIRMATION OF NAME

WAHAB SHAKIRU FEMI

This is to certify/confirm that DANIEL OMOSULI IS THE SAME PERSON AS OLAYIWOLA ALABA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as Aileru Raufu now wishes to be known and addressed as Wahab Shakiru Femi. The general public please take note.

THE AKHIRA CHARITY FOUNDATION This is to inform the general public that the above named has applied for registration with the corporate Affair Commission under Part “C” Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990. The Trustees Are: 1. Jimoh Garuba (Chairman) 5. Yesufu Sule Duru 2. Menay Abudu Haruna 6. Momoh- Jimoh Mamudu Ikharo 3. Zubaru Afe Igiekhume 7. Prof. Medina Omo Kadiri 4. Nasiru Saliu Ikharo (Secretary/CEO) Aim And Objectives: 1. To assist in the alleviation of the living conditions of Auchi’s most vulnerable indigenes. 2. To promote peaceful coexistence of muslins and non-Muslim in Auchi Kingdom. 3. To promote ethics and moral values through Islam (Daw’ah). Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affair Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off Aguyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication. Signed: BARR. MENAY A. HARUNA

Travellers at Berger Motor Park, Lagos... on Thursday.

Photo: BOLAJI OLASUNKANMI.

Fuel scarcity: Lalong’s convoy buys at black market Chijioke Kingsley Jos

ÏÏÏThe convoy of Gover-

nor of Plateau state was Thursday spotted buying fuel from black market peddlers. This is as a result of the lingered fuel scarcity that has left motorists with no choice than to patronise black marketers. A 4-litre jerry can now sold at 1,500 but motorist have no choice than to patronise the black marketers rather than queue at the filling station for a

whole day. However, the usual Christmas rush by residence defiled the scarcity as people are seen doing last minute buying, but with much difficulty as they complained of exorbitant fares imposed by transporters. Also commuters travelling outside Jos to spend the holidays, told our correspondent that fares has increased by almost 100%. A visit to some filling stations within the metropolis shows that the product is not available.

Lalong

Many of them opened for business but with no product to dispense to their customers.

Some officials of the filling stations who spoke in anonymity said they have not gotten supply from the main depot. Also, commercial drivers told Daily Times that government must check the activities of saboteurs because the business had been hampered. Other residence blamed the scarcity and the resultant long fuel queue in Jos on dealers who prefer to sell the product to black marketers who will in turn sell at exorbitant prices for quick profit.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

Politics

Æs

Shiites/Military clash: Islamic leaders, govs, move to mediate

Sultan

Arase

Buratai

El-Zakzaky

Political and religious leaders in the north are seeking to mediate in the aftermath of the crisis that broke out following the bloody clash that ensued between the Nigerian Army and the Shiites Muslim group which left many dead penultimate weekend. The move is seen as an attempt to prevent a possible escalation of the crisis especially similar one like the Boko Haram insur-

gency which has been ravaging the north since 2009. Last Saturday in Kaduna, the 19 northern governors met and expressed worries about the clash fearing that it does not escalate and to fester to become another big crisis which they said they are still battling with after causing a lot of damages to lives and properties. CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

Fresh process for amending 1999 Constitution begins

Saraki

Dogara

Buhari

Obasanjo

Jonathan

The Following a series of flaws in the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, the Senate has commenced another process of the code of the country’s laws. The Constitution failed to provide necessary guideline in the Political impasse that followed the recent Kogi State governorship polls sequel to the death of one of the candidates after the election had been declared inconclusive. Prince Abubakar Audu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who was leading his Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) opponent and governor of the state, Captain Idris Wada dropped dead 24 hours after the election had held and declared inconclusive. The inadequacies of the Constitution over this unfortunate

incidence led to a series of actions that tended to overheat the polity, thus necessitating the recourse to the courts by many of the dramatis personae. The development further raised the stakes on the need for an immediate amendment to the

document. Thus, last Wednesday, the Upper Chamber of the National Assembly constituted a 38-member committee to begin a fresh process for the amendment of the 1999 Nigerian constitution. It would be recalled that ef-

forts geared towards amending the 1999 Constitution began in the 5th Assembly of the 4th Republic, during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration. The efforts however crashed on May 16, 2006 owing to an alleged plot by the then President to

smuggle third term into it. But a breakthrough appeared to have been recorded by the 7th Assembly with the passage of the Fourth Alteration Bill by both chambers of the parliaCONTINUED ON PAGE 9

Lagos plans interaction session with youth over project implementation In its resolve to excite the youths in its administration, the Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, has concluded plans to gainfully engage youth across

the state in what is designed to be the first in series of interactive sessions on government’s policies and programmes. The interactive session tagged ‘Peace in the world: The role of Lagos State Youth’ is

billed for Tuesday, December 29, 2015 and will hold at the Onikan Youth Centre in an atmosphere of fun and merriment. According to the Chief ConCONTINUED ON PAGE 9

Ambode

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

9 Politics

Fresh process for amending 1999 Constitution begins CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

ment after it went round the 360 federal constituencies across the country to conduct public hearings on the constitution amendment which was attended by representatives of the Federal Government. The Constitution Amendment Bill was then forwarded to former President Goodluck Jonathan, who after some time returned same to the National Assembly without his assent. He based his decision not to append his signature on the usurpation of presidential powers and constitutional breaches in the process of the amendment. But announcing the beginning of a fresh process at plenary in Abuja, Senate President, Bukola Saraki said the committee, which would be headed by Deputy President of the Senate, Ike Ekweremadu, would gather facts from stakeholders across the country as part of the process. He called on members of the committee to concentrate on issues that would de-emphasise recurrent expenditure, adding that “With the composition of the committee, the senate has set the stage for the activities leading to the delivery of better

Lagos plans interaction session with youth over project implementation CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

Saraki

Dogara

Buhari

governance to our people.” Stressing that the eighth senate would make amendment to the constitution a priority, Saraki said: “The work already carried out by the seventh senate has made the job of the new committee easier”. It would be recalled that after initial delay, the 2011 signing into law of the two bills amending the 1999 Constitution by President Goodluck Jonathan effectively halted the controversy over the necessity, or otherwise, of presidential assent to make the amended portions of the constitution legal.

The signing, which had been delayed for several months because of the refusal of the National Assembly to present the amended copies to the president for signature, made the document operational. The legislature had vehemently argued that presidential assent was not required to make the amendments valid. The matter became a subject of a case brought against the National Assembly by a former chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, Chief Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), who challenged the position of the National assembly.

A Federal High Court resolved the logjam on November 8, 2010 when Justice Okechukwu Okeke ruled that the 2010 constitution amendment was null, void, inchoate and could not be operated without the consent of the president. The amended clauses of the constitution are mainly political. They deal with the election timetable, age limits for elective offices and direct funding of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from the first line charge. A clause also CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

vener, the State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mrs. Uzamat AkinbileYusuf, the forum will not only provide a platform for interaction between the youths and representatives of the State Government but also enable government get feedback and clarification on its policies and programmes as it affects the youth. In her words: “The platform will also afford the youths the opportunity to learn and air their views about the present administration’s policies and programmes while also discouraging them from constituting a nuisance or falling victim of associated risk especially during this festive season”. She advised members of all youth organisations who have registered with the ministry as voluntary and non-voluntary youth organisations in the state to take advantage of the programme as it is strictly by invitation.

Shiites/Military clash: Islamic leaders, govs, move to mediate CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

Also expressing similar worries, the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) sent a delegation to the Inspector-General of Police, Solomon E. Arase, in his office at Force Headquarters, Abuja during the week. Prof. Ishaq O. Oloyede, head of the delegation and the Secretary-General of Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, in his address appreciated the leadership qualities of IGP Solomon Arase and the Force Management Team. He thanked the Force for the cooperation extended to the Islamic body, and further used the medium to mediate on the clash between Shiite Islamic group and the Military which occurred recently in Zaria. The NSCIA Secretary-Gener-

Sultan al urged the IGP to look into the immediate and remote causes of the incident with a view to avoiding such in the future.

El-Zakzaky The body equally appealed for possible medical assistance to those detained in connection with the incident.

In his response, IGP Arase appreciated the delegation’s visit to his office. He emphasized that the Police and other security agen-

cies are conscious of Nigerian citizens’ fundamental rights and would protect them. He also assured them of professional investigation of the incident. He appealed to the Islamic body to use its reputable and respected platform to caution all groups in the country, that while they have the constitutional rights to express their views, it should not circumscribe the rights of others. The Inspector-General said that at no time did he say there would be special clearance from anywhere before the Shiite members could be visited while still in custody. The IGP made it clear that the detainees could be visited by their friends, relatives and lawyers, observing necessary legitimate procedures. According to Force PRO, CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

Politics 10

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

Group to Presidency: Don’t make Jonathan whipping boy

Buhari Renown human rights activist, Comrade Adeniyi Sulaiman has tackled the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Muhammed for blaming the immediate past President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan as the cause of the current Petroleum crisis after seven months of leaving office. He asked the government to accept responsibility for its failure to make petroleum products available for the people making Nigerians to experience long queues at petrol stations across the country, occasioning increase in price of transport fares for the common masses of the nation especially at this yuletide season. The rights activist also tack-

Fresh process for amending 1999 Constitution begins

Jonathan

Lai Mohammed

led the Professor Itse Sagay for asking Dr Goodluck Jonathan to go and confess his sins while he held forth as President to current President, Muhammadu Buhari over the alleged $2.1billion arms scandal which Buhari was also a beneficiary of part of the fund indirectly. In a statement, Comrade Sulaiman, said the current failure of the Buhari administration and lack of economic direction brought the present untold hardship to the Nigerian masses as a result of insensitivity of the Federal Government to find lasting solution to long fuel queues being experienced by Nigerians at the petrol stations across the country. Sulaiman, Executive Chairman, Centre for Human Rights

and Social Justice (CHRSJ), described Muhammed and Sagay as birds of the same feather flocking on the same page with the incumbent President, warning them against misleading the public by blaming Jonathan for President Buhari’s failure to perform in office, and urged the government to stop using the former President as an excuse for non performance in office. His words: “It was a shame on the part of Alhaji Lai Muhammed that President Muhammadu Buhari that promised heaven and earth during the electioneering campaign in January to March this year, could not fulfill a single promise in almost seven months into four years tenure of office only to say that

Nigerians should be prepared for hard times in 2016.What kind of government is this? Government without bearing”, he asked. “It is also heinous, evil, undemocratic and ungodly for a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to say that Nigerians are paying for the sins of former President when the present administration can not show any way forward to Nigerians. By now, the present administration should forget about the administration of Goodluck Jonathan and put Nigeria on the pedestal of change mantra promised Nigerians during the electioneering campaign. Four years tenure of office will soon lapse without having any tangible thing to show for it and success of the

present administration is paramount to every Nigerians”, he stressed. On Sagay, Sulaiman declared that it has been on record that nobody could query any fund spent by the executive arm of government under the security vote, adding that if President Buhari wanted to probe security vote of Jonathan’s administration, it means “other past leaders would have their security votes probed”. The CHRSJ boss reiterated the position of the group to ensure that the menace of corruption in any form should be stamped out in the country, urging the present administration to leave Dr Jonathan out of the present arms deal saga.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

It is not good enough, however, that the changes are mainly on the political process. Other areas close to the hearts of Nigerians, especially those inimical to business and the unity of the country, were not touched. These include the archaic antiinvestment laws like the monopoly vested in the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), which bars foreigners and private busi-

nesses from the sub-sector. This and many other outdated provisions in the constitution need to be expunged. The much-needed amendment of the provisions on taxation was not done. So also the controversial indigene-settler issue, the right to Freedom of Information and fundamental issues such as our lop-sided federalism, resource control, and allocation

and expenditure of revenue. Nigerians would also have liked to have a better definition of the relationship between the Federal Government and the federating units. Although the lawmakers did a good job of tinkering with the electoral process, the failure to address the other critical areas means that calls for further amendments will continue.

stipulates that the period already spent in office will count as part of the tenure of a president or governor who wins a re-run election. These can only have salutary effects on our democratic process. Direct funding of INEC from the first line charge will ensure greater independence for the electoral agency.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

11 Politics

Ajimobi’s modified zero budgeting for 2016 Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State has presented a zero budget of N165,097,845,486.00 billion budget proposal for next year with an economic re-engineering plan to shore up the state’s revenues. Tagged ``Budget of Renewed Commitment’’, he said that the proposal to the state House of Assembly was guided by his administration’s desire to implement a four-cardinal programme in 2016 aimed at solidifying the on-going process of physical and social infrastructural development in the state. A breakdown shows N2.37 billion, representing 35.88 per cent, is allocated to recurrent expenditure, while capital expenditure will gulp N72.73 billion, representing 44.10 per cent of the budget. The sectoral allocation consists of Economy N39.90 billion representing 54.85 per cent; Social Services N13.60 billion, 18.63 per cent; Urban Regional Development N8.10 billion, 11.17 per cent and General Administration N11.20, 15.85 per cent.

He stressed that his administration would employ carefully designed expenditure switching and expedite reduction strategies as from the 2016 fiscal year, stressing that this would enable it identify and focus more on the people’s needs rather than their wants. Governor Ajimobi highlighted the four cardinal programme to include Agriculture for food security, employment generation and poverty alleviation; Education and human capital development; Infrastructural development as well as Peace and security. He disclosed that the performance of the 2015 budget was badly affected by the sharp drop in the price of crude in the international market resulting in consistently dwindling national revenue as reflected in the substantial reduction in statutory allocation from the Federation Account. The governor further said that intelligence and policy reports had indicated that there might be greater oil glut in 2016 with its dire consequences on

Ajimobi the movements in the price of crude oil in the international market. He said that the state had no choice but to be inwardlooking and less-dependent on net-based revenue for its fiscal operations, adding ``we must

change our ways of doing business”. According to him, this has necessitated the restructuring and repositioning of the state Board of Internal Revenue Service and other income-generating agencies and that the ministries, departments and agencies must be cost-effective in their operations and efficient in their service delivery. The development, he said, was expected to increase the internally-generated revenue by about 400 per cent, that is, from its present N1.2 billion to about N5 billion per month in 2016. Governor Ajimobi also said that the expenditure switching and reduction strategies would be greatly enhanced by greater reliance on the public-private partnership (PPP) framework in the provision of public goods and services. Consequently, he said that the 2016 budgetary proposals would be anchored on some philosophy and policy thrust which would include adoption of a modified zero-based budgeting framework to guide proj-

ect prioritization and informed budgetary allocation to various projects. Besides, the governor also said that the public service would be restructured for improved productivity through the implementation of the 13-ministry structure with other departments and agencies restructured accordingly. He said that the PPP Bureau would be restructured in order to promote more investment flows to the state, adding that government would act more as a catalyst rather than engage directly in economic activities where the private sector was better suited. In his address, the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Mr. Michael Adeyemo thanked the people of the state for renewing the Ajimobi administration’s mandate and for their continued support, understanding and cooperation in taking governance to an enviable height. He pledged the speedy passage of the budget as well as the support of the lawmakers to Governor Ajimobi.

Shiites/Military clash: Islamic leaders, govs, move to mediate CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

Olabisi Kolawole, the IGP, reassured of the commitment of the Force to the protection of lives and property and adherence to the tenet of fundamental human rights. Already, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has inaugurated a five-man panel to investigate the remote and immediate causes of the clash between the Nigerian Army and members of the Shiite Islamic sect in Zaria. The Executive Secretary of the commission, Prof. Bem Angwe, who inaugurated the panel in Abuja on Monday, said that the investigation became necessary following a complaint tendered before the commission by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai. “On the Dec. 14, 2015 the Chief of Army Staff presented a petition to the National Human Rights Commission on allegations of attempt on the life of the Chief of Army Staff and attack on his convoy on his way to Zaria, which eventually led to a vicious clash between the military and some members of the Shiite Sect in Zaria, leading to the loss of several lives and property.

Sultan

Arase

Buratai

El-Zakzaky

“Pursuant to the receipt of this complaint from the military, the commission, in line with its mandate to receive complaints on human rights violations, to monitor and to investigate such allegations, with a view to making appropriate determination in the circumstances, has decided to constitute an investigation panel with a view to carrying out a holistic investigation into the alleged violations of human rights.’’ According to Angwe, the panel is expected to make recommendations to the commission on

how to forestall a recurrence. He stated that the panel will investigate to determine violations of human rights on any of the parties during the clash, recommend remedies, and restitution if necessary. The five-man panel has Mr. Tony Ojukwu as its Chairman, and Mr Kabiru Elayo as Secretary. Other members of the committee include Mr Abdulrahman Yakubu; Mr Halilu Adamu; and Mr Babangida Labaran. Responding on behalf of the panel, Ojukwu promised that it will do its best to justify the con-

fidence reposed in it. The panel has two months within which to submit its report. It would be recalled that a clash between the convoy of the Chief of Army Staff and members of the Shiite Islamic sect led by Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky on Dec. 13 along the Kaduna-Zaria road left a number of people dead. The Army was said to have gone back to the headquarters of the group in an attempt to arrest their leader which again turned bloody, leading to the killing of many of his supports and close

aides. The leader, Sheik Ibrahim ElZakzaky was wounded and eventually arrested and bundled to Army Headquarters before being released to the police for investigation. The development led to spontaneous protests in Kaduna, the political headquarters of the north, and some other areas fueling fears that a similar Boko Haram insurgence might be in the offing. Many world leaders including US, UK, Iran and Amnesty International had called for investigations into the matter.

News 12

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

Army to Shi’ites: Stop inciting comments Segun Adio

ÎÎÎThe Nigerian Army has

warned members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria, otherwise called Shi’ites, to desist from making misleading comments, capable of breaching public peace and order. This is contained in a statement issued by Army spokesman, Col. Sani Usman, and made available to the Daily Times. He said: “The Army is aware of clandestine campaign of calumny and misinformation on the incident

of Dec.12, 2015 in Zaria.’’ He said that “a group of high ranking members of Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) led by one Dr. Abdullahi Danladi, a lecturer at Ahmadu Bello University Zaria,’’ had misrepresented facts about the incident. “He was at the university on Wednesday soliciting for support and telling lies about the circumstances surrounding the incident and the incident itself. “He also went further to make false and unfounded allegations of casualty figures and desecration of

burial grounds. “Dr. Abdullahi Danladi and like-minded individuals should be warned to desist from telling lies and misrepresentation of facts capable of misleading the general public,” Usman added. The statement said the actions of Danladi was preposterous and showed lack of concern and respect for peace and tranquility. It said that the Army would not sit back and allow some mischievous elements in the society to further create unnecessary tension and disaffection in the society.

The statement urged the public to disregard the misleading campaign by the sect. “This attitude will not be tolerated where people abuse their privileged position to mislead the public, create disaffection. “Nigerians and indeed all well-meaning people are please enjoined to be patient and await the outcome of the various enquiries instituted by various government and non-governmental agencies,” the statement concluded.

Appeal Court affirms Okowa as Delta gov. Continued from page 6 According to the Court of Appeal, the card reader is not the most authentic way to determine the actual voter but the voter register. The Court of Appeal dismissed six of the appeals and allowed the two appeals filed by INEC. Meanwhile, Gov. Okowa on Thursday expressed gratitude to God for giving him victory at the Court of Appeal in Abuja. The governor, who marked the victory at the Government House Chapel, Asaba, few hours after the court ruling, called on Chief Great Ogboru and Chief Emerho O’tega, his opponents in the election, to sheath their swords and join his government. According to Okowa, the battle has been fierce in all angles and the rumours have been strong. “But this is time for peace and not for war; the war is over and it is time for us to think about Delta and not about our self. “And it’s time for repen-

tance and I call on Ugboru and O’tega to come back and embrace this government so that together we can work for the good of Deltans.’’ He described the season as a perfect Christmas because the people came out to vote and the lower and the appeal courts have upheld their votes. He assured the people that his administration would not let them down. In his reaction, Sen. James Manager attributed Okowa’s victory to God and appealed to the opponents to join him to salvage the state. “Those who lost in the elections even in the tribunal and Court of Appeal should give peace a chance in the overall interest of Delta. “I know that there is still another leg, but must we push it that far; is it necessary in the interest of our people? “Let us come together to build Delta from the current level to where we want it to be,” Manager appealed.

