Leadership sunday

No. 447

N300

31.08.14

FOR GOD AND COUNTRY

nigeria's most influential newspaper

Flood Destroys Houses, Kills Pregnant Woman, 4 Others NEWS, PAGE 10

Leadership Newspapers

2015 Presidential Election: I’m Still Consulting – Tambuwal news, PAGE 6

@leadershipNGA

How Boko Haram Sacked Gamboru-Ngala, Sent Soldiers, Residents Into Cameroon feature, PAGE 63

adamawa guber

Why Acting Gov Was Disqualified 5

It’s a welcome devt – APC

Fintiri fights back, mulls plan B

Niger east by-election

IBB, Abdulsalami Absent At Polls Low turnout of voters recorded

BY Abu Nmodu, Minna

The Niger East by-election conducted yesterday witnessed low turnout of voters, even as two former Nigerian leaders, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida and General Abdulsalami Abubakar, did not vote in their hilltop L-R: Kano State deputy governor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje; former vice president Atiku Abubakar, and Abubakar’s son, Shehu Abubakar, who got married yesterday in Kaduna State.

Ebola: Expatriates In Bayelsa Panic Over Spread > Page 4

Chibok DAY Diary 139

➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

Australian Negotiator Revelations: BBOG To Engage FG > Page 2

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Sunday, August 31, 2014

chibok diary 139 DAY

chibok quotes #BringBackOurGirls @weeshawnaMarie 124 days ago, over 200 girls were kidnapped from going to school.

The government has not rescued 1 child! HELP #BringBackOurGirls

Australian Negotiator Revelations: BBOG To Engage FG

@JibrinIbrahim In Chad and in Cameroun, they recovered people kidnapped by Boko Haram, why can't we do same in Nigeria? #BringBackOurGirls @anafricandiva "We have rescued all the girls", "We have spotted the place where they are". Now, silence. No girls. We will not forget. #BringBackOurGirls @akachukwu Stop being silent, It could be you or me.

Support the efforts to #BringBackOurGirls Now and Alive @obyezeks Aug 13 Let YOUR VOICE and MINE not be SILENT. WE stay echoing the CRY of our Girls for FREEDOM. #BringBackOurGirls! @weeshawnaMarie plz help #BringBackOurGirls.

Over 200 girls kidnapped 4 attending school. Daily, they suffer rape/child abuse/ violence. HELP @MinajMinajj How many more days, weeks, or months do we have to wait till our girls get back? Let’s not forget #BringBackOurGirls. @AishaYesufu 124 days of blaming; 124 days of failure; 124 days of ridicule; 124 days of cluelessness. Nig., when will u get it right & #BringBackOurGirls?

COMPILED BY MICHAEL OCHE

Dr Oby Ezekwesili, addressing members of #BringBackOurGirls (BBOG) group over the abducted Chibok girls in Abuja. photo by patrick ebi amanama

Australian Negotiator Revelations: BBOG To Engage FG

The three with the highest impact are:

By Chika Mefor and Ejike Ejike, Abuja

In light of the recent revelations by Dr Stephen Davis, the former FG negotiator with Boko Haram, the #BringBackOurGirls group has set up a 4-man task team led by Dr Emman Shehu to analyse what has been released, identify the key issues as points of reengagement with the FG, in asking the right questions and demanding concrete answers.

The group, also gave the team up until today to analyse and report back to the strategic team of the whole house, after which actions would be taken on the next move to take.

It would be recalled that Perth-based international adviser, Davis, who for four months was involved in negotiations on behalf of the federal government with commanders of Boko Haram for the release of over 200 schoolgirls kidnapped by the sect last April, made insinuations suggesting that a former Governor of Borno State, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, and a former Chief of Army Staff, Lt-General Azubuike Ihejirika, were sponsors of Boko Haram.

Davis, had spoken in two separate interviews to Arise Television, disclosing that a man resident in Abuja whose three nephews had been identified as being behind the Nyanya bus station bomb blast that killed 77 people, was one of the financiers of Boko Haram.

Davis, in an interview with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) on Wednesday had also alleged that one of the primary sources of funding of the terror group was Nigerian politicians, but failed to disclose their identities until his interview with Arise TV. However, in reaction to the allegation, Ihejirika and Sheriff angrily dismissed the allegation, saying they had nothing to benefit from the sponsorship of the sect.

- Early and continuous skin-to-skin contact - Immidiate breastfeeding - Supportive care, and early recognistion and treatment of complications.

3

our stand Sunday, August 31, 2014

The Many Crises Of NFF

S

ince July 8, when the world soccer governing body suspended Nigeria over the sacked Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) executive committee, following a court order in a case instituted by Ruth Ebiabare Baribote, wife of a former Nigeria Premier League (NPL) chairman, crises have been pouring on the football body. For FIFA, it was in its enlightened self-interest that Aminu Maigari be protected from government and third parties in the management of NFF in consonance with its statute.

FIFA took exception to the detention of the NFF president and insisted that it would not recognise any person or organ not elected in compliance with the NFF statutes (Article 17, para 2 and 3 of the FIFA Statutes).

Much as we objected to the meddlesomeness of the minister of sports, Tammy Danagogo, in the appointment of an administrator, it must be made clear that stealing in the name of independence of a sports association is condemnable. FIFA understood that when it endorsed the August 26 date for an elective congress of the NFF. It should probe how, on that day, there were two parallel congresses. It should also be interested in why one election was conclusive and the other was not. While the Maigari-led

congress dissolved the executive and electoral committees, it also fixed September 4 for elections into the next board of the NFF; the other congress voted and elected Chris Giwa as president of the NFF, and his election has already been accepted by Nigeria’s sports ministry.

The minister should know the limits of his powers. Under FIFA statutes, national football associations must not be subject to government control. While it seems the Maigari group is enjoying the goodwill of FIFA, the Chris Giwa team has the backing of the government. It was therefore not surprising that when Giwa turned up to commence work at the burnt Glass House that houses the NFF, FIFA secretary-general Jerome Valcke

Ag. Editor Auwal Sa’id Mu’azu Deputy Editor Kazeem Akintunde Editorial Board Safiya M. Adamu, Chairman Christian Ochiama, Deputy Chairman Standards Aniebo Nwamu, Director ’Lara Olugbemi, Assistant Director

wrote that the Giwa-led executives should vacate the office by the midnight of September 1.

Failure to comply, FIFA said, the case will be taken before “the appropriate FIFA body for sanctions, which may include the suspension of the NFF”.

We wonder what the warring factions in the leadership of Nigerian football hope to achieve with rancour, disaffection and the disrepute they have put the country in the last few months.

The crises purely boil down to insincerity on the part of some people. There is no doubt that the crises are fuelled by those who are benefitting from the humongous fraud taking place in the NFF and those who would not want the investigations into the maladministration taking place there to see the light of day.

We have to give opportunity to all qualified individuals who wish to contest in the elections.

The sports authorities in the country should diplomatically explore the possibility of getting a buy-in from FIFA on the allegations of financial impropriety and arson committed at the NFF. If all FIFA wants is for a shift in date to allow for more time to conduct free and fair elections, all stakeholders should sheathe their swords and follow due process.

Founder Sam Nda-Isaiah Chairman Hajiya Ireti Kingibe Group Managing Director Azubuike Ishiekwene Group Executive Directors Michael Okpere Dr Kazeem Durodoye Company Secretary/ Legal Adviser Abdulhaleem Amin Divisional Directors Abdulmumin Balogun Ademola Oladosu Iyobosa Uwugiaren Salisu Alhassan Bichi General Managers Aminu Abubakar Sule 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 Business Manager Bilkisu Mohammed Rimi

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 across the states short news

Ebola: Lagos Reads Riot Act To Residents Lagos State government yesterday warned residents against indulging in habits that could spread the deadly Ebola Virus Disease in the state, saying it would invoke public health law to prosecute offenders.

The state commissioner for Environment, Mr Tunji Bello who dangled the axe during the August sanitation exercise exclusively dedicated to advocacy campaign on preventive measures to curb the spread of the deadly Ebola Virus Disease, said proactive measures must be taken to save the country from its rapid spread.

By George Okojie, Lagos

Sunday, August 31, 2014

19 Northern Governors, SABMF Strategise To Curtail Youth Involvement In Insurgency

BY Abubakar Salihi, Kano

The 19 northern governors and Sir Ahmad Bello Memorial Foundation (SABMF) have flagged off entrepreneurship training programme for women and youths in the north aimed at curtailing youth involvement in insurgency and unemployment in the region.

The programme organised by SABMF, with the theme: 2014 Women and Youths Vocation-

al Entrepreneurship Development Programme (WYVEDP), was held at Kano yesterday.

Declaring the programme opened, the state governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso hoped that the programme will complement the effort of the state government in youths empowerment programme and would greatly help humanity.

The governor, represented by the state Head of Service,

Malam Kumar Shehu Minjibir, also wished the programme would serve as employment opportunity for the youths in the northern region.

He pledged the state government’s continued support in achieving immediate and long term goals, adding that it will build a bond for security and peace in the region.

In his address, the Managing Director and CEO of SABMF, Dr

Shettima Aji Ali stated that the programme was aimed at reducing unemployment and curtailing youths involvement in insurgency, violence and idleness.

Dr Ali explained that the training programme has four segments including sensitisation and need assessment, entrepreneurship development programme, training on a chosen skill and evaluation and facilitation by stakeholders.

L-R: Chairman DAAR Communications, Mr Raymond Dokpesi; former Rivers State governor Peter Odili, and Finance Minister, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, at the Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria, South-South zonal rally in Port Harcourt, yesterday.

PHOTO BY NAN

Expatriates In Bayelsa Panic Over Ebola Spread

BY OSA Okhomina, Yenagoa

Scores of expatriate workers attached to multinational oil firms and construction giants in Bayelsa State, yesterday showed signs of worry over the reported cases of death recorded from the Ebola virus in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

White expatriates attached to companies like Daewoo, Agip and Julius Berger were reported to have sounded a red alert warning to their workforce operating in Bayelsa and commenced acquisition of more sanitisers for precautionary measures.

Others including market women and operators of parks in the state capital witnessed low patronage on

Thursday and Friday over the cases reported in Rivers State. But some drivers at the Ekeki Park told LEADERSHIP Sunday that the mega rally organised by the Transformation Ambassadors in Port Harcourt yesterday increased the level of passengers in spite of the reported outbreak of the virus in the state.

But the Bayelsa State government, in a statement issued yesterday and signed by the Chief Press Secetary(CPS) to the Governor, Mr Daniel Iworiso-Markson, urged the people of the state not to panic as proactive measures had been put in place to check the spread of the deadly virus ravaging parts of the West African sub-region.

According to the statement, the state government noted that, in view of the close proximity of Bayelsa to Rivers State, coupled with the fact that, the people of the two states share a common historical and cultural heritages, it has become imperative to urge Bayelsans to remain calm.

According to Governor Seriake Dickson, the government had created 103 surveillance centres in all the local government areas as part of measures put in place to curtail the spread of the virus. He said the people have been sensitized on red alert for suspected patients with the symptoms of the deadly virus in order to check its spread.

Governor Dickson, who reiterated the call on the need for people to imbibe the culture of personal hygiene, noted that government has given adequate support to the 18-member task force made up of experienced medical professionals required to deal with any outbreak of the scourge.

He said distribution of protective materials such as sanitisers, body gears, hand gloves were ongoing and major isolation centres have already been set up at the Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital, Okolobiri, and the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa as well as other smaller units across the state for the containment of the virus.

World Islamic Sect Leader Preaches Peaceful Co-existence

By Adebayo Waheed, Ibadan

The world leader of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Masroor Ahmad, has called for peaceful co-existence among religious groups and people of diverse cultures for a more fulfilling and sustainable development.

The religious leader while speaking at the opening of the 48th annual conference of the Ahmadiyya Muslims Association, United Kingdom (UK),

said the call became imperative against the backdrop of global misunderstanding among religious groups and extremism as well as terrorism.

According to him, those people perpetuating religious conflicts do not understand the essence of religion which emphasises and promotes unity among mankind as well as improving moral standard among the people.

The religious leader who highlighted the best mod-

el of the founder of Islam, the Holy Prophet Muhammed, who preached love, kindness, humility, transparency, honesty and hard work among other good virtues, condemned acts of terrorism under the guise of religion.

He appealed to everyone to understand and appreciate the fact that humanity is one and life is precious. He cautioned that on no account should human beings destroy each other with lethal weapons, when they can embrace dialogue to iron out differences.”

Earlier, the head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, Nigeria, Dr Mashuud Fasola, and the National Secretary, Tabligh (Preaching), Dr Saheed Timehin in a live interactive session last Friday also hammered on the need for religious tolerance among all Muslim faithful.

Members across the world also used the opportunity to discuss with the world leader of Ahmadiyya community issues on spiritual upliftment and personal fulfilment.

short news Women Group Offers Succour To Widows, Orphans In its quest to aid in relieving the masses from the increased suffering and hardship, the Elegant and Galaxy Women Empowerment Association, a nongovernmental organisation has donated food items and toiletries to the Zion Orphanage and widows home, in Lugbe, Abuja.

Speaking at the event, the president of the association, Alhaja Salma Ahmed said the orphanage was selected because of the continuous neglect of rural-based orphanages by the government and other rich groups.

By Ejike Ejike, Abuja

Unemployment: CSOs Challenge Youths To Embrace Entrepreneurship Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has called on Nigerian youths to embrace entrepreneurship, as a sure way to help curb unemployment bugging the youths in the country.

Speaking during the first ever Civil Society Financial and Investment Summit, the National President of Coalition of Civil Society Groups in Nigeria, Comrade Bassey Etuk stated that it was only when youths in the country started leaning towards becoming employers of labour that the unemployment rate will reduce.

He stated that the summit which would be organised annually was aimed at making delegates from various organisations become investment conscious adding that it was also aimed at informing the participants on various finance institutions in Nigeria that could help finance their businesses to grow bigger.

“We want to inform the civil societies that form the coalition to be investment conscious and understand the state of finances in Nigeria and the places they could access the funds,” said Etuk.

By Chika Mefor, Abuja

Sunday, August 31, 2014

Why Acting Gov Was Disqualified One health tip daily

NEWS 5

by Donald Ojogo, Chibuzo Ukaibe, Abuja and MOHAMMED ISMAIL, Yola

Greener Grass May Not Be Better Weed killers contain chemicals that are toxic to our nervous systems and have even been confirmed to cause cancer. If you want to live a long life, stop using chemical herbicides and artificial fertilizers on your lawns. Instead, fertilize with organic compost or manure, pull weeds regularly, and reseed areas that are overgrown. Do not cut the grass too short, as this will expose the root system and leave the grass vulnerable to disease.

Also avoid lingering on the golf course too long, especially under a hot sun: extreme heat can strengthen herbicides’ noxious effects.

IBB, Abdulsalam Absent At Polls ➔ FROM COVER

polling unit in Chanchaga local government area of the state.

Also, the governor of Niger State, Dr Muazu Babangida Aliyu, did not vote in the byeelection.

Aliyu said he could not vote because he forgot his voter card in Abuja and would not want to contravene the electoral rule on “no card, no vote”.

The governor said: “I will abide by the electoral rule that states that no one can vote without a voter card. I forgot my voter card in Abuja, which was human error, but I must commend those that came out to vote.”

At the hilltop polling unit where IBB and Abdulsalami used to vote, only 135 voters were accredited out of 500 registered voters on the voter list.

A check revealed that the two former leaders had travelled out of the state for some engagements, a development which is a departure from previous practice: they always voted in every election in the state.

IBB was however in Minna on Thursday where he received APC chairman Chief John Odigie-Oyegun and said his Jummat prayers on Friday.

A source said that he travelled out of Minna early Saturday morning for some “pressing issues”.

It was not clear when Abdulsalami travelled out of the

IBB

Abdulsalami

town, just as none of the family members was also at the polling unit to cast their vote.

The turnout generally was ➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

The intrigues in the Adamawa State governorship by-election took a new turn yesterday as the screening committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) disqualified the acting governor, Alhaji Ahmadu Finitiri, from participating in the PDP primaries scheduled for September 6.

This was disclosed by the chairman of the screening committee, former deputy Senate president Ibrahim Mantu, after the five-man committee grilled all 14 aspirants, preparatory to the scheduled party primaries on September 6 and the October 11 governorship by-election.

Addressing newsmen after the committee finished a ninehour screening exercise for all PDP aspirants, Mantu said the acting governor was disqualified because his candidature violated section 191, subsections (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

The section does not allow him to transmute from acting governor to substantive governor. It reads: “The Deputy Governor of a State shall hold the office of Governor of the State if the office of Governor becomes vacant by reason of death, resignation, impeachment, permanent incapacity or removal of the governor from office for any other reason in accordance with section 188 or 189 of this constitution.

(2) Where any vacancy occurs in the circumstances mentioned in subsection (1) of this section during a period when the office of Deputy Governor of the State is also vacant, the Speaker of the House of Assembly of the State ‘shall’ hold the office of Governor of the State for a period of not more than three months, during which there shall be an election of a new Governor of the State who shall hold office for the unexpired term of office of the last holder of the office.”

Mantu noted that the acting governor was supposed to serve as a referee in the process and not a participatant in the election.

Mantu, who described the acting governor as “a child of circumstance”, noted that the committee had “done a very meticulous job, went through all documents critically and ensured that what is submitted is in conformity with the provision of our constitution”.

He added that the governor ought to serve as a midwife in the process and “not be the car-

Fintiri

Mantu

rier of the baby”.

He noted that the governor is entitled to “appeal against our position as there is going to be an appeal”.

The aspirants who were cleared by the five-member committee include former presidential candidate of defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, former political adviser to President Goodluck Jonathan Dr Ahmed Gulak, and former ACN governorship candidate in 2011 Sen. Marcus Gundiri.

Others are former executive secretary of Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) Dr Ahmed Moddibo, former minister of health Dr Aliyu Idi Hong, Dr Umar Ardo, Sen. Abubakar Gerei, Mr James Barka, Mr Jerry Kumdisi, Col. Adrawus Sawa and Alhaji Kama Aliyu.

Also screened were son of former PDP national chairman Alhaji Awwal Tukur, former military administrator and Buba Marwa.

The committee screened the aspirants to ascertain their commitment and loyalty to the party, their membership card and tax clearance, among other things.

However, indication had emerged early on that the acting governor would not be allowed to contest because, after facing the screening committee, Fintiri refused to speak with the press and simply stormed out of the venue.

But speaking with newsmen after his screening, Ribadu expressed satisfaction with the screening process and expressed his confidence that the party leadership would ensure transparent primaries.

He said, “I pray to God that for the good of the country, for the good people of Adamawa, what is going on today is probably a turning point and a change that is coming in Adamawa State and Nigeria.”

On his part, former UBEC

executive secretary Moddibo described the screening process as excellent and straightforward, adding that the rest was left for the committee to decide.

He however ruled out any intention of stepping down for any other aspirant.

Dr Ardo expressed reservations against the waiver granted to Ribadu, Marwa and Gundiri to face the screening ahead of the primaries.

He said “I am not satisfied; it did not follow due process. In any case, I will abide by the decision of the party. But I want to tell you that it did not follow due process as it did not emanate from the ward to the other processes.”

Dr Ardo alongside five other aspirants had filed a petition to the party leadership asking it not to give a waiver to Ribadu, Marwa and Gundiri who just defected from the APC to the PDP. Another aspirant, and the eldest of the lot, Anrawus Sawa, said that though he had never been screened for governorship, the screening was not controlled, adding that the questions were straightforward and excellent.

Sawa, 71, added that, as an elder statesman, he was in the race to ensure sanity in Adamawa and to have a say in the happenings in the state.

Sources close to the acting governor said that Fintiri would appeal the outcome of the screening because the screening committee had earlier said that the acting governor had the right to appeal their decision before an appeal committee.

Adamawa APC welcomes Fintiri’s disqualification The publicity secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Phineas Padio, has commended the PDP for disquali➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

6 NEWS

Sunday, August 31, 2014

Why Acting Gov Was Disqualified ➔ FROM PAGE 5

fying the acting governor, saying it is a right step in the right direction.

Padio said the action is a deserved treatment for “a traitor”, as his actions over time have shown he felt no compunction to betray people that assisted him.

He said Nyako singlehandedly helped Fintiri to become a member of the House of Assembly when his people rejected him only for him to come back and impeach the governor in order to succeed him in power.

“Despite all what Nyako did for him, Fintiri turned against Governor Nyako by spearheading the impeachment of the then speaker, Sadiq Dasin, who was loyal to Nyako.

The governor had wanted the speakership slot to be given to the Central zone in order to balance the power equation in the state. Nyako as governor was from the South, his deputy Ngillari was from the north, while Speaker Dasin was from the Central.

“After the removal of Mr Dasin, Fintiri took over the speakership despite being from the North, where the deputy governor hails from

and later impeached the governor just to succeed him.”

But the deputy publicity secretary of the PDP, Hon. Lawal Habu, said he could not react as he was not officially informed about the development, adding that he would respond at the appropriate time.

The acting governor had had to contend with a petition written against him to the national leadership of the PDP by some youth in the PDP alleging that Fintiri was not eligible as he was a registered APC member at Kirshinga in K/Wuro Ngayandi ward in Madagali local government Akpabio area.

However, the acting gover- Ibom State governor Godswill nor, Ahmadu Fintiri, has de- Akpabio, fuelling speculations nied ever registering with the that his disqualification was deliberate.

APC. The governors had made Fintiri, who spoke earlier frantic efforts to stop both through his press secretary, Fintiri and Ribadu. While they Solomon Kumanga, said the hinged their reason for Fintiwhole drama was orchestratri’s as a move aimed at dised by mischievous elements to deal a blow on the political couraging rebellion from other assembly speakers, that of fortunes of Fintiri.

Ribadu was seen as a yet-toWhy Fintiri was stopped: abate political rivalry.

LEADERSHIP had exclusivethe PDP govs’ connection ly reported, two weeks ago, Meanwhile, indications that both the Presidency and emerged that Fintiri was the national leadership of the stopped by the influential PDP Governors’ Forum led by Akwa PDP were in a dilemma over

ly that he should not run,” he said.

Ribadu

Fintiri’s ambition.

One of the PDP governors who spoke on the Adamawa race last week had warned that Fintiri’s ambition was a possible wrong signal to other speakers.

“The ambition of the acting governor is very immoral and uncalled for. Apart from the wrong signals it might send to other speakers, it would alter the equation the party is looking at. It is a case of the devil and the deep blue sea.

“But as a sitting governor, there is no way it could be mentioned to him pointed-

Fintiri fights back, mulls plan B But the acting governor is poised to fight back, it was learnt. In a move seen as plan B, Fintiri has already given indications to nine of the aspirants that he would back one of them. The nine aspirants who signed a protest letter against waiver for Ribadu, Marwa , Gundiri and Modibbo are Dr Umar Ardo, Senator Abubakar Girei, Dr Idi Hong, Alhaji Awwal Tukur and Ahmed Gulak.

Others are Aliyu Kama , Jerry Kundisi, James Bawa and Andrawa Shawa.

Leadership Sunday gathered that these nine aspirants will leave for Yola today in a chartered flight provided by Fintiri. They are to address the Joel Madaki-led state executive committee of the PDP at 3 pm today.

Although details of Fintiri’s plans were sketchy last night, a source close to the nine aspirants confided in our correspondent that the acting governor would facilitate a hasty consensus arrangement that will throw up one aspirant to run against the trio of Ribadu, Marwa and Modibbo.

2015 Presidential Election: I’m Still Consulting – Tambuwal

By Friday Patrick Ochoga, Benin City

Following mounting pressure on the speaker of the Federal House of Representatives to throw his hat in the ring for the 2015 presidential election under the platform of the APC, Hon. Aminu Tambuwal at the weekend said he would declare his next political move after he must have consulted with people he described as very senior leaders in the country.

He also condemned the militarization of elections in Nigeria as witnessed in Ekiti and Osun states, describing it as undemocratic, just as he urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure the conduct of a free and fair election.

The speaker spoke at the residence of the deputy governor of Edo State, Dr Pius Odubu, before attending the wedding ceremony of the son of the Oba of Benin, Prince Ehioze Erediauwa, and wife Chioma.

The speaker was flanked by the minority whip of the House and member representing Uhumwonde/Orhiomnwon federal constituency Samson Osagie, Rasaq Bello-Osagie (Oredo federal constituency), Jim Adun (Egor/ Ikpoba Okhai), Isaac Osahon (Ovia federal constituency) and members of the Edo State Executive Council.

“When I went to collect my voter card, I said I was consulting and I am still consulting. Nigeria is not a small country; we have very, very senior

leaders that one needs to meet with before taking such decisions. As I said, I am consulting and, at the appropriate time, I will come out to say what I will be doing in 2015.

“And, as for Nigerians, they want free, fair and credible elections in 2015. Yes, inasmuch as we need security during elections, we don’t need overdose of it. Where we need heavy presence of military men is in the front-line states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe. So we should focus more on that than states where we are conducting civic responsibilities like elections,” he said.

Reacting to the efforts being made by the federal government to curb insurgency in the north-east, he urged Nigerians to give the needed support to

the military to succeed. As we all know, the phenomenon is new to our armed forces; what our armed forces need from us is support and our prayers. “ And as National Assembly, we have given them all the necessary support so far. We have given them resources, we have given them money, we have given them the legal framework that they require. We implore Nigerians not to lose hope, not to lose sleep in the fight against insurgency. It is not an easy task and we should support the government to ensure that we address this problem squarely.

“INEC regulations are very clear. The Electoral Act does not allow people to come out and begin to campaign at a particular period. So I don’t think

came out to vote. This is commendable.”

He added that, with what he saw during the election, democracy has come to stay in the country.

Also speaking to newsmen after casting his vote, Barrister David Umaru, the candidate of the APC, commended the determination of the Independ-

ent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials to try to get it right this time round.

Commenting on the low turnout of voters, he said many factors contributed but added that the turnout was not too poor. He kicked against inducement of voters at the polling units.

Meanwhile, the police

Tambuwal

it is late; what is important is for those who are aspiring to offices to prepare themselves for those offices. And this is not something that you do overnight.”

IBB, Abdulsalam Absent At Polls ➔ FROM PAGE 5

low due to heavy rainfall in the early hours of the day, making it difficult for voters to come out early for accreditation. Accreditation time was extended by one hour.

The governor, Dr Aliyu, lauded the maturity displayed by voters and the peaceful nature

of the polls held in nine local government areas of the state.

Aliyu said at the Umar Musa polling unit in front of his personal house that voters also displayed determination to exercise their franchise by coming out in their thousands to cast their votes.

He declared, “You can see that even in the rain people still

have confirmed the arrest of two people at Tunga Bako in Makunjere Ward of Kagara local government area for trying to snatch a ballot box.

The deputy inspector-general of police in charge of ‘B’ operation, Mr Thompson Wakama, told journalists that investigation was ongoing to ascertain the mission of those arrested.

7

issues

Sunday, August 31, 2014

Re-“Eight Years of Governor Gabriel Suswam’s Administration In Benue State: What is His Legacy?”

By Cletus Akwaya

The above question was the title of an article by one Okpe Odaudu in Thisday of Tuesday, August 19, 2014 in which the writer embarked on a vain trip to minimise the many achievements of Governor Gabriel Suswam in his eight-year stewardship in Benue State.

Reading through the article, it is clear to any discerning mind that Okpe Odaudu is a non-existent person. It is a pseudo name used by one of Governor Suswam’s few political traducers in the state who have become more desperate in their trade since his endorsement last Month as the sole candidate for the Benue North-East Senatorial Seat by Peoples Democratic Party Stakeholders and Traditional Rulers in Kwande local government area. One is forced to come to this conclusion because of the deliberate distortion of facts and display of falsehood to ostensibly hoodwink the public into believing that Governor Suswam did not perform well as governor whereas the facts on ground point to the contrary.

In the desperate execution of the hatchet job, the writer jumped from one issue to the other, all garnished with the little gossips picked up in Benue’s bearish rumour market or garbed in lies and misrepresentation of facts.

Going by the title of the article, one would expect the writer to focus on the Suswam governorship years. In his desperate attempt to smear Governor Suswam however, he detoured into the National Assembly days when Suswam served in the House of Representatives on matters that have been settled. The reference to a certain mention of Hon. Suswam in a Presidential broadcast on corruption allegation is a matter that was investigated and settled in Suswam’s favour by the House of Representatives. He was exonerated of corruption charges. He was thus elected Governor in 2007 and this was not an issue either in the campaigns or in the election petitions.

Similarly, the reference to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship primaries of 2007 which produced Suswam as candidate as “fraudulent” is petty and mischievous. The primaries were done in strict adherence to PDP constitution and the extant provisions of the Electoral Law at the time. Moreover, the process was not challenged in any Court of Law or before the relevant hierarchy of the PDP authority, so where did Odaudu get his “fraudulent” theory from?

On the performance of Governor Suswam in office, one is pleased to note that Odaudu himself acknowledged in the article that at the invitation of Governor Suswam, President Goodluck Jonathan visited Benue to commission the Greater Makurdi Water Works, the Otobi (Otukpo) Water Project and the KatsinaAla Water Project. Indeed, President Jonathan commissioned several other projects during the two–day visit of March 8-9, 2012, among them the Adikpo-Ikyogen-Jato-Aka road; the Anyiin-Ugbah-Amaafu-Abaji road and the Benue State University Teaching Hospital and new Government House complex.

The issue of non-reticulation of the new Greater Makurdi Water Works referred to in the said article is entirely a different project and not part of the contract for the water treatment plant commissioned by Mr President.

This aspect of the work is four times more expensive than the water plant itself and is therefore, planned to be carried out in phases. Governor Suswam has severally spoken about this and there is no deceit or pretension about the inhibitive cost of the project. The first phase of the project is already being processed for execution.

The attempt by this hireling to link the Governor’s wife, Arc Yemisi Dooshima Suswam to execution of projects in the state is the height of mischief and contradicts every available fact as far as award of contracts in the state is concerned.

For the benefit of the records, Governor Suswam has kept his promise to operate a transparent procurement system. This explains why only renowned construction companies like Dantata and Sawoe Nig ltd., Messrs Gilmor Nig. Ltd, PW. Nig. Ltd., Metropole Nig. Ltd., Hajaig Nig. Ltd., CCEC, etc. were awarded contracts for various roads, water and other infrastructural projects in the state. All these companies are owned by expatriates and have been doing business in Nigeria before Suswam assumed office as Governor of Benue State. The only local contractor handling any major road project in the State is Tilley-Gyado Nig. Ltd. which also has over thirty-five years of corporate tradition in the construction sector and predates the Governor’s tenure.

In clear terms therefore, Mrs Suswam has no interests in Messrs Metropole Nig. Ltd. which handled the Faculty of Law contract at the Benue State University. As rightly observed by Odaudu, Wuye Market project in Abuja which was commis-

Suswam

sioned by Mr President is a Public Private Partnership (PPP) project which was financed by the banks.

In any case, the Governor’s wife, as a professional Architect had a thriving construction industry business prior to her husband’s election as Governor in 2007. This fact is well known except to Odaudu who has deliberately feigned ignorance of the professional and business interests of Mrs Suswam over the years.

The issue of N500 million Flood Relief Fund of 2012 which the writer mentioned in his article is a matter that is in the public domain. Benue was one of the states which suffered from the flood disaster of 2012 and thus benefitted from the Presidential grant of N500 million. The utilisation of this grant was approved by the State Executive Council and a sharing formula was adopted for all the affected LGAs whose Council Chairmen submitted lists of projects on which the relief fund would be applied in the interest of those communities affected by the floods. The whole money has been transparently applied. A Makurdi-based Lawyer who went to Court on the matter failed woefully to sustain his allegations of misappropriation of the fund and shamefully lost the case. Odaudu is thus swimming in ignorance on this topic. His claim that he checked with the LGAs concerned and did not see the projects carried out with the proceeds of the fund exposes his mischievous intentions as he did not state the LGAs he visited neither did he state the Council officials he approached for information on this matter.

Odaudu ridiculed himself in the article with the scant reference to the recent Tiv/Fulani crisis in the state which left scores of people dead with the attendant destruction of towns and villages in nine LGAs of the state.

The writer’s name indicates that he is either of Idoma or Igala ethnic nationality since his name is a combi-

nation of both Idoma (first name) and Igala (surname)otherwise, every Tiv descendant is fully aware of the efforts of Governor Suswam to not only end the recent insurgency visited on Tiv land in the guise of Fulani Herdsmen but is full of commendation for the management of the displaced persons and other peace building efforts put in place in the post-crisis period.

The writer and his sponsors need to be informed that through Governor Suswam’s efforts, most of the displaced persons have gone back to their ancestral homes with the full support of the state government even though the challenge of fully resettling the displaced persons is one too weighty for the state government alone to handle given the huge number of displaced persons and level of destruction of their homes, farms, businesses and other property. Governor Suswam has already approached the Federal Government for assistance and is also sourcing support and assistance from international agencies to provide for these internally displaced persons.

But the real concern of Odaudu as can be seen in the article is the Senatorial race for Benue North–East for which Governor Suswam is well poised to emerge victorious.

In his warped reasoning, Odaudu holds that “Governor Suswam’s ambition to go to the Senate is not to serve. It is just to shield him from prosecution for corruption and abuse of office that he will face at the end of his tenure as Governor.” This is outright balderdash as Senators are not covered by the immunity clause in the constitution and can therefore be prosecuted should the need arise.

Odaudu would have known that this cannot be part of Suswam’s mission to the Senate.

Secondly, it is important to put the records straight. Governor Suswam is not desperate about the Senate Seat. Rather, it is the people of Benue North-East who wish that he represents them in the National Assembly once again, having done so very competently for two terms in the past in the House of Representatives. Odaudu and his paymasters must stop this smear campaign. No amount of name calling, sponsored newspaper articles to smear the Governor Suswam’s reputation can change the situation. The people are irrevocably committed to electing Suswam to the Senate because they suffered the most inept and rudderless representation in the Senate in recent times and are thus determined to take their destiny in their own hands in 2015. This is why

Kwande local government Traditional Rulers, Political leaders, youth, women, professional groups etc. unanimously endorsed him as the sole candidate to contest the Seat as a mark of appreciation of his leadership.

As Governor Suswam prepares to exit Government House Makurdi on May 29, 2015, he will be leaving as a contented person who has transformed the state by delivering on his manifesto. His achievements are numerous. They include the following: Massive roads constructed across the state in both rural and urban centres, the water treatment plants in Makurdi, Katsina-Ala, and Otukpo, the over 140 rural communities that got electricity, the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, the thousands of classrooms and other infrastructure provided in primary schools across the 23 LGAs of the state, the Makurdi International Market, the Faculty of Law and other facilities provided at the State University, the establishment of three Science and Technical Colleges, the establishment of 23 Special Science Secondary schools out of the existing government secondary schools, the Government Model Science College, Makurdi, renovation of structures at the College of Advanced and Professional Studies (CAPS) Makurdi and its transformation to a Diploma awarding Institution; building of rural health clinics, renovation of all General Hospitals in Vandeikya, Tse-Agberagba, Adikpo, Katsina-Ala, Otukpo, Gboko etc. procurement of essential drugs for the hospitals; the ultra-modern new Government House Complex, the renovation of government offices, lodges and facilities etc. The list is endless.

These indeed constitute his legacies to the state.

Above all, Governor Suswam is bequeathing a legacy of confidence to the people. Benue people can now assert themselves anywhere in the country and compete with other Nigerians on merit for opportunities in the national scheme of things. Benue is now on the front burner of national politics and is recognised and respected in the comity of states of the Federation.

Odaudu and his sponsors can continue to delude themselves but Benue people are happy with Governor Suswam and they will show appreciation for the excellent job he has done in the state when they elect him to the Senate in 2015.

Dr Cletus Akwaya is Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs to His Excellency, Gabriel Suswam, Governor of Benue State.

8

Sunday, August 31, 2014

news across the states 9

Sunday, August 31, 2014

Boko Haram: We Won’t Abandon Our Investments In The North - Ndi Igbo The new President of Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo in Kaduna State, Chief Austin Amaechi, has said that the Igbo people resident in the northern part of Nigeria are not prepared to abandon their investments worth over N40 billion in the region for fear of attacks by insurgents, particularly the Boko Haram sect.

He said, Igbo leaders who were asking them to come back home should be rest assured that Boko Haram war will soon come to an end.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the new state executive members of the famous panIgbo socio-cultural group, Amaechi, a lawyer, said, the investments of Igbos in the north is worth over N40 billion.

“So, how can you leave that and go back to the east? Economically, we are at home in the north and politically, we want to participate. We will therefore ensure that we pursue peace with our host communities and among the Igbo communities because once there is peace our investments and other peoples’ investments will be secured.

“If there is no peace, it is not only the investments of Igbos that are threatened but the investments of all Nigerians. So, we would jointly ensure that Nigerians’ investments are protected by Nigerians,” he stated.

The president also explained that during the Nigerian civil war, the property of the Igbos were secured by northerners and were later handed over to them after the war, including the money collected from rents, adding that, that helped them to re-establish themselves after the war.

“Unlike other parts of Nigeria where the investments of Igbos were declared abandoned properties, that never happened in the North”, he said.

By Isaiah Benjamin, Kaduna

L-R: The Director-general of Nysc, Brig-Gen Johnson Olawumi, with the representative of Ondo State Governor, Mr Kola Ademujimi at the launch of the NYSC/Ondo State government collaboration on Monthly Environmental Sanitation in Akure, yesterday. PHOTO BY Nan

OBJ Appointed Chancellor Jigawa State University

BY MUH’D ZANGINA KURA, Dutse

Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has been appointed the pioneer chancellor of the newly established Jigawa State University, Kafin Hausa.

The state governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido, approved the appointment in a letter sent to the former president.

The state Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Professor Haruna Wakili, made this known

in a press release signed and issued by Alhaji Ismaila Ibrahim on behalf of the ministry.

He said the appointment of the former president by Governor Sule Lamido as the chancellor of the university was based on Section 8 of Jigawa State University Law, 2013 and Section 2 of the second schedule of the law which vested the visitor of the university with the powers to appoint chancellor for the university.

He further disclosed that the deci-

sion to appoint the former president as the first chancellor of the university was reached after due consideration of his immense contributions towards the making of modern Nigeria, as a former military head of state, two terms democratically elected President, an internationally recognized person, respected elder statesman and indeed, an eminent personality of proven integrity who served his country to the peak diligently, selflessly and sincerely.

Female Footballer Beats Drunken Man To Coma For Touching Breast

By MATTHEW DIKE and Bukola Idowu, Lagos

A female footballer returning from training at the National Stadium in Surulere area of Lagos State, yesterday, could not control her anger when she beat a drunken man to a pulp for touching her

breast.

The footballer identified as Kemi was said to be returning with her friends after the day’s training in the morning when the drunken man identified as Baba Ibeji cupped one of her breasts with his hand from behind.

Kemi was said to have punched

the man across the lips before the head butt that sent him fainting.

Lagosians around said since Kemi knew that the man was drunk, she should have ignored him and left the scene.

The youths in the area told Kemi to carry the man who was bleeding from the nose to the hospital.

APC To Encourage More Women Participation In Politics – Women Leader As part of efforts to strengthen and deepen the participation of women in its decision making process, the All Progressives Congress, APC, is to establish the first National Women Caucus of the party (NAWOCA).

This was disclosed by the APC National Women Leader, Hajiya RamatuTijjani Aliyu, in her goodwill message at the maiden edition of the Kwara State Women Summit of the party in Ilorin last Thursday.

She disclosed that the caucus was conceived as a platform to address the need for women leaders of the party from the ward to the national levels to come together and discuss issues of common interest as members of one family.

NAWOCA, she further explained, “derived from the need for women in the party to show that we trust one another so that other Nigerian women can trust us”.

“We need to accommodate our differences so that we can accommodate the differences of other Nigerian women who believe in what we believe”, she said, adding that “we will show that we are of one accord so that the women of Nigeria will know that we are one family, united and prepared to provide leadership by example.”

