Dtn 8 2 16

Labour leads nationwide march against electricity tariff hike today Ï DisCos urge NLC, TUC to shelve protest Ï Contempt proceedings slammed on NERC, DisCos CEOs ÎÎÎThe

Joy Ekeke,

organised labour will today rally electricity consumers in the country in a nationwide protest against

Lagos

Akor Ejumene.

Abuja

the hike in electricity tariff recently announced by the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and civil society in a release stated: “We

the members of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Trade Continued on page 6

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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2016 VOL. 2. NO. 40

GAINERS

N150

LOSERS

NSE GAINERS AND LOSERS AS AT 5 February 2016.

MOBIL

140.6

147.63

7.03%

UACN

19

20.89

1.89%

FO

310

300

-10%

TOTAL

142.5

140

-2.5%

SEPLAT

236.09

243

6.91%

NB

95.1

96.05

0.95%

BETAGLAS

53.45

50

-3.45%

OKOMUOIL

30.5

29

-1.5%

Buhari draws anger over ‘criminal’ comment Babajide Okeowo

ÎÎÎAn interview by President Muhammadu Buhari with UK-based The Telegraph newspaper has drawn the ire of Nigerians, especially on social media

where a #IamANigerianNotACriminal hashtag has been created for it.

The interview, published by the newspaper on Friday, has as headline “Nigerians’ reputation for crime has made them unwelcome in Britain, says country’s

president” In the interview, Buhari reportedly asked Nigerians to stop trying to make asylum claims in Britain, saying that their reputation for criminality has made it hard for them to be “accepted” abroad.

Those who had joined the migrant exodus to Europe were doing so purely for economic reasons rather than because they were in danger, the president reportedly said.

According to the report, he added that because of

the number of Nigerians imprisoned for lawbreaking in Britain and elsewhere, they were also unlikely to get much sympathy.

“Some Nigerians claim is that life is too difficult back home, but they have

also made it difficult for Europeans and Americans to accept them because of the number of Nigerians in prisons all over the world accused of drug trafficking or human trafficking,” he Continued on page 6

Corruption became g 8 entrenched during Murtala/ Obasanjo regime –Na’Abba

Kogi: Gov Bello appoints deputy, seeks Assembly’s approval g6

Ramsey L1 Nouah g Exploring the military in ‘76’ movie

L-R: Executive Director, Small and Medium Enterprises, Bank of Industry (BOI), Mr. Waheed Olagunju; Managing Director, (BOI), Mr. Rasheed Olaoluwa; Taraba State Governor, Mr. Darius Ishaku and beneficiary, Mr. Kabiru Waya, during the presentation of Small Scale Medium Enterprise cheque to Waya in Jalingo... at the weekend.

PHOTO: TEMITOPE BALOGUN.

ÏPresidency: We put 2016 budget proposal on web to attract comments, criticismsg 12

Lessons Monopoly teaches you about personal finance g L4, L5

2

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

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Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

Page Three Æ s

3

Editorial

El-Niño and Africa

T

he recent reports of El-Nino ravaging some African countries can be very sobering and even alarming. According to meteorological reports, El-Nino has been recorded in Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Somalia Kenya, parts of Chad and Ghana, thereby fueling fears of extreme drought and food shortages.

In a statement released by UNICEF, 8.2 million people in Ethiopia face food insecurity, while an estimated 350,000 children need treatment for severe acute malnutrition. The UN Food and Agriculture Organisation has warned that the Horn of Africa will be facing acute hunger due to the onset of El Nino and the impact of rising global temperatures.

As matter of concern, there are dire predictions that more than 20 million Africans will face hunger and malnutrition resulting from this change of weather.

El-Nino is the surge of heat periodically released from the Pacific Ocean that affects global weather patterns.

Incidentally, the current El Niño is the strongest since 1998, thereby raising concerns that 2016 may be the warmest year on record. In fact, the 1997-8 El Niño killed 20,000 people, and caused almost $97 billion of damage as floods, droughts, fires, cyclones and mudslides ravaged the world.

Like everyone else, we are also alarmed at the onslaught of El-Nino on the African continent. We therefore call on the Nigerian government to take all necessary measures to ameliorate the situation. Our fears are based on the fact that with increasing desert encroachment in the north of the country, and pervasive mudslides and erosion in the south, it may not be long before El-Nino wreaks its havoc on the country.

There is no gainsaying that El Niño’s strength lies in the sheer force

with which it unleashes water from the skies into streets, farms, roads, houses, offices and everywhere else it can penetrate. Floods have already displaced some 144,000 people in Somalia and an estimated 76,000 people in Kenya. Weather experts say the 2013 floods that ravaged many states of Nigeria in 2013 was as result of intensive rains caused by El-Nino which raised water levels waters to unprecedented heights. Ironically, El-Nino is also known for causing droughts by interrupting the rainy season.

So, when rainfall is lacking, soils tend to dry out, which increases the chances of heat waves developing, further exacerbating the drought conditions already in place. Such droughts have been linked to reduced water availability, delayed planting, permanently wilted corps, and livestock mortality. Moreover, it is feared that decreased rainfall and droughts caused by El Niño could hit rice production in South Asia and threaten food security in importing countries in West Africa. Weather experts predict that El-Nino could cause a delay in rainfall this year, especially within the south-western part of Nigeria noted for its root crops and cocoa plantations.

Only recently, US President, Barack Obama linked the violence and terror being wrought in Nigeria by Boko Haram to severe drought in the Sahel,noting that young men have joined the al-Qaeda affiliated group after being displaced by food shortages.

It therefore behooves the authorities to prepare for the worst case scenario through disaster risk reduction, preparedness and early warning programme that should continue beyond this current El Niño period, given that the country is historically prone to floods and drought even outside El Niño years.

Daily/ Online Editor Biodun Durojaiye Deputy Editor/Southern Bureau Chief Sam Nzeh Deputy Editor/Northern Bureau Chief Lateef Ibrahim

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

Group Managing Director Noel Anosike

ÏÏÏOf

recent, the number of Federal Government Ministries, Agencies and Departments (MDAs) that have ordered their staff to declare their assets have been on the increase, making many to wonder why the sudden realisation that this basic requirement of the public service should be complied with.

As at the last count, no fewer than four of such MDAs had ordered their personnel to undertake this exercise. The agencies include the Nigeria Customs Service, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), the Nigerian Army, and the Fed-

eral Capital Territory Administration among others.

Clearly, the directive is in order as it is in line with the provisions of Paragraph 11 of the 5th Schedule of the Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria which provides that all public officers declare their assets and liabilities on assumption of office; at the end of term of office, at interval of four years for public officers on continuous employment of government, and at such intervals as may be determined from time to time.

What worries many, however, is the noise that has been made of an otherwise normal requirement aimed at checking corruption among public servants as well as enhancing transparency in

Group Executive Commercial/ Business Developement Ifeoluwa Isijiola 08086296714 Head Finance/Shared services Simpa Ajayi

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the nation’s public service.

Another worry is that as it is with many issues in the Nigeria’s polity, little or nothing is heard of the exercise after the initial noise. For instance, it is difficult to point to persons who have been sanctioned or prosecuted sucessfully for violating the rule.

So unless things are done differently this time around, the directive asking public servants to declare their assets may end up as another routine; a measure just to tag along with the anti-corruption drive of the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration.

Doing things differently, this time, should involve discreet monitoring of public servants’ lifestyles, including their finances and other properties as well as prompt prosecution of those found to have breached the law.

STATEMENTS BY THOSE WHO MATTER

Business Dev. Manager Bello Ganiyu 08037272933 Sales & Marketing Manager Tunde Dosumu Technical Adviser To Publisher Innocent Nwankwo Adverts/Partnerships/ Corporate Subscription Ifeanyi Emefu 08086296714 Konnie Agu 09033765031

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Sam Nzeh

Words On Marble :

Publisher/Editor in Chief – Fidelis Anosike Managing Editor Yinka Olujimi

Much ado about asset declaration

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Ibrahim Babangida “Each one of us, and, indeed, all those who aspire to national leadership must bring their own visions, views and styles to the business of reforming Nigeria, and the search for solutions.”

David Oyedepo

Martin Luther King Jr.

“Until you are willing to change your approach, you cannot improve on your results.”

“When evil men shout ugly words of hatred, good men must commit to the glories of love.”

4

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

Alake tasks Ooni on rebuilding communities affected by crisis Abiodun Taiwo, Abeokuta

ÎÎÎ

The Alake and Paramount ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo has commended the new Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi for his humility and search for unity among Yoruba Obas.

Alake also charged Oba Ogunwusi to do everything within his powers toward ensuring that property, families, and communities affected during the Ife - Modakeke communal crisis are rehabilitated.

Alake made the remark at his palace in Abeokuta, the Ogun state capital, while hosting the new

Ooni who took his peace move to the palace of Alake on Sunday.

Ooni, who arrived the palace of Alake of Egbaland around 3: 35pm with the retinue of his office was received by Oba Gbadebo at the entrance of the palace inner Court in company of his wife, Dr. Tokunbo Gbadebo and the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Barrister Taiwo Adeoluwa.

The two monarchs thereafter, went into the palace where other Egba traditional chiefs, as well as other eminent sons and daughters of Egbaland were already waiting.

Oba Gbadebo, who

prayed that the tenure of Ooni Ogunwusi should enjoy peace, admonished the monarch not to be weary in his search for unity in Yorubaland, stressing that he has no doubt in his mind that Ooni would move the Yoruba race forward with his peace move.

Emphasising that Ooni of Ife is one of the five principal monarchs in Yorubaland in which hierarchy are Alaafin of Oyo, Oba of Benin, Alake of Egbaland and Awujale of Ijebuland, he, however, stated that all other traditional rulers in Yorubaland should humble themselves in order that the much needed unity may reign in

Yorubaland.

Alake explained that former President Olusegun Obasanjo has already demonstrated the type of humility which is expected of all other traditional institutions by his visit to the Ooni in his palace where he prostrated, saying “this showed that the former president is a well cultured Yoruba son who revered the traditional stool”.

The Ogun monarch further noted that the only challenge which the traditional institution in Yorubaland had over the years has always bothered on ego of some traditional rulers who would always want to put their shoulders high.

L-R: Alake of Egbaland, Oba Michael Aremu Gbadebo; Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abdul-Rasheed Akanbi and Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi during the courtesy visit of the Ooni to Alake’s Palace in Ake, Abeokuta, Ogun State… on Sunday.

Rickey Tarfa regains freedom Segun Adio

ÏÏÏPrincipal

Partner and Head of Practice, Rickey Tarfa & Co, Rickey Tarfa (SAN), detained by the operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has regained his freedom, the Daily Times can exclusively report.

A staff of the law firm, who spoke with the Daily Times on his principal’s release claimed that the legal luminary was released on Sunday evening.

It would be recalled that the Senior Advocate of Nigeria was detained by the Eco-

nomic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) operatives on Friday over what the anti-graft agency described as “obstructing the course of justice,” an allegation his chamber denied.

Tarfa was arrested on Friday along with his clients, who are Beninoise nationals, Ghanhouse Sourous Nazaire and Zenou Modeste while performing his professional duty inside the Lagos High Court room.

In a press statement by the law firm, endorsed by its Partner and Head of Chambers, Mr. John Olusegun Odubela,

the personal intervention of the NBA President, Alegeh, who in the company of more than 10 Senior Advocates of Nigeria were at the office of the agency “to discuss or process the bail of Tarfa despite assurance given to him (Alegeh) by EFFC turned out to be “dummy” about granting bail to Mr. Rickey Tarfa on the personal surety of NBA President. The NBA President was kept waiting in the office of EFCC from about 2.00pm till 8.00pm on Saturday, 6th February until they left the EFCC premises disappointed and humiliated”.

The press statement titled:” RICKEY TARFA (SAN): EFCC LIED. HE DID NOT OBSTRUCT THE COURSE OF JUSTICE, specifically stated that”, its Principal Partner and Head of Practice, “was at no point in any position to obstruct the course of justice, among the EFCC operatives.

It is germane to state that the matter before the court has no bearing with CORRUPTION related issue. It is purely between a husband and wife struggling for a control of a manufacturing company they jointly promoted. It is purely a matrimonial issue that went sour”.

5 News

Court hears appeal against hijab ban in Lagos schools today Sodiq Adekunle, Osogbo

ÎÎÎ

The Court of Appeal sitting in Lagos, will today hear the appeal against the ban on Hijab in Secondary schools in Lagos state.

It would be recalled that the Court of Appeal, on Thursday, November 19, 2015 heard the appellant motion against the ban on the Muslim headscarf.

The Lagos state government banned the use of Hijab on the argument that it was not part of the approved school uniform for students.

Following that, members of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria, Lagos State Area Unit proceeded to court to seek redress and protect Muslim females from being flogged, embarrassed, and victimised for using Hijab within and outside school premises.

In the High Court ruling, Justice Grace Modupe Onyeabo, earlier ruled against the use of Hijab (Muslim head-scarf) by students in Lagos public schools because of the “secularity” of Lagos state.

Anambra Central: Ikeazor still in race — APC Tom Okpe, Abuja

ÎÎÎ

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has clarified that the party’s Senatorial candidate for the Anambra Central Senatorial Zone, Barrister Sharon Ikeazor is still in the race to contest the election scheduled for March 5, 2016.

The clarification is sequel to reports in some media outlets suggesting that the APC Senatorial candidate has been excluded from the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The party asserted that there has been no such communication from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in respect of the purported exclusion of the APC Senatorial candidate.

In a statement made available to journalists on Friday, the National Secretary of the party Mallam Mala Buni said, “For the sake of clarity, Dr. Chris Ngige who contested the election in March 2015 on the platform of the APC is now a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and has withdrawn from the fresh election ordered by the Court of Appeal.

“To avoid a vacuum, the party after due process presented the candidature of Barrister (Mrs.) Sharon Ikeazor as replacement for the original candidate who withdrew from the race”.

The Secretary pointed that, “By law, a political party has the right to nominate and sponsor candidates in all elections in Nigeria.

Ekiti to commence Contributory Pension Scheme Gbenga Sodeinde, Ado-Ekiti

ÏÏÏIn a bid at ensuring a

smooth take off of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) for its workforce, the Ekiti state government has set up an inter-ministerial committee to work out modalities for a speedy takeoff of the scheme in the state.

The Executive Secretary of the State Pension Commission, Mr. James Akinola made this known at a forum in Ado-Ekiti.

Mr. Akinola said that the committee which was headed by the Permanent Secretary in the state Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Community Development, Mr. Yemi Owoseeni would also among oth-

Fayose er things, examine the merits and demerits of the scheme as well as advice government on how best to commence the scheme within the shortest possible time.

Akinola added that the committee would also make a general review of the current Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS) of pension payment, identify and proffer solutions to all constraints impeding the commencement of the scheme in the state and advise government on funding for the scheme.

News 6

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

Buhari draws anger over ‘criminal’ comment Continued from page 1 told The Telegraph.

“I don’t think Nigerians have anybody to blame. They can remain at home, where their services are required to rebuild the country.”

On Twitter, comments criticizing the statement trended for most of Sunday, with over 19,000 tweets accompanying a protest hashtag #NigeriansAreNotCriminal.

Leading the onslaught of criticisms on Twitter was the Senator representing Bayelsa East Senatorial District, Senator Ben Bruce (@benmurraybruce), who tweeted “Your own minis-

ter spent 80 million on a one day dinner, yet it is your citizens you accuse of being criminals.”

This tweet drew a reaction from the Minister of Aviation, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi (@ChibuikeAmaechi) who tweeted “A coward who is not bold enough to name the minister that he alleged criminally spent N80M on dinner is unfit to sit in our senate chambers.”

“Nigerians in diaspora are not criminals. They remit over $2bn per annum to Nigeria. Most are cool...#N igeriansAreNotCriminals ,” Churchill Umoren, who worked in the Presidency

during the tenure of former President Goodluck Jonathan, said about Buhari’s comment.

Japhet Omojuwa, a prominent social media entrepreneur, flayed the president’s statement for being “one-sided”.

“How can you make a point about Nigerian criminals abroad and not spare points for the great Nigerians representing us with pride?” Omojuwa asked.

“There is no point denying there are Nigerian criminals giving us a bad reputation abroad. But that is half the conversation....

I looked at the statement and there was no thought

spared for the counter-side of that conversation; the Nigerians making us proud abroad!”

Another twitter user, Ayobami Olaniran that goes under the handle @ ayoabidemi apparently referring to President Muhammadu Buhari’s 5 days clinical vacation tweeted “You budget 3.8billion naira for state house clinic, yet you go abroad for medical check-up, #IAmANigerianNotACriminal.

A Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) youth leader in Lagos Sola Kuti who tweets with the handle @ SKSolaKuti also replied the president by tweeting the

following words “Buhari’s kids are in the UK...Even though I believe he can’t afford it. Should we also call them criminals? #IAmANigerianNotACriminal Paul Folusho with the handle @PaulSaidupaul28 also lent his voice to the conversation, tweeting “I live in a country where my President & Commander -in-Chief labels us a criminal and we say we have a bright future? #iamanigeriannotacriminal” Inyanga Eze (@jeomaltd) tweeted “Every year NIGERIAN Brits send Millions of Pounds home to help to boost the economy #IAmANigerianNotACriminal” However, it was not all flak for the president as some Nigerians were in support of what he said.

But Paul Ibe, a former newspaper editor affiliated with the ruling All Progressive Congress, said the president was being misrepresented on social media -- a platform partly responsible for bringing Buhari to pow-

er last year. “@MBuhari didn’t say Nigerians are criminals; thanks to him we now have an idea who d thieves are #NigeriansAreNotCriminals,” Ibe said, referring to the president’s sweeping anti-graft campaign that has seen many former government officials docked for corruption.

I.AM.A.gOD (@9jauniversity) tweeted “@benmurraybruce all I am saying is this, Please let PMB work in peace... We never heard your voice when GEJ almost removed the N from Nigeria. Thanks In his own reaction to the online barrage of criticism trailing the utterances of the president, Japhet Philip with the handle @ JaphetPhilip apparently replying to the tweet of @ benmurraybruce tweeted that “Since you are not a criminal, you need not lose sleep over Buhari’s comment. Why are you trying to make an issue out of it?

He asked.

Kogi: Gov Bello appoints deputy, seeks Assembly’s approval Akor Ejumene, Traffic gridlock in Lagos-Benin-Ore Road… at the weekend.

PHOTO: BOLAJI OLASUNKANMI.

Labour leads protest against tariff hike

Continued from page 1

Union Congress, Civil Society allies and electricity consumers across the country will protest the 45 per cent increase in the tariff of electricity as announced by the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission on Monday, February 8, 2016.

“It is a nation-wide protest, meaning that the 36 states of the Federation including Abuja will be involved in this action.

“Our members have been sufficiently mobilized and are ready to go,” the unions stated, just as the Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors (ANED) on Sunday in Kano, appealed to the Organised Labour to shelve its planned protest over electricity tariffs increase on Monday.

Also, a lawyer and rights activist, Toluwani Yemi

Adebiyi, has slammed contempt proceedings on the Chairman of NERC and the Chief Executive Officers(CEOs) of all Electricity Distribution Companies across the country over the implementation of the new electricity tariff despite a subsisting court order halting same.

A Federal High Court in Lagos had on May 28, 2015, directed NERC to suspend all actions relating to any increment in electricity tariff pending the hearing and final determination of a suit filed by the lawyer on the issue.

However, despite the subsisting court’s order, NERC in conjunction with the Electricity Distribution Companies commence the implementation of the new electricity tariff on February 1, 2016.

Already, copies of Form 48 which is a notice of consequence of disobedience

of court’s order have been served on the alleged contemnors.

The application is expected to be heard on Thursday before Justice Mohammed Idris.

A statement issued by the Executive Director, Research and Advocacy of ANED, Mr Sunday Oduntan, urged the unions to support the power sector operators to improve electricity supply in the country.

The statement urged Nigerians to support the Federal Government and the power sector operators to ensure the sustenance of the sector.

It said that Nigeria was witnessing an all-time high 5,075 megawatts of electricity for the first time in the history of the nation’s power sector. ``This is a demonstration that the sector has the capacity to meet the country’s power needs.

``Power is a major requirement in the drive to grow the nation’s economy and improve quality of life. ``We believe that this is only the beginning and that we can accomplish much more improvement in the sector, if all the stakeholders work together in partnership.”

Meanwhile, the NLC has warned the officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force to desist from using arms against workers during protest.

The congress said the shooting of a Medical Doctor by an armed police man during a peaceful protest by members of the Nigeria Medical Association in Owerri represented a big minus for the police force that claimed credit for reform on the one hand, and a rising degree of intolerance for alternative view point by the government of Owelle Rochas Okorocha.

Abuja

ÎÎÎIn

his determination to consolidate on his mandate to take Kogi State to the next level by providing effective and all inclusive governance for the people, Governor Yahaya Bello has appointed Hon. Simon Achuba as his deputy and sent his name to the state assembly for confirmation.

The forwarding of the name of Achuba to the state assembly brings to rest the insinuation in some parts of the state that some people were jostling for the number two position as the governor was yet to choose one out of them since he has the prerogative to appoint somebody he can work with.

Contrary to the notion that Gov Bello, since his inauguration, has been shopping for his deputy, a reliable source from Lugard House Lokoja, who preferred anonymity, said the governor has since appointed Achuba as a trusted and competent politician who can work with him and run the office of deputy

governor effectively.

Meanwhile, the letter of appointment of Hon. Achuba signed by the governor and forwarded to the state assembly which our reporter stumbled on reads in part: “In line with the provision of section 186 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999) as amended, I have the pleasure to forward herewith the name of Hon. Simon Achuba for approval of appointment as the deputy governor of Kogi State.

“Hon. Achuba (JP) hails from Ibaji Local government of Kogi State and was a two-time honourable member of the House (19992007) wherein he was deputy speaker of the House during his second tenure (2003-2007).

“In view of the above, it will be highly appreciated if the request is treated and approved with utmost speed to pave way for his assumption of office”.

Sources further hinted that the state assembly on the reception of the letter, fixed February 9, 2016 for the confirmation as deputy governor of the name forwarded to it.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

1,500 women-IDPs gave birth in Borno camps – Official

ÎÎÎAbout

1, 500 women gave birth in 28 internally displaced persons (IDPs) camps in Borno State in 2015, the State Primary Health Care Management Board said, on Sunday, in Maiduguri.

The Executive Secretary of the Board, Dr. Sule Mene, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the deliver-

ies were recorded between January 2015 and January 2016.

He said that about 14,600 pregnant women received anti-natal health care, psycho-social services and child nutrition support.

He said that the agency had also received about 1,200 severe medical cases, which were referred to the Univer-

sity of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH).

The official said the agency had established 20 Integrated Primary Health Care Centres for IDPs in all the camps to provide health care and referral services.

“The Borno State Government has procured health kits for each of the IDPs to help cater for their immedi-

ate needs. We have equally distributed mosquito nets to each and every one of them,” Mene said.

According to him, the agency, in collaboration with Federal Road Safety Commission, had trained its drivers to ensure prompt response to expectant mothers to access health facilities.

(NAN)

Ogun community cries out over activities of land grabbers

Amosun

Abiodun Taiwo, Abeokuta

ÎÎÎA community in Abeo-

kuta North Local Government Area of Ogun State, Ire Akari Olomore Community, behind the Federal Housing Estate, Abeokuta, has cried out to the Ogun State Government and law enforcement agencies to save them and their properties from the land grabbers who invaded their community a few days ago.

In a petition written to Governor Ibikunle Amosun and all the security agencies in the state, the

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (left); Group Managing Director, Access Bank, Mr. Herbert Wigwe (right) presenting a cheque to the 1st prize winner of the Lagos City Marathon, Abraham Kiptom (middle) at the Eko Atlantic City, Lagos. With them are, 2nd prize winner, Hosea Kipkemboi (2nd left) and 3rd prize winner, Debebe Kolosa (2nd right) during the Lagos City Marathon at the Eko Atlantic City, Lagos... at the weekend.

Photo: OLAWALE ROTIMI

I didn’t buy my way to N’ Assembly, says Bamidele Gbenga Sodeinde, Ado-Ekiti

ÎÎÎA member of the House

of the seventh House of Representatives, Hon Opeyemi Bamidele, has refuted an allegation made by the Special Assistant to Governor Ayodele Fayose on Public Communications, Mr. Lere Olayinka, that he purchased his victory, during the 2011 general elections.

In an interview in one of the national dailies, on Saturday, Olayinka alleged that Bamidele offered Aluko a sum of $10,000 to concede victory to the Action Congress of Nigeria in the poll.

While Bamidele was the candidate of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria in Ekiti Central Federal Constituency 1, comprising Ado/Irepodun/Ifelodun local governments, Aluko was the candidate of the

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Fayose and Aluko had been embroiled in a crisis in the last two weeks over allegation raised by the latter that that the PDP, in league with the military, rigged out ex-governor Kayode Fayemi during the June 21, 2014 governorship poll in favour of Fayose.

A statement issued by Bamidele’s Media Aide, Ahmed Salami, on Sunday, carpeted Olayinka for what he described as character assassination, and urged him to desist from unwarranted mudslinging, in a desperate attempt to wriggle out of a messy situation.