We’ve ‘technically’ won Boko Haram war – Buhari R-L: Wife of Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, Mrs. Falilat Olusola Obasa; wife of Governor of Lagos State, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode; Governor Akinwunmi Ambode; Deputy Governor, Dr. (Mrs.) Oluranti Adebule; Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Olufumilayo Atilade; Secretary to State Government, Mr. Tunji Bello during the 2015 Christmas Carol Service with the theme; “Unto Us a Child is Born” at State House, Ikeja… on Wednesday.

Don’t write off FG’s efforts to reposition the counrty, Mark tells Nigerians ÎÎÎThe

Former Senate President, Sen. David Mark, has urged Nigerians not to write off the efforts the Federal Government is making to reposition the country in spite of the security and socio-economic challenges. Mark’s call is contained in a statement signed by his Media Assistant, Mr Paul Mumeh and issued in Abuja on Thursday. He, however, advised the Federal Government to make the Nigerian people the focus of all its actions and policies in order to uplift the living standard of the citizens. The former senate presi-

dent also urged the people to reciprocate government’s good gestures by being lawabiding. ``We must at all times support constituted authorities as that is the only way to promote democracy, good governance, and development. ``This period calls for sober reflection and a resolve to support the efforts of government to overcome the challenges,’’ the statement said. He noted that the current security, economic, and socio-political challenges in the country could be overcome.

The statement, therefore, urged Nigerians not to allow political differences to affect the national interest, saying: ``all hands must be on deck to protect the country. ``We must remember that the interest and welfare of citizens remain the ultimate goal of government.’’ Mark called on both Christians and Muslims to embrace one another in the spirit of the Christmas season. He advised Muslims to use the Christmas period ``which coincides with the celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad’’ to embrace peace, love and en-

sure good neighbourliness. ``Christians and Muslims should imbibe the true teachings of Jesus Christ and Prophet Muhammad,’’ he said. On the relationship between the legislative and the executive arms of government at the national level, Marks said a positive synergy must be formed without compromising the constitutional mandates of each arm. ``This is so because it makes for a healthy and smooth working relationship for public officers to deliver the goods to the people,’’ the statement added.

Continued from page 6 have in the last few weeks been recalling the campaign promises made by President Buhari and the APC, particularly, their December 24, 2014 Christmas message wherein they promised several reforms and welfare programmes that will, in their own words, ‘begin to positively impact on the citizenry within its (APC) first few months at the helm, to such an extent that Nigerians will have a better Christmas celebration in 2015’. “Whilst we understand the indignation, frustration and disappointments occasioned by the long list of unfulfilled promises and dashed expectations under the current regime (and justifiably so), we urge that Nigerians should not recourse to hauling insults on the President as such would not bring the succour they seek. “The challenges we face

today as a nation should not make us lose our dignity and demureness as a people. They should not make us miss the essence and meanings of Eid-El-Maulud and Christmas and the divine succour they bring, especially the assurance that there is always an end to every negative situation. “The PDP therefore calls on all Nigerians to use the occasions to reflect on those things that bind us together as a nation; show love to one another and commit the nation into Gods’ hands, even as we charge the political class to be conscious of divine accountability in all their dealings. “On this note, the Acting National Chairman of the PDP, Prince Uche Secondus, on behalf of the PDP National Executive Committee (NEC), wishes all Nigerians joyful Eid-El-Maulud and Christmas celebrations,” the party said.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

News 14

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

2015 budget: TUC urges full implementation ÏÏÏThe

Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has commended the Federal Government for the N6.08 trillion 2016 budget announced last Tuesday. However, the Congress is worried that the challenge facing the country as regards national budget is not how to propose, draft or present a good budget but its implementation. The Congress is further worried

that about N1.8 trn of the budget will be borrowed to fund the budget. In a statement issued and signed by the President of TUC, Comrade Bobboi Bala Kaigama and the General Secretary (TUC), Comrade Musa Lawal respectively, said the decision to recruit 500,000 unemployed graduates and National Certificate of Education (NCE) holders as teachers to curb the escalating rate of unem-

ployment and to ensure that all the Federal Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) are captured and brought under the Integrated Personnel Payroll Information System (IPPIS) are laudable ideas. According to TUC, the move will not only reduce the burden of manual preparation of payrolls but also curb cases of sharp practices in the system and will also help

to compile the list of the less-privileged in order to implement better transfer programme. The Congress therefore urged that the policy be made transparent and inclusive without discrimination. The statement further read thus: “Additionally, we are still not comfortable with the decision of government on subsidy. The Congress therefore demand for a stakehold-

ers’ meeting which include labour to discuss the subsidy issue and why it has become impossible for us to refine and purchase fuel for as low as N50 per litre. The price of crude oil in the international market had dropped drastically. This should have a direct effect on domestic consumption of the product. “The proposed deficit financing at 2.22 trillion is certainly on the high side.

Police ban fireworks in Niger

Xmas: Ambode preaches love, peaceful coexistence

Pita Chikwem Minna

ÏÏÏAs Christians in Ni-

ÏÏÏApart

from deploying 5,000 police officers to ensure that lives and property are protected during Christmas and New Year celebrations, Niger State Police Command said it has also banned the use of fireworks in the state. The Command Public Relations Officer, Mr. Bala Elkana, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), who spoke through the Commissioner of Police, Abubakar Marafa, advised parents and guardians to monitor the activities of their children. Elkana on Thursday warned the youths to be law abiding and eschew all forms of violence during and after the Christmas and New Year celebrations, adding that any person or group of persons caught using fireworks will face the full wrath of the law. He, however, assured the people of the state that security will be provided to places of worship, markets and recreation centres to ensure hitch free celebrations.

L-R: Rector, Yaba College of Technology, Margaret Ladipo; Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Tertiary Education & Services, Hon. Aminu Suleiman Goro; Chairperson, Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions & TETFund, Sen. Binta Masi Garba; Executive Secretary, TETFund, Prof . Suleiman Elias Bogoro and Director, Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS), Mrs Adediran Olufunlola, at the 2015 joint TETFund and FIRS interactive forum held in Lagos... on Wednesday.

Pray for end of terrorism, Tambuwal tells Christians ÏÏÏGovernor

Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State has urged Nigerians to use the occasion of this year’s Christmas to pray for complete end to terrorists’ activities in the country. This advice is contained in a statement to commemorate this year’s Christmas

season issued in Sokoto on Thursday by the governor’s spokesman, Malam Imam Imam. In the statement, Tambuwal said with prayers, the current gains recorded by the security agencies in the fight against insurgency would be consolidated.

“We should all pray for a complete end to terrorists’ activities in our country. `` The coming year will provide an opportunity for our country to start afresh. ``I am confident 2016 will be one of the most peaceful years in our country’s recent history,” the governor

said. The statement further quoted Tambuwal as wishing all Nigerians, especially those of the Christian faith, a merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. He, however, prayed for a hitch-free celebration and holidays.

Politician renews vow to help needy Babajide Okeowo

ÏÏÏA chieftain of the All

IGP Arase

This could be reduced by the recovery of stolen funds. We therefore support the government to use looted funds for the benefit of Nigerians. “The budget is a good one as it has addressed major issues that could change the life of a common man but implementation is our fear. We believe if the budget is properly implemented Nigeria is surely on the path to greatness again.

Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, Dr. Babatunde Oladipo Okeyomi has pledged his continued support to the less- privileged members of the society to enhance their living standards. Okeyomi, an aspirant

into the chairmanship position of the Ojokoro Local Council Development Area of Lagos state, who gave the pledge at a ceremony to mark the 6th Anniversary of the CarryGo Day, held at Alakuko, Lagos, said he has an abiding covenant with God to continue to assist the less privileged

members of the society to overcome their challenges including unemployment, poverty and diseases. He said that after overcoming poverty and want, following his years of engaging in menial jobs like load carrier and a bakery worker, he was better positioned to appreciate the

challenges facing poor people. He said he would use this festive season of Christmas and New Year to interact and assist the people of his constituency so as to give the more financial succor, empowerment like jobs, training programmes and prayers.

geria join the rest of the world to celebrate Christmas, Lagos State governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode has enjoined Nigerians to embrace the virtues of love and peaceful coexistence that the season symbolises, just as he urged them to refrain from activities that could trigger unrest and disunity. The governor, in his Christmas goodwill message to residents of the State, said that as the nation continues to anticipate the change promised by the All Progressives Congress (APC) governments at the Centre and state levels, it is only through peaceful coexistence and atmosphere that any positive change can materialise. “The season of Christmas is one that exemplifies the virtues of love and peaceful co-existence. We must continue to extend a hand of love and live as one family irrespective of our creed or colour. We must also continue to respect each other’s right to live freely and peacefully”, the governor said in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Habib Aruna. He said the security challenges which the country is facing now should not be used as an avenue to create division along ethnic and religious lines by some politicians who are blanketly engaging in name-calling of political opponents.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

15 Opinion

Zaria massacre: Why Gen. Buratai needs to resign

A Peregrino Brima

s like many other Nigerians and foreigners, I highly respect Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai. Since rising to his top military position, he has dramatically changed the narrative of the war against terror in Nigeria. At last the terrorists are on the run, deprived of supplies, recruits and modern weapons, now left to riding bicycles and using dane guns. Regularly seen in the midst of active troops, General Buratai has restored military morale and improved professionalism of the troops. However, the mistake act of December 12 and the following days since demand that the General demonstrate his exemplary probity by tending his immediate resignation. While some other errors of our military may not be directly linked to the Chief of Army Staff as the Sokoto road massacre was, and may not demand his resignation as other officers my take the fall; Buratai was there on the fateful day. He gave or physically oversaw the command. The actions on Sokoto road are reminiscent of ancient military authoritarian behaviour not consistent with the 21st century

civilisation. It was an era where the military command like the colonial master was an absolute and almighty imperious authority that anyone who disrespected must be beaten and put to death. Armed protests regardless of who is obstructed do not have to be put out with lethal force. Gaddafi was sacked by a global coalition allegedly for his crushing response to armed protest. While the once bitten (July 2014 Nigerian army massacre) stick and stone wielding students on Sokoto road were belligerent and civilly disobedient, did they deserve immediate extermination for delaying the Army General’s passage to his function? No. For the simple reasons below: The Army is only to be engaged in defined state of war and where a state of emergency or Marshall law is declared. In all other instances, according to the Nigerian constitution, the police and mobile police are to be called. Except in Sambisa, and war struck Borno where their deploymenthas been approved by the National Assembly, the army is no authority onNigerian streets. That entire beating people at petrol stations and guard-room locking of offenders is illegal. The armycan only be invited by the police as a backup.

The continued use of excessive force by the army, with further deadly attacks including the use of grenades on the Islamic Centre and the home ofSheikh Zakzaky at 11pm, were further and continued illegal actions which only the police/mobile police are trained and authorised to conduct. For obvious reasons, the Military Chief defended himself by reportingthe incident and attempting to justify their use of excessive anddisproportional force as being a result of deliberate assassination attempton his life. The question to ask is; did the army chief have topurposefully mow his way through a crowd of dissenting students? Could there be an alternative way to get to where he was going without having to hurriedly kill everyone on and off his path? Was he headed to a nationalemergency? In his capacity, could he not call for a helicopter to transport him while possibly leaving the army there till mobile police arrives to contain the situation? It is unfortunate that significant Nigerians including members of the army, governors and those higherups appear to be addressing national issues from sectarian positions. The disrespectful attack on the Shia Muslims in ways that no other group has ever been, with the crushing

of their religious centres and humiliation of their highest authority, reeks heavily of systematic and deliberate religious persecution. While as many as 200 bodies were deposited in the ABU morgue, as many as1000 Nigerians are reported to have been killed in this horrific incident. Thus far, the Shia Muslims have demonstrated exemplary character in Nigeria, by not resorting to violence in reaction to the current and past deadly aggression. While we are thankful of their spiritual and social anti-violence doctrine, which perhaps no other group in Nigeria and few others worldwide, apart from Monks are close in, we expect an attempt to similarly advance in character by the Nigerian authorities, who should learn from their former leaders currently in jail. There is no threat of Shia becoming terrorists; they never will. We should stop insulting them further with such utterances. That Sheikh Zakzaky had a premeditated sinister plot to kill General Buratai and overthrow the Nigerian government, which led to the stationing of troops in front of the Islamic center at 12 noon on December 12th and the crushing response to the protesting youth at 3pm that day, we would advice the Military Chief to accept his reflex errors and resign.

Emefiele is not responsible for Naira plunge

Eghes Eyieyien

he Naira is taking an unprecedented bashing in our parallel Foreign Exchange Markets. In the Parallel Market, the Dollar sold for as high as N280 and the Pound Sterling N398 some days back. A friend who travelled to the U.S. to attend the child’s graduation sent me a WhatsApp message lamenting that he cannot now use his Mastercard and Visa Card to pay for transactions. The sudden decision of banks to stop their customers from using their Naira Debit/Credit Cards while abroad is disruptive to most users of the cards and it has induced panic. In an era where e-commerce has begun to boom in the country with even greater prospects of growth, the inability of Nigerian bank customers to use their Naira Debit/Credit Cards freely as had been the case is worrisome and would no doubt take Nigerians out of the international comity of e-shoppers. As is often the Nigerian way, some have started calling for the sack of the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Godwin Emefiele. What is he to do when Nigeria’s unwritten Foreign Exchange Policy through all

administrations is “Defend the Naira whatever it takes”? When we had robust Foreign Exchange Reserves, the CBN diligently applied this policy yet the Naira declined in value. The CBN only managed to moderate the slide and create an illusion of a “stable” exchange rate. Today, with our Foreign Exchange Reserves just a little over $30Billion and reducing monthly, our continued insatiable appetite for imported goods, and the false foreign exchange demand of those eager to take out capital from the country, what can Emefiele really do to stop the hemorrhaging of the Naira in the short term? Very little indeed. The Federal Government and the Central Bank of Nigeria will have to face the hard reality that the Naira exchange rate is not sustainable and allow it to float. Given the value of the Naira in the Parallel Market today, an exchange rate of N300/$1 appears more realistic. Of course, such a high exchange rate will translate into hardship for most Nigerians; more so with the imminent removal of the subsidy on petrol (and kerosene?). But we must bite the bullet now and actually set about doing the difficult task of weaning ourselves from our excessive taste for imports and developing our non-oil foreign

exchange revenue base. It is trite, to speak of Nigeria’s “immense potentials”. I first heard that phrase in my Form Three at King’s College, Lagos, during Economics class. And thirty-four years later, we are yet to translate this “potential energy” to “kinetic energy” which gets work done. We can set some simple, achievable, three-point mid-term goals to exploit our economic potentials: Transform the Nigeria Oil and Gas sector to become a Petroleum Products and Petrochemicals Industry. Nigeria can become Africa’s hub for manufactured petroleum and petrochemicals products. We will make by far more money this way than by exporting crude oil. Invest in developing our solid minerals sector. It is unbelievable how we have neglected this industry which is what is sustaining many African countries. But we must be careful not to make the same mistake we made in the oil and gas sector. We must not focus on exporting mere raw solid minerals but work at creating an industry which is oriented to value-added products. Funding support for our Micro,

Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through Venture Capital. Many have wondered why our MSMEs still underperform as veritable vehicles of economic development and mass job creation as they are in other countries like China, Israel, South Korea and the European Union despite all the government programmes designed to provide them easier access to credit. We have assumed that all MSMEs need is cheap credit. And that is where we have erred. Studies have shown that MSMEs are best supported as start-ups and green-field initiatives. What they require at that stage is Equity Financing. This is why countries with highly successful MSMEs all have a Venture Capital Financing corporation devoted to providing them with the critical life-giving equity funds they need in their early years. Please look for and read the book “STARTUP NATION”. It is the story of the secret of Israel’s amazing economic success. Replacing Godwin Emefiele as the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria may be the populist and tempting thing to do, but it would make no difference in the short term if our foreign exchange management philosophy remains unchanged.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

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Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

Features

Æs

A SEASON FOR AMBITIOUS SNAKE TREATS:

It’s a gutsy and adventurous way to celebrate Yuletide

Stripping and debonning in process

After two weeks of combing the City of Excellence for something unique for the yuletide, Daily Times this festive morning presents for your Christmas delight, a freehold recipe for your steamy snake-stew for the rice group for starters, then a special rattle-snake pepper soup as well as spicy snake suya for light entertainment for the guys. The main course: bitterleaf/egusi (or any herb/vegetable of choice) snake soup ideally made with wild boar meat. GBUBEMI GOD’S COVENANT SNR is the pilot and connoisseur. Have a Merry Christmas from our features desk! Courage, folks. Even though the Naira has hit an all time forty-year low and is poised to rob us of the right to celebrate Christmas with its attendant tradition, joy and pomp, let’s pretend the petrol squeeze and the heavy gridlock in all traffic are not there. Let us also put aside the economic crunch and the N265- to-the-dollar exchange rate and indulge our hearts in some bold adventures this Christmas at commonsensical price. Our menu today is centred on a notaltogether new taste for the unusual in Lagos. We have not forgotten the carnivorous case of Clifford Orji of February 1999 who, among other things,

was alleged to have a long list of highbrow society clientele who visited his joint for human meats pepper soup. The police never really concluded that aspect of his many charges. Orji who was condemned to death was reported to have died in prison on August 17, 2012. That certainly, was in the realm of the theatre of the bizarre. Now, dog meat we know of; bush meats in their categories (some of which have been ‘ebolarised’), we are aware: but snake meats prepared in mouthwatering varieties, we must confess, is not all too familiar. Inspite of insurgency, kidnappings and mindboggling corruption in high places, Nigeria has not been plagued with famine or hunger as warrant eating of snake meats in the open, so how did Lagosians

get there? Genesis of the snake meats revolution The tasty strange meats trend first stirred in the City of Lagos somewhere along Martins Street in the early 1970s. The eatery was named ‘Seconds Out’, a name borne out of the operator’s passion for boxing. The generation that patronised him are mostly retired now, or gone beyond. During the course of doing this feature, the few guys still around couldn’t remember his real name because Seconds Out or ‘SO’ was all anyone cared and loved to call him. Very unique at the time, the joint was reputed to serve the wildest of wild meats, from crocodile to lion meats, zebra,

There is nothing strange about eating snake meat. When we were growing up, it was a profitable sport for the young to hunt for bush meats and snakes – Cyril Okoye

elephant and buffalo, among others. Someone even mentioned he once ate, of all meats - owl meat pepper soup. SO had a notice board in front of the entrance where he announced the special meats of each day in white and green chalk. He was reputed to have links with uncommon hunters in some Yoruba towns and villages, some believed to be esoteric (for you have to be, to be able to kill wild creatures like the buffalo, elephant, etc). For those familiar with good old Lagos of the 70s and early 80s, Lagos boasted of few great spots - Seconds Out for eatery, Kaakadu and late John Chukwu’s Class (for nite clubs,) beside Bobby B’s Caban Bamboo on Ikorodu Road and Fela’s Africa 70 Shrine then at Masholashi, Idi-Oro. The regular eateries, bukas and grillrooms served the regular specials like porcupine, (alias, grass cutter), antelope, rabbit, etc all of which fall under the generic name of bush meat. It is unclear now how when the