By Bayo Oladeji, Abuja

10 news across the states Ebola: Obasanjo Frowns At Liberia Over Sawyer Former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has lambasted the Liberian officials who colluded with Patrick Sawyer to infect Nigerians with Ebola Virus Disease.

He said but for Sawyer’s appearance in the country, the deadly virus would not have surfaced in Nigeria.

Obasanjo said this while answering questions from guests at an event organised by the publisher of ‘Inside Watch Africa’ magazine, Mr. Oluwaseyi Adeyemo, at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta.

“It is devilish enough that Patrick Sawyer had to spread this, and indeed spread it to Nigeria in connivance with some authorities from his country. Because they knew he had it before he came to Nigeria.

“The EVD has started to take its tolls on the country and the West African sub-region. The toll is not only on the number of those that are ill or dead but on the economy of communities, country, region and sub-region.”

Obasanjo who said he had a meeting with the Ghanaian President, Mr. John Mahama, who’s also the chairman of the Economic Community of West African Countries some weeks ago, said they discussed how to contain the spread of the deadly virus within the sub-region.

He however explained that while Mahama wanted the meeting of ministers of health, he suggested that there was a limit the ministers could go and that a summit of the presidents in the sub-region would be better.

By Gbenga Adeboye, Abeokuta

Ebola: Mob Attack Journalists Near Late Doctor’s Hospital An angry mob on Friday attacked some journalists who had gone to Sam-Steel Clinic and Maternity, Rumuokoro, Port Harcourt, to carry out further investigations on the outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Rivers State.

The Sam-Steel Clinic and Maternity, is owned by the late Dr Ikechukwu Sam Enemua, who died on Friday, August 22, 2014, and a test conducted on his corpse confirmed that he died of Ebola virus.

As at yesterday, a total of 160 persons, including medical staff of the clinic have been quarantined while the wife of the deceased, who is also a medical doctor, has tested positive to Ebola and has been transferred to Lagos for further treatment.

The two journalists, Emeka Idika and Chuks Nweke, all of Silverbird Television, had gone to the hospital, to confirm if the facility was actually shut down as claimed by the Rivers State government, before the mob, led by a young man, who claimed to be the manager of the clinic, bounced on them.

By Anayo Onukwugha, Port

Sunday, August 31, 2014

L-R: CEO/ Founder.

SIMPLE PAY. Simeon Ononobi, CEO/Founder.

Havilah Pharmacy, Chris Ebadan and CEO, Aviva Associates, Sam Alabi during the Boxed Up Pitching contest, organized by Box Office Incubator recently in Abuja. Photo

by Patrick Ebi Amanama

Flood Destroys 36 Houses, Kills Pregnant Woman, Four Others

BY Kola Eke-Ogiugo, Asaba

A torrential rainfall which swept across Delta State yesterday destroyed no fewer than 36 houses, killing pregnant woman and four others in Okpanam and Asaba communities.

Reports said that the flood apart from the destruction it wrecked swept away properties worth millions of naira at the popular Ogbogonogo market as well as destroyed

vehicles that were parked by the market premises.

Sources said that the rain which started at about 2pm was heavily accompanied by wind and thunder lightning, creating palpable tension among motorists as well as pedestrians who struggled to get to their destinations.

LEADERSHIP Sunday reliably gathered that victims of the unfortunate incidents especially the pregnant woman were drowned in-

side the heavy flood between Ogbeke square along the Ibusa road; and while calling for help, all efforts to rescue her proved abortive.

The state Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Frank Omare, who expressed sadness over the incident however described the disaster as unfortunate and assured residents of Asaba and environs of government’s proactive measures to ensure a protective measure against further disaster.

FG Launches National Policy Action Plan On Child Labour

By Michael Oche, Abuja

The federal government has formally launched the National Policy and Action Plan on Child Labour to facilitate the elimination of child labour in Nigeria and ensure that Nigerian children are provided with the future they would be proud of.

Minister of Labour and Productivity, Emeka Wogu, who performed the launching and presentation of the national documents to the Nigerian public in Abuja, indicated that this followed the approval of the National Policy and National Action Plan on Child Labour by the Federal Executive Council

(FEC) in September last year.

He noted that the success of the launching attested to the commitment of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan’s Transformation Agenda and the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme (SURE-P) to the elimination of the challenge of child labour which has constituted a critical impediment to the nation’s development efforts.

The labour minister observed that the National Policy and National Action Plan on Child Labour was the product of a consultative process of stakeholders’ participation, adding that the approval of the national documents by FEC

has set the stage for effective collaboration and implementation of child labour interventions across the country.

“The policy will help every stakeholder to operate in its area of comparative advantage. It will also facilitate the building of synergy, effective coordination and elimination of duplication of interventions by the various MDAs”, he added.

According to him, “The policy also provides monitoring, evaluation and a review process with which to assess periodically the achievements recorded in our collective efforts at combating the scourge of child labour.”

President Jonathan Appoints Yusuf Kazaure As New MD Of Galaxy Backbone

By Reuben Buhari, Abuja

President Goodluck Jonathan has approved the appointment of Mr. Yusuf Kazaure as the managing director and chief executive officer of Galaxy Backbone Ltd. The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, conveyed the appointment in a letter dated August 29, 2014 in which Anyim

congratulated Kazaure and enjoined him to take the ICT company to greater heights. The letter added that the appointment becomes effective from September 5, 2014.

Kazaure replaces Gerald Ilukwe, the pioneer MD/CEO of Galaxy Backbone Ltd whose tenure ends on September 4, 2014 after eight years of meritorious service and outstanding leadership.

In an internal email to em-

ployees announcing the appointment, the outgoing MD wrote, “Dear colleagues, join me in congratulating Mallam Yusuf Kazaure on his recent appointment as MD/CEO of Galaxy Backbone Limited effective September 5, 2014. This elevation is an honour and responsibility well deserved.

I enjoin everyone to give him all the support needed to succeed in moving this fantastic company to even greater heights.”

But LEADERSHIP Sunday’s checks revealed that virtually all roads in Asaba – Ibusa, Okpanam, Nnebisi roads – were flooded.

While most houses were submerged as a result of poor drainage system in Asaba and Okpanam communities, some of the affected landlords who spoke on condition of anonymity however appealed to the state government to come to their aid, as well as provide them with relief materials.

Unity Schools Have Lost their Values’ The standard of Unity Secondary Schools in the country have reduced drastically and there is need for a proper reverse to the original plan.

This was the view of one of the former student of Federal Government Secondary School, Azare Bauchi State and the Chairperson of the organising committee for the first reunion of the 1994 graduating set, Ada Chukwuma when the 1994, graduating set met to deliberate on a possible way of giving back to the school that made them.

Chukwuma noted that back then when she was in school with her classmates from all over the country, there was love and unity among them, not minding the differences in tribe, religion or culture; however, that is not the situation now as the incessant security threat has torn that peace apart.

Speaking on the plans for the school, she lamented that it is a pity that despite the security situations in the country, the school is still having a dilapidated fence and gate, and noted that as part of the agenda for the reunion, the group will fund the restructuring of the school gate.

By Ejike Ejike, Abuja

Sunday, August 31, 2014

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12 FOR THE RECORD

Sunday, August 31, 2014

A Message For Those That Hate by femi fani-kayode

I kept asking myself one question: how on earth do the Arabs coped when faced with such insolence, intolerance and racism from the Jewish far rights?

I had an interesting experience the other day. After spending a good deal of the morning in an interesting and intellectually stimulating discussion with a very bright and pleasant Irishman about the right of the State of Israel to exist, I spent the afternoon in a heated and acrimonious debate with a very irate and extremist Israeli who believed that: ‘Blacks were slaves of Islam’ ; ‘Arabs are animals’ and that ‘Muslims were evil’.

In the morning, I was defending the Jews and the State of Israel with all the logic, passion, debating skills, historical knowledge, powers of persuasion and sincerity that I could muster and in the afternoon, I found myself vigorously confronting the excesses, religious bigotry, racism and sheer arrogance of a misguided Jew and the malevolent mindset and disposition that virtually, all extremist and right-wing Israelis suffer from.

What a day it was! I experienced as much hate and as much violence in temperament and language from that Jew as I have ever done from the most extreme and militant Islamic fundamentalist and jihadist.

Naturally, he got far more than he bargained from me and he left the venue of the discussion a very sober man, indeed, because I was compelled to tell him the bitter truth about his own people, his own faith and his own intellectual and emotional disposition.

Yet, all in all, the entire discussion troubled me. This is especially after I was labelled: ‘anti-Semitic’ by many American and European Jews and Christians on twitter simply for speaking the truth.

I have also been labelled as: ‘anti-Muslim’ by many of my Muslim friends and detractors simply because of my relentless and unyielding opposition to Islamist terror and Muslim fundamentalism over the years.

Having been involved in public discourse and debates for over 20 years now, I lose no sleep about what others think about me but what I always find troubling is the fact that some people find it very difficult to cope with the bitter truth when confronted with their own shortcomings, fallacies and errors.

Worse still, once you point those bitter truths out to them they go on the defensive, lash out at you, seek to demonise you and label you as public enemy number one. I am used to getting that from the Muslim extremists in our midst but I was surprised to get it from the Jews, whom I have always defended, as well.

And frankly, the extraordinary brand of arrogance and high level of historical revisionism, double-speak, stubborness and selective memory of the right-wing orthodox Jewish extremists is worse than any that I have ever come across in my life because, more often than not, they speak from the position of been the helpless victims and they feel justified in all that they say and do.

Their rhetoric is powerful, compelling and convincing and the rationale for all that they do and say is laced with emotion. This is pretty potent stuff and these are very serious people with an extremly dangerous mindset. They are indeed the very same people that murdered the moderate Israeli Prime Minister and great peacemaker, Mr. Yizhak Rabin, simply because he had the decency and presence of mind to sign the Americansponsored Oslo Accords with Yasser Ara-

fat’s Palestinian Liberation Organisation in 1995.

I kept asking myself one question: how on earth do the Arabs coped when faced with such insolence, intolerance and racism from the Jewish far rights? Many of us love Israel and consider ourselves to be friends of Israel but, like I told my Jewish orthodox antagonists, real friends are compelled to tell the truth, even if that truth is bitter and unpleasant.

Only fake friends will endorse every act of Israel even when that act is wrong, counter-productive, ill-conceived, irrational and unreasonable. Only fake friends will support the display and expression of every inappropiate, disproportionate and indefensible Israeli action and utterance.

If you are not prepared to tell the State of Israel or the Jews the truth when and Fani-Kayode where they have gone wrong, then you cannot call yourself a lover of Israel or a ness, fratricide and genocide with knives, believer in the Jewish cause. cudgels and machetes. They forgot that I sought to teach my right wing Jew- it was Christian Americans that killed ish orthodox friend a few lessons in that 150,000 innocent civilians in 3 days debate and those lessons are as follows. when they bombed Baghdad in an illeNot all Muslims are bad, not all Chris- gal war. tians are good and not all Jews are ciThey forgot that it was Christian vilised. Again not all Arabs are demons, America that wiped out the Red Indians not all Jews are angels and not all Chris- and that herded the few that they didn’t tians are as holy as the Pope. slaughter into concentration camps they Racial bigotry and religious intoler- called reservations. They forgot that it ance is the worse form of ignorance that was Christian Western Europe that deexists. It is a cancer and it is evil. That is humanised and enslaved the black man why I am a secularist and I believe that and that carved up and colonised the Afreligion must be kept out of the affairs of rican continent. They forgot that it was state and politics.

Christian Great Britain that tormented Whether you are black, white, brown, and plagued pre-independence China red or yellow or whether you are a Mus- and that turned the Chinese into helplim, Christian, Arab, Jew, Persian or any- less victims of a drug called opium. thing else, if you are a racist or a religious They forgot that it is Christian Ameribigot, I despise you and I have nothing ca that has killed thousands of innocent but contempt for you.

Muslim women and children in secret I harbor the same degree of disdain drone attacks in Pakistan and Afghanand contempt for a Muslim fundamen- istan in the last few years. They forgot talist and Islamist terrorist as I do for a that it was the Christian IRA that killed Christian terrorist, a Jewish terrorist and thousands of innocent British civilians a Hindu terrorist. Terror is terror. It has over a period of 100 years and during the no race or creed. It is evil and it is unac- time of the ‘’troubles’’. ceptable.

They forgot that it was Christian King Those that believe that such atrocities Leopold 11 of Belgium that personally are only committed by Muslims have not ordered the slaughter of no less than read their history very well. They forgot 10 million Congolese and that actualthat it was a christian by the name of Ad- ly owned the entire nation of the Conolf Hitler, with the full backing and en- go and regarded it as part of his persondorsement of the Pope of his day, who al estate. gassed 6 million Jews, Slaves and GypThey forgot that it was Jewish Israsies and who caused the death of 50 mil- el that killed 2000 innocent civilians, lion people during the Second World war. including 450 infants and young chilThey forgot too that it was a christian dren, during the just-concluded bombby the name of Kaiser Wilhelm 11 of Ger- ing of Gaza. I have always believed that many who started the First World War Israel has the right to defend herself and which led to the death of 20 million peo- I have always supported them in their ple. noble cause.

Again, they forgot that it was a ChrisThis is because I believe passionately tian militia backed by the Jewish State of that the re-establishment of the State Israel and the Israeli Defence Force that of Israel in 1948 was prophetic and bekilled thousands of innocent Palestinian cause I believe that she has the right to and Arab women and children in the ref- exist. However, that does not mean that ugee camps of Sabra and Shatilla.

I ought to endorse, commend or support They forgot that it was the Hindu na- the slaughter of 450 innocent Palestintionalists that slaughtered hundreds of ian children. thousands of Muslims in post colonial They forgot that it is Christian Ukraine India which led to the breaking up of that that is shelling, bombing and killing nation into three separate countries. thousands of their own people in the They forgot that it was the white eastern part of their country today simChristian Boers of South Africa that in- ply because those people are trying to stitutionalised apartheid and that justi- exercise their right of self-determinafied it with verses from the Bible.They tion and are fighting for their freedom forgot that it was the Jewish State of Is- and liberty. rael that espoused and still espouses the They forgot that it was the Chrisdeeply racist concept of Zionism. tian Serbs that were indulging in ethnic They forgot that it was the Chris- cleansing and slaughtering the Muslim tian Hutus of Rwanda that slaughtered Kosovars and Bosnians and the christian 800,000 of their own Christian Tutsi Croats in Eastern Europe approximately brothers and sisters in 28 days of mad- 20 years ago. They forgot that it was the

Christian crusaders that massacred every single Muslim man, woman and child when they took the City of Jerusalem in the Middle Ages.

They forgot that it was a Muslim by the name of Salahudeen who, 100 years later, when he re-took Jerusalem back from the Christians, refused to retaliate and instead gave every christian safe passage to leave the city and ordered that not one of them should be harmed.

Those that argue that all Muslims are butchers, animals and terrorists have forgotten the compassion of Salahudeen and those that argue that all Christians are beasts and sadistic killers have forgotten the compassion of King Richard, the Lionheart of England, a God-fearing and profoundly good man who led the later crusades, who liberated Jerusalem from the Muslims and who was a respected friend and worthy adversary of the great Salahudeen.

From these, it is clear that kindness, restraint, mercy, compassion, righteousness and humanity has no religious or ethnic boundries or identities. Unfortunately, neither does the affliction of wickedness or the perpetuation and willful administration of horror and misfortune.

Terror is unacceptable whether it comes from a Christian, a Jew or a Muslim and whether it is administered by the state or by a religious or private militia.

Human beings, of every race and creed, can be beasts and, more often than not, they use religion to justify their beastly activities, ways and their sinister political objectives.

I condemn Islamist terror (particularly the type of horrific and unprecedented terror inflicted by groups like Al Qaeda, the Taliban, ISIS, Islamic Jihad, Al Shabab and Boko Haram) but I refuse to condemn Islam as a religion because not all Muslims are terrorists and not all terrorists are Muslims.

If I were to condemn all Muslims for the barbaric actions of a few of them, then, I would have to condemn all Christians and Jews for the barbaric acts committed throughout world history by the adherents of both of these faiths as well.

Not one of the three major religious faiths is evil because each of the three accepts the concept and propogate the notion of one all-powerful and all-knowing God that rules in the affairs of men and that is the creator of all that exists.

It is mankind that corrupts and abuses the practice and interpretation of these three great faiths and that, more often than not, uses them to justify the most barbaric and the most evil acts that one can possibly imagine. If we really want a better world, this has to stop.

I shall pray for my right wing, orthodox Jewish antagonist because, as with all extremists. He has been blinded by hate, fear and venom. I shall also continue to pray for and bless the State of Israel because I have a very soft spot for the Jews and because my Bible compels me to do so.

Yet, whether the Jews continue to see me as a friend or not, is neither here nor there and neither does it bothers me one way or the other. This is because the Lord sees my heart and, as a servant of truth, I am compelled by the laws of God to continue to speak the truth, no matter how painful it is and no matter whose ox is gored. Shalom All Israel.

Fani Kayode is a former Aviation minister

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13

Sunday, August 31, 2014

A Day With Polio Survivors In Sokoto The life of a physically challenged person in our contemporary settings is full of challenges. People living with disabilities (PLWD) in Sokoto State share their pains and ordeals as they opened up to ANKELI EMMANUEL in this piece.

A life of polio is not an easy life because apart from the struggles you go through as a child, you also discover that you are being discriminated against from all levels

“Our ordeals are better imagined than experienced”, “Life has not really been fair to us” These have been the position and lamentation of the good number of Polio survivors as well as others that are living with disability (PLWD).

However, some others seem to have accepted their conditions in good fate as they concluded that the Omnipotent God never makes mistakes in allowing them to be the way they are.

But, more pathetically, there are those who out of inner dilemma wished their parents were alive to see the degree of pains they were going through because of their sheer negligence or ignorance to simply present them for immunization after their birth, and as at when due.

Among those that hold such views include a polio survivor, Hajiya Zainab Saidu Abdulnasir who is currently the Manager News and Current Affairs, NTA Sokoto station.

Though, a very eloquent and dedicated staff, she narrated some of her ordeals to LEADERSHIP Sunday.

Hajiya Zainab as she is fondly called, is the first child of a family of nine, and one among the very many polio survivors that was fortunate to have gone to school because of the support she got from her parents and her personal conviction.

Recalling that her grandmother had to carry her on her back to school every morning and return her same way at the close of school, Hajiya Zainab equally informed that she only got a wheel chair while in secondary school. She used it all through, including her University days.

Her pain was visible when she recalled with nostalgia how she longed to become a medical student but had to miss it because of her polio condition. “I got admission to read Medicine but couldn’t take it up when I got to the registration point hence the Medical Director at the University then, told me that they don’t have facilities for physically challenged students. Therefore, I was forced to change my course. And painful enough, I never wanted a single honoured course such as BSc Biolo-

gy, Physics, Chemistry etc because I was a science student.

“Consequently, I had tough time choosing a course. Even the Social Sciences did not want me because I did not have the background to go there. However, I was lucky because I had a good grade in the English Language. I had a C4 and I was offered the opportunity to study a BA in English, which was what I graduated with before I came for my NYSC in NTA Sokoto. At the end of the service year, I got the state government award and was eventually retained.

I was in service when I went back to school for my Master’s degree in Literature in English and I have been working with the NTA since 1995 until date.”

In her account of what she described as the true picture of her present condition, Hajiya Zainab said, “My mother told me I walked at the age of seven months but by my first birthday, I had polio and I lost the use of both of my lower limbs.

Now, I can only move by crawling or with the aid of a wheel chair. So, growing up was such a challenge for me, because when I started primary school, the school authority declined to give me admission on grounds that I am physically challenged. But I was lucky that my uncle was a senior staff in the state Ministry of education. So my father reported to my uncle and he was given a note to whoever the Headmaster was, and I was recalled back and admitted on that same day”.

Although she felt her condition all through schooling but she was comforted by the show of love and assistance from her friends and school mates while staying in hostels from secondary to University level, hence they are always there for her.

Talking on her motivation, she said, “As a person, from childhood, I have always wanted to be different.

And I tell myself that begging is not the way out because it is not always out of love that people will give you arms, but out of pity. Anybody that loves you will find a means of livelihood for you and engage you. He will not be giving you N5, N10 or N20.

Rather he will find a trade for you

Hajiya Zainab Saidu Abdulnasir, a polio survivor, is manager news and current affairs, NTA Sokoto.

Sahabi Lawali is another polio survivor. PHOTOS BY ANKELI EMMANUEL

to enable you become self reliant or sponsor you in school because that way, you will be useful to yourself, family and the society at large.

“Because anybody that is a beggar, whichever way you see it, is a liability on everyone around him. I also feel there is no individual that is useless. Everybody is useful and unique in his or her own special way. If you cannot use your legs, somehow, God will strengthen another part of your body to help you cope because for me, I know that God does not make a mistake”.

Expressing sadness over how PLWDs take advantage of their situation to become perpetual beggars, Hajiya Zainab said, “For me, I do not feel begging is an option for anybody.

But most painfully, these days it’s not only the physically challenged that are begging but others that are able-bodied have joined them. So, now, begging as a trade has become a norm. But I still insist begging is not an option, the best you can do is to find something for you to do with your life. “I can assure you that a life of polio is not an easy life because apart from the struggles you go through as a child, you also discover that you are being discriminated against from all levels. Even at the family level, you will be the last person to be considered if the family is short of finances and they are thinking of whom to send to school.

It might surely not be you that is physically challenged, rather they prefer to train those they consider to be normal.

“So, our options are not really very wide. We face discrimination at

all levels. And if you are lucky to get educated, you equally face challenges getting a job hence maybe considered not fit enough to deliver as expected.

“The best gift from any parent is to ensure that their wards are satisfactorily given the polio vaccine,” Hajiya Zainab submitted.

Though, the case of Hajiya Zainab is simply one polio survivor’s success story out of the thousands that are out there living their lives as beggars, as LEADERSHIP Sunday took a walk into some the beggars’ domains around the Sokoto environs.

Most of those contacted said that each of them is being given monthly support of N6,500 by the state government, “we cannot help but to beg hence our immediate family and even the society seems to have been in support of our trade.”

Sahabi Lawali, another polio survivor from Goronyo local government, while on his wheel chair, confided in LEADERSHIP Sunday that, though they face pathetic situation of neglect from the alms givers, they are left with no option due to their lack of education but to indulge in begging as a trade at the moment. Sahabi further explained accompanies by his partners in begging, they go round specific eateries in the metropolis to beg for alms from those coming to eat there.

Sahabi’s testimony is corroborated by those of Shehu Suleiman, Ibrahim Saminu, Mohammed Sale and a host of others at different eateries within the Sokoto metropolis.

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14

Sunday, August 31, 2014

Some of the pregnant teenagers rescued by law enforcement agents . PHOTO BY www.cknigeria.com

Menace Of Baby Merchants Syndicate In Akwa Ibom Children are a blessing from God, but in some parts of Nigeria today, children have become a form of commodity bought from the factory, and only those with good money can purchase them. Akwa Ibom is in the spotlight of being a destination for busting illegal baby racketing in recent times. Bernard Tolani Dada, Uyo, writes

We sold the babies to those who had no child and came to us for one.

Even barren women with their husbands usually patronized us. In the last one year, we have sold over 50 babies

The obnoxious racketing of babies which has now assumed a frightening proportion in the country has finally arrived in Akwa Ibom State.

Before now, dumping of babies was a commonplace in the state, while people with dubious business motives saw it as a means of exploiting childless couples and make money. But today, another dimension has been added to the illegal trade, and the word “baby factory” is now in vogue; where young girls are forced to be impregnated and their babies offered for sale after delivery.

Most baby factories are usually disguised as maternity, orphanage or social welfare homes, or in most times, they are run as clinics or prayer houses. These “baby factories” are operated by well-organised syndicates nationwide.

The first case of “baby factory” in Nigeria was officially reported in 2006 by UNESCO, while specifically referring to Abia, Edo, Ebonyi and Lagos states.

Pregnant teenagers and adult women with unwanted pregnancies approached doctors, clinics, nurses or orphanages that subsequently took care of these girls and women during their pregnancies. The natural mothers of these babies only received monetary compensation ranging from N30,000 to N500,000.

Since 2006, reported cases of “baby factories” in the country increased drastically with new facts emerging about this phenomenon being a core element of human trafficking.

According to Akwa Ibom police command few months back, the police arrested five persons suspected to be involved in this illegal activity at a local clinic located in Ikot Ekpene local government area of the state.

The state commissioner of police, Umar Gwadabe, who made the disclosure while parading the suspects at the police headquarters in Ikot Akpan Abia in Uyo, explained that seven expectant mothers

and some children were rescued in the clinic. Few days before, men of the Department of Security Service (DSS) in Akwa Ibom had paraded 20 suspected child thieves, including a reverend father who claimed that he bought two babies from a motherless baby home.

According to the state deputy director of DSS, Mr Fubara Duke, the Catholic priest, Rev. Father Okono Joseph, of St. Peters Parish of Owerri Catholic Diocese, Imo State, was arrested for buying two boys for N450,000 each. The man of God, he said, bought the babies from an agent sponsored by one Chief Uche Joel Canice Onyekedru from Ogiri in Imo State.

Those also paraded included Mercy Okon Etim, Collins Monday Edet, Caroline Nkwonna, Cecilla Ngozi Ngene, Eleka Okoye, Nwaonu Cosmas Okoro, Adaobi Onyeke, Elizabeth, Onubogu, Amaka Umeh, Ebele Nwadika Flowrence Onyodobi Emenka Anaefuna, Nnamdi Onuchukwu Ifeoma Gladys Nweze, Chiyneyen Roseline Idam Vivian Ogbona and David Ogbuagu.

The DSS also disclosed that in the last eight months, over 60 children had been sold off by the criminals in the state, adding that the leader of the syndicate, Chief Uche Joel, who could not remember the

number of children he had sold, usually operated in conjunction with agents who liaised with some government officials in children homes and maternity hospitals.

Just last week, the Akwa Ibom state command of the Nigerian Civil Defence and Security Corps uncovered yet another “baby factory” in Ekparakwa in Oruk Annam local government area, where over 18 suspects were arrested, and 18 pregnant young girls and three babies were rescued.

Prior to this discovery, few months back, over 16 babies and 25 teenage girls were said to have been rescued from another baby factory operating as a clinic in Onna.

The state NCDSC commandant, Mr Pedro Ideba, said that following a tip, his men had stormed the factory which had been operating for several years, and rescued young women, aged between 16 and 25 years. Eighteen suspects were also arrested and taken for questioning.

According to Ideba, the young girls were recruited to sleep with men in the ramshackle clinic to produce babies who would later be sold out to prospective customers.

While speaking on the issue, the public relations offi➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

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Sunday, August 31, 2014

Menace Of Baby Merchants Syndicate In Akwa Ibom ➔ FROM PAGE 15 cer of the state command, Mr Ime White, said the raid operation was done with clinical precision in conjunction with officials from the state Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development and NAPTIP. “We asked them to come with us for the operation and to understand the heinous crime being committed by these operators of illegal clinics,” White said, continuing that, “The clinic itself was located in a remote village amid degrading dirty and unhygienic environment, and immediately the suspects were arrested and brought to Uyo they were all handed over to the ministry of women affairs for necessary action after interviewing them.”

According to him, the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons and other related matters (NAPTIP) were expected to receive the girls, carry out further investigations into the matter and prosecute them.

According to one of the suspects, who did not give out her name, each baby was sold for N400,000. She also confessed that she ran the business with her husband, who is currently at large, adding that young women came to the factory sometimes already pregnant, and where accommodated for the duration of the pregnancy till the babies were sold.

“We sold each baby for N400,000. We sold the babies to those who had no child and came to us for one. Even barren women with their husbands usually patronized us.

In the last one year, we have sold over 50 babies,” she confessed.

One of the young women claimed that she was impregnated by her boyfriend who later abandoned her. She said she became dejected as she was an orphan and was brought to the factory by a man who she could not identify or locate.

The youngest of the victims, a 16-year-old JSS3 student, said she was a school dropout and that she got pregnant while hawking oranges for a woman and was brought to the clinic by a stranger she could no longer identify.

However, a source told LEADERSHIP Sunday that boys were brought into the centre to make love to some of the girls. Those who introduced the girls went home with cash, depending on the stage of the pregnancy at the time of arrival.

If a girl is less than four months pregnant, the person who introduced such girls to the hospital got N15,000, but

if the pregnancy is five months and above, the person would be rewarded with N17,000.

And when a girl delivered safely, she would be paid off with a sum of money ranging from N40,000 to N50,000, and thereafter, the baby would be sold for N400,000. Sex-defined price tags also existed, with the price of a female child going for between N300,000 and N350,000, while a male child between N350,000 and N400,000.

So, while the “social mothers”, as they are known, are made to believe that their babies would be put up for adoption by willing foster parents, with the prospect of a guaranteed future, the fact remains that they are mere money spinners for the doctors. However, to create a semblance of a legitimate transaction, the baby merchants brandish phony documents in the transaction.

The source hinted that even at these makeshift clinics, the rate of deaths is high, attributing it to poor and inadequate medical attention. And because of the pricing formula, based on the sex of the babies, a lady who operates a scan centre revealed that girls whose tests showed they were carrying boys got better medical attention, because the “product/commodity” would attract more money. LEADERSHIP Sunday was not however told how the corpses of dead babies were discarded.

A former staff of the clinic, who pleaded anonymity, alleged that the workers were usually made to take compulsory oath of secrecy by swearing to a juju (local deity) not to divulge any information about the place to anyone, no matter the circumstances.

While speaking with LEADERSHIP Sunday, the head of NAPTIP in Akwa Ibom said the organisation was working on some of the cases brought to it by the police, the NSCDC and other teenage camp centres in the state.

The NAPTIP chief explained that nothing would stop the agency from putting a stop to the illegal and criminal trade.

“We know he sells babies in the name of adoption. There are reports of so many other areas where babies are sold in the state. We are investigating them. It is assuming an alarming proportion and NAPTIP is not taking it lightly.”

She argued that the illegal baby trade is booming because of the high profit in the business and low risk, while volunteering that the agency was determined to nip it in the bud.

So many reasons have been

Abba

Abolurin

Jedy-Agba

given for the upsurge in the business. Mr Okon Edet, an itinerant preacher in Uyo, attributed the case of baby factories to poverty, saying that poverty is the major factor causing teenage pregnancy in the society. According to him, most families find it difficult to feed three times a day, and as a result, they lose control of their children. Peer pres-

sure also lures them into social vices including unwanted pregnancy.

“As a preacher, I have observed that teenagers become uncontrollable at a particular stage of their lives, and it takes the true concentration of parents to notice this and re-direct them; because once they are not put right at this stage, it is finished,” he said.

‘Social mothers’, as they are known, are made to believe that their babies would be put up for adoption by willing foster parents, with the prospect of a guaranteed future

COVER STORY 15

Sunday, August 31, 2014

Menace Of Baby Merchants Syndicate In Akwa Ibom ➔ FROM PAGE 15 cer of the state command, Mr Ime White, said the raid operation was done with clinical precision in conjunction with officials from the state Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development and NAPTIP. “We asked them to come with us for the operation and to understand the heinous crime being committed by these operators of illegal clinics,” White said, continuing that, “The clinic itself was located in a remote village amid degrading dirty and unhygienic environment, and immediately the suspects were arrested and brought to Uyo they were all handed over to the ministry of women affairs for necessary action after interviewing them.”

According to him, the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons and other related matters (NAPTIP) were expected to receive the girls, carry out further investigations into the matter and prosecute them.

According to one of the suspects, who did not give out her name, each baby was sold for N400,000. She also confessed that she ran the business with her husband, who is currently at large, adding that young women came to the factory sometimes already pregnant, and where accommodated for the duration of the pregnancy till the babies were sold.

“We sold each baby for N400,000. We sold the babies to those who had no child and came to us for one. Even barren women with their husbands usually patronized us.

In the last one year, we have sold over 50 babies,” she confessed.

One of the young women claimed that she was impregnated by her boyfriend who later abandoned her. She said she became dejected as she was an orphan and was brought to the factory by a man who she could not identify or locate.

The youngest of the victims, a 16-year-old JSS3 student, said she was a school dropout and that she got pregnant while hawking oranges for a woman and was brought to the clinic by a stranger she could no longer identify.

However, a source told LEADERSHIP Sunday that boys were brought into the centre to make love to some of the girls. Those who introduced the girls went home with cash, depending on the stage of the pregnancy at the time of arrival.

If a girl is less than four months pregnant, the person who introduced such girls to the hospital got N15,000, but

if the pregnancy is five months and above, the person would be rewarded with N17,000.

And when a girl delivered safely, she would be paid off with a sum of money ranging from N40,000 to N50,000, and thereafter, the baby would be sold for N400,000. Sex-defined price tags also existed, with the price of a female child going for between N300,000 and N350,000, while a male child between N350,000 and N400,000.

So, while the “social mothers”, as they are known, are made to believe that their babies would be put up for adoption by willing foster parents, with the prospect of a guaranteed future, the fact remains that they are mere money spinners for the doctors. However, to create a semblance of a legitimate transaction, the baby merchants brandish phony documents in the transaction.

The source hinted that even at these makeshift clinics, the rate of deaths is high, attributing it to poor and inadequate medical attention. And because of the pricing formula, based on the sex of the babies, a lady who operates a scan centre revealed that girls whose tests showed they were carrying boys got better medical attention, because the “product/commodity” would attract more money. LEADERSHIP Sunday was not however told how the corpses of dead babies were discarded.

A former staff of the clinic, who pleaded anonymity, alleged that the workers were usually made to take compulsory oath of secrecy by swearing to a juju (local deity) not to divulge any information about the place to anyone, no matter the circumstances.

While speaking with LEADERSHIP Sunday, the head of NAPTIP in Akwa Ibom said the organisation was working on some of the cases brought to it by the police, the NSCDC and other teenage camp centres in the state.

The NAPTIP chief explained that nothing would stop the agency from putting a stop to the illegal and criminal trade.

“We know he sells babies in the name of adoption. There are reports of so many other areas where babies are sold in the state. We are investigating them. It is assuming an alarming proportion and NAPTIP is not taking it lightly.”

She argued that the illegal baby trade is booming because of the high profit in the business and low risk, while volunteering that the agency was determined to nip it in the bud.

So many reasons have been

Abba

Abolurin

Jedy-Agba

given for the upsurge in the business. Mr Okon Edet, an itinerant preacher in Uyo, attributed the case of baby factories to poverty, saying that poverty is the major factor causing teenage pregnancy in the society. According to him, most families find it difficult to feed three times a day, and as a result, they lose control of their children. Peer pres-

sure also lures them into social vices including unwanted pregnancy.

“As a preacher, I have observed that teenagers become uncontrollable at a particular stage of their lives, and it takes the true concentration of parents to notice this and re-direct them; because once they are not put right at this stage, it is finished,” he said.

‘Social mothers’, as they are known, are made to believe that their babies would be put up for adoption by willing foster parents, with the prospect of a guaranteed future

16

sunday interview Sunday, August 31, 2014

We’ve Not Advised President On Issue Of Security, Corruption – Justice Mamman Nasir The first Attorney General and Minister of Justice of Northern Nigeria, Justice Mamman Nasir, GCON, in this interview with AMINA ALHASSAN AHMAN , gave the recently concluded national conference a pass mark for bringing Nigerians together to speak on issues concerning Nigeria. The Galadiman Katsina however, is not happy that on the issue of security and corruption they did not get to advise the president on steps to take to end insurgency because the conference did not approve. He speaks on other sundry issues as well as how the Islamic Centre for Peace and Research in Imo state came to be named after him, how peace should be promoted in Nigeria.

Now that the National Conference has ended, would you say it was worth convening?

The fourth one I wrote is to advise the President, but the conference didn’t approve that one...

So, we have not yet advised the president on the issue of security or insecurity.

Well, I have been virtually in government since the first republic through the military period till today in various capacities.

There were many conferences. To be honest to myself, all that we require, we already have the records of, even if this conference did not hold. However, holding the conference has given other Nigerians the opportunity to air their views, and there is nothing wrong with that.

What is wrong is for us at the conference to believe we are the only wise people in Nigeria, which we are not. Once we accept that, then we are building more friends, and if we are building more friends, we are bound to have better relationship in the country. I had friends for example from Rivers, Enugu, Onitsha, Kano, Borno because I had the opportunity to move about the whole federation.

There were so many things which went wrong during the conference, but it was a conference of human beings, we were able to tolerate, and admit that when the conference finishes and the president accepts the result, that would be the end of the conference. The only authority we had at the conference is to advise the president, no more. We were not in a position to make laws, or do anything for anybody. We were simply advisers to the president, after then it will be up to him to adopt after consultation with other people if there are things which he can use from the decisions of the conference.

In your view, was the conference a success even though

some people’s demands were not met?

During the conference, so many things were rowdy. Few people wanted to go to the extreme, but the majority was able to control themselves, and everything in my view was reasonably successful.

One mistake people try to make is to believe that the only way we can function is to be multi-millionaires. The leaders in the first republic, none of them left millions as their property. Many of them are still respected more than us who are still living now. We are saying, copy what those leaders have done. Some people at the conference thought that materialism are the only conditions of life.

No. All you need is to have your job, do your work, see what you get. As a Muslim or a Christian, whatever you have, it is a duty to share it with other people. So at the conference, in my view, that is the only place were some of us went wrong, and of course some were former ministers and others were not, but when they put their address the way they want, then they are masters. In Nigeria, the constitution says we are all equal.

Even our creator said we are all equal. If you want to be superior, it will affect your relationship with Him. Even material wise, whether you are a minister, Galadima, or whatever, that does not make you superior to any other Nigerian because tomorrow, any other Nigerian can be what you are, your son or your grandson may be.

Corruption is really eating deep into every facet of Nigeria. Are you satisfied with some of the resolutions made by the

Mamman Nasir conference on tackling corruption?

No. That is one issue which we have not fully discussed and I am not happy. I wrote a paper challenging that, even before the conference. My view from the very beginning of the conference is that we are going to have a conference with Nigerians in peace; we know our limitations, we know why we are there, so if we are honestly advising the president, one key condition to consider is this issue of peace in the country. The insurgency, the trouble we are having with criminals. But above all, as long as corruption can lead the way, then we are short of about 50 per cent to build the nation. Once corruption is a leader, honesty has gone. An ordinary man will appreciate that rich business man who is corrupt, by giving money to other people to do things for him. We can accuse anybody. And once you start accusing some people, the accusation goes up. If you are at the bottom, then it goes to the next step, then up to the top. Any human being is entitled to accuse anybody on the basis of the evidence before him.

I am not happy with our final decision on corruption, we have not done enough. Because to me, once you remove corruption, everything else will be smooth in government. I have been in government, I have been a minister.

Anybody who ever gave me something to do for him that is against the law or not to do something, then after the first time I will report him or I will hand him over to the police. Whoever gave me money at any time to do something corrupt for him, should come out. I know some people have been accused, we even know some of them, and even recently, there was accusation in the judiciary. So, on this issue of corruption, we should go back to school, real school; try to copy what the leaders in the first republic did.

They were able to eschew selfishness and any form of making themselves multi-millionaires, to eschew having belief in materialism as the only source of leadership. That is what brings corruption. Because if you want peace in the country, if you are given public money or even private money, use it according to the rules. Cor-

17

interview 17

Sunday, August 31, 2014

We’ve Not Advised President On Issue Of Security, Corruption – Justice Mamman Nasir 16

Now that the National Conference has ended, would you say it was worth convening?

Well, I have been virtually in government since the first republic through the military period till today in various capacities.

There were many conferences. To be honest to myself, all that we require, we already have the records of, even if this conference did not hold. However, holding the conference has given other Nigerians the opportunity to air their views, and there is nothing wrong with that.

What is wrong is for us at the conference to believe we are the only wise people in Nigeria, which we are not. Once we accept that, then we are building more friends, and if we are building more friends, we are bound to have better relationship in the country. I had friends for example from Rivers, Enugu, Onitsha, Kano, Borno because I had the opportunity to move about the whole federation.

