We shall expose, Soldier, 4 others killed as explosion rocks Borno prosecute wage ÎÎÎThe Nigerian Army on Sunday a statement in Maiduguri, the Borno checkpoint on Biu-Damboa road. State capital. ``Unfortunately, the IED exploded confirmed the killing of a soldier and thieves in civil ``At about 8.15am today a tricycle, instantly killing four persons comfour civilians after a tricycle stepped service, says known as ``Keke NAPEP” unknow- prising a woman with her baby and on an explosive in Biu, Borno State. Col. Sani Usman, the Acting Army ingly stepped on an Improvise ExploBuhari gB1 Director of Information, stated this in sive Device (IED), close to a military Continued on page 12
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MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016 VOL. 2. NO. 119
GAINERS
N150
LOSERS
NSE GAINERS AND LOSERS AS AT 17th May, 2016.
CONOIL
23.00
1.99
9.47%
UNIONDICON
13.86
0.66
5.00%
VITAFOAM
4.43
-0.47
-9.59%
TRANSCORP
1.16
-0.12
-9.38%
NEIMETH
1.05
0.05
5.00%
CUTIX
1.65
0.07
4.43%
DIAMONDBNK
1.82
-0.19
-9.45%
FO
205.32
-19.68
-8.75%
We’ve delivered on security, others –Buhari Ï `Ɔ ƐƏƑƅƐƑƏƈ Ɨ Ə Ɛƈ Ƌƈ Ɛƈ Ƈ L# ƈ ƓƆƋƋ Ƒ ƗƆƏƓ ƕ Ï dƈ ƈƇƈƅ Ɛ ƌ Ƒ Ɛ Ƈ Ɛ ƋƆ ƆƐ ƏƆƅ ƒƆƏƆƗè ƗƆƐ ƈƋ Ɛ ƄƆ ƍƑƄƋƈ ƆƗ ƍƆƏƈ Ɨƈƅ ƋƋƕ Ï zƆ ƋƋ ƍƍƏƆ Ɔ Ɨ Mƈ ƆƏ #ƆƋƐ ƒƆ ƆƏ è Ɛ ƆƈƏ ƍ Ə Ɨ ƄƏƈ Ɛ Ɔƌ Ɛ ƉƑ ƐƈƅƆ Ï 01 Ɛ Ƌ Ƒ ƅ ƇƑ Ɨ Ɛ ƍƏ ƒƈƗƆ MơêÕ ƄƈƋƋƈ ƈ ƌƈƅƏ éƇƈ ƅƆ Ƌ Ɛ Ɠ ƌƆ Egena Egena ƄƑƉ
& ` 1R
ÎÎÎPresident
Muhammadu Buhari on Sunday declared that his administration has significantly delivered on his electoral promises with sure strides in security, the anti-graft fight as well as improving the economy. The president stated this in his national broadcast to mark this year’s edition of Democracy Day and his one year in office. Buhari also hinted on his plans to reduce the number of ministries and agencies of government in order to not only cut down on the cost of governance but also avoid duplication. Also in the broadcast, President Buhari gave a stern warning to the new militant group, Niger Delta Avengers that they should not test the will of his Continued on page 6 Just like yesterday, former President Goodluck Jonathan (right) and President Muhammadu Buhari during the Presidential Inauguration on May 29, 2015.
We must resist g7 recession, says Tinubu
PHOTO: Tolu Jinadu
Nigerians haven’t decided on Democracy Day yet g8 – Balarabe Musa
Army raids Delta community, arrests 10 suspected pipeline ‘vandals’ g6
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Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
Page Three Æ s
3
PHOTO TIMES
Editorial Time for Nigeria to look inwards
A
s result of the increasing parlous state of Nigeria’s economy brought about by dwindling price of crude oil, it is time the country and citizens look inwards for solution. The present dire financial strait facing the country was predicted long ago. However, successive administrations failed to heed the warnings or read the tea leaves for signs of hard times to come. For long, the country lived a profligate existence, while squandering the commonwealth that should have been saved for the rainy day. Now, the chickens have come home to roost and with them the consequences of a charmed existence. The economic downturn is cause for concern giving that Nigeria depends on massive importation for almost every product consumed in the country. Moreover, with the continuing depreciation of the Naira against all major currencies, the situation ahead is predicted to gloomier. We believe the country can ride out of the looming recession if it starts local manufacturing of those goods that are presently imported. In fact, it is time to encourage “Made in Nigeria” goods. If enacted, such policy would save the country the much-needed foreign currencies now being expended on importation of goods and services. Analysts had for long decried the unregulated importation of goods that could be easily produced in the country. For example, available figures reveal that more than 2 million metric tonnes of rice are imported into country annually. This is against the fact that Nigeria has vast arable land that could be used for planting and processing rice. What goes for rice is symptomatic of the importation mania that
has become the bane of the economy. There is no gainsaying that most of the imported products such as textiles, margarine, palm kernel, vegetable oil, poultry products, chicken, eggs and turkey, Indian incense, cold rolled steel sheets, galvanized steel, roofing sheets, wheelbarrows, head pans, metal boxes and containers, and enamelware can be produced locally. Others are steel drum, steel pipes, wire mesh, steel nails, wire rods, security wire, wood particle and board, plywood board and panel, wooden doors, toothpicks, glass and glassware, kitchen utensils, tableware, tiles and wooden fabrics, plastic and rubber products, soap and cosmetics. That is where the government should step in and support artisans and other small-scale enterprises with funds to undertake massive production of goods, especially those requiring low cost technologies. Not only will the country save scarce foreign exchange, such manufacturing outfits would employ hundreds of thousands workers, thereby reducing the high level of unemployment. Nigeria should learn from other developing countries such as Taiwan, China, Malaysia and Indonesia that have succeeded in pulling millions out of poverty through local production of goods. That is why we are hailing the amendment of the Public Procurement Act of 2007. When signed into law, it will make it obligatory for Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of the Federal Government to first consider and patronise Nigerian products before their foreign alternatives. There is no denying the fact that the law will have ripple effects on the manufacturing industry, as it will assure local manufacturers of a ready and sure market for their products.
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Ebonyi State Governor, Engr. David Umahi (middle); Deputy Governor Kelechi Igwe (right) and former Minister of Information, Prof. Jerry Gana (left), during the inspection visit to flyover bridge under construction in Abakaliki, Ebonyi ... recently.
L-R: Director, Eko DISCO, Ernest Oji; Chairman, Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), Victor Osibodu; President, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Dr. Frank Udemba Jacobs; Acting Director General, Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Vincent Akpotaire; Chairman, Ibadan DISCO, Mr. Tunde Ayeni and Managing Director, 4Power Consortium, Mr. Matthew Ederbie, after an interactive meeting of DISCOs Owners Association in Abuja… at the weekend.
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Publisher, Daily Times newspapers, Mr. Fidelis Anosike (2nd right), presenting a copy of the paper to President Muhammadu Buhari (3rd left) during the courtesy visit of the members of the Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN), to the President at the State House, Abuja… last Friday.
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STATEMENTS BY THOSE WHO MATTER
Nelson Mandela
Chinua Achebe
Richard Akinjide
“The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”
“Nigeria is what it is because its leaders are not what they should be.”
“When you are in a hole and you continue digging the hole, you are making your situation worse.”
4
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
Nigeria, 7 other navies conduct sea exercise Segun Adio
ÏÏÏThe
Nigerian Navy at the weekend, conducted a sea exercise as part of activities to commemorate its 6oth years anniversary. Eight countries, namely, Cameroon, Ghana, United Kingdom, France, Namibia, Cote d’Ivoire, Sierra Leone including Nigeria participated in the 24-hour exercise which took place about 200 nautical miles off the coast of Benin. Though only four of the cpuntries actually sent a war ship while others came as observers. The exercise was codenamed EXERCISE OPIA TOHA (cooperation at sea). Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen.
Gabriel Olonisakin, who flagged off the exercise, said part of its objective was to sharpen the personnel’s skills on the conduct of anti-piracy operations. He said that the exercise was also intended to test the navy’s ability to share information on the containment of maritime criminality within the Gulf of Guinea. Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ekwe-Ibas, also said the exercise was based on a fictitious rescue operation of a hijacked merchant ship MT JAAHU and her crew. ``The rescue was successfully conducted by a regional maritime force of countries of the Gulf of Guinea,’’ he said. Officer Conducting the
Exercise (OCE), Rear Admiral Adeniyi Osinowo, also said that the exercise was to consolidate on the gains of recent inter naval cooperation, particularly at operational level. Namibian Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Adm. Peter Vilho, said that the exercise was successful, adding that the navy was doing its best to rid the nation’s waters of criminalities. Some fleet and maneuvers conducted during the exercise were Communication Exercise, Fleet Maneuvers, Gunnery Exercise, Visit Board Search and Seizure. Others were Maritime Interdiction Operation, Man Over Board and Boarding Exercise.
PDP’ll return to power in 2019 – Esiso ÏÏÏ
Delta State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Barrister Kingsley Esiso has said that the party would take the reins of the country come 2019. Esiso who spoke at the inauguration of the newly elected local government chairmen of the party, urged party leaders to be fair, just and equitable. “Come 2019, we not only intend to return our Miracle Working Governor to Government House, but by the grace of God and the goodwill of the Nigerians, we intend to produce a president of PDP extraction to Aso Rock, in order to change the change that is presently so negative, so deceitful and so unpopular” he said. “You are coming on board at a very critical time in the history of our great party, a time when our party is in the opposition at the centre and therefore the need for us to be more proactive in terms of our dealings with mem-
bers of our party and the electorate, a time when the economy is seriously nose-diving, and therefore, the sources of revenue to run the party cannot be as it used to be, so you must be more creative in running the activities of the party” he said. “A time when the people are becoming more aware and more politically sophisticated, therefore the need to increase our tempo of contact, reconciliation and mobilization with our members and the public, as we must always see ourselves as advocates of the programmes and policies of government, working to bring our people closer to the activities of government. This, we must do by continuously sensitizing and educating our members and non-members of our party in order to constantly keep them informed of happenings in the political space” He appealed to the chairmen to work together for the interest of the party.
“There is the need for you to have regard and respect for various leaders that populate your different local government areas, but please do not and I repeat, do not tie yourself to any particular leader as that will not be the direction of the party under my watch” “As local government chairmen, it is your duty and responsibility to call party meetings at your local government areas, this you are expected to do not less than twice a month. The need to hold regular meetings cannot be overemphasized. I urge you to take this very seriously and pass this message to the ward chairmen” “As party chairmen, you must take the social activities of our members seriously, whenever there is need to go and rejoice with any of our member or there is need to go and stay or stand with any of our member, we should mobilize our party men and women to do so” he added.
5 News
CARTOON
News Analysis
Buhari’s one year…APC’s change Agozino Agozino
ÏÏÏIf
a presidential election were held today, majority of Nigerian voters who have seen the queer ‘change’ mantra of the ‘ruling’ All Progressives Congress, (APC) for the past one year, as regards the prevailing harsh economic climate in the country will no doubt vote out the party. Reason for this reaction on their part is based on high expectation from the government which has not been realised in terms of campaign promises overblown with so much propaganda. President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration so far with regard to the economy and what it prom-
ised Nigerians seemed overwhelmed in fixing it. With the economy downturn virtually felt in every part of the country, the picture is glaring that most Nigerians have resorted to feeding with whatever they can eat to quench the biting hunger and starvation rife in the country. Many grocery shops and markets in the country have increased prices of goods and services. Foodstuff especially staple ones which are every day need of families are beyond their reach due to rise in prices, and having a good meal has become a luxury as well. The President said he is fighting corruption but those days Jonathan was President, a bag of sachet water was sold at N60 now N100 and above. Bag of rice sold then at N6, 800, is now
N19, 000. Petrol was N87, but today N145 per litre. Basket of tomatoes was N4, 500, and today N42, 000. Bread was N200, and today bread is N300. Light was eight hours and today no light at all. Nigerians are not finding it funny due to change of prices of goods and services every day they go to the market. Delay in signing of the 2016 national budget compounded the economy woes. Buharinomics has become a slogan Nigerians hate to hear. The administration just one in office has become torment to the masses. What Nigerians are saying is that the APC government should see the suffering in the land. It is time for the administration to rise up and find a lasting solution to economic hardship that is ravaging the nation.
FCT Perm Sec condemns sexual assault against children Idu Jude Abuja
ÏÏÏPermanent Secretary,
Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Babatope Ajakaiye, has condemned sexual assault against minors in the FCT and beyond. In a statement issued by Public Relations Officer to Dr. Ajakaiye, Mr.Tony Odey, the Permanent Secretary warned that henceforth those who assault children sexually would be made to face the full wrath of the law.
Speaking further, he stressed that the era where people who abuse children go scot free is gone, while assuring residents, of the commitment of FCT Administration to ensure all children in the Territory are protected and useful to the society. According to the release, the Permanent Secretary dished out the warning Sunday in his office while unveiling on behalf of FCT Minister, Malam Muhammad Musa Bello, a
billboard donated to FCT Administration by a NonGovernmental Organization, Child Protection and Child Rights. Ajakaiye called on wellmeaning Nigerians to rise against the pervasive and rampant violence against children. He assured residents of the readiness of FCT Administration to take the campaign on violence against children to all nooks and crannies of the Territory.
News 6
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
We’ve delivered on security, others – Buhari Continued from page 1 administration. According to the President, his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) had campaigned and won the 2015 election on the platform of restoring security, tackling corruption and restructuring the economy. He said in spite of the fact that they inherited a state near collapse, his administration took decisive steps to correct the condition of the country, soon on its inauguration. He said: “From day one, we purposely set out to correct our condition, to change Nigeria. We reinforced and galvanized our armed forces with new leadership and resources. We marshaled our
neighbours in a joint task force to tackle and defeat Boko Haram. By the end of December 2015, all but pockets and remnants had been routed by our gallant armed forces. Our immediate focus is for a gradual and safe return of internally displaced persons in safety and dignity and for the resumption of normalcy in the lives of people living in these areas. “EFCC was given the freedom to pursue corrupt officials and the judiciary was alerted on what Nigerians expect of them in the fight against corruption. On the economy, in particular foreign exchange and fuel shortages, our plan is to save foreign exchange by fast tracking repair of the refineries and producing most
of our fuel requirements at home. And by growing more food in Nigeria, mainly rice, wheat and sugar we will save billions of dollars in foreign exchange and drastically reduce our food import bill. “We resolved to keep the Naira steady, as in the past, devaluation had done dreadful harm to the Nigerian economy. Furthermore, I supported the monetary authority’s decision to ensure alignment between monetary policy and fiscal policy. We shall keep a close look on how the recent measures affect the Naira and the economy. But we cannot get away from the fact that a strong currency is predicated on a strong economy. And a strong economy pre-supposes an industrial productive base and a steady
export market. The measures we must take, may lead to hardships. The problems Nigerians have faced over the last year have been many and varied. But the real challenge for this government has been reconstructing the spine of the Nigerian state. The last twelve months have been spent collaborating with all arms of government to revive our institutions so that they are more efficient and fit for purpose: That means a bureaucracy better able to develop and deliver policy; That means an independent judiciary, above suspicion and able to defend citizen’s rights and dispense justice equitably; That means a legislature that actually legislates effectively and; Above all, that means
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Army raids Delta community, arrests 10 suspected pipeline ‘vandals’
Ï EƈƋƋ ƌƈƋƈƐ Ɛ è ƒƆƏƐ Ƅ ƌƄƈ Ƈ ƈƍ ƈƋ ƍƈƍƆƋƈ Ɔ ÎÎÎThe
Nigerian Army on Sunday said it arrested 10 suspected militants and pipeline vandals in the Niger Delta region. The Commander, 4 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Benin City, Farouk Yahaya, while addressing journalists, said the suspects were arrested during a cordon and search exercise conducted in Oporozoa community and its environs in Delta State.
Residents of the area had decried the invasion of the community since Saturday and raised alarm over alleged intimidation of innocent residents. A resident, who simply identified himself as Raphael, said the suspects arrested were innocent people who could not run away fast enough. He said the soldiers arrested them and labelled them members of the Niger
Delta Avengers while the other residents are currently taking refuge in the bush. The Niger Delta Avengers is the group that has claimed responsibility for recent attacks on oil and gas pipelines and installations. However, Mr. Yahaya, a Brigadier General, said the arrested suspects may have links with the Niger Delta Avengers. He said guns, ammunition and other equip-
ment were recovered from them. He said the operation was conducted professionally in line with the code of conduct and rules of engagement of the Nigerian Army. The Army also reaffirmed its commitment to tackling pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta region. The recent activities of the Continued on page 12
political parties and politicians committed to serving the nigerian people rather than themselves. “These are the pillars of the state on which democracy can take root and thrive. But only if they are strong and incorruptible. Accordingly, we are working very hard to introduce some vital structural reforms in the way we conduct government business and lay a solid foundation on which we can build enduring change. “An important first step has been to get our housekeeping right. So we have reduced the extravagant spending of the past. We started boldly with the treasury single account, stopping the leakages in public expenditure. “We then identified fortythree thousand ghost workers through the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information system. That represents pay packets totalling N4.2 billion stolen every month. “In addition, we will save Twenty-Three Billion Naira per annum from official travelling and sitting allowances alone. “Furthermore, the efficiency unit will cut costs and eliminate duplications in ministries and departments. Every little saving helps. The reduction in the number of ministries and work on restructuring and rationalization of the MDAs is well underway. When this work is complete we will have a leaner, more efficient public service that is fit for the purpose of changing Nigeria for the good and for good. “As well as making savings, we have changed the way public money is spent. In all my years as a public servant, I have never come across the practice of padding budgets. I am glad to tell you now we not only have a budget, but more importantly, we have a budget process that is more transparent, more inclusive and more closely tied to our development priorities than in the recent past. 30% of the expenditure in this budget is devoted to capital items. Furthermore, we are projecting non-oil revenues to surpass proceeds from oil. Some critics have described the budget exercise as clumsy. Perhaps. But it was an example of consensus building, which is integral to democratic government. In the end we resolved
our differences. “We have, therefore, delivered significant milestones on security, corruption and the economy. In respect of the economy, I would like to directly address you on the very painful but inevitable decisions we had to make in the last few weeks specifically on the pump price of fuel and the more flexible exchange rate policy announced by the central bank. It is even more painful for me that a major producer of crude oil with four refineries that once exported refined products is today having to import all of its domestic needs. This is what corruption and mismanagement has done to us and that is why we must fight these ills. “As part of the foundation of the new economy we have had to reform how fuel prices had traditionally been fixed. This step was taken only after protracted consideration of its pros and cons. After comprehensive investigation my advisers and I concluded that the mechanism was unsustainable. “We are also engaged in making recoveries of stolen assets some of which are in different jurisdictions. The processes of recovery can be tedious and time consuming, but today I can confirm that thus far: significant amount of assets have been recovered. A considerable portion of these are at different stages of recovery. Full details of the status and categories of the assets will now be published by the Ministry of Information and updated periodically. When forfeiture formalities are completed these monies will be credited to the treasury and be openly and transparently used in funding developmental projects and the public will be informed.” On the Niger Delta, Buhari said his administration was committed to implementing the United Nations Environment Programme report and was advancing clean-up operations. According to him, the way forward was to take a sustainable approach to address the issues that affected the delta communities, noting that re-engineering the amnesty programmes was an example of that. “The recent spate of atContinued on page 12
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
We must resist recession, Tinubu tells Nigerians
Njoku Chibuike
ÎÎÎNational leader of the rul-
ing All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, has urged Nigerians to do their best and resist recession at this point rather than focusing on inflation. In a Democracy Day message, on Sunday, the former Lagos State Governor stressed a need for Nigeria to sustain her its democracy, by moving to a phase of clearing the system of the malpractices of the past that did not contribute to good governance but only perpetuate extant ills that must be jettisoned. “The people gave conservative elitist government 16 years to drive the nation forward. It drove the nation indeed right into the ditch we find ourselves,” he stated. Tinubu further said that
Tinubu ‘given the rate of joblessness and poverty, it was more fitting to fight recession at this point than to focus on inflation. “We can endure a bit more inflation if it means more jobs and greater aggregate demand that can develop the velocity needed to free the economy of recession’s gravitational pull. We must resist recession; it is harder to shake off once it takes grip of an economy. “Moreover, if we are bold
enough not to allow fear to paralyse us, we can start projects that bring people into the work force. We can modernise our infrastructure which will reduce the cost of living and doing business. “We can institute policies that create new industries and businesses, as well as improve upon old ones. These measures will form the foundation of a diversified economy that will become more resistant to inflation because it is less reliant on imports,” he said. Tinubu further stated that if the measures were considered, it would be more recession- resistant, because “the economy would rest on multiple revenue sources instead of a single source that is dependent on foreign consumer preferences over which we have little control”. He also pointed out that
restructuring Nigeria’s economy was the most complex challenge since a lot depended on it. “We all must contribute if we are to win. “Now is not the time to lament, murmur or give in to despair. It is time to summon, once again, the political and social courage that we know. “We need to push forward and to urge government forward to do that which it must to achieve this great generational feat. We stand between success and failure; but we cannot maintain this middling position forever,” he pointed out. The APC had during its campaign before the 2015 general elections promised Nigerians change, but critics say some government policies had caused hardship on Nigerians rather then moving their lives forward.
Appeal Court reserves judgment in Hijab ban case Sodiq Adekunle
ÎÎÎThe Special Court of Ap-
peal set up to hear the case on whether students in public primary and secondary schools in Lagos State should be allowed to wear Hijab (Muslims headscarf) with their school uniforms has reserved its judgement. At the court hearing on Friday, the presiding justice, Justice A.B. Gumel, also asked parties involved in the case to update their defence documents. Other Justices in the fiveman panel set up by President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Zainab Bulkachuwa, are Justice M. Fasanmi, Justice A. Jauro, Justice J.S. Ikejegh and Justice I. Jombo Ofor. The Appeal Court subse-
James Eze
bra State, Chief Willie Obiano, has expressed optimism on the future greatness of the state on account of the tremendous promise shown by the children of the state. Obiano, who spoke at the ceremony marking the celebration of this year’s edition of Children’s Day, at the Alex Ekwueme Square, in Awka, expressed his happiness that the efforts of the All Progressive Grand Alliance-led administration to mould Anambra children into future leaders were beginning to yield desired results.
Owerri
ÎÎÎGovernor Rochas Okoro-
cha of Imo State, on Sunday, said that President Muhammadu Buhari was breaking down the old shaky structure for the total reconstruction of the country for a new nation. Okorocha, who made the remark while addressing worshippers at a Special Church Service to mark the Democracy Day celebration at the Victory Chapel,
Said he: “Our children have powerfully responded to our efforts to plant greatness in them. Indeed, it is gratifying to see that the Anambra child has set himself apart from his contemporaries across the country. He has shown a tremendous hunger for achievements that even the world can no longer ignore.” The Governor lauded the state’s Debate Teams that won a bronze medal at the World Schools Debate Championship in Singapore last year and the one that would represent the country at this year’s World Championship that would hold in Germany in July.
Plateau crisis: OPSH distributes exercise books Chijioke Kingsley,
Buhari laying economic foundation for Nigeria
Val Okara,
quently told the parties that the date for judgement would be communicated to them. Before reserving the judgement till further notice, Justice Gumel had earlier sought the co-operation of parties in the case. The case is between Asiyat Kareem (Minor) suing through Mr. AbdulKareem Raji; Mariam Oyeniyi through Mr. Sulaimon Oyeniyi; and Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria, Lagos State Area Unit, and Lagos State Government (LASG) and others, who were the respondent. It would be recalled that Justice Amina Augie earlier affirmed that granting of right to Muslim students to wear Hijab in Lagos State schools needed constitutional interpretation.
Obiano assures of great future for Anambra youths ÎÎÎThe Governor of Anam-
Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal (middle) and other officials in a group photograph with children at Government House, Sokoto as part of the activities to mark one year anniversary of the Tambuwal’s administration… on Sunday.