Continued on page 18

Features 18

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

We never run out of snake eating customers - Taiba

Continued from page 17

continuous craving for strange meats exploded into a passion. However, someone who should know gave some hints to our correspondent early in the week at the popular snake restaurant in Festac Town. A first timer would need no direction as any tricycle operator plying the Second Gate from Alaba end would drop you off in the area. Cyril Okoye is from a town in Enugu State he would rather not have its name in print so his town folks in Lagos don’t fall into reproach. Hear him: “There is nothing strange about eating snake meat. When we were growing up, it was a profitable spot for the young to hunt for bush meats and snakes. Every market day we go with our bags of catches and we made good money especially when visitors come from far away Enugu, Awka and Onitsha to buy up every creature we had. “Our traps used to catch good bush meats but there is an area we catch snakes aplenty, the boars and bigger pythons don’t come easily but we made do with rattle snakes which were more common. “As for the eating of snakes, it is a local special and very delicious. We used to roast it and believe me, meats don’t get tastier than roasted snake. Virtually every palm wine joint or beer parlour in my place serve a choice of dog meat or snake pepper soup and I will tell you one secret: that woman who runs that snake joint at Festac and her assistants are from my village. Quote me, tell her I said so.” But the move was not a wise one as the lady didn’t take kindly to discussing her background and her business behind her back - especially to a journalist. She was in the process of salting snakes she had prepared for the day’s business. “Many reporters have published all kind of lies about me and my customers; I am doing my business and I don’t need your publicity.” Our correspondent asked if he could stick around for her much talked about snake pepper

soup but she said all cooking for the rest of the week were fully booked; she doesn’t have enough snakes to meet the bookings at hand. But one of her important customers from Oshun state, Mr. Kayode Atobatele, a dealer in electronics parts at the Alaba International market who happened to be at the restaurant told Daily Times he had missed the last booking because madam didn’t get enough snakes to buy. On the increasing number of people who crave for snake meats in Lagos, Kayode said it is people who ate snakes in their respective villages and who came to Lagos to do business that made it popular. “Ejo, which is snake in Yoruba, is a common meat in my town, for example. It is not even seen as special because it is nearly always available and you can choose between snake meat and cow meat.” A further search for snake eateries led Daily Times to a community called Meiran under Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos state. For those who would like a snake treat this Christmas Day, Alafia Street by Baba Ijebu bus stop is your target. The joint is not a particularly classy one though, but for a locality like Meiran, it would pass for a decent pepper soup and beer parlour. Our correspondent met two big basins with black rattle snakes and a brightly coloured python waiting for processing. Although engrossed with ‘production’ for the evening rush, our hostess didn’t mind chatting as she chopped up one snake after another while an assistant was stripping and deboning the boar. The woman who gave her name only as Iya Kola (not her real name) said she buys assorted snakes in large quantities from Cotonou. At the back of the eatery, another assistant was also chopping up the snakes and was saucing them with a black local seasoner; a young man was skillfully entwining some set of smaller snakes through a stick and was roasting them over

Roasted snake-suya

A plate of regular snake pepper soup goes for N350; special orders attract more according to the demand. I sell crocodile pepper soup to my special customers at N1,500 per plate or more, according to the price I buy them because crocodiles and boars are very expensive - Taiba controlled fire for a snake-suya. Daily Times gathered first hand that it was necessary they cook and fry them later because of power problem. Customers are said to enjoy the snake suya better with cold beer. In a brief chat with Iya Kola she said she goes to the Republic of Benin about three times every week to collect her orders. “That’s the only way I can meet my customers’ demands because local villages in our place said snakes have become scarce; the weather has been too dry to catch them, and the little they catch, the native people eat it too.” Daily Times gathered that

the restaurant has been serving snakes for almost a decade. Though a popular and profitable business today, but it wasn’t an easy road to travel. “I had problems in this neighbourhood before I could face the business. I was evicted from my former place when they saw I was cooking snakes for pepper soup; the landlady wouldn’t hear any of my pleas so I found this place not far from the bus stop. “When I came here also, it took time for the people to accept me. Some of my early customers were from Oshun state and places where eating snake is not strange. After a while people were hearing of me and started coming from as far as Victoria Island, Ebute-Meta and so on.” Over time she had stabilised the price to sooth every pocket. “When I started I was selling at a loss, but when customers increased I was able to balance the sales. In the wet seasons when snakes are not scarce, I sell a plate of regular snake pepper soup for N500. In the dry seasons and at festival times like this we sell between N500 to N750,

depending on the snake. Boars cost more because it is seasonal. Even when it is in season they don’t always get them. Hunters say boars can even go away with their traps, unless it is caught in a thicket that it cannot escape. In Agbelekale area of Abule Egba, a suburb in Lagos is a community noted for snake delicacies. Aptly named Ejo Village (snake village), the people here don’t only sell snake pepper soup to the public, Daily Times learnt that it is the local meat for most households. Ejire Shakirat, a local who spoke to our correspondent said people think snake is only good for pepper soup. “There is no better meat for egusi, vegetable or ogbono soups than snake, especially if you get the big ones.” Besides the serpent, our correspondent learnt firsthand that crocodiles and other relations of the alligator specie is highly priced here. Shakirat testifies that this does not come every day like other snakes. “The big men who have come

Continued on page 19

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

Processed and fried snake served with potatoe flakes

19 Features

Rattlesnake cocktail - for real men

It’s dangerous for pregnant women to eat snakes – Dr. Opeifa Continued from page 18 to know this place always ask for alligators. Many of them live in Lagos Island, some even live outside Lagos, so they leave their phone numbers so they can be informed when it is available,” she said. One of the popular eateries in Ejo village is run by Mrs. Taiba Olorunfemi. A very press friendly woman, she welcome our correspondent with a plate of spiced hot rattlesnake pepper soup which she insisted was on the house. Our correspondence was surprised to find that snake meat is somewhere between chicken and fish in texture and flavor. Ummmm…it tasted really good. How did she zero in on snakes for food as a business? “I didn’t zero on it, I believe it zeroed on me,” she began with a good humour. “My village is not far from here and snakes are not strange to us. It is our regular foods because we used to catch them in ege (cassava) farms and just about everywhere. “When my husband lost his tipper to accident and he was jobless, I took the initiative and left our village for this place.

Running a place like this came naturally because people love snake meats in this part of the country and when I improved my menu with crocodile and other meats, the business just changed automatically.” Other meats like what? “Oh,” she laughed as she nodded to a customer who inquired if he could get the head of a python when it is available. “I am connected to some hunters and farmers in our village; sometimes I go as far as Ibadan, Ogbomosho and Sango when they call me. I used to get buffalo sometimes and alligator from Sango; two months ago they caught a tiger and called me. I have special customers for that category of meats.” That man who asked for boar’s head; I know it is dangerous to eat the head of snakes, do you serve it here as well? She shook her head, “No, we don’t eat it. That man is an herbalist; many of them come here for it; they use it for their work.” Daily Times gathered there are many such joints in this town, what is patronage like in seasons like this? “Customers never run out,”

Generally, some species of snakes are recorded to have toxic or poisonous venoms in their systems. It would take an expert to locate and isolate that part in the snake and cut it off. There is a similar organ in the domestic fowl which stores some very bitter substance; the locals easily identify and extract it before cooking the chicken. So in eating snakes, one should be well informed and cautious what type you eat – Dr. Eboghade Taiba said with confidence. “It is not like other businesses where business can be slow or customers few. I have my class of customers who even book for special meats like the crocodile. I never sold it to the public because the customers who book in advance are many.” The price here is a lot more reasonable than at Festac town. A plate of regular snake pepper soup goes for N350; special orders attract more according to the demand. “I sell crocodile to my

Apocalypses - python seasoned soup for dinner

special customers at N1,500 per plate and it is sometimes more according to the price I buy them because crocodiles and boars are very expensive.” How does she transport the serpents? “I used to hire a pick up or cab when I have orders to collect. The police know my business and they don’t trouble me although I sometimes give them tip. Like this Christmas season, I have to appreciate many people for their patronage and cooperation.” How long would she continue

in the snake business? Taiba who is in her early 50s said for as long as God gives her strength. “I know I am not getting any younger but I still have my children in school in Lagos and my husband’s business is just starting up. “By the grace of God, I will stop when my family husband and children are up and established. For now, I am meeting all the needs and I will do that until God will bless everybody and I will take my rest.”

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Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

News 22

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

Maulud, Christmas: Sultan, Oritsejafor seek peace among Nigerians ÏÏÏThe

Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, has sent a special Christmas message to the Christian faithful across Nigeria. In a statement signed on his behalf by the Secretary General of the National Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, he

prayed that God’s guidance and blessing would be part of the festive season. In the same vein, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, has congratulated Nigerians on the occasion of Christmas and Eid-elMalud celebrations.

In a statement on Thursday, Oritsejafor said that the season offered Nigerians another unique opportunity to imbibe the lessons that come with the season. According to the Sultan, “We have every cause to celebrate and thank God for the opportunity of life and the privilege

of survival. At this time last year, Nigeria is under a lot of tension with the national conscience being tormented by the apocalyptic predictions of 2015 being the end of our corporate existence.” The Sultan said that the year-end is an opportunity for Nigerians to learn the personages of

the various religions and rededicate themselves to their true teachings. He prayed for the Christians to have more peace, more understanding, more wisdom, and more faithfulness to the teachings and the life of Jesus Christ. Oritsejafor’s statement reads: “For the Christian

Fire destroys UNN female hostel ÏÏÏThe female hostel of

the University of Nigeria, Nsukka has been destroyed by fire. A student, Joy Uwalaka, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the incident happened on Wednesday night. According to the witnesses, the fire started around 7.30 p.m. from the last floor of the two-storey building as soon as the EDDC restored power to the campus. “It was when some of the students around the hostel started shouting fire! fire!, that I jumped out from my hostel which was close to Okeke Hostel. “There was a big smoke and fire burning on the last floor of Okeke Hostel,” she said. Speaking with NAN, Mr. Patrick Aro, the Chief Fire Officer in charge of Enugu North District, said that his men responded promptly to the distress call by some members of the public.

Gethsemane Crusaders holds annual revival

Fowl Pen at Kuto Market, Abeokuta, Ogun State... on Thursday.

PHOTO: DAVID IDOWU

Don tasks Ilorin elite, others on devt Kehinde Akinpelu, Ilorin

ÏÏÏA teacher of political

science at the University of Ilorin, Dr Ibrahim Jawondo, has harped on a need for the well-to-do indigenes of Ilorin to come together for

political, social, economic and spiritual upliftment of the emirate and its people. He said that it was necessary to further strengthening the unity of Ilorin Emirate, an ingredient needed to ensure its development. He also stressed a need

for the Emirate’s political class to shun corruption and become a shining example in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. Jawondo made the call in a paper titled: “Ilorin: Yesterday and Tomorrow”, which he presented at a special lecture organised to

mark the 50th anniversary of annual national conference of Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU). The guest lecturer canvassed an Emirate where the ruler and the ruled would shun individual interests for a collective goal.

Disengaged Ondo workers beg Mimiko for reinstatement

’Tosin Ajuwon, Akure

ÏÏÏMore than 2,000 workers mainly from the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), and Hospital Board Management (HBM) of the Ondo State government workforce have called on Governor Olusegun Mimiko to pay their outstanding salary. Many of the workers, who are now pleading for reinstatement were allegedly disengaged three years ago,

and Muslim communities, the messages of the two celebrations are clear and key to our collective existence as a nation. “I urge all to imbibe and demonstrate the virtues of peacefulness, care for one another and sacrifice that the birth of Christ Jesus and the Holy Prophet Mohammed mean. “The season presents us a great opportunity to reflect on the challenges confronting our nation. Let us use this occasion to strengthen our collective resolve to fight vices such as ethnicity, sectionalism and economic hardship that threaten to tear us apart. “Let’s give our unalloyed support to the military as they fight to defeat insurgency in the north-east of Nigeria.”

and claimed that they were been owned six months’ salary and arrears. The Daily Times gathered that the workers had made concerted effort through the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to get their salary paid. “We were employed shortly before the 2012 governorship election and passed the recent first and second verification exercises conducted in

August and September, under the supervision of the Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Akin Daramola, and his counterpart in the transport ministry, Nicholas Tofowomo, respectively. “We just learnt that prior to the payment of the bailout fund, our names had been removed on the pay roll without justification, an indication that we have been secretly sacked without any letter of disengagement”

“There are instances where both husband and wife have been dismissed unceremoniously from service,” one of them said. Other aggrieved workers who spoke to the Daily Times correspondent, and demanded to know why they had not been paid since June, explained that the issue had caused them into untold hardship, while many of them were disengaged in secrecy to avoid massive protest in solidarity.

They lamented that as a result of non-payment of their salary their family have been suffering in silence, while they had been indebted to various banks, from which some of them had obtained soft loans. Top government sources told the Daily Times that the aggrieved workers were only crying foul because they were employed in 2012 into the state workforce of the state through back door.

The Gethsemane Crusaders Worldwide has started its 2015 annual 7-day revival at the Celestial Church of Christ, Idunnu Joshua Parish, Gowon Estate, Akinogun, Ipaja, Lagos. In a statement issued by the group’s President, Prophet Dr. Abraham Oyebanji JP, the seven day event has as its theme, “Cross Over to New Glory” and shall hold between Monday, December 28, 2015 and Sunday, January 3, 2016. The programme commences at 6.00 p.m. daily. The statement said that apart from praying for the nation, the afflicted would be made whole during the crusade.

Prophet Oyebanji

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

23 News

Saraki to Nigerians: Let peace, love, unity rule our actions ÏÏÏSenate

Olaniyonu, to mark this year’s Christmas celebration, Saraki said that the virtues were crucial to the developmental drive of the Buhari administration and to ensure that the country took her rightful place as a proud member of the international community. He noted that the economic challenges facing the country, as a result of dwin-

2,000 widows benefit from health scheme in Enugu

Sea pirates kill one, injure six in Bayelsa

President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, on Thursday, urged Nigerians to ensure that their actions were predicated on peace, love and unity, which he said, were the virtues needed to rebuild the country. In a goodwill message to Nigerians, signed by his Special Adviser (Media and Publicity), Yusuph

Moses Oyediran, Enugu.

ÏÏÏNo

fewer than 2,000 widows in Nenwe Autonomous Community of Enugu State are to benefit in a Rural Health Insurance Scheme sponsored by Jonalfa Hope International Foundation. The founder of the foundation, Chief Chris Chukwu, announced this, on Thursday, during the inauguration of Nenwe Health Scheme in the community. Chukwu, an indigene, noted that the gesture was to bring succour to the widows whom, he said, were suffering untold hardship. He said that Nenwe, comprising of 27 villages, had over 3000 widows. “We embarked on a reverification exercise to have an authentic data of widows in the community and the actual number we will be sponsoring. “At the end of the exercise 2,000 widows were captured and we are making a commitment to sponsor them in 2016 and beyond as our finances can go,” he said. Chukwu, a retired Air Vice- Marshal, said that the foundation had deposited the sum of N2.5 million out of the total sum of N7.2 million required for the scheme in one year. He appealed to the managers of the scheme to review downward the registration fees for enrollees to enable more people to participate. “The registration fee of an enrollee, per annum, is much and we urge the managers to take another look at it.

Akam James, Yenagoa

ÏÏÏArmed men suspect-

ed to be sea-pirates, on Thursday, attacked a boat killing a 25-year-old man, identified as ThankGod, leaving six crew members severely injured in Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. According to one of the victims, who spoke to newsmen in Yenagoa, the incident took place about 2 p.m. on Wednesday on the Borma rice farm axis of the Brass/Ogbia/Yenagoa route. Recounting their ordeal, the manager of the boat, Mr. Kemelayefa Gabriel, said that he and his six

dling revenue in-flow into the Federation Account, was a passing phase, which would surely give way to a better future. Saih he: “Our President has just presented to the National Assembly the proposed estimates of 2016 budget of hope. We, at the National Assembly, have resolved to throw our weight behind the administration

crew members were on their way to Yenagoa from Brass after the close if work for the year, when the pirates struck and killed ThankGod. According to him, when they got Borma rice farm axis a speedboat conveying seven armed men suspected to be pirates came out from a narrow creek and started shooting at the boat. “In the process a bullet hit ThankGod on the head and he died on the spot, after minutes of shooting at us they stopped and entered the boat and started beating us with their guns, robbed us and sped-off afterwards, he explained.

Appeal Court verdict on Okowa’s fair, says Delta Speaker ÏÏÏThe

Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Hon Monday Igbuya, on Thursday, congratulated Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, on his victory at the Court of Appeal. He also praised the judiciary for remaining the bastion of democracy and the hope of the electorate, especially the good people of Delta State. “This is the best Christmas gift to Delta State and Deltans” he said. In a statement issued in Sapele, the speaker described the decision of the Court of Appeal, in Abuja, as incisive and fair. “Your victory at the Court of Appeal shows that God and the people of Delta State clearly approved of your candidature. Gov Okowa

Igbuya, who praised the governor for the repositioning of the economy, rehabilitation of infrastructure and creation of jobs for the teeming youths in the state, enjoined Chief Great Ogboru and Olorogun O’tega Emerhor to support Okowa, a man of distinction and great responsibility, in transform-

of President Muhammadu Buhari and to collaborate with him in the execution of his policies of Change aimed at enhancing the living standard of our people and for a brighter prospect for our dear nation.” He urged Nigerians to renew their faith in God and remain dedicated to the course of national development in the true spirit of

Christmas, which epitomises love, perseverance, patience, brotherly kindness and the spirit of sharing. He said that, “This is another season of love, season of liberation, sacrifice and giving to the needy. The commemoration of the birth of Christ and the whole essence of His life shows the reality of God’s love to mankind.

“Let us reflect on the message of Christmas by living peacefully and harmoniously in keeping with some of the cardinal tenets of Christianity and Islam. Irrespective of our religious beliefs, we should open our hearts with love and prayers for the unity and progress of this great nation,” he stated. Saraki urged Nigerians, most especially motorists, travelling during this yuletide period, to be cautious and drive carefully, just as he prayed for all to have a memorable and colourful Christmas celebration.

Pray for peace, unity of Nigeria, Lagos lawmaker tells Nigerians Alade Tasma

ÏÏÏThe

Chief Whıp of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Abdulateef Rotimi Abiru, has charged Muslims and Chrıstıans in Nıgerıa in the spirit of the birth of Holy Prophet Mohammed (SAW) and that of Jesus Chrıst to pray for

continuous peace, unity and progress in the country. Abiru made this call, on Wednesday, at his Assembly offıce, Alausa, Ikeja, during a chat with journalists. The lawmaker said the closeness of the celebration of the births of Prophet Mohammed and that of Jesus Christ was an indication that “we

are one and we should continue to preach peace for our progress as a nation.” Abiru enjoined Nigerians “to also pray for President Mohammed Buhari and Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos to succeed in their drive to achieve the best for our nation and Lagos State.”