There were so many things which went wrong during the conference, but it was a conference of human beings, we were able to tolerate, and admit that when the conference finishes and the president accepts the result, that would be the end of the conference. The only authority we had at the conference is to advise the president, no more. We were not in a position to make laws, or do anything for anybody. We were simply advisers to the president, after then it will be up to him to adopt after consultation with other people if there are things which he can use from the decisions of the conference.

In your view, was the conference a success even though some people’s demands were not met?

The main purpose of religion both in Islam and Christianity is to respect your creator, worship him and then obey the teachings given to the prophets.

Now if you do that, you will see that unless somebody tries to suppress you, you have no right to attack anybody

During the conference, so many things were rowdy. Few people wanted to go to the extreme, but the majority was able to control themselves, and everything in my view was reasonably successful.

One mistake people try to make is to believe that the only way we can function is to be multi-millionaires. The leaders in the first republic, none of them left millions as their property. Many of them are still respected more than us who are still living now. We are saying, copy what those leaders have done. Some people at the conference thought that materialism are the only conditions of life.

No. All you need is to have your job, do your work, see what you get. As a Muslim or a Christian, whatever you have, it is a duty to share it with other people. So at the conference, in my view, that is the only place were some of us went wrong, and of course some were former ministers and others were not, but when they put their address the way they want, then they are masters. In Nigeria, the constitution says we are all equal.

Even our creator said we are all equal. If you want to be superior, it will affect your relationship with

Mamman Nasir

Him. Even material wise, whether you are a minister, Galadima, or whatever, that does not make you superior to any other Nigerian because tomorrow, any other Nigerian can be what you are, your son or your grandson may be.

Corruption is really eating deep into every facet of Nigeria. Are you satisfied with some of the resolutions made by the conference on tackling corruption?

No. That is one issue which we have not fully discussed and I am not happy. I wrote a paper challenging that, even before the conference. My view from the very beginning of the conference is that we are going to have a conference with Nigerians in peace; we know our limitations, we know why we are there, so if we are honestly advising the president, one key condition to consider is this issue of peace in the country. The insurgency, the trouble we are having with criminals. But above all, as long as corruption can lead the way, then we are short of about 50 per cent to build the nation. Once corruption is a leader, honesty has gone. An ordinary man will appreciate that rich business man who is corrupt, by giving money to other people to do things for him. We can accuse anybody. And once you start accusing some people, the accusation goes up. If you are at the bottom, then it goes to the next step, then up to the top. Any hu-

man being is entitled to accuse anybody on the basis of the evidence before him.

I am not happy with our final decision on corruption, we have not done enough. Because to me, once you remove corruption, everything else will be smooth in government. I have been in government, I have been a minister.

Anybody who ever gave me something to do for him that is against the law or not to do something, then after the first time I will report him or I will hand him over to the police. Whoever gave me money at any time to do something corrupt for him, should come out. I know some people have been accused, we even know some of them, and even recently, there was accusation in the judiciary. So, on this issue of corruption, we should go back to school, real school; try to copy what the leaders in the first republic did.

They were able to eschew selfishness and any form of making themselves multi-millionaires, to eschew having belief in materialism as the only source of leadership. That is what brings corruption. Because if you want peace in the country, if you are given public money or even private money, use it according to the rules. Corruption can be in government and in businesses and so on, so nobody should accuse government alone, people in government cannot be corrupt without people outside government participating. So if

you are accusing, don’t accuse government alone. Accuse even the ordinary people who are making government corrupt.

Insurgency is a major concern now in Nigeria. As someone who promotes peaceful co-existence, can you proffer some solutions to how insurgency can be tackled in order for us to have peace?

When I came to the conference, I came with the main objective of getting the delegates to accept that they are Nigerians. If you want ordinary democracy in Nigeria, you go to general elections, which we do not practice, we are nominated by groups, but that is not a barrier, if we are prepared to be honest. If we are serving the country, we can sit in the house, we can sit in the market, we can sit anywhere and we can still serve the nation according to the opportunity you have. So I came with the objective that we should unite ourselves. In fact, I wrote a paper, which I never had the opportunity to read to the conference, but the main objective was that we as Nigerians must come together and accept the trust given to us at the conference. Even the next one I wrote was still on that, the third one I wrote is on peace. The fourth one I wrote is to advise the president, but the conference didn’t approve that one. It was presented by me, but it was not approved. So we have not yet advised the president on the issue

18

sunday politics

Politics Editor Weeklies: UCHENNA AWOM

Sunday, August 31, 2014

Kaduna 2015: Factors, Issues, That May Shape The Guber Race As the count down to the 2015 general election draws closer, political parties and the various aspirants for the governorship positions in the states are gearing up for the polls.

ISAIAH BENJAMIN, in this write-up, takes an indepth look into the factors, strengths and weaknesses of the major contending political parties, and would-be candidates ahead of the election in Kaduna State.

The setting for Kaduna 2015 guber race can easily be predicted on the surface by any political pundit. By simply going into the political history of the state, one can easily say, for certain, the direction the political pendulum would swing. There are two political parties: the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and the opposition All Progressives Congress, APC. This is so particularly, in Kaduna State, because all the other political parties only exist on paper as they have virtually fizzled without any political activity. Only recently, 21 of such political parties rallied round the PDP to endorse it as the party to beat in the state thereby giving up whatever political platform or leanings they may have to contest for any political position.

The realignment of these 21 political parties polarised the political situations in the state between the ruling PDP and the opposition, APC. While that is on the burner, there is no ruling out the issue of religion, which cannot be swept under the table even as north/south dichotomy will likely have its place when the countdown is set.

It is, however important to put on record that the two contending political parties in Kaduna State have about equal chances of clinching the governorship slot of the state, depending on who becomes their flag bearers and the processes that will produce such flag bearers.

That is simply why, it will be absolutely difficult to pin down any party that will take the day regardless of whether such party is ruling or in the opposition. Be that as it may, the following factors would suffice as to which party will carry the day.

PDP FACTOR It is no longer news that the PDP has been, unchallengingly, in power in Kaduna State since 1999. It is also on record that the party had also dominated all the elective positions in the state to date, producing more representatives at the local, state and at the national level. Inspite of their performances wether good or bad, the party had continued to emerge on top through landslide victories in every elections until the 2011 general elections where

the opposition APC almost shared the available positions for the state House of Assembly and that of the National Assembly slots on equal basis. At the local government levels, the PDP dominates the 23 local government areas of the state except one, which it losts due to contending issues unresolved before that election.

So, if the local government is the closest to the electorates who are by implication the grassroots, and all the chairmen pledge their resolve to work for their party, then the party is set to clinch power again. More important is the fact that most political appointees of the PDP are grassroots politicians who will certainly not leave any stone unturned to garner support for the party to either retain their positions or seek for an elective position. It could be recalled that the present Kagarko local government chairman who is also the ALGON chairman in the state, Yusuf Akusu Danjuma had stated at various times that the entire local government chairmen have unanimously resolved to support and work for the PDP in 2015.

In his words, “We will stop at nothing to ensure that the PDP is victorious in all of the elections in the state.” For the state chairman of the party, Chief Abubakar Gaiya Haruna in a recent interview, he had said, “PDP remains and will remain a house hold name in Kaduna State. We have continued to lead and will continue to lead, our works and achievements speak volumes.

We have done it before; we are doing it and we will continue to do it even in 2015 and beyond”, he said.

The declaration of support and the willingness of the 21 deregistered political parties to work with the PDP ahead of the 2015 general elections in the state is, no doubt, another major plus for the party should those parties keep to their words.

These parties include the NPP, NSDP, MDJ, APN, CPN, JP, CAP, NRP, and NDP. Others are the HDP, ALP, PPP, PSP, NAC, NMDP, ARP, UNPD, RPN, PAC, ND and CDC. Speaking during a grand reception for the political parties held at

Vice President Namadi-Sambo

It is however important to put on record that the two contending political parties in the state have about equal chances of clinching the governorship of the state, depending on who becomes their flag bearers and the processes that produce such flag bearers

Nasarawa 2015: Al-makura Sailing To Victory On PDP’s Crisis > 20

the General Hassan Katsina State House, Kaduna early this year, the Chairman of the United Nigeria Peoples Party (UNPP), Alhaji Inuwa Ahmed who spoke onbehalf of the other political parties declared that the political parties and their members in the state have decided to join PDP as part of efforts to consolidate democracy and contribute their quota to developing the state.

He said, “The headquarters of the 21 political parties gave the chairmen and members the option to either join the ruling party, PDP or All Progressives Congress (APC) and they have unanimously opted to join the PDP under an umbrella known as the twenty one Political Party Alliance (PPA). Some of the reasons the leader of the PPA advanced for their decision to join the PDP was, according to him: “The PDP is still the most vibrant and democratic party in the country; PDP appears to be more organized and progressive in approach and more acceptable among the electorates.

“It was for some of these reasons that we met after our party headquarters gave us the levity to join any formidable party in the state to join the PDP. “All the 21 political parties and PDP will join forces together to ensure that opposition party, APC does not gain any ground before the forthcoming 2015 elections”, he said then.

Ahmed then urged all the parties involved to remain focused ➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

politics 19

Sunday, August 31, 2014

Kaduna 2015: Factors, Issues That May Shape The Guber Race ➔ FROM PAGE 18

and progressive in approach to issues concerning PDP, stressing, “We have joined the PDP to save Kaduna from being hijacked by the APC; moreso, to help consolidate on gains of democracy in the state under the PDP since 1999”.

Suffix to also state unequivocally that in spite of these, the candidate that will fly the party flag will also be a major determinant as to the success or otherwise of the PDP in the forth coming governorship and other elections in the state.

The power of incumbency is yet another factor that cannot be waved aside.

Although it failed to work in the recent Ekiti election, for reasons which include the elitist factor that was said to have worked against the incumbent, in Kaduna State, it may be a different ball game altogether

APC FACTOR Before the three legacy parties came together to form the APC, the CPC in the state gave a strong fight to the PDP in the 2011 governorship and other elective positions, and subsequently clinched some positions it contested for, but lost the governorship bid to the PDP in a keenly contested election. Although, the results of the election was challenged in the court by the party and the governorship candidate, Haruna Saheed, it was however lost on technical grounds.

Then came the APC. Unfortunately, since its emergence in the state, it has been bedeviled with one crisis or the other. Observers however said, it was expected because, for three political parties to come together to form a mega party, there will be issues of attempting to gain superiority over others by members of the merging parties.

This, perhaps, explains why all the chairmen of the legacy parties in the just concluded state congress sought to become the party chairman of the APC. The crisis started when some members kicked against the chairmanship of Dr Hakeem BabaAhmed-led state Interim Management Committee (IMC) as alleged concerted efforts were made to remove him by those who were not comfortable with him. This, however, was not successful but soon after, coupled with many other reasons, Dr Baba Ahmed opted to resign his position, which he later withdrew, and according to him, for persuasions from relevant stakeholders. Just as that was about to die down, the PDP defectors into the APC attempted to stamp their dominance and to possibly call the shots in APC, but some members of the legacy parties resisted the attempt , saying it would be a slap on their faces.

Then, the issue of who becomes the chairman of the party came up. Ten persons including former state chairmen of the legacy parties contested but all lost to Barnabas Bala Bantex. But the other contestants not comfortable with his emergence pointed accusing fingers on some national leaders then.

They faulted the election and said it was rigged in his favour, a situation that resulted in the emergence of a splinter group.

Be that as it may be, the APC stands a good chance to wrestle

power from the PDP in the state if the internal wrangling within the party members and particularly aggrieved members are amicably resolved and in good time, if for nothing, for the simple fact that it now has respected political players from the PDP who defected into its fold.

This is coupled with the fact that tongues are already wagging about the unsatisfactory performance of the PDP-led present administration in the state.

The calibre or political pedigree of who becomes the party’s flag bearer will in no doubt play a major role.

When the immediate past Publicity Secretary of the APC in the state, Attairu Tahir was contacted, he said APC is very ready to take over power from the ruling PDP in the state.

According to him, “APC is going to provide a level-playing ground to all the aspirants. There is no anointed candidate as it is been speculated.

Our chances are brighter with the non performing governor now and the promise of overwhelming supporters from the southern part of the state, where PDP normally gets its bloc votes. APC will emerge victorious because people are tired of PDP. The governor has not shown the ability and capability of moving the state forward; he is not living up to the expectations of the people, and nothing much is been done since Makarfi era. He also lacks field marshals that will be feeding him with the feelings of the people.

Incumbency Factor The power of incumbency is yet another factor that cannot be waved aside. Although it failed to work in the recent Ekiti election for reasons which include the elitist factor that was said to have worked against the incumbent, in Kaduna State, it may be a different ball game altogether.

The incumbent, Governor Mukhtar Ramalan Yero started as a finance commissioner from where he was elevated to the position of the deputy governor, and upon the death of the then governor, late, Sir Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa, Yero became the governor.

So many people see him as a governor having, some sought of, grassroots supports in view of his political positions prior to becoming the incumbent governor under the PDP. Although tongues are wagging about his slow nature of running affairs in the state, political experts posit that disposition will in no way affect his chances of retaining the seat. Therefore, to wrestle power from somebody adjudged to be ‘grounded’ politically with local, state and national support will require major efforts.

Just very recently at a stakeholders town hall meeting of the PDP, delegates from the 23 local governments in the state endorsed the incumbent governor for the 2015 governorship election in an occasion that witnessed a mammoth crowd.

Ramalan Yero

Presidency Factor If the presidency could be influential as alleged to the emergence of the Ekiti PDP governor, then it is not debatable that it would put more efforts at ensuring that PDP remains the ruling party in Kaduna State.This is because the Vice President, Architect Namadi Sambo is from the state and was a governor before he was elevated to becoming the vice president after the demise of late President Umar Musa Yar’Adua that saw Dr Jonathan becoming the president thereby creating a position for Sambo.

Although, the vice president lost his polling unit in all the elections in 2011 general elections, informed sources close to him however, said he has learnt his lessons and is ready to give it all it takes this time around to ensure that his home state remains in the hands of the PDP. With the PDP at the helm of affairs at the national level and in Kaduna State which is the headquarters of the North, the presidency will, certainly, not leave any stone unturned at putting in place whatever it will require to ensure that the state remains a PDP-led state in 2015.

Religious Factor It is an obvious fact that religion plays major role in politics in Nigeria and in Kaduna state. It will therefore not be an exception in the elections ahead. It is also a known fact that Kaduna State presently has been polarized on religious grounds with the Christians living and dominating the south, while the Muslims live and dominate the northern part of the state. It has been on record that since 1999, the Muslims have always produced the governor of the state with a Christians as deputy, except when the current vice president and his then deputy, now of blessed memory, Sir Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa took over and got elected in 2011. That changed the equation with Yakowa emerging as the first elected Christian governor. But that situation was short lived with his untimely death. The unfortunate occur-

rence upturned the the emerging status quo, thus reigniting the likely hitherto order of a Muslim governor and a Christian deputy.

So, it could be foolhardy for any political party in Kaduna State to want to change the subsisting but unwritten political arrangement.

Senator Makarfi’s Factor For those who are familiar with the politics of Kaduna State, the role of Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi cannot not be ignored. He served as the governor of the state from 1999-2007 and handed over to the present vice president as governor. It must be said that Makarfi who is currently a two term serving senator, commands a lot of respect from the people of Kaduna State.

He also attracts a lot of political followership. It was rumoured at some points that he was not particularly happy with the way and manner the state was managed after his administration, but he will not come out to speak on the matter when asked to do so.

Curiously, the senator, as it were, has not been featuring in most of the PDP caucus meetings in the state. It is either he is completely absent or, at best, it would be announced that he had sent a representative to such meeting. Although, he is still a member of the PDP, yet many of his supporters have so far defected to the APC, which some school of thoughts insinuate, could possibly not have been without his knowledge.

Feeling of Electorates An electorate, Ebenezer Lukman said, “the present Governor has not shown any sign that he can rule this state. Since he came on board after the death of Yakowa, nothing concrete has been seen. But you know, the PDP will always have their way.”

For Mallam Mundi Abdullahi, “ As much as we are tired of the PDP, the crop of those in APC now are not likely to make any difference after all.

Others who spoke on the condition of anonymity expressed uncertainty over which party will govern the state in 2015.

20 POLITICS feature

Sunday, August 31, 2014

Nasarawa 2015: As Al-Makura Flies To Victory On PDP’s Crisis From the emerging trends in the political environment in Nasarawa State, except something radical happens, Governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura may be on his way to claiming another easy victory because of the percieved crisis in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). DONATUS NADI writes.

In Nasarawa State, it is an incontrovertible fact that the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) boasts of three-quarter of the state renowned political gladiators, but on the other hand, there are prevailing political interests working against the interest of the party in the state. The primary motive of such assemblage under the umbrella, which is to grab power, also lies their tendency for self destruction, according to investigation.

Sen. Solomon Ewuga, Mr. Labaran Maku, Dr. Yusuf Agabi, Sen Walid Jibrin, Sen. Abubakar Sodangi, Alhaji Aliyu Akwe Doma, Prof. Onje Gye-Wado, Sen. John Damboyi and Amb. Polycarp Azige among others, are all in the PDP. They are all seeking to occupy the government house.

This, many political pundits forecast, is going to be PDP’s greatest undoing. It could turn out to be reminiscence of the 2011 internal squabbles over interests that ultimately gave Al-Makura the softer sail to victory at the polls.

PDP Vs APC Since 1999, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), had always been in the heart of the democratic process although none of its victories can be described as landslide victory without controversies. For all it is worth, it would be recalled that the ruling Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), or until recently, the All Progressives Congress (APC) defeated the PDP with a little over 3000 votes.

The major reasons that handed power to the opposition party, then, were the seeming dismal performance by the then PDP governor, Aliyu Akwe Doma as well as perceived internal betrayal by highly placed party members. It was instructive that while some of the PDP party faithfuls defected from the party days after primaries over perceived injustices by the leadership of the party, others remained in the party and worked tirelessly for the opposition party as a way of registering their grievances.

Prominent in this line of internal sabotage is alleged to be the former governor, Sen. Abdullahi Adamu, who had locked horns with Governor Doma in a battle of who takes over control of the leadership of the party in the state.

Having failed in his bid, Sen. Adamu created a schism in the party with his loyalists, called the “Concerned group”. The group went

ahead to mobilize support for Governor Al-makura.

With Sen. Ewuga, Mr. Maku, Alhaji Doma, Dr. Agabi, Col. Jiril B. Yakubu all vying for the plum position of governor, it is left to be seen if they will all agree to work together with whoever emerges as the candidate of the party in the forthcoming party primaries. It must be noted, however, that Doma is still in firm control of party machinery in the state even though Mr. Maku is said to have some influence from Abuja.

All cannot be forecasted about the strength or otherwise of the PDP vis-à-vis the chances and latent gains of the All Progressives Congress (APC) until after the party primaries, which will set the stage for the final re-alignments and possible horse-trading that would decide the outcome of the governorship election in the state.

In any case, Al-makura stands to benefit, not necessarily because he would be the preferred option of the would-be aggrieved members of the PDP, but because that may look as the only viable alternative left, because it would be the only way the politicians can still be relevant in the lives of their electorates as any new contraption would amount to political suicide.

Nonetheless, what they lack in array of prominent politicians in the state, the APC made up in widespread popularity among the masses, which remains the sole asset of the party in the state. That however, is all they need because in 2011, apart from Sen. Ewuga, all the other PDP top shots including Sen. Abdullahi Adamu, were in the PDP before the electorates made a statement of their resolve to change government through the ballot box.

Local Government Polls and Impeachment The local polls conducted about five months ago pointed to the fact that the PDP is still widely accepted at the grassroot given the number of local governments they were able to capture, the number of councilors they produced and the general acceptance among the populace.

Even though the APC won 9 out of 13 local governments, it was still clear that the PDP is still a force in the state given that in most cases, the results only showed marginal differences between the two parties’ candidates.

This scenario was thought to

Almakura

have set the stage for the most keenly contested governorship election in the state since the return to democracy. All that, however, came crumbling with a miscalculated political step by the Nasarawa State House of Assembly (NSHA) when, in one swoop, they turned the tide against themselves through the failed attempt to impeach the governor.

As observed by Alhaji Abubakar Gada Mohammed, the botched impeachment by the NSHA has made Al-makura more popular because the electorates have come to see him as a political martyr, whose only offence in their estimation is his dogged effort to develop the state. As a result of this move, lawmakers in the state and other high ranking politicians are said to be afraid of a possible backlash from the masses.

Ombatse, Maku and Ewuga Since 2003, it has been a battle of supremacy between Sen. Ewuga and his political scion, Mr. Labaran Maku, with the later widely regarded as a spoiler consistently working at cross purposes with the collective ambition of the Eggon nation by thwarting the course of Sen. Ewuga’s ambition.

That is still the prevailing atmosphere at the moment, with

both Eggon sons having declared their interests to govern the state.

Efforts by Eggon elders to get one of them cede his interest for the other was said to have failed, which prompted them to consult widely and endorse a candidate for the Eggon land where Sen. Ewuga emerged as a consensus candidate.

The Information minister is, however, still resolved as ever in pursuing his dream even when it is seen as a contravention of the collective resolve of his people, who despite being the largest ethnic group in the state are yet to produce a governor.

As if that is not enough worry for Eggon land, the emergence of the Ombatse ethnic militia seems to be a political minus for the ethnic nationality.

The Alago, Koro/Migili, Fulani, Gwandara attacks allegedly carried out by the ethnic militia group, may have rather united other ethnic groups against the Eggon. The Ombatse factor is viewed as the handiwork of Eggon political class, which has cast some politically difficult on them.

In the eventual analysis, Governor Almakura, stands to enjoy some safe political environment as was the case in 2011 except something dramatic happens. Accordingly, it is widely believed that the NSHA is bent on impeaching him as the only remedial measure that could pave the way for a seamless PDP victory at the polls in the state.

This, many political pundits forecast, is going to be PDP’s greatest undoing. It could turn out to be reminiscent of the 2011 internal squabble over interests that ultimately handed Al-Makura an easy sail to victory at the polls

Abuja

31.08.2014

A-Z all that’s trending

Life is Easy in Abuja Martins Okwuolisa

Civil Engineer

Weekend Mood:

Best Places to Hang out in Abuja WHAT’S UP? The Most Beautiful Girl in Abuja 2014 Screening P30

Where’s What to buy BUZZING? • Fedora hat Bolingo Hotels P31

• TM Lewin tie • Belt • Wrist watch P49

Listings • B.M.O Events

• Jameslully • Summit Villas Suites • Bold and Beautiful P52

SPOTLIGHT • Hospital

• Pharmacies • Event planners • Paints P51

22 ABUJA A-Z/ What’s Up?

City SIGHTINGS

Sunday, August 31, 2014

What’s Up?

upcoming events

Nollywood Actor

Celebrated Nollywood actor Kenneth Okonkwo always takes out time to come to the house of the Lord.

This time around he decided to come along with his two daughters.

The actor was spotted at Living Faith Church Durumi. He wore white t-shirts, a pair of blue jeans, a face cap and sneekers. He was with his two beautiful daugters.

Burna Boy

The Most Beautiful Girl in Abuja 2014 Screening

Here is an opening for beautiful girls between the ages of 18 – 26yrs old to contest in the 14th edition of Most Beautiful Girl in Abuja (MBGA).Screening or Abuja contestants will be held at Ibeto Hotels Poolside. Friday August 29Saturday August 30.

Global Fashion Week and Awards

Face of World Organisation presents The Global Fashion Week and Awards 2014. The fashion event is designed as a glamorous celebration of artistry honoring excellence in fashion. Sheraton Hotels, Wuse Zone 4. Monday August 25.

Tye Tribbet Live in COZA

Reggae- dancehall singer Damini Ogulu popularly known as Burna Boy was spotted at Sheraton Hotels and Towers.

He was seen talking with some of his friends after a show at the hotel. He wore a black native attire with bold gold necklace.

Common Wealth of Zion Assembly (COZA) will be playing host to International Gospel Singer Tye Tribbet, in a live ministration. Join in the service as Tye Tribbet ushers worshippers in to the prsence of God. Thisday Dome CBD Abuja. 5:30 PM. Tuesday, August 26.

4th Upstream and Downstream Oil and Gas Exhibition

Here is an opportunity for stakeholdrs in the oil and gas industry to explore the new opportunities in the industry as well as discuss a wide range of sector activities cutting across offshore, onshore and downstream operational activites. International Conference Center, Abuja. 8:30 AM. Tuesday, August 26 - Thursday, August 28

For Every Stroke

Redboxpresents For Every Stroke a charity run and event. The event will feature runner’s fitness certificate and prizes, awards, games, face painting, food shopping and much more.8:00 AM. Jabi Lake, Saturday August 30.

Comedian

Popular comedian, Dr Adewale Ayuba was spotted at Area 3. He was seen talking to some comedians shortly after he paid a courtesy visit Cardinal John Olorunfemi Onaiyekan.

The comedian wore a balck suit, white shirt and black shoes.

Abuja

A-Z

100 Widows Project

Ashake Foundation presents 100 Widows Project, a charity event designed to show love to widows and their children. Sharon Ultimate Hotel Area 3.

10:00 AM. Saturday, August 30

For Every Stroke

Redbox presents For Every Stroke a charity run and event. The event will feature runner’s fitness certificate and prizes, awards, games, face painting, food shopping and much more. 8:00 AM. Jabi Lake, Saturday August 30.

Declare His Praise

Redeemed Christian Church of God, Throne Room presents a monthly thanksgiving tagged Declare his Praise. The event will feature song ministrations from gospel artistes Erele Umoh and Ogecha Dumimaja. Transcorp Hilton, Sunday August 30

group EDITOR REPORTERS DESIGN

Amina Alhassan Ahman Uche Uduma,Chalya Dul IgweNgerem Michael

ACTING EDITOR Auwal Sa'id Mu'azu

FOUNDER Sam Nda-Isaiah CHAIRMAN Hajiya Ireti Kingibe GRP MANAGING DIRECTOR Azubuike Ishiekwene GRP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS Michael Okpere, Dr. Kazeem Durodoye

Abuja A-Z is published as an insert in LEADERSHIP Sunday.

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of these listiings.

However please contact venues to confirm details

Where’s BUZZING/ ABUJA A-Z 23

Sunday, August 31, 2014

Where’s buzzing?

Hospitals, Pharmacies

Bolingo Hotels Tourists in Abuja can treat themselves to a luxurious comfort and five-star quality during their stay at the Bolingo Hotel and Towers.

You’ll be astounded by the warm décor and friendly service and hospitality.

It will feel like you’re still at home. With its array of outstanding services and thrilling activities, Bolingo Hotel and Towers has all you need for business or for pleasure. The hotels has350 exquisite rooms and luxurious suites which offer first class amenities such as air conditioning, satellite TV, a fridge, 24-hour room service, electronic safe, wireless internet access and en suite bathroom. Their luxuriously furnished accommodation includes executive suites, business suites and standard rooms.

Phase 2, Abuja, Nigeria Abuja

Hospitals Nigerian Turkish Nizamiye Hospital

Plot 2181 Ibb Way Wuse Zone 4, Abuja.

Zankli clinic

Kelina Hospital has a modern sophisticated ambulance to do the job. Designed and built in the US to the highest standards, their ambulance has the capacity to continuously supply oxygen to the patient between any two towns in Nigeria.

Zankli Medical Centre is one of the leading private hospitals in Abuja with Nigerian Turkish Nizamiye Hospital a vision to render the best healthcare is one of the most important services, which can compete with any constituents of Abuja health care first class rated hospital anywhere system. The hospital provides a in the world. The hospital which is high quality health care services located in Utako District of Abuja Abuja Clinics in all medical specialties including in the Federal Capital Territory of Abuja clinic aims at providing dental care. The hospital was Nigeria was established in Abuja in immediate, timely and highly established in 2013. Since then, 1997. The hospital provides excellent specialized treatment to those in it has dedicated itself to serve its care in various specialties of Medicine need of urgent medical care. They patients with the most advanced and Surgery including dentistry.It have well equipped ambulances to diagnostic and treatment has approximately 180 members of convey patients to the hospital. methods. staff committed to delivering highTheir highly trained nurses and Plot 113 Sector S. Cadastral Zone, quality clinical care using systems and doctors are proficient in providing Lifecamp, Abuja. procedures that are safe and effective, basic life support (BLS) and both for staff and patients. advanced life support (ALS). The Kings Care Hospital Plot 1021, B5 Shehu Yar’adua Way, opp emergency care service works in King’s Care Hospital offers a Federal Ministry of Works, Utako, Abuja conjunction with other specialists full range of personalized, in the hospital like the cardiologist, quality healthcare services.

Kelina Hospital pediatricians andanesthetists.

Their services are delivered in a Kelina aims for the highest standards Critically ill patients are admitted pleasing, hygienic and relaxing in patient care and surgical expertise and monitored in the intensive nationally and worldwide. Its environment primed to meet care or special care baby unit as the missionis to promote, preserve, and your every need. The clinic offers case may be (ICU/SCBU).Prompt restore individual and family health up-to-date medical services, both and reliable medical emergencies by providing expert medical and as private dentistry and as NHIS. are managed wherever and surgical care within an innovative and Most importantly, these services whenever they occur in Abuja. dignified environment. are expertly handledby well No 22 Amazon Street, off Alvan Ikoku trained professionals in a hygienic If a critically ill patient needs to be way,Minister’s Hill Maitama, F.C.T transported to the hospital from and aesthetically pleasing Abuja, Nigeria their home, office, or in-between, environment.

24 ABUJA A-Z/ WHERE’S BUZZING

Sunday, August 31, 2014

Red Berry Yogurt Craving for something sweet? Red Berries Yogurt might be all that you need. Red Berries Yogurt is one of the favourite yogurt places in Abuja which offers different flavours of yogurt and excellent toppings to go with the yogurt. The shop which is strategically situated in Wuse II has a great

ambience which most of their customers find soothing and exciting.

Apart from their yogurts, they also offer great smoothies and Parfait.

81 AdetokumboAdemola Crescent, by Sofa Lounge, Wuse 2, Abuja.

Pharmacies H-Medix Pharmaceutical

H-Medix Pharmaceutical

Malbo Pharmacy & Stores Ltd

H-Medix Pharmaceutical Company Limited is a fully indigenous pharmaceutical outfit with several years of service delivery to their customers. Registered in Nigeria with Corporate Affairs Commission on the 14th of May, 2002, they commenced business with Certificate of Registration number RC. 477291 in the same year. Over the years, the pharmacy has been into sales, marketing, and after sales servicing of quality medical equipment, drugs, instrumentation and allied products. H-Medix committed to providing high quality products and services at competitive prices. They apply a very strict selective procedure, and they make all efforts for clients to pay the best prices for goods and services in the markets they operate in.

48, Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent Wuse II, Abuja.

Alpha Pharmacy and Stores

Pyramid Pharmacy Limited

Alpha Pharmacy and Stores is one of the most trusted names in the Nigerian pharmaceutical industry, with a goal to help all Nigerians attain perfect health of body and mind. The pharmacy started in1985, and over the years it has grown from modest beginnings to becoming a strategically positioned multiple branch network of Pharmacies for retail business, as well as depots and medical representative personnel

for their wholesale and distribution network.

The pharmaceutical store currently has five retail stores spreading over the east, west, north and south of Nigeria. The store is known nationwide as the rare ethical stockistwho would always go the extra mile to provide critical, ‘specialist’ products nationwide.

A01 & A11, Efab Shopping Mall, Ahmadu Bello Way, Garki, Abuja.

Dependable Pharmacy

This is Dependable Pharmacy is a good combination store for pharmaceutical and household needs. The shop has a professional and qualified pharmacist who is in charge of its pharmaceutical department. The pharmacy offer services such as free blood pressure check, and free blood glucose level check. The pharmacy has one aim, which is to improve the wellbeing of people around Kado Lifecamp.

C28, Gwarinpa Modern Market, Kado Lifecamp, Kado, Abuja.

Malbo Pharmacy & Stores Ltd

Malbo Pharmacy and Stores is one of the first online pharmaceutical stores in Nigeria. The pharmacy was set up to satisfy the needs of their customers though the delight and convenience of Online Pharmacy Services (OPS).

At MalboPharmacy.Com, customers are offered the opportunity to fill-up their doctor’s prescription through the offerings of a broad spectrum of

Over The Counter (OTC) and Prescription Only Medicine (POM - subject to regulation). Apart from medications, the also offer wide range of products related to health and wellness such as weight management, sexual health and feminine hygiene.

They also stock medical and diagnostic equipment, variety of toiletries, beauty products, mother and baby items, including other items required for your daily needs.

Suite A3, Rukayyat Plaza Plot 93 Obafemi Awolowo Way, Jabi- Abuja

Pyramid Pharmacy Limited

Pyramid Pharmacy Limited was incorporated in 1997 for the purpose of providing high quality pharmaceutical services to meet up with the wide gap in the health sector in Nigeria and also to provide the much needed community service in its immediate environment. Supply of high quality pharmaceutical products including hospital consumables and equipment to various organizations including government agencies are also one of the primary goals of the company.

The company started as a small retail outlet but has over the years recorded a modest growth undertaking a wide range of businesses in the country. At present the pharmacy utilizes the expertise of indigenous technical and managerial staff on a permanent basis and possess a modest number of pharmacists.

Dabo Mall, 73, Ladoke Akintola Boulevard Garki II, Abuja.

ceoConfidential #127, August 31, 2014

IF YOU’LL BE...

Paul Harris CEO, FirstRand Bank >26

• Muhammad Balogun CEO, Global Property & Facilities International Ltd

>30 BRAND BEGINNINGS

Budweiser: King of beers

>32 HOUSEKEEPING

Most creative people in business >46 TIPOFFS

6 tips for managing people who are older than you

The self-drive of Muhammed Balogun

26 CEOConfidential

Sunday, August 31, 2014

in brief ESSENTIALS

10 Questions for...

FOR ENTREPRENEURS

Patrick Ezechukwu CEO, Patflorers International Limited

Work on your business “Perhaps the very best question that you can memorise and repeat, over and over, is, ‘what is the most valuable use of my time right now?”

Brian Tracy, 1944Canadian self-help author who focuses on entrepreneurs and sales professionals, offering talks and seminars include leadership, managerial effectiveness and business strategy.

Take time to work on the development of your whole business, not just running it day to day.

Using your time efficiently is the difference between making your- self busy and running an effective business.

If you are continually doing jobs that need to be done in order to satisfy your customers, then you won’t grow. This is working in the business - you need to work on your business and manage it.

Create a clear strategy for the promotion of the business as a whole brand, rather than spending all your time on its products and services.

Be an effective organiser “It has been my observation that most people get ahead during the time that others waste time.”

Henry Ford, 1863-1947 British physician and author, coined the term lateral thinking and advocates the structured teaching of thinking tools in schools.

American founder of the Ford Motor Company, developer of assembly lines and mass production.

As an entrepreneur you need to organise time, people, products, logistics, manufacturing, design and finance. If you can organise yourself, then you certainly have the ability to organize a business.

Getting to meetings on time, paying bills, closing sales and writing letters - you learn these skills throughout your life.

If you can’t organise effectively you won’t succeed in business. You have to keep on top of those things that need to be done to move your ideas forward and make things happen.

Don’t prevaricate, go ahead and do it.

IF YOU’LL BE...

Paul Harris

CEO, FirstRand Bank Be focused Harris did not have the dream of becoming an entrepreneur, he was simply working hard and kept up his dream to be successful in whatever his hands find to do. He learnt the rubics of running a business successfully while working for others.

Move with the right people. Seek them out During the course of his business career, he came across two other people of like minds and the trio came together in partnership to have a successful business empire. They are called the three musketeers or the RMB rat pack.

Think differently. Be innovative Curiosity takes a better part from Harris. He is the kind of person who enjoys trying out new things and seeing them from different angles.

He turned Ellerman House in Cape Town’s Atlantic suburbs into one of South Africa’s most luxurious boutique hotels.

Be technological savvy Technology has truly made the world a smaller place. The place of technology cannot be underemphasised and in this vein, Harris is an unrepentant user of technology. He says he has almost all gadgets such as iPad, Kindle etc. They are essential to his business growth.

– By Olujide Olusola

2. Which TV or movie character would you like to go into business with?

Tom Cruise because of his business inclination.

Also, he is highly motivational to have diversified from acting to other things.

3. If you were to start your own political party, what would be the platform?

Humanitarian services and philanthropy.

4. Whom would you trade places with?

Terry Lyle, former CEO, Tesco UK. He transformed the company it the biggest retailers in the world.

5. It’s 8 p.m. and you are travelling alone on business. What do you do all night?

Read online news.

6. If you could time-travel, where would you be?

I’m happy where I’m.

7. What have you learnt about yourself as you serve in that organisation?

I’ve learnt that I have strong drive for results.

8. What have you sacrificed for success?

Personal comfort for a more fulfilling life.

TIMELESS TRUTHS Form is function

“It’s said that form allows function. I disagree.

Form is a function. The two are developed together and are intertwined. In a truly great design - a design that stands the test of time that is done as efficiently as possible. A great design has nothing more than it needs to do the job.”

Davin Stowell, founder, Smart Design

9. What do you consider your favourite achievement?

Bagging a PhD at age 30.

10. What is your motto?

Get things done and know when to quit. Learn to know when to seize an opportunity and the next is to let go of an advantage.

Interview by Daniel Udechukwu

group

ceoConfidential ASST. EDITOR Daniel Udechukwu CORRESPONDENT Salome Anyasodo REPORTER Olusola Olujide GRAPHICS Michael Igwe-Ngerem

1. What business do you not want to start but wish someone else would?

Professional auto engineering firm.

ACTING EDITOR Auwal Sa'id Mu'azu

FOUNDER Sam Nda-Isaiah CHAIRMAN Hajiya Ireti Kingibe GRP MANAGING DIRECTOR Azubuike Ishiekwene GRP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS Michael Okpere, Dr. Kazeem Durodoye

A number of the articles here are sourced from diverse sources.

Feedback & enquiries ceoconfidential@leadership.ng

CEOConfidential

Sunday, August 31, 2014

27

popular with CEOs Compiled by Salome Anyasodo

The Recommender What are the business quotes for this week that make sense or are just humourous?

A Brief Guide Don’t know what you want to see, hear, smell taste and feel? Don’t worry we did it for you.

SEE Let’s Be Cops

Customers queuing to use the ATM

Automated Teller Machine

Cashless policy, key to development The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN’s) recent policy reintroducing ATM charges in the banking sector takes effect from September 1, 2014. This action became necessary after realising the unintended consequences of the withdrawal on banks.

Prior to the amendments in December 2012, it used to be N100 on any remote-on-us withdrawal.

Basically, this means that when a customer uses his card obtained from bank A to make withdrawals from the ATM of bank B, the first three transactions within the month are free, but subsequent withdrawals from bank B’s ATM will attract a N65 charge. However, if the customer makes three withdrawals of say N20,000 totalling N60,000 at once, the three free withdrawals

has been exceeded and subsequent withdrawals will attract a fee of N65 per transaction. Using the card obtained from bank A on bank A’s ATM would however not attract any charge, no matter how many withdrawals were done within the month.

According to the CBN, the re-introduction of the fee was also to cover the remuneration of the switches, ATM monitoring and fitnotes processing by acquiring banks.

The N100 was removed then so that people would be encouraged to go to other banks’ ATMs. In the case of N100, N35 goes to the payment bank, which has now been completely waived. But in going to other ATMs to make withdrawals, the customer’s bank, which

Charles Ifedi, CEO, Verve International “Verve has worked hard to ensure that the full benefits of the cashless policy are felt by all.”

Ifedi

BIZ Lingo

Sunk cost

is the acquirer bank, incurs a cost of N65 which they pay to the switches and the owner of the ATM that one uses. The traditional cashbased payment system posed problems for individuals and businesses alike, and the Information and Communication Technology industry across Nigeria has worked to alleviate the difficulties of cash and move towards an electronic payment market.

Cashless policy would make payments easier and more secure, but customers should not be made to bear the pains of the nonchalant attitude of the banks towards their ATMs as this new policy will only see banks being carefree about the ATMs, after all customers who cannot afford to exercise patience can go to other bank ATM and pay 65naira.

Godwin Emefiele, Governor, CBN “The policy will not affect the apex bank’s financial inclusion campaign and the policy was not a re-introduction of charges.”

