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IMF cautions against borrowing for consumption Ayodele Aminu

Washington D.C.

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ountries in the West African region including Nigeria should use the funds borrowed from external sources on projects that

will enable them recover the cost and pay back the debts, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has advised.

The IMF Deputy Director Fiscal Affairs Department, Mr. Sanjeev Gupta, made this call while re-

sponding to a question posed by a reporter from Africa at the on-going World Bank/International Monetary Fund (IMF) meetings in Washington D.C. He said: “What we have noticed in many countries

is that increase in borrowing has not necessarily been accompanied by higher spending on infrastructure on the capital side, but has been accompanied by increase in spending on the recurrent side. So, that has an impact on the abil-

ity to pay this debt.

“That is one of the aspects of borrowing from abroad. Essentially one of the points, which the fiscal monitor makes is that there is a need to improve the fiscal governance relatCONTINUED ON PAGE 5

Jonathan

2015: Not yet a deal lPresidency, Igbo leaders fail to reach agreement lJonathan’ll sail smoothly, says Akpabio }5

L-R: Director-General, Budget Office, Dr. Bright Okogu; Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo–Iweala; President, World Bank, Mr. Jim Yong Kim and Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele, at a private meeting with Nigerian delegates to the 2014 annual meetings of the World Bank/IMF in Washington DC…on Wednesday.

B’Haram: US denies undermining Nigeria’s efforts lFG repatriates 82 Chadians, others over terrorism Emmanuel Onani ABUJA

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he United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. James

Entwistle, has debunked reports that America was not doing enough in helping Nigeria to contain terrorism in the country.

The Chief of Defence

Staff (CDS), Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh, had on Wednesday berated the West for not helping Nigeria in her ongoing counter-insurgency war

in the North-East.

But Entwistle debunked the notion yesterday at a news conference in Yola, the Adamawa State capital.

He said Washington was heavily involved in supporting Abuja’s response to Boko Haram menace.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

Quick Read Editorial NFF: Agenda for Pinnick }19 Thugs attack Rivers PDP politicians

}8

Police arrest Edo Speaker, Majority Leader }9

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2015: Presidency, Igbo leaders fail to reach deal Felix Nwaneri and Anule Emmanuel

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meeting of Igbo leaders and representatives of the

Presidency to get Ndigbo to support the re-election of President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2015 elections has ended in a stalemate.

However, an agreement was reached by both parties to constitute a committee with members to be drawn from all Igbo groups in Lagos. The committee

to be headed by the immediate past governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, will resolve whether Ndigbo in Lagos State will support the president’s

ambition or not.

The meeting, which was held at Dover Hotel, Lekki on Tuesday night, was conveyed by President Jonathan, who was repre-

President Goodluck Jonathan (third left); Anambra State Governor, Willie Obiano (second left) and Sports Minister, Dr. Tamuno Danagogo (left) with some members of the powerlifting team at a reception for Nigerian athletes in Abuja...on Wednesday

IMF reviews guidelines for issuance of Sovereign bonds CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

ed to external borrowing in a number of countries, which means there should be allocation of resources, there should be efficient use of resources that are borrowed, so that the countries are able to grow, which is the purpose of that borrowing and repay those funds.”

Recently, Nigeria, which has been borrowing from the international capital market, floated a $1 billion Eurobond and has borrowed another $1 billion to tackle Boko Haram. The insurgents have killed more than 5,000 civilians between July 2009 and June 2014, including at least 2,000 in the first half of 2014, in attacks occurring mainly in the North-Eastern states of Nigeria.

Although Nigeria’s public and external debt ratios are stable and low compared with peers on a net and gross basis, experts say there is a need for the government to sincerely use these borrowed funds for developmental projects and not for consumption as witnessed during the 1979 civilian administration that saw the country’s debt hitting $36 billion.

The resultant debt portfolio had left the

country with two tragedies. On one hand, most of the projects, which the loans were allegedly secured for were not completed; some were not even started at all, thus depriving the citizens of the expected utilities. On the other hand, the loan drive left the country with a huge debt profile with interests that made the country to spend huge amounts of money servicing for years. Ever since the debt relief deal, major financial institutions, such as the World Bank and the IMF, have raised the alarms that African countries, whose debts were recently cancelled, have resorted to a fresh borrowing binge.

That warning is being directed at Africa is not a sign of discrimination. Of the 38 World Bank-designated highly indebted countries, 32 are in Africa.

As at end of June this year, Nigeria’s external debt profile was $9.3 billion, while total local debt stood at N10.4 trillion.

When both the foreign and local debt figures are combined, the country’s debt to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio is 12.51 per cent. This is still sustainable as the debt to GDP ratio is still be-

low the global allowable threshold of 26 per cent.

But the Federal Government’s budgets have been entirely skewed to recurrent expenditure, which was 75 per cent last year, leaving just 25 per cent for capital taking.

The recent borrowing by the Federal Government has also given access to Nigerian lenders to raise funds from the international market.

Nigerian banks’ dollar-denominated debts, which have risen at fastest pace this year, have heightened concerns about imminent currency risk in the system.

Five banks – Zenith Bank, Access Bank, Diamond Bank, First Bank and Ecobank Nigeria – have so far raised a total of $1.75 billion from the international debt market this year.

Also, four Nigerian banks had earlier taken advantage of the opportunity in the market by issuing Eurobonds valued at a total of $1.45 billion between January 2011 and July 2013. The lenders were First Bank, which issued $300 million Eurobond in July 2013, Fidelity Bank Plc’s $300 million Eurobond sold in May 2013, Access Bank Plc’s $350 million

Eurobond issued in July 2012 and Guaranty Trust Bank’s $500 million Eurobond which was issued in May 2011.

According to FBN Capital, the investment-banking unit of FBN Holdings Plc, Nigerian banks may raise as much as $2.5 billion this year compared with the $2 billion raised in 2013.

Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) yesterday said it would continue to review guidelines for the issuance of Sovereign Bonds by its member countries to ensure that proceeds of the project are effectively deployed on projects that will benefit the citizens of the countries issuing such instruments.

Speaking at press session at the ongoing annual conference of the IMF and the World Bank Group in Washington D.C., Managing Director of the Fund, Christine Lagarde said the reviews are aimed at ensuring that benefits of sovereign bond issues are enjoyed by more of the economically disadvantaged population in any given country.

She regretted that the impact of growth in most developing nations have so far eluded most of the people they were origi-

nally intended to benefit hence the need for a comprehensive review of the conditions to boost investment in activities that can generate growth.

She stated that the fund would want investment in infrastructure under the right conditions to boost economic growth and job creation.

Lagarde admitted that recent bond issues by several African countries were successful but added that future bond issues must be done in ways that are right so that more of their citizens would benefit from such programmes.

The IMF boss said it was already working on how civil authorities in each country can effectively use public funds to serve greater interest of the people particularly through the provision of infrastructure that affect their lives.

It would be recalled that Nigeria had last year issued $1billion Euro Bond that was fully subscribed by the global investment community.

On the World Economic Outlook, the IMF boss said it has trimmed its forecast for 2014 and 2015, 3.3 per cent in 2014, 3.8 per cent on more country specific analysis.

sented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator Anyim Pius Anyim. It was supposed to start by 6p.m., but did not until 8p.m. due to the late arrival of the Anyim-led delegation. The delay forced the parley to last till the wee hours of Wednesday.

Anyim and his group had stormed Lagos from Onitsha, Anambra State, en route Enugu after convincing Obi to dump the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) for the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Among those who accompanied Anyim to the meeting were Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu; Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha; Senator Hope Uzodinma; Minister of Labour and Productivity, Emeka Wogu; National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Olisa Metuh, businessman and Labour Party governorship candidate in the 2013 Anambra governorship election, Ifeanyi Ubah and ex-Governor Obi, among others.

On the side of the Igbo leaders were the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Gary EnwoIgariwey; president of Ndigbo Lagos, Prof. Anya O. Anya; president of Aka Ikenga, Chief Goddy Uwazurike; former chairman of Diamond Bank, Paschal Dozie; former military administrator of Lagos, Admiral Ndubisi Kanu (rtd); former president, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Dr. Raymond Obieri; Eze Ndigbo of Ikeja, Eze Uche Dimgba and president of Ohanaeze Lagos, Fabian Onwughalu.

New Telegraph gathered that trouble started at the meeting when Anyim advised Ndigbo to forget what happened after 2011 elections and face the future by supporting Jonathan’s second term bid.

The plea was said to have angered most of the Igbo leaders at the parley, who questioned why the South-East should support the president again, when he is yet to fulfil most of his 2011 campaign promises to the zone.

A source, who was part of the meeting, told our reporter that “majority of the Igbo leaders argued that it was unreasonable for Ndigbo to work for the president again going by what is on ground.”

He added: “There was heated argument on the call for support for Jonathan in 2015. The issue of Second Niger Bridge was raised, but there was doubt over the authenticity of the project because CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

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CNPP challenges Jonathan to declare assets Onwuka Nzeshi ABUJA

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or the umpteenth time, the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP) has challenged President Goodluck Jonathan to openly declare his assets to douse the tension generated by foreign media reports that he was among African leaders who were feeding fat on the resources of their poor countries.

National Publicity Secretary of the CNPP, Comrade Osita Okechukwu, said it had become imperative for President Jonathan to be transparent on the issue to disprove the perception that he was corrupt and had used his office to unduly enrich himself.

The advice came on the heels of the publication by a United States-based online medium – Riches Lifesytle.com – which listed President Jonathan as the sixth richest African Head of State, a rating that has been perceived as an index of corruption in many quarters. The online put Jonathan’s worth at $100 million.

The Presidency had reacted harshly to the publi-

cation, threatening to sue the foreign media platform for libel if it failed to retract the story. It also warned that the local media that republished the report would suffer the same fate unless they apologised and retracted the news item.

But the CNPP said it was better to make an open declaration of the President’s assets than to threaten the media.

According to Okechukwu, it was a paradox that President Jonathan, who enjoys all the perquisites of office left behind by

his predecessor, the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, failed woefully to emulate his former boss who openly declared his assets.

“It is our candid view that instead of grumbling and issuing empty threat of hell and brimstone; the best option in the circumstance is for Mr. President to openly declare his assets and also mandate all members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to do same.

“Failure to take this patriotic route will further

confirm the hunch in town that President Jonathan is worth more than $100 million as reported by Riches Lifesytle. This is more so when President Jonathan had openly in 2012 told the world in a media chat that he doesn’t give a damn about corruption.

“Let’s not forget that since that President Jonathan’s ‘Give No Damn to Corruption’ pronouncement, it is been the fuel subsidy scam, crude oil theft, missing $20 billion, pension scam, the South African arms-cash scandal

and host of uncountable leakages under his watch,” he said.

The CNPP described the threats from the Presidency as a sign of arrogance, adding that it also amounted to chasing shadows instead of embracing the reality. An open declaration of the President’s assets, CNPP said, would prove beyond reasonable doubt that Mr. President has not corruptly enriched himself and is unconnected with the alleged malfeasance of his subordinates.

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FIRST NATION AIRWAYS LAGOS-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 06.50; 09:30; 11:45; 16:00 (SAT) 06:50; 11:45 (SUN) 11:45; 16:00 ABUJA-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 09:00; 11:30; 13:40;18:30 (SAT) 09:00; 13:40 (SUN) 13:40; 18:30 LAGOS-PORT-HARCOURT (MON-FRI) 14:45 (SAT) 16:15 (SUN) 14:45 PORT-HARCOURT-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 16:50 (SAT) 18:20 (SUN) 16:50 AEROCONTRACTORS LAGOS-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 06:50; 13:30; 16:30; 19:45 (SAT/SUN) 12:30; 16:45 ABUJA-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 07:30; 13:00; 19:00 (SAT) 12:30 (SUN) 15:30 MEDVIEW AIRLINES LAGOS-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 07:00; 08:50; 12:00; 15:30 (SAT) 10:00; 15:00 (SUN) 17:30; 18:30 ABUJA-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 09:00; 14:00, 15:00; 18:30

TODAY’S WEATHER FORECAST LAGOS

FLIGHT SCHEDULE

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Godswill Akpabio (right) and Chairman, NICON Group, Mr. Jimoh Ibrahim, at a meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja…yesterday.

PHOTO: TIMOTHY IKUOMENISAN.

FG repatriates 82 Chadians, others over terrorism CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

“I disagree completely with these headlines; they are quite inadequate. Our two countries have strong military relationship.

Over the years, we share a lot of equipment; some of the newest vessels of your navy come from United States, so the idea that U.S. doesn’t support Nigeria is not true,” the envoy said.

He said the support to Nigeria was in many forms, including training of soldiers and information sharing.

On his perception of Boko Haram, the ambassador said he was not sure of the group’s objectives.

“There are still some open questions on who they are, what they want.

A year ago, I would have said they were religiously motivated. But as they killed more and more Muslims, it’s hard for me to believe that they were motivated by religion.

“Who are these guys and what do they want? I don’t think we really understand them,” Entwistle said.

He observed that Boko Haram had gone beyond being a small insurgent group, with a couple of guns, to very effective collection of conventional force.

“An open question we have to look at carefully is where is the military expertise (for Boko Haram) coming from. How in the last one year they became more effective?” he asked.

The envoy, who was in Adamawa to monitor the suspended October 11 governorship by-election, held talks with Adamawa Interfaith Committee, a non-governmental organisation.

He also visited the American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola, where he delivered a lecture to staff and students of the institution.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government has repatriated 82 Chadians, Nigeriens and Senegalese as part of measures to rid the country of foreign nationals without valid residency permits.

They were all repatri-

ated from Jos, the Plateau State capital, following discovery by relevant security agencies, that they were illegal immigrants, who were found not to have gainful employment.

The disclosure was made yesterday in Abuja, by the Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr. Mike Omeri.

Omeri, who doubles as the coordinator, National Information Centre (NIC), said the activities of the affected foreign nationals, were “adjudged to be encouraging criminality.”

He, nonetheless, noted that the repatriation exercise was done in strict compliance with international best practices.

This, he stated, was with a view to ensuring that their freedom of movement in the subregion, was not compromised.

His words: “Eighty foreigners, made up of Chadians, Nigeriens and Senegalese, were repatriated to their countries from Jos. “Their activities were

adjudged to be encouraging criminality, and they didn’t have gainful employment. They were repatriated in a very friendly way, not challenging their freedom of movement as citizens of the sub-region.”

Omeri insisted that the move was one of the proactive measures to nip in the bud “nefarious activities that could undermine the security of Nigeria.”

Meanwhile, the Federal Government has disclosed that “as a result of the ongoing military training and a newly established intelligence sharing mechanism, Nigeria’s military has executed successful military operations from active intelligence on Boko Haram positions.”

While commending Nigeria’s neighbours who have stood by the country in the fight against terrorism, it warned those “wishing to make political capital and rubbish the image of the country and its efforts in the fight against terror, to have a rethink.”

OVERLAND AIRWAYS LAGOS-ILORIN (MON-FRI) 07:15 LAGOS-IBADAN (MON-FRI) 7:00 IBADAN-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 08:00 IBADAN-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 16:30 ILORIN –ABUJA (MON-FRI) 08:30 ILORIN –LAGOS (MON-FRI) 17:00 ABUJA-ASABA (MON-FRI) 10:00 ASABA-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 14:15 ASABA-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 11:30 LAGOS-ASABA (MON-FRI) 13:00 ABUJA-ILORIN 16:00 ABUJA-IBADAN 15:00 ARIK AIR LAGOS-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 07:00; 08:00; 09:00; 11:00 13:00; 15:00; 17:00; 19:00 (SAT) 07:00; 09:00; 11:00; 13:00; 15:00; 17:00; 19:00 (SUN) 11:00; 13:00; 15:00; 17:00; 19:00 ABUJA-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 07:00; 09:00; 11:00; 13:00; 15:00; 17:00; 19:00; 20:00 (SAT) 07:00; 09:00; 11:00; 13:00; 15:00; 17:00; 19:00 (SUN) 09:00; 13:00; 15:00; 17:00; 19:00 LAGOS-PORT-HARCOURT (MON-FRI) 07:00; 09:30; 11:00; 13:30; 15:00; 17:30 (SAT) 07:00; 11:00; 15:00 (SUN) 09:30; 11:00; 13:30; 15:00; 17:30 PORT-HARCOURT-LAGOS (MON-FRI) 07:30; 09:00; 11:30; 13:00; 15:30; 17:00 (SAT) 07:30; 11:30; 09:00; 13:00; 17:00 (SUN) 11:30; 13:00; 15:30; 17:00 ABUJA-PORT-HARCOURT (MON-FRI) 06:45; 10:10; 13:30; 16:50 (SAT/SUN) 06:45; 10:10; 13:30 PORT-HARCOURT-ABUJA (MON-FRI) 08:30; 11:50; 15:10; 18:30 (SAT/SUN) 08:30; 11:50; 15:10

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NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

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L-R: Member, Advisory Board, Nigeria Prize for Literature, Mr. Ben Elugbe; member, Prof. Jerry Agada; Chairman, Prof. Ayo Banjo; General Manager, External Relations, Nigeria Liquified Natural Gas (NLNG), Dr. Kudo Eresia-Eke and Chairman, Panel of Judges for the 2014 Literature Prize, Prof. Charity Angya, at the press conference announcing the winner in Lagos...yesterday.

FG transmits MTEF to National Assembly lWe’ve not seen it yet, say Reps

Abdulwahab Isa Abuja

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here were strong indications yesterday that the 2015-2017 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Paper, the forerunners to the 2015 budget, may have been transmitted to the National Assembly.

A competent source in the Budget Office of Federation told New Telegraph yesterday that the documents were forwarded to the two chambers of the National Assembly

just before the lawmakers embarked on Sallah holidays last week.

Another source from the Ministry of Finance also corroborated the information, but could not confirm exactly when the documents were sent to the National Assembly.

Further efforts to get official confirmation from the Director-General of Budget, Dr. Bright Okogwu, were futile. He neither picks calls put to his mobile phone nor respond to text message seeking further clarifications.

However, the Chair-

man, House Committee on Appropriation, Hon. John Enoh, told New Telegraph in an interview that he had not seen the said documents and could neither confirm nor deny its existence in the parliament.

“I cannot confirm that it has been sent because I have not seen it. If it has been sent, maybe that was while we were on Sallah break. But in any case, we will handle it as soon as we lay our hands on it,” Enoh said.

According to Enoh, the executive had earlier consulted the legislature

on the documents which would set the key parameters for next year’s budget. He emphasised the need for the MTEF/ FSP to be given expedited attention to pave way for President Goodluck Jonathan to present the 2015 Appropriation Bill on time.

Enoh said that early presentation of the budget would save it from being delayed in the parliament as the legislators would soon become engrossed in electioneering ahead of the 2015 general election.

Last week, there were

subtle apprehensions that the MTEF, which ought to flag off the budget season, was being unduly delayed by the executive arm of government.

Members of the National Assembly have always blamed poor budget execution on the executive which in the past had not adhered to the timeliness in sending the framework to the members of National Assembly.

The Fiscal Responsibility Act stipulates that the Federal Government, after consultation with the states, shall not later than four months before

Jonathan’ll sail smoothly, says Akpabio CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

it is under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement, and would be tolled on completion for about 25 years, while a similar project in Benue State is being funded by the Federal Government and would not be tolled.

“Even the sixth state approved for Ndigbo at the just-concluded National Conference is not likely to be realised because it was disclosed at the meeting that a boundary adjustment committee set up by the government on the issue failed to reach an agreement with the South-East governors on where the new state should be carved out from.

“The so-called international airport (Enugu International Airport), which the Jonathan campaigners are mouthing as part of his achievements was approved by the late President Umaru Yar’Adua and not Jonathan. Some of the Igbo leaders were furious, querying why Ifeanyi Uba

and his group, Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN), are going around, directing Ndigbo to vote for Jonathan in 2015, when we have not taken a stand on the issue. Based on these, there is the fear that some of us may look elsewhere.”

The source further revealed that while support for the President is still open pending the report of the Obi-led committee, Ndigbo are not taking anything for granted. According to him, plans are underway for a meeting with Lagos State former governor and a national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, and former Head of State and APC presidential aspirant, Major General Muhammadu Buhari.

“Ndigbo in Lagos are considering changing camp and we will soon meet with Tinubu and Buhari on the way forward because we have lost it in the PDP. What transpired on Tuesday night showed that Ndigbo have nobody

in the present government. Our representatives are there for their own interest and not for the collective interest of our people,” he said.

Meanwhile, Governors Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State yesterday predicted that President Jonathan will have a smooth sail in the February 14, 2015 election.

He stated that the president will be re-elected without rancour.

Akpabio said indications to that effect have already started pouring in with the overwhelming endorsement handed to him by the PDP and some organised groups around the country.

Speaking to State House Correspondents at the presidential villa after a meeting with the president, Akpabio noted that the endorsement would not only make things easy for the PDP during the 2015 elections but balance political equation in the country as well.

“It is not only that it makes 2015 easier for

the PDP, it also makes the political calculation in Nigeria totally free and devoid of violence and unnecessary acrimony. The endorsement brings harmony within the politics of the entire nation and it deepens democracy.

“I was asked this question by a member of the Congressional Black Caucus in the United States two weeks ago. I said here is a President in spite of all distractions, he has remained focused in trying to transform the Nigerian economy and today even under the present circumstances, Nigeria is running biggest economy in Africa,” he said.

Akpabio argued that such endorsement was, however, not feasible in Akwa Ibom because of the large number of gubernatorial hopefuls.

He said: “We have not seen any other person coming out to challenge Mr. President because of his credibility and what he has been able to put on ground. Everybody says

‘oh, the transformation agenda of the president is on course and what else would they come to do than to allow him to continue? Why can’t we give a chance to the man who has initiated the transformation to conclude the transformation?’ That is why it is different in the presidency, and that is why it is novel; it has never been done before since 1960.

“But at the state level, I would want to urge all my colleagues, the governors and stakeholders of the PDP to allow a level playing field so that all aspirants can go out there.”

Akpabio, who is also chairman of the PDP Governors Forum, also clarified that the gentleman’s agreement reached among the governorship aspirants in Adamawa State ahead of the 2015 has been quashed by Wednesday’s court judgement which saw to the swearing-in of erstwhile deputy governor, Bala Ngilari, as substantive governor.

the commencement of the next financial year cause to be prepared and laid before the National Assembly, for consideration a MTEF for the next three financial years.

Section 13 of the Fiscal Responsibility Act states thus: “The minister shall be responsible for the preparation of the Medium Term Expenditure Framework. In preparing the draft Medium Term Expenditure Framework, the minister may hold public consultation, on the macro-economic framework, the Fiscal Strategy Paper, the Revenue and Expenditure Framework, the strategic, economic, social and developmental priorities of government, and such other matters as the minister deems necessary.”

The law envisages that such consultations shall be open to the public, the press and any citizen or authorised representatives of any organisation, group of citizens, who may attend and be heard on any subject matter properly in view.

In preparing the fiscal documents, the law enjoins the minister to seek input from the National Planning Commission (NPC), Joint Planning Board, National Commission on Development Planning, National Economic Commission, National Assembly, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) and any other relevant statutory body.

Meanwhile, the government had last month released the sum of N200 billion as capital vote for the third quarter of 2014 bringing to N600 billion, the total capital votes released for Q1, Q2 and Q3.

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friday, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Court to hear suit against Alison-Madueke Dec 12 Tunde Oyesina Abuja

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A cross-section of participants at an awareness walk to commemorate the World Mental Health Day, organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Health in Lagos…yesterday.

PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI

Thugs attack Rivers PDP politicians lNo imposition in 2015, party insists Onyekachi Eze ABUJA

I

t was a reign of terror yesterday at the Legacy House, the presidential campaign office of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Abuja, the venue of the South South Integration Committee.

Party members from Rivers State who were suspected to be against the governorship aspiration of the Minister of State for Education, Barr. Nyesom Wike, and journalists who were covering the proceedings were beaten up and manhandled by suspected party thugs.

The cameraman of Silverbird Television, Tunde

Ajayi, his counterpart from Channels Television as well as Henry Umoru of Vanguard newspaper and Victorson Agbenson of Radio Nigeria were beaten by thugs and their recorders seized.

A political stakeholder from Ijaw ethnic group, Chief Anamsara Egbe, was also manhandled.

A former Commissioner for Water Resources under former Governor Peter Odili, Lolo Ibeneiye, and Prof. Israel Owate were punched and thrown out of the venue by thugs.

Dr. Innocent Ekwu, one of the aggrieved politicians who came to defend the petitions submitted to the committee, told journalists that security men

stood aloof while political thugs manhandled them.

Egbe said he submitted a petition to the committee, but was prevented by the thugs from appearing before the committee.

According to him, the party’s constitution in Rivers State was being violated and blamed it on the Felix Obuh-led party executive in Rivers State.

“We went through illegal means to bring in twoman executive. And ever since this two-man executive came, they violate the party’s constitution with impunity,” he stated.

One of the grouses of the petitioners was the insistence of some people that Wike, an Ikwere man, should fly the PDP flag in

Rivers State in 2015 governorship.

There have been agitation between the Upland/ Riverine in Rivers State over who produces the governor of the state.

Since 1999, the Upland has produced two governors – Peter Odili and Chibuike Amaechi.

Igbe told journalists that the party’s constitution is very clear on the rotation of the governorship.

“Chapter 1 section 27 (3c) of the party’s constitution recognises zoning and rotation of elective offices.

But these people, because they came through the back door are saying no to zoning.

“Ikwere man has ruled

in Rivers State and Ikwere man is ruling and we are saying zone the office to other parts of the state.

But rather than doing that they mobilise people, suspend people and expel people.

“The party set up a committee to come and listen to us. We were told that Wike paid them and they refused come to Port Harcourt. We didn’t believe it only for us to come here today and Wike brought thugs.

“I was robbed, they collected my documents from me. They took my N50,000 from me in the hall. If this is what they call reconciliation, I don’t see how this can be reconciliation.

Federal High Court sitting in Abuja yesterday fixed December 12 for hearing in a suit filed by a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Osita Okechukwu, seeking to compel Petroleum Resources Minister, Deziani Allison - Madueke to make disclosures on oil swap deal and other transactions in the nation’s oil sector.

Okechukwu had in the suit marked FHC/ ABJ/CS/ 388/ 2014, sued Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke as a person and as the Petroleum Resources Minister.

Okechukwu is seeking, among others, court declaration that the defendant’s refusal and failure to release the information on the crude oil transactions to him as illegal and unconstitutional.

According to him, the defendant’s act amounts to a violation of section 7 (1) of the Freedom of Information Act. When the matter came up yesterday, counsel to Okechukwu, Barth Ogar, informed the court that all the court processes had been served on Diezani and the Petroleum Resources Ministry since September 30.

However, Diezani’s counsel, Etigwe Uwah (SAN) denied receiving the said court processes on behalf of his client.

Ogar, therefore, sought the court’s permission to serve the minister through substituted means, a request that was, however, turned down by the court.

Sacked Adamawa governor, Strike: Unity schools remain closed Ezekwesili, Ita-Giwa at 2014 parents that the schools celebration of the girl-child Mojeed Alabi a traitor, says Tsav would reopen on Sat-

Juliana Francis

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retired Commissioner of Police, Alhaji Abubakar Tsav, yesterday applauded the removal of former acting Governor of Adamawa State, Alhaji Umar Fintiri by a High Court, describing the governor as a betrayer and traitor.

Tsav described Fintiri as a traitor, who had bitten the finger that fed him. He said that Fintiri betrayed former Governor Muritala Nyako, who nurtured and brought him to limelight.

He said: “When Fintiri was sworn in as acting

governor of Adamawa State, he went to Wadata House (PDP Headquarter), in Abuja to announce that he had recovered the stolen mandate. I advised him to return to Wadata House and report that the conspiracy against Nyako did not work out. He and his pay masters misfired.

“His two months tenure should be probed. He must have spent more than what Nyako spent in one year. A hunchback sees not his hump, but sees neighbours’. Good riddance to bad rubbish!”

Tsav said the judgment by the court has rekindled Nigerians’ hope in the judiciary.

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he fate of the thousands of pupils of the 104 Federal Government Colleges nationwide as at yesterday has remained unknown as the lingering crisis between their teachers, under the aegis of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) and the Federal Ministry of Education is yet to be settled.

Investigations by New Telegraph had revealed that some of the schools including the Queens’ College, Lagos and the Federal Government College, Ipetumodu, in Osun State had sent messages to

urday, October 11, the leadership of the union has insisted that the resumption order should not be taken seriously.

Chairman of the Osun State chapter of ASCSN, Mr. Adedayo Adebajo said that the strike continues until there is a contrary order from the leadership of the union at the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. He revealed that there are already indications that the officials of the ministry were taking steps to address the issue but that until then, the schools would not be reopened for academic activities.

Ebere Ameh

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otable Nigerian women, including Dr Oby Ezekwesili, the former Education Minister and Senior Economic Adviser, Africa Economic Development Policy Initiative at Open Society Foundation; Senator Florence Ita-Giwa and Mrs Bisi Olateru-Olagbegi, Executive Director, Women Consortium Nigeria (WOCON), gathered at the US Consulate, Lagos, to kickstart this year’s celebration of the United Nations International Day of the Girl Child. Billed to hold yearly on October 11, the day promotes girls’

human rights, highlights gender inequalities that remain between girls and boys and addresses the various forms of discrimination and abuse suffered by girls around the world.

Speaking on this year’s event with the theme Empowering adolescent girls: Ending the cycle of violence, Ezekwesili among other things, dwelt on the educational empowerment of the girl child.

Insisting that education is the basis of productivity, she however, acknowledged the fact that there are constraints, which the individual has to discover and overcome.

News

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

Fashola, Fayemi, Kwankwaso decry impunity in Nigeria Adesina Wahab Ado-Ekiti

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or the country to get it right among the comity of nations and meet developmental expectations, Nigerians, especially those in positions of authority, must put a stop to the culture of impunity. That was the view of three All Progressives Congress governors in Ado-Ekiti yesterday.

The state governors are Mr Babatunde Fashola (SAN) of Lagos; Dr Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti and Alhaji Rabiu

160

Kwankwaso of Kano.

They spoke while taking part in some of the events lined up as part of the fourth anniversary of the Fayemi administration in Ekiti State.

Fashola, who spoke during the public presentation of some laws in Ekiti State, also said strict application of laws was necessary for any society to grow.

He cited how the application of Public Health Law and Cremation Law helped the state in tackling the Ebola disease when it was imported to Lagos State in July by a Liberian, Patrick Sawyer.

The sex ratio of women to 100 men (international migrants) in Montenegro in 2010.

Source: Un.org

Fashola explained that Public Health Law assisted the state government in confining and forcibly treating those who contracted Ebola in accordance with the provisions of the law.

He added that it was the Cremation Law that helped in disposing off the corpses of Ebola victims in line with that law.

“From the time we are born to the time we die, our activities are governed by laws. Without law, a society will have its development retarded or even reversed.

“We must therefore guide against impunity

15%

The projected percentage rise of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) globally between 2010 and 2020.

Source: Who.int

if we really want our nation to develop and not be left behind by others. A situation whereby people contravene the law and they go scot free, is unacceptable and the earlier we wake up and do the right things, the better for us,” he said.

Speaking in the same vein, Kwankwanso called on President Goodluck Jonathan-led Federal Government to follow due process in the procurement of arms to confront the Boko Haram insurgents in the Northern part of the country.

Speaking while inaugurating the rehabilitated

€42m

The amount of money realized from TV rights by Athletico Madrid in 2013-2014 season.

Source: Goal.com

Burnt Brick Industry in Ire-Ekiti, he lamented that the seizure of over $15 million by South African Government from some Nigerians under the guise of procuring arms for the Nigerian Army could be counter-productive, except the country takes a decisive action to check any recurrence.

The governor, who also served as Defence Minister in the Olusegun Obasanjo administration, lambasted some people for seeing themselves as being above the law, especially with regards to their roles in the botched transaction.

15,000

The total number of internet users in Saint Kitts & Nevis in 2007.

Source: Blatantworld.com

L-R: Senate President, David Mark; Director-General, National Sports Commission, Gbenga Elegbeleye and Chairman, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick, during a courtesy visit by the newly elected NFF Board in Abuja…yesterday

Police arrest Edo Speaker, Majority Leader over attack on Momoh Cajetan Mmuta BENIN

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he last is yet to be heard on the fracas at the legislative quarters of Edo State House of Assembly. The Police yesterday arrested the Speaker of the House, Uyi Igbe and the Majority Leader of the House, Philip Shaibu.

The two principal officers of the 24- member house were detained yesterday by the Police over the attack on the lawmaker representing Etsako West Constituency, Mr Abdul-Rasaq Momoh.

Besides, operatives of the anti-graft agency,

the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), have invited both the Speaker and Majority leader of the house for questioning in Abuja next week Monday.

However, the actual reasons for the invitation of the lawmakers are yet to be known.

This is as the leadership of the All Progressives Party raised an alarm over alleged plot by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) -led Federal Government to incarcerate all the known loyalists of Governor Adams Oshiomhole in the state, especially, the 15 legislators of the Chief Anthony

Enahoro legislature.

It would be recalled that Momoh’s seat was declared vacant by the House in July this year following his defection to the PDP. He was attacked by thugs suspected to be supporters of the APC on Tuesday after he disobeyed an order by security men at the legislative quarters on Ihama GRA Benin City that he should not to enter the premises by scaling the perimeter fence.

The PDP accused Shaibu and other APC lawmakers of masterminding the attack which was described as arrant nonsense by Shaibu.

9

Sun summit: Be steadfast to rule the world, women told Dominic Adewole, Asaba

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omen, who converged yesterday at The Sun Women Leadership Summit (SWLS) were charged to be focused, universal and determined, if they must rule the world.

They were also tutored on how best to influence their health challenges if they must be refreshed for the task ahead.

Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, who moderated the thought-provoking and inspirational lecture delivered by Dr. (Mrs.) Ann Ojumba, tagged, The New Woman, Winning in a Man’s World: Your Health or Your Life? expressed the hope that the summit would henceforth provide women the opportunity to be involved in the decision-making process of the country.

He said: “The women must agree to work together, if they must win in elections by refusing to be manipulated by men and refuse to be used as stepping stones.”

Ojumba, who tutored the likes of Senator Grace Brent; former Managing Director of Bank of Industry, Evelyn Oputu; wife of the Governor of the host state, Deaconess Roli and the former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mrs. Farida Waziri, on health tips, maintained that unless the female world adheres strictly to the seven pillars of health, which include taking of refreshing water, resting/sleeping for 6-9 hours per day, and eating living food, daily exercise of the body, constant medical check up and be happy, it would be difficult to reach the pinnacle of their set goals in life.

$9.3m arms deal: APC berates Asari’s defence Johnchuks Onuanyim and Temitope Ogunbanke

T

he All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday insisted that Federal Government should explain the involvement of Niger Delta Militant Leader, Asari Dokubo on the botched $9.3 million

arms deal in South Africa.

The party, which stated that the denial of Dokubo carries no weight, asked the Federal Government to come clean on the identity of Nigerians aboard the plane carrying the US $9.3 million impounded by the South African Government.

The party, in a state-

ment from the National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, hinged its position on Dokubo’s involvement on stories published by online portals, where they stated that Asari Dokubo was one of the Nigerians aboard the jet that carried the money to South Africa.

‘Don’t stampede INEC over polling units’ Biodun Oyeleye Ilorin.

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he Chairman, Senate Committee on Environment and Ecology, Dr. Bukola Saraki, yesterday warned members of the National Assembly and other politicians against stampeding the Independent National

Electoral Commission (INEC) into making wrong decisions over the creation of new polling units.

According to Saraki, rather than bowing to pressure, INEC must stand and be allowed to stand on dealing with issues in the national interest without succumbing to political decisions on its processes to

the detriment of the nation.

He argued that Senate Committee on INEC or any other stakeholder outside the organisation must not stand to determine the operational decisions of the electoral body because in his view, INEC has the powers to carry out such exercise under the law that established it.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

10

Metro Cephas Iorhemen

River Benue overflows, renders hundreds homeless

Makurdi

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bout 105 houses in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, situated along River Benue, have been submerged in water, with hundreds of occupants rendered homeless.

This followed the sudden rise in the volume of water which overflows the river bank.

When our correspondent visited the area yesterday, it was observed that the worst hit were houses behind Kucha Utebe and Gyado Villa settlements as well as New Garage, Wadata Rice Mill, Agboughol community and Nyongon settlement.

At Kucha Utebe and Gyado Villa, the residents were evacuating their household items. Some of them were using canoes while others used wheelbarrows.

The water level was noticed a few metres away from Kyabiz Hotel located near the Benue State University, where over 50 households were displaced.

The situation was the same in Wadata around Rice Mill area as many people were forced out of their houses.

The disaster has left some of the victims stranded as they had nowhere to take their families to.

Also, the water level has continued to rise.

One of the victims resid-

File picture of a submerged house in the 2012 disaster

ing behind Kucha Utebe settlement, Kenneth Iornumbe, said that the flooding came unexpectedly.

At Wadata area, a mother of five, Hajia Salamatu Wada, said she had no alternative place to go with her children.

According to her, the incident occurred at a time her husband, a police officer, has

gone on a special assignment.

A clan head in Wadata area, Chief Nicodemus Gwaza, appealed to the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to create camps for the victims.

Speaking with journalists after an inspection of the area, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Mr Na-

thaniel Alaaga (an engineer), attributed part of the cause of the disaster to the activities of builders who had tempered with the bank of the river, thereby making it easy for it to overflow.

Alaaga, who assured the people of government’s quick intervention, urged those living around the river bank to

relocate to safer areas.