BENUE STATE POLYTECHNIC, UGBOKOLO (OFFICE OF THE REGISTRAR) INVITATION TO PRE-QUALIFICATION AND TENDER FOR THE YEAR 2015 TETFUND SPECIAL INTERVENTION PROJECTS IN BENUE STATE POLYTECHNIC, UGBOKOLO 1.0 PREAMBLE The Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokolo is desirous of inviting competent and capable contractors to make submissions for the prequalification/tendering in respect of the year 2015 Special Intervention Projects. 2.0 PROJECTS LOT 1: Construction of Computer Based Testing Centre LOT 2: Furnishing of Computer Based Testing Centre 3.0 PRE-QUALIFICATION CRETERIA The contractors are expected to submit documents for the pre-qualification (technical bid) as enumerated below: 1. Compulsory and Mandatory Criteria: a. Company registration with Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) b. Company Audited Accounts for the last three (3) years (2012 – 2014) c. Evidence of Tax Clearance Certificate for the Past Three (3) Years (2012 – 2014). d. Evidence of compliance and remittance with the provision of the Pension Reform Act, 2004. e. Evidence of compliance with the provisions of the Industrial Training Fund Amendment Act as stipulated in section 6(1) – (3). f. VAT registration and evidence of remittances in the last three (3) years (2012 – 2014). 2. Other Criteria: a. Comprehensive company profile indicating technical and administrative staff strength, with academic/professional qualifications and years of experience of key personnel available for the project. b. Evidence of relevant verifiable experience on similar projects in Nigeria over the last 5 years indicating cost, duration of execution, practical completion certificate as well as reference letters or award letters. c. Letter of financial reference from a reputable Bank. 3. COLLECTION OF TENDER DOCUMENTS (FINANCIAL BIDS) a) The tender documents for each lot shall be collected from the office of the Registrar. b) The filled tender documents are hereby referred to as Financial Bids and they are to be clearly marked and sealed separately from the technical bid. 4. SUBMISSION OF DOCUMENTS The technical bids (Pre-qualification Documents) and the Financial bids (Filled Tender Documents) should be sealed and clearly marked in separate envelopes which will in turn be sealed together in a bigger envelope and clearly marked; the name of the project and the LOT. The documents should be delivered to the address below not later than 12:00 noon of two (2) weeks from the date of this publication The Registrar, Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokolo, Benue State. 5. OPENING a. The bids are scheduled to be opened on the closing day at 12:00 noon. b. The technical bids are prerequisite to the opening of the financial bids. Hence, only companies that meet the requirements of the technical bids are eligible to have their financial bids opened while those that fail stand disqualified. c. All prospective contractors are invited to the public opening ceremony and are also advised to bring along relevant original documents for sighting. Please Note: a. Submission of Pre-qualification/Tendering documents to Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokolo is neither a commitment nor an obligation to award contract to any contractor or his agent b. Advertisement for Pre-qualification/Tender should not be construed as commitment on the part of Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokoloor shall it entitle any contractor to make any claims whatsoever or seek any indemnity from Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokolo. c. Due diligence would be followed as well as documents submitted would be verified appropriately. Any discrepancies found would summarily disqualify the contractor.

Signed: Registrar.

News 24 Akam James, Yenagoa

ÏÏÏApparently

worried by the desperate plans of manipulating the forthcoming supplementary elections in Bayelsa State, the All Progressive Congress (APC), has again raised the alarm over an alleged plot by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to buy up Permanent Voter cards (PVCs) of eligible voters in Southern Ijaw and other local government areas. It has also alleged that the Dickson administra-

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

Bayelsa: APC accuses PDP of planned manipulation of supplementary poll tion had hatched several plans to manipulate the election with monetary inducement to secure victory, intimidation of top civil servants and politicians believed not to have supported him. In a statement, signed and issued in Yenagoa, on Thursday, the state Public-

ity Secretary of the party, Hon. Fortune Panebi, said the alleged plans included the delay of salaries, in order to use the money in discrediting ex-militants from Delta, Rivers and other neighbouring states to disrupt the elections. The APC also said that after the PDP would have

bought the voter’s cards, it would also pay more than N20,000 for each vote, adding that huge funds had also been provided by former president Goodluck Jonathan to buy up PVCs in the hope that they could be used once the card reader was compromised. The party called on Bay-

elsans not to play into the selfish hands of Governor Seriake Dickson with filthy cash inducement, and at the end abandoned, again, as he had done in the past four years, noting that the desired change would be achieved through the change mantra of the party.

The statement further urged credible voters in the state not to mortgage their lives to a party that had no future plans for the state, adding that the Dickson administration knew it could never win in a free, fair and credible elections, because of its poor record in office.

Be hopeful, Niger Gov tells citizens By Saka Bolaji

ÏÏÏNiger

State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, has urged Nigerians to remain hopeful for a better tomorrow as the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is poised to re-position the country to the path of glory. In a message to mark this year’s Christmas celebration, signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, Bello said the country may be passing through hard times now, but he prayed for a brighter

Delta State Governor, Patrick Okowa (left) and his wife at a Thanksgiving session over the Court of Appeal Tribunal verdict in Asaba...on Thursday

Kehinde Akinpelu Ilorin

ÏÏÏThe

Kwara State Government has said that it had paid off the N17 billion infrastructure bond obtained in 2009, even as it was set to obtain a fresh N20 billion bond for new projects. The State Government, in a statement by Dr. Muyideen Akorede, the Senior Special Assistant on Me-

dia and Communications to Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed, said the N17b bond was paid on August 5, 2014. The government maintained that repayment of the bond, which was obtained by the previous administration of Dr. Bukola Saraki, did not impose any undue burden on the state. The statement listed the N17 billion bond projects

as Kwara State University, Harmony Advanced Diagnostic Centre, The International Aviation College, remodelling of Ilorin Stadium Complex, phase one of Ilorin Water Reticulation Project, the Ilorin Cargo Terminal, as well as various urban and rural road and electrification projects. Stressing that long term- borrowing, such as bonds were cheaper

Xmas: Pray for Osun’s progress, Christians urged Sodiq Adekunle, Osogbo

Kwara pays N17b Bond in 2014 and more reliable means of funding major capital projects, the state government maintained than the proposed N20 billion would finance projects such as dualisation of Micheal Imoudu to Gamo Road, part completion of Kishi Kaiama Road, the In-door Sports Hall of Ilorin Stadium and the new campuses for Kwara State University at Osi and Ilesha.

future for her. “We should not be despondent. This lean period will soon be over. All we need do, as a people, is to be hopeful, united, support the government and be committed to the change mantra of the All Progressives Congress to move the country forward,” Bello advised. He recalled that Jesus Christ was given birth to at a critical moment in human history and noted that his birth, which was being celebrated, world-wide, today, brought hope, reconciliation and restoration of man to his Creator.

ÏÏÏFormer

Osun State Commissioner for Regional Integration and Special Duties, Hon Ajibola Basiru, has felicitated with the Christian community in Osun, and Nigeria at large as they celebrate this year’s Christmas. Ajibola, in his goodwill message, called for sustained prayers for peace, unity and stability in Osun State, as well for our leaders to navigate rightly the ship of this nation.

“This period calls for continued prayers for our dear state. We must replicate the teachings and lessons of Christmas and continue to exhibit good character, as well as extend the hands of fellowship and build blocks of unity and understanding to all, irrespective of our perceived differences,” he said. While wishing all Osun residents a merry Christmas, he enjoined them to continue to reflect on the positive things that unite the state to enhance its

Ambode assures of completion of Ago Palace road Feb

ÏÏÏLagos

State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, on Thursday, paid an unscheduled visit to Ago Palace Way in Okota, Isolo, where he expressed dissatisfaction with the slow pace of construction work on the road, which,

he said, was vital to the economy of the area. The Governor, who was accompanied on the inspection tour by top officials, ordered the contractor to work day and night, so as to ensure the completion of the road by February 2016.

“We cannot afford to be slow on this road. It is a very strategic and important road to our people. I have directed the contractor to ensure that this road is completed within now and February next year”, the Governor said. He also inspected the

on-going rehabilitation of Okota Road, where he assured residents that the work on the road would be completed soon. The Governor, who also inspected the newly rehabilitated Alfa Nla and Oke Koto roads in Agege, said the completion of the

roads was in fulfillment of the promise he made to the people during the electioneering. Ambode said: “You remember that during the campaign, I came here and I said if you vote for me, I will fix this road which is Alfa Nla-Oke Koto roads.

Ambode

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

25 Opinion

On Christmas and ‘De-goatification’

ÏÏÏ Boma Erekosima was a delight in his heyday. Humorous and affable in his on-air presentation, he made my generation’s early enjoyment of the Frequency Modulation (FM) Radio pleasurable. 1981 announced the birth of state government-owned Radio Rivers 2 FM Stereo. Governor Melford Obiene Okilo’s Rivers pioneered the ownership, birthing the flourish: of the belief that infotainment was possible through musical entertainment mediums, of the notion that the governed could be reached through music, of the idea that the real could be encountered with on-air personalities, and of stories whose truths lay in the wisecracks and the comical representation of the everyday life through the airwaves. I think that is what has endeared Okilo, and for good measure too, Boma Erekosima, to many of my generation for many years. Christmas brought the best out of Boma Erekosima. On air, he was Ali Baba and Osuofia rolled into one. Sadly, he departed this part of the human shores a long time ago, leaving behind memories of his repertoire of comical gestures, memories of his laconicism, memories of stories that were nuanced by the dialects of his listeners, memories of the beatific sides of on-air personalities he

helped to create and, finally, the beautiful memories of Christmas. As a young boy in the middle classes of the secondary school, it was from Boma Erekosima I first learned that ‘scape goat’ could be constructed for Christmas in order to constitute the very essence of the twenty-fifth day of December. In his flawless PITAKWA pidgin, he always sang about chickens that pleaded their innocence to sharpened knives on Christmas mornings.”Today na Christmas Day, I can see the fowls. Don’t kill the fowl; but kill the goat and kill the cow and kill tolotolo”, Boma Erekosima sang to the joy and laughters of his many listeners. May God bless his soul. Today is Christmas. Christians the world over are celebrating one of the most important feasts in Christendom. They are marking the birth of Jesus Christ. Everywhere Christians rekindle the hope of eternal salvation of mankind by celebrating the essences of Christmas: of dedicating selves to Christ The Redeemer, of giving and sharing love and of showing compassion for the poor, for those in whose name the Spirit of the Lord eternally possesses and anoints Christ, so they can receive the good news his birth brings to them and to

mankind. I am sitting here, peering through the lenses of Boma Erekosima into this Christmas Day. I am visualizing the Chickens of the World pleading their innocence in front of sharpened knives. There is this image of a chicken in my mind’s eye screaming, “Today na Christmas, don’t kill me; kill the goat...and kill tolotolo”. Christians take today as a day of joy. Discerning Boma Erekosima’s Christmas Day song, it does appear to me that in the fabled world of the chickens, Christmas is taken as a day of misfortune. The goat is sadly singled out as the scapegoat, as the cause of the Christmas misfortune of the bird. The process of unnatural selection proceeds in earnest everywhere: I see strong goats, silent before their slaughterers, being led to the slaughter. The reprieve for the weak isn’t permanent. They do not open their mouths to bleat. They can’t even bleat for joy because they know their Christmases of death will

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come in another year or two. Where are the chickens? I think they are all now united by death in the stew pots of the world! December arrived with the excitement of a child that helps a goat to the slaughter by pulling the goat and its leash behind his own fragile frame. This excitement is more exciting than excitement. Pardon the alliteration! December arrived with the idea of purifying our nation by ridding it of the many goats that feasted on our yam barns for many years. The idea that a goat can be delivered from its own demon, yam, that a goat can be punished for each yam it steals and eats, and its second nature negated by finding its crime and serving it punishment through the instrumentality of law and justice, is what is ‘degoatification’. So December arrived with President Buhari setting much store by our jail houses. President Buhari means business. His Excellency truly means business. If you don’t read the

nature of his business well, you would think of it as the YEZHOVSHCHINA- the great Stalinist purge, the clearing out of the unideological dregs of the revolution and the decimation of anti-Stalinists. A deeper reading may reflect a certain closeness to Yeltsin’s fight against corruption. Unlike Yeltsin’s that produced Aleksandr Rutskoy, our Rutskoy has not appeared just yet. Rutskoy, appointed by Yeltsin to head the Russian anti-corruption committee, took the anti-corruption fight to Yeltsin, his corrupt friends and political associates. The relationship between Yeltsin and Rutskoy didn’t last. Late 1992, they accused each other of being corrupt and travelled their different political ways. The possibility that a Rutskoy will appear in the mould of Ibrahim Magu is a distant prospect. I won’t rule out the possibility of it happening here, though. ‘De-goatification’ is President Buhari’s stock. It is growing on the shelf. The business is growing by leaps and bounds. ‘De-goati-

fication’ is not your familiar dairy practice of tethering goats to milk stands while your gentle hands milk the swollen mounds, neither is it a procession nor the shepherding of goats into greener pastures beyond The River Jordan. Justice makes the law looks good. ‘De-goatification’ is the journey to Golgothathe journey through the hallowed chambers of justice, where each goat is presumed innocent by law and each goat renders its pleas of guilty and not guilty- is the shepherding of goats between the devil amongst those defence lawyers who are ever eager to slice off a piece of our stolen yams and the deep blue sea of the prison yards where angry warders routinely koboko backsides in the name rehabilitation. To read Buhari’s business well is to read this meaning into this new verb, ‘de-goatification’: the purification of those who are conceived as yam-eaters and who are eventually found guilty by our courts for stealing yams from our barns of harvest. It is that moment when a goat loses its ‘GOATRITUDE’! Today, the harsh economic conditions our country is experiencing have forced a moratorium on the slaughter of chickens on my household. Don’t remind me of the price of a goat! It long flew through our roofs. What about you? No matter your condition right now, please, hold on to the salvation the birth of Christ promises all Christians. Let faith be the substance of things hoped for, the assurance of that for which you hope, the sum of the conviction of the good life that will come next Christmas. Just hold on, please! MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

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Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

Art Review

Æs

A mother’s agony Almost three years after the painful death of her only daughter, Mrs. Olanike Ayoni Akano, a retired Chief Superintendent of Customs writes a book about her agony. Agozino Agozino offers a review. At a very tender age, Adeola Omolara Mesioye (nee Akano) had grown to become a daughter that every family would be proud of. Having bagged her first degree in Accounting from the University of Lagos with second class upper division in 2005 and later qualified as a Chartered Accountant while working with the GT Bank Lagos, pretty Adeola, no doubt, had a promising future. She was always hungry for excellence and had every intention of living her dream life to the fullest. Again, her parents, who are practising Christians, went the extra mile to ensure that their daughter was not only brought up in the way of the Lord, but, daily prayed that God would ensure a beautiful future for her. Soon enough, God answered their prayers when she got wedded to Olushola Mesioye, a young medical doctor, who also graduated from the University of Lagos. Sadly, however, just a few months into the marriage, and in her first pregnancy, the marital union became more of a nightmare than pleasure. Adeola’s diabetic condition, which was diagnosed in Lesotho, Southern Africa, and which the parents thought they had overcome after sustained medical treatments, became the major tormentor of the family and friends. This ushered in a new phase of travails for the mother, as she, repeatedly, shuttled between her duty post in Abuja and Lagos, doing everything, humanly possible, to save her daughter, who, sometimes, would go into coma or semi-unconsciousness. The book is a must-read for anybody who wants to know what the author passed through. According to Mrs. Akano, “as a diabetic person, getting pregnant, without consulting a diabetic specialist, was the first mistake the two of them made’, that was what Dr. Akinmokun, of A/B Specialist Hospital, Randle, Surulere, (Lagos) told us. “Despite this, he promised to monitor her well to have a safe delivery. Adeola registered there, and the hospital always arranged for a gynaecologist to examine her. We were told that she may not be allowed to

carry the pregnancy till the ninth month. “By the seventh month, a caesarian section would be done for her. My husband and I continued to pray day and night for her safe delivery. Towards the end of July, 2012, Adeola had a scan which showed that the baby was already dead inside her”, the author wrote in the book. The 162-page book is a compendium of the travails of a caring mother over her only daughter. According to Dr. Olaogun Ogunsola in the foreword, “the book is nothing but the Travails of Motherhood”. Entitled The Agony of a Mother, it has many touching stories of agony the writer passed through. Chapter Two of the book is eye opener which begins with the crisis the author went through (as a mother) when the diabetes was first diagnosed when Adeola was just 18 years old. The essence of writing the book is not just to write but to tell a story of a committed mother. According to author, “The book provides the reader the story of the complication of managing a pregnancy under the condition of diabetes. “Following Adeola’s marriage to Dr. Mesioye, she became pregnant; complication of diabetes forced an evacuation of the pregnancy. Six months later, my daughter took in again. “This time, Adeola was referred to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, IdiAraba, less than midway through the pregnancy, the doctors decided to evacuate the foetus, on the grounds that my daughter could not carry it through. “Due to negligence of duty, Adeola’s two kidneys were damaged. The agony behind the story was that I, as a mother, bore the burden of taking care of my daughter at each level of the crisis. It included cooking for her in her husband’s home during incapacitation. “Above all, it included caring for my daughter in India for six months until March 2, 2014. This, principally, because there was nobody from the husband’s side able and willing to take care of Adeola, when her husband went to work”, she added.

Some of the chapters in the book include, The Crisis, Adeola: Before the Major Crisis, The Loss of the Baby, Registration at LUTH, Went into Coma, Chronic Kidney Failure, Plan to travel to India, Muljibhai Chaturbhai Patel, Meeting with the PRO of the Hospital and others. Precise in language, the author leaves no

one in doubt what she went through. “Reading through this book, it exposes the reader to the extent of the sacrifice a mother could make for her child, as mother and daughter suffered for 13 years. “My prayer for Adeola is ‘Rest in Peace’, until we meet to part no more,’’ the mother wrote.

Hilltop Art Centre rekindles creative light of Minna youths Several up and coming writers in Minna, Niger State capital got their creative light rekindled recently at a one week literary review, Bombay Book Review, held at the Hilltop Art Centre, Minna, Niger State. The event which featured young and established writers

had all the faculties of a festival. There was celebration, commemorative readings and a carnival atmosphere for writers who attended the event from around Niger State and Abuja. Coordinated by the head of the Bombay Review, Saddiq Dzukogi and supported by David Ishaya Osu, the event fea-

tured art exhibitions, music, Open MIC and a reading of Abubakar’s debut novel, Season of Crimson Blossoms. The event which started a little past 4 pm was attended by past chairmen of the Association of Nigerian Authors, (ANA) Niger State Chapter, Aminu Sheikh, Abdullahi Is-

maila, Almamun Mahmood and several others. Also at the event was the popular political columnist Gimba Kakanda, Fodio Ahmed, Zainab Manko, Maryam Manko, the Amab-HSB flash fiction finalist Awwal Abdul and the literary critic, Olu Jacobs. Students of the Hilltop Art

Centre exhibited their various paintings, and lifted the spirit of the house with a short drama presentation and music al interlude. During the open MIC, both emerging and established writers read their various literary CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

Nigerian journalists have been told to embrace the Freedom of Information Act as a way of holding public office holders and institutions accountable, according to a recent training workshop organised by the Media Rights Agenda (MRA).