When you are skinning your customers you should leave some skin on to grow again so that you can skin them again.

Nikita Khrushchev,

Russian President

Deputy govenor, Economic Policy, Central Bank of Nigeria, Dr Sarah Alade, at 2nd Annual Seminar on promoting Gender Economic Inclusion Organised by Centre for Financial Studies (CFS) in collaboration with Access Bank Plc, Annual Seminar holds at Canton Concourse Training Centre 12, Landbridge Avenue, Oniru Estate, Victoria Island, Lagos, on September 9, 2014, by 8am.

taste The words ‘spaghetti bolognese’ usually do not grace menus in Italy.

The freshly made rich pasta, flavouring ragù with garlic or seasonings with nutmeg, salt and pepper is a world favourite.

No great marketing decisions have been made on qualitative data.

Businessman

costs are past opportunity costs that are partially (as salvage, if any) or totally irretrievable and, therefore, should be considered irrelevant to future decision making. This term is from the oil industry where the decision to abandon or operate an oil well is made on the basis of its expected cash flows and not on how much money was spent in drilling it.

Also called embedded cost, prior year cost, stranded cost, or sunk capital.

hear

The real ragù

John Sculley,

Emefiele

A sunk cost is a cost that an entity has incurred, and which it can no longer recover by any means. Sunk costs should not be considered when making the decision to continue investing in an on-going project, since one cannot recover the cost.

A company’s past expenditures which cannot be recovered, and should not be taken into account when planning future projects is sunk cost. Money already spent and permanently lost. Sunk

Competition is a by-product of productive work, not its goal. A creative man is motivated by the desire to achieve, not by the desire to beat others.

Ayn Rand, Author

Officially released in August 2014, Let’s Be Cops surrounds two struggling pals dress as police officers for a costume party, they become neighbourhood sensations. But when these newlyminted ‘heroes’ get tangled in a real life web of mobsters and dirty detectives, they must put their fake badges on the line. The movie features Nina Dobrev, Damon Wayans, Jrn, amongst others.

FEEL Panama experience, Costa Rica

Crossing into Panama, requires a travel by bus then a boat to arrive at the Archipelago of Bocas del Toro, which means the bull’s mouth and is made up of six islands. Panama offers plenty of opportunities to snorkel, scuba dive, or just relax on the beach.

SMELL Infusion d`Homme Prada for men Not to decide is to decide Harvey Cox,

Theologian

The perfume includes notes of neroli from Tunisia, iris palida, vetiver, cedar, incense and benzoin. This bottle was designed of heavy, transparent glass, as a modern interpretation of vintage perfumes decanters.

28

CEOConfidential

The ceoConfidential interview The self-drive of Muhammed Balogun A certain inner belief has taken MKO Balogun beyond the shores of Nigeria. The facilities chief executive reveals how a strong back-up team has helped make him thrive on the job.

INTERVIEW BY BOBOYE ONDUKU

BALOGUN IN SHORT Muhammad Kassim Olatunde (MKO) Balogun is the CEO, Global Property & Facilities International Ltd. He attended Federal University of Technology Owerri, Imo State, where he finished in 1995 with B.Eng. (Hons). In 2006, he bagged an Executive MBA from Lagos Business School of Pan Atlantic University. He also has a Ph.D. in Entrepreneurship from Walden University, US, in 2012.

Balogun joined UACN though General Motors in 2001 as production manager, and left as sales manager.

He worked in other companies including Bemil Nigeria Limited, Leventis Motors, Mr Biggs, UBA Plc, among others.

MKO is a recipient of many awards and a member of the Rotary Club.

He is married with five boys.

CEOConfidential

Sunday, August 31, 2014

I read and plan ahead for the day...

I wake up at about 4.30am.

Between 4.30am and 5.30am, decisions on what-to-wear are made.

Re-arranging my room and saying prayers with family members is also done at this time. By 6.30am at most, I’m all set for work.

I read and plan ahead for the day while on my way to work. At about 8am in the office, a review of outstanding work from the previous day is done. This sets the tone for new activities. Also, review work with key officers of the company is also done. Then there are meetings to attend. and correspondences to dispatch with.

Due to the nature of my job, I go out on site visits, meetings, and marketing rounds. By 4.30pm, it is almost time to wrap-up the day. I go through the social media and close at about 6.30pm.

At home, I spend time with my family and relax by watching TV series, and listening to news.

Before retiring for the day, I ensure I finish any outstanding work from the office.

Work takes about 60 per cent of my time...

I spend between 10 to 12 hours a day on office activities – from leaving the office to returning to the house – balancing the remaining between health (relaxing, sleeping and eating), family and religion.

I give my family 30 per cent of my time. I try to spend time with my little boys when I am back from work if they’ve not gone to bed, and we generally review the day together.

Ten per cent of my time is given to my faith. I ensure all normal religious activities are not left undone as a Muslim.

Success of the team is more important...

A typical member of my team operates independently, focusing on tasks and deliverables.

He or she uses his/ her initiative to seek

45

balogun on Focus

I am driven to prove a point that no matter how difficult an environment appears, you can succeed if you are focused clarification/guidance where necessary. He or she is also a team member who sees the success of the team more than individual performance.

A typical staff member is very supportive positively, knowledgeable about the business, and what goes on in the business.

I travel a lot and most times people tell me, I must have a very strong team to run the business while away. Well, that is true and it makes me very proud of my team. We keep getting better by the day by bringing in more people to join us. Others who wish to go and set up their business or impact on other companies are allowed to whenever they so decide.

We provide integrated services...

Global Property & Facilities International Ltd was registered as a wholly owned Nigerian company. Formerly WSP FMC Nigeria Limited, the company is established to provide integrated services to clients in Nigeria and Africa, focusing on integrated facilities management, property management with focus on retail management, leasing and advisory.

Also the company provides operations and maintenance for infrastructures.

Our commitment is allencompassing...

Commitment to customer service, team spirit, focus, industry knowledge and experience is exactly what makes my organisation stand out amongst others.

Our internship focuses on exposure to worklife and skills...

Global Property & Facilities International Ltd has impacted on its community in terms of corporate social responsibility. So far, we have been able to adopt a school in Victoria Island, we have donated furniture to the school for staff use, carried out career counselling and offer to take students on internship to expose them to the work life. Also, we have a trainee scheme for Nigerians that helps the people improve their skills.

Working hard to achieve targets...

Being the first Nigerian CEO of my company, I was motivated to wanting to pay the confidence of the board by ensuring that we make the company a success. As self-driven man, I set my targets and work hard to achieve them, and as an entrepreneur too.

I am driven to prove a point that no matter how difficult an environment appears, you can succeed if you are focused. These have been my greatest motivation as a CEO. Things will be difficult, but...

Doing business has taught me a lot: continuous learning, working with people, connecting with your customers and suppliers, developing great people. One must understand that things will be difficult, but with hard work and commitment to excellence you can be successful.

CEOConfidential

Sunday, August 31, 2014

initiatives

29

Lere Baale, lerebaale@gmail.com

Leadership Inspiration Series for Excellence (LIFE Series)

Arrogance of African leaders: A formula for leadership failure (III) How can extremely corrupt leaders with little or no value add to the quality of life of his countrymen be interested in serving another term after over three decades in power? Most African leaders I read about while I was in primary school over 40 years ago and who are alive are still vying for positions of power in government and corporate boards. Where is the value of succession planning?

In sum, arrogance can be thought of as a cluster of behaviours that communicate one’s superiority and importance relative to others. These behaviours include disrespecting colleagues and their ideas, purporting to be more knowledgeable than others, avoiding blame and/or pinning blame on others, and discounting feedback. As will be discussed, it is noteworthy that arrogant behaviour is typically not associated with actual superior performance or knowledge.

Rather, it seems to be defensive compensation for shortcomings. In the following section

OTHER BIZ

Handler

we will elaborate on the development and validation of the Workplace Arrogance Scales (WARS), a measure that has allowed for more efficient and reliable examination of arrogance in the workplace. Thanks in part to this measure, empirical evidence regarding the effects of workplace arrogance has begun to emerge. As will be discussed, recent studies utilizing this measure indicate that workplace arrogance predicts important organisational outcomes.

Research on arrogance Russ Johnson, Stan Silverman, and colleagues dedicated 4 years of research to answering important questions about the nature and consequences of arrogant behaviour in the workplace.

The product of this research program was the Workplace Arrogance Scale (WARS), as well as considerable increases in our understanding of the effects of workplace arrogance. As an initial step prior to developing

‘In sum, arrogance can be thought of as a cluster of behaviours that communicate one’s superiority and importance relative to others’ a workplace arrogance scale, multiple focus group sessions were conducted with employees from a variety of companies.

During these sessions, employees were asked to think about someone at work who behaved arrogantly and to describe the behaviours of that person. Using the specific behavioural examples garnered from these queries, items reflecting arrogant behaviours were written. The item pool was then refined via an iterative process whereby subjectmatter experts reviewed and edited the items until their meaning was clear and wording was satisfactory.

After this, the survey was administered to a new group of employees in order to examine the validity and refine the scale.

The final WARS scale comprises 26 self-report items, scored on a five-

point Likert scale. The measure holds its factor structure across partand full-time employees, across subordinates and managers, and across self- and other ratings.

Importantly, responses on the measure are not strongly related to social desirability. When included in a 360° performance management system of mid-level managers, the WARS scale showed good interrater agreement, particularly among non self-raters (supervisors, peers, and direct reports).

Although lower rates of agreement have been noted between supervisor and direct report ratings of arrogance, this is likely due to impression management on the part of the arrogant individual (e.g., directing fewer displays of arrogant behaviour at superiors than at subordinates. As expected, high scores on

the WARS are associated with high social dominance and trait anger, as well as with several narcissistic tendencies (e.g., entitlement, superiority).

Conversely, high levels of arrogance are associated with low humility and Agreeableness. Of most interest, though, are relationships of arrogance with work-related outcomes. To date, three job performance criteria have been examined: inrole task performance (i.e., fulfilment of required job tasks and duties), and extrarole citizenship behaviours that help other people (e.g., helping co-workers with a difficult assignment and mentoring junior colleagues) and those that help the company as a whole (e.g., conserving office supplies and volunteering at company functions).

CONtinueS next week

Wall Street CEO does the ice bucket challenge in his jacuzzi Jefferies CEO Rich Handler had an amazing ALS Ice Bucket Challenge in which he fills his Jacuzzi in his Tribeca penthouse with several bags of ice before dunking himself in it.

The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge is a social-media movement where people are dared to dump ice water on their heads or donate money to an ALS organization.

Politicians, celebrities, and Wall Streeters have all taken part in the

movement.

Handler challenged long-time Jefferies’ client Carl Icahn is said to do it next. Icahn teased him on Twitter saying that he’s “too busy” working on a “BIG deal” with another investment bank.

Handler also challenged Landry’s CEO Tilman Fertitta, Bank of New York Mellon’s CEO Gerald Hassel and rapper Pitbull.

The Ice Bucket Challenge, sometimes called the ALS Ice

Bucket Challenge, is an activity involving dumping a bucket of ice water on someone’s head to promote awareness of the disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and encourage donations to research. It went viral on social media during July-August 2014.

In the US, people participate for the ALS Association, and in the UK, people participate for the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

30 CEOConfidential

Sunday, August 31, 2014

situation reports Compiled by Olujide Olusola

Brand Beginnings FINANCIAL ADVICE

Budweiser: King of beers

B

udweiser (including Bud Light) is the biggest brand for Anheuser-Busch InBev. The global beer giant was created in 2008 when Belgium-based InBev purchased Anheuser-Busch. Bud is now the No. 3 beer brand in the U.S. behind Bud Light and Coors Light, as volume in the U.S. shrank for the 24th straight year in 2012. The brand has made strides internationally under AB InBev’s watch.

Budweiser sold outside the U.S. now represents 51 per cent of global Bud volume driven by strong growth in China.

The Origin The name Budweiser in America, advertised as the King of Beers, has been a mainstay in today’s culture. Almost toted as a ‘rock’ in its industrial strength, but is it a stalworthy as claimed?

It’s always Lawyer Time in this little corner of beerland. Budweiser, the flagship beer of Anheuser-Busch and the best-selling brew in America, has been scrapping over the rights to its name for decades, and there’s no sign of a letup anytime soon.

The Budweiser saga began in 1876, when the E. Anheuser Brewing Association of St. Louis, Missouri, introduced Budweiser Lager Beer.

Founded in 1860 by Eberhard Anheuser, the company was renamed the Anheuser-Busch Brewing Association in 1879, recognizing the contribution and leadership of then president Adolphus Busch.

“Bud” was a hit. The decades flew by and Americans guzzled Budweiser by the barrelful (three million barrels per year by 1941, in fact).

Americans continued to down Bud in massive quantities, and Budweiser became an American icon.

Meanwhile, in Czechoslovakia, trouble was brewing. It seems that when Eberhard Anheuser

named his beer Budweiser, he was paying homage to the beer makers of a Czech town called Ceske Budejovice, known in Anheuser’s native Germany as “Budweis.” According to the folks in Budweis, their local beer has been known as Budweiser for several hundred years.

In 1895 the Czech brewery Budejovicky Pivovar (mercifully known as Budvar) began producing its own brew, marketing it under the name Budweiser Budvar, and the legal fireworks soon began.

In 1939, Anheuser-Busch and Budvar supposedly buried the trademark hatchet in the United States, giving AnheuserBusch the American rights to the name in exchange for Budvar’s ownership of the name Budweiser in much of Europe. But as Anheuser-Busch expanded into and began to dominate international markets, skirmishing flared again. The Czechs even took offense at Budweiser’s slogan “The King of Beers,” noting that Budweis brewers had called their product “The Beer of Kings” since the sixteenth century.

And Budvar partisans pointed out that A-B’s Budweiser wasn’t even legally considered beer in Germany, where the Reinheitsgebot (Beer Purity Regulations) dating back to 1516 strictly forbid the use of rice in brewing beer.

In recent years plucky Budvar has again won the right to use the names Budweiser and Bud in the European Union countries, but court cases continue to rage from Sweden to Hong Kong.

Budvar’s current tactic is to sell its beer in the United States as Czechvar, hoping that word of mouth about what they call (in a whisper, of course) “the real Budweiser” will win them the fame in U.S. bars that they have lost, at least for the moment, in the U.S. courts.

Budweiser hit its peak selling 50.4 million barrels of the beer in 1988 Bud Light, introduced in 1982, was the number three beer in the country at the time (Miller Lite was number two). It shipped 9.7 million barrels in 1988. Trailing Bud Light was Coors Light, which had sold 8.9 million barrels.

By 2001, Bud Light overtook Budweiser as the #1 selling beer in the U.S. While it was still a close race , Bud Light sold 33.9 million barrels while Budweiser sold 33.4 million barrels. A taste for light beer and trend of calorieconsciousness would mean that the sales gap would widen significantly over the next decade.

To stop the haemorrhaging of Budweiser sales, A-B turned to marketing August Busch IV was the head of marketing for the brand when it produced some of its most legendary work.

“Whassup” and the Budweiser Frogs were not only critically acclaimed, but also became part of Y2K American culture. Unfortunately, even those frogs couldn’t stop the flagship brand’s demise.

Management IDEAS

Diversification

Web overlords Amazon and Google have grown so fast that they arrived at the ‘what next?’ moment rather more quickly than most companies.

Speed is uncommonly integral to the industry they inhabit but when it comes to sustaining growth, they have the same strategic options as anyone else: expand or diversify, build or buy.

Amazon, the retailer, now wants to sell online storage and computing power.

Google, the search engine, is squaring up to Microsoft with its own office software package. Can they pull it off?

Diversification, the route both are now taking, is never the safe option.

Diversification is a classic growth strategy, and every successful company will consider it, at the very least, at some point in its evolution. Diversification strategy set off an early US merger wave around 1916, but it had its heyday in the 1960s and early 1970s, the age of the corporate planner. Top managers regarded themselves as professionals who could manage anything and some built empires of completely unrelated businesses as a result.

4 financial lessons to learn from sports teams (1)

Brooklyn Nets players

We can learn plenty of financial lessons from the behaviour of professional athletes. But pro teams also do plenty of things that offer financial lessons on saving, spending and investing.

The following slides detail some of the takeaways from those kinds of moves that you can apply to your own finances.

Following these financial lessons won’t win you a shiny trophy and a championship parade; you’ll have to settle for financial stability.

1. Long-term contracts, financial planning In March, the Detroit Tigers signed third baseman Miguel Cabrera to a contract extension worth $292m over the next 10 years. Cabrera is widely regarded as one of the best players in professional baseball.

However, Cabrera’s contract comes with a trade-off. The big financial commitment to Cabrera could affect the team’s ability to sign other players.

This is similar to the tradeoffs you make with financial planning.

For example, if you want to save for a down payment on a house, you might have to reduce your monthly spending on designer clothes or dining out. But if you don’t want to reduce your spending, you can simply give up saving for a down payment.

There’s nothing wrong with deciding not to give something up, as long as it’s a conscious decision that’s part of your financial plan. If you make unconscious decisions without a plan, you’ll wake up in 20 years with financial trouble, says Carl Richards, director of investor education for the BAM Alliance.

However, making trade-offs doesn’t have to mean that you can’t have nice things. For instance, if you really want to buy that BMW automobile, buy a used one. You could

save thousands of dollars, says consumer-savings expert Andrea Woroch.

You can still go clothes shopping or buy that fashionable handbag. But save money by buying used or from a consignment shop, Woroch says.

2. ‘Exciting’ investments have big risks In 2013, the Brooklyn Nets spent millions on free agents and traded draft picks to acquire other players. However, the Nets had to pay the NBA $90.57 million in luxury taxes for going over the league’s salary cap. Also, the Nets have just one draft pick through 2018. That means the organisation will have a tough time making roster changes.

The Nets made some high-risk investments hoping for a big reward -- a championship. This is similar to how people try to time the market or invest in individual stocks so they can quickly make a lot of money.

Those investments should make up only 10 per cent or less of your portfolio, says Laura Scharr-Bykowsky, principal of Ascend Financial Planning LLC in Columbia, South Carolina.

Frank Armstrong, president and founder of Investor Solutions in Coconut Grove, Florida, says you’re better off using investing strategies with a higher probability of success.

For instance, create a globally diversified portfolio of index funds and exchange-traded funds.

If you want to avoid getting sucked into high-risk investments, create an investing plan. If you become intrigued with an investment, see if it fits into your plan. If it doesn’t, move on. Sticking to your plan is actually more important than the quality of your plan. Bad financial behaviour will cost you more money than a bad plan, Richards says.

CEOConfidential

Sunday, August 31, 2014

getting ahead

31

Duncan Bannatyne, Britain’s best-known entrepreneur

Mistakes Businesses Make MISTAKE 42

DIFFERENTIATE OR DIE

Selling at the wrong time (2)

The character

‘If you have profits and assets to sell, then you might make more money selling them to different buyers’ continues from last week

Take the case of two clothing retailers who both announced plans to float on the stock market in 2010. The first was New Look, a business that was 40 years old and had over 1,000 branches worldwide. The other was Superdry, the super-trendy label once favoured by David Beckham and worn by teenagers and their parents. The New Look sale never happened because there weren’t enough brokers willing to buy the shares, whereas Superdry floated in March for £400 million and its value soared to nearly £1 billion by the end of the year.

There will be plenty of reasons why one flotation was a success and the other was over before it started, but one of them, undoubtedly, was timing. New Look was perceived by brokers as a business that had reached saturation point and probably had nowhere else to go. Superdry, on the other hand, had ambitious expansion plans and looked set to conquer high streets all over the world. Fashion is famously a fickle business, which means

Business icons

Superdry won’t be supercool for ever. Iulian Dunkerton, the brand’s founder, went to the market at just the right time.

Buyers like to minimise the chances that they are about to waste their money. One way they can do this is if they can compare the valuation of your company with that of a similar business.

Just as house buyers like to know they are not paying more for their house than the house down the road, business buyers are reassured by open market valuations.

If a similar business to yours has just sold for ten times its profit, then the chances are you’ll find buyers willing to pay the same multiple for your business. If, alternatively, the economy or the industry takes a downturn, that multiple will come down.

When a business in your industry suddenly sells for a lot of money, you might want to think about selling.

You only have to look back a few years to the dotcom bubble to see businesses that changed

hands for ridiculous valuation (even when they weren’t making a profit) that were next to worthless after the crash.

The dotcom revolution continues to have an impact or valuations, particularly for media companies.

Now that people can get their news, cinema listings and celebrity interview free of charge online, the revenues of newspaper groups have dropped like a stone. They have huge buildings, massivestaffing levels (though not as massive as they used to be) significant printing and distribution costs and declining revenues. In a decade, the valuation of traditional media companies has been hammered.

Which explains why one of the biggest global media brands, the respected American magazine Newsweek, was sold in 2010 for the total sum of $1. Yup, just one measly dollar Somebody certainly didn’t know when to sell that one. concluded

An interesting way to exploit a brand’s heritage is with the character that made the brand famous in the first place.

The Jolly Green Giant.

Colonel Sanders for Kentucky Fried Chicken. Charlie the tuna for Star-Kist. The characters make these brands different.

It’s no wonder that many of these personalities are being dusted off and returned to duty. The Jolly Green Giant has been awakened and is back pushing canned and frozen vegetables.

And Planters’ Mr Peanut has returned as a dignified pitchman with a link to the past.

As David Yale, the general manager of Planters, reported in the New York Times, “The character has become a leverage point to talk about the quality, the taste and fun that separates us from other nuts.”

A schoolboy created Mr Peanut in 1916. Bringing him back capitalise on nostalgia among older shoppers and the trend for “retrochic” styles among the young.

Everything old is not only new again, but different.

Leadership lessons continues From last week

Jack Welch, former CEO, GE

It uses the statistical element of variance instead of that of average to measure this.

In his autobiography, Straight from the Gut, Welch described multiple successes that were generated through the application of Six Sigma. GE Plastics had wanted to obtain Sony’s business for Lexan polycarbonates in the making of CD-ROMs and CDs. However, purity standards were very high,

and GE couldn’t meet them. After applying Six Sigma improvement methods, they improved the quality significantly and earned Sony’s business. At GE Power Systems, rotors were cracking due to high vibration. A third of the thirtyseven operating units had to have rotors replaced due to the high level of poor performance. Through application of Six Sigma methods, vibrations were reduced by 300 per

cent and at the time of publication of Jack Welch’s book, there had been no replacements necessary.

At GE Capital, customer response time dramatically improved in the mortgage business. At one point getting a customer representative by phone averaged only 75 per cent.

After applying Six Sigma methods, this improved to over 99 per cent. concluded

32 CEOConfidential

Sunday, August 31, 2014

housekeeping

Compiled by Olujide Olusola

Most creative people in business

Sean Rad and Justin Mateen

Theaster Gates

Artist, founder of rebuild project, director of arts and public life at the University of Chicago

Co-founders, Tinder

For simplifying the search for love Until 21 months ago, online dating involved a series of agonizing questions: Do I like him? Does he like me? Do I like him more than he likes me? Sean Rad and Justin Mateen cleaned all that up with the swipe of a thumb.

Their app, Tinder, enables singles to vote yea (swipe right) or nay (swipe left) on potential mates based on their photos, locations, and other data scraped from their Facebook profiles. It’s an intuitive interface that “captures the moment when your eyes connect with someone,” Mateen says, and--ideally--the “feeling that you need to know someone.” Which is to say, using Tinder is like

falling in love... or at least, shopping for lust. The app’s simplicity and guarantee of mutually assured attraction (potential couples are notified only if both parties swiped right) have made people fall in love with Tinder as well: The app generates 10 million matches and 750 million swipes per day, up from 400 million in November, and has advised popular ­dating site OkCupid on the user experience of OkCupid Locals (OkCupid is owned by media conglomerate IAC, which is also the lead investor in Tinder). Next for Rad and Mateen is functionality to help users ­refind the one who got away. “We will be solving that in a fun, lightweight manner that’s very much Tinder,” Mateen says. Swipe right.

For mastering the art of urban renewal Theaster Gates, a Chicago-based potter turned conceptual artist with a background in urban planning, is using ­culture as a strategy to improve poor neighbourhoods. He’s turned vacant homes into ­cultural spaces and

transformed a former housing project into a mixed-income residential and arts hub. His efforts have been so ­successful that Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel has taken note, offering his approval and support. Gates is now ­working on a big art project for the ­Chicago Transit Authority, among other ventures.

Michael Heyward Founder, CEO, Whisper

Jamie Miller CIO, GE

Sophia Lindholm Senior Art Director, Forsman & ­Bodenfors

Scott Goodson Senior Developer, Facebook Paper

For perfecting the art of the spectacle For getting everyone on the same page Maybe it was the Enya vocals. Maybe it was the slow reveal. Actually, let’s just admit it was 1990s action hero Jean-Claude Van Damme’s perfect horizontal split between two moving trucks that, last November, made us (and 70 million online viewers) fall in love with Volvo’s hit viral ad. Sophia Lindholm is part of the team behind a string of ambitious spots for ­Volvo’s truck division, which relaunched in 2012. “We have to stay relevant to truck enthusiasts but make these ads spectacular to attract interest from everyone else,” she says. Is that a stretch?

Van Damme might call it a power straddle.

Designers and engineers usually speak different languages. When Scott Goodson got to ­Facebook in 2012, he helped build a platform to aid their communications.

Tweaks, as it’s known, allows engineers to easily adjust code so designers can make changes without a major overhaul. This enabled the dialogue that led to the creation of Paper, Facebook’s elegant mobile app that was released in February. Reviewers touted its hyperresponsive ­gestural interface--the result of designers and engineers truly talking.

For boosting tech while saving time and money “I’m metrics based,” says Jamie Miller, formerly GE’s controller and chief accounting officer. “I start with the outcome--increasing efficiency, lowering scrap and cost--and then execute toward that.” In the past year, she helped launch GE’s SmartOutage initiative, in which sensors collect real-time data from industrial machines and offer ­predictive rather than reactive maintenance. Internally, she put tablets in the hands of field workers and is implementing Predix, a software platform that gets the entire company, even those ­tireless sensors, speaking a common language.

For sharing people’s secrets

Like Snapchat and bitcoin, Whisper is designed to keep digital footprints to a minimum. App users type out a short, often confessional message, overlay it on a related image, and share it anony­mously (there are no user profiles or friends to follow) with the Whisper community.

You can “heart” Whispers, privately message other users, or respond with your own Whispers, a model that’s transformed the two-year-old service into a viral powerhouse.

“It’s not about whether you think Whisper is going to be a multibilliondollar company,” explains CEO Michael Heyward, “but whether you think anonymity is going to be a big deal.” Sounds like it already is, with millions of users each averaging 30 minutes a day on the platform, ­fluttering through a whopping 3.5 billion page views per month-roughly ­double what the New York Times’ site receives per quarter.

The Twitterati

Wish List

Jesse Jagz cries for Africa p39

Rasheedat Ishola loves travelling to Mecca p34

et cetera ...AND OTHER THINGS August 31, 2014

WHY WOMEN PREFER TWINS A Girl’s Guide

How To Wear Makeup In Five Minutes

40

34

et cetera

How I feel about...

BEING an architect bankole ojo, 34

My purpose as an architect is to use my skill and knowledge to provide affordable housing for the hundreds of millions of Nigerians experiencing a crippling housing deficit right now.

Architecture was not the vocation that I had always thought I would embrace.

When I was a child, I wanted to be a fireman, a policeman, a professional boxer and Captain America. As I grew older, my love for the arts grew but I had the aptitude for the sciences.

Architecture provided a perfect meeting point for both spheres.

It required my aptitude for technical, structured and quantitative reasoning while also fulfilling my hunger for the creative.

So which field did I choose?

I chose cargotecture. It is the use of ISBUs (intermodal steel building units) or in common parlance, shipping containers to build functional spaces that people can use.

Why did I choose this field?

Nigeria has a housing deficit of 17 million houses (the FCT accounts for an amazing 10% to be number one on this list). As we speak another two million houses are being added to this deficit every year. This means that at this rate, in a decade, Nigeria could have a housing deficit of 37 million units.

Cargotecture can help battle this deficit. In some instances, building with shipping containers can cut construction costs by as much as 75%. I sincerely believe if Nigeria is to take its place in the world we will need to innovate in ways that provide effective solutions to local problems.

So I am dedicating my skill and knowledge to this purpose.

The purpose of serving my country by providing an alternative option of housing for every Nigerian. And it is intoxicating, exhilarating and makes it an absolute joy to wake up every morning and say; My name is Bankole OjoMedubi.

Sunday, August 31, 2014

Rasheedat Ishola

WISH LIST

A private jet.

I would love to travel with ease for once in my life

Own one of the biggest boutiques in Dubai.

I love to dress people up

The Marketing Executive reveals some of her wishes to Zanswat Bowsan

Gold plated phone.

I want to enjoy the best of life.

Own a Bugatti Veyron.

I love flashy cars

A visit to Mecca.

It has always been one of my dreams

A closet full of Jimmy Choo shoes.

I love them.

DILEMMA

My Boss Wants To Sleep With Me

In a light-hearted weekly column, we take a wry look at the problems of modern life Goodday Sir. I am in a fix, what would you advise me to do? I am 27 year old lady working for a bank in the FCT. I will not mention the bank for some reasons, but lately my boss has been asking me to sleep with him. I am good at my job, I meet my targets but on top of that my boss wants my body.

He is married with four grown up kids. He has been flirting with me for sometime

et cetera group

but now its unbearable. He even jokingly implied that it may cost me my job. I dont have an alternative means of livelihood. I may sue him but he will deny it and I dont have any proof yet. Do i quit my job?

Happiness from Abuja Dear Happines, Do you want to join the flooded labour market? Of course you should sue him.

Sexual harrasement is a crime although some people may not agree with me in Nigeria. Stand up for yourself. Do not quit your job girl. First tell him you are not interested in sleep with his dumb

self, then go ahead to threaten him right back if he says he will fire you. Tell him you will not just tell his wife and children but you will go on the social media too.

That should put him in his place. And you should strongly consider another means of livelihood.Seriously what is the matter with some men? Think about what I said.

Do you have a dilemma that you want help with? Write to blessing. ukemena@leadership.ng

CONTENT Zanswat Bowsan, Blessing Ukemena DESIGN Igwe-Ngerem Michael ACTING EDITOR Auwal Sa'id Mu'azu FOUNDER Sam Nda-Isaiah CHAIRMAN Hajiya Ireti Kingibe GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR Azubuike Ishiekwene GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS Michael Okpere, Dr Kazeem Durodoye Feedback and mails Etcetera is published as an insert in LEADERSHIP Sunday.

Please do send your pictures, stories, mails and enquiries to osezua.gloria@leadership.ng

et cetera

Sunday August 31, 2014

PEOPLE TRACKER

BEAUTIFUL

Rahma Muktar is simply beautiful

You can send your pictures to xanbowsan@yahoo.com

COLOURFUL

Rahila Umar looks gorgeous in a trendy yellow, pink and black striped kaftan

BOLD

Uloma Ugwu takes a gallant pose for the camera

NOT STARTLED

Jeeddah Babayo gives a surpriselook pose for the camera

CUTE Elsie Igoniwari looks charming

35

36

et cetera

et cetera

Sunday, August 31, 2014

PEOPLE TRACKER

You can send your pictures to xanbowsan@yahoo.com

SIMPLE cute CALM Agnes Odiase in a relaxed mood poses for the camera

Maryam Ahmed wearing a gold lace blouse and purple African George wrapper

Qanwar Amare knows how to keep it modest

PEOPLE TRACKER

PINKY

Fauziya Bello looks sweet in her pink and purple outfit

EBONY BEAUTY

Tonia Nelson exudes true African beauty

EXECUTIVE LADY Osi Bond walking boldly to her office after a brief meeting

FAMILY

PINKY

Fauziya Bello looks sweet in her pink and purple outfit

Awele and Micheal Banye says family is everything and more

CHERRY

Nadin E has a happy look that is really captivating

CONFIDENT

Jennifer is sure of her looks

37

PRETTY

Maryam Ibrahim stands out from the crowd with her unique face

38

et cetera

Sunday, August 31, 2014

iNSIDE story

WHY WOMEN PREFER TWINS

By Blessing Ukemena, Abuja

A

ny lady will say the first and most important benefit of multiple births is fewer pregnancies.

If a lady wants to have three children and has twins then she just has to get pregnant twice not thrice. Few ladies fear the stress of having twins is double as compared to having a single child but some prefer to have twins or even triplets.

Although Patricia Akijera is a single mother of three years old twin girls, she says it is the best thing that ever happened to her. “When I gave birth to my angels, Mimi and Maria, I thought I would not survive it. It was tough for me, especially the first three months. Thank God for my mother or I would have gone crazy. Of course, I used baby formula; you want to kill me? I didn’t sleep at night for weeks but today I am so happy I have that experience. My girls are the world to me even though I hardly see their father.”

Madam Kate Mande has her story to tell too. “I am the proud mother of 19 years old fraternal twin girls. They were born 3 weeks early but I was able to leave the hospital the next day with them. I never had postpartum, nor was it ever much of a struggle. They woke up at the same time and went to sleep at the same time. When it came to school, I placed them in the same kindergarten class to get them used to school. After that, I wanted separate classes, teachers, etc. Even though they are twins, they are two different people! They needed to find their individuality.

They had their moments; loving, then disliking each other as all siblings do. I had

What they said...

WhyWomen Prefer Twins

them at 16, so we literally grew up together. We have always been close and seem to get closer as the years go by.

I only had the two of them.

That was enough for me.” she said happily.

Raphael Osunni is a father of three months old girls and is not finding it funny. “I am going through a lot right now.

Lots of things to buy and no sleep at night. People say it will get better as they get older, so I can’t wait for them to grow so I can sleep in peace but I love them.”

Mr. Sunday Ayomide is a father of three children and also a twin himself. “I am the father of dentical twin girls.

We were not expecting it when it happened, although we knew it would happen because I am a twin myself.

“ Even though they are twins, they are two different people! They needed to find their individuality. They had their moments; loving then disliking each other as all siblings do. I had them at 16 so we literally grew up together.

We have always been close and seem to get closer as the years go by. ."

Madan Kate Mande

My wife had to have a Caesarean surgery (C.S) for our twin girls. It was a pretty great pregnancy and she put to birth nine days early. She is quite strong because she didn’t have any help from friends or family. I worked from about noon to 2am daily and we have a five year old. I don’t get why so many people need help. It’s a lot of work but God only gives us what we can handle. My wife took them to her meetings with the girls. She would do the groceries, go to visit friends or family often and go to places like the zoo or park. My girls are 6 now and always fight over the remote or TV shows.

I spend a lot, but God has been faithful and I wouldn’t trade it for the world!’ he said.

No one is quite sure why,

“I am going through a lot right now. Lots of things to buy and no sleep at night. People say it will get better as they get older so I can’t wait for them to grow so I can sleep in peace but I love them to pieces.”

Raphael Osunni

but the Yoruba tribe in West Africa has the highest rate of twinning in the world. A study concluded that the mother’s diet was the cause, being high in cassava, a type of yam or sweet potato. The peelings of this vegetable are thought to contain a chemical that causes hyper-ovulation. In addition, a 2006 study found that women who consume dairy are five times as likely to have twins.

Yoruba mothers of twins however doubt that it is due to cassava consumption. Mrs Martha Adesanya from Oyo State says that it’s a Yoruba blessing, “The Yorubas have a unique ancestry. Bearing twins is part of our ancestry.I don’t think cassava has anything to do with it.”

Beatrice Umeh has a twin boy and girl who are now over

"I am the father of Identical twin girls. We were not expecting it when it happened although we knew it would happen because I am a twin myself. My wife had to have a caesarean section (C.S) for our twin girls. It was a pretty great pregnancy and she put to birth nine days early."

Sunday Ayomide

We want to know what you think about our inside story above. You can have your say by emailing xanbowsan@yahoo.com

two years. “The first year was so hard. Looking back, my husband and I should have got more help. His mother came of course, but left after two months, but I think we should have taken a loan and got a house cleaner every other week or a distant cousin or niece for a couple of months after that. We did not have any family near, so it was a problem. Night time was quite unbearable; sometimes, after being fed, they would start crying at the same time. It was as if they had planned the whole thing. We had to use this SMA baby food or I would not have survived it. It gets much easier once the babies can hold your hand and start to walk.” she said.

Observation has shown that most mothers love to dress their twin children alike.

It’s more of a thing of pride.

Mothers of twins who fall into this camp say that dressing your kids alike when they’re younger is not only cute, but can also help you keep track of them in public places. Fashion designer Nene Ogwu has twin boys of about three years old and she love to dress them up.

“I love to see them dressed them up in the same clothes.

In fact, I buy everything in twos when I am shopping for them and it is so cute. I also like it because it helps me keep track of them when we go to a birthday party or picnic”, she said.

On the other hand, many feel that there’s a built-in expiration date for matching outfits: as kids get older it’s likely to hamper their independence. However Mrs. Margaret Sunday takes a different line, saying she never dressed her twins alike. “They are two different people and should be treated as such,” she says.

“Night time was quite unbearable; sometimes, after being fed, they would start crying at the same time. It was as if they had planned the whole thing. We had to use this SMA baby food o or I would not have survived it.

It gets much easier once the babies can hold your hand and start to walk.”

Beatrice Umeh

et cetera

Sunday, August 31, 2014

39

THE TWITTERATI CATCH UP WITH WHAT CELEBS HAVE BEEN TWEETING ABOUT

@MI_Abaga @Basket_Mouth1

Lagbaja has no worries. We thought he was foolish. He’s been preventing Ebola since day 1.

August 8 A prophet among us.

@Jessejagz

Africa is dying...the spirit, the soul, the art, the meaning, the essence, the purpose August 25 Very disturbing tweet

@omojuwa I can’t believe anyone would be talking about 2015 at this time. I am afraid for the sovereignty of this country.

August 25 But it is relevant, right? @AndyMadaki We stay in our imaginary castles ignorant of a bigger world outside the one we know.

August 25 Self deceit is the worst kind @TonyElumelu I am pleased to succeed Ambassador Joseph Keshi as the Chairman of @ UBAGroup today August 25 I smell mints @bubusn Think Nigeria is oil rich? Think again! Oil wealth divided by our population isn’t that much! #WhatAfterOil? August 25 Agriculture is the next best thing. @blossomnnodim Competence and character are fundamental but then you fail to make demands, these two will remain hidden.

August25 Blossom’s Master Class.

@ritaUDominic

Let us get together and fight this problem and stop all the bickering.

This is for those who have been looking for a way to help out.

August 25 United we stand

@obyezeks Can those who glibly say, “But the parents have to come to terms with the hopelessness of the situation” not hear their REAL CRY is HELP!!

August 25 Insensitivity, I tell you!

Perfection: The quality or state of being perfect or complete so that nothing requisite is wanting; entire development, consummate culture, skill or moral excellence.

August 26 Brighter Grammar at work

@IamJudeOkala

Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them and you will have them.

August 26 *whipping out my list*

@faithelicious You become what you believe August 25 I believe I’m Folorunso Alakija @4eyedmonk I hope the government will do more than name a Federal Hospital after the late Dr. Amayo Adadevoh. That woman deserves more than that.

August 25 That would be a first.

@ElJefe_ I’ve pushed my body to some very crazy lengths in my life...How am I still alive? Lol August 26 @gbenbgaadeyinka Are you sure you’re alive?

It’s been 132 days. I stand with Women @elnathan Arise For Change My first “pet” was a cockerel.

Initiative to demand He was unusually large and the rescue of these we called him Mr.Waka-About. victims of terror now.

He strolled out one day and August 25 didn’t come back.

August 26 Endorsement This is a moving story

@KauraKaura1 Whoever supports or celebrates the BH Menace for whatsoever reason, even by tweeting is equally a terrorist; should be avoided.

August 25 You couldn’t have said it better!

@weirdmcofficial IMPACT...is everything!

August 25 What kind of impact, though?

40

et cetera

Sunday, August 31, 2014

LIFE101

A GIRL’S GUIDE

How To Wear Makeup In Five Minutes

This is one of the most crucial stages in preparation for any event.