In 2012, water from River Benue flooded the areas following the unrestricted release of water from Lake Nyors by Cameroon.

Thousands of people lost properties worth millions of naira to the disaster. Many of them are yet to fully recover from the loss.

Over 6,000 benefit from free medical services Musa Pam Jos

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ver 6,000 people from Quapan Local Government Area of Plateau State have benefited from free medical services offered by a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Peter Bawa Foundation, in partnership with Tina Bawa Ministries.

The free medical services, which started on Monday, will end today.

About 50 medical personnel from Nigeria and the United States are involved in the exercise.

Taiwo Jimoh

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unmen suspected to be robbers brutalised the residents of Lagos when the invaded Onamila Crescent, Valley Estate, Dopemu, in Agege Local Government Area.

One of the residents, a banker was beaten

They screen people for diabetic, high blood pressure, HIV, hepatitis B & C, de-worm on the spot. The medical personnel also treat malaria, hold health talk on personal hygiene and general medical counselling.

Drugs were distributed for different ailments, while pregnant women got mosquito nets.

The Peter Bawa Foundation founder, Rev. Tina Godfrey Bawa Shitgurum, said she was offering the free medical services to assist the people who could not go to standard hospitals for proper examination of their health status.

She said: “I am here on a

medical mission to put smile on somebody’s face. It does not have anything to do with gender, religion or tribe. In this community, you can see that we have Fulani, Hausa Fulani and different tribes.

“I believe that God has called me to do something for my people. I have been doing it not only in Plateau State, but Benue State and Abuja. Nobody is sponsoring us, but we run a business, Duncan Shipping Line, which helps me to assist the less privileged.”

According to her, the medical team is targeting 10,000 people but over 6,000 people had been treated and given drugs.

Medical personnel attending to the people

Robbers attack Lagos community, seize ATM cards severely by the robbers who also snatched several Automated Teller Machine (ATM) cards from the victims. They also forced the ATM owners to write down their Personal Identification Numbers (PIN).

Some of the residents

said that the four robbers stormed the area about 7.30pm on Wednesday and announced their arrival by shooting sporadically into the air, forcing the people to scamper for safety.

The robbery was the third in the community within one month.

The robbers were also at Obadare Close, Phase 2, of the estate.

The bandicts burst into a compound where they attacked the banker. They later ordered him to take them to his apartment.

The banker was said to have refused to obey

their instruction, forcing them to further beat him. He was injured in the process.

“The robbers escaped with some ATM cards.

They also beat up Mr. Ajala (the banker), one of our neighbours,” a resident said.

A victim, who gave his name as Michael, said he was in his room when the robbers forced their way into the compound.

He said: “They first held down the security men and made their way into each apartment.

Metro 11

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

Corporal returns to police after dismissal for robbery Juliana Francis

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etectives attached to the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), Lagos Police Command, Ikeja, are still trying to unravel how a police corporal who was dismissed for robber, found his way back into the force.

The suspect, Telma Bintiu, attached to Mopol 43, Lion Building, Lagos Island, took to robbery like duck to water.

His secret sin was soon discovered and he was kicked out of the force in 2007. Bintiu was charged to court and sentenced to prison.

After serving a three-year prison term, he mysteriously

Adesina Wahab Ado-Ekiti

Kayode Aderanti, Lagos CP

enlisted back into the police.

Bintiu did not only return to the police, he also allegedly went back to robbery.

When Bintiu joined the police in 2003, he received his training at the Kaduna Police College.

He was arrested for robbery at Imeko in Ogun State in 2007, with four other suspects.

Two locally-made pistols and 20 rounds of cartridges were recovered from them.

Bintiu faced an orderly room trial; he was found guilty and dismissed the same year.

The suspect, who is from Plateau State, was said to have served at the Force Headquarters, Obalende, after his re-enlistment into police and his sojourn in prison.

A police source said: “He was working at the Force Headquarters when another

Fayemi

Fayose

“It was also revealed that these hooligans are working in consonant with some disgruntled elements within the state to carry out their evil plan.

“The commissioner

wishes to reiterate that the command will use all necessary lawful mechanism at its disposal, to confront and deal with any person or group of persons planning to foment trouble in the state.

Woman alleges threat to life after uncle’s murder Taiwo Jimoh

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relation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) member, who was killed on September 20, at Isale-Eko area of Lagos Island, has petitioned the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 2, Mr Umar Manko, to save her life.

The woman, Mrs Wuraola Williams, 43, the niece to the late National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) chief on Lagos Island, Azeez Otun alias Ashake, alleged in her petition that some hoodlums were bent on snuffing out her life.

In the petition, Williams said she had received many threats to her life and believed the threats were coming

robbery.”

In the latest arrest, two locally-made guns were recovered from him.

“He was arrested at Festac area. The police discovered that he went there to sell hijacked container at a garage owned by one Baba Saidi. Baba Saidi is a notorious receiver of stolen goods,” another police source said.

The suspect is still in police custody and will be charged again for armed robbery.

The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Kenneth Nwosu, said he was not aware of the story, but would find out and get back to our correspondent.

He, however, did not call at press time.

Hoodlums plan to invade Ekiti, say police Policeman, two

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olice in Ekiti State yesterday said that some people were planning to invade the state and cause mayhem.

The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr Victor Babayemi, who raised the alarm, said the would-be attackers were working in concert with some disgruntled elements in the state.

He said: “It has come to the notice of the Commissioner of Police, CP Taiwo Lakanu, that some hoodlums from outside the state are planning to invade the state to wreak havoc and cause total breakdown of law and order.

robbery happened. A container was hijacked at gunpoint.

Information got to the police about the hijacked container and investigation started. He was traced and arrested. The police did not know then he was a policeman. He was arrested, just like other suspects, in connection with the hijacking of the container valued at millions of naira.

“During interrogation, antirobbery detectives discovered an identity card on him which showed that he was a policeman, working with Mopol 43.”

Investigators alerted Mopol 43 Squadron Commander, who admitted knowing him, but explained that Bintiu had been dismissed since 2007 for

from the same gang that assassinated her uncle.

Williams, in the petition dated October 2, added that she escaped death by a whisker after some assailants visited her house in the night of the same Saturday that her uncle was killed.

The woman, who managed to escape, reported the matter at the Adeniji Adele Police Station. She, however, claimed that after leaving the station, some of the assailants trailed her with guns, but she once again, escaped.

Williams said that she and her family members had abandoned their home at Isale-Eko since the fateful Saturday because of the threats of the hoodlums.

She said: “I have not stepped into my apartment till this period. My

property is in an unsecured environment. I cannot take anything there because my life is in danger. The lives of my family members too are also in danger. I want the police to arrest these culprits and bring them to book.

“As provided by the constitution, my right to life is being threatened by unscrupulous elements, and my freedom of movement with my family has also been restricted.”

Williams gave the names of her assailants simply as Olokodana, Abass, Atebo, among others.

She added: “I appealed to the AIG Zone 2, Mr Umar Manko, to provide me and my family security and give the petition a speedy investigation.”

“In view of this, any person or group of persons that have no lawful business in the state are strongly advised, in their own interest, to steer clear.

“The good people of the state are encouraged, by the Commissioner of Police, to be very vigilant, mindful of unfamiliar faces and make prompt report of strange movements or suspicious activities to the police for prompt action.”

The PPRO said the command would leave no stone unturned in getting hoodlums out of the state.

Tension has risen in the state in the last few weeks over attempts to hear some political cases in the state High Court.

others defile minor Muhammad Kabir Kano

A

minor has been hospitalised in Kano, the Kano State capital, after she was defiled by a police or orderly attached to the chairman of Shanono Local Government Area and two others.

The orderly, a corporal, allegedly conspired with two of his friends to sexually abuse the minor.

A police source said the suspect and his friends had been detained pending the outcome of internal investigation in line with procedural provisions in meting out punishment

on officers and men found to have erred.

“A police corporal has been arrested and taken to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for investigation over the complaint that he and two others gangraped a girl.

“It is possible that the girl was threatened; you know orderlies attached to VIPs are usually armed. As I speak with you, a police corporal and two other suspects have been detained for raping a girl in Shanono Local Government Area.

The policeman is the orderly to the local government chairman.

FRSC quickens response to road crashes Camillus Nnaji

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he Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) is perfecting strategies to ensure quicker medical emergency response at accident scenes on the expressways.

The Zonal Commander, Lagos-Ogun Zonal Command, FRSC, Assistant Corps Marshal Godwin Ogagaoghene, disclosed this in Lagos as part of activities to save lives on the expressways during the ‘ember’ months.

Ogagaoghene said the command had an existing working synergy with other road agencies under the umbrella of the National Emergency Response Organisation, mandated to reduce road crashes.

He said: “We meet and interact on strategies to employ in rescuing crash victims. FRSC, on its own, has medical officers in its employ who we dispatch immediately to respond to crash victims.”

The zonal commander

Ogagaoghene

added that the zone had stationed a team specialised in accident investigation.

He said: “We have placed medical officers who respond to crash victims for immediate treatment. We also have accident investigation team and ‘emergency zebra,’ stationed on major road corridors to help reduce delay in medical response to crash victims.

“They are assisted by the World Bank to ensure readiness to emergency distress calls.”

Ogagaoghene regretted sights of increasing

bad spots on expressways, especially on the LagosIbadan Expressway.

He tasked relevant government agencies in charge to speed up the filling of the potholes.

According to the zonal commander, the potholes are major causes of gridlocks and crashes.

He said: “The LagosIbadan Expressway is peculiar because of the very high pressure on the road in terms of inflow and outflow of vehicles and people. As a result of this, the road has to receive constant attention on maintenance.”

12

News

silence

Suddenly, their voices are silent over salient issues Chukwu David Abuja

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s Nigerians continue to lament the seizure of the country’s $5.7 million meant for the procurement of arms by South Africa, members of the National Assembly yesterday refused to comment on the matter despite its grave diplomatic implications for the

Okorocha to Obi: Congrats, you are in wrong party

friday, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

National Assembly keeps mum over $5.7m arms deal, Adamawa verdict country.

Most members of the Assembly, who were contacted on phone by New Telegraph for their reaction on the issue, either declined comment or failed to pick their calls.

Also some, whose opinions were sought on yesterday’s Abuja High Court judgement on the Adamawa governorship tussle, which cancelled the proposed Adamawa State governorship bye-

election and ordered the former Deputy Governor, Mr. Bala Ngilari, sworn in, refused to comment on the matter.

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Senator Matthew Nwagwu, when asked to comment on the issue said: “I am sorry I cannot speak to you on the matter on phone. Let’s leave it till next week; when I return to Abuja, we can talk about it. It is not an issue

5,108

The number of refugees in Nepal at the beginning of 2010.

Source: Blatantworld.com

you can talk to somebody about on phone.”

But, Senator Ehigie Uzamere, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain from Edo State, also declined comment on either the $5.7million seizure or the court verdict on Adamawa bye-election.

He said: “My friend, I am in the United States now; so I cannot comment on the issue until I come back. I read about it in the newspapers, but I cannot

42.3%

The urban population percentage of Maldives in 2012.

Source: Un.org

comment from here.”

Towing the line of the senators, Hon. Eddie Mbadiwe, told New Telegraph that the two issues were not clear enough for him to express an opinion, assuring the reporter that he would comment on them when he has more information on the issues.

“I will comment when the facts are clearer. The whole thing is foggy to me.

I don’t want to comment based on newspaper re-

34.49

The number of fixed-telephone subscriptions per 100 inhabitants of Aruba in 2010.

Source: Itu.int

ports,” Mbadiwe insisted.

Senators Ita Enang (Akwa-Ibom North East) and Joshua Dariye (Plateau Central) picked their calls, but refused to comment on the issues. They each claimed to be in a meeting when contacted.

Although, they promised to talk later, Enang did not pick his call when contacted again while Senator Dariye said he was still in the meeting as at the time of filing this report.

-15.18%

The percentage growth rate of air travel passengers in Owerri airport (2012-2013).

Source: National Bureau of Statistics

Steve Uzoechi OWERRI

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mo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha, yesterday congratulated the former governor of Anambra State, Chief Peter Obi, for leaving the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and for seeing the dire need for Ndigbo to be ‘competitors and not spectators’ in national politics.

But he said the former governor chose the wrong party by pitching his tent with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

According to Okorocha, Obi’s exit from APGA has only shown that he has seen what he (Okorocha) saw few years back, and left APGA to join the progressives to midwife the merger that ultimately led to the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

L-R: The Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Chike Edozien; the Obi of Abavo, Uche Erenuma and the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Health, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, during the visit of Anioma leaders to President Goodluck Jonathan on Wednesday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Darkness looms in Abia over N417m unremitted tax Igbeaku Orji Umuahia

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or its failure to remit tax deductions to the Abia State Board of Internal Revenue, an Umuahia High Court has ordered the Aba and Umuahia Business Districts of the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (DISCO) to pay N417 million to the state government through the board.

Acting on the ruling presided over by Justice Ken Wogu, the board yesterday sealed the premises of the company, preventing its workers from gaining access to their offices.

The court had ruled that the said DISCO offices, one in Umuahia and three in

Aba, were duly served with demand notices for the remittance of the sums due each of them, which sums were due to the Abia State Revenue Service.

Chairman of the board, Mr. Udochukwu Ogbonna, said after the exercise that the company had applied for Stay of Execution of the court order, but that the court, after considering the application, rejected and ordered for the execution of the order to seal.

Ogbonna reminded employers that the law provided that employers of more than five persons should register with his board and collect from the said employees due Pay As You Earn Taxes (PAYE) and remit same to the government promptly.

Politicians working to recruit us Ihenacho emerges APGA’s consensus for attacks, say Enugu youths candidate in Imo sembly respectively; that Uwakwe Abugu Enugu

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nugu State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) YouthREAP yesterday raised the alarm over alleged attempts by some aggrieved politicians working to truncate the processes leading to the emergence of Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi as the party’s consensus candidate for the 2015 governorship election.

The youth group claimed that they were being lured to orchestrate media attacks to cause crisis in the state.

The youth group operating under the Rural Empowerment and Advocacy Project (REAP), in a statement made available to

newsmen in Enugu yesterday, expressed worry at the pressure being mounted on them since Ugwuanyi was adopted by the various caucuses of the party.

In the statement signed

by Coordinator, Ibuchukwu Nwodo and Secretary, Emeka Chinevu, the group said: “This alarm has become necessary in view of the persistent pressure being mounted on our organisation to sign some fictitious documents already prepared by these elements, against our wish, to mislead the public, criticize our governor and create a false impression against the ultimate decision of the party in the adoption of Ugwuanyi as its consensus candidate.”

Steve Uzoechi OWERRI

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mo State apex leadership caucus in the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has endorsed former Minister of Interior, Emmanuel Iheanacho, as the party’s consensus candidate for the 2015 governorship election.

In a communique signed by members of the state working committee, zonal executive members, local government chairmen of the party as well as Hon. Victor Mere, Hon. Dan Ikpeazu and Hon. Victor Ndunagu representing Owerri Municipal, Owerri North and Mbaitoli state constituencies in Imo State House of As-

was made available to newsmen in Owerri, the party said Ihenacho was unanimously endorsed following the outcome of a careful assessment and evaluation undertaken by group.

The criteria, the caucus said were based on the aspirants’ capacity, their ratings by the Imo electorate across the wards, local government and the state level and their independent rating by the Imo public.

The communiqué issued after the evaluation stressed, “we, the Imo State Apex Leadership Caucus of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) have carefully assessed the progress and challenges facing our great party.”

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

Ngilari

Adamawa

Independence

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2015

Adamawa is an eye-opener, says Agbaje

Fintiri was too ambitious –Sagay

Dabiri-Erewa: Nigeria’s growth stunted at 54

Mark’s re-election bid and the opposition’s gambit

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Politics

Obi: A defection foretold

After years of speculations, the immediate past Anambra State governor, Mr. Peter Obi, dumped the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) through which he led the state for eight years, for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). FELIX NWANERI reports on the behind-the-scene manoeuvres that culminated to the move

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uesday’s defection of the immediate past Anambra State governor, Mr. Peter Obi from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) did not come to many as a surprise. Obi, for years had been linked with the ruling party at the national level, and many had insisted that it was a matter of time before the man popularly referred to as Okwute Ndigbo (Rock of the Igbo nation) dumped the platform that gave him the opportunity to become the first man to break the two term jinx in the state that prides itself as “Light of the Nation.”

Obi, who took the decision after playing host to notable members of the PDP in the South-East at his Onitsha GRA residence, said he had worked closely with the PDP in the past and will continue to work with

AYODELE OJO

DEPUTY EDITOR, PoLITICS ayodele.ojo@newtelegraphonline.com

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

Former Anambra State governor, Mr. Peter Obi (m) with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) delegation at his residence

the party even closer in the interest of the people of the South-East. The PDP entourage was led by the Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu.

In the team were House of Representatives Deputy Speaker, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha; Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator Anyim Pius Anyim; Akwa Ibom State governor and Chairman PDP Governors’ Forum, Chief Godswill Akpabio; his Abia State counterpart who doubles as Chairman, South-East Governors’ Forum, Chief Theodore Orji; the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Olisa Metuh and the Special Adviser to the President on Inter Party Affairs, Senator Ben Ndi Obi, among others.

Obi said the issue of joining a national party is not about what is happening in APGA, but because of the need to be a competitor and not a spectator in national affairs. “I most sincerely appreciate this visit by people I consider as important political leaders from the SouthEast. I thank you for your continued belief and commitment to the welfare of our people and the progress of our country. I have in the past worked closely with all of you and you know my belief about our zone working together. I assure you that

we will continue to work even closer as a team in the interest of our people,” he said.

The run-up Denials had trailed Obi’s defection until Tuesday. He had persistently maintained that he will not leave APGA each time the issue of defection came up.

Only recently, his media aide, Mr. Valentine Obienyem said: “The former governor has made it clear that he will not leave APGA for any party. His body language does not suggest so. Late President Yar’Adua did his best to get him out of APGA but did not succeed. The former governor has character.

He is not planning to do such a thing.”

But what is to come emerged when some members of the House of Representatives elected on the platform of APGA in Anambra State defected to the PDP. They are former governorship aspirant and chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Environment, Uche Ekwunife and deputy chairman, House Committee on Capital Market, Chris Emeka Azubogu; member representing Onitsha North/Onitsha South federal constituency, Cyril Egwuatu and the chairman, House Committee on Culture, Tourism, Pilgrimages and

Religious Matters, Chief John Olibie.

While the federal legislators cited the internal crisis and endless litigations between the two APGA factions of Chief Victor Umeh and Chief Maxi Okwu, as one reason for their decision, some observers of Anambra politics however said that it was a prelude to Obi’s move to the ruling party, and the picture became clearer with reports of strained relationship between Obi and his political godson and successor, Willie Obiano.

Though both camps denied such friction, the former governor’s defection was confirmed when he resigned his position as APGA’s Board of Trustees (BoT) chairman on August 15.

Obi had noted that his appointment as BoT chairman was yet to be ratified by a convention of the party as stipulated by the constitution. He also cited family and personal reasons for the resignation without giving details, and wished the party well in its future endeavours, adding that he remained an ordinary APGA member.

Interest theory While Obi advanced national interest as his reason for jumping ship, the move to the CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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Politics

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

OPEN FORUM

...Declaration of Ngilari as Adamawa governor

Agbaje: Adamawa is an eye-opener Fred Agbaje is a constitutional lawyer and civil rights activist

W

hat happened in Adamawa on Wednesday is that we have avoided a constitutional crisis because the failure to implement the decision of the Court will lead to legal and constitutional crisis. You don’t run into constitutional crisis when you obey the constitution and implement judgement of court. It is when you become lawless and arrogant that you can create problem of constitutional crisis for the populace.

The Adamawa issue is just a pointer to the fact that no matter how big or powerful

You must subject yourself to the rule of law because the basic tenets of our democracy are built around it. That is why I laughed at those who are misbehaving in Ekiti State, and taking thugs to go and attack the judiciary

Agbaje

you are in the society, the rule of law and the tenets of constitutionalism are over you.

Otherwise, you must subject yourself to the rule of law be-

cause the basic tenets of our democracy are built around it.

That is why I laughed at those who are misbehaving in Ekiti State, and taking thugs to go

and attack the judiciary.

The court is waiting and they will still come back to meet the same court, and that is when the court will tell them that they are not above the law.

You cannot breach the constitution and expect the court to pat you on the back, it’s not done. Each time I listen to David Mark, I sympathise with him because how can a Senate President be saying that come rain, come shine, XYZ would be sworn-in.

You can only swear-in somebody in an atmosphere of peace and where rule of law prevails, not otherwise.

Supposing after his elaborate inauguration, the following week, a court rules on his ineligibility to contest and asks him to go. What has happened in Adamawa is an eye-opener.

Interview by WALE ELEGBEDE

Okechukwu: Judgement, decoy by PDP to avert defeat Mr. Osita Okechukwu is a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC)

M

y understanding from the former Deputy Governor of Adamawa State, Bala Ngilari, is that it was a decoy by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to postpone the election billed for Saturday 11 October 2014. An election the All Progressives Congress (APC) was coasting to victory in, after diligent campaign.

The proof that the PDP was scared to

Okechukwu

Reverend Phineas Padio is the Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adamawa State chapter

lose the election was evidenced by the speed at which the Attorney General and Minister of Justice reinforced the judgement.

Whereas, one cannot fault the judgment, however His Excellency, Bala Ngilari never told the court that he was under duress when he signed the resignation letter. And going further, why did it take him long before he demanded for his mandate?

It is a matter of concern that politicians are at each turn using the judiciary to achieve less than noble objectives, but time will tell how long this will last.

Interview by Felix Nwaneri

The proof that the PDP was scared to lose the election was evidenced by the speed at which the Attorney General and Minister of Justice reinforced the judgement

Padio: APC’s victory deferred

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he emergence of Bala Ngilari as governor was a court decision. Judgement has been passed by a court and as a Nigerian citizen, I accept the judgement. We have taken the judgement in good faith believing that the judiciary did what is right in the present circumstance.

Adamawa State House of Assembly on July 15 purportedly took over the functions of the state with the free mind that the governor had been impeached and deputy governor had resigned. Thereafter, the Speaker of Adamawa State House of Assembly, Umar Fintiri, became the acting governor. The matter surrounding Fintiri’s emergence as acting governor was later challenged in the court by Ngilari, that he

I don’t think his swearing-in has any implication in terms of him performing his duty because his emergence as governor is purely a constitutional matter

Padio

didn’t resign. And the court after listening to the case gave a ruling, sacking the acting governor and ordered Ngilari to be swear-in immediately.

I don’t think Ngilari’s swearing-in will have any im-

plication on the state, after all he was elected by majority as deputy governor along with the former governor (Murtala Nyako) they said they have impeached, who is also in court.

It was a constitutional process

and we look forward to him performing his functions as the law provides. So, I don’t think his swearing-in has any implication in terms of him performing his duty because his emergence as governor is purely a constitutional matter.

Adamawa is one state that is known for peace. We are not known for political violence.

Even when the governor was impeached in violation of constitutional provision, there was no crisis in the state. So, Ngilari’s emergence as governor would not raise any highbrows. As you can see, the state is peaceful; if there would be any demonstration or violence, it would have happened on Wednesday when the court ruled.

With Ngilari’s emergence as governor, our hope of ruling Adamawa State was only deferred, not cancelled. We have elections in February next year, so our hope of governing was only extended. We will still go into 2015 elections, God willing and that is when we hope to clinch the governorship.

Interview by TEMITOPE OGUNBANKE

Politics

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

OPEN FORUM Balarabe Musa is a former governor of old Kaduna State

...Declaration of Ngilari as Adamawa governor

Musa: This is judicial anarchy

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learly, this is the oppressive anarchy of the judicial type. How many people can understand and comprehend what is going on in Adamawa State, that is, the legal workings and implications of that judgment. It is not different from the oppressive anarchy that is going on around the country. You don’t know who is holding what, and who is operating what, and how legal it is.

There is constitutional anarchy in the country, so you cannot understand what is happening in Adamawa, even lawyers don’t understand it.

Those who say the Adamawa judgement that asked the former deputy governor to be sworn in as governor is a good thing for our democracy, are only saying so because it favours them.

We want a situation whereby we can see clearly the judgment of the court, and say that it has done the right thing, and everybody agrees. We don’t even know whether the court has done the right thing or not, when it is so difficult for us to, and even the lawyers themselves to understand what is

Prof. Itse Sagay is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and constitutional lawyer

Musa

going on.

Look at the case of the Fresh Democratic Party. The party went to court, and the court declared that the de-registration of the party was unconstitutional, null and void. Yet, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) refuses to allow the party contest elections. INEC said they appealed, but it is a lie. What they have

Lanre Suraj is the Chairman of the Civil Society Network Against Corruption

W

e should commend, at least for once, the Chief Justice of Nigeria who recently promised to weed out the bad eggs from the judiciary. The landmark judgement of the Abuja High Court on the Adamawa politics is actually a new tonic in the life of rule of law and constitutionality in Nigeria. It actually encourages those who

done one year, after the time for appeal has expired was that INEC went to court to ask the Federal Appeal Court to allow them to appeal out of date; after one year. And they know fully well that the time for appeal is limited.

When the time for appeal has expired, INEC ignored the law, and went to the Court of Appeal to appeal the judgement of the

There is constitutional anarchy in the country, so you cannot understand what is happening in Adamawa, even lawyers don’t understand it

Sagay

governor when Murtala Nyako was impeached.

The judgement was in or-

der though I have my discomfort with some aspects of it.

In terms of law and constitution, yes, it is correct. My only quarrel is whether the deputy governor behaved in a moral upright manner by trying to be smart. It was a conspiracy between him and the Speaker that if he gave his resignation letter to the Speaker, they would not impeach him. And that conspiracy backfired because the Speaker was ambitious and so he decided to abuse his own situation, and then forced his way to power as acting governor. So, the issue of the moral uprightness of the deputy governor is clear but legally, the decision is correct.

Federal High Court. And Nigerians generally don’t know whether INEC has the right to appeal or not. This is anarchy, when you don’t know who to rely on. The law is not clear.

Look at the law on impeachment, which the legislature usually embrace based on gross misconduct. After so many impeachments, since the Second Republic till today, the court has failed to come out to state clearly what constitutes gross misconduct, and yet members of the executive are being impeached regularly, they can’t rely on the courts, because the court says it’s based on gross misconduct, which is what is alleged.

And there is no effort to clarify what constitutes gross misconduct. So, the situation now is that any mistake or misjudgment on the side of the executive, no matter how unavoidable it is, is regarded as gross misconduct, and the chief executive is impeached on that ground.

So, you see we have bureaucratic anarchy generally foisted on the state, and we have legal anarchy.

Interview by Etaghene Edirin

Sagay: Fintiri was too ambitious

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he judgement was a plus for the rule of law, which is straight forward. The point made is that a deputy governor can only send his letter of resignation to the governor. In this case he sent it to the Speaker of Adamawa State House of Assembly and therefore the resignation was invalid. It was directed and addressed to wrong person. And since it is invalid, strictly there was no vacancy in the position of deputy governor and so, he should have been sworn in as

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The implication of the judgement to rule of law and judicial system in Nigeria is that it will uphold development in the sense that the judgement was given and it was implemented. I praised the judge for his courage and for his uprightness. But I want to be careful about praising the government because people are saying that government decided to implement the judgement to avoid constitutional bridges and so on.

But if you look at it, the deputy governor is a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) man; he did not cross over to All Progressives Congress (APC) with the governor. So, in a

sense, what the government is simply saying is; ‘We didn’t lose anything; in Umar Fintiri or Bala Ngilari, we win. So, it does not matter to us, which one of them is in office, since the court has declared Ngilari, we will go with him and we lose nothing.’

It would have been more of a test case if the man who won, was an APC man, replacing a PDP man. Then we would have said the rule of law has really gained a major victory.

To me, nothing has changed in Fintiri being sacked from office, and Ngilari being swornin, because both of them are members of the ruling party.

So, I don’t think we can say it is uhuru yet as far as rule of law is concern.

Interview by TEMITOPE OGUNBANKE

Suraj: It’s bad news for politicians still believe that the judiciary and the court is the last hope of the common man.

It was clear to average discerning minds and concerned Nigerians that the whole shenanigan that happened in Adamawa was a clear violation of rule of law in terms of both the removal of a governor from office and the impeachment procedure. The ruling has also put in check those who under the guise of their inordinate ambition weave their optimism against the tenets of democratisation in Nigeria.

This is cheering news for

Nigerians but bad news for the politicians. Whenever there is a romance between the judiciary and politicians, that nation is heading for the rocks. But where the judiciary is able to say no to the executive in their arbitrariness that is when there can be consolidation of democracy and that is when constitution can be upheld.

It is better to have politicians behave, operate and abide by the provisions of the rule of law. And where they fail to do that, it is the judiciary that has to call them to

order. If the judiciary can continue doing this, we will find our politicians playing by the rules. That is why the Ekiti issue is rather unfortunate and the gladiators in the state are not allowing the rule of law and due process take its full course.

You can’t stampede the judiciary; there are appealing processes to a higher court.

This should not be tolerated because the judiciary should be allowed to exercise its roles and duties in the polity.

Interview by WALE ELEGBEDE

Suraj

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Politics

C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1 3

PDP had been on for long due to his closeness to President Goodluck Jonathan. He was not only an Honorary Special Adviser to the president on Finance, but an active member of his Economic Team during his second term.

These rare privileges, despite being a member of the opposition, apparently explained his endorsement of Jonathan’s candidature ahead of the 2011 general election.

He later went ahead to lead the president’s campaign in the South-East in his capacity then as chairman of the zone’s Governors’ Forum.

The position was then understandable as Obi’s party did not field a candidate for the presidential poll, but some analysts blamed it for the near dismal performance APGA recorded in Anambra in the 2011 National Assembly election despite being the ruling party in the state.

This notion was hinged on the fact that while it was possible for the former governor to mobilise about 99 per cent of votes in the state for Jonathan and the PDP in the presidential poll, APGA was unable to garner up to 50 per cent for itself in other elections, losing the three senatorial seats in the state to the PDP and the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) now All Progressives Congress (APC).

This view cannot be dismissed because politics to most of those involved in it is a game of interest. It was argued then that with APGA’s limited sphere of influence and Obi in his second term as governor, the PDP which controls the federal government is the most likely party he would want to use in furthering his political career.

Despite the criticisms, Obi’s support for the president and his party was however not a failed venture. Many still believe that APGA had an unwritten understanding with the PDP, and that it was the pact that informed the uninspiring support by the PDP’s national leadership to its candidate, Tony Nwoye in the November 2013 governorship election and resultant victory of Obi’s anointed candidate, Chief Obiano.

Part of the deal, it was further alleged, was to cede some senatorial and House of Representatives’ seats to APGA in the 2015 elections in order to get the party’s support for the second term bid of President Jonathan, although Senate President David Mark, recently dismissed any of such agreement.

In enemies’ den The question most analysts have asked over Obi’s defection to the PDP is: What would have influenced his choice of working with the same party that hijacked his mandate thrice and did everything possible to destroy him politically.

It would be recalled that Obi had a running battle with the ruling party at the centre althrough the period he was governor of Anambra State. Three times the mandate given to him by the people of the state was “hijacked” by the PDP, and three times he recovered it through sheer doggedness.

In April 2003, the people of the state voted massively for Obi to become their governor.

He went to them with a message that resonated soundly. The mandate was “hijacked” by the PDP and given to Dr. Chris Ngige, then of the PDP and now senator representing Anambra Central on the platform of the APC. Obi went to court and retrieved that mandate. He was sworn-in as governor in March 2006.

But hardly had he settled down than the state Assembly, apparently loyal to the then godfather of Anambra politics, Chief Chris Uba, impeached him in November. His deputy, Mrs. Virgy Etiaba took over. Obi returned to court and, in February 2007, recovered his mandate once again.

Shortly after that, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) under Prof. Maurice Iwu, listed the state among those where governorship elections would hold in the 2007 general election. Obi resisted but the electoral body went ahead and conducted the poll. A former aide to ex-President

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Obi: A defection foretold then Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Mr. Osita Chidoka.

The PDP stakeholders had argued before the president that non-appointment of the PDP members into key positions was affecting the fortunes of the party in the state during elections.

The question against this backdrop is: Can Obi rally round his new party leadership to correct the past mistakes, which had persistently denied it of electoral victory in the state in the past eight years, particularly the governorship.

Obi

Olusegun Obasanjo, Dr. Andy Uba (now a senator), emerged winner. Obi approached the Supreme Court which sacked Uba, two weeks after being sworn-in.

The story was not different in 2010 when his first tenure elapsed. The PDP mobilized everything in its arsenal to halt his re-election bid. Against all odds, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, who just then stepped down as the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) was handed the party’s governorship ticket because of the believe that he not only had the resources, but the personality to give Obi a good run for his money.

The people of Anambra, however chose Obi, but not after heeding to the appeal by APGA’s national leader, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu (late). The late Biafran leader had during APGA’s last rally for the 2010 governorship election in Anambra, raised Obi’s hand before the people of the state, and made a death wish in which he implored them to vote Obi as governor.

The storm ahead The euphoria over Obi’s defection to the PDP, notwithstanding, analysts are of the view that tough days lie ahead of him given the intricacy of Anambra PDP politics. This, they say may defeat his much touted reason of joining the ruling party - Jonathan’s reelection.

Unlike in some states where the PDP leadership easily whips members in line, the peculiarity of Anambra politics is likely to make it impracticable for Obi to rally the various interests for a common goal. The party is divided along lines of loyalty to godfathers, including Senator Uba, his brother Chris; Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, and business man, Prince Arthur Eze, and Obi would be stoking fire should he try to take over PDP structure in the state.

Perhaps, the biggest challenge he would be facing is the huge financial war chest of most of the party’s stalwarts in the state, which has continuously made it impossible for them to easily agree on issues. The perpetual crisis of Anambra PDP explained why Obi lost out in the recent appointment of a minister to represent the state in the Federal Executive Council.

The former governor had quietly and subtly lobbied to be appointed as minister after Princess Stella Oduah, an indigene of the state was relieved of her position as minister of Aviation, but some stakeholders in Anambra PDP vehemently opposed the plan.

This paved way for the emergence of the

Those who could read between the lines knew that the former governor was going to defect to the PDP, as the leadership of the PDP had always said that the party lost to Obi in Anambra and not to APGA

Wither APGA While leadership crisis has not only taken a toll on APGA’s fortune over the years, Obi’s defection, no doubt, is one development that will further deplete it because of its timing – when the party is expected to consolidate its success in the 2013 governorship election in Anambra State and seek inroad into other states of the South-East in the 2015 elections.

The founding chairman of APGA, Chief Chekwas Okorie, who shared this view in his reaction to Obi’s defection, said the ruling party has succeeded in destroying APGA. Okorie, who is now the national chairman of United Progressive Party (UPP) told New Telegraph that those who could read between the lines knew that the former governor was going to defect to the PDP, as the leadership of the PDP had always said that the party lost to Obi in Anambra and not to APGA, contrary to the general belief that Obi won on the goodwill of late Ojukwu.

He added that the defection of Obi to the PDP has brought out the real character in him, noting that his action was based on selfish interest. According to him Obi’s romance with the PDP and his eventual declaration for the party was in his bid to get an appointment in the President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.

Some analysts, who backed Okorie on this, said Obi is not different from those he criticized in the past for dumping APGA after riding on its back to stardom. The former Anambra governor, they recalled, in January, described Imo State governor, Rochas Okorocha as a rabble-rouser, who failed to show gratitude to the Igbo people that elected him.

“Okorocha’s utterances smack of sheer arrogance. They emanate from an overambitious rabble rouser, who easily gets carried away any moment he is handed a microphone. He abandoned APGA because of his desperation to become president. It is unfathomable that a man could bite the finger that fed him without qualms,” Obi had said in the wake of Okorocha’s dumping of APGA for the APC. On APGA’s future, Okorie described the party as a huge deceit. “APGA is one huge deceit that simply exists as a party. There is nobody there that is sure of where he is.

Umeh is going to the Senate and Shinkafi is going for governorship in Zamfara State.

They are the two signatories to the party’s account. They will collect nomination fees from unsuspecting party members and clear the account. Umeh will go to the PDP and Shinkafi will join APC,” he said.

In a sharp contrast, Umeh, said Obi’s defection will not affect APGA. He insisted that the party will continue to wax stronger, likening the exit of the former governor to a church where the old members would leave and new converts would be gained.

According to him, APGA as a grassroots party will win more seats at all levels in different states.

While developments in the days ahead will determine whether those left behind in APGA will continue to keep alive the party’s vision of being a rallying point and veritable platform for Ndigbo, Obi’s defection has clearly justified the claim that politics is strife of interest masquerading as a contest of principles.

Politics

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

Leading Woman Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa is the chairman of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Diaspora Affairs. In this interview with WALE ABIODUN, she bares her mind on various national issues, especially Nigeria at 54. Excerpts: What is your assessment of Nigeria at 54?

That we are still together as a nation is enough reason to give God the glory. Our growth has been stunted, we are not where we should be as a nation because of leadership failure over the years. Nigerians must take control of our democracy, vote and let’s be united in making sure these votes matter. If an elected official knows that one vote can get him or her out of the office, then voters will never be taken for granted.

What is your view on uninterrupted democracy in Nigeria since 1999?

Elections not yet totally free and fair, but we must as people determine that no matter what, votes must count.

However, corruption is now carried out with impunity. It looks like corruption is now an official state policy. $9.3 million is ferried to South Africa just like that and the government can look Nigerians in the eyes and admit to blatantly breaking its own laws. That is just one example.

Dabiri-Erewa

Dabiri-Erewa: Nigeria’s growth stunted at 54 elections?

