Leadership news

03.11.14

FOR GOD AND COUNTRY

MONDAY

No. 2,284

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Dangote Slashes Cement Price To N1,000 Per Bag

By Nse Anthony-Uko, Abuja

In a move that will raise the stakes in the rapidly evolving Nigerian cement market, leading cement manufacturer, Dangote Cement

Plc, has announced huge cuts in the price of the essential construction product.

In a step that will make cement cheaper than it has ever been since 2005, the group managing

director of Dangote Cement, Mr. Devakumar Edwin, said the company had pegged the Dangote

Mubi: 350 Children Missing, 5 Military Commanders Detained > Page 6

32.5 cement grade at N1,000 per 50 kg bag, while the higher 42.5 grade is to sell for N1,150 per bag.

The new prices, exclusive of the ➔ CONTINUES ON PAGE 5

tambuwal’s impeachment plot

PDPRepsGiveConditions ToJonathan,PartyChair As Mu’azu, lawmakers parley today

Speaker meets APC reps in Lagos 5

L–R: Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon Aminu Tambuwal; All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Alhaji Kawu Baraje; Osun State governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola and his wife, Sherifat, during the victory colloquium for Aregbesola at Eko Hotel in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO BY OSUN STATE GOVERNMENT HOUSE

Chibok Diary DAY

203

Displaced Persons Pay Homage To #BBOG Group, Seek Govt's Intervention

> Page 2

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chibok diary 203

Monday, October 3, 2014

DAY

Chibok TweeTs

@daddychelsea It's already too late for this government and PDP to want to score a political point from the release of #Chibok girls. It's late! @Karo_Orovboni #Chibok! We all know what will happen and PDP will use that for political campaign.

SMH

obi ezekwesili leading #BringBackourGirls campaigners in rehearsal ahead of the lamentation day, at the Unity fountain in abuja, yesterday.

@persecutionnews: Yesterday was the 6-month anniversary

PHOTO BY REMI

@rescueourgirls 184 days since Tabitha Thomas from #Chibok.

Will she ever come home? Never forget. #BringBackOurGirls #NOWANDALIVE.

Displaced Persons Pay Homage To #BBOG Group, Seek Govt's Intervention

@ossai007 I know somebody in Aso Rock keeps telling GEJ that he will win at the polls come 2015.... but then again....this is Nigeria!

BY Chika Mefor and ejike ejike, Abuja

@DrJoeOdumakin While #Chibok abduction is yet to have any positive outcome, we still suffer loss of citizens abroad.

And to think it is Dubai again. @estherclimate Gladly, the First Lady is the only person who has mentioned the #Chibok issue.

The summit has been declared open #wgs2014 @deo-rt I have a feeling the #Chibok girls will be back before 2015 elections.

Compiled by TUNDE OBUNTOLA

More than 800 internally displaced persons (IDPs) in camps in Nasarawa State yesterday paid homage to the #BringBackOurGirls group as a way of appreciating its support towards ensuring that they (IDPs) get succour.

Speaking during the normal sit-out of the BBOG, leader of the displaced persons who refused to reveal his name due to security reasons, stated that the BBOG had brought comfort to themm, not only by advocating for the abducted Chibok girls, but by also providing the IDPs with foodstuff.

While narrating his experiences as he struggled to save his family from the hands of the Boko Haram, he noted that up until now, the displaced persons in Nasarawa had yet to get any substantial intervention from any government agency.

“I am from Gwoza. I left home for Cameroon on the 20th of June, 2013. In Cameroon, no matter the amount of work you do, you only get as little as N50.

We were about 2,000 there. I left my wife there and settled in Nigeria, at a village close to Chibok. I later brought my wife to Nigeria. We were staying at different places until we started living together in Shuwa. We were attacked, and we headed

to Mubi camp. I didn’t like the condition of the camp with the outbreak of cholera too.

“At a later date, an organisation known as Stefanos Foundation brought us to Nassarawa. We came since March 11, 2014 but have not got any help from government,” he lamented.

“Since we came here, food is hard for us but we thank God for BBOG, which brought in some help to us. We thank you for the things you got for us.

Please extend our pleading to the government so that they will assist us.

“I know some of the girls you are agitating for their release. I thank you for your good work.

Let’s unite against terror because if nothing is done, Nigeria will cease to exist. I am even scared here in Nasarawa.

Please, let’s pray for Nigeria,” he said.

He added that they were about 800 people in the camp and needed accommodation as more people were coming into the camp after the recent attack in Adamawa.

“We need pesticides for our crop, too, because we don’t want to stay doing nothing. We do not have enough accommodation. Some of us are sleeping outside. Because of the recent attack in Adamawa, more people are trooping into the camp,” he added.

3

our stand Monday, November 3, 2014

AGOA And The Nigerian Economy

T

he president of the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC), Mr Sam Ohuabunwa, at a recent meeting of the chamber expressed his reservation that Nigeria was yet to start enjoying the benefits of the African Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA), a policy put in place by the then president of the United States of America (USA), Bill Clinton, in May 2000 as Title 1 of The Trade and Development Act of 2000. The Act offers tangible incentives for African countries to continue their efforts to open their economies and build free markets. The Act was also intended to provide duty and quota free markets for goods from sub-Saharan African countries imported into that country.

Ohuabunwa pointed out that the incentives provided on the AGOA platform were not substantial enough to balance the trade volume deficit between Nigeria and the USA. It is true that USA remains Nigeria’s biggest trading partner with bilateral trade between the two countries rising to $36billion. AGOA is specific in its intention which is that there will be preferential duty and quota free markets for goods from Nigeria among other countries.

What this means is that the goods must necessarily originate from Africa. It was not meant to be a policy designed to spoon-feed the benefitting countries. What the US needs from Nigeria is her oil, and that country dutifully imports it. What do we export to them outside hydrocarbons? In our view, not much. And that cannot be the fault of the United States government or AGOA as a trade policy.

The problem with the apparent trade imbalance between the two countries and even with AGOA, is that Nigerian businessmen are always looking for the easy way out, areas of least resistance with limited risks. All of them are into oil and gas, banking and finance,

Editor Sadiq Abdullateef Deputy Editor Kazeem Akintunde Editorial Board Safiya M. Adamu, Chairman Christian Ochiama, Deputy Chairman Standards Aniebo Nwamu, Director ’Lara Olugbemi, Assistant Director

Founder Sam Nda-Isaiah the same areas that the Americans have a commanding influence.

When they are not involved in those, they hang around government offices looking for contracts that will give them the kind of money they will not have to work hard for. Beyond that, has the Nigerian business community made any effort to take advantage of the opportunities put in place through the instrumentality of AGOA? That US policy was supposed to target products from the agricultural sector, for instance.

Products like cotton materials, leather products, will certainly interest American markets. The Asians are in total control of the country’s produce sector. The few products from Nigeria in USA are sent in by these same Asians.

Ohuabunwa’s argument was that the provisions of the AGOA platform were not sufficient. But the question we ask is, the few that are available, what has Nigerian businesses done with them? In our opinion, Nigeria can do with more American investments, surely; but that country’s businesses must definitely want to follow the lead of their Nigerian counterparts.

The question is, are they ready for the kind of risks Americans are familiar with that involve sweat and dust?

Group Managing Director Azubuike Ishiekwene Group Executive Directors Michael Okpere Dr Kazeem Durodoye Divisional Directors Iyobosa Uwugiaren Salisu Alhassan Bichi General Managers Aminu Abubakar Sule Abdulmumin Balogun Zipporah D. Tanko Joy Adekanye

Leadership Holdings

Managing Director Abraham Nda-Isaiah Executive Director Nnamdi Samuel New York Office Mohammed Bello Shehu London Office Dr Bello Salihu Johannesburg Office Abiodun Oguntuase

LEADERSHIP is a national paper symbolically embedded in the nation’s capital.

We shall stand up for good governance. We shall defend the interest of Nigerian people even against their rulers, and we shall raise our pen at all times in defence of what is right. These are the values by which we intend to be assessed.

We shall never, ever for any reason forget the noble reason of our coming into being: For God and country!

4 news extra

Monday, November 3, 2014

Group News Editor: Tony Amokeodo APC Demands Independent Inquiry Into Boko Haram Ceasefire Deal The All Progressives Congress (APC) has called for an independent inquiry to unravel the circumstances surrounding the apparently fake ceasefire deal announced by the Jonathan Administration on October 17 now that the sect’s leadership has described the man with whom the phantom deal was negotiated as an impostor.

In a statement issued in Lagos yesterday by its national publicity secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said Nigerians would like to know how the Jonathan administration got swindled by an impostor, who the major players were and what the government planned to do to address what had now become a monumental national and international embarrassment.

“President Jonathan owes Nigerians an explanation on what has now turned to be an unprecedented global faux pas. Engaging in cheap damage control by insisting on the genuineness of the deal will only amount to taking Nigerians for a ride,’’ it said.

By George Okojie, Lagos

Reps To Probe WAEC, Varsities, MDAs Over Financial Impropriety The House of Representatives has raised the alarm over the monumental misappropriation of public funds in West African Examination Council (WAEC) even as it revealed that some educational institutions and minitries, departments and agencies (MDAs) of government are guilty of financial impropriety.

This is coming on the heels of WAEC’s failure to provide its upto-date audited accounts to the office of the Auditor-General of the Federation (AGoF) and relevant Standing Committees of the National Assembly.

Consequently, the House Committee on Public Accounts has resolved to investigate the financial status, assets and expenditure of the council in order to ensure accountability and transparency in the management of public fund.

The chairman of the House Committee on Public Account, Hon Solomon Adeola, who presided over the investigative public hearing at the weekend in Abuja, also expressed displeasure over the failure of some other MDAs to provide their audited accounts to the office of the AGoF from the inception of their operations.

By Edegbe Odewimgie And Bode

President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Patience, displaying their new PDP membership cards at Otuabula 11, Ward 13, during the PDP ward congress in Ogbia local government area of Bayelsa State on Saturday.

Boko Haram: Adamawa Residents Seek Divine Intervention

By MOHAMMED ISMAIL ,Yola

As the Boko Haram sect continues to hold open court and public sessions in implementing strict Shariah law in territories under its control, thousands of Muslims across Adamawa yesterday converged for special prayers for a lasting solution to the incursion of the insurgents into the state.

Our correspondent reports that at the prayer session held in Yola and Jimeta Eid-prayer ground, Imam Abubakar Hussaini who led the prayer urged Muslims to remain calm and prayerful.

“You should not be intimidated, and don’t allow anyone to force you to flee your homes.

We must be united and have the firm belief that with God

on our side we have nothing to fear,” Hussaini said.

Another cleric, Uztaz Adam Usman, cautioned against rumour mongering, saying it would inflict more hardship on the residents.

He said, “It’s unfortunate that there are rumours doing the rounds instilling fear in you that Yola would be attacked. I am therefore urging you, particularly those contemplating running away from Yola as a solution, to have a change of mind.

“Stay and face the challenge; you must not allow them to continue pushing you until you reach the Atlantic. Death is once and you only die when God decrees; if God said you will die, death will catch up with you anywhere,” Usman

said.

He also called for sustained prayer and unity against Boko Haram.

Similarly, thousands of Christians who observed Sunday services in various parts of the state offered prayers for the same purpose.

The state branch chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev Fr Moses Taparki, said that special prayers had been ongoing since the insurgency started, and it would be sustained.

“We prayed for peace alone with many Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and urged for all hands to be on deck for a lasting peace in Adamawa and other troubled spots across the nation,” Taparki said.

In his submission, the north east coordinator of Inter Faith International has stressed the neeed for fervent prayers.

“I am appealing to all residents of the state to observe fasting and prayers to seek Allah’s mercy towards ending the crisis facing us.” he said.

“I believe we should continue to seek Allah’s help toward restoring peace in the state.”

He bemoaned the human and material devastation caused by the renewed killings by terrorists, saying there can be no better time to seek God’s intervention.

He said special prayers would continue to be held in mosques and churches during the period and implored residents to remain relentless in their prayers afterwards.

Zamfara: Cattle Rustlers’ Attack Claims 35 30,000 hectares of farmland destroyed

by Abbas kabara, Dutse After few months of uneasy calm, unknown gunmen suspected to be cattle rustlers, in the early hours of last Friday, launched coordinated attacks against three local government areas of Zamfara State, and some villages along Zamfara/ Katsina border area.

The hoodlums allegedly destroyed about 30,000 hectares of farmland in Gurbin Baure and neighbouring villages between Zamfara and Katsina states.

An eyewitness who spoke to LEADERSHIP on condition of anonymity for security reasons said the affected villages included Gurbin Baure of Zamfara, another Gurbin Baure in Katsina, Farara, Shinfida, Garin Maiwuya and Tagwaye, all along Zamfara/ Katsina neighbouring forest reserve.

He said that in these areas, seven persons were killed by the attackers while they destroyed large quantities of farm harvests estimated at over N60million.

The suspected cattle rustlers had on the same Friday launched a simultaneous attack on Gidan Kaso community in Birnin Magaji local government area of Zamfara State where, according to the police public relations officer (PPRO), DSP Lawan Abdullahi, about 13 members of

a vigilante group were killed in the encounter.

The bandits also besieged Ruwan Mesa community of Bungudu local government area where they allegedly killed 15 persons and injured several others.

Zamfara State deputy governor, Mallam Ibrahim Wakkala, who led a government delegation to condole with the bereaved families of Ruwan Mesa community, distributed assistance to each of the affected families on behalf of the state government.

NEWS 5

Monday, November 3, 2014

PDP Reps Give Conditions To Jonathan, Party Chair

By Donald Ojogo, Adesuwa Tsan, Chibuzo Ukaibe, Edegbe Odewingie and Bode Gbadebo, and Michael Oche, Abuja

Amid reports that the ruling Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) is desirous of reconvening a session of the House of Representatives to commence the process of removing Speaker Aminu Tambuwal, federal lawmakers elected on the platform of the party have given stringent conditions to do so.

But the thrust of the conditions, the minimum of which is the promise of return tickets for them in 201, might be rejected by both the ruling party and President Goodluck Jonathan, LEADERSHIP learnt.

Tambuwal last week dumped the ruling party for the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) and immediately adjourned the House till December 3, 2014.

Since the speaker’s defection to the APC, reports have been rife that the ruling party, which had asked Tambuwal to step aside as speaker, was mulling a plot to unseat him. Tambuwal is already in court to forestall any such move by the PDP. It was gathered that today’s meeting between the national chairman of the PDP and the federal lawmakers would centre on some of the conditions the latter had stipulated in order for them to move for Tambuwal’s scalp.

Apart from the issue of automatic tickets for their 2015 return, other commitments the lawmakers want the PDP leadership to make include a promise to assist those of them who are aspiring to be senators as well as those who have indicated their interest to be governors in their states.

LEADERSHIP gathered that at a preliminary meeting between the PDP caucus in the House and the leadership of the party, with President Jonathan in attendance, deputy speaker Emeka Ihedioha was said to have had an altercation with the Akwa Ibom State governor Godswill Akpabio who had accused PDP members in the House of Representatives of playing the second fiddle by allowing the opposition to have a field day.

Ihedioha was said to have fired back at Governor Akpabio, reminding him that as chairman

Jonathan

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Dangote Slashes Cement Price To N1,000 Per Bag FROM FRONT PAGE

Mu’azu

of the PDP Governors’ Forum, he and his colleagues had done nothing to motivate PDP federal lawmakers, unlike their counterparts in the APC. The timely intervention Mu’azu was said to have saved the day as he immediately initiated today’s meeting where the issues are likely to be ironed out.

Regardless, today’s meeting might run into some hitches as the lawmakers have insisted on the conditions being met.

LEADERSHIP reports that the return bids of more than half of the PDP lawmakers in the House of Representatives are threatened owing, in some cases, to disagreements between them and their governors. …Tambuwal meets APC Reps caucus in Lagos today But barring any last minute change of plan, Tambuwal will hold a high-level scheduled meeting with the APC caucus of the House in Lagos today.

The meeting is expected to deliberate on the next course of action to stave off possible threats to Tambuwal following his defection.

The speaker had also adjourned plenary to ➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

Value Added Tax (VAT), represent about 40 per cent discount on the prevailing market price of the product, which currently sells for N1, 700 across the country irrespective of the grade.

Edwin said the move was in line with the company’s commitment to the nation’s dire need for the development of infrastructure and to boost the federal and state government’s ongoing effort to reduce the near 20 million housing deficit in Nigeria.

“We recognise the need for a dramatic increase in the response to the huge infrastructure and housing deficit in the country, and one of the ways of addressing the issue is bringing the price of building materials down to much more affordable levels, especially cement which is within our own control, as part of our own contribution to the transformation agenda of the Goodluck Jonathan administration and the attainment of key milestones in the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs),” he said.

Since the commencement of the implementation of the backward integration policy for cement in the country over 12 years ago, the local production capacity of the product had risen from less than 2 million metric tonnes per annum to about 38 million metric tonnes per annum today.

During the over 12-year period of the backward integration policy, over $20 billion has been directly and indirectly injected into the Nigerian cement industry, with Dangote Cement Plc accounting for 60 per cent of that spend.

The GMD/CEO also noted that Dangote Cement Plc would continue to align its corporate social responsibility with its strategic business initiatives and would continue to evaluate its pricing

regime in Nigeria’s best interest.

Meanwhile, the timing of the initiative has confounded industry watchers who say that, from experience, the cement market is entering the high demand phase as the rainy season is tapering off and the dry season, which provides the opportunity for increased construction and building activities, is setting in.

Recently, in further compliance with the ongoing Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) directive and regulation on the various grades of cement and their prescribed uses, Dangote Cement launched its brand of the premium 32.5 cement grade which is restricted to plastering use.

The largest cement producer in Nigeria noted that the move was to develop a full bouquet of cement types to meet the varying needs of consumers.

With this move, Dangote now produces 42.5 for column casting, block making, decking and other general purpose construction work that require high strength, and the 32.5 grade for rendering or plastering.

The company produces on demand the 52.5 grade for specialised construction of high strength structures such as bridges, flyovers and sky scrapers among others.

The 32.5 grade of cement which has the lowest strength among the cement grades was priced lower than the others, selling for N150 lower than the price of 42.5, a price cut that is part of the earlier announced price regime.

Dangote said in compliance with the SON standard for cement quality and packaging, the 32.5 type shelf life would be clearly labelled in order to minimise the incidence of building collapse in the nation’s building and construction industry arising from the misapplication of the different grades of cement.

6 NEWS

Monday, November 1, 2014

Mubi: 350 Children Missing, 5 Military Commanders Detained

By Mohammed Ismail, Yola and Abdullahi Umar, with agency repot

About 350 children are feared missing following the annexation of Mubi in Adamawa State by Boko Haram insurgents on Wednesday.

At the time the insurgents struck the town, many children were at their schools and got missing in the commotion generated by the arrival of the insurgents as people scampered in different directions to avoid being caught by the bullets of the insurgents.

A displaced woman, Hajiya Mairo Abdullahi, was seen holding the picture of her seven-year-old child who she claimed got missing after the insurgents struck the town.

She said: “Since morning, I have been going from one street to another asking people whether they have seen Farouk, my last child. I have been making calls since the day he got missing but up unti now I have not heard any positive response,” she said.

Another parent, Hajiya Binta Musa, said she could not locate three of her children, while Mr. Solomon Kabilam, said about eight of his children similarly got missing “When the insurgents struck Mubi, my wife called to inform me that she and the children were in the midst of the insurgents who were firing gun shots sporadically and, immediately, the line went off. Since then I could neither communicate with her nor any of the children,” Kabilam said.

“My life has no more value as I cannot not even eat because whenever I try to put anything into my mouth, the thought that my little children may be starving in the bush always make me cringe with exasperation.”

Another victim, who told our correspondent that he had lost contact with his three wives and 15 children, said his life had been completely shattered by the incident.

“I tried to no avail to get across to them, I reached my contacts in Cameroon and Yola without success. Right now I don’t know whether they are alive or dead,” he said.

Many children are similarly stranded in Yola as they cannot locate their parents.

One of such children, who was seen wandering in Yola and identified himself as Sulaiman, said he fled his hometown, Uba, when the insurgents struck his family home and killed his father and brothers, and abducted his mother and aunt.

5 military commanders

detained Five military commanders have been reportedly handcuffed and detained at the military police guardroom at the 23 Brigade headquarters in Yola, Adamawa State, for abandoning Mubi in Adamawa State to Boko Haram militants last week.

The commanders, whose names and ranks were given as Colonel Ibrahim, Lt. Colonel Magaji and three others, abandoned the 213 Brigade headquarters a few minutes after Boko Haram militants reached Mararaba and Hildi on the outskirts of Mubi.

But a soldier, who did not want his name in print, told the Hausa service of the Voice of America (VOA) that lack of war equipment forced them to abandon Mubi to Boko Haram.

“The militants stormed the town with “AA” and “RCC” equipment, and even though more troops had been deployed during the gun duel, the situation was beyond our control,” he said.

Another set of commanders from the 234 Brigade, according to defence officials in Abuja, are expected to be detained by the military authorities as soon as they leave the MRS Hospital in Yola.

The team includes Lt. Col. O. A. Agwu and his lieutenants. They were said to have equally fled the battle scene in Mubi and allowed Boko Haram militants to take the town without resistance.

However, Lt. Col Agwu’s pick-up van was said to have somersaulted twice, injuring him and his lieutenants as they fled Mubi.

Mubi had three army battalions comprising of the 234 Brigade, the 213 Brigade and the 21 Support Group but they fell to the militants last week. The soldiers fled alongside civilians to neighbouring villages, the state capital, Yola, and the neighbouring country, Cameroon.

10,000 refugees storm Yola Meanwhile, no fewer than 10,000 people from recently attacked villages are now living as refugees in Yola, according to the Hausa service of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).

The people who are now displaced persons in Yola have lamented the lack food, calling on the federal government to come to their aid and to ensure that the insurgency, which brought the woes to the people, is completely stamped out.

The residents told the BBC that they were crying out to tell the whole world about of their plight following the attack by Boko Haram that destroyed their communities and caused the deaths of thousands.

PDP Reps Give Conditions To Jonathan, Party Chair FROM PAGE 5

before the representation is made to the speaker who has a discretion to agree or not”.

The House spokesman said the explanation of the proceedings became necessary following intense media focus on the adjournment and media inquiries on the appropriate procedure for recalling the House from recess.

December 3 immediately after his defection, a development which the APC caucus attributed to the need to allow members to participate in the ongoing buildup to party primaries.

A source close to the speaker said that the PDP caucus in the House was yet to communicate its purported intention to reconvene plenary as proposed at a clandestine meeting held last Friday, led by Ihedioha.

The PDP leadership is said to have commenced lobbying some lawmakers who are believed to be loyal to Tambuwal in order to win them over for a smooth operation.

The speaker, according to sources, travelled to Lagos for today’s meeting without any security detail.

He added that the assessment would be conducted in the six geo-political zones for National Assembly and Houses of Assembly aspirants, while Abuja would host gubernatorial aspirants.

…Presidency to assess loyalty of PDP aspirants The presidency has concluded plans to make all aspirants under the PDP undergo an assessment to ascertain their loyalty to President Goodluck Jonathan in the run-up to the 2015 general elections.

The assessment entitled, ‘Presidential Support Base Programme,’ would serve as a signpost as to whether or not aspirants would merit the support of the presidency ahead of the election.

This move is an initiative of the office of the Special Adviser to the President on Political Affairs in conjunction with Nigerian Economic and Political Action Committee (NEPAC).

NEPAC director-genera, Dr. Godson Nnaka, in a statement yesterday noted that the assessment would ensure that only those with tendency to maximum loyalty to President Goodluck Jonathan were supported to win elections.

The statement added that the assessment would evaluate and shortlist aspirants on classified basis.

The aim of the assessment by the presidency is to foreclose defections by elected PDP officers, an apparent reaction to Speaker Tambuwal’s defection to the opposition last week.

Besides the speaker, five hitherto PDP governors had since joined the APC alongside members of the national and states assembly.

“The objectives of this programme is to identify, evaluate and shortlist aspirants on classified basis, who if supported to victory will maintain maximum loyalty and be part of a strong support base for President Goodluck Jonathan beyond 2015,” Nnaka explained.

Only Tambuwal, principal officers can reconvene House - Reps The alleged plot by the PDP to have the deputy speaker, Hon Emeka Ihedioha, reconvene the House to begin impeachment proceedings against Speaker Tambuwal for defecting from the PDP to the APC has suffered a setback as the House of Representatives yesterday stated that it lacked the power to do so.

The lawmakers stressed that the House could only be reconvened after all leaders of political parties in the House, especially the majority and minority leaders, give approval for the House to be called back from recess.

In a press statement signed by the chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Hon Zakari Mohammed, yesterday, the lawmakers noted that the House Standing Orders, which is a guide to proceedings in the House, states emphatically that the speaker may approve a date to reconvene the House from recess after leaders of all the political parties in the House notify him that public interest requires that the House should meet on an earlier or a later date or time than that on which it was supposed to resume.

The statement read in part, “The procedure for reconvening or re-assembly of the House is contained in the House Standing Orders made pursuant to Section 60 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which empowers the House to regulate its own procedure, including the procedure for summoning and recess of the House.

“This means that the leaders of all the political parties in the House, especially the majority and minority leaders respectively, MUST consent

Tambuwal

Nothing should happen to Tambuwal, NLC warns The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has demanded the immediate restoration of Speaker Tambuwal’s security detail and all the rights and privileges that accrue to his office.

The union, in a statement by its general secretary, Dr Peter Ozo-Eson, stated that it was appalled by the withdrawal of his security details, ostensibly because he had defected to the opposition APC. “The act is shameful, distasteful, unconstitutional and demonstrates our parochial sense of power and very little knowledge of history,” the union stated.

It stressed that no part of the Nigerian constitution said that the speaker must come from the majority party.

“Section 50(1)(b) only says, ‘There shall be …a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, who shall be elected by the members of that House from among themselves...” the NLC argued.

Giving instances, the NLC stated that in the Second Republic, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chief Edwin Ume-Ezeoke, was elected from the ranks of the Nigerian Peoples Party (NPP), the third strongest party after Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) and the ruling National Party of Nigeria (NPN).

The statement reads in part: “We it appropriate to cite the examples of Mimiko and Ali Modu-Sheriff, governor of Ondo State and former governor of Borno State respectively.

Their security details were not withdrawn when they defected to the PPD. “It gives us concern that our political leaders are determined to learn very little about democracy and always seem too keen to overheat the polity over things that count for little. The police and other security agencies complicit in this disgusting conduct should hold their heads in shame.

“For those who take pleasure in converting to personal use, public/state institutions, today’s men soon become yesterday’s men. What goes around, comes around.”

news extra 7

Monday, November 3, 2014

PDP Ward Congresses: Uduaghan, Anenih, Others Commend Stakeholders For Peaceful Exercise Delta State governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftains have commended stakeholders of the party in the state for the successful conduct of the ward congresses held on Saturday.

Dr. Uduaghan, chairperson of the Congresses Team, Chief Josephine Anenih, Senator James Manager, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, former minister Niger Delta Affairs, Elder Godsday Orubebe among others at a PDP stakeholders’ meeting in Asaba yesterday described the exercise as peaceful.

Governor Uduaghan who is the leader of the party in the state ascribed the peace witnessed during the exercise to the maturity of party faithful in the state.

He observed that it was a good development that aspirants for elective offices in the state were not taking their aspirations as do-or-die affair rather were talking on ways to move the state forward.

While commending the Anenih led PDP team that conducted the ward congresses in the state, the governor urged members of the party to display the same level of maturity and peaceful engagements in the primaries of the party and during the general elections.

“There are other primaries to be conducted and we need to be peaceful, we must use this engagement process to make the state peaceful,” he said.

Dr. Uduaghan advised the aspirants to “Continue to tolerate each other as there is no way we can be one hundred per cent happy, we have to learn to be patient, remember one life lost, one property lost can never be replaced.

“In this struggle (for whatever position you are vying for), keep a window of friendship, don’t destroy the friendship you have so that when you get the ticket, you can reach out to the other aspirants for their support during the general elections.”

Anenih on her part commended members of the PDP in Delta State for the success recorded during the ward congresses and urged them to maintain the existing peace and security witnessed during the exercise.

“I am proud of the conduct of the ward congress in the state, you have done well, you people have made me proud, I want to thank the chief security officer of the state for providing an enabling, secured environment for the peaceful conduct of the congresses.

By Kola Eke-Ogiugo, Asaba

Zamfara State governor Abdul’Azeez Yari (left) receiving his APC Nomination Form from the chairman of Zamfara State physically challenged group, Alhaji Ibrahim Sani Bakura in Gusau.

PDP Delegates’ Election: 1 Killed, Another In Critical Condition In Niger

BY Abu Nmodu, Minna

One person was killed and another injured in a shootout in Bida over the change of venue for the election of delegates by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members of Edozhigi in Gbako local government of Niger State.

Trouble started when it was gathered that the Edozhigi ward executives of the party moved the delegates election

venue to Bida the zonal headquarters of Niger South.

Piqued by the development the aggrieved party men stormed the house of one of the executives in Bida insisting that the elections must hold in Edozhigi the ward head quarters as holding the election in Bida contravenes the constitution of the party.

It was learnt that instead of accepting to go to the ward the executives decided to call

the police to disperse the aggrieved party members resulting in a shootout that made stray bullet to kill one person instantly and seriously injuring one other person who was rushed to Federal Medical Centre, Bida.

As at the time of filing this report sources hinted that the doctors have been battling since Saturday afternoon to remove the bullet, while the life of the injured victim was still

hanging in the balance . It was learnt that no fewer than 10 persons have been arrested by the police in connection with the incident.

Confirming the incident the police public relations officer (PPRO) Niger State Command Ibrahim Abiodun Gambari said the cause of the death and the circumstances surrounding the incident is being investigated by men of the state criminal investigation department (SCID).

2015: Oyegun, Amaechi, Oshiomhole Call For United APC

By Anayo Onukwugha, Port Harcourt

National chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chief John Odigie Oyegun, and the governors of Rivers and Edo states, Mr Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, and Comrade Adams Oshiomhole respectively, have called for unity among members of the party in the South-South geopolitical zone of the country.

They said there was need for the party in the South-South zone to make efforts at settling whatever squabbles that may be within the states in the zone so as to be prepared for the forthcoming 2015 general elections.

The trio spoke over the weekend in their separate speeches during the inaugural meeting of South-South zonal executive committee of the APC, which was held at Government House, Port Harcourt.

In his speech, Oyegun pointed out that the zone is known for massive rigging during elections and urged APC members

in the zone to strategise for the forthcoming elections.

He appealed to other states’ executive members to learn from the doggedness of Amaechi and Oshiomhole and stabilise the APC in their respective states, pointing out that the SouthSouth zone was valuable to both the APC and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Oyegun said, “It is even more crucial and more important to the South-South. There is already from the very beginning that challenge that we have before us; that we must do something. And the challenges are obvious; the South-South is absolutely valuable to both the PDP and the APC. “They would do whatever it takes to get the states. But, thank God, the two states have also governors that are charismatic and have very strongly related with and identified with the people they govern at the grassroots.”

Saying that APC is fortunate

to have Amaechi, the national chairman noted that there were two challenges confronting the party now in the zone.