Bamidele stated that he polled a total of 47,800 votes to defeat his rival, Aluko, who scored 13, 222, in the election, winning in all the 24 wards and over 200 units in the Federal Constituency,

and advised Olayinka not to hide under him to vitiate Aluko’s integrity.

“In case Olayinka was oblivious of these facts, I won in all the wards in Ado and Irepodun/Ifelodun local governments. If truly I had bought my rival to win in Iyin Ekiti and in my local government, would it be suffice to conclude that I also bought over all the PDP leaders with different interests in the election in Ado Council Area?

“Olayinka must realise that his principal, Governor Fayose, who was a senatorial candidate of the Labour Party was roundly defeated by Senator Babafemi Ojudu in the contest held the same day. Could it now be inferred that Ojudu bought the governor to emerge victorious in the election?

“As a way of helping

Olayinka in broadening his horizon in elementary political analysis, every election is local and one can only purchase victory on the field in any electoral contest in areas where he is popular. My popularity then and now in Ekiti State is not in doubt and there was no reason for me to buy Aluko to win the election.

“Of all the six House of Representatives candidates that emerged in the election to represent Ekiti State at the National Assembly, I polled the highest number of votes, which further accentuated my level of acceptability among the masses.

“So, Olayinka’s allegation was not only a misdirected one, but came out of a mind bereft of in-depth understanding of the political situation of the state during that election”.

7 News

community called on the government to intervene in the activities of the land speculators, who had been using armed thugs to terrorise the people all in the name of seizing lands.

The petition which was signed by the Baale of the Community, Chief Olalekan Akinlabi accused one Aloba family of Lafenwa, Ago-Ika, Abeokuta of being the brain behind their ordeal.

“The Aloba family and a notorious land grabber had stationed over 200 armed thugs in our Ire Akari Olomore community since about Febuary 4, 2016, from 10 a.m. They stopped all workers that were working on about 25 new building sites. They humiliated, harassed and molested everybody, and forcefully collected all their belongings including cash, mobile phones, wrist watches and other valuables.”

Amaechi warns govs against on ‘frivolous’ projects ÎÎÎThe Minister of

Transport, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi has cautioned governors across the country not to focus on frivolous and non-economically viable projects that would only satisfy the rich in the society rather than those that would improve on the lives of the poor.

Amaechi, a former governor of Rivers State spoke, at the weekend, in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, during his assessment visit of some projects executed by the Amosun administration on behalf of the Federal Government.

He said that construction of projects, such as an airports by state governments, must be supported and driven by the economic demands of such states.

According to him, the country was already filled with many airports which were not economically viable.

“I believe that the construction of airport should be backed by the growth of the economy. There are some airports that are constructed just for the governors to land and take off. That won’t be the idea for me as the Minister of Transportation.

62% of Nigerian women unfaithful – Don

ÎÎÎThe Head of Department

of Educational Technology at the University of Ilorin, Prof.

Mudasiru Yusuf, has urged Nigerians to re-evaluate themselves to be more honourable.

In a lecture organised by the Obafemi Awolowo University Muslim Graduates Association (UNIFEMGA), Yusuf said that 62 per cent of Nigerian women were unfaithful.

In the lecture entitled: “Honour in a Nation, Where Honour is a Luxury,” Yusuf

said that almost all aspects of the nation was unfortunate to be characterised by dishonest individuals.

“The issue of honesty has to do with ethos and integrity.

Allah has honoured man. It is man who, therefore, has degraded himself and brought himself low,” he said.

According to him, God is divine and clean and does not accept any act except clean and honourable actions from his creations.

8

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

Politics

Æs

Corruption became entrenched during Murtala/ Obasanjo regime —Na’Abba Speaker of the House of Representatives, during the tenure of former President Olusegun Obasanjo when bribe money was brought to the floor of the House, Alhaji Ghali Umar Na’ Abba, in this interview with AUGUSTINE OKEZIE spoke on the overall effects of corruption on the polity and why government should fund democratic structures to deepen democracy. Excerpts:

Na’abba

Obasanjo

Murtala

What are your thoughts on the issue of lack of internal democracy amongst political parties in Nigeria?

Whenever you pull out internal de-

mocracy from an election, then you are inflicting heavy damage on the polity.

But today that is what is going on, and that is why we have so many economic and social problems. Because the pol-

ity is not growing, the economy is not growing and the society is not growing. So this is why I thought this platCONTINUED ON PAGE 9

LagosAssemblyproposes Stakeholder’sSummitto stopextinctionofYoruba Alade Tasma Concerned about the possible extinction of Yoruba language with its current neglect, the Lagos State House of Assembly has passed a resolution for the convocation of a Stakeholders Summit on the use of the language.

The Summit which will involve all those in the education sector in the state, the state government and the state legislature would focus on ways of fashioning measures to prevent its extinction in the country.

The resolution, unanimously passed last Thursday is targeted at mandating teaching and learning of Yoruba Language for at least three periods a week in private and public schools ın the state.

The resolutıon was sequel to a motion moved by the Majority Leader, Hon. Sanai Agunbiade and seconded by Hon. Segun Olulade, the Chairman, House Committee on Health.

The lawmakers took turns to express dissatisfaction over the second ratıng or total rejection of Yoruba Language both at schools and at home by some parents.

Agunbiade moved the motıon to commemorate the 7th Anniversary of using Yoruba Language for deliberations every Thursday in the Lagos House of Assembly which commenced on February 5, 2009.

The motıon reads: “That thıs House calls on Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode to direct the Commissioner for Education to take a quick step to ensure that syllabus in public and private schools in the state make the teaching and learning of Yoruba Language compulsory.

“That we should convey a Stakeholders’ Summit to look at the challenges in teaching Yoruba in schools as well as to ensure that Yoruba Language is taught at least three times in a week both in private and public schools,” Agunbıade said.

According to the majorıty leader, it has become necessary to call a meeting of Tutor General, PTA (Parents Teach-

Knocks, kudos for Supreme Court over judgments as PDP continues celebrations

Mohammed

As the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) continues its victory celebrations over the outings of its governors at the Supreme Court, groups and individuals have been faulting the apex court on the recent judgments.

Amongst them is the foremost independent citizen election observers group in Nigeria, Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) has expressed its consternation on

CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

the verdicts of the Supreme Court on the state governorship elections.

The Supreme Court had recently within a week awarded victory to PDP governors in Delta, Ifeanyi Okowa, Rivers, Nyesom Wike, Ebonyi, Dave Umahi, Akwa Ibom, Udom Emmanuel and Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

Obasa

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

9 Politics

Why FG must fund democratic structures — Na’Abba CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

form has provided us with this opportunity to look at these things and then try to bring succor to our democracy.

What is your response to the issue of consensus building amongst politicians and political parties?

On political consensus in our polity, whatever political party we belong to, there must be a consensus that we must work for our democracy, and that winners and losers must always be recognised. When someone looses or a party looses an election, we must acknowledge the existence of the losing party and carry it along.

Whoever the looser is must accept defeat and we want a situation whereby winning and losing will be fairly and freely decided, so that whoever wins, will know that yes, it is on merit and whoever looses, we will be sure he is not deprived of one thing or the other.

How do you see the growth of Democracy in Africa?

It is everyone’s wish that Africa be democratised and we thought that if we are free, we must not be indifferent to another’s freedom elsewhere particularly in our continent.

In Burundi, Uganda, Rwanda, there are growing challenges of democracy. You see, when you leave people with no choice, they will resort to violence, and that is why there is violence in many African countries, because people are

Obasanjo

being deprived of their right to choose their leaders.

How do you view current efforts aimed at sustaining democracy in Nigeria?

Well, I believe that most of the conferences and summits that have held in the past must have been organised in good faith with the objective of making our society better.

I strongly believe that efforts aimed at ensuring the sustenance of democracy requires a lot of financial backing and that structure must be funded.

And that is why in certain developed nations, they have endowments, these endowments are funded by their governments.

For example in the United States, they have what is called National Endowment for Democracy-this is funded by the government and it’s a body under a state department and it’s responsible for funding political institutions to achieve their objectives. It is this body that funds institutions like the National Democratic Institute and International Republican Institute.

The role of these institutes in the political revolution of a lot of African countries cannot be overemphasized. Even when we started this democracy in 1999, they used to come and put us in many aspects of democracy, from appropriation process to various ways of legislation. That continued until I made a personal effort to bring them to Nigeria on a more per-

Na’abba

manent base. That was when they established offices and had permanent bases in Nigeria. So, we would want Federal Government to buy this idea of institute for democracy. It will be a means of examining some of this our programmes with a view to stabilising and helping our polity.

Looking at governance in our country today, many quarters have been crying foul over what they described as threats to democracy. Do you think our democracy is under threat?

Well, my believe is that so well as there is no internal democracy in any polity, that polity is definitely at threat.

People are underestimating the importance of internal democracy. It is within the structure of internal democracy that you know the souls.

As long as we go about democracy disorderly, it has a way of hitting back and that is why we see that today, because of lack of internal democracy, we have many security issues such as insurgency, kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism and many others numerous to mention. Whatever sector one is, ultimately, what determines whether you live at peace or war is good governance Today, the premise within which people are recruited is faulty and out of sycophancy, so when people become sycoCONTINUED ON PAGE 11

Murtala

Secondus

Knocks, kudos for Supreme Court over judgments as PDP continues celebrations CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

President Muhammadu Buhari had recently described the judiciary as his headache in his ongoing fight against corruption in the country.

National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Odigie-Oyegun had lamented over the apex court verdicts while the chapters of the party in Rivers and Akwa Ibom had also expressed their disappointment with the judgments.

And in a statement by its Chairman, Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, the TMG with over 400 members noted that the “disturbing trend in these judicial pronouncements, is in the fact that the apex court has elected to give judgments, and not justice. In the face of unrepentant attempts to subvert the will of the people in a good number of the cases, the court has curiously turned a blind eye.

“For us, it is absolutely shocking that the Supreme Court has decided to act as if it exists in another planet. TMG is perturbed by the strange legal reasoning that has informed the blank cheque that the court has given to election riggers.

“We make bold to say that while the legal premise be-

hind these judgments is best known to the apex court, the open reward for electoral impunity does not resonate with the Nigerian people.

“As the foremost election observation coalition in the country, we see the Supreme Court judgments as clear cut attempts at legalising electoral robberies.

“These judgments, particularly on Rivers and Akwa Ibom states, have merely given judicial imprimatur to the damaging mind set of rapacious politicians who would stop at nothing in their bid to subvert the will of the people.

What these judgments have effectively done is to ridicule Nigeria in the eyes of the international community, while diminishing our country’s stature in the comity of lovers of democracy around the world.

“Painfully, the biggest losers are the ordinary people in the states who have been denied their democratic choices on account of the violence and impunity that characterised the polls in those states.

In the end, what the Supreme Court has succeeded in doing is to spit on the graves of all those innocent Nigerians who lost their lives as a result of CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

Politics 10

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

Knocks, kudos for Supreme Court over judgments as PDP continues celebrations CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

the activities of those hell bent on subverting the will of the people.

“On behalf of the scores of Nigerians whose lives were cut short by the activities of election riggers, we take solace in the fact that even beyond the justice of the Supreme Court; there is the justice of the Almighty. And in due course, those who willfully killed and maimed in the desperate bid to capture power, would be held to account”, the group stressed.

But the PDP says with last Wednesday’s rulings affirming the elections of Governors Udom Emmanuel and Okezie Ikpeazu of Akwa-Ibiom and Abia states respectively, the Supreme Court, in upholding justice has further reinvigorated the hope and trust of the citizenry in the judiciary as the bastion of democracy.

Embattled Acting National Chairman of the party, Uche Secondus, in a statement, said the PDP and all lovers of democracy in the country commend the maturity and patriotism being displayed by the Supreme Court in dispensing justice, a development, which has strengthened the confidence of the people in democracy and rule of law.

“Wednesday’s rulings on Abia and Akwa-Ibom, coming after the apex court had last week handed justice in affirming the elections of Governors Nyesom

Wike and Dave Umahi of Rivers and Ebonyi states respectively, have not only put a seal on the popularity of our governors, as duly reflected in the elections, but also that of the PDP, irrespective of the temporary setback of the 2015 general elections.

“Nigerians are no longer in doubt of the fact that in spite of the electoral challenges, the PDP remains the only pan-Nigeria party, committed to the national interest, with the capacity, vision and direction to deliver and sustain a united and prosperous country; the reason we are working hard to regain power at the center in 2019.

“While congratulating our governors and indeed, all well-meaning Nigerians for this triumph of democracy, we restate our charge to all PDP elected and appointed office holders at all levels across the country to continue to patriotically exert themselves, while maintaining the lead in providing purposeful leadership in line with the ideology and visions of PDP founding fathers.

“Despite the challenges, we assure Nigerians that we will not relent but continue to be steadfast in showing leadership at all levels especially at this point where other political platforms offer no hope or governance direction to the people,” Secondus stressed.

Mohammed

Secondus

Homegrown solutions better than World Bank loan— Agoro

Agoro

As Nigeria prepares to take a loan from the World Bank aftermath of the financial strait it is in at the moment, a former Presidential Candidate has counseled against such a move to address Nigeria’s economic woes.

Rather, he suggested that the country should develop a homegrown remedy in taking Nigeria out of the present woods it found itself.

According to Dr. Olapade Agoro of the National Action Council (NAC), this was done during the era of erstwhile President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo when Nigeria, amidst fanfare paid off almost US$ 30 billion of her total indebtedness to exit the ‘back-to-slavery, chains and shackles in the hands and legs of the poor, IMF problematic loans’.

Agoro observed that it becomes a sinister motive and highly surprising for the Muhammadu Buhari’s regime expected to be the poor friendly contemplating becoming a good boy of the West, and taking a loan from the World Bank.

He said in spite of pay-

Buhari

ing off the $30 billion IMF loan, the administration of former President Olusegun Obsanajo before it left office year 2007 had Foreign Exchange Earnings of US$62 billion in the kitty, which he alleged was unexplainably drawn down to US$450 million in just one year (2007 -2008) during regime of Yar’Adua/ Goodluck Jonathan.

He also observed that it was an undisputable fact that a handful of Nigerians are far richer that the nation State of Nigeria in foreign exchange savings kept in far way foreign economies. “ U n f o r t u n a t e l y, should these Nigerians suddenly die like Mobutu Seseseko did, who left behind a whooping foreign exchange account of about US$5 billion, there will be no way the West would ever allow that type of money to be taken out of the Western economy”, he said.

He expressed regrets that while there appears to be unending tales of discoveries of late dictator, Gen. Sani Abacha’s loot to be repatriated back to Nigeria, nobody has told hap-

Lagard

less Nigerians how the money got saved in the foreign banks by the late General who never once traveled out of Nigeria throughout his stay in power to any country of the West.

“It therefore becomes apposite that if the nation must sincerely and timely find an appropriate, most reasonable, friendly approach to her prevailing economic quagmire, it is the Home Grown Syndicated Solution rather than IMF loan loaded with conditionality unfavorable to the peoples’ interest and welfare”, he advised.

On corruption, he said since it has become obvious that Nigeria judicial system is a snail speed moving one and inhibiting the wheel of progress that could make ongoing corruption trials last at least 20 years, moving from lower Court to Court of Appeal and finally the Supreme Court, “we will be fooling ourselves to expect any tangible results than mere noise making in President Buhari’s current assault at the evils of corruption in Nigeria”.

Besides, he said the fact must be faced that

Buhari’s stay in power currently enjoying about nine months of its first year of constitutional stipulated period of four years may not see the end of the expected trial time of those now being made to face the odd music trials in court for corruption.

“Therefore for assured maximum result guarantee, the best approach that can effortlessly and effectively recoup back to Nigeria within 40 days of minimum US $ 5 billion dollars should be the afro style “Home Grown syndicated Solutions” of Name, Shame and Negotiate, take back all or part of the identifiable stolen funds”, he said.

According to him, many Nigerians whom he described as birds of the same feathers irrespective of their political parties in APC, PDP, APGA, SDP, etc are clever thieves ready to pay any amount of money particularly in foreign currency to engage lawyers to keep their cases ad-infinitum in the courts no doubt with the intention to outlast the time Muhammadu Buhari the sworn anti- corruption crusader would legally stay in power.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

11 Politics

Elections: Attitude of winners-take-all must be discouraged — Ghali Na’Abba CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

phants, what happens is that the incentive is killed. Because when you are a sycophant and I see you are the only one making progress, I will convert myself into a sycophant too. I will not waste my time studying hard for me to be able to succeed. I will regress and come down to your level thereby killing my intellect. It is always unfortunate to see people that their intellect is questionable running the affairs of the government. We are killing intellect in Nigeria through systematic subjugation of internal democracy.

The fight against corruption has been described by many quarters as witch hunting and vengeance against perceived political enemies and oppositions. What is your opinion on it?

My take is that the institutions fighting corruption should be allowed to do their job independently, because a lot of times, the moment people begin to perceive politics in the prosecution of corruption cases, it weakens the institutions and I believe that with time, this must be addressed. Secondly, in the issue of fighting corruption, I believe must be carried along with the philosophy that emphasises the fight against the things that bring about corruption. Because corruption is a social phenomenon, it doesn’t exist in isola-

Obasanjo

Murtala

Na’abba

tion. When the majority of the people lack basic facilities needed for livelihood. Nigerians lack them because of institutional weaknesses and people resort to self help.

In a country where people have to own their own power source, own their personal water source and health source. People find it difficult to even own a roof of their own. I believe that fight against corruption must be fought simultaneously against those things

that bring about corruption.

Again, there is this thing about security. People want to be secure. During the Murtala Mohammed/ Olusegun Obasanjo administration, a lot of civil servants were dismissed from service.

This was a government that came out to say they are going to fight corruption.

They dismissed a lot of civil servants that were said to be corrupt. It was during that government that corruption became more entrenched because

the remaining civil servants realizing what became of the civil servants, who were dismissed, tried to secure themselves against any eventuality. So, this kind of things must be looked into, people must be made to be secure. In an environment of insecurity, people might resort to self help. Infrastructure must be provided as a means of nipping it in the bud and as the best source of fighting the root cause of corruption.

Lagos Assembly proposes Stakeholder’s Summit to stop extinction of Yoruba CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

ers Association) and all other stakeholders in the education sector to know the problems.

“Most schools today do not speak Yoruba Language again and other indigenous languages.

In fact, many parents frowned at their children whenever they speak Yoruba at home.

“We should ensure that Yoruba Language does not go into extinction.

Other people embrace their language, we should also be proud of ours.

“We should meet with all heads of Education Districts, if teachers are not enough, we should employ more. We don’t have any justification for not teaching and embracing our language,” he said.

In his contribution, the Chairman, House Committee on Education, Hon. Lanre Ogunyemı said the responsibility was on the government and parents to ensure that Yoruba Language did not go into extinction.

“It is a must that we bequeath the language to our children. The National Policy on Education and our constitution mandate the teaching and learning of our indigenous languages.

“We need to call on all in charge of education to compulsory this in Lagos.

Indigenous Languages will promote love and unity,” Ogunyemı stated whıle remındıng hıs colleagues about February 21, a date set asıde for the International Mother

Language Day by United Nation Education, Social, Children Organisation (UNESCO).

Chairman, House Committee on Health, Hon. Segun Olulade who called for the promotion of Yoruba language, culture and tradition, said it was not good to call Yoruba language a vernacular.

“We have thrown away our language, there is nothing to be ashamed of in speaking our language”, he stressed.

Hon. (Mrs) Adefunmilayo Tejuosho decrıed the habit of punishing or making students pay fine for speaking Yoruba language in schools.

In his contrıbutıon, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa said: “it is not our making

Obasa that we were born here, those who speak their indigenous languages are progressing.

“We need to encourage our language, and be proud of it. Using our indigenous language to teach our children yields better results as posited by late Chief Bola Ige and Professor Wole Soyinka.

INECfixesFeb.20forPlateau rerun,supplementarypolls The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has fixed Feb. 20, for rerun and supplementary elections for Langtang South, Pankshin South and Plateau North state constituencies.

INEC in a statement in Jos on Sunday said that the Langtang South elections would be conducted in the entire 68 polling units, in compliance with a Court of Appeal judgment.

The court had ruled that the initial winner, Vincent Bulus of the PDP, was not qualified to have contested the April 11, 2015 polls.

“The elections will also feature two political parties, out of the three that participated in the initial elections - the APC and the MPPP; the PDP candidate has been excluded,’’ the statement said.

The statement, signed by Mr Osaretin Imahiyereobo, Head, Voter Education and Publicity, said that supplementary elections in Pankshin South would hold only in Nyelleng polling unit in Fier Registration Area.

According to him, the supplementary elections in Pankshin North will hold in Pyabor Polling Unit of Chip Registration Area. ``In the two elections in Pankshin, all political parties and candidates that featured in the last election will feature in the supplementary elections,’’ he said.

According to him, candidates of PDP, LP, MPPP and APC will contest for the Plateau North seat, while those from APGA, PDP, MPPP, and APC will slug it out in Pankshin South.

(NAN)

News 12

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

Nigeria sliding dangerously, says PDP Lateef Ibrahim, Abuja

ÎÎÎActing National Chair-

man of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Prince Uche Secondus, on Sunday, raised the alarm that Nigeria is dangerously sliding, with an advice to the All Progressives Congress-led Federal Government to genuinely engage Nigerians to achieve peace that brings development.

Ï Warns APC against abuse of judiciary Secondus spoke at the thanksgiving and reception for Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, in Port Harcourt.

The PDP acting National Chairman urged the ruling APC to address series of disturbing challenges in the land and stop abusing Nigeria Judiciary because it did not go their

way.

Prince Secondus, who led other members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party to the ceremony, told the audience comprising top PDP leaders, including state governors and members of the National Assembly that Nigeria is sliding economically and

politically with APC showing it has no solution in sight.

He noted that when APC took over power from the PDP seven months ago, the naira was exchanging for N160 to one dollar but noted that currently, the naira has suddenly dipped to N300 for a dollar under the APC government.

The PDP leader charged the APC to face reality and engage the various stakeholders, including business and political leaders to find a way out instead grandstanding that all is well.

Prince Secondus also described as dangerous to the polity, the continued abuse of judiciary and the use of military and other security agencies in purely political matters.

The PDP acting Chairman said that it has become vivid to all political watchers that PDP, even in opposition, remains the largest party in Africa as indications has become very clear that APC is not a political party.

He added that not even the harassment and persecution of its leaders would stop the party from providing a robust and constructive opposition.

Navy foils hijack of merchant ship, recues 25 foreigners ÎÎÎThe

Nigerian Navy has foiled an attempt by suspected sea pirates to hijack and abduct 25 foreign nationals aboard a Maersk merchant ship carrying general cargo to Nigeria.

Briefing journalists on Sunday at Onne Sea Port, Rivers State, Capt. Olusegun Soyemi, the Executive Officer of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder, said that the vessel berth safely with the rescued crew members unharmed.

Soyemi said the crew members, including the ship’s captain, were of mixed nationalities consisting of eight Philippines, eight South Africans, five Indians, two Britons and two from Thailand.

According to him, Safmarine Kuramo, a Maersk merchant ship registered in Singapore, was transporting general cargo from Port-Noire, Congo, to Onne Sea Port in Rivers. ``On January 5 at about 08:00 hours; Sufmarine Kuramo was attacked by sea pirates about 60 nautical miles off the coast of Bonny Island (in Rivers) Fairway Bouy.

“We got may-day distress call that the ship was boarded by unconfirmed number of sea pirates after entering the nation’s territorial waters.

“We immediately dispatched a warship (NNS Centenary) and attack gunboats led by Navy Capt.

Chiedozie Okehie of the Eastern Naval Command to rescue the situation. ``The sea pirates apparently on sighting advancing naval troops fled the scene for fear of being arrested by our operatives. ``The operation was

largely successful as all 25 foreign crew members, including the captain, are safe and unhurt, while cargo onboard the ship is intact,” he said.

Soyemi said the pirates had fired several gunshots at the ships control room apparently to scare and subdue any resistance from the captain and crew members.

Also, the Commanding Officer of NNS Centenary, Capt. Chiedozie Okehie, who led the operation, said the crew members locked and hid themselves in the ship’s citadel (engine room).

He said the rescue was successful partly due to the courage and bravery exhibited by the ship’s captain – a woman.

According to him, in spite all odds, she covertly gave navy operatives briefs while pirates on board the ship made several attempt to break into the citadel. ``Immediately we got to the ship, we carried out thorough searches of the compartments and cabins to check if any pirate had remained onboard.

“Investigations are ongoing to ascertain what happened and who carried out the attack,” he assured.

Okehie said the navy under the command of Vice Adm. Ibok-Ete Ibas remained fully committed to safety of the nation’s waterways and maritime environment.

Speaking, the Captain of Safamarine Kuramo, Ms Zetta Gous-Conradie, a South African, described the experience as horrific.

Gous-Conradie hailed the Nigerian Navy for its prompt response to her distress call.

L-R: Children of the late Oba Samuel Odugade, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Princess Yemisi Sowumi; Prince Gbade Lana; Princess Sade Bankole and Prince Jide Lana during a Service of Songs in honour of Odugade, at the Cathedral of St Peter, Aremo, Ibadan… on Sunday.

Presidency: We put 2016 budget proposal on web to attract comments, criticism ÎÎÎSenior

Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, has said that the Federal Government will continue to welcome constructive criticism of its policies, budget and expenditure.