7 News
Government House, Owerri, stressed that what was happening now in the country was a total reconstruction of Nigeria and laying a strong foundation that would metamorphose into a new one. “The restructuring requires patience and perseverance on the part of all. The APC government led by President Mohammadu Buhari will put Nigeria back on its strong foot. The APC government will not use the downturn in the economy as an excuse but will squeeze water out of stone to put the
nation right.” “What we are passing through now as a nation is a road other great nations like USA and Britain have passed through before they got to where they are today. If Nigeria fails from now henceforth then, the APC will be held responsible but must be given time to clear the rot of yester year.” Okorocha remarked that “the joy of an existing father is to see the collection of successful sons proud that he has set the state on the right path of greatness with his
Rescue Mission team. I love Imo State. I am doing my best to live a legacy and a mark that generation yet unborn will be proud of.” He said, “five years down the line we can look back and thank God for all we have done to uplift the infrastructural situation of the state and raise the living condition of Imo people. I work for the glory of the job and not for its gains. My struggle is to see that my name and story appear favourably and boldly when the history of the state will be written.”
Jos
ÎÎÎThe
multi-discipline taskforce maintaining peace in Plateau and some parts of Bauchi State otherwise known as Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), on Sunday, distributed 12,000 exercise books to some troubled parts of Plateau State that had hitherto embraced peace. Commander OPSH Major General Tagbo Ude, said the gesture was to encourage pupils and students who had been displaced from their homes, but had returned to encourage them to remain in school, saying that the effort was a part of military- civil relationship.
About three schools in Ryiom and Barkin Ladi local government areas of Plateau, namely, Government Secondary School Ex-land, Government Secondary School Gashish and Islamic Memorial Primary and Secondary School Mahanga, benefited from the gesture. Presenting the books to the various schools, Gen. Ude tasked the pupils and students to be of good behaviour as there was no alternative to success and peaceful co-existence. He encouraged their teachers to imbibe and inculcate the spirit of tolerance among the children, reminding them that Nigeria could only be greater “if we remain as one”.
8
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
Politics
Æs
Democracy Day: Let us keep hope alive – Atiku Tom Okpe; Abuja Former vice President and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has said that Nigerians should keep hope alive despite all challenges and limitations being experienced at the moment. Atiku, speaking on this year’s
Democracy day in a statement from his office said Democracy, despite its limitations and challenges remains the best form of government anywhere in the world, explaining that the freedom of choice is one of the most important ingredients of the democratic system. He said, “The freedom to choose your leaders makes de-
mocracy fashionable, adding that any system that subverts the will of the people, destroys the progress of the society. The Former vice president opined that as an active participant in the democratic struggle in Nigeria and an ardent proponent of the rule of law, rather than the rule of man, he recognizes the sacrifices of gallant Ni-
gerians whose struggles brought us to the current stage. According to him, “As Nigerians celebrate democracy day, the memory of late Shehu Musa Yar’Adua and MKO Abiola would resonate across the country, adding that the sacrifices of countless others who paid the supreme price for opposing dictatorship CONTINUED ON PAGE 9
Atiku
Nigerians haven’t decided on Democracy Day Former governor of Kaduna state, Alhaji Balarabe Musa, in a chat with Gbubemi God’s Covenant faults the introduction of May 29 as Democracy Day in Nigeria. He preferred June 12 get assume that status and more. Excerpts.
Sheriff
Why I opposed Ali Modu Sheriff-Jerry Gana The former Minister of Information and leader of the Concerned PDP Stakeholders, Prof. Jerry Gana, has explained the reasons behind his opposition to the embattled Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP), Ali Modu Sheliff, saying he was only protesting “some fundamental flaws in the party” The PDP Chieftain spoke, at the Presidential Lodge,Government House, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State capital, shortly after accompanying Governor David Umahi on projects commissioning and supervision as part of activities marking Governor Umahi’s one year in office. Prof. Gana however ex-
pressed optimism that the perceived crisis in the party would soon be over as major stakeholders in the party have accepted to make sacrifices for the over all interest of the party. He said “I am very confident that the crisis will soon be over. Let me also acknowledge the efforts of your own governor in resolving the crisis. It is the part of the reasons that i am here. Of course you know i am one of those leading the Abuja Group. We did not lead that group to divide the party .That is not the point We did not joined this party ;we formed it , so we can’t destroy it. The main thing is that we are protesting CONTINUED ON PAGE 9
What is your impression about Democracy Day in Nigeria? We have not decided which the day of Nigeria’s democracy is, and definitely, May 29 is not the day. This just goes to show how confused Nigerians are, particularly the elite. May 29, 1999 was supposed to be the day the military handed over power to civilians. In reality, in a country where people are conscious, that handing over was not from military to civilians, it was actually a transfer from military to military because it was the day the military transferred power to Gen. Obasanjo who was a military man. So, it was not really a transfer of power from military to civilians in the real sense and that is far from anything democratic. Nigerian democracy has not yet taken off. It would have taken off on June 12, 1993 if that had not been annulled because it was then that Nigerians, in one liberated mind, decided to put away all the differences among them and unite to build one indivisible country. So, if there should be any democracy day, June 12 should be the democracy day but it did not
Musa
come to pass because it was annulled by Ibrahim Babangida. At the moment now, if we need a Democracy Day – and I don’t think it is easy to have a Democracy Day in Nigeria – June 12 is it because no event has taken place
before or after that day that can stand morally to constitute democracy day. So now if we as Nigerians want to do something to right the wrong, then we should uphold CONTINUED ON PAGE 11
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
Why I opposed Ali Modu Sheliff-Jerry Gana CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8
some fundamentals which were going wrong.” He noted that the major opposition party was built upon strong democratic principle of the peoples will,saying as a founding member of the party it would be wrong for him and other well-meaning members of the party to fold hands and watch the party destroyed. According to him “ as founding fathers ‘we can’t sit and watch things go wrong. The PDP was built on a very powerful principle of Power To The People which is the essence of democracy. Let the people choose their leaders, and when they choose you respect their will. You don’t, impose,there should not be impunity ,you don’t maGana
nipulate. Nothing like anything to do with the kind of problem we had in 2015” He said “ that is the point and the point has been very well taken. The problems have been identified and the National Assembly Caucasus of our party,the governors Foum,the Board of trusts and the concerned stakeholders which i am party of the leadership,we all have met and agreed that the resolutions reached in Port Harcourt must be implemented. We have agreed that Ali Modu Sheliff should go and in the next 90 days we shall have a true National convention which will produce a truly elected leadership of the party. He praised the state Governor David Umahi for his developmental strides within one year in office.
9 Politics
Democracy Day: Let us keep hope alive – Atiku
Atiku
Democracy Day: Nigeria on the way to total recovery– Obasa
Obasa
The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has urged Nigerians to remain hopeful assuring that the country is on the way to total recovery from the maladministration of the past. Obasa stated this in his Democracy Day message released in Lagos on Sunday, 29th May, 2016, signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Musbau Rasak. The Lagos chıef lawmaker commended Nigerians for their patience over the past one year, noting that they should not lose hope as there are clear signs that
the country is on the way to recovery. “It was obvious that the country has suffered serious maladministration in the 16 year rule of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and in correcting this, there is the need to put in place enduring structures that will assist in reviving the economy. “The past one year has seen the laying of solid foundation on which the resurrected economy will rest. Without this solid foundation, the economy will be groping in the dark. This is what the All Progressives Congress (APC) government at the centre has
been doing and we will soon start to see the benefits and gains,” Obasa said. He assured Nigerians that the APC administration at both state and national level is committed to putting in place solid structures that will ensure that Nigerians enjoy full dividends of democracy even at their doorsteps. He commennded the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode who he said, has built on the solid foundation of his predecessors to put smiles on the face of Lagosians. “The case of Lagos should be a role model for other states in the federation. The state has been under the rule of the progressives for the past 16 years and the result has been that the state continues to grow in leaps and bounds. The Akinwunmi Ambode administation has built on the foundations laid by his predecessors and he has achieved tremendous success in just 12 months. “Lagos is growing, developing and making astronomical progress under Ambode, our Governor deserves commendation,” the Speaker said. He urged Nigerians not to relent in their support, cooperation and prayers for the APC government at both state and national level assuring that, “we’ve indeed out of the dark tunnel and the light is here”.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8
would also not be forgotten”. The Turaki Adamawa also pointed that no sane society would choose despotism over democracy because, under dictatorship, dissent is met with death or torture. On the current challenges facing the ordinary Nigerians, the former Vice President says no democratically elected government would intentionally hurt the voters that put it into office. According to him, “The APC administration remains committed to the welfare of Nigerians, and the current challenges are temporal. The 2016 budget is specifically targeted to address the basic needs of the ordinary Nigerians, and the implementation of the budget would bring succor to Nigerians”. He therefore urges Nigerians not to lose hope because of the current temporary challenges that they are going through.
Nigeria still remains greatest in Africa in spite of challenges -Ekweremadu Ekweremadu
The Deputy President of the Senate, Chief Ike EKweremadu, has said that Nigeria will remain the greatest country in Africa in spite of its economic and security challenges. Ekweremadu made the statement in Enugu on Sunday at a Luncheon organised by Gov Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi to mark his one year in office. He said that Nigeria had achieved togetherness in 17 years of unbroken democratic governance and prayed that it would sustain the coexistence among the people. He commended President Muhammadu Buhari, the military and paramilitary organisations for achievements recorded so far in the fight against corruption and insurgency in the country. According to him, there is now reduction of impunity in the country. Ekweremadu, however, urged the president to give every region equal treatment in order to give them a sense of belonging. ``I believe that Nigeria will
remain united on the condition that everybody is treated equally. ``Now, politics is gone, the administration should focus more on governance and ensure equity in distribution of appointments and infrastructure. ``We want to see more of governance in the Southeast and the South-South. ``The people want to see more appointments in the Southeast,’’ he said. Ekweremadu commended Ugwuanyi on his achievements so far and urged him to sustain the tempo of development. In his remarks, the immediate past Governor of Enugu State, Mr Sullivan Chime, congratulated his successor for his achievements within one year in office. Chime, however, advised him not to bow to pressure from some quarters in the governance of the state. The luncheon was attended by members of the National and state assemblies from the state, top government functionaries, traditional rulers, captains of industry and the clergy.
Politics 10
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
Democracy Day: Nigerians should be patient Buhari Barrister Wahab Shittu in this interview with GBUBEMI GOD’S COVENANT SNR, reviews Nigeria’s democracy journey as well as the one year anniversary of the President Muhammadu Buhari administration. Excerpts:
Shittu
How do you rate Nigeria’s democracy journey so far? If we consider democracy as a journey and not a destination, we will then be able to arrive at a conclusion that our democracy is evolving; it has not yet matured. Our democracy can only be said
to have matured if we can de-emphasise ‘cash-and-carry’ democracy wherein we resort to monitising of the process. Again, we would be matured if we also stop democracy of anointing, in which case candidates are selected and imposed by certain political godfathers before they
can be elected. The political class should allow the sovereignty of the people to prevail in the political process. Yet again we would be matured if we are able to stop what I call ‘kill and go’ democracy in which case most of the political actors rely on thuggery and assassinations and some other deployment of violence in the electioneering process in order to win an election. But in spite of all these inadequacies, because I believe our democracy largely relies on some types of conspiracy, we should return sovereignty back to the people; let our elections reflect the popular will and let people see democracy as a vehicle to promote goals of development, enhance living standards and also changing some human right of the citizens. But as a country, we are on the journey; I wouldn’t want this process to be truncated because the worst form of democracy is still better than the most benevolent military regime, so democracy is still the option. How can we nurture our democracy so that we can arrive at the destination of maturity? We should all participate; embrace the process and not ‘siddonlook’. We should make our leaders accountable to the electorate. We should monitor the process; we should deepen democracy by strengthening democratic institutions; we should ensure that democratic institutions respect the tenets of democracy.
What are these tenets? Respect for constitutionalism; respect for the rule of law; respect for due process; free fair and credible electoral process; respect for fundamental rights of citizens; transparency and accountability; zero tolerance for corruption and above all, good governance. These are all the fundamentals of the democratic tradition. If we follow these guidelines strictly, it will forestall the possibility of rule by force or rule by sharing, then we can gradually discern that we are arriving at that destination. For now, we are still on the journey with all the pitfalls and implications, but with resolve and equity, political will and good leadership, I am certain we will get where we are going. The Buhari presidency inherited a number of ill from corruption, dismal economy, fall in oil price and Naira, insurgency, MASSOB, Fulani herdsmen and now, the return of the Niger Delta militias; what hope has Buhari and Nigerians in general? The challenges are no doubt herculean. I think the starting point is for us to recognise that a lot of decay and rot had taken place in the system and the present leadership is trying its best to minimise this decay and may be repair this decay, and this cannot be done overnight. The first thing we must recognise therefore is that there is some decay in the economic space; in fact, everywhere. This is the best opportunity for us to be able to bounce back to the path of growth and development because we have a president that is anticorrupt. We have a president who has a high moral standing both locally and internationally. Even when David Cameron described
Nigeria as fantastically corrupt, they reserved a place of praise and appreciation for our President on the strength of his moral authority. We also know that we have that orientation in the presidency, with people who are not corrupt, who will not steal and who are prepared to lead from the front. We are not saying that they are the messiah, but at least they will give us the necessary foundation. It would have been very bad if, in spite of this decay, we still have a leadership that is corrupt, but the saving grace is that we now have a leadership with a high moral standing. So what is necessary is for us to be patient with this administration, not forgetting that this country is gifted in the sense of natural and human resources. We should first of all, take steps to recover most of these loots of our commonwealth that are starched away in some foreign countries, and our president is doing a lot in that area. And we should also be able to institute a regime of consequences for criminal misconduct, including corruption, so that people will know that when they steal money that belongs to you and I, they won’t get away. Again Nigerians must reinvest faith in the process and in their leadership and they need cooperation in favour of government policy. So all we need to do now is not to leave governance in the hands of the ruling elite alone; all of us must be engaged in the process, we must not ‘siddo-look’; we must collaborate with government both at local, state, community and federal levels to ensure that we monitor the political actors, so that the greatness and potential that are inherent in this country are fully realised.
FG, ex-militants resolve to end pipeline vandalism in Niger Delta The Federal Government and ex-militants have resolved to end the ongoing pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta region. Retired Brig.-Gen. Paul Boroh, the Special Adviser to the President on Niger-Delta Matters and Coordinator of the Amnesty Programme, said this at the end of a meeting he convened in Benin. Boro told newsmen on Saturday night that the pipeline vandalism in the Niger-Delta was reducing the economic fortune of the country and inflicting pains on Nigerians. He urged the agitators to dialogue with the relevant authorities over their grievances and shun destruction of oil installations. He assured that plans were in the pipeline to provide the
ex-militants with welfare and a housing scheme in addition to the existing programme and projects. Boroh stressed the need to find lasting solutions to the current situation in the region. ``The common factor is security challenges we are facing in our areas, in our region that is affecting the economy of the country. ``Personally it makes me feel bad that we don’t know how to solve our problem. ``To you my comrades, it is our responsibility to make sure that insecurity in our environment is well sorted out. Please let us do everything we can to make sure that doesn’t occur again.” Boroh, who was optimistic about the success of the meeting, said: ``We have all resolved that
we will put our heads and hands and all in all together to prevent the re-occurrence of this type of thing.” He assured oil firms in the country that the Federal Government is dedicated to end the problems associated with bombing. ``Collectively we (Federal Government and ex-militants) have agreed to work as a team to prevent re-occurrence. ``We feel bad that it is happening, it is affecting our economy and it is affecting development and we are very concern about it.” Some of the militants who were present affirmed to what the special adviser said and pledged to support the federal government to bring lasting peace to the NigerDelta.
Buhari
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
11 Politics
Factions: Lagos PDP chairman, Adewale appeals for calm The newlyly elected Chairman of Lagos State Peoples Democratic Party, Otunba Segun Adewale has expressed his optimism that the challenges facing the party at the National level will be resolved amicably in the very near future. He noted that there are controversies in the PDP because of the party’s willingness to allow free expression, and individual determination “wherever you allow people to express their democratic rights you will have conflict of opinion” he said. In a statement, Adewale added that he has faith that the elders and stakeholders of the party are acting in good faith and will not allow their creation to disintegrate. “After the stakeholders have told themselves the bitter truth, a stronger and more united party will emerge”, he declared. Reacting to the claim by Chief Olabode George that Mr. Moshood Salvador is the Chairman of Lagos State PDP, Otunba Adewale retorted that “Salvador could only be Chief Bode George’s personal Chair-
man, since Salvador did not go through a legitimate congress. Bode George hand-picked him as he had always done in the past”. He posited that his election and that of his goal orientated executive is a good indication of a positive future for Lagos PDP. He said members and stakeholders of the party in Lagos State are tired of old tired leaders. On the current challenges facing the ordinary Nigerians, the former Vice President says no democratically elected government would intentionally hurt the voters that put it into office. According to him, “The APC administration remains committed to the welfare of Nigerians, and the current challenges are temporal. The 2016 budget is specifically targeted to address the basic needs of the ordinary Nigerians, and the implementation of the budget would bring succor to Nigerians”. He therefore urges Nigerians not to lose hope because of the current temporary challenges that they are going through.
George
Nigerians haven’t decided on Democracy Day
Musa CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10
June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day until something more fundamental takes place. That’s my position.”
Are you saying Nigeria cannot be said to be a democratic country as it is? “At all! There is nothing like democracy happening in Nigeria now. What is happening in Nige-
ria is civilian rule as opposed to military rule and that cannot be democracy either because democracy means a lot more than that.” Well, even as civilian rule, how successful have we fared in his assessment? “Civilian rule has been a failed attempt since 1999; it has never been successful. When you look at the state of the nation now, everything is negative in spite of the claim of the APC about change.” Way forward then? “The way forward is to examine the system in the country and the leadership introduced by the system, institute governance of public interest first and let self-interest come a distant second. This is the only progressive way forward. And the starting point for that is the control of the economic system by the state. The state must play the leading role in the economy to ensure peace, equality, dignity of the human person, justice and progressive human development. If we don’t change the system starting with the leading role of
the state of the economy, we will be wasting our time. And we have seen traits to prove this. Remember from the time Nigeria became independent in 1960 to 1979 when we had relative progressive step, Nigeria was being built on the basis of public interest first, and self-interest second and that was why we didn’t have the irrelevant political parties that we have today, and we didn’t have this level of corruption, stealing and criminal waste of resources. Before 1979, anybody who stole one Kobo of public fund was identified, prosecuted and punished accordingly in an exemplary manner. We made steady progress because during that time it was the state that played the leading role of each state economy; but when we started changing it from the Second Republic through this mindless and criminal privitisation, we began to have this disgraceful level of corruption and criminal waste of public resources. Till now as we speak, no Nigerian can proudly say, I survived
on legitimate means. Every Nigerian, whether he knows it or not, whether directly or indirectly, willingly or unknowingly, every Nigerian except very few are living on some legitimate means. These few are not more than five percent. Some people say they are not even more than one percent, and this five or one percent are made up of two categories: people who did not have or cannot have access to fraud, and those who has been made clean by God’s nature because those people, even if they have access to fraud still will avoid illegitimate means. Now those who have no access and those who God has protected are not more than five percent or one percent as people say, the rest survive on illegitimate means, and if you try to survive without it, you will not even survive at all. This is the system we have today. That is the system that controls the minds of people in the country today; self-interest first and public interest second or never. If we want a way forward, that has to be changed.
News 12
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
Army raids Delta community, arrests 10 suspected pipeline ‘vandals’ Continued from page 6 militants has been blamed for the worsening power situation in the country as pipelines which transport gas to power generating stations were blown up. Their activities also led to a reduction in Nigeria’s oil production, leading to less money available for all tiers of government in a period of economic downturn. In another development, the Nigerian Army said that its troops in Bayelsa State killed some militants at the
weekend, and also averted the plot to bomb oil pipelines belonging to the Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC). Director of Army Public Relations, DAsPR, Col. Sani Usman, who made the disclosure, however said that it could actually not ascertain how many of them were killed. In the statement, Usman said: “Today, 29th May 2016, in the early hours of morning, troops of 343 Artillery Regiment of 2 Brigade, 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, carried out patrol within the
general area of Gulobokri and Eweleso, around Brass area in Bayelsa State. ”During the exercise, the patrol team had an encounter with some armed militants in 2 Speed boats with intents to blow up Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) pipeline at Gulobokri. “The suspected vandals opened fire on the patrol team. The troops responded with overwhelming superior firepower and as a result, the suspected criminals sped off from the area with many of them sustaining gunshot
wounds. No casualty on the patrol team.” Unfortunately, he said a personnel of Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) attached to the team sustained gunshot wound. However, he stated that the operative had since been evacuated and he is in a stable condition. ”In a related development, another patrol team of the same unit of 82 Division Nigerian Army, on patrol to Perigbene House Boat (HB) also encountered 3 Speed boats suspected to be contain-
ing militants about to attack another critical infrastructure in the area. “The troops opened fire on them, killing most of them and injuring others”, Usman said. The Army spokesman added that the casualty on militants could not be ascertained as it was raining
Soldier, 4 others killed as explosion rocks Borno Continued from page 1
L-R: Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu; Enugu State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; his wife, Ugochi; Deputy Governor, Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo; Speaker of Enugu State House of Assembly, Mr. Edward Ubosi and his wife, Akunna while marking their one year in office in Enugu… on Sunday.
heavily and the raging storm could not allow troops to go on pursuit of the escaping criminals. He said a mop up operation has been organised for those militants that escaped with gunshot wounds and injuries as they may be receiving treatment in the neighbouring communities.
two other male adults. ``Three other persons were injured, including a soldier, and they were immediately evacuated to Biu General Hospital. ``We regret to state that the injured soldier also died at the hospital,’’ Usman said. He said the area had been cordoned off and Explosive Ordinance Device (EOD) team from Forward Operation Base (FOB) in Buratai was mobilised to carry out further search of the area. Usman said preliminary investigations showed that the IED was buried long
time ago undetected. ``We commiserate with the families of the victims of this sad incident. ``This unfortunate development has brought to the fore, the need for more security consciousness and vigilance among all.’’ He reiterated the determination of the military to see to the end of Boko Haram terrorists wherever they might be hiding. ``We want to use this opportunity to solicit for more cooperation from the members of the public to enable us succeed in the fight against the remnants of these criminal elements,’’ Usman added.
We’ve delivered on security, others – Buhari Continued from page 6
tacks by militants disrupting oil and power installations will not distract us from engaging leaders in the region in addressing Niger Delta problems. If the militants and vandals are testing our resolve, they are much mistaken. We shall apprehend the perpetrators and their sponsors and bring them to justice,” President Buhari warned. He further stated that the policy measures and actions taken so far by his administration should not to be seen as some experiment in governance. He said he was fully aware that some vested interests who had held Nigeria back
for so long would not give up without a fight. “They will sow divisions, sponsor vile press criticisms at home and abroad, incite the public in an effort to create chaos rather than relinquish the vice-like grip they have held on Nigeria,” the President observed. He pointed out further that the economic misfortune the country had been experiencing in the shape of very low oil prices had provided an opportunity to restructure the economy and diversify. To that effect, he said: “We are in the process of promoting agriculture, livestock, exploiting our solid mineral resources and expanding our industrial and manufacturing base. That way, we will
import less and make the social investments necessary to allow us to produce a large and skilled workforce. “Central Bank of Nigeria will offer more fiscal incentives for business that prove capable of manufacturing products that are internationally competitive. We remain committed to reforming the regulatory framework, for investors by improving the ease of doing business in Nigeria. “Meanwhile, the first steps along the path of selfsufficiency in rice, wheat and sugar – big users of our scarce foreign exchange – have been taken. The Labour Intensive Farming Enterprise will boost the economy and ensure inclusive growth
in long neglected communities. Special intervention funds through the Bank of Agriculture will provide targeted support. Concerns remain about rising cost of foods such as maize, rice, millet, beans and gari. Farmers tell me that they are worried about the cost of fertilizers, pesticides and the absence of extension services. The federal and state governments are on the same page in tackling these hurdles in our efforts at increased food production and ultimately food security.” Noting the increasing role that Nigerian women are playing in revitalizing the agricultural sector, President Buhari announced that the government would shortly be launching the national
women’s empowerment fund to provide N1.6 billion in micro-finance loans to women across the nation to assist in rehabilitating the economies of rural communities, particularly those impacted by the insurgency and conflict. President Buhari paid a special tribute to the men and women in the armed forces who he said were in harm’s way so that other citizen could live and go about their business in safety. “Their work is almost done. The nation owes them a debt of gratitude,” he said. He expressed Nigeria’s gratitude to the international community notably France, the US, UK and China for their quick response in helping to tackle the recent Ebola
outbreak in the West African sub-region. He said: “We also acknowledge the humanity shown by the Italian and German governments in the treatment of boat people, many fleeing from our sub-region because of lack of economic opportunity. We thank all our partners especially several countries in the EU. “We appreciate the valuable work that the UN agencies, particularly UNICEF, ICRC, the World Food Program have been doing. We must also appreciate the World Bank, the Gates Foundation, the Global Fund and Educate A Child of Qatar for the excellent work in our health, education and other sectors.”