He said, “The first challenge is, we must massively retain these two states (Rivers and Edo). The second challenge is to ensure that, since the South-South zone is the zone of massive rigging, South-South and even SouthEast; they are the zones of massive rigging. If the best cannot happen, the best meaning that we can get a few more states in the South-South, we must at the same time, not allow the worst to happen.

“The worst being that we would become the kind of cannon fodder that they would use in beefing up their unending votes of the PDP. So, we have clearly these challenges before us and it does mean that this meeting of the South-South is very important and would be held regularly to synergise, to plan strategy, to learn how it has been done in Rivers State,

to learn how it has been in Edo.” Oyegun expressed worry particularly over the crisis in Akwa Ibom and Delta states, and appealed to Amaechi and Oshiomhole to intervene, saying that the issue should be taken seriously.

The APC chairman said, “We are trying to do what we can at the centre; but, it would be most fruitful if our governors, Rivers and Edo, can call the dramatist personae in these two states, make the kind of statements they have made today. And no party can be a one-man band, however strong that one man is.

“A lot of lessons have been learnt from what have gone wrong in other states. These are mistakes that we cannot allow to happen here. We need every vote that we can get. So, there should be massive mobilisation, particularly at this unit level. It would need a bit of funding too. So, we ought to deliberately go out of our way to make sure that we encourage people.”

8 news north-East, north-west

Monday, November 3, 2014

Katsina Poly Gets Full Accreditation, Sponsors 55 For Postgraduate Studies

By Muazu Elazeh, Katsina

Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic, the Katsina State owned polytechnic, has sent no fewer than 55 academic staffs for postgraduate studies within and outside the country in the last two years.

Rector of the polytechnic, Professor Haruna Yusuf who disclosed this yesterday, while addressing the press on the occasion of his two

years in office said the institution has received full five year accreditation for 22 courses.

Professor Yusuf said 27 of the institution’s academic staffs have been sent for master’s degree programme out of which 18 have successfully completed their programmes and have returned to the school.

He stressed that about 28 lecturers from departments in the

school’s six colleges are currently undergoing their PhD programmes in different universities within and outside the country.

“This is part of the staff development initiative of the polytechnic which has also made it possible for determined workers to rise from the position of messenger to that of lecturer.

“Interestingly, we have been able to improve on the infrastruc-

tures as more lecture halls have been built, lecturers’ offices furnished and laboratory equipment provided to further boost learning and teaching,” he added.

The rector listed accreditation of courses, renovation of students’ hostels, provision of permanent solution to perennial problem of water supply at the institution and the wall fencing as part of his achievements.

APC governorship aspirant for Bauchi State, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar (centre), in Alkaleri LGA of the state, addressing party excos, yesterday.

short news Electorate Purchase Form For ExCJN’s Son Electorate of Babura/Garki federal constituency have contributed money and purchased form for the son of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Dahiru Musdapha (rtd) to represent them at the National Assembly.

It could be recalled that the only and eldest son of the retired Justice, Barrister Kaloma Dahiru Musdapha requested the people of his constituency to contribute a maximum of N1000 each to enable him purchase the form.

By Abubakar Salihi, Kano

Yobe: Aspirant Alleges Hoarding Of APC Guber Forms It’s Not True, Says APC National Secretary

By Hussaini, Jirgi, Damaturu

An All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Yobe State, Alhaji Yahaya Muhammed, has accused the party of hoarding expression of interest nomination forms and also denying them access to submit their expression of interest forms to contest in the party’s primaries.

Speaking with newsmen in Damaturu the Yobe State capital, over the weekend, the aspirant, Muhammed, said that his effort to meet and submit his expression

of interest form to the party`s officials at state and national levels was thwarted.

Muhammed who claimed to speak the minds of other aspirants who are not in the same camp with the governor, Ibrahim Gaidam, accused the state governor of master-minding the plot to frustrate gubernatorial aspirants from participating at the party’s primaries.

Narrating his ordeal he said, “It surprised me to meet the party secretariat/office empty despite the ample notice we gave to the officials.

I went to the party headquarters in Abuja to submit expression of interest and obtain my nomination form but they refused to attend to me.

“After keeping me for one and half hour, an official came out to tell me that I must go back to Yobe, and that contradicts the newspaper publication which says aspirants can either obtain the form at the party headquarters in Abuja or at state level,” he said.

Reacting to the allegation, the national secretary of APC, Alhaji Mai Mala denied that Governor Ibrahim Gaidam and APC officials in the state have refused to collect some aspirant’s nomination forms.

He assured that the party will abide by the wishes of the party members.“It is a thing of joy that few months to the elections, Nigerians are only talking about APC.

Kebbi Guber: Jonathan Support Group Threatens To Dump PDP

By YAHYA SARKI, Kebbi

A youth group in Zuru Emirate, Kebbi State under the aegis of Northern Youths for Jonathan 2015 has threatened to pull out from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) should the party fails to zone the governorship position to Kebbi South in the forthcoming general elections.

According to the group, the rotational formula enshrined in the constitution of the PDP both at the federal level and at the state level in Kebbi State ensures fairness and fair play.

In a statement by its president, Dantani Dio Zuru, the group noted that since Kebbi State was created in 1991 by the then military government, Kebbi South zone which

comprises the Zuru Emirate “has been marginalised and constantly denied the opportunity to produce a governor to occupy the Government House, the seat of power.

“The Zuru Emirate has been left out in the scheme of things since then. The lopsidedness in the political calculations has led to marginalisation of the good people of the Zuru Emirate”, Zuru added.

short news 2015 Guber: Why We Endorse Ishiaku –Suntai’s Family A group known as Gov. Danbaba Suntai’s Nuclear and Extented Political Family said it has endorsed the immediate past minister of state, Niger Delta Affairs, Arc. Darius Ishaku for Taraba governorship position because he shares Suntai’s dreams for a better state.

This is contained in a press statement signed by its coordinator, Mr Rebo Ehwan and a former commissioner of information, Mr Emmanuel Bello and made available to journalists.

By Andrew Ojih, Jalingo

PDP Conducts Ward Congresses In Kebbi The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kebbi State over the weekend conducted the three delegates ward congress/election in all the 225 wards across the state in conformity with the electoral guidelines of the party.The three delegates from each ward of the 21 local governments were elected for the purpose of nominating candidates for the offices of state governor, members of National Assembly(Senate/House of Reps) and members of State House of Assembly .

The five-man committee posted to Kebbi in order to supervise the 2014 ward congresses from the national headquarters of PDP Abuja, was headed by Hon. Mansur Rabiu Malumfashi as the chairman while Sen.El Jibril Doguwa , Abdullahi Kankara, Hon.Sanya Ominrin, and Hajia Saadatu Abdullahi Girei served as the secretary.

Briefing newsmen at the PDP state secretariat in Birnin Kebbi the chairman of the delegation Hon.Mansur Rabiu said that they were in Kebbi to supervise the three delegates ward congress which was stipulated by the party’s electoral guidelines and was being conducted in all states of the federation.

By Yahya Sarki,Kebbi

Vote PDP, Destroy Nigeria – Baba-Ahmed A retired federal permanent secretary, and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed has urged Nigerians to vote out Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in next year’s general elections.

Dr. Baba-ahmed who is the pioneer chairman of APC in Kaduna State, said if Nigerians made the mistake of voting for the PDP in 2015, the country would be destroyed completely through bad governance and mismanagement.

The former secretary of INEC spoke to journalists at his office after accepting to contest for senatorial position in 2015.

He expressed delight after receiving the nomination form purchased for him by members of his community, saying “Well it has not been an easy decision, I have to be honest with you. I actually thought I have escaped or survived all the pressures that could be brought to me to run for any position.

“As far as representation is concerned, our zone, zone 1 which incidentally is the zone of the VP Sambo, Kaduna State governor have been poorly represented at all political levels and there is no reason for this.

By Midat Joseph, Kaduna

news Lagos 9

Monday, November 3, 2014

2015: Group Backs Obanikoro’s Governorship Bid A Lagos-based group, Save Lagos Group (SLG), has expressed support for the governorship bid of a former minister of state for defence, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro.

A statement issued by the group yesterday, signed by its coordinator, Mallam Sulaiman Alimi, stated that the decision is against the background of efforts being made by the state’s chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to pick its candidate amongst contenders jostling for the ticket of the party.

To the group, the former minister possesses the wherewithal to run the state effectively if elected to take over from the incumbent, Babatunde Raji Fashola next year.

Alimi urged the PDP to look at the credibility of the candidature of Obanikoro, considering the task ahead, which is to give the party a landslide victory in the forthcoming governorship election in the state.

The SLG boss, therefore, called on the good people of the state, relevant stakeholders and genuine members of the party to rally round and support the aspiration of Obanikoro to become the next governor of the state.

“Governance of Lagos State at this crucial moment is beyond propaganda and deceit with the culture of impunity and sycophancy at the expense of hapless people of the state who believe that change is an instrument of equity, fairness, accountability and good governance that are the bedrock of functional democracy.”

By Olaolu Oladipo, Lagos

Globacom Restates Commitment To Efficient Service Delivery

Globacom Nigeria Ltd has reiterated its resolve to offer quality services to its numerous subscribers.

The company’s regional director, Marketing Communication, Mr Charles Tenarius gave the assurance at a media executive parley held at the weekend in Lagos.

He said the company controls significant market share in the country because of the deployment of advanced technology that acted as a game-changing agent in the nation’s telecom sector.

He said, “Eleven years from our launch, we have made significant changes in the landscape; the consumer has changed; the expectation has changed and the need of the market has changed.” “ Today Nigeria is being acknowledged as the giant of Africa in the sector and God willing and the people willing and if everything go right I am sure Nigeria is going to be a force to reckon with in the nearest future for everybody in the world.”

By George Okojie, Lagos

‘State Assemblies Will Never Support Proposed Autonomy Of LGs’

By Taiwo Ogunmola-Omilani, Lagos

Deputy speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Taiwo Kolawole, has said that majority of the state Houses of Assembly in Nigeria will never support the proposed autonomy for local governments and the scrapping of state Independent Electoral Commissions (SIEC).

He said this at the maiden edition of a day capacity building workshop organised by the House.

Educating the Assembly staff on the topic, “The Role of Legislature in Constitutional Amendment,” he expressed doubt about the possibility of the proposed 23 amendments to the constitution, emphasising that some of the proposals may not get favourable response in majority of the Houses

of Assembly in the country.

Kolawole insisted that majority of the state Houses of Assembly will reject the provisions for the scrapping of SIEC and autonomy for local governments even if all other provisions are passed.

The lawmaker explained that the National Assembly does not have absolute power to amend the constitution.

He maintained that both the

upper and lower chambers of the National Assembly need the endorsement of two-thirds of states to get the document amended.

Speaking on why the programme was organised, the clerk of the House, Segun Abiru, explained that the lecture was meant to develop the staff intellectually to enable them to meet up with the two other arms of government in the state.

short news Lagos Assures On Infrastructural Devt

L-R: Chief executive, Forte Oil Plc, Mr Femi Otedola; director general, National Pension Commission (PENCOM), Mrs Chinelo Anohu-Amazu and president, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, at the 10th anniversary of pension reforms in Nigeria in Lagos. PHOTO BY GBENGA OLAJOBI

Ebola: Nigerians Warned Against Complacency

By Taiwo Ogunmola-Omilani, Lagos

The presiding bishop of Rhema Christian Church and Towers, Bishop Taiwo Akinola has urged Nigerians not to relent in the battle against the deadly Ebola Virus Disease in spite of the clean bill of health given by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

He made the call in a press conference during Rhema World Convention, which commenced yesterday at the Church headquarters in Sango Ota, Ogun State.

The cleric warned that it is not yet time for complacency as the virus is still ravaging neighbouring countries, while the nation’s borders are still as porous as ever.

“While we congratulate ourselves, I recommend that we should also fortify our borders and be even more vigilant to ensure that this disease does not sneak into our country again”, he said.

He stated that Nigerians should keep in their memories the lessons learned from the Ebola virus pandemic, while the nation should

continue to maintain high level of environmental sanitation, personal hygiene and decent holy living.

He said, “I hereby salute the prompt actions of the Lagos State government, Rivers State government, and of course, the federal government for acting swiftly to stem the evil tide. In particular, I honour the courage and dexterity of the numerous health workers who, in the course of their duties as first respondents, put their lives on the line to rescue the rest of us from what would have been a national disaster.”

Lagos State government has assured the people of its preparedness to provide the enabling environment for business investments to thrive in the state.

The state overnor, Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola gave the assurance while speaking at the First Annual Conference of Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) held in Lagos State.

He said the need to maintain the status of Lagos State as the industrial and commercial nerve centre of the country presupposes the existence of an effective investment promotion machinery that will portray the state as a preferred investment destination to investors all over the world.

By George Okojie, Lagos

Taskforce Seals Off 40 Illegal Drugstores

By George Okojie, Lagos

No fewer than 40 illegal drugstores have been sealed off by officials of the Lagos State Taskforce on Counterfeit, Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods in Alapere, Magodo and Ikosi-Isheri areas of the state.

The special adviser to the Lagos State governor on public

health, Dr Yewande Adeshina, who disclosed this to newsmen yesterday, said the fake drugstores were also sealed in Kosofe and Ikosi-Isheri local government areas and other local council development areas of the state.

She explained that government’s resolve to streamline the activities of operators in the drug

sector was borne out of its zeal to stop the inherent dangers associated with the peddling of fake, substandard and expired drugs by unauthorised and unregistered drug and pharmaceutical outlets.

She said, “In furtherance of the state government’s commitment to ridding the state of the menace of illegal drugstore operators

in the state, we cannot fold our arms and do nothing in respect of the excesses of these illegal drugstore operators.

“That is why we will not relent in our drive to sanitise the drug distribution system in Lagos, hence the mandate of the Task Force on Counterfeit, Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods”.

10

stories of the Monday, November 3, 2014

...NEWS WITH A HUMAN FACE

PROTEST: Boat Drivers Protest Activities Of Sea Pirates

By Osa Okhomina, Yenagoa

Boat drivers in Bayelsa State, weekend, shut down water transportation along the creeks and waterways over the incessant cases of sea pirates attacks, killings and rape of female passengers in the state.

The protest by the boat drivers,under the Maritime Workers Union,has led to the shutting down of economic and political activities along coastal communities of Brass,Nembe,Southern Ijaw and Ekeremor local government council areas of the state.

While hundreds of supporters of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members from the affected local government areas of the state could not participate in the ward congresses of the party at the weekend, others who travelled to the coastal communities hired private boats for the journey.

A boat commuter, Efidi Godspower, told LEADERSHIP that the strike action also marred traditional funeral activities that were billed to take place in many parts of the state that weekend.

He said, “I was supposed to be in Brass since on Friday for the burial of my late uncle but both our sympathizers and family members couldn’t travel to Brass because of the strike action.”

“As I am talking to you, my wife is in Brass.

I came back this morning with the hope that they would have called off the strike but only to find that the situation is the same. We are pleading with both the union and government to do something about the situation.”

Another commuter, Inafate Ayebadiepreye, said that the industrial action has compounded her problems because she was in Yenagoa to trade and got to know that she couldnt return home on Friday morning when she got to the Swali jetty.

She said,“With the way things are going, I might be in Yenagoa for weeks because where I am traveling to, is not connected by road and cannot be accessed through our neighbouring states.”

“As I am talking to you now, I have spent more than I bargained for, and the more I remain in Yenagoa, the more I will spend both the profit and capital of my trade.

The situation is terrible. Even our people back home would suffer in the coming days when food and water can no longer be transported to the various communities that are disconnected from the city by road.”

Contacted on the development, the Chairman of the Maritime Workers Union, Comrade Lloyd Sese, said the boat owners and drivers embarked on the industrial strike action due to state government’s inability to combat sea pirate activities that have hampered marine transportation of the state in recent times.

Sese said that when government eventually made an attempt to tackle the situation, it set up a task force led by those sponsoring activities of sea pirates, leaving maritime workers out of the entire process.

A bicycle accident victim in Bwari, yesterday.

Photo By Nan

quarrel: Man Pours Acid On

Neighbour

BY Nnamdi Mbawike, Enugu

The Enugu State Police Command has intensified efforts to arrest one Ikenna Ozioko for allegedly pouring a liquid suspected to be acid on a 30-year-old man identified as Victor Onah.

A statement from the Police Public Relations Officer, Ebere Amaraizu, disclosed that the suspect, after allegedly bathing his victim with the said substance, fled the scene leaving him unconscious.

Amaraizu added that investigation into the development had commenced even as he vowed that the suspect would be arrested.

The victim, he added, was later rushed to St. Anthony’s Hospital, Obeachara, Nsukka, where he is currently receiving treatment and also recuperating now.

It was gathered that the suspect and victim were all living in the same compound until the unfortunate incident which left sympathizers in confusion on that fateful day.

According to the police account, on that fateful day, October 21, 2014, in their premises at Umuezebi, Nsukka, around 7pm, Ikenna Ozioko allegedly poured a corrosive liquid substance believed to be acid on Victor Onah over an unresolved issue that allegedly came in between the victim and the suspect and fled after the act.

“Investigations have commenced in full scale with a view to establishing circumstances surrounding the dastard act while efforts have been intensified by the operatives to ensure that the suspect is arrested and brought to book,” the police spokesman

Ward Congress: Kwara PDP Chair, 3 Others Escape Lynching

By Abdullahi Olesin, Ilorin

Prompt intervention of anti-riot policemen yesterday saved the PDP chairman in Kwara State, Akogun Iyiola Oyedepo, from being lynched by some angry party members.

Oyedepo was at the party’s secretariat collating last Saturday’s ward congress results but had to be escorted out by antiriot police squad when the atmosphere became charged.

Some state executive members of the party accused of doctoring the election results from the field also narrowly escaped being lynched by aggrieved party members who insisted on election or open affirmation of delegates allegedly picked by consensus.

It was gathered that two senatorial vice

chairmen and another top party official suspected to have compromised some results had to jump the fence at about 10pm when the aggrieved party members closed in on them.

Meanwhile, the PDP yesterday declared ward delegates’ congress in five wards of Ilorin West Local Government Area, where election did not hold according to the party’s guidelines, as inconclusive.

The state PDP publicity secretary, Chief Rex Olawoye, disclosed this to newsmen in Ilorin.

Our correspondent gathered that the affected wards were unable to submit any result by the submission time for the final results to the party’s national monitoring officers led by Senator Iyiola Omisore.

ILLEGAL DETENTION: Soldiers Threaten To Tag Bizman A Terrorist

By Kunle Olasanmi, Abuja

A businessman, Emmanuel Ikodor, has cried out over alleged threats by some soldiers of the Nigerian Army to tag him as a terror suspect.

Ikodor, in a suit before a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, where he is challenging the inhuman treatment meted out to him by officers of the Nigerian Army, said that the threats had continued unabated.

The plaintiff sued the army and its Chief of Staff, after he was detained illegally for seven days.

He also had his car, a Nissan TIIDA seized by the soldiers. As at the time of filing in this report, the car with registration number ABUJA FL933ABC is still in the custody of the soldiers.

According to the plaintiff, his elder brother had a business transaction with the soldiers and when they could not locate his brother, they stormed his residence in Area 11, Abuja, and arrested him.

In the affidavit in support of the motion on notice deposed to, by Ikodor, he told the court the following: That I was detained there where I spent seven(7) days and nights from the 23rd September, 2014 to the 30th of September, 2014 and that I even suffered a bout of malaria as a result of the mosquito bites.

That I was only released when my brother Philip Ikodor after hearing of my arrest and detention turned himself up to the respondents’ agents before I was allowed to go.

That I was informed by my cousin Clarence Eguaoje on October 14, 2014 at about 10am through a telephone conversation from his cell phone and I verily believe him as follows: That he received a call from certain Lt.Col. O.O. Braimah at about 8:48pm on October 13, 2014 using his cell number that he should advice me to withdraw the suit; that I cannot sue the Nigerian Army and that they can deal with me anyhow they please and tag me a terror threat because we are under times of insurgency.”

STORIES OF THE DAY 11

Monday, November 3, 2014

day

Photo News

Prostitution: Girls Beat Up Politician Over Failure To Pay Up Stories by by Kola Eke-Ogiugo, Asaba

A group of commercial sex workers operating in Asaba, Delta State, at the weekend beat up a top politician in the state over his refusal to pay for services rendered by some commercial sex workers.

Eye witness said that the prostitutes, numbering about three, along the popular Nnebisi road, descended on the politician, held captive and began to drag him along the popular road, shouting, “pay us our money for the service we do for you.”

The eye witness account also said that the situation attracted the attention of

several motorists including passers-by to the scene after his clothes had been torn to shreds before his friends who witnessed the disgraceful act moved to rescue him, while pleading for forgiveness from the sex workers.

The aggrieved prostitutes who spoke to our correspondent, claimed that they came from Abuja to do “runs”, adding that the politician was the first customer they met during the wee hours and they negotiated and agreed on a fixed price.

The top politician was said to have agreed to pay them N30,000. However, things went bad after the politician failed to honour the agreement.

Members of the Talba Success Movement, Hon Shabudeen Isa, Bashir Abacha and PDP Chanchaga chairman, Alhaji Shehu Aliyu Gomnati presenting the PDP senatorial form to Governor Babangida Aliyu at his residence in Minna, yesterday. Photo By hamisu abubakar

BURGLARY: 22-year-old Student Nabbed The police detectives at the A Division Asaba, Delta State, have arrested a 22-year-old Yahaya Usman, a student of DeltaState University, for allegedly breaking into an apartment belonging to one Peter Umu around Umueze Quarters, Asaba Reports said that the suspect allegedly broke into the house of the said Peter in Umueze, Obodo Achala, Asaba, at the weekend around 8:30pmt.

The police public relations officer in the state, DSP Celestina Kalu, said that the suspect broke into the house after the owner of the room had locked up and took a stroll to see one of his friends outside the premises and was called back few minutes after by a neighboUr who claimed to have ran into the suspect with a torchlight and a pair of key before shouting for help.

An eye witness said that when the sus-

pect was running away, neighbours pursued him and held him down only to discover that he was with a black bag which had two pairs of jeans trousers and provisions belonging to the owner of the room, as well as a bag containing a clipper and torchlight.

According to the neighbours, “immediately he (Yahaya) noticed there was no way out for him, he collapsed and started acting strange as if he was dead, but people who knew him said that was his major trick of running away when people give him less attention.

DSP Kalu said that the suspect was later bundled by the youths in the area to the A Division police station after severe beating where he is currently being detained.

After interrogation, he confessed to the crime.

L-R: PDP stalwart Chief Arthur Nzeribe; representatives of traditional rulers Eze Maxwell Kanu; chairman, Elders Council, Goodluck Support Group (GSG) Senator Ibrahim Mantu and managing director, IVM Motors, Innocent Chukwuma during the presentation and commissioning of 20 buses to GSG for 2015 campaign support in Abuja. phOTO BY Ogoh Joseph

STEALING: Police Recover Vehicle, Firearms The Dragon Patrol Team 22, covering Ogwashi-Uku-Nsukwa Junction has recovered a stolen ash coloured Audi A6 car with registration number NKK 506 PP with three occupants suspected to be armed robbers.

In a statement signed for the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), by Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Ronald Preston, the incident happened on October 29, 2014.

According to the statement, on sighting the police team, the suspected hoodlums opened fire on them and zoomed off, but the policemen gave them a hot chase up to Ishagu village where the miscreants abandoned their vehicle and fled into the bush.

However, the team recovered the abandoned vehicle and the items in it which included two voters’ cards bearing the names of Emekwuma Stanley of Ogbeowelle Ibusa and Okonkwo Ugochukwu S. of Umusha Street, Abah-Unor.

Other items also recovered are two

mobile phones and some vehicle particulars with the name of Chief Megwai Godwin of Umushi Quarters, Abah Unor.

Investigation is in progress while efforts are on to track down the fleeing hoodlums, the statement further stated.

In another development, operatives of Delta Storm Team 026, have arrested one Oluwafemi Smart for alleged robbery/ kidnapping.

According to a press statement signed for the Police Public RelationsOfficer (PPRO),

by Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Ronald Preston, on October 30, 2014, the team while on routine search duty along Udu-Aladja Road, intercepted a Mercedes Benz 190 with Registration Number BC 294 USL driven by the suspect and on searching it, one AK 47 rifle number Al 252500 and two rounds of live ammunition were recovered.

The statement further added that the suspect is currently undergoing investigation at the Special Anti-kidnapping Squad office in Asaba.

R-L: Corps Marshal/CEO, Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Boboye Oyeyemi; the head of sports, Bisi Kazeem and Brigadier General Francis Olalekan Akanji during the graduation ceremony of FRSC/ World Bank capacity building and training at the FRSC Academy Udi- Enugu State at the weekend. PHOTO BY FRSC OFFICe

Peoples Democratic Party governorship aspirant in Delta State, Akwue Peter Okocha (middle) dsiplaying his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms at the PDP national headquarters in Abuja at the weekend. PHOTO BY adefemi adewuyi

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Ekiti To Block Financial Loopholes

Ekiti State government has assured that steps would be taken towards blocking all loophole through which government finances are drained.

Special Assistant to the Governor on Finance, Chief Toyin Ojo gave the assurance at the weekend during his maiden meeting with staff of the State Central Internal Audit.

Ojo attributed the move to the resolve of Governor Ayodele Fayose-led administration to embrace prudent management of resources and curb extravagant spending.

While acknowledging the importance of the role of auditors in what he called the corrective mission of the new administration, he charged them to live up to their responsibilities.

According to him, reports of the internal audits must not only be timely, but must be accurate in addition to containing facts and figures in order to effectively prevent leakages and waste as well a expose wrong doings.

Responding, the administrative secretary of the unit, Mr. Michael Afeniforo pledged on behalf of staff of the unit to effectively report activities in all government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

By Alo Abiola, Ado-Ekiti

My Administration Is Gender Sensitive – Gov Aregbesola

By Joshua Dada, Osogbo

Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun state has further pledged his commitment to accord women a pride of place in his administration.

Speaking while receiving stakeholders of Women’s Governance Accountability Platform (WGAP) and representative of United Nations Entity for Gender Equality led by Dr. (Mrs) Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi in his office, Aregbesola said his experience with women in service shows that women are veri-

table tools for the development of the nation.

According to him, Womens’ ability to respond appropriately to issues at the nick of time is outstanding and indeed a necessary tool to participate in politics.

He affirmed that his government is gender friendly and faithful to the 35% affirmative of Women in Politics, adding that he would enforce it when constituting his cabinet after his November 27 inauguration for a second term in office.

The Governor admired the determination of women who despite militarisation of electoral process, intimidation, threats of violence brutalization, and oppression to scare potential electorates voted for him on August 9, 2014.

Earlier, the President, WGAP, Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi informed the governor of the commitment of her NGO to the affirmation of the 35% affirmative of women in politics through sensitization, mobilization and financial commitments where required.

Save Your Money, CBN Advises Students Students and youths across the country have been charged to cultivate the habit of saving from their little income in preparation for future financial challenges.

Osun State Branch Controller of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr Macdoff Efettabore, who gave the advice in Osogbo at the celebration of “2014 World savings Day” tagged “CBN School Mentoring programme,” urged students to learn how to discipline themselves and save out of the meagre amount at their disposal.

The forum, which was organised by the apex bank to educate students for future financial challenges, contended that if, at early stage of life, youths cultivate the habit of saving, it will not be difficult for them to save at least 10% of their income when they grow up and secure jobs.

The financial expert further advised the students and youths to read motivational books that would lead them to know how to invest their money on profitable ventures.

Guest seaker and head, Consumer Protection Department of CBN, Mr. Demola Atanda, encouraged students and youths to develop the habit of opening accounts with commercial banks for the security of their money as well as plan for their future.

By Joshua Dada, Osogbo

Pipelines at Baruwa community area of Lagos abused by vandals, yesterday. PHOTO BY GBENGA OLAJOBI.

Sen Arise, Others Call For Fresh Ekiti PDP Delegate Election

By Alo Abiola, Ado-Ekiti

Senator Ayo Arise and other aggrieved state and National Assembly aspirants yesterday rejected the results of Saturday’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) delegates election in Ekiti State, saying it was manipulated.

The former National Assembly member, who is gunning for Ekiti North Senatorial District seat, called for a new congress that would be conducted in line with the PDP constitution.

Speaking with newsmen on behalf

of the aspirants in Oye Ekiti yesterday, Arise claimed that Governor Ayodele Fayose and the PDP Congress committee, led by Senator Ahmed Makarfi, did not deploy and distribute electoral materials and officials to any of the five councils in the district.

The PDP chieftain said the development could negatively affect the fortune of the party in the 2015 polls and promised to lodge an official complaint before the PDP Congress Appeal for the reversal of the congress.

Other aggrieved House of Represen-

tatives aspirants, who accused the governor of manipating the delegate lists and rejected the results include: former federal lawmaker Hon Wale Aribisala, former Speaker of the State House of Assembly Hon Patrick Ajigbolamu, former Ikole Council boss Mr Wole Ayeni and Engr Ayo Ogunsakin.

However, the chief press secretary to Governor Fayose, Idowu Adelusi in a statement absolved the governor of imposing any candidate, saying all the aspirants were given a level playing ground.

short news Don Laments Marginalisation Of Youths In Politics The dean, School of Engineering, Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, Ogun State, Engineer Sabit Olagoke, yesterday lamented the marginalisation of the youth in Nigerian politics.

Delivering lecture at the 21st Shafaudeen Brothers Da’wah Movement week, entitled “Youth and Functional Education: Be a Role Player” in Ibadan, said the leaders of tomorrow had been schemed of things and decision making.

He stressed the need for the youth to work towards becoming responsible role players with quality and credible credentials, for they are expected to be architects of their own fortune against the future..

“This implies they need to be well educated, spiritually upright through the religion of their choice, discipline with high coping index against all odds of the present evil of mismanagement and poor control leading to state of corruption, indiscipline, insecurity and poverty,” he said.

By Adebayo Waheed, Ibadan

Ogun PDP Exco Intact – Chieftain

By Gbenga Adeboye,

Abeokuta

The Peoples Democratic Party in Ogun State has dismissed the rumour doing the rounds that the executives of the state chapter has been dissolved, saying the party exco remains intact.

This was contained in a statement by its publicity secretary, Waliu Oladipupo, in Abeokuta,

yesterday.

“The attention of the Ogun State chapter of the PDP has been drawn to the rumour that the state executive committee (exco) of the party has been dissolved.

“We wish to state without mincing words that nothing could be farther from the truth.

The Engr. Adebayo Dayo-led

state exco is intact. As we have said severally, the Ogun State PDP exco is peculiar.

“The Ogun State PDP exco, from the ward to local government and state levels, were not just elected at validly conducted congresses; they were refined through the crucibles of the party constitution and the laws of the land and endorsed by the

electoral umpire – the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Put differently, they were not just elected but validated by several judicial interventions and pronouncements from the High Court to the Appeal Court.”

The statement went further that the disputes in the past had been cleared by courts.

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business

$500m

NCC has earmarked not less than $500 million for the InfraCos that would come on stream soon

NCC Budgets $1bn For National Fibre Optic Rollouts

By Chima Akwaja, Lagos

Infrastructure Companies (InfraCos) that will be licenced between now and middle of next year to deploy fibre optic cables infrastructure will benefit from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) budget of $1 billion National Broadband Plan, which will be used to cover black spots in broadband rollout projects across Nigeria.