Art Review

FOI Act: Building journalists’ capacity

Agozino Agozino Media Rights Agenda (MRA), in collaboration with the MacArthur Foundation, recently hosted a four-day capacity training workshop for journalists on how to use the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act 2011 to ensure good governance. At a training workshop held recently at the Kakanfo Inn and Conference Centre, Ibadan, Oyo State, media trainers and experts were of the opinion that Nigerian journalists should not only see the FOI Act as one to push the information frontier, they added that journalists should go the extra mile to use the Act to promote good governance and hold leaders accountable. There were presentations on Understanding the FOI Act; What is Freedom of Information and Why is it important? Other presentations focused on ensuring effective implementation of the law by monitoring public institutions; Compliance with the FOI usage from differ-

Ojo speaking to the partitipants at the workshop

ent parts of the world were also discussed at the workshop and mechanisms for enforcing compliance with the FOI Act were highlighted. Participants who were drawn from print and electronic media in the South West zone of the country were trained on making requests for information, especially, in compliance with the law. Different information, education and communication materials on the law were shared to all the participants as well as documentaries on how the law had been used to access information in other countries. Participants expressed

gratitude to the organisers for the opportunity to learn more about the FOI Act and promised to ensure its gull utilisation in their places of work. They were encouraged to use the law and to contact MRA whenever they encounter challenges in carrying out law-related activities. Earlier, speaking at the opening of the workshop, Executive Director of MRA, Mr. Edetaen Ojo, drew the attention of the journalists to why the FOI Act is significant to their profession. According to him, the media often make the mistake of thinking the Act is a difficult thing to apply,

but, Ojo said that available information revealed that many who have requested for vital information from government agencies have been getting results. He commended the journalists for finding time to take two full days off work to participate in the workshop. “We believe that this workshop has significant importance for you and the work that you do and, therefore, hope that in the knowledge of this, it was not a difficult choice for you to make to be here. This workshop is part of an on-going effort to ensure that the Nigerian society is highly engaged and mobilised around the FOI Act,’’

In Minna, Art Centre fetes writers CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27

works to the audience. Also at the event, Nigerian writers were commended on their 2015 triumph, Maryam Bobi who won the ANA prize for prose, Halima Aliyu, Abubakar Adam Ibrahim and Maryam Bobi for winning grant awards. The Bombay Review is a bi-monthly literary magazine which publishes short fiction and poetry. The brain child of two final year Journalism students from Symbiosis International University, Kartikeyaa Bajpai and Aravind Jayan, TBR released its first issue in August 2014. Today, around an year later, they unofficially rank no. 2 in terms of reach and popularity among the top literary journals in India. The Bombay Review has a readership base in more than 90 countries. We receive submissions from around the

world and we have, in fact, published writers from about a dozen countries. Previously based only out of Pune, are now also based out of New York, and London. Apart from these bases, their plans for the future include expanding into Bangladesh, Somalia, Nigeria and Pakistan in a year or two. In a bid to provide a platform for established writers to engage with new writers, to expose them to quality interaction that will spur quality output, the Bombay Review as part of its initiative is organizing 13 events in 13 cities in the world including New York. The Nigerian edition held in Minna was the first international event organised by the literary journal in collaboration with Amab book and expound magazine. The first of such event happened in Cara Cafe, Pune in January 2015.

Some of the participants at the event

Ojo said. He added that Media Rights Agenda had organised dozens of such workshops for various stakeholder groups, particularly the media, civil society organisations and government officials, since the FOI Act was passed in May 2011. “We are determined to continue to explore any and every opportunity to spread the message of the FOI Act in order to achieve our ultimate objective, which is to ensure that government is accountable to, and works for the people. “We believe that the media represent a key and strategic actor in this pro-

cess. As media practitioners, you have multiple roles to play in ensuring the success of the FOI Act,’’ he said. Ojo said MRA’s objectives for organising the workshop included: • To train participants, comprising media practitioners from the print, broadcast and online media as well as from news agencies and wire services on a variety of issues related to the Freedom of Information Act and, thereby, build their capacity to effectively utilise the Act. • In particular, to provide participants with the knowledge, skills and tools to: Promote and publicise the Act; Monitor the implementation of the Act; and to Use the Act to obtain information of interest or relevance to their work from public institutions as well as private entities covered by the Act. • To encourage participants to carry out investigative reporting, using the Act, with case studies from other parts of the world where journalists have used Freedom of Information laws to carry out investigative reporting and broken major stories in the process with significant political or economic ramifications for those countries. • To train participants to formulate actual requests for records, documents or information that are relevant to their sectors or beats and thereby increase their chances of obtaining information from public institutions and private entities that are relevant to the sectors or beats that they cover, with properly formulated applications.

NPFL clubs keep tabs on Gyang

iwa FC attacker Amos Gyang has become a beautiful bride in the Nigeria Professional Football League as many as four clubs have the youngster on their radar. Kano Pillars, Nasarawa United and Wikki Tourists are among the clubs wishing to

price him away from the Jos side. Gyang was one of the top performers for Giwa FC as they finished fifth on the Glo Premier League table narrowly missing a spot on the continent. He scored seven goals during the last NPFL campaign with 13 assists which has ignited a

scramble for his signature. “Yes, I have received offers from some clubs around the country but I’m still yet to decide on my next step,” Gyang confirmed. “I am still a player of Giwa FC and will remain so until it becomes otherwise. I’m happy my hard work has been

recognised. “Last season was something like a break-out season for me. It’s always good when people appreciate what you do. “Giwa FC has given me the platform to showcase my talent and I’m grateful.”

Page 28

FC Taraba call off ‘Sleep Strike’

layers of FC Taraba have finally called off a nine-night sleep strike to press for the payment of their salaries running to 11 months after an assurance from the Taraba Governor and the payment of a month’s pay by the League Management Company (LMC). “We have received a months’ salary from the LMC,” confirmed FC Taraba skipper Austin Obiora. “We have also received assurances from the Governor he will pay us two months’ salaries and so we have left the Government House, where we have been sleeping for nine nights.” The LMC paid 34 players and 19 officials a month’s salary on Wednesday. “We have paid the team for a month,” said LMC chief operating officer Salihu Abubakar. Meanwhile, the Taraba State Commissioner for Youth and Sports on Thursday told the distraught players that there is no cash to meet the governor’s initial directive to pay twomonth salaries. A source said they have decided to return to their respective homes having lost confidence and hope in the governor and aides to offset all their unpaid salaries. “We met with the Commissioner for Youth and Sports on Thursday on the directive of the governor for him to pay us two-month of our salaries. “The commissioner asked us to wait that they are running around for cash only to come back latter to announce that there is no cash to make the payment.”

g 29

‘No rift between Oliseh’s assistants’ Friday, December 28, 2015

igeria champions Enyimba have completed the signing of Kano Pillars goalkeeper Theophilus Afelokhai ahead of the 2015/2016 season. The media officer of the seven-time Nigeria league winners Alaputa Farriel announced this. “Enyimba FC have reached an agreement with Kano Pillars over the transfer of goalkeeper Theophilus Afelokhai,” he tweeted. Afelokhai has been at Pillars since 2006 and has emerged as one of the most consistent goalkeepers on the local scene, though he has often been overlooked by the national team selectors. Enyimba already have top-rated goalkeepers in Femi Thomas, who is with the CHAN Eagles, U-20 star Joshua Enaholo and veteran Chijoke Ejiogu.

Enyimba capture Afelokhai from Pillars Afelokhai

Amapakabo

reappointed Rangers boss

angers have reappointed Coach Imama Amapakabo ahead of Okey Emordi for the new Nigeria league season next month. Rangers’ board member Steve Oruruo disclosed that Amapakabo was picked ahead of Emordi, who was sacked halfway through last season by Kano Pillars. “Amapakabo and Emordi were considered to lead Rangers next season and after deliberations, Imama Amapakabo was chosen,” he said. “He will name his assistant,

while the club will interview the other coaches for the team on December 29.” However, he did not disclose further details of the coach’s new contract. This announcement thus puts to rest speculations that Emordi was set for another return to ‘The Flying Antelopes’. Last season, Amapakabo guided Rangers to finish 12th on the league table with 49 points from 38 matches after he took over from Kelechi Emeteole in mid-season.

Amapakabo

Friday, December 25, 2015

EXTRATIME

NBSA T commends Oyeyemi over MLB award

he Nigeria Baseball and Softball Association (NBSA) has commended Shaback Oyeyemi for being honoured as one of the most valuable player (MVP) at the justconcluded Major League Baseball (MLB), African elite-camp. A statement signed by Kehinde Laniyan, NBSA Secretary, on Thursday said that Oyeyemi and Alage Bello participated at the 2015 camp held from Dec. 3 to Dec. 12 in South Africa. It said that the players, who played for Kwara Slider Baseball Club of Ilorin, were selected out of 20 players that participated at an MLB tryout held in Abuja in August. According to the statement, 40 players from various African countries participated at the MLB elite-camp to give young players the opportunity to advance their careers. “We are proud of our representatives at this year’s MLB elite-camp, most especially, Oyeyemi. “Oyeyemi got an award as the youngest player in the camp and that of one of the most valuable players.”

he Super Eagles have denied a power tussle between assistant coach Salisu Yusuf and Jean Francois Luscuito in the absence of ailing Sunday Oliseh. There were speculations that all is not going well between the two coaches as regards who should be calling the shots in the team’s CHAN training camp in Abuja as Oliseh is still in his sick bed in Belgium. “There is not rift between the coaches. I don’t know where these stories are coming because they have been working together very well,” countered team spokesman Toyin Ibitoye. Oliseh has designated Luscuito as the Eagles No.2

Super Eagles coach, Sunday Oliseh (right) with his No. 2 man Jean Francois Luscuito.

‘No rift between

’s Oslisitasnetsh ’ as

man ahead of former Pillars and Enyimba coach Yusuf, who is believed to have a better understanding of the

Nigeria league and the players. Meanwhile, Oliseh has yet to give his approval for the invitation

of U-23 stars Oghenekaro Etebo and goalkeeper Emmanuel Daniel to the Eagles training camp for CHAN, it has been gathered. Etebo was top scorer at the U-23 AFCON in Senegal with five goals, while Enugu Rangers goalkeeper Daniel also shone at the championship and they have subsequently been recommended for the country’s CHAN buildup on the back of their recent exploits. However, Oliseh has yet to sanction their call-up, insisting with working the 26 players he has invited for next month’s championship in Rwanda. Though he is still in his sick bed in Belgium, Oliseh has constantly kept in touch with the Eagles training camp, dishing out daily training schedules and other relevant instructions.

Dalung wades into fresh NFF leadership crisis

ports minister Solomon Dalung has appealed to the warring factions of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to maintain peace and tranquility following moves by factional president Chris Giwa to reclaim office. Earlier on Wednesday, board of the factional president, Chris Giwa had announced plans to resume office on January 12 to reclaim his mandate of August 26, 2014 as duly elected NFF officials.

The Giwa-led board also said it has reversed all steps made by sitting Amaju-led group following its executive board meeting in Abuja. However, the general secretary of the NFF, Mohammed Sanusi, had said that the federation was not aware of the Giwa-led faction’s decision to reclaim its mandate. It would be recalled that the September 30, 2014 election that brought in the Pinnick-led board was nullified by a Federal High Court sitting in Jos after its restraining

orders were flouted. Thereafter, the intervention of the former president, Goodluck Jonathan in the lingering matter successfully persuaded the Giwa-led board to sheath its sword to avert the dangling sanction of Fifa, which they did. But matter was left unresolved until Jonathan left office, leaving the Giwa’s group in the cold. Extra Time learnt the reawaking of the nation’s football crisis was hastened by the article seven in the communiqué of the December 16’s

Annual General Assembly, which barred non-congressmen from contesting for NFF executive board.

Dalung

Friday, December 25, 2015

EXTRATIME

Flores

Mignolet,

expects Chelsea response

Lovren back for Reds —Klopp

atford manager Quique Sanchez Flores believes his side are playing Chelsea at a bad time. Flores takes the Hornets to Stamford Bridge on Boxing Day for a Premier League match which will be Guus Hiddink’s first game in charge since he returned to the club to replace Jose Mourinho. Flores knows the Dutchman well having played under him for three years at Valencia, and expects Chelsea’s under-performing players to respond positively. “It’s tougher when a team have changed the manager,” said the Spaniard. “The team know that they need to show for the new manager. But we are ready for the experience. “They play well and they have lots of experience and quality. We are expecting a very tough match. “I had Guus for three years as a coach. I have a very good relationship with him, he is a very nice man. “He’s always thinking about the ball, about possession. He’s worried about the players feeling free. It was 21 years ago - but things change. “You analyse three games before you face a team. But Chelsea are now different to what they were under Jose Mourinho, it is completely different.” Watford have won their last four matches, including last weekend’s 3-0 victory over Liverpool, to move to within a point of the Champions League places and are 10 points ahead of Chelsea. Flores added: “We know we are on a good run but the feeling I have in the dressing room is that it’s no surprise. We have a strong mentality.” Strikers Odion Ighalo and Troy Deeney have taken most of the plaudits for Watford’s fine form, but the defence have also impressed having conceded just 16 goals in 17 games and kept eight clean sheets.

imon Mignolet and Dejan Lovren will be available for Liverpool against Leicester City on Boxing Day, manager Jurgen Klopp has confirmed. Lovren has missed just one game - the 3-0 defeat at Watford last weekend since being injured in a tackle with Craig Gardner in the 2-2 draw at West Brom, while Mignolet was a last-minute absentee with a hamstring strain at Vicarage Road, where Adam Bogdan stood in. Martin Skrtel will be out for around six weeks with a hamstring injury sustained in the first half of that game, while England international

LVG under pressure to win at Stoke Mignolet

Flores

Wenger:

2015 has been positive!

James Milner remains at least a week away from full fitness. Jordan Rossiter has also been added to the injury list for the Leicester game as he recovers from a hamstring injury. “Martin Skrtel is not too good,” confirmed Klopp. “It’s a hamstring, he needs time but we don’t know how long. “Dejan Lovren is back in training and trained the last two days in a row so he is available. Simon Mignolet is training but James Milner has no chance. We have to wait one or two weeks. “I want to change the centre-backs sometimes because I want to, not because I have to. But we have had problems with injuries there. “We lost Mama Sakho in a perfect situation, he came back against Watford and of course had problems because it was the worst game for all of us. Now Dejan has not had a long break, he was in perfect shape before he left now we have to see what will happen.”

rsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes the Gunners can look back on 2015 with a lot of satisfaction. Arsenal have secured more Premier League points than any other side this calendar year and head into their Boxing Day match at Southampton two points behind leaders Leicester, having defeated fellow high-fliers Manchester City 2-1 on Monday night Football. However, Wenger says it is much too early to start talking about a first league title since 2004.

“The confidence is very high,” said Wenger. “Confidence is built up very slowly and goes very quickly, so let’s take care of our next performance. “We have been top of the league at various times in previous years and I think football is pragmatic. “Nobody can predict what can happen in the next 17 games for example and you just want to go with the same attitude and spirit. “The only thing I can say is 2015, if you look back and try to analyse it, we have been consistent. “We have had quite a positive year, stabilising our defensive record and improving our record against the strong teams in the Premier League, so it looks like we are on the right train going the right way.”

ouis van Gaal is not giving up hope of Manchester United winning the Premier League but concedes they need to get back to winning ways against Stoke. United head to the Britannia Stadium on Boxing Day on a run of three successive defeats that has led to increased speculation about Van Gaal’s future and his subsequent early exit from Wednesday’s press conference.

Asked if the pressure of a title challenge might present a problem in the coming weeks, Wenger said such concerns are a way away yet and that the tension is far worse is at the other end of the table.

Wenger

Van Gaal spoke to reporters less than 24 hours after his request for an apology from journalists at Carrington and was able to focus more on Saturday’s task against a Stoke side he feels has more talent than their record would suggest. “Yes, I think so it’s a must-win game because, when you have lost three times in a row, then you need a victory,” said Van Gaal, whose United side last won a league game on November 21.”

BRIEF Giroud: Career path made me tough!

livier Giroud believes spending time playing in the lower divisions in France helped mould him into a tougher player. The Arsenal striker featured in the second and third tiers in his native country for Grenoble, Istres and Tours, finally moving into the top-flight with a transfer to Montpellier in 2010. Giroud was the highest-scoring player in Ligue 1 with 21 goals as the Herault club claimed the domestic title in 2011-12.

Friday, December 25, 2015

EXTRATIME

Barca star,

Rafinha

eyes Olympic spot

Rafinha

Allegri vows to attack ambitious Bayern

arcelona midfielder Rafinha may be sidelined w i t h a serious knee injury but the Brazilian has got his sights set on playing at the 2016

Olympic Games. Rafinha was ruled out for six months after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during Barca’s Champions League clash with Roma in September.

The 22-year-old is not expected to return until March, but once fit he is determined to force his way into the firstteam at Camp Nou to boost his international hopes. “I was operated on three months ago and in January I’ll be able to start running again,” he told reporters. “And in March I’ll be ready to return to the team. “I dream about playing in the

assimiliano Allegri has vowed to attack Bayern Munich in the Champions League round of 16 as Juventus look to go far in the competition again this season. The Serie A champions surprised many by dumping Real Madrid out at the semifinal stage in 2014-15, before losing to Barcelona in the final. Coming up against a rampant Bayern side in the knockout stages is not what Allegri would have wanted, but he intends to go at Pep Guardiola’s side over the two legs. “Will we park the bus? No, it will be beautiful game,” he told reporters. “We have to prepare well to go to the quarter-finals, and come out stronger to face the sprint in the league. “The European showcase is important. After the final in Berlin last season, the international popularity of Juve changed. “The league counts, and you have to win it, but the Champions League is seen all over the world and we always have to get to at least the last 16.”

Olympics but I need more minutes with Barcelona to be considered for the squad for Rio.” In his fledgling career Rafinha has made two senior appearances for Brazil, his debut coming against Costa Rica in September 2015 before scoring his first goal four days later against United States.

Eto’o tips Neymar

for greatness Allegri

amuel Eto’o is in no doubt that Neymar will be the best player in the world once Barcelona team-mate Lionel Messi and Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo are past their peak. The trio make up the shortlist for the 2015 FIFA Ballon d’Or, an accolade which the Argentine and the Portuguese have dominated for the past seven years. Former Barcelona and Madrid forward Eto’o is confident if Neymar applies himself appropriately, he will be the sport’s leading performer in the future.

“Neymar has a lot of potential. After the era of Messi and Cristiano, surely he will be number one,” Eto’o, who played for Barca between 2004 and 2009 said. “But he has to remember that it depends on him a lot. He must remember that he has the talent and needs to train, train and train, because others do not have his talent. “Neymar is only 24-years-old, I am 10 years older than him, but he is a leader in Brazil. “I think, with all he has experienced, the pressure, he may be able to give advice to a

Neymar

35-year-old who plays with him.” The Cameroonian was named head coach at Turkish side Antalyaspor earlier this month and believes he is already having a positive impact. “Before, I slept some four hours a night. Now that I am a coach, I sleep for a maximum of three!” he added. “But I’m a football lover, so I do everything with passion. I always give my best, and I think we managed to make our team play well. “But it’s not enough just to play well, we

Messi: Ronaldinho told me to take his shirt number

ionel Messi has revealed Ronaldinho told him to take his No.10 shirt months before the Brazilian left Barcelona in 2008. Ronaldinho joined Barcelona in 2003 and inherited the iconic number from Argentine midfielder Juan Roman Riquelme - who was sent on loan to Villarreal for two seasons. The Brazilian star left after six years

with the club, scoring almost 100 goals in just over 200 appearances. And Messi revealed in an interview that Ronaldinho already promised him the No.10 shirt Ronaldinho months before he announced he was leaving. “Before leaving the club about things,” Messi said. “He had it in his mind that he was Ronaldinho was coming off a few leaving and he told me to have his months where he was thinking

number. “I took it without looking at what he had done with the shirt. If I did, I would not have taken it.” Messi has won 21 trophies with the No.10 on the back of his Barca jersey, and a total of 26 with the Spanish giants. The Argentina international praised his former team-mate Ronaldinho and spoke about his early stages in the Barca dressing room. “Everyone welcomed me into the dressing room, and Ronaldinho welcomed me in a spectacular way,” he said. “To go into that dressing room was not easy but he made it all so much easier. I was very comfortable by not only Ronnie’s welcoming but everyone.”

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fRidaY, dEcEmBER 25, 2015

VOL. 2. NO.9

Price: n150

Wenger:

2015 has been positive! g 30

Del Bosque

backs Villar for UEFA presidency V

icente Del Bosque has backed Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) president Angel Maria Villar to assume the vacant position left by suspended UEFA president Michel Platini. Platini, along with FIFA president Sepp Blatter, was suspended by the governing body’s ethics committee for eight years for an “abusive execution” of their positions. Del Bosque, who has coached the Spanish national team since 2008, spoke of his admiration for Villar and backed him for the UEFA position. “Villar as UEFA president? I hope so. For me, he should be where he feels happy,” he told reporters.