Very prepared. Nigerians yearn for positive change. And that, APC will give when we take over in 2015 at the federal level.

What is your impression of the economic situation in Nigeria?

The Transformation Agenda is a labyrinth leading to a cul-de-sac. The only people clapping are the people who designed it. Extreme poverty is ravaging the land; unemployment is a time bomb waiting to explode. Of what relevance is a high GDP (Gross Domestic Product) with such overwhelming poverty?

Having come this far in life and seen it all, what is your greatest goal?

To make a difference in someone’s life. I am concerned about hunger because some kids drink water to fill their stomachs till the next meal comes.

Success is not about age, it is not about character, and it is not by how much you have in your account but how many lives you touch.

How did you come into politics?

A leadership course at Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University was a kind of tonic that made me decide to give contesting elections a shot. The programme also challenged me on leadership in a developing country like Nigeria. I got up, went to Ikorodu and started participating in ward and party meetings. I did that for about four months before taking a decision after being encouraged by friends and my family. With the support of our leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, other leaders in my party and constituency, I give God the glory.

How prepared is your party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), for the 2015

What is your aspiration concerning 2015 elections?

Consultation is ongoing

We are not where we should be as a nation because of leadership failure over the years

What bills have you initiated so far?

I sponsored the Freedom of Information (FOI) Bill which has now been signed into law in Nigeria. It is noteworthy to mention that some of the other bills I sponsored include; Nigerian Infant Welfare Scheme Bill, Nigeria with Disabilities Bill, bill to amend the Railway Act to allow private sector and state participation, Nigeria Diaspora Commission Bill, An Act to Eliminate Violence in Private and Public Life and a bill to promote the advancement of nigerian women and girls.

Who can you refer to as your political mentor?

Nelson Mandela and Tinubu What is your impression of Nigerian women participation in politics?

Still many challenges, but we will get there. The number of female representation in leadership positions is still low compared to other African countries. Numerous factors such as culture, women’s multiple burdens, lack of resources, unfavourable electoral system among others make it more difficult for women to seek elective posts. For instance, someone said to me, ‘Abike you have done so well.

You are qualified to be the governor

of Lagos, but you are a woman.’ We are still looked down as women but we will not give up.

Can you talk on various Diaspora issues your committee has handled?

The Diaspora Committee has brought to the fore, the plethora of snags, problems and difficulties encountered by Nigerians in several countries.

The committee is still working to get justice for Toba, Aisha Falode’s son who was murdered in Dubai, and recently the case of a 17-year-old Nigerian, Mr. Joshua Kunle Abdul-Azeez had prompt intervention in, demanding adequate compensation for the young Nigerian that was maltreated and tortured as a result of wrong routing of his ticket by Egypt Air. The committee intervened to rescue 24 Nigerians slated to be executed in Libya, made several interventions in Italy, India, China, Czech Republic, China, Saudi Arabia, Ghana, Russia, Cyprus and Malaysia among many others and even had to pay lawyers to assist some; such was the case of a 73-year-old Nigerian woman who was behind bars in Brazil, the committee paid a lawyer to follow up on her case but eventually she died in hospital.

But the committee was able to get her put under house arrest pending the determinantion of her case rather than being in prison as is usually done in Brazil before she eventually passed on in hospital, due to high blood pressure. We have also just passed the Nigeria Diaspora Commission Bill in the House of Representatives.

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Opinion

Presidential largesse, poetic licence

Emissary EMEKA OBASI

emobas2003@yahoo.com 08094457557 (sms only)

H

e could only feel the President, since Nigeria turned a blind eye to his place in history.

Taiwo Michael Akinkumi, designer of the National Flag was honoured recently in Abuja by President Goodluck Jonathan. The national hero who fashioned out the Green-White- green stuff about 55 years ago, cannot tell the difference between the two colours now.

Akinkumi is blind and his house in Ibadan was the only reminder that a special Nigerian lived in the city until he was recognized by the President, as part of our 54 years anniversary. At 70 today, he has become a Presidential Assistant for life.

What that means is that Akinkumi will move into one of the cozy apartments in Highbrow Asokoro or Maitama. He is also entitled to much more, official vehicles, police orderly, aides, security and even estacode, whenever he travels out of the country.

I must thank President Jonathan for this gesture.

Right from independence, with all our Tafawa Balewa, Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi, Yakubu Gowon and all the others that came after, none looked the way of Akinkumi.

May be , that was why the man went blind out of frustration.

While I praise our president, I am also struggling to believe that this will come to a promise fulfilled. I just pray that the old man will live to see his appointment letter, even if he does not ever get to meet with Dr. Jonathan again.

I say this because, there is one man who has given me sleepless nights. Interior minister Abba Moro was my idea of a gentleman. Then he disappointed me with the handling of the Immigration recruitment tragedy.

The president had while weeping with the bereaved and injured, promised hundreds of openings for lives lost over jobs unseen. That would have been enough to wipe some tears. The Abuja Stadium tragedy came on March 15. We are in October, and nothing has been done.

If you put me in Moro’s heavy shoes, I will not go to bed until those promises are fulfilled. I am sure, the minister sleeps so well, and may have forgotten that people died right under his nose. One of the injured job seekers, Uruaku Peace Nduka is a name to remember.

Those who caused the death of her compatriots will not know peace until they make sure the President’s promise is fulfilled. That is what they owe the dead. It is going to be like the fight between David and Goliath.

Thank God, Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service is David Paradang. He absolved himself of any hand in the mass murder, and I believe him.

As David, let him take up the fight, reminding his boss every day, of the jobs promised family members of the deceased. Like his name, let him parade Moro’s office tomorrow, even if he has to shout, Abba father, so that the comrade minister will remember. That might even be one reason God will take Paradang to Paradise as a final abode.

We should honour our heroes. They deserve it, black or white. I do not see why projects should not be named after journalist, Flora Shaw who gave us the name Nigeria. Many prefer to see her as Lord Frederick Lugard’s mistress. She was definitely more than that.

The lady who composed ‘ Nigeria we hail thee’ in 1950, Lilian Jean Williams deserves something higher than one night recognition. We have failed to recognize these gentlemen, John Ilechukwu, Ime Etim Akpan, Olusegun Aderibigbe, Sota Omoigui and B. Ogunaike as composers of the present national anthem.

Some say, a promise is forever. Yes, and no. Yes if there is forever in Nigeria. No, because it may never come when forever becomes never ever. I want to believe that President Jonathan will not fail Akinkumi. And I want to wake up tomorrow to see Moro in the news with good news for those who are still living with the Immigration

recruitment tragedy.

We failed so many of our heroes. Our first Olympic medalist, Nojeem Maiyegun is still in Austria, as blind as Akinkumi, forgotten. Thompson Oliha , winner of Nations Cup ,Tunisia’ 94, died unable to see the house promised by Gen. Sani Abacha.

First Olympic medalist, Chioma Ajunwa is doing well as a police officer. She has a simple wish. Just a house, no matter how simple, in Abuja. Is that too much for Oga Jonathan to offer her as a parting gift?

Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and El –Rufai must do something to appease Enyimba. When the Aba side won Nigeria’s first CAF League in 2003, Obasanjo just shook their hands, taunted then Abia state governor, Dr. Orji Kalu and washed his hands off them. This same man gave Shooting Stars 50,000 naira per player when they won the Winners Cup in 1976. Ranger retained the trophy in 19977 and smiled too. Each player bagged 25,000 naira from Obasanjo.

El Rufai promised Enyimba plots of land, if they retained the trophy in 2004. They did, he turned technical, even when they had filled the necessary documents. I am sure those plots of land in Abuja have gone to other hands.

Two-weight world boxing champion Richard ‘Dick Tiger Ihetu’ remains forgotten, maybe, because he wore Biafran camouflage later. But the same country honoured General Emeka Ojukwu in life and in death. The only leader who came close to the Ihetu family was Gen. Ibrahim Babangida in 1986, when he went to watch the Power Mike sponsored Dick Tiger boxing tourney in Lagos, with his young boy, Mohammed.

I guess Babangida honoured Dick Tiger because, the officer was into boxing. Tiger’s contemporary, Abraham Tonica once claimed to have taught Babangida the art in Ibadan. And at the end of the war, he alleged that the IBB came to Umuahia to seize some of his laurels. IBB, footballer and hockey player, was not Maradona then. They called him, ‘Block Burster’. Yes, there was one, before Aloy Atuegbu.

Please, I would not want the Presidency to dribble Pa Akinkumi more than Maradona dribbled England with his ‘hand of God’.

Rivers 2015: Way out of PDP crisis (1) Felix Ebikeme

O

ne must acknowledge and appreciate the difference Alhaji Ahmed Mu’azu made in the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), since he came on board last year as its national chairman. This is evident in his the wisdom of decisions, the infusion of some democratic principles in leading the party and his achievements in so short a period. Understandably though, his leadership acumen faces tougher challenges in the weeks and months ahead as we head towards an election year and the inherent issues that usually accompany electoral contest in our clime are already erecting hurdles on the way.

Of course, leading the pack in this regard is the intricate process of picking candidates for elective positions, which history suggests is not usually crisis-free essentially because of the fierce nature of such contest, drawing negative incentives from the rabid and unbridled quest for power and indeed the perception that the process is not without abuse, which invariably subjugates fair play, justice and equity.

Issuing from the above, therefore, is the inevitable acrimony and crisis of confidence which we must agree can’t serve the best interest of our party,

especially on the critical question of electoral success in 2015. It is, therefore, suggested that every care must be taken to ensure that the PDP goes into this historic election as a united body, carefully thinking through the process and how our candidates emerge at every level across the state.

It is believed that the issues under consideration here are already of major concern to the Alhaji Mu’azu-led national executive going by the recent constitution of zonal integration committees to look into cases of disharmony in the state chapters of the party and consequently take appropriate steps to reconcile our members who may be aggrieved on any subject and come up with realistic suggestions to move the party forward.

In this instance, the situation in the Rivers State PDP presents a sobering scenario which many believe is a litmus test for Alhaji Mu’azu and the entire national executive because a lot is at stake depending on how the serious issues in the party are handled which, it must be stated, have consequences for the success or otherwise of the party in the state next year.

For all keen followers of developments in the Rivers State PDP in recent times, it will appear that the essence of the whole political shenanigans being perpetrated have a common objective

which is how to contrive the system to have the governorship ticket of the PDP handed to an individual whether it is deserving or not, whether it offends the sensibilities of so many other interests or not and whether or not it is the rightthing to do. To our indefatigable national leader, Alhaji Muazu, please note these premises above as we take a closer look at the unfolding scheme of selfish interest in our party which requires a judicious evaluation of the issues and apply wisdom in their resolution.

Inevitably, we have to see the Bro. Felix Obuh-led state executive as nothing but an imposition, taking into account the circumstances of its emergence and thus lacks legitimacy because it is an illegal contraption. But as we can see now, the whole orchestration of how the executive came into being was obviously tailored towards a premeditated objective. This is sad indeed for our great party and the cause of democracy.

Alhaji Mu’azu, must indeed be disturbed that the state PDP structure today does not really exist as a proper political organ in the state because the basic activities of the party have largely been given away to the amorphous body known as Grassroots Development Initiative (GDI) and except one is a member of this group, it is difficult, if not impossible, to achieve anything

in the party. Thus Alhaji Mu’azu and other leaders at Wadata Plaza in Abuja need to ask the important question whether GDI as a group is allowed or alien to the PDP Constitution and indeed if such an organisation can actually and legally take over the essential functions and activities of the party. Now, why should major beneficial programmes and incentives, especially empowerment, be undertaken by GDI instead of the PDP structure as a party?

Agreed that he who pays the piper dictates the tune but where is the fairness in this? Because the Minister of State for Education, Chief Nyesom Wike, funds the GDI, is it appropriate to use it as an advantage to coral everybody to GDI as against the PDP formation that should be for everybody in the state?

Now, what happens to those who do not belong to GDI but ardent members and supporters of PDP? But as noted earlier, the illegal composition of the state executive as we had then was tailored towards a premeditated agenda which is to stage-manage the party to deliver the governorship ticket to Wike and the script is unfolding though to the detriment of the party. The national chairman must be told the truth that the activities of the GDI is polarising the party in Rivers State.

•Ebikeme wrote from Port Harcourt.

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

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NFF: Agend for Pinnick

ecently, former Chairman of Delta State Sports Commission, Mr. Amaju Pinnick was elected Chairman of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF). He polled 32 out of the 44 votes cast in a re-run ballot to beat his closest rivals Dominic Iorfa, who polled 8 votes and Taiwo Ogunjobi with four votes. Pinnick could not pick the required two-third votes in the first round of the Tuesday, September 30 election held in Warri, Delta State.

The new NFF boss has a fouryear term in his kitty. During this period, he is expected to unite all factions and aggrieved persons in the aftermath of the conflicts and controversies that led to his emergence as a preferred candidate. However one looks at it, the September 30 NFF election heralds a new era in football administration in Nigeria.

Pinnick who took over from Alhaji Aminu Maigari, the immediate past president, is expected to bring new perspectives to bear on the running of the football house.

He is also expected to consolidate on the gains of his predecessors.

As he assumes office, he will meet a politicized football house, wracked by the godfather syndrome and disdain for competence.

When he stands from his exalted chair to look out the window, he

will see a thousand and one eyes looking his direction, all full of expectations. He needs all the wisdom, clear-cut vision, dedication, team spirit and hard work he can get to work the system and meet those expectations.

Therefore, we expect Pinnick to judiciously cast his net far afield to assemble a team of competent individuals to assist him make his presidency rewarding to himself and Nigerians. In other words, we expect him to develop a team spirit as a panacea to some of the leadership ills plaguing NFF. And it is just as well that he had, in his acceptance speech, spoken along this line. “I will be a team player,” he had declared. “My victory is a victory for everybody…I want to reconcile all the stakeholders to ensure that there is peace in Nigerian football.” That is as it should be.

NFF became enmeshed in crisis shortly after the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. The Maigari administration was accused of mishandling the funds meant for the prosecution of the World Cup campaign. Players were not paid their allowances and match bonuses on schedule, leading to an embarrassing protest by the players that almost resulted in their boycotting a match. Moreover, some persons who were not supposed to be sponsored to Brazil by the NFF found their way to the Samba country, to the detriment

of very many who were officially slated to travel on the ticket of the NFF. Following these and other similar missteps by the NFF, an angry federal government announced Maigari’s sack, a move FIFA saw as political interference in football administration and threatened to suspend Nigeria. As a face-saving measure, Maigari was recalled and made to organize the election, which Pinnick won.

Pinnick’s election also started on a sour note as the Electoral Chairman was whisked away by security operatives but later released. Therefore, to have a rancorfree administration, Pinnick must unite all factions that sprang up in the course of exchange of batons and unite stakeholders and football technocrats –all the people whose ox must have been gored in the last few months. For him to ignore those who are in a position to assist him translate his dream into reality is to prepare for failure.

Another major challenge before the new NFF is how to make the association self-sufficient financially. Football administration has changed from complete dependency on government to self-sufficiency in income generation. Accordingly, Pinnick should marshal his colleagues to raise money for the football house while relieving government of full scale involvement in football administration. He must strategize and get

sponsors to help organize matches using the Super Eagles as a brand for niche marketing.

Importantly too, he must work to digitalize the secretariat to reduce the use paperwork, to keep pace with new trends in the football world. Few modern organizations, if any, still employ paper documentation in the day-to-day running of their operations.

Again, Super Eagles’ Coach, Stephen Keshi has been working without any formal contract since the expiration of his contract shortly after World Cup. Mr. Pinnick must do the needful immediately.

Amaju Pinnick is inheriting a Federation that had had its fair share of successes in rent time.

Under Maigari, Nigeria won the 2013 AFCON title 19 years after such feat was last achieved in Tunisia in 1994; the FIFA U-17 trophy won for the third time and Super Eagles second round appearance in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 in Brazil. Such enviable record must challenge Pinnick to make a success of his own tenure as NFF boss. The starting point is to eliminate all the rancor and bitterness that define relations among NFF officials and board members and rebuild the Glass House as a place where teamwork works---and pays.

We dare say that the only obstacle to his success may well be Pinnick himself.

Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief n Eric Osagie Deputy Managing Directors n Gabriel Akinadewo

Felix Oguejiofor Abugu

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Politics

SUFUYAN OJEIFO writes on the politics of Senate President David Mark and the opposition against his return to the National Assembly for the fifth time in 2015

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Mark’s re-election bid and the opposition’s gambit

D

avid Mark is not new to battles – be they military or political.

He had fought military battles, won many and retreated from, at least, one that I know of, to wit: his bolting out of the country in 1994 on self-exile in the face of real threats of extermination by the Sani Abacha junta.

The tactical flight was an opportunity for him to return another day for a fight, which day came at the outset of the current Fourth Republic in 1999. But the fight this time round was political.

He had taken a plunge into the murky waters of politics; and, he deservedly secured the mandate of Idoma people that make up Benue Zone C (South) Senatorial District to represent them in the Senate. And for eight years, he occupied the Senate seat as a member. In 2007, he emerged as the Senate President and was re-elected by his colleagues for a second term in 2011.

For each of these enterprises, it was a tough battle for the retired army general. He was gallant in the battles. Even though he experienced scary moments, he was able to pull through. Indeed, he had since 1999 fought and won political battles; and, to be sure, he is still fighting in the battlefield.

In 1999, he surmounted the opposition from General Lawrence Onoja for the PDP ticket. In 2003 and 2007, he repeated the same feat. He emerged victorious in the subsequent general election. With the defeat of the face of opposition within the PDP, the elements who wanted to stop him at all costs from returning to the Senate supported the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP) senatorial candidate, Alhaji Usman Abubakar aka Young Alhaji.

This was one of the scary moments: he defeated Young Alhaji in the election, but the ANPP candidate claimed he won the election. He headed to the Election Petition Tribunal which awarded him victory. Mark filed an appeal at the Court of Appeal, Jos, which was the last bus stop in post-election trial, and was able to secure the final verdict in his favour.

Prior to the verdict of the appellate court, Mark’s presidency of the Senate was, indeed, threatened. Some members of the Senate from the North Central zone were quietly warming up for the position in case Mark lost at the Court of Appeal. With his victory, he had consolidated on his position.

The tenure provided an ample chance for Mark to define his presidency. He called on his military background and experience as senator for eight years to apply himself to the task of running the Upper Chamber. He was too experienced to know that money was at the root of the problems that a majority of his predecessors from the South-East had with members.

And, what did he do? He steered clear of Senate funds. In 2008, he caused to be returned to the nation’s treasury, in line with the requirement of Fiscal Responsibility Act, an unspent Senate fund in the 2007 Supplementary Budget to the tune of N7 billion. He could have caved in, as learnt, to pressure from members of the body of principal officers to speedily tie the money to some projects and contracts before the December 31, 2007 expiration date. He never did.

Deploying other strategies, one of which was intense respect and concern for the socio-political and economic conditions of his colleagues whom he has always referred to as his bosses, Mark

Mark

had, as far back as his first tenure, been able to win the support and understanding of his colleagues.

The import of the camaraderie played out in 2010 when he led the Senate to intervene in the crisis of succession in the Umar Musa Yar’Adua-Goodluck Jonathan Presidency. Mark’s Senate was able to come up with the Doctrine of Necessity that enabled the federal legislature to invest in Jonathan (who was then acting president) the full constitutional powers of president.

Yar’Adua who was terminally ill died some few weeks afterward and Jonathan was sworn in as president. Mark and some of his colleagues had ridden on the synergy between them and Jonathan to settle their political trajectories for 2011.

Mark’s victory at the PDP primary and in the general election was not encumbered. His re-election as Senate president was equally not. He was returned unopposed unlike in 2007 when he had a gritty contest with the former governor of his state, George Akume, who in 2011 had to re-contest his Benue North-West Senate seat on the platform of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and is now the minority leader in the Upper Chamber.

With a few months to the expiry of the current 7th Senate, the question is: will Mark seek re-election as candidate of Benue Zone C Senatorial District? If he does and wins, will he seek re-election as Senate President since the position is still ceded to the North Central zone by the PDP? From all indications, the answers to these posers are yes.

This is the possibility that has got Mark’s opponents in Idoma land agitated.

They know Mark will run. And why not?

If he runs, he will win, perhaps, as he has been winning because, more than ever before, his chances are brightest now when compared with those of his archrival, General Onoja, and his new challenger and former Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Chief Mike Onoja; and others who may want to throw their hats into the ring. It does not matter which party platform they use, especially now that the Benue South PDP has just

He was too experienced to know that money was at the root of the problems that a majority of his predecessors from the SouthEast had with members.

And, what did he do? He steered clear of Senate funds

endorsed Mark as sole candidate for the zone’s senatorial election.

I read the treatise by my friend, Adagbo Onoja, who is no relation of the two gentlemen mentioned above in an online publication, where he posited that Chief Onoja could be Mark’s nemesis. Read Adagbo: “The interesting thing with Chief Onoja is that he could be David Mark’s nemesis. I am not too sure what the balance of sentiments for and against Mark is in Idomaland today but the Chief was the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Defence when Abacha was Head of State, meaning that he was actually the Minister of Defence. He might not have been decked in the military fatigue but he was in a position to know one or two things about military officers, of which Mark was one.

“So, in him, Mark might find a tough challenger with the resources and advantages of bureaucratic politics. An extremely weak politician like Mark when it comes to mobilisational politics could be very vulnerable if his opponent is someone who knows one or two things about power. I am not sure it is conceit and vanity that makes Mark such a disaster in mobilisational politics…”

My friend, whom I have always respected as a left wing intellectual, had understandably raised the issue of (financial) resources, which is critical in a determined battle to unseat the Senate president, before proceeding on a gambit to negatively profile Mark as a “disconnected” politician who is “extremely weak” when it comes to mobilisational politics.

I am not interested in the “if his (Mark) opponent is someone who knows one or two things about power” proposition in Adagbo’s effort to underscore what he considered as Mark’s vulnerability. Even the politically naïve would know that nobody in Idomaland has knowledge and experience in power politics whether within the military or political spheres that is superior to Mark’s. This, anyhow, is a moot point.

Now this: I am not an Idoma man.

Adagbo is. He should be well at home with the sociological condition in his native land that has created the impression that the deficit in Mark’s politicking might not be his perceived arrogance but mobilisational politics, which, he (Adagbo) claimed is not his (Mark’s) forte. My quick take on this, however, is: How could he (Mark) have continued to win elections to the Senate and even to the position of senate president if he has not been able to mobilise support or deploy deft mobilisational politics? Therefore, to magisterially declare that Mark is wont to retreat into conspiratorial tactics instead of mobiilising support is simply reductionist and unfair.

For me, the best way to mobilise support of the people in politics as a public office holder is to deliver on campaign promises. It is to facilitate infrastructure transformation and human capital development. Has Mark been able to mobilise democracy dividends to his people on which he can latch his fifth term bid to the Senate? Yes! I believe Mark’s imprimaturs in these areas are quite evident in Idomaland. People can do their reality checks and interrogate Mark’s contributions to the development of Idomaland. I think Adagbo has begun a good conversation, which should elicit different perspectives.

•Ojeifo, Editor-in-Chief of The Congresswatch magazine, sent this piece from Abuja.

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

Culture

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Tourism

Ankara’s growing popularity, promoting African arts, designs

Zimbabwe hosts African premier business exchange

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Arts

CULTURE

Big Brother Hotshots: Battle for top prize begins for 26 Housemates Tony Okuyeme and Sony Neme

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he 9th edition of Big Brother Africa kicked off on DStv on Sunday, October 5, as the 26 housemates showed off their talents to the continent – giving millions of viewers a glimpse into what makes them Hotshots.

The housemates who will be competing for the USD300, 000 prize over the next 63 days, were introduced one-by-one to the teeming viewers, by the host, Ik Osakioduwa as they showcased their talents, live on stage, in one-minute slots.

The studio audience scored each performance with a mark out of 100, and at the end of the show, Big Brother called the excited housemates together and revealed the reason – the housemate who scored the highest would be named as Head of House and would be the only housemate not up for eviction next Sunday. Tanzania’s Laveda led a Top 6 that included Sabina, M’am Bea, Lilian, Arthur and JJ, meaning she is the only one not in danger of going home next week.

The house seems to be full of musicians and singers, with Kenya’s Sabina and Rwanda’s Arthur breaking the mould with comedy performance, Ghana’s M’am Bea showcasing her fashion design talents and Laveda picking up top marks with her saxophone solo. Not to be outdone by the housemates, presenter IK kicked things off with a cabaret-style singing performance of his own – and the show only got hotter from there.

The duo of Lilian and Tayo are representing Nigeria in the show. They will be battling with

TONY OKUYEME tony.okuyeme@newtelegraphonline.com

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

The housemate who scored the highest would be named as Head of House and would be the only housemate not up for eviction next Sunday

Lilian

Tayo

L-R: Managing Director/CEO, Payporte.com, Eyo Bassey Francis; General Manager, Marketing, MultiChoice Nigeria, Martin Mabutho; Marketing Manager, DStv, Chioma Afe; Marketing Director, Pernod Ricard Nigeria, Sola oke and Marketing Manager, TECNO Mobile Nigeria, Soffack Sonna Joseph, during the live screening launch of Big Brother “Hot Shots” Reality TV Show at The Wheatbaker Hotel, Ikoyi, Lagos, last Sunday

24 other housemates, namely Goitse (Botswana), Sheila (Botswana), Kacey Moore (Ghana), Ma’m Bea (Ghana), Melvin Alusa (Kenya), Sabina (Kenya), Mr. 256 (Malawi), Sipe (Malawi), Mira (Mozambique), Trezagah (Mozambique), Luis (Namibia), Permithias (Namibia), Frankie (Rwanda), Arthur (Rwanda), Nhlanhla (South Africa), Samantha (South Africa), Idris (Tanzania), Laveda (Tanzania), Ellah (Uganda), Esther (Uganda), Macky2 (Zambia), Resa (Zambia), Butterphly (Zimba-

bwe), and JJ (Zimbabwe), for the USD300 000 prize over the next 63 days.

Apart from the performances by the housemates’, some other continental superstars also got to showcase their own swagger.

Keeping the musical theme going were Emmy Gee, AB Crazy & DJ Dimplez with their smash hit Rands and Nairas, South African hip-hop sensation Cassper Nyovest with Doc Shebeleza and Nigeria’s own BET Award winner Davido with Skelewu.

IK promised viewers a host

of twists and turns in true Big Brother style, revealing one up-front: during a new Saturday night task, viewers will get the chance to vote to award one housemate with immunity from being nominated each week.

With the news sinking in that all but one of their numbers are in danger of heading home next week, the housemates set about getting to know each other over snacks and drinks laid on by Biggie – and with a first dip in the jacuzzi.

Daily highlights shows are broadcast Monday-Friday on AfricaMagic Showcase at 20:00 CAT, on Maisha Magic at 20:30 CAT and on AfricaMagic Family and AfricaMagic World on GOtv at 21:30 CAT. The Saturday Highlights Show, which showcases all the best moments from the entire week, is broadcast at 21:00 CAT on AfricaMagic Showcase in South Africa, 20:00 CAT on AfricaMagic Showcase for the rest of the continent, at 19:30 CAT on Maisha Magic, at 21:00 on AfricaMagic Family and 21:30 on AfricaMagic World & GOtv. Produced by Endemol South Africa, Big Brother Hotshots is also available on social media: on Twitter @bigbroafrica, on Instagram @bigbro_africa and on facebook.com/bigbrotherafrica.

Voting opened immediately after the launch show and runs until next Sunday morning.

There are four ways to vote for your favourite housemate each week: Via SMS, WeChat, www. bigbrotherafrica.com, or the mobisite on your mobile phone.

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Arts

Biyi Adegoroye

A

frontline Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant in Delta State, Sir Tony Chuks Obuh has underscored the imperative of culture to national development. He said that the place of culture in our social milieu is so important that there can never be cultural identity if a people jettison theirs for foreign culture.

He stated that the Urhobo Nation is one of the most formidable ethnic nationalities in Nigeria with global impact and clear vision to uplift the socio-cultural and tradition of its people. Obuh said this in his congratulatory message to the leadership of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) for the successful celebration of this year’s Urhobo Day in the United Kingdom.

Noting that the group has consistently grew locally and internationally since its inception in 1946 when former colonial Governor, Sir Arthur Richards signed the certificate of registration, Obuh described Urhobo ethnic nationality as a people united in culture, tradition and have over the years contributed in no small measures in the sociocultural, political and economic development of Delta State in particular and Nigeria in general.

He commended the UPU leadership for the sustenance and projection of the rich Urhobo culture and tradition both at home and abroad and urged the good people of Delta Central Senatorial District and

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Obuh extols Urhobo culture, tradition

Culture in our social milieu is so important that there can never be cultural identity if a people jettison theirs for foreign culture

indeed the entire Urhobo nation to support his political aspiration which would further cement the already robust relationship between Delta North and Central.

Obuh is of the opinion that the UPU Uvbiamuge declaration which seeks to produce an Urhobo Governor in 2015 should be revisited by the group leadership so as to reach a common ground on how to form an all-inclusive government in 2015 through the political instrumentality of North-CentralSouth Unity Accord (NCSUA) for good governance.

According to him, Delta State remains one united family and what is relevant at this point in time is to work together to sustain and improve upon the progress already made so far

by Gov. Uduaghan’s administration.

He said it is reasonable from all indication for Obuh Delta North

which has never produced a Governor since the creation of the state twenty three years ago to of a necessity’ be given the opportunity in 2015 since the other two senatorial districts (Central and South) have been p r iv i -

leged to do so.

Obuh, assured the UPU leadership and the good people of Delta Central of great partnership both in politics and in the running of state affairs in terms of regular consultations and joint-formulation of economic and infrastructural programmes and execution to the effect that the three senatorial districts will be developed on equal basis during his tenure, if elected Governor in 2015.

The gubernatorial aspirant described the late PresidentGeneral of UPU, Chief (MajorGeneral) Patrick Aziza, as a formidable leader with great foresight and vision whose proactive leadership style helped to enhance and solidify the unity, peace and progress of the Urhobo Nation.

He said Aziza will be remembered for his great roles in the socio-cultural and political arena for a long time to come and appealed to the Acting President General of UPU, Chief Joe Omene and his executives to accept him (Obuh) as a truly detribalized Deltan who will work with the Urhobo cultural organization for the development of Delta State if elected as the fourth Executive Governor in 2015.

I composed my first song at 7, says Adebayo Olushola Ricketts

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he chief executive officer of Ojuloge Arts World, a makeup and beauty company, Mrs. Ponmile Funsho Adebayo, has decided to take her undying passion for music to another level. The leader of 12 Wonders band launched its album last week at Samak Halls & Events, Oregun Ikeja in Lagos. The band

Adebayo

primarily uses music to preach the gospel as well as to bring life and joy to people.

The Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), graduate of Fine and Applied Arts, told New Telegraph at the official launch of the Wonder’s album that music has always been part of her even as a child.

“Way back as a child I loved to sing and I have been in the choir since 5 years old. I composed my first song when I was seven years old. My family members do music. My immediate uncle is a producer and my mother sings in the church. My dad used to be a cartoonist too.

So music is not something new to me; it is just that I am taking it to another level now.”

Wonder is a nine-track album with three bonus tracks. She said she composed the songs years ago when she had some challenges, revealing that the way and manner that God answered her was wonderful. “That is why I titled my album Wonder,” she illustrated.

According to the Choir Director for the Yoruba Church at Daystar Christian Centre, the difference between gospel and secular music is the message. She said as a Christian she does not see anything bad in doing good music or expressing herself the way she feels like. “I have a song Spiritual Something; which is upbeat. If you listen to it you might be confused if it falls under gospel or secular music. Also, when God gives you a gift he expects you to profit from it. Though I am making gospel music, it must be appealing to my audience. I am selling the word of God to them in an attractive way and in a way that they could relate with and enjoy themselves,” she explained Going back memory lane, she said she started taking music serious in 1995 when she got admission into OAU. She was a vocalists in a band for almost 12 years.

Speaking about her present band, 12 Wonders, she insisted that God has blessed her with the best set of people on earth. She describes their relationship as divine connection.

“I focus on the way I relate with people a lot because I don’t know when I would need or meet them again.

Everybody that knows me well would tell you that I don’t take people anyhow. So the band is more of a family thing even though people always asked me how I put the team together. I think it is just God because they love me so much and I love them too.”

Adebayo however revealed that combining her music and Ojuloge Arts World, a company she established in 2005, is not as hard as it seems. She informed that the structure she had put in place make it possible for the beauty outlet to function without her. Her words: “I have not been to the office for almost two months and my projects are running. As I speak to you we have 30 people in 10 locations that are working. I am not there and I do not plan to always be there. God has helped me to put a system in place; now He is telling me to move forward with my music because I see this as a calling.”

But, according to her, things might be so difficult if not for the support of her husband who she met when she was 13 years old. She opened up that the road leading to their romance and eventually marriage was comical, revealing that she saw him like an elder brother.

“I have three kids now; two boys and a girl. I could remember that he was the first person I showed my letter of admission because his house was so close to mine. We attended the same church and we went to the same primary school. So I have known him like forever to the extent that he knew about my failed relationships. There was a time I had a broken heart that he actually called the guy. I am only telling you this so that you will know where we are coming from. He was also my choir master at a time. “For a man to allow his wife to do whatever she wants it means he believes in her decisions. He is like a mentor, my father and friend. I know that I would not be here if not for my husband because no matter how talented I am if he says no it is no,” she concluded.

Arts

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

23

Growing popularity of Ankara, promoting African arts, designs Ebere Ameh

I

f Ankara fabric were human, the time for it to smile is now. And just like the saying goes that ‘he who laughs last laughs best’, it may be in for a big laugh as it is definitely set for the long haul.

Once despised as a cheap fabric for the poor and used only during festive periods as aso-ebi, it has reinvented itself, with different designs and categories for both the rich and the poor alike.

Though different stories have emerged as to the origin of Ankara, the most plausible is the one that says that Ankara was originally produced by the Dutch for Indonesian market. According to the school of thought, the textile business did not do well in the Indonesian market partly because of economic restrictions imposed on the sale of foreign textiles at the beginning of the 20th century to encourage local manufacturers.

The European manufacturers thus switched to West Africa where it was so well accepted.

The acceptance and the huge market made them to start the use of African motifs and designs to really identify with the people and capture their market.

Today, many local companies are producing various qualities of the Ankara fabric with different fascinating designs that to promote the African culture. The fabric is now so widely accepted, and it has become synonymous to Africa.

The popularity of Ankara was underscored a couple of years back as it captured the attention of the art and the fashion industry. They are now being made into beach shorts, pants, play suits, evening dresses and so on.

Bangles, slippers, purses, earrings, shoes and so on are also being made with this fabric.

The best part of it is that they are cheaper than the regular leather and still makes you look sophisticated. If it is a popular accessory, it definitely has an Ankara alternative.

It has become so legendary that people go to party with bag and shoe made of the same Ankara fabric.

Even the men are not left out as they also wear Ankara as jackets, ties and casual wears. They flex it and do some really lovely styles. The fabric can be used for both office and formal occasions depending on the style. Nigerian musicians like Kcee and Flavour now wear Ankara in their music videos. Top celebrities like Beyonce, Fergie, Kim and Tyra have been seen occasionally adorned in some

Ankara portrait, a painting by Gary Stephens

really sexy Ankara attire.

Gary Stephens, the South Africa-based American artist keyed into the world of Ankara, with his exhibition of paintings in Johanesburg, South Africa and later at the Omenka Gallery, Ikoyi, Lagos. Titled Ankara Portraits, it has added to the growing popularity of the fabric as ‘the most celebrated African textile’. Art and fashion has indeed conspired to make Ankara the most popular fabric of all times.

The product has no doubt undergone a magical transformation becoming a choice fabric for the rich and the famous too. It has become an inevitable part of any social function. At weddings, engagements and work, Nigerians are seen fully garbed in Ankara fabrics.

Currently, there are Ankara festivals in Dublin Ireland, Los Angeles, U.S. and a number of other cities, even as Ankara has featured on the runway for major designers across major cities of the world.

Though fashion in Nigeria and all over the world is dynamic, the Ankara fabric has been able to stand the test of time and has obviously come to stay

As Christmas draws close, the sale of Ankara seems to be on the increase. Everywhere you turn to it is Ankara; the fabric is now used for making other accessories like handbags, shoes and even bangles. They are also used to make cosmetic bags, laptop bags, as well as iPod casings.

While local culture and tradition provide the main inspiration for the designs, the combination of western style g i v e s them a unique and international appeal, the finished product being dependent on the c r e a t iv ity and skill of the designer.

Speaking with Nita-Nkeme

Ephraim a Mass Communication graduate who studied fashion designing both in Nigeria and abroad, she says the craze for the Ankara fabric was due to the fascinating combinations and designs that designers come up with everyday.

“Overtime, people started doing a lot of things with Ankara, a lot of artistic combinations with it. Now we can use it on bags shoes and even accessories. Designers have kept trying stuffs and people appreciate it,” she says.

This trend of fashion has not only brought innovation in the glamour world, but has provided a means of livelihood to professionals in the art. Ankara bag making is considered to be a very lucrative endeavour which young women and men are venturing into. The art is a form of craft that requires time, patience and technical knowhow.

The most interesting thing is the fact that used and old bags with peeling leather skin can be transformed into new designs with Ankara, breathing life into them. Recycling these bags with Ankara helps to save people the financial ordeal of purchasing new bags and continual enjoyment of their favourite bags. So, even though fashion in Nigeria and all over the world is dynamic, the Ankara fabric has been able to stand the test of time and has obviously come to stay.