Already, the NCC has earmarked not less than $500 million for the InfraCos that would come on stream any moment from now. The NCC plans to licence seven compa-

nies as broadband Infracos in Lagos and the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria to roll out a national fibre optic network for broadband to boost high-speed internet services across Nigeria.

The InfraCos are expected to aggregate fibre optic links of other existing operators and will also get a one-off subsidy from the government. The idea is to have a neutral wholesale provider of fibre optic which is part of government’s initiatives to achieve the Next Generation Broadband Network (NBN) in Nigeria.

The disclosure, which was made

at the recent Telecom Executives and Regular’s Forum organised by the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), would see the Infracos deploy metropolitan fibre and provide transmission services which would be available at access points (Fibre to the Node or Neighborhood - FTTN) to access seekers, and leverage existing inter-city fibre to deploy their services.

The executive vice chairman of the NCC, Dr Eugene Juwah, said the InfraCos will geographically provide wholesale bandwidth services on a non-discriminato-

BUSINESS QUOTE If inflation continue to soar, you’re going to have to work like a dog just to live like one. George Gobel , Comedian (1919-19)

ry, open access, and price regulated basis.

“The objective is to stimulate a new national broadband network that is not only more widespread, but also faster and more secure than what is available today, thereby, stimulating other sectors of the economy and leading to higher economic spinoffs for Nigeria,” he said.

“In order to meet up with broadband plan of five-fold increase penetration by 2018 to 30 per cent, we are adopting a two-pronged approach: the wireless and wire line licencing.

There are are three ways to make a living in this business: Be first, be smarter, or cheat.

John Tuld, Character in margin Call (feature film, 2011)

‘CBN Not Selling Forms For MSMEDF Loans’

by NSE ANTHONY-UKO, Abuja

L-R: Managing director/chief executive officer (CEO), Bank of Industry (BOI), Mr Rasheed Olaoluwa; executive director, Large Scale Enterprise, Alh Mohammed Alkali; general manager, Large Scale Enterprise, BOI, Mr Joseph Babatunde and chairman/managing director, Innoson Industries Ltd, Mr Innocent Chukwuma during the visit of the management of the BOI to Innoson Industry, Enugu. PHOTO by BENEDICT UWALAKA

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has warned the public against paying any money to persons for the purchase of forms for the purpose of accessing the N220 billion Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Development Fund.

The apex bank, in a statement signed by director, Corporate Communications Department, Ibrahim Mu’azu, said, “It has come to the attention of the Central Bank of Nigeria that some unscrupulous persons are defrauding unsuspecting members of the public by selling application forms purportedly from the CBN for the purpose of accessing loans from the MSMEs Development Fund provided by the bank.”

The CBN said reports reaching it indicate that “these dishonest elements extort be-

tween N2,000 and N40,000 from their victims by asking them to pay the said sums for forms as a pre-condition and/ or guarantee for securing loans from the fund.

“The fraudsters are also reported to be asking would-be borrowers to contribute into a dedicated account certain sums as percentages of the loan they intend to access.”

The CBN reiterated that it has not authorised or appointed any agent to sell forms or collect any fee to access the Fund.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the only form available under the fund is the form to be filled by participating financial institutions (PFIs) - microfinance banks, non-bank microfinance institutions, financial cooperatives, finance companies, commercial banks, Bank of Industry and Bank of Agriculture - to enable them access the fund and it is free.

FG Plans To Honour Top 100 Business Firms

By Kingsley Alu, Abuja

The federal government has concluded plans to honour 100 top business endeavours in Nigeria in December.

The initiative, a brainchild of President Goodluck Jonathan, is aimed at identifying and bestowing on highly performing business concerns presidential honour that will further encourage and ginger them to contribute to the economy in more significant ways.

To actualise this, the minister of trade and investment, Dr Olusegun Aganga, has set up a Business Assessment Committee, headed by the executive secretary and chief executive officer of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria, Mr Jim Obazee.

Inaugurating the committee on at the weekend in Abuja, Aganga said the body had a mandate to critically scrutinise businesses operating within the Nigerian economic space and come up with top 100

among them that meet global best practices.

A statement by the consultant to the initiative, Mrs Funmi Ogbue, said, “The aim of the presidential honour for the top 100 Businesses in Nigeria is to identity, recognise and celebrate businesses that are contributing to the economy and are ethically above board in their business dealings in line with global best practices.

“Nigeria as the largest economy in Africa, and one of the emerging

economies on the world stage, needs to encourage ethical corporate governance and celebrate businesses that are growing the economy.”

Other members of the committee are director-general, Industrial Training Fund, Mrs Juliet Onaeko; managing director, Bank of Industries, Mr Rasheed Olaoluwa; executive secretary, Sugar Council, Dr Lateef Busari; chief executive officer (CEO), Nigerian Stock Exchange, Mr Oscar Onyema; executive chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Ser-

vice, Mr Kabir Mashi; managing director, Nigerian Export Processing Zones Authority, Mr Gbenga Kuye; executive secretary, Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, Mrs Salatu Umar; chief executive officer, Nigerian Export Promotion Council, Mr Olusegun Awolowo; CEO, Jake Riley Limited, Mrs Funmi Ogbue; a director from the MITI, Bambo Kunle-Salami, and representatives of the minister.

Follow these reports on leadership.ng/business

Monday, November 3, 2014

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Monday, November 3, 2014

Skye Bank Completes Acquisition Of Mainstreet Bank

BY Bukola Idowu, Lagos

Skye Bank Plc said it has completed the purchase of 100 per cent shares of Mainstreet Bank from the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) having paid off the 80 per cent balance.

The bank, in a statement yesterday, said it paid the 80

per cent balance to the AMCON on October 31, ahead of the November 3 deadline.

The last tranche of the money for the bank’s acquisition was paid to the AMCON in fulfillment of the Share Sale and Purchase Agreement (SSPA) earlier signed by both the AMCON and Skye Bank.

LEADERSHIP was, however,

not able to reach the AMCON as the phone number of its spokesperson, Kayode Lambo, was switched off as at press time.

Skye Bank emerged the preferred bidder for the acquisition of Mainstreet Bank, bidding N126 billion for the entire issued and fully paid capital for the nationalised bank.

The bank, in the statement,

said the acquisition of the bank is part of its strategic plan for growth as it intends to leverage its wealth of experience from the successful integration of five banks to drive efficiency, increase market share and ultimately ramp up stakeholder value.

“The acquisition will avail Skye Bank many benefits, including cost leadership, business optimisation,

and greater ability to offer business convenience to its teeming retail and commercial customers with a combined branch network of over 450 across all the states of the federation,” the statement read.

The management of Skye Bank assured the customers of Mainstreet Bank of excellent service and superior value in the enlarged Skye Bank.

Provision Of Infrastructure Critical For Economic Development – NSE

BY Evelyn Okoruwa, Abuja

The Nigeria Society of Engineers (NSE) has stressed that the provision of sustainable infrastructure is essential to the socio-economic development of any country.

This is even as it recognised the importance of road infrastructure in revamping Nigeria’s economy, and asked the federal government to expedite action on the road sector reforms bills and get them passed into law.

The president, NSE, Mr Ademola Olorunfemi, while briefing the press on its oncoming World Engineering Conference on sustainable infrastructure, noted that because of the importance of infrastructure in

economy development, the society threw its weight behind the development of the National Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan (NIIMP).

“The NSE, through its experts committee on infrastructure and public private partnership (PPP) has reviewed the NIIMP document and believes that when carefully implemented, it will address the current infrastructure deficit in the country.

The NIIMP will support economy growth, attract private sector inflow of investment as well as address lack of linkages in the infrastructure sector.”

He, however, advised the government to carry engineers along institutionally and professionally in the implementation process of the NIIMP.

L-R: Managing director, New Horizons Systems Solutions Nigeria, Mr Tim Akano; newly employed National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Aregbesola Olubunmi; assistant director, Public Relation, NYSC Lagos, Mrs Faniyi and assistant director, Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneur Development (SAED), NYSC, Mrs Rachael Idowu at the 4th New Horizons/ NYSC SAED job fair held in Lagos at the weekend. PHOTO by BENEDICT UWALAKA

NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY 26/28, MARINA LAGOS

CORRIGENDUM The Nigerian Ports Authority wishes to draw the attention of all interested bidders and general public to an earlier advertisement published in the Federal Tenders Journal, The Guardian and Leadership Newspapers of Monday, 20th October 2014 as well as NPA website in respect of the under listed project: EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FOR THE CONDITION SURVEY OF VARIOUS PORTS (PUBLIC NOTICE NO. 3883) LOT PROJECT DESCRIPTION 1

Condition Survey of Calabar Port Sheet Piles, Cross River State

Please, note that Lot 1 has been cancelled for Public interest.

All other information remains valid.

We regret any inconvenience this may cause you.

SIGNED MANAGEMENT NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

Monday, November 3, 2014

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20 money market/BUSINESS

Monday, November 3, 2014

money MARKET REPORTS GTBank Wins 2014 Product Leadership Award

L-R: Head, Mass Market Segment, Diamond Bank Plc, Mr Osita Ede; group managing director (GMD)/chief executive officer (CEO), Mr Uzoma Dozie; head, Retail Banking, Aishah Ahmad and head, Monitoring Department, National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Lagos office, Mr Calix Ita at the launch of Diamondxtra promo Season 7 in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO BY GBENGA OLAJOBI

Falling Reserves, Oil Price To Exert More Pressure On Naira Stories By Bukola Idowu, Lagos

The naira has persistently weakened in spite of several CBN special interventions and dollar sale by international oil companies, due to rising dollar demand

The pressure on the naira remained strong last week and is expected to continue in coming days on falling oil prices and a weakening external reserve.

The naira which sold within the N163 to the dollar range at the beginning of October, was selling at over N165 at the interbank and over N171 at the parallel market last week. At the official end, it had depreciated slightly from N155.75 to N155.76 to the dollar.

The nation’s external reserve has also continued to decline as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) dips into it to support the naira at the foreign exchange market. Aside from the twice weekly retail Dutch Auction System, the apex bank intervenes at the market intermittently to relieve pressures on the Naira.

Last month, the CBN sold $2.998 billion at the rDAS and had intervened severally, causing a 1.95 per cent cut in the external reserve in the month of October. The reserves which was $39.53 billion at the beginning of the month stood at $38.76 billion as at October 29, according to data provided by the CBN. A total of $26.02 billion

was sold by the CBN between January and September 2014, which was 38.4 per cent higher than $18.8 billion in the corresponding period in 2013.

This shows the strong resolve of the apex bank to defend the currency. However, the CBN governor, Godwin Emefiele recently noted that the apex bank would not defend the currency at all cost.

According to analysts at Financial Derivatives Company Limited (FDC), the naira has persistently weakened in spite of several CBN special interventions and dollar sale by international oil companies, due to rising dollar demand pressure, negative market sentiments toward the persistent softening in oil prices.

“Currency pressures are likely to intensify due to the sharp fall in oil prices, the effect of which will be felt on the reserves level in January 2015,” the analysts predict, saying the CBN will continue to intervene in the markets, running the risk of external reserves depletion.

The Bank of America in a recently released report opined that the exchange rate may end 2014 at N166 to the dollar and N169 to the dollar in 2015, given the dovish bias of the CBN Governor.

Currently, oil prices have fallen far below expectation to

a low of $80 per barrel, which is expected to affect external reserves accretion and the CBN‘s ability to support the currency.

Also, the United States, a former major importer of Nigeria’s crude, has stopped importing from Nigeria due to the production of its own crude. Nigeria now has to compete with other oilexporting economies to sell its crude to Asia and Europe. This is expected to further cut back on the accretion to the reserves and confidence in CBN’s ability to continue to support the naira.

In addition, many European countries and the US are considering increasing their interest rates, which have remained low for some time.

Higher interest rates in these economies will result in a reversal of capital flows from emerging economies including Nigeria.

According to FDC analysts, the reversal process is expected to increase the pressure on emerging markets’ currencies including the naira. “Furthermore, political spending is expected to increase considerably, a few months to the general election. As a result, there is likely to be increased pressure on the naira due to increased demand, and other speculative activities.”

Guaranty Trust Bank plc has been announced as the winner of the “2014 Product Leadership Award” at the 2014 Frost and Sullivan Excellence In Best Practices Awards Banquet held in the Monte Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, Monaco, France.

Frost & Sullivan is a growth consulting firm that provides market research and analysis, growth strategy consulting, and corporate training services across multiple industries including banking, automobile, healthcare, internet and communication technology, and more. Its headquarters is located in California with offices in 31 countries across six continents.

Explaining the rationale behind GTBank winning the award, Frost & Sullivan stated that the award is in recognition of the Bank’s efforts to offer robust value to SMEs in Nigeria. Recognising that accessibility remains a major challenge in the Nigerian banking landscape, GTBank introduced GTPay and GAPS platforms to facilitate quick, safe and efficient payment systems for SMEs. In addition, GTBank developed the SME MarketHub; an online e-commerce platform that allows SMEs create and maintain an online presence and expand their businesses to new markets as well as millions of buyers that are online.

UBA Launches Smartmoney For Controlled Spending United Bank of Africa (UBA) has announced the introduction of SmartMoney Prepaid card, which helps its customer effectively manage their spendings and shop online.

The new prepaid card which was launched last week will initially be issued in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and Burkina Faso and by early 2015 in all the 19 countries across Africa where the bank has operations.

Specially designed and targeted at the younger generation, Smartmoney is expected to open up a new world of online shopping, travel and dining for customers that subscribe to it.

Divisional Head, e-banking of the UBA Group, Dr.Yinka Adedeji, explained that “Smartmoney comes as a prepaid card that is easy to use, convenient and safe, with chip and PIN technology, you can load up and explore every corner of the globe and web the easy, convenient way.”

SmartMoney card is a widely accepted card in more than 1.6 million Visa ATMs worldwide, 24 hours a day, and seven days a week.

Visa, Shoptomydoor Partner On Global Shopping

By Samson Echenim, Lagos

Visa Incorporated has announced a partnership with online logistics and shipping firm, Shoptomydoor which hosts a solution platform for global shopping.

The partnership offers exciting discounts on shipping to Visa cardholders who shop via the shoptomydoor.com platform. Visa said the partnership came with a promotion which is currently on and would end on the 31st of December 2014.

“This partnership is part of our strategy to influence the acceptance of e-commerce in Nigeria,” said Visa’s general manager for West Africa, Mr. Ade Ashaye.

“Through this collaboration, our customers have the added convenience of being able to make purchases from hundreds of stores in the USA, UK and China and have them delivered anywhere in Nigeria,” he added.

He also said Shoptomydoor.com would open international access for Nigerians who have previously complained of payment and logistical challenges when trying to shop on international online stores.

Monday, November 3, 2014

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insurance REPORTS Premium Pension Retains Founding Members As Directors Premium Pension Limited, as part of strategic initiative to sustain its huge business network, has retained most of its founding members on its board.

The company, which is one of the pension fund administrators in the country, also sent forth one of its retiring directors, Mr Ibrahim Alhassan Babayo, who retired from the board of the company after successfully completing his tenure, at a luncheon ceremony held in Abuja.

In his remarks at the occasion, the chairman of the company’s board, Mr Aliyu Dikko, described Babayo as a very productive person who always worked with enthusiasm to uplift the company.

He said, “Babayo was an asset to the company and we will continue to profit from his wise counsel. The acquisition of our head office has his strong imprints as he worked tirelessly to achieve that feat,” and wished Babayo success in his future endeavours.

Also commenting on the outgoing director at the occasion, a member of the board, Mr Nelson Nweke, described Babayo as a versatile person who is highly professional and resourceful.

Speaking on behalf of the management, the company’s managing director and chief executive officer, Mr Wilson Ideva, thanked Babayo for his immeasurable contributions and inspirational disposition towards the management. He expressed his pleasure working with him, describing him as a special person whose advice the company immensely benefitted from.

NCRIB Fights Back Over DeRegistration Of Members The Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB) has initiated steps aimed at bringing back its members recently deregistered.

The council also said it is stepping up efforts to promote professionalism and high ethical standards among insurance brokers.

The NCRIB said it will now deal with practitioners who conduct their businesses outside the professional framework of the body.

The council, apart from stringent registration procedure and robust induction programme for new members under its membership committee, and disciplinary and investigation committees have been reinvigorated for unbiased decisions on cases brought before them.

Speaking at the 2014 Annual General Meeting of the council held in Abuja, the council’s president, Ayodapo Shoderu, explained that the council would not allow its members to be disenfranchised.

The council has, therefore, begun engaging the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) over the recent deregistration of some of its members and hoped that within a short period, the issue would be fully resolved. He added that through the council’s intervention, the NAICOM has invited some of the deregistered brokers to update their registration and commence operation.

The capacity building initiative has been up scaled to underscore the imperative not only for continuous learning but also to create and sustain a learning organisation. The chief executive officers and other principal officers retreat has continued to add value to members in terms of both technical and soft skills acquired by members. The last retreat held in Abeokuta with the theme “Winning Corporate Bids” was quite instructive as the searchlight was beamed on critical requirements for bid submissions.

L-R: Shop Manager, MTN Connect Centre, Matori, Chinelo Amadi; music star/ MTN ambassador, Timaya and manager, Youth Segment, MTN, Abimbola Gold-Oladipupo at the kick-off of the MTN Season of Surprise Campaign in Lagos, at the weekend. PHOTO BY GBENGA OLAJOBI

PENCOM Rallies Support For Effective Pension Implementation In Nigeria Stories By Chika Izuora, Lagos

The National Pension Commission (PENCOM) has highlighted the benefits of the Pension Reform Act 2014 (PRA 2014), saying that the new legislation has helped to eliminate lapses in the defunct PRA 2004.

The commission, in order to woo state governments and private sector operators into the contributory pension scheme (CPS), has begun a nationwide stakeholders’ conference which was flagged off in Lagos last week.

Speaking at the event, the directorgeneral of the agency, Chinelo AnohuAmazu, commended the efforts of federal government and the National Assembly to repeal the old act with

a view to bringing sanity into the system.

She said that following the enactment of the PRA 2004, efforts were made by the agency to address the myriads of challenges of pension administration in the country.

However, she noted with nostalgia that within a decade of the pension reform and implementation of the CPS, the system has recorded a large pool of investible fund of over N4.5 trillion pension assets as at June 2014 from a deficit of N2 trillion under the defined benefits scheme (DBS).

The PENCOM boss also disclosed that the scheme has over 6.2 million contributors at the moment and that pension payment under the CPS is now prompt. Anohu-Amazu further

said that the PRA 2014 re-enacted is facilitating a wider coverage for the private sector employees and upward review of the minimum rate of pension contribution.

Also, she said the law reviewed upward sanctions and penalties against infractions and that the application of the CPS by state and local governments have received boost as it set standards which state governments are required to comply with for the benefit of their employees.

She, therefore, urged the states and other private sector operators yet to key into the system to do so without further delay.

The conference and sensitisation initiative is scheduled to take place in the six geo-political zones.

‘Lagos Considers Insurance A Risk Mitigation Mechanism’ The Lagos State Government has described insurance as a major development component that supports efforts of a responsible government to ensure the wellbeing of the people.

The governor of the state, Mr Babatunde Fashola, who stated this as guest speaker at a one-day conference organised by the National Association of Insurance Correspondents (NAICO) in Lagos said that as government, “We are responsible for the wellbeing and welfare of the people we serve.”

He said government, therefore, is saddled with the responsibility to provide social security for both the young and elderly; a responsibility to provide security of life and property and also a responsibility to ensure that the infrastructure put in place

are properly maintained in a way and manner that the state can be described as having a ‘developed economy status.’

Fashola, represented by the commissioner of budget, Ben Akabueze, stated, however, that whenever government fails to take pre-emptive steps to attend to the risks that come with the responsibilities placed on her, it would be failing in a part of its duty.

The governor pointed out that the state is faced with many challenges and has responded by initiating risk mitigation responses by establishing agencies to regulate/supervise building projects in the state, which fall into one of the major risks faced by the people.

Fashola explained that in order to ensure that delays in construction

projects do not create severe adverse occurrences it embraced insurance as a risk transfer mechanism. He described insurance as a business that ensures that full or partial financial compensation is made for loss or damage caused by events beyond the control of the insured.

“It is a contractual agreement between two parties, i.e. the insurer and the insured, under which the insurer covenants to indemnify the other party against a specified amount of loss, occurring within a specified period, provided that the premium is paid. It is designed to put the insured back in the position, or at least as close as possible, in which he or she was before the occurrence of the loss,” Fashola said.

24 CAPITAL MARKET/BUSINESS

Monday, November 3, 2014

CAPITAL MARKET REPORTS

Stock Market Loses N1.17trn In October

15 Banks Record N424bn Net Profit In Q3 Profit

Stories By OLUSHOLA BELLO, Lagos

15 quoted banks on the floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) has recorded a total profit after tax of N424.99 billion for the third quarter that ended on September 30, 2014.

According to investigation by LEADERSHIP, this represents an increase of N36.4 billion or nine per cent compared to N387.6 billion profit recorded by the same financial institutions in the same period of 2013 results.

Findings have showed that most of the Tier-II banks recorded impressive profit after tax unlike Tier-I banks, like FBN Holdings, UBA and Guaranty Trust Bank which recorded struggling growth in profit, while four out of the fifteen banks recorded decline in profit.

Further analysis of the banking sector performance for third quarter showed that Unity Bank Plc recorded the highest profit after tax of N11.1 billion, representing 859 per cent rise over N1.15 billion recorded in September 30, 2013. It was followed closely by Stanbic IBTC Holdings that recorded a profit after tax of N25.26 billion in the period under review, representing a 57 per cent increase over N16.1 billion profit in the similar period of 2013.

Sterling Bank Plc, with a profit after tax of N7.1billion, came third, showing a 39 per cent increase, while Wema Bank Plc gained 33 per cent over the N1.6 billion in 2013 to N2.13 billion in 2014. Access Bank Plc and Ecobank Transnational Incorporated grew profit after

tax for the nine month result by 28 per cent and 31 per cent respectively. First City Monument Bank Group came close at 11 per cent from N12.8 billion to N14 billion.

Other banks with marginal gain in profit after tax include Diamond Bank Plc and Fidelity Bank Plc with a growth of one per cent and two per cent from N20.1 billion and N11.1 billion to N20.18 billion and N11 billion in that order.

Zenith Bank profit grew six per cent to N71 billion as against N67.3 billion recorded in prior nine-month results. UBA was the only tier-1 bank that recorded highest decline in its profit after tax as it fell by 10 per cent to N33.6 billion.

First Bank of Nigeria Holdings Plc also dropped six per cent to N55.6 billion in the third quarter of 2014, while Guaranty Trust Bank profit after tax depreciated by four per cent to N66.7billon in the period under review. Skye bank Plc has the highest profit decline of 15 per cent from N11.7 billion to N7.1 billion.

Analysts have said though the regulatory bodies policy might be stringent, most banks have adopted more prudent management of their corebanking operations.

However, they noted that increased growth in profit and gross earnings have not translated into surge buying of banking shares, as it has been the major driver of activities in the equities market.

The banking index opened the year at 447.84 basis points closedOctober 31, 2014 at 373.92 basis points, translating

into nearly 17 per cent or 73.92 decline.

According to the managing director, BGL Securities Limited, Mr. Peter Adebola said the consistent changes in Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) monetary policies is taking tolls on listed banks profit accrual.

He said, “The CBN had maintained the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) at 75 per cent for public sector companies, shrinking the funds banks needed to operator in terms of generating interest income.

“Before the increase in CRR, banks have access to cash to invest in other commercial banking operations. Since the increase, all the income have actually gone down.”

Speaking further on banks performance at the financial market, Adebola said, the 12 per cent monetary policy rate has been stable for some time now and the yield on bond has been going upward, noting that as a result, the prices generated from fixed income are down which is affecting the profit banks can make on fixed income facilities.

Renaissance Capital Limited (RenCap), a Lagos-based financial advisory and Research Company in its report had noted Nigerian banks showed that their activities were mostly weakened by the significant increase in the CRR for public sector funds.

The CBN had further raised the CRR on public sector funds to 75 per cent in the first quarter of this year, from the 50 per cent it was last year. Also, CRR on private sector CRR is currently at 15 per cent.

The Nigerian stock market shed N1.17 trillion in the month of October.

This is as 74 companies filled in their third quarter results for the period ended September, 30 2014, out of 198 listed companies, representing 37.4 per cent.

The main value-based indices at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) showed weak performance as the Nigerian equity market shed 8.88 per cent, returning the Year-date (YTD) return to negative position of 9.14 per cent.

The All Share Index (ASI), depreciated by 3,659.86 points to 37,550.24 as at October 31, 2014 from 41,210.10 on September 30. Similarly, the market capitalisation of equities in the month under review, went down by N1.17 trillion to close the month at N12.437 trillion as against N13.607 at which it opened for the month.

Also a review of the sectoral indices year till date showed that all recorded losses, the NSE 30 Index, which tracks the performance of large cap stocks, declined by 10.55 per cent. NSE Banking, Insurance, Consumer Goods and Islamic Lotus went down by 12.05, 0.82, 10.82 and 9.66 per cent respectively.

Learn Africa Records N10.1m Net Profit In Q3

Learn Africa Plc has declared a net profit of N10.1 million for the third quarter ended September 30, 2014.

The company’s nine month results, which was filed with the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), indicated an increase of 107 per cent over the N123.3 million loss recorded in the corresponding period of 2013, The company’s turnover also climbed to N1.04 million as against the N1.42 million recorded in September 2013, while its gross profit margin rose from 50.85 per cent in 2013 to 62 per cent in 2014, representing over 10 per cent growth.

Speaking on the company’s performance, the managing director of Learn Africa, Mr. Olusegun Oladipo said, “We are excited that our market development strategy is beginning to yield desired results and this is evident in the growth of our turnover.”

According to him, it is important to note that the increase in turnover was achieved mainly through open market sales to schools, booksellers and other outlets. “The company’s improved performance is indicative of our strong commitment to the interests of our customers and shareholders despite the challenging business environment that is characterised by declining disposable income of an average family, high level of book piracy, poor reading culture, epileptic power supply, bad road network, high cost of funds and declining sales in the North-East as a result of insurgency,” Oladipo said.

Seven-Up Joins High Priced Stocks Analysts have said though the regulatory bodies policy might be stringent, most banks have adopted more prudent management of their core-banking operations

The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) has announced Seven-Up Bottling Company Plc as the 13th high priced stocks, following the review of the prices of stocks.

The stock which opened the year at N71.40 appreciated by N101.60 or 142.3 per cent to close at N173 as at October 30, 2014, having attained a peak price of N188.52 within the year.

The Exchange’s Head of Market Surveillance, Mr. Abimbola Babalola stated that the analysis of the trading activities of Seven-Up indicated that in the last six months, the company has met the criteria set by the Exchange and thus has been included among the High Priced Stocks.

According to the head, Market Operations of the NSE, Mr. Ade Ewuosho, in the past, to move the price of any stock upwards or downwards, brokers needed to have a volume of 50,000 shares and above but with effective from November 3, 2014, stockbrokers will be able to move the price of Seven-Up, in addition to the existing High Priced Stocks, with 10,000 shares.

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Monday, November 3, 2014

REPORT OF THE

TRANSFORMATION

AGENDA

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President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan

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The Transformation Agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan has been hailed as successful in several areas like agriculture, power, roads, macro-economic stability, foreign-direct investment inflow, and the health sector, among others. Critics cite poverty, youth unemployment, insecurity and the contracting middle class as evidence that the Transformation Agenda is not working. So who and what do you believe? Welcome to the Situation Report.

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LEADERSHIP in a bid to provide a true and objective picture of the successes and challenges of the Transformation Agenda is publishing THE REPORT OF THE TRANSFORMATION AGENDA as told by the key actors themselves in their own words unedited.

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Ministries, Paratatals and Agencies who have made impactful contributions to the Transformation Agenda are invited to tell their success stories in the REPORT OF THE TRANSFORMATION AGENDA. Private sector companies and contractors who have successfully executed Transformation Agenda projects are also invited to show and tell their success stories in the historic REPORT OF THE TRANSFORMATION AGENDA.

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To participwaithteph:otographs, charts and graphs and call

achievements along Henry Ubimago: 08068640944, n’s tio sa ni ga or e th le pi m co Simply 164 or 08099231246, Reginald Ibe: 08037880 Tosin Allen: 08052116707spaper 6, 76 52 45 06 07 : in am nj ew Adebayo Be t Abuja resident n n a in m o d e th in Show and tell it

26 News north-central

Monday, November 3, 2014

Langtang North LG: DPP Wants Jang To Comply With Verdict On Dan Dul

By Achor Abimaje, Jos

Plateau State chapter of the Democratic Peoples Party (DPP) has urged Governor Jonah Jang to comply with the judgement of the Local Government Election Appeal Tribunal and to immediately swear in Hon. Dan Dul as the chairman of Langtang North local government area.

It would be recalled that the appeal tribunal has ruled that Hon. Dul is the duly elected chairman of the council and order the state government to immediately swear him in as the chairman of Langtang North.

DPP in a press statement issued by the state secretary, Thomas Nanfa Dindam and made available to LEADERSHIP in Jos said they were constrained to join their voices to address the deliberate attempt by the Plateau State government to misled the

short news Eggon Solicits FG’s Intervention In Nasarawa Killings The Eggon ethnic nationality, under the aegis of Eggon Cultural Development Association (ECDA) and Eggon Youth Movement (EYM) have called on the federal government to step in and forestall the lingering crisis brewing in the state which has so far affected more than 20 villages mostly in the southern senatorial zone of the state.

In a joint press statement signed

by Hon. Usman Offor and Comrade Daniel Anyuabuga respectively, they enjoined federal government to take measures to ensure immediate return of all displaced.

By Donatus Nadi, Lafia

citizens of the state saying this new effort to misled is made in order to hoodwink the populace.

The statement reads in part,” Our attention has been drawn to the latest attempt by the Plateau State government to continually perpetuate injustice on the people of Langtang north council. We also condemn the statement by Olivia Dazyam, commissioner for information, that Nanmwa Kumzhi is still the substantive chairman of Langtang North LGC in view of the fact that there is an appeal in respect of the judgement of the appeal tribunal.”DPP further challenged the commissioner to disclose the particulars of the appeal lodged against the judgement of the appeal tribunal, “We as parties to the proceedings of the election petition and the appeal tribunal are bound to be parties to a subsequent appeal.

Niger’s Free Education A Huge Success – Gov Aliyu Niger State governor Dr Muazu Babangida Aliyu has said that the free education policy of the state was a huge success even as he called on the federal government and other state governors to take teachers’ welfares seriously.

Aliyu who spoke over the weekend at the College of Education Minna maintained that the implementation of the free education policy of his administration was a success because the schools’ enrolment have doubled.

While saying that the policy has afforded many children whose parents could not pay school fees the opportunity to go to school he said “If you remember government said from primary to junior secondary school is compulsory for all children and we said it should be free. I am happy that many children are now rushing to schools even from poor homes”.

“In Niger State, we do not discriminate against anybody. We do not consider non-indigene and indigene, every person is a citizen of Niger State once you reside in the state.”

By Abu Nmodu, Minna

short news Group Raises The Alarm Over Voter’s Registration In Plateau Plateau Youth Vanguard has raised the alarmed over the incomplete voter’s registration in 527 polling units in Plateau State, including that of Governor Jonah David Jang and called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct fresh registration in the affected areas.