If this bit goes wrong, there could even be cause, in extreme cases, to develop a sudden acute illness or migraine. Breakouts, blotches, and worst of all, tidemarks (an obvious line where you can see where your foundation meets your chin) must be banished.

Aim to look for a girl on the pages of a magazine.

But comfort yourself with the knowledge that even they have never seen themselves look that good. A professional makeup artist, hairstylist, fashion editor and photographer would have

spent hours achieving this result and the rest will have been done with Photoshop. Which, when you think about it, makes it ludicrously unfair that the mere mortal is given a paltry five minutes to compete with a supermodel. Is it any wonder that they are where they are and you are feeling insecure?

First wash your face with water. The colder it is, the more it wakes you up and tightens the face.

Next, cleanse, tone, and moisturise. Learn a routine so you don’t really have to think, you just know what follows what. Foundation, concealer and a little liquid radiance and lift under

Super Flirt Rolling hips

An exaggerated hip-swinging walk sends a powerful me-Jane, youTarzan signal.

the eyes, then get out the mascara. Apply liberally.

There can never be too much mascara; eyes are the window to the soul, so enhance and open them as much as possible.

Always pick a feature to exaggerate, either the eyes or the mouth, not both. Red lips need softer eyes, while sockets rimmed with kohl should be counterbalanced with pouting nude lips. But as with your outfit, this is all venue dependent.

Good lighting is crucial for application, but knowing what lighting you will end up with is even more so.

Red lipstick is best for occasions, but it can be very tricky. It is hardly

the thing for events that involve a lot drinking, eating and chatting.

Lipstick on teeth is a big no-no. When lips are red they should be kept ideally, shut and opened after discreetly running your tongue over your teeth, when you have something really startling to purr.

False lashes are a great accessory, except you are wearing them to the pool or to a tear-jerking event.

They add a lot of drama to the eyes and make you look much more seductive.

It is like the cherry on the sundae.

Culled from The Girl’s Guide to Almost Everything

The story of a blind girl There was a blind girl who hated herself just because she was blind. She hated everyone, except her loving boyfriend.

He was always there for her. She said that if she could only see the world, she would marry him.

One day, someone donated a pair of eyes to her and then she could see everything, including her boyfriend. Her boyfriend asked her, “Now that you can see the world, will you marry me?”. The girl was shocked when she saw that her boyfriend was blind too, and refused to marry him. Her boyfriend walked away in tears, and later wrote a letter to her saying: “Just take care of my eyes dear.”

This is how human brain changes when the status changed. Only few remember what life was before, and who’s always been there even in the most painful situations.

Life Is A Gift Today before you think of saying an unkind word– think of someone who can’t speak.

Before you complain about the taste of your food– think of someone who has nothing to eat.

Before you complain about your husband or wife– think of someone who is crying out to God for a companion.

Today before you complain about life– think of someone who went too early to heaven.

Before you complain about your children–think of someone who desires children but they’re barren.

Before you argue about your dirty house, someone didn’t clean or sweep– think of the people who are living in the streets.

Before whining about the distance you drive– think of someone who walks the same distance with their feet.

And when you are tired and complain about your job– think of the unemployed, the disabled and those who wished they had your job.

But before you think of pointing the finger or condemning another– remember that not one of us are without sin and we all answer to one Maker.

And when depressing thoughts seem to get you down– put a smile on your face and thank God you’re alive and still around.

Life is a gift – Live it, Enjoy it, Celebrate it, and Fulfill it.

SOURCE - academictips.org

alter your body language to look and feel sEXIER AND MORE CONFIDENT Head held high

A confident, raised head is typical high-status display of a dominant individual.

Body change

Positively adjusting your body language can drastically up your chances of someone liking you.

Skin Deep

What’s underneath is important, but you’ve got to look okay and get the body language right.

CEOConfidential

Sunday, August 31, 2014

bottom lines 14.8% 582,000 Percentage stake of Kunoch Holdings in Actis LLP and CDC Group Plc, according to Diamond Bank.

IN SHORT Mansard Insurance records 56 per cent fall in H1 profit Mansard Insurance plc, one of Nigeria’s largest insurer, profits fell 56 per cent on rising costs, analysis of its financials statement shows.

For the first six months through June 2014, Mansard profit after tax (PAT) reduced by 56 per cent to N814m from N1.84bn as of HY 2013.

Furthermore, pre-tax profit also took a hit as it shrank by 52 per cent to N993m as against N2.06bn as at HY 2013.

Earnings per share (EPS) reduced to 6k in HY 2014 as against 14 k as of HY 2013.

Based on BusinessDay analysis, the fulcrum of the slow at the bottom-line level is as a result of 42 per cent surge in net claims incurred to N3.18bn, which culminated in a single-digit growth of 6 per cent in underwriting profit to N1.63bn.

Additionally, a 15 per cent increase in management and provision for doubtful account to N2bn in HY 2014 from N1.73bn also added to the pressured profit.

Mansard’s net premium earned recorded a double-digit growth of 27 per cent to N4.46bn in HY 2014, compared with N3.51bn the preceding year buoyed by efficient underwriting capacity.

Total assets were down by 9.5 per cent to N39.59bn as against N36.13bn the preceding year.

Return on average equity (ROAE) was 2.80 per cent while the return on average assets (ROAA) stood at 7.01 per cent.

COMPANY

SECRETS

Guaranty Trust Bank, Nigeria’s largest lender by market value, seems to be grappling with the regulatory headwinds caused by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) tightening stance as 2014 half year profit fell 10 per cent, analysis of the bank’s financial statement shows.

For the first six months through June 2014, the bank’s profit after tax shrank by 10 per cent to N44.0bn from N49.01bn the same period of the corresponding year (HY) 2013.

The apex bank had hiked cash reserve ratio on public sector funds from 12 per cent to 75 per cent, a move that was made to stabilise

the naira and control inflation.

Additionally, the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) levy on banks’ total assets is also eating deep into banks’ earnings.

Consequently, interest income increased by a single digit 8 per cent to N99.1bn in the period under review, while interest expense surged by 20 per cent to N28.15bn.

Gross earnings increased by a single digit 7 per cent to N132.98bn in HY 2014, against N124.20bn as of HY 2013.

The effects of the aforementioned levies swelled costs as cost-to-income ratio, a measure of efficiency, increased to 48.58 per cent in HY 2014, compared with N42.76 in the preceding year.

Furthermore, net margin, another measure of profitability and efficiency dropped to 33.08 per cent as against 39.08 per cent the preceding year.

However, some analysts say Nigeria lenders should come up with more innovative ways of taming costs through the use of technology.

Loans-to-deposit ratio reduced to 66.02 per cent in 2014, compared with 69.0 per cent in 2013, which means the bank is less aggressive about lending. Loans and advances increased slightly by 3 per cent to N1.03trn in HY 2013, from N1.0trn the end of last year.

Deposits to customers were up by 8.33 per cent to N1.56trn as against N1.44trn the preceding year.

GTBank, last year completed its 8.6 billion Kenyan shilling ($100m) acquisition of the East African nation’s Fina Bank Group after getting regulatory approval. The Return on Average Equity (ROaE) was 25.72 per cent, while Return on Average Assets (ROaA) stood at 3.93 per cent in the review period.

The bank’s share price closed at N28.88 on the floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, while market capitalisation was N849.97bn.

BoostiNG Sales Investors use infomercials to tell a complex story

How many times have you been flipping channels and landed on an infomercial that caught your attention? An infomercial is an excellent way to tell a complex story or show dramatic results. This is why they are used so frequently by innovators and inventors to introduce their new products.

Produced by combining a collection of elements such as customer testimonials, product descriptions, and live demonstrations, the infomercial becomes a versatile asset. Infomercials can be viewed on a Website or at trade shows, or burned to DVD and distributed along with other promotional materials. And with all of the cable channels available, TV is more affordable than ever.

One of the biggest complaints from people who sell complex products and services is that their prospects and customers just don’t get it. Either they are presenting to the wrong people and /or they need to tell a better story. If they say, ‘it’s too expensive to make an infomercial, ask, ‘how expensive is it to go out of business?’

Build a learning alliance to move forward While many of the alliances discussed so far are aimed at achieving quantifiable results such as gains in market share or revenues, there are substantial intangible benefits to be gained as well.

The members of the Unisource alliance – all of whom are responding to the same driving forces of privatisation, market liberalisation,

Felix Rosenberg, CEO, Swiss Telecom

Number of jobs that will be created if the new electricity sector operators invest the estimated $40 billion within the next ten years.

GTBank hit by regulatory headwinds as H1 profit down by 10 per cent

Chief executive officer/group managing director, Guaranty Trust Bank, Dr. Alex Otti

41

and transformation – share a strong commitment to learning by doing.

While some are at more advanced stages of the process, each has found it has much to learn from the others, and these encouraging multilevel contacts throughout Unisource.

The learning-by-doing ethos applies to formal as well as informal learning.

Swisscom provides management

training and exchange programmes for our own employees as well as for those of current and prospective partners.

In collaboration with the Universite de Fribourg, we have founded the International Institute of Management for Telecommunications, which offers postgraduate courses leading to a unique MBA in telecommunications management.

42 CEOConfidential

Sunday, August 31, 2014

hub N95, 000,000,000

Compiled by Olujide Olusola

Amount federal government currently owes the power distribution companies in subsidy for electricity usage by consumers.

19

Number of Nigerian markets that raised a total of N225.38bn between 2005 and 2013 according to the Debt Management Office.

L-R: Deputy vice-chancellor, Delta State University (DELSU), Prof Chukwuemeka Aloamaka; analyst, Events, Etisalat Nigeria, Martina Ogbebor; vice-chancellor, DELSU, Prof Eric Arubayi; analyst, Youth Segment, Etisalat Nigeria, Michael Nwoseh, and dean of students’ affairs, DELSU, Prof Temi Akporhonor, during a courtesy visit by Etisalat officials to the university ahead of the Cliqfest campus event recently. PHOTO: BENEDICT UWALAKA

L-R: Chief commercial officer, Airtel, Maurice Newa; deputy director, Inspectorate, National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Faruna Monday; group managing director/chief executive officer, Cornerstone Insurance Plc, Ganiyu Musa, and vice president, Segments, Airtel, Dinesh Balsingh, during Airtel/Cornerstone launch of insurance scheme for Airtel subscribers, at Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos recently. PHOTO: BENEDICT UWALAKA

L-R: Head, Retail Financial Services, Diamond Bank Plc, Mrs Aishah Ahmad; deputy managing director, Diamond Bank Plc, Mr Uzoma Dozie; medical director, Paelon Memorial Clinic, Dr Ngozi Onyia; head, Direct Banking, Diamond Bank Plc, Mr Jude Aniele and chairman, Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria, Pharm Femi Adebayo, at the launch of Diamond MediLoan Quality Care in partnership with SafeCare, in Lagos. PHOTO: GBENGA OLAJOBI

L-R: Director-general/CEO, National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), Dr Ngeri Benebo; director, Planning and Policy Analysis, Lawrence Anukam, and director, Administration and Finance, Timothy Okeowo, during the one-day refresher/ induction workshop for accredited environmental consultants in Abuja, recently. PHOTO: OGOH JOSEPH

Aliko Dangote @AlikoDangote Together we look forward to a future where Nigeria is not only self-sufficient in rice production but also a net exporter of rice.

Tony O. Elumelu, CON @TonyOElumelu Vice President Sambo is a man of knowledge & action I left his office w/ renewed confidence in President Jonathan’s administrations’ ability.

Marc Andreessen @pmarca Paul Singh Two socialist ministers tweets “I@paulsingh walk into a bar. One just want to focus on says to the other, doing good work & saving Hey, you’re not socialist time for appreciating, enough! Economy collapses. listening & loving the ones who Nobody laughs. matter.”

fav

The Carlton Club, London The Carlton Club was founded in 1832 and continues today in a beautiful Georgian clubhouse in the exclusive St James’s area of London. Today, it not only serves as a home for its members, but also an attractive and exclusive venue for lunches, dinners, receptions, meetings and conferences - and a perfect setting for weddings, both the ceremony and the reception. Members can celebrate any occasion or host any function at the Club with delicious food and excellent service. The Club is full of historical items from a political era spanning hundreds of years, reflecting its

association with the Conservative Party. In order to apply for membership of the Carlton Club candidates need a proposer and seconder who are both existing members of the Club, have been members for at least two years and have known the candidate for at least two years. The Carlton Club offers an inspiring setting for hosting a variety of Conferences, Cocktail Receptions, Private Dining Experiences and Exclusive Weddings.

The unique charm and elegance of the Carlton Club are second to none combining the style and traditions of yesteryear with modern facilities and resources.

net

works

CEOConfidential

Sunday, August 31, 2014

N31, 200,000,000 Worth of contract approved by the federal executive council for the evacuation of power from the 40 megawatts Kashimbila Multipurpose Dam.

18

Number of listed companies that were fined N33.9m by the Nigerian Stock Exchange between January and July 18, this year for filing their financial statements after the regulatory due date.

43

14,094

Number of tonnes of Robusta coffee exports from Cameroon, according to the data from the National Cocoa and Coffee Board (NCCB).

YOUR FYI FOR INFORMATION

L-R: Managing director, First Monie, Mike Ogbal; chief commercial director, Globacom Ltd, Ajay Mathur; executive director, legal services/ security, Globacom, Gladys Talabi; executive director, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Obinnia Abajue; coordinator, business solutions, Globacom, Ike Orakwu Otu, and executive, domestic banking, Ecobank, Kingsley Aigbokhaevbo, during the launch of Glo Xchange Mobile Money, held at Eko Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, recently.

PHOTO: BENEDICT UWALAKA

Heaven on earth Though Judaism puts more emphasis on life on earth than Christianity or Islam, some Jews also believe that the human soul is immortal and will survive the body, going on to Olam Haba (the world to come). On earth, meanwhile, others await the arrival of the Messiah. When He comes, the righteous will return to Israel, which will live free among the nations of the earth.

God will overthrow the Holy Land’s oppressor, the Temple in Jerusalem will be rebuilt, war and famine will end, and there will be an earthly era of peace and prosperity, culminating in the bodily resurrection of the dead in a Kingdom of Heaven on earth.

DoING Business Leadership and status with Norwegian

L-R: Managing director/CEO, Niger Delta Petroleum Company, Dr Layi Fatona; commander, Joint Task Force, Niger Delta, Major-Gen Emmanuel Atuwe; manager, monitoring and evaluation, Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board, Engr Toyin Ogunsanya, and deputy comptroller of customs (rtd), Chief Afe Iguoba, at the August conference of the National Association of Energy Correspondents in Lagos. PHOTO: GBENGA OLAJOBI

HOW THEY

BLEW IT

Zhou Zhengyi

Power Politics continueS FROM LAST WEEK

From being the largest economic and transportation centre in China – in 2005 it became the world’s largest cargo port – Shanghai is now busy striving to turn itself into one of the world’s greatest economic, financial, trade and transportation hubs.

Its economic importance to China has long given Shanghai big political clout. The Chinese Communist Party was formed in Shanghai in 1931, while Mao Zedong, the first chairman of the Communist Party of China, cast the first stone of the Cultural Revolution in the city by publishing political rhetoric he had been unable to get published

in Beijing. Even today, those in Shanghai’s top jobs, such as the party chief and the position of mayor, are always prominent ona national scale. Indeed, four secretaries of the municipal Party committee, or mayors from Shanghai, eventually went on to take prominent central government positions including former president Jiang Zemin, former premier Zhu Rongji, and current vice president Xi Jinping.

Over the past 20 years Shanghai has expanded six fold, an incredible rate but one that has come at a cost.

CONTINUES NEXT WEEK

In democratic Norway, the boss is very much in the center of things, and staff enjoys access to him or her most of the time. Middle managers’ opinions are heard and acted upon in egalitarian fashion, but top executives rarely abandon responsibility and accountability.

Norwegian managers addressing their staff have a strong and effective linguistic tool at their disposal. Spoken Norwegian is brisk, strident and cheerful – it has a fresh-air style about it.

The distinctive, emphatic, rising tones of the language emphasise the Norway-centered nature of the medium, which serves to link managers more closely to their staff. It is not too longkey and hints at great energy.

Essentially democratic, the recent standardisation of the language (since the 1950s) enables mangers to identify with all Norwegians.

The position of woman in Norway is unrivalled anywhere in the world. Active in business, they are particularly powerful in politics. Gro Brundtland was one of Europe’s first and bestknown female prime ministers.

Her cabinet had a male minority.

Norwegian women often appear strong-willed and forthright, but retain feminine charm.

44 CEOConfidential

Sunday, August 31, 2014

entrepreneur $600,000,000 29 Age of Patrick Ngowi, the founder of Helvetic Group, a company that pioneered the supply, installation and maintenance of solar systems in Tanzania’s Northern Circuit.

SMALL BUSINESS 7 tips for starting your own business continues from last WEEK

I’m going to provide bookkeeping services for restaurants; I’m going to create social media campaigns for self-published authors. The more you can pinpoint your targeted client, the more focused your marketing efforts will be to reach them. You’ll be able to ask for the right referrals and you’ll know who and what to search for on the Internet.

5. Perfect your pricing

Your pricing shouldn’t just cover your costs; it must also generate a profit for your business. Don’t undervalue your time and talent, which is a classic mistake. One option is to work the numbers from the top down: What are you looking to make annually?

How does that break down monthly and weekly? How many products must you sell or how many clients will you need to bring in to meet those numbers? What are all of the costs associated with delivering that product or service? None of this requires fancy charts or advanced accounting skills. Plan around with the numbers so you know what’s realistic as you get going—and revisit your numbers monthly. continues Next WEEK

His STORY

Value of the wobbling ceramics industry, marketing and communication manager of Association of Italian Manufacturers of Machinery for Ceramics (AIMAC), Gian Paolo Crasta, plans to by investors from Italy, to tap into.

Esther Muchemi Living her dreams In 2000, there were just 10 million mobile phone subscribers in Africa. The industry was just picking up and the pricey gadgets were still a preserve of the rich.

And although it was thought the industry had positive prospects, few people anticipated the kind of growth that has been witnessed in the last decade.

It was around this time that Esther Muchemi quit her 20-year career as an auditor to open a shop selling airtime, mobile phones and SIM cards. People around her were shocked. “They were wondering why anyone would leave a well-paying and prestigious job to become a shopkeeper, a dukawalla. Starting Samchi Telecom was literally opening a shop,” she recalls.

Samchi Group today runs three telecom companies operating close to 55 outlets across Kenya. The group also has interests in serviced offices, financial services and hospitality.

Over the years, Samchi Telecom has worked with mobile network operator Safaricom and was the pioneer dealer to roll out mobile money transfer service M-Pesa. The company has been ranked by Safaricom as the top M-Pesa agent and airtime dealer in the country, and this year Muchemi was a finalist in the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Awards’ Eastern Africa chapter.

“I always ask myself, ‘how would my life be if I never made that move?’. I am able to educate my children in the best universities wherever in the world. I am able to give back to society and I have created more than 500 jobs. I think not taking that step would have been a big regret in my life,” says Muchemi.

The Samchi Group CEO says she was inspired to venture into entrepreneurship because she could see immense opportunity in the telecoms industry.

“There was also something unsettling in me.

Accounting is good and it certainly helped me to be successful in entrepreneurship, but I wanted to achieve bigger. I could honestly see limitations in my profession because there was too much passion in me not being fulfilled by that environment.”

Although some may think she was lucky to have been at the right place at the right time, Muchemi explains it has not been a rosy affair. “I have gone through difficult times, I have had moments where I felt overwhelmed and wondered ‘what did I get myself into?’ But there has never been a moment when I thought of giving up.”

She says one reason why the group has been successful is because she does not shy away from taking risks.

When M-Pesa launched Samchi Telecom was the first dealer to roll out the service in its more than 30 stores.

This was expensive for the young company, and at times mistakes were made that led to losses. “I don’t know if it’s a sixth sense, or intuition, but we just decided to roll it out in all our stores in one day! As an entrepreneur, if you can’t take risks you might as well just quit.”

Muchemi believes in starting small, taking ‘baby steps’ and staying focused on the vision. She notes that managing several businesses is not too hard as long as one sticks to the key fundamentals of being an entrepreneur. Having the spirit of competitiveness, working hard and learning “the tricks… not in school, but on the ground” are some of the fundamentals.

Although being a woman entrepreneur in a male dominated industry can be challenging, she never entertains the thought that she is “less capable” because of her gender. Women possess skills that can be vital in business but often taken for granted, such as multi-tasking.

“Women should make these skills work for them. For instance, we should not be apologetic about soft skills because they are advantageous to the business. And intuition is also vital, because sometimes business is not about logic.”

Samuel O. Olaleye, CEO, Auxins International How did you get to where you are today?

I started in 2009 as a young man of 21 years. When I started the business, I had no money on me.

What have you learnt over the years?

I have learnt to be persistent always.

What were the challenges you faced?

There are good and bad times in business, all you must do is just to keep at it. My major challenge was words of discouragement from my family, friends and colleagues.

How did you overcome the challenges?

I continued with what I was doing and read more books. Well, thank God I did.

Most of those who despised me then are still employees even till date, and they now come to me for advice and mentorship on how to start their own business.

What are your future projections for your business?

Our long time goal is to help over

100,000 African students study abroad.

How do you intend to achieving these projections?

We need to work on our marketing strategies to accomplish this.

Any advice for younger entreptrneurs?

They should not be discouraged, but be persistent. Having a mentor or coach makes this easy, especially when the going gets tough.

Contact Olaleye on 08027793027

46 CEOConfidential

tipoffs Compiled by Salome Anyasodo

SECRETS OF LONGETIVITY

Too close a shave

Nowadays we are all aware that some products contain toxic ingredients, and we are careful if we have to use them. For example, the carcinogenic chemical called phenols found in laundry soap and household cleansers may not an extreme threat-little or none remains on the clean clothing, and we can use gloves when handling cleansers. But when chemicals are included in toothpaste and shaving cream, it is a different story. Both of these items are used near the mouth, so there is a higher risk of accidental swallowing some. Phenol exposure via skin contact or fumes is always somewhat toxic, but interesting phenols in even small amounts can cause respiratory failure and death.

BOOKMARK

Worthless, Impossible, and Stupid

Daniel Isenberg, Publisher:Harvard Business School Publishing Corporation, 2013

In Worthless, Impossible, and Stupid, Daniel Isenberg combines over three decades of real-world business experience with an academic background at Harvard Business School and Babson College in an effort to reconceptualise entrepreneurship. Offering up many realworld examples, Isenberg paints a picture of the entrepreneur as anyone who sees an opportunity in something others have deemed worthless, impossible, or stupid, and then is able to translate that perception into value.

Sunday, August 31, 2014

N95,000,000,000 Estimated amount FG owes power firms in subsidy for electricity usage by consumers.

31%

Estimated percentage mobile internet contributed to Q1 revenue, according to The Abi Research.

6 tips for managing people who are older than you

“old enough to do the job.” If one is not comfortable with sharing, go ahead!

However one can choose to handle it, be prepared for the question, answer it with confidence, and move on. The point is to avoid letting it become a subject for continued speculation. In order to do this, have an authentic response that is well thought out before the age question presents itself so that one is in a better position to control the conversation.

1. Be an effective communicator Being a great communicator means knowing when to listen and when to share. If ones colleagues feel valued, respected, and heard, they will notice maturity, not the age.

2. Value your staff Older does not always mean wiser, but what it does usually mean is more experienced. A great manager knows how to leverage his or her team’s strengths, and that is why it is critical that one takes the time to get to know members of staff as individuals.

Identify their unique talents and strengths, and look for ways to incorporate their opinions and honour their gifts. One will shine brighter as a leader when each individual member of the team is given the encouragement and tools to shine themselves.

3. Focus on results, not the process Each person has a different set of needs that must be met in order to thrive. It is more important than ever that one pays attention to the needs of the staff and avoid judging them.

Surrender the ego, and put the team’s ability to succeed first.

4. Be prepared to answer the age question The good news is that it is illegal for someone to ask one’s age in the workplace. The bad news is that people ask it anyway. With that in mind, give some serious consideration to how one wants to answer the inevitable question so one does not get caught off guard. If one does not want to disclose one’s age but also does not want to be unpleasant about it, just smile and playfully say something like

5. Become a source of stillness Studies show that being stressed in the workplace leads to concentration problems, disorganisation, and even anger. All too often, the mood in the office is dictated by the manager’s temperament. Bottom line? If one is chaotic and unsure of one’s self, the staff will pick up on it. If one can be a source of stillness, calm, and reason for the team, age would not matter.

6. Seek respect, not approval Machiavelli said he would rather be feared than loved. Do not instill fear in the employees. However, there is a significant difference between respect and love, and when it comes to employees’ treatment of the boss, a healthy amount of the former is always best.

Getting that respect from them depends on the boss. Leave the social self, the one who seeks approval and needs to be liked at home. The office is not the time or place for one to find a new best friend or workout partner.

These shifts are often imperceptible in the moment, but over time, seeking the approval or acceptance of the staff gives the impression that one is a pushover, or worse, that one is scared of offending them.

RULES FOR BUSINESS Internet revolution creats ‘death of distance’ What they tell you The recent revolution in communications technologies, represented by the internet, has fundamentally changed the way in which the world works. It has led to the ‘death of distance.’ In the borderless world’ thus created, old conventions about national economic interests and the role of national government

are invalid. This technological revolution defines the age we live in. Unless countries (or companies, or for that matter, individuals) change at corresponding speeds, they will be wiped out. We, as individuals, firms or nations will have to become ever more flexible, which requires greater liberalisation of markets.

CEOConfidential

Sunday, August 31, 2014

updates $1,000,000 Compiled by Dan Udechukwu

Kenya Reinsurance Corporation (Kenya Re) has acquired an 0.9 per cent stake in multilateral financial institution, African Trade Insurance Agency (ATI), paying and subscribing to 10 shares valued at $989,818.

EconomY

Political, economic stability luring multinationals into Ethiopia

30%

Percentage rise in national carrier, Air New Zealand’s pretax earnings for the year ending in June.

N17bn

President Mulatu Teshome of Ethiopia has expressed satisfaction at the country’s economic success, noting that a stable political environment and enabling investment atmosphere is attracting a pool of international firms into the country’s business landscape.

According to the president, the number of foreign companies coming to set up shop in Ethiopia has increased recently unlike some twenty years ago when Ethiopia was a chief recipient of aid.

“Conducive condition for investment, abundant resources, political stability and economic development are the main reasons that attract more investors to Ethiopia. Cheap labour, power and raw material supply make Ethiopia preferable for investment compared to other African countries,” the president said.

He further noted that foreign companies can easily enter into the EU and US markets once they set up in Ethiopia because of its beneficial relationship with these regions which allows it to enjoy various duty and quota free agreements.

Value representing Lafarge Cement WAPCO’s profit before tax for its half year ended June 30

Profits at Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba have nearly tripled, latest filings reveal, ahead of the firm’s planned US stock market debut later this year.

LSE- listed Atlas Mara Co-Nvest Ltd (ATMA) has indicated plans to further its acquisition strategy across Africa following the re-list of its shares on the London bourse after completing two acquisitions and raising $300 million in equity.

SYMBO-LOGICAL Work out the value of each shape using simple arithmetic functions: (+) Plus (-) Minus (---) Division (x) Multiplication.Each shape has a different value and is a whole number.

No shape has a value less than 1.

47

5700

Number of workers the board of Lonmin, the JSElisted platinum producer, last Tuesday refuted claims that it is going to sack.

Fresh telco competition looms as 4G launches in Rwanda

All over Rwanda, firms along the Telecommunications value chain are in strategic readiness to grab their share of customers as September 1, the date for the long awaited launch of the 4th Generation Long‐Term Evolution (4G LTE) service in Rwanda closes in.

The 4G internet is expected to provide speeds that outpace the current 3G rates by more than ten times, this is a big incentive for consumers and organizations that heavily rely on internet usage.

Among the many firms positioning for customers, Airtel and MTN have created significant awareness by placing lots of adverts in local newspapers.

retail

Nakumatt turns focus to local markets in Kenya

Kenyan supermarket chain, Nakumatt has indicated plans to open a new store in Bamburi, northeast of the port city of Mombasa, Kenya with a fresh strategy of targeting key market geographies in furthering its expansive push.

“We have now turned our focus in developing new outlets in the country after the recent acquisition of three Shoprite stores in Tanzania,” Business Daily quoted managing director Atul Shah as saying in an interview.

Finance

Zimbabwe’s Reserve Bank lays foundation for economic recovery

The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe has put in place a spectrum of financial sector policies all in a bid to reduce the liquidity problems besetting the country at the moment and strengthen the banking sector.

Zimbabwe is head‐to‐head with a liquidity crunch driven by low exports, poor foreign direct investment inflow and little or no lines of credit from bilateral and multilateral financial bodies.

The economy, consequently, has been handicapped and industrial production constrained thus necessitating all the frantic moves recently made by the government.

Retail

McDonald’s plans appeal against Moscow outlet closure

Russian courts have ordered four McDonald’s outlets to close for 90 days, citing breaches of sanitary rules.

The Moscow restaurants were initially told to close on August 21, after criticism from the Russian state food safety watchdog Rospotrebnadzor.

McDonald’s had been hoping to re-open its branches as soon as possible.

The company said it will appeal the rulings and is examining the judgements given by the court.

HUB-WORDS

How many words can you make from the letters in the wheel? Each word must contain the hub letter A. Can you find a 9-letter word and at least 20other words of five letters or more avoiding proper nouns?

Last week’s solutions SYMBO-LOGICAL

HUB-WORDS

9-letter word - IMPARTIAL Some other words of five letters or more containing the hub letter A: alarm, altar, apart, atria, atrip, maria, matai, plait, prima, raita, riata, tiara, tapir, tiara, trail, tramp, trial, armpit, impair, impala, impart, lariat, primal, air-mail, marital, martial, partial.

48 CEOConfidential

updates Compiled by Dan Udechukwu

Sunday, August 31, 2014

9%

850

Percentage rise in Pan-African reinsurer, Continental Reinsurance’s income in the second quarter of 2014 financial period.

Number of managerial staff South Africa’s MTN Group plans to lay off, according to an official of the Solidarity Union, as the mobile operator faces slowing growth and tough competition in its home market.

Finance

Access Bank returning to growth trajectory

Nigerian lender, Access Bank, is returning to its “growth trajectory,” helped by strong execution of its mid-term strategy, MD Herbert Wigwe, said recently.

“We are now making huge strides in gaining retail market share and becoming a key player as the bank deploys bespoke services for specific segments of the retail market including women, children and the youth,” Wigwe said.

The bank, which has head offices in Nigeria, has operations across the Sub-Saharan region and the United Kingdom (UK).

“As the business continues to grow, we maintain our moderate risk appetite as underlined by our recent credit rating upgrade from Nigeria’s foremost rating agency,” Wigwe continued.

He said the company paid more attention on its capital position to make sure that there is enough headroom for growth and its grand plans. He added that the effective raising of $400m Subordinated Notes in the global capital markets during the second quarter of this year bolstered the bank’s continued attention on the improvement of capital.

Health

Diamond Bank’s medical loan facility to deepen Nigeria’s health care delivery

Following increasing demand for health services, including diagnostic treatment and care, which presents a growing and untapped opportunity in Nigeria’s health sector, Diamond Bank Plc has unveiled a new product tagged ‘Diamond MediLoan Quality Care.

N64bn Worth of market Nigeria and other African countries’ telecommunication companies’ drive to explore renewable power solutions to drive their off-grid telecommunications masts could potentially create.

19.2% Percentage rise in Nigeria Aviation Handling Company plc’s (Nahco Aviance) first-half profit despite challenging environment

The NigerianBritish Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) has said that the current trade between Nigeria and Britain, could reach as high as £20bn if the governments of the two countries continue to encourage businesses and remain proactive.

Access Bank, expects loan growth of 20 per cent in 2014, after a 17 per cent rise in the first half, driven by increased lending to its corporate and investment banking customers, Herbert Wigwe, the lender’s chief executive officer said last Wednesday.

Designed to provide loan facilities for improved healthcare delivery in the country, the product will afford operators of hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, laboratories, diagnostic centres and other medical establishments the opportunity to access loan facility from the bank to acquire medical equipment, fixed assets, undertake renovation and expansion of existing facilities in order to deliver efficient as well as qualitative service to their clients.

Energy

Shell proceeds with global asset sales, sells some Nigerian oil fields

Shell last year put up for sale its 30 per cent shares in four oil blocks in the Niger Delta.

Royal Dutch Shell has sold some of four oil fields up for grabs in Nigeria, it said last Wednesday, as the oil and gas company pushes ahead with global asset sales to cut costs.

Shell last year put up for sale its 30 per cent shares in four oil blocks in the Niger Delta — Oil Mining Licence (OML) 18, 24, 25, 29 — as well as a key pipeline, the Nembe Creek Trunk Line.

“We have signed sales & purchase agreements for some of the Oil Mining Leases, but not all that we are seeking to divest,” a Shell spokesman said

Investing

Investors’ quest for less risky equities drives ETF market

Investors renewed interest in less risky stocks and the need for market exposure in equities are among factors responsible for the current asset managers’aggressive introduction of Exchange Traded Products (ETP), BusinessDay investigations have shown.

Consequently, the high liquidity nature of the equities ensures steady returns for the unit holders.

An exchange traded fund (ETF) or exchange traded products are investment funds traded on stock exchanges, much like stocks.

Depending on the objective of the fund manager in designing the exchange traded fund, an ETF holds assets such as stocks, commodities, or bonds, and trades close to its net asset value over the course of the trading day.

Energy

Chevron Escravos GTL produces first liquids

Nigeria has joined a small group of nations including Qatar, South Africa, Malaysia and Australia that operate hi-tech Gas to Liquid (GTL) plants, as the Chevron owned Escravos GTL has produced its first liquids, after being behind schedule for several years.

The plant would allow Nigeria to perform a leading role in an advanced sector of the energy and fuel market.

“We recently achieved a major milestone at our Escravos gas to liquids plant with the production of GTL diesel and naphtha. We anticipate continued ramp-up in first product lifting later this year,” said George Kirkland, vice chairman and executive vice presidentUpstream and Gas, at Chevron Corp.

EXECUTIVE CALENDAR Conference Future Fires Africa 2014 Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Centre, Accra; October 21-24, 2014

Organised by Defence IQ, Future Fires Africa focuses on Ghanaian, Nigerian, Kenyan, South African, Angolan, Egyptian and Algerian (to name a few) challenges and near-term procurements plus recent experience from anti-terrorist operations.

Benefits for attending include, exploring the resurgent market of West Africa at a time of a great internationalisation and increase in procurements and spot purchases; learn about artillery and mortar system requirements from key decision makers in both the Ghana Army and regional forces among others.

Summit

Summit

Group Treasurers’ Exchange Germany; September 9-10, 2014

HR Shared Services & Transformation Forum Australia; September, 16-17

Group Treasurers’ Exchange is an invite-only event for the Group Treasurers of world’s largest organisations. It is about strategy, leadership, risk, finance and operational excellence.

The event is unique in its structure, seniority and exclusivity. And it is where Group Treasurers find the solutions to their most pressing challenges.

Through the delivery of in-depth case studies along with highly interactive roundtables and panel discussions; the HR Shared Services & Transformation Forum will bring together senior HR executives and HR shared services practitioners to network within a highly interactive, practical and tailored learning environment.

Where to buy/ ABUJA A-Z 49

Sunday, August 31, 2014

What to buy Feeling like reinventing your looks?

Then you are in luck! In today’s edition we bring you some of the hottest accessories that will make you stand out anywhere you appear.

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Editor’s Picks 1

1. feDORA HAT- A hat can do amazing things for your fashion style. Since not all men wear hats, the mere fact that you’re wearing one makes you stand out from others. Available at Mango StoresSilverbird Galleria Memorial Drive, Central Busin

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2. T.M LEWIN TIE- Make a sharp formal impression no matter the occasion with a stunning designer tie. T.M Lewin has a a wide variety of colours and designs you can choose from. Available at T.M Lewin shop Silverbed Galleria.

3. BELT IT-. Belts can add some personality to your outfit.You can pick the perfect belt that suits your taste at Mango Stores Silverbird Galleria Memorial Drive, Central Business District.

4. WRITST WATCH -There will come a day that you won’t be able to have your cellphone glued to your hand. Then you will have to depend on your wrist watch to tell time for you. Watches come in all colors, sizes and styles, you can find one that suits your taste at Sahad Supermarket, Area 11 5. BLACK SHOES –A black shoe is everyone’s best friend, because it suits almost all outfits. Invest in a pair of black shoes and you worry less about matching inconsistent shoe colours.

Head to the nearest department store and grab a set today!

6. SUN GLASSES- Sunglasses do not just protect your eyes from the sun rays.

It adds the movie star look to your appearance. Available at Exclusive Stores Ademola Adetokunbo Crescent, Wuse 2.

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50 ABUJA A-Z

Sunday, August 31, 2014

Weekend Mood: Best Places to Hangout in Abuja STORY: u ch e od u ma

Beer Barn

Ketchup Wuse 2

Friday is the most awaited day of the week for all those who work, as it ushers in the weekend. Friday night does not always mean beers or night clubs for people living in Abuja.

While some people prefer to stay at home, others might decide to hang out in one of the gardens spread across the city, watch a movie at the cinema, dine in a restaurant or just hang out with friends.

Abuja has several great places to eat, drink and dance. Most of the major restaurants, bars and lounges are situated in the city centre, however some nice gardens and bars can be found at the satellite towns too. Abuja offers live bands, Karaoke and high energy surroundings. While most of the hangouts in the city require casual clothes, there are a few that have dress codes such as found in fine dining establishments that require a shirt and tie.

If you are looking for an early evening place to hang out, have a few drinks, grab something to eat, then Eden Garden is the place for you.

Eden Garden is not only recognized as the largest, most popular and most patronized gardens and resort in Abuja, it is also presently the most formidable park for leisure in the capital city. The garden has several activities such as dance, comedy and music lined up to make weekend hangout fun-filled for their customers. The garden has three fully furnished restaurants: a fast food eatery with snacks and pastry section, an African restaurant and a Chinese food restaurant.

Looking for a great place to kick off your heels and do a little dancing? 247 Lounge is the place to be. When you walk in the lounge, excitement in the air along with the pumping music will be enough to get you out on the dance floor. But don’t let the fun stop there.

Look up to the stage and you will see amazing dancers that will keep you entertained all through the night with their energetic

dances. That is very talented comedians always stand by to thrill the revelers with rib cracking jokes.

If you are looking for a more relaxed place to mingle with friends or maybe find someone new to hang out with then the atmosphere Baytown Lounge might be more your style.

While dancing and drinking goes on inside Bush bar, you can still mix and mingle easily in their outdoor area. So kick up your heels inside and then head outside for some great conversation. It’s the best of both worlds in Baytown Lounge.

If you are in the mood for something a little bit more off the beaten path, then venture on over to Tucano Lounge and Grill. The lounge offers exquisite ambience and outdoor setting that gives dining and clubbing a new definition. Nathan Sule who was seen at the lounge told Abuja A-Z that he loves the beautiful lounge because of its lovely ambience. “Tucano is one the classiest lounges in the FCT; the bar is quite impressive and they have some of the finest liquors in the city, that is why it is my favourite place to hang out.”

For revelers that like heavy metal music, Basement Crystal Lounge is the place for you!

You can spend the whole night at the club as you enjoy the rhythms. Crystal Lounge has the best DJs town to keep guests on their feet all night, dancing to the rhythm of heavy metal, pop and rock music.

For people that prefer a quiet evening hangout with their friends, hanging out at Silverbird Galleria might be ideal. While at the Galleria, you can shop, dine, bowl and watch a movie in a beautiful ambience all at affordable costs.

No matter what kind of nightlife entertainment you are looking for in Abuja, there is always a little something for everyone.

MY ABUJA

Martins Okwuolisa Civil Engineer

Having lived in Lagos for years, I was quite excited to visit the Federal Capital Territory for the first time in 2013, whenI returned from Dubai. Surprisingly, the first thing I noticed was that Abuja is a beautiful city. The city can compete with any of the big cities in the world.