Shehu said in a statement in Abuja on Sunday that such criticism would assist the government in fulfilling its promises to Nigerians, adding that ``it is the only way the change promised the country will have a meaning’’.

He said that it was on account of this and in line with established tradition that the president directed that the draft 2016 appropriation, now before the

National Assembly, be put on the website of the budget office.

He said this would enable Nigerians to read the budget with a view to making their observations.

Shehu dismissed the insinuation in some quarters that the presidency was misleading the public on certain aspects of the budget proposal. ``In reaction to a newspaper story that said `2016 Budget: Buhari to spend more on State House Clinic than on all Federal Government-owned teaching hospitals,’ the Budget Office supplied a summary of the allocations to the various sectors under the ministry of health, which showed clearly that the published

story was inaccurate. ``The Budget Office has affirmed that in terms of both capital and recurrent allocations, the draft budget has put far more money in the 17 teaching hospitals than it did in the State House Clinic. ``Having said this, we are not by any stretch of imagination suggesting that the draft budget is beyond comments or reproach. Nor do we wish to dwell on this simply to make a point. ``To do that will drive away good citizens from pointing out needed corrections and, ultimately defeating the change mantra of the administration. ``The budget is a Nigerian budget and citizens reserve the right to exam-

ine its content and provide their own perspectives. ``As the draft goes through the approval process, this and many other aspects will continue to generate interest, criticism, commendation and sometimes condemnation in discussions in the parliament, the media and the court of public opinion. ``We believe that the process of “change” will be affected by, and stands to gain from these debates, especially where there is good faith on all sides,’’ he further explained.

Shehu said that the government had no reason to mislead the citizens on the budget and on all other matters for whatever reason.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

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News 14

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

Osun doctors consider strike call-off Sodiq Adekunle Osogbo

ÏÏÏThe leadership of the

medical and dental practitioners union in Osun state may suspend its over fivemonth old strike soon.

It would be recalled that the medical doctors commenced an industrial strike since Monday, 28th September, 2015.

The doctors gave the assurance during a mediation of the State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon Najeem Salaam, at a meeting with the leadership of the state Association of Medical Dental Officers (OSAMDO) at the Assembly

complex in Osogbo.

According to the Chairman, House Committee on Information and Strategy, Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, the Speaker has appealed to the striking doctors to suspend the action, saying the masses were at the receiving end of the crisis.

He said, “You are major stakeholders in the health sector, and whenever you decide to lay down your tools, the masses suffer, people die. We are appealing that you go back to your duty posts while we continue our dialogue to ensure that your demands are met.

L-R: Supervisor, Olowora Mutual Health Facility, Mrs. Kolaru Rashidat; Lions Club Region 3 Chairperson, Iyabo Jaiyeola; Lions Club Region 1 Chairperson, Lion Modupe Adeniyi; International Convention Chairperson 404B2, Princess Toyin Atobatele and Vice President, Lagos Avalanche Lions Club, Uche Chiwetalu, during region 1 measles eradication campaign at Olowora Health Centre, Lagos… at the weekend.

FAAN installs, test-runs airfield lightings in 13 airports Chukwuemeka Iwelunmo The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), last weekend, said work on the installation of airfield lighting at 13 airports has reached advanced stage while that at the Margret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, has been test-run.

The General Manager, Public Affairs of FAAN, Yakubu Dati, explained that the Authority kicked off the test run last week and it was working perfectly, while others have reached advanced stage of completion.

Dati said (FAAN) was focusing on providing critical equipment on the airside of all its airports

in order to enhance landing and take-off of flights.

The Authority noted that while it continues to work on the rehabilitation and expansion of airport terminal facilities, it has now focused on providing landing aids, not only to meet the conditions for the certification of nation’s airports but to enable flights take off and

We’re committed to revival of economy, says Adeosun Mathew Dadiya Abuja

ÏÏÏThe

Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun has assured that the Federal Government under the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari is committed to reviving the Nigerian economy, diversified and protected it from destabilising effect of oil price functions.

Mrs. Adeosun stated this in her office in Abuja while inaugurating the committee for the review of Insurance (Consolidated) Bill.

She said that the review of the bill was long overdue and “we are repositioning the insurance industry and ensuring that it plays its ex-

pected role in the financial services industry and the wider economy.”

The Minister, alongside the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mahmoud IsaDutse, and Commissioner for Insurance, Mohammed Kyari charged the committee to deliver the new draft within 90 days.

“As you are aware, this administration is committed to the revival of the economy. However, in the spirit of ‘change’, the economy of the future needs to be different from the past.

The new economy must be well diversified and protected from destabilising effects of oil price functions.

We believe that we can grow the non-oil sectors of the economy, particularly

agriculture, solid minerals and manufacturing.

“We have identified the constraints to the growth of these sectors and they are largely centered on infrastructure and ease of doing businesses. We are particularly proposing investment in our essential infrastructure including power, housing, road, rail and air transport, as we believe that these will have a multiplier effect on the economy. The spending stimulus to be provided by government investment will kick start the economy, releasing funds to contractors and other counterparties that will stimulate spending to boost economic activity” Adeosun said.

land in low visibility occasioned by adverse weather situations.

He said FAAN is also collaborating with the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) to ensure that all critical navigational and landing aids are provided at the airports.

“In order to urgently install all the necessary

Amaechi

landing aids, FAAN and NAMA are collaborating with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (IACO) to ensure that the provision of airside facilities meet given international standards.

“I believe by the time we complete the installation of runway lights in these 13 airports, flight cancellations due to poor visibility will reduce to the barest minimum and airlines can fly to these airports in the night. This is our focus and we are working hard to ensure we meet the expectation of our airlines.

Senator tasks FG on Igbokoda seaport project Tosin Ajuwon Akure

ÏÏÏThe Federal Govern-

ment has been advised to look into the proposed Igbokoda ‘seaport project’ in the coaster area of Ondo state with a view to improving the socio-economy standard of the people and the country at large.

Senator Yele Omogunwa, the federal lawmaker representing Ondo South

Senatorial District of the state at the National Assembly, made the advice on Sunday in Akure, the state capital.

Omogunwa, who spoke with journalists, noted that the project would also provide employment opportunities for thousands of timing and jobless youths in the state and boost the country’s economy.

He disclosed that the state government was pre-

pared and ready to provide an enabling environment for the commencement of the projects on basis of the federal government’s commitment.

The federal legislator revealed that Ondo state, being the state with the longest coast line in Africa, deserved a sea port for business transaction while wondering the non-readiness of the government to its take off.

Niger safe haven for investors – Gov Bello Saka Bolaji Minna

ÏÏÏNiger state governor,

Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello has assured British investors of safe investment climate in state.

Governor Bello gave this assurance when he met

with members of the British Parliament under the platform of All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) -Nigeria and Westminster Africa Business Group (WABG), at the House of Parliament in the United Kingdom.

“Niger state is the safest state in Nigeria. We pay

adequate attention to security in the state. Despite the size of the state, we have been able to maintain law and order. There are isolated cases of crime, but such cases are not threat to foreign investors. We are also very hospitable people,” Gov. Bello told the lawmakers.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

15 Opinion

When the Supreme Court rescues Nigeria from tyranny

T Jude Igbokwe

wo issues that have put our judiciary in the eye of the storm in recent times are the anti-corruption war and the election matters. These two issues are very dear to the heart of President Muhammadu Buhari for different reasons. On the anticorruption war, Buhari and the All Progressives Congress (APC) have always made it look like an all out war against the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Almost all those being arrested and tried for alleged corrupt practices are members of the PDP, even when a good number of senior APC officials have been in government for so long and can therefore not claim to be clean.

The naked power, exuberance and over-zealousness exhibited by security agencies in the handling of these corruption cases leave much to be desired. The continued flagrant disobedience of court orders with respect to these cases is overwhelming evidence of the tyranny of the current administration.

Under this administration, the executive has continually disparaged the judiciary by making it look like an incurable corrupt institution militating against the suc-

cess of the anti-corruption war. This has led to the intimidation of judges who now feel harassed to give judgements not based on facts before them but in obeisance to the wishes of the president and his party. Having shown signs of weakness and fear, security agents are emboldened to treat court decisions with contempt.

Recently, Buhari openly said that the judiciary is his headache in his fight against corruption. Following suit, the national chairman of APC, Chief John Odigie Oyegun, called for the investigation of Justices of the Supreme Court simply because the apex court gave judgement in favour of the PDP, in the Rivers State governorship election, thereby, denying the APC the ambition of turning Nigeria to a one-party state.

At several other forums, the president and his associates have cast aspersion at the judiciary all in a bid to put them in an awkward position before the public.

This act of subtle intimidation of the judiciary is no doubt taking its toll on the bench as judgements emanating from the lower courts have become doubtful. A situation where similar cases have different judicial outcomes gave the Chief Justice of Nigeria great concern that he lamented, and rightly so, the quality of judgements by Appeal Courts.

With the contradictory judgements

from the different Courts of Appeal handling political cases, one can safely conclude that the ultimate plan of the president and his party was to use their criticisms as a means of whipping the judiciary into line on political matters.

However, one is glad that Justices of the Supreme Court have shown that such tactics by the executive and the APC do not affect them in any way.

For all the political cases delivered in favour of the APC in error at the lower courts, the Supreme Court has upturned them. From Abia to Rivers, from Delta to Akwa Ibom etc, the Supreme Court has validated the people’s will against the show of might by the executive and the run of propaganda by the executive.

With these judgements, the tyranny of the executive has been neutralised to an extent. We now urge all judges to emulate the example set by their Lordships at the Supreme Court. They cannot afford to let themselves be intimidated by anybody or institution.

The high profile cases before them, be they corruption or political, are opportunities to further solidify the independence of the judiciary. They must do everything within their powers to ensure that their orders are not only obeyed but that reliefs/prayers sought by the executive are denied until previous orders are complied with. It is their responsibility to ensure that those

who are persecuted are protected from undue suffering and torture. They must ensure that no one is persecuted unjustly. This is the only way the judiciary can carry out the onerous and unenviable task of saving our democracy from crass impudence and tyranny.

The principle of the presumption of innocence until proven guilty must be protected at all times. Rather than blame the judiciary for failed cases in courts, the executive should ensure they have watertight evidence against anyone before approaching the courts.

To do otherwise would amount to taking coals to Enugu. Everyone wants justice and we all want corrupt people punished with the full weight of the law and not the full height of tyranny.

With the judgements in the Abia, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Ebonyi, Rivers etc elections, the Supreme Court has once again redeemed the judiciary and asserted its independence. One must not forget that the APC has also enjoyed and benefitted from the sagacity of the Supreme Court judges as elections of Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State, Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State, Ibrahim Geidam of Taraba State etc, all of APC were upheld.

We therefore urge all judges to take courage from the Supreme Court and reassert their authority as a way of saving our democracy from further sliding into tyranny.

Imo @ 40: Whither the Imolites?

T

Fred Doc Nwaozor

The news is everywhere that Imo State popularly known as the ‘Eastern Heartland’ alongside other six states including Anambra, Bauchi, Benue, Niger, Ogun and Ondo turned 40.

The state was created specifically on February 3, 1976 out of the old East Central State by then regime of Gen Murtala Mohammed. It has Owerri as its capital and largest city.

Thereafter, Abia State was carved out of the state during the state creation exercise of 1991. Its major districts/ towns include Orlu, Okigwe, AwoOmamma, Oguta, Mbaise, Ngor-Okpala, Ohaji, Egbema, Ideato, Mgbidi, and Ogbaku, among others.

Imo State, which is situated in the South Eastern region of Nigeria, covers a land mass of about 5, 530 Square kilometres. It shares common boundaries with Enugu and Ebonyi states to the North, Abia, Cross River and Akwa Ibom states to the East, Rivers State to the South, as well as Anambra State to the West. The official languages of the inhabitants, who are predominantly Christians, are Igbo and English.

The name ‘Imo’ was derived from Imo River, which takes its course from the Okigwe cum Awka upland. It lies within latitudes 4*45`N and 7*15`N, and longitudes 6*50`E and 7*25`E. Other major rivers are

Orashi, Otamiri, Nwaorie, and Njaba. Its main lakes are Oguta and Abadaba in Oguta and Obowu LGAs respectively.

The state no doubt is richly blessed with abundant natural resources including crude oil, zinc, white clay, lead, limestone, natural gas and fine sand. Agricultural produce such as cocoa, palm products, rubber, yam, cassava, maize and cocoyam thrive in the state.

Human resources are not left out in the state. Learned professionals, seasoned artists, renowned entrepreneurs, excellent teachers, and notable politicians abound in the state. Works of art peculiar to the state remain walking sticks of different designs, sculptures, carved doors, gongs, wooden mortars and pestles, talking drums and flutes.

Ancient art and cultural centres are, but not limited to, Eke Nguru in Aboh Mbaise, Mbari Cultural Centre at Owerri, and Igwekala Shrine in Umunoha. Economic trees to include the Mahogany, Obeche, Iroko, Bamboo, Gmelina, oil palm and rubber palm are invariably in abundance in the state. There are various traditional festivals or dances observed in Imo State including the Ahiajoku Festival which is observed in all the communities that practise farming, Iwakwa festival, Iwa-Oji, the Owu cultural dance, Ekpe dance, the Okorosha and Mmanwu masquerades, Abi-igbo dance, as well as Ikoro and Okonko

dances.

Some of the major ancient industries, which are currently moribund, are Fuason Industries at Owerri which produces galvanized iron sheets, Afrik Pharmaceutical Company in Awo-Omamma, Card Packaged Industry in Orlu, Resin Paints Limited in Aboh Mbaise, Aluminium Extrusion Industry in Inyisi, Sab Spare Parts and Allied Accessories both in Okigwe – which make motor spare parts, Nichben Pharmaceutical Company in Awo-Omamma, Magil Industries in Atta – which manufactures paper, steel, sponge, bread and polythene.

In the political arena, upon the creation of the state, Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu, who assumed duty in March 1976, emerged the first military Governor of the old Imo state.

Thereafter, Admiral Adekunle Lawal, Col Sunday Adenihun, Dr Samuel Mbakwe, Chief Ike Nwachukwu, Rear Admiral Allison Maduke, Commodore Amadi Ikwechegh, and Navy Commodore Anthony Oguguo became governors of the old Imo State respectively. Subsequently, Chief Evan Enwerem, Navy Captain James Aneke and Col Tanko Zubairu respectively assumed duty as governors of the state prior to the emergence of the fourth Republic which saw Chief Achike Udenwa as the twelfth governor of the state; after he was succeeded by Chief Ikedi Ohakim. Presently, the governor is

Chief Rochas Okorocha.

Surely, Imo has come a long way.

The rightful and most rational question needed to ask is where are we headed. To which place, Imolites do we wish to arrive at? In view of the history of the state, it implies that we are enormously endowed with both human and natural resources.

To this end, it is high time we swung into action towards revamping the tourism sector. We need to revive most of our cultural resources/ heritage that are socio-economically viable. Similarly, we are required to conscientise our citizenry, particularly the teeming youths, to go back to farms rather than rely or hoping on white-collar jobs.

What about solid minerals, which we possess in large quantities?

Now that we are bothered with diversification of sources of our economy, is it not time we started discussing how to harness other resources the state has in abundance?

We need to reawaken most of the aforementioned state-owned industries. It is worth noting that most of these moribund industries were established by late Dr Sam Mbakwe.

Truly, if we do the needful, Imo would be far better and greater; and it is worthy to acknowledge that the time to act is now.

Comr Fred Doc Nwaozor is the executive Director Centre for Counselling, Research & Career Development - Owerri

16

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

Osun students on rampage over WAEC fee Sodiq Adekunle Osogbo

ÏÏÏStudents

in public secondary schools, in Osun State, have protested against a decision by the government not pay the West African Examination Council fee for about 95 per cent of their colleagues for their poor performance.

During the protest, the

students vandalised vehicles in a media organisation and carried placards with diverse inscriptions.

It was gathered that students sat for the final year mock exam, which would qualified them for the state government paying for their WAEC examination on December 20-24 2015.

Head teachers in a Parent-Teachers-Association (PTA) meeting resolved

that those that failed should pay N14, 500 for science, while arts and commercial students would pay N14, 050 between Thursday and Monday.

On its part, the Osun State Government described the protests by students of high schools in Ife, Iwo and Ikire as shameful.

The government said that it was unthinkable

that the students, who failed examinations and should be remorseful, face the challenges of correcting their academic poor performance, could go out and vandalise government property in the name of protests.

In a statement by the Director, Bureau of Communication and Strategy, Office of the Governor, Mr. Semiu Okanlawon,

the government said that its refusal of government to register them for West African School Certificate Examination (WASCE) was because of their performance.

“The Government of Osun, in the unmistakeable resolve and determination to bring the best out of the students, has said that it would, henceforth, register only final

year students for external examination after the conduct of the in-house mock examination.

“Students, who fail to demonstrate their potential success at the final examination by scoring credits in at least four subjects, will not be assisted financially for by the government. Any parent who wants to gamble can register their children.”

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Congress (APC), in Ekiti State, has asked Governor Ayo Fayose to stop deceiving workers over payment of their salaries and entitlements, and said that persecuting union leaders for demanding workers’ rights was a needless provocation that could rupture peace in the state.

It warned that sending security agents after union leaders was a form of fascist conduct that was capable of forcing citizens to an act of rage, which may cause anarchy.

Its Publicity Secretary, Mr. Taiwo Olatunbosun, said in a statement, on Sunday, that union leaders had a responsibility to the work force and they had acted constitutionally in defence of workers.

Olatunbosun said the Fayose’s inconsistent figures on the state debts and non-transparent manner in the conduct of government’s business were enough for workers to lose faith in the governor.

He described Fayose as a serial liar, and flayed him for crediting workers’ accounts with their salaries only to withdraw the money after a heavy media hype.

The APC accused the governor of fraudulent conduct to sustain his grip on the “thoroughly abused” people of Ekiti State.

17

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

Features

Æs

30 seconds into the take off

LAGOS CITY MARATHON 2016:

A celebration and test of personal limits

BY GBUBEMI GOD’S COVENANT SNR The National and Teslim Balogun stadia both in Surulere, Lagos, were beehives of activities last Friday through the dawn of Saturday, February 6, 2016.

The wee hours before the dawn of Saturday especially recorded an explosion of runners from far and near who had gathered for the 2016 epoch making Access Bank powered Lagos City Marathon.

A massive sea of glittering sports wears and vests filled the road all the way from Alaka Estate bus-stop down to

Ï 0 ƏƆƈ ƆƏ ƅ ƏƐ Ɠ ƕ Ɛ ƍ ƍƏƈƖƆ the starting point by the National Stadium.

Every two minutes, a warning message was blared from a high powered speaker, advising runners to check themselves before lining up for the race. “If you feel you’re not up to it, you are free to withdraw from the race; it is not a do or die affair….”

While some came to win, some came to be part of the race while some came for the fun of it. From the very determined

to the unserious who clearly came to enjoy the start off, all had a field day.

The first Nigerian to run with the Olympic torch, Mr. Liasu Babatunde Osoba, also showed up to test his 49-yearold frame to see if he could repeat the 1986 feat that earned him a third place finish; accompanied by his wife and children The 42km race took off some ten minutes behind schedule because of the massive crowd of over 20,000 runners

besides friends and family members of some participants who came to cheer their persons to a good start off.

The Daily Times spotted a couple of casualties just before the blast of the whistle but there were as many healthcare providers as there were security men drawn from all arms of the defence on ground that handled any emergency.

The combined team of the Military, Ni-

Continued on page 18

Features 18

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

The weather worked in my favour — Winner, Abraham Kiptom Continued from page 17 geria Security and Civil Defence Corps and Lagos State Traffic Management Agency provided excellent crowd control, security and ensured safety all round.

The Daily Times also observed that it is not in Lagosians to cheer any event that cost them their right of way as commuters frowned in no small way because the roads leading into the routes were blocked to prevent vehicular movements from causing obstruction, a development that caused gridlock all over the metropolis for hours.

It was a marathon indeed; the Kenyans and other international marathoners were seen cool and calculated as the race began from the National Stadium, Surulere through Western Avenue to Ikorodu Road, then to the 3rd Mainland Bridge through Anthony.

From the Oworonsoki express turning to the 3rd Mainland Bridge, the stuff that made the difference began to show as the foreigners inched their way to set the pace for the marathon proper.

The race continued all the way to Orsborne Road; the Kingsway Road and under the Falomo bridge to Bourdilon Road into the Ikoyi link Bridge and back to Admiralty Way toll gate to Ozumba Mbadiwe. At

It is not in Lagosians to cheer any event that cost them their right of way as commuters and transporters frowned in no small way because the roads leading into the routes were blocked to prevent vehicular movements from causing obstruction, a development that caused gridlock all over the metropolis for hours.

First place winner, Abraham Kipton

Kipton at the finishing point

1004 Estate through Law School, a good number were gasping for breath. While as many took the bus option, others declined but took the race easy by resting by the roadside awhile before continuing at their own pace.

The rest of the route from Akin Adesola Street through Bishop Oluwole, Ahmadu Bellow Way and all the way to the New Eko Atlantic City recorded no major incident.

Winners all

After an exhaustive 2 hours, 16 minutes, 21 seconds, Kenyan, Abraham Kiptom, beat other top world marathoners to the first position. However, Kiptom, a Gold labelled marathoner, did not break the record time of

2:11:36 set before the Lagos City Marathon.

Hosea Kipkeboi also of Kenya came second with a time of 2:16:34 while Debebe Tolosa of Ethiopia came third with a time of 2:16:40.

The overall first female marathoner is Halima Hussain of Ethiopia; she came first with 2:38:36 and Alice Timbul of Kenya came second with a time of 2:38:49.

Aberash Fetase of Ethiopia returned 2:39:09 to place third.

The first Nigerian male to cross the finishing line was Philip Sharabutu with a time of 2:30:51, while Eliya Pam returned as the second Nigerian male athlete with a time of 2:31:41 and Peter Maham came third with a time of 2:39:07.

The first marathoner went home with 50,000 dollars, the second place winner carted home 40,000 dollars and third place 30,000 dollars.

Continued on page 19

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

19 Features

I came to exercise my body and catch fun — 68-yr-old grandma Continued from page 18 Nigerian marathoner, Emmanuel Gyan from Plateau State, emerged in the seventh position received the sum of N1m for his effort.

An excited Abraham Kiptom told reporters he was glad he won the first place over his compatriot.

“I am excited I won my compatriot, Peter Kiplagat and other top world marathoners. I am happy I won the race with a time of 2:16:20.

“People were expecting Kiplaglat to win, but I had an edge because the weather worked in my favour.

“The race ia not bad, I am happy I won the race and surprised people who thought my compatriot will win,’’ he said.

There was a near casualty at various points but the medical teams were up and doing as an unspecified number of runners ran out of breath.

Statistics released at the conclusion of the race showed that a total of thirty one elite runners from eight countries participated in the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon.

The General Manager, Marathon, Yussuf Alli said the elite runners included 24 men and seven women marathoners.

Of the 24 men marathoners, 11 have IAAF gold label and nine are from Kenya.

They are Abraham Kiptom (the first place winner), Peter Kiptoo Kiplagat, Amos Mitel, Sammy Kipkorir Kibet, Simpson Pkanaan Limareng, Nelson Kirwa Rotich, Kipkemboi Hosea, Philip Kiplagat Biwott Kenya and Isaac Kipkeboi Kosgei.

The other two gold label athletes, Mehair Fesshaye and Ali Abdosh Muhammed, are from Eritrea and Ethiopia respectively.

Of the eight IAAF silver label men marathoners on the list, four are from Kenya, they are James Cherutich Tallem, Mathew Bowen, Linus Kipwamdok Chumba and Daniel Kipchirchir Komen.

Other silver label marathoners are Mohamed Qumaarir and Khalid Lablea both from Morocco, the two others are Solomon Biratu from Ethiopia and Ghirmay Tukabo from Eritrea.

Some feats were also recorded at the just concluded mara-

Gov. Ambode

One of the early casualties before the race

From the Oworonsoki express turning to the 3rd Mainland Bridge, the stuff that made the difference began to show as the foreigners inched their way to set the pace for the marathon proper.

Minutes before the take off

thon. A senior citizen and grandmom, Abiola Oshodi-Adeniyibada, not only participated in the race, but completed the 42km stretch, though with some stopovers for breathers at some points.

Before the race took off, the 68-year-old Oshodi-Adeniyibada, had told journalists at the Teslim Balogun Stadium that her aim was to reach the finishing point.

“This is not the first time I will participate in sport-

ing activities; I did track and field when I was in high school and my love for sports brought me out to be part of this. I have even taken part in marathons outside the country in the past.”

The retired civil servant said, “I am very happy to be part of this historic marathon and the organisers deserve commendation.

“If I get tired on the road, I will rest or probably enter one of the official buses, but I

will definitely get to the finish point.”

The grandmother said she is not here for the money “but to exercise my body and also catch fun while participating.”

The News Agency of Nigeria later on Saturday confirmed that Oshodi-Adeniyibada had already crossed the finishing line as of the time the news agency got to the point.

The 42 km long race saw a test of personal limits pushed to the extreme as men, women,

young and old had the opportunity to prove their mettle.

As many of the runners who spoke to Daily Times were pleased with the organisers and the success of the marathon.