Chairman of the group, Comrade Joel Jonathan in a press statement issued to journalists in Jos yesterday also appealed to INEC to extend the days for the continues voter’s registration in the state, claiming that the six days earlier fixed will not be enough for people in the affected 527 polling Units to register.

By Achor Abimaje, Jos

Director-general, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr Mike Omeri (left); some States’ first ladies; minister of internal affairs, Comrade Abba Moro (second right); Benue State deputy governor, Chief Steven Lawani (right), cutting a cake at a reception organised in honour of Benue State First Lady, Mrs Yemisi Suswam (centre), . in Makurdi over the weekend.

PHOTO NY NOA.

Al-Makura Deserves Second Term – Sen Akume

By Donatus Nadi, Lafia

The Senate minority leader, Sen. George Akume, has urged the people of Nasarawa State to re-elect Governor Umaru Tanko Al -Makura in 2015 elections on the premise of the transformation he has brought to the state.

Sen. Akume made the appeal yesterday in Lafia at the Nasarawa South senatorial zone rally organised by party stakeholders in the zone calling on Governor Al-Makura to re-contest gov-

ernorship position of the state come 2015.

He said Al-Makura’s achievement in the education sector is uncommon since the days of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, and evidently clear to any passerby traversing the length and breath of the state.

“Al-Makura has performed so well in all sectors of the state, you can never fail to appreciate the quality of work he has done in the education sub-sector. For the first time we see pri-

mary schools being constructed like university structures”.

“Al-Makura has done well in transforming Nasarawa State and he must be re-elected in 2015 so that he can continue with his good works,” he continued.

The former governor of Benue State also appealed to his kinsmen in the senatorial zone to give Al-Makura their support despite the recent security challenges which displaced a good number of them.

Plateau Varsity Students Vow To Resist VC’s Suspension

By Achor Abimaje, Jos

Students of Plateau State University Bokkos have vowed to carry out mass demonstration to resist the resumption of office of the newly-appointed acting vice chancellor of the university, Prof. Stephen Malo.

Governor Jonah Jang had over the weekend suspended the former vice chancellor Professor Dognaan Danjuma Sheni and appointed Prof. Stephen Malo as acting VC of the univer-

sity.

The students have also vowed to boycott their final examinations until Sheni was recalled while the teachers are heading to the court to stop what they described as incessant interference in the affairs of the institution by the governor, who is the visitor to the university.

Sheni was suspended over what the governor described as “inappropriate conduct”.

The students expressed disappointment that the government

of the day had not allowed the university to grow, more than eight years after it was established.

A member of the Students’ Union Government, who spoke on condition of anonymity expressed concern that this is the second time the present administration is suspending the head of the institution, saying, “Imagine that for eight years the school has been in existence, it has not graduated even one student.

Nasarawa: Mada Elders Deny Adopting Dep Gov As Guber Candidate

By Donatus Nadi, Lafia

Council of Mada Elders have denied adopting one of their kinsmen and deputy governor of the state, Hon. Dameshi Barau Luka, as their preferred governorship candidate ahead of the 2015 general elections.

This denial is sequel to media report that group of elders and clergymen have thrown their weight behind the deputy gover-

nor in a move that is laced with religious undertone much to the dismay of the religiously plural ethnic group.

A statement signed by Musa Ibn Dan Galadima, said “The story was not only false but also misleading because there was never a time that Mada elders met to discuss who to become governor of Nasarawa State, talkless of a consensus candidate”.

It stated further that the said

Kangaroo meeting was held at the instance of a “certain PDP governorship aspirant” whose pastor assembled a team of clergymen that are favourably dispose to him.

“It has come to our knowledge that they were financially induced. One may wonder whether the so called Mada Council of Elders is a platform for choosing a candidate to be the governor of Nasarawa State”.

news south-South south-East 27

Monday, November 3, 2014

UUTH Seeks FG’s Intervention On Infrastructure

In its quest to provide better health care services for the people, authorities of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) in Akwa Ibom have made a passionate appeal to the federal government for more assistance in the development of its key infrastructure.

The chief medical director of the hospital, Professor Ettete Peters made the appeal yesterday in Uyo, when the permanent secretary, Federal Ministry of Health (FMH), Mr Linus Awute visited the hospital.

Prof Peters stated that being the only federal government’s tertiary health facility in Akwa Ibom and serving over four million people, the need for expansion of some of the hospital’s facilities has become imperative.

By Bernard Tolani Dada, Uyo

Delegates Election On Course In C’River Central – Enoh

By Lanre Arotimi, Calabar

Cross River Central senatorial district aspirant, Hon Owan Enoh, has refuted media reports that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) delegates’ election in the area is stalled, noting that the election is on course.

He spoke yesterday morning in Ikom while dismissing media reports that the election did not hold in the area.

Enoh, who disclosed that the election has so far been held in five local government areas in Cross River Central, expressed confidence in the conduct of the exercise.

He described the media reports that the election did not hold as hasty.

“I consider this hasty for an exercise that started pretty much late.

It’s hasty for ThisDay to jump to such conclusion”.

“Congresses held in Abi, Yakurr, Etung, Obubra and Boki local government areas except in Ikom where materials arrived late. In Ikom, the exercise is taking place this morning”, he said.

Also reacting, chairman of Etung local government area, Dr Inok Ebak, described the exercise as encouraging.

He applauded the party for adopting Option A4 system of voting, say-

ing that such measure will go a long way to deepen democracy in the party.

Ebak said: “The exercise in Etung is very encouraging. The turnout was quite large, peaceful and critical towards consolidating our democracy”.

Corroborating the chairman’s view, PDP chairman in Etung LGA, Chris Ogar, said the processes were in order.

short news Bayelsa Pdp Jitters Over Rush For Acquisition Of Nomination Forms

PDP Members Defect To APC In Edo It was a bumper harvest for the All Progresives Congress (APC) on Saturday in Edo State as not less than 6,000 members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) including an aide to former majority leader of the House of Representatives, Col Tunde Akogun (rtd), Frank Awe, popularly known as Coomson, and several others defected to the party.

Speaking at the mega rally in Igarra, headquarters of AkokoEdo local government area where the defectors were received, the party also carpeted the police and the federal government on the withdrawal of police details of the speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal.

By Patrick Ochoga, Benin City

Deputy speaker, House of Representatives, Hon Emeka Ihedioha (second left), with other party supporters at his ward in Mbutu, Aboh Mbaise LGA during the 2014 PDP Ward Congress held in Imo State, Saturday.

Igbo Group Calls For Commissioning Of Osisioma Power Plant

Ward Congress: Tension As Delta PDP Settles For Consensus

The national leader of Igboezue, a socio-political association of Igbo people worldwide, Chief Chekwas Okorie has cried out over the non-commissioning of the Osisioma Power Plant covering Aba/Ariaria Business District in Abia State, saying it is a further confirmation of the marginalisation of Ndigbo in Nigeria.

Chief Okorie in a statement yesterday in Abuja, said the PDP’s federal government under President Olusegun Obasanjo concessioned the Osisioma Power Project to Geometrics Company Limited, a private power construction giant and that the project covers nine LGAs in Abia State, otherwise referred to as Aba/ Ariaria Business District.

The statement reads in part, “Geometrics with dedication and commitment to make its contribution to the solution to the nagging electricity supply in Nigeria embarked on the project without delay”.

Tension gripped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State, weekend, as the ward congress of the ruling party began nationwide.

The crucial exercise was yet to be concluded in the state as at yesterday afternoon. The Josephine Anenih-led committee set up by the national headquarters of the party in Abuja to moderate the congress was holed up in Asaba, the state capital.

All the governorship aspirants of the

By Paul Uwadima, Abuja

BY Sola Adebayo, Abuja

party thronged Asaba to monitor the activities of the members of the committee, who were housed in one of the guest charlets of the state government in the state capital. The aspirants kept vigil in Asaba apparently to forestall the possible hijack of the committee.

The state governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, PDP governorship aspirants and leaders of the party across the state had at a meeting with members of the committee on Saturday, opted for consensus to draw the list of the ward delegates in the 25 LGAs of the state.

Consequently, the governorship aspirants and leaders of the party in the various wards were mandated to decide the delegates and forward same to the Anenih-led committee.

However, sharp disagreement by stakeholders in the compilation of the list was reported in some LGAs of the state.

This development, it was gathered, largely accounted for the delay in getting the list through to the committee as at yesterday afternoon.

There were signs of unusual tension among the leaders of the PDP in Bayelsa over the rush for the party’s Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms with a record of 200 aspirants for the state and National Assembly positions in the party.

LEADERSHIP gathered from the office of the organising secretary, Mr Alfred Imbasi, that the increase in the number of aspirants was necessitated by the one week extension announced by the national leadership of the party for the procurement of the forms.

It was also gathered that the PDP has raked in over N250million from the sale of forms to House of Assembly aspirants, N45million from House of Representatives.

By Osa Okhomina, Yenagoa

2015: Apga Witnessing Influx Of Members – Chieftain

BY ANAYO ONUKWUGHA, Port Harcourt

A chieftain of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Ernest Elochukwu, has said that despite the defection of former governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi, and three members of the House of Representatives to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the party

still witnesses an influx of members.

Elochukwu, who is a House of Representatives aspirant for Nnewi North/Nnewi South/Ekwusigo Federal Constituency of Anambra State, stated this in an interview with newsmen in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.

The former national president of the Association of Nigeria Licensed

Customs Agents (ANLCA) said Obi dumped APGA for the PDP in order to secure his political future, knowing fully well that he could not get a ministerial appointment at the federal level on the platform of APGA. He said, “There was no massive defection from APGA to PDP in Anambra State. I cannot talk about Imo yet but for Anambra, I can eas-

ily assure you that individuals left APGA. First, it was federal legislators, I mean those in the House of Representatives; now, from among the five that said they have left for the PDP, two said they are no longer leaving and recently, it was the former governor, Peter Obi. In all these cases, there were no crowds that I saw that left with them”.

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Monday, November 3, 2014

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Monday, November 3, 2014

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Monday, November 3, 2014

NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

26/28, MARINA LAGOS

26/28, MARINA LAGOS

PUBLIC NOTICE NO.3884

PUBLIC NOTICE NO.3885

PRE-QUALIFICATION FOR PROVISION OF INSURANCE COVER FOR NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY -NATIONAL SHOPPING LIST

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FOR THE PROVISION OF CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR HARBOURS DEPARTMENT

A. INTRODUCTION The Nigerian Ports Authority hereby invites reputable and competent Under writing companies and Insurance Brokers to submit pre-qualification documents for the under listed projects. Pre-qualified firms would be short listed for a period of two (2) years.

LOT 1 2 3

PROJECT DESCRIPTION Group Life Assurance Cover Non-Life Cover Marine Hull, Protection & Indemnity, etc.

Please, note that bidders are not allowed to bid for more than Two (2) Lots.

B. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS Interested companies should submit three (3) HARD copies (one original and two duplicate copies) and a SOFT copy (MS Word/Excel/PDF) of the bound documents duly signed, paginated, separated by dividers and arranged in the order outlined hereunder: Mandatory Requirements (SOFT and HARD COPIES) 1. Evidence of Certificate of Incorporation with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

2. Evidence of Company Tax Clearance Certificate for the last three (3) years (2011, 2012 & 2013).

3. Current Pension Clearance Certificate from PENCOM. 4. Evidence of Compliance Certificate with Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Act. No. 19 of 2011.

5. Evidence of Compliance Certificate with Financial Reporting Council (FRC).

Other Requirements 1. Audited Statement of Account of the company for the last three (3) years showing annual turn over duly endorsed by a firm of chartered accountants.

2. Company profile to include names, qualifications and experience of key personnel.

3. All relevant information concerning contact, telephone, fax and e-mail address of company representatives.

4. Bids must be in English language, in clear copy and signed by an official authorized by the company.

TECHNICAL PROPOSAL FOR INSURANCE COMPANY SHOULD INCLUDE: 1. Evidence of Operating License (for the Insurance mentioned above) from the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) 2. Evidence of NAICOM’s Approval for the Company’s account for year 2013.

3. Evidence of valid Reinsurance Treaty/Cover 4. Evidence of experience in at least five (5) jobs of similar nature executed within the past five (5) years with verifiable letters of award.

TECHNICAL PROPOSAL FOR INSURANCE BROKER SHOULD INCLUDE: 1. Evidence of Operating License from National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) and membership of Nigerian Corporation of Insurance Brokers.

2. Professional Indemnity (Evidence of valid current Cover).

3. Evidence of experience in at least five (5) jobs of similar nature executed within the past five (5) years with verifiable letters of award.

4. Evidence of Registration Certificate with Nigeria Council of Registered Insurance Brokers.

A. INTRODUCTION The above-mentioned proposal was earlier advertised on Monday 22nd September 2014 in The Guardian and Daily Trust Newspapers and Federal Tenders Journal as Public Notice No. 3870, Lots 1 - 4. However, due to non-responsiveness of bidders, the Authority hereby invites reputable and competent consultancy firms to submit Expression of Interest documents for the under listed projects: LOT PROJECT DESCRIPTION 1 Consultancy on Development and Implementation of Operational Manual and Procedures in accordance with ISO9001:2008 Quality Management System for Harbours Department 2 Consultancy on Creation and Implementation of Port Information Service System 3 Consultancy on Port Emergency Plan (PEC P) for Nigerian Ports Authority 4 Consultancy on Survey of Anchorage Position and Provision of Carts and Co-ordinates Please, note that bidders are not allowed to bid for more than Two (2) Lots B. SCOPE OF SERVICES This will be as contained in the Request for Proposal (RFP) which will be issued to prequalified consultants.

C. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS Interested companies should submit three (3) HARD copies (one original and two duplicate copies) and a SOFT copy (MS Word/Excel/PDF) of the bound documents duly signed, paginated, separated by dividers and arranged in the order outlined hereunder: Mandatory Requirements (SOFT and HARD COPIES) 1. Evidence of Certificate of Incorporation with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

2. Evidence of Company Tax Clearance Certificate for the last three (3) years (2011, 2012 & 2013).

3. Current Pension Clearance Certificate from PENCOM. 4. Evidence of Compliance Certificate with Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Act. No. 19 of 2011.

Other Requirements (SOFT and HARD COPIES) 1. Evidence of similar projects executed in the past including letters of awards, completion certificates etc.

2. Company profile to include names, qualifications and experience of key personnel.

3. All relevant information concerning contact, telephone, fax and e-mail address of company representatives.

4. For Joint Venture (JV)/Partnership, Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) should be provided.

5. Bids must be in English language, in clear copy and signed by an official authorized by the company.

C. SUBMISSION OF PREQUALIFICATION DOCUMENTS One (1) soft and three (3) hard copies of prequalification documents (comprising one original and two duplicate copies) should be submitted in a sealed envelope and clearly marked “PRE-QUALIFICATION FOR PROVISION OF INSURANCE COVER FOR NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY – NATIONAL SHOPPING LIST” specifying Public Notice No. 3884 and appropriate LOT No and Title, addressed to The Secretary, Tenders Board, Nigerian Ports Authority and dropped in the designated Tender Box located on the ground floor, Nigerian Ports Authority Headquarters at 26/28, Marina Lagos not later than 11.00 am on Wednesday, 19th November 2014. All received bids will be opened immediately at the Conference room, 1 Joseph Street, off Marina, Lagos in the presence of bidders or their representatives. Please, ensure that you sign the bid submission register in the office of the General Manager, Procurement, ground floor, as the Authority will not be held liable for misplaced or wrongly submitted bids. For further enquiries, please contact the “General Manager (Procurement)” on e-mail: info.procurement@nigerianports.org.

D. SUBMISSION OF EXPRESSION OF INTEREST DOCUMENTS One (1) soft and three (3) hard copies of EOI documents (comprising one original and two duplicate copies) should be submitted in a sealed envelope and clearly marked “EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FOR THE PROVISION OF CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR HARBOURS DEPARTMENT” specifying Public Notice No. 3885 as well as appropriate LOT No and Title, addressed to The Secretary, Tenders Board, Nigerian Ports Authority and dropped in the designated Tender Box located on the ground floor, Nigerian Ports Authority Headquarters at 26/28, Marina Lagos not later than 11.00 am on Monday, 17th November 2014. All received bids will be opened immediately at the Conference room, 1 Joseph Street, off Marina, Lagos in the presence of bidders or their representatives. Please, ensure that you sign the bid submission register in the office of the General Manager, Procurement, ground floor, as the Authority will not be held liable for misplaced or wrongly submitted bids. For further enquiries, please contact the “General Manager (Procurement)” on e-mail: info.procurement@nigerianports.org.

Note that this invitation to tender does not place any obligation on the Authority to consider any bidder for award of contract or acceptance of any tender.

Note that this invitation to tender does not place any obligation on the Authority to consider any bidder for Award of Contract or Acceptance of any tender.

All costs incurred as a result of this tender invitation and any subsequent requests for information shall be borne by the bidding companies. Late submission will not be entertained and only short-listed companies will be contacted.

All costs incurred as a result of this tender invitation and any subsequent requests for information shall be borne by the bidding companies. Late submission will not be entertained and only short-listed companies will be contacted.

SIGNED MANAGEMENT NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

SIGNED MANAGEMENT NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

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Monday, November 3, 2014

NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

26/28, MARINA LAGOS

26/28, MARINA LAGOS

PUBLIC NOTICE NO.3886

PUBLIC NOTICE NO.3887

INVITATION TO TENDER FOR THE RE-CONSTRUCTION OF ACCESS/INTERNAL ROAD AT NPA BONNY SIGNAL STATION IN BONNY ISLAND, RIVERS STATE

INVITATION TO TENDER FOR THE DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION OF MEDICAL SOFTWARE FOR NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

A. INTRODUCTION

1.0. INTRODUCTION

The Nigerian Ports Authority hereby invites reputable and competent contractors to submit tenders for the above named project.

The Nigerian Ports Authority hereby invites reputable and competent contractors to submit tenders for the Design and Implementation of Medical Software for Nigerian Ports Authority.

B. SCOPE OF WORKS The scope of Works includes but not limited to the reconstruction of 0.75km access/internal road at Bonny Signal Station, expansion of road width from 3.6m to 6m, introduction of road kerbs amongst others. Additional information is contained in the Standard Bidding Document to be issued to interested bidders.

C. TENDER REQUIREMENT Interested companies should submit Three (3) HARD copies (One original and Two copies) and a SOFT copy (Word, excel and/or PDF) of the bound bid documents duly signed, paginated, separated by dividers and arranged in the order outlined hereunder: Mandatory Requirements (SOFT and HARD COPIES) 1. Evidence of certificate of incorporation with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

2. Evidence of Company TAX Clearance Certificate for last three (3) years (2011, 2012 & 2013).

3. Current Pension Clearance Certificate from Pension Commission (PENCOM).

4. Evidence of compliance certificate with Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Act No. 19 of 2011.

2.0 SCOPE OF SUPPLY The scope of the project shall be the Design and Implementation of Medical Software for Nigerian Ports Authority as detailed in the Standard Bidding Document.

3.0. TENDER REQUIREMENTS Interested companies should submit three (3) HARD COPIES (One original & two duplicate Copies) and a SOFT COPY (In MS Word/Excel/PDF) of the bid documents. The Hard copies must be bound, duly signed, paginated, separated by dividers and arranged in the order outlined hereunder: MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS 1. Evidence of Certificate of Incorporation with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

2. Evidence of Company Tax Clearance Certificate for the last three (3) years (2011, 2012 & 2013).

3. Current Pension Clearance Certificate from PENCOM. 4. Evidence of Compliance Certificate with Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Act No. 19 of 2011.

Other Requirements (SOFT and HARD COPIES) 5. Evidence of similar projects executed in the past including letters of awards, completion certificates etc.

6. Evidence of Qualifications and Professional Membership of Key Staff and Firm Registration with COREN and NSE 7. Company profile to include names, qualifications and experience of key personnel.

8. All relevant information concerning contact, telephone, fax and e-mail address of company representative 9. For Joint Venture (JV)/Partnership, Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) should be provided.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS 1. Evidence of similar projects executed in the past including letters of awards, completion certificates etc.

2. Company profile to include names, qualifications and experience of key personnel 3. Evidence of financial capability from a reputable bank.

4. Certification by IT professional Body (Computer society of Nigeria, CPN, HP, MS etc).

5. All relevant information concerning contacts, addresses, telephones, fax and e-mail address of company or representative(s) 6. For Joint Venture (JV)/Partnership, Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) should be provided.

7. Bids must be in English language, in clear HARD & SOFT COPIES and signed by an official authorized by the bidder.

D. COLLECTION OF FINANCIAL TENDER DOCUMENTS Interested companies are to collect the Standard Bidding Document from the Office of the General Manager, Procurement, Room 029, ground floor, Headquarters, 26/28 Marina – Lagos on evidence of payment of non-refundable fee of N30,000.00 (Thirty Thousand Naira) only, in bank draft in favour of Nigerian Ports Authority. All tender sums from N300Million and above should be accompanied with a bid bond of 2% of the tender sum.

4.0 COLLECTION OF STANDARD BIDDING DOCUMENTS Interested companies are to collect the Standard Bidding Documents from the office of the General Manager, Procurement, Room 029, Ground Floor, Corporate Headquarters, 26/28 Marina, Lagos on evidence of payment of non-refundable fee of N30,000.00 (Thirty Thousand Naira) only, in bank draft in favour of Nigerian Ports Authority. All tender sums from N100 Million and above are to be accompanied with a bid bond of 2% of the tender sum.

E. SUBMISSION OF TENDER DOCUMENTS Prospective bidders are to submit One (1) soft and Three (3) hard copies of TECHNICAL AND FINANCIAL BIDS packaged SEPARTELY in SEALED ENVELOPES and clearly marked as “Technical Bid” or “Financial Bid”. Furthermore, the reverse side of each sealed envelope should bear the name and address of the bidder. Thereafter, put the two sealed envelops in a bigger envelope addressed to “THE SECRETARY TO THE TENDER BOARD, NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY” and clearly marked “INVITATION TO TENDER FOR RECONSTRUCTION OF ACCESS/INTERNAL ROAD AT NPA BONNY SIGNAL STATION AT BONNY ISLAND, RIVERS STATE” Specifying the PUBLIC NOTICE NO. 3886 and drop it in the designated Tender Box located on the ground floor, Room 029, Nigerian Ports Authority Headquarters at 26/28, Marina Lagos not later than 11.00amon Monday, 15th December 2014.

4.0 SUBMISSION OF PREQUALIFICATION DOCUMENTS Prospective bidders are to submit, One (1) soft copy and Three (3) hard copies of TECHNICAL AND FINANCIAL BIDS which should be packaged in SEPARATE SEALED ENVELOPES and clearly marked as “Technical or Financial Bid” for the Design and Implementation of Medical Software. The reverse side of the sealed envelope should have the name and address of the bidder and thereafter put sealed envelopes in a bigger envelope addressed to “The Secretary to the Tenders Board, Nigerian Ports Authority and clearly marked “INVITATION TO TENDER FOR THE DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION OF MEDICAL SOFTWARE FOR NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY”Public Notice No. 3887 and dropped in the designated Tender Box located on the ground floor, Nigerian Ports Authority Headquarters at 26/28, Marina Lagos not later than 11.00 am on Monday, December 15th, 2014.

All received bids will be opened immediately after the deadline for submission at the Conference room, 1 Joseph Street, off Marina, Lagos in the presence of bidders or their representatives. Please, ensure that you sign the bid submission register in the office of the General Manager, Procurement as the Authority will not be held liable for misplaced or wrongly submitted bids. For further enquiries, please contact the “General Manager (Procurement)” on e-mail: info.procurement@nigerianports.org.

All received bid documents will be opened immediately at the Conference room, 1 Joseph Street, off Marina, Lagos in the presence of bidders or their representatives.

Please, ensure that you sign the bid submission register in the office of the General Manager, Procurement, room 029 ground floors, as the Authority will not be held liable for misplaced or wrongly submitted bids. For further enquiries, please contact the “General Manager (Procurement)” on e-mail: info.procurement@nigerianports.org

Note that this invitation to tender does not place any obligation on the Authority to consider any responding company for Award of Contract or Acceptance of any tender.

Note that this invitation to tender does not place any obligation on the Authority to consider any bidder for award of contract or acceptance of any tender.

All costs incurred as a result of this tender invitation and any subsequent requests for information shall be borne by the bidding companies. Late submission will not be entertained and only short-listed companies will be contacted.

All costs incurred as a result of this tender invitation and any subsequent requests for information shall be borne by the bidding companies. Late submission will not be entertained and only short-listed companies will be contacted.

SIGNED MANAGEMENT NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

SIGNED MANAGEMENT NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

33

Monday, November 3, 2014

NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

26/28, MARINA LAGOS

26/28, MARINA LAGOS

PUBLIC NOTICE NO.3888

PUBLIC NOTICE NO.3889

INVITATION FOR PRE-QUALIFICATION OF CONTACTORS FOR END-USER SUPPORT AND SYSTEMS MAINTENANCE SERVICES FOR NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

INVITATION FOR PRE-QUALIFICATION OF CONTACTORS FOR THE DESIGN, CONFIGURATION AND DEPLOYMENT OF VIDEO CONFERENCING INFRASTRUCTURE FOR ALL PORT LOCATIONS

1.0. INTRODUCTION

1.0. INTRODUCTION

The Nigerian Ports Authority hereby invites reputable and competent contractors to submit pre-qualification tenders for End – User Support and Systems Maintenance Services.

The Nigerian Ports Authority hereby invites reputable and competent contractors to submit pre-qualification tenders for the Design, Configuration and Deployment of Video Conferencing Infrastructure for all Port Locations.

2.0 SCOPE OF PROJECT The scope of the project shall be End – User Support and Systems Maintenance Services for Nigerian Ports Authority.

2.0 SCOPE OF PROJECT The scope of the project shall be the Design, Configuration and Deployment of Video Conferencing Infrastructure for all the Ports.

3.0. PREQUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS Interested companies should submit three (3) HARD COPIES (One original & two duplicate) and a SOFT COPY (In MS Word/Excel/PDF) of the bid documents. The Hard copies must be bound, duly signed, paginated, separated by dividers and arranged in the order outlined hereunder:

3.0. PREQUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS Interested companies should submit three (3) HARD COPIES (One original & two duplicate) and a SOFT COPY (In MS Word/Excel/PDF) of the bid documents. The Hard copies must be bound, duly signed, paginated, separated by dividers and arranged in the order outlined hereunder:

MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS 1. Evidence of Certificate of Incorporation with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

2. Evidence of Company Tax Clearance Certificate for the last three (3) years (2011, 2012 & 2013).

3. Current Pension Clearance Certificate from PENCOM. 4. Evidence of Compliance Certificate with Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Act No. 19 of 2011.

5. Evidence of ISO Certification.

MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS 1. Evidence of Certificate of Incorporation with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

2. Evidence of Company Tax Clearance Certificate for the last three (3) years (2011, 2012 & 2013) 3. Current Pension Clearance Certificate from PENCOM 4. Evidence of Compliance Certificate with Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Act No. 19 of 2011.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS 1. Evidence of similar projects executed in the past including letters of awards, completion certificates etc.

2. Company profile to include names, qualifications and experience of key personnel 3. Evidence of financial capability from a reputable bank 4. Certification by IT professional Body (Computer society of Nigeria, CPN, HP Gold, Expert One, Supply Partner, Cisco Preferred Partner, MS Exchange Server Certified Partner, MS Server Certified Partner, APC Certified Partner and Oracle Certified Partner etc.)

5. All relevant information concerning contacts, addresses, telephones, fax and e-mail address of company or representative(s) 6. For Joint Venture (JV), Partnership, Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) should be provided 7. Bids must be in English language, in clear HARD & SOFT COPIES and signed by an official authorized by the bidder.

4.0 SUBMISSION OF PREQUALIFICATION DOCUMENTS Prospective bidders are to submit, One (1) soft copy and Three (3) hard copies of tender documents packed in a sealed envelope addressed to “The Secretary to the Tenders Board, Nigerian Ports Authority and clearly marked “INVITATION FOR PREQUALIFICATION OF CONTRACTORS FOR END-USER SUPPORT AND SYSTEMS MAINTENANCE FOR NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY” Public Notice No. 3888 and dropped in the designated Tender Box located on the ground floor, Nigerian Ports Authority Headquarters at 26/28, Marina Lagos not later than 11.00am on Tuesday November 18th, 2014.

All received bid documents will be opened immediately at the Conference room, 1 Joseph Street, off Marina, Lagos in the presence of bidders or their representatives.

Please, ensure that you sign the bid submission register in the office of the General Manager, Procurement, room 029 ground floors, as the Authority will not be held liable for misplaced or wrongly submitted bids. For further enquiries, please contact the “General Manager (Procurement)” on e-mail: info.procurement@nigerianports.org.

Note that this invitation to tender does not place any obligation on the Authority to consider any bidder for award of contract or acceptance of any tender.

All costs incurred as a result of this tender invitation and any subsequent requests for information shall be borne by the bidding companies. Late submission will not be entertained and only short-listed companies will be contacted.

SIGNED MANAGEMENT NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

OTHER REQUIREMENTS 1. Evidence of similar projects executed in the past including letters of awards, completion certificates etc.

2. Company profile to include names, qualifications and experience of key personnel 3. Evidence of financial capability from a reputable bank 4. Certification by IT professional Body (Computer society of Nigeria, CPN, HP Gold, Expert One, Supply Partner, Cisco Preferred Partner, MS Exchange Server Certified Partner, MS Server Certified Partner, APC Certified Partner and Oracle Certified Partner etc.)

5. All relevant information concerning contacts, addresses, telephones, fax and e-mail address of company or representative(s) 6. For Joint Venture (JV), Partnership, Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) should be provided 7. Bids must be in English language, in clear HARD & SOFT COPIES and signed by an official authorized by the bidder.

4.0 SUBMISSION OF PREQUALIFICATION DOCUMENTS Prospective bidders are to submit one (1) soft copy and three (3) hard copies of tender documents should be put in a sealed envelope and clearly marked “INVITATION FOR PRE-QUALIFICATION FOR THE DESIGN, CONFIGURATION AND DEPLOYMENT OF VIDEO CONFERENCING INFRASTRUCTURE FOR ALL PORT LOCATIONS” Public Notice No. 3889 and dropped in the designated Tender Box located on the ground floor, Nigerian Ports Authority Headquarters at 26/28, Marina Lagos not later than 11.00 am on Tuesday November 18th, 2014.

All received bid documents will be opened immediately at the Conference room, 1 Joseph Street, off Marina, Lagos in the presence of bidders or their representatives.

Please, ensure that you sign the bid submission register in the office of the General Manager, Procurement, room 029 ground floors, as the Authority will not be held liable for misplaced or wrongly submitted bids.

For further enquiries, please contact the “General Manager (Procurement)” on e-mail: info.procurement@nigerianports.org.

Please note that this invitation to tender does not place any obligation on the Authority to consider any bidder for award of Contract or acceptance of any tender.

All costs incurred as a result of this tender invitation and any subsequent requests for information shall be borne by the bidding companies. Late submission will not be entertained and only short-listed companies will be contacted.