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
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News 14 Tomato disease: Experts proffer solutions to Tuta Absoluta Njoku Chibuike
ÏÏÏAgricultural experts at the
University of Ibadan, on Sunday, proffered solutions to the recent outbreak of tomato disease, Tuta Absoluta, saying importing tomato seeds was not the best option. A Geneticist, Dr. Morufat Balogun, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that importing seeds to cushion the problem would further drain the nation’s foreign exchange. She said that the Federal Government should direct Plant Breeders/Entomologists to develop new tomato varieties that could adapt to the Nigerian environment. “Tomato is a short duration crop that breeds fast; when an insect smells something in the plant that puts it away, it can’t feed on it. If the gene from such hormones is put in tomato, the pest will not feed on it. That will be a lasting solution. “A cushioning solution will be when farmers grow their tomato in an insect screen environment, the insects can’t attack it. “Tomato can be produced anytime of the year. So, government should build screen houses for farmers,” Balogun said.
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
Obasanjo, Ekweremadu, Okorocha, others mourn Njemanze Val Okara, Owerri.
ÏÏÏProminent
Nigerians are still mourning the passing of the traditional ruler of Owerri Owerri Kingdom, Eze Emmanuel Emenyeonu Njemanze. Among them are former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Deputy-Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, Governor Rochas Okorocha, his Deputy, Eze Mmadumere. Obasanjo, in his condolence message addressed to a descendants of the late king, Prince Iheanyi Njemanze, said that the late traditional ruler
left a legacy of service and accomplishment to this domain in particular and the nation as a whole. He said that, “I am impressed with his antecedents and contributions to his community and the larger community. Apart from making his mark early as a pharmacist, the king brought his salutary influence to sue for peace, understanding and development in Owerri and its environs in Imo State. It is sad that he has taken his exit at a time that we are in a dire need of his service for the onerous task of rebuilding our nation.” While consoling the royal
family, Ekweremmadu said that “this is certainly a very grave loss and a challenging moment for the entire people of Owerri, given the testimonies of his immense reach of goodwill and selfless devotion to the service of his people.” Okorocha described the late monarch as an uncommon philanthropist, whose humanitarian disposition endeared him to the people, making his emergence as a king widely accepted and his reign marked with commendable peace and progress. He further described the death of his majesty as a great loss to not only
Late Njemanze
There’s no love in Nigeria, says Ikpeazu By Sunday Nwakanma Umuahia
ÏÏÏAs
Illicit drugs linked to increase in child abuse
By Chijioke Kingsley Jos
ÏÏÏThe
Project Officer, Christian Women for Excellence and Empowerment in Nigerian Society (CWEENS), Mrs Comfort Zawaya, has said that children suffer from abuse as a result of illicit drugs consumed by their parents or guardians. According to her, “there are many interacting causes of child abuse and neglect. The characteristics or circumstances of the abuser, the child, and the family may all contribute to this. In many cases, the abuser was abused as a child and the substance has been identified as a key factor in a growing number of cases. In some cases abusers do not have the education and skills needed to raise a child, thus increasing the likelihood of abuse and providing inadequate parental role models for future generations”, she said. She said the growing rate in Plateau State could be checked if security agencies identified and clamped down on flash points where these drugs were sold.
the family but the entire Owerri kingdom and Nigeria at large, saying that the late Ozuruigbo V was a quintessential leader of exceptional profile, who left his family and society better than he found them.
Resident Pastor, The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), The Wealthy Place (Ipaja), Rev. Adekunle Olukorede (middle); his wife, Ayo with kids during the Children Day celebration at the church in Lagos… on Sunday.
Nigeria marks 2016 democracy day, Gov. Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State has said that the country was wallowing in abject lack of love. In a church service to mark the occasion conducted at the St. Stephens Cathedral, Umuahia, Ikpeazu had told Abians that it was important to reassure Nigerians of events that laid ahead as a people. He said “there is no sufficient love for one another” in Nigeria. “We hardly love ourselves, which is why there is no love to share”. Nigeria, he said was further apart than it was in 1960, stating an obvious need to urge those things that would bring the country together, so that corruption would be reduced and the menace of Fulani herdsmen would disappear and be no issue again.
Group berates govts’ insensitivity to the elderly Njoku Chibuike
ÏÏÏA
non-governmental organisation, The Senior Citizens Care Foundation, has berated the three the tiers of governments for their insensitive attitude towards the plight of the elderly in the society. In a press statement jointly released in Lagos, by the Foundation’s National Coordinator, Mr. Jide Taiwo, and a member of the organisation’s management executive and corporate communication adviser, Princelyn Oduenyi, frowned upon the ill treatment
the society had continually meted out on “our senior citizens, who, due to ageing, are now very fragile and vulnerable to such inhuman treatments as constant abuses, exploitations and, in some cases, outright killings by those who are expected to protect and care for them. Oduenyi and Taiwo admonished government at all levels to always see it as a point of duty to ensure that retirees, who have dutifully and sincerely committed a greater part of their youth in serving their fatherland, were not abandoned at their old age or at their point of need.
They insisted that senior citizens should be taken care of and whatever emoluments that needed to be made, must be prompt. That will enable them meet up with their responsibilities, as parents and grand-parents and not allow them live in penury as is the case in Nigeria, but to an acceptable standard as enshrined in the charter of the world assembly on ageing over three de cades ago. The Foundation said, it had asked its legal team to formerly write the Edo State Commissioner of Police to know the extent the government had
gone on some recent unfortunate incidents in the state where “a young tenant snuffed the life out of his 83 years old landlord, simply because the old man wanted to know to know why this young man has decided not to pay his rent since 2014 despite the fact that he is still holding in his possession the said apartment,” and a recent case by a hoodlum whom police described as a teenage cultist and serial killer who had been on their wanted list in the gruesome murder of a 65 year old grand-mother, Mrs. Clara Uwaifo, a retired headmistress.
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
15 Opinion
FRSC: Driving license and substandard tyres
I Polycarp Onwubiko
t is shocking that the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), has mustered leadership idiocy by coming out with double driving license in Nigeria. According to news report, the new driving license will cost a N10,000 with the expiry date of five years; and will run parallel with the existing one with three years as expiry date. Which country in the world has double driving license? In fact, renewal of driving license should be abolished because education certificates are never renewed. This impunity in Nigeria must stop. It is naïve to threaten motorists to purchase brand new tyres which is not affordable by over 80 percent of motorists. Without tokunbo tyres many vehicles would have been grounded. Due to bad governance and lack of power supply, tyre manufacturing companies relocated to Ghana. Government should stop the brazen extortion in renewing driving license because it is much uncalled for. It is lamentable that the FRSC did not wean itself from the naïve and mischievous mindset that characterised its past leadership whose stock-in-trade had been to come with grotesque proposals and sneak into Aso Villa to crawl before the President Goodluck Jonathan to secure his blessings to go ahead.
Nigerians want the APC-led federal government to demonstrate a Spartan will to reinvent ideal governance by restructuring the country to reduce over-centralisation of MDAs. It is clear that there could not have been APC-federal government without the political sagacity and formidable financial war machine of Bola Tinubu in his avowal to reinvent the inviolate principles of federal system of government, which were brazenly truncated by the aberrant military regimes. Inherent in the envisaged restructuring of the country is decentralisation of the MDAs with the review of the lopsided revenue allocation. Most of the federal laws that prohibit subnational governments from exploring and exploiting the natural and mineral resources within their territory should be amended. The shenanigan of the minister of solid minerals in ‘advising’ state governments to exploit the mineral resources within their domain without first amending the federal laws is to maintain the covert agenda sequel to the feudalisation of the polity. It is sad that former President Goodluck Jonathan dragged his feet when the time was auspicious to organise a Sovereign National Conference. However, the spectacular and auspicious event nevertheless took place in 2014 and the worthwhile and far-reaching
recommendations remain a panacea and formidable milestone for the country to reinvent True Federalism. The APC-led federal government must not be seen as a one-man show in which President Muhammadu Buhari will be acting as an autocrat and shun the recommendations of the 2014 National Conference which all Nigerians participated and agreed on. It had dawned on Nigerians that the brazen and mindless violations by past military regimes of the scientific principles inherent governance like the principles under-girding federal or unitary systems of governments have disastrous and far-reaching consequences; and it was the violation of the principles that positioned Nigeria as an undeniably failed state. For instance in terms of security of lives and property, the deliberate failure of the police and the army to disarm the supposed Fulani herdsmen along with their foreign allies has proven that Nigeria is a failed state. A situation where Buhari has clearly demonstrated nepotism [the worst form of corruption] by not commanding the army to flush out the gun-toting terrorists in the guise of herdsmen in Agatu, arresting the so-called ‘fake army’ that arrested villagers in Awgu Enugu state who were trying to rescue their women-folk kidnapped by the
lecherous Fulani herdsmen and keeping mum on the atrocity at Uzouwani, Nsukka shows that there is no government in Nigeria. The APC-led federal government should as a matter of national emergency put measures in place to restructure the country to maintain “One Nigeria”. One of the first steps is to disband the FRSC and merge it with the police. Let the FRSC prove that the cost of producing drivers’ license is more than N500.00, while vehicle number is more than N1,000. 00. What pushed the FRSC to introduce double drivers’ license other than the usual idiocy and naivety to leave the impression that it is creative to make quantum revenues for the federal government. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo saw the crude mindset and leadership idiocy of the FRSC and on February,2000, merged it with the police. The FRSC should return to its glorious early days when its patrols, disciplined officials and volunteers reduced road carnage through professionalism and zero tolerance for corruption and extortion…Enough is enough for monstrous waste in the name federal government while the reality on ground is a Unitary Government in Nigeria”. Mr. Onwubiko is a public affairs analyst
Security agents and Abia’s approach to pastoral conflicts
I Okechukwu Ukegbu
t may not be out of place to suggest here that our security agents are contributing negatively to the fragile security situation in the country. This suggestion is informed by the ugly incident that took place in Aba penultimate Thursday where a soldier allegedly killed a meat-seller at the Aba abattoir at “Aba Waterside”. The incident has attracted different story lines and has been changing in form and content. However, despite the angle one approaches the incident, none paints the actions of the soldier professionally. Thank God, for the swift response of the police and Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu. In a swift reaction to the ugly incident, Abia State Government condemned the dastardly act, which sent the victim, to his untimely grave. Expectedly, the premature death of the meat-seller should diminish even the hardest of hearts; because, according to John Donne,” Any mans death diminishes me, because I am involved in Mankind; And therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; It tolls for thee. The incident has reenacted discussions on the conducts of our security agents, especially in discharging their duties. It will be recalled that few months ago, the peaceful atmosphere of Aba, had a crack from the activities of the same security agents.
In the Ariaria episode, members National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, allegedly on an operation to raid drug hideouts, inflicted pain on the peaceful and serene environment. The incident left on its trail scores of people severely injured, including a Divisional Crime Officer, DCO of Ariaria Police Station. It is a common knowledge that security agencies’ response to threats should be proportionate to the threat. The rationale behind the NDLEA, engaging in such operation in a densely populated market and threw professionalism and rules of engagement to the whirlwind remains a puzzle. One would have expected the agency to take a critical study of the operations and design the best practices to undertake. The lives of innocent civilians are worth more than whatever operations they went for in the market. There is a dispassionate appeal to our security agents not to stretch the fragile security situation in the country, which is occasioned by ethnic suspicion, hunger in the land any bit further. Though the suspect- soldier has been arrested,a lot needs to be addressed. No doubt, soldiers are trained to protect to protect the country from external aggressions, current situations have demanded that they involve in internal security. This arrangement
may not be entirely evil but I think that some adjustments need to be made. There have been calls to redesign the soldiers recruitment process to expose them to some academic works on human psychology, human rights, and the constitution. Proponents of this arrangement also advocate a review of academic entry requirements of the soldiers. They are of the view that the proposal if implemented would go a long way in enhancing the soldiers’ performance and respect for the civil population. The Abia State Governor deserves commendation for not contemplating shutting down the markets. This action could have been counterproductive. One it could have exerted more pressure on the lean resources of the state occasioned by dwindling federal allocations. Two, it could have provided the fifth columnists,who have no business in the town but are looking for opportunities to unleash mayhem, the leeway. Another action of the Governor that deserves mention is the proposed pragmatic approach to check pastoral conflicts in the state. He has directed the Abia State Vigilante Services (AVS) to commence, a two-week intensive training, for onward deployment to communities to assist in community policing. All traditional rulers in the state are to submit names of 10 able-bodied
youths from their community to the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. This approach has multifarious benefits as it will provide employment opportunities for over 7,000 youths and ensure effective community policing. While the law enforcement agencies have been mandated to search and monitor all trucks and vehicles conveying livestock, food items and persons into the state with a view to preventing inter-state movement of arms and terrorists, they are also to search and monitor markets and settlements where livestock and dealers are located, to ensure security. The Governor has approved the constitution of a Farmers/Herdsmen Conflict Resolution Committee in the 17 Local Government Areas of the state. The state encourages the people to be vigilant and report any suspicious movement or activities of strange persons within the communities to the Traditional Rulers or call any of the following Police Emergency Control phone numbers: 08079210003, 08079210004, 08079210005, 08035425405 for prompt deployment of a Rapid Response Unit. Indeed, the Abia State model of checking pastoral conflicts and terrorism is a pragmatic approach and deserves to be emulated. Ukegbu, a public policy analyst, writes from Umuahia,Abia State.
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Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
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Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
Features Æ s
WORLD HUMANITARIAN SUMMIT:
We need shape a different future, building stable, inclusive societies — Ban Ki-moon
World Leaders and reps of the partiipant countries in a group photo during the WHS in Istanbul...last Monday.
Gbubemi God’s Covenant Snr UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon opened the firstever World Humanitarian Summit in Istanbul, Turkey on Monday May 23rd 2016. The summit gathered under one roof, people with vested interest in improving the global humanitarian system, including more than 65 Heads of State and Government as well as leaders from the public and private sectors. The chief host, the President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, was ably surrounded by relief activists and international celebrities to urge the global community to shape a different future for the world. The UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon in his opening address reminded the sea of humanity that the gathering - the first ever such summit - was occasioned by the unprecedentedly strained global humanitarian action. “I proposed this Summit four years ago out of concern for ris-
ing humanitarian needs and declining political will. Today, the urgency has only grown,” the Secretary-General began. It would be recalled that the United Nations estimates that a record number of people – 130 million – currently need aid to survive. More people have been forced from their homes than at any time since the end of the Second World War. Mr. Ban described the Summit as “a 21st century United Nations gathering,” adding that its ‘Agenda for Humanity’, the document he recently issued to guide discussions and action, is based on three years of consultations with 23,000 people in more than 150 countries. Furthermore, Ban urged world leaders to share the responsibility of helping people and close the gap in humanitarian funding. “We need to provide more direct funding to local people and communities and fix the persistent humanitarian funding gap and investing in building stable and inclusive societies. “We declare we are One Humanity with shared responsibilities. Let us resolve, ourselves, here and now, not only
Now is the time to end the conflicts at the root of the current crisis; to ensure adherence to international humanitarian law and accountability for violations; to make the humanitarian system more efficient and more effective; [and] to stand up for those we are leaving behind,” the Assembly president said, also underscoring the need to secure the extra $15 billion required to meet humanitarian needs – just one cent out of every $50 of today’s global economy. Mogens Lykketoft to keep people alive but to give people a chance at life in dignity.” He also called on the international community to help reduce the number of internally displaced people by 2030 and drew attention to the necessity of increasing humanitarian spending in order to reduce the risk of potential humanitarian crises. “I urge you to commit to cutting in half the number of in-
ternally displaced people by 2030 and to find better long term solutions for refugees and displaced people.” Governments and humanitarian agencies agreed on a grand bargain to cut the cost of administering aid by nearly $1 billion a year, and make sure that more of that funding goes to help people in crisis. At the summit, 21 donor countries and 16 aid organisations agreed to decrease over-
heads and help fill an estimated $15 billion annual funding gap in order to provide it to more than 125 million people who are in urgent need. It’s expected that the new approach will create ‘a virtuous circle’, drawing in more resources from a wider range of donors. According to the UN Secretary General, the deal would enable improved humanitarian response to conflicts and natural disasters. at the launch event in Istanbul. At the launch event in Istanbul, Mr Ban said the deal “should lead to faster action, better engagement with people affected by crises, more funding for national organisations, greater efficiency and more accountability. “These are all fundamental to improving support for the people we serve,” Ki-Moon said. Elhadj As Sy, Secretary General of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, supported the bargain because it would provide 25 percent of humaniCONTINUED ON PAGE 20
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
19 Features
RESCUE OF CHIBOK GIRLS:
Too little, so late…but encouraging
Buhari with abducted and found Aminat with baby Idps in a Borno camp (1)
Femi Ogunshola (NAN) The recent rescue of two abducted girls who were students of Government Secondary Schools Chibok, Borno neutralises cynics’ doubt on whether or not the Boko Haram insurgents really abducted the girls more than two years ago. Precisely, the insurgents were reported to have kidnapped more than 200 Chibok school girls in the night between April 14 and April 15, 2014. But Nigerians, including those whose daughters were victims of the abduction, has been faced with the glaring reality of the kidnapping with telling effects on their psyche. In reaction to the abduction, a group, #BringBackOurGirl was formed to demand for the release of the abducted girls with daily rallies by the group at the Unity Fountain, Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory. The Abuja family of the #BringBackOurGirls# held a daily sit-out at the venue to make the demand for the release of Chibok schoolgirls fundamental. The news of the abduction also attracted outrage against Boko Haram and the Nigerian government in May 2014 with protests across Nigeria calling for greater government action. Also, between May 3 and May 4, 2014, protests were held in major western cities including Los Angeles and London with the hash-tag #BringBackOurGirls# which became trendy on social network. For instance, the Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper acknowledged that Canadians had joined the international ef-
The rescue of Amina is an indication that the other girls abducted would be found. While we commend the Nigerian army for their courage, Nigerian Government must intensify efforts and give the security agents all required support to seek out the remaining girls. Also, It is important for the government to strongly advocate against the stigma and discrimination women and girls may face when they return — Ojobo Atuluku (County Director, ActionAid Nigeria). fort to free the schoolgirls, while China announced its intention to make available ‘any useful information’ acquired by its satellites and intelligence services. Similarly, the European Union, which passed a resolution on July 17, 2014, called for immediate and unconditional release of the abducted schoolgirls, while French President Francois Hollande offered to hold a summit in Paris with Nigeria and its neighbours to tackle the issue. Further to this, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu offered assistance to the Nigerian government in locating the missing pupils on May 11, 2014, while the United Kingdom agreed to send experts to Nigeria to assist in the search for the students. These efforts notwithstanding, many Nigerians feared that the Chibok girls could no longer be rescued or found alive again. Even so some believed that most of the girls may have been married off or brainwashed by the insurgents to becoming suicide bombers. But former President Olusegun Obasanjo had encouraged
that some of the girls might be found if good effort is put at rescuing the girls. With much effort of security agents, the Nigerian Army recently confirmed the rescue of two of the abducted Chibok school girls - Amina Ali Nkeki and Serah Luka. Amina told her rescuers that six of her abducted colleagues had died while others were being held in Sambisa forest by their abductors. She is among other persons rescued by troops at Baale community near Damboa in Borno. Mr Aboku Gaji, the leader of the Civilian Joint Task Force in Chibok, said: ``The moment this girl was discovered by our vigilantes, she was brought to my house. I instantly recognised her, and insisted we should take her to her parents. ``When we arrived at her house, I asked the mother to come and identify someone. The moment she saw her, she called her name.’’ The Acting Director Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman, said in a statement that its troops killed 35 Boko Haram
Amina Ali
terrorists and recovered several arms and ammunition in the recovery of Luka. ``In addition, they rescued 97 women and children held captives by the Boko Haram terrorists. We are glad to state that among those rescued is a girl believed to be one of the Chibok Government Secondary Schoolgirls that were abducted on April 14, 2014 by the Boko Haram terrorists. ``Her name is Miss Serah Luka, who is number 157 on the list of the abducted school girls. She is believed to be the daughter of Pastor Luka. ``During debriefing, the girl revealed that she was an SS1 student of the school at the time they were abducted. She further added that she hails from Madagali, Adamawa,’’ he said. Sesugh Akume, the spokesperson for the #BringBackOurGirls# said the girl had provided useful information that her other classmates were still being held by terrorists in Sambisa forest. Reacting to the rescue, a civil rights organisation, ActionAid Nigeria, said the rescue of Am-
ina was an indication that the other girls abducted by the insurgents would be found. It commended the Nigerian Army and the Civilian Joint Task Force for their efforts at rescuing the Chibok girls and ending insurgency in Northeastern part of Nigeria. ActionAid Nigeria’s Country Director, Ojobo Atuluku also said the rescue of the girl was great news that raised the hope that the remaining girls would be rescued. ``The Nigerian Government must intensify efforts and give the security agents all required support to seek out the remaining girls. ``It is important for the government to strongly advocate against the stigma and discrimination women and girls may face when they return,’’ Atuluku said. According to her, Boko Haram insurgency remains a huge threat to the safety of women and girls in Nigeria ``It is important that all efforts are made to protect them and to allow women and girls to live free from fear,’’ she noted.
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Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
Ban at the opening ceremony. Photo UNOCHA
Making change will cost, but staying the same will cost more — Kevin Smith Pain knows no colour, race, language or religion. It was with that in mind that Turkey carried out its aid and development projects in more than 140 countries around the world, hosting more than three million refugees from Syria and Iraq. We will never close our doors or our borders to people and we, as leaders and responsible individuals of the international community can only succeed if we work under common principles and goals — Mr. Erdogan, Turkish President CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18
tarian funding directly to local and national agencies by 2020. “There is recognition of those who are on the frontline. They’re in places where there is no doctor, no school, where women have to walk the last mile to the water point, often paved with danger.” The UN chief underlined that the world is looking to them for commitments to five core responsibilities: • Prevent and end conflict • Respect rules of war • Leave no one behind • Working differently to end need, and
• Invest in humanity. “We are here to shape a different future,” Mr. Ban concluded. “Today we declare: We are One Humanity, with a shared responsibility.” Governments and humanitarian agencies represented at the summit agreed that they would assess required needs in the case of a disaster and provide supplies accordingly without relying on an outside analysis. Earlier in his remarks to the opening ceremony, UN General Assembly president, Mogens Lykketoft said that expectations are high for the Summit.
“People around the world are demanding that we move beyond fine words; that we build on the generosity we already see; and live up to our core responsibilities,” he said. “Now is the time to end the conflicts at the root of the current crisis; to ensure adherence to international humanitarian law and accountability for violations; to make the humanitarian system more efficient and more effective; [and] to stand up for those we are leaving behind,” the Assembly president said, also underscoring the need to secure the extra $15 billion required to meet humani-
tarian needs – just one cent out of every $50 of today’s global economy. Meanwhile, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed hope that the Summit would lead to ‘auspicious outcomes’ for hundreds of millions of people struggling to sustain their lives under great distress. “Pain knows no colour, race, language or religion,” Mr. Erdogan said, and informed the Summit that it was with that in mind that Turkey carried out its aid and development projects in more than 140 countries around the world, hosting more than three million refugees from Syria and Iraq. “We will never close our doors or our borders to people,” he insisted. “We as leaders and responsible individuals of the international community can only succeed if we work under common principles and goals.” The President also stressed that Turkey would not stop pursuing “blood-shedding dictators” and will ensure that crimes against humanity do not go unpunished. Prior to these remarks, survivors of humanitarian catastrophes - both human-made and natural - spoke to the audience
in emotional addresses, recounting their ordeals and how they overcame them with the desire to now support others. Victor Ochen, a former child solider from Northern Uganda, spoke about growing up with violence everywhere around him. At the age of 13, he chose a different path, forming a peace club in his refugee camp to discourage children and young people from joining the armed forces. “Peace comes from within,” he said. “Be human and act human.” The US, Britain, Germany, France and Japan, who supported the bargain, will follow its implementation. According to World Vision International head, Kevin Smith, the bargain will not solve all the problems related to the aid system, but it is “a serious and realistic way forward. “Making change will cost, but staying the same will cost more,” he added. On the lighter side, the historic summit kicked off with a soulful poem by Malian singer Inna Modja. It also featured creative performances and inspiring words by renowned stars, including Forest Whitaker, Ashley Judd and Daniel Craig, among others.