“We will prepare better for the next edition by the grace of God,” Retired marathoner, Osoba who finished the race at the 150th position said. “To me, it is a very good exercise and I will continue to participate,” he enthused.

20

Daily Times Nigeria Tuesday, August 18, 2015

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

21

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23

8”X4

204,032.45

10,201.62

38

3”X2

22,120.32

940.11

11”X5

350,647.44

17,532.37

24

8”X3

141,263.20

7,063.16

39

2”x6

48,173.99

2,047.39

10

11”X4

281,818.05

14,090.90

25

8”X2

76,631.55

3,831.57

40

2”X2

14,746.87

626.74

11

11”X2

105,440.15

5,272.00

26

7”X5

223,003.40

71,115.12

41

1”X2

7,373.44

313.37

12

10”X6

383,460.20

19,123.01

27

7”X4

157,994.09

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42

1”X1

3,686.72

156.69

13

10”X5

320,067.93

16,003.39

28

7”X2

51,614.05

2,193.60

14

10”X4

255,041.86

12,752.09

29

6”X4

173,871.36

4,618.40

15

10”X3

191,666.80

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30

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66,360.90

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Vat

1

F/PAGE

402,589.59

20,129.47

2

H/PAGE

229,476.11

11,473.80

3

Q/PAGE

124,895.04

4

14”X5

390,511.26

5

14”X4

6

14”X2

7

13”X5

8 9

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Political

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F/PAGE

532,350.00

22,624.88

F/PAGE

H/PAGE

303,439.50

12,896.18

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163,431.45

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35,437.47

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Classified Advert 1

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3,675.00

Per 1000 copies

24,500.00

1,041.25

2

Handling charges for the 1st 50,000 copies

71,662.50

-

(LAGOS) IFEANYI - 08086296714 (ABUJA) FEMI - 08033550468

43

DOUBLE SPREAD

774,210.94

32,903.96

44

DOUBLE SPREAD (1/2)

387,105.47

16,451.98

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Black & White

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341, 583.13

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123,595.04

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55,476.05

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44,380.56

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7”X2

38,832.99

1,650.40

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6”X2

33,282.11

1,414.49

8

5”X2

27,736.42

1,178.80

9

4”X2

22,187.85

942.98

10

3”X2

16,640.27

707.21

33,283.03

471.54

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Sizes

1

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2 3

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-

1

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451,680.17

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146,822.62

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PLEASE CONTACT

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5,547.58

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1”X1

2,773.79

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OPERATIONAL HEADQUARTERS DTN COMPLEX LATEEF JAKANDE ROAD, AGINDIGBI, IKEJA, LAGOS CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS 44 ADETOKNBO ADEMOLA CRESCENT WUSE 2, ABUJA

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

NANKA YOUTH ASSOCIATION

The general public is hereby notified that the above Association has Applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for Registration Under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Acts, 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE: OFOJEBE CHUKWUEBUKA – CHAIRMAN MOSES OKAFOR ENGE.TOCHUKWU ATUILI ENGR. UZOCHUKWU ANIMALU THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To promote socio- cultural awareness among Nanka youths.

To provide a regular forum for Nanka to associate freely with one another.

To pursue development ventures and social welfare programmes for the benefit and welfare of all Nanka Youths and Nanka people in general.

To encourage political participation and socio- economic involvement among Nanka Youths.

To provide adequate security to the inhabitant of Nanka by ridding the community of hoodlums and other undesirable elements.

To protect, preserve and where necessary improve on the cultural values and heritage of the people pf Nanka.

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

Signed: Uchechukwu Onyekachi Esq.

EPOCHAL LEADERSHIP CHURCH

The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied for registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja, Under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matter Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1. Osunjaye Olufemi. Olatunji- President 2. Ogagaghene Justice Oghenetega - secretary 3. Osunjaye Oladunni Olamide 4. Fawewo Olajide Ayodeji AIM AND OBJECTIVE : To preach gospel of Jesus Christ.

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

Signed: Secretary

TOTAL HEALING AND DELIVERANCE CHARISMATIC MINISTRY

DOMINION HARVEST INTERNATIONAL MINISTRY

The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied for registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja, Under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matter Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE : 1) PASTOR GABRIEL AJAYI ADEOGO - Chairman (2)PASTOR (MRS) OLUBUNMI OMOTOLA ADEOGO (3) Pastor OLUGBENGA AYODELE OTUKOYA (4) Pastor OLALEKAN ABOLAJI OSOKOYA (5) Pastor SUNDAY ADEMOLA ADEKOYA (6) Deacon EMMANUEL DELE OYEWUSI AIM AND OBJECTIVE : To preach the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ

This is to inform the General Public that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration of trustees under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990 (as amended THE TRUSTEES ARE1. FAJIMI ADEDAYO MICHAEL 2. AJAYI OLAYINKA JOSEPH 3. SAM SALAU 4 LAWAL OLAWALE PERFECT AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE 1.

To preach the gospel throughout the world 2.

To win souls for Christ Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within twenty eight (28) days of this publication.

Signed: O. A WILLIAMS & ASSOCIATES LEGAL PRACTITIONER, 08025526938

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.

Announcer:- OLUSOJI KAYODE EMMANUEL

DIOCESE OF NIGER WEST CHURCH OF NIGERIA, ANGELICAN COMMUNION

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.

Trustees: (1) Rt. Revd. Johnson nwaohalama ekwe (2) Sir. Hon. Justice paul anyaegbunam obidigwe.

(3) Ven. Elias mbonu anusionwu Aims: To preach the word of God

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: Barr Oluchi Ononamadu

NANKA YOUTH ASSOCIATION

The general public is hereby notified that the above Association has Applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for Registration Under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Acts, 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. OFOJEBE CHUKWUEBUKA CHAIRMAN 2. MOSES OKAFOR 3. ENGE.TOCHUKWU ATUILI 4. ENGR. UZOCHUKWU ANIMALU THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To promote socio- cultural awareness among Nanka youths.

2. To provide a regular forum for Nanka to associate freely with one another.

3. To pursue development ventures and social welfare programmes for the benefit and welfare of all Nanka Youths and Nanka people in general.

4. To encourage political participation and socio- economic involvement among Nanka Youths.

5. To provide adequate security to the inhabitant of Nanka by ridding the community of hoodlums and other undesirable elements.

6. To protect, preserve and where necessary improve on the cultural values and heritage of the people pf Nanka.

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

Signed: Uchechukwu Onyekachi Esq.

AL-FURQAN ASSOCIATION OF BUILDERS OF NIG. The general public is hereby notified that the above Association has Applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for Registration Under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Acts, 1990 Trustees – 1.MUHAMMED ABDUR-RASHEED QOMOOS 2. KAMORUDEEN MURITALA 3.KAMALIDEEN HUDHAYFAH 4. ABD JELILI ABD AZIZI 5. MAKANJUOLA WASIU. Aims: To foster unity & progress among the members.

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

Signed: Trustees

UMUIKE PROFESSIONALS ASSOCIATION THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED BODY HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

Trustees 1. ENGR. DONATUS ONUCHUKWU. - CHAIRMAN 2. BARR. JUDE IGWU. - SECRETARY 3. PROF. DESMOND OZOJI 4. BARR. VALENTINE IKEONU 5. PROF. JOSEPH DIOHA 6. ICHIE DEMIAN IKEDIASO 7. MR EARNEST ANANYUO 8. CHIEF CHARLES OBI Aim and objectives 1. To foster co operation among members of the association for the advancement of umuike community ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. Signed: Secretary

ADVANCED COMRADES CLUB INTERNATIONAL The general public is hereby notified that the above Club has Applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for Registration Under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Acts, 1990 Trustees – MR. ANAYO UMEH(CHAIRMAN), MR. CHRISTIAN MBA, MR. OLISA UNEGBU, MISS ADESOLA ALADESAWE (SECRETARY).

Aims and objectives - TO PROMOTE UNITY TO PROMOTE UNITY AND PEACEFUL CO-EXISTENCE AMONG MEMBERS AND INDIVIDUALS AT LARGE. Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street Maitama , Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: Trustees

THE SUPERIOR FINGER OF GOD EVANGELICAL CHURCH The general public is hereby notified that the above Church has Applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for Registration Under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Acts, 1990 Trustees – 1) Rev Lekan Ogunmola.

2) Evang Popoola Afolabi.

3) Lady Evang Janet Ogunmola.

4) Dcns. Oyebode Oluwatoyin.

5) Dcns. Ilori Oluwatoyin Aims: To preach the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street Maitama , Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: Trustees

21

ETERNAL CITY OF LIVING GOD GOSPEL CHURCH The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied for registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja, Under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matter Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR Olusesi Sunday Balogun - Chairman 2. PASTOR Abiodun Jeremiah Kinosi 3.Mr Kehinde Adeleke Adu - Secretary 4. Pastor Adewale Mutiu Opadeji 5. Pastor Sunday Bara David 6. Miss Olabisi Yetunde Folami AIM AND OBJECTIVE 1. To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ 2. To promote biblical doctrines.

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

Announcer: Olusoji Kayode Emmanuel

THE GENIUS CLUB OF FATOLU

The general public is hereby notified that the above named Club has applied for registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja, Under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matter Act 1990.

The Trustees Are: 1. Egundupe kolawole Ajani 2. Adeleye Mathew Oluwagbemiga 3. Ajayi Oluwagbenga Aims And Objectives: 1. To cater for the interest and welfare of its members 2. To promote the cultural,economic,political and social progress of the Genius people and the unity and progress of our land.

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

THE APOSTOLIC FOUNDATION OF TRUTH GLOBAL MISSION THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED BODY HAS APPLIED TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, ABUJA FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT, NO. 1 OF 1990.

TRUSTEES 1. PROPHETESS NGWOKE CHIKAODIRI. - FOUNDER 2. ELDER NWOKE INNOCENT CHINYEREUGO. - CHAIRMAN 3. AP. CHUKWU ONYEMACHI OKORO. - SECRETARY 4. INNOCENT NELSON CHIDI - FIN SECRETRY 5. AP ANTHONY CHIDIEBERE CHUKWU _ treasurer 6. NGWOKE AMARACHI. - PRO Aim and objectives 1. To proclaim the gospel of jesus christ.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, P.M.B 198, GARKI ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. Signed: Barr James C Ude suite 223 ANBEEZ PLAZA. WUE ZONAL 5 ABUJA 09092923394

ORGANIZATION OF MUSLIM YOUTH OF NIG.

The general public is hereby notified that the above has Applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for Registration Under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Acts, 1990 Trustees – 1. DR OSUNLEKE AJIBOYE SAHEEB 2.SALAWU SAFIU ADELEKE 3.TAHIR MUYIDEEN BABATUNDE 4. PHARM SAKA SULE AJIBOLA 5. BARR. AMOO WASIU KAYODE. THE AIMS TO PROPAGATE THE RELIGION OF ISLAM Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street Maitama , Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: TRUSTEES

RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION OF NUN COURT The general public is hereby notified that the above named Association is seeking for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Part C., 2004.

TRUSTEES: 1. PRINCE MOSES ADELAJA - Chairman 2. MRS. IMELDA CHARLES-ALLAH - Vice Chairman 3. MR. YEMI ADETUNJI - Secretary 4. MR. SADIQ GARBA GALADIMA - Member 5. KABIR KATATA (ALHAJI) - Treasurer 6. MISS ENNA ITODO - Member 7. PROF. IBRAHIM SULEIMAN - “ 8. MRS. SALMA ADENIJI - “ 9. IBRAHIM BABA BALEWA (ALHAJI) - “ AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To ensure unity and peaceful co-existence between residents of Nun Court.

2. To promote the common interests of residents with respect to existing facilities and amenities of Nun Court.

Any objection to this Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General. Corporate Affairs Commission, 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguyi Ironsi Street, P.M.B. 198, Matiama, Abuja within 28th days from the date of publication.

Signed: Matemilola Adesina-Salawu Abuja, Nigeria - 0803 333 5973

22

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

BACK TO SELF REHABILITATION INITIATIVE

SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL AFRICA FEDERATION

The General Public is hereby notified that the above named Organization has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2004.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. ONYINYE UDODIRIM OFONG -Chairman 2. CHINWE FLORENCE SAMANTHAN EZERUIGBO -Secretary 3. UGONNAYA IJEOMA AMAEFULE - Treasurer THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: a. To promote research in rehabilitation and special education. b. To prevent disability among vulnerable groups through education and support c. To Promote mental health of the disabled.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, P.M.B. 198, Garki, Abuja within Twenty-Eight (28) days from the date of this publication.

SIGNED: BAYO OGUNMEFUN, ESQ. (Solicitor)

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. Chinwe Ezenwa Mbah 2. Josephine Nwokedi 3. Saida Fatouri 4. Connie Mutunhu 5. Asha Abdulrahman 6. Yvonne Razafinjato 7. Suzanne Loko 8. Konate mariam Epse Traore.

The aim and objective: 1. To cater for the welfare and needs of Soropti mist clubs in the African region, to advocate for the dignity of girls and women

VOICE OF SOLUTION MINISTRY INT’L ASABA DELTA NIG. The general public is hereby notified that the above named Ministry has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR JULIET NKECHUKWU 2. APOSTLE AUGUSTINE ONWUDIWE ANANULU 3. PROPHETESS CHARITY WISDOM 4. EVANGELIST NWACHUKWU UGBO 1. To preach gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Any objection to this Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication SIGNED: J. E ANAEKWE & CO. 08055847466...

MOUNTAIN OF HEALING I SHALL BE HEALED, SAVE ME I SHALL BE SAVED

This is to inform the general public that the above named “MINISTRY” has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. FATUNBI SAMSOM BOLAJI. 2. FATUNBI WUNMI FUNKE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES. 1. To practice effectively the teachings of God. 2. To care for the welfare of members.

Any Objection(s) to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, PMB 198, Garki, Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.

Signed by TRUSTEES

FRUITFUL MEN AND WOMEN MINISTRY INTERNATIONAL The General Public is hereby notified that the above named MINISTRY has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. OZUAH, EDISON OGUEJIOFOR 2. OZUAH, EKWUTOSI ESTHER 3. 0KORO CHINELO 4. ONUOHA, DORIS UDODIRIM 5. IFEZUE OKECHUKWU OBINNA 6. ANYA CHINYERE MAGDALENE THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:1. Reaching out to men and women in every nation for Christ.

2. Making men and women to experience all round fruitfulness.

3. Empowering men and women spiritually, financially and intellectually.

4. Strengthening the bond in Christian marriages.

5. Producing Godly men and women through the teaching of the word of God. 6. Training and equipping men and women to fulfill the great commission.

7. Giving men and women avenue or platform to fellowship and network 8. Bringing out the divine gift in every man or women Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication SIGNED BY:- SECRETARY

CHRIST HOLY APOSTOLIC CHURCH OF SALVATION FOR ALL SOULS This is to inform the general public that the above named CHURCH has applied for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. REV. EVANG. OLABOYE AYODELE 2. REV. MOTHER DEBORAH ALAKINDE 3. REV. PASTOR SAMUEL AKINLUSI 4. REV.PASTOR EZEKIEL AJANI 5. REV. EVANG. FIDELIX ADIKWU AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. 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, Maitama Abuja, within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: TRUSTEES

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

HARMONIOUS ASSEMBLY 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. APOSTLE JOE PAUL -PRESIDENT AND FOUNDER 2. PST. MRS. JULIET PAUL -PRESIDENT WIFE 3. PST. FRIDAY AGBALAGBA -SENIOR PASTOR 4. PST. GODWIN UGOCHUKWU -SENIOR PASTOR 5. PST. KENNETH MICHAEL -SENIOR PASTOR/SECRETARY AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO PREACH THE WORD OF GOD. 2. TO EVANGELIZE, ESTABLISH LOCAL/INTERNATIONAL BRANCHES, CHRISTIAN CENTERS, AND ANY OTHER PLACE OF CHRISTIAN WORSHIP. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION SIGNED: SECRETARY

AGBALA IWOSAN HEALING CHAPEL This is to inform the General Public that the above named “HEALING HOME” has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for a grant of New Trustees, under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1 of 1990.

THE OLD TRUSTEES ARE 1. EVANG. OLUSESI SEMIU. 2. EVANG. OLA TINAWO ISMAILA. 3. LADY LEADER OGUNWOLE KEHINDE. 4. REV. PROPHETESS DR. IRAPADA CHRISTIAN .O 5. MOST SPECIAL APOSTLE OBISANYA AYO. 6. BADA TEMITOPE BEATRICE. 7. EVANG. IGBAYILOLA ISREAL TEMITOPE. 8. SADIAT AMINAT IFAYEJO. 9. OLAOLU MODUPE O. PETERS. 10. OGUNGBELE PETER SUNDAY. THE NEW TRUSTEES ARE 1. REV. PROPHETESS DR. IRAPADA C. OBISANYA. 2. EVANG. IGBAYILOLA ISREAL TEMITOPE. 3. IGBAYILOLA VICTORIA TEMI. 4. IGBAYILOLA ITUNA COMFORT. Any Objection(s) to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, PMB 198, Garki, Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.

Signed by; Secretary.

THE ARK OF SALVATION EVANGELICAL CHURCH The General Public is hereby notified that the above named MINISTRY has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. Arole-Eledumare Samuel (General Overseer) 2. Adeniyi Adebowale (Assistant General Overseer) 3. Samuel Iyabo Temitayo (Treasurer) 4. Stephen Ayodele (Gen. Secretary) THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE IS:To preach the gospel of our lord Jesus Christ Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication SIGNED BY:- SECRETARY

THE SUPREME WISDOM AND GRACE OF GOD MINISTRY This is to inform the general public that the above named CHURCH has applied for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990 THE TRUSTEES ARE 1 Evangelist (MRS) Uzoma Geraldine Akpuru 2 Brother Uchenna Cletus Akpulu AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1 To preach the gospel of our Lord Jesus christ to the whole world 2 To promote the advancement of christian religious activities generally 3 To engage in christian educational and missionary activities 4 To establish seminaries for the training of preachers 5 To hold series of worship for members in church buildings and other appropriate places Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, 420, Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja, within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: BARR ONYEKACHI UKO

AFRICAN AMERICAN FAMILY RELIEF INITIATIVE

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

The trustees are: 1. Eneh Chijioke Anthony(Engr.)

2. Ehiogu Nnadozie Innocent 3.Okparaku Ugochukwu Temple (Pastor) 4 Livingston Chidiebere Felicia (Reverend) The aim and objective: 1. To cater for the less privileged in the society

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

OJA-OBA TRADERS ASSOCIATION ILORIN KWARA STATE 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. HASSAN ILIAS AYINLA, 6. ROTIMI OJEYINKA SULYMAN 2.AKAJE SIDIKAT ASABI, 7. OLANREWAJU YEMISI GANIYA 3 YUSUF AMOS TUNDE, 8. ILESANMI MICHEAL OLUWASEGUN 4. SULIMAN MAYEGUN SULIMAN, 9. BABA , ALARO 5. SAKA TAJUDEEN, 10. ABDULRAHEEM IYABO RAHMA AIMS AND OBJECTIVES TO PROTECT INTEREST OF THE MEMBERS.: ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION SIGNED BY: CHAIRMAN

GUNU DEVELOPMENT 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 TRUSTEES ARE:(1) PROF ABDUL GANIYU GODONU OKE - (PRESIDENT GENERAL) (2) ELDER MICHAEL GANDONU - (VICE PRESIDENT GENERAL) (3) CHIEF AMOS IROKO (4) CHIEF WHESU AJANI (5) HUNNO J D KURUYO ( 6.) BARR OLUSEGUN KEKE (7) MADAM JULIANAH MICHAEL OKE (8). MR EMMANUEL VITTU (9) MR JACOB K TOFIO (10) EVANG. EZEKIEL FAYON (GENERAL SECRETARY) THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE IS :TO HELP THE LESS PRIVILEGES. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication SIGNED BY:- EVANG. EZEKIEL FAYON GENERAL SECRETARY

SPRINGFIELD ESTATE RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION OKE-IRA NLA, AJAH, LAGOS

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. Chukwu Emmanuel Kizito 2. Adegboye Phillip Segun 3. Ogun Ayotunde 4. Ikpo Philip Ogochukwu 5. Balogun Olatunji Akeem.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE:1. To promote fellowship and friendship among members 2. To provide adequate and effective security for the lives and properties in the Estate 3. To maintain a healthy and clean environment in the Estate Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication SIGNED BY:- SECRETARY

UBURU PEOPLES ASSEMBLY This is to inform the general public that the above named Assembly has applied for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990 THE TRUSTEES 1 Francis Ogbonnaya Ekwe, 2 Chukwu T.Chukwu, 3 Ogbu Edward Aneke AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1 To unite and develop uburu community 2 To ensure the welfare and development of uburu people 3 To promote peace and unity of people and purpose N G O Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, 420, Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja, within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: SECERTARY

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

Ebonyi arraigns 60 landlords for open defecation Jacob Ogodo

Finance Ministry partners Police on housing

Abakaliki

Mathew Dadiya

ÏÏÏNo

ÏÏÏThe

fewer than one hundred and thirty eight persons have been prosecuted for defecating in open places in Ebonyi State.

Briefing newsmen in Abakaliki, the Commissioner for Environment, Chief Ogodo Ali Nome, disclosed that over sixty landlords in the capital city had been prosecuted for lack of toilet facilities in their houses.

Nome blamed the spread of diseases on lack of toilet facilities and dirty environment.

He warned that anyone who erected a building without the facilities would be sanctioned according to the state environmental laws.

Abuja

Ministry of Finance has revealed that plans were underway to provide housing scheme for the police service in the country as a way of boosting their moral.

Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, made this known in her office when the Inspected General of Police (IGP) Mr. Solomon Arase, paid her a courtesy call on Thursday.

She thanked the police for its co-operation with the ministry and the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, and noted that their prompt compliance with the e-payment policies, especially that of payroll, had made it easy for the officers and men of the force to start receiving their

Adeosun

salaries much earlier than ever.

She said that the police service was among the first agencies that submitted their BVN for integrated payment systems, while assuring that the policemen would start receiving their salaries much earlier than what it used to be.

“Equally we had some discussion around housing scheme that we are about to design in the Ministry of

Finance, but we are already been discussing with the Ministry of Housing that will cover the police, but it is very good to speak with him because we have similar heart for his people and for his ranks and file.

“We need to find a housing solution for them that would be good and cost effective. We are going to work together to come out with a scheme that is very affordable to them,” Adeosun said.

Responding, Arase pledged the loyalty of the police service, and gave an assurance that the entire critical assets attached to the ministry would be well protected, so that the minister would be able to manage the fiscal and monetary policies of the country without a hitch.

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, (middle), in a handshake with the Sudanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Ibrahim Mohammed Ali (right) during the Ambassador’s visit to the Senate President at the weekend. With them is , Sen. Kabiru Gaya.

23

Ondo 2016: 24 groups back Borrofice for APC candidate Tosin Ajuwon Akure

ÏÏÏLeaders

of some political groups have resolved to work for the successful emergence of Prof. Ajayi Borroffice, a senator representing Ondo North, as the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming guber poll in Ondo state.

The political group, with over 24 of them, reached a consensus to work together in supporting the dream and aspiration of Borrofice to actualise his ambition as the governorship candidate of the party.

The Daily Times gathered, on Sunday, that the groups had already formed a co-ordinating structure, code-named Borrofice Campign Group (BCG), with a view of ensuring Prof. Borrofice was picked as the party’s candidate.

A statement issued

by Mr. Kayode Adeniyi, from the Borofffice Media Office, said that the group reached a consensus at a meeting convened by an erstwhile Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy

Affairs and APC Chieftain in the state, Prince Diran Iyantan.

“The meeting resolved that distinguished Senator Ajayi Boroffice had the impeccable integrity, vast experience and political clout required to govern Ondo State.

“The BCG has the mandate to mobilise and co-ordinate the campaign activities of component groups ahead of the governorship primary election”, he said.

Adeniyi, added that the strength and spread of the political groups cut across the 18 local government areas and 203 wards in the state, and observed that its leadership had grassroots politicians, community activists and former students’ union leaders.

According to him, some of the name of the groups are – the Sunshine Rebirth Movement (SRM), FARD group, Toriola group, Agbajowo group and a host of others.

BAWA OINU MOHAMMED I, formerly known and addressed as MOSES OINU MOHAMMED now wish to be known and addressed as MOSES BAWA OINU MOHAMMED with date of birth as JULY 12, 1978. All documents remain.

GREATMEN UNITED ROYAL CLUB OF NIGERIA

This is to inform the general public that the above named Club has applied for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990 THE TRUSTEES <1> Mr Chidi Nwafor -- Chairman. < 2> Mr Izuegbu Calistus Tochukwu -- Vice Chairman <3> Mr Ogbeje Darungton Chinedu Secretary. <4> Mr Ihekwo Obinna Nnamdi <5> Mr Mabachu Austin <6> Mr Udoka Onye. <7> Mr Umeh Damian. <8> Mr Chima Ogundu Aims & Objects! To Promote The Welfare Of Its Members.

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

Sign By Nwaogwugwu Hope E S Q.

IFEOMA ANTHONY OKOYE I formerly known and addressed as MISS PRECIOUS IFEOMA OKOYE now wish to be known and addressed as MRS PRECIOUS IFEOMA ANTHONY OKOYE. All former documents bearing my name remain valid.