SIGNED MANAGEMENT NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

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Monday, November 3, 2014

NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

26/28, MARINA LAGOS

26/28, MARINA LAGOS

PUBLIC NOTICE NO.3890

PUBLIC NOTICE NO.3891

INVITATION TO TENDER FOR THE SUPPLY OF SIX (6) NOS ENVIRONMENTAL INSPECTION TRUCKS

INVITATION TO TENDER FOR THE SUPPLY OF OPERATIONAL VEHICLES FOR SECURITY DEPARTMENT A. INTRODUCTION

A. INTRODUCTION The Nigerian Ports Authority hereby invites reputable and competent contractors to submit tender documents for the supply of six (6) Nos Environmental Inspection Trucks.

B. SCOPE OF WORKS The Scope of Works includes but not limited to the supply of six (6) Nos Trucks for Environmental Inspection. 4 x 4 Wheel Drive, 5 Speed Manual Gear Box retrofitted with other equipment as listed in the Standard Bid Documents.

C. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS Interested companies should submit three (3) HARD copies (one original and two duplicate copies) and a SOFT copy (MS Word/Excel/PDF) of the bound documents duly signed, paginated, separated by dividers and arranged in the order outlined hereunder: Mandatory Requirements (SOFT and HARD COPIES) 1. Evidence of Certificate of Incorporation with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

2. Evidence of Company Tax Clearance Certificate for the last three (3) years (2011, 2012 & 2013).

3. Current Pension Clearance Certificate from PENCOM. 4. Evidence of Compliance Certificate with Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Act. No. 19 of 2011.

Other Requirements (SOFT and HARD COPIES) 1. Evidence of similar projects executed in the past including letters of awards, completion certificates etc.

2. Company profile to include names, qualifications and experience of key personnel.

3. All relevant information concerning contact, telephone, fax and e-mail address of company representatives.

4. For Joint Venture (JV)/Partnership, Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) should be provided.

5. Bids must be in English language, in clear copy and signed by an official authorized by the company.

D. SUBMISSION OF EXPRESSION OF INTEREST DOCUMENTS One (1) soft and three (3) hard copies of technical and financial tender documents (comprising one original and two duplicate copies) should be packed in separately sealed envelopes, marked as either “ TECHNICAL BID” or “FINANCIAL BID” for “INVITATION TO TENDER FOR THE SUPPLY OF SIX (6) NOS ENVIRONMENTAL INSPECTION TRUCKS” specifying Public Notice No. 3890 addressed to “The Secretary, Tenders Board, Nigerian Ports Authority” and dropped in the designated Tender Box located on the ground floor, Nigerian Ports Authority Headquarters at 26/28, Marina Lagos not later than 11.00 am on Monday, 15th December 2014. All received bids will be opened immediately at the Conference room, 1 Joseph Street, off Marina, Lagos in the presence of bidders or their representatives. Please, ensure that you sign the bid submission register in the office of the General Manager, Procurement, ground floor, as the Authority will not be held liable for misplaced or wrongly submitted bids. For further enquiries, please contact the “General Manager (Procurement)” on e-mail: info.procurement@nigerianports.org.

Note that this invitation to tender does not place any obligation on the Authority to consider any bidder for award of contract or acceptance of any tender.

All costs incurred as a result of this tender invitation and any subsequent requests for information shall be borne by the bidding companies.

The Nigerian Ports Authority hereby invites reputable and competent contractors to submit tenders for the above named project.

B. SCOPE OF WORKS The scope of Works includes but not limited to the Supply of Operational Vehicles for Security Department. The comprehensive scope of the project shall be provided in the Standard Bidding Document to be issued to bidders.

C. TENDER REQUIREMENT Interested companies should submit Three (3) HARD copies (One original and Two copies) and a SOFT copy (Word, excel and/or PDF) of the bound bid documents duly signed, paginated, separated by dividers and arranged in the order outlined hereunder: Mandatory Requirements (SOFT and HARD COPIES) 1. Evidence of certificate of incorporation with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

2. Evidence of Company TAX Clearance Certificate for last three (3) years (2011, 2012 & 2013).

3. Current Pension Clearance Certificate from Pension Commission (PENCOM).

4. Evidence of compliance certificate with Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Act No. 19 of 2011.

Other Requirements (SOFT and HARD COPIES) 5. Evidence of similar projects executed in the past including letters of awards, completion certificates etc.

6. Company profile to include names, qualifications and experience of key personnel.

7. All relevant information concerning contact, telephone, fax and e-mail address of company representative(s).

8. Evidence of business status (Vendor, Manufacturer’s representative(s) 9. For Joint Venture (JV)/Partnership, Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) should be provided.

10. Bids must be in English Language, in clear Hard and Soft copies and signed by an authorized official of the company.

D. COLLECTION OF FINANCIAL TENDER DOCUMENTS Interested companies are to collect the Standard Bidding Document from the Office of the General Manager, Procurement, Room 029, ground floor, Headquarters, 26/28 Marina – Lagos on evidence of payment of non-refundable fee of N30,000.00 (Thirty Thousand Naira) only, in bank draft in favour of Nigerian Ports Authority.

E. SUBMISSION OF TENDER DOCUMENTS Prospective bidders are to submit One (1) soft and Three (3) hard copies of TECHNICAL AND FINANCIAL BIDS packaged SEPARATELY in SEALED ENVELOPES and clearly marked as “Technical Bid” or “Financial Bid”. Furthermore, the reverse side of each sealed envelope should bear the name and address of the bidder. Thereafter, put the two sealed envelops in a bigger envelope addressed to “THE SECRETARY TO THE TENDERS BOARD, NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY” and clearly marked “INVITATION TO TENDER FOR SUPPLY OF OPERATIONAL VEHICLES FOR SECURITY DEPARTMENT” Specifying the PUBLIC NOTICE NO. 3891 and drop it in the designated Tender Box located on the ground floor, Room 029, Nigerian Ports Authority Headquarters at 26/28, Marina Lagos not later than 11.00am on Tuesday, 16th December 2014.

All received bids will be opened immediately after the deadline for submission at the Conference room, 1 Joseph Street, off Marina, Lagos in the presence of bidders or their representatives. Please, ensure that you sign the bid submission register in the office of the General Manager, Procurement as the Authority will not be held liable for misplaced or wrongly submitted bids. For further enquiries, please contact the “General Manager (Procurement)” on e-mail: info.procurement@nigerianports.org.

Note that this invitation to tender does not place any obligation on the Authority to consider any responding company for Award of Contract or Acceptance of any tender.

Late submission will not be entertained and only short-listed companies will be contacted.

All costs incurred as a result of this tender invitation and any subsequent requests for information shall be borne by the bidding companies. Late submission will not be entertained and only short-listed companies will be contacted.

SIGNED MANAGEMENT NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

SIGNED MANAGEMENT NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

Monday, November 3, 2014

NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY 26/28, MARINA LAGOS

ADDENDUM The Nigerian Ports Authority wishes to draw the attention of all interested bidders and general public to an earlier advertisement published in the Federal Tenders Journal, The Guardian and Daily Trust Newspapers of Monday, 22nd September 2014 as well as NPA website in respect of the under listed project: INVITATION TO TENDER FOR RELOCATION OF CALABAR/ONNE RADIO/SIGNAL STATIONS (PUBLIC NOTICE NO: 3871) PROJECT DESCRIPTION LOT 1 Relocation of Calabar Radio/Signal Station 2 Relocation of Onne Radio/Signal Station Please, note that bidders are not allowed to bid for more than One (1) Lot The closing date for submission of technical and financial proposals has been extended by two (2) weeks. Therefore, bids from interested companies are expected to be dropped in the designated tender box on the ground floor of the Corporate headquarters not later than 11.00 am on Monday, 17th November 2014.

All other information remains valid. We regret any inconvenience this may cause you.

SIGNED MANAGEMENT NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY 26/28, MARINA LAGOS

ADDENDUM The Nigerian Ports Authority wishes to draw the attention of all interested bidders and general public to an earlier advertisement published in the Federal Tenders Journal, The Guardian and Leadership Newspapers of Monday, 20th October 2014 as well as NPA website in respect of the under listed project: PREQUALIFICATION OF CONTRACTORS FOR MONITORING OF PETROLEUM PRODUCTS DISCHARGE IN ALL JETTIES UNDER THE JURISDICTION OF NPA (PUBLIC NOTICE NO: 3880) LOT 1 2

PROJECT DESCRIPTION JETTIES IN WESTERN PORT AREA JETTIES IN EASTERN PORT AREA

Please, note that bidders are not allowed to bid for more than One (1) Lot The closing date for submission of pre-qualification documents has been extended by two (2) weeks. Therefore, bids from interested companies are expected to be dropped in the designated tender box on the ground floor of the Corporate headquarters not later than 11.00 am on Monday, 17th November 2014.

All other information remains valid. We regret any inconvenience this may cause you.

SIGNED MANAGEMENT NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY

35

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Monday, November 3, 2014

FOR GOD AND COUNTRY

MISSING VEHICLE This is to notify the general public that a white-coloured Hyundai Sonata saloon car with registration number BWR 642 AH and chassis number KMHEB41BABA097759 belonging to LEADERSHIP Newspapers Group Ltd is missing. The vehicle was last seen with Hajiya Mariya Ibrahim Baba. Any person with useful information regarding the missing vehicle should please contact the nearest police station or LEADERSHIP Newspapers Group Ltd through this phone number: 07035782552 Signed: Management

politics today Monday, November 3, 2014

REPORTS ANALYSES REVIEWS INTERVIEWS

Re-visiting The High Turnover Of Federal Lawmakers

Mark

Lawan

As a result of the turnover bug in Nigeria’s National Assembly, the country has lost huge resources, not only in monetary terms but also in terms of manpower, clout and experience.

EDEGBE ODEMWINGIE examines the development.

N Only four of the 360 members of the House have retained their seats from 1999 to date

owhere in the world are term limits imposed on parliamentarians.

Taking the Nigerian parliament for instance, the erosion of institutional memory is worrisome, monitors submit.

Indeed, there are implications.

The Nigerian lawmaker is disadvantaged when meeting his colleagues from other countries;and the reason is not far-fetched.

The age of a lawmaker in the institution determines the respect he gets since that amounts in the final analysis to experience and understanding of issues.

Going by a recent analysis, about 250 out of the 360 members of the House of Representatives may not

return to the Green Chamber after the 2015 elections.

The report which is based on analysis of trend from the 2003, 2007 and 2011 elections submits that only about 110, representing less than one third of the lawmakers, have the chances of returning to the lower chamber come 2015.

In 2003, less than four per cent of the chamber returned.

Unfortunately, a lot of money goes into training lawmakers, but all that amounts to waste when a Senator does not return to the chamber. That year in the House of Representatives, only 104 members, representing 29 percent of lawmakers elected 1999, retained their seats, while 253 members (or 70 percent) failed to return.

2007 was no better because it was an almost clean sweep.

Mutu

Only 24 Senators made it back to the Red Chamber. In the House, the number nosedived when 254 members failed to return to the House after elections in which another 104 set of lawmakers (same as in 2003) retained their seats.

The attrition rate grew in 2011 where only 100 lawmakers retained their seats while 260 failed to return to the lower chamber.

Already, more than 30 members of the House have been linked with governorship bids in their respective states.

They include Speaker Aminu Waziri Tambuwal (Sokoto), his deputy Emeka Ihedioha (Imo), chief whip Isiaka Bawa (Taraba) and deputy minority leader Abdulrahman Kawu Sumaila (Kano).

Others are Emmanuel Jime (Benue), Bethel Amadi (Imo), Dakuku Peterside Rivers), Ibrahim Shehu Gusau (Zamfara), and Godwin Elumelu (Delta) amongst others.

The transition from the hallowed lawmaking chambers to the state government houses

is not novel. As a matter of fact, three sitting governors, Henry Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa), Gabriel Suswam (Benue) and Abdulaziz Yari (Zamfara) made similar moves and are sitting pretty in their respective government houses.

Others like Lumumba Ade, Victor Lar, Mohammed Wakil, Umar Kumalia, Aminu Bello Masari among others had also tried in their respective states but lost.

Only four of the 360 members of the House have retained their seats from 1999 to date. They are Hons.

Farouq Lawan (PDP, Kano), Bashir Adamu (PDP, Jigawa), Nicolas Mutu (PDP, Delta) and Monsuro Aloa Owolabi (APC, Lagos).

Others who have been in the House since 2003 include the Speaker Aminu Tambuwal, his deputy Emeka Ihedioha, deputy leader, Leo Ogor (PDP, ➔ CONTINUES ON PAGE 38

Donald Ojogo, Group Politics Editor ojogodonald@yahoo.com

37

38 POLITICS TODAY

Monday, November 3, 2014

In Whose Interest Is The High Turnover Of Federal Lawmakers?

In August, immediate past Vice-President of the World Bank (Africa) and former Minister of Education, Mrs. Obiageli Ezekwesili made startling disclosures that the National Assembly has between 2005 and 2013 received over N1 trillion from the federal purse

Ndoma-Egba

Ekweremadu

Lar

Ningi

Gbajabiamila

Ogor

➔ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 37

Delta), minority leader Femi Gbajabiamila (APC, Lagos) and Abdulrahman Kawu Sumaila respectively.

Others are Gideon Gwani (PDP, Kaduna), Andrew Unchendu (APC, Rivers), Usman Mohammed (APC, Kano), Ibrahim Bawa Kamba (PDP, Kebbi), Abike Dabiri-Erewa (APC, Lagos), Olajumoke Okoya-Thomas (APC, Lagos among others.

There were also members of the House who had moved to the Senate from 1999 to date.

They include late Senator Sule Yari Gandi (Sokoto), George Sekibo (Rivers), Umar Idris (Gombe, now Transport minister),Victor Lar (Plateau), Emmanuel Bwacha (Taraba),

Philip Aduda FCT), Nkechi Nwogwu (Abia), Ahmed Lawan (Yobe), Abdul Ningi (Bauchi), Osita Izunaso (Imo), Ita Enang (Akwa Ibom), Nazifi Gamawa (Bauchi), Hadi Sirika (Katsina), Yakubu Lado (Katsina), Ganiyu Solomon (Lagos), Patricia Akwashiki (Nasarawa) and a host of others.

Senate As Governors’ Playground The Senate has increasingly become the favorite destination and transit point for ex-governors and deputies after serving their constitutionally allowed eightyear two terms in office. In April 2011 alone, seven exgovernors won seats in the current session of the Nigerian Senate.

The reason for the Senate lust is not far-fetched. With the pecks of office, many recesses and so called ‘jumbo pay’ enjoyed by federal lawmakers, the Senate appears a good retirement home for the exstate executives after an equally lucrative two-terms in office as governor or deputy.

Section 63 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) states: “The Senate and the House of Representatives shall each sit for a period of not less than one hundred and eightyone days in a year” - leaving a whopping one hundred and eighty-four day to spare in a year (half a year basically).

In August, immediate past Vice-President of the World Bank (Africa) and former Minister of Education, Mrs.

Obiageli Ezekwesili made startling disclosures that the National Assembly has between 2005 and 2013 received over N1 trillion from the federal purse.

In the seventh Senate, exgovernors and deputies are well represented; some are: Senators Enyinnaya Abaribe (Abia/ Deputy Governor); Chris Ngige (Anambra/Governor); Andy Uba (Anambra/Governor); Sefiu Gbenga Kaka (Ogun/ Deputy Governor); David Mark (Niger/Military Governor); Muhammed Shaaba Lafiaji (Kwara/Governor); Bukola Saraki (Kwara/Governor); Abdullahi Adamu (Nasarawa/ Governor); Joshua Dariye (Plateau/Governor); Danjuma ➔ CONTINUES ON PAGE 39

POLITICS TODAY 39

Monday, November 3, 2014

Lawmaking At The Mercy Of Glamour ➔ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 38

Goje (Gombe/Governor); Bukar Abba Ibrahim (Yobe/ Governor); Kabiru Gaya (Kano/ Governor); George Akume (Benue/Governor); Ahmed Sani Yerima (Zamfara/Governor).

Destination 2015 From Akwa-Ibom to Benue states amongst others, more governors are angling to come to the Senate in 2015 but not without a fight from some of the incumbent Senators.

Nigerian governors are some of the most powerful officials in the country. Some control budgets bigger than many African countries (some more than $1bn a year), and they determine the political direction of their respective states.

Benue - The state governor, Gabriel Suswam, is quietly angling to replace his senator representing Benue North East otherwise called Zone A, Barnabas Gemade, in the Senate. Well, Gemade insist that his second term is not negotiable.

Akwa Ibom The “Uncommon Transformer” as he likes to call himself, Godswill Akpabio, the state governor, has not hidden his Senatorial ambition.

Akpabio’s Senate move pits him against the incumbent, Aloysius Etok.

This case has been dramatic.

In April, Senator Etok raised alarm that Akpabio was planning to assassinate him over his (Etok) ambition to recontest the senatorial election in 2015 - of course, Akpabio denies the allegation.

Etok’s wife and mother-inlaw were once kidnapped in circumstances he (Etok) claims are linked to his insistence to re-contest the Senate seat.

As it stands although undeclared, at least16 other governors in their last terms in office are likely to vie for senatorial seats.

They are: Jonah Jang (Plateau), Chibuike Amaechi (Rivers), Aliyu Wamakko (Sokoto), Danbaba Suntai (Taraba), Theodore Orji (Abia), Murtala Nyako (Adamawa), Isa Yuguda (Bauchi), Liyel Imoke (Cross River), Emmanuel Uduaghan (Delta), Sullivan Chime (Enugu), Sule Lamido (Jigawa), Musa Kwankwaso (Kano), Ibrahim Shema (Katsina), Babatunde Fashola (Lagos) and Saidu Dakingari (Kebbi).

Other Climes Since Nigeria models its system of government after

that of the United States, monitors point to legislative practice in that country as the benchmark. US Senator Robert Byrd from West Virginia was elected into Congress on January 3, 1959 and left on June 28, 2010. He did 51 years and 176 uninterrupted days as a lawmaker.

There was Daniel Inouye from Hawaii, who got into the Congress on January 3, 1963 and left on December 17, 2012, having served for 49 years and 349 days. Senator Ted Kennedy who served Massachusetts in Congress for 46 uninterrupted years until his death is also a case study.

Today, the longest serving Senator is Patrick Leahy from Vermont. He’s been in Congress since January 3, 1975 and has served 39 years and 268 days so far. For the US Congress, therefore, it is safe to assume that they have always been on hand to help stabilise that arm of government as its reservoir Prominent Nigerian Senators including the Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu and Senate Leader, Victor NdomaEgba say the high turnover witnessed in the Nigerian legislature is a major setback and has its drawbacks.

Ekweremadu said recently: “The implications of high attrition rate among legislators include drawback arising from loss of institutional memory and loss of capacity as 70 percent of incoming legislators are new and will require training from the basics. The consequence is loss of confidence in dealing with other arms of government which will have to be built afresh over a few years again.

“In addition, there is the initial low productivity arising from the newness of members, thus the need for intensive initial training. It should be noted that some parliamentarians engage in international, continental and regional parliaments and parliamentary organizations, thus acquiring technical experience or expertise in specific areas and networks.

All these are lost when they lose their seats at home.”.

In countries that practice the presidential system of government, the constitution places term limits on executive positions. For the judiciary, the Chief Justice of Nigeria retires on attainment of the statutory 70 years. But the Constitution stipulates only age qualification for entry into the legislature.

It places no limit on how many terms a representative can be elected into either the Senate or

Aliyu

Akpabio

Uduaghan

Suswam

As it stands although undeclared, at least16 other governors in their last terms in office are likely to vie for senatorial seats

the House of Representatives.

And because of the peculiar nature of the parliament, the institutional memory, which is the aggregate memory of its members, is crucial. When these are put together is what is called the institutional memory.

Pundits say lawmakers adjudged to have raised the bar in their legislative mandate should be allowed to return to the National Assembly.

As a result of the turnover bug, the country have lost huge resources, not only in monetary terms but also in terms of manpower, clout and experience.

Such idealist views no matter how desirable is subject to debate. Politics in this clime is not determined by such academic positions but down to number of votes.

Chime

40

Monday, November 3, 2014

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Monday, November 3, 2014

Medical Attention: Gov Suntai Leaves Abuja For UK The governor of Taraba State, Danbaba Danfulani Suntai left Abuja yesterday, for follow-up medical attention in London, United Kingdom.

This was made known in a statement signed by the chief press secretary to the governor, Hassan Mijinyawa.

Suntai returned to Nigeria in September this year after being discharged by the medical personnel managing his case.

The governor departed the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, accompanied by his wife, Mrs Hauwa Suntai as well as his medical team and security details, The governor is expected back in the country very soon.

By Millie Ibe, Abuja

PDP Congress: 8 Injured As Party Supporters Clash In Rivers

BY ANAYO ONUKWUGHA, Port Har-

court

No fewer than eight persons sustained injuries in a clash between supporters of former minister of state for education, Chief Ezebunwo Nyesom Wike, and those opposed to his aspiration to run for the governorship of Rivers State, during the ward and local govern-

ment congresses of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Buguma, headquaters of Asari-Toru local government area of the state.

Sources in the community told LEADERSHIP that youths loyal to the two factions in the party engaged in a free-for-all before the congress, adding that it took the timely intervention of security operatives to save the situa-

tion from snowballing into a major violence in the community.

PDP Congress Appeal Panel begins sitting in Rivers The PDP Appeal Panel for the just-concluded ward and local government congresses in Rivers State will today begin sitting in Port Harcourt, amidst protests by majority of the party’s guber-

natorial aspirants in the state.

No fewer than 16 governorship aspirants on the platform of the PDP had boycotted the exercise, which held in all the 319 wards in the state in protest against the alleged endorsement of the immediate past minister of state for education, Chief Ezebunwo Nyesom Wike, by the first lady, Dame Patience Jonathan.

short news Varsity Offers Automatic Employment To First Class Graduates

‘Govt Should Be Responsible For Safety Of Journalists’ The African Freedom of Expression Exchange (AFEX) has said that states have a primary responsibility of guaranteeing the safety of journalists working within their territories.

In a statement to Leadership yesterday to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists by the AFEX coordinator, Venancious Ngmenkom Tuor, it noted that “Regrettably, in many of the crimes committed against journalists, government officials or state security agencies are among the perpetrators.”

The statement reads in part, “AFEX uses the occasion to remind governments of their responsibility to guarantee the safety of journalists on the continent.”

By Ruth Tene Natsa, Abuja

Enterprise, Mainstreet, Keystone Banks’ Employees Sue AMCON Employees of three banks, Enterprise Bank Ltd, Mainstreet Bank Ltd and Keystone Bank Ltd have dragged the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) before a Federal High Court in Lagos, asking it to stop the ongoing process of transferring their banks’ assets by the corporation.

In a suit filed by two workers from each of the three banks, who sued for themselves and on behalf of their colleagues , the workers want the court to invalidated the transfer of the banks to new owners.

In the suit filed through their lawyer, Mr. Fred Agbaje, the bank workers said the move by AMCON to sell the banks without carrying them along was done in breach of the law. No date has been fixed for the hearing of the suit.

By Olugbenga Soyele, Lagos

The Federal University, Dutsinma (FUDMA) has pledged to offer automatic employment to students who graduate with first class honours degree to encourage excellence.

The vice President Goodluck Jonathan (left) and the former Bayelsa State governor Diepreye Alamieyeseigha during the president’s chancellor of visit to Alamieyeseigha over the death of his son, in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, yesterday. the university, Professor James Ayatse stated this during the 4th Matriculation and Scholarship Award and condemnable considering the security measures are being put in

By Isaiah Benjamin, Kaduna ceremony of the 27 innocent people killed in the blast place to contain the insurgency inuniversity.

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and also the destruction of proper- cluding the ceasefire agreement, the He said the has questioned the sincerity and ef- ty it caused.” situation in the Northeast region is institution has fectiveness of the ceasefire agreement ACF also lamented, “The bomb deteriorating which needed a decisive abolished ‘Pass’ said to have been brokered between blast in Gombe, the continued kill- action to quell it. Towns like Bama, Degree grade as the Boko Haram sect and the federal ings and seizure of towns and villag- Gwoza and many others are still unstudents who fail government following the bomb blast es in Borno and especially now, Mubi der the control of the insurgents deto obtain a Cumuthat killed scores in Gombe State and in Adamawa State by insurgents bare- spite the emergency rule in Borno, lative Grade Point the continued seizure of towns and ly two weeks after the announcement Yobe and Adamawa states.

Average (CGPA) villages in Adamawa State by the sect. that a ceasefire had been brokered be“Nigerians are becoming skeptiabove 1 point in ACF in a press statement signed tween the Boko Haram insurgents cal and no longer have confidence in two successive by its national publicity secretary, and the federal government call to the assurances being given by governsemesters would Muhammad Ibrahim, in Kaduna at question the sincerity and effective- ment officials regarding the security be withdrawn the weekend said, “The news of the ness of the ceasefire agreement. challenges, since the terrorists have automatically. bomb blast that occurred on Friday “It is really disturbing and worri- continued to unleash mayhem on the morning at the Gombe motor park, some that despite the assurances giv- people without adequate counter ofBy Muazu Gombe State was wicked, gruesome en by government that appropriate fensive from the military.”

Elazeh, Katsina

Killings: ACF Queries FG, Boko Haram Ceasefire Agreement

2015: Bagwai, Shanono Youths Reject Farouk Lawan

By ABUBAKAR SALIHI, Kano

Not less than four youth groups in the two local governments that make up the Bagwai-Shanono Federal Constituency in Kano State have condemned the automatic ticket given to the embattled Hon Farouk Lawan by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to contest the 2015 elections.

These groups are Bagwai Youth Movement for Change; Bagwai PDP Youth Movement for Change; Bag-

wai PDP Farar Aniya and the Bagwai-Shanono Youth Network for Change.

The stance of these groups, according to a statement signed by Ibrahim Jauro and Idi Lawan and made available to journalists, was borne out of the need to have a fresh candidate to represent the constituency in the 2015 elections.

Part of the statement said, “Farouk Lawan has been representing Bagwai-Shanono Federal Constituency at the National Assem-

bly since the return of democracy in 1999 without any meaningful development to the people of the area.

“The party has given automatic contest tickets to all its incumbent lawmakers at both State and National Assemblies because of what party elders called loyalty as they refused to defect to the APC with Governor Kwankwaso.”

The youth groups said they took the decision at an emergency meeting held at Bagwai Town Hall, calling on the party leadership to look

into the Bagwai-Shanono nomination which they said has its peculiarities.

The release quoted one of the leaders of the groups, Comrade Mansur Akawu Bagwai as saying, “As party loyalists, we accept all party decisions in good faith but we are calling on the PDP to allow for the nomination of a fresh candidate to represent the party in 2015 as Farouk had enough opportunity by representing the constituency for four uninterrupted terms.

42

healthful

Monday, November 3, 2014

. . . C O N D U C I V E TO G O O D H E A LT H O F B O D Y O R M I N D

Intestinal Gas: A Right Of Passage? a careful history, a physical exam, and a few well-chosen laboratory tests can rule out those few, more notable, causes: irritable bowel syndrome, lactose intolerance, celiac disease, or gastroesophageal reflux disorder. In the vast majority of cases, flatulence indicates nothing more than that the patient is alive and eating a healthy diet.

“May i please close the door?” the slight, 58-year-old school librarian asked in hushed tones. Leaning forward, she confided the reason for her visit. Her inability to control the passage of odoriferous gas, she said, was causing her severe anxiety and rendering her an outcast on the job. “They have me working in the stacks two days a week now,” she said. Whether her assumption of cause and effect was real or not, the matter was obviously a source of great concern to her. Every living creature who possesses a digestive tract passes gas each and every day. For humans it starts as soon as we’re born and ends a day or so after we die. Despite the universality of this physiologic process, the passage of gas is considered the basest of bodily functions, often assigned to the most ill-mannered of individuals, as in the writings of Chaucer and Shakespeare, or used as a sound gag at a party (whoopee cushions have been around for hundreds of years).

How flatulence happens The average person produces one to three pints of gas per day and eliminates it in 14 to 23 passes, some while asleep. More than 99 per cent of this gas mixture is odorless, and consists of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and oxygen,

which we inadvertently swallow when we eat, drink carbonated beverages, chew gum, or smoke.

Some carbon dioxide is made in the stomach.

In addition, the normal bacterial population of our colon (large bowel) produces a tiny amount of hydrogen gas and methane by fermenting the carbohydrates left over from the small intestinal digestive process and forming hydrogen sulfide (like the smell of rotten eggs), methanethiol (like the smell of decomposing vegetables), and dimethyl sulfide (a heavy sweetish odor). In fact, less than 1 per cent of the gas we produce accounts for all of the odor.

Passing that gas mixture causes the anal sphincter to vibrate, producing a veritable symphony of sounds depending on the force with which the gas is expelled and the resistance of the sphincter.

Who can forget that rousing campfire scene from Mel Brooks’s 1974 masterpiece, Blazing Saddles?

When excess gas occurs alongside nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or involuntary weight loss, the need to see a physician is obvious. But by and large, gas as an isolated complaint is rarely due to a serious disorder. When a patient comes to me complaining about excess gas,

Gas reduction To reduce smelly gas production, the traditional approach is to cut down on foods that produce high residues of indigestible carbohydrates. These include: • Corn, noodles, and potatoes, and most foods high in dietary fiber.

• Fructose, found in artichokes, onions, pears, and wheat.

• Raffinose, found in asparagus, beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and whole grains.

• Sorbitol, found in apples, peaches, pears, prunes, and candies and drinks that use it as a sweetener. Only those items that seem to be the largest contributors need to be eliminated. One commercial over-the-counter product, Beano, may reduce the amount of gas formed from foods containing raffinose.

As for the incriminating and distinctive sound, patients can try to reduce the magnitude of the expulsive force, use the holdback technique, or try more opportune timing.

To mask odor, bismuth sub salicylate (Pepto-Bismol and gon’’’c) can be helpful in “ducing the ,mell of hydtog,n sul- fide gas but probably should not be taken on a long-term basis because of possible toxicity. Chlorophyll tablets are usually a waste of time.

Simethicone (Gas-X, Mylicon, and generic) makes small bubbles into larger ones and may help with belching but does little for lower intestinal gas. Using activated charcoal to soak up the gas is another possibility, although the amount that is needed by mouth is too large to be practical. A better solution is activated charcoalcoated underwear or pads worn inside Our librarian managed to cut back on her raffinose containing carbohydrates. She also wears an activated charcoal pad and has trained herself to pass gas more quietly. And she is no longer ridden with anxiety since finding out that everyone takes a turn at working the stacks.

Culled from Guide ti Better Health

Top 7 Causes of Infertility

➊

Ovulation Disorder: Poor egg health, endocrine glands, poor nutrition, stress, obesity could all cause this

➋

Low Sperm Count: Doctors say 20 million sperm ml or more is a healthy sperm count

➌

Poor sperm health: 25% of infertility cases are due to sperm health which involves motility and morphology of sperm

➍

Blocked fallopian tubes: This caused by pelvic inflammatory disease, uterine fibroids, endometriosis

➎

Anti-sperm antibodies: Antibodies are triggered during the immune response that work to kill the sperm

➏

Vas Deferens Blockage: this is the tube through which fertile sperms are transported, STDs may block it

➐

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Hormone imbalance may cause menstrual cycle irregularities, weight gain, and insulin resistance.

Lowering Blood Sugar

Artificial Sweeteners: The Supplement Everybody Loves To Hate When a person learns they are diabetic, one of the most painful prospects they face is the idea of cutting sugar out of their diet.

Of course many folks simply refuse to do this and live with elevated blood sugar (and the consequences). Others learn of artificial sweeteners and begin to use them as a replacement.