“We appreciate each other mutually, and we have always got along well and we’ve never had any problems. “These eight years have been a pleasure to work with the national team with the RFEF.” Del Bosque turned 65 on Wednesday and gave an indication on his future with the national team, after admitting several days ago he is “close” to retirement. “We will see what happens, I am not losing any sleep,” he said. “We are still under contract. There are six months left and we have some challenges ahead. But we need patience, because there is no problem. “The most important thing about

Spanish football is there are very good coaches and any of them have the perfect capacity to take over. “We will think and we will do whatever is the best thing for the national team and RFEF.” All Del Bosque has his eyes on at the moment is a third straight European championship for Spain. “That is what is going to preoccupy me,” he said. “I do lose sleep over trying to do the best possible job and represent my country well. “I hope we make it with the best condition to France and do the best we can.”

Villar

PREMIERSHIP FIXTURES Saturday, December 26, 2015 Stoke City v Man United 13:45 Bournemouth v Crystal Palace 16:00 Aston Villa v West Ham 16:00 Chelsea v Watford 16:00 Liverpool v Leicester City 16:00 Man City v Sunderland 16:00 Swansea v West Brom16:00 Tottenham v Norwich City Newcastle v Everton 18:30 Southampton v Arsenal 20:45 Monday, December 28, 2015 Crystal Palace v Swansea 16:00 Everton v Stoke City 16:00 Norwich City v Aston Villa 16:00 Watford v Tottenham 16:00 West Brom v Newcastle Utd 16:00 Arsenal v Bournemouth 18:30 Man United v Chelsea 18:30 West Ham v Southampton 18:30

Business Times Daily Times Nigeria

Yuletide: Banks Page B3 customers groan over long queues, ATMs failure

Oil may slump to $20 in 2016, says IMF Page B2

FG to create 250, 000 jobs via rail development Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo Federal Government has declared that it would generate 250, 000 jobs both direct and indirect with the construction of new rail lines and rehabilitation of old railway lines as a means to boost infrastructure in the rail sub-sector. Minister of Transport, Hon Rotimi Amaechi who made this known while explaining government’s plan for the transport sector in general said that

the rail sub sector has suffered signicant neglect in the past though it is the most effective and cheapest mode of mass transportation for both passengers and freight. He said the movement of petroleum products by rail would be re-introduced in 2016 as he highlighted the key rail lines that the government hope to start work on and those that it would complete by 2016 in a bid to improve transport via rail. According to him, the present

administration is determined to revamp the railway sector with a view to enhancing national integration by encouraging mass transit of passengers and goods between and across the geographical regions of the country. He said,” In 2016, we hope to complete work on the Abuja-Kaduna railway line as Mr. President is highly committed to it. Work will start in earnest on the standard gauge on the following routes: 1.Calabar-Lagos line

which will transverse the following towns and cities: Obudu Cattle Ranch-Calabar-Uyo-AbaPH-Yenagoa-Otuoke-YenagoaUghelli-Sapele-Benin-AgborAsaba-Onitsha-Benin-Ijebu Ode-Ore-Sagamu-Lagos Seaports.2. Lagos-Kano. LagosIbadan-Ilorin-Minna-KadunaKano.” “The construction of new lines and rehabilitation of old railway lines will generate over 250,000 direct jobs and more inCONTINUED ON PAGE B2

Communications Ministry to unfold blue print January 2016

Tony Nwakaegho

The Minister of Communications Technology, Mr. Adebayo Shittu has said a new blueprint for the industry would be unveiled in the third week of January next year. Mr. Shittu disclosed this during his visit to Omatek Ventures Plc in Lagos as part of his official visit to stakeholders in the information communications technology (ICT) sector. He said that the Communications Technology Ministry would not abandon the work started by the former minister, but would improve on them where necessary and implement new policies. “By January, the blueprint for ICT development in Nigeria will be unveiled. Whatever is on ground would form part of it. The change mantra is to improve on regulations in the industry,” he stressed. He promised to run an all-inclusive government with transparency as watch word. He commended Omatek CEO, Mrs. Florence Seriki for her pioneering efforts in the ICT inCONTINUED ON PAGE B2

Managing Director/CEO, New Horizons, Mr. Tim Akano (left ), receiving an award on Cyber Security from Director of Public Affairs, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Mr. Tony Ojobo, at the Nigerian Mobile Economy Summit award in Lagos recently.

Over 1,000 persons benefited from Page B7 FIIRO’s tech transfer in 2015 – Elemo

Naira: Economists advise FG on economic diversification Two economists have urged the Federal Government to diversify the economy by reducing its dependence on crude oil and promote foreign exchange flexibility to forestall further naira depreciation. They told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos yesterday that the continued fall in the price of oil at the international market and the depletion of the nation’s foreign reserves were impacting negatively on the naira. Prof. Anthony Monye-Elmina, Head of Department of Economics, University of Benin, said there were macro- economic challenges affecting the movement of the naira at the international market. Monye-Elmina noted that the dwindling fall in the price of oil, coupled with the strong demand for foreign goods was putting undue pressures on the naira, leading to loss of value. The economist said that until the nation’s economy made a paradigm shift away from oil dependence, its needed restructuring would remain a mirage. According to him, the manufacturing sector should be revitalised to produce the needed foreign exchange that would deCONTINUED ON PAGE B2

RMAFC advises FG to remove fuel subsidy The Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission has urged the Federal Government to remove fuel subsidy because it had become a burden on the nation’s economy. This is contained in a statement by its Head, Public Relations, Mr. Ibrahim Mohammed on Wednesday in Abuja. He said the subsidy had not served the masses as it was supposed to and therefore was not serving its purpose.

“It has become a major fiscal and financial burden to the nation and should therefore be discarded totally since the intended targets, the poor and middle income class, were often denied the benefits. “The removal will drastically reduce the pressure on the revenue profile of the country just as it will free additional funds for the execution of developmental projects which would have direct bearing on the masses”, it said. It also said that the commission

was fully organised and mobilised to complement the efforts of the Federal Government in the effective implementation of the 2016 budget. It said the commission would do so by beefing up revenue generation from diverse revenue sources and ensuring timely remittances by all revenue generating agencies into the federation account for the rapid development of the country. CONTINUED ON PAGE B2

Friday, December 25, 2015

Mbam

Business News B2 FG to create 250, 000 jobs via rail development

direct jobs while having multiplier effect on economic activities. With the resuscitation of commercial trafic from Port Harcourt to Aba amongst others, we have begun the revitalization of this key sub-sector of the Nigerian economy, ”he said. He also said that the immediate impact of investment and efficient running of the rail

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

system will be the reduction of haulage of heavy cargoes by roads thus reducing road damage and increasing the life span of roads. “The movement of petroleum products by rail will be re-introduced in 2016. As you are aware, we have commenced and almost completed the narrow gauge rehabilitation which will be re-

Naira: Economists advise FG on economic diversification CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1

Lagarde

Oil may slump to $20 in 2016, says IMF International Monetary Fund (IMF) has said crude oil prices might slump to as low as $20 per barrel in 2016. Following the release of the “IMF Executive Board Concludes 2015 Article IV Consultation with Iran” report, the body highlighted that the price of crude oil could drop between $5 and $15 in 2016. According to IMF, the dwindling oil prices would not have overtly negative effect on Iran, whose gross domestic product (GDP) is expected to rise four to 5.5 percent by 2017. “Prospects for 2016/17 are brighter, owing to the prospective lifting of economic sanctions. Higher oil production, lower costs for trade and financial transactions, and restored access to foreign assets, are expected to lift real GDP to about

4–5.5 percent next year,” IMF said. The same cannot be said for Nigeria, whose 2016 budget is benchmarked at an oil price of $38 per barrel for the 2016 fiscal year. With Nigeria expected to produce 2.2 million barrels of crude oil per day in 2016 and sell at $38 per barrel, the country expects to generate $83.6 million per day in 2016 – $30.514 billion in the year 2016. Going by IMF’s predictions at $20, Nigeria would generate $44 million per day in 2016, amounting to $16.060 billion in the year. This would mean that Nigeria would get at least 47.4 percent less revenue from oil than what is already projected, consequently adding more pressure to the nation’s need to go borrowing in 2016.

fend the naira against the dominance of the dollar. ``Our strong demand for foreign goods and the dwindling commodity oil price were exerting pressures on the naira, leading to its’ continued depreciation. ``We also need to depend less on importation and encourage the growth of the manufacturing sector,’’ Monye-Elmina said. In his view, Dr Chijioke Mgbame of the Department of Accountancy, University of Benin, blamed policy somersault and recurring leadership crises for the posture of the naira. Mgbame urged the apex bank to allow market forces to determine its movement at the foreign exchange market. According to him, the government should put in place policies that will discourage importation and encourage local manufacturing, stating that this will help to grow the nation’s foreign reserves. He said that the scarcity of the greenback was a temporary measure aimed at restoring sanity to the forex market. The accountant, however, urged the apex bank to pursue policies that would not impute hardship on the economy. ``When your foreign reserve is strong, it will lead to a stronger currency. ``The nation should frown at over dependence on importation and formulate policies that would encourage the growth of local manufacturers,’’ Mgbame said. NAN reports that since the closure of the Retail Dutch Auction System (RDAS) by the apex bank, and subsequent policies aimed at rescuing the naira, it has continued to depreciate. The dwindling price of oil at the international market and the depletion of the nation’s foreign reserves have increased the burden on the naira.

tained for the movement of cargoes. At the same time massive investments into the standard gauge to link most parts of the country with faster trains for passenger movements has begun.” Amaechi said that during the hey days of Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), railways was the fastest means of trans-

porting mass freight between different regions of the nation thus reducing pressure on road usage; these included petroleum and agricultural products. “The current state of the railway is an indication of the serious neglect of this important sub-sector occasioned by poor policy initiation and implementation.

Ministry to unfold blue print January 2016 CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1

dustry, pledging to ensure that indigenous players are given the requisite encouragement and support. Shittu promised that efforts would be channeled towards ensuring that their products and services get patronage in the country. The minister who fielded questions from ICT reporters at the event also gave an update on the MTN fine impasse said that President Buhuri as an apostle of the rule of law would not take any action that would hurt the interest of the judiciary. He promised that the govern-

ment wouls wait for the final decision of the court on the matter since all the parties have subjected themselves to the judicial process. Shittu stated emphatically that there is nobody that is interested in the downfall of MTN or any other company for that matter, but stressed the need for companies to play by the rules of the countries they operate. He said because the case is already in court “it is difficult to comment on such matter. However the ministry will wait for the determination of the court before any further action will be taken on the matter.”

Shittu

RMAFC advises FG to remove fuel subsidy CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1

It also said that the major highlights of the proposed budget by President Muhammadu Buhari were in line with the commission’s mandate of monitoring accruals to and disbursement of revenue from the Federation Account. It has also been advising the federal and state governments on fiscal efficiency and methods by which their revenue could be increased. Mohammed in the statement recalled that beyond mobilizing revenue from traditional sources namely oil and gas and the non-oil sector, RMAFC had in the last two

years been effectively engaged in promoting economic diversification through advocacy and mass mobilization campaign. This, he said was aimed at boosting the revenue base of the nation and reducing overdependence on oil revenue by states and local governments despite the abundance of human and natural resources in the country which is the bane of economic development. The Commission, according to the statement, would continue to engage critical stakeholders to devise strategies of reducing revenue leakages to the barest minimum.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

Stories by Motolani Oseni Due to the recent declaration of public holiday by the Federal Government for Maulud Nabiy, Christmas Day and Boxing Day, commercial banks customers across the country have continued to groan over long queues and failure of some banks Automated Teller Machines (ATMs). Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) yesterday witnessed a high turnout of customers’ for cash withdrawal in their various branches across the country, which was as a result of the public holiday declared. Most customers of First Bank of Nigeria (FBN), Skye bank, Fidelity bank and Guaranty Trust Bank may have a low key Xmas celebration as a result of failure of the banks ATMs, which have denied the customers access to their funds. While many of the banks customers’ groaned over the fear of being stranded during the holidays express their anger and disappointment. Daily Times observed that at about 3:00p.m on Thursday, customers could not still make withdrawals with FBN ATMs either from other banks or from First bank branches.. When our correspondent visited a FBN Sango branch by Lagos –Abeokuta Express way, Ogun State, the ATM machine only dis-

Sterling Bank obtains ISO 20000-1 certification NIBOR as @ Dec. 23, 2015 Tenor

Rate (%)

Change (%)

O/N

1.015

-0.11 ?

9.0981

0.27 ?

10.8002

0.12 ?

12.9468

0.42 ?

B3 Money Market

Yuletide: Banks customers groan over long queues, ATMs failure

ing but stopped working at 12:p.m., one of the machines dispensed cash after some of the bank customers had tried in other banks’ ATM without success. Meanwhile, shortage of cash occasioned by heavy withdrawals

by high net worth individuals may cause gloomy Xmas celebration and long holiday for most bank customers in Lagos and Ogun States. There are indications that there was cash shortage affect most commercial banks in those areas of the two States visited by our correspondent, as ATMs were depleted of cash. Some customers who spoke on the development regretted that the banks failed to be proactive as the season was expected to come with more demand for cash. Mr Stephen James said that he spent several hours at the ATM in Joju area of Sango Otta branch of Fidelity Bank but was unable to get cash as the two ATM terminals ran out of money. “Only God would make this year Xmas celebration a joyous one for me and my household, because I was here yesterday and couldn’t withdraw because when it got to my turn the ATM stopped paying and when we went to complain to the bank officials they told us that there is no problem that money will be replenish but there was nothing like that before I left disappointedly.

Bank to review our people and practices. The standard stipulates a certain level of competence for IT (Information Technology) staff, and in order to meet this standard, several staff within our Technology group undertook trainings and certification examinations. “In achieving this feat, the Bank implemented 13 processes and also created an IT service management unit, of which the IT service desk is an important component. The 13 processes are Capacity Management; Service continuity and availability Management; Service level Management; Service Money Market Indicators (%) reporting; Information -2015 security Man-

agement; Budgeting and accounting for services. “Others are Release and deployment management; Configuration management; Change Management; Business relationship management; Supplier management; Incident and Request fulfilment Management; and Problem management.” Having achieved the ISO 200001 demanded by the CBN from the banks, Sterling Bank according the Mr. Atilola is already reviewing proposals on the implementation of other components spelt out by the apex bank as part of its road map in ensuring that technology deployed by financial institutions in the country are in line with international best practices.

L-R: The President of Harvard Business School Association of Nigeria (HBSAN) & CEO of First City Monument Bank, Mr. Ladi Balogun; Founder & CEO of HealthPlus Limited, Mrs. Bukky George; CEO of Interswitch Limited, Mr. Mitchell Elegbe and Vice President of HBSAN/CEO of Cedar Capital, Mr. Fola Ogunsiakan, during the 2015 Black Tie Dinner and Awards Ceremony of the Association held recently in Lagos.

played massages that read: “Temporarily unable to dispense cash.” Relating his ordeal, customer of Skye bank Plc, Mr. Gabriel Joseph, said that he regretted having an account with a bank that cannot rescues him at the crucial time

of need, because he can’t make any withdrawal from other bank’s ATM with his Visa debit card. However, our correspondent who visited Abule-Egba branch of GTBank gathered that the machine dispense cash in the morn-

In recognition of its attainment of best Service Management Standards and global best practices in service management, Sterling Bank Plc has received the TCIC ISO 20000-1Certification. CIC Global Certification Limited is a Management System Certification Independent Audit/ Assessment Accredited Training provider founded in 2003, provides the certification audit of the management system, independent audit/assessment services, the personnel certification/ registration and the Accredited Training Providers alongside other value-added service for the clients. With this development, Sterling

Bank has met one of the components spelt out in the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) roadmap for Technology Departments of deposit money banks in the country. In a statement by the bank’s Group Head, Strategy & Communications, Mr. Shina Atilola explained that the journey to implementing ISO 20000-1 commenced in July 2014 and ended in February 2015. The training and certification audit took place between July and August, 2015. According to the statement, this certification came about after an audit was conducted on the

CBN Exchange Rates

Month

January

February

March

10.21

23.5

12.59

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

Monetary Policy Rate (MPR)

SWISS FRANC

197.6102

198.1143

198.6185

Treasury Bill Rate

11.2

10.88

YEN

1.5982

1.6023

1.6063

Savings Deposit Rate

3.48

CFA

0.3057

0.3157

0.3257

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.61

WAUA

270.5555

271.2458

271.9361

3 Months Deposit Rate

YUAN/RENMINBI

30.4813

30.5595

30.6377

6 Months Deposit Rate

RIYAL

52.2197

52.3529

52.4861

DANISH KRONA

28.6904

28.7636

28.8368

SDR

272.026

272.72

273.4141

Inter-Bank Call Rate

Inter-Bank Rates 12/15/15

OBB Rate

0.5000 - 0.5000%

12/10/15

OBB Rate

0.5000 - 0.5000%

10.77

12/9/15

Call Rate

0.5000 - 0.7500%

3.47

3.76

OBB Rate

0.7500 - 1.0000%

8.47

8.42

12/7/15

OBB Rate

0.5000 - 0.5000%

9.64

9.54

9.02

12/1/15

Call Rate

1.0000 - 1.0000%

9.74

9.46

9.88

11/27/15

Call Rate

0.7500 - 1.0000%

12 Months Deposit Rate

9.51

9.37

9.52

OBB Rate

1.0000 - 1.0000%

Prime Lending rate

16.86

16.77

16.9

11/25/15

OBB Rate

1.2500 - 1.5000%

Maximum Lending Rate

25.97

26.33

26.61

11/20/15

OBB Rate

1.2500 - 1.5000%

Capital Market B4 Stories by Adesola Akindele Oando Plc has announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire the minority shares of its Canadian listed subsidiary, Oando Energy Resources (OER). This agreement was publicized through a release made available on the Nigerian Stock Exchange site, noting that the deal is worth about US$13.7 million and implies an equity value for the Company of approximately US$955.3 million (N200b). “The Consideration represents a 177.2% premium to the 20-day volume weighted average price of the Common Shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange for the period ending December 21, 2015, using the Bank of Canada US$ to CDN$ closing exchange rate of 1.3965 on December 21, 2015. The transaction provides total consideration to holders of Minority Shares of approximately US$13.7 million and implies an equity value for the Company of approximately US$955.3 million.” The release stated. It further read that “The Board of Directors of OER has unanimously (with Messrs. Tinubu and Boyo abstaining) determined that the Plan of Arrangement is

Oando approves acquisition of OER minority shares worth US$955m fair to shareholders (excluding Oando PLC and the Institutional Shareholders) and it would be in the best interests of the Company to enter into the Arrangement Agreement.” According to the company, the determination of the Board was made upon the recommendation of a special committee of independent directors, and after consideration of the advice of legal and financial advisors to the Independent Committee and the Company. The release also stated that “Oando PLC holds, either directly or indirectly, 746,107,838 of the Common Shares, representing approximately 93.7% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares. Pursuant to the Plan of Arrangement, the Purchaser will acquire all of the Common Shares that are held either directly or indirectly by the Institutional Shareholders and Oando PLC. In consideration for such transfer, they shall receive such number of shares of the Purchas-

Stock Market Report ASI appreciates 1.26% It was a three-day trading week at the Nigerian Stock Exchange as the Federal Government of Nigeria declared Thursday 24th and Friday 25th of December, 2015 as Public Holiday in commemoration of the Eid-el-Maulud and Christmas Celebration respectively. Meanwhile, a turnover of 743.117 million shares worth N6.591 billion in 8,325 deals were traded this week by investors on the floor of The Exchange in contrast to a total of 1.457 billion shares valued at N13.803 billion that exchanged

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

hands last week in 13,648 deals. The NSE All-Share Index and market capitalization appreciated by 1.26% to close the week at 26,871.24 and N9.238 trillion respectively. Similarly, all other Indices finished higher during the week, with the exception of NSE Insurance and NSE Consumer Goods Indices that depreciated by 1.02% and 0.44% respectively, while the NSE ASeM Index closed flat. Twenty-six (26) equities appreciated in price during the week, lower than Twenty-seven (27) equities of the preceding week. Twenty-

er as reflects the number of their contributed Common Shares for the purposes of completing the transactions contemplated by the Plan of Arrangement.” Speaking on the deal, Bill Watson, Chairman of the Independent Committee stated “This proposal represents a significant premium to the 20 day volume weighted average price of the Common Shares prior to today’s announcement. We recommend that shareholders vote in favour of the Plan of Arrangement at the special meeting of shareholders to be held for the purposes of approving the transaction.” The implementation of the Plan of Arrangement will be subject to approval by the holders of the affected securities at a special meeting (the “Special Meeting”) expected to be held on February 25, 2016. The transaction also will be subject to applicable regulatory approvals and certain closing conditions customary in transactions of this nature.

seven (27) equities depreciated in price, lower than Forty-one (41) equities of the previous week, while one hundred and thirty-seven (137) equities remained unchanged, higher than one hundred and twenty-two (122) equities recorded in the preceding week. The Financial Services Industry (measured by volume) led the activity chart with 652.872 million shares valued at N3.583 billion traded in 5,226 deals; thus contributing 87.86% and 54.36% to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively. The Consumer Goods Industry followed with 30,540 million shares worth N2,080 billion in 1,332 deals. The third place was occupied by the Conglomerates Industry with a turnover of 29.052 million shares worth N154.209 million in 483 deals. Trading in the Top Three Equities this week were Wema Bank Plc, Guaranty Trust Bank Plc and FBN Holdings Plc. (measured by volume) accounted for 335.820 million shares worth N2.159 billion in 1,516 deals, contributing 45.19% and 32.76% to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively. Also traded during the week were a total of 721 units of Exchange Traded Products (ETPs) valued at N250,859.50 executed in 19 deals, compared with a total of 6,372 units valued at N445,625.60 transacted last week in 32 deals.