Talking about the future of Ankara, Ephraim who is the CEO of Makadel Arts and Designs says that “Ankara has actually come to stay because people now use it for evening gowns and lots of other things. With the very high qualities available, one is sure of its durability. Recently, an Italian designer did an exhibition and everything he featured was Ankara material. They have seen the potential and the market even more than African who are the owners of the fabric.”

Ankara bag and shoe, products of Makadel Art and Designs

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Tourism

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Zimbabwe hosts African premier business exchange Andrew Iro Okungbowa

H

arare, the capital city of Zimbabwe, will be agog next week as it hosts the travel and tourism world to an exciting and colourful trade exhibition tagged “Sanganani/Hlanganani”, which is billed to hold at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) between October 13 and 18, 2014. Close to 100 trade exhibitors, over 100 host buyers and visitors of all kinds from across the world are expected to converge on the city.

When curtail opens for the three-day exhibition with a colorful opening ceremony, exhibitors and visitors to the event would be pleasantly surprised by what they would be treated to following a revelation by the Chief Executive of Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA), Mr. Karikoga Kaseke, that this year’s event is a departure from what people have been used to as it has be repositioned and enhanced so as to effectively manage and promote the mission of the expo.

Formerly referred to as World Travel and Tourism Africa Fair, it will, beginning from this October’s edition, be known as “Premier Business to Business Exchange,” which according to Kaseke is to meet the ever-changing needs of the dynamic tourism sector. He added that tourism players to the expo should expect a different Sanganai in 2014 with a new look, feel and special emphasis on business.

However, he said the envisaged improvement and changes to the outlook and content of the exhibition would be executed over a two – three – year plan. With this new plan in place, the ZTA boss said, “Sanganai is now moving much more in the direction of travel trade expo global best practices to ensure that the value is around quality engagement, quality of buyers and quality of exhibitors,” adding that “focus is much more on business facilitation, quality of deals and business connections to be made at Sanganai.”

Furthermore, he revealed that the rejuvenated Sanganai will present sufficient value to the tourism trade for it to be highly competitive, facilitate opportunities for exhibitors to find out more about the world’s best travel trade through one – on – one meetings, a highly efficient trading environment that can only be achieved through the founding of an appropriate exhibition facility so as to attract high profile exhibitors.

He also disclosed that the new em-

One of the exhibition pavilions at past expos

Walter-Mzembi, Minister of Tourism and Hospitality

Kasege, ZTA Chief Executive

phasis on online, which now makes it possible for exhibitors to book online, exhibitors and buyers’ calendar provided online to enable appointments made prior to the exhibition opening ,while exhibitors for this year is open to the tourism sector and allied sectors such as ICT, transport, communication and the immediate suppliers of the sector.

The new move, he said is towards custom made exhibition stands in an effort to meet international standards, while exhibitors will be linked to service

providers of customised items. Though the arts and craft exhibitors would be featured because of the attraction for international buyers, however, he revealed that plans are underway to host a separate Zimbabwean Arts and Craft Expo in partnership with the National Art Gallery of Zimbabwe and National Arts Council of Zimbabwe.

According to the details on the expo this year, ZTA said it has invited between 100 – 120 hosted and non - hosted buyers to Sanganai 2014 and will be hosted

CATE embarks on Ajah beach Cleanup and Greenup

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ome Saturday October 18, Ajah Beach, Lagos would play host to children and other guests as they converged there for what has been tagged: Let’s cleanup and greenup Ajah Beach,’ a – day’s event by the awarding Children And The Environment (CATE), a Lagos -based Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), which is dedicated to educating and exposing children to environmentally related issues.

The event, according to the coordinator of CATE, Sola Alamutu, is in being organized in conjunction with Waka-about, publishers and promoters of culture and tourism.

It is part of activities marking this year’s World Tourism Day (UNWTO), which was celebrated globally

on September 27. “The aims of the event are to educate participants on the need to help communities keep the beach clean and beautiful and to guard against the negative effects arising from climate change, as well as ensure that these environments are sustainable and continue to serve as places both people and wildlife can use safely, stated Alamutu.

It is billed to last for about three hours and would feature about 60 children and adults in groups of 1520, cleaning portions of ‘Okun Ajah’, the local name for the chosen beach.

This will climax with a green talk and green dance to liven things up, along with serving of green refreshments, which gives participants time to get to know one another, while

they snack up.

The event is supported by Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Kids Clean Club, Committee for Relevant Art (CORA) and TeamDynamix. Alamutu, an author, further stated that “it is organised as part of the Let’s Do It! and Cleanup the World initiatives to rid the world of illegal trash. The slogan of the event is, ‘Stage A Rebellion Against Trash Raise Your Voice, Not The Sea Level!’

CATE is said to have organised its first-ever green trip and beach cleanup on same date in 2008 to mark the World Environment Day and World Tourism Day, at Akodo Beach, Epe, Lagos. Since then, CATE has organised several cleanups in and around Lagos State.

on pre – and post Sanganai tours, while matchmaking will be introduced to ensure the most appropriate meetings for buyers and exhibitors, making optimal use of their time.

Other features include a buyer deal zone that will be put in place to enable buyers and exhibitors to conclude discussions initiated during the match making meetings; an exhibitor zone, which will allow exhibitors to the latest travel trends and should be the prime centre for information sharing and a state of the art media centre in conjunction with Zimtravel, a renowned tourism publication run by Zimpapers, which will allow the media work freely.

Also sharing his thought on the repositioning effort by ZTA, the country’s Deputy Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, General Walter Kanhanga, said the expo is not only devoted to positioning Zimbabwe rightly in the international community but Africa as a region as well as the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC). He stressed that regional cooperation and unity are key to developing the continent even as he pledged the commitment of his ministry to this task using the expo as a base.

“Negative Perceptions about destinations are better tackled when neighbouring destinations stand unified. My Ministry is committed in engaging our counterparts in the region, as we seek to grow Africa as an accessible destination.

The new thrust of Sanganai/Hlanganani has provided a platform for regional captains of the industry to find ways of fostering regional packages,” he said.

To achieve the new mandate of reaching the world and attracting quality exhibitors and buyers to the exhibition, the minister emphasised on the need to source for adequate fund that would enable the construction of a befitting venue for the expo. Also, he disclosed that current efforts by the ministry in engaging with government of source markets through the appointment and deployment of tourism attaches and public relations whose clear mandate is to court and establish mutually benefiting rapport with and attracting key buyers to the expo, which hopefully, he concluded would be a huge success as it opens in the coming days.

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

‘Think before applying for Gulder Ultimate search’ 26

Metro FM defies rain for maiden Beach Fiesta

26 housemates battle for $300,000 in 63 days

26

27

25

Entertainment e-Force will force pirates

‘I don’t indulge in revealing boobs’

out of job, says Fajobi

F

ast rising actress, Oma Nnadi who has been holidaying in New York, USA, for some weeks now, went down memory lane during the week, revealing how a man who once broke her heart later came back to propose to her.

Nnadi who shot herself into limelight after starring in films such as “ “World of Lust”, “Delicate World and Nowadays” and “Illuminati” also explained why she doesn’t flaunt her boobs indiscriminately, declaring that she’s reserving herself for her man.

Oma is one of the fast rising actresses in Nollywood who has refused to be influenced by the lifestyles of her colleagues in the industry. Ever since she debuted in Nollywood about 12 years ago, Oma has maintained a low profile, not because she wanted to.

“There are things that do not agree with the way one is brought up.

Everything has to do with your background.

I was brought up in a way that I didn’t need to be loud or to seek attention. You have to let your work speak for you.

Genuinely, acting has always been my passion.

Fajobi in blue shirt with stakeholders at the eForce launch in Lagos

Stories by SOny neme

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he pains of music, movies and newspapers as well as books distribution are at hand if the words of e-Force owners are anything to go by. To match words with action, eForce Entertainment Company, a New Mega Distribution Platform is set to provide easy access to entertainment and creative works.

This is coming after much anticipated preparations as a team of dynamic and very creative Nigerian entertainment stakeholders officially launched a mega distribution platform eForce Entertainment to the general public. It includes selling audio CD, DVD, Nollywood movies in DVD, decoders and tickets to events, as well as newspapers, books and other entertainment products to consumers across Nigeria.

While unveiling the outifit last week to the media, the

sony neme

Editor, entertainment sony.neme@newtelegraphonline.com

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

CEO, Sola Fajobi, said, “e-Force Entertainment Company is a hi-tech entertainment brand offering music production, movie production and distribution, as well as promotions, artiste management and war against the dreaded piracy. eForce Entertainment according to Fajobi, one of Nigerias very best creative entrepreneur and movie promoter, was established to help our artistes realize and promote their God given talents and also reap the fruits of their labour.

Fajobi said, “With a population of over 160million people, how can a good Nollywood movie not sell more than 50,000 Copies? Aside Piracy, the major challenge facing the creative works industry in Nigeria is an effective distribution model that allows access the original works of their favourite artistes within week one of release.”

He further stressed that, “Our goal therefore is to ensure that we create the best distribution system that will fill this gap, deliver quality content to people at their touch-points at the best rate and thereby gradually reduce the motivation for pirates.”

Further on this new development, the Executive Director, Business Development, Mr Biodun Awoyale, emphasized that the channel through which many promoters disburse products is one of the major reasons

for effective distributions.

He assures that, “Here at eForce Entertainment, our distribution channels is like no other with 20,000 E-Force outlets. Our retail partners that sell and merchandise our stocks will be located in 5,000 outlets new are launching this year” to underscore their seriousness 25,000 mobile sales force team that is made up of young people who understand their local areas will take the stocks around to their customers at home or work place.

Furthermore, he said, “500 Activation Team Members, ATM, with 20 branded buses with several Activation and Sales Promoters, ASP, takes new stock to High Human Traffic Points and promotes it for people to be the first to buy and experience the works. Another sales point are the Hubs. Here the e-Force Mega DVD Stores in each state capital, starting with five in Lagos and five at other southwest states. Imagine a whole building filled with DVD’s and selling wholesale and retail with Mini Hubs in every town serving its people with 20 Minivans and 40 Motorcycles”.

On his part, the Executive Director, Partnership, Fidelis Ducker, who also outlined the major challenges as they see it as; “Effective distribution CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

With a population of over 160million people, how can a good Nollywood movie not sell more than 50,000 Copies?

Nnadi

I have always loved to act. And I’m not into acting because I want to be famous. No, I am into acting because I have a strong passion for it,” she further explained.

For her, “If it’s about exposing your boobs, I don’t indulge in such things. I like to cover up a lot. If I’m playing a role where I’m required to put on a bikini, I would prefer to get into the pool with my towel before doing so. I like to cover my body. I think every woman’s body should be preserved. Let your man be the one that will see your nakedness and not the whole world.

I am old enough to take my decisions. But I have decided not to expose my body indiscriminately.”

Nnadi who shared this childhood experience online with the media, said her simple and innocence was taken for granted by her childhood lover. As a result she vowed not to be fooled the second time.

Hear her: “I was naive while l growing up.

It got into me then, because I was very young.

It happened that the guy I was dating then, whom I thought I was going to CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

26

Entertainment

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

‘Think before applying for Gulder Ultimate Search’

Stories by Sony Neme

T

hose wishing to compete for future Gulder Ultimate Search, GUS, have been warned to have a rethink, as feelers from the jungle among competitors are not pleasant tunes. The irony of GUS is that while so many are ruing not being part of the show, one of the contestants, Chinedu Ubachukwu, in the 11th edition of Africa’s first and longest running reality TV show, has advised friends and family members to have a rethink on the programme.

The University of Port Harcourt graduate of Petroleum and Gas Engineering said staying in the jungle could be very harsh and unpleasant, adding that he would discourage loved ones from competing on the show.

Chinedu, who belongs to the Orange team said: “To be sincere with you, if I leave here, I won’t advise a loved one to come here in the jungle, because it is really tough.”

Ironically, Chinedu who had dreamt of being in the jungle said minutes before entering the Aguleri fores: “Gulder Ultimate Search is the first reality show I grew up watching and I have always admired the partic-

Gulder Ultimate Search contestants at Aguleri jungle 2

ipants and I have always imagined myself in the jungle. I’m so happy and feel so fortunate to have made the last 14 this year.”

For another contestant, Otto Canon, who got into GUS after four unsuccessful attempts, “There’s so much difference between watching Gulder Ultimate Search on TV and experiencing it in reality. When you watch it on television, you really cannot tell what it

The jungle is a place that humbles you and kills your pride

Tiwa, others celebrate Krane’s Enterkraner Shola Adefuwa

T

alented Afro- pop and Fuji, Dammy Krane has launched his first album ‘The Enterkraner’ under the record label of Hypertek Digital and 960 music group, at Raphsody’s Victoria Island, Lagos, penultimate week.

The event, which was hosted

by Moet & Chandon champagne with a long list of celebrities in attendance, had Mr. Audu Maikori, Tee-Y Mix, Tiwa Savage, Pasuma, DJ Jimmy Jatt, DJ Spinall, Lynxxx, Praiz, Olisa Adibua and others were in attendance.

Dammy Krane, often referred to as the major exponent of “21st Century Fuji”, has with his brand of music helped add diversity to the Nigerian music landscape since bursting on the scene with infectious and celebratory anthems such as Amin, My Dear, In case of Incasity featuring Davido, and Ligali featuring Pasuma and many other great songs.

An apparently overwhelmed thank his producer, Spellz, for producing amazing hit songs on the Enterkraner album. “May God continue to enlarge our coast, he enthused.

“The Enterkraner” has been hailed by music critics for its distinctive sound and style that

Dammy Kraine

at times takes listeners back to the late 1980’s experimental Fuji music scene.

She further said, “To me, Dammy Krane is not an artiste, but an entertainer; and he has further established it in this album EnterKraner, telling you he is just entertaining you”.

The glitzy intimate event was the third installment in the 2014 Moët Rosé Nights series. Earlier this year, the series hosted fellow label-mate and music icon, 2Face Idibia during his ‘Ascension’ release party where he was presented with a crystallized 3L Jerobaom of Moet Nectar Rose

by Brand Manager, Ann Ogunsulire.

is like. I have come to appreciate food so much that the least piece of rice or garri means so much to me. At home, I don’t eat left over garri, but now, I don’t care. At home, I’m very conscious of the water I drink. I will rinse the tumbler, because I am particular about the tumbler being clean. But now, I am very comfortable drinking water from the stream. The jungle is a place that humbles you

and kills your pride.”

Sharon Robinson who finally got in after failing twice challenged anyone who thinks that GUSh is easy to fill in the form and try next year. Her words: “Life in the jungle has been a stark contrast to the luxuries of city life, which the contestants are used to.

The 14 contestants have had to depend on rain and stream water to quench their thirst, even

after grueling games.

Their sleep has been cut short when it rains, because the palm fronds which serve as the roof of their huts sometimes fails to provide them the needed cover.

The contestants have had to depend on palm kernels and ‘baby’sugarcane which sprout from the grounds not too far from their jungle abode.

For the first time in the annals of GUS, contestants were paired into groups of two members each. They were asked to pick up circular objects from a calabash and the two that picked the same colour formed a clan.

There were seven colours in all – representing the colours of the rainbow.

They were also instructed to wear colour-matching bandanas provided for them at all times.

Gulder Ultimate Search 11 is currently aired everyday on African Magic World (DSTV), Real -Stars (Star Times), Minaj TV Obosi (Terrestrial), Ebony Life TV (DSTV), Galaxy TV (Lagos, Ibadan and Ondo), Hip TV (DSTV & GoTV), Nigezie (Star Times) and WapTV (Star Times) from 10pm to 11pm; and on the AIT Network (Terrestrial) from 10:30pm to 11:30pm.

Metro FM defies rain for maiden Beach Fiesta

M

etro 97.7FM literally relocated to the oceans lounge of Elegushi private beach for the maiden edition of Metro beach fiesta. The groove, which took place penultimate week, saw staff of the urban station, some of their listeners and music artistes defying a downpour to give themselves the best of entertainment.

According to the General Manager of the Ikoyi-Lagos based station, Miss Cordelia Okpei, who led her management team and staff of the station to the seaside, the fiesta was for staff to recreate themselves in an ambience devoid of the usual studio setting while celebrating Nigeria at 54. Okpei, who stated that the event, which will become an annual affair, equally added that the forum provided a veritable platform for the youth friendly station to interact with listeners on how best to meet their entertaining needs. for her it meets with a time tested adage that says, ‘all work and no play makes jack a dull boy’ Her words: “The Metro Beach Fiesta, which equally

Fans and families with Metro fm’s gm Codelia Okpei(in yellow top) celebrate with Metro Beach Party Cake.

served as an activation for the station provided an enabling environment for Metro FM to showcase our On-Air Personalities, OAPs, and also enjoy good performances from music artistes that are friends to the station.”

Some of the artists that made the event memorable with their performances were sensational ‘Johnny’ crooner, Yemi Alade, Harmony and Eclipse, as well as Ned and Honey.

Metro FM’s OAP’s

present include Cordelia Okpei who anchors the morning breakfast show -AM Lagos alongside Micheal Diali and Ife Ajagbe. Others present were Fred Nwaulune, the main anchor of the grassroots programme I beg Una; Tolu Stevens, the presenter of ‘From the closet’; Rex Okiche and Valerie Okiche, both presenters of ‘Electric Rush’ segment as well as Moses Humphrey, the presenter of Cruize Control, amongst others.

Entertainment 27

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

CinemaWatch (Radio/TV/Events Guide) OCT. 10 — OCT. 16 Highlights

Two new channels for Dstv Premium

Voting information

V

oting opened immediately after the launch show and runs until next Sunday morning. The more you vote for your favourite nominated housemate, the better their chance of staying in the house and being named as the winner. There are four ways to vote for your favourite housemate each week:

SMS Voting

To vote via SMS: Text the keyword ‘Vote’, followed by the name of the housemate to the short code number for your country. For example SMS “Vote Uti” to 22626.

SMS’s are charged as applicable per specific network tariff. VAS rates apply. Free minutes do not apply. Please note that you can vote 100 times by SMS per mobile number during each voting period.

The SMS numbers for each country are: Nigeria Operator

Tariff

Short Code

MTN

N 75

34350

Globacom

N 75

34350

Starcomms

N 75

34350

Etisalat

N 75

34350

WeChat Voting Voting on WeChat is free. To vote via WeChat on your mobile phone, go to your app store and download the WeChat app. Create your profile, then search for BigBrotherAfrica and add the account. You can then start voting on WeChat, up to 100 times per mobile phone number during a valid voting period.

Cross section of guests at the official launch of Big Brother HotShot

D

Stv audiences will this month be exposed to two new high-end television channels that will hit the screens in the next two weeks.

These additions to DStv’s Premium package will be called M-Net Edge (113) and VUZU AMP (114).

Switched-on, trendy viewers who currently enjoy VUZU, will be able to dive into the coolness and amplified experience of VUZU AMP for the first time on Tuesday 13 October at 17:00 CAT. Channel 114 on DStv will be the home of this amplified VUZU

channel featuring local and international content in HD, M-Net and Multichoice said in a statement.

According to the statement, on Tuesday October 20, at 19:00 CAT, M-Net Edge will officially launch on channel 102, as the though-provoking and more irreverent home to award-winning television.

“It will be a companion to flagship channel M-Net 101, known for its blockbuster and Hot off the Heels series.

Due to the age restrictions linked to the programming on M-Net Edge, the channel will be on air for eleven hours

‘I don’t indulge in revealing boobs’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

spend the rest of my life with, was married.”v Somebody broke the sad news to me that he actually travelled out of the country to marry his girlfriend who was based abroad.”

Nnadi said when she heard the news as she was enjoying the relationship; she broke down for nearly two years.

“Later, he returned to me, attempting to lie.

But I wouldn’t give him a second chance as I picked the broken pieces of my life and moved on. That happened when I was in year one in the university. But I am wiser now. I hardly give my all in a relationship again.

Recently, he came back again, but I wouldn’t be fooled the second time.”

The Imo State born actress said, she believes in constant communication with her man, as a way of checking her weakness in a relationship.

Her words: “If I am dating you and you don’t communicate frequently with me, it not only makes me to feel bad, it equally makes me to withdraw from you. But some girls don’t care. May be, it is because I am not the kind of lady that dates two men at the same time. So, if I’m dating a guy, I give my all in the relationship. I want a situation where I can always pick up my phone and put a call to my man at all times”.

only - from 18:00 CAT in the evening until 05:00 CAT the next morning.”

The M-Net Edge line-up will feature acclaimed “cultcraze series from Hollywood – the kind of risqué shows you would prefer not to watch with the entire family. On the October schedule, for example, you will find the eagerly awaited Emmy award-winning comedy-drama Orange is the New Black. Among the other big attractions are the brand new series Masters of Sex and Satisfaction, as well

Website and mobile site voting Voting on the website and on the mobile site is free and you are allowed to vote 100 times per cellphone number on the website and again 100 times per cellphone number on the mobile site during a valid voting period.

Visit www.bigbrotherafrica.com for more information and for the terms and conditions.

GOtv

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28 A scene from Broken Angel

Telemundo Broken Angel Monday, 13 October, Santiago and Santa spend the night at the Robledo cabin. Humberto tries to demand explanations from Santa about where she was the night before.

Channel ED Cruise ship down: Saving Concordia On January 13, 2012, the largest passenger shipwreck in history occurred when the Costa Concordia struck a submerged rock off Italy’s Tuscan coast. Once a floating pleasure palace, the half-sunken ship spent the next two years as a grisly tourist attraction. Witness the monumental engineering challenge as 24 nations come together to explore the ship from her rocky grave. On Channel ED on October 13 at 8pm The lost wave: An African

surf story Surf historian, explorer and filmmaker Sam George, pro surfers Holly Beck and Joe Curren travel to Sao Tomé in West Africa, a place with a tortured past of slavery and colonial abandonment to unravel the mystery of the villagers who ride the waves on a tiny islet off the coast on finless wooden boards. On Channel ED on October 15 at 8pm Disney Junior On Sunday, October 12 we have one of Disney’s best- loved characters, the delicate and delightful Bambi, who returns to the big screen in this charming animated sequel Bambi II. Join Bambi as he reunites with his father, the Great Prince, who must now raise the young fawn and teach him the ways of the of the forest.

28

Entertainment

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Africa 2.0, ONE partner AFRIMA Stories by Sony Neme

D

ays after unveiling the list of Nominees for their maiden music awards, All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA, has announced its partnership with two campaign organisations, Africa 2.0 and ONE Org. Both establishments are known for working towards eradication of poverty and corruption in Africa and develop positive networks of forward-thinking people.

In a statement made available by Project Director, Adenrele Niyi to New Telegraph, ONE Africa Executive Director, Dr. Sipho Moyo, reported stated that they have seen how powerful music can be in galvanising people around an issue.

As a result, “ONE worked closely this year with a number of the AFRIMA nominees to record a song about the importance of agriculture to Africa’s future. 19 African musicians who are presently using their voices to inspire more than two million Africans, to take real action, is just one of many reasons we should be celebrating African music”.

In a related development, Chairman and Founder of Africa 2.0 Foundation, Mamadou Toure, states that Africa 2.0 is proud to be partner with AFRIMA, which share a common vision. Toure stated that, “Africa 2.0 and AFRIMA are emblematic of the new African Continent, which is to rebrand the face of Afri-

Sipho

ca, because Africa is at a tipping point.’ He further said that the momentum gained, when effectively utilised, will create a virtuous cycle of growth and enlightenment for all of Africa. For him, “This partnership signifies part of our vision in creating a Global movement that celebrates and endorses the best Africa has to offer”.

An apparently happy President/Executive Producer, AFRIMA, Mike Dada , said, “This partnership with ONE and Africa 2.0 is an indication that Africa is on the brink of greatness and will truly rise again with this kind of collaborations that are geared towards raising the consciousness of hope, possibilities and re-positioning of Africa through the instrumentality of advocacy, music and social responsibility.”

He further stated that AFRIMA as a platform for commu-

New channels for Dstv Premium

nicating the strength of Africa for global competitiveness, is glad to have ONE and Africa 2.0 on board.

Co-founded by musician, philanthropist and businessman Bono, ONE is an international campaigning and advocacy organisation of nearly six million people taking action to end extreme poverty and preventable disease, particularly in Africa -because the facts show extreme poverty has already been cut in half and can be virtually eliminated by 2030, but only if African nations act with urgency now.

ONE raises public awareness and work with political leaders to combat AIDS and preventable diseases, increase investments in agriculture and nutrition, and demand greater transparency so governments are accountable to their citizens. ONE’s work is strictly politically non-partisan. Visit www.one.org to learn more Africa 2.0 on the other hand is a Pan-African Civil Society Organisation that consists of 500 young emerging leaders from across the continent and diaspora, with 29 chapters, 23 of them being in Africa.

Africa 2.0 is more of a community than a network, of like-minded, critical thinkers that share a collective vision for Africa and a commitment to finding and implementing sustainable solutions that will in turn leapfrog the development of the continent. Africa 2.0 provides a platform that enables change makers a common African promise.

Gogowe rocks with Stand Up Nigeria

CO NTINUED FROM PAG E 27

as new seasons of The Americans, Defiance and American Horror Story”.

VUZU AMP will kick off its mission to be the antidote to average with The Flash, which means that the channel will boast “Express from the US” titles. The show will premiere in the US on 7 October and will make its debut shortly thereafter on VUZU Amp. Already earning a huge amount of attention in global TV-land, The Flash is based on the DC Comics character Flash, a costumed superhero crimefighter - and is a spin-off of Arrow.

At the time of its launch VUZU AMP will also host many season premieres of hugely popular television series, among them The Vampire Diaries, Devious Maids, Brooklyn NineNine, So You Think You Can Dance and Pretty Little Liars.

To make way for these two unprecedented channels, the current M-Net Series Showcase and M-Net Series Reality channels on DStv Premium will discontinue. Instead, the content from these channels will be found on M-Net Edge (channel 113) or VUZU AMP (channel 114).

Gogowe

T

alented young Nigerian artiste, Gogowe, has released a new single titled Stand Up Nigeria to commemorate the 54th independence of the country.

The song comes with the infusion of different Nigerian ethnic languages in the highly infectious chorus.

It does cut across all tribes and it there can’t be a better time or tune to celebrate the country’s independence anniversary.

The new single was produced by fast rising producer, Bvybes while ace cinematographer, Clarence Peters interpreted the song with a very entertaining video shot at Idanre Hills in Ondo State.

Gogowe, a gifted singer, energetic dancer and song writer started singing at the age of seven. Her outspokenness is masked by her gentle and reserved identity. On stage, her dance steps are electrifying as she is a strong wave of fresh air. Gogowe’s music style is versatile and highly infectious. She is signed on to Gogowe Music and managed by List Entertainment.

onye Onye

This partnership signifies part of our vision in creating a Global movement that celebrates and endorses the best Africa has to offer

LYRICS for the week

— Waje ft Tiwa Savage

INTRO: (Instrumental) Oh oh Oh…..

Na na VERSE 1: See as I dey here My body dey sweet me The love wey you dey give me Dey make me dey kolo Oh make this promise You’ll never leave me The love wey you give me pass silver or gold CHORUS: Baby I no go lie No I’m not feeling no other guy See as your loving dey make me feel Me I will love you endlessly Baby I no go lie No I’m not feeling no other guy See as your loving dey make me feel Me I will love you endlessly My baby fine… Onye Ogorogonogo… Onye My baby sharp… Onye I love oh I love oh I love this baby My baby fine… Onye Ogorogonogo… Onye My baby sharp… Onye I love oh I love oh I love this baby Oooo Ooooo Oooo Chai ai Oooo Ooooo Oooo Chai ai VERSE 2: Oh my baby my honey No need to spend money I’m willing to follow you home… today Cause the way you dey do me My body is feeling I need you my baby Dont stay e e (stay away) CHORUS: Baby I no go lie No I’m not feeling no other

guy See as your loving dey make me feel Me I will love you endlessly Baby I no go lie No I’m not feeling no other guy See as your loving dey make me feel Me I will love you endlessly My baby fine… Onye Ogorogonogo… Onye My baby sharp… Onye See I love oh I love oh I love this baby My baby fine… Onye Ogorogonogo… Onye My baby sharp… Onye I love oh I love oh I love this baby (I love you baby) Oooo (I Love you baby) Ooooo Oooo Chai ai Oooo Ooooo Oooo Chai ai My baby fine… Onye Ogorogonogo… Onye My baby sharp… Onye I love oh I love oh I love this baby My baby fine… Onye Ogorogonogo… ( Chai ai ) Onye My baby sharp… Onye I love oh I love oh I love this baby Baby fine… Onye Ogorogonogo… (Chai ai ) Onye My baby sharp… Onye I love oh I love oh I love this baby My baby fine… Onye Ogorogonogo… (Chai ai ) Onye My baby sharp… Onye I love oh I love oh I love this baby OUTRO: W.A.J.E. Waje…

Yeah…

Its Tiwa Savage… yeah Its spellz Oh oh oh

Lyrics, Compiled by Shola Adefuwa

e-Force tackles piracy CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

framework that enables interested buyers get easy access to latest and original Nollywood movies at the right price and at their convenience.

With good quality content, very well promoted to the target audience using all relevant media touch points, we won’t get

it wrong”.

For him, “We love to go straight to the point. We are simply a distribution and logistics company that connects entertainment, literary and creative works to Nigerians nationwide at their touch points. In one year, we aim to become the biggest entertainment works distribution company in Nigeria.”

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

Pension

29

Agric

PenCom: DG’s confirmation expected to stir more robust initiatives

Agro export: Transforming entrepreneurs’ standard of living

Irrigation to boost rice, sugarcane farming in Kwara, Kogi

Nigeria faces 1.9m metric tonnes fish shortage

31

33

34

35

Business What's news

Nigeria targets 15% ICT contribution to GDP Nigeria is optimistic that its Information and Communication Technology (ICT) industry will contribute additional seven per cent point to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2016.

p.30

India crashes rice price to control Nigerian market India has crashed the price of its basmati and non-basmati rice as competition between Thailand and Vietnam get tougher.

p.30

The Business Desk

Ayodele Aminu l Deputy Editor (Business)

Simeon Ogoegbulem l Dep. Business Editor

Bayo Akomolafe l Asst. Editor (Maritime)

Sunday Ojeme l Asst. Editor (Insurance)

Godson Ikoro l Asst. Editor (Money Market)

Dayo Ayeyemi l Property Editor

Adeola Yusuf l Energy Editor

Wole Shadare l Aviation Editor

Chris Ugwu l Capital Market Editor Abdulwahab Isa l Finance Editor Kunle Azeez l Senior Correspondent Chuks Onuanyin l Energy Nnamdi Amadi l Reporter Johnson Adebayo l AsstProduction Editor

Poor telecoms services cost subscribers N750m yearly IRONY

Telecom services degenerate despite increase capacity

• Services worsen amid capacity glut

Kunle Azeez

Q

uality of services on telecoms networks in Nigeria is degenerating again despite the avalanche of installed capacity on service providers’ networks, New Telegraph’s investigation has revealed.

This is coming as telecoms subscribers are said to be losing a whopping N750 million annually to intermittent service disruptions such as call-drops, unfair billings and charges on Value Added Service (VAS) not subscribed to, among others.

It was learnt that the total installed capacity, which is a function of network expansion investment by telecoms operators, has surpassed the actual connected telephone lines on the networks.

Latest official industry data obtained from the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) shows that telecoms firms, including the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), the Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) and fixed wired/wireless networks currently have in excess of 248.3 million telephone lines installed capacity on their networks.

However, only about 170 million lines are connected, leaving 78.3 million lines capacity free, a development analysts say should have guaranteed ‘seamless and unhindered’ network service delivery to

L-R: Assistant Product Manager, TV Demand Planning, LG Electronics West Africa operations, Mr Antonius Min; Marketing Manager, Home Entertainment Division, Mr Paul Mba and General Manager, Home Entertainment Division, Mr Steve Ryu, during the LG TV Compare Marketing Roadshow in Lagos

Nigerians.

Of the 170 million telephone lines connected on the networks, 130.7 million phone lines are active, leaving 39.4 million telephone lines connected but inactive, according

the NCC data.

Meanwhile, telecoms subscribers, under the aegis of National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS) have lamented what they described as the “lingering and declining

quality of service” on mobile networks in the past few weeks.

President, NATCONS, Chief Deolu Ogunbanjo told New Telegraph in a telephone CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

Experts differ on privatisation of airports Wole Shadare

E

xperts have expressed divergent views over plans by the Federal Government to privatise some of the nation’s airports.

Director-General, Bureau of Public Enterprise, Mr Benjamin Dikki, had, last week in Abuja, said that the privatisation of federal airports would commence soon.

Dikki disclosed this in his

presentation on “Reforms and privatisation opportunities in Nigeria” at the on-going 9th Abuja International Trade Fair.

He said that although the Federal Government had made substantial investment in the aviation sector, a lot still remained to be done, adding that it was the reason why government was considering privatising the airports. “We are planning to commence the

privatisation of airports; the airports will be more efficient if the private sector is running them.

“Very soon, we will engage the minister of aviation and we will start a new process of privatising or concession of airports just like we have done with the seaports.

The disclosure has however brought to the fore the inconCONTINUED ON PAGE 30

Rates Dashboard INFLATION RATE August 2014............................8.5% July 2014.................................8.3% May 2014.................................8.2%

LENDING RATE InterBank Rate . . . . . . . . . . . 11.57% Prime Lending Rate. . . . . . 16.93% Maximum Lending Rate. .25.83%

EXCHANGE RATE

EXCHANGE RATE

USD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N156.75 Pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N254.68 Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N198.08

USD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N169 Pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N280 Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N222

(Parellel As at Oct 3)

l Foreign Reserves – $39.47bn as at 2/10/2014

Source: CBN

(Official As at Oct 3)

30

Business | News

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Nigeria targets 15% ICT contribution to GDP OPTIMISM

Agency raises the hope to boost ICT contribution by seven per cent points in three years Kunle Azeez

N

igeria is optimistic that its Infor mation and Communication Technology (ICT) industry will contribute additional seven per cent point to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2016.

New Telegraph gathered that Nigeria’s ICT industry currently contributes about eight per cent to the national GDP with 30 per cent year-onyear growth.

But speaking ahead of the 2014 Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX) in Dubai, United Arab Emirate (UAE), Director General of Nigeria’s National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA, Mr Peter Jack, said that the country was keen on achieving the 15 per cent contribution target.

As the country’s agency responsible for ICT policy formulation and implementation under the Ministry of Communication Technology, Jack said that NITDA was committed to ensur-

ing ICT contribution to Nigeria’s GDP increases to 15 per cent within three years.

Jack stated that NITDA has a national ICT Strategic plan with a time line of 2010-2015, whose implementation will help in advancing the auspicious target.

He said the implementation of the plan in sectors such as education, agriculture, health, human capital development, governance, judiciary and national security, has propelled the level of development in the ICT sector in Nigeria.

He added that the impact of the plan and its implementation will be measured and reviewed by next year.

“The vision of the national broadband plan is for Nigeria to be one of a society of connected communities with high speed internet and broadband access that facilitates faster socio-economic advancement of the nation and its people,” he said.

“The Federal Government is promoting the expansion of cable landing points to other coastal states and to the inter-land.

“Also, fibre Optic Backbone infrastructure is now available in all the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory but mostly concentrated in state capitals and a few urban centres.

“We shall collaborate with all stakeholders including foreign investors to deliver 30 per cent mo-

bile broadband penetration by 2018 and an open access shared infrastructure environment.

“A highpoint of the Broadband Plan is the SMART cities initiative. Five pilot States in the federation are in the first

phase of the project and have fully committed to ICT infrastructure deployment in their states,” he said.

L-R: Head, Department of Accounting, Babcock Business School, Prof. Ishola Akintoye; former President, Institute of Director (IoD), Chief Emmanuel Ijewere and President, Society of Women Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Mrs Onome Olaolu, during a pre-congress seminar on Rome 2014 World Congress of Accountants by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) in Lagos . PHOTO:GODWIN IREKHE

India crashes rice price to control Nigerian market PRICE WAR

Rice traders in stiff competition to export to Nigeria Bayo Akomolafe

I

ndia has crashed the price of its basmati and non-basmati rice as competition between Thailand and Vietnam get tougher.

Thailand was pushed off the top spot in 2012, with the Indian Govern-

ment rapidly releasing more of its own rice for export.

But early this week, Thailand, in a drastic move to the top in the global market soften the price of its rice to around $450 a ton, comparable to India and Vietnam.

However, India on Wednesday reduced white rice export price category to between $360 and $370 per ton.

The country’s parboiled non-basmati rice was quoted at $400 per ton last week, which

was more than the rate in Thailand, giving it an edge in the African market.

It was revealed that surplus rice stockpiles in the country and improved methods of production have helped to position India competitively in the global rice market.

According to the Managing Director of Pattabhi Agro Foods, the country’s biggest exporter of non-basmati rice, BV Krishna Rao, “basmati and non-basmati rice exports would be between

10 and 11 million tons in 2015.”

Also, Indian trade analyst, Tejinder Narang said: “Ahead of the 2015 general elections in Nigeria, government is expected to import huge quantities of rice to distribute to domestic consumers as a populist measure. Indian traders are set to gain.

“Consumers and exporters will have a lot to cheer about. Prices of rice, including basmati, will fall considerably, which will boost exports.”

subscriber base, wondering why subscribers were still facing declining service quality, given the ample free space on telecoms networks.

“Well, from my understanding, I think when one looks at the NCC statistics; one will see that there is an irony in it. For instance, if I have a room that can contain

10 people and only about six people are currently living in that room, do you think there will be suffocation and congestion?