The evidence is solid and beyond all contradiction. You must wean yourself off all forms of added sugar. Even in its natural forms, like honey and in fruit, you cannot bear too much of it. Of course your body needs some sugar, which it will ideally produce through complex carbohydrates, but simple sugar, added sugar, and the sugar you get through eating fudge, pies, and candy bars will eventually bite you. In general, sugar is not your friend.

Artificial sweeteners certainly have their critics. It is not within the scope of this book to deal with all the pros and cons here, but let me give you a few simple thoughts about the matter. We know that normal sodas are laced with sugar and will make your bloodsugar level soar. Diet sodas do not have sugar and generally have 0 carbohydrates. They will not normally raise blood sugar, with the exception of sodas containing caffeine, which may make your blood sugar rise slightly. So if you have to drink soda, choose diet soda over real soda. Likewise, if you have to eat sweetened foods, choose foods sweetened with artificial sweeteners over foods sweetened with sugar.

I know I am making the purists gasp, but I am not a purist. And notice I said, “If you have to ... » Obviously, since artificial sweeteners are artificial it would be ideal to avoid them altogether.

And if you can do that, more power to you. But many of us are not eager to give up on ever tasting sweet things again for the rest of our days. And it is my conviction that the “purists” are usually the ones that can never stick with a low-carb diet for a lifetime. At the time of this writing I have been doing it for ten years and don’t feel the least deprived.

I enjoy diet sodas once in a while, and I occasionally treat myself with a dessert sweetened with Splenda. This I can live with.

Diet sodas and artificial sweeteners have been around since the 1950s.

Culled from 60 ways to Lower Your BLOOD SUGAR

43

Monday, November 3, 2014

116

About 116 persons were said to have lost their lives during the collapse of a building belonging to the synagogue Church of all Nations

43%

The National Population Commission (NPC) has said that 43 per cent of Nigerian children under the age of five were not registered.

Understanding Ovulation And Fertility: Facts To Help You Get Pregnant Knowing your menstrual cycle improves your chances of getting pregnant. The first phase starts with the first day of your period or blood flow. Your body releases hormones that make the eggs inside your ovaries grow.

Between day 2 and 14, those hormones also help thicken the lining of your uterus to get ready for a fertilized egg.

This is called the follicular stage. The average menstrual cycle is 28-32 days. Ovulation usually happens between day 11 and 21 of your cycle. A hormone called luteinizing hormone (LH) surges, triggering the release of the egg that’s most ripe. At the same time, your cervical mucus becomes more slippery to help sperm make their way

Warning Sign Of Type 2 Diabetes Although people with type 2 diabetes may not have specific symptoms, an increase in thirst is one symptom that is characteristic of the condition.

The increased thirst can accompany other symptoms like frequent urination, feelings of unusual hunger, dry mouth, and weight gain or loss.

Other symptoms that can occur if high blood sugar levels persist are fatigue, blurred vision, and headaches. Often, type 2 diabetes is only identified after its negative health consequences are apparent. Certain infections and sores that take a long time to heal are a warning sign. Other possible signs include frequent yeast infections or urinary tract infections and itchy skin.

Sexual problems can occur as a result of type 2 diabetes. Since diabetes can damage the blood vessels and nerves in the sex organs, decreased sensation can develop, potentially leading to difficulties with orgasm.

Culled from zeenew.com

Culled from zeenew.com

Asthma Attack Can Be Controlled With Vitamin D

Tea And Citrus May Lower Ovarian Cancer Risk Drinking tea and citrus fruits and juices are associated with a lower risk of developing ovarian cancer, according to a new largescale study.

Researchers from the University of East Anglia (UEA) found that women who consume foods containing flavonols and flavanones (both subclasses of dietary flavonoids) significantly decrease their risk of developing epithelial ovarian cancer, the fifthleading cause of cancer death among women.

The research team studied the dietary habits of 171,940 women aged between 25 and 55 for more

to the egg.

Women are born with about 1-2 million eggs, but only release 300 to 400 through ovulation. Usually you release just one egg each month. The egg travels down a fallopian tube, one of the two tubes that connect your ovaries to your uterus. If the timing is right, sperm may fertilize it on its way to the uterus. If fertilization doesn’t happen within 24 hours of the egg leaving the ovary, the egg dissolves. Sperm can live for about 3 to 5 days, so knowing when you are ovulating can help you and your partner plan sex for when you’re most likely to conceive.

An Israeli research has found that asthma flare ups can be helped by boosting the level of Vitamin D in deficient asthmatics.

Dr Ronit Confino-Cohen from University’s Sackler Faculty of Medicine said that Vitamin D has significant immunomodulatory effects and is believed to have an effect on asthma - an immunologically mediated disease.

In Israel out of some 21,000 asthma patients studied, 25 percent were those with a Vitamin D deficiency were more likely than other asthmatics to have had at least one flare-up in the recent past.

The medical records of nearly four million members of Clalit Health Services, Israel’s largest health care provider, were analysed by Dr Confino-Cohen and her team.

She further added that the results add more evidence to the link between Vitamin D and asthma, suggesting beneficial effects of Vitamin D on asthma exacerbations.

than three decades.

The team found that those who consumed food and drinks high in flavonols (found in tea, red wine, apples and grapes) and flavanones (found in citrus fruit and juices) were less likely to develop the disease.

“This is the first large-scale study looking into whether habitual intake of different flavonoids can reduce the risk of epithelial ovarian cancer,” said Professor Aedin Cassidy, from the Department of Nutrition at UEA’s Norwich Medical School, who led the study.

Culled from zeenew.com

Culled from zeenew.com

Fat Food You Should Eat

Whether we’re trying to lose weight or just avoid gaining it, many of us think steering clear of dietary fat is the first step. Contrary to common belief that fat is not good for body, one’s body requires certain kind of fat for growth, development and glowing skin.

Saturated fat can lead to heart problems, but eating the right amount of unsaturated fats can protect the heart.

The average adult should get about 20 to 35 percent of their daily calories from fat and less than 10 percent of

healthful Q &A

their daily calories from saturated fats.

So where can you find these unsaturated fats?

Look no further than the six healthy picks below: Avocado: Half of an avocado contains nearly 15 grams of fat total, and almost 10 of those are monounsaturated (two grams are polyunsaturated). Try it in place of mayo on your next sandwich.

Almonds (And Other Nuts): Just about any nut can make for a healthy fat-filled snack, but almonds happen to be the lowest in calories.

One ounce, about 23 whole almonds, contains just over 14 grams of fat, including nearly 9 grams monounsaturated and about 3.5 polyunsaturated.

Salmon (and other fatty fish): Salmon may be one of the most well-known fatty fish, but tuna, mackerel and sardines also offer a heart-healthy dose of fats.

Olives (and olive oil): Mixing 10 large olives into your next salad will add about 5 grams of fat, 3.5 of which are monounsaturated and .4 of which are polyunsaturated.

Flax (and other seeds): One tablespoon of whole flaxseed -- which you can toss into salads, soups, smoothies, yogurt and more -- contains just over 4 grams of fat, including nearly 1 gram monounsaturated and almost 3 grams polyunsaturated.

Culled from zeenew.com

Your article on atrial fibrillation didn’t mention catheter ablation. Is that an effective treatment? ln many cases, yes. Atrial fibrillation is a rapid, irregular heartbeat caused by abnormal tissue in the heart muscle.

The disorder can cause lightheadedness and fainting, and it increases the riskof heart failure and stroke. When medication fails to restore normal rhythms and there’s no serious heart disease, a minimally invasive procedure called catheter ablation can be considered. During that procedure, a laser or radiowave device is snaked through a vein up to the heart, where it destroys the abnormal tissue.

That restores normal heartbeat in 70 to 90 percent of patients, though up to one- third may require additional procedures and up to one-fourth may still need drugs.

Culled from Guide to Better Health

44

Monday, November 3, 2014 USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS ON ANY EMERGENCY

Council endorsed the useful phone numbers submitted by the security agents for easy access in case of any emergency on the metropolitan Roads. Accordingly, the public may easily Contact KAROTA for: Breakdown of Vehicle(s), Traffic Congestion, Accidents, Illegal / Wrong Parking to kindly Call KAROTA through the following number – 08091626747.

Similarly, the State Police Command could be contacted on – 08032419754, 08123821575. In addition, the State Fire Service can also be contacted on – 07051246833, 08191778888.

KANO STATE GOVERNMENT

173rd KANO STATE EXECuTiVE COuNCiL MEETiNG PREPARED BY COUNCIL AFFAIRS DIRECTORATE, OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT, GOVERNMENT HOUSE, KANO. •

ENGR. RAbi’u MuSA KwANKwASO, FNSE Executive Governor, Kano State

On reliable, indelible and easily retrievable records, the present administration in Kano State approved the execution of no less than 4,300 public spirited/oriented projects, programmes and policies at an average rate of twenty five (25) approvals granted per each of the previous 172 sittings of the Kano State Executive Council.

Impressively, the sum of over N360 Billion was prudently expended under the vigil and astute guidance of Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa, FNSE in the delivery of quality services by the incumbent administration so as to transform each sector towards the improvement of the quality of life of the citizenry in Kano State for the better. No sector was left behind in the journey so far. The phase and vigour with which the Government performs is unparalleled as continually and truthfully reported under the transparency policy of the second (2nd) incumbency of Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE. Decisions taken by the Kano State Executive Council at each of its previous 172 sittings were open to the public through weekly publications in the Print and Broadcast Media as well as the social Media just like this one which is in continuation with the commendable trend.

Reportedly, the Kano State Executive Council held its one hundred and seventy third (173rd) sitting on Thursday 30th October, 2014 (6th Muharram, 1436 AH) under the Chairmanship of Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE during which thirteen (13) MDAs submitted forty (40) memoranda for deliberation of which twenty two (22) cutting across five (5) sectors were approved for execution with an expenditure of Six Billion, Nine Hundred and Six Million, Four Hundred and Seventeen Thousand, One Hundred and Ninety Five Naira, Fifty Seven Kobo (N6,906,417,195.37) covering twenty (20) projects while the remaining two (2) are on policy issues. Thus; 1. THE HEALTH SECTOR Emphasis was continually placed on the resolve by the present administration to transform the Health Sector/system/facilities, etc. Achievements were recorded in all ramifications which include the following; • Infrastructure/physical facilities - Majority of the Kano State Government owned Hospitals and Health Care Delivery Facilities were renovated to befitting status of which the following can be cited as examples; i. Renovation of the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital. ii. Renovation of Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Specialist Hospital. iii. Renovation of the Kano Dental Center. iv. Renovation of the Kura, Gaya, Gezawa, General Hospitals, etc. v. Renovation of the IDH Hospital. vi. General renovation of Sir Sunusi Specialist Hospital, etc. vii. Complete repairs and renovations of Gwarzo General Hospital in collaboration with MDG viii. Ditto Bichi General Hospital ix. Ditto Rano General Hospital

Training/Provision of Professional Health Care Delivery Personnel - The present administration has sponsored the training of over five hundred (500) qualified Kano State Indigenous Students for MBBS, Pharmacy and Medical Sciences studies at various Institutions abroad.

- The College of Nursing and Midwifery Madobi, the School of Post Basic Midwifery Gezawa and the School of Health Technology Bebeji were established courtesy of Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE. - Tutors were employed from Egypt to teach at the Colleges of Nursing and Midwifery Kano, etc.

• Free feeding for patients in Government owned Hospitals is continually facilitated.

• Sustenance of the Polio Immunization Plus Days Campaign under tripartite arrangement among the Kano State Government, Dangote Foundation and Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

• Establishment of Primary Health Care Management Board.

• Dispensation of drugs and medical consumables controlled and regulated by Government intervention in the conduct of training under the Lafiya Jari Empowerment Programme.

• The Taskforce on Counterfeit and Fake Drug was set up by the present administration, etc.

Continuing with its effort to rid Kano State of the proliferation in the illegal handling and consumption of fake, expired and illicit drugs, the Kano State Executive Council approved the execution of one (1) memorandum related to Health Sector. Thus; Request for Funds to Enable Destruction of Confiscated Illicit and Fake Drugs at Aujawara Village in Gezawa LGCA:The Secretary to the State Government endorsed the cited request and presented it to Council for consideration on behalf of the Kano State Consumer Protection Council in collaboration with the State Taskforce on Counterfeit and Fake Drugs. Details were summarized and presented to Council for consideration. To date Government has confiscated and destroyed drugs worth over N4.3 billion Naira.

Accordingly, Council considered and approved for the release of the sum of N1,823,100.00 to enable destruction of the confiscated items.

2. THE EDUCATION SECTOR Delightfully, education at all levels is delivered free of charge in the State courtesy of Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE. In addition, the Education Sector enjoys priority attention from the present administration in all ramifications which translates to its present improved status when compared to what existed before.

The available infrastructure/utilities at all levels are increased and improved while access to Higher Education both locally and abroad are made possible through sponsorship granted to numerous qualified Kano State Indigenous Students. In fact, only posterity can tell of the wonderful achievement in the transformation of this all encompassing sector. The general commendable trend was maintained as Council approved the execution of one (1) memorandum related the education sector at the sitting as follows; Request for Funds to Enable Repairs and General Renovation of Twenty Five (25) Secondary Schools/Structures Damaged

by Rain Storms Across Kano State:The Ministry of Education notified Council through contents of this memorandum that, the year 2014 rainy season was characterized by heavy downpours of rain and prevalence of strong winds which damaged the structures in twenty five (25) Secondary Schools across Kano State.

Details were presented to Council for consideration along with the request for the release of the aggregate sum of N127,796,783.13 to enable execution of the necessary repairs and renovation at the affected Schools on Contractual arrangement.

Accordingly, Council noted, considered and approved the release of the requested sum for the general renovation of the twenty five (25) secondary schools.

3. THE INFORMATION/COMMUNICATION SECTOR Correct Information ensures functional knowledge provision

of which is among the cardinal preoccupations of the present administration in Kano State. A beacon of this administration, the Information Sector is confidently carried along in the envisaged journey towards the positive transformation of Kano State continuing with which Council approved for the execution of one (1) memorandum under the Information/Communication Sector.

Thus; Request for Funds to Enable Production/Printing of 1436 AH/2015 Islamic Hijiriyya Calendar:The request was endorsed by the Secretary to the State Government and presented to Council for consideration to enable the production/ printing of 1435 AH/2015 Islamic Hijiriyya Calendar.

The details presented were considered as routine in nature which were appraised by Council and approval was granted for the release of the trimmed down sum of N10,000,000.00 for the stated purpose.

4. THE EMPOWERMENT SECTOR An empowered, self reliant and actualized society translates to a productive and wealthy one in which the general socio – economic wellbeing of the concerned people is a reality. The good people of Kano State aspire for this and the present administration in the State leaves no stone unturned in its effort to empower the majority of its citizenry through the provision of access to functional/professional education, employable skills acquisition training, access to capital for small and medium scale entrepreneurs, rehabilitation/ reorientation/skills acquisition for the socially degenerated youths, capacity building for quality service delivery for serving civil servants, etc. The number of beneficiaries of the efforts by the present administration to empower its citizenry is impressive and cut across all segments of the society continuing with which Council approved the execution of eleven (11) memoranda related to the Empowerment Sector which can further be sub – divided under employable skills acquisition/provision; capacity building for serving civil servants, access to education and self help organizations empowerment. So far Government has trained and empowered over 660,000 youth with take-off capital. i. Employable Skills Acquisition/Provision.

• Request for Funds to Enable Provision of Essential Items for the Training of Batch 6 of 500 Female New Intake at Gabasawa Corporate Security Training Institute:The contents of this memorandum is requesting for the provision of essential items needed to enable the successful training of batch “6” 500no female new intake of the Corporate Security Institute, Gabasawa in the sum of N17,614,700.00 which was endorsed by the Office of the Secretary to the State Government for Council’s consideration.

Accordingly, Council considered and approved for the release of the stated sum for the commitment.

• Request for Funds to Enable Payment of Three (3) Months Allowances to Instructors, Matron and Kitchen Staff at Karaye NYSC Camp and Gabasawa for the 6th Batch Training of Corporate Security Guards under the State Corporate Security Institute:The contents of this memorandum recalled Council on the recently concluded training of the Corporate Security Guards held at the Karaye NYSC Camp and Corporate Security Institute Gabasawa and requesting the sum of N1,740,000.00 to be release as three (3) months allowances to thirty six (36) instructors, Matrons and Kitchen Staff.

Accordingly, Council considered and approved as requested.

• Request for Release of Counterpart Funds to Enable Training of 100 Less Privileged Women on GSM Repairs:The Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development submitted the request to enable it conduct the training of 100no less privileged women on GSM repairs in collaboration with Etisalat Communication Company and requesting the sum of N800,000.00 as Government Counterpart Funds for the programme.

Accordingly, Council approved as requested.

• Request for Funds to Facilitate the Admission Exercise for the 2014/2015 Academic Session into the Kano State Institute for Information Technology:-

45

Monday, November 3, 2014 The Ministry of Science and Technology submitted this request to enable it prepare the successful conduct of admission exercise for the 2014/2015 academic session of Kano State Information Technology Institute in the sum of N1,160,000.00 for consideration

by Council.

Accordingly, Council approved for the release of the trimmed sum of N1,000,000.00 for the undertaking. ii. SUSTENANCE OF TRAINING TO IMPROVE CAPACITY BUILDING IN THE CIVIL SERVICE It is quite on record that the present administration under the able leadership of Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwakwaso, FNSE had taken giant stride in the improvement of workers condition in the State ranging from good cordial relationship existing between the administration and Labour Unions, continuous training and retraining of civil servants within and outside the Country, renovation of Ministries Parastatals and Agencies to provide conducive working atmosphere for the civil servants, timely payment of salaries on 25th of every month to all civil servants, etc. It is an indisputable record that Kano state Government was the first in the country to fully implement and commenced the payment of N18,000.00 minimum wage to all civil servants since January 2012.

Accordingly, Council considered and approved the sum of N5,839,990.00 being various requests as presented on trainings that relate to improvement of capacity building in the civil service.

• Presentation of Report on the Scheduling of KAROTA personnel into the Main Stream Civil Service of Kano State:The establishment of KAROTA has brought about sanity on major roads in the Kano Metropolis reducing traffic offenses, congestion and accidents in addition to the creation of job opportunities to many youth. In February this year, the esteemed Council directed for the conversion of the KAROTA casual staff into the mainstream civil service and a Committee was set up to that effect.

Accordingly, Council considered and approved the scheduling of 1,013 staff of the Agency into the Mainstream Civil Service. iii. Provision of Access to Education.

• Request for Funds for One Way Tickets in Respect of Sixty Nine (69) of the 501 Kano State Indigenous Postgraduate Students Sponsored for Studies in Six (6) Countries Abroad to Enable their Return Home on Completing their Respective Courses:However well – disposed the State Government is toward bringing about accelerated development in the State, this could not be attainable without adequate and qualified manpower that will man all sectors. To this end, the present administration introduced graduate and post graduate foreign scholarship scheme under which about 2,500 students have been sponsored to pursue specialized courses in reputable universities overseas. In addition, many more have been sponsored to study in private universities in Nigeria.

Accordingly, Council considered and approved the release of the N12,114,650.00 to enable procurement of one way tickets in respect of sixty nine (69) post graduate students who have competed their studies at various foreign universities. iv.

Self Help Organizations Empowerment.

• Request for Funds to Enable Payment of Four (4) Months Allowances and Operational Funds in Respect of Grave Yard Committee of the Eight (8) Metropolitan LGCAs:The dead also have a special place in the heart of the present administration which undertakes the wall fence and rehabilitation of graveyards in the metropolis to prevent encroachment on destruction by flood waters in addition to the installation of solar powered lights to ensure maximum security at the Cemeteries.

Committee was set up to undertake this task.

Accordingly, Council approved the sum of N1,028,500.00 to enable payment of four (4) months allowances to the Committee and operational funds for the maintenance of the grave yards in the Metropolis.

5. THE INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT/MAINTENANCE SECTOR Infrastructural Development and Maintenance are among the most prominent preoccupations of the present administration of Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE. Main essence is to raise and generally revive the socio – economic fortunes and status of Kano State through the provision of worthy and useful infrastructures for use by the citizenry in the State. These range through the construction/expansion of roads; construction of flyovers; provision of qualitative utilities and facilities, etc.

One only requires taking a verification trip round metropolitan Kano and its entire rural surroundings to satisfy himself of the commendable performance by the present administration under the Infrastructural Development/Maintenance Sector. Continuing with the commendable trend; the Kano State Executive Council

approved the execution of seven (7) memoranda under the Infrastructural Development/Maintenance Sector as follows; a) Presentation of Report on the Review of the Scope of Work and Request for the Release of Funds for the Provision of Infrastructure at the Kano Northern Terminus, Dawanau:The Ministry of Land and Physical Planning reminded Council, through contents of this memorandum that, the Contract to provide Infrastructure at the Kano Northern Terminus was initially awarded at the sum of N11,968,519,818.98 via Council Resolution No. SSCA/CA/EX/7/1/61 of 8th March, 2012. The Contractor received 30% or N3,590,555,945.67 as mobilization and commenced work.

Nevertheless, the need to review the scope of work required instigated stoppage of the already started work. The scope of work was reviewed and divided into two (2) phases with the phase 1 estimated to cost the sum of N6,676,481,259.19 which was requested for release to enable its immediate execution while the design on the second (2nd) phase is at advanced stage.

The details presented for consideration by Council were accepted as appropriate and relevant as Council approved the following; i. Council approved the reviewed design and lifted the suspension of the work that was communicated to the Contractor. ii. Council approved for the immediate commencement of the phase 1 of the project at the estimated Contract sum of N6,676,481,259.19. b) Presentation of Progress Report on the Construction of Permanent Sites of the Twenty Four (24) Newly Established Institutes by the Present Administration:The Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport presented the cited report for consideration by Council.

Details were presented which translate to about 70% of the sites at 100% completion level while the remaining 30% are at advanced stages to completion. Overall average level so far achieved by the various Contractors is 85%.

Council acknowledged the presentation with appreciation. c) Request for Funds to Enable Construction of a Library Complex at Igbajo Polytechnics, Osun State:This request was submitted as a reminder and attempt to redeem a pledge made by Governor Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE during an educational visit to the Igbajo Polytechnics, Osun State.

Design of the proposed Library Complex estimated to cost the sum of N72,711,445.70 as reappraised by the State Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport was presented for consideration.

Accordingly, Council considered and approved the release of N30,000,000.00 as Government financial assistance to enable construction of the Library at Igbajo Polytechnic, Osun State. d) Request for Funds to Enable Renovation of Perimeter Wall Fence at Bayero University for a Distance of 249M:The Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport alerted Council, through contents of this memorandum that, the road reconstruction and expansion works along Gwarzo Road by Bayero University Old Site subjected the perimeter wall fence of the Institution to necessary demolition which requires urgent repairs at the cost of N3,418,213.05.

Accordingly, Council noted, considered and approved as requested. e) Request for Funds to Enable Completion of Conference Hall and the Construction of Perimeter Wall Fence at the Premises of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Situated along Katsina Road, Kano:The premises of the Kano State Headquarters of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) was identified as requiring the construction of a perimeter wall fence to secure the facility against wanton trespass and pilfering. Again, works on the provision of a Conference Hall at the Facility was abandoned. Details on the requirements for the two (2) projects estimated to cost the sum of N41,072,416.37 was requested for release by Council.

Accordingly, Council appraised the request and approved for the release of the sum of N6,200,000.00 to enable construction of the perimeter wall fence at the premises of the Kano State Headquarters of the Nigeria Labour (NLC). f) Request for Funds to Enable Execution of General Renovation Works at the Nigerian Legion Headquarters, Katsina Road, Kano:The Nigerian Legion Headquarters situated along Katsina Road, Kano was brought to the attention of the Kano State Executive Council as being in a general state of disrepair that requires intervention. The Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport appraised the scope of works required and presented the financial implications to the tune of N19,659,493.35 which was requested for release by Council to enable execution of the general renovation works at the cited site.

Council noted, considered and approved the release of the sum of N2,200,000.00 to enable renovation of only the office complex at the Nigerian Legion Headquarters on Katsina Road.

g) Memorandum for Funds for the Production of Seventy Three (73) Units of Granite Slab Plaques for the Commissioning of Various Projects Executed by the Present Administration:The contents of this memorandum is from the Ministry of Works, Housing and Transport informing Council on the various capital developmental projects been executed by the present administration such as; six (6) main urban roads with street lights, two (2) flyovers, mega secondary schools, two (2) under pass awarded recently, five (5) kilometer roads in each of the Headquarters of the 44 LGCAs of the State, Wuju – Wuju Road, two (2) IPP for generation of thirty five (35) megawatts daily.

Since most of the projects have been completed or reached advanced stage of completion, preparation should be made to commission them.

In this regard, the Ministry submitted a request for the production seventy three (73) granite slab plaques at the cost of N22,103,428.00.

Accordingly, Council considered and approved the release of the trimmed sum of N7,800,000.00 to enable production of twenty six (26) granite slab plaques. h) Request for Funds to Enable Payment of Consultancy Charges Related to the laying of Water Supply Pipeline from Tamburawa Water Treatment Plant to Hadejia Road:The Ministry of Water Resources submitted this request for consideration by Council.

Relatedly, Council was reminded, through contents of this memorandum, of its approval granted for the release of the sum of N2,963,865,445.25 for the procurement of ductile iron pipes to be laid from Tamburawa Water Treatment Plant to Hadejia Road covering a distance of 22.9KM. Contract for laying the pipes was also awarded at the sum of N211,542,512.50.

In any case, another Company was invited to carryout related survey and setting out the laying process. The work was carried out at the Consultancy charges to the tune of N3,435,000.00 which was requested for release by Council to enable payment to the Consultant whose work eased handling of the water supply pipeline laying process from Tamburawa Water Treatment Plant to Hadejia Road.

Accordingly, Council considered and approved the release of trimmed sum of N2,000,000.00 as consultancy charges to the related survey for the laying of the pipe. The total investment in water supply sector exceeds N21 Billion which consists of over 220 KM of Ductile Iron pipes, Generating sets, improvement and expansion of raw water intakes, water treatment chemicals and city reticulation.

UPDATE ON ACTIVITIES AT THE 173rd KANO STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL SITTING 1. SEIZURE AND CONFISCATION OF FAKE, ILLICIT AND EXPIRED DRUGS Council noted and acknowledged with appreciation the effort of the State Taskforce Committee on Fake, Illicit and Counterpart Drugs for the confiscation of fake drugs worth over N114,924,000.00 at Aujarawa Village in Gezawa Local Government on Wednesday 9th October, 2014. Similarly, Council wish to call on the general public to support the Government effort towards ensuring the total eradication of drug abuse and sales of illicit drugs among the teeming populace in the State.

2. FORMAL PRESIDENTIAL DECLARATION BY GOVERNOR ENGR. RABI’U MUSA KWANKWASO, FNSE UNDER THE ALL PROGRESSIVE CONGRESS (APC) Council noted the successful declaration of Governor Engr.

Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, FNSE to contest for President under the banner of the All Progressive Congress (APC) which took place on Tuesday 28th October, 2014 at the Old Parade Ground, Abuja. Furthermore, Council wishes to thank the millions of APC supporters who thronged the occasion to support the Governor on the quest to become President in the 2015 general election.

Similarly council noted the purchase of Expression of interest and Presidential Nomination form by his numerous supporters and admirers.

3. AFRICAN INTERNATIONAL BASKET BALL COMPETITION Council noted the participation of the Kano Pillars Basket Ball Team at the African Basket Ball Tournament that took place in Burkina Faso in October, 2014. Similarly, Council also noted that during the tournament, the Kano Pillars Basket Ball Team came Third (3rd) and were awarded with Bronze Medal.

Signed:

Hon. Commissioner, Ministry of Information, Internal Affairs, Youth, Sports & Culture

www.kn.gov.ng/new

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Monday, November 3, 2014

Monday, November 3, 2014

zonal watch

47

EDO DELTA BAYELSA RIVERS AKWA IBOM CROSS RIVER

Jonathan Best Thing To Happen To Nigeria –Group

BY ANAYO ONUKWUGHA, Port Harcourt

A socio-political group, the Goodluck-Sambo Presidential Victory Network (GSPN) has described the emergence of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan as President of Nigeria as the best thing that had happened to the country.

National coordinator of GSPN,

Hon. Chris Okwudirichukwu Aja, who stated this in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital while inaugurating the zonal and state officers of the group for the South-South geo-political zone, said Jonathan came to work for the country with open heart, fear of God and with strong determination to transform the

country.

Aja recalled the myriad of socioeconomic and political problems facing the country prior to the assumption of office of Jonathan, adding that the president developed the Transformation Agenda through which he carefully carries out holistic development of every sector of the economy.

He expressed happiness over what he described as the unusual exploits recorded so far by the president in each sector of the nation’s economy, and maintained that the successes are evident in the aviation, education, agriculture and the health sectors, as well as information, water resources, youth development, electricity

and road. Other areas include the Nigeria civil service, the judiciary and the electoral system among others.

The national coordinator enjoined the newly inaugurated zonal and state officers of the group, to continue their grassroots mobilisation for President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.

Total Trains Peer Educators On HIV/AIDS

BY ANAYO ONUKWUGHA, Port Harcourt

Heads FROM tHe ZONe

➔ engr.

Bekinbo dagogo-Jack is a governorship aspirant on the platform of the PdP in Rivers state.

➔ Chief Felix Obuah Chairman of PdP in Rivers state last week accused some aggrieved members of the party of being behind the attempted arson at the party’s secretariat in Port Harcourt.

➔ Obong Victor attah, Former governor of akwa Ibom state last week rejected the decision of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PdP to zone the 2015 governorship slot to eket senatorial district.

Members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the ward and local government congress in Rivers, Saturday.

delta: Police In Gun Battle With Robbers, Kill 1

BY KOLA EKE-OGIUGO, Asaba

An armed robbery suspect last week met his waterloo as he was shot dead by the police in a gun battle along Kwale expressway by Oloh village junction, in Aniocha South local government area of Delta State.

It was gathered that the gang members had been on an armed robbery spree, robbing innocent people at gun point, daily.

An eyewitness told LEADERSHIP that they were coming from Kwale when the robbers, who were believed to be more than 10, blocked both sides of the road, while robbing motorists and passers-by and shooting sporadically.

They were said to have robbed their victims of their money and other possessions in the process of which many sustained injuries.

However, nemesis caught up with them when the police

stormed the scene and engaged the hoodlums in a gun battle, following which the suspected leader of the gang was shot dead.

Some of the gang members seeing their boss felled by police bullet, took to their heels, and escaped into the bush abandoning him to battle for his life before the police put him in their patrol van with the aim of taking him to a hospital.

The eyewitness said blood was gushing out of the suspect’s nose and mouth before he gave up the ghost.

He alleged that the suspect and the gang members had been troubling the people for a very long time and had turned the Kwale expressway to their office as “they carried out armed robbery operations everyday on the road.”

Speaking on the matter, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Celestina

Kalu, said while a Dragon Patrol Team was on patrol on the road, they received information that a gang of armed robbers were operating on the expressway at Oloh village junction.

Based on the information, she said, the team mobilised to the scene and, on sighting the officers, the hoodlums opened fire on them and in a gun duel that followed, the gang leader was fatally wounded, while others escaped with bullet injuries, into a nearby bush.