Although I was a bit worried by the opinion of many, that Abuja is expensive, when I came to the city I found out that the city is not as expensive as people say. Transportation within the Abuja metropolitan is relatively cheap. You can easily take a cab to wherever you are going because it is cheap.

Another good thing aboutAbuja,is that the city accommodates everybody irrespective of their tribe, religion or state, little wonder people move to the city every day.Being located in the northern part of Nigeria where farming is taken seriously, Abuja has access to fresh fruits and vegetables which are not seen much in other parts of Nigeria. Again being capital of Nigeria and headquarter of several international organisations, opportunities abound in Abuja.

LISTINGS/ABUJA A-Z 51

Sunday, August 31, 2014

Listings Event Planners Marbota Party Services

Mabota Party Services specializes in event planning and coordination of weddings in Abuja. the event company offers services that help couples to plan and execute their wedding without stress. Some of their services include rentals – chair, tables, canopies and chaffing dishes. They also offer decorative services such as balloons, fabrics and floral decorations.

They also offer indoor and outdoor catering services. Mabota Party Services work directly with prospective couples and their families to plan special occasions that suits the personal style of the celebrants.

Utako Market w/h 65.

Utako, Abuja

Alfa Showers

Alfa Showers is an events planning company that mainly specializes in the planning of bridal showers and hen nights.

They do everything from planning classy bridal showers to raunchy hen nights and provision of event venue, food and drinks, tasteful decor, entertainment, party favours and costumes.

Their costumes and accessories include customized t-shirts, tiaras, sashes, cowboy hats, bunny ears, masks and whatever their clients’ imagination can conjure. They also provide catering services for different occasions and events.

Alfa Showers offers a wide range of flexibility in services in order to satisfy customer needs.

Their services include bridal showers, catering services, general events planning etc.

No 34 Lake Chad Crescent, Off IBB Way, Maitama, Abuja.

Odak Caterers

Odak foods specializes in catering hors d’oeuvres, dinners, company picnics, holiday parties, and all other special corporate events.

From formal events to

Event Planners, Paint

daily meetings, they are the one-stop-shop for all your corporate catering needs. The company offers flexible menu options to fit your tastes, dietary restrictions, and budgetary requirements. More interestingly, they can create custom catering menus for those events that call for a little culinary and financial creativity.

Odak Foods offers an exclusive service to event planners, they help event plan, organize and deliver efficiently. They also render outdoor catering services and special training.

Julius Berger Camp, after berger clinic gate, Lifecamp, Abuja.

Alveena Events

Alveena Events is recognized as one of Nigeria’s top wedding and events planners. The company specializes in event planning and coordination for luxury weddings in Nigerian cities. It is no secret that a wedding day stands among the most important occasions a couple can experience in their lifetime, and Alveena Eventscherishes the great honour and responsibility that comes along with this.

Alveena Events therefore work directly with prospective couples and their families to orchestrate this momentous event to the finest details, ultimately expressing the personal style and signature of the couple.

Their vision is to be the first choice for event planning in Nigeria Gwarimpa Estate, Abuja

Paint Excellent Finish

Excellent Finish Paint is a top class paint industry with a brand name, Excellent Finish. The company created in 2009 is driven by a vision to take a leap forward as a world class precision chemical company through cutting edge technology. Over the years, Excellent Finish has improved its competitive edge in product quality, by producing highly functional and environment-friendly paint that can respond to the rapidly changing flow of the market. It portfolio include Excellent finish acrylic emulsion, textured coat, gloss, silk

SPOTLIGHT

and nitrocellulose paints.

They also offer professional painting services which includes the application of decorative paints like antique stucco finish, magic paints, etc.

Block A6, Broadline Court, Kubwa, Abuja.

Final Touch Paints and Chemical Nigeria Limited

Final touch paints and chemicals is a manufacturer and marketer of high quality paints. The paint industry located in the Federal Capital Territory is driven by a passion to bring in world-class technology, research and development, into the paint industry in Nigeria. Final touch paint produces a wide variety of prime paints produced to the highest quality standard. Final Touch products are formulated at high solids to give users confidence to thin and flexibility in application, making it easy to apply by brush, roller or spray equipment. Some of their products include Final Touch Texcote, Final Touch Screeding, Final Touch Emulsion and more.

Plot 101 Passali Estate, Kuje Abuja

B.M.O Events B.M.O events is one of the frontline event arenas in Abuja. The Shasta, situated in a serene and beautiful scenery at the city center, accommodates about 1,200 people banquet style and up to 4,000 people conference style. The facilities are perfect for weddings, conferences, Banquets, Balls exhibitions kiddies’ parties, beauty pageant, award parties and lots more.

Clients also get to enjoy internal draping, carpets and decorations, beautiful external view, spacious parking lot, lighting, power supply and the services of uniformed security.

River Plate Park (Durban Street) Plot 174, off Ahmadu Bello way Wuse 2 Abuja

SPOTLIGHT

Dulux

Dulux is a manufacturer and marketer of products that protect, maintain and enhance the spaces and places in which you live and work. Your home or office or factory; the machinery or oil rig you work on; the cars you travel in or the timber deck you entertain on; Dulux products are often there doing their job.

Their range includes Powder Coatings, Protective Coatings, Acratex Textured Coatings and Systems, Woodcare Products and Automotive Refinish Coatings. Dulux has always been committed to understanding the needs of its end users and as a result has developed market leading positions in a wide range of building and home improvement categories. Products are produced to the highest quality standards, and they are committed to providing innovative product solutions that satisfy the needs of their customers today and into the future.

Plot 1259, Amino Kano Crescent, Hanan Plaza, Wuse II, Abuja.

JAMESLULLY Jameslully brand is a Nigerian fashion label which specialises in creating high-end fashion pieces.

They combine quality, innovation and style to create exceptional pieces that get the wearer stand out. Created in 2009, Jameslully fashion label has established a wide range of cutting edge designs such as beautiful Ankara notepads, tees and polos, handbags, wallets and a ready to wear line. Jameslully is indeed a one stop shop for sophisticated and stylish clothes accessories, bags etc.

No 58b, Usuma Street off Gana Street, opp, UBA Maitama, Abuja

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SPOTLIGHT

Sunday, August 31 2014

Listings Estates

Summit Villas Suites and Apartments Summit Villas Suites and Apartments Summit villas offers top class hospitality exquisite guest rooms tastefully set up to provide you with maximum warmth and comfort. The hotel offers 135 guest rooms including suites and a couple of fully furnished serviced apartments with facilities such as mini bar, wake up service, complimentary breakfast and free internet etc. Guests have access to a well-equipped gym, clean swimming pool and evening relaxation at the poolside bar grills.

Life camp junction, Abuja

SPOTLIGHT

Bold and Beautiful Salon dedicated to providing total customer satisfaction through original and high quality products and excellent customer service. The salon offers the best of hair, nail and makeup services, as well as imported extensions, foreign hair products, natural hair clinic services and amazing spa services. Their special services include dread locks, semi-permanent lashes, Brazilian keratin blow-dry, shellac polish, magnetic nail polish and many more.

Suite SF001, 2nd floor, Israel Plaza opposite Wine Shop, Ademola Adetokunbo Crescent Wuse II, Abuja.

Lakeview Estate The Kado housing estate is a beautifully designed and strategically located at Kado District directly facing the Kado Lake, obviously the only estate enjoying such advantage in Abuja. The housing estate is developed by Urban Shelter Limited, a company that has over the years made its mark in the provision of quality and distinctive homes to all strata of the society.

The estate is cited on 4.26 Hectares of land and has been conceptualized with all the trappings of luxury to ensure comfortable and healthy living of its proposed occupants. The houses are well finished in high quality specification, with our well skilled workers meticulously paying attention to the minutest details. There are ample parking spaces for all the occupants of the estate and their visitors with a lush green garden and playground and a standard swimming pool to carter for the comfort of the occupants. A Jetty is also sighted by the water front, wherein the residents can enjoy unhindered access to the sprawling lake for relaxation.

Plot 41, Kado District by Kado Housing Estate, Abuja

Estates

one of the exquisite estates in Abuja. The estate is sited on the mountainous terrain adjacent Mpape Hills. The estate is situated at the outskirts of Abuja in a very peaceful environment with elegant palm trees lining its streets and surround the houses in neat rows, giving it a breathtaking look. The estate consists of three blocks - Villas E1, E2 and E3 - of 28 housing units. The houses are either three to four-bedroom single-storey houses or five bedroom two-storey houses, each with a ‘boys quarters’.

The houses come with fully-equipped kitchens, among other furnishing and other amenities, and each house has a swimming pool. Provision is made for multiple boreholes with water reservoirs and a water treatment plant.

Palm Spring Golf Estate is located adjacent to Mpape Hill Efab Estate Lifecamp Efab Estate Lifecamp is a beautiful estates situated along Life Camp-Karmo road. The estateis designed to suit the taste of the upper class in Abuja. Efab Estate is sited on 6 hectares of land with about eighty housing units comprising of five bedroom duplex and three bedroom detached bungalows only. This estate is unique when compared with other estates in Abuja in terms of designs, space and proximity to the hub of the capital city.

The finishing is superbly designed to meet the desires and need of high income earners. The estate is about 15 minutes’ drive into the city center. Efab Estate Lifecamp is owned

by Efab Properties Limited, one of the foremost real estate companies in Nigeria.

Situated along Lifecamp/ Karmo road.

River Park Estates River Park Estates is a worldclass luxury development in Abuja. River Park Estates is based in the heart of one of the fastest growing cities in Africa.

The estate consists of 475 hectares, combining a residential mix of 11,000 dwellings split into five phases. The estate is strategically located at the heart of Abuja with great transport links. Everything Mbora Estate Patnasonic Estate Mbora about River Park Estates is a mass housing project is world class, from the developed in 2012. The design and finish, through estate is strategically to the facilities and located at a serene location. Much more than environment at the Mbora just luxurious community District, along the Old dwellings, River Park Karmo Road, Off JabiEstates is the latest phase Airport Road. It is one of in Family Friendly living, the properties constructed located in an exclusive and managed by Patnasonic quiet and serene gated Industries Limited, a community. subsidiary of Chelsea River Park Estates, Abuja.

Group Limited. There are two phases: Phase I and Palm Spring Golf Estate II of which Phase I is fully Palm Spring Golf Estate is developed with 148 units

of two bedroom and three bedroom bungalows and a good road network.

Patnasonic Estate is a comfortable place to live.

Mbora Estatealong the Old Karmo Road, off Jabi-Airport Road.

City View Estates City View Estate is strategically located at Dakwo District, Abuja. The estate is within 15 minutes of Federal Capital City Centre and surrounded by five other fully occupied estates. The estate has a land area of 100 hectares and the estates is adequately planned with expansion provisions to cater for population variations and approved in line with FCT high standards. The estate has fully serviced mixed house types. The estate has houses such as two bedroom semidetached bungalow and three bedroom detached bungalow, all in-suite. The estate has school, worship centre, recreational park, shopping centre, security/ Police post, and the best of Infrastructure development and management.

City View Estate, Dakwo District FCT off Abuja Ring Road II. Prince and Princess Prince and Princess is a beautifully designed, first rate and high quality estate developed by the Properties Limited in line with Federal Government of Nigeria monetization policy, and in collaboration with FCT and Federal Government. The estate situated at Duboyi has about 5000 housing units which are fully occupied.

Duboyi, Abuja Gwarinpa Estate Gwarinpa Estate is the largest single housing estate in Nigeria and one of the largest in Africa.

The Estate was built by the Administration of General Sani Abacha and it is the largest of its kind in Africa. It provides residence for the majority and minority. Houses and Lands in Gwarinpa are very affordable.

Gwarinpa is about 15 minutes’ drive to the Central business district. It can be accessed through Murtala Mohammed Expressway to Kubwa, Suleja and Kaduna or from Ahmadu Bello way through Wuse II. It is about 20Km from the Abuja Airport. Gwarinpa is mainly a residential area though recently some businesses especially service oriented businesses like banks and eateries are springing up very rapidly. Most of these businesses are located on the three major roads in Gwarinpa.

Gwarinpa District Abuja.

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A view of the overcrowded Oshodi bus stop area in Lagos. photo by google

Making Economic Growth Inclusive In Nigeria

There is no doubt that Nigeria has experienced high economic growth in the last decade. The growth has come from both high crude oil prices in the international market and increased productivity in some sectors. EZRA IJIOMA examines how the economic growth can be made inclusive.

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The quality of growth we are delivering must be improved.

We must look at sectors where we can include more people

t current growth rates, it is projected that Nigeria will become a major global economic force in the coming decades. Already, the recent rebasing of the Gross Domestic Products (GDP) has made Nigeria the largest economy in Africa worth more than $500 billion for 2013.

According to a 2014 McKinsey Global Institute report on Nigeria, the country would attain a GDP of $1.6 trillion by 2030 if it maximises its potentials. Nigeria has a huge endowment of resources, a growing consuming class, youthful population and rapidly growing trade and consumer sectors to propel it to this estimated growth.

However, growing at 7.1 per cent, Nigeria is rising but without Nigerians. Though it has some of the richest black people on earth, some of the poorest people on earth can still be found in Nigeria.

The income inequality and distribution was at the forefront of the World Economic Forum for Africa (WEFA) held in Abuja last May.

President Goodluck Jonathan, in his special address at the WEFA, said, “The African continent is rising. We must ensure that our poorer and vulnerable neighbours are carried along. We must ensure this growth is inclusive. We must ensure there is maximum inclusiveness through creating opportunities for people to create opportunities for themselves.”

Also, the coordinating minister for the Economy and minister of Finance, Mrs Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, agreed; “Where we are failing is that, as a rising continent, we haven’t focused on inequality with the laser beam we should have. The quality of growth we are delivering must be improved. We must look at sectors where we can include more people.”

Similarly, the 2014 McKinsey report on Nigeria said that the benefits of economic growth have not been shared across the population.

“Recently, there has been progress in reducing poverty, but between 1999 and 2010, there was little improvement in poverty despite

strong economic growth.” And the deepening poverty can be found both in the rural and urban areas.

Since rural Nigeria depends on agriculture for livelihood, a broken agricultural model has only worsened the poverty level. Low productivity, lack of access to markets, and rising rural population contribute to this poverty in rural Nigeria. Causes of poverty in urban areas can be traced to informal nature of most small businesses, which creates unsecure jobs, and high cost of living in the urban areas, which drains workers of any kind of savings.

However, analysts say that if Nigeria can address the structural issues that create rural and urban poverty, growth in the GDP can now result to decrease in poverty. According to the McKinsey report, if Nigeria makes and implement the proper structural reforms and GDP grows by even 6.4 per cent for the next 15 years (as it has done in the last 3 years), by 2030, it is estimated that 30 million Nigerians will be pulled out of

poverty. “If Nigeria can link urbanisation to rising productivity and incomes in that period, urbanisation could contribute an additional $640 billion to GDP by 2030. This is based on the urbanisation experiences of Brazil, South Korea and the United States – countries in which GDP rose by an average of 5.3 per cent for every percentage point of urbanisation.”

The recent rebasing exercise by Nigeria’s National Bureau of Statistics, supervised and validated by the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, and African Development Bank, showed that most of the increase in GDP came from changes in manufacturing, real estate, communications, and other services, which are all growing rapidly. However, recalibrated real growth in agriculture, at 2.6 per cent per year, is less than the previously reported 14 per cent.

The share of resources to the economy has fallen by more than half, from 33 per cent to 14 per cent.

The National Bureau of Statistics estimates a preliminary overall growth rate of 6.4 for GDP in real prices between 2010 and 2013.

According to the 2014 McKinsey report on productivity in Nigeria, the country’s recent growth is “grossly misunderstood” because ➔ CONTINUEd ON PAGE

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Making Economic Growth Inclusive In Nigeria ➔ CONTINUEd from PAGE

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of historical instability. However, Nigeria’s accelerated economic growth has come under civilian rule beginning in 1999 due to a number of fiscal and political reforms that managed to create a measure of stability for growth.

To ensure inclusive growth, Nigeria needs a comprehensive and systematic approach to improve the investment environment that can enable businesses to grow

Driving inclusive growth through agriculture “I want us to drive quality, inclusive growth that creates jobs,” said Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. She pointed to agriculture, which holds huge potential in job creation. “Agriculture matters and is three times as effective in reducing poverty. It is important for young people to understand that farming is “cool”, she added.

A 2010 World Bank report warned that unless obstacles to job-intensive industries in Nigeria are removed, the country’s youth unemployment crisis will only worsen as well as the attendant youth unrest. About two million Nigerian youth enter the labour market yearly. Investments were encouraged in labour intensive sectors like agriculture and manufacturing. Agriculture was hugely promoted as it holds the promise of Nigeria’s transformation. In the words of an agricultural expert and one-time Resident Representative of African Development Bank (AfDB) in Tanzania, Dr Sipho S. Moyo, “It is estimated that agricultural growth in subSaharan Africa today is 11 times more effective in reducing poverty than growth in any other sector including mining, oil and gas.

The majority of Nigeria’s poor live in rural areas and over 14 million families depend on agriculture for their livelihood. Increased strategic government-led investment in agriculture, complimented by private sector investment is therefore crucial now, more than ever.”

Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man, was lauded as he promised to invest $12 billion in Nigeria and $4 billion in other African countries to create about 180,000 jobs.

“Today, if you look at Nigeria, agriculture contributes 22 per cent of the GDP [Gross Domestic Products] and we are using less than 10 per cent of our arable land. So, there is quite a lot to be done and I think we need to showcase that investments in agriculture pay the most dividend and create the most job,” Dangote said.

The McKinsey report noted that Nigeria can double its agriculture output, from $112 billion in 2013 to $217billion by 2030 if it pursues a four-pronged approach – boosting yields, shifting more production into high-value crops, reducing post-harvest and distribution losses, and increasing scale in production.

Also, there is the challenge of luring the young ones to agriculture. Despite the huge investments in agriculture and its highjob creating potential, farming is

still seen as primitive and unfashionable among the youthful population.

Thus, some organisations use star-power to attract the young to farm. Pop stars like D’banj have shown that it is fashionable to farm and still be hype. That is what some persons have termed ‘agrotainment’. At the recent United States/Africa Leaders Summit held in Washington D.C, 18 African artists were selected to perform on the sidelines as part of efforts to encourage the youth to take up agriculture in Africa.

In the words of ban agricultural expert and one-time Resident Representative of African Development Bank (AfDB) in Tanzania, Dr Sipho S. Moyo, “It is estimated that agricultural growth in subSaharan Africa today is 11 times more effective in reducing poverty than growth in any other sector including mining, oil and gas.

The majority of Nigeria’s poor live in rural areas and over 14 million families depend on agriculture for their livelihood. Increased strategic government-led investment in agriculture, complimented by private sector investment is therefore crucial now, more than ever.”

Also, it is expected that mechanised farming will reduce the drudgery in agriculture and help attract the young to the farms. In recognition of this, the minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Akinwunmi Adesina, at an event two years ago, said, “To get the youth into agriculture, we must rapidly mechanise our agriculture.” He emphasised the need to come up with a comprehensive system that would facilitate a strong relationship between financial institutions, tractors manufacturers and vendors, and other relevant parties towards making it affordable to own or lease tractors. He disclosed that Nigeria doesn’t have up to 20,000 functioning tractors in the country and this make Nigeria one of the countries that have the lowest number of tractors in the world. “To feed our rising population well into the future, we will need young commercial farmers.” The Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA) of the federal government aims to increase farmers access to equipment and other farm inputs. Agriculture is labour intensive and will engage more people than other industries.

advantage. The Nigeria Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP) has led the way in creating such policies for automotive and sugar sectors.

NIRP seeks to improve access to these sectors and establish industrial parks to encourage investment in local manufacturing. Also, there is the need to attract foreign direct investments (FDI). Nigeria remains the preferred destination of FDI in Africa, attracting $7 billion yearly from 2007 to 2012. But the bulk of these investments are in the oil and gas. Analysts say that rather than promoting FDI across all sectors, investors to Nigeria should be encouraged to invest in specific and prioritised sectors that provide the maximum employment opportunities.

Also, the business environment in Nigeria must be improved. Nigeria has a poor international reputation for doing business. Basic facilities like electricity, motorable roads, business registration, tax assessment and collection, water supply, security and efficient judicial system are hard to come by and these contribute to difficulties in doing business. “Providing tax incentives, streamlining business setup process, removing regulatory barriers, prioritising infrastructure development, and investing in local talent can help improve the business environment for foreign investors,” the McKinsey report pointed out.

Inclusive growth through manufacturing With a 7 per cent contribution ($35 billion) to GDP, manufacturing is still in its infancy stage in Nigeria. But the McKinsey Institute projects that manufacturing’s contribution could rise to $144 billion by 2030 if some steps are taken. Government support is a key to this projection. To raise manufacturing output, suitable policies should be made and implemented to support the industries where Nigeria has comparative

Government deliverables According to the 2014 McKinsey report on Nigeria, government will need to play a central role if Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, can achieve its potential in terms of economic growth and poverty reduction. Government must increase efforts to support key industries and pursue improvements in healthcare, education, infrastructure and access to capital. “Most importantly, the government can vastly improve its capabilities to design, manage, and

Wholesale and retail trade It is estimated that growth from consumer goods purchases should contribute $270 billion to the GDP by 2030 while total consumption rises to $1.3 trillion. The consumption will drive demand and satisfying this demand will lead to investments and job creation. According to the McKinsey report, the recent wave of consumers and rising income represent a huge business opportunity for fast-moving consumer goods or retail banks. With a burgeoning population and an increasing middle class, Nigeria offers a near paradise to consumer products. However, to enjoy this paradise, companies need to improve productivity and target pockets of high net worth of consumers in cities. Current level of productivity in wholesale and retail trade in Nigeria is lower than in South Africa as output per worker in Nigeria is $4,800 while it is $16,800 in South Africa.

Jonathan

Okonjo-Iweala

Emefiele

monitor the implementation of activities to ensure that its investments deliver the intended results,” the report added. The ability of government institutions to deliver services to the governed has been very poor and a major deterrent to most developmental programmes. It has been difficult for Nigeria to reform institutions of government. The difficulty was admitted by Okonjo-Iweala during a session at WEFA. She said, “Government delivery has to be stepped up.”

Government recognised that it was making mistakes in the power sector and had to invite private companies to help.

To ensure inclusive growth, Nigeria needs a comprehensive and systematic approach to improve the investment environment that can enable businesses to grow, hire people and pay high wages. As seen from the last decade, rising GDP cannot lift Nigerians out of poverty.

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L-R: Cross River State governor, Liyel Imoke; CEO, Rise Network, Ms Toyosi Akerele; former member House of Representatives, Hon. Patrick Obahiagbon; president, campaign for democracy, Dr Joe OkeiOdumakin and Barr. Festus Keyamo,(SAN), during an inter-generational dialogue on entrepreneurship education, security and quality of governance, organised by Rise Network in Lagos, yesterday.

NSE Fines 22 Companies For Defaulting In Audited Accounts

By OLUSHOLA BELLO, Lagos

The Nigerian Stock Exchange has fined 23 listed companies a total of N37.9 million from January to August this year for late filling of their 2012 and 2013 financial statement after the regulatory due date.

The exchange explained in the latest edition of its ‘X-Compliance Report’ that it applied sanctions in accordance with the provisions of Section 14 of Appendix 111 of its listing rules.

Information obtained from the report showed that 38 per cent or N14.4 million of the fines went to quoted insurance companies, which have had challenges adopting the International Financial Reporting Standards in filling their accounts.

Ten insurance firms were

among the companies fined for default-filing of their financial statements.

FTN Cocoa Processing was handed the heaviest fine. The company was fined N6.1 million for filing its financial statements for the year ended December 2012 and additional N900,000 for the default-filing of its financial statement for the year ended December 2013, bringing the total fine to N7 million.

Ikeja Hotel Plc was fined N5.5 million for failing to file its financial statement when due, while International Energy Insurance and Aso Savings and Loans had to pay N5.4 million and N5 million, respectively for the default filling of their 2012 financial statements.

Also, Interlinked Technologies was asked to pay N2.9 million, with Sovereign Trust Assur-

ance and Niger Insurance fined N1.1 million and N1 million, respectively.

The 11 remaining companies all had to pay less than N1 million for the default filling of their financial statements for the financial year ended December 2013.

They include Continental Reinsurance fined N900,000, Aiico Insurance N800,000, while Oasis Insurance and WAPIC Insurance paid N700,000 each.

Also, Regency Alliance Insurance and Law Union & Rock were each fined N600,000, while NCR and Studio Press were asked to pay N500,000 and N400,000, respectively.

The NASCON and Austin Laz & Co. were fined N300,000 each, with Abbey Building Society Plc paying the least fine of N200,000.

Nigeria’s 23m Barrels Aje Field Kicks Off Production In 2015

By Chika Izuora, Lagos The Aje Oil Field located offshore Nigeria will begin commercial oil production in 2015 following completion of development planning by joint venture (JV) operators.

An indigenous oil company, Yinka Folawiyo Petroleum, is leading other partners in the project which is estimated to hold about 23.4 million barrels.

One of the joint venture partners, Jacka Resources, disclosed plans by project managers to proceed with field start-up.

The field development plan (FDP) was approved by the Nigerian Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) in Q1 2014.

The joint venture participants have undertaken detailed development planning studies of the Aje Field which has been completed and currently considering the proposal to proceed with the Phase 1 Cenomanian oil de-

velopment.

A final investment decision (FID) is expected in the near future with first production expected at the end of 2015.

The operator is Yinka Folawiyo Petroleum while the junior members include Jacka Resources, New AGE, First Hydrocarbons Nigeria, Energy Equity Resources and Panoro Energy.

“Jacka is pleased to achieve this milestone in the development of the Aje Field and of the company,” said Max Cozijn, Jacka chairman.

“Following the final investment decision by the joint venture the first significant activity in the field will be the drilling of Aje-5 and the completion of this well and the existing Aje-4 well, in Q1 2015. Installation of the production facilities, including tying the wells to the FPSO, will occur later in 2015. Jacka looks forward to achieving first commercial production at the end of 2015,” he said.

Oil Theft: Activists Seek Nigeria/Ghana Cooperation With Investigation

By Chika Izuora, Lagos

The Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ) has stepped up itscampaign urging authorities of Nigeria and Ghana to pay greater attention to inquiries recently launched by the United States (US) government over complicity of Saltpond platform with regard to sale of stolen crude oil to Europe.

ANEEJ cited a recent Wall Street Journal (WSJ) which reported that the US has launched investigation into crude oil shipments from Saltpond platform, a small oil facility off the coast of Ghana, due to strong suspicion that some of Nigeria’s stolen oil may be exported through the facility.

The platform, it was learnt, has been shipping large quantities of crude oil from unknown sources to Europe in recent months.

The WSJ, according to a statement by ANEEJ, quoted United States officials as saying that Washington was probing Saltpond as part of the broader enquiry into how Nigeria’s crude oil is being stolen and exported by local and international syndicates.

The statement signed by the ex-

ecutive director of ANEEJ, Rev David Ugolor and made available to LEADERSHIP Sunday said, that though the investigators are yet to arrive at the particulars of evidence, a Saltpond official was said to have testified that the crude oil was got from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The commission, it was alleged, sells crude oil seized from suspected oil thieves to Europe. Interestingly, the EFCC has denied any form of involvement in the Saltpond platform as EFCC spokesman and head of media/publicity, Wilson Uwujaren, said in a statement that the “ EFCC is not an oil marketing company and could not have issued any invoice to any oil trader to lift confiscated crude oil from Nigeria.”

“The issue of oil theft in Nigeria has assumed a frightening dimension over the years and this is not only to our government, but to the civil society in Nigeria and we welcome the United States investigations into the crude oil shipments from Saltpond allegedly by oil thieves. We call on both the Nigerian and Ghanaian Governments to lend their support to the United States investigators.”

KBL Insurance Pays N250m Claims In 6 Months

By Bukola Idowu, Lagos

KBL Insurance Limited, a subsidiary of Keystone Bank Limited, said it has paid off N250 million as claims in the first six months of 2014.

A statement by the head, Corpo-

rate Communications of the insurance company, Nwakerendu Ike, stated that KBL Insurance paid N249.64 million to its customers as claims. Ike assured the company’s customers of excellent service through prompt claims settlement.

He said prompt claims settlement is part of the insurance company’s efforts to ensure customer satisfaction and increased market share. He said the organisation is committed to 48 hours’ claims settlement once all documents have

been received and urged customers to ensure prompt notification of loss and submission of all relevant documents, in order not to delay claims settlement.

KBL Insurance said it is in the process of rebranding having

changed its corporate identity from Insurance PHB. It is also focusing on capacity building to further empower its workforce, while continually re-engineering its internal processes, to ensure and maintain speedy service delivery at all times.

56

nollywood

Sunday, August 31, 2014

Mr President Didn’t Give Us Any Money – Omoni Oboli In this interview, Nollywood actress and mother of three, Omoni Oboli, speaks to SAMUEL ABULUDE about her movie screening, parenting and other sundry issues.

How was the screening of Being Mrs Elliot?

It was very interesting. I honestly didn’t believe it was going to happen. The film producers and marketers’ associations of Nigeria wrote to the president that they wanted the screening at the villa and he consented. I must say that up until after the event on August 14, 2014, I was saying to myself, if I wake up and it is dream, let me not wake up (General laughter)!

So, how do you feel this would impact Nollywood?

I believe this development will cause a revolution in Nollywood.

It takes the support of the government for our movie industry to progress to the next stage. Nollywood has put Nigeria on the map.

It has helped the economy of Nigeria. Recently Bollywood released a statement that Nollywood has caught up with them based on a research. That is cheering news to hear because we the stakeholders have been labouring to make sure we move in the right direction in terms of our stories, picture quality and other technicalities.

We were not given money.

President appreciated our work and asked questions.

He was pleased with the movie, which is a romantic comedy

After the screening what was Mr President’s reaction?

He was marvelled at the screening of the movie. Mr President shook my hand and said most times when he is outside the country and he is being driven around, the people of Africa and other nations always refer to him shouting Igwe, Igwe, Igwe! To him, that means the industry is huge beyond the shores of Nigeria and he’ll do all to support it and make sure it grows so that it becomes a bigger export. Indeed Mr President has been supporting us. No president has thrown his weight behind Nollywood like he did. You can say whatever you want to say about him but Nollywood has never had it so good as in during his tenure.

And if he is willing to truly throw his weight behind us, Nollywood can only get better.

Some have hinted that you lobbied for this somehow and come back with money in the bag?

I wasn’t the only one that had au-

dience with President Jonathan.

We were not given money. President appreciated our work and asked questions. He was pleased with the movie, which is a romantic comedy.

You said the film marketers were the ones that wrote to the president?

Yes! The response dazed us. At the screening, it wasn’t just the president and vice president that watched my movie, some of the governors, PDP chairman, elder statesmen and my colleagues all gathered at the banquet hall to watch Being Mrs Elliot. It was on a projector and the president was impressed stating that if this movie could come out this way- highly entertaining, what about if they watched it in the cinemas? So screening my movie at the seat of power was not just a plus for my career, it was an achievement for Nollywood and other movie productions would want to surpass it in terms of the quality, attention and the finance. The movie was mainly shot in the country. It was shot in three cities: Ekiti, Lagos and Asaba.

It has some cultural themes in it.

So how much was invested in Being Mrs Elliot?

If you want me to tell you the figure, its in millions of naira, I don’t have it but a lot was put into this movie. Apart from being shot in three cities, Lagos, Asaba and Ikogosi in Ekiti State, ‘Being Mrs Elliot’ had a big cast of 50 people. It was not a small production and I for one does what will stretch me and will linger in people’s memories for years. Having been in other people’s productions, I paid attention to details. I can’t quantify some favours done to me in terms of money. As a waffi girl, shooting my movie in Asaba was great and throughout our stay for almost a week in Asaba, my dad fed all the fifty-member cast and this is no mean feat. That said, we had sponsors including companies which supported the movie. Companies like Fayrouz drink (Nigerian Breweries), AD Consulting, Lagos Monopoly, House of Tara. We used her place as part of our location.

Oboli

Are you saying you were just fortunate to have gotten the presidential treatment for your movie? Some say anytime Nollywood practitioners go to Abuja to receive the hospitality of the President, it comes with cash and freebies.

Well I don’t know about other trips by Nollywood practitioners to Abuja. In this case I was not given any money. Big Sam you were there and after the dinner we all retired to our rooms. My husband was there all through. I was not specially called by Mr President for something apart from the earlier meeting with him and the hand shake.

I’m still waiting for him to call me though for the cash (general laughter). This is the second time I’ve met the president. The first was during the burial of his younger brother.

What is your take on your colleagues that sleep their way to the top?

My take is that it demeans you to sleep your way to the top in the movie industry. I didn’t do it. I was married when I re-entered the movie industry in early 2000. I had acted before but school got the better of me. You cannot expect to sleep with movie producers and earn their respect. I don’t do movies because of the money involved. You won’t see Omoni Oboli in movies that require nudity. I don’t do it as a matter of principle.

What movie roles have challenged you so far?

That should be my movie, Being

Mrs Elliot. It was a movie I played dual roles in. I acted as two persons and the president was surprised that I played such roles. In one of the roles, I slapped myself and President Goodluck Jonathan asked me how I did it? (Smiles) I told him it was a technical things.

What of Figurine and Anchor Baby?

Figurine was a great movie and brought me into limelight. Anchor Baby was an emotional movie for me because after playing the role, I could not get out of the role easily.

It was partly shot in the US and psychologists had to come to my aid.

It was one of the most challenging roles I played. I mean, I was emotionally drenched and coming out of that role was an issue. That is why that movie is a blockbuster. The producers are even asking me to come and play another role.

As a mother of three boys, how do you cope with parenting nowadays?

It’s pretty difficult to raise children the right way in this part of the world. I mean you have to be very much involved in what they are doing. My boys are quite matured and I have to watch what they are doing.

What are the three things people don’t know about Omoni Oboli?

Three things people don’t know about me…. That I’m a very spiritual person. I’m quite a homely person. I love to play around sometimes with my close ones.

57

e-train Sunday, August 31, 2014

In every entertainment line presently, the business angles are now put into serious consideration by performers of the act. In Nigeria, endorsements, acting roles and even political roles are offered to stand-up comedians due to their popularity and the fact they are regarded as a channel of happiness to the sad, sorrowed or depressed.

Some of the untalented standup comedians that venture into comedy still try due to the fact that they believe comedy is now lucrative, they tap into it then fall out of it because they fail.

Even those with high educational qualification dump their certificate base on the fact standup comedy is now a legitimate way of making cool millions and at the same time having fun. While some seem not to be too gifted with the unique act of satire or making an expectant crowd happy and satisfied with humorous jokes, others on the other hand are born with this gift and find it very easy to make any crowd laugh with the slightest attempt given to them.

Lots of comedians now charge their fans heavily to watch and listen to them perform. For instance A.Y LIVE: Happiness Edition of April 24, 2014, the tickets were on sale for N6,000 (Regular), N25,000 (VIP), N500, 000/N1,000,000 (Table for 10).

That is how lucrative standup comedy has come to be in recent times, and the crowd recorded at such events are always overwhelming the price of the tickets notwithstanding as Nigerians, Caucasians and our brothers in the diaspora never miss the opportunity of hanging out with their loved ones for a good time over a round of hilarious jokes and theatrical satire acts performed by these stand-up comedians.

Before the present financial and social boom of stand-up comedy in the entertainment industry, classic Nigerian drama comedy series, such as Baba Sala, masquerade, the popular Mazi Mperempe programme on Radio Nigeria and old Anambra State Television, Enugu, in the 70s, 80s and early 90s were the only source of contemporary standup comedy. Worthy of note is the 30-minute programme on Radio Nigeria in Pidgin which featured Mazi Mperempe dishing out numerous rib cracking jokes, always starting with his popular slogan “Oluo n’onume...... onye agbana oso...!” meaning “the time for action has arrived..... Nobody should run away...!”

Stand-up comedy was

Alibaba

AY

Basket Mouth

Owen Gee

Lucrative Nature Of Stand-up Comedy In Nigeria

Comedy is regarded as one of the best sources of amusement, laughter and joy in the world. Foreign stand-up comedians like Kevin Hart, Jamie Fox, Chris Rock, the late Robin Williams, Jerry Seinfeld, and George Carlin, amongst others, are extremely famous across the world and can be said to be among some of the richest entertainers also. Stand-up comedy has become a source of livelihood for several Nigerians. Even those who are really not that funny have managed to carve a niche for themselves. ADERIBIGBE TOLULOPE, writes. left unexploited till a certain revolutionist in the mould of Alleuia Atunyota Akporobomeriere, alias Ali Baba came into the picture.

Ali Baba Ali Baba came to the scene after acquiring a degree in Religious/ Philosophy Studies from the then Bendel State University now Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma in 1990.

He relocated to Lagos having discovered his comic talent and humorous side in his third Year in University. He had planned to return to Ekpoma to read Law but that was not to be, since he discovered he could make more money from making people laugh than from defending them.

Though he had little experience having performed in his first show in 1988, at the pavilion of the then Bendel State University, Ekpoma, Ali Baba knew exactly how to go about it. By 1998, Ali registered a company, Ali Baba Hiccupurathird. That year he erected three bill boards at strategic locations in Lagos:

Ozumba Mbadiwe Street, Victoria Island; Marina; and Osborn road, Ikoyi, paying as much as N140, 000 for each billboard per year.

The billboard carried a simple but heartfelt message: “Ali BabaBeing funny is Serious Business” and that signalled the evolution of stand-up comedy business-wise.

Ali Baba had featured on Friday Night Live, a popular Charly Boy Show and Night Train with Bisi Olatilo on the Network services of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). These made him a popular figure with viewers. Guinness decided to take him along on a nationwide tour for the launch of Satzenbrau beer in Nigeria. His contract with Guinness fetched him N1.5 million, his first million gotten from stand-up comedy at that time. In one of his interviews, he recalled that “the appreciation level of stand-up comedy then was very low because a comedian was always the last on the list of events and the first to go if the event planner decides to cut cost.”

It is an undisputed fact that Ali Baba gave stand-up comedy the face it is putting on today and has

remained a dominant force in the industry, maintaining his status as the “King of stand up comedy” being the first comedian to be paid well in the country, driving a heavy monster truck, with personalised plates, “Ali Baba 1” and a Dodge Ram, registered as “Ali Baba 2” amongst others.

However, evolution of standup comedy to a lucrative business in Nigeria would not be well expatiated without giving credit to Opa Williams, for the development of modern standup comedy. Opa Williams, a native of Aradehe in Isoko North local govt of Delta State, had produced movies like Tears for love, Onome, Sergeant Okoro and Mama between 1993 and 1998.

He conceptualised “Night of a Thousand Laughs” a public event first held on Sunday, October 1, 1995, at the University of Lagos, Akoka- Lagos. The event was a success theatrically but a massive failure in terms of financial returns, still that did not stop him and he came back with a follow ➔ CONTINUEd ON PAGE

54

Stand-up comedy was left unexploited until a certain revolutionist in the mould of Alleuia Atunyota Akporobomeriere, alias Ali Baba came into the picture

58 sunday e-train

Sunday, August 31, 2014

Lucrative Nature Of Stand-up Comedy In Nigeria

Gordons ➔ CONTINUEd from PAGE

53

up in 1996, this time with some partners and still encountered some financial recession but he persisted and after much perseverance and repackaging with new sponsors, Opa Williams made Nigerians realise that they had to pay to laugh, he made comedians realise that they can wear designers suits to perform as professionals and he taught comedians that stand-up comedy can be held in high profile venues with high profile personalities attracted to the event with high fees.

In other words Opa Williams gave comedy the “corporate and serious” face it is wearing today.