“Same thing with what we have on the network: since installed capacity is more than the actual connected phone lines on the networks, subscribers automati-

cally expect that there should be no challenges to poor services,” he said.

Another subscriber, Mr Adewumi Abiodun and a businessman lamented the unsatisfactory service delivery, saying it is now making it difficult for subscribers to get ‘value for their money.’

Nigeria exports $800m hides, skin to Italy yearly Poor telecoms services cost subscribers N750m yearly Dele Alao

C

hief Executive Officer, Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mr Segun Awolowo, has disclosed that the country realises not less than $800 million (N129.60 billion) yearly from hides and skin being exported to Italy.

The bulk of the exported products are from Kano State.

He noted that hides and skin business was still booming despite the security challenges in the North-East geopolitical zone of the country, adding that the Council was collaborating with other stakeholders to make meaningful contributions toward reviving the agriculture and industrial sectors in the northern part of the country.

He said: “Mr President had initiated collaborative ventures to reawaken the dead industry in that region.

Government is working toward sustaining the collaborative ventures because most of our agricultural products are from that region; if you talk about sesame seeds, it is from that region; if you talk about ginger, it is from that area.

“Efforts must be made to get the industries in that region running; we need to build the clusters we require for the industry to thrive.

“Many of the hides and skin clusters are in Kano; we are exporting more than 800 million dollars worth of hides and skin to Italy yearly from Kano alone. You can imagine what it means in terms of trade,” he added.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29

interview that “ordinarily, the gap between the installed capacity and the actual connected telephone lines should translate into improved quality of services.”

However, he said that the gap has not translated into quality of service for the growing telecoms

Experts differ on privatisation of airports CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29

sistency in government’s policy on what to do with the airports which have been described as unviable with the exception of Lagos, Abuja, Port-Harcourt and Kano airports.

Government had discarded the policy of privatisation and went for remodeling, indicating that it wanted to manage the aerodromes.

A former Director of Engineering with the defunct Nigeria Airways, Godwin Jibodu, said that the action of government was good, adding that government cannot manage the airports because of bureaucracy, lack of accountability, lack of effective management and the non-challant attitude towards government property.

He however noted that

government needs to decide between commercialisation and privatisation, hinting that government could run the airports on commercial basis by putting the right person in the right position, proper management and control finances.

To make it work, he counseled that government should not be allowed to have more than 20 per cent equity, so as

not to have controlling shares.

According to him, “workers should be given five per cent and safeguard the interest of the company and 75 per cent to private ownership with regards to the airports. The security personnel should be properly trained as recommended by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).”

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

Eight Premium Pension offices receive PenCom approval p.32

31

Pension

Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers launches customers email data p.32

PenCom: DG’s confirmation expected to stir more robust initiatives TRANSFORMATION

The fears expressed by stakeholders in the pension industry in the last two years have been doused by major positive reforms

Sunday Ojeme

T

wo years after being in charge at the National Pension Commission in an acting capacity, the Director-General, Chinelo Ahonu-Amazu, was finally confirmed as the substantive boss of the pension regulatory agency by the Senate about a week ago.

Ahonu-Amazu, who represents south east at the commission, had been in acting capacity since December 2012 when the tenure of the former Director-General, Mohammed Ahmad, ended.

During her confirmation, Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, who presided over the plenary, charged her to bring transformation to the pension industry to ensure that pensioners were paid their entitlement as at when due.

The commission, under her watch in the last two years, initiated some notable reforms that have not only sustained the Contributory Pension Scheme but also ensured that it is running according to the dictates of the law setting up.

Unfolding development at the commission since she took charge suggests that she has not only handled the sensitive regulatory body with utmost caution but has also learnt through the ropes while discharging her duties.

Ultimately, the initial fears expressed by stakeholders at the initial stage of her appointment have been doused over time due to her ability to discharge the duties expected of her according to the law setting up the commission.

The fact that she has not been enmeshed in any form of controversy with any of the fund managers has been made possible by the law setting up the scheme as well as the meticulous disposition of the Pension Fund Administrators who are strictly playing by the rules.

It will be recalled that apart from some major strides that

occurred while acting, it was within the period that the president eventually signed the new Pension Reform Act 2014 into law after series of debates on it by both arms of the National Assembly.

Amazu has often recalled that one of the salient objectives of the Pension Reform Act (PRA) is that every person who worked in either the Public or Private sector of the federation as well as the Federal Capital Territory received his retirement benefits as at when due.

She is also quick at making reference to Section 15 of the PRA that empowers the Commission to regulate, supervise and ensure effective administration of pension matters in Nigeria.

One of the major programmes she also initiated was the sensitisation of retirees done with the belief that there is a clear imperative for the Commission to facilitate adequate sensitisation and public enlightenment in order to create awareness on retirees’ rights and privileges.

The reason for this was the Commission’s project to establish uniform set of rules, regulations and standards for the administration and payments of retirement benefits to retirees.

“The interaction with retirees across the country is to serve as a platform for the Commission to engage all existing retirees under the CPS in order to get feedback on their pension issues in retirement with a view to seeking ways of making life more comfortable for them within the ambit of the law,” she said.

Apart from using the workshop to cement the relationship between the commission and retirees, the campaign was also meant to further convince the state governments on the need to commence fully implementation of the scheme in their various states.

Fully aware of the need to follow up closely on activities in the pension industry, she has also amplified the need for regular trainings for pension operators, retirees as well as other stakeholders.

The training and sensitisation processes have also been imbibed by the Pension Fund Administrators who have been going across the country meeting with workers and retirees in a bid to inculcate the benefits of the CPS into them.

Officially, the pension operator now reckons with the quar-

Ahonu-Amazu

It will be recalled that apart from some major strides that occurred while acting, it was within the period that the president eventually signed the new Pension Reform Act 2014 into law

terly meet with the commission where issues that might hinder the smooth running of the scheme are easily resolved between the regulator, pension operators and head of human resources.

Barely two months after the new Pension Reform Act 2014 was signed into law, the operators and heads of human resources got engaged in a process to evaluate training programmes that concern the scheme.

The quarterly meeting is sequel to the commission’s resolve to ensure that the operators take the training of their workers seriously.

New Telegraph recalls that the pension regulator issued a circular last year, pointing out that the need for operators to make adequate investment in the training of its employees was of paramount importance to the Commission especially at this stage of the development of the Contributory Pension Scheme where issues of service delivery have become a major focus/concern in the pension industry.

According to the circular, “There is also the need to ensure that adequate measures have been put in place in terms of training to guarantee smooth succession es-

pecially during senior level exit from the business thus contributing to safe guarding the sustainability as well as to bridge skills gap in the pension industry.”

PenCom believes that operators should ensure that sufficient budgetary allocation is set aside for training yearly, as investment in proper training at all levels can only benefit the industry as a whole for as long as the organisation is in business.

Specifically, the Conference for Directors of Pension Operators in Nigeria is another training process through which the regulator keeps the directors abreast of developments in the industry.

On their part, members of the Pension Fund Operators Association of Nigeria (PenOp) said a minimum of five per cent of their cost was spent on training of staff to boost productivity.

The Managing Director, Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers, Dr Demola Sogunle, said operators generally treated the issue of staff training with paramount importance, with the PFAs making good investment in staff training to ensure they are equipped for improved performance.

To make the system more effective and to forestall fraud, PenCom, under her watch, also directed PFAs, Closed Pension Fund Administrators (CPFAs) and Pension Fund Custodians (PFCs) to stop engaging contract staff to perform pension administrative functions in their respective organisations.

The regulator has given the operators six months grace period ending February 20, 2015 to comply with the directive.

The commission believes the use of contract workers to man key positions has led to an increase in the number of fraud cases in the industry.

Within the two years that she acted, organisers of the World Pension Summit also found it worthwhile to host one their meeting here in Nigeria despite threat of pervading insecurity, a pointer to the fact that the scheme in Nigeria has been globally endorsed.

To also prove her mettle that she would not be there watching things go wrong and as signal to would be trouble makers, Ahonu-Amazu recently took on the nation’s top petroleum agency, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation by suspending its licence over some discrepancies noticed in its CPFA operations.

32

Business | Pension

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Eight Premium Pension offices receive PenCom approval EXPANSION

The establishment of more branch network will discourage use of proxies in pension fund administration and also take the administrator closer to retirees

Wednesday said the new offices represented a significant improvement on the initial pension centers that were established at the commencement of the new contributory pension scheme.

Commenting on the development, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer,

Premium Pension, Mr. Wilson Ideva, said, “We are highly appreciative of PenCom’s approval of our new offices and several of their other actions supportive of industry growth.

“The pension industry is driven by cutting edge technology, but at the same time you cannot render pension

fund administration by proxy or through agents. There is need for physical presence of operators across the country to ensure uncompromised rendition of quality service and bolster the confidence of Nigerians in the contributory pension scheme. ” Ideva noted that the sus-

Sunday Ojeme

P

remium Pension Limited, one of the Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) in the country, has got approval from the pension industry regulator, National Pension Commission (PenCom), for its regional, zonal and branch offices located in Minna, Bauchi, Yola, Kaduna, Port Harcourt, Ibadan, Kano and Calabar.

The company, headquartered in Abuja, has offices spread across the country as it has always striven to remain ubiquitous.

A statement on

L-R: Chief Financial Officer, Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), operator of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2), Lagos, Mr. Olusola Olayinka; Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Christophe Penninck; Area Manager, South-West Africa, International Air Transport Association (IATA), Mr. Samson Fatokun and IATA’s External Instructor, Mr. Hatem Ibrahim, at the training workshop organised by IATA for officials of BASL in Lagos.

Pensioners warned over loophole on inheritance tax

M

illions of savers could miss out on the chance to pass on their nest egg tax-free simply because they have failed to tick a box on a pension form.

Last week, it was revealed that a 55 per cent tax on pension funds passed on to relatives as an inheritance was going to be axed.

From next April, anyone who has not touched their savings will be able to leave them as an inheritance.

But experts are concerned that many who hope to leave their retirement pots to a loved one may find it instead falls under inheritance tax rules - and so incurs a 40 per cent charge.

This is because they failed to fill in a form stating their wishes when they took out the pension. As a result, the pension may be paid out to their estate, rather to an individual.

Once this happens, the pension - which is normally exempt from inheritance tax - will

suddenly be charged the death duty.

Inheritance tax is paid on 40 per cent on any assets over £325,000 for individuals and £650,000 for couples.

Head of Financial Planning at Hargreaves Lansdown, an investment company, Danny Cox, says, “It is absolutely vital to state who you want your pension to go to when you die.

“That means filling in the nomination form when you take out your pension. Otherwise on your death the money could end up being paid into your estate and your family could have to pay inheritance tax on it.”

Technically, pensions are exempt from inheritance tax. But few people pass them on because money left after a saver’s death is subject to a punitive 55 per cent charge.

The only exceptions are if the person receiving the cash is the saver’s husband or wife or a dependent child aged 23 or under.

tained increase in branch network is in line with the company’s mission of achieving superior customer satisfaction in active life and retirement through best practice.

He said, “We are positioning the company to play a key role in the anticipated further growth in the industry consequent upon the enactment of the Pension Reform Act, 2014.

“The new law has slightly raised the employer and employee contributions in the scheme and also now covers the informal sector.

“All these amendments to the law are geared towards ensuring that workers are guaranteed comfort during retirement” continued Ideva. “I have said it repeatedly that the contributory pension scheme is one government policy that has yielded enormous fruits. All the complaints about pension have been from those involved in the old defined benefit scheme. The new scheme, to a great extent has met the expectations of all stakeholders.”

Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers launches customers email data

I

n a bid to foster seamless interface with its customers in a safe and effective manner, Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers Limited has launched a customer email data collection exercise in which customers are required to provide their email accounts for easier dissemination of information.

The PFA, which has over one million retirement savings accounts (RSA) holders under its administration, is currently running a complementary campaign showcasing multiple service channels through which both existing and potential customers can reach it.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Chief Executive Officer of the company, Dr. Demola Sogunle, said that the prioritisation of emails for communication with customers had become imperative as delivering hard copies of RSA statements and other correspondence are increasingly challenging due to several factors.

Among these, he stated, included change of postal address, telephone number, marital status and name or relocation to far-flung areas

where communication by other channels is difficult.

“Over the last couple of years, we have identified email as a channel by which we can get information across to our clients in an efficient and safe manner. Obtaining up-to-date information on clients, via email, is also much faster. Our target is to have the email mandates and valid email addresses of almost all our clients on our database before the end of 2014,” Sogunle said.

The campaign, he said, would run on major media platforms in order to ensure the message reaches the entire spectrum of the PFA’s clientele. He said that the accompanying customer bio-data update, which is the first in the series the PFA is embarking upon, would be periodic and intended as best practice.

The exercise, according to Sogunle, will be as simple as possible, hassle-free and at no cost to the customers. The company’s email account - pensionsolution@stanbicibtc.com - is available for uploading such email details from customers while Stan-

bic IBTC Pension Managers staff will respond within hours. The information received from every customer will be handled confidentially, he said.

“The main aim of this exercise is basically customer satisfaction and as Nigeria’s leading PFA renowned for its impeccable quality service delivery, amongst other qualities, we intend to uphold and guide this reputation most earnestly,” added Sogunle.

Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers Limited, he said, would continue to set ever higher standards of service delivery and ensure that its customers derive maximum value from their investments as well as help them retire into a period of relative comfort and peace after their working lives.

“Currently, Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers is in every state of Nigeria, and we are still expanding our service channels which will enhance the convenience and ease with which Nigerians, regardless of their location, access our services,” Sogunle stated.

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

33

Agric

Cocoa: Doubt over 500,000mt 2015 output target p.34

Govt approves new fertiliser input p.35

Agro export: Transforming entrepreneurs’ standard of living Stakeholders in agricultural sub-sector of Nigeria’s economy have urged more Nigerians to take advantage of the enormous potentials in agro export writes DELE ALAO

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gricultural produce export has been identified as a major boost to the Nigerian economy.

At a recent workshop in Lagos, stakeholders in the sector agreed that the country should encourage her citizens to take advantage of the rich potentials in exporting agricultural products to other countries especially Europe and America.

An agro exporter and Chief Executive, Frijay Consult Inc, Jeriedayaro Uwheraka, who began her exports business in 2005, with smoked fish production, narrated how she has turned vegetable export into a multi-million naira business.

Transformation According to her, in Lagos alone, vegetables and other agro exports have transformed the standard of living of many entrepreneurs who depend on staple crops for food and income.

Uwheraka who added that vegetables and horticultural production is cumbersome, especially when done for the export market, noted that every week, tonnes of vegetables are dispatched for export to Europe and the United States.

According to farmers at the workshop, the profits from the exports have helped them to solve their financial needs.

The Technical Adviser, Operations (Value Chain) Office of the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs Toyin Adetunji, who was also at the workshop, said that the market opportunities offered farmers by the European and United States buyers are some of the most financially attractive but most exacting. However, to access the opportunity requires compliance with a strict regulatory framework of measures designed to ensure human and plant health. The measures, she noted, goes beyond the international requirements set under the sanitary phytosanitary and technical barriers to trade agreements.

She lamented that many farmers are ill equipped to take advantage of the opportunities provided

Exportable seeds

by export trade. These include weak infrastructure, lack of capacity and the inability to meet technical product specifications and stringent requirements in terms of quality, safety, health and the environment. These impede their integration into global markets.

Mrs Adetunji noted that with the globalisation of production, supply and retailer chains, ensuring the safety and quality of agro produce is vital.

“Recent health concerns arising from bovine diseases, bird flu and various toxins entering the food chain, have led to stringent standards and conformity procedures, particularly in the area of agro-food exports,” she said.

Standardisation She added that farmers and agro exporters need to enhance compliance with technical standards to heighten consumer confidence and gain access to regional and global value chains.

Mrs Adetunji also said that while farmers have shown increasing interest in exploring opportunities in the export markets, it is important they are encouraged to deepen their understanding of issues that characterise specific market demands.

She said that exporters have very specific quality requirements for crops variety and so farmers need to work hard to meet international expectations.

Also, the Programme Manager,

Lagos State Agricultural Development Authority, organizers of the workshop, Mr Kayode Ashafa, said that agro-exports is an industry that if well-developed could transform the livelihoods of rural populace in Lagos.

Domestic challenges for producers include insufficient infrastructure from roads to collection centres, to packing houses and insufficient access to finance. The main difficulties lie with the quality and scarcity of inputs, post-harvest techniques, and pest control, with fruit fly control requiring effective regional cooperation

Kenya as case study Making Kenya a point of reference, Ashafa said. Kenyan vegetables and horticultural exports are cited as a success story in African agriculture when Nigerian farmers can do better.

“With the natural potential of the land to support cultivation of exportable fruit and vegetable, Nigerians can do better,” he said.

He added that in Kenya, vegetables and horticulture export is a big business with produce transported overnight in aircraft to reach Europe in the morning.

The Kenya’s feat, he noted, was a product of coordination, discipline, productivity and manual labour, which make the country horticulture competitive in global markets.

But Ashafa believes that Nigeria has an advantage because fruits and vegetables can be grown on a wide range of different types of conditions, from small farms with less than two hectares using family labour to large-scale commercial farms with over 100 hectares and advanced technology.

Ashafa, who noted that the number of smallholders producing for export is relatively small,

said that the state is willing and ready to support more farmers to explore the European markets.

He added that Lagos State has a strong long-term interest in ensuring that agro exporters meet international standards by playing a pivotal role in supporting the growth of the export industry and enabling local companies and producing households to sell the ever-increasing volumes of agro exports abroad.

Meanwhile, Mrs Adetunji has said that developing business in agro commodities represents great potential for growth and employment. While the challenge according to her, however, lies in effective and efficient exporting to the right markets.

She said challenges are principally operational and practical.

“The importers want produce delivered in the agreed quality, quantity and price, on time, and to the agreed destination. These requirements have become more complex for producers and exporters over time and they now face additional criteria.”

“Domestic challenges for producers include insufficient infrastructure from roads to collection centres, to packing houses and insufficient access to finance.

The main difficulties lie with the quality and scarcity of inputs, post-harvest techniques, and pest control, with fruit fly control requiring effective regional cooperation,” she added.

34

Business | Agric

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Cocoa: Doubt over 500,000mt 2015 output target UNCERTAINTY Nigeria may not achieve the 500,000 metric tons of cocoa ahead of 2015

Stories by Dele Alao

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he country’s plan of doubling its cocoa output from its current 250,000 to 500,000 metric tonnes by 2015 may be a mirage after all, the Chief Executive, Centre for Cocoa Initiative, Mr Robo Adhuze, has said.

Adhuze, said this might not be unconnected with the inability of farmers to receive enough higher-yielding seeds, low level of rejuvenation of old farms and poor improvements in agricultural practices.

Though heavy rainfall and poor sunshine have been reported across cocoa-growing

region of the country, Adhuze, said that this may not affect farmers.

He, however, said that lack of enough inputs to boost local production is a major concern.

Checks revealed that farmers are getting increasingly worried about bean quality and black pod disease in the wake of heavy rains.

Besides preventing mould, sunny weather is also needed for bigger bean size.

Farmgate prices in Cross Rivers has fallen around eight per cent to 440,000 naira ($2,700) per tonne compared with 480,000 naira at the end of July due to mould with levels as high as 18-21 per cent, compared with the three per cent that is considered acceptable. The Cross River region produces about 75,000 tons of cocoa annually, out of a national output of 300,000 tonnes.

The Cocoa Association of Nigeria noted that farmers

had put off the harvest to September and that heavy rains had brought fungal black pod disease because farmers were unable to spray their pods.

The International Cocoa Organisation has estimated the 2013/14 crop at 250,000 tonnes.

Cocoa exports from Nigeria rose 41 per cent to 8,990 tons in July compared with a month earlier, the nation’s Federal Produce Inspection Service, which certifies exports noted.

The Cocoa Research Institute (CRI) said that the nation is on track to increase cocoa output to 500,000 tonnes next year after distribution of new, higher-yielding seeds, rejuvenation of old farms and improvements in agricultural practices.

In 2012, government announced plans to double output by 2015 from 250,000 tonnes in an effort to diversify exports from oil.

Irrigation to boost rice, sugarcane farming in Kwara, Kogi EFFORT Authority makes moves to improve on rice, sugarcane

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s part of efforts to boost rice and sugar production in the country, the Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority (LNRBDA), is set to irrigate 10,000 hectares in Kwara and Kogi states.

Managing Director, LNRBDA, Mr Niyi Afolayan, who stated this in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, said that the $30 million contract for the irrigation project had been awarded and would also cover 3,800 hectares at Tada/Shonga.

According to him, when completed, the Tada/Shonga

Surface irrigation

irrigation project would produce enough rice to feed the nation.

Afolayan said that Kampe dam between Kabba and Lokoja would irrigate 4,200 hectares for rice and sugar cultivation He added that the Dangote Group had indicated interest in investing in irrigation around Kampe dam, noting that the land was suitable for sugar cane cultivation.

Afolayan, who said that the authority had embarked on the irrigation of 500 hectares in the area, added that corporate farmers had signified interest in cultivating land around Kampe dam.

Afolayan said Landmark University in Omu-Aran, had applied for 1,000 hectares and another 1,000 hectares for its graduate farmers who are interested in fish farming.

Bagged cocoa

250 plant breeders explore African crops POTENTIAL Researchers take steps to unravel hidden nutrition values in African crops

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o fewer than 250 plant breeders from different African countries are currently at the newly opened African Plant Breeding Academy in Nairobi, Kenya to examine the nutritional and productivity levels of about 100 African crops.

Upon completion of the project, which is set to last five years, these breeders will be able to advise smallholder farmers in their respective countries on the crops with high yields and nutrition.

An assistant professor at the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences at the University of California–Davis, US, Howard-Yana Shapiro, said crop yields and nutrition are boosted when farmers cultivate the right crops which is involved in this project.

“What we are trying to do is help correct the lack of nu-

tritional content in many indigenous African food crops,” he said.

Under the umbrella of the African Orphan Crops Consortium (AOCC), the University of California is collaborating with the African Union through the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD), the International Livestock Research Institute, the World Agroforestry Centre and others to implement this high-tech initiative.

The consortium launched the plant-breeding academy, the first of its kind in Africa, last December.

One of the trainees and also a senior lecturer in the Department of Plant Science and Biotechnology at the University of Nigeria, Ngozi Abu, emphasises that African researchers should take the lead in research on African crops.

“Only African scientists or those working in Africa know the desires of African farmers and consumers,” she said.

Ms Abu believes that African crops such as “cocoyam and plantains could become the nutritious crops of the world tomorrow.”

An assistant director general at the World Agroforestry Centre, Margaret Kroma, said that “the 250 plant breeders will use new equipment and techniques to ‘genetically sequence, assemble and annotate the genomes’ of the hundred African crops,” Also throwing his weight behind the academy, the head of the NEPAD, Ibrahim Mayaki, said: “Malnutrition is a direct product of food insecurity.

A large number of Africans suffer deficiencies of micronutrients such as minerals, iron and vitamin A, with devastating effect on the population.”

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), malnutrition is responsible for more than half of child deaths in developing countries.

One of the first crops to be examined is the baobab. The fruit can be made into a powder for consumer products.

Agricultural scientists refer to the baobab as a “wonder tree” because it has 10 times the antioxidants of oranges, twice the calcium of spinach, three times the vitamin C of oranges and four times the potassium of bananas.

Business | Agric

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

INADEQUATE Fish supply from local production falls short of expectation Stories by Dele Alao

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fisheries officer in the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Jona Dabit, has said that Nigeria’s fish production is deficient by about 1.9 million metric tonnes.

Dabit stated this in Lagos during a presentation at a two-day national workshop on “economic transformation through agriculture.”

The workshop was jointly organised by the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) and ICBS Consult.

According to Dabit, “out of Nigeria’s present fish de-

35

Nigeria faces 1.9m metric tonnes fish shortage mand of about 2.7 million metric tonnes, the country is being faced with a deficiency of about 1.9 million metric tonnes. The country has so far been able to satisfy only 800 metric tonnes of the people’s fish need. This is why we have continued to waste a lot of money on the importation of fish.

Dabit urged fish farmers to redouble their investment in fish production and advised others to join the business.

The fisheries expert who said that there were huge economic opportunities in fish farming that Nigerians were

yet to explore urged farmers to visit states’ department of fisheries for technical and financial assistance that would boost the production.

“We should all develop interest in fish farming to become economically stable as well as produce enough fish for our consumption and export.

“We cannot continue to import fish from other countries when we have the natural and human resources to produce more than enough fish in this country.

“Nigerians need to know that fish farming is very cheap, interesting and rewarding to

operate,’’ he said.

On his part, the Director General, NIIA, Prof. Bola Akinterinwa, advised Nigerians to create spaces in their compounds and offices for fish production.

Akinterinwa said that the business of fish production should be that of all Nigerians.

“Because of the increasing Nigerians’ demand for fish, we should all in our little ways be involved in fish farming.

We can set up fishponds in our compounds and available spaces in our offices. This way, we can contribute to Nigeria fish needs,’’ he said.

Kwara youths trained in agribusiness

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Bags of fertilizers

Govt approves new fertiliser input ADDED VALUE FG offers opportunity to use a new variant of fertilizer for improved crop yield

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he Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has approved the introduction of Urea Super Granule (USG) fertilizers as one of the agroinputs to be distributed under the Growth Enhancement Support (GES) scheme.

The Communications Coordinator, the International Fertilizer Distribution Centre (IFDC), Mrs Feyikemi Adurogbanga, said that the new fertilizer input will be distributed in Kano, Kebbi, Jigawa, Niger, and Sokoto states on a pilot base.

She said that the technology which is mainly practiced under irrigated system enables

farmers to minimize production costs, use less quantity of fertilizer, increase yield and reduce runoff and volatility rate of urea.

The urea briquettes are produced using briquetting machines. USAID-MARKETS II project is partnering with the Federal Government to increase awareness and develop a robust market demand for the UDP technology amongst smallholder farmers.

She said: “The USG fertilizer is a component of the Urea Deep Placement (UDP) technology introduced in Nigeria by IFDC. The United States Agency of International Development (USAID USAID-Markets II, maximising agricultural revenue in key Enterprises and Targeted Sites II (Markets II) project is currently promoting it. The UDP technology is a one-time application of urea (briquettes) 5-7cm deep into the soil in between four transplanted rice stands.”

According to Mrs Adurogbanga, since the inception of the project in 2012, about 200,000 farmers have been trained on the UDP technology.

She added that the partnership will cause an increase in farmers trained because targeted farmers will receive training from USAID-MARKETS II project in the various redemption centres across the five states.

Director of the Federal Fertilizer Department, the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr Akinbolawa Osho, explained that the introduction of the input into GES will increase the robustness of the scheme as well as develop a new input supply chain that will create jobs for various actors.

“Each Farmer will receive 40kg of USG fertilizers; in addition to two 50kg bags of NPK and improved seeds during the upcoming dry season GES at an approved subsidy rate,” Osho said.

n a bid to shore-up participation of youths in agriculture, the Federal Government recently organized an intensive agribusiness-training workshop for over 150 youths from 16 local government areas in Kwara State.

The 21-day workshop tagged: “Linking women and youths for sustainable green development and income generation through agric business” was organised by the Islamic Green Club Empowerment Initiative in collaboration with the office of the Special Assistant to the President on Ethics and Values, Dr. Sarah Jibril.

The program, which was designed to expose participants to the rudiments of various agricultural ventures, drive self-sustenance and enhance food security in Nigeria, was executed with support from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Ministry of Agriculture and the National Directorate of Employment.

Featuring trainings in poultry, fishery, snail rearing, fish smoking, grass cutter rearing, sheep and goat rearing, the workshop sparked in the participants an interest for agriculture as they were able to see the profitability and in-

come generating capacity of agriculture via agribusiness.

The Program Coordinator, Dr. Abdulrahman Badiru, said that the assemblage of participants included unemployed graduates, post graduate diploma and master degree holders.

Expressing his joy over the success of the program and the enthusiasm displayed by the participants, Dr. Badiru urged the beneficiaries to pursue the available opportunities in agriculture for self-employment through the skills acquired.

Kwara State Governor, Abdulfatah Ahmed

States urged to copy FG’s agric projects

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raditional rulers have urged state governments to replicate Federal Government’s Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA) in their various states to enhance productivity.

General Secretary of the royal fathers, Prof. Laz Ekwueme, said in a communiqué that the call was made at their just concluded seventh National Development Summit.

He stressed the need for state governments to modernise the agriculture sector, adding that the summit also urged state governments to transform the sector to be-

come lucrative and dignifying to encourage Nigerian youths to participate in it.

The monarchs, he said, also urged state governments to step up efforts at improving infrastructure for effective transformation of the sector.

These, according to him, include the provision of functional agro-storage and processing facilities as well as access to energy.

Ekwueme further said that the monarchs advocated the need to promote mandatory programmes on entrepreneurship in tertiary institutions to boost economic growth and development.

36

Business | Agric

RESEARCH New study reveals how to naturally make corn kernels have Provitamin A Stories by Dele Alao

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urdue researchers have identified a set of genes that can be used to naturally boost the provitamin A content of corn kernels, a finding that could help combat vitamin A deficiency in developing countries and macular degeneration in the elderly.

Professor of agronomy, Torbert Rocheford and fellow researchers found gene variations that can be selected to change nutritionally poor white corn into bio-fortified orange corn with high levels of provitamin A carotenoids - substances that the human body can convert into vitamin A. Vitamin A plays key roles in eye health and the immune system, as well as in the synthesis of certain hormones.

“This study gives us the genetic blueprint to quickly and cost-effectively convert white or yellow corn to orange corn that is rich in carotenoids - and

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

‘Natural gene selection can produce orange, corn with pro-vitamin A’ we can do so using natural plant breeding methods, not transgenics,” said Rocheford, the Patterson Endowed Chair of Translational Genomics for Crop Improvement.

Vitamin A deficiency causes blindness in 250,000 to 500,000 children every year, half of whom die within a year of losing their eyesight, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The problem most severely affects children in sub-Saharan Africa, an area in which white corn, which has minimal amounts of provitamin A carotenoids, is a dietary mainstay.

Rocheford said: “Insufficient carotenoids may also contribute to macular degeneration in the elderly, a leading cause of blindness in older populations in Europe and the U.S. Identifying the genes that determine carotenoid levels in corn kernels will help plant breeders develop novel bio-fortifed corn varieties for Africa and the U.S. The dark orange

tire corn genome to stretches of DNA surrounding small sets of genes. They uncovered four genes that had not previously been linked to carotenoid levels in corn kernels.

Though many genes likely contribute to carotenoid levels in corn, “we’re pretty confident that our previous and current research has now identified several genes that are the major players,” Rocheford said.

The study found that a combination of visually selecting corn with darker orange kernels and using a number of these favourable genes could be an effective way to rapidly convert white and yellow corn varieties to orange corn with higher levels of provitamin A and total carotenoids.

colour of these corn varieties also makes them more culturally acceptable to consumers in African countries where yellow corn is generally fed only to animals.”

Previous research by Rocheford and his colleagues identified two genes that contribute to provitamin A carotenoid levels in corn kernels, but “we wanted more cookies in the jar for breeders to pick from,” he said.

The researchers used a combination of statistical analysis and prediction models to identify and assess the potential usefulness of genes associated with carotenoid levels in corn.

They evaluated data sets from about 200 genetically diverse lines of corn at varying scopes of investigation - from the en-

Ministers meet to discuss role of commodity markets

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irector General, Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), José Graziano da Silva, has said that governments ought to review the way international agricultural commodity markets are governed.

The director-general, who said this at a meeting with ministers from around the world, noted that commodity markets caught global attention due to volatile food prices in the past five years.

While prices are currently declining, Graziano da Silva, noted that underlying issues lurk in market institutions largely forged in the 1970s.

Enormous changes since then, in production and distribution fronts, “have had far-reaching implications not only for how international commodity markets work but also for food security, property rights and

access to productive resources, and the position of smallholder commodity producers,” he said in opening remarks at FAO’s third ministerial meeting on international agricultural commodity market governance.

FAO has piloted the idea of creating inclusive “multistakeholder for a” involving all stakeholders in a particular commodity market: government, private sector producers and traders, consumers and non-governmental organizations. It also hosts the Agricultural Market Information System (AMIS), an earlywarning monitoring service that allows for coordinated response in times of stress, such as the 2012 droughts in North America and the Black Sea region.

“We need more,” Graziano da Silva said.

Seed certification, quality control training holds in Zaria

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ith a focus on consolidating the achievements of the Federal Government’s Agriculture Transformation Agenda (ATA), a three-day training on seed certification and quality control has been held at the Institute of Agricultural Research (IAR), Zaria.

The training, which was facilitated by the Federal Government, had in attendance members of the NYSC, internal quality control and seed production officers of seed companies as participants.

Speaking at the training, the

Acting Director-General, National Agriculture Seed Council (NASC), Dr. Philips Olusegun- Ojo, said that the intention of the Federal Government was to reach 20 million farmers in 2015 with fertilizers for the farming season.

He said that the enormous success achieved with the reach of over 90 per cent of ATA registered farmers through the 2014 Growth Enhancement Support (GES) has driven countries like China, Brazil, Kenya and Tanzania to come borrow a leaf from Nigeria.

White corn

Agricultural Commodity Prices - Grains Commodity Wheat Dec 14 Corn Dec 14 Soybeans Nov 14 Soybean Meal Dec 14

Units USd/bu.

507-2 USd/bu.

340-0 USd/bu.

939-0 USd/lb.

312.3

Price 421.25 511-6 329.50 342-4 1,144.50 949-6 38.93 314.8

Change -4.00 502-0 +5.50 337-4 -12.75 926-4 -0.22 307.1

% Change -0.94% 508-4 +1.70% 342-2 -1.10% 932-2 -0.56% 309.0

Contract Dec 14 +2-2 Dec 14 +1-6 Nov 14 -8-4 Dec 14 -3.6

Time(ET) 14:02:10 12:13 14:01:49 12:13 14:01:50 12:14 14:02:17 12:13

Units USD/mt 65.29 USd/lb.

143.40 USd/lb.

215.20 USD/tbf 16.97 USD/gal.

Price 3,119.00 65.29 17.80 143.95 72.88 221.40 334.20 16.99 2.03

Change -8.00 64.30 -0.21 142.60 -0.63 211.00 -1.60 16.70 -0.02

% Change -0.26% 64.90 -1.17% 143.10 -0.86% 216.10 -0.48% 16.92s -1.12%

Contract Sep 14 -0.31 Oct 14 +0.05 Dec 14 -0.25 Sep 14 -0.11 Aug 14

Time(ET) 13:30:00 12:12 13:03:54 12:13 14:02:18 12:13 14:02:17 10/08/14 13:39:23

Units 241.900 165.750 94.225

Price 242.675 167.250 96.000

Change 240.750 165.500 93.900

% Change 241.600 165.700 95.575

Contract +0.125 -0.075 +1.225

Time(ET) 12:08 12:13 12:13

Softs Commodity Cotton #2 Dec 14 Orange Juice Nov 14 Coffee Dec 14 Sugar #11 Mar 15 Cocoa

Meats Commodity Live Cattle Oct 14 Feeder Cattle

Commodities trade on different exchanges with different trading sessions. Change always shows from the previous close price.

Quotes delayed, except where indicated otherwise. All prices in local currency. Time is ET. Source: Bloomberg

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

37

Auto Beat

Toyota unveils Land Cruiser 70 pick up Paul Ogbuokiri

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ere is good news for the light trucks segment of the Nigerian auto market: Toyota LandCruiser 70 midi pick-up, a reputable member of the LC70 series respected in the Middle-East and North Africa for accomplishing daunting on-the-job tasks and defying off-road challenges, has driven in.

The development was announced last week by Toyota Nigeria Limited (TNL) at its head office in Lekki, Lagos. Represented by the Dealer Development Manager, Andrew Ajuyah; the Advert and PR Manager, Mrs. Bukky Ogunnusi; the Marketing

Manager, Bayo Olawoyin; and his deputy, Gerald Nzeh, TNL management said it is targeting the Armed Forces, law enforcement agencies, construction companies and all those seeking the right pick-up to do difficult tasks.

An introductory statement issued on the vehicle read in part: “When we least expect it, we are posed with challenges that test our willingness and courage to clench greatness. Challenges do not wait, and life does not look back, only the brave are celebrated.

Imagine the distance between where you are and your destiny is laced with deep bumps, heavy rocks, and extremely slimy swamps?

“Would you have a vehicle rugged

enough to take on any and every terrain, or would you run away from destiny? The difference between you and the most famous heroes is the “drive”. Is your drive as resilient as LandCruiser 70?

“From an ancestry of greatness, LandCruiser 70 “Pickup” does well inheriting the famed ancestry of ruggedness and strength of the Land Cruiser Series. LC70 is a classic gift of innovation to mankind in an age heightened adventure, amplified productivity and boundless possibilities,” the staqtement signed by Bukky Ogunnusi said.

The market will be glad to know that without major alterations to the basic structure of the traditional LandCruiser,

many small details that pioneered the path to modernization were added to the pick-up, thereby making it comfortable, yet rugged.

At the showroom on the ground floor of the Toyota edifice in Lekki, where LC 70 is on display, the vehicle looked confident, wearing a typical Toyota façade, and “built in steel to foster greater safety and protection for you.“ Salient aspects of the LandCruiser 70 specifications include a maximum speed of 165km/h and an unbelievable 4.0 litre, V6 Turbo petrol engine which delivers an awesome 170kw power whilst offering an impressive fuel economy with tank capacity of 130 litres.

Described as the toughest, strongest and smartest work vehicle ever built, LC70, according to Olawoyin, is not just a workhorse. “It is an inspiration. It inspires you to brave up and face the task that you must do. It’s versatility, dependability, toughness and extraordinary stamina makes it reliable for whatever adventure or task”.