Kalu stated that the suspect, who was fatally injured, eventually gave up the ghost on the way to the hospital.

The police image-maker said items recovered from the hoodlums include one English made double barrel gun, six live cartridges, and three cutlasses, adding that efforts were on to arrest the fleeing members of the gang, while investigation had commenced.

Oil giant, Total Nigeria, has embarked on expanded community programme to create awareness on the prevention of Human Immune Virus and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) in its host community.

In a joint address presented at the launching of the programme yesterday in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, managing director of Total Upstream Companies in Nigeria, Elisabeth Proust, and managing director of Total Nigeria PLC, Alexis Vovk, said the world, especially developing countries in Africa have been faced with the consequences of HIV/AIDS in the last three decades.

Proust and Vovk stated that Total’s involvement in battling HIV/AIDS is driven by the group’s sustainable development policy and in supporting government’s efforts in addressing the challenges of the dreaded disease in Nigeria.

They said, “Our fight against HIV/AIDS is a fight to protect our great nation Nigeria, our host communities, employees, families, organisations, and society. The fight has been adopted by the Total Group world-wide as an essential component of our group’s sustainable development policy, and as such fully integrated into our global strategy.

“For us, the watchword is ‘prevention’ which is obviously far less expensive and less complicated than cure. We are supporting government efforts in addressing HIV challenges in Nigeria in tandem with the national strategic framework (NSF) 2005-2009.

“In consonance with international best practices, a further dimension that ensures a more comprehensive wellness programme delivery has been added to the project with the inclusion of HIV/ AIDS related illnesses like tuberculosis, Hepatitis-B and malaria.

“In the past one week, Peer Educators who will be presented to the public today have been trained along the lines of this global approach. With the launch of today’s campaign, Total is bringing advanced HIV/ AIDS screening to the grassroots in Rivers State with the donation of a comprehensive set of high tech screening machines to the General Hospital, Omoku.”

The duo called on other organisations doing business in the Rivers State and Nigeria at large to emulate the gesture by also embarking on such programmes, pointing out that the companies embarked on the training of peer educators to help sensitise communities.

They stated that apart from the HIV/AIDS sensitisation programme, Total in Nigeria has invested in the state in the areas of education partnership, health, skills acquisition, sports , culture and charity, among others, as part of its community sustainable development initiative and called for judicious use of the equipment.

48 THE NATION’S CAPITAL

Monday, November 3, 2014

Cleric Tasks Christians Over Lopsided Gospel Of Salvation

By Igho Oyoyo

A United Kingdom based clergy man has tasked the Christian community in Abuja and entire Nigeria over what he described as lopsided gospel of salvation that has failed to uplift the Christian faith in the country.

The president and founder of World Harvest Center International in the United Kingdom, Rev. Wale Babatunde, in his one-day programme tagged “national transformational summit”, in Abuja called on Christian leaders to balance their gospel, so that the right Christian values will be inculcated in the hearts of Nigerians.

Babatunde affirmed that the problem of Nigeria does not lie in Aso Rock or the National Assembly, but within the church, stressing that transformation in most advanced societies started from the house of God. “My 23 years sojourn in the United Kingdom has revealed that there is a deviation from the core Christian values in Nigeria. Christian values which is hinged on salvation and doing good to all mankind irrespective of religious or tribal background has been undermined by preachers of the gospel. And until we (preachers) balance the gospel, Christianity will continue to grow but the impact will not be felt in the country,” he said.

The clergy who commended the early churches in the country for establishing schools and hospitals to care for the less privileged in the society free- of -charge, however blamed the rot in modern Christianity on Pentecostal movement.

CKC Kubwa Celebrates 14th Anniversary Of Holy Family Society

By Ruth Tene Natsa

The Holy Family Society, yesterday, celebrated the 14th anniversary of its inception in Nigeria at Christ the King Catholic Church, Kubwa.

Speaking to journalists at the event, the chief celebrant and Archbishop of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, who conducted a thanksgiving mass with the theme “make saints out of your family”, said that there was nothing special about being a Saint as “anyone who is reasonably good can make Sainthood”.

He said, “the Saints are not really special people, we are all meant to be saints, one doesn’t have to be special to be a saint but you have to be a reasonably good person.”

The cardinal added, “to be a saint simply means making efforts in the right direction, just be good to your neighbour and be faithful to God. God is not asking for too much from us, all of us are expected to go to heaven nobody was created to go to hell except those who want to go.

“In the early church, all Christians were called saints and Pope John Paul 11 used to tell us there is nothing unusual about being a saint because for a Christian it is a normal way of being and when a Christian is not a Saint, he should find out what is wrong with him.”

Also speaking at the event, the founder of the society in Nigeria, Sir David Osunde, said, “the “Feast of All Saints” is a day when all families, friends and well-wishers celebrate with the Saints that have gone before them because they were members of families while Here on earth, they moved around, ate and prayed like we do and we are to copy from them and live like they did.”

Secretariat road in Bwari, Abuja, yesterday. photo by nan

2015 Election: FCTA To Hold Peace Summit

By Nkechi Isaac

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has disclosed plans to organise a peace summit ahead of the 2015 general election.

The peace summit according to the Special Assistant to the FCT Minister on Security Matters, Prince Nwazuruahu Shield, is to sustain the relative peace currently enjoyed

in the FCT. He explained that the programme had been designed to engage residents of the territory and various stakeholders on the need to ensure pe as before, during and after the general election, adding that the engagement would afford participants a platform to exchange ideas and suggest strategies necessary to facilitate peace during campaigns, election exercise and post

election.

“To sustain the relative peace within the nation’s capital, the FCT Minister has mandated the office of the Special Assistant on Security Matters to proactively engage the public, particularly the civil society groups and well meaning partners on a round-table sessions to discuss and articulate ways of ensuring maximum security during the afore stated period,” Shield said in a statement.

Building Aesthetics: FCT Court Issues Bench Warrant For Defaulters

By Nkechi Isaac

A mobile court sitting in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), at the weekend, issued a bench warrant for defaulters who failed to repaint and redecorate their buildings.

The magistrate, Jibril Kutigi, ordered the arrest and provision in court of occupants of 12 flats in Uromi Close, Area 2, Section 1, Garki, Abuja, for failing to honour court summons served by the development control department of the FCT Administration.

In a related development, Kutigi ordered occupants of 32 flats of Dankama Close, in the same area, to repaint and redecorate their buildings within two weeks.

This order was sequel to claims by residents that they never received any redecoration notice from the

department before they were summoned to the court.

Speaking through the close chairman, Mr Ibikunle Ladejobi, the residents said they are law abiding citizens and would have obeyed the directive of the administration, stressing that they never received the redecoration order.

Reading the charge earlier, FCTA prosecutor, Barr. Arome Tokula, said the offence was failure to comply with Provisions of Section 35 1(e) and punishable under Section 35 2 (b) of the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB) Act of 1997, which stipulates that residents must redecorate their houses after every two or three years as the case may be.

In his remarks, the public relations officer of the department, Mr Kalu Emetu, said the exercise became crucial

because of the urban blight creeping into the nation’s capital.

Emetu said, “Abuja is a very new city so there was no need to enforce the building aesthetics until recently because of the rot that is gradually creeping into buildings within the metropolis, especially the high density areas like the occupier owned high rise buildings.”

Speaking to journalists, the acting head of aesthetics and amenities division of the department, Mr Mohammed Suleiman, reiterated the importance of maintain the aesthetics of the FCT, saying that renovation, rehabilitation and comprehensive redevelopment, according to Urban and Regional Planning Decree of 1998, is very necessary to maintain the structures of city.

OPINION 49

Monday, November 3, 2014

Let The Fiscal Responsibility Commission Stay By emejuiwe victor

Over the years, Nigeria had experienced the challenge of gross fiscal misappropriation and misprioritisation of funds to sectors of the economy. There is also poor budgetary planning which mostly did not fit into any developmental target. The fallout of this had hampered our ability to meet developmental targets of the country. As a result, meeting developmental goals such as Vision 2010, Vision 2015 and the various national implementation plans were never realised. The nation saw the need for planning and prudence in the management of its resources, hence, it set up the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA), 2007.

The FRA is to among others encourage a savings culture.

Section 35 of the Act states that, “Where the reference commodity price rises above the predetermined level, the resulting excess proceeds shall be saved. Currently this is being implemented as witnessed in the savings of proceeds in the excess crude account. In addition, we were witness to over $300bn debt accumulated during the military era, which former president Olusegun Obasanjo rallied around to cancel. The FRA is meant to provide limitations and guidelines for borrowing by states and the federal government.

The Act also made provisions for transparency and accountability

jonathan

of public resources.

The general overview of the Act is to provide for prudent management of the nation’s resources, ensure long-term macro-economic stability of the national economy, secure greater accountability and transparency within a medium term fiscal policy frame work, and the establishment of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission to ensure the promotion and enforcement of the nation’s economic objectives and for related matters. This provision gives support for achieving macroeconomic goals through medium term plans. The provisions of the Act are in no doubt needed in Nigeria to checkmate corruption and also engender sustainable

The fortunes of the FRA are currently threatened by the decision to merge the Commission

development but unfortunately the fortunes of the FRA are currently threatened by the decision to merge the Commission.

The call for the merging of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission was borne out of the report produced by the Oransanye-led committee on the rationalisation and merging of government agencies which has duplication of functions. The committee came up with the need to merge the Fiscal Responsibility Commission with the Revenue Mobilization and Fiscal Allocation Commission.

The committee should be commended for some of the recommendations it made, but considering the present rate of corruption ravaging the country and the need for transparency and accountability, it will suffice to state that the committee’s recommendation on the merging of the FRC with the RMFAC is mired in oversight, it can be described as an error and a setback in the galvanisation of our effort to rid the country of corruption and improve on our economy.

First and foremost the rationale for merging two agencies arises where the two agencies of government are seen to be having duplication of functions, but in the case of RMFAC and the FRC their functions are widely different from the other.

–Victor is programme officer, Centre for Social Justice, Abuja

The Falling Oil Price And Implications For Nigeria by boniface chizea

It is now common knowledge that the price of oil had recently fallen suddenly and precipitously that it has left all concerned struggling to catch their breath. And this development caught most people unawares and has agitated not a few minds as the world had enjoyed some stability in the price of oil for almost four years now.

Until June, 2014 the global price of oil had remained relatively stable at about $ 110 per barrel (about 68 British Pound) for almost four years.

What was almost alarming and sent all concerned scampering was the fast rate at which the price was falling.

The price of oil fell by about 30 per cent between June and September, 2014. There is now genuine concern that some concerted efforts must be made to stem the falling price.

What precipitated this untoward development was a combination of excess

supply and weak demand.

Amongst OPEC member countries, excess production was estimated at about one million barrel a day with ferocious competition for market share. Saudi Arabia the most important member of OPEC with the largest reserves refused to play the swing producer to help stem the falling price as it had done in the past.

It was thought that Saudi Arabia had rationalised that it is in its strategic best interest to moderate the price of oil to make marginal fields including the American shale oil and gas not economically competitive.

It is therefore speculated that Saudi Arabia is quite comfortable with prevailing price levels factoring in its massive reserves estimated at over 700 billion dollars.

The estimate is that Shale oil has a breakeven cost of extraction of about $ 85 per barrel and therefore prices of oil in that range would make the American oil uneconomic.

There was also the little concern on the part of Saudi Arabia of the need to whip other OPEC members into line and restore some discipline as most OPEC members had observed their respective quota in the breach.

There is also the problem of illegal bunkering particularly oil coming from the Islamic State ISIS which is sold at a massive discount; by some estimates the cost of oil from this source was being sold as low as $ 25 per barrel contributing in no small measure to the worsening market scenario.

But there is some light at the end of the tunnel as since the Americans commenced the bombing of ISIS from August 8, 2014 the coalition had been able to stop the crude export form ISIS from a high of 70 thousand barrels a day to about 20 bpd and prevented the fall of a northern Syrian town to the Islamic Jihadists but there is still some struggle to try and halt completely the push by

the jihadists.

In spite of the upheavals at Libya oil, exports have not been drastically affected as well as productions from Iraq and Iran; which recently entered into some sorts of rapprochement with the West and has regained the capacity to export legally crude petroleum.

All these developments have all contributed in no small measure to the worsening of the market situation.

On the other hand, there is the softening of demand from European countries as their economies continue to languish characterised by low inflation and weak growth with the distinct possibility of a third recession being witnessed in the region in a duration of six years.

What are the implications of this deteriorating market situation for the Nigerian economy; the largest economy in Africa and the continent’s largest exporter of crude?

– Chizea sent in this piece from Lagos

Every Monday With Ibraheem a. WazIrI iawaziri@yahoo.com, 08035167963 (SMS only)

The Mubi Massacre: An Eye Witness Account This short eyewitness report sent to me by a friend, Ahmed Sajoh on October 30, 2014 describes the situation in Mubi after the recent attack by Boko Haram. May God in His infinite mercy bring succor to thevictims of the bloody attack.

T

his morning as early as 5 a.m. I and my Personal Assistant left Yola on our way to Maiha, luckily for me a good Samaritan had allowed my daughter the use of his phone and we spoke. I told her exactly where to wait for me. By 8.40am we met them weak, tired and with swollen feet.

We were supposed to be joyful but honestly we were not.

The magnitude of the humanitarian disaster that we saw is better imagined than witnessed.

Men, women and children, some as young as a day old were moving along the road heading for Pella from where they hoped to connect to Yola or other safer locations.

It was a human catastrophe of monumental proportion. Some herded their cattle and other domestic animals on the journey to the unknown. I saw about three children, all less than 5 years old who had lost contact with their parents. I also saw a woman in labour.

I saw danger, I saw naked fear in the eyes of the people as they moved towards an unknown destination, I saw despondency and hopelessness.

The worst picture I saw is that of soldiers running away; soldiers and civilians competed in entering a tipper in Maiha! I was dumbfounded!

Some of the soldiers begged us to take them but we couldn’t as there was no space in our vehicle.

The Mararraban Pella junction has now turned out to be a Military cantonment of some sort.

Hundreds of soldiers and their hardware are holed up there.

As we drove back, several things came to my mind. How did this disaster start? When will it end? Who will end it? How come our gallant soldiers run away from combat? Who supplies the insurgents their superior weapons?

How come there is no word from the Military authorities on the latest attack on Mubi?

Meanwhile, fighting is still going on in areas around Vimtim. The insurgents are bent on reaching the residence of the Chief of Defense Staff. As of yesterday, the safest place around Mubi was Vimtim but by today that may not be the case. The main market in Mubi was bombed this morning with heavy losses in terms of goods but no reported casualties.

I got across to one Iliya Mai Zane who went and saw the damage in the market. Farmlands were also abandoned. One Isaac Inuwa, a pastor and assistant general overseer of Triumph of Faith Church in Lamorde Mubi who went to pick his kid from a private school was reportedly killed by the insurgents in the presence of his wife.

Many people trapped in the town including my colleagues and some students of Adamawa State University, Mubi are without electricity, water, food or other essentials.

Those running to Yola do not know where to go. It’s a monumental disaster that is hidden by all the noise about the politics of 2015 elections.

Another worry expressed by our people is the silence of government-owned media in the face of these disasters. Where is their social responsibility to the people? What of the so called Media Center? We are simply waiting.

50

Monday, November 3, 2014

SCHOOLS, EDUCATION, & FAITH PLATFORM

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF

SPECIALISED CLASSIFIEDS PAGES SUSTAINABLE LIVING AND DEVELOPMENT ORGANISATION

FOUNDATION FOR PEACE UNITY PROGRESS AND PATRIOTSIM

WOUNDS OF JESUS ADORATION MINISTRY

This is to inform the General Public that the above named ORGANISATION has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under Part ‘C’ of the Companies And Allied Matters Act, 1 of 1990.

This is to inform the general public that the above named FOUNDATION has applied for Registration to the Corporate Affairs Commission under Part “C” of the Companies And Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Dele Balogun 2. Olatokunbo Ogunyemi Ogunegbemi 3. Timi Akanji Owolabi 4. Mrs. Iyabowale Olukemi Owolabi 5. Alaba Olaoluwa Agbatogun

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Ugwuangi Obiagaeliaku Christiana Nwafor 2. Aikhenomia Christopher 3. Nwafor Emmanuel Tochi 4. Nimdam Patrick Selman 5. Washima Josephine Mwuese

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 Matter Act 1990.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To facilitate the establishment of new skills.

2. To cater for the general welfare of the members and the society.

3. To assist the less privileged in the society.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Chizoba Marice Edu 2. Ifenyinwa Doris Edu 3. Chinedu Mary Adigwe AIM AND OBJECTIVES 1. To preach the word of God to mankind.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To promote peace and unity in Nigeria.

2. Youth empowerment/youth employment.

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 this publication.

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

Signed: SECRETARY

Signed: SECRETARY

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission (C.A.C) P.M.B 198, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Irosi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.

SIGNED: BARR. VINCENT O. ENEMOSAH

VOICE OF RECONCILIATION MINISTRY

BOINIME JACKSON LOTT FOUNDATION

REVIVAL OF NATIONAL INT’L GOSPEL OUTREACH

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 GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1 OF 1990.

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Lott Ekiye 2. Mamedu Andrew Aigbogie 3. Lott Ayima J. 4. Moneke Azubike Ihechi

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Pastor Macdaniel Chukwuemeka Mbi 2. Mrs. Victoria Emeka Mbi

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Marcus Okeoghene Akorefe 2. Mercy Obianibeli Akorefe 3. George Onakorame 4. Akorefe Rukevwe Prince 5. Okonkwo Kenechi 6. Sandra Oghenetemure Amajatoja 7. Akorefe Oghenetejire Mark

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1 To helf in the advancement of education through scholarships at all levels.

2. To provide a platform for the advancement of legal education.

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To preach the gospel of Christ to all nations.

2. To establish churches worldwide.

3. To win souls into the kingdom of God through Christ.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja within 28 days of the publication.

Signed: BARR. STEPHEN OAHIMIJIE MABVOCATE LAW HOUSE GLOBAL PLAZA, JABI ABUJA

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, GARKI, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ.

2. To win souls for the kingdom 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. UCHE NWAGU

CHAMPION VIEW CABLE DEALERS ASSOCIATION

AKOZILO PROGRESSIVE FORUM

JESUS THE HEALER INTERCESSORY MINISTRY INTERNATIONAL

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, 2004.

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, 2004.

The general public is hereby notified 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 No.1 of 1990

THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Mr. Sunday Ekwunife 2. Mr. Eugene Ekwealor 3. Mrs. Patience Adiele 4. Mr. Emeka Iwuoha 5. Mr. Hipolite Okpala 6. Mr. Malachy Okafor 7. Mr. Ebere Eberechi 8. Mrs. Christiana Udeogu 9. Mr. Victor Onwuagha 10. Mrs. Mercy Iwuala

THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Imafidon Festus 2. Nanna Emmanuel 3. Uwagbor Godwin 4. Simeon Okhaifor 5. Idiagbonya Godwin 6. Osobase Lewis 7. Peter Aizenobie 8. Maxwell Ezabu

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Mrs. Akabunwa Rita 2. Mr. Akonjie O. Henry 3. Mr. Baffoe B. Godfred 4. Mr. Gabriel E. Abunmere 5. Mr. Abraham O. Okoawo

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To preach and protect the interest of members.

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

Signed: BARR. VICTOR OYONAKPARE 08033350961

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To create a forum and avenue of social and cultural activities for members and to foster the spirit of brotherhood amongst member.

2. To encourage the spirit of community assistance particularly to indigent persons within our community.

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

Signed: SECRETARY

LEGAL NOTICE

IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE OF THE FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY, ABUJA

IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE OF THE FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY, ABUJA

Whereas the person / persons whose name is set out in the first column hereunder died intestate on the date and place in the said column. And whereas the parson(s) whose name and address is set out in the second column hereunder claimed the relationship of the said deceased and has applied to the above named court for the grant letters of Administration of the personal property. Notice is hereby given that the said letters of Administration be granted to such person (s) unless “NOTICE TO PROHIBIT’’ the grant thereof is filed in the probate registry of the above named court within twenty one (21) days from the date of publication.

SCHEDULE

Whereas the person / persons whose name is set out in the first column hereunder died intestate on the date and place in the said column. And whereas the parson(s) whose name and address is set out in the second column hereunder claimed the relationship of the said deceased and has applied to the above named court for the grant letters of Administration of the personal property. Notice is hereby given that the said letters of Administration be granted to such person (s) unless “NOTICE TO PROHIBIT’’ the grant thereof is filed in the probate registry of the above named court within twenty one (21) days from the date of publication.

SCHEDULE

DECEASED NAME AND ADDRESS

DECEASED NAME AND ADDRESS

APPLICANTS FOR GRANT

MOHAMMED HASSAN Setraco Nigeria Limited (RTD)

Zainab Mansur and Hauwa Mohammed

AGWUEGBO SAMUEL AMAECHI LUTH (RTD) WHO DIED ON THE 23rd July, 2011

Agwuegbo Nwachi Mary and Agwuegbo A. Chukwuemeka 44 Moses Majekodunmi Crescent Abuja The widow and son of the said deceased

DATED AT ABUJA THIS 31st DAY OF OCTOBER, 2014 SIGNED BARR. HAFSAT SADIQ FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

For booking or inquiry call

> HENRY UBIMAGO 08068640944

Better Life Mpape WHO DIED ON THE 2nd February, 2014 The widow and daughter of the said deceased DATED AT ABUJA THIS 31st DAY OF OCTOBER, 2014 SIGNED BARR. HAFSAT SADIQ FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

> AUGUstINE 08032325988

> GLORIA OKwUM 08038722368

> ABIGAIL sAMBO 08064382438

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 day of this publication.

Signed: BARR. EJEMEN AGATHA IDIALU

LOTO PRINCIPAL AGENTS ASSOCIATION

LEGAL NOTICE

APPLICANTS FOR GRANT

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE : 1. To preach the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ and win souls for the kingdom of God.

This is to notify the general public that the above named ASSOCIATION has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part ‘C’ of Companies and Allied Matters Act.of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Mr. Utibe Udo Akpan - President 2. Mr. Sylvanus Silas Eku - Secretary 3. Inemesit Eyakenam Ifot 4. Mr. Mighty Joseph AIMS/OBJECTIVES: 1. To bring all loto agents under one umbrella 2. To assist members in times of need, according to the capacity of the association 3. To foster unity, peace and harmony among members.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this Publication.

Signed: MR. UTIBE UDO AKPAN (President)

> GLORIA RAPHAEL 08061356519

> GLORIA ODIO 08034285851

> GRACE OJO 08035054444

51

Monday, November 3, 2014 Association Of Cottage Industrialists Of Nigeria

THE LIGHT OF GOD’S WISDOM GLOBAL OUTREACH

FEED MY FRIEND INITIATIVE

The general public is hereby notified that the above named Association has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No. of 1990

The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No. of 1990

The general public is hereby notified that the above named INITIATIVE has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No. of 1990

TRUSTEE: 1. APOSTLE JOSHUA KAYODE ONIPEDE 2. DEACONESS LYDIA BOSE ONIPEDE 3. PASTOR OLUWAFEMI AYODEJI OGUNGBEMI 4. PASTOR JOHN ADENIYI 5. MRS. KEMI ADELEKE 6. DR. ADEBANKE OKETOLA 7. PASTOR OPEYEMI AJAYI 8. PASTOR OLUSEYE VICTOR AKOLADE 9. BRO. OLUWAFEMI ALADETUYI 10. ONIPEDE FISAYO

TRUSTEE: 1. Fadekemi Schriefer 2. Leif Schriefer 3. Omolabake Bode-Mathew 4. Dennis Kannan 5. Aderonke Adenugba

TRUSTEE: 1. Oluwasegun Akinbonja Mulemora 2. Alhaji Muniru Ola Oladayo 3. Dr. Akin Enoch Zerubbabel Olowookere 4. Ms. Onyinyechi Clever Odonja 5. Mr. Bamidele Agunloye Aim AND OBJECTIVE: To modernize cottage industries and transform the rural lives.

Aims AND OBJECTIVEs: 1. To bridge the great gap of inequalities between the rich and the poor by being the voice of the voiceless, the platform for the less privileged and lower class to accomplish their dreams and aspirations.

2. To help young people acquired vocational, entrepreneurial and life skill with which they can move closer to achieving their dreams.

Aim AND OBJECTIVE: To preach 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 Aguyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja Within 28 days of this Publication.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off Aguyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja Within 28 days of this Publication.

SIGNED: SECRETARY

SIGNED: SECRETARY

SALVATION FOR THE SAINTS ON EARTH IN’L MINISTRY

Parents Inheritance Initiative

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 Matter Act 1990.

The general public is hereby notified that the above named Initiative has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No. of 1990

The Trustees are: 1. Pastor (Mrs.) Bamijoko Adetoun Adunbi 2. Mr. Bamijoko Oluwaseyi Fehintoluwa 3. Mr. Bamijoko Abayomi Alfred 4. Mr. Oluwole Olabode Olutoye 5. Mr. Bada Olukayode George

TRUSTEE: (1)Ms Esther Bolou Boro (2)Mr lkudasi Akinola Abbey (3)Mr Lawal Femi Africas (4)Mr Isaac ThankGod (5)Mrs Julie Okenarhe (6)Mr Apaah Ekpein (7)Mr Barri Pereomongu (8)Mr Osimri Anozie (9)Mr Enock Etimighan

- Chairperso/ Gen. Overseer - Secretary - Member - Member - Member

Aim and Objectives To preach the gospel of our lord Jesus Christ to all nations and to prepare the church for the coming of our lord Jesus Christ.

2. To liberate men from satanic bondages through the preaching of the gospel of our lord Jesus Christ and to prepare the church for coming of our lord Jesus Christ.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission (C.A.C) P.M.B 198, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Irosi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.

SIGNED: Pastor (Mrs.) Bamijoko Adetoun Adunbi

(chairman) (secetary)

Linda

I formerly known as Miss Linda Achenyo Ahiaba, now wish to be addressed as Linda Ahenyo James Femi. All documents remain valid. Kogi State University Anyigba, N.y.s.c. and the general public take note.

Habiba

I formerly known as Miss Habiba Abduljalil, now wish to be addressed as Mrs Habiba Abduljalil. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

Dorcas

EZE

I formerly known as MISS MBAKWE CHINENYE MARYANNE, now wish to be addressed as MRS EZE CHINENYE MARYANNE. All former documents remain valid.

General public to please note.

LOSSOF loss of OFDOCUMENTS document DOCUMENT LOSS

This is to inform the general public of the loss of original copy of Certificate of Occupancy with No. 186aw-d90fz-73a3r-c38cu-10 156386 and file no. MISC 55607 in favor of ARDAT NIGERIA LIMITED in respect of Plot No. 251 situated at Cadastral Zone A03 measuring about 755.82 m2 dated 3rd October, 2005. All efforts made to trace the said document proved abortive. If found please return to the nearest police station.

- General Secretary - Legal Adviser - Financial Secretary

SIGNED: Barr. Nora Anoruo

SIGNED: SECRETARY

NDITO IBOM CROSS SOCIAL CLUB OF NIGERIA The general public is hereby notified that the above named SOCIAL CLUB has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for registration under part “C” of the companies and Allied Matters Act No. 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Professor Benjamin Chukwuma Ozumba 2. Mrs. Chinelo Joy Ozumba 3. Chukwumdindu Benjamin Ezechukwudebelu Ozumba

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Ekpenyong, Anthony - President 2. Umoh Uduak Sunday - Director of Protocol 3. Raphael Ufon Amanam - Secretary 4. Umoh Imeh Uduak - Asst. Secretary 5. Emmanuel Brown Akpan - Treasurer 6. Ufoh Arit Okon - Member

Aims AND OBJECTIVEs: 1. Help the less priviledged in the society, healthcare delivery, award of scholarship to indigent students.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To promote Love, Peace, Unity, Progress and Welfare of it’s members 2. To help the less privilege in the society

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

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

Signed: Secretary

SIGNED: MRS. ROSE AJAYI OBAGA

I formerly known as Dorcas Oyiza Usman, now wish to be addressed as Dorcas Oyiza Ovurevu. All documents remain valid.

General public take note.

TRUSTEE: 1. Atinuke Arogundade 2. Adeolu Arogundade 3. Pastor Imade Alabi 4. Olajumoke Ayeni 5. Caroline Oyawale 6. Omolabake Bode-Mathew 7. Doyin Akinrinade

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

The general public is hereby notified that the above named FOUNDATION has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No. of 1990

Signed: SECRETARY

The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No. of 1990

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

The general public is hereby notified 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 No.1 of 1990

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 day of this publication.

VIRTUOUS ROYAL SISTERS FELLOWSHIP

Aims AND OBJECTIVEs: 1. To assit indigent/leds privileged parents and orphans.

PROFESSOR BENJAMIN CHUKWUMA OZUMBA FOUNDATION

Aims And Objectives Are : 1. To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ.

SIGNED: SECRETARY

Aims AND OBJECTIVEs: 1. To organise programmes where women will be taught on how to build their homes according to the word of God. 2. To organise prayer meetings where women come together to pray for their homes, over their challenges and prayer requests on what they desire from God.

HIS NAME IS WONDERFUL CHRISTIAN MINISTRY

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Pastor Peter Oluwatoyin 2. Pastor Mrs. Esther Oluwakemi Olatunji 3. Pastor Victor Sunday Talabi 4. Brother Olatunji James Oluwaseun 5. Brother Paul Olufemi Adeleke 6. Mr. Kaka Olaitan

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off Aguyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja Within 28 days of this Publication.

BOSEDE

Patience

JOY

I formerly known as BOSEDE TAIWO, now wish to be addressed as MRS BOSEDE ADEYEMI. All documents remain valid. General public take note.

I formerly known as MISS OKEREKE JOY OMUMU, now wish to be addressed as MRS JOY OMUMU OGBULIE. All documents remain valid.

General public take note.

chigaemezu

Abdulkareem

I formerly known as Miss cynthia chigaemezu Amadi, now wish to be addressed as Mrs chigaemezu confidenceEnyinnaya. All documents remain valid. General public take note.

ADEDAYO

I formerly known as MISS FOLASHADE ADEDAYO ODUNUGA, now wish to be addressed as Mrs. ADEDAYO FOLASHADE ADESHINA. All former documents remain valid.

General public to please note.

JOY

I formerly known as MISS OGALA JOY ANN, now wish to be addressed as MRS JOY NNAEMEKA ALI. All documents remain valid. General public take note.

I formerly known as Abdulkareem Daddy Ogboji, now wish to be addressed as Abdulkareem Onoja Ogboji. All documents remain valid. University of Abuja and the general public take note.

MUNIRA

I formerly known as MRS MUNIRA AHMED ISMAIL, now wish to be addressed as MISS MUNIRA SULEIMAN TANIMU. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

I formerly known as Miss Patience Afkanu Mamza, now wish to be addressed as Mrs Patience Zirrah Tariminge.

All documents remain valid.

General public take note.

USMAN

I formerly known as MISS AJAYI ATINUKE ADETUTU, now wish to be addressed as MRS USMAN ATINUKE ADETUTU. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

BLESSING

I formerly known as BLESSING OKIBE, now wish to be addressed as BLESSING OGIDI OKIBE. All former documents remain valid.

General public to please note.

SAFIYA

I formerly known as SAFIYA YUSUF MUHAMMAD, now wish to be addressed as SAFIYA UWAIS IBRAHIM. All documents remain valid. NYSC and the general public take note.