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
IBIAKU UTONO COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION.
21 Public Notice
INDEPENDENT PETROLEUM MARKETERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA BARUTEN LOCAL GOVERNMENT BRANCH
This is to inform the general public that the above named Community Association has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied matters Act 1990:
THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.
THE TRUSTEES ARE. 1. Festus Nsikak Iyamba -President. 2. Ransom Etim Eduok - Vice president. 3. Etim Effiong Asuquo - secretary. 4. Emmanuel Bassey - Treasurer. 5. Bassey Okon Udo - Member. 6. U. Inyang Esq - Member. 7. Francis Okon Ekanem - Member.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE : 1.TO FOSTER UNITY AMONG MEMBERS OF THE ASSOCIATION 2. TO GIVE NIGERIANS OPPORTUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN THE BUSINESS OF DOWNSTREAM SECTOR OF PETROLEUM INDUSTRY
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES. 1.To collate identify existing families in Ikot Utono Community of ibiaku Issiet Village, Uruan Local Government Area and collate the names of every family member for records purposes and posterity. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REMOVAL SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION signed by president -UBONG-ABASI IYANG ESQ/NOTARY PUBLIC.
THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1. LAWAL ABDULWAHAB AREMU 2. YUSUF AHMED ADIGUN 3. GBADAMOSI JIMOH KURANGA 4. MUSTAPHA MUHAMMED BASIRU 5. ABDULWAHAB HASSAN ADETAYO 6. LAWAL SIKIRULLAH MASOROJU 7. ADEGBONA AFISU AKANJI 8. ALH. WASIU OLAJUMOKE ARE 9. SARIKI ABDULAZEEZ IMORU 10. ADEYANJU YAKUB AMAO ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO REGISTRARGENERAL , CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION , PLOT 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT , OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET PMB 198, MAITAMA ABUJA, WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED BY THE SECRETARY .
BELIEVE IN THE MASSAGE OF JESUS CHIRST SYNAGOGUE This is to inform the general public that the above named Ministry has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act No 1 of 2004. THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PROPHETESS MARIA EZIOHA 2. PASTOR JOHN EZIOHA 3. PASTOR CHRISTY ABBEY AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To propagate, promote and spread the word of God. To teach people the word of God through preaching His word and convening crusades and seminars. Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama District, Abuja, within 28 days of this publication. Signed: KENECHUKWU OKIDE ESQ
GOD IS FAITHFUL MINISTRY.
GOD SETTLEMENT LION MINISTRY
HIS LIFESTYLE CHRISTIAN CENTRE.
The general public is hereby notified that the above named CHURCH has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for registration under “Part C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990
This is to inform the general public that the above Named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part “C” of the Companies and allied Matters Act of 1990.
The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to the corporate Affairs commission, Abuja for registration under part’ ‘C’ of the companies and Allied Matters Acts 2004.
THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Babatunde Success - President. 2. Osipitan Toyin Adewale - Vice President 3. Onalaja Oluwabukonla A - Secretary.
THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1. Azunna Lilian - Chairperson. 2. Azunna Chioma Mary - Secretary. 3. Mr. Dolor Clifford. 4. Olumeni Catherine Oluchi. 5. Azunna Priscillia Ekwutos. 6. Amadi Enyinda Precious. 7. Sukari Nwoburri Titi.
Trustees 1. PROPHET DADDY OLISA VINCENT NWANKWO 2. PROPHTESS EUCHARIA NWANKWO 3. CHINENYE CATHERINE NWABUEZE 4. CHUKWUMA IGWEBUIKE 5. PROPHTESS NKECHINYERE IGWEBUIKE 6. UKAMAKA MARYANN NWAOYE Aim and objectives 1. To preach the word of our Lord Jesus Christ to the World 2. To organic outreach , crusade , seminars , workshop and revival. Service for the work of the gospel Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission, Maitama, and Abuja within 28 days of this publication. Barr oluchi ononamadu
Aims And Objectives: 1. o preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. 2. To foster love and unity among Christian and peace among fellow men without under compromise with evil ,in pursuance of the teachings of the Bible. 3. To support education, health, SME and other good courses, founding short term and long term Bible training, vocational trainings and holiday resort. 4. To reach souls for Christ in all nations as the Lord Jesus commanded (Mark 16:15) Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.
Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication
Signed: Secretary.
Signed : SECRETARY.
HAPPINESS ILOBA FOUNDATION
ISLAMIC RESSAALAT FOUNDATION
THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.
THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990.
The Trustees are: 1. Dr Mrs Zelibe Anyamele 2. Major General Mohammed Tasiu Ibrahim 3. Miss Odiobimma Happiness Iloba.
THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. ALHAJI MUSTAFA ABDULRAHAMAN (CHAIRMAN) (2) ALHAJI MUHAMMAD RAJI ABDULLAHI (3) ALHAJI MUHAMMAD HAMISU MUSTAFA (4) AISHATU MUSTAFA (SECRETARY)
The aim and objective: 1. To help the less privileged
THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES : 1. To propagate Islam and establish Qur’anic schools 2. To provide infrastructure and engage in the spread of Islam
Any objection to this registration must reach the Registrar-General of Corporate Affairs Commission Maitama Abuja within 28 daysof this publication. Signed: Barr F. S. Abah
OKPALIGBO PROGRESSIVE UNION, ABUJA THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED UNION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990. The Trustees are: 1. MR. JOHN EZE - CHAIRMAN 2. MR. EZE PAULINUS CHIDOZIE - SECRETARY 3. MR. ONAH CELESTINE -TREASURER 4. MR. EZUGWU ROMANUS - MEMBER 5. MR. UGWU KINGSLEY UCHE - MEMBER 6. MR. NWODO BRENDAN - MEMBER 7. MR. ABAEZE KENNETH - MEMBER AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. TO PROMOTE PEACE AMONG MEMBERS 2. TO CARRY OUT LOCAL PROJECTS IN THE COMMUNITY 3. TO PROMOTE WELFARE, PROGRESS AND EMPOWERMENT OF MEMBERS Any objection to this registration must reach the Registrar-General of Corporate Affairs Commission Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication. SIGNED: OBINNA OMORHA, ESQ. 08037500084
LEGACY IMPACT FOUNDATION. THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990. THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1 JANE PELA 2 OMONIGHO M. OGBE 3 MAIMUNA YAHAYA 4 CHARLES N. SUNDAY. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1 HARNESSING THE INTELLECTUAL CAPABILITIES AND TALENTS OF THE YOUNG ADULTS THROUGH ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE PROGRAMMES. 2 LITERARY AND CHARACTER FORMATION YOUTH CLUBS AND SENSITIZATION PROGRAMMES. 3 HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE AND SCHOLARSHIP SCHEMES FOR THE INDIGENT STUDENTS.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES : 1. To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ across the globe. 2. To build Churches around the globe. 3. To win souls for the kingdom of God.
Any objection to this registration must reach the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication. SIGNED: SECRETARY
GENERATION GREEN FOUNDATION FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT. THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CHURCH HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990. THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1 Uzoh Desmond Uzoh 2 Chisom Chinwendu Uzoh 3 Ajoku Sampson Ugochukwu 4 Obodo Brendan Nduwuba 5 Elegbua Chima Chimaeze. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1 To establish an NGO with the sole aim of serving the local communities 2 To render selfless service to rural communities through free medicals 3 To create a better society based on eradication of poverty.
BUSARI TIJANI ISLAMIC FOUNDATION
This is to inform the general public that the above Named FOUNDATION has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part “C” of the Companies and allied Matters Act of 1990. THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Dr.Tijani Kehinde Fadlu-r-Rahman 2. Mr. Tijani Khalilullahi Abiodun 3. Alhaji Adebayo Mojeed Olanrewaju 4. Mrs. Olayode Muslimat Bolaji 5. Alhaja Tijani Mulkat Omowonuola AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO ORGANISE ENLIGHTENMENT PROGRAMMES, LECTURES, SEMINARS, WORKSHOP FOR MUSLIMS 2. TO CARRY OUT RESEARCHES ON ISLAMIC CULTURE AND VALUES FOR BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF ISLAM 3. TO ENGAGE IN DA’WAH ACTIVITIES ON BOTH ELECTRONIC AND PRINT MEDIA 4. TO PROVIDE ASSISTANCE TO THE NEEDIES (THE ORPHANS, WIDOWS AND THE AGED) 5. TO PROVIDE ENTRAPRENEURSHIP TRAINING AND EMPOWERMENT FOR THE MUSLIM YOUTH. 6. Establish, manage, coordinate and acquire Mosque, Islamic and Arabic institution. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication. SIGNED: TRUSTEES.
OWOTORUFA PET INITIATIVE THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE INITIATIVE UNION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990. THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. IBB BENEDE (MISS) (AMBASSADOR 2. KAIKY KEMEMOPIGHA PAULETTE (SECRETARY AMBASSADOR) 3. AYAEYERIN TEIKE (FINANCIAL AMBASSADOR AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. OWOTORUFA PET INITIATIVE IS TO NETWORK WITH FAMILIES AS GOODWILL AMBASSADORS OF PET AS A THERAPY FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES 2. TO ORGANISE PET SHOWS, EXHIBITIONS, FUNFAIR
Any objection to this registration must reach the Registrar-General of Corporate Affairs Commission Maitama Abuja within 28 daysof this publication.
Any objection to this registration must reach the Registrar-General of Corporate Affairs Commission Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.
SIGNED: Secretary
SIGNED: SECRETARY
THE HOLY COVENANT ORDER OF CHERUBIM AND SERAPHIM CHURCH, ILOROMU, ILE-IFE The General Public is hereby notified that the above named organisation has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990. TRUSTEE ARE; 1. SUPT. APOSTLE PROPHET ALUKO JULIUS ABIODUN 2. APOSTLE IJIDELE EBENEZER SEGUN 3. PASTOR ALUKO EMMANUEL SEYI 4. REV. MOTHER ALUKO OLAYEMI 5. SENIOR MOTHER IN ISREAL IDOWU FELICIA
ASSOCIATION OF IGBO MINISTERS INTERNATIONAL THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED, HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1990. THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PAST. RAYMOND CHINEDU ATUH 2. APST. DR. PRINCE DAN WINNER 3. REV. JOHN NWAZUOKE OGBONNA 4. PAST. MRS. JOY ORAGWA
AIMS: 1. To promote and propagate the teaching of Christianity. 2. To praise and worship God in accordance with holy Bible.
THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES : 1. To propagate the gospel of christ world wide 2. To protect the interest of members as a body of christ 3. To help in grooming and mentoring young igbo gospel ministers in God ‘s vineyard.
Any objection to this registration must reach the Registrar-General of Corporate Affairs Commission Maitama Abuja within 28 daysof this publication.
Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.
Any objection to this registration must reach the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.
SIGNED: SECRETARY
Signed: Trustees
SIGNED: SECRETARY
News 22
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
Buhari will bring back rectitude, economic buoyancy, says Olabimtan Lateef Ibrahim,
Nigeria back from the path of indiscipline and impunity to that of rectitude and economic buoyancy for life more abundant for Nigerians. Hon Olabimtan gave the advice yesterday in his democracy day message to Nigerians. The APC governorship aspirant noted that although Nigerians might be passing through tough times economically now, but that he is of the firm belief that the gov-
ernment in power, headed by President Buhari, will ameliorate the situation. According to him, all we Nigerians have to do is to support the many laudable reformatory programmes of the present administration headed by honest, trustworthy and disciplined men in the persons of Mohammadu Buhari and Yemi Osinbajo. He equally used the opportunity to remind the people in Ondo State of forthcoming
governorship election in the State in November this year, describing it as “another test of and for democracy”. He urged them to vote wisely, taking into cognisance the parlous state Ondo is presently. The aspirant described the present government in power in the State as an insensitive government that does not get its priorities right and is dishonest and lacks transparency and accountability.
ABIGIRL NGUEMO DAVID
NKATA OGBONNAYA OKORIE
MR ONYEBUCHI PETER EJISU
This is to certify and confirm that, ORJIEGBULAM IHUARULA CELINE, ORJIEGBULAM CHINYERE AND CELINE CHINYERE ONYEWUCHI, refer to one and same person but now wish to be known and addressed as, MRS. CELINE CHINYERE ONYEWUCHI. All former documents remains valid. General public should take note.
I, formerly known and addressed as, A.A ABIGIRL, now wish to be known and addressed as, ABIGIRL NGUEMO DAVID ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID.BANKS AND GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.
I FOMERLY KNOWN AS OKORIE OKECHUKWU NKATA NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AS NKATA OGBONNAYA OKORIE. THE GENERAL PUBLIC PLEASE TAKE NOTE.
This is to affirm that I MR PETER EJISU am also known as, MR ONYEBUCHI PETER EJISU. All former documents remains valid. General public should take note.
MRS GLORY CHIJIOKE OKECHUKWU
IGHODARO, ESOSA OMORUYI
CROWN ESTATE LANDLORD’S & RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION PORT HARCOURT
I FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS OBINALI CHIJIOKE ONYEMANZUWA.NOW WISH TO KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS GLORY CHIJIOKE OKECHUKWU. All former documents remain valid. general public should take note.
This is to certify and confirm that, IGHODARO, ESOSA AND IGHODARO, ESOSA OMORUYI, refer to one and same person but now wish to be known and addressed as, IGHODARO, ESOSA OMORUYI. All former documents remains valid. General public should take note.
CONFIRMATION OF NAME
SUNDAY KENWI BEN
THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990 TRUSTEES:. 1. TOLOFARI ATEDO -PRESIDENT/CHAIRMAN 2. THEOPHILUS E. EDOKO 3. BARR. AZINO EBIANO -SECRETARY 4. KINGLSLEY IBE 5. JACK M. EDDY 6. PST. FRANCIS OGAH AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To assist, cater for the welfare of the residents. 2. To provide social amenities in the estate. 3. To ensure security and orderliness in the estate and to make the estate livable. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYSFROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION
Abuja
ÎÎÎAs
Nigerians celebrate this year’s Democracy day, an All Progressives Congress, APC, governorship aspirant in Ondo State and former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon Victor Olabimtan has expressed the firm optimism that the President Muhammadu Buhari-led government will ameliorate the present situation and bring
MRS. CELINE CHINYERE ONYEWUCHI
KENEDY KENECHUKWU OBI AS CAPTURED ON THE BANK VERIFICATION NUMBER IN DIAMOND BANk PLC IS THE SAME PERSON AS KENEDY KENECHUKWU OBIEZU. ALL DOCUMENT REMAIN VALID.
I, formerly known and addressed as, SUNDAY KENWI AMAKELA, now wish to be known and addressed as, SUNDAY KENWI BEN. All former documents remains valid. General public should take note.
HOLLYHOCKS DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990 TRUSTEES: 1) NWANGANGA EKENMA IRONDI 2) EZINWANYI DAMASUS 3) HON. JUSTICE TEDDY CHIBUIKE ERUBA AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1) TO ADVOCATE BETTER STANDARD OF EDUCATION 2) TO PROVIDE SCHOLARSHIPS 3) TO PROVIDE TRAINING FOR TEACHERS ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYSFROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION SIGNED: O. MARX IKONGBEHSOLICITOR (EVERLAW ASSOCIATES) 08037243544
GLORYWAVE MINISTRY INT’L
THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990 TRUSTEES: 1. MICHAEL OSASOGIE 2. ESTHER AIMIEROVBIYE 3. JOY AGHARESE 4. PETER FEGO LOPET AIMS AND OBJECTIVES TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYSFROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION SIGNED: SECRETARY
Signed: BARR. EJEATA ANNET IMENE ONOGHO SOLICITOR, 08053056007
TALENTS MEDIA EMPOWERMENT CONNECT & MOTIVATIONAL INT’L ORGANIZATION. THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990
According to Olabimtan, “ I use this opportunity to rejoice with and congratulate Nigerians and especially my good people of Ondo State on the occasion of the birth of our fourth republic this day on May 29 , 1999. “That we have come thus far for 17years, successfully transiting from civilian to civilian rule, despite hiccups, is a testimony to our doggedness and determination to survive as a truly democratic nation state. “Though we might be passing through tough times economically now, I am of the firm belief that the government in power, headed by President Buhari, will ameliorate the situation and bring
Buhari Nigeria back from the path of indiscipline and impunity to that of rectitude and economic buoyancy for life more abundant for Nigerians. “All we have to do is to support the many laudable reformatory programmes of the present administration headed by honest, trustworthy and disciplined men in the persons of Mohammadu Buhari and Yemi Osinbajo.
CHRIST CHANNEL NIGERIA OUTREACH THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990 TRUSTEES, 1) Chief Dr. Emmanuel Oluwole Adetula 2) Vicky Betty Adetula 3) Gabriel Adeyemi Adetula 4) Otunba Dr Gbola Adetunji AimResponding in time of emergency to victims of natural and man-made disasters in Africa with relief materials, shelter, food, clothing and health care services in collaboration with other International organization around the world. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYSFROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION SIGNED: TRUSTEES
THE UDI-IZEZE FOUNDATION. THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990
TRUSTEES ARE; 1.ABUMUJOR JAMES NKWUKAGINGI. 2. EDAH DEBORAH. 3. AGHAEZE PATRICK OKWUKWE.
TRUSTEES, 1. MR. CLEMENT SIAKPERE 2. BARR. OMONEMU TONY EDEWOR 3. MR. PELA TONWE VIV 4. DEACON PELA KENNEDY KAWHARIEBIE 5. COMR. IZEZE REUBEN RUME YAKUBU 6. COMR. AKPOBIRE MICHAEL ASIONABA
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES TO DEVELOP, PROMOTE, MOTIVATE & EMPOWER TALENTS
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES TO SUPPORT YOUTH EMPOWERMENT.
ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYSFROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION
ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYSFROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION
SIGNED: SECRETARY
SIGNED: SECRETARY
THE RIVERS OF LIFE PROPHETIC AND MIRACLE MINISTRY
This is to inform the general public that the above named Ministry has applied to Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act No 1 of 2004. THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. BISHOP ADEDEJI OLUSOLA LADEGA - President 2. DEACONESS IBIRONKE ONAOLAPO LADEGA - V/President 3. DEACON OLUKAODE ONANUGA - Treasurer 4. DEACONESS AFOLAKEMI AMUSAN - Secretary AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: a. To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ all over the world. b. To care for the less privileged, orphans and to care for widows. c. To conduct deliverance, healing, breakthrough crusades and marriage seminars in order to win souls for Christ. Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Maitama District, Abuja, within 28 days of this publication. Signed: DEACONESS AFOLAKEMI AMUSAN (Secretary)
GUIDEFEET FOUNDATION THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990 TRUSTEES: 1. CHUKWUMA GEORGE 2. VICTOR GEORGE ADESINA
-CHAIRMAN -SECRETARY
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO HELP THE LESS PRIVILEGED. 2. TO GIVE DONATIONS FOR CHARITABLE PURPOSES. 3. TO CREATE AWARENESS AND ASSIST IN ERADICATION OF POVERTY AND ILLITERACY. 4. TO SUPPORT HUMANITARIAN AID TO UNDERPRIVILEGED CHILDREN, ORPHANS, ELDERLY AND OTHER PEOPLE IN NEED. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYSFROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION SIGNED: KELVIN A. MEJULU ESQ. 19, MAHATMA GANDHI STREET, ASOKORO, ABUJA. 08037581431
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
23 News
Democracy remains solution to Nigeria’s problems, says Saraki ÎÎÎSenate
President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has commended Nigerians for working to sustain democracy in the past 17 years, despite the various challenges the country had encountered within the period. In a statement to mark this year’s Democracy Day, signed on his behalf by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, Saraki described democracy as not
only the most globally accepted system of government, but also the best solution to the problems confronting a multicultural, multi-lingual and multi-religious society like Nigeria. He said that, in the last 17 years, the electorate had become more discerning and sophisticated as the nation had got to the point that people elected to the various offices were now conscious of the
fact that they were under constant watch and when they failed to meet the expectation of the voters, they would be given a red card. “It is the first time in our national history that we will have 17 unbroken years of democratically-elected governments. Last year, our people demonstrated that our democracy is fast maturing as they voted out a party in power and elected
another party. Since then, one can notice how people have become more and more interested in governance and the performance of those elected and appointed into public offices. “In my own view, these are signs that our democracy has matured. Our people deserve commendation for that. This positive development is also already reflecting in the quality of governance and the
level of development being witnessed across board in the country”, he stated. Saraki further called on elected and appointed officials at all levels of government to continue to justify the confidence people reposed in them as, he said, he and his colleagues in the Senate were conscious of the fact that if they failed to live up to the expectation of the people, they might be voted out of office.
Economy: Clergy urges elite to help the needy
‘Niger PDP to run parallel exco’ Pita Chikwem, Minna
Titus Akhigbe,
ÎÎÎAs
Benin
ÎÎÎNigerian
elites have been exhorted to contribute their quota towards ensuring that the living standards of the people, especially the less privileged was improved upon, through humanitarian support system. The exhortation was made by Pastor Lucky Erhaighewu, Founder/General Overseer of the Faith Triumphant Worship Centre, Benin, on the occasion of the second year anniversary programme of the Erhaighewu Education Centre, Uvbe, on the outskirts of Benin City, at the weekend. Erhaighewu said that the future generation would have good memories to live on if the well-to-do went out of their way to better their living conditions. One of the areas that he listed that should be given consideration was the provision of free basic education, especially for the children of those who could not afford exorbitant fees been charged by some school. He disclosed that the philosophy behind the establishment of the free education school was his own way of giving back to the society, especially in the light of the harsh economic condition that was prevalent in the country at the moment. The Brazil based clergy said that from the onset, the school, which presently has over 100 kids on its roster, initiated the policy of making life easy for children of indigent parents irrespective of where they came from and as such apart from fees not been collected from the parents of the pupils they also enjoyed free breakfast and lunch, free books, free writing materials, free school uniforms, shoes etc. The teachers too also enjoy free breakfast and lunch.
Saraki
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (middle); Dr. Waheed Oki (left); Sugar Band, Mr. Akin Akinloye; Producer/Presenter Lagos Television, Folasade Salimonu and C.E.O, Loizelle Evening Baps, Ms. Leila Atake during the Democracy Day celebration with the Physically Challenged persons to commemorate the First Year in Office of Ambode at the Lagos House, Ikeja, Lagos… on Sunday.
Ogun monarch sends SOS to Amosun, IGP over impending crisis Njoku Chibuike
ÎÎÎUnless
the police authorities and the Ogun State Government intervene, there may be a breakdown of law and order in Ojoduland of Ifo Local Government Area of the state. This was the submission of Olojodu of Ojoduland, Oba Sikiru Adelani Obatula, while addressing journalists, recently. In a bid to forestall the impending calamity, the monarch has appealed to the Inspector-General of Police, Solomon Arase and Governor Ibikunle Amosun to intervene and prevail on one his subjects, whom he accused of planning disturbance in his community. In a press statement made available to the Daily Times, Oba Obatula alleged that one Oba Salisu Hassan Abiodun, had been parading himself as an Oba in the community and, thereby, allegedly fomenting trouble and causing disaffection among people of the com-
munity. Apparently to make bold his threat, Oba Obatula alleged that the said Abiodun was already planning an anniversary of his ‘reign’, which he had, allegedly, slated for June 3. The statement read in part: “For sometime now, Salisu Hassan Yusuf Abiodun has been fomenting trouble in the community. He has been shooting and forcing people to believe that he is an Oba, and on June 3, 2016, he is planning to do an anniversary and on that occasion, he is planning to install some innocent and ignorant Nigerians with illegal chieftaincy titles. “If anybody installs Salisu with chieftaincy title somewhere, he has the right to remain as a chief wherever he lives not to foment trouble. So, I appeal to the IGP, Ogun State Commissioner of Police and the Governor Amosun to intervene and stop him before he forces my youths into bloodshed,” he appealed. Oba Obtula, who claimed
he was installed as Oba of Ojoduland by the Olofin of Isheri, Olofin Oba Nurudeen Adekanbi, and by Ogun government in 2010, continued, “My Obaship was gazetted in December 9, 2010. I am an Oba with all required documents and gazettes, but somebody that has no certificate, no gazette, impersonating here and there, people are watching and nothing is done,” Obatula lamented. When contacted, in his
palace at Ojodu, Oba Salisu Abiodun says, “I was installed as Oba by Oba (Dr.) Olusanya Adegboyega Dosumnu (Amororo 11), the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Abeokuta, on Friday, March 31, 2006. “I was the first Baale of the area for sixteen years before I was elevated to the Obaship by the Egba Council in Ogun State, which the Olowu of Owu installed me as Oba. Obatula served me when I was a Baale.