Already, the new hard work vehicle is featuring prominently in the Lagos showrooms of Toyota’s eight dealers, including Globe Motors and Kojo Motors..

A visit to Kojo Motors, one of Toyota’s front-running dealers, showed that LC70 has started attracting attention. Confirming the rising interest of buyers in the new light truck at the showroom in the Alaka area of Surulere, Lagos, Kojo Motors National Sales/Marketing Manager, Chino Ogwumike, said the vehicle is particularly liked by buyers who want the extra capabilities ordinary pick-ups do not possess.

Ogwumike predicted a bright future for the vehicle in the Nigerian market.

Debutants rub shoulders with Big Boys at Abuja Motor Fair

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s preparations for the hosting of the premium auto show in Nigeria gets to an advanced stage, the platform of the event has been described as a litmus test to the shape of things in the industry with the current paradigm shift in the sector.

Chairman of the Organising Committee, Mr. Ifeanyichukw Agwu said on Tuesday.

He said, “the automobile is undoubtedly the primary yardstick of success for any auto exhibition. This means auto enterprises showcasing at any exhibition must ensure visibility and wholeness/ completeness, not leaving anything to chance.

“The reinvigorated auto policy no doubt caught some stakeholders unprepared, confused and some highly prepared. These various states have caught some on the wrong foot and they needed

to stay afloat and the ready ones; all need to show that they are all ready to play big in the new era. It is this unique opportunity that the 16th Abuja International Motor Fair has been packaged to provide to all the stakeholders. Therefore showcasing amongst others at the event will ultimately show the state of preparedness or otherwise of participants. This does not apply only to the automobile companies but equally to those which services and or products complement the automobiles because the incidence of the policy falls on all of them,” he said.

Agwu in a chat with Motoring Journalists, in Lagos on the level of preparedness by the organizing committee and other stakeholders, said that preparations are in top gear, adding that the 16th edition is loaded with a whole lot of content that is designed to showcase the strength and resilience of the participants as well as

create an educative and fun filled atmosphere for all those that will be visiting the show.

With the theme this year, which promotes the culture and attitude of self- belief and self –confidence, Agwu said aside the known strong brands that will be at the show, a few others will be debuting, thus creating an ambience for the debutants to rub shoulders with the big boys, which will further expose the debutants to the workings of the industry.

He also said that the build up to this event further shows the quality of an international A-level automobile exhibition in many aspects. “One of which is, the high technical content of exhibits which will represent the latest trend and the most advanced level of the world.

Therefore, this exhibition plays a real role of weather vane in the Nigeria and West Africa automobile market.

According to him, this edition will show not only new entrants from the various brands, but also the hot spot products in the market. All the exhibitions focus on displaying the new achievements and new breakthroughs in various aspects, particularly the indigenous ones, her said.

Agwu said that with the reach of the organizers, a high powered delegation from the Federal Government is expected to lead the inspection of automobile brands and the parade of stands. “At least for 16 years, we have been able to create a comprehensive automobile exchange platform drawing global attention. We believe that with high attention from all levels of government leaders, joint efforts of sponsors and organizers, people in all fields, and powerful market and social demands, the Abuja International Motor Show will be better and better in the future,” he said.

38

Feminique

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Osunmakinde: Raising a generation of BABES with defined purpose Being a pastor’s wife is a matter of providence, but being one who makes a difference in the lives of others is a matter of choice.

As the wife of the General Overseer of the Baptizing Church, Omorinola Osunmakinde is a woman of many parts who has chosen to touch the lives of both her flock and others in various ways. EBERE AMEH had a chat with her

W

hile many wait for whatever life will throw at them, a few know exactly what life will throw, and are prepared to catch it and use it to their advantage and that of those around them. Pastor Omorinola Osunmakinde, popularly called PMO or Pastor Morin by her flock and numerous admirers is one of this infinitesimal few. She knew she would marry a pastor and readied her heart for the pastoral knock that would begin a new but expected phase in her life.

“I already had a walk with God ever before I met my husband and I had always known I would marry a pastor. I would say being married to a pastor was part of the process of fulfilling God’s assignment. So for me, Pastor’s wife is not a title, it is an office that comes with a measure of responsibility that I don’t take lightly,” Morin said.

She met her husband, who was the founder of a fellowship she was attending during their undergraduate days at the University of Ibadan, and their love work since then has been amazing, to say the least. “We’ve had no reason to look back,” Morin quipped.

Her husband later founded the Baptizing Church, aka TBC, which she co-oversees with him. Speaking on life as a pastor and pastor’s wife, Morin says it is not a tea party.

“Life as a pastor is a high calling.

You are accountable to God in all things. So it is expedient to stay connected to Him who has called you, be honest to yourself, and to those you are responsible for. As for being a pastor’s wife, it can be demanding and everyone expects so much of you, but I have learned to just be me and love being me all the way.

I must say, with the support of my husband, it has made the job easier.”

The last of three children from Ondo State, Morin was born and raised in Lagos. Though a certified

EBERE AMEH ebere.ameh@newtelegraphonline.com

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

Customer Relationship Manager (CRM), currently managing Epiproactive, a Customer Service Consulting firm, Morin graduated from the University of Ibadan with a B.SC in microbiology 12 years ago.

Not done with customer relations, the vivacious pastor saw a big need to revive marriages, helping them to rev up and enjoy their love lives.

This led to her establishment of the Jazzment company, an uncommon initiative in this part of the world that help to create the right romantic ambiance for all occasions. Many couples are enduring instead of enjoying their marriages and others are still together either because of the children or fear of what the society would say. With the slogan ‘we give you a 1000 ways to say I love you...romance is our nature,’ Morin is set to help Nigerian couples jazz up their love life.

“Jazzment came about as a result of my desire to see couples have a romantic experience. I strongly believe love can be expressed in several ways other than the usual and least of all “sex”. I also believe it’s an area that has been unconsciously neglected, especially by the average African man. They are often clueless as to romantic ideas and that’s where Jazzment comes in.”

Though the business is at its growing stage it is definitely making a mark, carving a niche for itself.

“The most outstanding success is being a part of the romantic story of couples. Although some are still reluctant to explore this new initiative called jazzment. The major challenge would be that many Nigerian couples are yet to cultivate the habit of investing in their relationship. But for the couples that have tried us, their feedbacks are encouraging and we are also leveraging on their referrals.”

Knowing the importance of the woman both in the home, the church and the society at large, and seeing how many of them are missing their destinies, living purposeless lives, Morin thought she should help them redefine their purpose in life. That was how BABES Redefined also known as BR was birthed. BABES, which is an acronym for Beautiful, Adorable, Blessed, Empowered and Saved has become a movement sweeping through Christendom with over 41,000 members on facebook and still counting.

“BABES Redefined, just as the name implies was a major need in the Christendom for women. The vision of the initiative is to address the

wholeness of a woman, and to redefine who a BABES is. Over time women have been shut down, reduced to just another piece of furniture in the home without a voice and without a purpose, safe just making babies and cooking good meals. We are definitely loaded with much more. BABES Redefined is God inspired and designed to reach out to both the Unmarried and the married, to help raise a generation of women with a defined purpose.”

BR had their first physical meeting on May 8 2011.

Among the many benefits members enjoy are biblical guidelines for everyday living, which they receive. In addition, “being in a group of over 41,000 women, or rather, babes from all across the world, diverse professions, experience, exposure, intellectualism provides a wholesome avenue and platform for members to glean from one another and also be encouraged knowing they are not alone in whatever they are going through.”

Morin, who does not plan to go into politics wants to reach as many women and marriages as possible offline, as she knows the major roles women play in every society directly or indirectly, especially in Nigeria. She is however ready to give her best, if called upon for any position that would require her experience and skills.

“I am as much a child of God as I am a Nigerian and Nigeria is my sphere of influence. Women have always been in politics and I sincerely don’t have any problem with that. The most important thing is to get the job done and to get it done well. So if it’s a woman that has what it takes, then I’ll support her all the way.”

Feminique 39

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

Five things your woman wants in bed but can’t say

S

he Loves Sex, But She Is Not A Slut. My dear man, it is natural to love sex. Sex is fun. Everybody should. If you think she does not, you are wrong. If you are right, then she needs to see a qualified sex therapist.

But before you do that, think, the fault might be yours. Yes yours. Most men believe strongly that, only prostitutes enjoy sex. But funny enough, even prostitutes don’t enjoy sex. They only fake it to please you and collect your money. So my dear, it is a right, not a privilege for her to enjoy sex.

Two Minutes Men. Most men are so callous and insensitive. They do not realize that the woman is also a human being. With emotions. Not a sex toy that we can turn on and off as we please. An average woman needs a much longer time. At least 30mins of foreplay for her to enjoy sex. Sadly, most of us fondle the breast roughly for 10 seconds, finger her vagina roughly for another 10 seconds and then plunge into her roughly. Sad but true.

Hard Sex. Most of us believe that the harder and rougher we are, the more our wives and lovers want and appreciate it. This is totally wrong and cruel. It is the direct result of all those porno movies we men love to watch. The truth is this. Most women run away from cruel men. In and out of bed. Do it to her roughly once and she will not give you a second chance.

Why should she, when she has to go to the hospital for treatment after a

Ebere Ameh

M

aybe I should give Biola a nod.

She has been inviting me to an all singles programme. Many people, including Chika are complaining that I keep too much to myself lately.

“You’d become a nervous wreck if you don’t take care. Loosen up and move on,” Chika told me recently.

I can’t remember complaining or asking her for help. Why is she complaining? Chika who is supposed to be my friend, has been avoiding me, ensuring I don’t get close to her house, since my divorce. Yes, I got to know later that she is afraid I may seduce her husband. She said she doesn’t like the way her husband looks at me. Now she is sounding concerned? What’s my business with his pot-bellied husband?

I know there is a need to socialize and forget about my past but where is the time? Work takes the whole of the weekday and I try to catch up with the kids on weekends. Anyway is this New Beginning, as Biola calls it, not going to add another stigma to an already bad situation? Despite calling it a gathering of frustrated ladies, she did not pick offence. She insists I should give it a try. Biola has been single since she lost her husband five years ago. Having to cater for her children all alone took a big toll on her life. Now she is not only more cheerful, her once beautiful face contorted by poverty now radiates.

Could her cheerfulness be as a result of her new found love rather than the singles programme? The Yoruba are liberal when it comes to relationships. They do not suffer stigmatization for being single or flaunting their beaus a few months into their divorce as the Igbo would.

round of sex with you? I call this ‘rape by consent’. But rape is rape. Does any woman enjoy being raped? I know this is true because I have treated so many ladies with sex injuries. Married and single. Cuts and bruises in the vagina and elsewhere from the rough pounding she had to endure from you. But before you crucify me, I quite agree with you that some like it hard and rough.

They are the exceptions, not the rule.

They belong to that class we identify as kinky sex lovers. Whips, torture, anal sex etc. They will be the ones to tell you and ask for it. Don’t assume.

Erogenous Zones. This actually is so important, that it is a sin not to be aware of it. There are some parts of the body in both men and women, that are sensitive. If touched/caressed properly, they are fantastic turn ons.

Such areas in women include, breasts, ears, vagina, clitoris, A-spot, G-spot, nipples etc. Unlike men, each woman has her own special spots. She wants you to touch/fondle/suck them. But unless she belongs to the women’s lib, she will not tell you. You might call her a prostitute.

Oral Sex. Most women enjoy oral sex. Tremendously. But they are afraid of telling you, for the same reason.

Romance. I know I said five, but I could not resist including this. Ladies all over the world are romantic by nature. Yours is not different. Pamper her and you will see fantastic bed results.

See ya.

Ladies all over the world are romantic by nature. Yours is not different.

Pamper her and you will see fantastic bed results.

Dr. Fadeyi

Dr. Taiwo Fadeyi is a Western trained medical practitioner and one of the very few certified Sexologists in Nigeria. He is also a marriage counsellor and would be bringing his immense knowledge and experience to bear in writing this column. Make it a date with him every Friday for that expert advice on sex and relationship.

He can be reached on drtaiwofadeyi@ gmail.com or 08033148899 (sms only)

Ego: Diary of a single mom New beginning

‘I’ll go, but I have to be careful,’ I advised myself.

Chattering and giggling, we went in my car and it turned out it wasn’t just a one off programme, it is an NGO or rather, a movement, a ministry, the best thing that would happen to any single woman in Lagos.

The founder, fondly called Gracious Grace, a young woman in her early forties, is one of those women you see and fall in love with. Beautiful, rich, humble, just name it. ‘How can a man in his right senses divorce

lead as normal a life as the woman next door, helping Angela get custody of her children was another main issue that was robustly discussed. A committee was set up, with lawyers and accountants as members to see how her divorce could be hastened and her under-aged children given to her, pending the decision of the court.

The sense of community and oneness was amazing. I didn’t need a soothsayer to tell me that I was in the right place.

As we drove home, Grace’s voice kept ringing loud in my head - You are as single and normal as the girl next door. Lead a normal life, stop blaming yourself that it was your fault, find love again, if you want, divorce is not the end of the world!’

I cant agree more. I have really been too hard on myself. Mom has told me these over and over again.

Thank God for this New Beginning, I’m beginning to have a rethink.

her,’ I asked myself.

Grace graciously ensured that every newcomer got a hero’ s welcome and it felt so good.

With their brief introductions, I got to know a little about each of them, and the fact that I am not alone. As a matter of fact, I’m much more better off than majority of them.

Outside the rousing welcome of the new members, another major event after the exhortation, which was hinged on the fact that we should accept the reality of our single status and

Grace graciously ensured that every newcomer got a hero’ s welcome and it felt so good. With their brief introductions, I got to know a little about each of them, and the fact that I am not alone.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

40

Islam UNDERSTAND YOUR FAITH

E X H O RTAT I O N

16 DHUL HIJJA, 1435 AH

MURIC demands UN’s probe of $15m seized in South Africa SHAME

Women Performing ‘Eid Prayer at Home QUESTION

Group says it is greatly perturbed by this festival of international embarrassments

ANSWER

Stories by Adeola Yusuf

Can a woman perform ‘Eid Prayer at home?

In his response to your question, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states: ‘Eid Prayer must be performed in congregation. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) ordered women of all ages, including those who were menstruating, to come out for `Eid gathering, even though it is well known that those who are menstruating are not supposed to pray. Therefore, his intention was to stress that no one should be prevented from participating in the joyous experience and celebration of `Eid. Therefore, there is no doubt that women should come out for ‘Eid Prayer to the masjid if it is held in a mosque.

That is the sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). To bar women from praying in the mosque goes directly against the explicit and categorical statement of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), for he said, “Do not bar the maids of Allah from attending mosques of Allah.”

As for `Eid, the Prophet’s ideal practice was to hold the Prayer not inside mosque, but in an open space. He did so in order to facilitate for the largest number of people to attend the `Eid Prayer and listen to the sermon. Thus we read in the authentic report from Umm `Atiyyah (may Allah have mercy on her) that “the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) ordered us to bring out every woman, including those who were menstruating, in order to witness things that are beneficial for them and the mammoth congregation of Muslims.”

In conclusion: You are supposed to pray `Eid Prayer only with the jama`ah (in congregation). You should do so even if it is held in a mosque; however, you should pray only if you are eligible to pray. May Allah bless us all to reap the benefits of `Eid, and may He grant us success and felicity in both worlds. Ameen.

Allah Almighty knows best.

OR DO THEY SAY, “HE (MUHAMMAD) INVENTED IT (QU’RAN)”? SAY, “THEN BRING TEN SURAHS (CHAPTERS) LIKE IT THAT HAVE BEEN INVENTED AND CALL UPON [FOR ASSISTANCE] WHOMEVER YOU CAN BESIDES ALLAH, IF YOU SHOULD BE TRUTHFUL.” QURAN 11: 13

T

he Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has charged the United Nations to investigate Nigeria’s $15 million illegal arms funds seized by South Africa.

The South African Asset Forfeiture Unit of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has allegedly seized another $5.7 million belonging to the Federal Government of Nigeria. It will be recalled that the whopping sum of $9.3 million was seized in the same manner last month in the same country.

The MURIC said in a state-

ment by its Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, that it was greatly perturbed by this “festival of international embarrassments as a result of clandestine misadventures of the Nigerian government.”

The group continued: “We charge the United Nations to institute an international investigation into these cases of money-laundering and illegal arms deals.”

According to the Muslim right group, government has been engaging in this criminal act for long.

“We told Nigerians when the first incident occurred that there was more to it than met the eyes. We have been proved right. With this second international misconduct, we are convinced that our government has been engaging in this criminal act for long.

“We strongly suspect that billions of dollars have been siphoned outside this country

by the powers of today. It cannot be South Africa alone. Fortunes must have been illegally shipped to Eastern Europe, Switzerland and South America. Israel must also have been seen as a safe haven by the kleptomaniacs in government.

“It is needless asking the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) to investigate. They cannot investigate their employer.

President Jonathan institutionalized corruption when on 5th May, 2014 he described “70% of corruption cases” in Nigeria as “common stealing”.

That statement was meant for Nigeria’s anti-graft agencies.

The top echelons of the Federal Government appear to possess the noun ‘thief ’ and the verb ‘to steal’.

“Apart from the corruption angle, the involvement of the president of the Christian As-

sociation of Nigeria (CAN) in one of the deals is still a curious development. It evolves a conspiracy theory capable of igniting tension between Christians and Muslims.”

It added: “The National Assembly must not desert the electorate at this crucial hour.

Our legislators must ask probing questions on our behalf.

There must be no sacred cows.

Enough is enough.

“MURIC appeals to the international community not to leave Nigeria alone in these trying times. We call on other countries through which Nigerian money has been ferried to speak up. We charge the United Nations to institute an international investigation into these cases of money-laundering and illegal arms deals.” He added that aircrafts coming from Nigeria are also thoroughly checked against the deadly virus.

Release Chibok girls now, Asiwaju Musulumi tasks Boko Haram

A

siwaju Muslumi of Yorubaland, Alhaji Kahmis Olatunde Badmus has charged members of the dreaded Boko haram sect to heed the voice of wisdom by releasing the Chibok girls to their parents in the spirit of the Eid. The over 200 girls were abducted from the Government Secondary School in Chibok, Borno State, on the night of April 14, 2014 and Badmus, in a Sallah message made available to the newsmen, said that the Boko Haram insurgents should take a cue from the

mercy, which Allah bestowed on Prophet Ibrahim by replacing his son, Ismail, with a ram.

Obedience to Allah and perseverance, he said in the statement signed by his special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Alhaji Dawood Ajetunmobi, are the essence of Eid -ul- Kabir celebration.

Badmus also charged Nigerian Muslims not to lose sight of the lesson and the message in the festival but imbibe the spirit of the celebration.

Badmus said obedience to Allah and perseverance are the essence of Eid -ul- Kabir

celebration.

Recalling the genesis of the annual celebration, he said that the celebration originated from the patriarchal figure of the three major world religions; Islam, Christianity and Judaism, Prophet Ibrahim.

Prophet Ibrahim had a vision in which he was commanded by Allah to slaughter his only son, Ismail, and his obedience to carry out the commandment made Allah to replaced the obedient son with Sheep. This sheep was later slaughtered instead of

Ismail and this brought about the celebration.

“By that singular decision of willing to sacrifice his only son, Ibrahim chose the love of God over fatherhood, faith over emotion and that is why Allah compensated him with a sheep.

It is not how big your ram for sacrifice is but the piety of Allah in carrying out this age long tradition that matters. I wish our Muslim brothers and Sisters could learn lesson from this,” he added.

Alhaji Badmus prays to Allah to let the peace and tranquility reign over the country.

Asiwaju Musulumi of Yourubaland, Alh Khamis Olatunde Badmus (left); Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State, Ataoja Of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji and Deputy Speaker of Osun State House of Assembly, Hon Akintunde Adegboye at Oshogbo central Eid praying ground, recently

l

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

41

Crime

‘Drug trafficking is like terrorism, arms smuggling’ Sobowale Temitope

“D

rug trafficking, like terrorism and arms smuggling, represents a growing threat to global peace and security. Many lives are lost daily around the world. Activities of drug cartels have turned the world into a global village, thus making international partnership among drug law officers, donors and international institutions inevitable.”

These were the words of the Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mr. Ahmadu Giade as he cajoled members of the international and local communities, not to relent in the joint war against drug trafficking.

To strengthen the fight against narcotic drugs, the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) are also working with the Nigerian government to improve regional and international cooperation.

Investigations revealed that Nigerian criminal groups are heavily involved in drug trafficking, especially shipment of heroin from Asian countries to Europe and America and cocaine from South America to Europe and South Africa. The large numbers of ethnic Nigerians in Indian, Pakistan and Thailand give their gangs ready access to around 90% of the world’s heroin.

“In the United States, Nigerian drug traffickers are important distributors of heroin, from importing it into the country to distribution level and selling it to lower-level street gangs,” Wikipedia findings revealed, adding that: “These criminal groups are also known to launder drug money through domestic football clubs in the Nigerian Premier League and are rumored to make additional money through match fixing activity within football matches.”

The EU Ambassador, Michel Arrion and country representative of UNODC, Ms. Mariam Sissoko, who were recently at the NDLEA Headquarters in Lagos State, avowed their unwavering support in the ongoing battle against drug traffickers across the globe.

Arrion stressed the need to curtail the activities of drug syndicates

JULIANA FRANCIS CRIME EDITOR

juliana.francis@newtelegraphonline.com

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

L-R: Mr Allan Munday First Secretary EU, Michel Arrion, Ambassador EU to Nigeria and ECOWAS, and Ahmadu Giade NDLEA Chairman

through collaboration, adding that EU was providing funds for Project NGAV 16 - Response To Drugs and Related Organised Crime.

Arrion said: “At inter-continental level,the European Union finances a number of projects as part of the Cocaine Route Programme. The Cocaine Route programme, with a budget of over 30 million Euros, covers 36 countries of which half are in Africa, essentially West-Africa, five in the Caribbean countries and the remaining in Latin and Central America.”

Sissoko said: “We’re working with the NDLEA to assist the Agency progress towards an intelligence-led organisation, equipped to deal with the challenges of the ever changing drug industry. We commend the chairman

The Cocaine Route programme with a budget of over 30 million Euros, covers 36 countries of which half are in Africa

CRIME QUOTE “Nigeria needs special antiterrorist rifles, attack helicopters, technical intelligence and training from the Americans in order to expedite defeat of the enemy.”

– President of the Association of Industrial Security and Safety Operators of Nigeria (AISSON), Dr. Ona Ekhomu

Heroin

and senior management of the NDLEA for decisively embarking on the change management process that is required to strengthen the intelligence-based response of NDLEA to drug matters.”

Giade noted: “This project demonstrates EU’s willingness to assist countries in the implementation of international drug conventions. It will also provide appropriate framework for regional drug control programmes.

The challenges posed by illicit drug cultivation, trafficking and abuse are enormous. We, therefore, believe that through shared responsibility, greater progress will be made in addressing the illicit drug phenomenon.”

C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 4 1

42

Crime

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

NDLEA teams with international communities The 3rd Eye The ugly face of terrorism (1)

I

Computers donated to the NDLEA by the European Union C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 4 1

The problem of drug trafficking and abuse knows no national boundaries

Giade enumerated some benefits of the EU project to Nigeria and West Africa.

He said that the project will enhance technical and operational capacity in frontline agencies leading to targeted interventions on drugs and organized related crimes in Nigeria.

It will also help to manage drug abuse counseling, drug treatment and rehabilitation through the creation of a reliable network of quality drug treatment service providers.

During the interactive session, it was gathered that the National Drug Control Master Plan (NDCMP) 20152019, a policy document for drug control was almost finalised.

The master plan contains new ideas and new control approaches which will be implemented in the next four years.

The EU procured 100 desktop computers for the smooth takeoff of a Data Exchange Centre. This will help to establish an evidence-based approach in addressing the challenges of illicit drugs in the country.

Sissoko said that the project was first and mainly a joint undertaking between the government of Nigeria and the European Union which had agreed on the key objectives of the project and have also decided to designate UNODC as implementing agency.

She further stressed that, “response to drugs and related organized crime in Nigeria aims at supporting Nigeria’s effort in addressing drug production, trafficking, and use. “The project design places equal emphasis on drug demand reduction and drug law enforcement, and is informed by international and best practices and a human rights approach.”

Sissoko also stated that the project has among its key beneficiaries, not only NDLEA, but also NAFDAC, the police and customs.

Buttressing her speech, Arrion said that reliable data about drugs trafficking and drug abuse in Nige-

NDLEA operatives at work on a canabis sativa farm

ria was required, stating that under the project, two full-scale national surveys on cannabis production and drug use in Nigeria were currently being conducted by UNODC in close cooperation with NDLEA, with all necessary means, including Satellite images being used to measure the scale of cannabis cultivation to questionnaires related to drugs.

He urged people to work towards the same objectives, whether they are working in the bush, city, streets or in offices.

Arrion said that the reason Nigeria was offered the support, was because they wanted people on the ground to make use of the latest technologies available. He added, “It’s for this reason that the European Union is supporting the equipment capacity of NDLEA.” He further said that the project will provide the relevant equipment to people on the ground such as drug test kits and laboratory chemicals for drug identification and laboratory analysis, and also that handing over 115 computers to the NDLEA, was to increase the capacity of drug law enforcement and related organised crime, to prevent or interdict drug trafficking and related crime.He stated that drug traffickers deserved no mercy, that they are to be arrested and sentenced.

According to Arrion who said that the project will go on for about 50months, they were ready to perform a full scale survey of cannabis, and also to give new strength to Nigerians.

Arrion said the EU was funding a large-scale project, adding, “This project is supporting Nigeria’s efforts to fight illicit drug production, trafficking and use and to curb related organised crime, including counterfeit narcotics and psychotropic substance.”

Arrion said that response to drugs and related organized crime in Nigeria, with a total budget of 36million Euros financed by the European union has 3 main objectives; to support policy formulation and increase drug legislation and coordination of the sector, to improve law enforcement capacity in drug control and tracking organised drug related crime, and to enhance drug prevention, treatment and care services adapted to Nigerians conditions.

“The problem of drug trafficking and abuse knows no national bodies. We’re partners because we’re all convinced that drug trafficking is one of the major threats to human security, affecting the social, economic, political and cultural development of our societies,” said Arrion.

read the front page newspapers about yet another bomb blast ripping apart dozens of people in my country Nigeria, particularly the massacre and adoption of innocent children with a silent prayer in my heart.

Dif ferent g ruesome images of dead or injured children, brothers, sisters, fathers and mothers were difficult to forget. Inconsolable mothers and fathers wailing about loss of their young children, wounded men looking helplessly for body of their dead friends, families, buildings and vehicles destroyed beyond recognition from time to time.

I felt as if that ugly face of terrorism of the US 9/11 and London 7/7 was looking at me square in the face again as I witnessed both attacks respectively.

From US to London, Spain, East Africa and now Nigeria, the domestic terrorist attacks have become far more frequent and far more destructive over the last few years. The attempts to wage war on Boko Haram have not only considerably failed to contain the terrorism-menace but in fact, it has served to escalate it to unimaginable proportions. Only few cities in the Northern part of our country can be considered safe from these threats and that’s why it becomes imperative that today’s elders and traditional rulers from the North of Nigeria should try and make their young ones truly understand this complex worldwide atrocities.

There might be different ideological and economic conflicts at the surface, if a spade is called a spade, but on careful scrutiny, it becomes clear that religious strife has been the single most common cause of our problems. The advances in technology have shrunk the world in size too.

The television, internet and mobile phones have made it easy to disseminate information to any part of the country and the world at large.

This technological advancement has regrettably played into the terrorists’ hands.

When the Boko Haram commenced operations in 2002, they were portrayed as religious warriors and their acts as religious duties, this misinformation cleverly manipulated them into further ugly violent acts, particularly after the death of the founder Mohammed Yusuf in 2009 whilst in detention.

• Ethelbert Oney is an Intelligence & Security Expert ethelbertoney@zissltd .com (08067764342 SMS only)

Business | Money Line

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

Skye Bank signs purchase agreement of Mainstreet Bank

EXPANSION Successful bank acquisition will enable it grow its investments further

interest in Mainstreet Bank, representing the entire capital of the bridge bank.

Skye Bank emerged the preferred bidder after a rigorous bidding exercise that spanned five months, with over 20 bidders contending. The acquisition of Mainstreet Bank is part of Skye Bank’s strategic plan for growth.

The bank also emerged from the very successful merger and integration of five banks in 2006, following the first phase of the banking industry consolidation.

The bank intends to leverage its wealth of experience from the successful integration of five banks to drive efficiency, increase market share and ultimately ramp up stakeholder value from the acquisition of Mainstreet Bank.

The acquisition will avail the bank many benefits, including cost leadership, business optimisation, and greater ability to offer business convenience to its teeming retail and commercial customers, with a combined branch network of over 450, across all the states of the federation.

AMCON was set up in 2010 to buy bad loans from lenders and stabilise Nigeria’s banking industry after a debt crisis threatened the industry with

Godson Ikoro

S

kye Bank Plc, yesterday, said it had signed the agreement for the purchase of 100 per cent shares of Mainstreet Bank with the state owned Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON).

A statement from the bank said the agreement was signed at the Lagos office of AMCON on Wednesday, October 8, 2014.

The bank’s executive management team led by the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Timothy Oguntayo, signed on behalf of the bank, while AMCON was represented by its executive management.

The statement said that Skye Bank had paid the mandatory deposit of 20 per cent for the acquisition of the target bank. The payment, which was made well ahead of the deadline, confirms Skye Bank’s commitment and ability to consummate the transaction.

The bank has also confirmed its ability to meet the remaining financial commitment on the acquisition within the specified time frame.

It would be recalled that AMCON had announced Skye Bank as the preferred bidder for the acquisition of all its

collapse. It is selling three lenders it nationalised in 2011 after regulators said they were unfit for business.

Mainstreet is the second of the nationalised banks that’s close to being sold. AMCON named HBC Investment Services, a unit of Nigerian Heritage Banking Co., as preferred bidder for Enterprise Bank (FENB) on September 12.

Skye Bank was picked as the preferred bidder for Mainstreet after the asset attracted

S

equel to the agreement it reached with the International Commercial Bank Financial Group Holdings Ag (ICBFGH) for the acquisition of a 100 per cent equity interest in ICB Ghana, Firstbanl Plc has finally launched its FBN Bank Ghana.

A statement from the bank said with the acquisition, FirstBank had consolidated its position as the largest corporate and retail banking financial institution in sub-Saharan Africa (excluding South Africa). The transaction is a consummation of FirstBank’s stated ambition to win significant market share, expand its pan-African footprint and di-

As at N14,737,618.7m N16,509,472.5m 8 0.0000 12 10.899 7.96 17.01 US$109.9 US$42,604,781,796.6

Description

TTM

4.00% 23-Apr-2015 13.05% 16-Aug-2016 15.10% 27-Apr-2017 16.00% 29-Jun-2019 16.39% 27-Jan-2022 10.00% 23-Jul-2030

1.21 2.53 3.22 5.39 7.98 16.47

Tenor (Days) Call 7 30 60 90 180 365

Rate (%) 11.9167 12.3333 12.6667 12.9167 13.2167 13.5000 13.7500

NIBOR

Dec, 2013 Dec, 2013 Dec, 2013 2/5/2014 1/20/2014 11/6/2013 Dec, 2013 Dec, 2013 1/20/2014 2/5/2014 Source:CBN

FGN Bonds Bid Price 90.20 99.25 104.10 109.35 114.15 76.60

Bid 12.10 12.10 12.05

Offer Yield 13.01 13.40 13.47 13.49 13.44 13.59

Price 90.35 99.40 104.40 109.65 114.45 76.90

Tenor (Months) 1 2 3 6 9 12

Rate (%) 12.1827 12.2737 12.3744 12.8521 12.8535 13.8443

FX

Bid Spot ($/N) 163.28 THE FIXINGS –NIBOR,NITTY and NIFEX of February 6,2014

NITTY

Yield 12.86 13.33 13.35 13.42 13.38 13.53

Money Market Offer 11.85 11.85 11.80 Offer 163.38

Nigeria to raise N73.61 bn in bonds Godson Ikoro

versify earnings while delivering value to shareholders.

Speaking at the launch in Ghana, the Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of the bank, Bisi Onasanya, said, “The acquisition of ICBGFH assets in Ghana fulfills the first stage of our ambitions to steadily build a broader and more diverse footprint across Africa.

“We are committed to developing a multi-local business model that broadens our geographic revenue base while providing enhanced service delivery to our new customers and equity participation to local investors.”

Also speaking, Executive Director, FBNBank Ghana, Mr. Seyi Oyefeso said, “Having built value for Nigeria over the last 120 years, FBNBank is poised to do even more in the Ghanaian financial markets.

“FBNBank provides customers with a collection of banking solutions that make their financial lives less cumbersome and stressful.”

ing between three years and 20 years at an auction next Wednesday, the Debt Management Office (DMO) said on Thursday.

The DMO said it would sell N18.61 billion in three-year bonds, N30 billion in 10-year paper and N25 billion in 20-year debt.

The securities are a reopening of previously issued bonds. ($1 = 164.75 naira) Last week, yields on the nations bonds climbed by around 20 basis points across the board, caused by selling pressure from some offshore and local pensions. That trend is expected to continue this week according to Reuters.

Traders said some investors were selling off their bond positions over concerns that the central bank could hike the benchmark interest rate to support the falling naira currency.

The apex bank kept its benchmark interest rate at 12 per cent at its last meeting on September 19 on concerns over increased liquidity and rising inflation.

N4tn staff pension fund ready for development investment –BPE

Treasury Bills Maturity Date 08-May-14 07-Aug-14 22-Jan-15

interest from 25 local and foreign investors, AMCON said.

Cedar One Investment Partners Ltd. is the first-reserve bidder and Fidelity Bank Plc (FIDELITY) the second.

igeria plans to auction N73.61 billion ($446.80mn) FirstBank launches FBNBank Ghana N in bonds with maturities rang-

Economic Indicators M2* CPS* INF IBR MPR 91-day NTB DPR PLR Bonny Light Ext Res**

43

Open-Buy-Back (OBB) Overnight (O/N)

Rate (%) 11.33 11.63

NIFEX Spot ($/N)

Bid 163.4000

Offer 163.5000 Source: FMDQ

T

he Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Mr. Benjamin Dikki, has said that over N4 trillion staff pension fund is now in stable deposits ready for development investment.

Dikki disclosed this while delivering lecture on “Accountability In Governance And National Development” to course 23 of the National Defence College (NDC), Abuja last month.

A statement on Thursday quoted Dikki as saying that the major reason governments are saddled with the responsibility for the development of their nations was because they were custodians of the collective resources of the people with these resources held in trust.

He said, “The various governments ought to give account to the people to justify the confidence reposed on them.

“Governments ought to owe the ultimate owners of the resources an explanation on how the resources have been used in developing the people.”

He affirmed that the role of accountability in governance was to build confidence and trust between the government and the governed and ensure optimisation of use of resources through dialogue and consultation and meeting of the actual needs of the people.

Others, he said, was to encourage the practice and culture of financial and systems checks and balances that ensure consistent good behavior of those entrusted with our collective resources from one generation to another and to also ensure public understanding of government policies and support for them.

Dikki further pointed out the critical role the BPE had played in enthroning accountability and good governance in the new Nigeria to include the formation of Pencom which ensured accountability of staff pension deductions, saying that the sector has accumulated over N4 trillion in stable deposits now ready for development investment.

Business | Financial Market News

44

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

9-Oct-14

The FMDQ Daily Quotations List (DQL) comprises market and model prices/rates of foreign exchange ($/N) products, fixed income securities and instruments in the OTC market. The use of this report is subject to the FMDQ OTC PLC Terms of Use and Disclaimer Statement on www.fmdqotc.com.