He pioneered comedy into a business venture creating a vibrant comedy industry setting up a “laugh clinic” for the depressed, seeking to laugh or couples, family and individuals seeking to laugh as a form of entertainment or amusement. “Night of a Thousand Laugh” as we know today created the platform for many of the old stand-up comedians such as Late Sam Loko Efe, Okey Bakassi, Late Mohammed Danjuma, late Sammy Needle and Late Junior to showcase their talent. Also worthy of note is the fact that most of the new generation comedians such as Klint de Drunk, Emeka Smith, Buchi, lepacious Bose, Basket Mouth, Julius Agwu, I go Die, I Go Save, Holly Mallam, Elenu, Princess, Gandoki, Gordons, Mc Shakara and Ayodeji Makun aka A.Y amongst others were also given a chance to showcase their talent at one stage of their early career thus creating a sort of academy for fresh, raw, and natural talents that have grown to be a global phenomenon in the global stand-up comedy industry.

Julius Agwu He can be referred to as one of the most successful entertainers in Nigeria today. His talent has afforded him the opportunity to stand before the kings and princes of this world. His success story chronicles the rise of a child born without a spoon let alone a silver or golden spoon! He hails from Choba in Obio /Akpor local

Julius Agwu

Bovi

Klint De Drunk

government area of Rivers State.

Julius attended Elementary State School in Choba and later went on to UPE also at Choba, while he had his secondary school education at Government Secondary School in Borokini, Port-Harcourt. However, he acquired his ‘O’ Levels at Akpor Grammar School in Ozoba where his social prowess was brought to the fore as a social prefect and president of the Dramatic, Debating and Cultural Society.

Julius who passed out in flying colours, later gained admission into The University of Port-Harcourt to study Theatre Arts at the Diploma level with specialisation in acting.

He then followed it up with a degree programme (BA) in Theatre Arts still at the University of PortHarcourt. Julius was adjudged the best student in the graduating class of the year in 1997.

His combined success in the movie industry, music and comedy in Nigeria is unrivalled by any other artiste till date. He founded a genre of music in Nigeria known as “musicomedy” being the first comedian to release a comedy album in the country and this earned him different awards and nominations. Having conquered the home terrain, Julius D’ Genius Agwu has also taken stand-up comedy shows to different parts of the world like Atlanta, Maryland, London, among others. Foremost amongst his annual comedy shows are; Crack Ya Ribs and Laff for Christ Sake. Considering that he hasn’t reached the peak of his career, Julius is working on various projects for the very near future including a television show.

voted second Best Comedian in Africa by MNET’s Studio 53 Extra.

He has recently performed series of comedy shows in major cities in the United States of America, London, South Africa. Earlier, in 1988, he was to be paid N10,000 to perform at a send forth event until Tony Tetuila put in a word for him and his fee was raised to N30,000. All that as it is often said are history as the Abia State born multimillionaire comedian rakes in over N80 million from his ‘African Kings of Comedy’, ‘Lord of the Ribs’ and ‘Basket mouth Uncensored’ shows.

Not to forget other millions takings from endorsements with Glo, Kia, Dana Air amongst others.

Open Mic Challenge that holds every third Sunday at The National Theatre, Lagos. AY can be regarded as the ‘father’ of many up-coming and established acts. The show has discovered the likes of Seyi Law, Elenu, Emeka Smith, MC Shakara and a host of others.

Bright Okpocha Popularly known as Basketmouth, he is rated to be the second richest comedian in the country today after Ali Baba.

This assertion may likely be borne out of his numerous national and international endorsement deals which include Globacom and Virgin Atlantic. Some even rank him as Nigeria’s biggest comedy brand as he has been breaking into international mainstream comedy shows, earning thousands of dollars. For instance, he has been

Ayo Richard Makun Also known as AY, he is another successful show host who is skilled in his art. The Delta State-born stand-up comedian had been into showbiz for several years before he met with his mentor, Ali Baba in 2005. The Theatre Arts graduate of the Delta State University, Abraka, gained fame through impersonating Rev. Chris Okotie of Household of God Church, Lagos, in his hilarious jokes and by 2006, AY was named the Best Up-coming Comedian in Nigeria. For instance in 2007, the second edition of A.Y Live, “Lagos Invasion” had to be staged on two different days as it attracted a recovered crowd. Lagos audience was held spell bound by the number of turn ups he had for that event and two years later, Abuja experienced a replica of the scenario in Lagos when he held A.Y Live; “Abuja Invasion”. He drives a luxury Range Rover Sport, among other fleet of cars to his name and Like his mentor, Ali Baba, AY has huge investments in real estate, event management, Fashion outlets, and hospitality.

The multiple award- winning stand-up comedian in collaboration with Sun International, operators of the Federal Palace Hotel and Casino, teamed up to put up the AY Comedy Club dubbed as, The AY’s Open Mic Comedy Club. The show is a monthly comedy and variety show that entertains a distinct audience of high class.

Also, through his monthly AY’s

I Go Die Francis Agoda aka I Go Die, is also a force to be reckoned with in the industry as events and record shows that stand-up comedy is sure a lucrative business. When Comedian I go Die first came into the comedy scene, his long neck and hungry look made people laugh at him whilst he told his jokes. In fact, he looked like a joker trying to earn a living and was nicknamed ‘tolotolo’neck. Today, the joke is on those who laughed at him because he is rolling in big bucks. Few years ago, he splashed a whooping N21 million on two luxury automobiles to add to his posh wonders-on-wheels. He was on a two months Europe tour few years ago, performing in France, Holland, Germany, Spain and Belgium.

The Delta State-born humour merchant acquired N14 million worth White-Diamond Cadillac Escalade Hybrid 2012 Model (Platinum Edition) and a Range Rover Evogue. Sources close to the comedian said, he owns real estate investments, including propertuies in Delta and Lagos. He acquired a N30 million white and ash with red interior Rolls Royce Phantom.

Aside from these, I Go Die has investments running into several millions of naira, something he never dreamed of as a child who grew up lacking the basic things in life. The rib-cracker who has been enjoying the best of time with his comedy in and out of the country, no doubt, is one of the best acts in the industry.

It is no longer news that standup comedy, once regarded as a waste of time and associated with unserious and uneducated people is now big business, transforming its practitioners into hard currency millionaires with sold outs events, shows and endorsement deals raking in from every corner.

Stand-up comedy, once regarded as a waste of time and associated with unserious and uneducated people is now big business, transforming its practitioners into hard currency millionaires

kiddies 59

Sunday, August 31, 2014

kiddies kingdom

SPOT the difference

By Chika mefor

08156719304 (SMS only)

House On Fire

T

he moon had gone behind a cloud and there weren’t many stars in the sky. It was a dark night. I saw a glow in my neighbour’s kitchen. I thought he was having a midnight snack so I went back to my bed.

Soon, there was a burning smell in the air and I suspected something was wrong. At once, I jumped out of bed and went downstairs to investigate. I saw fire coming out of my neighbour’s kitchen. Instinctively, I shouted “Fire! Fire!” But there was no one nearby to hear my shouts for help.

I rushed into my house, called the Fire Department and went back to my neighbour’s house. I rang the doorbell, banged on the door and called out my neighbour’s name but there was no response. I managed to break into the house and rescued a cat and a rabbit.

I tried to throw buckets of wa-

ter through the kitchen window but it was no use; the fire was too strong. Luckily, a fire engine arrived and the firemen put out the fire. They arrived in the nick of time as the fire was going to spread to the other rooms in the house.

When my neighbour came back, he was sad because his kitchen was a wreck but he

thanked me for calling the Fire Department and for saving his pets. He wanted to give me some money as a reward but I did not accept it.

Weeks later, my neighbour repaired and restored his kitchen.

He invited me to his new kitchen and there he gave me a medal that he had specially ordered from a factory. It made me very happy.

puzzle A PICTURE PUZZLE TO COLOUR.

maze

Colour the dotted pieces blue.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Chinaza Okorafor celebrated her birthday on July 20, 2014. Kiddies Kingdom wishes her long life and God’s blessings.

60 INTERVIEW

Sunday, August 31, 2014

President Jonathan Has The Right to Embark On Private Foreign Visit – Abati

Special Adviser to President Goodluck Jonathan on Media and Publicity Dr Reuben Abati insists in this interview with GEORGE AGBA, that the private visit to Germany by the president last weekend had nothing to do with ill-health. He also spoke on some other national issues.

President Jonathan embarked on a private visit to Germany last weekend, but reports in the media had it that he was flown to that country after he suddenly fell ill. Did the President’s visit to Germany have anything to do with ill-health?

It is not unusual for presidents to go on private visits, even in other countries. People must understand that a president is first and foremost a human being.

He is president of the country; he is the foremost authority in the country, but he also has his private life

I think that this was a case of very lazy journalism, if I may say so, because the whole report was based on nothing that the reporters could prove. They said the president suddenly fell ill and he was rushed out. The president was not ill at all.

On that particular day, he was really in excellent form. He held meetings, conducted programmes in the Villa and received the report of the National Conference. Anybody who saw him at the National Conference during the closing ceremony would know that the claim that he was ill was just the figment of the reporters’ imagination. I also read in the paper that the President was supposed to have a dinner that evening for members of the National Conference and that the dinner did not hold because he had to be rushed abroad. Again, that was pure fiction. There was nothing like a dinner for members of the National Conference on the President’s schedule for that day. You can verify this yourself as the president’s schedule for everyday is readily accessible. The syllogism of the argument doesn’t even make sense.

The previous day, a dinner had been held for the National Conference delegates at which the president was represented by his Vice.

So, it didn’t make any sense to have another dinner for them a day later. The same people claiming the dinner was postponed because the President fell ill would have written again to say government was wasting public funds.

There was no basis for that story at all. The president was not ill and nobody rushed him anywhere.

Perhaps, the basis for that report may have been that you refused to disclose the nature of the private visit and you know a trip by any Nigerian leader to that country is always considered as a medical sojourn following past experiences?

Abati

It is not unusual for presidents to go on private visits, even in other countries. People must understand that a president is, first and foremost, a human being. He is the president of the country; he is the foremost authority in the country, but he also has his private life. He has family, he has children, he has one or two things that are personal to him that he may want to attend to. He doesn’t stop being human because he is a president. He will not stop being a father, a brother and a friend to some people just because he is a president. What was required was for us to inform Nigerians because if the president is going anywhere, it is traditional that we announce his movement.

If, as in most cases, it is an official trip, we will include details of his programme and members of his entourage because this is a president that believes in transparency and accountability. When he was briefly admitted in a hospital early last year in London, he instructed me to immediately issue a statement informing Nigerians of his indisposition. And we kept Nigerians informed throughout. A president that has demonstrated that level of transparency has nothing to hide. He has always said that if at any time he falls ill and is admitted into a hospital, Nigerians should be immediately informed. It is a standing instruction. In fact, I don’t even need to go back to him to go and ask him whether I should inform Nigerians; it is a standing instruction. So, if we say the president is proceeding on a private visit, he is proceeding on a private visit. And he was away for just a weekend- Friday, Saturday and then Sunday. Your newspaper’s claim that he went abroad because

of sudden ill-health was false and your editors ought to have apologized for their error.

But the report quoted presidency sources. Don’t you think that somebody from here must have given information to the reporter?

A newspaper has a responsibility to publish the truth and to ensure that what it feeds its readers is nothing but the truth. That is why there is something called investigative journalism. But in this one, we are not even talking about investigative journalism. Just look at the logic and the reasons behind the story. I have tried to show you that those things don’t connect at all and I think that when an editor is not sure or a reporter is not sure, it is better not to do such a story. One of the major maxims in journalism is “When in doubt, leave out” and that maxim is meant to guide journalists against publishing false stories. Except you are very sure, you don’t need to publish because when you do that, you misinform people and raise doubts about your own sincerity and professionalism.

Recently, there was this controversy over the delay in the disbursement of the N1.9 billion intervention fund approved by the federal government to contain the Ebola Virus Disease.

Some states said they felt short changed because they did not receive anything. With the government declaring the country Ebola free, what happens to the intervention fund?

I think there is a lot of misunderstanding involved, and I think for the benefit of other people who may hold such views, a clar-

ification is important. President Jonathan approved the release of N1.9 billion for the control and containment of the Ebola threat, following the submission to the president by the Federal Ministry of Health of a special intervention plan. That special intervention plan was the proactive response of the Federal Ministry of Health to the Ebola threat, beginning with the index case- the American/Liberian that came to Nigeria. There was no delay in the release of that fund because the president wanted a quick response to that public health challenge. The money was immediately released.

That special intervention fund was to be used by the Federal Ministry of Health for intervention in all states where the Ebola challenge may have presented itself.

It was not money to be shared. So, there is no question of modality for the sharing of the money. I’m shocked that when we are talking about a very serious challenge like the Ebola Virus Disease and something as serious as public health is involved, the mentality with which some people are approaching this matter is that of money sharing.

The Federal Ministry of Health has been using the money to provide technical support at the federal and state levels, to monitor the situation, to liaise with international organisations, to get involved in the management of cases towards tracking persons who may have had contact with those who had primary contact with the index case and all that. The good news is that the Jonathan Administration has been commended both by international stakeholders and local observers for its efficient management of the Ebola threat. President Jonathan has personally overseen the national effort to contain Ebola and we are glad that our efforts are having the desired impact.

But N200 million was approved for Lagos and this created more suspicion among stakeholders

President Jonathan approved the release of N200 million to Lagos State and that is understandable because Lagos State is the epicentre of the challenge that came to Nigeria with regards to the Ebola virus. The isolation centres are in Lagos. The index case that precipitated this quick response was in Lagos. All the persons who had primary contact with the index case were in Lagos. The major management processes are located in Lagos. And that was why the president decided that Lagos State deserved special support and approved N200 million to be disbursed to the Lagos State government.

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Veterinary Doctors Have Great Roles In Fight Against Ebola – Rilwan Dr Enesi Rilwanu Musa is an Abuja-based veterinary doctor with specialisation in small animal. In this interview with EKELE PETER AGBO, he explains the nature of Ebola virus and the reason why Nigerians need not panic, but work collectively towards eradicating it.

What could possibly be the cause of Ebola?

All we need do at this point is to allow professionals like veterinary doctors check animals at the abattoir

Ebola viral haemorrhagic disease is a ‘zoonotic disease’ meaning a group of diseases such as rabies, yellow fever disease, avian (bird) flu or influenza, lassa fever that can be transfered from animals to man. Ebola is just one out of such viral diseases. The first reported cases were contracted from monkeys, bats, wildlife (bush game) which fed on fruits and contaminate such fruits with their infected saliva. Unfortunately, the local natives in that region (D.R. Congo) harvested such infected fruits (mangoes mostly) and made juice out of it. They started having symptoms such as bloody diarrhoea, fever, headache with high mortality rate. Surprisingly, all the health workers that attended to the sick people became sick too. However, on isolation and identification,

they realised it was a strange virus; and so there were a lot of drama before the virus was named after a river close to the site of the first outbreak called Ebola River in D.R. Congo.

Animals like monkeys and bats have always been there. Why the Ebola outbreak now?

You are right, just like the incidence of the Avian (bird) flu outbreak in recent past in Nigeria, there were birds everywhere, including our domestic fowls. What this means is that, for as long as these animals, domestic and wild, are around us, we will continue to experience incidence of zoonotic diseases either as outbreak or isolated cases like we have had in the case of lassa fever.

Ebola got so much publicity because it has very short incubation period and the fact that the mortality rate is extremely high; hence it is an emer-

gency. I am happy with our collective efforts as Nigerians and a country to fight this deadly virus. All we need do at this point is to allow professionals like veterinary doctors check animals at the abattoir even before they are slaughtered to ascertain their health status. Before you are allowed to acquire a pet in Europe, you must consult a veterinary expert. You cannot also slaughter animals on your own; it must be certified healthy by a registered abattoir or slaughter house where antemortem and post-mortem test can be conducted by a veterinary doctor to ensure that it is properly screened for zoonotic diseases like Tuberculosis, even generalised lesions. So, over there, the issue of people eating bush game is rare. Mind you there is Animal Act rights in Europe.

Does the Nigerian government have the facilities, as well as the capacity to effectively contain the spread of the Ebola virus?

Of course, we do. We have the capacity if only all the professionals can come together. If D.R. Congo as a struggling nation could control Ebola, I see no reason why Nigeria cannot. We have controlled diseases like Rinderpest in cattle, Avian Flu in birds, Rabies in dogs and Lassa in ro-

Rilwan

dent. Ebola in monkey, bats, wildlife won’t be a challenge.

The federal government appears not to be consulting with veterinary doctors or consultants who are actually the ones that deal with animals. What is your take on this?

I feel it could be that since the monkeys, bats and wildlife in Nigeria are yet to show clinical symptom or die as a result of Ebola viral haemorrhagic disease, even if veterinary doctors are to come in, it will be at the capacity of research and Laboratory trials.

There Is Re-awakening Of Women’s Conscience In Adamawa– Nkom Mrs. Justina Nkom, JP, is the Adamawa State Honorable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Social Development and Integration. Peter Oiboh, recently, had a chat with her and engaged her on what the three months she will serve in the cabinet before election portend for her and Adamawa women.

Were you surprised when you got nominated to become a commissioner?

Thank you so much for the question. I was overwhelmed with surprise on hearing my nomination on mainstream media houses. It came as a shock but knowing I’m a bonafide PDP daughter that worked assiduously in 2011 for the victory of Mr.President, I felt it was an additional responsibility on my person to galvanise Adamawa women for the PDP and the eventual emergence Gov.Ahmadu Fintiri.

This is because his passion to turn the politics of Adamawa around for the sole good of the people as shown by his achievements within a short period is a source of encouragement.

You have only two months or so.

What visions do you have?

My vision and purpose is to key into the laudable programmes of His Excellency, and Her Excellency, Hajiya Lami Fintiri on bettering the lots of Adamawa women.

Would three months be enough?

Where there is vision, there is a solid foundation for any upcoming administration to work upon. If a leader has the people of his state at heart, he can make changes even in a day as exemplified by the acting governor so far. Since his ascension to power, there has been aggressive refilling of major metropolitan road networks in the state with good quality bitumen and payment of the backlog of three months salaries and allowances owed civil servants by the immediate past administra-

Nkom

tion. There is also the restructuring of the psychological mindset of the people to focus on ‘people first policies’ and creating a level playing field for everyone concerned.

Let’s talk about the lot of women in Adamawa State. Have they been carried along in the affairs of the state over the years?

Over the past years, women issues have almost been neglected and barely given a place in serious decision making but with the emergence of His Excellency, Governor Fintiri, Adamawa women have been given the mantle of spokesmanship as the Information ministry is headed by a woman with proven record of delivery on set goals. Adamawa women are positioned well to participate fully in the upcoming political affairs of this state.

You have such a short time. How do you hope to help correct or adjust this anomaly that existed?

At this juncture of the women of Adamawa, we can only contribute with policies that will serve as a yardstick for upcoming works of redemption for the women of this state.

You belong to the Fintiri - led government. What difference is your administration bringing to bear on the governance of the state?

The major difference is the immediate impact on economic relief on the people of the state and the sudden sense of belonging. The Adamawa people have suddenly been jolted from their sober state to an active status of wanting to contribute to the development of the state.

Adamawa women are positioned well to participate fully in the upcoming political affairs of this state

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zonal watch

NIGER STATE KWARA STATE KOGI STATE BENUE STATE NASARAWA STATE PLATEAU STATE FCT ABUJA 10, 000 Persons Suffer Visual Challenges In Kwara

BY Abdullahi Olesin, Ilorin

Heads FROM the ZONE

➔ The committee set up by the Kwara State governor on grading of traditional rulers has recommended 59 stools for grading and upgrading in the state

About 10, 000 persons in Kwara State had in recent times suffered different visual challenges, the chairman, Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in the state, Dr Abubakar Ayinla has said.

He further disclosed that about 30, 000 others also have visual impairment.

Ayinla, an ophthalmologist said the major causes of blindness are cataract, glaucoma and corneal opacity but observed that 80 per cent of those that have one health challenge or the other needed not to go blind.

He commended the efforts of the state government in the area of eye care, adding that the phase

of healthcare in the state is now changing from a general practice model to a specialised and sub-specialised model.

The NMA chairman disclosed that the state now has ophthalmologists, gynecologists and occupied surgeons in its hospitals unlike in the past.

The ophthalmologist also praised the state government for the renovation of five general hospitals with modern equipment across the three senatorial districts of the state.

Ayinla appealed to the federal government to articulate the various opportunities in the society and make doctors and other health workers relevant not only to the community but also to themselves.

Foundation Awards Scholarship To 824 Students, Empowers 1, 500 Widows

BY SAM EGWU, Lokoja

A non governmental organisation, David Zacharias Idris Foundation (DIZF), has granted scholarship to 824 students from Ejule, Ugwolawo and Idah communities in Kogi State.

The organisation has also empowered 1, 500 widows, renovated schools and donated school equipment to some schools in the communities.

The president/founder of the foundation, David Idris, said that for the rest of his life, he would dedicate his life to fighting poverty and alleviating the pains of the less privileged members of the society.

“My foundation is set to fight the scourge called poverty and the foun-

dation is dedicated to touching the lives of the needy, less privileged, widows and orphans”, David said.

He pledged to remain supportive of the orphans, widows and less privileged in the society within his limited resources.

David who spoke with LEADERSHIP Sunday in Lokoja stated that he had recognised early in life the need to be supportive of the less privileged, given his own humble background.

While emphasizing that government alone cannot meet the needs of the people, David enjoined wealthy individuals to always give back to the society by assisting the less privileged and their communities.

Nasarawa SUBEB Urges Communities To Monitor Government Projects

BY DONATUS NADI, Lafia

➔ The Nasarawa State governor, Alh Tanko AlMakura, said he would not share public money for political patronage despite threats of impeachment against him

➔ Minister of National Planning, Dr Abubakar Sulaiman, has vowed to make the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State popular.

The Nasarawa State Universal Basic Education Board (NSUBEB) has urged community leaders and other stakeholders in the state to monitor government projects in their domain to ensure quality service delivery.

The executive chairman of the board, Mallam AbdulKarim Abdullahi, made the call when he received R-L: General manager/CEO of Kwara Signage and Advertisement Agency (KWASAA), Alh Ahmad Olufadi; the state’s forum of special assistants to Governor Umathe Deputy governor of Kwara State, Elder Peter Kisira, the Grand Kadi of Kwara State, Justice Solihu ru Al-Makura in Lafia.

Mohammed at a stakeholders’ forum organised by KWASAA in Ilorin. PHOto by Abdullahi ilesin He said the call has become imperative considering the critical role communities play towards ensuring that government projects add value to their subsistence and the overall socio-economic development of the state.

He said, “Governor Al-Makura is doing his best towards improving the standard of education in the state and I want to appeal to you to monitor schools and other government projects in your domain and to report

BY DONATUS NADI, Lafia gratitude to the Fulani common purse for their personal any erring contractor, headmaster, teacher and other munity, and indeed the entire gains to the neglect of over 95 government officials who are found wanting in the disThe Nasarawa State goverper cent of the populace in the citizens of the state for standcharge of their duties. nor, Umaru Tanko Almakura, ing by their mandate during state.

“In some schools visited while in session, the board has restated his commitment the botched impeachment atAlmakura who spoke in Lahas observed with dismay the poor quality of work done to adhere strictly to fiscal prutempt said, the will of God, fia when he played host to Fuby some contractors and the nonchalant attitude to dence in running the affairs of doggedness of the electorate lani community urged his work, absenteeism, lateness to duties and other sharp the state. and the rule of law did not alguests to be in the vanguard practices by some teachers in the state.”

He said, attempts to coerce low such fiendish plots sucof promoting inter-communal Abdullahi also decried poor maintenance of governhim into sharing public funds ceed. security in the state. ment projects among Nigerians and called for change through impeachment threats In demonstration of his He disclosed that his govof attitude in order to ensure their proper utilisation so would not deter him from decommitment to give the Fuernment was setting up a seas to reduce the culture of waste. livering his campaign promlani a greater sense of belongcurity conciliatory committee He restated the commitment of the board to deal ises. ing, Governor Almakura anwhich will be saddled with the decisively with any contractor, teacher or persons who He said his government nounced the appointment of responsibility of periodic rewant to sabotage the good image of the board as well would not succumb to ‘doJafar Mohammed Liman as view of security challenges in as the good image of the state government an the eding business’ as usual where his special assistant on animal ucation sector. the state. a few elites plunder the comhusbandry and cattle routes.

Almakura who expressed

I’ll Not Share Public Funds For Fear Of Impeachment – Al-Makura

Kwara Approves N752m Car Loan For LG Chairmen, Others

BY Abdullahi Olesin, Ilorin

The Kwara State government has approved the sum of N752 million as car loan for chairmen of the 16 local government areas and local government political officeholders in the state.

The loan according to the state’s

commissioner for Finance, Alh Ademola Banu, is to enhance productivity and governance at the local government level.

He added that car loan for local government workers is being processed and called on interested staff to avail themselves of the opportunity.

Banu, who is the chairman, state’s Joint Local Government Account Allocation Committee, disclosed this while briefing newsmen shortly after the committee’s meeting in Ilorin, the state capital.

The commissioner disclosed that the state recorded a shortfall of over N500 million in the August

federal allocation, saying that the state recorded a shortfall of N350 million while the local government councils recorded a shortfall of N150 million.

Banu also disclosed that the sum of N738, 649, 139 was distributed among all the 16 local governments for the month of August.

A

Their return to Ngala on Monday August 25 may have brought the resilient community on its knees.

Even the soldiers of the Nigeria Army could not stand the terrorists as they had to join the villagers in fleeing to Cameroon

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Sunday, August 31, 2014

bout three months after Boko Haram insurgents had attacked the border communities of Gamboru-Ngala, killing at least 300 and chasing thousands others into Cameroon, the commercial border town was last week on the run again as insurgents came for the repeated time.

This time around, the Boko Haram terrorists’ were specifically after the soldiers deployed on guard there.

Gamboru-Ngala, a twin town that formed the local government area in the border areas between Nigeria and Cameroon was attacked by Boko Haram on 5th and 6th 2014.

They not only destroyed several commercial outfits there, but also massacred 300 persons.

Albeit, the usually bubbling commercial town was still battling to regain its balance after that deadly attack by the gunmen. Their return to Ngala on Monday August 25 may have brought the resilient community on its knees. Even the soldiers of the Nigeria Army could not stand the terrorists as they had to join the villagers in fleeing to Cameroon.

It was also reported that during the attack, about 480 soldiers of the Nigerian Army who could not stand the vehemence of the Boko Haram attackers abandoned their posts and fled across the border to where the Cameroonian soldiers were holding fort for their country.

Although the authorities at the Nigerian Defence Headquarters said the soldiers did not run into Cameroon out of fear, but rather resorted to a military tactics which they called ‘tactical manoeuvre’.

Narrating their ordeals and how the attack was carried out on them, a source in the Cameroonian border area, Basuma Muhammed, told LEADERSHIP Sunday that their attackers came as early as 5:15am on that day.

“We started hearing the heavy sounds of gun shooting at about 5:15am. Initially, some of us thought it was the soldiers that were doing their occasional friendly firings until we noticed the intensity of the shootout as well as some voices screaming ‘Allahu akbar’. It was then we realised that it was Boko Haram attacking soldiers at the extreme part of the town”, said Muhammed who is now in Cameroon.

“When some of us started fleeing in all direction, we ran into some of the Boko Haram gunmen who were telling us to stop running from our houses that they were not out to touch any civilian now; that their concern was the soldiers, and after that, they would come for us some day. We however had to run for our lives”, said Basuma, a local trader in the town.

The source added that while some of them managed to escape from the town into some outskirts neighbourhood of Cameroon, others villagers who were afraid of being killed by strayed bullets locked themselves up in their houses.

An official of the Nigeria Immigration Service who pleaded

Some military men with their vehicles attempting to manouver a damaged bridge near the border with Cameroun. PHOTO BY www.informationng.com

Gamboru-Ngala: When Insurgents Forced Soldiers, Residents Into Cameroon

Last week, the media was awashed with reports of fierce battle between the Nigeria army and Boko Haram insurgents along the Nigeria/Cameroun border. ABDUKAREEM hARUNA in Maiduguri gives a detailed insight into what the military now termed, ‘tactical maneouvering’. anonymity, explained that the attack on Gamboru-Ngala town was carried out in two phases - adding that in the first attack, the number of Boko Haram gunmen was not as much as the second.

“Honestly, our soldiers did a very wonderful job during the first attack by tackling the Boko Haram gunmen who were not more than 50 in number; and they effectively tackled them; in fact many of them were killed, and we almost wanted to start celebrating when suddenly, the terrorists turned out in heavy numbers, that tripled the first batch”, said the immigration official.

“It was then some of us understood that it was like the Boko Haram gunmen decided to sacrifice some of their members in the first batch as guinea-pigs, either to distract the soldiers or to help dissipate their ammunition so that they would not be able to tackle them during the second attack.

“The second attack was really massive, the Boko Haram gunmen came in trucks and led with armoured tanks, they continued to attack shooting all kinds of weapons including those that sound like RPG, GPMG, AA and so on. It was then that I guessed the soldiers reasoned that it would be a suicide mission to face such a battalion that tripled their number; so they had to join the thousands of villagers to flee into Cameroon”, he said.

A junior ranked soldier who also would not want to be named in this report told LEADERSHIP Sunday in Maiduguri, that his colleagues who spoke with him from Cameroon said they had to flee because they ran out of ammunitions and that, “The calibre of weapons the terrorists came with far outweighed what our men were carrying”.

A top officer of the State Security Service in Maiduguri who usually

speak to journalists off the record tried to make some sense of the reason the soldiers may have had to retreat into Cameroon. He said the soldiers who ran out of ammunition only retreated to a safer zone at the other side of the border as Boko Haram cut off their the unit responsible for supplying them more ammunition.

“We cannot say they fled into Cameroon per say, but what happened was that as the troops continued to engage them, they eventually needed additional ammunitions, but those responsible for supplying them the needed bullets got ambushed on the way, and in order for them to get organised, they had to retreat to a safer zone outside the battle line which happened to be part of the Cameroonian territories; and you know, we and Cameroon have some understanding of uniting to fight insurgency frontally at the borders”.

A Cameroonian military spokesman, Didier Badjek was heard speaking with the BBC Hausa service confirming that “About 400 soldiers are currently on their side and were helping to fight the terrorists in the ongoing battle”.

Spokesman of the Nigerian Defense Headquarters, Major General Chris Olukolade, had explained that why Nigerian troops moved into the territory of Cameroun was as a result of a sustained battle between the troops and the terrorists around the borders with Cameroun.

He said due to the fierce battle between the soldiers and the Boko Haram, the Nigerian troops found themselves charging through the borders in a tactical maneuver that eventually saw them on the Camerounian soil.

Major General Olukolade made this explanation in a statement

sent to journalists. He however added that ”Being allies, the normal protocol of managing such incident demanded that the troops submit their weapons in order to assure the friendly country that they were not on a hostile mission”.

“Following necessary discussions between Nigerian and Camerounian military authorities, the issues have been sorted out. Subsequently, the troops are on their ways back to join their unit in Nigeria.

“The reference to the incidence as a defection is, therefore not appropriate considering the discussion between the two countries’ military leadership and the series of contacts with the soldiers who have confirmed that they are safe.

“Meanwhile, troops are repelling a group of terrorists who are trying to enter the country through Gamborou Ngala. A group of them who fizzled into the town are being pursued”.

But surprisingly, instead of the disarmed soldiers returning back to Nigeria in a more organised form, some of them were later seen trickling into Nigeria through the border towns of Adamawa State in a very dishevelled forms, some without their kits, others in mufti, a tell-tale of persons on the run.

However, Days after the Nigerian soldiers had tactically manoeuvred themselves out of their base in Gamboru-Ngala boarder town into Cameroon as Boko Haram terrorists attacked them, the insurgents have now returned to commence serial killings of hapless civilian residents, sources said.

LEADERSHIP Sunday gathered from sources in Gamboru-Ngala on Thursday night that the insurgents who are now in control of the border community were selecting and killing some of the residents.

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Sunday, August 31, 2014

Makoko Floating School: A Reversal Of Fortunes

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As controversy trails the floating school, Lagos State Government said it may demolish the three-storey floating school built on Makoko waterfront, saying the school is illegal

unle Adeyemi had planned to expand the learning center to rekindle hopes in the lives of children living on the waterfront located on the Lagoon heart of the nation’s largest city of Lagos.

As a pilot scheme, the architect also had dreams of diversifying into housing in the coastal region by coming up with alternative building system suitable for urban water culture for teeming population in view of the impact of climate change and rapidly urbanising African context.

Brimming with optimism, he went into partnership with some international and local organisations with a view to achieving his aims.

It is an initiative that would see about 100 children who live on the Makoko Waterfront having the opportunity to learn under the roof of the school. But the success of this venture was short-lived, he started experiencing hiccups when Lagos State Government outlawed the establishment of the school.

Observers are, however, surprised that years after, such initiative did not see the light of the day despite the nation’s high rate of out of school children.

A report by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) had hitherto ranked Nigeria high among nations where large populations of school children are not in the classrooms.

The report showed that one out of every five Nigerian children is out of school.

The UNESCO Education for All Global Monitoring Report (EAGMR) affirmed Nigeria holds the world record of having the highest number of its young people out of school.

With approximately 10.5 million kids out of school, Nigeria tops the table of 12 other countries with which it accounts for 47 per cent of the global out-of-school population.

In the report,other countries are Pakistan (5.1 million); Ethiopia (2.4 million); India (2.3 million); Philippines (1.5 million); Cote d’Ivoire (1.2 million); Burkina Faso (1 million); Niger (1 million); Kenya (1 million); Yemen (0.9 million); Mali (0.8 million) and South Africa (0.7 million).

It was well articulated that of all these countries, according to UNESCO, Nigeria is among the four that have experienced the highest increase since 1999.

Though Adeyemi’s dream seemed delayed, those who know his antecedents say he is a no-nonsense person, firm and independent minded that would see to the realisation of his dream.

As a passionate person, Adeyeimi said curiosity drove him

Makoko floating school. PHOTO BY GEORGE OKOJIE

When Kunle Adeyemi mooted the idea for a floating school for the historic water community of Makoko, in Lagos State, he was full of hopes.

GEORGE OKOJIE, writes that the transformation of the novel idea is not without challenges. into building Makoko Floating School which has generated a lot of discussions and has attracted great universities home and abroad wanting to partner with the project.

On what inspired his involvement in building Makoko school on water, he told LEADERSHIP Sunday he started out by looking into one of the challenges in Lagos State.

He said, “This was at a time that Governor Fashola came into power and I asked what are the challenges of Lagos State? Housing was brought to me as one of them. I said okay, I am going to look at housing solutions and in looking at that, try to investigate housing solutions.

“Like anybody else passing through the Third Mainland Bridge and seeing this community development, it was like a community on water. You are looking for low income housing, why don’t you understand how people at the bottom of the ladder cope with the housing development and living, so that was how I got involved.

“It was purely curiosity that drove me there. I went there and I was shocked and at the same time inspired just at the way the people are living, the conditions, difficulties they are facing at the same time, with very little, they have been able to create so much.”

He noted that Makoko represents maximum urbanisation with minimum needs, saying it was a place for him to learn from them and also see how he can contribute to their development.

According to him, “That is how we started. It is really a relationship, from one person, I was introduced

to a community leader and then it became a collaboration of us, the community and they came up with ideas,” he said.

“This is the wood that we are using, this is the timber, we can do that. So, it is really a unique way of creating something, working with people, understand their challenges and proffering solutions collectively, hoping that it is an idea that works.

“It is not a perfect solution, yes! but it’s a starting point for developing what we think could be a breakthrough in addressing many coastal waterfront communities spread all over Lagos, Badagry, Epe, to Ondo, Niger Delta areas and then you think of the coast of Africa.”

He told LEADERSHIP Sunday that they have erected the structure with the cooperation of the people of Makoko, saying,” We still need the state government to give us the go ahead to build the classrooms and other facilities needed for such a mobile classroom, housing.

“Presently, it is being used for recreational activities and other things, as the people are fond of the structure which is also attracting visitors. We hope to complete the project as the children are ready to start coming for the school. So we hope to see great things and opportunities for these people.”

Adeyemi said he is optimistic that the Lagos State Government will rescind on destroying the Makoko waterfront.

He said, “There are many ways of skinning a cat. The project affords the state government to look into ways of tackling the problem of housing in an environment like

this. And you know we have so many settlements like this in Lagos flood prone communities and beyond.”

He said NLE, a company he established four years ago is focused on developing cities, noting that sustainable urban growth is at the core of NLE. According to him, “our architectural, design and urbanism practice is focused on developing communities and cities with a social and environmental consciousness.

We are based in Lagos and Amsterdam and have been involved in great projects all over the world.”

As controversy trails the floating school, Lagos State Government said it may demolish the threestorey floating school built on Makoko waterfront, saying the school is illegal.

According to the Commissioner for Waterfront and Infrastructure Development, Prince Adesegun Oniru, the floating school was illegal as it had no approved plan.

“It’s an illegal structure, it shouldn’t be there, and we are trying to get rid of structures there. It’s not a project that has been abandoned, various bodies have gone to court, and we stand to be corrected.

“I cannot say much because there is a legal case on ground. It’s without the knowledge and permit of the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development as well as Ministry of Water Front and Infrastructure.

“It’s been illegal from day one. He waited until there was legal issue in the Makoko area before he started putting the school up. We were not going to do things against the law which would have been seen as contempt of court, so he carried on and brought in CNN to show the illegal floating school.”

He said once things are sorted out they would do what we have to do in the interest of all parties.

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Shettima And Politics Of Calumny

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he people of Borno are faced with a difficult situation. They are made to put up with appalling poverty caused by the security situation and an indifferent and clueless leadership. A leadership that operates in a cult like manner, where its preoccupation is to instill fear and a feeling of despair in the populace in order to divert attention from its inadequacies. This method of instilling fear and impoverishment in the society has been so perfected in the style of Kashim Shettima’s administration that you would mistake him for the grand master of Free Mason.

As if that was not enough, when efforts were made to call him to order, to come to terms with the reality that time is fast running out on him, he decided to sink to his original low by resorting to the politics of blackmail. Ever since Kashim Shettima parted ways with his political mentor, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, he has embarked on an orchestrated campaign of calumny in trying to give SAS a bad name. In doing so, his diversion of public funds into media propaganda knows no limits. He has dedicated humungous resources to this project with a view to scoring cheap political points. What else would you expect from a novice. It is also a common knowledge that labelling anyone a Boko Haram apologist is the easiest political blackmail in Nigeria today.

The crux of the matter is: what did he do with the enormous resources allocated to the state in the last three years, where is the over sixty billion naira (N60, 000, 000, 000.00) left by his predecessor, what happened to the Borno State Sure-P funds. How come the EFCC seized over two billion naira (N2, 000, 000, 000. 00) in one of his commissioner’s private residence. The administration is so indifferent to the plight of the people that it steals from the poor and the sick. It is only in Maiduguri that a patient buys government subsidised drugs above what obtains in the market.

Recently, in the name of street lights, the Borno State government has misappropriated over ten billion naira (N10, 000, 000, 000. 00). They have embarked on an endless journey of round tripping street lights in Maiduguri, so much so that a particular street has had three sets of street lights installed over three years.

We hereby challenge the governor to come forward and deny these anomalies in his usual characteristic eloquence. Let him come out and address these developmental issues if he is truly who he pretends to be.

It’s equally a pity that someone like el-Rufia, who only became an activist when he fell out with the government at the centre, would tell us who the sponsors of terror in Nigeria are. Where was he all the while, when havoc wreaked on the people of Borno? He could have, at least, sold one the plots he allocated to his children when he was minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to provide relief materials to our people. But he never did! Unfortunately, owing to the exigencies of politics, he arranged to collect Borno people’s money from a gullible governor to carry out a publicity stunt for APC. Haba! Mallam, be mindful of Allah in your dealings.

By Kolo Adam

For: Concerned Citizens

66 Christian perspective

Sunday, August 31, 2014

Pastor W.F. Kumuyi The Study Of God’s Word info@deeperlifeonline.org

The Call To A Soul-Winning Lifestyle ➔ FROM LAST WEEK

1. THE IMPOSSIBILITY OF SERVING GOD AND MAMMON Matthew 6:24; Luke 16:13; Joshua 24:14-21; 1 Kings 18:21; Hosea 10:1,2; James 1:8; 1 Samuel 7:3; Matthew 4:8-11; Galatians 1:10; John 6:24-27.