Tinubu

Oando Plc recently declared record losses in its 2014 full year and 2015 9 months results attrib-

Gwarzo, SEC DG

Following an agreement reached with the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) PLC, Association of Stockbroking Houses of Nigeria (ASHON) and Nigeria InterBank Settlement System (NIBSS) Plc, the Nigerian Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has directed dealing firms (stockbroking firms) to send relevant information to the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) by December 30, 2015 in order to aid the Direct Cash Settlement (DCS) scheduled to commence on January 4, 2016. The DCS is a process where cash proceeds from trades executed by brokers on the Exchange settles directly into investors’ bank account. DCS is aimed at improving transparency, entrenching investor confidence, reducing market infractions and improving trading velocity.

uting it mostly to impairments taken in the wake of the drop in oil prices.

SEC kickstarts DCS initiative Investors are thus expected to complete a Direct Cash Settlement form with their Stockbroking Firms. Forms could also be downloaded from the website of SEC, NSE, CSCS, ASHON and individual Stockbroking Firms and forwarded to investors’ respective Stockbroking Firms after completion. Under the proposed framework for the DCS brokers are mandated to provide their clients’ bank account details to the CSCS, being the agent of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) for the clearing and settlement of all securities traded on the Automated Trading System (ATS) of the NSE. Settlement of each trade carried out on the ATS shall then be done by direct payment into the client’s account as provided to the CSCS. Already market stakeholders have said the DCS would prevent illegal sale of investors’ stock and payment would be prompt.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

B5 Capital Market

NSE DAILY ACTIVITY SUMMARY ( EQUITIES) 23-12-2015

Real sector digest B6

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

ENTERPRISE STROKES: Budget 2016, the leadership, the people, the opposition Stories by Siaka Momoh

L-R: The MD and CEO of Sterling Bank Plc, Mr. Yemi Adeola and the Managing Director and Editor in Chief of Sun Newspapers Mr. Eric Osagie at the formal presentation of the letter of THe Sun Banker of the Year Award to Mr. Adeola at the head office of the bank in Lagos recently.

Budget 2016: Changed budget, changed people, changed leaders – Financial Derivatives Company In what was his first address before the joint session of the National Assembly, President Muhammadu Buhari presented the proposed 2016 budget with a theme consistent with its campaign slogan of “Change”. The spending and revenue estimate is based on the Keynesian model of countercyclical spending to stimulate growth. Spending in real terms is up 20% and the deficit is to expand to $11bn – 2.16% of GDP. For an austere and frugal leader, deficit financing – requiring an additional N1.84trn – is a bitter pill to swallow especially the reference to both domestic and more importantly, international borrowing. The Eurobond market will be a real test of Nigeria’s credit worthiness. The most notable shift in his economic ideology remains the mute but tacit acceptance of the adoption of a flexible exchange rate – a no go area up to a few days ago. The budget sought to protect the poor with a social safety net including scholarships and food provision in schools. The budget also clearly acknowledges current inadequacies in the supply of foreign exchange to Nigerians and its impact on traders and

business operators who are hugely reliant on imported inputs. It also went as far as assuring Nigerians and foreign investors that the Central Bank of Nigeria will incorporate some flexibility to its foreign exchange management which will encourage additional inflows of foreign currency... Devaluation may have not been mentioned, but this could signal the shift of the Central bank’s monetary policy to a path more suited for an oil exporter. Budget Breakdown The budget proposes N6.08trn in expenditure and a revenue projection of N3.86trn. Oil related revenues are expected to contribute just N820bn – 21%, while tax collection and public expenditure reforms in MDAs will account for the rest. A deficit of N2.2trn is projected – 2.16% of GDP. This is considerably higher than the deficit of 0.79% of GDP in the 2015 budget. The debt profile is set to rise to 14% of GDP. Financing it will require N1.84trn in borrowing to be sourced locally (N984bn) and internationally (N900bn). Perhaps bent on signaling its intent to revive a flagging economy, capital expenditure has been tripled to N1.8trn and represents

over 30% of total expenditure. This may be compromised if revenues fail to reach projected levels. Significant spending on infra-structure and security is set to complement reforms in Agriculture and Solid minerals. The budget also emphasizes the need to restructure the oil and gas sector and has given directives to the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) to keep the selling price for all marketers of petrol at N87/liter for now. The budget is clearly consistent and is part of the 3-year Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF). It seeks to stir Nigeria off the path of oil dependence. It hopes to achieve this through a focus on non-oil revenues by broadening the tax base and improving the effectiveness of our revenue collecting agencies. However, the renewed drive to boost non-oil revenues may not be sufficient to cover the gap from lower oil revenues it seeks to boost growth to 4.37% in 2016. From a relatively static and dogmatic ideological position, Buhari has moved forward in the spectrum of economic reform which is a welcome development for most economists and investors.

President Buhari says and believes it will revive sick economy. And its structure and intent point to this. Having reviewed what is trending in the global oil industry, government decided to set a benchmark price of $38 per barrel and a production estimate of 2.2 million barrels per day for year 2016 and very interestingly (in consonance with what Realsectordigest stands for)with plans to focus on non-oil revenues, Government plans to earn N1.4 trillion as non-oil revenue. There are more change elements: To deliver its development objectives, government, according to the budget estimates, has increased the capital expenditure portion of the budget from N557 billion in the 2015 budget to N1.8 trillion in the 2016 budget, representing 30 per cent of total budget with a promise to increase it in the future. This increased capital expenditure takes special recognition of vital sectors such as Works , Power and Housing which gets NN433.4 billion; Transport – N202 billion; Special Intervention Programmes – N200 billion; Defence – N134.6 billion;

and Interior – N145.3 billion. According to the president in his presentation to the National Assembly, “These investments in infrastructure and security are meant to support our reforms in Agriculture, Solid Minerals and other core job-creating sectors of our economy”. In summary, the budget is a people’s budget. It seeks to proffer solution to the gap in Nigeria’s ailing economy, the cause of which is now of very glaring public knowledge. So one needs not go into details here. But the opposition, true to the character of opposition parties in Africa’s fledgling democracy, must say something, must see red in every move of government. So for Nigeria’s main opposition party, the PDP, the budget is a fraud designed to mortgaging the future of Nigeria. What is wrong with borrowing to run your economy that is in limbo if the borrowing is spent on areas that will bring about the desired rescue? Isn’t this the universal move that we all know off ? This is not the time for polemics. It is time for action, one that will clear the rot of 16 years. An independent review by Financial Derivative Company, published on this page corroborates the view here.

Nigerian agricultural sector needs to dwell less on the rhetoric of its predecessors Ade Adefeko Nigeria’s food import is growing by about 11 percent per annum, with top imports including wheat, rice, sugar and fish. The last administration made many attempts to unlock Nigeria’s agricultural potential as the country contains 84 million hectares of arable land, of which only 40 percent is utilized. More alarmingly, only around 0.8 percent of arable land is even irrigated, compared to the 28 percent that is in Thailand. Although there are approximately 110 million young people in the work force, due to low wages for labourers in the agricultural sector, food production has largely been left to the elderly. Nigeria possesses nearly 279 billion cubic meters of surface water, yet potential sources of irrigation from two of the major rivers in Africa – the Niger and Benue Rivers – remain unexploited. The primary challenge at hand is how to increase agricultural productivity. Yields per

hectare are only 20-50 percent of comparable yields in developing countries like Brazil, Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia and this leaves much room for improvement. In terms of input, Nigeria has one of the lowest usage rates. Mechanization intensity remains low (perhaps 10 tractors per 1000 hectares compared to Indonesia’s 241 tractors per 100 hectares). The last administration tried to tackle this menace by establishing the Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA) under Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina, the current African Development Bank (AFDB) President. The ATA essentially called for people to start treating agriculture like a business by integrating food production, storage, processing and industrial manufacturing through value chains, focusing on sectors where Nigeria had a comparative advantage. It also included plans to adopt import substitution measures to drive sector growth and investment-driven strategic partnerships with the private sector.

Siaka Momohis a media consultant and publisher Realsectordigest.com and can be reached via siakamomoh@yahoo.com; 08061396410

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

Stories by Charles Okonji More than 1,000 persons have so far benefitted from the Technology Transfer Training Programmes (TTTP) organized by the Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi (FIIRO) on 25 technologies between January and November, 2015. Dr. Mrs. Gloria N. Elemo, Director General, FIIRO, who stated this in a chart with Daily Times, noted that TTTP was part of the institutions mandate, which addresses the issue of skills acquisition, youth empowerment and creation of jobs through MSME’s. “We are an agency under the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology with the mandate to conduct research and development into Food and agro-allied processing, pulp and paper processing, design and fabrication of equipment prototype as well as research and development into packaging and product design. We have developed more than 50 commercializable products for uptake by local investors.” She said; “The importance of generating new knowledge and turning it into products and services cannot be overemphasized as it enhances competitive advantage of businesses and industry in global markets as well as address global and local challenges.” “The developed world has cer-

Over 1,000 persons benefitted from FIIRO’s tech transfer in 2015 – Elemo tainly been able to utilize and are still utilizing results of scientific research and innovation for the advancement of their economies and nations and this sets them apart as leaders in development. Through R&D, economies of the world have been transformed in different ways – from advancement in the medical world, more efficient industrial equipment to even providing security for both citizens and their territories.” Dr Elemo noted that the process of utilizing new knowledge or innovation is complex because it involves, stressing that it involves a lot of lot of actors and interplay of interactions from very different backgrounds and visions. She said; “On the other hand, small industries do not have the capacity to drive their R&D and this limits their output and their opportunities to be able to compete in markets. From time, large industries in Africa are often equipped with their own research and development and they work to achieve competitive advantage in markets through their own efforts without much input from the Universities, research institutions or government. Uni-

Elemo

versities and research institutes, while churning out graduates and equipping staff to develop innovations and technologies, have limited access to funds to achieve great strides.” She explained that there is there is a gradual shift in perspective, adding that academic

private sector is the engine of growth in the economy, should carry out a policy that would cripple investment and already established private-sector enterprises. He lamented that commercial activities in the Apapa area where these tankers and trucks are currently located have remained at very low ebb, making it impossible for meaningful investments. “We have been faithful to our lease agreement with the Federal Government. The various market unions in the complex have been law abiding. That is why we are seriously worried by the recent newspaper publication on the plans by Lagos state government to relocate the trucks to this place. Presently, over 1,000 trucks come here either to deliver or carry goods from this place.” “You can imagine what would happen when these trucks and tankers add to the number given the fact that we have one entry and exit to the complex.

institutions are looking at ways to increase their funding through industry asides from the government funds, and are finding ways to collaborate with industries to showcase their R&D for uptake. The DG said, with all actors seeing the need to form partner-

ships and collaborations, the challenge lies in how to bring these actors to work closely together and towards a common sustainable vision. She called on the Nigerian industries to invest in education, research and training as it improves quality of skills in the labour market that would benefit industry eventually, stressing that they have a responsible to develop the economy and can achieve this by investing in local R&D inputs. She added that most of the R&D inputs of large industries in Nigeria are made by the parent companies with little or no input to research and technologies developed locally. “Government is responsible for setting up and updating regulatory and institutional frameworks for innovations to occur which agrees with the general business environment. There is need for government support to drive appropriate instruments such as tax credits, support for industrial innovative clusters and tackling challenges relating to piracy, patenting and protection of intellectual property.” Elemo stated.

Nigeria loses N2.3 trillion annually on importation of iron and steel products

Traders oppose plans to relocate fuel tankers to trade fair complex Traders at the International Trade Fair Complex along Lagos-Badagry Expressway have opposed the proposed plan by the Lagos State Government to relocate petrol tankers and trucks to the market. Dr Jude Ringo Okeke, the spokesman for the market unions said this during a press briefing at the complex, stressing that the move would cripple business activities in the area. He stated; “The Trade Fair Complex has been concessioned to private investors for 20 years, and since then more than 100,000 shops of various capacities and over 500 plazas have been built by individuals which has cost traders trillions of Naira on investment. This is the sole international market serving Nigeria and the West Coast, as such the capacity of the market has been overstretched thus leading to heavy traffic in and out of the market daily.” Okeke, wondered why a government who says that the

B7 Industry

Moukarim

The Managing Director of Nigeria Gas and Steel Limited, (NGSL), a pioneer manufacturer of Hollow Steel Sections and Pipes in Nigeria since 1976, Chief Hasib Moukarim has larmented that the country loses N2.3 trillion annually on the importation of Iron and Steel products into the country with the subsequent negative effects on the Nigerian economy. Moukarim who disclosed this

in a statement made available to the press men in Lagos, recently, during a stakeholders meeting, called on Federal Government of Nigeria to enact law that will enforce importers of irons and steel products to patronize local manufacturers. According to the communiqué, he said “currently over 2.3 trillion naira is expended annually on the importation of Iron and Steel products into the country with the subsequent negative effects on the national economy, resulting in significant expenditure of foreign exchange, and exportation of jobs”. Commending a communiqué issued recently by the Nigeria Society of Engineers (NSE) after its stakeholders’ workshop with a theme “Iron and Steel Production in Nigeria – A paradigm shift in Policy and investment priorities”, he expressed sadness over a situation where Nigerian business men imported 61,500 tons of steel pipe (finished goods) in 2014 by the time Nigerian Manufacturers were terminating employments

of thousands of workers due to diminishing sales and losing markets to the imported material. He said, importation of raw material for local steel industry is on the increase due to non readiness of local suppliers such as Ajaokuta Steel Project to provide the required raw material, while he wondered why importers import finished goods such as steel pipes, hallow sections, and iron rods when there are many manufacturers of such items in the country, employing thousands of workers and investing huge capitals to run their business? Chief Moukarim therefore urged the Government to enforce the patronage of domestically produced iron and steel products and by-products in line with the Nigeria Content Policy by incorporating such terms and conditions in the contract agreements of key infrastructure projects of government funded by the Public Sector as well encouraging synergy between iron and steel industries, government agencies / parastatals and academia.

Entrepreneurship B8

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

Remedy recession through entrepreneurial governance (1) ‘‘A look at the current economic and social realities in Nigeria as enumerated above, it will be an uphill task to resolve the situation any other way, except by the instrumentality of entrepreneurship (even in governance), as many other economies and markets globally are doing to scale through their challenges, and Nigeria cannot be an exception because entrepreneurship provides us windows out of the present economic and social state.’’

Chukwuemeka

Nwaodu Chukwuemeka In the face of Nigeria’s economic realities where virtually all macro-economic and fiscal indices are trending negative - low oil prices, spiraling inflation, capital market bearish performances, exchange rates depreciation and the dwindling foreign reserves, and financial sector performance confirming the current adverse economic reality. The outlook for growth in 2016 is weak and several key sectors including oil & gas, manufacturing and government are already in recession while most others are experiencing sharp slowdowns. With the current economic realities as enumerated above, it will be an uphill task to resolve it any other way than through the intensive promotion of entrepreneurship and SME development as practiced by other successful economies and markets. According to the United Nations industrial development (UNIDO), MSEs or SMEs have a significant role to play in the economic development of any nation because they form the backbone of the private sector and are the biggest employers of labour in both advanced and developing economies. The national bureau of statistics has put the total number of SMEs in Nigeria at 17million providing jobs to over 32 million people. But this critical sector still lacks the support it deserves. Where formal labour markets have failed to provide jobs,

people have had to turn to entrepreneurship and SME development for economic survival. However SMEs have high failure rates in the absence of the needed capacity building for success. One critical element research has shown in improving the survival rates of SMEs are in improving the managerial competencies and capability of their managers/owners. A variety of controlled trials by the international labour organization (ILO) have shown that access to management training improves significantly SMEs survival and growth rates. Unemployment is another very big challenge in Nigeria especially among the youths as the rate swell by the day, as more employees are laid off and a lot more jobs than ever are being outsourced, Presently, there are about 42 million unemployed people in Nigeria (24.7% of the population - NBS) with little hope of ever getting a job in the nearest future. The foregoing are the stark realities of the times we live in and may as well have become ‘the new normal’ condition of our society, where job security and pensions are becoming extinct while the unemployment market swell by the day, with the few available jobs being outsourced. The most dramatic is the hint from the president that the centre is equally broke and might not be able to bear the cost of the federal cabinet, the central bank boss has equally stated that the economy might go into recession by January 2016 if nothing drastic is done. The nation’s capital market is not left out as it is presently commatose and losing billions by the day. Now what do we do as a nation, bearing in mind that most businesses in Nigeria rely on government patronages, contracts and spinoff for survival, as government is the biggest spender. What options then do we have as a people; do we lay back and wait for the worst, come January 2016, or as a people we put on our thinking cap and creatively/innovatively ma-

noeuvre our way out of this gig saw pussle? While we consider as a nation, steps that we should suggest to the leadership to take as remedies for the present state of affairs, on individual level it is imperative that Nigerians, especially those in paid employment and owners of small businesses (SMEs), empower themselves effectively with relevant entrepreneurial knowledge and business intelligence to secure the elusive financial security and freedom, as well as gain control over their lives, and acquire the shocks needed to absorb all the economic and financial uncertainties that may arise. As well as utilise their skills, ideas and talents to create businesses that would add up in boosting the market and the economy, while helping to expand the opportunity space in Nigeria for an inclusive society. A look at the current economic and social realities in Nigeria as enumerated above, it will be an uphill task to resolve the situation any other way, except by the instrumentality of entrepreneurship (even in governance), as many other economies and markets globally are doing to scale through their challenges, and Nigeria cannot be an exception because entrepreneurship provides us windows out of the present economic and social state. It offers us a platform through which innovation and job creation, with the right dose of ideas and inspiration, can grow and sustain the economy and boost our market. The small and nedium scale enterprises (SMEs) and the entrepreneurs are the engine of any economy, the right set of encouragements to this sector in Nigeria therefore (as one of the remedies), will boost them to confidently take their place in the economy and effectively make their contributions to remedy the current situation. We desperately need to impart to the youths and those in various levels of influence, the entrepreneurial skills and business intelligence needed to raise the next level of business lead-

ers in the country, especially encouraging leading bottom up, with efficiency and high productivity needed to create the impacts that will transforms the society and the people. We will need transference of unction of experience and success from entrepreneurs and business people who are already a success to share from their experiences, motivations, visions and ideas, because of the universality of application of principles, when it is well appropriated it is non discriminatory and whatever has worked for one will surely work for the other. Examples are the best teacher, as the best way to learn a thing is to understudy someone who has done it before. The secret of men are in their stories, the stories from these entrepreneurs therefore has the potency of replicating itself in the life of anyone who cares to appropriate them and should be taken advantage of. It is a role modelling methodology, giving guidance and enthusiasm to proteges, in order to hasten and enhance the time of accomplishment of their tasks. We need to build more capacities and competencies through knowledge, skills and platform for networking and learning among entrepreneurs in Nigeria, promoting and developing enterprise skills and business intelligence in Nigeria as a culture and new form of thinking, for wealth creation, employment generation and poverty reduction, In so doing we build an enduring solution to the perennial unemployment problem and low productivity in this part of the world, so as to improve the standard of living and reduce poverty among the people. Our young people desperately needs to be equipped with the requisite sets of competencies, character and capacity to jump start the economy and drive it to the desired point. Some of the ways to achieve all these includes ingraining global best practices in our business operations, placing emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship in order to build sustainable and profitable busi-

nesses that would enhance the standard of living of the people through enlarged opportunities and employment space, systematic methods of learning to encourage speedy and sustainable results, which includes, case study methods, brainstorming sessions and study groups, mentorship, tutelage and follow-up sessions. Everything needed to be learnt in whatever format should be encouraged in order to make a success of any business or enterprise this youths venture into. If we are able to appropriately engage in the aforementioned, the learning objectives would therefore be to achieve certain cutting edge skills for high productivity among the youths, skills like - Critical entrepreneurial knowledge and know-how, Excellent Financial literacy, Leadership skills, Communication and People management skills, Core Marketing and Sales skills, Information Technology (IT) skills. Especially for those with little or no prior business/enterprise knowledge and experience, who will therefore need competencies in the area of:- Buusiness writing, Business devekopment, Financial management and Communication skills. For those currently running enterprises but are experiencing operational/growth challenges. The competencies required would be - Cash flow management and Inventory management skills, Digital technology and social media skills, and Relationship skills. And for those with significant successes in business but are looking to diversify and break new frontiers, The competencies required would be - Leadership skills, Networking skills, Advanced Financial Management skills and Relationship skills. The foregoing if taken care of and impacting on a demography of a youthful population (about 60 per cent of the Nigeria population are youths), our economy has no option but to naturally respond on a positive note and be sustained. This discussion continues next week in the part two of this writeup, make it a date with us.