Federal University of Technology Owerri, NYSC and General public take note.

ONU ANTHONY UCHECHUKWU I formerly known and addressed as UZODINMA ANTHONY UCHECHUKWU now wish to be known and addressed as ONU ANTHONY UCHECHUKWU and my correct date of birth is 10TH OCTOBER, 1982. All former documents bearing my name remain valid. Concerned authorities and General public take note.

OLANIRAN TEMILADE TOYIN

I, formerly known as ILESANMI TEMILADE TOYIN now wish to be known and addressed as OLANIRAN TEMILADE TOYIN. All former documents remain valid.

General public take note

LOSS OF DOCUMENT This is to notify the general public of loss of document original allocation paper issued to me by the Federal of works and Housing in respect of Land at Federal Low cost Estate Mini Commercial plot side D, Enugu. No 8A belonging to MRS V.N MADICHIE. If found contact MRS V.N MADICHIE of C29 federal Housing Transekulu Enugu.

ENEH OGECHI HENRIETTA I, formerly known and addressed as IHEROBIEM OGECHI HENRIETTA, now wish to be known and addressed as ENEH OGECHI HENRIETTA. All former documents remain valid. Zenith Bank, other related institutions and the general public please take note.

PAULINE OKA ACHICHIE I, formerly called Pauline Oka Esom henceforth wish to be addressed as Pauline Oka Achichie. All Documents remained valid. The general public please take note.

CHIJIOKE BROWN QUEEN NGOZI

CHIJIOKE KELECHI BROWN

FOLORUNSO OLUBUNMI MARY

OLUKUEWU OLUTAYO ADEYEMI

ADEKANYE WURAOLA FUNKE

CHARLES VICTOR ONYEBUCHI

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS EGWU QUEEN NGOZI now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. CHIJIOKE BROWN QUEEN NGOZI. All former documents remain valid.

The general public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as OSUAGWU KELECHI BROWN now wish to be known and addressed as CHIJIOKE KELECHI BROWN. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS DADA OLUBUNMI MARY now wish to be known and addressed as MRS FOLORUNSO OLUBUNMI MARY. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as OLUKUEWU TAYO OYEYEMI now wish to be known and addressed as OLUKUEWU OLUTAYO ADEYEMI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS BABALOLA WURAOLA FUNKE now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ADEKANYE WURAOLA FUNKE. All former documents remain valid. The general public should please take note.

I, formerly known and addressed as Okere Victor Onyebuchi now wish to be known and addressed as Charles Victor Onyebuchi. All former documents remain valid.

The general public should please take note.

News 24

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

Finnish envoy highlights Nigeria’s economic potentials ÎÎÎThe Ambassador of Fin-

land to Nigeria, Pirjo Suomela-Chowdhury, at the weekend, said Lagos State remains the nerve centre for trade and investment in Nigeria, just as she expressed the willingness of investors from her country to partner the state on several areas of interests.

Suomela-Chowdhury, who spoke to State House correspondents when she led a delegation, including the Deputy Minister, Finland Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Matti Anttonen, to a meeting with Governor Akinwunmi Ambode at the Lagos House, Alausa, said they were in Nigeria to explore opportunities of cooperation, saying Lagos was the destination of choice

considering its massive economic potentials.

Her words, “Seriously when you talk about promoting trade and economic relations in Nigeria, you have to come to Lagos because everybody knows that it is the business centre of Nigeria. So we are very happy to be here.

“We’ve just had a fantastic meeting with the Governor and we very much appreciate his disposition to meet all the businesses that were in the meeting and in the delegation and this is what we have been talking about in the meeting,” she said.

She said multinational companies from Finland have been doing business in Nigeria for several years, in-

cluding Nokia and Wartsila, adding that several other companies and investors are willing to partner the state in the areas of health (ICT), education, security and energy.

“They are basically in business in Telecommunications and also in public safety and also we have smaller players in many different sectors; in heath, ICT and so on. Education is also very interesting and it’s up to the companies where they find these opportunities and win-win situations that they are going to invest and have operations in Nigeria,” she said.

Speaking on behalf of the State Government, Special Adviser to the Governor on Oversea Affairs and Invest-

ments (Lagos Global), Professor Ademola Abass, said the state government will look to explore several areas of cooperation with the Finnish government as a means to promote economic and trade relations.

According to Abass, “As you know, Finland is a very big economy in Europe, it’s about the fourth largest economy in Europe and Lagos is the fourth largest economy in Africa. So, we explored areas of cooperation, that is between Finland and Nigeria and specifically, Lagos state and we would took certain decisions which my office will be coordinating with the team, being the office responsible for overseas affairs, so that’s what the

meeting was all about.

Abass listed security, education and energy as the three major sectors which the meeting focused on, expressing optimism that the partnership will benefit Lagos immensely.

“We zeroed in on three areas; security, which one of the sectors that was present in the Finnish delegation, that is Nokia, is extremely strong in cyber security. We also did talk about their helping in the educational aspect and also in terms of energy because as you know the current drive of Lagos state is to ensure that we light up Lagos on 24/7 basis and we have been seeing evidence of that across the city.

Plateau NLC, TUC may shutdown distribution centres Chijioke Kingsley, Jos

ÎÎÎWorkers in Plateau State

L-R: Iyalode of Egbaland, Alaba Lawson; Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi and Osile of Oke-Ona Egba, Oba Dr. Adedapo Tejuoso during a visit of the Ooni to Oba Tejuosho in his Place, at Oke-Ona, Abeokuta… on Sunday.

PHOTO: DAVID IDOWU.

Dwindling oil revenue: Saraki seeks positive tax culture ÎÎÎFor visible development

impact and infrastructure buoyancy, Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has called on Nigerians both private and public sectors of the economy to develop positive tax culture in order to sustain governmental responsiveness in meeting the demands of the citizens.

Saraki, who made the call when he received the President, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Dr. Nike Akande, and other executive members of the body in Abuja, said that the deficit in the 2016 budget constitute a serious burden

for government, saying the only panacea for the present economic decline is to look inwards.

He stated that the country is going through hard times, saying, “the truth is that, going forward, we must remind ourselves how we got to this situation where revenues have dropped significantly.

“As a country, we are going through a very difficult time.

This is not only in Nigeria, it is a global crisis. These days, era of easy money is over. We must engage private sector for better performance.

“First, we must create an enabling environment for our

businesses to grow. The private sector has a role to play.

There is a need to enhance a positive tax culture.

“There is a need for mutual cooperation and patriotism among different government agencies, parastatals and private organizations. This collaboration should enhance exchange of information, and reduce the incidence of tax evasion as well as fraudulent tax practices,” Saraki said.

The Senate President assured his guests of the Senate’s readiness to partner with all relevant stakeholder in the onerous task of moving the nation forward, add-

ing that the present economic challenges have refocused government’s intent towards diversification and moving away from over dependance on oil as a major revenue earner.

Saraki

would on Monday lead electricity consumers to shut down the Headquarters of Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JED) office and all other related offices.

Jos Electrical Distribution Company (JED), is in charge of Plateau, Benue, Gombe and Bauchi states.

In an interaction with the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) Chairman, Plateau State chapter, Comrade Jibrin Banchir, he disclosed that the NLC and TUC have officially written to the security outfits in the state in respect to the protest.

He said the protest is broader owing to the fact that all consumers of electricity would be part of the picketing of the office.

He, therefore, urged all civil society organisations, artisans, landlords association, traders and other electricity consumers to join Nigerian workers at the JED head office to picket the place and reject the new power tariff.

Said he, “We shall shut down Jos Electricity Distribution Company on Monday in compliance with the directives of NLC Congress and TUC. “We have held a meeting and the necessary organs of the Congress are fully in motion and ready for action. we have already sent a communiqué and had meetings with the civil society groups in Plateau State.

Adamawa NUJ elects new officers Tom Garba, Yola

ÎÎÎThe Nigeria Union of Jour-

nalists (NUJ), Adamawa State Council, has elected new officials to handle the leadership affairs of the Union for three consecutive years in the state.

During the state triennial delegates conference conducted on Saturday, saw the emergence of Comrade Salihu Abubakar of Adamawa State Television Yola (ATV) as Chairman, while Alhaji Umar Dankano of the Peoples Daily Newspaper was elected as Vice Chairman.

Others that were elected included: Zare Baba of the Adamawa Press Limited (APL), Alhaji Shekarau yerima of Gotel Radio Yola and Madam Tina Valdo of the Adamawa Television Yola (ATV) who were returned unopposed as state secretary, financial Secretary and state Auditor respectively.

However, Mary Adamu of NTA Yola polled 83 votes to emerged as the council’s Treasurer defeating her two contendants; Mallam Isah Tukur of Adamawa Broadcasting Cooperation (ABC) Yola, who scored 67 votes while Mr. Anthony Taru of state ministry of information chapel who got 12 votes.

NBA chair advocates death penalty for corrupt public officers Kehinde Akinpelu, Ilorin

ÎÎÎChairman, Ilorin branch,

Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Barrister Mansuma Issa, has advocated capital punishment for any public officer found guilty of corruption.

He noted that countries like Singapore, China, Taiwan, Vietnam and South Korea which had adopted death penalty have succeeded in the fight against corruption.

Mansuma made the suggestion during an interview with newsmen in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.

The NBA chairman said the association was in support of the anti- corruption war of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

He, however, lamented that funds that should ordinarily be spent on the health, education, agricultural sectors and terrorism, were diverted to individuals pockets, stating that offenders either caught for capital or simple offenses should be treated in accordance with the law.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

25 Opinion

The worth(less ness) of a Nigerian life

Yinka Odumakin ÏÏÏ My good friend, Hillary Okoronkwo sent me a video from Michigan the other day and followed up with a call the day after.

He asked a question that I could not easily provide answer to. “Has the Nigerian government reacted?” he asked. I didn’t have the faintest idea what he was asking and I had to ask him “To what?”.

He was silent for about 30 seconds before he said “To the content of the video I sent”.

Thank God Hillary could not see me from the other end as laughter filled my lips. My friend wanted the Federal Government of Nigeria to respond to a video showing a group of cadets beating a man almost to stupor simply because he made a complimentary remarks at a female cadet in his capacity as a bloody civilian.

I took turn to explain to Hillary that he was asking for too much in a land where scores of men, women and children were burnt to ashes by Boko Haram and there was no word of commiseration from the government.

If the callous killings of those innocent ones could not attract empathy from the government, what then about a fellow who was only given a thorough beaten for “driving rough” with his mouth? I added that the fellow should thank his stars that he is alive to tell the story as absolutely nothing would have happened if he had died in the process.

My friend went on and on about the finer values of citizens lives and how such an assault should have been seen as a battery against us as a people as it could have been just anybody. He expected the government to have asked the army authorities to fish out the cadets and hand them appropriate punishment for such a brash action. He concluded by saying that it was good he left Nigeria about three decades ago as he probably would have been dead by now confronting some of the things that mean no big deal to us but demean the worth of the life of a citizen.

He recalled his experience with a policeman in the Anthony area of Lagos the last time he came to Nigeria and decided to board a yellow taxi. The policeman had stopped the car and asked him to come down in the middle of the road. He then told him he was doing searching. He said he moved a bit near him and raised his two hands up in a way that embarrassed the cop.

He thereafter asked for his identity card and he responded that he only had the ID issued to him by the State of Michigan and that his Nigerian passport

Buratai, COAS

was in the hotel. The cop then asked to see it but he insisted that the state of Michigan does not permit him to hand over the card to him. He was lucky that after sometime he was allowed to continue his journey.

It is not that I cannot relate with Hillary’s point of view. I must say that the reason some of us have risen for certain values essentially flow from his concerns. But the truth today is that our society has reached the rock bottom to the point that there is little or no worth for the life of a Nigerian. The

W E A T H E R ABUJA

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LAGOS

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IBADAN

ILORIN

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Arase, IGP

tragedy of our situation is more pathetic that majority of our people have been reduced to the level that they have become largely uniformed no matter the level of education.

There was an incident in the neighbourhood where I live in the last week. The neighbourhood association had gone to erect giant banners at the gates leading to the area writing the names of all house owners who had not paid levies for the rehabilitation of bad roads.

After listing all the names of “debtors”, they now put a notice “more embarrass-

ing actions are on the way if you don’t pay”. I shook my head at the way we encourage government irresponsibility in our clime. I know what each household in the area pays to the government in terms of taxes in different guise and yet when the roads are impossible, these dudes don’t know that the government that collects so much from them owes them any responsibility. Instead of taking placards to Ambode and let him know that his Ministry of Works is not working, they are embarrassing themselves

with placards to contribute money to do what they have paid the government to do for them.

If the elites are at such a pathetic and hopeless level, what then do you expect from the everyday person on the street whose daily preoccupation is to eke a living? When a people are reduced to existential level, issues of rights as citizens become meaningless to them and that is why some cadets flogging a civilian almost to death for telling a female cadet that she if “fine” would not make any news to such a people.

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26

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

Our Heritage Æ s Offoedu-Okeke steps out with Nlecha Not only does producing good art works demand imagination, vision and knowledge, it also requires remarkable skills.

Some artists approach this regime of creativity with ease, while others just cannot do so easily. But Onyema Okeke-Offoedu’s Nlecha shows an artist who freely makes good paintings, with clear messages. Bodily built Okeke-Offoedu, whose art recently featured a group art exhibition at Wheatbaker Hotel Ikoyi Lagos, becomes attractive for his polemics and in-depth mastery of art expression. Apart from being any journalist delight, Okeke-Offoedu had over the years, decided to stand alone in a crowd of gallery artists.

Nlecha, an Igbo word that means showing off, is an exhibition of paintings, scheduled to open on second week of February and run for a full one week in a yet to be named gallery in Lagos.

The show, an experimental outing put together by the artist takes a look at little known secret behind people showing off, which Okeke-Offoedu says represents that conscious state wherein the truest intent of mind is declared.

The exhibition highlights the reason why some Africans behave the way they do in expressing themselves as seen through fashion and other ways of living.

Offoedu, a painter, art historian and writer is a graduate of Architecture from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu Campus.

With about 20 works ready for display, the paintings are rendered with eyes for detail and balance. Thus, revealing some behind-the-scenes details about this behavioral phenomenon, especially, as seen from his Igbo philosophy. “I am interested in the ways humans wear garbs of history woven in violence and conflict, poverty and deprivation, slavery and incarceration. Even the rites of passage, preparing children for life ahead by intro-

As in every art exhibition, what is awaiting the artist is either commendation or condemnation. Nigeria’s modernist painter, Onyema Okeke-Offoedu is set to test this turf of art patronage, acceptance and collection in a new set of works. Whether his new experiment will succeed depends on the appraisal of his works by collectors and patrons, who are already sandwiched in-between passion and current economic realities of the country, AGOZINO AGOZINO writes.

Offoedu-Okeke

Music God

ducing tough conditions, essentially, and, vitally, imitate life. A child’s status and sense of pride is strongly underlined by the successful initiation into adulthood.

“Despite the dissolution of this age-old tradition, the expectations for the child never changed.

The way he/she reasoned, walked, talked, stood, danced, and handled adversity are tropes of aesthetics. Mainstream reasoning regards, evaluates, and judges these mostly visual tropes in terms of style, elegance, beauty, strength, and health.

“I am interested in the ways humans wear scars to forget the

Awka, the capital city of Anamabra State is known for blacksmithing called Ikpu Uzu, no wonder even the traditional ruler of the town is knows and referred to as Eze Uzu, that is King of blacksmith.

This tradition in the olden days made the town popular as the base of technology in Eastern part of the country and indeed, in Nigeria as a whole. The town has also produced eminent technology expert like the one time Minister of Technology, Professor Gordon Ezekwe, among others.

pain. I am enthralled by Sundaybest fashion, which brings people of all economic strata of the society to the same level in the church hall, especially, the opportunity for poor folks to show off radiant starched damask gowns before they are returned to the bottom of the box. The care, concern, and camphor deployed in preserving those wears are note-worthy and reveal the significance of public appearance. I am interested in the art of showing off, because it is in that conscious state wherein the truest intent of art declares itself.

Art blossoms and revels in lighthearted moments by drawing ad-

miration from an audience,” he added.

He said Nlecha explores artforms of elegance with various figurative possibilities. It congregates exciting ideas on virtues of visibility through showcasing, showing off and show-boating.

Sublimely or overtly, gestures and poises create joy of life or simply the pleasantness of being alive.

Drawing upon fashion, Offoedu said Nlecha examines joy of life captured through galleries of soldiers, damsels, food hawkers, titled chiefs, lawyers, sportspersons.

While Olamma series, one of the exhibit for tomorrow’s event examines elegance as a criterion of beauty through silhouettes. In this case, the flat profile of female poses act as figural frames which suspend beauty-moments in time to create memorable pictorial glory.

The Soja series sums up visual essay of military authority and power with the iconic profile of military brass- the circular topped cap with jutting visor. Indeed a halo of brass and khaki radiantly romanticizing military power. More than epaulettes, shiny medals and buttons, the silhouettes of saddle-topped cap as seen from the sides, cut out potent visual register of nobility and prestige reserved for warriors.

In Music God, acrylic, he continues his explorative foray. For instance, he explores the formations of acrobatic flyers that tease and twirl happily inside the cranial dome of a choirmaster.

With an iconic effigy of a yellow divinity, punctuated with tracing movement of birds, we see an illustrative reminder that Africa is the home of powerful musical rythmns.

Epiphany in Black series, also acrylic, explores the intricate polemics of subversion of the term ‘black’ in anthropological reference of Africans. The artist said that “After more than five centuries, Africans started viewing the black colour differently. ‘Black’ as derogative became a favorite trope of reference, not because they were fashionable, but, of a humanistic reason, the ability to take a pun and create lovely jewellery from it. Epiphany in Black supports the narratives of influential modern Africans whose emergence unto global platforms resulted as the consequence of proudly showing their cultural uniqueness as beautiful clothing and marks of superb distinction”.

Nze na Ozo, also acrylic, explores a trope of titled chiefs wearing flowing gowns and feather-topped hats, inside the Igwe’s courtyard, the air became electrified.

Blacksmithing may go into extinction in Awka

Awka’s fame spread far and wide so much that it was believed that the gate to the Queen Elizabeth of England was constructed by an Awka blacksmith.

However, all that has change today as the once booming blacksmithing culture is gradually going into extinction. According Kenneth Nwakwo, an Awka indigene, based in Lagos, the major factor militating against blacksmithing is government’s total neglect for the culture.

“Blacksmithing is going into extinction in Awka today because the various governments have refused to take interest in the profession. My people have been complaining that government should not leave the sector to dye but since then, nothing is happening,’’ Nwankwo told Daily Times.

He added, “Many young people are also responsible for the dying blemishing culture because the young people do not want

to be known as a blacksmith. Our youths are ashamed to take up the profession believing that there is no instant money in it. They will rather prefer to work in banks or oil companies where they can make quick money.’’

Nwankwo narrated the ordeal of his cousin who took to the profession but later dropped it because he was not making quick money compared to his mates in other business. “My Cousin Jude went into the profession while we were at home.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

Discover Adamawa’s cultural heritage

Agozino Agozino

Adamawa state is composed of a large variety of ethnic groups some of which include Fulani, Jukun, Higiwe and Chomba. The people live in segmented large and small communities and speak different languages. However, Hausa and Fulfulde are the major languages. It is a home of Nigerian former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar among other eminent persons.

Like other States of the federation, Adamawa is blessed with rich cultural heritage which is reflected in its past history

craftsmanship, music, dances, dress patterns and cordial relationship. For instance, some of the cultural endowment that are in Adamawa includes Gurin Mosque .This is a mosque built in the early part of 19th Century with bamboo collections, which remains till today. It is located at Gurin in Fufore Local Government Area.

Other historical sites in Adamawa state include the Lamido’s Palace in Yola, the Tomb of Moddibo Adama, the founder of Adamawa, and early missionary outposts at Lupwe near Takum.

Mambilla tourist centre.

Mambilla, about 550 kilometres

from Vola, forms part of the Adamawa, Obudu, Shebshi, Alantika and Mandara Mounting chain. Gashaka gumpti game reserve These are situated about 399 kilometres from Vola, at the base of Mambilla Plateau, and have potentials of becoming international tourist Centres.

Visitors can relax at the Catering Rest House at the Gashaka Game reserve. The Game Reserves hold various species of animals like buffaloes, lions, hyena, and elephants. Also, there are different types of reptiles - crocodiles and alligators.

There are waterfalls in the reserves.

Yola roundabout, Adamawa State

World’s richest man turns to art with Mexico museum

Shonibare

The world’s richest man Carlos Slim inaugurated a massive museum in Mexico City recently to house his eclectic collection of art ranging from pre-Hispanic pieces to sculptures by French masters.

The museum opened recently saw some 1,500 guests ranging toured the asymmetrical building that has been opened to the public.

Located in the heart of one of the capital’s poshest residential areas, the Soumaya museum named after Slim’s late wife host some 60,000 pieces in six exhibit rooms, making it one of the biggest in Latin America.

Slim, worth $53.5 bil-

lion according to Forbes magazine, made his fortune in telecommunications and now controls retail stores, mining and oil drilling firms. He credits his wife Soumaya, who died in 1999, for giving him his interest in art.

The museum will be home to one of the world’s most important collections of Auguste Rodin’s sculptures and also prominently displays works by Mexican muralists Rufino Tamayo and Diego Rivera.

Designed by Mexican architect Fernando Romero, Slim’s son-in-law, the building is covered with of thousands of hexagonal aluminum panels that reflect sunlight.

27 Our Heritage

Green Bee Eaters emerges winner of Centagon InterHouse Sports Competition Mathew Dadiya, Abuja

T

he 5th Annual Inter House Sports Competition of Centagon International School, Abuja, held on Saturday, at the Main Bowl of the National Stadium, was another

The victorious Green Bee Eaters

breath-taking event of the Centagon International School, Abuja that saw Green Bee Eaters emerge overall winners, while Red Bishops took second position, Yellow Weavers and Kingfishers finished third and fourth respectively.

The chairman of the occasion, Mr. Mohammed Sidi Aliyu, a parent, declared the games open at

Page 28

Monday, February 8, 2016

‘Dolphins won’t disappoint in NPFL’

Mohammed joins C.D. Nacional S

uper Eagles attacking midfielder, Usman Mohammed has joined Portugal’s top tier division side, Clube Desportivo Nacional known as Nacional da Madeira on a two-year contract.

The Dream Team VI ace campaigned for the demoted side, FC Taraba in the 2014/15 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season.

Mohammed said he will work hard to bring added value to the side as well as justify the confidence the White-andBlack reposed in him.

“I have signed a two-year contract with Portugal’s Primeira Liga, Nacional da Madeira so I will be appearing in their white and black stripes colours.

“It’s a dream come true for me to further my football career in Europe, I’m really happy with the development.

“I’m satisfied with the package and will do my very best to justify the confidence the side reposed in me.

“Madeira is a different club operating in a different environment I know the challenge will be tough but by God’s grace and with hard work I will succeed,”

Ezqeuitjis

football

Ezeji

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about 8 am. The colourful march-past was won by Red Bishops, Blue Kingfisher came second while Yellow Weavers and Green Bee Eaters came third and fourth respectively. The primary school and Kindergarten relay was also keenly contested by the pupils.

All students competed for their houses against their peers at the annual sports day.

The Inter-House competition had various field & track events, team events with pumps and pageantry as staff members and parents also participated.

ormer Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) highest goalscorer, Victor Ezeji, has retired from professional football after achieving a record 20 seasons.

Ezeji emerged not only as a distinguished professional, but also the most decorated domestic player with laurels in his trophy cabinet from the league and Cup competitions.

In 2003, he also won the Caf Champions League with Enyimba.

After announcing his retirement last year, Ezeji was forced to make a volteface by the League Management Company (LMC) who allowed him sign on a shortterm contract with Heartland exploring the elite players’ scheme in the top-flight rule.

Interestingly, he scored a goal against one of his former teams, Dolphins.

D

Mohammed Mohammed according to report.

Mohammed said he does not know much about the club as the contract rituals were performed here in Nigeria.

“I signed the contract here the Madeira officials came to Nigeria for the contract signing, I don’t have detailed knowledge of the club at the moment but very soon I will head off to Portugal and I’m sure everything will go down well,” said Mohammed.

Mohammed is one of the top performers for Super Eagles at the 2016 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Kigali, Rwanda.

“The time has come for me to finally hang my boots,” Ezeji stated.

The former Nigerian international, who graduated from the prestigious University of Port Harcourt with a degree in Accountancy, is one of the few footballers who successfully combined education with professional football.

Ezeji is also the only Nigerian to win the 2007 Nigerian Cup top scorer and Most Valuable Player awards, a feat he achieved when it was called the Coca-Cola FA Cup. In 2008, he left for Tunisia, where he spent a season with Club Africain and returned to the country to continue his career a year later.

“Ezeji’s achievements are rare in the modern era. On Wednesday, he will address the media, in Lagos, on his retirement.

“We’re proud of his career as he has since become a role model to up-and-coming players in the Nigeria Professional Football League,” Ojeikere Aikhoje, who heads leading sports PR Agency, MatchRoom Sports, stated.

olphins goalkeeper, Rotimi Sunday has said his side will be the team to beat in the coming 2015/16 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season kicking off on Sunday, February 21.