APC wins Kwara bye-election Kehinde Akinpelu, Ilorin
ÎÎÎThe
All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Mrs. Victoria Afolayan, has been declared the winner of the bye-election into the Kwara State House of Assembly in Oke-Ero Local Government Area constituency. The Returning Officer for the election, Dr. Rasheed Ji-
moh, while announcing the result at the council secretariat, in Iloffa, said Afolayan polled 5, 344 votes. The leadership of APC in the state dedicated the victory to the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki. The State Chairman of the party, Hon. Ishola BalogunFulani, said the success recorded in the election was as a result of Saraki’s purposeful leadership.
problems in Niger State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) deepens, the former Chairman of the party Alhaji Mohammad Enagi, on Sunday, vowed to run a parallel executive council, if the abnormality that took place at the state congress was not corrected. He said the last congress violated the party’s constitution, against the wish of the people. “You cannot have democracy when the nomination forms meant for the congress is being hijacked by a single person; it is totally wrong and unacceptable.” Speaking to newsmen in Minna, Niger state capital, Enagi described the discrepancies associated with the congress as unbearable, and for which “we have called for a parallel exco that will respect everyone in the party and uphold the constitution of PDP. “What happened at that last congress is not democracy. People were not represented at all in any form. You will not have democracy if the selling of nomination forms are not made public to individuals that have interest.” The former chairman maintained that every individual who indicated interest should have been allowed to purchase the form and contested for any position he or she deemed fit, stating that many people bought forms but were not allow to participate in the congress. “Out of the 900 delegates accredited to vote in the congress, a candidate got 1,700 votes. You can see that there is a problem. Something is wrong with the system and that is why we are agitating to know why such irregularities in the party, he queried.”
News 24
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
Ekiti labour leaders slam Fayose over IGR claim Gbenga Sodeinde Ado Ekiti
ÎÎÎLabour leaders in Ekiti
State has berated Governor Ayo Fayose over what they described as “shocking lie” over the internally generated revenue (IGR) figures he reeled out, and which were entirely contrary to that declared by the Accountant General” at their meetings. According to them, while the Accountant General had given figures which ranged between only N150 million and N200 million, except that of N268m for April, the highest so declared by him, the governor during the media chat gave N267 million for September 2015; N252 million for October 2015; N195 million for November. 2015; and N181million for December 2015. Rising from an emergency meeting at Labour House, in Egbewa, Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, the unions, comprising the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and Joint
Negotiating Council (JNC), said that for January, February and March, the accruals, according to the Fayose, were N389 million, N381 million, and N302 m respectively, adding “Labour was embarrassed to hear the monthly IGR read on air by His Excellency.” The organised Labour pointed out that “The ongoing strike is not an ego trip or politically motivated, but about the rights of workers and pensioners who are dying daily out of hunger and frustration”. Apart from this, the labour leaders equally berated the governor for deciding to go on strike too, noting, “This (decision) leaves much to be desired”. A press release in response to the governor’s declarations during his monthly
media chat, broadcast live on electronic stations in the state, jointly signed by Paul Olayemi (NLC), John Adebayo (TUC) and Blessing Oladele (JNC), blamed Fayose for mentioning just four of the ten demands they presented to him, while according to them, no solutions were given. They said that contrary to statement by the governor of incorporating representatives of labour unions in the state’s monthly cash allocation meetings, “The meeting is only a briefing and not a cash allocation meeting. So, the idea of labour leaders sharing monthly cash allocation and the governor approving does not arise. There has never been any advice or suggestion given to government by the organised labour at this forum that has ever been
taken”. They disagreed that there was ever a time they reached an accord with government to pay only net salary which would exclude co-operative deductions, bank loans and union dues, expressing regrets that the governor himself had condemned net payment when he came on board and during his election campaigns, which he had then dismissed same as a fraud. The leadership of the unions further berated the governor for his planned decision to pay only the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), a section of workers in the state, which had decided to pull out of the ongoing strike action, urging the entire workforce to remain in their various houses until otherwise directed by their respective unions.
Their words: “On the issue of outstanding salary, it is common knowledge that all workers have performed their duties efficiently and effectively for the period of January to May 2016 and they deserve their pay without further delay. Therefore government decision to pay the sector that opted out of current struggle is tantamount to a divide-and-rule tactics usually employed by government in situations like this.” The letter read: “It should be noted that Labour has neither suspended nor call off the ongoing industrial action in the state. We are using this medium to implore the entire workers of all categories in all sectors to stay at home and observe the strike action until the leadership of organised labour gives further directives.”
Awka Bishop harps on oneness Nkiru Nwagbo Awka
ÎÎÎThe Catholic Bishop of
Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, has called on the various knights of the Universal Church to eschew unnecessary bickering, division, and unhealthy competition, and come together to work for the greater good of the Church. Ezeokafor, who is the chairman of Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, (CBCN) on laity, gave the charge in a homily during this year’s All Knights Day Celebration, held at St. Patrick’s Catholic Cathedral, Awka, on Sunday. He explained that the essence of establishing the Noble Orders were for them to serve as a link between the laity and the clergy, noting that their primary assignment was to protect the Catholic faith and also guard against invasion of any form. His Lordship exhorted them to be true agents of change in their various communities and to always show the light in their respective homes, rather than engage in any form of mischief.
Deputy Corps Commandant, Sector Head of Operations, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Michael Olapade; State Coordinator, RS 2.1 Lagos State Command/Special Marshal & Partnership, George Babatunde Benson; Assistant Corps Commander, Sector Head, Special Marshal & Partnership, FRSC, Bridget Asekhauno and Club Pupils cutting the cake to mark 2016 FRSC RS 2.1 Children’s Day in Lagos... at the weekend. Photo: OLAWALE ROTIMI
Oshiomhole
Edo to spend fresh N3b on schools
ÎÎÎGovernor
Adams Oshiomhole has said that he would spend the sum of N3 billion to build more schools in of Edo State, this year, insisting that every Edo child must go to quality schools. Speaking at this year’s International Children’s Day celebration at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, Friday, Governor Oshiomhole said that the state government had, in the past seven and half years, devoted resources to rebuild public schools, in order to make them attractive and conducive to teaching and learning. He assured that the state government would “continue to build more schools. Before the end of this year, between now and December, Edo State Government will spend another N3 billion to build more primary schools. I believe that our security and the security of our nation demands that we do not spare any effort in providing you the opportunity you need for quality education.”
No plan for 70% salary cut, says Niger govt Saka Bolaji Minna
Buhari’s one year: Sirika assures of improved aviation sector Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo
ÎÎÎAs the nation marks the
one year anniversary of the present administration, Nigerians have been assured of government’s determination to revamp the aviation sector to make it contribute more to the National Gross Domestic Product (GDP). According to the Minister of State, Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, the one year-anniversary was only a starting point, as the period had been used to establish a solid foundation for good governance, based on probity, accountability and transparency; elements which were
lacking in previous years. The Federal Government, he said, had during the period, taken steps to ensure that the aviation sector no longer thrived on cosmetic developments, but on solid policy thrusts that would engender a safe, secure, profitable and customer-centred industry. Government, in its drive to improve the security of the airports and safety of passengers, had, within the period, inaugurated a Ministerial Committee on the Assessment of the Security Situation in Nigeria’s Airports, whose report had since been received and was being examined for implementation.
Government, according to Sirika, had also taken steps to enhance the regulatory capacity of the Ministry’s agencies by setting up a Committee to Examine the Acts setting them up, the report and recommendations of which were also been examined. “The recent Aviation Stakeholders Forum, which was held in Abuja recently was another step, which government had taken to ensure that industry players were given the opportunity to properly ventilate and make inputs into government policies and programmes for the sector. This is to address the
issue of non-inclusiveness hitherto expressed by stakeholders”. Sirika said that government had also moved to address the incessant labour crisis bedeviling the aviation industry, by engaging all professional unions to examine all contentious issues, and also put them on the same page with policymakers, the most recent of which were the meetings with members of the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) and the Air Transport Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSAN) in Abuja.
ÎÎÎThe Niger State govern-
ment has denied a report alleging that it was planning to effect a 70 percent salary cut of the state workforce or retrench some workers. Rather, what government did, in its tradition of engaging with stakeholders on issues, was to meet with labour on the present economic meltdown to discuss the way forward. The meeting was presided by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Shehu Umar Danyaya, in which the government informed labour of the precarious condition of the state finance and that the state had been borrowing since January to augment workers’ salary.
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
25 Opinion
Nigeria going Venezuela?
Yinka Odumakin ÏÏÏ
A recent report by Andres Schipani for Financial on the state of affairs in Venezuela should be scary for us as people for if care is not taken that is where we are headed as a country. We have done what Venezuela did in the last one year and excerpt urgent steps are taken, Nigeria’s tomorrow is painted for you below: “On one side, under the burning midday sun of Maracay in north-central Venezuela, hundreds of angry people have been waiting in line since 4am to buy food. On the other side, a group of military men guard the gate of a supermarket. The highnoon showdown is tense. “There is nothing left to sell. If you really wanted to buy food, you should have started queueing at two in the morning,” yells one of the military men. “That is the people’s food,” an angry mother of four retorts. “People are losing patience … we are all tired.”
Snaking queues for scarce staples are a common sight across Venezuela and looting is becoming routine. This poses the biggest risk to Nicolás Maduro, the socialist president. “The situation is very, very critical,” says Marianella Herrera, a professor of food and nutritional public policy at the Central University of Venezuela, who also runs Fundación Bengoa, a watchdog dealing with issues around nutrition. “The anguish when it comes to acquiring food is gigantic and generates violence.” Only days before the supermarket showdown, hundreds of people had broken into the wholesale market next door, which had been guarded by paratroopers in red berets. Eyewitnesses say there was a “stampede”, with people rushing to get their hands on packs of rice, sugar and cornmeal flour. “[It is] written in the Bible, people will kill each other for food,” the voice of a woman can be heard on an amateur video of the looting. To some, like Marcial Salazar, who sells vegetables at the market, the situation is understandable: “People are hungry for food, and hungry for having someone good in power.” Mr. Salazar opens the fridge at his household of six to the Financial Times. Its only contents are a handful of mangoes picked from a nearby tree and plastic bottles filled with tap water. Next to
President Buhari
it, a bucket contains half a kilogramme of black beans, half a kilogramme of dried pasta and one kilogramme of maize flour: “That’s all for the week.” “The people now face the dilemma of taking to the streets to demand change or spending their days queuing in order to feed their families”, said José Ramón Arias, opposition legislator in Maracay. Hampered by nationalisations along with price and currency controls, food production continues to plummet, says Venezuela’s Chamber of Food Industries. Ms Herrera of the Central University of Venezuela, says: “The economic system that rules here has severely [hit] food production. That is compatible with a situation of hunger.” Furthermore, Venezuela is set to continue to
W E A T H E R ABUJA
ASABA
LAgOS
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President Nicolas Maduro of Venezuela
squeeze imports due to depressed prices of oil, which account for 95 per cent of export earnings. Miguel Pérez Abad, the country’s economic tsar, recently told Bloomberg that imports would fall to about $20bn this year from $37bn in 2015. “We’re going to maintain this level of restriction to force the productive sector of the economy to increase output. Hopefully we could cut imports to as low as $15bn.” “The adjustment programme posed by Pérez Abad is of high risk, economically and socially … Socially, it is a time-bomb and if it explodes, there is no way to know the path the country will take,” wrote Carlos Miguel Álvarez and Asdrúbal Oliveros at Ecoanalítica, an economic and financial consultancy based in Caracas. The move may be
aimed at preserving hard currency and paying bondholders, but against the background of a dire recession, nearhyperinflation and barren shelves, 85 per cent of Venezuelans do not trust the government to handle the situation, and blame officials for the current crisis, say local pollsters. Mr. Maduro continues to blame private businesses for waging an “economic war” against him through alleged hoarding. Yet, while Coca-Cola said it would stop producing sugary drinks in the embattled country due to a sugar shortage, Mr. Maduro is tightening the grip on Empresas Polar, Venezuela’s largest food producer. With 96 per cent of Venezuelans identifying food scarcity as their principle problem, a move to further shrink Polar’s
production capacity could become a problem for Mr. Maduro. According to Datanálisis, a pollster, food shortages in Caracas reached 83 per cent in April. Datanálisis adds that Polar can produce five times more food with the same amount of money than Venezuela’s food ministry, which did not reply to requests for comment. Nomura adds that “low inventories” at Polar “are threatening production of the staple cornmeal flour at the end of May”. The food crisis comes as tension and unrest grows due to the opposition’s push for a recall vote to remove Mr. Maduro. While sitting and former regional presidents and the US are calling for dialogue between opposing camps, shortages could spark a social explosion that may lead to his violent ouster”.
R E P O R T KANO Low 28 °C High 35°C
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26
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
Our Heritage Æ s
All hail the new Omo n’Oba Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa , a career diplomat, becomes the new Oba of Benin. Prince Eheneden
Agozino Agozino After a very successful career as Nigeria’s former Ambassador to Norway and Angola, Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa is now about to head one of the country’s most very notable kingdoms. He has been approved as the new Oba of Benin by the Edo State Government. As he climbs the throne of his forefathers in a vital cultural ceremony soon, making him the 39th Oba of Benin, in the lineage of his great grandfather, Oba Ovonranwen N’Ogbaisi, who was sacked by the British forces in 1897, when the ancient kingdom was invaded and its cultural treasures forcefully looted, the new Oba becomes the official custodian of the much culture of the Edo people. Already, all over Nigeria, those who could recall his leadership qualities during his career service and as an international businessman, commend his patience and the zeal to learn and imbibe the sterling qualities of a good king throughout the reign of his late father. Two things make the Benin throne interesting. One is that the Benin monarchy is hereditary, unlike what ob-
tains in other kingdoms. Secondly, the power house in Benin City is the Oba’s palace, with over a century old of wellpreserved history and relics. Sculptural bronze casts, brass works, stone pieces and relics of all kinds, comprising plaques and other forms of art, depicting the land’s history, greets any first time visitor. Major events in the history of the land are also richly preserved in mural sculptures displayed on the walls and panel doors of the Oba’s palace in Benin. The choice of the new Oba, which came soon after the traditional rites of his late father, Oba Eredieuwa Omo n’Oba n’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo followed the decision of the Benin kingmakers, especially, the Iyase, (traditional prime minister) and Edo state government to have a worthy successor to the throne. Unlike the long drawn battle for succession, which often marks the naming of successors to the throne in other climes, his emergence was not contested. The journey to the coveted throne began recently when the new Crown Prince was formally installed, amid pomp and pageantry, as the Edaiken of Uselu, immediately after going through some traditional rites.
Two things make the Benin throne interesting. One is that the Benin monarchy is hereditary, unlike what obtains in other kingdoms. Secondly, the power house in Benin City is the Oba’s palace, with over a century old of well-preserved history and relics. The excitement was expected following keen interest of the people in the throne and the occupier. As the Edaiken of Uselu, it shows that the Crown Prince had completed most of the vital rite before ascending the throne, including staying in Uselu, his temporary abode for 90 days. His entry into Benin recently attracted a large crowd of people, who trooped out to see him. Shops and other business outlets were shut as a mark of honour and solidarity with
the Crown Prince. The Oba Market and some streets as well as roads to some traditional shrines, were cordoned off by security personnel and manned by colorfully-dressed palace chiefs. Politicians and top government officials, led by Gov. Adams Oshiomhole, defied the scorching sun to await the arrival of the Crown Prince, whose convoy, including top Benin Chiefs and combined security team, arrived from his private residence in Benin to the palace. Clad in white and red traditional regalia with a pair of dark glasses, Erediauwa, immediately, on arrival, had a brief consultation with the palace chiefs. Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa, born 1953, was a former Nigerian Ambassador to Norway and Angola. He holds a B.A. in Economics and Sociology from the University of Wales. He is a member of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs. Since 1987, he had been active in leading positions within the Nigerian business community, especially, the gas and oil industry. An excited Eheneden, who was full of gratitude to God and the Benin people, described his journey to the throne as a God-given mission. While reeling out CONTINUED ON PAGE 27
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
Grace and power of Benin monarchy CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26
his plans for the kingdom, he said his dream was to preserve the rich cultural heritage of the people as well as attract more development to Benin Kingdom. Benin history shows that Oba Ewuare was the 13th Oba of Benin, who ruled the kingdom from 1440-1473, and during his rsign, the Benin kingdom conquered Idah in Kogi State, Owo and Akure and some parts of Western Igboland. Ewuare, a shrewd magician who was regarded as a semi-divine monarch, gave Benin City the look of an imperial metropolis. Similarly, Oba Esigie, 16th Oba of the kingdom (1504-1550), according to history, could field 20,000 warriors in one day. Esigie, in an effort to spread Christianity in his realm sent Ohen Okun, the Olokun priest to the king of Portugal as an ambassador to ask him to send priests to Benin to teach him and his people about the Christian faith. He was also reported to have built churches in the city and this inclused the Holy Arosa Cathedral which still stands in Benin till date. The Oba and the King of Portugal exchanged valuable gifts and a Portuguese Ambassador was accredited to Benin. Others historical Benin monarchs include Oba Orhogbua, 1550; Akengboi; Oreogh-
Fact file: The Oba of Benin, or Omo N’Oba, is the traditional ruler of the Edo people and head of the historic Eweka dynasty of the Benin Empire. The ancient Benin homeland has been and continues to be mostly populated by the Edo (also known as the Bini or Benin ethnic group. The title of Oba was created by Oba Eweka I, Benin Empire’s first ‘Oba’, who is said to have ascended to power at some time between 1180 and 1300. The Oba is the Head of State of the empire until the empire’s annexation by the British, in 1897. In 1897, the British launched a Punitive or Imperialist expedition, deposed and exiled the then Oba Ovonramwen, taking control of the area in order to establish the British colony of Nigeria. The expedition was mounted to avenge the defeat by the Binis of a British invasion force that had violated Benin territory earlier in 1896.
Late Erediauwa
enen; Ewuakpe; Ozuere; Akenzua; Eresonyen; Obanosa; Erediauwa Osemwede; Ogbebor; Odinovba Adolor; Aiguobasinmwin Eweka II; Godfrey Akoro Eweka Akenzua The 38th Oba Erediauwa, (1978-2016), like his father, was an accomplished administrator, who used his wealth of experience to rule the people. He was educated in England’s prestigious Cambridge University, as a historian and a lawyer, and as an astute administrator, he rose to the top of both Regional and Federal Civil Service, he worked with, and also advised the former Federal Military Heads of
Late Oba Akenzua
State and some former civilian government officials. Meanwhile, as the Crown Prince undergoes some rites with the kingmakers, in preparedness for the task ahead, residents of Benin and perhaps Edo people in Diaspora, are full of expectations about the reign of the new Oba in the ancient city. Bini people, known for their art and rich cultural heritage, also expect the new monarch to sustain the glamour that the late Oba Akenzua and his father, Omo n’ Oba Erediauwa brought to the throne of Benin. For now, it is a new dawn for the people.
27 Our Heritage
Nibali clinches second g P31 Giro d’Italia title Mourinho I Nibali
taly’s Vincenzo Nibali clinched a second Giro d’Italia victory and a fourth Grand Tour title on Sunday. The Astana rider finished 52 seconds ahead of Colombia’s Esteban Chaves (Orica) in the overall standings with
Alejandro Valverde (Movistar) third. Fellow Italian Giacomo Nizzolo (Trek) was stripped of victory in the final stage after deviating from his sprint line in a bunch finish. Germany’s Nikias Arndt (Giant) was
handed the victory. Nibali was battered and bruised after a terrible performance in last Sunday’s uphill time trial and Tuesday’s mountain stage to Andalo, but when all seemed lost he hit back in style.
is irritating, says Keane
Page 28
Mourinho
Monday, May 30, 2016
PGA: England’s Johnson-Thompson
Johnson-Thompson
Wood wins at
Wentworth
qualifies for Rio Olympic H
Wood
eptathlete Katarina JohnsonThompson qualified for the Rio Olympics, finishing with 6,304 points in coming sixth at the Hypo-Meeting in Gotzis. The 23-year-old needed 6,200 points for Olympic qualification and achieved it with ease in Austria. World silver medallist Brianne TheisenEaton defended her title, setting a world-
leading 6,765-points total. Latvia’s Laura Ikauniece-Admidina was second, with Germany’s Carolin Schafer third. Johnson-Thompson, the 2014 champion, was second overall after setting three personal bests on a promising opening day, but fell behind on day two after failing to shine in the long jump and javelin. The Liverpudlian recorded two legal jumps in the long jump, the furthest of
which was 6.17m - the sixth best of the field and some distance below her lifetime best of 6.92m. But while her performance in one of her favoured events diminished her chances of challenging reigning champion TheisenEaton for the title, it was enough to keep her on course for Olympic qualification - and a major leap towards eradicating the demons of last year’s World Championships in Beijing.
Wawrinka advances to French Open Q-finals
S
tan Wawrinka was so in control during his 7-6 (5), 6-7 (7), 6-3, 6-2 win against Viktor Troicki for a place in the French Open quarterfinals that the defending champion even had time to hit shots with a ball boy. While his Serb opponent, seeded No. 22, was getting treatment to his right leg in the third set, Wawrinka lent the lucky ball boy a racket and kept himself and the crowd amused by hitting with him. But against a tricky Troicki, the third-seeded Swiss was strictly business in cold and humid conditions on Court Philippe Chatrier. Wawrinka needed eight set points to overcome Troicki in the
first set, failing to capitalize on the first four when Troicki was serving at 5-6 and then seeing three more go to waste in the tiebreaker before getting the set lead in 49 minutes. In the second tiebreaker, it was Troicki who needed five set points to break down Wawrinka, who hit an attempted forehand lob long for the Serb to level. Wawrinka caressed a backhand winner to break in the fourth game of the third set, during which Troicki got treatment on his leg and was given pills. In the fourth set, Wawrinka staved off a break point with a sublime cross-court backhand and took a 5-1 lead. An ace brought up two match points for
Wawrinka just shy of the threehour mark and he converted the first when Troicki netted a backhand from the baseline. Milos Raonic is out of the French Open, the eighth-seeded Canadian losing 6-2, 6-4, 6-4 to Albert Ramos-Vinolas in the fourth round in front of new coach John McEnroe. The 55th-ranked player from Spain is into the quarterfinals of a major for the first time, having never made it past the second round of 18 previous Grand Slam tournaments. Cool and very cloudy weather appeared to take some bite out of Raonic’s serve. The quarterfinalist at Roland Garros
in 2014 and semifinalist at this year’s Australian Open also complained of an aching left hip in his previous match. Ramos-Vinolas earned the victory with aggressive shotmaking and some terrific defensive play. He broke Raonic five times and only lost serve once himself, saving 6 of 7 break points. “I have no words to explain how I feel,” he said. “It was four years in a row losing in the first round.” Raonic beckoned over the chair umpire in the last game to inspect a shot that gave RamosVinolas two match points. She ruled it in, pointing out that the ball had nicked the line.
E
ngland’s Chris Wood came from three shots down to win the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth. Wood, 28, carded a three-under-par 69 on the final round to finish one shot ahead of Rikard Karlberg, who struck a stunning 65, including a hole-in-one. “It is the biggest win of my career, I have always wanted to win the tournament and to win with my family here is amazing,” said Wood. Masters champion Danny Willett slipped off the lead to finish third. A poor 76 in the third round cost Willett the title, as he finished on seven-under-par, two shots behind Wood. Bristol’s Wood was fifth after the third day, but held his nerve with one eagle and a further five birdies to claim his third European Tour triumph. “I have worked really hard with my former coach,” Wood told Sky Sports. “He has helped me a lot with my scoring and my pitching, it has been a huge factor missing in my game. I have a great team of people helping me now. “I can’t fault a shot that I hit today. When you are making lots of birdies on a tricky day, you know you are going to be there or thereabouts.”