Nwaodu Chukwuemeka, is a consultant with IDEAS Exchange Consulting, Lagos. He can be reached at nwaodu.lawrence@hotmail.co.uk (07066375847).

Life &

TIMES Friday, December 25, 2015

Prince Samuel

Adedoyin:

Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Entrepreneur Extraordinaire @ 80

Interview L2

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

I started with petty trading in Idumagbo Avenue – Prince Samuel Adedoyin ‘I attained this height without basic education’ Prince Samuel Adedoyin is a successful businessman who rose through the rung of the ladder as a petty trader to an indigenous industrial giant. Without any basic education, he got his start in the business world at an early age engaging in petty trading in Ghana and by the age of 14, he was trading in nails. He later divested into trading such products such as pens, umbrellas and some popular goods of the time. From there, he established Doyin Investment, a direct labour intensive leather and travelling bag producing firm. He followed this up with interests in motor trading in Starco Motors dealing in Peugeots with Doyin Motors dealing in Volvos. He also established an electronics assembling factory and fishing net firm. The business mogul was born in Lagos and bred in the little town of Agbamu, Kwara State. In this interview, he shared his life experience and challenges of life, suggesting that government should encourage fledging indigenous industries. Excerpts: well as with handbags before we went into technical industries or what I can call medium scale if not large scale manufacturing. I believe in indigenization, I believe in Nigerians. So in life there are always challenges. In business, there are challenges, but with determination to succeed and trust in God, when you fall you will certainly rise again. There are ups and downs in my life but I have always come out greater at the end of each challenge.

You just celebrated 80 years, looking back, how do you feel? For me, I have nothing to say about my life other than to thank God always because I do not have any basic education, if you believe in God and in yourself you will succeed. Nothing can stop you.

Life&

T E A M

What are the keys to success in building business in Nigeria? In every human being’s life, the fear of God must be foremost. Then knowing him, honoring and praising him is another way that a man can achieve success because with God Almighty,

everything is possible. That is what I learnt from my youth, that is what I practice, and my whole success in life depends upon praising God and appreciating him always. Thereafter one should be focused and persevering. As an Entrepreneur, what are the challenges you faced in Nigeria? In Nigeria, it is very unfortunate that we move a step forward and two steps backward. During our time, there was indigenisation policy which helped people but that was during the military time.

Movie & Music Correspondent Mutiat Alli

That policy allowed and helped us to become entrepreneurs. As at that time, they allowed a lot of Nigerians to own majority shares. I think it helped a lot of indigenous companies. I do not want to mention names. It helped me in particular. Government policies should provide an enabling environment for growth in the manufacturing sector. Nigerians are endowed with intelligence and vision and provided with the right atmosphere, and devoid of unnecessary taxes, importation hurdles, non availability of diesel, LPFO and petrol, etc. which

Society Correspondent Isaac Oguntoye

Photography Quadri Olowolagba

are serious challenges now, we could excel. Nigerians are doing extremely well in other countries where the atmosphere is favourable. Nigerians are not encouraged enough, we depend much on foreign expertise, that is why in every industry I establish, I like to train Nigerians to manage them and this is what we have done in our industries. Although I started from petty trading, selling umbrellas, handbags; later I started manufacturing on a small scale because we have to import the cloves of the umbrellas and ribs, then sew them together. As

Graphics Sunday O. Emmanuel

What inspired you in founding Doyin Group and why are there few indigenous companies in Nigeria? Well, that is why I said in Nigeria, sometimes the government takes a step forward and another government would come and take two steps backwards. During the time of Babangida, I remember that a lot of products were banned and we were forced to start to reassemble radio, television, refrigerator and we were able to make such products which we sold to UTC, Kingsway and so on. But came another government, it discouraged everyone, people started to import everything from Taiwan, China, Korea and that was the end of all the endeavors. We lost all the money invested. As for me, I hate being a contractor, I have never been a contractor to either Federal Government or any State Government. So I look at what I can do without begging government for contracts and so on. And that is what took me to soap and detergents, food seasoning, noodles which poor people buy and you do not need to go to government to sell or beg them before you can achieve Continued on

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Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

Continued from

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L3 Interview

I attained this height without basic education

–Prince Samuel Adedoyin success. That is the reason why I went into such areas. I went into manufacturing to contribute my bit to the economic development of the country and to create job opportunities. What are your views when it comes to creating an enabling environment? Well, one thing many Nigerians will not believe is that there is no way that Nigerians will be able to succeed in industry without providing them with security. The importation of certain goods must be restricted for the madein-Nigeria products to thrive. Even in America and China, homemade products are directly and indirectly protected but in Nigeria, all sorts of thing are imported including tooth pick. Ordinary fasteners are not yet being made in Nigeria, buttons are not being made in Nigeria because advanced countries make better ones at cheaper prices and unless such industries are protected, it will be difficult for beginners to thrive. It is almost impossible for beginners to borrow money. You cannot have an idea and say if I get five million, I would be able to start. There is no way you can borrow such money without incurring interest of about 23%. Even the Bank of Industry imposes conversion charge, acceptance charge, which altogether come to an additional 4% before the actual loan which would attract between 10 and 20 percent. There is only a little difference between the Bank of Industry’s loan and that of the commercial banks. Special funds must be provided for maybe 50 people from each state at government

subsidized rates. I thank God that I am not in a position to benefit from it because God has made my organization to exceed that stage. There must be this kind of assistance to enable beginners to succeed which is not available now. The absence of concessionary terms for obtaining loan for entrepreneurs especially the small ones to succeed must be addressed. Tax free period for budding entrepreneurs should also be introduced. These if not addressed, we would be wasting our time. What are your views about the culture of philanthropy and corporate giving in Nigeria? Well, Nigeria is a country where there are so many poor people and as such the culture of philanthropy and corporate giving need to be improved upon. Through God’s help, I tarred the 14 Kilometers road to where there is a tarred road twenty something years ago and I still maintain the road. There was no hospital, I first of all built a small Health Centre. As it stands now, God has been providing for me and I have built a 100-bed hospital which I donated to Kwara State Government to manage. I pay the Doctors’ salary till today. Every one endowed should be involved in one philanthropic venture or another as it would be impossible for government to do everything. Who are your mentors and role models? Well, I have seen a lot of people. They are countless but I like to believe in my God because most of what I am doing is not emulated. I talk to God and he directs me and I will like to say

Society Gists

my God is whom I look up to for everything. What is your message to the Nigeria youth? As I stated earlier, the Nigerian youth should believe in God, believe in themselves and be determined. Do not let anybody bring you down or discourage you. For instance, I only passed standard four and I did not finish my elementary school education not even to talk of going to a college and talk less of going to the University. At a time, people wanted to deride me as an illiterate but I was determined to be somebody in life. After all, some people like me evolved the various courses being studied in schools, so I strived to develop myself and today I have acquired everything that I know through watching television, listen to people talking, and improving myself as in the instance of improving on my control of the English Language. The determination that I can do it by believing that I can do it made me to do it. So, my own piece of advice to everybody is not to write themselves off believing something is impossible. Everything is possible when you trust in God and believe that you can do it. For instance, I started by selling in Idumagbo Avenue in a shed of two by four feet. By believing, and trusting in God, and there is nothing God cannot do. Today, I can wear anything that I want to. With determination coupled with your belief in God and in yourself, anything and everything you aspire to achieve would be achieved because the sky is not your limit.

Prince Samuel Adedoyin

Lolar Shon gets car gift from hubby Lolar Shon is one of the renowned models cum-fashion designer. She has been in the industry for over a decade now doing what she knows how to do best which

is fashion business. The ever lively stylist posted on her blog penultimate Wednesday stating how happy she was after receiving a car gift from her hubby. She said:

“So loving, my Christmas gift from my sunshine; God bless you always may we ‘ve many more amazing years together in Jesus Mighty name”.

Lolar Shon

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

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Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

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Society Gists L6

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

Isaac Oguntoye

Top three pastor’s wife unveiled Many called her Mummy G.O., but her real name is Pastor Foluke Adeboye. She’s not just his wife, she’s very active in the running of the big church. She leads the women group and the wives of the pastors of the church. She loves her hats and wears the very best. Aside her, Faith Oyedepo is another outstanding woman of virtue who is always assisting her husband’s ministry, Rev. David Oyedepo. Faith is best known for her simple but classic dressing. Her preference has always been skirt suits. She’s blessed w i t h four children.

What Kwara 1st Lady is doing differently

Nike Adeyemi is another pretty, quiet and articulate wife of a top Lagos state based pastor, Sam Adeyemi. Pastor Nike, a graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife where she studied Architecture is a lover of neatly cut skirt suits. She’s always looking smart and elegant in her outfit. She’s very strong and involved in the running of the ministryDaystar alongside her husband, Sam Adeyemi. Faith Oyedepo

Mrs Omolewa Ahmed, the Kwara State first lady is definitely doing her destined job when it comes to humanitarianism. She has joined the league of state governor’s wife who have been supporting and complementing their husband’s work. The latest on her bloc is LEAH Cancer School Club that debuted recently. LEAH Cancer School is one of the initiatives of LEAH

Foundation. The essence is to spread awareness of cancer to all schools and youths in Kwara. One unique thing about her is that, she’s a natural teacher, she teaches and inspires people by drawing personal experiences of people around her and herself. Cancer for her is what she wants to eradicate and prevent; and she would do just about anything to get people off it.

Do you know Funmbi Oduwole? unmbi Oduwole needs little or no introduction when it comes to event management in Nigeria. She’s one of the major players who made things happen both home and abroad. She’s the CEO of Rostal Flowers. Her company which she set up out of passion for beatification and decoration 12 years ago is the choice of A-list clientele. The list of event which she has handled are too numerous to mention but without mincing words, she has done many big events around the country. She has done deco-

Oduwole

rations for the Babangidas, Obasanjos, Hayatudeens, Mrs Ibukun Awosika, Talabis and many prominent families around. According to the stylish CEO: “I do a minimum of five events sometimes a day. We have a strong team. We divide ourselves and add casuals. I do all my stage myself. I don’t allow anybody to do those. With God on my side, I go to those entire events and make sure it excites guests. Since Rostals Flowers started, we hardly do one event in one weekend, it’s always a minimum of five upwards”, she reveals.

Two friends that shake Lagos society Toyin Edun and Joko Adeusi are like Romeo and Juliet who find it difficult to separate despite the distractions. They are both bankers but left banking for business. These two pretty babes are hot on Lagos social scene and they are only sighted at top notch events. Though they met each other while they were working as bankers with FCMB, they have however remained inseparable over the years. They also left banking at the same time, setting up their business and building it to an enviable

Toyin Edun height. When you asked any of them about the bond between the duo, they will tell you they are successful businesswomen who have been able to run their business and build it to an enviable height. “It is

not just about going to parties, my friend Joko runs one of the most patronized clothing stores for plus size called Eve Extra. So, I’m enjoying my relationship with her”, Toyin said.

Omolewa

Emerging traditional singer,

QUEEN FEBISOLA shines Febisola Abosede Fagbamiye is very passionate about entertainment; she sings, dances, acts in movies. She discovered her God’s given talents in drama and music as a student at Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo State. Talented, beautiful and amiable Queen Febisola as she is fondly called joined the film industry in 2003 as a theater art practitioner in Alimosho local government. This fast rising black and shine artiste has featured in many hit movies like Adun Ife, Sisi Onidan, Ombo 2, Onitemi, Eberu Adigun, Ajoke Onijo oge, Eji Iberu to mention but a few. Her first produced movie titled Obitun will hit the market soon. Queen Febisola, Lagos based, Ondo State-born plays traditional genre of music over the years. She has good performing choreographers and unique traditional dancers. She has performed at Omo Iyalode, Oju Oba, Eje Oba, Adete, Ogbese, Ayanmo and Isese.

Queen Febisola She has also produced four musical albums titled Uwagbale, Gbotemi and Isise. Born in the early 80’s, she attended Methodist Primary School Okitipupa and Orere Grammar School, Ile Oluji for SSCE. She proceeded to Adeyemi College of Education where she later graduated.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

GIFT:

L7 When & Where

e r e h W ‘N’ hen W

WHY I TOOK TO SPORT

Edidiong ibanga Gift Osariemen, a soccer star of police machine team yesterday disclosed the reasons why he took sport as profession. He said this at police college ikeja during an interview with extra times, where he said he is proud of been a sports man and went ahead to give his reasons for such decisions. “Sports has always been my dreamed profession”, he said, “I have always hunger for it right from when I was young. I never stopped believing in myself, even though at times the road looks rough and tough, something within me keeps assuring and reassuring me that it’s only but a matter of time and that has been my driving force”. Adding further, he confirmed that people venture into different lines because of the advantages as well as the benefits, this is just normal but I don’t allow this to be my source of inspiration cause I belief in impact than income. Speaking on the challenges, he said “one is bound to face numerous problems in any given line. The major problem is lack of finance but I know it’s only momentary. As an advice to sport lovers and aspirants I would say just keep the fire burning, believe in yourself and trust God.

Daily Times Nigeria Friday, December 25, 2015

L8 TV guide

Showing on

166 Z WORLD Channel

127 SONY Channel

01:00

02:10

Fri, 25 Dec | PG

Fri, 25 Dec | 16

‘S1/E13 - 1/13’. Daljeet’s mother and Sahiba get off on the wrong foot. He then takes the opportunity to tell his Mother what Sahiba means to him. Ranveer finally finds a way to reach out to Sahiba.

101 M-Net West

01:30 I, Frankenstein 03:05 The Calling 05:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 06:00 Modern Family 06:30 Blue Bloods 07:30 The Fixer 08:30 Gambit 10:00 Entertainment Now! 10:30 2 Broke Girls 11:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 12:00 MasterChef Australia 13:00 Nashville 14:00 Arrow 15:00 Marvel’s Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. 16:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 17:00 The Goldbergs 17:30 The Voice 18:30 Grey’s Anatomy 19:30 Mysteries Of Laura 20:30 Elementary 21:30 Carte Blanche 22:30 The Frozen Ground 23:00 Strike Back

154 Africa Magic Family

00:00 The Patient 01:10 Rovieno 02:25 53 Extra 03:00 Good Morning Africa 04:10 Coco Bill 04:30 Perfect Imperfection 06:00 Good Morning Africa 07:00 Star Gist 07:25 Rovieno 08:40 Living With Trisha

120 BBC Entertainment

118 Telemundo

00:30 The Impostor 01:20 The Impostor 02:10 The Impostor 03:00 The Impostor 03:50 The Impostor 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 Would I Lie To You? 23:35 QI

09:30 The African Child 10:00 Good Morning Africa 11:00 Tinsel 11:30 Star Gist 12:00 Music Block 13:00 At Home With Michelle Attoh 14:00 Prem 14:30 Goge Africa 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 19:55 Rovieno 21:10 Family Ties 21:40 53 Extra 22:05 Living With Trisha 23:40 Music Block

‘S1/E7 - Blazing Fury’. Nikki McPhatter had just begun a torrid romance with a man she met online. But Nikki’s love life took a horrifying turn when she suddenly went missing.

155 AfricaMagic World

00:35 Ten Tigers Of Kwangtung 02:05 Most Shocking 10:30 The Cube 00:05 New Tricks

11:20 New Tricks

01:00 The Cube

12:20 Top Gear

01:45 Come Dine With Me

13:10 Come Dine With Me

02:35 Downton Abbey

14:05 Total Wipeout UK

03:30 EastEnders

15:05 The Weakest Link

04:00 EastEnders

16:00 EastEnders

04:30 EastEnders

16:30 Deal Or No Deal

05:00 Spy

17:10 The Cube

05:25 QI

18:05 Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?

06:00 Fool Britannia

19:00 Celebrity MasterChef

06:25 EastEnders

20:00 Hell’s Kitchen USA

07:00 Antiques Roadshow

21:00 Hell’s Kitchen USA

07:55 The Weakest Link

21:50 The Graham Norton Show

08:45 The Chase

22:40 Would I Lie To You?

09:30 Total Wipeout UK

23:45 Tanked

161 Mzanzi Magic

00:40 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 My Good Will 09:10 Good Morning Africa 10:10 So Wrong So Wright 10:35 So Wrong So Wright 11:00 Lies That Bind 11:30 Lies That Bind 12:00 Jara

12:30 Jara 13:00 Music Block 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 20:05 Revelation 21:30 Jara 22:00 Music Block 23:30 Looking In, Looking Out

03:00 Most Shocking 04:00 Exposed 04:30 Exposed 05:00 Criss Angel Mindfreak 05:25 Exposed 05:50 Exposed 06:15 Video Zonkers 06:40 Repo Games 07:10 World’s Wildest Police Videos 08:10 Disorderly Conduct: Video On Patrol 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 CB4 21:25 Poorman’s Bikini Beach 21:55 Sexy Car Wash 22:25 Most Shocking 23:10 Martin Lawrence 1st Amendment Standup 23:30 The Real