The Garden City side will open their league title account at their fortress, Liberation Stadium in Port Harcourt on matchday 1 clash against Nigerian champions, Enyimba.

Sunday admitted that the former Nigerian champions underperformed in the out gone top flight and determined to make the necessary atonement in the coming season.

“Dolphins will certainly challenge for the league title as well as ticket to Africa in the coming season.

“Yes, we recorded unfortunate results in the out gone season that saw us barely surviving relegation on the last day match.

“A lot of thing did not go down in our own way despite our concerted efforts to recreate previous performances.

‘Nasarawa ready for Generation Foot’

N

asarawa United head coach, Kabir Dogo has said his side are ready for the Senegalese side, Generation Foot.

The Solid Miners will host the West African side in the preliminary round of Caf Confederation Cup on Sunday, February 14 at the Abuja National Stadium.

Dogo said his side have been adequately prepared by the just concluded NPFL Super 4 tournament to go for convincing victory against the Senegalese side, Generation Foot.

“Everybody is ready for the task to go out there to get decent result against Generation Foot of Senegal.

“We want to beat the Senegalese side convincingly to make the second leg over there in Dakar an easy one.

“We understand that Generation Foot are good side, we, too are equally not bad side so they will surely meet their equals on Sunday.

“We will beat them and beat them very well that’s our message to Nigerians to start the campaign on winning note.

“The just concluded NPFL Super 4 tournament has given us the confidence to challenge any side anywhere and sure of good result.

“We are satisfied with what we achieved in the tournament at least it showed us the area to further improve upon before we head off to the continent,” according to report.

Monday, February 8, 2016

EXTRATIME

m o t p i K wins Access Bank Lagos City Marathon

ANDREW EKEJIUBA

K

enyan Abraham Kiptom on Saturday shrugged off stiff opposition from over 20,000 athletes including 150 local and international world-class runners to emerge winner of the maiden Access Bank Lagos City Marathon.

The 25-year-old Kiptom who

is also a gold labeled marathoner, clocked a time of two hours, sixteen minutes and nineteen seconds to win the first full marathon to be staged in the country in more than 30 years.

His compatriot, Hosea Kipkemba who returned in a time of two hours, sixteen minutes and twenty seconds came second while the third position went to Ethiopian, Debebe Tolsa with a time of two hours, sixteen minutes and forty seconds.

The race which was flagged off by

Abraham Kiptom of Kenya returns to the finish line to emerge winner of the maiden Access Bank Lagos City Marathon held at the weekend.

the Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, assisted by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Tukur Buratai and Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung took off at the National Stadium Surulere Lagos and went through Ikorodu road, connecting Anthony Village, Oworonsoki, third Mainland Bridge, Ikoyi and Victoria Island before terminating at the Eko

Atlantic City.

Kiptom said shortly after the race that he was excited to have defeated his compatriot, Peter Kiplagat and other top world marathoners who participated in the race.

“I’m happy to have won the race. A lot of people expected my compatriot, Peter Kiplagat to win, but I am grateful to God that I emerged

victorious,” he said.

In the women category, Halima Hussein Kayo of Ethiopia clocked a time of two hours, thirty eight minutes and five seconds to emerge winner, while Kenyan, Alice Timbili came second with a time of two hours, thirty eight minutes and forty nine seconds. Ethiopian Aberash Feyase finished third position in a time of two hours, thirty nine minutes and nine seconds.

The first Nigerian male to cross the finish line was Philip Sharabutu followed by Iliya Pam and Peter Maham , while in the female category, Mary Akor became the first Nigerian to cross the line followed by Olamide Oluwaseun and Yahana Denatu respectively.

The first placed marathoner went home with $ 50,000, the second place winner carted home $ 40,000 and third place $30, 000.

Also, the best Nigerian athlete won N 1 million, the second winner took home N750, 000 and the third place winner got N500, 000.

Dann: Adebayor has lifted us!

S

cott Dann says new Crystal Palace signing Emmanuel Adebayor has boosted the squad’s morale and believes the forward is desperate to prove he can still be a threat at the top level.

Adebayor joined Palace towards the end of the January transfer window after nearly five months without a club following his release from Tottenham.

He made his first start for Palace on Saturday

as they ended a run of five successive Premier League defeats with a 1-1 draw against Swansea.

Despite manager Alan Pardew’s concerns over his fitness, Adebayor played 86 minutes at the Liberty Stadium and Dann feels the 31-year-old has a huge role to play as Palace seek to get their season back on track.

“He has that natural fitness, he has worked hard with a personal trainer and that tells you what type of lad he is,” Dann said.

“He is going to be a big player for us until the

end of the season if we can use his qualities and get him into the game.

“At previous clubs he has proved he is a world-class striker and he has shown it over and over again.

“He has a point to prove and it has given us a lift to see someone like that come in with the run we were on.

“He has won things, he is a big player, and someone who the majority of defenders in this league will not want to play against when he’s on top form.

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Adebayor

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Monday, February 8, 2016

EXTRATIME

BRIEFS

J

uventus extended their winning streak in Serie A to 14 games with a hard-fought 2-0 victory at Frosinone that keeps them within two points of leaders Napoli.

Massimiliano Allegri’s side were frustrated for much of the afternoon at Stadio Comunale Matusa before Juan Cuadrado and Paulo Dybala secured all three points with late goals.

The visitors enjoyed the better of a quiet first half with Stefano Sturaro, Dybala and Alvaro Morata wasting openings.

Daniel Ciofani blazed Frosinone’s only chance of the first half over as the hosts

Laporte vows to turn down Barca offer

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thletic Bilbao defender Aymeric Laporte says he would turn down an offer to join La Liga leaders Barcelona. Laporte made his debut for Athletic as an 18-year-old in 2012 and has been persistently linked away from San Mames since establishing himself in the first team in 2013-14. Manchester United and Barca are among the clubs reportedly tracking the 21-year-old.

However, Laporte, has claimed he has no interest in a move to Camp Nou and hopes to remain in Bilbao for the foreseeable future.

,d o d a r d a u C Dybala exten

Lewandowski agent confirms Bayern contract talks

R

obert Lewandowski has begun talks with Bayern Munich over a new contract, his agent has announced. The Poland international has been linked with a possible move to Real Madrid or Paris SaintGermain at the end of the season, with Karl-Heinz Rummenigge fuelling speculation over the striker’s future last month when the Bayern CEO admitted interest in Gonzalo Higuain. Cezary Kucharski, the striker’s representative, has denied any approach during the latest transfer window.

winning r un

Grosskreutz fired up for BVB reunion

S

tuttgart’s Kevin Grosskreutz is “fired up” as he prepares to face former club Borussia Dortmund in the DFB-Pokal quarterfinals on Tuesday.

Germany international Grosskreutz won two Bundesliga titles and the Pokal during a six-year stay at Dortmund, and was also a runnerup to Bayern Munich in the 2012-13 Champions League final.

The 27-year-old left Dortmund for Galatasaray in September, but the Turkish champions failed to submit his registration in time for the versatile wide man to play during the first half of 2015-16.

After failing to settle in Turkey, he joined Stuttgart on loan last month, having not made a competitive appearance for Gala.

Grosskreutz now comes up against Dortmund for the first time since his exit as Stuttgart target a place in the last four of the Pokal.

Grosskreutz

frustrated the in-form champions, and that pattern continued after the restart with nine outfield players often sitting behind the ball to frustrate Juve.

But eventually Juve were rewarded for their patience 17 minutes from time, when Cuadrado ghosted in at the back post to fire low past Nicola Leali.

Dybala then made sure of the points in injury time with a clinical finish from Morata’s pass as Juve kept pace with Napoli, who beat Carpi 1-0 at Stadio San Paolo, ahead of next Saturday’s clash of the top two in Turin.

Mancini Cuadrado

Enriquee’ hails ‘complet Barca

L

lete uis Enrique insisted Barcelona put in a “comp top stay to 2-0 te Levan g beatin after ce” performan parts large for of the La Liga table, despite struggling of the game against the league’s bottom side.

Navarro It took an own goal from Levante defender David missed te Levan and es minut 21 after ock to break the deadl les Mora Luis several chances to level, while midfielder Jose injury in d secon ’s Barca hit the post, until Luis Suarez added

time. work hard “We finished them off at the end but we had to for the entire match,” Luis Enrique said. game, we “My team did everything necessary to win the finished we why that’s and ce rman put in a complete perfo the job. on the ball “It helps if you don’t give the opposition time . because they can create good spells went 1-0 “We expected them to take more risks after they s can game These lose. to g nothin had they down because did so and es, always be difficult. We kept on creating chanc ime half-t at in gone have they. Even though Levante could equalled a level, I think this is a fair result.” Barcelona also defeat in ut witho s etition comp all in s game 28 club record of

Mancini

rues Inter’s set-piece woes

R

o b e r t o M a n c i n i lamented Inter’s sloppy defending a t set-pieces and says his side threw away two points in Sunday’s enthralling 3-3 draw at Verona.

Jeison Murillo headed Inter into an early lead in the Serie A contest at Stadio Marc’Antonio Bentegodi.

However, rock-bottom Verona threatened an upset as Filip Helander and Eros Pisano scored before half-time before Artur Ionita made it 3-1 after the break, with all three goals coming from Luca Marrone assists at set-plays.

Mauro Icardi and Ivan Perisic completed brilliant Inter counter-attacks to restore parity and earn a draw, but head coach Mancini was less than impressed by his side’s defending.

“We threw two points away and it could’ve ultimately been worse, because we risked conceding a fourth on the counter at the end,” Mancini told reporters.

“Unfortunately we conceded three goals from set-pieces. We conceded a similar goal against AC Milan, so we have to improve these things that we had been doing well.

“It’s not that we played without determination. We conceded on three dead-ball situations and have to be more careful, but we were determined until the final whistle.

“We will fight all the way and hopefully will be able to put together a run of victories.

“We threw away two points considering how the game started and the opportunities we had at 3-3.”

Monday, February 8, 2016

EXTRATIME

F

ormer Chelsea manager, Jose Mourinho, has given his first interview since leaving the club in December - and he opened up on a wide range of topics to skysports.com. After winning trophies with Porto, Real Madrid and Inter Milan, Mourinho insists he wants to remain in England with his family as he starts his search for his next role in football. He speaks on his frustrations working in La Liga and his attitude towards happiness, pressure and winning in football. Excerpts: What necessitated your move to London?

When my kids were young, we could move and experience different countries and in my case, different clubs and different football, but there is a moment when they need some stability. They are 19 years old and 16 years old, and with university and their football, they need some stability and the family needs some stability.

We made a decision three years ago to move back to London. It’s an amazing place to be and an amazing place for them to study and search their future and at the same time, for the family to be together so that was the decision. Also because

31

with 75 points, maybe less, so I needed competition. We decided to come to London and at the moment, I don’t have a job. I don’t know where football will take me because in football, you never know but for sure, as a family, our home will be in London.

What’s your future for the round leather game?

As a professional, I’m ready to move, especially because football in London for me in terms of clubs, I need to move.

How happy are you since leaving Chelsea?

I can have everything I love at the same time. I can have my family, I can have my friends and I can have my quiet life, which I also like. I can have my football and I can have everything together, and I don’t need to give up one to be better than what I am.

To be fully happy, I need everything so when I go back to football, I think it’s my natural habit but obviously I’ve worked ever since I can remember. As a manager, I’ve worked since 2000 and I last stopped when I left Chelsea in 2007. I stopped for a

: o h n i r u Mo

, l l a b t o My fo

! e f i l y m

I’ve experimented with English, Spanish and Italian football - the three top football leagues in the world.

I always say that I need competition and I need competition every week and in Spain, I was at an amazing club but I had four matches a year: Barcelona v Real Madrid, Real Madrid v Barcelona and after that we’d win 4-0, 5-0, 4-1, 6-1.

Was it easy for you in Spain in terms of winning matches?

It was difficult to win because two monsters are together, but it was easy to win matches. Difficult to win the league because you are competing against another team that also win and win and win like you do, so in the end I was champion in Spain with 100 points and I lost a league in Spain with 91 points.

In England, you can win the leagues

few months and now is the second time I’ve stopped in 15 or 16 years so it’s not a drama but for sure, I will go back soon.

How do you deal with pressure?

Football is not pressure for me. It’s not pressure; it’s a privilege that sometimes I don’t understand when players don’t enjoy their professional life. Especially for them, and for us, it’s a short period.

For players, its 10 or 12 years and for us, it’s whatever you want - 20 or 25 or 30 years because this is the kind of job where you’re paid, you’re very well paid, but at the same time, you leave the dreams you had as a kid.

When you are in football, it is because when you were a kid, you dreamed of it, so football for me is really not a pressure.

Ninety minutes of matches is more pressure for the people that love us outside than for us because we really enjoy that.

I cope because it is easy to cope with something you enjoy very much. I’ve never been close friends with a Formula 1 driver, but I can imagine it is the same for them.

Maybe their families in the circuit and outside are under huge pressure, maybe the guys are driving at crazy speeds and taking big risks but they probably just love what they are doing. I keep thinking that in football, it is more pressure for the ones that love us than for us.

Share with us your feelings over fans’ desire in seeing you win matches always?

Sometimes I have some conflicts with people that don’t share the same philosophy. You are in a sport, you are to compete, you are to win, you hate to lose and you love to win. You win once, you want to win twice and you are never tired with winning. When you are tired, go home and give your place to another one.

Mourinho

What are your new challenges?

I always think that we need new challenges, but there are different ways of getting new challenges. If, for example, you are in a club that wins, if you want to win again, you have to create instability in the winners.

To do this, you have to make them doubt, you have to buy new players, you have to take them outside their comfort zone because if you win, there is a normal tendency to go to a comfort zone.

Are there plans by you in getting away from it all in Arjeplog, Sweden?

My football world is one that involves a lot of people, thousands and thousands, and we travel around Europe, going to the biggest cities and to come here and feel like on one side, it is an empty place but in the end, it is so full of so many things, I just love it.

I know that it is very cold and I couldn’t be outside for many hours but the experience is magnificent, the beauty is fantastic and for the people of my world, a few days in a place like this would be magnificent.

Published by FOliO cOMMUNicAtiONS ltD, Lateef Jakande Road, Agidingbi, Ikeja. website: www.dailytimes.com.ng; email: info@dailytimes.com.ng. Tel: 018447948.

GROUP EDITOR: BiODUN DUROJAiYE News Hotlines: 08138773277, 08173901838. Advert Hotlines: 08086296714

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2016

VOL. 2. NO.40

Kiptom wins Access Bank Lagos City Marathon

g

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Price: N150

Cuadrado,

Mourinho:

Dybala extend winning run

g

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My football, my life!

g

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EPL:

Arsenal humble , h t u o m e n r u o B

d l o h s e u l as B s l i v e D d e R

Mesut Ozil (right) races away to celebrate Arsenal’s opener on Sunday.

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rsenal moved back to within five points of the English Premier League (EPL) leaders Leicester with a 2-0 win at Bournemouth on Sunday.

The visitors raced into a comfortable lead with two goals in the space of 90 seconds in the first half from Mesut Ozil and then Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, ending a club run of 328 minutes without a league goal.

The result leaves the Gunners in third place, level on points with rivals Tottenham, while Bournemouth sit in 15th, five above the drop zone.

Arsenal made one change from their 0-0 draw against Southampton in midweek, bringing in Oxlade-Chamberlain at the

expense of Joel Campbell, while the hosts were unchanged from their win at Crystal Palace.

Bournemouth felt Arsenal’s Mathieu Flamini should have been shown a straight red card after eight minutes for a twofooted tackle on Dan Gosling, but referee Kevin Friend settled for a yellow.

And it was Flamini’s midfield teammate Ozil who gave Arsenal the lead on 23 minutes, smashing the ball home from close range on the half volley after Olivier Giroud had knocked down Aaron Ramsey’s lofted ball.

It was 2-0 just a minute-and-a-half later, Oxlade-Chamberlain finishing superbly off

the far post from a slight angle 15 yards out after he was fed by Ramsey on the right.

Bournemouth came close to scoring moments later, but Petr Cech did superbly to tip over Harry Arter’s fierce effort from 18 yards.

The hosts had far more of the possession in the second half, but failed to break down a dogged Arsenal defence, who have now conceded just two goals in five games in all competitions.

Neither side created much in the way of clear-cut chances in the second half until the closing periods and it was Arsenal who should have scored a third in the final minute.

Racing through on goal with Giroud

PREMIERSHIP RE SULTS AFC Bournemouth 0 - 2 Arsenal Chelsea 1 - 1 Man chester United SERIE A RESULTS Hellas Verona 3 3 Inter AC Milan 1 - 1 Udinese Frosinone 0 - 2 Juventus SSC Napoli 1 - 0 Carpi Sassuolo 2 - 2 Palermo Torino 1 - 2 ChievoVerona LIGUE 1 RESULTS Lille 1 - 1 Rennes Bordeaux 1 - 4 Saint-Etienne for support, Ramsey could only find the chest of Artur Boruc from six yards out as Bournemouth left men upfield.

Cech brilliantly saved twice in injury time, first from Steve Cook’s fierce close-range effort and then from Arter’s low, long-range drive down to his left, to keep the clean sheet.

Meanwhile, Diego Costa scored a late equaliser to preserve Chelsea’s unbeaten record under interim boss Guus Hiddink and deny Manchester United a win.

United dominated early on, Thibaut Courtois producing a fine one-handed save to keep out Anthony Martial.

David de Gea saved well from Nemanja Matic’s header before Jesse Lingard’s fine shot and turn put United ahead.

Costa rescued a point in the 91st minute after rounding De Gea following Cesc Fabregas’s pass.

Chelsea, who lost defender Kurt Zouma to a serious injury, remain 13th in the table.

Business Times Daily Times Nigeria

Naira falls to N311/1$

Thought Leadership

Free pre-paid meter or nothing else- Nigerians react to new tariff Page B2

Page B3

Page B4

Clearing agents warn against return of sacked agencies to ports

Dangote to build two new cement plants worth N6tr

ÏAs Customs set to fix faulty scanners

ÏGenerates addition 15, 000 jobs

Babajide Okeowo Following the reduction of government agencies operating in Apapa port from 14 to 6 in a bid to address delays associated with cargo clearance, clearing agents have raised alarm over fresh moves by the sacked government agencies to return to the ports.

Speaking at a stakeholders meeting organized by the Apapa CONTINUED ON PAGE B2

Charles Okonji

L-R: Head, Brand Management and Communication Strategy, Sterling Bank Plc, Mr. Chima Nwankama; Executive Director, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman; Chief Consultant, HT Limited, Mrs. Feyikemi Odunuga and one of the Previous Winner, Mr. Michael Onobote, during a press conference on the launch of the second season of the “Meet the Executive Programme” in Lagos…recently.

TSA saves FG N2tr in 3 months Motolani Oseni

President Muhammadu Buhari has said that his administration within three months saved N2.2 trillion through the full implementation of the Treasury Single Account (TSA).

During a meeting with Nigerians in London recently, he said that the Nigerian National Petroleum Cooperation, NNPC had over 45 accounts scattered in different banks and the Nigerian military also had 70 accounts in different banks.

Monday, February 8, 2016

“We are really in trouble. What we discovered was that we tried to enforce what we called treasury single account, TSA. And the reason was simple. This government did not initiate it. It was the previous government. But it was so unpopular to the bureaucracy and the previous government for its own reasons couldn’t enforce it. But when we came and found that we were broke, we said this is the way to do it. And I will just tell you two examples to convince you.

First, NNPC, the cow that was giving the milk had more than 45 accounts, ministry of defense,

that is the military Army, Navy and air force had over 70 accounts. Tell me which account we can trace in these several accounts. So we enforce TSA. We said there must be TSA. By the end of December, coming to January this year, that is last month, we mopped up more than N2.2trn which we have used through the bureaucracy system to raise vouchers and sign cheques so that they don’t go into the next budget.”

President Buhari also said that the government found out that many directors in the CBN owned the Bureau De Change

outfits through which they raked in the foreign exchanges.

“We found out that some of the directors in the central bank own the bureau de change businesses.

So when the foreign exchange comes, they take it and give government the change. So we stopped the Federal Government giving bureau de change foreign exchange. Fellow country men and women, I am giving you a tip of the iceberg of the problem we inherited and we are getting so hard because we have no other way of running the country unless we make everybody accountable,” he said.

In a bid to make cement more affordable and available for the common man, the Nigerian indigenous African cement giant, Dangote Cement has unveiled plans to build two new cement factories in Okpila in Edo and Itori in Ogun state respectively, which will further enhance the company market share in the African cement market.

The planned Itori Cement Plant which will double the capacity of Dangote Cement in Tanzania at the cost of $600m is said to be an equivalence of N3.66 trillion, while that of Okpila with three million metric tons capacity would be costing the company about N1.84 million.

With entrant of these two additional plants into the Dangote Cement family, a total of 9.0 metric tonnes per annum would be added to its total output annually.

Onne Vander Weijde, Group Managing Director, Dangote Industries Limited, who dropped this hint at the weekend, stated that this move was necessitated CONTINUED ON PAGE B2

NCC rates Glo best network in new internet subscription Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has again rated the next generation network, Globacom, as the leader in new internet subscriber acquisition in the telecommunications industry.

According to 2015 third quarter statistics featured by the NCC on its website, Globacom gained the highest number of internet users in September of 2015 with over a million new internet users on its network.

The industry regulator said

that Globacom had 21,896,229 internet users on its network as at the end of September, up from 20,765,379 data users in August.

The figure showed an addition of 1,130,850 new internet subscribers within the period.

Globacom’s figure was much more than the total number of new internet users who joined the three other major telecom operators, MTN, Airtel and Etisalat.

The three recorded a combined total of 716,450 new internet sub-

scribers in September.

The closest to Globacom was MTN which recorded an additional 423,448 new internet users on its network. Airtel placed third with 235,941 new subscribers, while Etisalat recorded the least number of new internet users in the industry with additional 57,061 new data subscribers joining the network in September.

Globacom has for several months been leading the race for the acquisition of new internet

users in the market. For instance, the network added 1,434,830 data users last August, while MTN recorded 309,960 and Etisalat 147,149 new internet surfers. Airtel on its part had a drop of 110,838.

The steady growth in the number of data subscribers on the Globacom network is said to be a fall-out of the improved data services which followed the network improvement exercise being carried out by the company.

CONTINUED ON PAGE B2

Prof. Danbattan

Business News B2

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

Clearing agents warn against return of sacked agencies to ports

NCC rates Glo best network in new internet subscription CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1

Globacom has also launched several attractive and user-friendly packages which offer a lot of appeal to data users.

For instance, the company recently launched the Free Tomorrow promo which calculates all the value of airtime a subscriber uses in a day for internet services, phone calls and SMS, doubles the value and credits the subscriber’s phone by 12 midnight with the value.

Globacom also scored another first in the data market with Campus Booster, a special data plan that allows students and others on campus to get up to eight times

CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1

Area command of the Nigeria Customs Service by the weekend, the clearing agents accused not only the sacked agencies of attempt to return to the ports but also those present of not making themselves available when examination is being carried out by Customs officers at the specified time.

A representative of the Lagos Chambers of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Julie Ogboru stated that because the agencies are not usually on ground when examination is being conducted, they now request to conduct examination separately thereby causing delay and making cargo clearance more cumbersome.

“The agencies have become a torn in our flesh. After examination, everybody should sign the examination paper at the point of examination and no agent should go back to their offices to give them paper to sign.

“It should be once because examination is done once so the examination paper should be signed and any agency that did not sign; the controller should allow the container to leave.

“This is one of the things that is causing problem between us and Customs because after examination, the officer will say go and sort it out which should not be so.

“If you are the chief security officer of the port, you should take the bull by the horn and put a stop to this.”

Responding, Controller of the command, Comptroller Willy Egbudin assured that he will meet with the concerned agencies and ensure that all are present when physical examination is being conducted.

In a related development that will fast track the clearance of cargoes in Nigerian ports, the Nigeria Customs Service is set to fix all faulty scanners at the ports.

This is according to the O/C, Scanners of the Lagos Port, Paul Ekpeyoung, who has revealed that committee setup by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Hameed Ali (rtd) to look into the current status of the scanners have turned in their report.

He said anytime soon, the scanners would be fixed as the manufacturers would be asked to fix it.

The mobile scanners in the ports had gone bad years after it was purchased by the immediatepast Comptroller-General of Customs, Abdullahi Dikko.

Fashola

Free pre-paid meter or nothing else- Nigerians react to new tariff Opeoluwani Akintayo Following the recent increment in electricity tariffs by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Committee, NERC, Nigerians have demanded that the electricity distribution companies, DisCos first make available to them the promised free prepaid meter, stable electricity before any increase in tariff.

Since the privatisation of the power sector in 2013, the DisCos have yet to fully metered their communities. Most communities still use the analogue meters, with few already using the prepaid.

Due to the prevalence of the analogue metres and the use of poles, the masses keeps nagging about the issue of over billing.

Even as the DisCos are yet to resolve the issue of stable power supply, NERC recently announced an increment in tariff.

Speaking with Business Times, residents of the communities who are yet to be metered, clamour that it is either the DisCos first make available the prepaid meter likewise stable power supply or face their anger as they will not pay the new tariff.