Monday, May 30, 2016
EXTRATIME
29
NIGERIA PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE WITH ANDREW EKEJIUBA
Agba attracts interest from top NPFL club
F
Agba
ormer Enugu Rangers striker, Sam Agba, may tie up a deal with a top club in the NPFL soon. Agba was part of Wikki Tourists’ preseason activities but couldn’t tie up a deal, after failing to agree on personal terms with the Elephants. The striker’s manager, Rukayat Yunus, has confirmed to Goal that four clubs have shown interest for the pacy striker, Agba whose decision in the box is excellent.
“I can confirm to you that four top clubs in the NPFL have shown interest to sign Sam Agba but at the moment we are studying the details of the offers and would make a final decision soon. We want the identity of these clubs to remain confidential but I’m optimistic that we shall tie up a deal as soon as possible,” Yunus told Goal. “Sam Agba is an orphan, he grew up with Godwin Obaje so they are like brothers. We couldn’t agree terms with
Wikki Tourist that’s why he left before the season started.” According to Sam Agba, he is excited at the interest so far and can’t wait to get started. “I’m happy with the interest shown by these big clubs to secure my services. I can’t wait to get started but I’ll have to wait till a decision is taken which I think should be within seventy-two hours,”Agba said to Goal.
Abia Warriors still in title race, says Ayinde K
abiru Ayinde has maintained that Abia Warriors are not yet out of the 2016 Nigeria Professional Football League title race. Last weekend, Warriors were humbled 2-1 at home by Sunshine Stars and giving other clubs above them the chance to pull away. The former Sunshine Stars centre-back has however refused to rule his side out of the race saying the title contention is still far from over. “We are still firmly in it (title contention), we suffered a set back last weekend but we cannot give up, not just yet,” Ayinde told Goal. “There are many matches to be played in the second round of the League and football can be very unpredictable. “We will work hard to win many matches in the second round, then if luck is on our side we will win the title.” Abia Warriors are ninth on
Rivers United. Warriors play Sunshine Stars
in Akure in their next match on June 5
Warri Wolves’ Itoya gunning for victory against Enyimba
F
resh from beating El-Kanemi Warriors 3-1, Warri Wolves’ Kelvin Itoya says his target is three points against Enyimba when the two sides clash on Saturday at the Umuahia Township Stadium. Itoya scored two goals as Wolves overcame Warriors in their last league outing and the Delta State University alum says they are targeting three points against the reigning Nigeria Professional Football League champions. “The match will be tough, but we are going for three points, we have
to win the match,” Itoya told Goal. “They are a good side but are we are ready and if all goes well we will bag the three points. “We lost to them in the Super Four but that’s behind us now, we are fully focused on winning the match it will be a totally different game. “We understand how Enyimba play and we are ready to counter effectively,” he added. Wolves are 12th on the league table with 25 points, two points behind Enyimba.
returns to
Rangers’ training
Egbuchulam
Abia Warriors
the NPFL table with 27 points, four points adrift of leaders
Echugbulam
Itoya
C
hisom Egbuchulam has resumed training with Enugu Rnagers after recovering from malaria. Chisom has been down with malaria since the Flying Antelopes’ match at home to Heartland on NPFL match day 19. “I resumed back to training on Friday, I feel strong and very ready to go,” Chisom told Goal. Enugu Rangers, who were without the forward in their round of 64 Federation Cup on Friday, knocked out non-league team, Akure City and will face ABS FC of Ilorin in the round of 32. “We have a quality squad that isn’t built around a player so while I’m down the team can still perform. I missed not to have played in that match but I’m confident of team Rangers,” he added. “Now I’m back and I’m very happy to be doing what I love to do the most.”
30
Monday, May 30, 2016
EXTRATIME
Zidane: Aubameyang
Aubameyang
move
speculation nonsense — Dortmund
B
orussia Dortmund have dismissed rumours that star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is about to leave as “nonsense.” Speculation that Gabon international Aubameyang was set to depart increased after journalist Francois David wrote on Twitter that national manager Jorge Costa had been asked not to select him against Mauritania “because he is in the process of changing clubs.” The 26-year-old, who scored 39 goals in all competitions for Dortmund last season, has been linked with a £70 million move to Manchester United. Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester City and Arsenal also reported to be keen.
I dreamt of CL win after getting Madrid job
R
eal Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane reflected on a dream triumph after his side won the Champions League in a tense final against Atletico Madrid on penalties in Milan. Just five months after taking over from the sacked Rafael Benitez, the 43-year-old became the first Frenchman to win the title as a head coach and only the seventh man ever to win it as a player and boss after a 5-3 win in the shoot-out followed a 1-1 draw. Zidane revealed the success had made him feel as proud as former
Madrid stay
R
e
a
l
M a d r i d p re s i d e nt Perez has Cristiano a t after
Florentino said he wants Ronaldo to stay the club “forever” the Portuguese superstar’s shootout penalty won the Champions League final. Ronaldo had struggled to make a major impression as Real drew 1-1 with Atletico Madrid after extra time in Milan -- but he stepped up to smash home his side’s fifth successful penalty to seal a 5-3 shootout success. “Everyone knows I want Cristiano to stay here forever,” he told Antena 3 television. “He is one of the pillars of the team and of the history of the club.
we’ve all worked hard. “When you achieve what we’ve achieved all season it means you’ve done well, that the messages have got through, that the players have followed me and that I’ve followed them. That’s how we’ve managed to win this Champions League. “I have now won Champions League as player, assistant and now head coach - what can I say? I am very proud to be part of this great club for a long time now. “When you have players of this calibre, with this talent, you can achieve something big like we have.
Zidane
Athletico will be back to win CL,says Gabi
Perez A wants Ronaldo
Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti had told him such a triumph would. He said: “I dreamed this, yes. When the president gave me the opportunity to coach this great club, I knew we could achieve something big. It’s huge! Ancelotti told me he hoped I would be able to lift the trophy as a head coach. He told me: ‘If you have a chance of winning as coach, you’ll see it feels nothing like winning the final as a player’ and he was right - it’s a massive joy. “What I’ve brought is my positive attitude. We have quality, but hard work is even more important – and
tletico Madrid captain Gabi is convinced the three-time runners-up will bounce back to win the Champions League after defeat to Real Madrid on penalties. Diego Simeone’s side suffered heartbreak in Saturday’s final losing 5-3 on penalties to their city rivals after extra time could not break the 1-1 deadlock in Milan. It was the second time in three seasons Atletico have lost out to Madrid in the Champions League decider following the 4-1 defeat after extra time in Lisbon two years ago, but Gabi
is adamant his side will eventually claim a maiden crown. “We have to be proud of this team. Starting tomorrow, we have to keep working. This is what is nice and cruel about football,” Gabi told reporters. “The important thing is to be there and I am convinced that this team is going to come back to win a Champions League because it deserves it.” After falling behind to Sergio Ramos’ 15thminute opener, Atletico worked their way into the contest.
Antoine Griezmann saw his 48th-minute penalty cannon off the crossbar before teammate and substitute Yannick Carrasco equalised with 11 minutes remaining. But Madrid came out on top in the shoot-out after Juanfran’s spot-kick hit the post, paving the way for Cristiano Ronaldo to score the winning penalty at San Siro. “I am proud of my team, of my fans, and I’m proud of being of Atletico Madrid. I think that we have given our all and it’s something that happens in football,” Saul added.
Bayern will fight to keep Lewandowski R Lewandowski
eal Madrid have held talks with Poland’s star striker Robert Lewandowski, his agent has confirmed, while Bayern Munich insist they will pay whatever it takes to keep him. “Real Madrid approached us a few weeks ago, we have listened to everything and
informed Bayern that we have held talks,” Lewandowski’s agent Cezary Kucharski told the latest edition of German Magazine Der Spiegel. According to reports in the German media, Real is prepared to pay the Poland striker €25 million per season. Lewandowski finished as the Bundesliga’s top scorer, when he became the first foreigner to score 30 league
goals plus nine in the Champions League, in a tally of 42 in all competitions. It was the first time a player has scored 30 goals in a single German league season in nearly 40 years. The 27-year-old has been on Real’s radar since he scored four goals against the Spanish giants in the 2013 Champions League semifinal for previous club Borussia Dortmund.
Monday, May 30, 2016
EXTRATIME
Mourinho
BRIEFS
Chelsea told to pay £8m for
will give
Man United needed‘X’factor
need-Lampard
Mammana C
Mourinho
helsea have been told they will be able to sign Emanuel Mammana from River Plate for as little as £8 million, but face competition from Inter and Fiorentina in the race for his signature. Goal understands that the 20-year-old centre-back’s representative Hernan Reguera has been in London for initial talks with Chelsea, as River Plate have given the green light for their prized asset to move to Europe. And the defender is available for a small fee, as a River source told Goal: “if Chelsea put up £8m, they will get Mammana.” Mammana’s contract expires in June 2019 and he has a release clause of around £11m but the Argentine side will accept less in order to move him on quicker. Reguera will fly to Italy next week to talk with Fiorentina and Inter before making a decision on Mammana’s future. Inter vice president Javier Zanetti has confirmed his club’s interest amid reports they are also looking to sign River striker Lucas Alario. “We will insist on Mammana, for the moment, we are not negotiating for Alario” he told ESPN.
Mourinho is irritating, Lampard
T
he former Chelsea midfielder expects the Portuguese to succeed as manager of the Red Devils and says he will get the best out of the players already at Old Trafford Frank Lampard believes new Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho provides the club with the “X factor” they have been missing. The former Chelsea boss has signed a three-year contract to replace Louis van Gaal at Old Trafford, with the option of an additional season. Lampard played under Mourinho in both of his spells as Chelsea manager and is confident the self-styled ‘Special One’ can transform United’s fortunes. “Jose will have a massive effect at United,” the New York City midfielder told The Sun . “He knows how to get a team winning by putting his own imprint on them. His personality reflects his teams and, looking from afar, Manchester United have needed that. “They had a lot of quality in their squad, but not much oomph. Jose gives them the X factor – he did that at Chelsea. I know it didn’t end perfectly there, but I can see him succeeding at United. “He has good players and people like Wayne Rooney will respond to him because he understands them. He has worked with so many top players and he knows exactly how to get the best out of them. He is a top manager and a team like United need a top manager. I’m not a Manchester United fan, but I don’t think anyone can say they aren’t licking their lips at the prospect of Mourinho, [Pep] Guardiola, [Jurgen] Klopp, [Antonio] Conte and [Arsene] Wenger all going up against each other.” Concerns have been raised over whether Mourinho’s style of play will be too negative for United supporters, but Lampard does not buy into that argument. The 37-year-old added: “I don’t think United played great football last year from watching them. Jose is a man who knows how to get a win and sometimes that isn’t always with fluent football.
31
says Keane J
ose Mourinho has been described as “really irritating” by former Manchester United captain Roy Keane after his appointment as manager. The former Chelsea boss has signed a three-year deal, with the option of an additional year, to replace Louis van Gaal at Old Trafford. Keane is not a fan of Mourinho’s management style, but does concede he has the credentials
to bring United back to the top after three years with finishes of seventh, fourth and fifth since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013. “He is not my cup of tea,” Keane told ITV. “I found him really irritating when I coached against him, but that is just a personal thing. “Working at Manchester United is all about winning and his CV will tell you he is a winner. He was always going to be a good option when United didn’t qualify for the
Champions League “He was available, fantastic CV and it seems like a good fit, but maybe he is not for me.” Keane was also asked about speculation linking Zlatan Ibrahimovic with a move to United and he was positive about the prospect. “I think he would be a good signing on a one-year deal,” added the Republic of Ireland assistant manager.
Sterling bemoans goal draught at Man City M
anchester City attacker Raheem Sterling feels he has improved since joining the club, but knows his end product must improve next season. Raheem Sterling admits he did not score or create enough goals in his first season at Manchester City. The England international made 47 appearances for the club following his £49 million move from Liverpool last July, scoring 11 times. But Sterling acknowledges his end product needs to be better under Pep Guardiola next season, even if he feels he has made important
mental strides forward following his move. “I have learned quite a bit going into City for my first year and I think I’m improving,” he said after England’s win over Australia. “I probably haven’t scored as many goals or assisted as many goals as I wanted to, but I’m definitely improving mentally. That’s the most important thing for me, the mentality to not listen to outsiders, just concentrate on being myself and expressing myself.” Sterling was deployed in a central attacking role in Friday’s 2-1 win
against Australia and he enjoyed that opportunity after playing a part in both goals from Marcus Rashford and Wayne Rooney. He added: “It’s a position where I can get in behind and I’m close to the goal.
Sterling
Leicester to sign Hanover keeper Zieler
E
nglish champions Leicester City are set to strengthen their squad for next season by signing World Cup winner goalkeeper Ron-Robert Zieler from relegated Hanover 96, the German club announced on Sunday. The 27-year-old ‘keeper is set to travel
to England on Monday to complete the medical with his transfer to cost a reported €3.5 million after he activated a release clause in his Hanover contract. Cologne-born Zieler will be returning to England having spent two years as a trainee at Manchester United, plus a loan spell at
Northampton Town. He joined Hanover in 2010 and made 185 league appearances, and was captain of the club, before 96 were relegated having finished last in Germany’s top flight. Zieler has made five appearances for Germany and was part of the squad which
won the 2014 World Cup, but did not play a single minute in Brazil. He has not been selected for next month’s European championships in France, but is set to challenge Danish goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel for Leicester’s No 1 shirt next season.
Published by FOLIO COMMUNICATIONS LTD, Lateef Jakande Road, Agidingbi, Ikeja. website: www.dailytimes.ng; email: info@dailytimes.ng. Tel: 018447948. GROUP EDITOR: BIODUN DUROJAIYE News Hotlines: 08138773277, 08173901838. Advert Hotlines: 08086296714
MONDAY, MAY 30, 2016
VOL. 2. NO.119
Price: N150
Siasia go for broke
in Rio …Aims to surpass Beijing Olympics’Silver medal
N
igeria Under-23 team head coach, Samson Siasia, has declared that the country will “aim for gold” at the men’s football event of the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro this year. Siasia is keen on surpassing his personal best at the Olympics football event in which he guided Nigeria to a silver medal in 2008 in Beijing. “The last time I took the U23s to the Olympics, we won silver. This time, we will aim for gold,” said Siasia. The former Nigeria international striker is preparing a squad of 20 players for this year’s Summer Olympics and will see them feature in an invitational tournament in South Korea. Siasia also took time to draw inspiration from being regarded as powerhouses. The Nigerian trainer prefers not to have his team rated highly like the case was before the Africa Under-23 Cup of Nations in Senegal. “Not many people gave us a chance going to the African finals in Senegal. We love it that way because so much focus is on the other teams and we are able to concentrate on devising our own strategies,” he said.
Siasia has already named a 20-man roster for the tournament in Suwon to prepare for the Olympics with Azubuike Okechukwu, Stanley Amuzie, Ndifreke Effiong, Erhun Obanor, Ubong Ekpai, Usman Mohammed, Stanley Dimgba, Taiwo Awoniyi, Saviour Godwin and Tiongoli Tonbara being among those called up. Nigeria’s under-23s are in Group
B of the Olympic men’s football event with Sweden, Colombia and Japan. Siasia’s men start off their quest for a gold medal against Japan on August 4 before facing Sweden three days later. They will round off their group games in Sao Paulo against Colombia on August 10.
Ahead 2016 Olympics:
Nigerian
contingent to camp in
UK,US
Siasia
N
igeria Olympic team will train in Manchester, in England, and Atlanta, in the United States of America preparatory to the Rio Olympics in August. The Nigeria U23 team, led by coach Samson Siasia, will this week feature at the Suwon Invitational Tournament in Korea. Thereafter they will train in Manchester before heading to Atlanta, USA, from where it will travel to Rio de Janeiro for the Olympics. Atlanta was the setting for Nigeria’s triumph at the men’s football tournament of the
Olympics in 1996 – a first for an African country. And Siasia said he can reproduce this feat in Rio. “Not many people gave us a chance going to the African finals in Senegal. We love it that way because so much focus is on the other teams and we are able to concentrate on devising our own strategies,” he said. “The last time I took the U-23 to the Olympics, we won silver. This time, we will aim for gold.” In Rio, Nigeria will play in Group B of the tournament against Sweden, Colombia and Japan.
Business Times Daily Times Nigeria
Buhari raises alarm over illegal Page B2 mining
Diversification: DMO highlights govt policies to strengthen naira, boost economy Page B3
Tax inspectors without borders and matters arising for Nigeria tax audit process
Customs recovers 1,533 units of smuggled generators
CONTINUED ON PAGE B2
Chukwuemeke Iwelunmo
L-R: Prime Minister of Mozambique, Mr. Carlos Agostinho do Rosário; President of African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr. Akinwumi Adesina; Chairman of UBA Plc and Founder, Tony Elumelu Foundation, Mr. Tony Elumelu and President of Zambia, Mr. Edgar Lungu, during the annual meeting of AFDB held in Lusaka, Zambia… recently.
We shall expose, prosecute wage thieves in civil service – Buhari Joy Ekeke President Muhammadu Buhari has vowed to end wage theft and other forms of financial leakage prevalent in the civil service. The President in his Democracy Day speech on Sunday noted that Nigeria needed strong and incorruptible pillars of state administration on which democracy can take root and thrive. “Accordingly, we are working very hard to introduce some vital
Page B4
Drug trafficking: Monitor flights from Middle, Far East, South Africa, security expert advises NDLEA
Charles Okonji The Customs in Ogun State has stated that the command has confiscated no fewer than 1,533 units of the banned generating set, popularly known as “I better pass my neighbour,” which was smuggled into the country through one of the smugglers rout. Shittu Almaruf, Assistant Comptroller, who is the team leader, made the disclosure in a statement made available to newsmen recently in Lagos, stating that the seizures were made on May 19, along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. He said; ``Similarly, the team
Monday, May 30, 2016
structural reforms in the way we conduct government business and lay a solid foundation on which we can build enduring change. He noted that as well as adopting a savings culture, government has changed the way public money is spent. “An important first step has been to get our housekeeping right. So we have reduced the extravagant spending of the past. We started boldly with the treasury single account, stopping the leakages in public expenditure.
“We then identified forty-three thousand ghost workers through the integrated payroll and personal information system. That represents pay packets totaling N4.2 billion stolen every month. In addition, we will save twenty-three billion per anum from official travelling and sitting allowances alone.” President Buhari stressed that the government’s efficiency unit will cut costs and eliminate duplications in ministries and departments to make every little saving
count. “The reduction in the number of ministries and work on restructuring and rationalization of the MDAs is well underway. When this work is complete we will have a leaner, more efficient public service that is fit for the purpose of changing Nigeria for the good and for good,” he said. Meanwhile on Friday in IperuRemo, Ogun State, while monitoring the biometric data capturing of officers and men of the NigeCONTINUED ON PAGE B2
Aviation Security Expert and the Chief Executive Officer of Centurion Securities, Group Capt. John Ojikutu (rtd) has advised the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to beam its search light on flights from Middle and Far East, East and South Africa. Ojikutu’s advice is coming on the heels of Emirates flight from Sao Paulo, Brazil to Dubai, United Arab Emirates that was forced to make emergency landing at the international wing of the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA), Lagos due to due to the deteriorating health condition of a suspected cocaine traffickers. He posited that the anti drug agency alone or passengers on the route or coming from Brazil, as other routes such as the flight operations from the Middle East and South Africa are routes operated by traffickers. According to him, “The NDLEA search light on cocaine traffickers should not be on Emirate flights alone or on passengers coming from Brazil; focus should be on all flights from Middle & Far East, East & South Africa, especially, Middle East, Egypt, Ethiopian, Kenyan Airlines, etc.” Proper attention, the former Military Airport Commandant for MMIA hinted must be given to passengers on Ethiopian Airlines especially the flights to Enugu, adding that these are the airlines and their routes for more than four decades.
MTN unveils Nigeria’s first converged digital TV, OTT-VOD service Tony Nwakaegho Nigeria has now ventured into the era of Telecommunications, Broadcasting and Media convergence as MTN Nigeria unveils the pilot of its digital television broadcasting service in Jos, Plateau State. The TV service, which has gone live, is sequel to the issuance of a
digital broadcast licence to MTN by the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) last year. According to Ferdi Moolman, CEO, MTN Nigeria, “MTN is committed to providing Nigerians with innovative digital platforms which will enhance the way we live, work and play. Once we commence full commercial activities, the TV service will deliver an ex-
citing bouquet of rich local and international content to Nigerians. “In addition, subscribers will have the freedom to watch their favourite programs when they choose to via MTN VOD service, rather than having to watch at a specific broadcast time. This will be the first fully converged broadcast and Over-the-Top TV servicevideo-on-demand (OTT-VOD ser-
vice) to launch in MTN.” “Indeed, the launch of MTN TV is another bold demonstration of MTN’s abiding faith in the future of Nigeria, driving growth and development by enabling Nigerians keep pace with the latest global trends and converged solutions.” Commenting further, Lynda Saint-Nwafor, MTN Nigeria executive, said “MTN’s vision is to lead
the delivery of a bold new digital world. We are committed to exploring opportunities and avenues to expand our digital footprint and value offering to our customers. We are therefore constantly seeking appropriate channels to place the latest technologies and services in the hands of Nigerians, and this is one of such.”
Business News B2
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
Customs recovers 1,533 units of smuggled generators
17 years of democracy, healthy for nationhood – Glo Globacom, telecommunications operator, says seventeen years of uninterrupted civilian rule have been good for the development of the nation. In a goodwill message released in Lagos on Friday to felicitate with Nigerians on Democracy Day, Globacom said the sustenance of democracy for nearly two decades was gradually leading Nigeria on the path of justice, liberty, and equality. “The last 17 democratic years of our nation have been a learning curve for politicians and citizens who have improved on internal and external communication and amicable resolution of issues in a peaceful and democratic manner. This culminated in the watershed election that led to the ouster of a sitting government through the ballot for the first time in the country,” Globacom said. The next generation network added: “We urge all the arms of government to cooperate and firm up strategies to pull Nigeria out of dire straits. They should also formulate viable and enduring strategies that will make the country live up to its appellation as the giant of Africa, whilst building institutions that would safeguard the perpetuation of democratic ethos in the country.” Globacom called on all Nigerians to support government in its efforts to build a viable economy, adding that such collaboration would lead to the triumph over the current challenges in the near future. It also encouraged all to continue to make sacrifices and offer prayers for God to turn potentials which abound in the country to advantages. On the part of the country’s leaders, Globacom called for careful harnessing of the human and natural resources in such a way that the journey to the Promised Land would be realized. The leader in data services recalled that it was the civilian regime that opened the telecommunications landscape and ensured that telephone services became available and affordable to the masses. The achievements in the sector, the company added, were the dividends of democracy.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1
L-R: Director, Eko DisCo, Ernest Oji; Chairman, Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), Victor Osibodu; President, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Dr. Frank Udemba Jacobs; Acting Director General, Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Vincent Akpotaire; Chairman, Ibadan DISCO, Mr. Tunde Ayeni and Managing Director, 4Power Consirtium, Mr. Matthew Ederbie, after an interactive meeting of DISCO Owners Association in Abuja over the weekend.
Buhari raises alarm over illegal mining ÏSays security team to check menace Ï^ ƍƎ Ƅƍ ƑƆƎ z ƍƉƕ ƈè Ǝ Ƅƍ Opeoluwani Akintayo President Muhammadu Buhari has condemned activities of illegal miners in the country. Speaking during this year’s Democracy Day broadcast monitored in Lagos on Sunday, he assured that special a security team had been set up to check the illegality, adding that the security team is responsible for protecting the nation’s mining assets. He disclosed that special measures are being put in place to protect miners in their work environment. According to him, the Ministry of Solid Mineral Resources has produced a roadmap where Nigeria would work closely with the World Bank and major international investors to ensure best practices and due diligence in the mining sector. ``With respect to solid minerals, the minister has produced a roadmap where we will work closely with the world Bank and major international investors to ensure, through best practices and due diligence, that we choose the right partners. ``Illegal mining remains a problem and we have set up a special security team to protect our assets. ``Special measures will be in place to protect miners in their work environment,” he added. President Buhari, who announced the official inauguration of his administration’s Social Protection Programme, lamented
Buhari
that Nigerian society had been neglecting the poor and victimising the weak. ``For too long, ours has been a society that neglects the poor and victimises the weak. ``A society that promotes profit and growth over development and freedom. ``A society that fails to recognize that,” to quote the distinguished economist Amartya Sen, “poverty is not just lack of money. It is having the capability to realize one’s full potential as a human being.” ``So, today, I am happy to formally launch, by far the most ambitious social protect programme in our history.’’ He, therefore, expressed optimism that the programme would lift million of Nigerians out of poverty while at the same time creating the opportunity for people to fend for themselves. According to him, N500 billion has been appropriated in the 2016 budget for social
in another operation intercepted a bus along the Sagamu-IjebuOde Expressway, laden with 542 cartons of foreign frozen poultry products.’’ Almaruf noted that his squad was saddled with the responsibility of enforcement of the fiscal policies of the Federal Government with regard to trade, in conjunction with other anti-smuggling arms of the NCS, adding that after the seizures were made, the truck was taken to the Customs House in Abeokuta, alongside the Mini-bus conveying the frozen poultry products, which where 100 per cent examined.