Bonds FGN Bonds

Price

Rating/Agency

Issuer

NA

NA

Description 4.00 23-APR-2015 13.05 16-AUG-2016 15.10 27-APR-2017 9.85 27-JUL-2017 9.35 31-AUG-2017 10.70 30-MAY-2018 16.00 29-JUN-2019 7.00 23-OCT-2019 16.39 27-JAN-2022 14.20 14-MAR-2024 15.00 28-NOV-2028 12.49 22-MAY-2029 8.50 20-NOV-2029 10.00 23-JUL-2030 12.1493 18-JUL-2034

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (N'bn)

23-Apr-10 16-Aug-13 27-Apr-12 27-Jul-07 31-Aug-07 30-May-08 29-Jun-12 23-Oct-09 27-Jan-12 14-Mar-14 28-Nov-08 22-May-09 20-Nov-09 23-Jul-10 18-Jul-14

4.00 13.05 15.10 9.85 9.35 10.70 16.00 7.00 16.39 14.20 15.00 12.49 8.50 10.00 12.1493

535.00 545.27 452.80 20.00 100.00 300.00 351.30 233.90 600.00 331.35 75.00 150.00 200.00 591.57 105.00

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

4,591.19

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

4,561.12

Rating/Agency

Issuer

Description

Maturity Date

TTM (Yrs)

23-Apr-15 16-Aug-16 27-Apr-17 27-Jul-17 31-Aug-17 30-May-18 29-Jun-19 23-Oct-19 27-Jan-22 14-Mar-24 28-Nov-28 22-May-29 20-Nov-29 23-Jul-30 18-Jul-34

0.54 1.85 2.55 2.80 2.89 3.64 4.72 5.04 7.30 9.43 14.14 14.62 15.12 15.79 19.77

Bid Yield (%)

Offer Yield (%)

Bid Price

Offer Price

11.83 12.50 12.53 12.56 12.57 12.59 12.59 12.64 12.69 12.50 12.61 12.63 12.65 12.60 12.37

11.52 12.40 12.46 12.50 12.50 12.48 12.51 12.54 12.64 12.45 12.56 12.58 12.59 12.55 12.33

96.03 100.85 105.45 93.72 92.37 94.58 111.80 79.44 117.20 109.25 115.58 99.07 72.32 82.30 98.35

96.18 101.00 105.60 93.87 92.52 94.88 112.10 79.74 117.50 109.55 115.88 99.37 72.62 82.60 98.65

#

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (N'bn)

Maturity Date

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

Risk Premium (%)

Valuation Yield (%)

Indicative Price

28-Dec-11 24-May-10 03-Apr-12 09-Dec-11 20-Apr-12 06-Jul-12

0.00 0.00 17.25 0.00/16.00 0.00/16.50 0.00/16.50

978.35 24.56 3.00 112.22 116.70 66.49

31-Oct-14 24-May-15 03-Apr-17 09-Dec-16 20-Apr-17 06-Jul-17

0.06 0.62 1.36 2.17 2.53 2.74

1.00 2.63 2.27 2.00 1.00 1.00

12.29 14.50 14.52 14.54 13.56 13.56

99.27 91.63 103.28 100.08 97.96 95.26

Agency Bonds AMCON FMBN

NA

***LCRM

0.00 AMCON 31-OCT-2014 (SR.5 TR.1) 0.00 FMB 24-MAY-2015 17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017 0.00/16.00 LCRM 09-DEC-2016 0.00/16.50 LCRM II 20-APR-2017 0.00/16.50 LCRM III 06-JUL-2017

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1,301.32

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

1,286.78

Sub-National Bonds NIGER

14.00 NIGER 15-OCT-2014

15-Oct-09

14.00

6.00

15-Oct-14

0.02

3.29

14.56

99.97

A+/Agusto

KADUNA

12.50 KADUNA 31-AUG-2015

31-Aug-10

12.50

8.50

31-Aug-15

0.89

4.44

16.43

96.82

A/Agusto

*EBONYI

13.00 EBONYI 30-SEP-2015

30-Sep-10

13.00

4.18

30-Sep-15

0.73

3.23

15.15

98.71

A-/Agusto

*BENUE

14.00 BENUE 30-JUN-2016

30-Jun-11

14.00

6.27

30-Jun-16

1.02

4.46

16.51

98.04

A+/Agusto

*IMO

15.50 IMO 30-JUN-2016

30-Jun-09

15.50

7.37

30-Jun-16

1.02

3.48

15.53

100.51

A+/Agusto; A+/GCR

LAGOS

10.00 LAGOS 19-APR-2017

19-Apr-10

10.00

57.00

19-Apr-17

2.53

5.59

18.15

84.04

A-/Agusto

*BAYELSA

13.75 BAYELSA 30-JUN-2017

30-Jun-10

13.75

29.92

30-Jun-17

1.57

1.00

13.36

100.87

A/Agusto

EDO

14.00 EDO 31-DEC-2017

30-Dec-10

14.00

25.00

31-Dec-17

3.23

1.79

14.37

99.02

A+/Agusto; A+/GCR

*DELTA

14.00 DELTA 30-SEP-2018

30-Sep-11

14.00

34.14

30-Sep-18

2.40

1.80

14.35

99.36

A-/Agusto; A-/GCR

NIGER

14.00 NIGER II 4-OCT-2018

04-Oct-11

14.00

9.00

04-Oct-18

3.99

1.00

13.60

101.20

A/Agusto; A-/GCR†

*EKITI

14.50 EKITI 09-DEC-2018

09-Dec-11

14.50

14.96

09-Dec-18

2.40

1.00

13.55

102.10

A-/Agusto

*NIGER

14.00 NIGER III 12-DEC-2018

12-Dec-13

14.00

11.13

12-Dec-18

2.40

4.78

17.33

93.86

A/Agusto; A-/GCR

*ONDO

15.50 ONDO 14-FEB-2019

14-Feb-12

15.50

27.00

14-Feb-19

2.78

1.00

13.56

102.10

A/Agusto; A-/GCR

*GOMBE

15.50 GOMBE 02-OCT-2019

02-Oct-12

15.50

16.23

02-Oct-19

3.04

1.00

13.57

104.54

Aa-/Agusto; AA-/GCR

LAGOS

14.50 LAGOS 22-NOV-2019

22-Nov-12

14.50

80.00

22-Nov-19

5.12

1.00

13.64

103.05

A/Agusto; A-/GCR

*OSUN

14.75 OSUN 12-DEC-2019

12-Dec-12

14.75

27.51

12-Dec-19

3.00

2.74

15.31

98.76

A/Agusto

*OSUN

14.75 OSUN II 30-SEP-2020

30-Sep-13

14.75

11.40

30-Sep-20

3.53

1.00

13.58

103.10

Aa-/Agusto; AA-/GCR

LAGOS

13.50 LAGOS IV 27-NOV-2020

27-Nov-13

13.50

87.00

27-Nov-20

6.13

1.00

13.69

99.18

A-/Agusto; BBB+/DataPro

KOGI

15.00 KOGI 31-DEC-2020

31-Dec-13

15.00

5.00

31-Dec-20

6.23

1.94

14.64

101.39

A/Agusto A-/GCR

*EKITI *NASARAWA

14.50 EKITI II 31-DEC-2020 15.00 NASARAWA 06-JAN-2021

31-Dec-13

14.50

4.78

31-Dec-20

3.71

1.44

14.03

101.44

06-Jan-14

15.00

4.79

06-Jan-21

3.74

1.95

14.54

101.41

A-/GCR

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

477.18 470.45

Corporate Bonds Aa/Agusto Nil

GTB NGC

13.50 GUARANTY TRUST 18-DEC-2014

18-Dec-09

13.50

13.17

18-Dec-14

0.19

5.21

16.59

99.30

µ

17.00 NGC 31-DEC-2014

01-Apr-10

17.00

2.00

31-Dec-14

0.23

8.71

20.12

99.13 96.60

Bbb-/Agusto A-/Agusto

*UPDC

10.00 UPDC 17-AUG-2015

17-Aug-10

10.00

3.61

17-Aug-15

0.61

4.88

16.74

*FLOURMILLS

12.00 FLOURMILLS 9-DEC-2015

09-Dec-10

12.00

13.62

09-Dec-15

0.69

1.00

12.89

99.89

BB+/GCR

*CHELLARAMS

14.00 CHELLARAMS 06-JAN-2016

06-Jan-11

14.00

0.60

06-Jan-16

0.76

2.63

14.56

100.25

A+/Agusto; A-/GCR

NAHCO

13.00 NAHCO 29-SEP-2016

15.00

A-/Agusto

29-Sep-11

13.00

29-Sep-16

1.97

1.00

13.53

99.10

FSDH

14.25 FSDH 25-OCT-2016

25-Oct-13

14.25

5.53

25-Oct-16

2.04

1.34

13.88

100.62

A/GCR

UBA

13.00 UBA 30-SEP-2017

30-Sep-10

13.00

20.00

30-Sep-17

2.98

1.00

13.57

98.63

BBB-/GCR

18.00 C&I LEASING 30-NOV-2017

30-Nov-12

18.00

0.73

30-Nov-17

1.79

1.88

14.33

106.94

BBB+/DataPro†; BB+/GCR

*C & I LEASING *DANA#

MPR+7.00 DANA 9-APR-2018

09-Apr-11

16.00

7.20

09-Apr-18

2.25

3.48

16.03

99.95

A-/DataPro†; BB-/GCR

*TOWER#

MPR+7.00 TOWER 9-SEP-2018

09-Sep-11

18.00

2.90

09-Sep-18

2.17

5.20

17.74

100.63

AAA/DataPro†; A+/GCR

*TOWER#

MPR+5.25 TOWER 9-SEP-2018

09-Sep-11

16.00

0.80

09-Sep-18

2.17

5.06

17.60

101.75

A/Agusto; A/GCR

UBA

14.00 UBA II 22-SEP-2018

22-Sep-11

14.00

35.00

22-Sep-18

3.95

1.35

13.95

100.14

Bbb+/Agusto; BBB+/GCR

15.75 LA CASERA 18-OCT-2018

18-Oct-13

15.75

2.70

18-Oct-18

2.02

2.29

14.83

101.71

BBB-/DataPro†; BB+/GCR

*LA CASERA *CHELLARAMS#

MPR+5.00 CHELLARAMS II 17-FEB-2019

17-Feb-12

17.00

0.41

17-Feb-19

2.36

6.11

18.66

97.28

BBB/GCR

*DANA

16.00 DANA II 1-APR-2019

01-Apr-14

16.00

4.50

01-Apr-19

3.23

2.16

14.74

103.13

A+/Agusto; A-/GCR

NAHCO

15.25 NAHCO II 14-NOV-2020

14-Nov-13

15.25

2.05

14-Nov-20

6.10

2.76

15.45

99.18

A/GCR

STANBIC IBTC

182D T.bills+1.20 STANBIC IA 30-SEP-2024

30-Sep-14

N/A

0.10

30-Sep-24

9.98

1.00

13.44

87.89

A/GCR

STANBIC IBTC

13.25 STANBIC IB 30-SEP-2024

30-Sep-14

13.25

15.44

30-Sep-24

9.98

1.00

13.44

98.97

11-Feb-18

3.34

1.00

13.58

91.13

Bid Price

Offer Price

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

145.36

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

144.85

Supranational Bond AAA/S&P

10.20 IFC 11-FEB-2018

IFC

11-Feb-13

10.20

12.00

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

12.00 10.94

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION Rating/Agency

Issuer

Description

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value ($mm)

Maturity Date

Bid Yield (%)

Offer Yield (%)

6.75 JAN 28, 2021

07-Oct-11

6.75

500.00

28-Jan-21

4.96

4.81

109.57

FGN Eurobonds

Prices & Yields

BB-/Fitch; B+/S&P BB-/Fitch; BB-/S&P

FGN

BB-/Fitch; BB-/S&P

110.41

5.13 JUL 12, 2018

12-Jul-13

5.13

500.00

12-Jul-18

4.08

3.85

103.58

104.41

6.38 JUL 12, 2023

12-Jul-13

6.38

500.00

12-Jul-23

5.27

5.15

107.66

108.51

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1,500.00

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

1,604.02

Corporate Eurobonds B/Fitch; B-/S&P

AFREN PLC I

11.50 FEB 01, 2016

01-Feb-11

11.50

450.00

01-Feb-16

7.36

7.36

105.00

105.00

B+/Fitch; B+/S&P

GTBANK PLC I

7.50 MAY 19, 2016

19-May-11

7.50

500.00

19-May-16

4.20

4.20

105.04

105.04 101.72

B+/S&P

ACCESS BANK PLC

7.25 JUL 25, 2017

25-Jul-12

7.25

350.00

25-Jul-17

6.56

6.56

101.72

B/Fitch; B/S&P

FIDELITY BANK PLC

6.88 MAY 09, 2018

09-May-13

6.88

300.00

02-May-18

8.56

8.13

94.89

96.17

B+/Fitch; B+/S&P

GTBANK PLC

6.00 NOV 08, 2018

08-Nov-13

6.00

400.00

08-Nov-18

5.89

5.66

100.40

101.20 105.75

B/Fitch

AFREN PLC II

10.25 APR 08, 2019

08-Apr-12

10.25

300.00

08-Apr-19

8.67

8.67

105.75

B+/Fitch; BB-/S&P

ZENITH BANK PLC

6.25 APR 22, 2019

22-Apr-14

6.25

500.00

22-Apr-19

6.35

6.35

99.63

99.63

B/Fitch; B/S&P

DIAMOND BANK PLC

8.75 May 21, 2019

21-May-14

8.75

200.00

21-May-19

8.92

8.66

99.35

100.33 101.63

B-/Fitch; B/S&P

FIRST BANK PLC

8.25 AUG 07, 2020

07-Aug-13

8.25

300.00

07-Aug-20

7.70

7.70

101.63

B-/Fitch; B/S&P

AFREN PLC III

6.63 DEC 09, 2020

09-Dec-13

6.63

360.00

09-Dec-20

7.50

7.50

95.75

95.75

B-/Fitch; B/S&P

ACCESS BANK PLC II

9.25/6M USD LIBOR+7.677 JUN 24, 2021

24-Jun-14

9.25

400.00

24-Jun-21

8.59

8.44

103.50

104.25

B-/Fitch; B/S&P

FIRST BANK LTD

B-/S&P

ECOBANK NIG. LTD

8.00/2Y USD SWAP+6.488 JUL 23 2021

23-Jul-14

8.00

450.00

23-Jul-21

7.49

7.49

101.63

101.63

8.75 AUG 14, 2021

14-Aug-14

8.75

250.00

14-Aug-21

8.38

8.17

100.85

101.93

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

4,760.00

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

4,827.10

**Treasury Bills DTM 7 14 21 28 35 42 49 56

FIXINGS Maturity 16-Oct-14 23-Oct-14 30-Oct-14 6-Nov-14 13-Nov-14 20-Nov-14 27-Nov-14 4-Dec-14

Bid Discount (%) 10.45 10.50 10.55 10.95 11.10 11.00 11.35 10.80

Offer Discount (%) 10.20 10.25 10.30 10.70 10.85 10.75 11.10 10.55

Bid Yield (%) 10.47 10.54 10.61 11.04 11.22 11.14 11.53 10.98

Money Market

NIBOR Tenor O/N 1M 3M 6M

Rate (%) 10.6250 12.6044 13.4236 14.3438

Tenor

Rate (%)

OBB

10.38

O/N Tenor Call 1M

10.58

REPO

Rate (%) 10.25 12.36

Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards) Tenor

Bid ($/N)

Offer ($/N)

Spot 7D 14D 1M 2M 3M

164.30 164.34 164.60 165.24 166.37 167.53

164.40 164.57 164.91 165.85 167.42 169.14

(%)

Agency Bonds 0.00 AMCON 31-OCT-2014 (SR.5 TR.1) 0.00 FMB 24-MAY-2015 17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017 0.00/16.00 LCRM 09-DEC-2016 0.00/16.50 LCRM II 20-APR-2017 0.00/16.50 LCRM III 06-JUL-2017

AMCON FMBN

NA

***LCRM

28-Dec-11 24-May-10 03-Apr-12 09-Dec-11 20-Apr-12 06-Jul-12

0.00 0.00 17.25 0.00/16.00 0.00/16.50 0.00/16.50

978.35 24.56 3.00 112.22 116.70 66.49

31-Oct-14 24-May-15 03-Apr-17 09-Dec-16 20-Apr-17 06-Jul-17

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1,301.32

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

1,286.78

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 Sub-National Bonds

A-/GCR

NIGER

14.00 NIGER 15-OCT-2014

15-Oct-09

14.00

6.00

0.06 0.62 1.36 2.17 2.53 2.74

1.00 2.63 2.27 2.00 1.00 1.00

12.29 14.50 14.52 14.54 13.56 13.56

99.27 91.63 103.28 100.08 97.96 95.26

Business | Financial Market News

45

15-Oct-14

0.02

3.29

14.56

99.97

A+/Agusto

KADUNA

12.50 KADUNA 31-AUG-2015

31-Aug-10

12.50

8.50

31-Aug-15

0.89

4.44

16.43

96.82

A/Agusto

*EBONYI

13.00 EBONYI 30-SEP-2015

30-Sep-10

13.00

4.18

30-Sep-15

0.73

3.23

15.15

98.71

A-/Agusto

*BENUE

14.00 BENUE 30-JUN-2016

30-Jun-11

14.00

6.27

30-Jun-16

1.02

4.46

16.51

98.04

A+/Agusto

*IMO

15.50 IMO 30-JUN-2016

30-Jun-09

15.50

7.37

30-Jun-16

1.02

3.48

15.53

100.51

A+/Agusto; A+/GCR

LAGOS

10.00 LAGOS 19-APR-2017

19-Apr-10

10.00

57.00

19-Apr-17

2.53

5.59

18.15

84.04

A-/Agusto

*BAYELSA

13.75 BAYELSA 30-JUN-2017

30-Jun-10

13.75

29.92

30-Jun-17

1.57

1.00

13.36

100.87

A/Agusto

EDO

14.00 EDO 31-DEC-2017

30-Dec-10

14.00

25.00

31-Dec-17

3.23

1.79

14.37

99.02

A+/Agusto; A+/GCR

*DELTA

14.00 DELTA 30-SEP-2018

30-Sep-11

14.00

34.14

30-Sep-18

2.40

1.80

14.35

99.36

A-/Agusto; A-/GCR

NIGER

A/Agusto; A-/GCR†

*EKITI

A-/Agusto

*NIGER

A/Agusto; A-/GCR

*ONDO

Nigerian stocks dip N140bn RETREAT

Negative sentiments A/Agusto; A-/GCR *GOMBE Aa-/Agusto; AA-/GCR LAGOS dominate A/Agusto; A-/GCR investment *OSUN A/Agusto *OSUN activities Aa-/Agusto; AA-/GCR LAGOS A-/Agusto; BBB+/DataPro

KOGI

A/Agusto A-/GCR

*EKITI *NASARAWA

Stories

by Chris Ugwu TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

T

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

he Nigerian stock marfurther Aa/Agusto depressionGTB following NGC Nil 1.03 per cent drop in Bbb-/Agusto *UPDC both market performance A-/Agusto *FLOURMILLS inBB+/GCR *CHELLARAMS dices reflecting profit taking, A+/Agusto; A-/GCR NAHCO amid drop in investment acA-/Agusto FSDH tivities.

A/GCR UBA BBB-/GCR The key benchmark indices *C & I LEASING Corporate Bonds ket suffered µ

maintained trajecto14.00 NIGER IInegative 4-OCT-2018 EKITIin 09-DEC-2018 ry to14.50 close the red, as activi14.00 NIGER III 12-DEC-2018 ties in the shares of Forte Oil 15.50 ONDO 14-FEB-2019 Nigeria and Dangote Cement 15.50 GOMBE 02-OCT-2019 Plc dragged down the equity 14.50 LAGOS 22-NOV-2019 14.75 OSUN 12-DEC-2019 market.

14.75 OSUN II 30-SEP-2020 Trading activities on the 13.50 LAGOS IV 27-NOV-2020 floor15.00 of Exchange KOGI 31-DEC-2020had the preEKITI II 31-DEC-2020 vious14.50 day also closed in the red 15.00 NASARAWA 06-JAN-2021 following negative sentiments of investors.

Consequently, the AllShare Index dipped 422.77 GUARANTY TRUST 18-DEC-2014 basis13.50 points or 1.03 per cent 17.00 NGC 31-DEC-2014 to close at 40,572.25 10.00 UPDC 17-AUG-2015 as against 12.00 FLOURMILLS 9-DEC-2015 40,995.02 recorded the previous 14.00 CHELLARAMS 06-JAN-2016 day while the market capitali13.00 NAHCO 29-SEP-2016 sation of equities depreciated 14.25 FSDH 25-OCT-2016

by N140 billion or 1.03 per cent 13.00 UBA 30-SEP-2017 18.00 C&I sentiment LEASING 30-NOV-2017 as market remained

red. 14.00 9.00 04-Oct-18 14.50 09-Dec-18 Meanwhile, a 14.96 turnover of 11.13 12-Dec-18 698.814.00million shares worth 15.50 27.00 14-Feb-19 N6.06 billion in 4,833 deals was 15.50 16.23 02-Oct-19 14.50 80.00 trading.

22-Nov-19 recorded in the day’s 14.75 as in the previous 27.51 Just day12-Dec-19 , 14.75 11.40 30-Sep-20 the banking sub-sector of the 13.50 87.00 27-Nov-20 financial services 15.00 5.00sector was 31-Dec-20 14.50 4.78 31-Dec-20 the most active during the day 15.00 4.79 06-Jan-21 (measured by turnover vol477.18 ume); with 158 million shares 470.45 worth N2.1 billion exchanged by investors in 1,715 deals.

13.50 13.17 18-Dec-14 Volume in the banking 17.00 2.00 31-Dec-14 sub-sector was largely driven 10.00 3.61 17-Aug-15 by activities in the 12.00 13.62 shares of 09-Dec-15 14.00 0.60 Zenith Bank Plc and ETI Plc.06-Jan-16 13.00 15.00 29-Sep-16 Also, other financial ser14.25 5.53 25-Oct-16 vices sub sector,20.00 boosted by 13.00 30-Sep-17 18.00 in the shares 0.73 of FBNH 30-Nov-17 activity 7.20a turnover 09-Apr-18 Plc, 16.00 followed with 18.00 2.90 09-Sep-18 of 20.5 million shares valued 16.00 0.80 09-Sep-18

04-Oct-11 09-Dec-11 12-Dec-13 14-Feb-12 02-Oct-12 22-Nov-12 12-Dec-12 30-Sep-13 27-Nov-13 31-Dec-13 31-Dec-13 06-Jan-14

18-Dec-09 01-Apr-10 17-Aug-10 09-Dec-10 06-Jan-11 29-Sep-11 25-Oct-13 30-Sep-10 30-Nov-12

at1.00 N238.9 million in 693 deals.

13.60 101.20 1.00 13.55 102.10 The number of gainers at 4.78 the close of17.33trading93.86 session 1.00 13.56 102.10 was decliners closed 1.00 18 while 13.57 104.54 13.64 103.05 at1.00 35.

2.74 15.31 98.76 gainMobil Oil Plc led the 1.00 13.58 103.10 ers’ table with a gain of N2.92 1.00 13.69 99.18 to1.94 close at 14.64 N176.00 per 101.39share 1.44 14.03Nigeria 101.44 while Conoil Plc fol1.95 lowed with 14.54 a gain of 101.41 N2.46 to close at N51.82 and Champion Breweries Plc added N1.39 to close at N14.99 per share.

5.21 16.59 99.30 On the other hand, Forte Oil 8.71 20.12 99.13 Plc led the price losers’ table, 4.88 16.74 96.60 dropping N7.45 to 99.89 close at 1.00 12.89 2.63 14.56 100.25 N217.55 per share while Dan1.00 13.53 99.10 gote Cement followed with a 1.34 13.88 100.62 loss to close at98.63 N215.15 1.00 of N4.65 13.57 1.88 Total Oil 14.33 and Nigeria106.94 Plc shed 3.48 N4.50 per 16.03 share to 99.95 close at 5.20 17.74 100.63 N175.50.

5.06 17.60 101.75

3.99 2.40 2.40 2.78 3.04 5.12 3.00 3.53 6.13 6.23 3.71 3.74

0.19 0.23 0.61 0.69 0.76 1.97 2.04 2.98 1.79

BBB+/DataPro†; BB+/GCR

*DANA#

A-/DataPro†; BB-/GCR

*TOWER#

MPR+7.00 TOWER 9-SEP-2018

09-Sep-11

AAA/DataPro†; A+/GCR

*TOWER#

MPR+5.25 TOWER 9-SEP-2018

09-Sep-11

A/Agusto; A/GCR

UBA

14.00 UBA II 22-SEP-2018

22-Sep-11

14.00

35.00

22-Sep-18

3.95

1.35

13.95

100.14

Bbb+/Agusto; BBB+/GCR

*LA CASERA *CHELLARAMS#

15.75 LA CASERA 18-OCT-2018

18-Oct-13

15.75

2.70

18-Oct-18

2.02

2.29

14.83

101.71

17-Feb-12

17.00

0.41

17-Feb-19

2.36

6.11

18.66

97.28

01-Apr-14

16.00

4.50

01-Apr-19

3.23

2.16

14.74

103.13

14-Nov-13

15.25

2.05

14-Nov-20

6.10

2.76

15.45

99.18

N/A

0.10

30-Sep-24

9.98

1.00

13.44

87.89

250.00

14-Aug-21

8.38

8.17

100.85

101.93

MPR+7.00 DANA 9-APR-2018

09-Apr-11

PZ Cussons reports 31% drop in profit

P

Z Cussons Nigeria Plc has BBB/GCR *DANA recorded a 30.8 per cent deA+/Agusto; A-/GCR NAHCO cline during A/GCR in pre-tax profit STANBIC IBTC A/GCR STANBICended IBTC the first quarter 2015 TOTAL OUTSTANDING August 30, 2014. VALUE TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION In a filing with the Nigerian Stock Exchange, the company’s Supranational Bond pre-tax AAA/S&P profit fell to N IFC872.29 million during the period TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE under review against N1.261 billion TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION recorded the previous year, repRating/Agency resenting a decline of 30.8 Issuer per cent.

FGN Eurobonds Turnover dipped to N15.019 BB-/Fitch; B+/S&P billion during the period, comBB-/Fitch; pared with 15.066 billion in FGN the BB-/S&P same period of last year.

BB-/Fitch; BB-/S&P The Nigerian unit of British TOTAL OUTSTANDING household productsVALUE maker had TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION reported 9.15 per cent decline in pre-tax profits during the finanCorporate Eurobonds cial year ended MayAFREN 31, 2014 B/Fitch; B-/S&P PLC I In a filing with the Nigerian B+/Fitch; B+/S&P GTBANK PLC I Stock Exchange, the company’s B+/S&P ACCESS BANK PLC pre-tax profit fell to NFIDELITY 6.94 billion B/Fitch; B/S&P BANK PLC B+/Fitch; B+/S&P GTBANK PLC during the year under review B/Fitch AFREN PLC II against N7.65 billion recorded B+/Fitch; BB-/S&P ZENITH BANK PLC the previous year, representing B/Fitch; B/S&P DIAMOND BANK PLC a decline of 9.15 perFIRST cent.

B-/Fitch; B/S&P BANK PLC The revenue rose to PLC N72.90 B-/Fitch; B/S&P AFREN III billion 2014 from 71.34 B-/Fitch; B/S&P ACCESSbillion BANK PLC II B-/Fitch; naira aB/S&P year earlier. FIRST BANK LTD BBB-/DataPro†; BB+/GCR

B-/S&P

ECOBANK NIG. LTD

CHELLARAMS II 17-FEB-2019 PZMPR+5.00 Cussons Plc, the maker 16.00 DANA II 1-APR-2019 of Imperial Leather soaps, said 15.25 NAHCO II 14-NOV-2020 continued unrest in IAnorthern 182D T.bills+1.20 STANBIC 30-SEP-2024 13.25had STANBIC IB 30-SEP-2024 Nigeria resulted in a decline in sales in that region.

According to reports, Nigeria is by far the British soap and shampoo maker’s biggest 10.20 IFC 11-FEB-2018 market, though it also sells in Ghana and Kenya. Africa accounted for about 42 per cent Description of Cussons’ revenue in the year ended May 31.

The company linked Boko 6.75 JAN 28, 2021 Haram insurgents fighting to carve out an Islamic 5.13 JULstate 12, 2018in Nigeria as major factor that has 6.38 JUL 12, 2023 contributed to the depletion of the company’s revenue in the country.

Since a military offensive began last year, the Islamists have 11.50 FEB 01, 2016 taken out their7.50 anger on civilMAY 19, 2016 ians in increasingly frequent 7.25 JUL 25, 2017 attacks.

6.88 MAY 09, 2018 NOV said 08, 2018 The company6.00 also it was 10.25 APR 08, 2019 carefully monitoring the Ebola 6.25 APR 22, 2019 situation in Nigeria.

8.75 May 21, 2019 PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc had 8.25 AUG 07, 2020 reported a 9.15 per cent decline 6.63 DEC 09, 2020 USD LIBOR+7.677 2021 in pre-tax9.25/6M profits during JUN the24,fi8.00/2Y USD SWAP+6.488 JUL 23 2021 nancial year ended May 31, 2014.

8.75 AUG 14, 2021

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

2.17 2.17

Access Bank’s net earnings up 28%

A

30-Sep-14

15.44 30-Sep-24rose 15.2 9.98per ccess Bank 13.25 Plc has Also, revenue reported 28 per cent 145.36 cent to N117.93 billion in the six growth in profit after 144.85 months period under review tax during 3rd quarter ended from N102.4 billion posted in September 2013.

11-Feb-1330, 2014. 10.20 12.00 11-Feb-18 3.34 The bank in a filing with 12.00 Chief Executive Officer Nigerian Stock Exchange (CEO) of Access Bank, Mr. Her10.94 said the post-tax profit rose to bert Wigwe, while addressing Outstanding Value Issue Date (%) cent Maturity Date Bid Yield re(%) N35.346 billion up Coupon 28 per business editors in a forum ($mm) from N27.597 billion during the cently, noted that the bank was poised for building and leveragcomparable period of 2013.

07-Oct-11 500.00 28-Jan-21 4.96 Access Bank also6.75said its ing on resources and benefits of nine month pre-tax profit rose being a large diversified finan12-Jul-13 5.13 500.00 12-Jul-18 4.08 to 42.15 billion, up 20 per cent cial institution and also reso12-Jul-13 6.38 500.00 12-Jul-23 5.27 from N35.087 billion recorded a lute to achieving the objective 1,500.00 year ago. of becoming the world’s most Also, revenue rose 17.3 per 1,604.02 respected African Bank.

Wigwe said the bank’s target cent to N181.798 billion during the period under review from was to achieve top three 7.36 posi01-Feb-11 11.50 450.00 01-Feb-16 N155.026 billion posted in 2013. tion in Africa by all financial 19-May-11 7.50 500.00 19-May-16 4.20 Access Bank Plc had7.25 reported metrics in 2017.

He listed others 25-Jul-12 350.00 25-Jul-17 6.56 3.85 per cent growth in to include becoming a reference 09-May-13 6.88its 2014 300.00 02-May-18 8.56 08-Nov-13 6.00 400.00 08-Nov-18 5.89 half-year pre-tax profit. point for technology , sustain10.25 300.00 high independent 08-Apr-19 8.67 The08-Apr-12 bank in a filing with Ni- ing agency , 6.25 500.00 22-Apr-19 6.35 gerian22-Apr-14 Stock Exchange said the leading project and structured 21-May-14 8.75 200.00 21-May-19 8.92 pre-tax07-Aug-13 profit rose to 8.25 N27.1 bil- finance bank07-Aug-20 and becoming best 300.00 7.70 lion up09-Dec-13 3.85 per cent from N26.1 treasury and financial market 6.63 360.00 09-Dec-20 7.50 billion24-Jun-14 during the comparable bank 9.25 400.00 in the country 24-Jun-21 .

8.59 8.00 450.00 23-Jul-21 Plc had 7.49anperiod 23-Jul-14 of 2013.

Access Bank 30-Sep-14

14-Aug-14

8.75

1.00 13.44it would 98.97 nounced that hold an extraordinary general meeting to seek shareholders’ approval to raise additional equity capital by1.00 way of rights issue.91.13 13.58 The Bank would also seek shareholders’ approval that its authorised share capital Offer (%) Bid Price Offer Price beYield increased from N13 billion, made up of 24 billion ordinary Prices & Yields shares of 50 kobo each and two 4.81 109.57 110.41 billion preference shares of 50 kobo each, to N20 billion 3.85 103.58 104.41by the creation of 14 billion ordinary 5.15 108.51 shares of 50107.66 kobo each.

The corporate action is expected to expand the bank’s operations and bolster its cash reserves.

The Nigerian Stock 7.36 105.00 105.00 Exchange has placed Access 4.20 105.04 105.04 Bank’s shares on technical 6.56 101.72 101.72 suspension, so as to 96.17 preserve 8.13 94.89 5.66 100.40value before 101.20 shareholders’ the 8.67 105.75 rights issue.105.75 6.35 99.63 Access Bank Plc had99.63 success8.66 99.35 100.33 ful issued a $400 million seven7.70 101.63 101.63 year tier-2 95.75 capital issuance, 7.50 95.75 which is callable at the end of 8.44 103.50 104.25 7.49 years. 101.63 101.63 five

4,760.00

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATION

2.25

25-Sep-14

4,827.10

The FMDQ Daily income securities and instruments the OTC market. The use of this report is subject to the **Treasury Bills Quotations List (DQL) comprises market and model prices/rates of foreign exchange ($/N) products, fixedFIXINGS Moneyin Market Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards) FMDQ OTCDTM PLC Terms of Use and Disclaimer Statement on www.fmdqotc.com.