President of the Festac Resident Association, Mr. Shola Fakorede, spoke with Business Times. According to him, EKO DisCo have yet to fully meter its

customers as promised. He called on the power company to provide its customers with metres before any other thing.

“We are tired of being sweet tongued. We say no to any increase in electricity tariff until we get our metres and see an improved power supply. When the prepaid metering process started, EKEDC metered some homes. All of a sudden they stopped, leaving out some areas. We think they are not happy that they won’t be making money like they used to, that’s why they stopped.”

Mr. Ifeanyin Chuks from Satellite Town, expressed shock over the Credited Advance Payment Metering Implementation, CAPMI programme introduced by the DisCos. “How would they say we should pay for the prepaid metre when the agreement they signed with the Bureau of Private Enterprise, BPE, in 2013 says the prepaid metre is free. The CAPMI programme has failed because many who paid for the metres are yet to receive theirs. Even those who received theirs didn’t get any refund not to talk of interest as promised by the DisCos, “ he lamented.

A resident of Mile 2, Engineer Ayodele Ibrahim, said the ‘crazy’ bills is getting out of hand, calling on the Federal Government to find a lasting solution to it.

more data value whenever they use their Glo lines on campuses.

There is also the Bumper Data Offer under which a N3,000 data plan gives subscribers 6GB data valid for one month, while a N4000 data plan gives 9GB data plan valid for a month.

Similarly, the Twin Bash gives subscribers who recharge with N200, up to 200 MB of data worth N800, along with full value of the airtime recharged. The Twin Bash recharge, which is the best deal for voice and data in Nigeria can be subscribed to by dialling *223*pin#. The Twin Bash offer is also available on the N500, N1000 and N2000 data recharge plans.

Dangote to build two new cement plants worth N6tr CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1

in the quest for bridging the marginal deficit noticed in the cement market in West Africa and Africa in General.

He note that the lime stone found in Nigerian remains the best, adding that demand level for Dangote Cement is very robust as the company recorded 25 per cent growth in the previous year.

“We have already secured the cement lines and the communities are happy about our investment. We have already existing gas pipe lines around Okpila community and we have concluded discussions with the state government and the state has given us approval.

“These plants would be dedicated to expand its supply capacity as we currently supply the West African rejoin. We currently supply Togo, Ghana, Chard and some others from Nigeria.

“Because of the roads and insecurity caused by Boko Haram, we

Dangote

had cut off supply to the North East, but now, supply has been reestablished.” he stated.

According to him, each of the cement factories would be creating over 5000 direct jobs as these two new factories would be generating well over 15,000 direct jobs when completed.

Devakumar V. C. Edwin, Group Managing Director, Dangote Cement, said the company is building its local capacity, adding that as the volume increases, the price will further go down and it will make the product more affordable and available for the common man.

He said; “When you go through transformation to move the country out of importation, it will take a little time before the price will further crash. Dangote brought cement price down for the first time from over N2, 000 per bag to below N1, 500 per bag, while the quality remains and the price would continue to go down.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

B3 Money Market

GTBank launches cash tender for $500m Eurobond Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) last week announced a cash tender for its $500 million at 7.50 per cent Eurobond maturing May 2016. This being the first transaction of its kind in Nigeria would boost the financial strength of the banks as well as its commitment to excellence and best practices.

In its statement, the bank said the liability management exercise allowed the bank to efficiently manage its liquidity by addressing in full debt maturing in 2016.

The extent to which this goal can be achieved through the offer will depend on the number of Securities that will be tendered, given the voluntary nature of the offer.

The bank intends to maintain cash available to repay any outstanding Securities not tendered in full at maturity.” It added that any Securities purchased by the Offeror would be surrendered for cancellation to the principal paying agent in respect of the Securities.

“If the Offeror decides to accept valid tenders of Securities pursuant to the Offer, the total amount the Offeror will pay Holders on the Settlement Date for each $1,000 in principal amount of Securities accepted for purchase pursuant to the Offer will be an amount (rounded to the nearest $0.01) equal to the Purchase Price and Accrued Interest on such $1,000 in principal amount.

“If, following acceptance of Securities for purchase by the Offeror pursuant to the Offer and following purchase of the relevant Securities on the Settlement Date, a Holder continues to hold in its account with the relevant Clearing System less than U.S.$200,000 in principal amount of Securities, in order to ensure that it will be possible to trade any residual holding in the Clearing Systems such Holder would need to purchase an additional principal amount of Securities such that its aggregate holding amounts to at least U.S.$200,000”, the statement added.

On the purchase price, the bank said that the Offeror would pay for Securities accepted by it for purchase pursuant to the offer at the fixed purchase price of $1,002.50 per $1,000 in principal amount of such Securities.

LR: Deputy Managing Director, Ecobank Nigeria, Mr. Tony Okpanachi; Head, Personal Banking, Ecobank Nigeria, Korede Demola-Adeniyi ; Chairman, Ecobank Nigeria, John Aboh; Chairman, Weststar Associates, Mercedes Center, Lekki, Benson Uwatse and Group Executive Domestic Bank, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, Patrick Akinwuntan, during the launch of Ecobank Premier Lounge at the Mercedes Place in Lekki, Lagos… at the weekend.

Naira falls to N311/$1 As pressures continued to mount on the federal government and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to devalue the nation’s currency, naira, in order to adjust to the fall in the price of crude oil in the global market, the naira which has lost about 30 percent of its value, fell to a new alltime record low of N311 to the US Dollar at the parallel market at the weekend.

Following the suspension of the weekly auction to Bureau de Change operators (BDCs) last month by the CBN, investigations have emerged that the nation’s currency, naira and few other Africa currencies including the Kenyan’s shilling and Zambia’s kwacha are all expected to depreciate further this week, due to rising dollar demand in the coming week.

Foreign exchange dealers in Lagos and Ogun states said the naira would fall further in the week ahead, unless a major step was taken to inject liquidity into the system.

But the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has recently rejected distinctive calls to relax its forex rules, prompting the naira to weaken further to 306 against the greenback at the parallel market on Wednesday last week.

However, the naira remains stable on the official interbank market around the 197 to 199 a dollar peg rates.

The President, Association of Bureau de Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON), Aminu Gwadabe, said, “The market was disappointed by the outcome of the MPC meeting. Coupled with the scarcity of dollars in the market, the naira is heading towards another sharp fall in the coming days.”

While given his verdicts on the continued dwindling strength of the naira in the parallel market,

President Muhammodu Buhari on Friday, when speaking with the BBC in United Kingdom (UK), traced the origin of some of the problems facing the nation’s currency to Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida’s (IBB) regime.

He said, “I went through devaluation in 1984, its SAP that killed the naira. I have asked the Governor of Central Bank and others to sit and see if they can convince me to murder the naira.”

IBB had in 1986 and 1988 instituted SAP which is said to have been responsible for the downward trend of the naira. SAP was a loan provided by the International Monetary Fund, IMF, and the World Bank to countries facing economic turmoil.

In a similar direction, President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki has ruled out the possibility of reversing the apex bank’s policy excluding some imported goods and services from the list of items valid for forex in the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market.

Saraki, while responding to a re-

quest by the Tomato Sub-Sectoral Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), seeking his intervention to lift the exemption by the CBN on certain imported goods at the weekend, said based on the present economic realities, difficult decisions are necessary to be taken to overcome the challenges.

According to him, as a country, we have to chart a new way different from the past, and that path is going into manufacturing as we cannot continue to remain an import dependent country.

However, he, challenged the tomato paste producers to focus more on how to be fully fledged manufacturers of the product using local raw materials, Saraki expressed surprise that in spite of the high level of local cultivation of tomatoes, the producers were still importing the Triple Concentrate used in the production of tomato paste, which he said can be produced locally by raising the production level of tomatoes in the country.

Efficiency unit: We are poised to achieve savings, cost reduction for government — Oniha

Head of the efficiency unit in the Federal Ministry of Finance, Ms. Patience Oniha said that the unit is poised to achieve savings and cost reduction for the government.

The establishment of unit is one of the pivotal policies of the current administration for moderating the government’s overhead expenditure and ensuring that the government derives maximum value for its spending.

Speaking during a recent me-

dia roundtable event organised to provide an update on the activities of the Unit and its proposed strategies, Oniha, disclosed that the need to ensure that government’s resources are judiciously used in a cost efficient manner that would also result in savings for government were the primary reasons why the efficiency unit was established.

She explained that the Efficiency Unit had focused primarily on the aspect of its mandate

which has to do with procurement where the potentials for savings are not only high but achievable within a relatively short time.

“For this purpose, the Unit has reviewed the overhead expenditure of the government in fine details to identify potential areas of savings from procurement. The strategy to be deployed would be to use the government’s large purchasing power to negotiate favourable terms with suppliers.

ÏMay depreciate further this week Stories by Motolani Oseni

Thought Leadership B4 6. Transforming the Effectiveness and Sustainability of Compliance Compliance continues to be a top concern for organisations as the pace and complexity of regulatory change, coupled with increased regulatory scrutiny and enforcement activity, have pushed concerns about reputation risk to new levels.

Organisations need to be able to respond to changes in their internal and external environments with flexibility and speed in order to limit the impacts from potentially costly business shifts or compliance failures.

To do so, however, can demand enhancements to the current compliance management program that: build adaptability into the inter-relationships of the people, processes, and technologies supporting compliance activities; augment monitoring and testing to self-identify compliance matters and expand root cause analysis; and, integrate compliance accountability into all facets of the business. Compliance accountability starts with a strong compliance culture that is supported by the “tone from the top” and reaches across all three lines of defense, recognizing that each line plays an important role within the overall risk management governance framework. Transforming compliance in this way allows compliance to align on an enterprise-wide basis with the organisation’s risk appetite framework, strategic and financial objectives, and business, operating, functional, and human capital models.

7. Managing Challenges in Surveillance, Reporting, Data, and Control Driven largely by regulatory requirements and industry pressures for increased speed and access, trade and transaction reporting has become increasingly complex. Capturing and analyzing vast amounts of data in real time remains a massive challenge for the financial services industry, as regulators continue to initiate civil and criminal investigations and levy heavy fines on brokerdealers, investment banks, and insurance companies based on failures to completely and accurately report required information In addition, ensuring compliance with federal and state laws prohibiting money laundering, financial crime, insider trading, front running, and other market manipulations and misconduct remains critically important. In the coming year, it will be essential for financial institutions to employ a systematic and comprehensive

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

Ten key regulatory challenges facing the financial services industry in 2016 [2]

approach to developing a sustainable compliance program in order to better manage both known and emerging regulatory and legal risks and proactively respond to prospective market structure reforms.

8. Reforming Regulatory Reporting The financial services industry continues to face challenges around producing core regulatory reports and other requested financial information, as demands from both regulators and investors have increased exponentially in the wake of the financial crisis. Regulators are proposing rules to modernise and improve the information reported and disclosed by financial institutions, registered investment companies and investment advisers. Among other areas, the propositions are intended to provide enhanced information that will be used to monitor risks in the asset management industry as a whole and increase the transparency of individual fund portfolios, investment practices, and investment advisers, particularly for derivatives, securities lending, and counterparty exposures. If adopted, financial institutions, fund administrators and managers will likely need to carefully contemplate and implement new governance, operational, and reporting capabilities that will be necessary to support these enhanced reporting and disclosure requirements.

9. Examining the Interplay

between Capital and Liquidity Recovery and Resolution Planning (RRP) and for Global Systemically Important Bank holding companies (GSIBs) is bringing capital planning and liquidity risk management to the forefront, as regulators have sought to restore both public and investor confidence in the aftermath of the financial crisis. Financial institutions are required to demonstrate their ability to develop internal stress testing scenarios that properly reflect and aggregate the full range of their business activities and exposures, as well as the effectiveness of their governance and internal control processes. The largest financial institutions must also provide information that will allow regulators to perform sensitivity analyses on their ability to manage their funding sources, signaling a step up in the scrutiny of financial institutions’ liquidity management and how they would fare under systemwide financial stress. The latest effort to formalise the link between capital and liquidity management has come in the recently released U.S. proposal for the Total Loss-Absorbing Capacity (TLAC) held by GSIBs. If adopted in the United States currently outlined, TLAC will be the latest, but certainly not the only, measure in the post-crisis regulatory response that connects capital and liquidity management. Other examples of this include the Basel III capital and liquidity mini-

mum standards, namely the Net Stable Funding Ratio (NSFR) and the GSIB Capital surcharge, as both discourage short-term wholesale funding. An international Insurance Capital Standard (ICS) is currently being developed that will apply to all Internationally Active Insurance Groups (IAIGs) along with a U.S. Group Calculation, though additional work still needs to be done to arrive at a common approach in the United States.

The potential variability and current uncertainty resulting from these and other pending requirements, may limit funding flexibility and make capital planning difficult, as both financial institutions and insurance companies will need to consider the ties between capital and liquidity in areas such as enterprise- wide governance, risk identification processes, related stress testing scenarios, and interrelated contingency planning efforts.

10. Managing the Complexities of Cross- Border Regulatory Change The largest financial institutions must now understand and manage regulatory mandates across more jurisdictions and services than ever before. Regulatory obligations and cross- border pressure points, including monitoring compliance on the banking side with Regulation W (transactions between insured depository institutions and their affiliates) as well as BSA/AML (Bank Secrecy Act/Anti-Money Laundering) and other financial

crime requirements, continue to challenge global institutions to move past their current reactionary mode of response to tackling high-impact regulatory change.

Insurers are similarly challenged with multijurisdictional reporting for groups operating cross-border. To address these challenges, financial institutions will need to consider implementing a change management framework that is capable of centralising and synthesising current and future regulatory demands and incorporates both internally developed and externally provided governance, risk management, and compliance (GRC) regulatory change tools.

This framework will enable institutions to improve coordination across their operating silos and gain new insights that can improve overall performance, ensure risk management frameworks and compliance controls are integrated into strategic objectives, avoid redundancy and rework, and better address regulatory expectations in a practical and efficient way.

Proactively addressing regulatory change is also foundational to developing an effective compliance program, as it links compliance controls with obligations, policies and procedures, monitoring, testing, reporting, and ongoing risk assessments.

About KPMG KPMG is a global network of professional firms providing Audit, Tax and Advisory services. We operate in 155 countries and have more than 162,000 people working in member firms around the world. The independent member firms of the KPMG network are affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative (“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such.

For more information, please contact: Thierry Mbimi N G - F M M a rk e t i n g h e l p desk@ng.kpmg.com © 2016, KPMG Professional Services, a partnership registered in Nigeria and a member firm of the KPMG network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative (‘’KPMG International’’), a Swiss entity. All rights reserved.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

Stories By Kayode Adelowokan The Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun has expressed optimism that the insurance consolidated bill, when passed into law, would reposition the insurance industry and ensured that it plays its expected role in the financial services industry and the wider economy.

Adeosun, while speaking at the inauguration of the committee for the review of insurance (consolidated) bill in Abuja, over the weekend, noted that the previous administration set up a committee under the chairmanship of Professor Joe Irukwu to, among others, identify the factors that hinders insurance growth in Nigeria, noting that one of the major challenges highlighted was poor legal framework and that led to the draft of the proposed Insurance (Consolidated) Bill.

The draft Bill, she stressed, provides for a proposed law which provides for basic principles, allowing details to be provided by way of regulations and guidelines.

This is intention of the insurance bill, according to her, was to promote timely and proactive intervention to protect policyholders and other stakeholders; promote discipline, ethical practices and sound market conduct;

B5 Insurance

Insurance bill will reposition the industry - FG

L-R: Managing Director, WFM 91.7, (Nigeria’s 1st Radio station for Women and their Families), ‘Toun Okewale Sonaiya, AGM/Head, Corporate Communications and Brand Management, Mr. Segun Bankole, Executive Director, Marketing and Business Development, Mrs. Ugochi Odemelam and Head, Lagos Area Offices, Mr. Makinde Adu, all of Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc during a courtesy visit to the organization by the management team of the radio station recently.

enhance insurance penetration, awareness and growth and promoting employment generation.

Stating the function of the newly set up committee to review insurance guideline, she said members are expected to

critically review the Draft Insurance (Consolidated) Bill with a view to ensuring it meets all the basic tenants of a framework law or a principle-based legislation, even as they are to make a comparative review of the Draft

Insurance (Consolidated) Bill to align it with the power of other financial services regulators in Nigeria.

While the committee was saddled with the responsibility of examining the current mar-

ket problems and recommend appropriate regulatory powers to allow the Insurance Regulator act appropriately, she added that the committee must also review all other Insurance laws and update the Draft Insurance (Consolidated) Bill to align with international best practice. She urged the members to identify other Nigerian Laws that conflict or compliment the activities of the insurance sector with a view of advising Government of the need to merge, consolidate or repeal so as to have a seamless functional regulation for the sector.

Calling on the Nigerian Insurance Industry to take this opportunity to fully cooperate with the committee to come up with a draft that would be the impetus for rapid growth not only for their sector but the nation and in particular all consumers of insurance services alike, she charged the committee to conclude its assignment and make submission to the Ministry of Finance, 90 days or less from now.

Stanbic IBTC Pension enhances service channels

David-Borha

Ogun urges transport unions to embrace insurance policy

Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers Limited in line with its commitment to enriching customer experience said it would continue to broaden and enhance its service channels for efficient service delivery.

This, the leading Pension Fund Administrator in Nigeria said, is in fulfillment of its promise to provide quality and stress-free pension fund administration and financial management services to its clients and Nigerians wherever they may be.

The Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers Limited, Eric Fajemisin, said that the cardinal value propositions of the PFA are par-

ticipation, accessibility, quality, convenience and efficiency.

Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers can be reached via a number of service channels, which include its over 217 branch offices spread across the country, its 24-hour multilingual contact centre, SMS, Stanbic IBTC ATMs, email, its mobile office, mobile app, and the Pension Guru online, Fajemisin said, adding that the PFA is committed to ensuring that clients are able to experience excellent and convenient service in any of its touch points.

According to Fajemisin, “Our promise is to avail as many Nigerians as possible the opportunity to have quality pension

fund administration and financial services, which will enable a life of comfort in retirement.

To achieve that, we have continued to broaden our service channels so that we can reach as many Nigerians as possible and encourage participation in the Contributory Pension Scheme.” Fajemisin said Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers will constantly explore additional avenues were Nigerians can conveniently access its services to meet their pension and retirement needs. He further added that Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers is backed by the necessary experience, strong and sound financial clout of the Standard Bank Group, to

ensure efficiency in the management and safety of clients’ investments.

“In our 10 years of existence, we have emerged Nigeria’s leading PFA with over one million retirement savings account holders and assets under management in excess of N1 trillion, paying more than N2.1 billion to over 38,000 retirees monthly. Over N204 billion has been paid to retirees since we commenced operations in 2005. Our aim is to continue to set higher standards of service delivery and ensure that our retirement savings account holders derive maximum value from their contributions,” Fajemisin said.

The Ogun State Government has charged transport unions operating in the State to embrace the newly introduced Welfare Insurance Policy as it would benefit and avail them the opportunity to save for the rainy days.

The General Manager, Ogun State Parks and Garages Development Board (PAGADEB), Alhaji Ayo Ola Ogunsolu, gave the charge in Abeokuta at a one-day

workshop organised in conjunction with Capital Express Assurance Limited themed “Welfare Insurance and benefits to transport operators in Ogun State”.

Ogunsolu who was represented by the Director of Administration and Supplies, Mr. Lola Sotola, noted that it has become imperative for transport unions operating in the State to adopt the Welfare Insurance Policy as it would cre-

ate an avenue for them to receive instant response in times of need, adding that it was an opportunity to save for the future.

“It’s imperative and pertinent for the transport unions in the State to adopt the insurance policy being introduced to them so as to save for the rainy days and in times of needs, this is crystal clear that the State Government really care for the welfare of all

the transport union in the State”, Ogunsolu stated.

On his part, the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP. Olumuyiwa Adejobi said that the Welfare Insurance Policy was a good omen and innovation that would enlighten the transport unions especially motorcyclists “Okada Riders” on some of the advantages of various Insurance Policies.

Capital Market B6

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

Stock market last week FCMB records 87% decline in PAT Q3 2015

Investors stake N19b in 5b shares A turnover of 5.087 billion shares worth N18.487 billion in 16,711 deals were traded this week by investors on the floor of the Exchange in contrast to a total of 1.133 billion shares valued at N9.463 billion that exchanged hands last week in 16,680 deals.

The Financial Services Industry (measured by volume) led the activity chart with 4.896 billion shares valued at N11.396 billion traded in 9,840 deals; thus contributing 96.25% and 61.64% to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively. The Conglomerates followed with 78.909 million shares worth N211.328 million in 604 deals.

The third place was occupied by the Industrial Goods Industry with a turnover of 38.917 million shares worth N4.185 billion in 1,010 deals.

Trading in the Top Three Equities namely – Wema Bank Plc, FBN Holdings Plc and Zenith International Bank Plc (measured by volume) accounted for 4.261 billion shares worth N8,548 billion in 3,763 deals, contributing 83.76 percent and 46.24 percent to the total equity turnover volume

and value respectively.

Also traded during the week were a total of 34,089 units of Exchange Traded Products (ETPs) valued at N604,908.34 executed in 34 deals, compared with a total of 183,064 units valued at N1.552 million transacted last week in 34 deals.

The NSE All-Share Index and market capitalization depreciated by 1.73 percent to close the week at 23,501.87 and N8.083 trillion respectively. Similarly, all other Indices finished lower during the week, with the exception of the NSE ASeM Index, NSE Insurance Index and the NSE Oil/Gas Index that appreciated by 0.07 percent, 0.86 percent and 4.02 percent respectively.

On the whole, 30 equities appreciated in price during the week, lower than Thirty-eight (38) equities of the previous week while 40 equities depreciated in price, higher than 29 equities of the previous week, while one hundred and 120 equities remained unchanged, lower than one hundred and 123 equities recorded in the previous week.

Sequel to recent profit warning by First City Monument Bank Plc (FCMB) Group that its third quarter result for 2015 might be adversely affected by impairment charges, the group at the weekend released the result showing 87percent drop in profit after tax (PAT) and 85 percent decline in profit before tax (PBT).

The result showed a pre-tax and after-tax loss of N7.0 billion and N6.2 billion respectively in the 2015 third quarter 2015 results compared with N23.9 billion in PBT in 2014 and N22.1 billion in PAT during the corresponding period of 2014.

Apart from the weak performance of interest income and non-interest income, the significant surge in impairment charges contributed to the outlook, which has consequently

depressed both Return on Equity (RoE) and Return on Asset (RoA) with a plunge by 313.9 percent and 315.2 percent on Quarter on Quarter (QoQ) respectively.

Commenting on the result, Group Managing Director, Mr. Peter Obaseki explained that the macro-economic challenges coupled with corresponding strict industry regulations had remained daunting and the new policy by Federal Government on full implementation of Treasury Single Account compounded the liquidity challenges within industry. However, the reduction in harmonized Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) on private and public sector deposit to 25 percent from 31 percent is expected to ease the liquidity challenges.

In the face of the above overwhelming challenges, FCMB Plc

succumbed to micro economic pressures to post a disappointing financial performance.

According to him, we have observed falling risk assets management as non -performing Loan (NPL) ratio closed above benchmark at 5.8 percent against 2.7 percent, driven mainly by impairment charges.

Also, operating efficiency maintained unimpressive outlook as the Cost to Income Ratio (CIR) remains bloated at 73.90 percent against 70.3 percent recorded in previous year comparable period.

The bank commended its achievement of an improved and robust balance sheet outlook with 12 percent growth on yearon-year basis, despite pressure of the new Treasury Single Account (TSA) transfer.

Summary of activities on NSE ASI DEALS VOLUME VALUE CAP

23,501.87 2,304.00 554,646,640.00 4,323,782,847.12 8,082,734,123,472.34

L-R: Director of Press , Federal Ministry of Finance; Marshal Gndu,; a Management staff of the Efficiency Unit Mr. Iliya Ayuba and Head Efficiency Unit, Ms. Patience Oniha, during a Media Roundtable on the Mandate of the Efficiency Unit in Abuja…recently.

Why NSE introduce index circuit breakers Stories by Azubike Nnadozie The Nigerian Stock Exchange has announced the release of its Interpretative Guidance on the Circuit Breakers’ Rule, Rule 15.46 of the Rulebook of The Exchange, 2015 which came into effect on January 15, 2016.

The Exchange has also notified the market of the approval of amendments to the Rule by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on January 19, 2016.

According to the NSE, Circuit breakers are trading halts used

by Exchanges to guard against sharp fluctuations on the market. They are designed to give the

market an opportunity to take a break and adjust to all available information before re-opening the market.

It stated that the index circuit breaker rule provides protection against excessive volatility during continuous trading sessions of the market and provide the opportunity for greater information dissemination and assimilation to all market participants, including investors to facilitate better informed investment decision making during periods of high market volatility.

The Exchange explained that circuit breakers can only be triggered in order to maintain an orderly market during periods of extraordinary volatility and to

allow liquidity to re-aggregate.

“The purpose is to dampen extraordinary volatility swings on market prices by providing time to restore equilibrium between buyers and sellers. It has the objective of dampening both market upswings and market downswings, and will complement the price limits on individual stocks already in place,” it added.

Experts believe the introduction of the rule is the standard practice around the world. According to Mrs. Kemi Akinde of Meristem Securities Limited, the NSE is quite in order to introduce the index circuit breaker rule as is practiced in other economies.