369 ICT inventors to participate in 2016 GITEX context in Dubai - NITDA Charles Okonji The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has stated that369 young Nigerian inventors have applied to participate in the 2016 Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX) in Dubai, UAE. Mrs Hadiza Umar, the NITDA’s Head of Corporate Affairs, disclosed this recently while addressing newsmen in Abuja. Umar said that out of the 369 applicants from Nigeria, the first 10 shortlisted by the organisers would be sponsored by the agency for the exhibition in October. ``Application for participation in GITEX 2016 closed on May 19 and we received 369 entries from Nigerians at home and the Di-
aspora, while the first 10 applicants will go and represent the country at the exhibition. ``All participants were asked to send in the software or hardware created by them, and stating the uniqueness and relevance of such innovations. ``The exhibition is to showcase world class Information and Communication Technology (ICT), innovations of talented young graduates around the world. ``The best GITEX innovator is to get one million dollars, while every participant stands the chance of connecting with major stakeholders in ICT around the world,” she said. Umar added that the list of shortlisted applicants would soon be compiled and made available to the public.
zƄ ƉƉ ƄƒƋ Ƅè Ƌƍ ƄƃƏƎƄ Ƒ Ƅ Ǝ ƆƄƐƄ in civil service – Buhari CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1
rian Police under the Integrated Payment and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), Minister of Finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun hinted that EFCC will soon prosecute ghost workers. According to the minister, all ministries, departments and agencies of the Federal Government would be enrolled into IPPIS platform. Adeosun pointed out that through the platform and Bank Verification Number (BVN), the President Muhammadu Buhariled administration continued to uncover ghost workers on its payroll. She said: “The figure keeps
changing. Every day we keep cleaning up the payroll and this has been going on for a long time. But so far it seems it is about 43,000 and it keeps on increasing and we would continue until we remove all. “Every time we remove those who shouldn’t be there, it creates room to employ those who are ready to work and create money to spend on things the country needs. We are in talks with the EFCC and they are going to start the prosecutions very soon.” Asked whether ghosts can actually be prosecuted, Adeosun noted that “ghost workers” are merely generic terms for certain categories of those drawing money illegally from government coffers.
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
B3 Money Market
Diversification: DMO highlights govt policies to strengthen naira, boost economy Stories by Motolani Oseni The Director-General Debt Management Office (DMO), Dr. Abraham Nwankwo has said the naira and foreign exchange reserves will recover in the coming years as the impact of government’s economy diversification plan begins to develop the Nigerian economy. Speaking at a Breakfast Meeting with Finance Correspondents Association of Nigeria (FICAN) at the weekend in Lagos, Dr. Nwankwo noted that government’s efforts in revalitalising the agriculture sector, solid minerals, manufacturing and taxa-
tion will have massive impact on the economy in the next three to five years. He said with government’s diversification project in full gear, Nigeria’s economic growth and development will no longer be determined by movement in the prices of crude oil. According to the DMO boss, a lot of revenues will be derived from taxation going adding that the country’s low comparative tax revenue to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio which stands at about seven percent, against 18 percent average in most developing countries, would be improved on as the
country begins to gain strength in production. “You can see that in the manufacturing sector, some factories are operating below capacity. But with the ongoing implementation of President Muhammadu Buhari policy on diversification of the economy and revitalising the power infrastructure, the sector will pick up and create more jobs for the people,” he said. Nwankwo said achieving selfsufficiency in power will enable government generate more income; companies will be able to pay more taxes, thereby helping government diversify its rev-
enue bases. “In the next five to seven years, solid minerals will be exported. It is possible that in the next five to seven years, the whole picture of Nigeria will be a complete turnaround because of government’s economy diversification plan. The difference between Nigerian and other countries facing similar economic challenges is that those countries do not have the same opportunities we have in Nigeria. Nigeria is near 100 per cent idle capacity, meaning the flexibility to grow the economy is high,” he said. “Indeed in other countries, the major source of revenue is taxa-
Sterling Bank celebrates 2016 children day with IDPs As the public and private sectors celebrated with children across the country, it was all smiles for children at the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs Camp) in Jos, the Plateau State capital, as Sterling Bank Plc took the 2016 Children’s Day celebration to the IDPs camp. The Management of the bank, were represented by the Group Head, Strategy & Communications, Mr. Shina Atilola, who celebrated, dined and also donated various food items, clothes and toys to the delight of the kids at the IDPs camp. In other activities to mark the day, the Bank according to a statement, also hosted students from both public and private schools to a party at its corporate head office in Lagos, and also donated its financial literacy books; “Funds” and “My Little Money Book’ to the Lagos State Government for onward distribution to pupils and students of the schools in a bid to promote financial literacy among the students. Ensuring the online community was not left behind, a “selfie campaign” encouraging parents to post “selfies” taken with their children was initiated; family and friends of contestants were encouraged to vote and the top three posts were awarded prizes. A “selfie” is a photograph taken of oneself with a smartphone or webcam and shared via social media.
tion. Taxation should also be explored. Government should be able to sustain itself with taxation revenues. Now with the better tax compliance, and effective sanctions for defaulters, we have a room to boost public revenue from taxation,” Dr. Nwankwo stated. The DMO boss said government has made significant progress in agriculture adding that in the next five to seven years, Nigeria would have reduced its reliance on imported foods, tackled unemployment and created huge jobs for the people because production is synonymous with job creation.
L-R: President, Nigerian Stock of Exchange (NSE)/Distinguished Guest lecturer, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; President, Pearl Awards, Mr. Tayo Orekoya; Former Director-General, NSE/ Chairman of occasion, Apostle (Dr.) Hayford Alile and Chief Executive Officer, NSE, Mr. Oscar Onyema, during a public lecture titled: ‘Global National Socio-Economic Challenges & Renaissance: whither the Nigerian Capital Market?, held in Lagos…recently.
GTBank clinches 2016 most innovative Bank in Africa Guaranty Trust Bank Plc has been adjudged 2016 Most Innovative Bank in Africa, even as the Managing Director/CEO of the bank, Mr. Segun Agabje bags the African Banker of the Year award during the recent annual general meeting of the African Development Bank in Lusaka, Zambia. Guaranty Trust Bank was nominated for three awards including the 2016 African Bank of the Year award, Best Retail Bank and the Innovation Bank of the year award. GTB was the only Nigerian bank that clinched any award at this year’s African Bankers Award. According to organizers of the award, Agbaje had been awarded the African Banker of the year “for his leadership of the Nigerian banking giant,
one of Africa’s most profitable banks.” Commenting on the awards ceremony, Publisher of African Banker Magazine; Mr. Omar Ben Yedder said “Technology is constantly shaping the banking landscape and the bank of tomorrow will be those who continually leverage advancements in technology to pioneer innovative products and services to create sustainable value for their stakeholders and improve the overall customer experience. GTBank through the introduction of its Bank 737 – products has redefined the traditional bricks and mortar experience to a swift, convenient and mobile user-friendly experience. He stated, “In today’s banking, there is no room for complacency as there is so much
expectation for growth and development to ensure we achieve the transformation we all desire and work towards. Seeing a local African bank take the initiative in leveraging technological advancements to drive inclusive banking across Africa is highly commendable. Receiving the award on behalf of the Bank, Segun Agbaje, Managing Director/CEO of GTBank said: “We are delighted and honoured to be recognized as the Most Innovative Bank in Africa. For us, winning this award is an attestation of our commitment to continually pioneering new innovative products and services that enable us push the frontiers of service delivery. According to him, “Our vision has always been to create
an oasis of excellence in Africa, and buoyed by this accolade, we are determined to achieve more and consolidate our leading position in the banking industry by radically adopting innovative solutions, pursuing collaborations, and maintaining a high standard in creating sustainable value for stakeholders. However, it is known fact that the lender has consistently played a leading role in Africa’s banking industry and reported the best financial ratios for a Financial Institution in the industry with a return on equity (ROE) of 25.5percent and a cost to income ratio of 44.4percent, evidencing the efficient management of the banks’ assets. Overall, the Bank has enshrined its position as a clear leader in the industry.
Thought Leadership B4
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
Tax inspectors without borders and matters arising for Nigeria tax audit process Recently the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) announced that it will commence a new program under the Tax Inspectors without Borders (TIWB) initiative in Botswana, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Liberia, Malawi and Nigeria. TIWB is a joint initiative of the OECD and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) designed to support developing countries to build tax audit capacity. This initiative complements the broader efforts of the international community to strengthen international cooperation on tax matters. The objective of the initiative is to make a significant contribution to the domestic resource mobilization efforts of central governments and tax administrations of developing countries. The TIWB program becomes important against the backdrop of complexities in
global business that has made governments of most developing economies incapable of deriving its fair share of taxes on economic activities carried on within its borders. According to the OECD, “Tackling complex international tax arrangements which divert profits otherwise liable for corporate tax, calls for skilled tax auditors. A well-trained tax team can identify high risk cases and uncover the arrangements that strip much-needed tax revenue from governments” Essentially, the TIWB makes a pool of highly skilled and vastly experienced tax audit professionals available to the tax administrations of countries that has signed up to the initiative. Under the TIWB initiative, tax audit professionals work alongside local officials of developing country tax administrations on real case tax audits and tax audit related issues. TIWB aims
to transfer technical know-how and skills to developing countries’ tax auditors, as well as to share knowledge of global best practices. The TIWB initiative may include pre-audit risk assessment and case selection, investigatory techniques, audit cases involving transfer pricing issues, or industry specific issues, relating for example to energy and natural resources, e-commerce, financial services or telecommunications. While it may be too early to evaluate the level of success the TIWB initiative, it is interesting to note that according to the OECD, to date, TIWB has delivered a conservatively estimated USD185 million in additional revenues from programs across Africa, Asia and Latin America. A case in point is Colombia, where the TIWB initiative was responsible for a ten-fold increase in tax revenue from USD 3.3 million in 2011 to USD
33.2 million in 2014! Similarly, Kenya recorded an additional tax revenue of USD23million in 2012 after receiving technical support from the OECD on a single case. One may argue that the Nigerian tax administrators have significant number of years of experience under their belts when it comes to tax audit process. Tax audits have been carried out in Nigeria for decades. However, the advent of digital economy, ecommerce and globalization has radically altered the business models hitherto commonplace in Nigeria. The taxman requires new skills, new thinking and new strategies to keep pace with current realities. On the strength of this, TIWB will be very helpful to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS). In the aspect of transfer pricing, the general perception among taxpayers is that Nigeria
is still a neophyte in this business, hence the FIRS will “take it easy” on taxpayers and “learn the ropes” with the passage of time. This may no longer be the case. With the TIWB personnel embedded with the FIRS, taxpayers should be ready to face a highly skilled and vastly experienced TP audit team. From the foregoing, it is imperative that taxpayers ensure that robust documentation are kept with respect to their financial and operational activities. For the Nigerian Government, the TIWB initiative cannot come at a better time than now when the crude oil, the main source of Government revenue is bedeviled by low prices. •By Victor Adegite, Manager, Tax, Regulatory and People Services, KPMG Advisory Services, Lagos, Nigeria victor.adegite@ng.kpmg.com
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
B5 Feature
Why SON partners PAPDA, others to sanitise phone market Ï ƕ ƍ Ɔ Ƒ ƏƆ ƈ ƐƆƏƆƗ ƓƈƐ dRM ƓƈƋƋ ƄƆ ƆƈƖƆƗ Ɨ Ɛ Ɔ ƇƇƆ ƗƆƏ ƍƏ ƆƅƑƐƆƗ
Angya
ƍ ƏƐ Ƈ ƈƐ ƆƇƇ ƏƐ Ɛ Ɠ ƏƗ ƈƐƈ ƈ Ɛ Ɔ Mƈ ƆƏƈ ƌ ƏƊƆƐ Ƈ ƑƄ Ɛ Ɨ ƏƗ ƌ ƄƈƋƆ ƍ Ɔ Ɨ ƆƋƈƌƈ Ɛƈ Ɛ Ɔ ƈ ƋƆƒƆƋ Ƈ ƅ ƌƍƋ ƈ Ɛ ƈ ƑƆ Ƅ Ɛ ƆƏƈ Ə Ƒ Ɨ ƎƑ ƋƈƐƕè Ɠ ƏƏ Ɛƕ Ɨ ƍƏ ƗƑƅƐ Ƌƈ ƄƈƋƈƐƕ ƏƆƎƑƈƏƆƌƆ Ɛ Ƈ ƌ ƄƈƋƆ ƍ Ɔ è Ɛ Ɔ dƐ Ɨ ƏƗ RƏ ƈ Ɛƈ Ƈ Mƈ ƆƏƈ ædRMç ƈ ƍ ƏƐ ƆƏƈ Ɛ Ɔ ƑƌƆƏ ^Ə ƐƆƅƐƈ Ƒ ƅƈƋ æ ^ ç Ɨ Ɛ Ɔ ^ Ɔ Ɨ ƋƋƈƆƗ ^Ə ƗƑƅƐ #Ɔ ƋƆƏ ƅƈ Ɛƈ æ^ ^# çè ƓƏƈƐƆ CHARLES OKONJI. According to the Acting Director General, SON, Mr. Paul Angya, the use and sale of substandard mobile phones and accessories in the country has become a menace affecting the quality of service among other consequences. The DG who disclosed this during a stakeholders forum on phone and allied products in Lagos, pointed out the challenges faced by the sector, agreeing and sharing ideas on how to improve the sector and the Nigerian economy at large. He said; “It is important to note that over the years technological growth and the need for ease of communication as a tool for socio economic development has not been fully utilised. There is expansion of Information Communication Technology infrastructure of the country. The health hazards and the impact of substandard phone on users, Network quality and the economy is appalling; hence the need for effective monitoring of this sector but not without first educating the relevant stakeholders on the requirements of the standard, compliance and punishment for offenders which necessitated this forum. “Substandard phones are not durable and have a higher radiation level under extreme temperatures and during
charging these phones can explode resulting in loss of lives and properties. Since fake/substandard phones are not tested for compliance with industry safety standards and other national and international standards, they might contain dangerous levels of harmful elements such as lead (Pb). They usually have inoperable speakers, low resolution cameras, slow and old processors that result in poor network connectivity.” “However, the government through the SON intends to ensure the safety of its citizens while using mobile phones and tablets through compliance to standards and enforcement of standards. In August 2013, our enforcement team visited the computer village to address PAPDA and CAPDA on the concerns that there is an increase in the influx of substandard phones which has proliferated the Computer Village market and the need for all dealers; importers to register their brand with SON for traceability and compliance with standards. Angya mandated the dealers that the information on their product must include the following as a minimum; the name of the manufacturer, the importing company with traceable address and identification codes which will be made available to the
SON, stressing that only a few dealers have complied with this requirement. He said; “After June, this year 2016, all proliferators of fake and substandard mobile phones and accessories will be prosecuted. Customers must obtain receipt and a 12month warranty on purchased phones. Any phone unregistered with the SON will be seized and the offenders prosecuted. The SONCAP, (Standards Organisation of Nigeria Conformity Assessment) scheme was established to ensure only, tested and safe products are brought into the Nigerian market. All importers and manufacturers must comply with these requirements. It is expected that at the end of this forum, manufacturers, importers, dealers and consumers will be aware of what to look out for in a quality, safe and durable mobile phone or accessories and their individual role in terms of product liability. “Complaints about the issues of liability have flooded the authority and this problem has gotten to an epidemic level. We have received so much complaints about quality, standards of handsets and refusal of your members to compensate or refund to the victims what is due to them. “Starting from June this year, we will be marking shops of
products that are registered with SON. We are going to have stickers that cannot be faked. Anybody who is registered with SON will be displayed to say this is a SON registered phone dealer and once we come and we find out that you do not have this sticker, we will confiscate the products. Whether you have the best phones in the world or not as long as it is not registered, there is a presumption that you are dealing with fake and substandard products. We will seal up your shop and this effective from June. The DG noted that the use of phones in the Nigerian market has enormously increased in the last few years and is still increasing, maintaining that the increase has induced the high influx of substandard phones in the country even after SON and CPC have raided the markets severally. The Executive Chairman, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) who was represented by Mr Kenneth Uzoekwe, stated that African countries especially Nigeria have been identified as home for imported substandard goods, stressing that this trend applies in almost all goods; household appliances, consumables, electronic devices, automobiles to mention a few. He noted that counterfeiting
is a global concern in view of its direct correlation with theft, crime, tax, evasion, poor service delivery and the likes, pointing out that according to reports, worldwide combined shipments of mobile phones for 2015 were estimated to exceed 1.9 billion units. He said this number constitutes about 15 to 20 per cent of the global fake mobile phone market in terms of units sold, noting that the obvious negative economic impact of this ugly trend on genuine manufacturers, government and dealers culminate in brand devaluation, loss of revenue and tax, healthy competition, national security and loss of employment opportunities. “This menace also poses danger to health and safety of consumers. It is our hope that this forum will come up with a resolution that will help government facilitate interagency collaboration in checking the menace,” he said. He said those dealing with fake and substandard phones should start thinking of a new business to do, saying that later in the year, fake phones will not be allowed on the network. We are working with agencies and international organization to pick up all the genuine handsets with IMEI numbers to be registered on our database.
Capital Market B6
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
Banking Index surges 12.61 ƋƄƍƃƄ Ǝ Ƅ Ƅ d9 ƓéƎéƕ Ɖ Ƅ Stories by Afolabi Adesola
Charles Aigbe, Divisional Head, Marketing & Corporate Relations, UBA (2nd right) with teachers and students of Grace Garden International School, Abuja; first prize winners in the secondary school category at the FCT Inter-school Performing Acts Competition (FIPAC 2016) organised by The Studios, Abuja/Performing Arts School and sponsored by UBA, recently in Abuja.
NSE: Investors gain N647.8 billion as ASI adds 6.6% The Nigerian equities market surged to a record high last week, following positive reactions from Federal Government’s plan to introduce flexibility into the foreign exchange management Lead market indicator (ASI) having added 1,785.8 points or 6.6 percent in the course of the week, settled at 28,902.25 points. Although it began the previous week with a year-to-date (YTD) loss of 5.3 percent, the gains recorded pushed YTD returns to +0.91 percent. In the same manner, market capitalization added N647.8 billion last week and appreciated by 6.58 percent to close the week at N9.926 trillion, while all other indices also finished higher during the week. A turnover of 2.338 billion
shares worth N14.789 billion in 24,942 deals were traded last week by investors on the floor of The Exchange in contrast to a total of 2.446 billion shares valued at N13.145 billion that exchanged hands previous week in 23,680 deals. The Financial Services Industry (measured by volume) led the activity chart with 1.874 billion shares valued at N10.549 billion traded in 15,232 deals; thus contributing 80.16% and 71.33% to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively. The Conglomerates Industry followed with 225.806 million shares worth N351.338 million in 1,462 deals. The third place was occupied by the Consumer Goods industry with a turnover of 64.001 million shares worth
N1.430 billion in 3,444 deals. Trading in the Top Three Equities namely – FBN Holdings Plc, United Bank For Africa Plc and Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc.(measured by volume) accounted for 810.444 million shares worth N2.904 billion in 5,128 deals, contributing 34.67% and 19.64% to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively. Last week, Fifty-six (56) equities appreciated in price, higher than thirty-five (35) equities of the previous week. Twenty (20) equities depreciated in price, lower than thirty-seven (37) equities of the previous week, while one hundred and four (104) equities remained unchanged lower than one hundred and nine (109) equities of the previous week.
The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) Banking Index set a new record last week after appreciating by 12.61 percent year-to-date (ytd) on the trail of Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) plan to introduce a flexible foreign exchange (FX) policy. The Banking Index had remained on a negative note this year as investors continued to sell-off banks’ share on the heels of weak profit, uncertain regulatory policy on FX and scarcity of liquidity. Immediately after the Monetary Policy Meeting (MPC) meeting on 23 and 24 May, 2015, the Banking Index rose by 8.17 per cent in one week to 302.36 basis points from 279.53 basis points The significant increase in Banking Index impacted positively on NSE All-Share Index as it erased the losses of ytd returns to a gain of 0.91 per cent having settled at 28,902.25 basis points, the highest in 2016. The Managing Director of Highcap Securities Limited, Mr. David Adonri, attributed the increase in NSE Banking Index to deregulation of the downstream sector and MPC plans to introduce flexible FX policy in few days. According to him, “the major factors that contributed to the
spike in banking index is the introduction of two major policies which is one: the partial deregulation of the downstream oil sector, which led to increase in the price of oil, and recovery in that sector thus eliminating the crisis exposed to oil shares which a number of the banks had concerns. “Also, the resumption of a flexible exchange rate policy, is a positive one for the economy as it gives room for the finance of a lot of trade. “If you remember, the introduction of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) and release of the full year results as well as profit warnings issued by the banks in the first quarter of the year sent a wrong signal to investors and caused a significant dip in the value of shares, but subsequently when favourable policies started emanating, investor appetite began to grow, hence the demand for banking shares. “In essence the Fiscal authorities need to market trendy policies that will benefit the economy as well as the banks which are the economy drivers,” he added. Analysts at Lagos-based Vetiva Capital Management Limited, pointed out that the decision by MPC to introduce flexible FX policy cheers capital market rally and renews investors’ sentiment.
Summary of activities on NSE ASI
27,116.45
DEALS
4,902.00
VOLUME
559,079,724.00
VALUE
3,592,482,660.90
CAP
9,313,358,078,659.37
Japaul Oil positions for future Ï^ƍ Ƌ Ƅ ƕƕƆƎƆ Ɖ ƃ ƋƆƎ Ɖ ƍ Ɔ Ƅ Ǝ ƍƄ ƉƕƄƍ The management of Japaul Oil and Maritime Plc have stated that the decline in the pace of economic activities and weak economic fundamentals in the oil and maritime industry has continued to hamper growth in the sector, resulting in underwhelming financial performance for industry players, including Japaul Oil and Maritime Plc. The unfavourable operating environment and other challeng-
es notwithstanding, the board and management of the group have declared their desire to reposition the company for growth and improved performance. To this end, it stated that it would be proposing to its shareholders during the AGM in June, capital raising either by way of rights, foreign investors, private placement among others. It stressed further that in order to achieve profitability in 2016, the company plans to re-
structure its operation to focus on its core competences. In this regard, some of its equipment’s either under-utilized or not functioning as a result of the business environment would be sold and the proceeds plugged back into areas of its operations with better prospects for growth. The financial statement shows that the Company’s Revenue dropped from N10.57 billion in 2014 to N8.15 billion in 2015 operating (loss) profit stood at N3.98
billion against N897.33 million profits in 2014, administrative expenses jumped from N3.5 billion in 2014 to N6.36 billion for the year under review as a result of impairment losses of N1.62 billion and foreign exchange loss of N2.43 billion, while loss before tax stood at N7.89 billion in 2015 against the 2014 figure of N2.25 billion. The Company however reaffirmed that it would focus in 2016 by driving improvements
in its underlying asset quality, cost efficiency, enhanced revenue generation and extracting synergies across the group. It stressed that, already there are foreign investors that have indicated interest in the Company and are ready to inject millions of dollars as a result of the intricate value seen in the Company, more so that the Company has cleaned up its books for profitability.