JANE

I formerly known as MISS JANE OSAJI, now wish to be addressed as MRS JANE OSAJI GOMINA. All former documents remain valid.

General public to please note.

Mamuda

I formally known Mamuda Rilwanu Yauri now wish to be known as Mamuda Rilwanu.

All documents remain valid.

Adamu Augie College of Education Argungu,Kebbi state and general public to note.

Amina

I formally known as Hurairatu Muhammed Kamba, now wish to be called and addressed as Amina Hurairat Mohammad .All former documents remain valid. General public to note.

1X1 SPACE FOR SALE

AUGUSTINA

I formerly known as MISS EZUGWU AUGUSTINA NNEDINSO, now wish to be addressed as MRS AUGUSTINA NNEDINSO CHIDI NWANKWO. All documents remain valid.

General public take note.

1X1 SPACE FOR SALE

1X1 SPACE FOR SALE

52 Business/WORLD NEWS

Monday, November 3, 2014

Branson Vows To Push Forward With Space Quest

Mike Alsbury,the pilot who died in the crash

Richard Branson has pledged to continue the drive for space travel after the crash in the Mojave Desert of a passenger spaceship being developed by his company Virgin Galactic, that killed one pilot and seriously injured the other.

Ahead of a meeting on Saturday with the Virgin Galactic team, Branson told a news conference in California that there had been “incidents” in the early days of

aviation before it became “very safe,” adding he hoped people would one day be able to go to space safely.

“We would love to finish what we started some years ago and I think pretty well all our astronauts would love us to finish it... Millions of people in the world would love one day to have the chance to go to space,” Branson said.

The British entrepreneur added

he was “determined to find out what went wrong”.

Friday’s crash of the suborbital vehicle SpaceShipTwo, which was undergoing its first powered test flight since January, was the second disaster suffered by a private space company in less than a week, dealing a blow to the fledgling commercial space launch industry.

On Tuesday, an Antares rocket built and launched by Orbital Sciences exploded after liftoff from Wallops Island, Virginia, destroying a cargo ship bound for the International Space Station.

In the Virgin crash, one pilot’s body was found in the wreckage, while the second pilot, who ejected and parachuted to the ground, survived with serious injuries, according to Donny Youngblood, Kern County Sheriff.

The survivor was found more than a mile from the main wreckage of SpaceShipTwo near the Mojave Air and Space Port, he said. A debris field was spread over more than a mile.

BBC

China Manufacturing Growth Slows, PMI Survey Suggests

Growth in China’s manufacturing sector slowed in October, an official survey suggests, reinforcing concerns about a slowdown in the wider economy.

The country’s Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) fell to a lower-than-expected 50.8, from 51.1 in the previous month. Any score above 50 represents growth.

Analysts had forecast a small rise in the pace of growth.

Recently released figures showed the wider Chinese economy growing at its slowest pace for more than five years.

Growth between July and September was 7.3% com-

pared with a year earlier, down from 7.5% in the previous quarter.

“There remains downward pressure on the economy, and monetary policy will remain easy,” said analysts at China International Capital after the PMI data was published on Saturday.

Beijing recently unveiled measures designed to stimulate consumer spending, including relaxing limits on home purchases and injecting billions of dollars into the country’s biggest banks.

China’s central bank has also cut certain inter-bank interest rates.

The government aims to achieve 7.5% economic growth this year, although many analysts believe it will struggle to meet this target. There is speculation it may take further steps to boost growth.

Such high levels of growth are needed to ensure enough jobs are created for China’s huge and increasingly-educated population.

But the growth ambitions are much higher than expected rates in more developed economies - latest figures show the US economy growing at an annual rate of 3.5%.

BBC

Digital-Jewels Supports NIBSS On Information Security

By Tunde oguntola, Abuja

A leading best practice standards consulting firm in West Africa Digital-Jewels, recently partnered Nigeria Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS) to achieve its accreditation in International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electro-technical Commission (IEC) under the joint ISO and IEC subcommittee ISO/IEC 27001:2013 and business continuity management system ISO 22301:2012 a specification for an Information security management.

In a statement made available to Leadership, Ade Shonubi, managing director, Nigeria Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS) said that after receiving the certificates, he acknowledged the effort of partners like Digital-Jewels for their effort in achieving the feat.

It said ‘’I commend Digital-Jewels for their expert support and focus in seeing the process through

adding that engaging the services of indigenous specialised firm has further strengthen their resolve to do more in the future as far as Information security management system and Business Continuity management system are concerned.’’

Adedoyin Odunfa, MD/CEO, Digital-Jewels in her remarks explained that as strategic partners to NIBSS responsible for guiding the organisation through the rigorous and painstaking process of achieving this revered international accreditations, the company is pleased to have achieved this momentous milestone.

According to her, “It is not often that you get two certifications being presented to one organisation at the same time, if you look at the positioning of NIBSS along the e payment value chain, it is very pivotal to making the cashless Nigeria mandate a reality. So it is really important and an incredible demonstration of responsibility by the management of NIBSS to subject itself to the rigour of accreditation to these global established standards.”

A voter exiting a polling booth in Luhansk

UKRAINE: Breakaway Regions Hold Elections Polls have opened in two regions of eastern Ukraine in controversial leadership elections held by proRussia separatists that Kiev and the West have refused to recognise and which threatens to deepen the international crisis over the conflict.

The elections yesterday in the self-declared Donetsk People’s Republic and Luhansk People’s Republic, which are based around the two main rebel-held cities, are designed to bring a degree of legitimacy to the makeshift military regimes that already control them.

Both are choosing new presidents and parliaments, but there is little question that the current unelected rebel chiefs - Alexander

Zakharchenko in Donetsk and Igor Luhansk in Luhansk - will be confirmed in their posts.

Reports from Donetsk state that Zakharchenko was behaving more like a statesman than a rebel leader, telling his constituents that the vote would pave the way towards kick-starting the economy.

“The people here want peace with Ukraine, but they also want their own views to be recognised,” she said. “It is a vote for legitimacy for the leadership, and a vote of hope for peace for the people who cast their ballots.”

Voting in the main rebel city of Donetsk proceeded in the presence of gunmen inside three polling stations.

2015: Dubai Based Group Backs Jonathan’s Re-election

By Ugochukwu Iroka, Abuja

A group of Nigerians domiciled in the United Arab Emirates,UAE under the auspices of Goodluck Friends International Foundation for Youth Development(GFIFYD), has declared their support for the re-election bid of President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2015 presidential election.

The group, in a statement made available to LEADERSHIP via email yesterday and signed by its president Hon. Godsown Onyeka, said it took the decision at a meeting after a careful study of the president’s numerous achievements visa-vis promises made and kept since his assumption of office.

“After careful study of the government’s achievements, we the members of Goodluck Friends International Foundation for Youth Development totally agreed at a meeting held in Dubai to review the promises made and promises kept by President Goodluck Jonathan in the last three and the half years. The group therefore agreed to support in totality the re-election bid of Mr President come 2015,” it said.

Onyeka, who is also the outgoing president of Nigerians community in the UAE, thanked the members and asked them to pray for Nigeria for peaceful elections in 2015 and also pray for all the leaders at all levels.

TERROR: Dozens Killed In Pakistan-India Border Blast A suicide blast close to the Pakistan-India border has killed at least 50 people and left more than 100 wounded, rescue officials have told Al Jazeera.

The explosion took place at the Wagah border near Lahore, the crossing used to pass between India and Pakistan. It happened at the end of a daily flag-lowering ceremony as people were moving back to their cars.

The bomber set off his explosives at a security checkpoint outside the parade area, and about 500 meters from the actual border, the director general of the Punjab Rangers, Tahir Khan, said.

Khan added that it was a “suc-

cess” that the Rangers had been able to stop the attacker at the checkpoint, as he had been seeking entry into the actual parade area, where scores of people were seated.

“The blast has taken place about 500-600 feet from the parade venue ... people were standing there and many people were leaving there at the time,” Khan told reporters.

“When the bomber saw that there was very strict checking at the security checkpoint, he decided to detonate his explosives as he began to pass through it.”

The Rangers are a paramilitary force that is responsible for border security at Wagah.

Al Jazeera

News/ANAlysis 53

Monday, November 3, 2014

Libya Forces Recapture Parts Of Benghazi Pro-government Libyan forces have recaptured areas of second city Benghazi from Islamist militiamen, following a two-week-old government-backed offensive.

Military sources and medics said that at least 36 died on Friday and Saturday, when loyalists of former general Khalifa Haftar and regular army troops attacked Islamist militiamen in east and south Benghazi.

On Thursday, demonstrators set Burkina Faso’s parliament building on fire

How Compaore Sparked His Own Downfall Protests Hit B/Faso After Army Takeover The army takeover in Burkina Faso after President Blaise Compaore’s resignation has prompted protests in the capital and international condemnation.

Thousands of people gathered in a square in the centre of Ouagadougou on Sunday to denounce the army’s power grab.

Ebola In Sierra Leone ‘Spreading Quickly’- Campaign Group Ebola cases are continuing to rise “frighteningly quickly” in areas of Sierra Leone, an international campaign group has said.

The Africa Governance Initiative (AGI) found that in rural parts of the country the virus is spreading nine times faster than two months ago.

In Liberia, however, the rate of new cases appears to have slowed.

Yemeni Factions Agree To Form Government Yemen’s main political factions, including the Houthi rebels, have signed an agreement mandating the president and prime minister to form a new government in an effort to defuse political tensions that have crippled the country.

Prime Minister Khaled Bahah will head the selection of the new ministers in consultation with President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi, a statement emailed from the 13 political parties said.

There was just one more year to go before change could finally come, through the next presidential election.

After 27 years of Blaise Compaore, the people of Burkina Faso were set to wait patiently until November 2015.

But Mr Compaore’s attempt to force a constitutional change sparked near unanimous outrage.

“It’s as if he was disconnected from reality or not acknowledging what was going on,” Rinaldo Depagne, director of ICG’s West Africa programme, said.

“With nearly a million people in the streets [in a country of 17 million], any sensible politician would have withdrawn their proposed bill.”

But he didn’t.

Country on edge Frustration and anger had been growing over the past few years in Burkina Faso and there had been multiple warnings that the society was on the edge of a social-political crisis.

Violent protests erupted in 2011 throughout the country.

First out were the students, following the death of one of their number in police custody.

Shopkeepers, traders, magistrates, lawyers, peasants and finally the rank-and-file soldiers followed.

But they didn’t form a mass movement and this is what “saved Blaise Compaore”, according to Mr Depagne, who lived in Burkina Faso for a number of years.

The opposition parties were not able to build a political platform to offer an alternative based on the people’s discontent at high prices, low wages and Mr Compaore’s un-

divided rule.

Yet, these upheavals lasted several months in the first half of 2011.

There hadn’t been such major demonstrations since the murder of the investigative journalist Norbert Zongo at the end of 1998.

Mr Zongo was investigating the killing of the driver of Francois Compaore, the then-president’s younger brother and special adviser.

He had himself warned his readership that he may end up being killed after he received a series of death threats.

His murder - which the government initially claimed was an accident - sparked unprecedented demonstrations.

To many, the Zongo case was a turning point during Mr Compaore’s regime. The opposition was too divided to overthrow the system but “it created confidence among citizens about their own rights,” Mr Depagne said.

Symbolic statue There was an overwhelming presence of youth in this week’s protests. Half of the country’s population is believed to be under 18 and flocking to cities where unemployment fuels frustration.

Despite the economic growth, Burkina Faso remains at the very bottom of the United Nations’ Human Development Index, making it one of the world’s poorest countries.

The landlocked nation is heavily dependent on international aid, especially since one of its major financial partners, Col Muammar Gaddafi, was killed during the Libyan uprising in 2011.

Repeated promises of change

haven’t been fulfilled during Mr Compaore’s rule, allowing public distrust to grow.

Yet, Mr Compaore imposed himself as an indispensable regional mediator and had become the strongest ally to France and the US in the region.

He showed capacity to resolve crises - despite his own history of backing rebels and fuelling civil wars in the West African neighbourhood - and more importantly, he used his networks to help Western powers battling Islamist militancy in the Sahel.

Hours before Mr Compaore resigned, a letter he had received earlier this month from French President Francois Hollande - who has now welcomed his resignation - emerged in the media to reveal that France was ready to support him in finding a job within the international community at the end of his mandate, if he withdrew his proposed bill on presidential term limits.

But this wasn’t enough. And there was one particular scene during this popular unrest earlier in the week that could have had Mr Compaore worried.

Angered youth took down a statue of him in Bobo Dioulasso, the country’s second largest city.

Quite symbolically, the statue was erected in the mid-1990s next to that of Col Gaddafi, who had just visited the country.

Even though that signal was probably the strongest yet, Mr Compaore still thought he could get his bill passed in parliament two days later.

Instead, he precipitated his own downfall.

BBC

Despite the economic growth, Burkina Faso remains at the very bottom of the United Nations’ Human Development Index, making it one of the world’s poorest countries

54

Monday, November 3, 2014

Niger State governor, Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu receiving the Touch from Abbas Mohammed, during the opening ceremony of the 18th Edition of Nigeria Colleges of Education Games (NICEGA ) held at the College Of Education, Minna at the weekend. photo by hamisu Abubakar

OSOM Good For Nigeria’s Preparation Towards Rio, Tokyo 2020 – Ndanusa

By ISAIAH BENJAMIN, Kaduna

Ndanusa

President of the Nigeria Olympics Committee (NOC), Engr Sani Ndanusa is optimistic that the performance of the over 650 athletes in the just concluded One Service One Medal (OSOM) Games is a proof that Nigeria will win array of medals through service men at the 2016 Rio Olympics in Brazil and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics in Japan. Addressing sport writers shortly after the closing ceremony of the Games at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium Kaduna at the weekend, Ndanusa, who is also Chairman of the Nigerian Tennis

Federation, said the high performances of the athletes from the 14 Nigerian services show that each of the services would win medals at the next two Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro and Tokyo.

He added that the OSOM athletes discovered at the Game would be nurtured through competition to improve their performances and further polish the green horns among them.

“We are satisfied with the performances of the athletes because it is the first OSOM Games to pick the talents capable of achieving a medal at the Olympic Games. We have high performance centre

where they would be trained for international competitions because they need to be monitored and given the necessary competition.”

He said, the dismal performance of Nigeria at the London 2012 olympics became a sense of concern, and all where been done to ensure that Nigeria regain its rightful position in sports.

According to Ndanusa, “This led to a research and it was discovered that a considerable percentage of medalists produced by Nigeria at past international events; Olympics and commonwealth Games had come from the Military and Para-Military bodies. “As a result,

Alim Lauds Tennis Association’s Devt Strides

By Salifu Usman, Abuja

Director of sports development, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Muhammed Musa Alim has applauded the FCT tennis association for their sincere commitment towards the development of tennis in the nation’s capital city and beyond.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of a two-day tennis Inter

club championship organised by the association at the package B of the National Stadium, Abuja, Alim said he was pleased with the tournament, noting that it was an avenue to discover and develop talents.

According to him, FCT has produced young tennis players who are now doing well. “For them to have put up a championship like this it is quite com-

mendable and interesting. The beauty of the whole thing is how the association has been able to work as one family to get things done more so that we have not been able to give them any assistance since their inauguration. But very soon we should be able to give them something to keep them going. Tennis is one of the sports that we have over the years encouraged. So,

we are not surprise that some of the boys we discovered are now move from grass to grace. They are doing very fine and sky will be their limit,” he stated.

No fewer than 15 clubs took part in the championship.

According to Dayo Akindoju, chairman FCT Tennis Association, the purpose behind the tournament was to bring all the clubs in FCT together under one

the need to exploit the situation by collaborating with the agencies to strengthen the partnership for the success of sports development. “Consequently, the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) set up a project team in conjunction with the Institutional Sports Division, Grass roots Sports Development Department of National Sports Commission to partner with Military and Para- Military agencies as well as tertiary institution in order to contribute to Nigeria’s quality participation at international events. The project is what we have started tagged “One Service One Medal (OSOM)” he said.

umbrella to compete. “We were inaugurated as an association three months ago and we felt that there was a need for synergy between the association and all the various clubs in the FCT. The idea was to present ourselves to tennis clubs in FCT and of course to the world. We didn’t ask for any sponsorship. Members contributed to organize this tournament.”

Adekanmbi, Gumel, Shofoluwe Get FIBA Badges Nigeria can now boast of six international basketball referees as 3 of the 7 Nigerian referees who took part in the International Basketball Association (FIBA) Referees clinic in Contonou, Benin Republic in October have received their international officiating certification from the World governing body of basketball. The new three, Olusegun Adekanmbi, Samuel Sofoluwe and Husseini Musa Gumel with registration number

Kano Pillars FC

Kano Pillars Are Nigeria League Champions

Kano Pillars are Nigeria league champions for a third straight season after they beat Nembe City 4-0 and closest rivals Enyimba failed to beat Dolphins on Sunday. Enyimba forced Dolphins to a 1-1 draw in Port Harcourt. Pillars now have an unassailable 65 points, while Enyimba are four points behind and even if they beat Pillars in the final game of the season next Sunday they will fall a point short of the champions on 64 points. Pillars will thus

represent Nigeria in next year’s CAF Champions League along with the eventual runners-up of the championship. The thirdplaced club will feature in the 2015 CAF Confederation Cup. Warri Wolves, Nasarawa United and Abia Warriors are in the race for this ticket.

Pillars scored twice in the first half through Gambo Mohammed and Azeez Shobowale, before Adamu Hassan completed the routing of the league’s bottom team.

In Port Harcourt, Dolphins, who called off a pay strike, took the lead in the 51st minute through a curling effort by Chidiebere Okolie, which took a wicked deflection to beat goalkeeper Femi Thomas. Mfon Udoh drew Enyimba level in the 76th minute.

It was a record-breaking goal as he has now set a new all-time record of 21 goals in a single season to beat the previous record of 20 goals set by Jude Aneke three seasons ago.

28772,28773 and 28774 have now joined the big three Kingsley Ojeaburu, who officiated at the 2014 FIBA World Cup in Spain, Tunde Popoola and Yinka Famogbiyele as Nigerian elite professional sports officials. Nigeria now has six eligible refrees for the 2015 Afrobasket championship for Men and Women in Tunisia and Cameroun respectively and subsequent world championships at all levels onward.

Bayelsa United Escape Relegation Bayelsa United have escaped rel- al hopes on Sunday. Gombe Unitegation after they thrashed Lobi ed were not relegated on match Stars 4-1 in a Nigeria league day 37 after they were forced to a Week 37 game on Sunday. Bayel- 1-1 draw by Warri Wolves in Warsa United now have 51 points ri. Taraba will face Sharks in Port from 37 games. The battle for the Harcourt and a draw will see them final place for the team to be rel- through, while Gombe are more egated will therefore be a straight favoured as they host Abia Warbattle between FC Taraba and riors in a final game of the season Gombe United, who are on 50 on Sunday. Nembe City, Crown FC and 47 points respectively. Tara- and Kaduna United have already ba trounced relegated Crown FC sealed their ticket to the lower 3-0 at home to boost their surviv- league come next season.

Follow these reports on leadership.ng/sports

sports 55

Monday, November 3, 2014

Basketball: First Bank Targets 3rd African Title

Pinnick Dreams Football Restructuring The President of the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, Mr. Amaju Pinnick wants his administration to reposition Nigerian football and build the country into a football power house in the world. He commended Globacom for providing support for sports in Nigeria.

Mr. Pinnick, who paid a courtesy visit to the corporate headquarters of Globacom in Lagos promised to build a more respectable image for Nigerian football by instituting the winning attitude. Mr. Pinnick commended Globacom for comprehensively supporting the national teams over the years adding that Globacom would henceforth get more value for invested money as the sponsorship fee would be attached to clearly defined programmes. “We congratulate Glo. We believe you should get double the value of what you have invested in football. We also appreciate Dr. Adenuga who is a Pillar on the continent and a rallying symbol.

We promise a symbiotic relation-

Pinnick

ship that would be mutually beneficial and henceforth you will see visibly what your funds are being used for. We want to glow in every way” the NFF President noted.

He announced that the Association would be restructured for optimum performance and capacities would be developed in various ways adding that they had secured sponsorship for fifteen coaches and ex-internationals to attend a course on match reading while some referees would also undergo refresher courses. Welcoming the NFF President earlier, the Director, Promotions& Sponsored Assets, Achuthan Kutty congratulated him on his recent election and promised Globacom’s continued support to the Nigeria Football Federation at all times.

Mourinho Hails Oscar

Jose Mourinho says Oscar’s best is yet to come after the Brazil international set Chelsea on course for a 2-1 victory over QPR. Blues manager Mourinho was critical of his side’s overall display but reserved his praise for an influential performance by Oscar capped by an outstanding moment of individual skill to give Chelsea a first half lead at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. Ultimately it took a Eden Hazard penalty, described as soft by QPR manager Harry Redknapp, to secure the victory that keeps Chelsea four points clear at the head of the Premier League table.

But Mourinho took encouragement from Oscar’s display and expects the midfielder to become even more influential when

he recovers full fitness following a draining close-season spent at the World Cup. “I think Oscar was our best player. For 90 minutes he was our best player and not just for the goal. For the dynamic, for the intensity, for the transition,” Mourinho said. “When the team recovered the ball he was always sharp and fast and when the team lost the ball he was always sharp and fast to recover positions and press the ball. I think he was fantastic. “He played Sunday, he played Tuesday and today. Some other guys didn’t play midweek so I would expect other players to be sharper and fresher but for me Oscar was our best player. “He is playing very well. Obviously preseason was difficult for him after the World Cup but it is coming.

The 2014 Africa Champions Cup for Women has been fixed for November 28 through December 7 in Tunisia with two Nigerian clubs (First Bank and Dolphins basketball clubs) among the twelve that will slug it out for the coveted trophy. Nigerian champion and FIBA Africa Zone3 runner-up First Bank basketball club is aiming to repeat its 2003 and 2009 run-up to the title in Mozambique and Benin Republic. After the final game in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Djokovic

our pedigree, but having secured a direct ticket this time our aim is to lift our game and make our make our management and country proud. We want to be good ambassador of Nigeria and FIBA Africa Zone-3 as we hope to be a good representative and our simple goal is to win our third title because we believe we are due for it having won the title twice in the past (2003 and 2009) and if you remember these two victories came on away soul. After a grueling qualifier in Burkina Faso

Van Gaal Blames Smalling For Man U Loss

Van Gaal

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal said that Chris Smalling’s “stupid” dismissal had fatally undermined his side’s chances in their 1-0 Premier League defeat at Manchester City yesterday.

Smalling was sent off in the 38th minute at the Etihad Stadium after receiving quick-fire yellow cards for trying to block a clearance by City goalkeeper Joe Hart and then scything down James Milner.

City eventually prevailed through a 63rd-minute Sergio Aguero strike, leaving the champions six points behind leaders Chelsea and seven points above United, and Van Gaal said Smalling’s red card was the turning point. “In the derby you have to be careful. The second yellow card was stupid,” he told BBC Sport.

“As a player you have to control your aggression. I didn’t see the first yellow, but the second you know as a player you have a yellow, so you have to handle it differently. I said that to the players.”

Van Gaal said that the England defender had apologised for his dismissal and was “very humble” about the incident. Van Gaal also lost Smalling’s centre-back partner Marcos Rojo after the Argentina international dislocated his shoulder in a sliding challenge early in the second period. “The shoulder is out, so you never know how long that takes,” said the Dutchman, whose side host Crystal Palace next weekend.

“I have to wait until tomorrow (Monday), but he shall not play against Crystal Palace.”

Rodgers Wants Gerrard To Stay At Liverpool

Rodgers

Djokovic Wins Paris Masters Novak Djokovic eased to his sixth title of 2014 with a comfortable win over Milos Raonic in the final of the Paris Masters.

The Serb, 27, prevailed 6-2 6-3 in one hour and 23 minutes. The victory increases Djokovic’s lead over Roger Federer at the top of the ATP world rankings. “It’s beautiful to win my first match after becoming a father,” said Djokovic, whose wife Jelena gave birth to a son last month. “I played my best match of the week. I’m very happy to have the opportunity to stand here with the trophy.”

The world number one has now reached 600 career wins a feat achieved by only four other active players. He has won 20

between the Elephant Girls and Dolphins basketball club which the former won by 70-56 points but lost the opportunity to win the Zone-3 title because of an earlier 65-50 points lose to the latter in the two-leg zonal qualifier, Coach Adewumi Aderemi said the goal of the Nigerian champions was to gun for the African title. “First and foremost we picked one of the two tickets for the final round as against some situations in the past where FIBA Africa has to grant us wild-card because of

Masters titles, while Wimbledon semi-finalist Raonic’s wait for a breakthrough success at this level continues. The Canadian doubled his tally of wins over topfive players in reaching the final, beating Roger Federer and Tomas Berdych. But he was on the back foot from the start against Djokovic, dropping his opening service game with a poor netted volley. The Serb saved three break points before breaking Raonic again to clinch the first set. Another break early in the second set was enough for Djokovic to extend his winning streak in indoor matches to 27, ahead of the ATP Tour Finals at London’s O2 arena next week.

Brendan Rodgers wants Steven Gerrard to remain at Liverpool after his captain revealed he could leave in the summer having not been offered a new deal. The 34-year-old, who is a one-club man, said this week that he would not be retiring just yet and could continue his playing career away from Anfield. “I explained to Steven’s representative that I want him to be part of what we’re doing here,” the Reds boss said. “He’s been a brilliant captain for me. I want to keep him here.” Rodgers added: “I relayed that information to the owners.

“I’m sure they’ll go away with that and with Steven’s representatives, hopefully organise a deal.

He’s a unique player and a unique person.” Meanwhile, Rodgers said Liverpool were short of confidence in attack after Saturday’s 1-0 defeat in the early kick-off at Newcastle left them nine points behind leaders Chelsea - who stretched that margin to 12 points when they beat QPR 2-1 later that afternoon.

The Reds were third in the Premier League at this stage last season and had scored 17 goals, but with Luis Suarez sold and fellow

Ali’s Doctor Eases Fears About Ex- Boxer’s Health Condition Muhammad Ali’s doctor has played down fears over the former world heavyweight champion’s health.

Ali, 72, has had Parkinson’s disease since 1984 and there have been rumours his health has been deteriorating. “I don’t know that he is more or less at risk than anyone else but anything can happen,” Dr. Abraham Lieberman told the BBC. “I don’t see anything immediately that leads me to think that he is going to die in six months or a year.” Lieberman added: “People do not die of Parkinson’s. They develop trouble swallowing, they develop pneumonia, fall and bang their heads. His family take extraordinary care of him.” Ali appeared frail when he attended the opening ceremony of London 2012 Olympics

Ali

and, according to Lieberman, struggles to walk. “He is in good spirits,” added Lieberman, who is also the director of the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Centre. “He has some trouble walking but, overall, for someone who has had Parkinson’s for 30 years he is doing OK.”

GOMBE JEWEL HOTEL, ABUJA

AMUSEMENT PARK to lose one parent... may be regarded as a misfortune; to lose both — Oscar Wilde looks like carelessness

03.11.14

FOR GOD AND COUNTRY

No. 2,284

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Gates

F

Fear is the greatest obstacle to any entrepreneur.

Success requires you to conquer it.

Here is how the greats did it

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How Bill Gates And Mark Zuckerberg Conquer Fear To Succeed

By Kevin Daum

ear is the greatest obstacle to any entrepreneur. Success requires you to conquer it. Here is how the greats did it.

This country has a great admiration for entrepreneurs. Many people hold up leaders like Bill Gates, Richard Branson and Mark Zuckerberg as heroes, maybe even gods. Some believe them to be invincible superheroes. But, every entrepreneur is human. And each has to battle their fears everyday in order to reach success. And for each fear they conquer, the better the entrepreneur they become.

1. Fear of Failure Failure is the most obvious fear for an entrepreneur. Successful entrepreneurs never lose this fear but rather harness its energy to drive harder, faster and better. And the best know that a bad failure means a great lesson.

2. Fear of Inadequacy Many wonder if they are good enough and smart enough to accomplish greatness. Successful entrepreneurs become great learners so they can fill gaps in their education. They also become masters of recruitment to fill gaps in their capabilities.

3. Fear of the Market Catching the market just right can be like surfing a giant wave all the way to the beach. But just like the ocean, if you miscalculate the wave’s trajectory, it will slam you into the sand headfirst and crush

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you. Successful entrepreneurs show a healthy respect for market forces and study the dynamics so they can capitalise.

4. Fear of Fraud There are few who gain success without some sort of exaggeration of capability or connections. Successful entrepreneurs are careful not to stretch the truth far beyond reality. Even an inkling of legitimacy allows them to maintain credibility.

5. Fear of Selling Although the practice of sales is a necessary requirement for success, most people detest trying to push something on someone else. Successful entrepreneurs want their product or service to be the obvious choice. And they effectively use marketing to attract customers so fewer sales pitches are required.

6. Fear of Public Speaking Not every entrepreneur is a natural evangelist. Some have great ideas yet struggle to articulate them in front of a group of people. Successful entrepreneurs share their vision clearly, powerfully and succinctly. They know that they must be confident on the podium to inspire others to follow the vision.

7. Fear of Leadership Being a leader is a choice that weighs much heavier than just being a boss or starting a company. Successful entrepreneurs know that leadership is their number one priority. They study, listen and

sacrifice to make sure the people that follow are continuously inspired, motivated and rewarded for their efforts.

8. Fear of Competition The bigger you get, the more likely someone will come gunning for you. So many people ignore or dismiss potential competitors only to be later surprised and sometimes killed in the battle. Successful entrepreneurs respect and study their competition. They create long-term strategies to differentiate in ways competitors can’t follow easily.

9. Fear of Time Entrepreneurs like to be in control, and time is one of the few elements they can’t impact one way or another. Successful entrepreneurs understand time is a constant and learn how to harness its power through productivity and efficiency.

10. Fear of Embarrassment Entrepreneurs are proud people and they hate to be shamed in public. Successful entrepreneurs know that showing a healthy amount of humility is the surest way to maintain the respect they crave.

11. Fear of People Many entrepreneurs would do it all themselves if they could. But they can’t.

Successful entrepreneurs understand that scalability requires the attraction, development and retention of great people. They make sure there are systems and culture in place that make the

people the priority in the organization.

12. Fear of Futility No one works this hard or long just to be forgotten. Successful entrepreneurs know they need to make an impact to ever be considered a significant benefactor to society.

They take society into consideration in all their work and design for their vision of the greater good.

13. Fear of Self Everyone knows his or her own demons best. Successful entrepreneurs commit time and effort to know and improve themselves. For they loathe to be the one who stands in the way of their own greatness.

–Kevin Daum is of inc.com

GHANA MUST GO No past government did half of Jonathan’s achievements

— Okupe

Exactly, no past government stole $20 billion!

LEADERSHIP (ISSN 0331-328X) is published in Abuja by LEADERSHIP GROUP LIMITED, 27 Ibrahim Tahir Lane, Off Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Way, Utako District, Abuja. Advert: 08107181220 (Abuja), 08033257681 (Lagos) News: 08038099089 P. O. Box 9514, Garki II, Abuja. Lagos Office: 34/36 Adegbola Street, Anifowose, Off Oba Akran, Ikeja. E-mail: info@leadership.ng, advert@leadership.ng, newsroom@leadership.ng