She however stated that the

rule which can only be applied under a rapid decline in the market of up to five per cent, adding that such massive decline was unthinkable in the Nigerian market. “I don’t see the Nigerian equity market declining by five per cent any time soon.”

“Unlike what happened in China early last month where the market was closed for two days as a result of rapid decline of up seven per cent, the Nigerian market has never been closed down any day, except for what happened in February 2014 when the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Alhaji Lamido Sanusi Lamido was suspended by the Goodluck Jonathan administration. That

day the market closed at about 12 noon but resumed the next day.

The closure of the market that day was only in solidarity with Sanusi.”

The Exchange, through the Index Circuit Breaker Rule, seeks to promote just and equitable principles of trade, remove impediments to and improve the mechanism of a free and open market; and protect investors and the public interest.

The circuit breaker threshold will be set by the Exchange from time to time. The Exchange has determined to set the threshold at five per cent for the first trigger and a further five per cent for the second trigger in the same direction.

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

B7 Capital Market

NSE DAILY ACTIVITY SUMMARY ( EQUITIES) 05-02-2016

Business Interview B8

Daily Times Nigeria Monday, February 8, 2016

Merging of ministries will cut high cost of governance — Yakubu ‘‘I believe that the wisdom behind the government’s action in this matter is its attempt to cut cost in running government and reduce the over bloated cabinet for the benefit of the country. The president believes that it is not how large the government is but how efficient.’’

Yakubu

Musa Yakubu is a private professional building practitioner based in Abuja and the National Publicity Secretary of Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB), in this exclusive interview with MATHEW DADIYA, the image maker shares his thoughts on government’s wisdom in merging ministries.

He argued that apart from the administrative convenience it offers, it will also help government to cut cost as well as reduce the over bloated cabinet that had hitherto increased government spending in recurrent expenditure. He also spoke on other issues, the excerpt:

What do you think is the wisdom in merging ministries of Power, Works, and Housing and Urban Development by the incumbent administration?

One of the important things I want you to understand about merging ministries is to first of all look at the wisdom behind what the action of government intended to achieve in this era of positive change. To start with, merging the ministries does not entail reducing the professionals in the ministries.

What government did was just to streamline administrative procedures. What do I mean by administrative procedures? If you go to each of the ministries that were merged into one for instance, you will find out that all the departments, directors and professionals in the ministries were still maintained.

The only different now is that you have only one administrative head which is the minister. I believe that the wisdom behind the government’s action in this

matter is its attempt to cut cost in running government and reduce the over bloated cabinet for the benefit of the country. The president believes that it is not how large the government is but how efficient.

What is your assessment of the new minister?

The new minister of Power, Works, Land and Urban Development, Babatunde Fashola is a seasoned administrator who had governed one of the most challenging and problematic states in the country and at same time performed tremendously well.So as far as I am concerned he is a square peg in a square hole. As governor of Lagos state, he changed the face of Lagos state to a modern and mega city in Africa. His records at least speak for him; therefore it is not about professionals occupying certain positions but competent person who is a technocrat, has broad idea and technical capacity in administration. Ministerial position is not a rocket science that requires

the services of rocket scientist, it is more of administrative in nature so he does not need to be an engineer or architect or builder to function effectively in a position that is largely policy driven. The minister is a policy formulator while the directors and other retinue of staff carry out the major technical task in the ministry.

How do you feel seeing a professional from another field heading a ministry that is largely construction driven?

Well, a minister like I said earlier is more of an administrator who helps to formulates policies, show leadership direction and coordinates the activities of professionals in a ministry.Besides, it is not only in the built environment that the right professional was not appointed to head the sector. There are other ministries that professionals that are not in that ministries are there. Will you say that they are also short charged, in my view, government is trying to balance governance. A professional in a particular sector may feel that being a professional in that area he knows too much and may not give the best to the sector because he will not want to see things from other people’s perspective whereas an administrator who wants to succeed sees every opportunity as a platform to learn and make impart with the view to improving the system. An administrator will accommodate new ideas, suggestions and inputs, synthesize them and come up with the best of the ideas that will help solve a particular problem in the sector. Governance is about result and not professionals occupying what positions. I will only get concerned and alarmed when I get to the ministry and discover that the director for high-way maintenance or director of building services or the director ofaccount is a trained journalist and not an engineer, builder or accountant. If for instance that happens, I will be concerned

because it is what these professionals report to the minister through the permanent secretary that will inform his policy trust for the ministry. So what I am trying to say in essence is that the minister does not go to the field to get the work done, it is the subordinates in these different department that goes out to supervise the contractors.

How do you feel seeing the deplorable conditions of infrastructures in the country in spite of the huge resources that had accrued to government from sale of crude oil?

I am happy that you asked this question, if you check the records the ministry of works, lands and urban development has previously had professionals as ministers and yet we are where we are today. Does it mean that the professionals did not know what they were doing? So it is all about policies and direction of government. One of the very bad cultures of Nigerians is that we have terrible attitude of maintaining our facilities.

We are happy to award new contracts and get new structures, but we have no culture and deliberate plan of maintaining existing infrastructures in the country. If you go to most ministries, parastatals and organizations under them, you will wonder whether they actually make budget for maintaining existing infrastructure not bearing in mind that everything in a building or our roads have a life span.

Take for example; if you build a road today, it may last between twenty to fifty years but if it is not maintained, it will certainly not last half its life span before it will be out of use because it will gradually get eroded. So the major problem we are having is not lack of providing infrastructure but lack of maintenance.

However, except the professionals that we have begun to see maintenance as a major activity in our day to day economic life, we will not make any head way because even if we develop new infrastructure today and do

not maintain them over time, we will still find ourselves stagnated in one place which is the reason why we are where we are today. I will give you a simple example, if you go to the Federal Secretariat buildings, you will see that some of the buildings are beginning to depreciate and no serious effort or plan are in place to maintain them. Before you know it, they will be deplorable and decomposed as you rightly pointed out and government will begin to budget money to build new one in a different location instead of carrying out routine maintenance of the old one. We need to change our orientation for us to be able to sustain the infrastructures that we have. We need to imbibe the tradition of maintenance and develop a comprehensive plan for it. As you know, there is routine, periodic and long term maintenance for every structure.

What is your opinion on the plan of the current administration to re-introduce toll gates in the nation’s road with the view to generating revenue from road user?

Personally, I am in support of government plan because I do not see anything wrong in collecting toll from road users as far as the funds generated from the toll will be used for the purpose it was collected. If you remember very well, it was because the proceeds from tolling were being diverted into private pockets that the administration of President Obasanjo decided to cancel the tolling system. Meanwhile the original intention of tolling system as is obtained in other climes is for maintenance of the road network which in turn enhances the durability and good state of the roads.

Don’t also forget that all these heavy duty vehicles that ply the roads with heavy loads contribute in no small measures to the deplorable state of the roads yet, those who haul goods to different parts of the country with these trucks contribute nothing to the maintenance of the roads.

Life&

TIMES Monday, February 8, 2016

Ramsey

Nouah

Exploring the military in

76

movie

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Buzz Bytes L2

Daily Times Nigeria

Monday February 8, 2016

Mutiat Alli

Ramsey Nouah, Rita Dominic and Chidi Mokeme star in

76

A new chapter in Nigerian filmmaking is being turned as Africa Magic, in partnership with Adonis Productions and Princewill’s Trust, produces 76, a tale of love, trust, faith and family set against the backdrop of war and nation building.

Set six years after the Nigerian civil war, 76 tells the story of a young officer from the Middle Belt who gets entangled in a romantic relationship and eventually marries a beautiful student from the South-Eastern part of Nigeria. Their budding romance is threatened by endless military postings, and they face the ultimate test when news of the soldier’s involvement in a botched coup attempt hits the headlines.

Directed by award winning director, Izu Ojukwu, 76 is inspired by events which led up to and followed the botched 1976 coup d’état, and features real life, archived, actual footage that contributes to the movie’s overall authenticity. The execution of the movie was also done with approval and support from the Nigerian Army.

The release of 76 comes 40 years after the actual events, and follows four years of work by the director and the production duo of Adonis Productions and Princewill’s Trust. 76 stars renowned Nollywood names including Rita Dominic, Ramsey Nouah, Chidi Mokeme, Ibinabo Fiberesinma, Ada Ofoegbu, Daniel K Daniel and a host of others.

76 movie deals with a range of issues including the plight of the African woman, and the usually invisible pain of a soldier’s wife. 76 highlights the enduring Nigerian cultural values of courage, resilience, patience, loyalty, faith and family and the nation’s ability to surmount all challenges.”

Speaking on the movie, the Director, M-Net West Africa, Wangi Mba-Uzoukwu, said: “76 is an adventurous foray into filmmaking in Nigeria. It’s an exciting, compelling storyline that many Nigerians and indeed Africans will relate with.

The directing and production quality are top notch, and the themes celebrate values including courage, loyalty, patience, trust and sacrifice.

US star, Ciara to headline Darey’s ‘Love like a Movie’ concert

Ciara

Nigeria’s leading singer, Dare Art Alade has revealed that new season of his popular concert Love like a movie is expected to wow attendees as the season three edition will feature US singer and dancer, Ciara at an event that will hold Sunday, February 28, 2016 at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Dare made it known that Ciara will be leading the concert with her top notch songs and performs via Instagram where he wrote “The long wait is over! Love Like A Movie 3 is everything you’ve dreamed and more! We’re building new worlds and exploring some very interesting concepts.

Looking forward to sharing this beautiful experience with you #SaveTheDate #LLAMNaked.”

The show which has featured top Hollywood stars like, Kim Kardashian and singer, Kelly Rowland, will be packed full of new and fun-filled activities like choreographed dance, a dynamic laser show, music, symphonic lights and high energy performances from top Nigerian and international performers The likes of, Yemi Alade, Adekunle Gold, Iyanya, Sound Sultan, Zaina, Omawumi, Sammy, Olamide, Vector, Kaffy, Simi, Tolu, Blackky, Styl Plus, Jazzman Olofin, Weird MC, Kenny Black, amongst others have been billed to perform at the event.

Bellanaija founder, Uche Pedro, Drake nominated at Nickelodeon’s kids choice award DStv channel 305 has revealed the nominations for the 2016 Kids’ Choice Awards, the ultimate fan celebration of the best of everything kids love in pop culture. The nominees reflect the entertainment that audiences see, play, listen to and read in droves, from movies like Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Jurassic World and Pitch Perfect 2, to a host of television shows, music, gaming, books and more.

With the introduction of a new African voting category for best African bloggers, Bellanaija founder, Uche Pedro has been nominated alongside Sylvia Kamau (Kenya), Aisha Baker (South Africa), and Theodora Lee (South Africa).

Other nominees include Adele, Justin Bieber, Jennifer Lawrence, Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, Selena Gomez, Chris Pratt, The Weeknd, John Boyega, One Direction, Sofia Vergara, Daisy Ridley, Chris Hemsworth, Nickelodeon’s very own Kira Kosarin, Jack Griffo, Jace Norman and many more.

Multiple new categories have been added to this year’s show, including “Best Blogger” (Africa), “Favourite Collaboration” and “Favourite Cooking Show”.

Stiff competition ignites the television categories as last year’s Favourite Modern Family finds itself neckand-neck with The Big Bang Theory, garnering four nominations each. Modern Family grabbed its nods for “Favourite Family TV Show”, Rico Rodriguez for “Favourite Male TV Star – Family Show”, while Sofia Vergara and Sarah Hyland battle it out for “Favourite Female TV Star – Family Show.” The Big Bang Theory amongst others.

Life&

T E A M

Uche Pedro

Entertainment Correspondent Mutiat Alli

Society Correspondent Isaac Oguntoye

Photography Quadri Olowolagba

Graphics Adebambo Segun

Daily Times Nigeria

Monday February 8, 2016

L3 Buzz Bytes

Organisers gear up for 4th Nigerian Bank of Industry supports Opa Entertainment Conference Williams on new film project …Registration opens on nec.ng, as event moves to Landmark Centre

...Team visits filmmaker on set

Organisers of the annual Nigerian Entertainment Conference (NECLive) have announced that the fourth edition of the conference will hold Wednesday April 20, 2016 at the Landmark Events Centre, Oniru, Victoria Island, Lagos.

A statement released few day ago, by Nigerian Entertainment Today (NET), convener of NECLive said: “#NECLive4 is set to be the most incisive edition of the conference yet. We are bringing together some of Nigeria’s most important entertainment personalities and creative industry enthusiasts to provide genuine insight and share their best practices for the benefit of all.

Apart from the priceless exchange of knowledge on offer, previous editions of #NECLive have immensely contributed to shaping the direction of Ayeni our industry. The goal of this year’s conference is to do even more.”

The conference will be hosted for the fourth consecutive time by TV personality Tee-A. A full list of lead speakers, panelists and moderators at #NECLive4 will be announced in the coming weeks.

Past editions of NECLive featured participation from Nigeria’s most influential business and entertainment industry personalities including Joke Silva, Prof. Pat Utomi, Frank Nweke Jr., Lagbaja, Emeka Mba, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Dare Art-Alade, 2face Idibia, Davido, Yetunde Babaeko, Tony Okoroji, Audu Maikori, eLDee, Kenny Ogungbe, George Thorpe, E, Kunle Afolayan, Amaka Igwe and Mo Abudu among others.

Award winning music producer and artiste, Samklef has just signed his first artiste, Zion. Zion put pen to paper last week to officially become the first act signed under the Samklef-led ‘Klef Sounds’.

Making the announcement on Instagram, Samklef wrote, “Please welcome my new artiste Zion. He would be dropping is official single titled Basketmouth freestyle that features me soon.”

“Sound Of Musik” contained an avalanche of A-list features which includes Vector, Oritse Femi, Small Doctor, Falz, Mr 2kay, Pepenazi, Kayswitch, Kayjay, Olamide, Shaydee, DJ Xclusive, Lil Jason, Kenee, Baseone, Skales, Tspize, and Lil Kesh.

Samklef

signs first act

Zion and Samklef

Omoni Oboli new movie ‘Wives on strike’ gets release date

Omoni Oboli

Basking on the successes achieved with her past efforts, ‘Being Mrs Elliot‘ and ‘First Lady‘, Nollywood actress cum filmmaker, Omoni Oboli, has announced plans for the release of her new effort entitled, ‘Wives On Strike’.

Starring popular faces such as Kalu Ikeagwu, Kenneth Okonkwo, Uche Jombo, Chioma Akpotha, Julius Agwu, Ufuoma Mcdermott, Kehinde Bankole, and many others, the flick is billed for cinema release on Friday, April 8, 2016.

The movie, ‘Wives on Strike’, is a slapstick about a group of market women who decided to take matters into their own hands against their husbands in a bid to stir them into standing up for a young girl whom they wanted to protect from the wishes of her own father.

The women, who hilariously interpret their roles, set a series of events in motion to give the movie many moments of laughter without missing a beat on the reason for everyone to know why they are on strike.

Ebele Okaro and Victor Olaotan on aset

A star-studded film, The Three Wise Men, is the latest in the series of films funded by the Bank of Industry (BOI) under its initial N1 billion loan scheme tagged NollyFund.

Produced by popular comedy entrepreneur, Opa Williams, the film is coming after Kunle Afolayan’s The CEO, Okey Ogunjiofor’s Queen Amina and Emem Isong’s Anyama, all of which got funding from the bank.

Currently being shot in Parafa, Ikorodu, an outskirt of Lagos, the film parades veteran actors such as Richard Mofe Damijo, Zack Orji, Victor Olaotan, Tina Mba and Ebele Okaro.

Directed by Patience Oghre Imobhio, The Three Wise Men, according to Williams, is a Dramatic comedy that humorously presents the follies of three aged men.

He said: “The comedy satirizes the actions and intents of three elderly men in their mid/ late 60’s who struggle to re-live their lost youth.

“The pack is led by Irikefe (Richard Mofe Damijo) 64, a divorcee with three failed marriages after five children and refuses to re-marry. Irikefe decides to live alone as his covetous children are now grown and also live on their own but patiently waiting for him to die so they can swoop on whatever is left of him. Irikefe is aware of his children’s intentions and wants to make sure he exhausts every savings of his, before death. Upon his retirement he refurbishes his flat, buys a laptop, a nice spot car supposedly meant for a young-man, and goes for shopping, for jean, T-shirt, Papa’s Cap, sneakers and everything a young-man could dream of.

Visiting the film location recently, officials of BOI, led by Mrs. Uche Nwuka C. Nwuka, Group Head, Creative Industry, observed as the cast and crew shot two scenes, involving RMD, Zack Orji, Victor Olaotan and Gennfie Kanu, a relatively new actress, while Tina Mba and Ebele Okaro among others were seen rehearsing their lines.

Williams informed the BOI team that 30 members of crew are involved in the production of the film, adding that the project has also employed about 100 individuals, including new set of actors that are being groomed for various roles.

Nwuka, who also interacted with the actors on location, expressed satisfaction at the level of work done so far. She said her bank is encouraged by the efforts of filmmakers who have benefitted from the scheme so far, hence the bank is expanding its chain of exhibition outlets around the country.

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

It would be recalled that the Bank of Industry had in the recent past, financed creative-industry projects such as Half of A Yellow Sun, Flower Girl, Digitization of Silverbird Cinemas, G-media and establishing of Film house Cinemas, Viva Cinemas and Ozone Cinemas among others.

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Daily Times Nigeria

Monday February 8, 2016

Daily Times Nigeria

Monday February 8, 2016

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Nutrition L6

Daily Times Nigeria

Monday February 8, 2016

Adekola Abisola

Experience the benefit of

unripe plantain Unripe plantain is an excellent food for all and sundry because of its nutritional significance. No wonder it is an ideal diet for children, men and women. Due to the nutritional content of this food, it is regarded as one of the healthiest diets across the globe.

Without doubt, this food is rich in vitamins, irons, minerals, dietary fibre and it is low in GI carbohydrate.

A. Calorie Content: Unripe plantain flour is calorie-dense. A 1 1/5 or 150gm cup of the flour will provide 437 calories. This quantity of calories represents almost 22% of the daily recommended ingestion of 2,000 calories.

1. Fat content in unripe plantain flour With only 0.3gm of fat in a 150gm serving, plantain flour is low in fat. As fat is well-off in calories, you need it to survive because dietary fat helps your body absorb nutrients and gives feeling of satiety.

2. Protein contained in plantain flour Protein is used to make and repair tissues, skin and muscle and it can be found in all cells of the body. Every 150gm of plantain flour contains only 5gm of this important nutrient. Hence, plantain flour is near to the ground in protein.

3. Gluten content Plantain flour is gluten-free as it is made of plantains instead of wheat products. Unfortunately, you will be unable to digest gluten – a protein present in wheat, if you have celiac aka gluten intolerance disease.

B. Health benefit of consuming unripe plantain 1. Enhances Sexual performances: A diet of unripe plantain whether roasted or boiled will help to sustain and maintain attention in men by increasing sex drive, enhancing sexual performances, reducing sexual weakness and impotency. It improves the symptoms of erective dysfunction, increases

the volume and quality of sperm and helps with kidney, ulcer and diabetes problems in men.

The recipe is unripe plantain, pure honey, clues and walnut, well grinded, mashed or pound together to make a gel or paste. After which the gel will be made to form flakes.

The flakes can be referred to as a “drug”, a sex enhancing drug capable of improving penile erection, core coldness in women and also prevents premature ejaculation.

2. Medicinal and Therapeutic benefits: Combining unripe plantain with spices like ginger, garlic and onions is a solution to high blood pressure, diabetes, low sperm count, erectile dysfunction, kidney problems and ulcer. Boiled unripe plantain doled out with red fish stew makes a medicinal and therapeutic dish. The meal is wholesome, delicious and tasty and it is good for those living with diabetes.

3. Plantain flour: Plantain flour is the product of dried and pulverized plantain slices. It is rich in vitamins most especially Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) and carotene while its low fat content makes it a delight for people suffering from cholesterol related ailments such as obesity, diabetes, gallstone, etc.

You can grind unripe plantain into flour for consumption as a cure for diabetes. It can also be baked, fried or boiled, among other cooking alternatives. As a matter of fact, it is the nutritional value of unripe plantain that makes it one of its kinds and an essential

addition to any particular healthy diet plan.

4. Unripe plantain porridge Unripe plantain porridge is the best for those trying to reduce sugar consumption and it’s very healthy for everyone. Some people can’t eat unripe plantain because it’s not sugary but health wise it is what our body needs. It can also be mashed and served to babies being introduced to solid foods. If prepared with the right ingredients, it is very

tasty. This meal, when prepared with goat meat gives a very yummy aroma. Adding scent leaves makes it best for women who have just given birth as they eat and drink the porridge. A little uziza seeds too can make a great difference and for those who like locust beans, just add a little and enjoy the rich taste with a difference. The sizes can be chopped smaller or longer depending on how you like your porridge.

Daily Times Nigeria

Monday February 8, 2016

L7 Wellness

Mbuko Peace

All you need to know about

Waist trainers We totally understand the struggle to lose weight. So of course, when we hear about something that guarantees a slimmer midsection in a few weeks without much effort—we’re on it, hoping it the best of it.

Wearing a corset-like contraption seems so easy that most ladies sometimes forget the harmful effects it carries. You don’t have to be an MD to realise that “training” your waist to shrink sounds suspiciously iffy.

In fact, experts generally agree that there’s no way it can really work—and it might do real bodily harm.

Despite all the myth on waist trainers, we still have some benefits we can derive from it.

Benefits of Waist trainers Supporters of waist training claim that it comes with a number of unique and powerful advantages, including all of the following: 1. Achieve an attractive shape and sculpt your body exactly the way you want it to look 2. Shrink your stomach so you eat fewer overall calories 3. Force your body into a new shape by conforming to the rigidity of the corset 4. Improve posture It’s called a waist trainer, and the idea is just that: to train the waist to be smaller. It is said that any anything that has advantage will also have disadvantage, meaning that, we have the good side and the bad side of everything including Waist trainers.

Side effects of Waist trainers The side effects or negative effects can be long term or permanent, but the benefit is not: 1. It makes you look slim at the waist Yes, it does have that instant effect – put a corset around your waist and bingo! It looks smaller, taut and tiny. But there’s also an undeniable psychological effect that comes with waist cinching.

2. It might lead to temporary weight loss Some people find that during workouts waist training can

increase body temperature, causing you to sweat more and this might temporarily show up as weight loss. But you must also be aware that this is just a temporary solution.

3. It doesn’t get rid of body fat in the long run The problem is that waist training only makes you look slimmer while you are wearing the corset. Once you take it off, your body will soon revert back to its normal shape.

4. It can cause your organs to shift with potentially dangerous consequences With waist training, the upper organs move upwards, and the lower organs shift downwards. This can then put a similar pressure on the abdomen – which has been known to cause constipation. All of this can also increase the chances of heartburn as your stomach shifts up beyond your diaphragm causing acid reflux.

5. It can cause dehydration You might see an increase in body temperature and excessive sweating whilst ‘waist training’ during exercise, which can cause dehydration. To minimise any symptoms, we would advise people to stay fully hydrated.

6. It can affect your back muscles Prolonged waist training means your abdominal muscles aren’t as active, even if you are exercising regularly. The corset provides the support, not the muscles, and if the muscles are not used they will waste.

7. It can affect your breathing

Tightness and repeated use of your waist trainer can cause cramps, discomfort and pinching if it is too tight. This restriction and tightness around the waist could interfere with the appearance and general health of your skin, which can also affect your breathing.

8. There can be other health issues Waist training can have some serious health risks due to compression – such as skin infections, pulmonary problems, kidney issues and lung issues, which can be painful. Even the manufacturers of the corsets advise that people wear them for a short time only, due to the risks involved.

9. It can be addictive It’s not just the health issues, apparently, you can really get addicted to seeing your waist look tiny.

Below are some guidelines to follow if you still want to train your waist 1. Wear them for very short periods of time.

2. Avoid exercising wearing a corset as it may interfere with your breathing.

3. Don’t over-tighten.

4. Don’t wear it at all if your body is still developing.

5. Make sure you stay regularly hydrated if you are involved in physical activity that causes you to sweat.

6. Don’t use it as a substitute to healthy-eating and exercise.

L8 TV guide

Daily Times Nigeria

Monday February 8, 2016

Showing on

Showing on

102 M-Net EDGE Channel

112 Studio Universal

01:00

05:20

Mon, 8 February | 13

Mon, 8 February | 16L

‘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.

101 M-Net West

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

118 Telemundo

128 SONY MAX

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

08:00 The Weakest Link

17:10 The Cube

03:10 Most Shocking

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

08:10 Disorderly Conduct: Video On Patrol 09:10 South Beach Tow 09:40 Most Shocking 10:40 Most Shocking 11:40 Video Zonkers 12:10 Repo Games 12:40 World’s Wildest Police Videos

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

14:30 53 Extra 15:00 Kakibe Ki 15:30 Noose Of Gold 16:00 Foot Print 16:30 Lies That Bind 17:00 Lies That Bind 17:30 Star Gist 18:00 Star Gist 18:30 Star Gist 19:00 Prem 19:25 So Wrong So Wright 20:00 Secret Adventure 22:40 Series TBA 22:55 Series TBA 23:45 Why Stop Now? 18:30 So Wrong So Wright

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