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
B7 Capital Market
NSE DAILY ACTIVITY SUMMARY (EQUITIES) 27-05-2016
Business Interview B8
Daily Times Nigeria Monday, May 30, 2016
FG must take Local Content Law serious – PETAN boss The Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria, PETAN is an association of Nigerian Indigenous Technical Oilfield service companies in the upstream and downstream sectors of the oil industry. In this interview with OPEOLUWANI AKINTAYO, the newly elected Chairman of the body, Mr. Bank-Anthony Okoroafor, takes the bull by the horn, seeking that the Federal Government of Nigeria takes serious the Local Content Law which would give power to Nigerian companies and create more employment for the teaming Nigerian populace, among other issues. Excerpt: What can you say about local content? Let me start by saying that nobody can love Nigeria like Nigerians. That is why nobody can develop our country like we can. Local content gives power to Nigerians. Local content provides job for Nigerians. Local content can lift the dollar spell on Nigeria. Remember, nobody can tell our stories better than us. If you allow other people to tell our story, they will never say anything good about us. Have it in mind that Nigerians have a better acumen and the spirit of enterprise. Why is it that our people all over the world shine? That is because there is nothing wrong with us. Nigerian companies have the capacities to deliver services to world’s standard. So, any job that can be done by a PETAN or competent Nigerian company, should not be given to foreigners or foreign companies. It is criminal. For the past 10 years, we have not grown our oil and gas reserves. But now that oil is no longer as golden as it had always been, we must thinking of having enough fuel in our reservoir if not for other things, so that this issue of fuel scarcity can be forgotten issue. We must grow our local content capacity. This should not be about how patronized a company is but the level of services, contributions and development it has been able to render to Nigerians and Nigeria. Is there a law in Nigeria backing local content? Yes, there is a law but it is being broken by even our people and the law makers themselves. They know this yet, they bypass Nigerian companies and prefer to give our jobs to outsiders. But right now, we have backings of the Secretariat to make sure that Nigerians are no longer taken advantage of. Some people even go to the extent of registering their companies as Nigerian companies and end up taking the jobs outside the country which is not in the interest of Nigeria. Every country has percentage foreigners and foreign companies who get any form of jobs in their country must pay
to the government but such does not hold in Nigeria. PETAN is now serious to fly with the law because nobody or company will try it in other countries of the world without being nabbed. You said it is criminal to give jobs to foreign contractors when there are indigenous companies that can do them. What steps are you taking as a body, to ensure that Nigeria does not continue to shove aside its own people to favour foreigners and foreign companies? Well, the Local Content law says all the jobs onshore are to be given 100 per cent to Nigerian companies. Then offshore, wherever there is gap, will form alliance with Nigerian companies. But where the capacity and capability exists in the country, it must be given to Nigerian companies. Have you ever wondered how the foreign oil companies produced during the militancy days? That is because they ran away and our boys were the ones going there to produce. What that tells you is that those jobs done by foreigners can also be done by Nigerians. So, what do we need them for? Nobody can develop this country like Nigerians. Local content is the only way we can circulate the money in the country. That is the only way we can develop our people and raise their confidence, and build up more entrepreneurs. There is no country in this world that does not look out for their people, much more the competent ones. How does one differentiate a foreign company that pretend to be working in the interest of Nigeria from a true Nigerian company? Nigeria should have the data of foreigners who come into the country to solicit for jobs. If you want to know the difference between a foreign company pretending to be indigenous and a truly Nigerian company, watch where the money goes. If the money they collect goes outside the company then, know for sure that it is not working for the benefit of Nigerians. Many people come into the country and say they are repre-
Okoroafor
“Local content is the only way we can circulate the money in the country. That is the only way we can develop our people and raise their confidence, and build up more entrepreneurs” senting one Nigerian company or the other and once the contracts are given to them, they fly in their own people and import all the equipment from their countries. Then they just rent a room at Ikoyi, buy a Range Rover, wear nice suit and shoes and print very attractive complementary cards yet, they contribute nothing to our economy. But a true Nigerian company will rent or build a proper structure, employ Nigerians, train them, patronize our products and spend the money here in Nigeria so the money circulates and foreigners won’t get our jobs. With the recent fuel scarcity problem in the country, nobody needs to tell us Nigeria should build more refineries and repair the old ones. What are the strategy does PETAN have on this? First of all, PETAN pushes for private participation. If our refineries are run by private individual, the rots that are there will not be there today. If you look at the Niger State Petroleum, they have plants that produce 400 bar-
rel per day diesel and the company is 100 per cent Nigerian, and they maintain it well because it is private. Government has no business operating companies. They are meant to set policies which the privates will use to run businesses because when you invest, you will never allow it to fail. As long as refineries are run by the government, I don’t see a lot of progress. They should sell the refineries to private people, remove their equity from it and allow the private people to drive it. That is when you will see progress. The physical environment has to be such that will be friendly. If you regulate the business environment then, investing becomes difficult. We should allow market forces of demand and supply to control the economy because that is what will put an end to this problem of fuel scarcity in this country. Private participation is the key. The same thing goes with the IOCs Cash Call. If government can reduce the equity holdings they have with the JVs then, they will spend less on cash calls, then
earn from royalties, tax and others. We must also make sure that the physical tax we have in our JV is investment friendly because, these days, the investment firms is like a beautiful bride. They go where there are friendly environment. Investment terms must be friendly so that it can be win-win for both investors and government. Let Nigeria stop talking and start executing. The low oil prices has given us a chance to change our focus and start thinking about other areas. Could you asses the Nigerian Local Content Monitoring Board? How have they been effective so far in terms of monitoring and enforcing because PETAN’s role is just for advocacy? It is not just their role to monitor and enforce. Everybody must join hands if you want this country to survive. The reason for saying everybody has a role to play is because, for someone like Dangote who is building a 650,000 capacity refinery. It is going to cost $14.5 billion. If all the parts and works are done by Nigerians and Nigerian companies, he will spend almost $10 million. Building the refinery will take 400 hundred people working for 8 months. Would it not be good to do such jobs in Nigeria? Giving the job to India- that means 400 of their engineers will be engaged for good 8 months. So, it is the duty of all of us to educate our people. But the excuse has always been that we do not have competent hands to do those jobs here in Nigeria That is not true. If anybody tells you that we do not have competent hands and companies here in the country, call me and I will show you many companies who can. We have PETAN companies that have built storage tanks for IOCs, engine installations and building, and so many jobs being given to foreign companies can be done here in Nigeria. And everything done here can be certified by various certifying bodies. Even when we talk about local content, we spend $15 billion dollar a year to produce oil in the country but importing oil and gas costs us $40 billion dollar a year. The oil and gas is just a little of the pack. PETAN’s new executive mantra is ‘Value added content’- giving jobs to Nigerian companies and keeping the jobs and money in the country. I want to let you know that PETAN now has the attention of stakeholders who are ready to listen to us.
Life&
Times Monday, May 30, 2016
Buckwyld ‘n’
Breathless:
The disruption
2baba, Sauti Sol, others on parade in Kenya
Buzz Bytes
L2
Daily Times Nigeria Monday May 30, 2016
Mutiat Alli
Triple Ice music unveils DJ Ree & Veecko Kingz
..As tour kicks off in Nairobi, Kenya Nigerian music legend, 2Baba (formerly 2Face Idibia), alongside Kenya’s sensational Sauti Sol, top comedian, Churchill and Tanzania’s pop princess, Vanessa Mdee, are set to thrill Kenyan fans in a night of mind-blowing entertainment as Buckwyld ‘n’ Breathless: The Disruption African tour concert kicks off with its first stop in Nairobi, Kenya on June 11, 2016, at Carnivore, Simba Saloon, from 6:00 pm till dawn. Guest performances at the Nairobi concert will include Nigeria’s premiere comedy brand, Alibaba and Kenyan star comedian, MC Jessy. This year, Buckwyld ‘n’ Breathless: The Disruption brand returns bigger and more audacious as Kenyans have the luxury of getting the first experience. It will be an avenue for “Dynamic, Deep and Salient” connection to the fans from their favourite entertainers all-over Africa. Other concerts will be held in Nigeria (September 3, 2016), Ghana and Tanzania (both dates to be announced). On May 3, 2Baba and co-headliner for the Lagos, Dar es Salaam and Accra legs, MI Abaga, surprised on-air personality, Olisa Adibua and listeners on The Beat 99.9 FM with news of the concert. The concert is put together by Buckwyld Media with the support of Phat Production, Laugh Industry, Sauti Sol Entertainment and Africa Play.
Tope Tedela produces first movie
Life&
T E A M
Tope Tedela is already an award winning actor, but on Wednesday, May 25, the actor unveiled the title of his first film as a producer. Titled “What Lies Within,” the movie stars Michelle Dede, Ebele Okaro, Okey Uzoeshi, Ken Erics, Kiki Omeili, Odenike, Napoleon Ehi, and Tunji Akinsehinwa among others. The movie is produced by the Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Award winner alongside Paul Utomi, Vanessa Nzediegwu, and is directed by Nzediegwu. Tedela took to his Instagram page to share the news with a poster and the caption: “Many months ago two of my buddies (Paul Utomi & Vanessa Nzediegwu) came up with the idea of us making a film and I was scared to my bones but eventually budged. We started saving and scraping what we had and finally got round to making it happen. Thanks to the selfless amazing cast - Michelle Dede, Ebele Okaro, Okey Uzoeshi, Ken Erics, Kiki Omeili, Odenike, Napoleon Ehi, Tunji Akinsehinwa, and a host of other people, without whom this movie would have been impossible to
make. There would be more posters to come but this is the first poster of “What Lies Within.” It was produced by Paul Utomi, Vanessa Nzediegwu and myself and directed by Vanessa Nzediegwu.”
Entertainment Correspondent Mutiat Alli
Fast rising music label, Triple Ice Music led by Jerry Uwagbulam has unveiled their first set of signees on the label DJ Ree and Veecko Kingz. DJ Ree, born Nwafor Nnamdi, is an allround talented entertainer; aside from his skills on the wheels of steel, he is also a talented singer, song writer, producer and sound engineer who has shared stage with the likes of Timaya, Wizkid, 2face, D’banj and a lot of other heavyweights. DJ Ree brings a new blend of RnB /Pop, fused with a deep African feel. Veecko Kingz on the other hand, born Obi Victor, is a rising pop sensation from Anambra State, Nigeria whose love for music kicked off as a music producer in 2005 having produced songs for the likes of Sound Sultan, W4, Rugged man and others.
Veecko Kingz
Veecko Kingz
Osas Ajibade and hubby expects first child Like Ubi Franklin and actress wife, Lilian Esoro who are expecting their first child together since they got married, good time flies in the home of the Ajibades as Model cum actress, Osas Ajibade and husband, Gbenro Ajibade, are equally expecting their first fruit too. The two movie stars who had their white wedding on July 4, 2015 during USA’s Independence Day in New York revealed the joyful news to Genevieve magazine. “I don’t want to jinx this pregnancy,” she told the magazine on why she’s keeping it hush hush.
We clearly are not surprised the duo want to keep it on a ‘low key’. Recall that the duo dated for three years before the media got wind of it.
Osas and Gbenro
MultiChoice Africa adds more value to DStv Compact with the addition of FOX channel FOX Networks Group (FNG) and MultiChoice Africa have announced that from June 1, 2016, DStv Compact subscribers will be able to enjoy the global entertainment channel, FOX (DStv channel 125) on their bouquet. FOX channel is a premier entertainment channel that prides itself with bringing
John Ugbe
Society Correspondent Abimbola Obatayo
He has several materials to his credit as a musician that includes My Cap, Ikebe Super featuring Rugged man, Kwarangida, and Communicate to mention but few. It is important to disclose that the duo of DJ Ree and Veecko Kingz are the new set of artistes to watch out for in the music industry.
Photography Quadri Olowolagba
Graphics Daniel Ekiye
‘The Best, First’, with award winning, groundbreaking and critically acclaimed programming. The move to DStv Compact will significantly increase FOX’s reach to a wider audience, creating new fans of its riveting entertainment in the African market. As part of MultiChoice ongoing efforts to add value to our subscribers’ viewing experience, DStv Compact subscribers will now get to experience the thrilling and exclusive premieres of the best shows on FOX within hours of the United States broadcast at no extra cost! The hot lineup includes the popular and powerful hit television drama, Empire in which Taraji P. Henson portrays the feisty ‘Cookie Lyon’ with flashy fashion sense and witty remarks, opposite her ex-husband and the ruthless head of the Lyon empire, ‘Lucious Lyon’ played by Academy Award® nominee, Terrence Howard.
Daily Times Nigeria
Monday May 30, 2016
L3 Opinion
Victoria Ige
Simi
, ld o G le n u k e d A t a Wh o d t s u m l ie n a D s is K , o Brym Adekunle Gold
Adekunle Gold, Brymo and Kiss Daniel have found the right sound. Now they need a personality. Here’s what they must do. Screw what anyone is saying about Nigerian music and its future here or abroad. Screw all the jollof sound, repetitive lyrics and cliché beats currently enjoying domination. Those with the password to the future of Nigerian pop are not playing the big shows or signing the biggest deals yet. They’re not multiple ambassadors or chart toppers, yet. It’s not likely they’ll make it to the VIP lounge at Escape or Quilox on a good night out. While the industry is busy cavorting with fluff, these ones are busy making great music and building a loyal network. Klitoris, the new album by former Chocolate City star Brymo, is a good example of such. Brymo has been the darling of those who love good music for more than a minute. Even the average listener will tell you he handed the rapper Ice Prince the key to fame and fortune with his iconic Oleku chorus. Kiss Daniel, rising on the success of a string of singles has now dropped his new body of work, the album New Era. Just this morning, a fan, Don Boye wrote on Twitter, ‘Kiss Daniel has the huskiness of 9ice and the delivery pattern of 2Face’. Another wrote: ‘I wouldn’t say I’m a Kiss Daniel fan but rating any album out so far this year including Brymo’s above his is pure deceit. Best album by a mile.’ Brymo and Daniel are no longer trying to prove they are fantastic music makers. Just like Adekunle Gold and 9ice and Niyola and Shaydee and more, they’ve shown they have the goods. But it is unlikely they will get to use the password if they don’t take lessons from the charm and swag and braggadocio of those hitting the right notes with the media and fans and businesses. Recent case: the awkward interview Kiss Daniel had with Ebuka, where he seemed not to know how old he was and the apology of a press release that followed. Brymo, in his own case still can’t shake off the Chocolate City
toga, years after his controversial exit. He’s rarely ever up to anything newsworthy outside of releasing music. Not done with stealing the limelight off ‘proper’ rappers and comedians, Falz is even stealing the shine off Adekunle Gold when the subject is Simi. Why is M.I a more successful rapper than the almighty Mode 9? Why did KSA get much farther than Ebenezer Obey? How’s it that Olamide and Da Grin became legends in an art largely made popular by Lord of Ajasa? Why is Don Jazzy a bigger and more profitable brand than almost all other music producers (with the exception of Cobhams, perhaps?) combined? The art matters a lot. But today, it’s only 50% of what you’re selling. Match a great art with a personality that works (M.I: Swag and reliability; Don Jazzy: mystery and pseudo access; Olamide: street credibility, reliability, unpredictability; KSA: charm, swag; Da Grin: bad boy, grass to grace, mischief; Wizkid: first innocence and promise, then luxury and style and aspiration) and you’re on your way to packing stadiums like Wizkid Psquare and Davido. And the personality must be contagious. Remember
Falz
the way Don Jazzy would whisper in D’Banj’s ears in the early days? Remember how M.I, although diminutive, would make everyone stand up and clap with his dramatic entrance? Remember the costume and choreography of P-Square and KSA? Remember Lagbaja’s mask and Fela’s string of controversies? Having made great music, the next set of music stars truly interested in making it big will need to invest in brand development and exciting reputation management. Online and offline, they will need to make sure their appearances are memorable, their performances remarkable. They will need to set a clear target: match or beat the likes of P-Square, Asa, D’banj, Olamide, Tiwa Savage and Flavour when it comes to delivering a ‘show’ – and every where’s a stage, today. From Twitter to Snapchat, Facebook, Freedom Park, Airport lounges or Landmark. It will be herculean. But what’s it they say? You either play big, or go home. Thank you.
Kiss Daniel Tiwa Salvage
L4
Daily Times Nigeria Monday May 30, 2016
Daily Times Nigeria
Monday May 30, 2016
L5
Nutrition L6
Daily Times Nigeria Monday May 30, 2016
Maureen Onuigbo
Health wonders of
Zobo drink
The Hibiscus drink popularly known as Zobo is a super drink which is slightly thick, colourful, pleasant and tasty. The Hibiscus leaf is used in many parts of the world to make both cold and hot drinks. It contains a high concentration of water-soluble antioxidants and is filled with huge amount of Vitamin C. Zobo is served cold in Nigeria and Senegal while it is served warm in Egypt. Here are some of its health wonders:
1. Reduction in blood pressure: Hibiscus is an anti-oxidant. It has properties that prevents the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins; a substance in our blood that if increased beyond normal quantities may cause high blood pressure. 2. Aids weight loss: The body produces an enzyme known as Amylase which functions to break down complex sugar and starch molecules in food. When a person consumes too much carbohydrate rich food (full of sugar and starch) that individual is most likely going to gain weight. Hibiscus contains a substance that can inhibit the production of amylase. A person regularly drinking hibiscus tea can thus prevent too much absorption of carbohydrates and consequently not gain excess weight. 3. Treats cough and cold: Fresh hibiscus flower contains around 6.7 mg of ascorbic acid, a form of Vitamin c which is one of the
Here’s a quick tip on how to prepare Zobo drink at your convenience: INGREDIENTS 1. 1 cup of dried Hibiscus sepal (Zobo leaves) depending on the number of people being prepared for. 2. 4 cups of boiling water 3. Juice of one lemon 4. Ginger (optional) 5. Sugar in small quantity Direction . Briskly wash the leaves to ensure the dust and sand are washed off. . Set the leaves in a large bowl, dice some ginger into tiny pieces or grate and pour it in the bowl as well, cover with boiled water.
Set aside for 2-4 hours to allow the drink to steep. . Pour the drink through a sieve to separate the fluid from the leaves. . Add some ice, lemon juice and sugar to taste. Combine and enjoy. Note: The drink can be served cold or hot. Also the amount of water used is based on preference. Also, experiment with food flavours like pineapple, vanilla and berries for some diversity. Also note that the drink stains easily, so be mindful when handling it.
more essential nutrients needed by the body. It is also known to have anti-inflammatory and mild anti-bacterial properties. Hibiscus tea is often used as a supplement to help treat coughs and colds, because of its cooling effect, it is especially effective in reducing the discomfort of fevers that may accompany such ailments. 4. Satiate thirst: Hibiscus tea can be drunk hot or cold. As iced tea, the infusion is known to satiate thirst quite effectively to avoid further temptation of intake of carbonated or other types of drink. It is often recommended as an alternative to artificially made commercial “sports drink” that are marketed to physically active individuals. 5. It can serve as food supplement because of the other contents like calcium, iron, phosphorous, protein, fiber, carotene, thiamine, niacine, riboflavin and also boosts the immune system.
Daily Times Nigeria
Monday May 30, 2016
L7 Wellness
Oluwapelumi Babatunde
Nutritional food for Boiled egg
strong bones Eating right for bone health basically comes down to two nutrients: Calcium and Vitamin D. Calcium, a mineral that’s essential to proper body function is stored in your bones. The body needs Vitamin D to absorb calcium. Not getting enough Calcium in your diet can lead to fragile, brittle bones that are more prone to fractures and diseases. Here are some meals that are rich in Calcium:
Almond-butter
Catfish
Milk: One cup of milk has about 30 percent of the calcium you need daily. On top of that, the milk that’s sold in stores is typically fortified with vitamin D, making it a double-whammy when it comes to bone health. Dark, Leafy Greens: Dark, leafy greens, are perhaps the best non-dairy source of calcium. Although spinach is usually included in this group, it contains oxalic acid, which makes the human body unable to absorb its calcium. Salmon: Vitamin D is rarely found in nature. However, fatty fish such as salmon are probably the best source. One serving of salmon will provide you all the time vitamin D you need in the day. Canned salmon includes the softer (edible) bones of the fish, meaning it’s loaded with calcium. Catfish: While we’re on fish, you can’t go wrong with catfish. It’s perhaps the least expensive variety of fish, and also one of the highest in vitamin D. Almond Butter: Of all the tree nuts you
can find at the grocery store, almonds have the highest amount of calcium per serving. You can get the same calcium benefits in butter form. As a bonus, almond butter has no cholesterol and is lower in fat and higher in protein than peanut butter. Cheese: Cheese is made from milk. Milk has lot of calcium. Therefore, cheese has lots of calcium. For a healthy option, try cheese made from skim milk. Eggs: Eggs contain a nice amount of vitamin D and can improve bone health. Vitamin D is found in the yolks only, so if you tend to eat egg white omelets, you’ll have to get your vitamin D elsewhere. Sardines: These tiny fish often found in cans have surprisingly high level of both vitamin D and calcium. Though they may look a bit odd, they have a savory taste that can be delicious in pastas and salads. Fortified Cereal: Certain cereal like walnuts and Wheaties contain up to 25 percent of your daily vitamin D. When you don’t have time to cook salmon or get out
in the sun, cereal can be a tasty way to get your vitamin D. Orange Juice: A glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice doesn’t have calcium or vitamin D, but it’s often fortified to contain these nutrients. Also, studies have shown that the ascorbic acid in orange juice may help with calcium absorption. Calcium is essential in building strong teeth and bones, get your daily dose with these friendly meals that pack plenty of calcium.
Sardin
Cheese
Salmon
Collard Greens
Sardin
Orange juice
L8 TV guide
Daily Times Nigeria
Monday May 30, 2016
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112 Studio Universal
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Mon, 30 May | 16L
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‘S3/E4 - Chapter 30’. Kevin Spacey stars as the ruthless politician Frank Underwood in this multiple Emmy award winning drama. Claire Underwood struggles to salvage her Mideast peace plan in this episode.
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A has-been divorcé basketball coach is asked to run the local high school girls basketball team. He finds an unexpected chance to get back on his feet again. Emma Roberts, Rob Corddry, Sam Rockwell. (2009) James C. Strouse.
120 BBC Entertainment
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00:05 New Tricks 01:00 The Cube 01:50 Come Dine With Me 02:40 Downton Abbey 03:30 EastEnders 01:10 The Imposter 03:00 The Double 05:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 06:00 Modern Family 06:30 Blue Bloods 07:30 The Fixer 08:30 Moms’ Night Out 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 MasterChef Australia 18:30 Grey’s Anatomy 19:30 Mysteries Of Laura 20:30 Elementary 21:30 Carte Blanche 22:30 A Good Marriage 23:04 Strike Back 22:30 Mob City 23:00 Strike Back 23:50 Rome
04:00 EastEnders 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?
04:30 EastEnders 05:00 Spy 05:25 QI 00:45 Perils Of The Sentimental Swordsman
06:00 The Thin Blue Line 06:30 EastEnders 07:00 Antiques Roadshow
16:30 Deal Or No Deal
02:15 Most Shocking
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17:10 The Cube
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08:50 The Chase
18:05 Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?
04:05 Exposed
19:00 Celebrity MasterChef
05:00 Criss Angel Mindfreak
20:00 Hell’s Kitchen USA
05:25 Exposed
21:00 Hell’s Kitchen USA
05:50 Exposed
21:50 The Graham Norton Show
06:15 Video Zonkers
22:45 Would I Lie To You?
06:40 Repo Games
23:45 Tanked
07:10 World’s Wildest Police Videos
09:35 Total Wipeout UK 10:30 The Cube 11:20 New Tricks 12:20 Top Gear 13:10 Come Dine With Me 14:10 Total Wipeout UK 15:10 The Weakest Link 16:00 EastEnders
155 AfricaMagic World
00:05 President For A Day 01:10 Sequence 02:00 Jara 02:30 Jara 03:00 Good Morning Africa 04:05 53 Extra
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154 AfricaMagic Family 04:50 Perfect Union 06:00 Good Morning Africa 07:00 Star Gist 07:25 Vanity’s Last Game 08:30 Living With Trisha 09:25 The African Child 10:00 Good Morning Africa 11:00 Tinsel 11:30 Star Gist 12:00 Music Block 13:00 At Home With Joselyn Dumas 14:00 Prem 14:30 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
04:30 Exposed
13:40 Disorderly Conduct: Video On Patrol 14:40 South Beach Tow 15:10 Exposed 01:00 Series TBA 02:30 Good Morning Africa 03:30 Good Morning Africa 04:30 Prem 05:00 Good Morning Africa 06:00 My Good Will 09:00 Good Morning Africa 10:00 So Wrong So Wright 10:30 So Wrong So Wright 11:00 Lies That Bind 11:30 Lies That Bind 12:00 Jara 12:30 Jara 13:00 Series TBA 14:00 53 Extra
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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 Max Knight: Ultra Spy 21:30 Poorman’s Bikini Beach 22:00 Kenny vs Spenny 22:30 Tool Academy