“No man can serve two masters.”

Christ’s declaration is true at all times, in all ages. This is a law of human nature. A servant cannot serve two masters at the same time. His affection, loyalty and obedience would be divided and he would fail altogether in his duty to one or the other. No one can serve the true God and at the same time be supremely engaged in loving the world or serving any selfish interests. Our devotion to the world and the things of the world will interfere with our commitment to God. “Mammon” means or refers to money, riches, wealth and because of man’s sinful tendency to love and trust in riches, it was eventually considered as an idol - a substitute for the true God. How dangerous it is to set our hearts upon

riches, seeing how easy it is for men to make it a god! “The love of money is the root of all evil” (1 Timothy 6:9,10). When money becomes an idol, master, a god of the heart, the true God is forsaken and man becomes destitute, living without God in this world and without hope in eternity.

2. THE IMPLICATION OF SERVING GOD AS MASTER Matthew 6:24; Luke 4:5-8; Malachi 1:6; Deuteronomy 10:12; 13:1-4; 30:20; Joshua 22:5; 2 Chronicles 34:33; 2 Timothy 2:19-21; Hebrews 12:28.

“No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.”

From the text, we learn what it means to serve God as Master.

The Lord uses the words “serve”, “love” and “hold to.” To serve God is to love Him and to hold to Him or to cleave to Him. To serve God is to love Him, not in words only but in deed and in truth. He who serves God truly and acceptably must serve Him wholeheartedly.

God will not permit a rival to share the throne of our heart with Him. If our hearts are divided, He will say, “They have not wholly followed Me” (Numbers 32:11).

Our text also makes it clear that to serve God is to “hold to” Him or to cleave unto Him, that is, to cleave unto Him with a perpetual covenant in all conditions and situations in life. It is to hold to Him and His commandments, even when those commandments are not pleasing to the flesh. It is to give God the first place in our affection and devotion, preserving and presenting our hearts to Him as sacred ground on which neither mammon nor the world is allowed to intrude or trespass. God must be Master and Lord of all.

3. THE IMPIETY OF SERVING GOD AND MAMMON Matthew 6:24; 2 Kings 17:79,25,33,34; Luke 16:13;1 Timothy 6:9,10; Mark 10:17,21-24; James 4:4; Philippians 3:17-21; 1 John 2:15-17; Colossians 3:1-5.

“Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” In broad sense, mammon is whatever seeks to compete

with God in our lives - riches, the world or whoever wants to displace God in our lives and be another master! The prince of this world is ever-seeking to be lord and master of the souls of men.

The world is also seeking control of our hearts and affection. The two masters, God and mammon, are diametrically opposed to each other. The one commands you to walk by faith, the other to walk by sight; the one to set your affection on things above, the other to set it on things that are on the earth; the one to look at the things unseen and eternal, the other to look at the things seen and temporal; the one to be content with such things as ye have, the other to enlarge your desires as hell; the one to seek happiness in the Creator, the other to seek happiness in the creature. Truly, you cannot serve these two contradictory masters.

If you love one, you must hate the other. If you hold to and cleave to one, you must despise and leave the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. ➔ TO BE CONTINUED

Truly, you cannot serve these two contradictory masters.

If you love one, you must hate the other

Bishop Matthew Daniels Insight For Living bishopmatthewdaniels@yahoo.com +234 811 189 6866

How To Be Effective In Life (2) “...Like my friend, Warren Buffett, I feel particularly lucky to do something every day that I love to do.

He calls it, “tap-dancing to work.” My job at Microsoft is as challenging as ever, but what makes me “tapdance to work” is when we show people something new, like a computer that can recognize your handwriting or your speech, or one that can store a lifetime’s worth of photos, and they say, “I didn’t know you could do that with a PC!” But for all the cool things that a person can do with a PC, there are lots of other ways we can put our creativity and intelligence to work to improve our world.

There are still far too many people in the world whose most basic needs go unmet. Every year, for example, millions of people die

from diseases that are easy to prevent or treat in the developed world.

I believe that my own good fortune brings with it a responsibility to give back to the world. My wife, Melinda, and I have committed to improving health and education in a way that can help as many people as possible.

As a father, I believe that the death of a child in Africa is no less poignant or tragic than the death of a child anywhere else. And that it doesn’t take much to make an immense difference in these children’s lives.

I’m still very much an optimist, and I believe that progress on even the world’s toughest problems is possible — and it’s happening every day. We’re seeing new drugs for dead-

ly diseases, new diagnostic tools, and new attention paid to the health problems in the developing world.

I’m so excited by the possibilities I see for medicine, for education and, of course, for technology.

And I believe that through our natural inventiveness, creativity and willingness to solve tough problems, we’re going to make some amazing achievements in all these areas in my lifetime”.

The true purpose of a job is work not money. That is why working for fulfillment is better than working for money.

Countries measure their strength and wealth by their GNP (Gross National Product) not by the money they have in their treasure, meaning the relative strength or

weakness of a country is measured by the level of labor and productivity.

The power of productivity is work. Thomas Edison was a great inventor. He invented many things. The electric light that we enjoy today was the fruit of his willingness to labor with the inspiration hidden in him.

His life mirrored the following words as he said: “Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety nine percent perspiration”.

Without labor you will lose your creative potential and you will gradually succumb to atrophy.

Work is the pathway to creativity and satisfying meaningful existence.

➔ T0 BE CONTINUED NEXT WEEK

There are lots of other ways we can put our creativity and intelligence to work to improve our world

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Finding A Future For The Youth: The Sokoto Example

By Sahabi Garba

Governor Wamakko’s administration tackled youths restiveness through the establishment of skills acquisition programmes

Nigeria is one country that is richly endowed in abundant resources which include a large population of young persons or, otherwise, youthful population. The youths are the future of any nation and given the right guidance and training, they are potential nation builders.

The global unemployment indices places Nigeria as one of the countries worst affected. So many efforts are been made to provide employment opportunities, but the number of youths especially graduates keep surging. The problem, according to some experts, is largely due to the school curriculum which is not designed to make students job providers but job seekers. Vocational training is not part of what schools teach students in addition to conventional subjects.

This, no doubt, has constituted a concern for governments in recent times, and states are left with an army of youths who idle around.

They not only idle away their time, they easily become tools in the hands of mischief makers. The restive

nature of the youths and their propensity to be used as pawns, has made governments to devise means of engaging them to be productive.

Several programmes have been introduced for the youths to take advantage of.

In sokoto state, for instance, Governor Wamakko came up with programmes to take care of the youths to give them a lifeline to fend for themselves. What the governor did was to confront the issue aggressively. The programmes are run under the Ministry for Youths and Sports, social welfare and poverty reduction agencies.

Governor Wamakko’s administration tackled youths restiveness through the establishment of skills acquisition programmes that have now engaged many youths in gainful employments all over the state.

In the project, the administration pumped huge resources towards the purchase of equipment for the training of youths. There were also tools and cash for them to start off in various trades.

Now, three more skills acquisition

centres, which would train our youth on modern farming techniques including animal rearing and poultry, have been established at the three senatorial zones. Not only that, apart from engaging both males and females in these programmes, women development centres have been established in all the 23 local governments of the state to allow women learn trades while in their matrimonial homes.

The whole thing is geared towards training them in various trades and crafts for self economic sustenance under the youths empowerment programme. On completing their apprenticeships, they are equipped with tools and start-off funds.

The programme has recorded tremendous results.

The first batch of over 150,000 youths were, at the inception of the administration, trained in shoes and mattress making, repairs of solar lights, computer repairs, pomade bags and other leather works. These youths were given enough capital to start on the own.

Recently, about 200 youths were sent to Kadawa in kano state to learn

crop farming, animal husbandry and metal fabrication. After their graduation, the youths were given between N 50,000 and N 100,000 to start off their trades.

Equally too, 300 youths, both male and females were trained on barbing and plaiting. Another 400 of them were also trained in perfume, candle, snacks, yogurts, meat-pie, donuts and egg roll making. The government did not stop there; it established youth friendly centers and assist them with materials and tools for training and community development efforts.

As part of the robust programme, only last Wednesday, the Ministry for Youths and Sports graduated 1000 youths in welding, plumbing and auto mechanic. This was in addition to an earlier batch of over 5,750 that graduated in fabrication of cooking pots, stove making, paint production and other miscellaneous trades.

With this opportunities which abound in the state, youths have no reason to complain of unemployment except they are lazy and do not want to be self reliant.

Sahabi Garba wrote this piece from Sokoto

Teacher Education In Nigeria: The Way Forward

By Abdul Aliyu

Despite the fact that insecurity in some parts of the country has impacted negatively on educational development, particularly on schools, pupils, students, teachers and lecturers alike, relatively little academic research and analysis has focused on this distressing phenomenon with a view to espousing far reaching panacea by the legislative, executive or even judicial organs of state geared towards protecting and advancing the interests of stakeholders in the sector.

However, in a highly regarded and widely applauded conference paper titled: ‘Insecurity and the Future of Teacher Education, The Role of the Legislature’, delivered at the combined convocation and fellowship award ceremony of College of Education, Akwanga, Nasarawa State, the erudite Clerk to the National Assembly, Alhaji Salisu Maikasuwa, courageously tackled the contentious issues head on while sagaciously proffering recommendations that would ameliorate the plight of the beleaguered students and teachers alike thus guaranteeing the

continued optimal development of the educational sector as a whole.

The thoroughly researched treatise widely regarded as a magnus opus by those in the know in the educational sector, delves into critical issues like the evolution and development of teacher education in Nigeria, security and the state of insecurity in Nigeria, the legislature, insecurity and the future of teacher education in Nigeria while also recommending revolutionary policy changes that provide more practical framework for engendering better security and guaranteeing better future for teacher education in Nigeria.

Interestingly, Alhaji Salisu Maikasuwa’s pre-convocation lecture, which was interspersed with resounding rounds of applause by the visibly elated audience of lecturers, students, graduands, their family friends and visitors alike, observed that despite the growing engagement with related issues of insecurity in the country, very little, mostly newspaper articles, have attempted a detailed analysis and engagement with the possible impact of the growing insecurity on education in general, and teacher education in particular. This neglect

is counter-productive and likely to reduce the number of pupils willing to join the teaching profession.

In tracing the evolution and development of teacher education in Nigeria, an insightful Maikasuwa delineated some crucial periods from 1842 to 1860 when western education was introduced by the Christian missionary groups like the Wesleyan Methodists, the Baptist Church, the Church Missionary Society (CMS) and the Roman Catholic Church mainly in the southern and some northern parts of the country. But with the existence of over 25,000 Quaranic schools in many parts of northern Nigeria, the arrival of western education met stiff opposition there. However, from 1882 to the 1970’s, government intervention came in the way of promulgating codes, regulations, guidelines and policies on the organization and management of those schools like the first teacher training institution known as The Training Institution established by CMS (1859) followed by the Wesleyan College, Ibadan (1905), and the first teacher training institute in northern Nigeria was established in the present Nasarawa State in 1909. Despite the

existence of these and other teacher training institutes, the growth and development of teacher education was slow and by 1970, there were just 15,967 Grade 2 teachers out of a total staff strength of 94,176.5 teachers.

The Maikasuwa paper further reveals that in order to increase the number of qualified teachers nationwide, the federal government established 13 advanced and 3 grade one teachers training colleges between 1977 to 1987 to the already existing six advanced teachers colleges established in 1962.

Consequently, the number of trained teachers jumped exponentially throughout the country but teacher education is definitely witnessing a grave threat posed by the ongoing insurgency in the northeast with Amnesty International noting that in 2012 alone, as many as 70 school teachers and as many as 120 students were killed by the third quarter of the year. It further noted that insurgency in the northeast has become more brutal because teachers are specifically targeted and killed.

Aliyu sent this piece from Maitama, Abuja

In 2012 alone, as many as 70 school teachers and as many as 120 students were killed by the third quarter of the year

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Sunday, August 31, 2014

Zainab Jaji Zee’s Corner zeescorner@gmail.com,Twitter. @addazee

Leadership And The Art of Flip Flopping

‘Nigerian politics has no room for principles, ideologies or values, only powerful people’ Hakeem Baba Ahmed

According to the online dictionary Wikipedia, the term “flip-flop” is a sudden or apparent change of policy or opinion by a public official, sometimes while trying to claim that both positions are consistent with each other. Often, it will occur during the period prior to or following an election in order to maximise the candidate’s popularity.

I can, confidently, say that this is descriptive of our current situation politically.

We can see that in Nigeria, the old Chinese adage of living in interesting times, certainly, applies. We are trying to understand and define the type of leaders and politicians that lead us. We spend so much time playing to the gallery on issues of transparency, best practices and so on such that when it comes to crunch time, it appears we lose all sense of decency. It is interesting that we have a government office on

ethics and values yet our politicians hardly practice this. We are a society that picks and chooses which values to apply to certain situations especially the one which favours the individual. To comprehend the happenings of our political climate, one must understand the psyche of the average Nigerian.

It is difficult to sit with more than two Nigerians anywhere in the world and not discuss issues of leadership and our ubiquitous national challenges. Our moral compass is never on the straight and narrow when it comes to politick. As a people, we end up with leaders who are more than happy to circumvent a system to suit their personal wishes.

As citizens, it is imperative to always question what we are willing to accept from our leaders. Do we want leaders who cannot stick to anything when the going gets tough or even defend previously held positions? If we cannot trust them to remain consistent in their beliefs, how then do we trust them to stand up and protect us, rather than putting personal interests first?

It is time for our leaders to really reconsider the values, morals and ethics they ascribe to in the interest of the growth of Nigeria rather than jump ship at any given opportunity.

We do not want leaders who cannot stand for anything.

There is no doubt that our national politics is an all-comers affair, and it is simply because our ideological differences have no clearly defined lines. The politicians, themselves only know that they want to get into office for their own interests and not because of any altruistic reason of serving the people. We, the voting public, end up been persuaded to vote a certain way through inducement with rice, kerosene and washing soaps. This further adds to the futility of the situation.

Once the citizenry decide to accept flip flopping politicians, then it becomes a norm. Whether we accept it or not, it will not matter much as they would have bamboozled their ways into our psyche and before we know it, they are leading us. So, whatever position they advocate would end

up being of no consequences to us.

It is time to seek out leaders who remained consistent in their beliefs and practices. Leaders that can have our trust and confidence and communicate effectively with us as citizens. The message they get across to us should be one that we embrace and can choose to identify with regardless of the political affiliation.

Yes, it is possible to change a position based on circumstances but if one consistently cannot decide what they stand for, then they are not fit to be our leaders.

Our politicians cannot always be embraced when they come and go based on their whims of using the populace as the excuse for cross carpeting. We can excuse and forgive one change, but two or three changes are simply unforgivable. It is time for our leaders to honestly stand for something and practice what they preach. We will respect them more if they defend their positions with vigour rather than going where they believe all the good things are.

Hamza Atta Isn't It Funny? hamzolo@yahoo.co.uk 08181091784

Doctors’ Demands

Isn’t it distressing that Nigerians seek medical attention in such odd places as Ghana, Egypt, the UAE and India, because our system cannot take care of itself?

Whatever sigh of relief we heave at the news of the suspension of the strike embarked upon by the Nigeria Medical Association (MNA) is bound to be ephemeral. It is heart-warming that our doctors in the public health sector have, out of the Ebola emergency, decided to put a human face to their agitation.

They have reasoned, but should we celebrate? This is an association whose members render essential services impossible to quantify; they are life savers whose plights should not be ignored.

But here we are in a country where government’s response to doctors’ grievances is mass sack. Between been a bad joke and an uninformed propaganda, the federal government announced the sack of these same doctors. 16,000+ medical doctors in the public sector, already grossly inadequate for a population of over 170 million people, were pronounced sacked in a democracy? It had to be a joke. And throughout the duration of the strike, government maintained a hard-line position. The general public was misinformed in a bid to portray the striking doctors as selfish, arrogant and implacable.

Their demands were treated as if they were all about better wages and entitlements.

I took time to study the 24-point demands of the NMA and what I

found could be classified into two groups. The first group of demands falls in the category of outstanding agreements officially reached by the government with the doctors during previous negotiations. As usual, those agreements are yet to be honoured. It is not so difficult to find instances where government enters into an agreement with a trade union and, adamantly refuses to redeem its pledge; it is the same with ASUU, ASUP, NUT, NLC, etc.

The other category of demands made by the NMA concerns rational technical issues the government should be ashamed of refusing in the first place. For instance, the association demands the Office of the Surgeon-General, a professional among its members who should be saddled with the responsibility of medical bureaucracy. It wants the chairmen, medical advisory committees in teaching hospitals and federal medical centres to be assisted by deputies. They demand the establishment of a health trust to upgrade public hospitals. The doctors want the position of chief medical directors/medical directors to be occupied by a medical doctor as against using it to return political favours. Most importantly, they demand that government expedites the passage of the National Health Bill (NHB) and extend Universal

Health Coverage to 100 percent from its current 30 percent. How on earth are these self-centred claims?

We shouldn’t forget that our public hospitals are poorly stocked. There are cases where patients are made to pay for gloves and syringes. I have personally, witnessed where a patient had to pay for the sanitary materials used during the evacuation of her miscarried foetus. Aren’t these basics supposed to be available in every hospital? Why should any well-meaning government shirk the implementation of minimum standards in its health sector?

We forget that resident doctors are also human beings who have families and responsibilities. If we don’t take care of them, then we should stop bemoaning brain drain because it is going to continue on an unprecedented scale.

No doctor wants to work in public hospitals where there are no facilities.

They either set up their own private centres or move in their droves to countries where things are done right. A substantial percentage of members of the Association of Black Doctors in America are Nigerians.

By implication, brain drain is one of the challenges faced by our health sector, occasioned by collapsed infrastructure, poor remuneration and a deficient healthcare master plan. All the doctors are asking is for

government to tackle the problems in the sector that have made Nigeria a medical scavenger.

Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa said, at an interactive session with officials of the Nigerian High Commission in India, in 2011, that she was stunned by the revelation that Indian middlemen collaborate with fraudulent Nigerians to extort innocent Nigerians in search of medical treatments in India.

Victims pay as much as three times the actual medical costs, no thanks to the scandalous opportunity. A breakdown in our health sector has presented callous syndicates. Does this worry our leaders?

Isn’t it distressing that Nigerians seek medical attention in such odd places as Ghana, Egypt, the UAE and India, because our system cannot take care of itself? Those who cannot afford such “luxury” are faced with the choice of exorbitant private hospitals abroad and their near-inefficient public counterparts at home. Yet, it is the constitutional rights of every Nigerian to be catered for by the government, or what do we think is meant in Section 14 (2b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) by “...the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government”?

Our politicians cannot always be embraced when they come and go based on their whims of using the populace as the excuse for cross carpeting

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foreign Sunday, August 31, 2014

news

Golian Heights

➎

➋ ➌

➍

➊

➊ Rescuers Free 22 Trapped

Miners In Nicaragua

BONANZA, Nicaragua - Nicaraguan rescuers have saved 22 of at least 26 workers trapped in a mine collapse and are working to free the rest.

First Lady Rosario Murillo said 20 of the miners were freed late on Friday, in addition to two who made their way to safety shortly after a Thursday morning collapse cut off the exit at the El Comal gold and silver mine in the town of Bonanza, leaving them cut off in a mine shaft.

Rescued miner Marvin Urbina, 34, said he and some of his fellow miners saw an avalanche of mud and rock coming their way. They stuck to the walls of the mine but at least four of their co-workers were crushed by the mud and rock streaming down the shaft, he said.

“I asked God to let me live and he listened to me and now I will serve

Him,” emotional Mr Urbina said.

Interior vice minister Carlos Najar said the miners were a bit dehydrated but in good health.

The miners were checked by paramedics and taken to a clinic in Bonanza, about 260 miles north-east of Managua.

Hundreds of relatives and fellow miners had gathered to pray outside the mine as rescuers lined up several ladders along a 200-foot long tunnel leading towards where the men were trapped. The mine cuts into the side of a mountain and then goes upwards.

The gold and silver mine is on a concession held by Hemco, which is owned by Colombia-based Minero SA. But the trapped miners themselves are freelancers allowed to work in the area if they sell any gold they find to the firm.

➋ EU Ministers Want Russia

Sanctions

MILAN, Italy – European Union (EU) foreign ministers yesterday accused Russia of invading eastern Ukraine and said Moscow should be punished with more sanctions.

The meeting of the 28-nation bloc’s top diplomats in Milan, Italy, came one day after NATO said Moscow has slipped at least 1,000 Russian soldiers and much heavy weaponry into Ukraine.

“We have to be aware of what we are facing: We are now in the midst of the second Russian invasion of Ukraine within a year,” said Swedish foreign minister Carl Bildt, referring to Russia’s annexation of Ukraine’s Crimean Peninsula in April.

“We see regular Russian army units operating offensively on the

Ukrainian territory against the Ukrainian army,” Mr Bildt said. “We must call a spade a spade.”

Russia has rejected accusations that it has invaded Ukraine.

The foreign ministers were set to propose new sanctions against Russia for consideration at a summit of the bloc’s 28 heads of state in Brussels today.

All options except military action will be considered to punish Russia for pursuing “the wrong path,” said Luxembourg’s foreign minister Jean Asselborn.

“The European Union should be ready to move forward with possible new measures against Russia because the situation is still getting worse,” said Estonian foreign minister Urmas Paet.

➌

Clashes In The Golan Heights

GOLAN HEIGHTS, Israel – Clashes have erupted between al Qaedalinked Syrian rebels and UN peacekeepers in the Golan Heights after the militants surrounded their encampment, activists and officials said, as the international organisation risked being sucked further into the conflict.

Other UN peacekeepers were able to flee from a different encampment that was also surrounded by rebels of the Nusra Front, al Qaeda’s Syrian affiliate, they said.

The clashes came after Syrian rebel groups, including the Nusra Front, overran the Quneitra crossing - located on the frontier between Syrian and Israeli controlled parts of the Golan Heights - mid-week, seizing 44 Fijian peacekeepers.

The Nusra Front also surrounded the nearby Rwihana and Breiqa encampments, where other UN peacekeepers were holed up.

The gunbattle began early yesterday at the Rwihana base some 2.3km (1.5 miles) from Quneitra, where 40 Filipino peacekeepers were surrounded by Nusra fighters who were ordering them to surrender, said Rami Abdurrahman of the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The Philippines’ defence secretary Voltaire Gazmin gave a similar account but did not name the armed group.

Mr Abdurrahman, whose information comes from a network of activists throughout Syria, said he was not aware of any fatalities among the 40 Filipino peacekeepers in the

Rwihana encampment as sporadic fighting continued throughout the day.

A Philippine military spokesman, Lt-Col Ramon Zagala, also said there were no casualties.

The 35 Filipino UN peacekeepers at the Breiqa encampment were extracted Saturday morning, with the assistance of Irish peacekeepers who rushed to the scene, said officials.

The Irish UN peacekeeper battalion, which is tasked with emergency responses, evacuated all the Filipino UN peacekeepers this morning, said a military official.

He said there was no shooting involved, and no injuries. He said that the Irish battalion also evacuated another base on Friday but provided no further details.

➍ Hong Kong’s Our Affair, Warns China BEIJING, China – China has sounded a warning against foreign meddling in Hong Kong’s politics, ahead of an expected move to vet candidates for the former British colony’s first direct leadership election.

An article in the ruling Communist Party’s flagship newspaper People’s Daily said that some in the financial hub were colluding with outside forces to interfere in Hong Kong’s governance.

“Not only are they undermining Hong Kong’s stability and development, but they’re also attempting to turn Hong Kong into a bridgehead for subverting and infiltrating the Chinese mainland,” the article said.

“This can absolutely not be per-

mitted,” it added, citing an unidentified official in the Foreign Ministry’s department for Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan affairs.

The article said that as a special administrative region of China, Hong Kong’s affairs were entirely a Chinese internal matter.

China would refute and make “solemn representations” in response to statements and actions by foreign forces and demand that they “cease meddling in Hong Kong’s affairs and Chinese internal political matters by any means”, it said.

The article did not identify any individuals or groups, but Britain and the US have been vocal about their hopes for genuine democratic reform in Hong Kong.

The warning appeared as Chi-

na’s legislature is expected to announce that an elite pro-Beijing body must approve candidates for the territory’s leader starting from 2017 - setting up a showdown with pro-democracy groups who want the public to be able to nominate people freely.

Hong Kong newspapers have reported that the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress in Beijing will recommend that voters choose from up to three candidates named by a similar nominating body while the public gets no say.

That would resemble the current system under which a 1,200-member panel stacked with mostly pro-Beijing elites gets to pick the leader.

➎ Cargo Plane Crashes In Algeria TAMANRASSET, Algeria – A Ukrainian civilian cargo plane has crashed in the mountains near the far southern Algerian desert city of Tamanrasset in the early hours of Saturday morning, reported the state news agency.

The Antonov An-12 carrying seven crew members was on its way to Equatorial Guinea when it went

down at about 2:40 am local time, around 15km (nine miles) south of the airport after making a technical stop there, the report said.

Local authorities added that the burned bodies of three crew members had been along with debris from the aircraft. The search for the rest of the crew is continuing.

The An-12 is a four-engine tur-

boprop aircraft introduced in the 1950s.

Earlier this month, an Air Algeria flight from Burkina Faso to Algiers crashed in Mali, likely due to bad weather, while down in the mountains. In February a military plane flying from Tamanrasset en route to Constantine also went down in the mountains.

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Sunday, August 31, 2014

sports

news

Danagogo Dares FIFA To Come To Nigeria

By Salifu Usman, Abuja

Following threat by the world soccer governing body, FIFA to sanction Nigeria should the new executive committee of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) led

by Chris Giwa fail to vacate office by midnight Monday, Sports Minister and Chairman National Sports Commission (NSC), Tammy Danagogo has challenged the world body to come to Nigeria and see things for themselves.

He said the football governing body will be in a better position

to amicably resolve the turmoil in NFF if they come down to Nigeria rather than acting on falsehood.

“We expected FIFA to send their people to Nigeria so that we can all see, sit down and resolve this issue. Prior to the election, I met with both parties and we all agreed on what to do.

“My expectation is that FIFA will send their people, let both parties come and I will be there for us to discuss on way out,” he said.

According to him, FIFA’s laws

and statutes have not been violated and the National Sports Commission has never interfered in the affairs of football in the country stating that the extra ordinary congress was held in the best interest of Nigerian football.

“It was the General Assembly of NFF that decided that elective congress would take place on August 26, 2014. The General Assembly is the highest decisionmaking body and had resolved at their meeting in Warri that elections would take place on August 26, 2014,” the minister said.

NFF Faction Urges NASS To Call Sports Minister To Order

By Salifu Usman, Abuja

Lagos State FA chairman and member of Aminu Maigari-led NFF faction, Seyi Akinwumi has appealed to the National Assembly to call the Minister of Sports and chairman National Sports Commission (NSC), Dr Tammy Danagogo to order before he mortgage Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and future of Nigerian youths. He made the appealed while speaking on behalf of the break-away faction during the House of Representatives committee on sports emergency meeting with the NFF stakeholders.

He said the minister’s endorsement of the shambolic election that produced Christopher Giwa as NFF president is a clear indication of his desire to ruin the future of football in the country.

According to him, the election process flouted the requirement of the law, describing it as an aberration of the NFF/FIFA statutes about election of officers into the executive board of a federation.

He said the agenda of the congress was to have a new road map for the election and not conduct

election that day. “The agenda set for the meeting was very clear. The agenda was for us to have a road map for election. Because we anticipated, but knowing that the kangaroo action will be that bad that they will try to have election. We have tried the same way we did before that motion to alter the agenda of elective congress of Nigeria Football Federation on August 26, 2014, in line with our statutes as passed by the General Assembly in article 21:1 and 23:E of the statutes. That the Nigeria Football Federation elective congress that was set in Warri will now be replaced with road map for election and so on. We have 37 members signing it out of 44.

“The election was a breach of the statutes. In any elective congress, WAFU, CAF and FIFA must be present as observers, but they were not there and that shows that there was no motion for election at the congress,” he stated.

He said some of the aspirants, who were elected in the purported election have come out to denounce the election, but wondered why the Hon. Minister of Sports would want to recognise the outcome of the shambolic

election.

“More worrisome was that when they announced the result, Enyimba chairman, Felix Anyansi who was one of those elected denied participating in the election.

Two other persons, Otunba Sunday and Kano FA chairman have said the same thing. Why is the Hon. Minister trying to associate with outcome of election that has been condemned totally?

“The fact that election was not an agenda of the meeting clearly show that it was a breach of the statutes. The Hon Minister saw that the seats were empty, but yet declared the congress open.

I am calling on this honourable House to call him to order before he mortgages our football and the future of Nigerian youths because millions of Nigerian youths depend on this sport for survival,” he said.

There has been confusion in Nigeria’s football governing body after the congress held (in controversial circumstances) in Chida Hotel, Abuja. The congress elected Giwa, the proprietor of Giwa FC of Jos, as the new President of the NFF. The election was boycotted by some NFF board members and a majority of the state football association chairmen.

Danagogo

EPL: Stoke Stun City, United Frustrated Champions Manchester City suffered a stunning 1-0 home defeat to Stoke City yesterday as their cast of attacking talents were blunted in a lifeless display that cost them their first dropped points of the season.

Mame Biram Diouf scored a superb individual goal to silence the City fans who have become used to seeing one-sided romps at their Etihad stadium, especially against the Premier League’s lesser lights.

It was an equally misStoke City manager, Mark Hughes celebrates his team victory erable day for City’s riover Manchester City, with Manuel Pellegrini (R), manager of vals Manchester United Manchester City looking dejected

whose frustrations continued in a 0-0 draw at promoted Burnley with British-record signing Angel Di Maria unable to spark an improvement in their fortunes.

Di Maria, signed from Real Madrid for £59.7 million on Tuesday, showed flashes of his talent in a 70-minute debut, but United still looked short of attacking ideas, claiming only their second point from their opening three league games.

Swansea City’s excellent start to the season continued as they swept aside

West Bromwich Albion 3-0 to move top of the fledgling table with a maximum nine points from their opening three games as Southampton came from behind to beat West Ham United 3-1.

Crystal Palace, playing their first game under new manager Neil Warnock, scored through onloan Wilfried Zaha in the fifth minute of stoppage time to grab a 3-3 draw at Newcastle United Queens Park Rangers beat Sunderland 1-0 for their first win since gaining promotion.

Premier League results Yesterday’s Matches Burnley 0 - 0 Man United Man City 0 - 1 Stoke City Newcastle 3 - 3 Crystal Palace Q P R 1-0 Sunderland Swansea City 3 - 0 West Brom West Ham 1-3 Southampton Everton 3 - 6 Chelsea Today’s Matches Aston Villa Vs Hull City Tottenham Hotspur Vs Liverpool

Leicester City Vs Arsenal

sports 71

Sunday, August 31, 2014

AFCON Disqualification: CAF Rejects Rwanda’s Appeal The Confederation of African

Football (CAF) has turned down Rwanda’s appeal against their disqualification from the Africa Cup of Nations group stage qualifiers that would commence on September 5.

Rwanda had appealed CAF’s decision to throw the Amavubi out

of the continental showpiece after fielding an ineligible player who had double identity and two different passports with different birth dates.

Dady Birori as he is known in Rwanda also features for AS Vita club in the Democratic Republic of Congo where he is called Tady

Agiti Etekiama.

Birori who was born in Kinshasa on December 12, 1986 received his Rwandan nationality in 2009 but also got a Congolese passport last year that indicates that he was born on December 13, 1990.

Based on this information, the Congolese Football Federation

West Ham Grabs Song On Loan West Ham have announced the signing of Barcelona midfielder Alex Song on a seasonlong loan.

The 26-year-old Cameroon international struggled to hold down a regular place at the Nou Camp following a move from Arsenal in 2012 and returns to the Barclays Premier League with the Hammers - who paraded their new addition to fans ahead of the clash with Southampton.

Clubs throughout Europe were put on alert when it emerged Song would be allowed to leave Barcelona with West Ham having won the race to take him to Upton Park on a temporary basis despite reported interest from the likes of Napoli and Gala-

tasaray.

Song revealed it was a conversation with Hammers boss Sam Allardyce that led to his decision to move to east London and he is targeting European qualification.

“When I spoke to the manager, he gave me very good advice,” he told whufc.com.

“It was a very hard decision when you have options of a lot of clubs who are playing in the Champions League, but at the end of the day I chose West Ham because I wanted to come to the Premier League.”

Song, who won one Primera Division title during his spell in Spain, is likely to be West Ham’s final summer signing taking the total of new recruits to eight.

Song

BananaRepublic RESTAURANT

(Fecofoot) filed a complaint with CAF after Congo Brazzaville’s 2-0 win in Pointe Noir in July, a game that Birori took part in.

Birori did not play in the return leg in Kigali as the Amavubi cruised to a shocking 2-0 triumph to tie the aggregate at 2-2 forcing a penalty shootout that the hosts

won 4-3.

Rwanda then booked a place in Group A with Nigeria, South Africa and Sudan. However, following CAF’s decision a fortnight ago Rwanda has been replaced with Congo Brazzaville that takes on Nigeria in the first qualifying game on September 6 in Calabar.

US Open: Sharapova Battles Past Lisicki Maria Sharapova overcame Sabine Lisicki to set up a tasty fourthround clash with Caroline Wozniacki at the US Open.

There was nothing pretty or straightforward about Sharapova’s 6-2 6-4 victory, which took an hour and 41 minutes, but she was the tougher in the end under the lights on the Arthur Ashe Stadium court.

Lisicki had only won one of six previous meetings against Sharapova, at Wimbledon in 2012, but her big game means she is always a danger. Last month the German hit a serve measured at 131mph, a world record for a woman.

Her radar was off in her first service game, though, with two double faults proving very costly as

Sharapova ground her way into a 3-0 lead.

The Russian was coming under pressure in every service game but resisted impressively, and another Lisicki double fault eventually handed her the set. Lisicki is known for her attacking style but she showed tremendous powers of defence to move 3-1 ahead in the second set.

Sharapova

AMUSEMENT PARK

winston had devoted the best years of his life to preparing his impromptu speeches — F. E. Smith on Winston Churchill

FOR GOD AND COUNTRY

31.08.14 No. 447 N300

Aniebo Nwamu

The Sunday Column

W

If a free society cannot help the many who are poor, it cannot save the few who are rich

aniebo@leadership.ng

hat is responsible for the current cash squeeze in the country? Everywhere you go and wherever you turn, everyone is moaning. Not just the poor and the impoverished. Even the legislators who get paid N15-20m per month for spending weeks on vacation or shouting “aye” and “nay” once a week are scratching their soup-pots in search of lumps of meat.

Money is not circulating because the amount shared by the three tiers of government has reduced significantly. The anti-terror war is taking a very large chunk; oil thieves are enjoying the best of times; and government agencies are conserving money with which to fight the 2015 elections. Treasury thieves are everywhere trying to get money for politics. Karl Marx said that economics determines politics. In Nigeria, it’s the other way: politics determines economics. Nigerian politics has become toxic and so has the Nigerian economy. Do I need to explain?

You need to converse with heads of government agencies to understand how Nigeria is plundered. To get the allocation meant for an agency, the head or heads have to bribe both lawmakers on “oversight functions” and civil servants in the relevant offices. It is one reason the agencies are currently overstaffed: senators, honourable members, directors and perm secs are constantly sending lists of people that must be employed.

And how does one get appointed to offices in government agencies? The primary condition is for them to “deliver” hundreds of millions of naira to their godfathers when the politics race begins. Competence is never considered; the ability to steal undetected is what matters. Former and future thugs have worked as commissioners in many states. Knowing that government business is “lucrative”, politicians fight hard to get into the business.

The red flag here is opposition politics – only those in the ruling party need apply.

Reading the treatise delivered re-

Toxic Politics In Our Future

cently by Chief Tom Ikimi to explain why he was leaving the APC [to the PDP, of course], you would understand the character of the average Nigerian politician. He was the national chairman of the NRC in the stillborn Third Republic; so it’s his birth-right to become the national chairman of the APC. And when he could not get it, the only option is to quit the party and return to the PDP he had derided in the past. I have learned, also, that oil blocks are being dispensed to political heavyweights who are expected to ditch their parties at the eleventh hour.

Political conditions determine the basis of existence or economic conditions.

In a way, therefore, the 2015 elections have been concluded already.

What is left is to fool the masses into believing that their votes matter. And I ask the leaders of Nigeria: why do you take us through this mire every four years? The hundreds of billions that will soon be shifted to INEC for conduct of the elections can put this country in a positive trajectory. Besides, the men and women that the “elections” will produce are not going to be productive. Why do we have this obsession with waste?

All fingers now point at politicians as the originators of “Boko Haram” that has killed almost 20, 000 people and driven millions from their homes to makeshift camps on mountains and in dangerous forests. Have we forgotten those 219 girls? And several other women hijacked by the dirty dogs and dehumanised in evil forests? The politicians who opened the nation’s doors to terrorists have not been touched by the “insurgents” because they still have stolen funds for sponsoring them. Consequently, the children and spouses of the poor keep getting kidnapped, killed or sacked from their homes.

But nobody should hope to escape from this toxic politics. Sooner than later, all of the government’s revenues may be directed to the Boko Haram war. “To keep Nigeria one is a task that must be accomplished.” It was said that Nigeria did not borrow to prosecute the war against Biafra.

It must now borrow to fight this second civil war; the $1billion request-

ed by the president last month is just a tiny drop in the ocean of what is needed to prosecute a war. And, whether the war is lost or won, the economy won’t fail to respond.

It is already responding through the reduced allocations. Since almost every economic activity in Nigeria revolves around government, everybody now feels the pinch. It is the reason jobs have disappeared and several private firms cannot increase workers’ salaries. Contractors cannot be paid and traders cannot sell. It is the same reason the schools cannot function effectively: teachers are not willing to teach and pupils are not ready to learn, because everyone worries over how to make ends meet.

The ultimate nightmare is not far ahead. As John Kennedy said, “If a free society cannot help the many who are poor, it cannot save the few who are rich.” War kills the rich as well as the poor. And, under such state of emergency, everyone can afford to be lawless. Seeking refuge in better managed countries won’t help our thieving leaders.

I have not hidden my dislike for the course Nigerian politics is taking. Almost everyone seems to be lamenting the deeds of politicians in this Fourth Republic, yet few are recommending a radical departure from the past. If I were President Jonathan, I would not have run for president even in 2011. But now he has a right to seek re-election in 2015, because none of the people asking him to step down would have done so if they were in his shoes.

Those who midwifed the Fourth Republic got it all wrong at conception by transporting Obasanjo from jail to the presidency. At the Jos convention of the PDP, our “democrats” preferred Obasanjo to Dr Alex Ekwueme. But they later got what they deserved! Obasanjo seized the party, diminished the APP and was set to make Nigeria a one-party state. When his third term gambit failed, he forced a sick Yar’Adua on the nation; and, with Yar’Adua’s death, he abandoned the rotation agreement of his party. Obasanjo brought us to where we are today: no peace, no love, no unity – no “unity and faith, peace and progress”. This

0805 410 0220 (sms only)

same Obasanjo, who as head of state told us when he visited our school in 1978 that we were the leaders of tomorrow, is still pacing up and down the corridors of power and trying to direct the politics of 2015.

So, in suggesting what we should do, I am not writing anybody’s script: Because of the polluted political atmosphere and the inevitable economic collapse, President Jonathan should be helped to take bold decisions. The report of the National Conference should be implemented between now and September 30, 2015, so that a new dispensation that would exclude all the current officeholders could take off on October 1. To legitimise the four-month tenure extension, May 29 to September 30, 2015, should be a period of emergency during which we would reform our politics. After then, there would no longer be a bicameral legislature and idle officeholders guzzling a third of our resources. The 36-state structure would give way, as would the 774 local governments. Thus, the cost of governance would be cut drastically. There would be funds for solving the power problem and supporting productive ventures. There would be peace when people are put back to work.

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GHANA MUST GO Nigeria’s power sector is behind schedule — ­ Togunde

Only stealing is not behind schedule!

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