Maturity Bid Discount (%) Offer Discount (%) Bid Yield (%) Tenor Rate (%) NIBOR 7 16-Oct-14 10.45 14 23-Oct-14 10.50 21 30-Oct-14 10.55 FGN Bonds 28 6-Nov-14 10.95 35 13-Nov-14 11.10 42 20-Nov-14 11.00 Issuer Description Rating/Agency 49 27-Nov-14 11.35 56 4-Dec-14 10.80 4.00 23-APR-2015 63 11-Dec-14 11.25 13.05 16-AUG-2016 77 25-Dec-14 11.20 15.10 27-APR-2017 84 1-Jan-15 11.00 9.85 27-JUL-2017 91 8-Jan-15 10.95 9.35 31-AUG-2017 98 15-Jan-15 11.25 105 22-Jan-15 11.00 10.70 30-MAY-2018 112 29-Jan-15 11.20 16.00 29-JUN-2019 119 5-Feb-15 11.00 NA NA 7.00 23-OCT-2019 126 12-Feb-15 11.35 16.39 27-JAN-2022 133 19-Feb-15 11.05 14.20 14-MAR-2024 140 26-Feb-15 11.15 15.00 28-NOV-2028 147 5-Mar-15 11.15 12.49 22-MAY-2029 154 12-Mar-15 11.10 8.50 20-NOV-2029 182 9-Apr-15 11.15 10.00 23-JUL-2030 196 23-Apr-15 10.95 210 7-May-15 11.00 12.1493 18-JUL-2034 301 6-Aug-15 11.20 TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE 329 3-Sep-15 11.05 *from theMARKET AmortisingCAPITALISATION bonds, the average life is calculated and not the duration TOTAL

10.20 10.25 10.30 10.70 10.85 10.75 Issue Date 11.10 10.55 23-Apr-10 11.00 16-Aug-13 10.95 27-Apr-12 10.75 27-Jul-07 10.70 31-Aug-07 11.00 10.75 30-May-08 10.95 29-Jun-12 10.75 23-Oct-09 11.10 27-Jan-12 10.80 14-Mar-14 10.90 28-Nov-08 10.90 22-May-09 10.85 20-Nov-09 10.90 23-Jul-10 10.70 10.75 18-Jul-14 10.95 10.80

10.47 10.54 10.61 11.04 11.22 11.14 (%) Coupon 11.53 10.98 4.00 11.47 13.05 11.47 15.10 11.29 9.85 11.26 9.35 11.60 11.36 10.70 11.60 16.00 11.41 7.00 11.81 16.39 11.51 14.20 11.65 15.00 11.67 12.49 11.65 8.50 11.81 10.00 11.63 11.74 12.1493 12.34 12.27

Bonds

Issuer

Agency Bonds AMCON NA

FMBN

Modified Duration Buckets

***LCRM <3

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

3<5 >5

TOTAL MARKET CAPITALISATIONMarket

(N'bn)

Value

Rate (%) 10.6250 12.6044 13.4236 14.3438 Maturity

4,591.19

10.38

O/N

10.58

REPO

Tenor TTM (Yrs) Call 1M 0.58 3M 1.89 6M

Date

535.00 23-Apr-15 545.27 NITTY 16-Aug-16 452.80 27-Apr-17 Tenor Rate (%) 20.00 27-Jul-17 1M 11.0143 100.00 31-Aug-17 2M 11.1620 3M 11.2463 300.00 30-May-18 6M 11.5836 351.30 29-Jun-19 9M 11.8789 233.90 23-Oct-19 12M 12.0494 600.00 27-Jan-22 331.35 14-Mar-24 75.00 28-Nov-28 150.00 NIFEX 22-May-29 200.00 Current Price ($/N)20-Nov-29 23-Jul-30 BID($/N) 591.57 164.7000 OFFER ($/N) 164.8000 105.00 18-Jul-34

OBB

Tenor

Rate (%) Bid Yield (%) 10.25 12.36 10.92 13.01 11.94 13.65

Bid ($/N)

Spot 7D 14D Offer 1M Yield 2M (%) 3M 10.63 6M 11.85 1Y

2.59 11.89 11.82 2.84 11.92 11.86 2.93 11.92 11.86 :Benchmarks 3.68 11.93 11.82 * :Amortising Bond 4.76 11.92 11.84 µ :Convertible Bond 5.08 12.01 11.92 AMCON: Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria 7.34 12.35 12.29 FGN: Federal Government of Nigeria 9.47 12.43 12.38 FMBN: Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria 14.18 12.52 12.48 IFC: International Finance Corporation 14.66 12.51 Management 12.46 LCRM: Local Contractors Receivables 15.15 Aviation Handling 12.50Company 12.44 NAHCO: Nigerian 15.83 12.40 12.35 O/N: Overnight UPDC: UAC19.81 Property Development Company 12.37 12.33 NOTE:

WAPCO:West Africa Portland Cement Company

164.30 164.34 164.60 165.24 Bid Price 166.37 167.53 96.23 171.23 101.80 178.65

Offer ($/N)

164.40 164.57 164.91 165.85 Offer Price 167.42 169.14 96.38 174.63 101.95 186.59

Price

106.95 107.10 95.10 95.25 93.77 93.92 NA :Not Applicable 96.39 96.69 # :Floating114.45 Rate Bond 114.75 ***: Deferred coupon bonds 81.35 81.65 119.10 119.40 †: Bond rating expired 109.70 110.00 N/A :Not Available 116.22 116.52 99.83 100.13 73.07 73.37 NGC: Nigeria-German Company 83.50 UBA: United Bank for Africa 83.80 98.35 98.65

4,618.13

# Risk Premium is a combination of credit risk and liquidity risk premiums **Exclusive of non-trading t.bills

Rating/Agency

Tenor O/N 1M 3M Outstanding 6M

Description

Issue Date

0.00 AMCON 31-OCT-2014 (SR.5 TR.1) 0.00 FMB 24-MAY-2015 17.25 FMB II 03-APR-2017 Total Outstanding Porfolio Market Value(Bn) Volume(Bn) 0.00/16.00 LCRM 09-DEC-2016 0.00/16.50 LCRM II 20-APR-2017 1,027.38 998.07 0.00/16.50 LCRM III 06-JUL-2017 1,095.95 951.30

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (N'bn)

FMDQ FGN0.00 BOND INDEX 978.35

28-Dec-11 24-May-10 Weighting by 03-Apr-12 Outstanding Vol 09-Dec-11 20-Apr-12 33.52 06-Jul-12 31.95

0.00 Weighting

by Mkt 17.25 Value 0.00/16.00 0.00/16.50 33.41 0.00/16.50 35.64

952.13

1,027.92

34.53

30.96

3,075.47

2,977.29

100.00

100.00

24.56 3.30 Bucket Weighting 112.22 116.70 0.34 66.49 0.32

1,301.62

0.35

1,285.45 1.00

Maturity Date

31-Oct-14 24-May-15 % Exposure_ 03-Apr-17 Mod_Duration 09-Dec-16 20-Apr-17 14.63 06-Jul-17 31.24

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

0.10 0.66 1.27 Implied Yield 2.21 2.57 12.51 2.78 12.66

# Risk Premium (%)

1.00 2.63 Implied 2.27 Portfolio Price 2.00 1.00 117.9666 1.00 132.6542

Valuation Yield (%) 11.75 13.62 13.78 INDEX 13.96 12.93 1,120.44 12.92 1,123.26

Indicative Price

98.86 91.63 YTD Return 104.25 (%) 100.64 98.83 12.0443 96.25 12.3265

54.13

12.54

102.7065

1,200.82

20.0819

100.00

12.58

117.3909

1,120.98

12.0981

Sub-National Bonds A-/GCR A+/Agusto A/Agusto A-/Agusto A+/Agusto A+/Agusto; A+/GCR A-/Agusto A/Agusto

NIGER KADUNA *EBONYI *BENUE *IMO LAGOS *BAYELSA EDO

14.00 NIGER 15-OCT-2014 12.50 KADUNA 31-AUG-2015 13.00 EBONYI 30-SEP-2015 14.00 BENUE 30-JUN-2016 15.50 IMO 30-JUN-2016 10.00 LAGOS 19-APR-2017 13.75 BAYELSA 30-JUN-2017 14.00 EDO 31-DEC-2017

15-Oct-09 31-Aug-10 30-Sep-10 30-Jun-11 30-Jun-09 19-Apr-10 30-Jun-10 30-Dec-10

14.00 12.50 13.00 14.00 15.50 10.00 13.75 14.00

6.00 8.50 6.08 6.27 7.37 57.00 29.92 25.00

15-Oct-14 31-Aug-15 30-Sep-15 30-Jun-16 30-Jun-16 19-Apr-17 30-Jun-17 31-Dec-17

0.05 0.93 0.53 1.06 1.06 2.57 1.61 3.27

3.29 4.44 3.23 4.46 3.48 5.59 1.00 1.79

13.98 15.67 14.11 15.80 14.82 17.52 12.75 13.71

99.95 97.32 99.31 98.69 101.22 84.96 101.76 100.67

Daily Summary as of 09/10/2014

46

Business | Capital Market

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Printed 09/10/2014 14:55:00.000

Daily Summary as of 09/10/2014 Printed 09/10/2014 14:55:00.000

Daily Summary (Bonds)

The Nigerian Stock Market Exchange as at October 9, 2014

No Debt Trading Activity

Daily Summary (Equities)

Daily Summary (Equities)

Activity Summary on Board EQTY AGRICULTURE Crop Production FTN COCOA PROCESSORS PLC OKOMU OIL PALM PLC. PRESCO PLC Crop Production Totals Livestock/Animal Specialties LIVESTOCK FEEDS PLC. Livestock/Animal Specialties Totals AGRICULTURE Totals Daily Summary as of 09/10/2014 Printed 09/10/2014 14:55:00.000 CONGLOMERATES

Diversified Industries A.G. LEVENTIS NIGERIA PLC. JOHN HOLT PLC. S C O A NIG. PLC. TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATION OF NIGERIA PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY U A C N PLC. Diversified Industries Totals CONGLOMERATES

Activity Summary on Board EQTY Symbol FTNCOCOA OKOMUOIL PRESCO

No. of Deals 2 23 11 36

Current Price 0.50 34.00 37.10

Quantity Traded 103,000 114,178 306,112 523,290

Value Traded 51,500.00 3,777,570.70 11,358,595.20 15,187,665.90

Symbol LIVESTOCK

No. of Deals 22 22

Current Price 3.08

Quantity Traded 471,501 471,501

Value Traded 1,453,007.72 1,453,007.72

994,791

16,640,673.62

Quantity Traded 24,000 2,808 150 461,031,232 3,394,107 464,452,297

Value Traded 33,600.00 2,892.24 666.00 2,429,693,825.91 196,112,024.48 2,625,843,008.63

464,452,297

2,625,843,008.63

58 Symbol No. of Deals AGLEVENT 4 JOHNHOLT 1 Daily Summary (Equities) SCOA 1 TRANSCORP 281 UACN 73 360

CONGLOMERATES Totals

CONSTRUCTION/REAL Published

by The Nigerian Stock ESTATE Exchange © Building Structure/Completion/Other COSTAIN (W A) PLC. Building Structure/Completion/Other Totals

Current Price 1.47 1.08 4.67 5.70 57.50

360 Current Price 0.90

Infrastructure/Heavy Construction JULIUS BERGER NIG. PLC. Infrastructure/Heavy Construction Totals

Symbol JBERGER

No. of Deals 10 10

Current Price 67.20

Quantity Traded 15,112 15,112

Value Traded 964,750.08 964,750.08

Real Estate Development UACN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CO. LIMITED Real Estate Development Totals

Symbol UAC-PROP

No. of Deals 21 21

Current Price 15.20

Quantity Traded 288,420 288,420

Value Traded 4,384,541.50 4,384,541.50

653,178

5,665,528.53 Value Traded 1,000.00 1,000.00

Beverages--Brewers/Distillers CHAMPION PLC. EQTY Activity SummaryBREW. on Board GOLDEN GUINEA BREW. PLC. CONSUMER GOODS GUINNESS NIG PLC Beverages--Brewers/Distillers INTERNATIONAL BREWERIES PLC. NIGERIAN BREW. PLC. Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange PREMIER BREWERIES PLC ©

Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Totals

Beverages--Non-Alcoholic 7-UP BOTTLING COMP. PLC. Beverages--Non-Alcoholic Totals Food Products DANGOTE FLOUR MILLS PLC DANGOTE SUGAR REFINERY PLC FLOUR MILLS NIG. PLC. HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC NATIONAL SALT CO. NIG. PLC UNION DICON SALT PLC. Daily Summary as of 09/10/2014 Food Products Totals Printed 09/10/2014 14:55:00.000 Food Products--Diversified CADBURY NIGERIA PLC. NESTLE NIGERIA PLC. Food Products--Diversified Totals

Household Durables Activity Summary on Board EQTY VITAFOAM NIG PLC. HouseholdGOODS Durables Totals CONSUMER

Personal/Household Products P Z CUSSONS NIGERIA PLC.© Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC. Personal/Household Products Totals

Symbol DUNLOP

Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services AIICO INSURANCE PLC. CONTINENTAL REINSURANCE PLC CONSOLIDATED HALLMARK INSURANCE PLC INTERNATIONAL COMPANY PLC Published by The Nigerian StockENERGY ExchangeINSURANCE © LASACO ASSURANCE PLC. LAW UNION AND ROCK INS. PLC. MANSARD INSURANCE PLC Daily Summary as of 09/10/2014 MUTUAL BENEFITS ASSURANCE PLC. Printed 09/10/2014 N.E.M 14:55:00.000 INSURANCE CO (NIG) PLC. NIGER INSURANCE CO. PLC. PRESTIGE ASSURANCE CO. PLC. STANDARD TRUST ASSURANCE PLC STANDARD ALLIANCE INSURANCE PLC. WAPIC INSURANCE PLC Insurance Carriers, and Services Totals Activity Summary on Brokers Board EQTY Micro-Finance Banks FINANCIAL SERVICES NPF MICROFINANCE Micro-Finance Banks BANK PLC Micro-Finance Banks Totals Published byMortgage The Nigerian Stock Brokers Exchange © Services Carriers, and

UNION HOMES SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC. Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals

Other Financial Institutions AFRICA PRUDENTIAL REGISTRARS PLC CUSTODIAN AND ALLIED PLC FBN HOLDINGS PLC FCMB GROUP PLC. ROYAL EXCHANGE PLC. STANBIC IBTC HOLDINGS PLC UBA CAPITAL PLC Other Financial Institutions Totals

Symbol CHAMPION GOLDBREW GUINNESS Symbol INTBREW NB PREMBREW

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Quantity Traded 2,000 2,000

No. of Deals 16 1 64 No. of Deals 35 139 2

Current Price 14.99 0.80 186.50 Current 31.47 Price 180.10 4.18

Quantity Traded 411,222 180 322,013 Quantity845,342 Traded 745,785 Page 18,500

257

2,343,042

Value Traded 6,163,862.78 151.20 59,871,240.90 Value Traded 25,936,088.02 134,520,584.71 2 73,630.00 of 12

226,565,557.61

Quantity Traded 148,969 148,969

Value Traded 24,260,316.34 24,260,316.34

Symbol DANGFLOUR DANGSUGAR FLOURMILL HONYFLOUR NASCON UNIONDICON

No. of Deals 4 62 86 27 32 2 213

Current Price 6.55 8.12 61.30 3.96 9.30 13.41

Quantity Traded 2,050 1,956,245 628,264 786,000 430,017 3,150 3,805,726

Value Traded 13,214.50 15,864,143.88 38,971,273.82 3,136,820.00 4,012,920.07 40,131.00 62,038,503.27

Symbol CADBURY NESTLE

No. of Deals 77 42 (Equities) 119

Current Price 54.00 1,050.00

Quantity Traded 363,978 133,879 497,857

Value Traded 19,734,757.02 140,570,963.41 160,305,720.43

Symbol VITAFOAM

No. of Deals 25 25

Current Price 4.29

Quantity Traded 756,900 756,900

Value Traded 3,153,269.16 3,153,269.16

Symbol PZ UNILEVER

No. of Deals 50 61 111

Current Price 32.00 47.99

Quantity Traded Page 254,844 200,242 455,086

Value Traded 3 8,127,733.96 of 12 9,258,867.31 17,386,601.27

Daily Summary

762

8,009,580

493,710,968.08

Symbol AIICO CONTINSURE HMARKINS INTENEGINS LASACO LAWUNION MANSARD MBENEFIT NEM NIGERINS PRESTIGE STACO Daily Summary STDINSURE WAPIC

No. of Deals 38 21 2 13 2 1 10 7 15 1 1 1 (Equities) 2 55 169

Current Price 0.80 1.00 0.50 0.58 0.50 0.50 2.76 0.54 0.78 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.73

Quantity Traded 3,025,147 7,000,852 2,500 399,627 Page 1,600 300 264,666 151,000 801,138 500 1,000 200,000 3,000 1,199,644 13,050,974

Value Traded 2,420,239.80 6,999,947.00 1,250.00 4 231,783.66 of 12 800.00 150.00 733,539.86 81,540.00 624,397.64 250.00 500.00 100,000.00 1,500.00 885,843.26 12,081,741.22

Symbol NPFMCRFBK Symbol

No. of Deals 7 No. of Deals

Current Price 1.00 Current Price

Quantity Traded Quantity553,000 Traded

Value Traded 538,660.00 Value Traded

Symbol UNHOMES

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Page Quantity Traded 118,644 118,644

5Value Traded of 12 59,322.00

Symbol AFRIPRUD CUSTODYINS FBNH FCMB ROYALEX STANBIC UBCAP

No. of Deals 56 28 448 34 4 51 72 693

Current Price 3.21 4.00 13.29 4.33 0.59 33.00 2.15

Quantity Traded 1,433,527 6,751,910 7,968,312 322,788 26,124 2,943,290 1,059,926 20,505,877

Value Traded 4,603,291.02 27,031,312.82 106,582,953.65 1,401,818.96 14,933.16 97,028,023.88 2,282,090.95 238,944,424.44

192,269,359

2,385,683,618.55

Symbol FIDSON GLAXOSMITH MAYBAKER NEIMETH

No. of Deals 16 23 10 10 59

Current Price 3.33 61.00 1.74 1.06

Quantity Traded 517,000 1,279,299 475,200 98,236 2,369,735 Page

Value Traded 45,684,763.71 69,527,352.28 430,226,832.53 12,324,804.47 479,564,769.41 59,619,935.86 15,241,442.94 128,380,263.04 Value Traded 2,796,836.82 5,275,062.00 2,013,779.51 883,403,628.32 2,134,059,470.89

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 13.50

Quantity Traded 1,196 1,196

Value Traded 15,344.68 15,344.68

Processing Systems CHAMS PLC Processing Systems Totals

Symbol CHAMS

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 1,000,500 1,000,500

Value Traded 500,250.00 500,250.00

1,171,696

602,929.88

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials ASHAKA CEM PLC BERGER PAINTS PLC CAP PLC CEMENT CO. on OF Board NORTH.NIG. Activity Summary EQTYPLC DANGOTE CEMENT PLC INDUSTRIAL GOODS DN MEYER PLC. FIRST ALUMINIUM Building Materials NIGERIA PLC

IPWA PLC PORTLAND PAINTS & PRODUCTS NIGERIA PLC Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © LAFARGE AFRICA PLC.

8 Symbol ASHAKACEM

No. of Deals 57 12 17 48 33 1 1 No. of Deals

Current Price 32.00 8.60 39.00 15.02 215.15 1.05 0.50 Current Price

Quantity Traded 435,182 34,469 111,655 1,022,122 685,158 1,628 10,000 Quantity Traded

Daily Summary (Equities) BERGER CAP CCNN DANGCEM DNMEYER FIRSTALUM Symbol IPWA PORTPAINT WAPCO

1 1 27 198

0.50 5.50 127.00

1,890 1,000 Page 35,305 2,338,409

Value Traded 13,982,039.31 302,402.55 4,339,974.75 15,547,239.44 150,441,296.49 1,628.00 Value5,000.00 Traded 945.00 5,230.00 7 of 12 4,503,097.02

189,128,852.56

Electronic and Electrical Products CUTIX PLC. Electronic and Electrical Products Totals

Symbol CUTIX

No. of Deals 13 13

Current Price 1.89

Quantity Traded 283,329 283,329

Value Traded 518,922.20 518,922.20

Packaging/Containers AVON CROWNCAPS & CONTAINERS BETA GLASS CO PLC. Packaging/Containers Totals

Symbol AVONCROWN BETAGLAS

No. of Deals 1 5 6

Current Price 1.59 20.00

Quantity Traded 10,320 8,620 18,940

Value Traded 16,408.80 169,548.74 185,957.54

2,640,678

189,833,732.30

Quantity Traded 1,254 1,254

Value Traded 9,241.98 9,241.98

1,254

9,241.98

INDUSTRIAL Totals Daily Summary as ofGOODS 09/10/2014 Printed 09/10/2014 14:55:00.000 NATURAL RESOURCES Metals ALUMINIUM MANUFACTURING COMPANY PLC Metals Totals

217 Symbol ALUMACO

No. of Deals 2 2

Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors BECO PETROLEUM PRODUCT PLC CONOIL PLC ETERNA PLC. FORTE OIL PLC. MOBIL OIL NIG PLC. MRS OIL NIGERIA PLC. TOTAL NIGERIA PLC. Daily Summary as of and 09/10/2014 Petroleum Petroleum Products Distributors Totals Printed 09/10/2014 14:55:00.000 Exploration and Production SEPLAT PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LTD Exploration and Production Totals OIL AND GAS Totals

Current Price 7.75

Daily Summary (Equities)

NATURAL RESOURCES Totals

2 Symbol JAPAULOIL Symbol

51 No. of Deals 51

No. of Deals

0.50 Current Price

Current Price

Quantity Traded 3,313,103 Quantity Traded 3,313,103 Page

Value Traded 1,656,551.50 Value Traded 1,656,551.50 8 of 12

Symbol OANDO

No. of Deals 267 267

Current Price 25.30

Quantity Traded 2,792,867 2,792,867

Value Traded 71,804,058.02 71,804,058.02

Symbol BECOPETRO CONOIL ETERNA FO MOBIL MRS TOTAL

No. of Deals 2 25 22 74 19 1 36 179

Current Price 0.50 51.82 3.81 217.55 176.00 56.00 175.50

Quantity Traded 99,000 126,297 741,225 138,546 160,901 3,000 134,664 1,403,633

Value Traded 49,500.00 6,541,590.10 2,743,167.26 30,167,062.55 28,295,402.90 159,600.00 23,594,820.07 91,551,142.88

Symbol SEPLAT

No. of Deals 27 27

Current Price 639.50

Quantity Traded 78,813 78,813

Value Traded 50,105,426.71 50,105,426.71

7,588,416

215,117,179.11

Quantity Traded

Value Traded 858.00 Value Traded

Page Quantity Traded 308,464 308,464

9 of 12 Value Traded 272,289.40 272,289.40

Daily Summary (Equities)

524

Activity Summary on Board EQTY Symbol

No. of Deals

Current Price

LENNARDS Symbol

No. of Deals1 1

3.15 Current Price

Symbol RTBRISCOE

No. of Deals 12 12

Current Price 0.86

Courier/Freight/Delivery RED STAR EXPRESS PLC Courier/Freight/Delivery Totals

Symbol REDSTAREX

No. of Deals 26 26

Current Price 4.40

Quantity Traded 2,631,733 2,631,733

Value Traded 11,585,805.20 11,585,805.20

Employment Solutions C & I LEASING PLC. Employment Solutions Totals

Symbol CILEASING

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 1,000 1,000

Value Traded 500.00 500.00

Symbol IKEJAHOTEL

No. of Deals 56 56

Current Price 2.42

Quantity Traded 12,471,381 12,471,381

Value Traded 29,986,231.02 29,986,231.02

Symbol DAARCOMM

No. of Deals 3 3

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 5,800 5,800

Value Traded 2,900.00 2,900.00

Symbol ACADEMY LEARNAFRCA STUDPRESS Symbol UPL

No. of Deals 5 7 1 No. of Deals 21 34

Current Price 1.32 1.44 2.40 Current Price 4.14

Quantity Traded 356,475 121,683 40 Quantity Traded 413,968 Page 892,166

Road Transportation ASSOCIATED BUS COMPANY PLC Road Transportation Totals

Symbol ABCTRANS

No. of Deals 14 14

Current Price 0.69

Quantity Traded 229,637 229,637

Value Traded 157,893.44 157,893.44

Transport-Related Services NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC Transport-Related Services Totals

Symbol NAHCO

No. of Deals 27 27

Current Price 5.00

Quantity Traded 312,443 312,443

Value Traded 1,563,079.21 1,563,079.21

Support and Logistics CAVERTON OFFSHORE SUPPORT GRP PLC Support and Logistics Totals

Symbol CAVERTON

No. of Deals 41 41

Current Price 4.84

Quantity Traded 1,837,767 1,837,767

Value Traded 8,642,303.40 8,642,303.40

Apparel Retailers Totals

R T BRISCOE PLC. Automobile/Auto Part Retailers Totals

59,322.00

Hotels/Lodging Daily Summary as of 09/10/2014 IKEJA HOTEL PLC Printed 09/10/2014 14:55:00.000 Hotels/Lodging Totals Media/Entertainment DAAR COMMUNICATIONS PLC Media/Entertainment Totals Printing/Publishing ACADEMY PRESS PLC. LEARN AFRICA PLC SERVICES STUDIO PRESS (NIG) PLC. Printing/Publishing

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

UNIVERSITY PRESS PLC. Published by The Nigerian StockTotals Exchange © Printing/Publishing

Daily Summary (Equities)

SERVICES Totals

286 Quantity Traded 286

858.00

Value Traded 472,165.68 173,810.06 92.00 Value Traded 1,630,767.80 10 of 12 2,276,835.54

215

18,690,677

54,488,695.21

Daily Summary as of 09/10/2014 Board Totals PrintedEQTY 09/10/2014 14:55:00.000

4,833

698,841,661

6,068,835,834.99

Equity Activity Totals

4,833

698,841,661

6,068,835,834.99

Daily Summary (ETP) Exchange Traded Fund

Name NEWGOLD EXCHANGE TRADED FUND (ETF) Published byVETIVA The Nigerian Stock Exchange © GRIFFIN 30 ETF Exchange Traded Fund Totals

Value Traded 1,727,168.00 78,581,383.22 826,838.00 104,869.88 81,240,259.10 of

Symbol NCR

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange Automobile/Auto Part Retailers©

538,660.00

6

IT Services NCR (NIGERIA) PLC. IT Services Totals

SERVICES Apparel Retailers SERVICES LENNARDS (NIG) PLC. Apparel Retailers

Quantity Traded 5,127,587 11,136,244 22,918,566 6,164,965 15,929,534 20,832,647 6,608,303 19,511,275 Quantity307,000 Traded 10,550,124 2,106,343 36,848,276 158,040,864

2,585

Value Traded 87,335.20 87,335.20

Integrated Oil and Gas Services OANDO PLC Integrated Oil and Gas Services Totals

Current Price 8.90 6.25 18.75 2.01 30.00 2.85 2.31 6.52 Current Price 9.10 0.50 0.95 23.51

553,000

Quantity Traded 170,000 170,000

Energy Equipment and Services Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Symbol No. of Deals ACCESS 162 DIAMONDBNK 44 ETI 94 Daily Summary (Equities) FIDELITYBK 89 GUARANTY 365 SKYEBANK 244 STERLNBANK 32 UBA 204 Symbol No. of Deals UBN 79 UNITYBNK 46 WEMABANK 38 ZENITHBANK 318 1,715

7

Current Price 0.51

OIL AND GAS Equipment and Services OILEnergy AND GAS JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC Energy Equipment and Services

Current Price 147.73

81,240,259.10

No. of Deals 5 5

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

No. of Deals 35 35

2,369,735

Symbol COURTVILLE

Building Materials Totals

Symbol 7UP

FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals HEALTHCARE Pharmaceuticals FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC. MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. NEIMETH INTERNATIONAL PHARMACEUTICALS PLC Pharmaceuticals Totals

Current Price 0.50

Daily Summary (Equities)

CONSUMER GOODS Totals FINANCIAL Daily Summary as ofSERVICES 09/10/2014 Banking14:55:00.000 Printed 09/10/2014 ACCESS BANK PLC. DIAMOND BANK PLC ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED FIDELITY BANK PLC GUARANTY TRUST BANK PLC. SKYE BANK PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY STERLING BANK PLC. FINANCIAL SERVICES UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC Banking UNION BANK NIG.PLC. UNITY BANK PLC WEMA BANK PLC. ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC Banking Totals

No. of Deals 2 2

59

Daily Summary as of 09/10/2014 ICT Totals Printed 09/10/2014 14:55:00.000

1 of 12 Value Traded 316,236.95 316,236.95

No. of Deals 12 12

43

ICT Computer Based Systems COURTEVILLE BUSINESS SOLUTIONS PLC Computer Based Systems Totals

Page Quantity Traded 349,646 349,646

Symbol COSTAIN

CONSTRUCTION/REAL Daily Summary as of 09/10/2014ESTATE Totals Printed 09/10/2014 14:55:00.000 CONSUMER GOODS Automobiles/Auto Parts DN TYRE & RUBBER PLC Automobiles/Auto Parts Totals

HEALTHCARE HEALTHCARE Totals

12

Symbol NEWGOLD VETGRIF30

No. of Deals 1 1 2

Current Price 1,928.00 18.80

Quantity Traded 35 Page 1,050 1,085

Value Traded 67,480.00 of 12 19,740.00 87,220.00

11

ETF Board Totals

2

1,085

87,220.00

ETP Activity Totals

2

1,085

87,220.00

News 47

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

Criticisms trail burning of 300 motocycles by Delta govt Gabriel Choba

The party said as far as the poor Deltans were concerned, the only benefit and dividend of democracy under the PDP government are under development, unemployment, hardship and wastage of their monumental revenue allocation on voodoo projects by the leadership of the PDP in the state.

APC Chairman, Jones Ode Erue, who made this statement yesterday, que-

ried the motorcycle ban by the state government, saying it was deliberately formulated to impoverish the common people.

Erue added that the PDP government has continued to make life difficult for the people, adding that the current administration has failed to build new industries, nor revive state-owned ailing industries to create employment for graduates and youths.

The APC boss lamented that such an action taken by the government to make life more difficult for the people is unacceptable, maintaining that such policy that is without any alternative is pure wickedness and to the detriment of the people.

Erue said: “last Saturday, about three hundred commercial motorcycles popular known as ‘Okada’ were confiscated in Sapele by the Delta State Directorate of

Benue to participate in N220bn CBN fund Cephas Iorhemen Transport in line with the state government’s ban on the use of commercial motorcycles in Ika South, North and Sapele Local Government areas of the state.”

He continued “the 300 commercial motorcycles were taken to Mosogar in Ethiope West local government and burnt at the end of the Gammon Bridge under the supervision of Hon. Ben Igbakpa, the commissioner for transport.”

Makurdi

B

enue State House of Assembly has passed a resolution allowing the s criticisms continue Benue State government to trail the burning of to participate in the N220 over 300 motorcycles by the billion Central Bank of Delta State Commissioner Nigeria (CBN) Micro for Transport, Ben IgbakSmall and Medium Enpa, the All Progressives terprise Fund.

Congress (APC) has said The resolution was that burning motorcycles passed at the plenary belonging to poor citizens of the House, following by the government was not a motion to that effect in the interest of the people moved by its Majority who voted them into office.

Leader, Hon. Paul Biam.

The funds once accessed by the government would be channeled to agriculture, poverty reduction, employment and other intervention areas with women expected to get 15 per cent of the funds.

Benue citizens, who do not belong to cooperatives, are encouraged to register for participation.

It will be recalled that Governor Gabriel Suswam had on September 12, 2014 written to the Benue State House of Assembly seeking the approval of the House for participation in the facility.

With the approval, the state will join the 36 States of Nigeria and Federal Capital Territory for participation in the N220 billion CBN fund for Micro, Small L-R: Deputy Director, Defence Information, Defence Headquarters (DHQ), Lt. Commander Way Olabisi; Co-ordinator, National Information Centre (NIC), Mr. Mike Omeri and Medium Enterprises and Police Public Relations Officer, Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Ojukwu, during a media briefing on the state of the nation in Abuja…yesterday. in the country.

Ughelli

A

All set for Fayose’s inauguration Adesina Wahab Ado-Ekiti

T

he Chairman of the Transition Committee in Ekiti State, Chief Dipo Anisulowo, yesterday said his committee and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are gearing up for the October 16 inauguration of the GovernorElect, Mr. Ayo Fayose.

In a statement in AdoEkiti yesterday, the transition committee chairman said the event would hold at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, Ado-Ekiti.

“The much-awaited inauguration of the Ekiti State Governor-Elect, Mr. Peter Ayodele Fayose, as governor of Ekiti State,

comes up on Thursday, October 16, 2014.

“This is to inform all peace-loving people of Ekiti State, who voted overwhelmingly for Fayose on June 21, that having made the divine arrangement of God to put Fayose in charge at this time, we are sure that God will perfect everything and the glorious day will come and the event will hold.

“Arrangement for the inauguration is ongoing and dignitaries from all walks of life such as governors, ministers, members of the National Working Committee of the PDP, traditional rulers and other personalities are expected at the ceremony. All the people of Ekiti State are hereby enjoined to get

prepared,” he said.

Anisulowo added that adequate security and logistic arrangements were being made while he urged the people to troop out in large numbers to show their love for the incoming governor.

He also charged the people not to be bothered by the antics of the opposition, saying; “Discerning people of Ekiti State and Nigerians at large can now see that the so-called defenders of democracy are mere pretenders.

“How can a genuine democrat be hell bent on subverting the people’s will? We want Ekiti people to know that the voice of the people is the voice of God and that they have spoken and spoken well.”

PHOTO: ELIJAH OLALUYI

Noiseless Lagos is achievable, says Fashola Muritala Ayinla

L

agos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola, yesterday said that Lagos can attain the status of a noiseless society like other developed mega cities of the world, if only the residents would cooperate with government in reducing noise pollution as they did in the containment of the Ebola Virus Diseases (EVD).

Fashola said the farreaching reduction of noise pollution is possible, if every citizen could be sensitive enough to the wellbeing of their neighbours by refraining from activities that could generate needless noise, which according

to him, has generated complaints from all taxpaying citizens.

Speaking at the Lagos Drivers’ Appreciation Day, a programme organised by the Ministry of Transport to sensitise drivers on a hornfree day, Fashola said if Lagos could contain the Ebola Virus Diseases despite its fatality, noise pollution could also be contained.

He said: “The whole world feared that we would not be able to survive the Ebola outbreak, but we stood up as a family from the primary healthcare workers, the religious leaders, the Obas, chiefs, the local governments, the civil society groups. We all decided to confront

a threat that has never happened in an urban centre before.

“Lagos is the first test case. I remember what they were telling me from the Centre for Diseases Control that there was no precedent for what was happening in Lagos, because that was the first time in 40 years that Ebola would be breaking out in an urban centre.

“Almost all other experiences were in the rural areas. But again, we learn, we worked together and we overcame that. If we can do that, can we not then overcome noise pollution, which is selfinflicted? Let’s go and do it, the horn-free day and noiseless society start with you and I,” Fashola added.

Bayelsa Assembly passes vote of confidence on Dickson Chris Ejim Yenagoa

T

he re-election bid of Bayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson, in 2016, received a boost yesterday as the state House

of Assembly unanimously passed a vote of confidence on his administration.

The governor had during the last Monthly Transparency Briefing, commended various groups in the state for en-

dorsing him for a second term, saying that their request would be prayerfully looked into and responded to at the appropriate time.

Dickson’s efforts at transforming the state, especially in the areas of

human capacity building, was attested to by the lawmakers during the governor’s inspection of the re-modeled Assembly complex.

Impressed by the developmental initiatives

of the administration, the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Victor Sam Ateki, in a motion that was supported by Hon. Jonathan Obuebite, representing Nembe Constituency 1, praised the governor’s giant strides.

Ateki said: “In the light of dwindling financial resources, Governor Dickson has performed beyond expectation in all the sectors of the economy and deserves a vote of confidence.”

48

News

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Free-for-all over Okorocha’s N5m donation Steve Uzoechi Owerri

A

former Commissioner in the Rochas Okorocha administration, Hon. Ifeanyi Nwachukwu, who resigned last week to pursue his aspiration to the Imo House of Assembly on Wednesday, survived a deadly mob action.

The incident occurred at the Imo International Con-

ference Centre (IICC) where a pro- Okorocha group, Vote Rochas Club (VRC) parleyed with the governor on the way forward to the 2015 general election and what would have ended in goodwill turned into a theatre of war.

Okorocha, after interacting with the group, had allegedly donated N5 million and encouraged them to expand their scope of operation.

Trouble, however, started when the governor left the venue and the group, largely made up of youths, gathered to share their bounty.

Nwachukwu who was addressing the youths on the sharing formula, also ignored the views and grumbling of the members of VRC when he started to share N5000 to each of the 305 political wards represented by the

youths.

While the sharing was going on, the youths who had earlier speculated that part of the money was stashed away by the commissioner, got information that an aide of the former commissioner was about to move part of the money out of the venue and all hell broke loose as they pounced on the said aide and beat him to a pulp,

forcefully dispossessing him of part of the money.

The angry youth thereafter turned on Nwachukwu allegedly for not sharing the money according to the directives of the governor.

Part of the money was also torn away from Nwachukwu with naira notes strewn all over the ground.

While an eyewitness recounted that the Ezinihitte Mbaise House of

Assembly aspirant left the venue with bruises, another source at the event differed saying he escaped before the situation degenerated.

An All Progressive Congress (APC) woman leader, Mrs. Nkechi Okoro who was also at the event, described the incident as a show of shame, blaming Nwachukwu for the idea of sharing money in public, describing same as an embarrassment to the party.

Ohanaeze Youth seeks accountability from politicians Igbeaku Orji Umuahia

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Group Managing Director/CEO, Skye Bank Plc, Mr. Timothy Oguntayo (left) and Head, Corporate Communications, Strategy and Research, Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), Mr. Kayode Lambo, during the signing of the share sale and purchase agreement of Mainstreet Bank Limited in Lagos…yesterday

Passengers stranded as cab operators down tools Wole Shadare

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hey did not bargain for it. For many hours passengers who intended to use the airport walked many hours from the Hajj camp bus stop area of the Lagos airport to Ikeja.

Reason: Bus and cab operators plying the ever

busy road protested their ouster from the garage and some bus stops allocated to them at the international airport six months ago.

The cab and limousine operators numbering over 350, said they will not operate until officials of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) address issues bordering on their operations at the

international terminal.

They said FAAN security personnel were edging them out of their temporary base to make way for car hire operators who they said are not paying enough money to FAAN as they do.

They alleged that FAAN was engaging in a desperate bid to get them out of their base.

Speaking in an interview , the chairman of Murtala Muhammed Air port Limousine Shuttle Association of Nigeria (AlLSAN), Mr. Gabriel Agboma said the decision by FAAN was insensitive because they pay over N81,000 per cab to the authority for over 600 cars, which amounts N48 million the

agency rakes in from them annually.

They said that was enough to develop a befitting park for them to operate at the airport.

He accused FAAN officials of deceived them to relocate to the new place when the new terminal building is under construction, only to work out tricks to force them out.

FCT ministers’ friends donate vehicles to PDP Atunwa tasks FG, States on health insurance scheme morale booster. put the State Chapter of Yekeen Nurudeen Abuja

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s part of build up to next year’s general elections, Committee of Friends of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Senator Bala Mohammed and some party leaders have donated 52 vehicles of various models to the State and Area Councils’ Executive Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the FCT. Senior Special Assistant (Political) to the FCT Minister, Senator Usman Jibrin Wowo who made the presentation on behalf of the Committee of Friends and party leaders in Abuja on Wednesday explained that the 52 gesture will serve as a

This, according to Wowo, was to ensure that the FCT is delivered to the PDP in the general elections.

He added that the vehicles would enable members of the State Executive Committee, Area Council Party Secretaries, Women Leaders, Treasurers and Youth Leaders embark on grassroots mobilization in and around the 8,000 square kilometres of the Federal Capital Territory.

According to him, the vehicles have been donated to assist in going from house to house to campaign for the PDP to enable it have landslide victory in the forthcoming 2015 general elections.

He reiterated that the vehicles were meant to

the party in good stead ahead of future challenges; stressing that FCT must be delivered to PDP in next year elections.

“The Committee of Friends and Party leaders believe in the leadership qualities of the FCT Minister, as well as his principal, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan whose Transformation Agenda is improving the wellbeing and living standard of Nigerians rapidly,” Senator Wowo stated.

Also speaking at the occasion, the Senator representing FCT, Senator Philip Tanimu Aduda lauded the FCT Minister and his Committee of Friends for the wonderful gesture.

Biodun Oyeleye Ilorin

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he Federal and State Governments in Nigeria have been urged to embrace the Community Health Insurance Scheme being operated

by Kwara State to further reduce infant mortality rate in the country.

Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Alhaji Razak Atunwa gave the advice while reacting to the emergence of Kwara as finalist at the Organisation of Economic Cooperation and Development fair in Paris.

Atunwa in a statement by his Media Assistant, Alhaji Abdul-Rahman Sanni noted with delight that the scheme

had helped the people to have access to quality healthcare thereby reducing poverty among the people of the State.

The Speaker, who noted with delight that the State House of Assembly under his leadership had provided the necessary legal backing for the scheme, described the Community Health Insurance Scheme as worthy of emulation by other State Governments in the country to further enhance the wellbeing of the citizenry.

He equally commended Senator Bukola Saraki for initiating the scheme, pointing out that the scheme under Governor Abdul-Fatah Ahmed had won international recognition.

he Ohanaeze Youth Wing has concluded arrangement to hold accountability forum for serving political office holders from 2011 to 2014 to make South East politicians accountable.

Speaking to newsmen in Umuahia, yesterday, the National president of the Youth Wing of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Okechukwu Isinguzoro said the platform would give people the opportunity to assess the performances of such political office holders.

“We have watched carefully and we have studied the democratic dividend between 2011 to 2014 to appraise those we sent to the national assembly whether they have performed creditably well or not because the Ohanaeze Youths have two halls, the hall of fame and that of shame and after appraising the performances of our national assembly members, the governors and the State house of assembly then we know where to place them.

“Those who performed creditably well, we send them back to the National Assembly or to any other position that would be of immense benefit to the people but for those who failed woefully, we will ensure that we flush them out of the system. We will immortalize their names in the hall of shame”, he said.

According to singuzoro, the measure is to ensure that greed and self-interest are reduced or completely erased in the polity among office holders so that future leaders would have the interest of the people of Ndigbo at heart while in service of their people.

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NEW TELEGRAPH friday, OCTOBER 10, 2014

Ukala’s Iredi War wins NLNG Prize for Literature Tony Okuyeme

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am Ukala’s play, Iredi War has been adjudged winner of the prestigious NLNG prize for literature by the panel of judges led

by Prof. Charity Angya.

Iredi War was selected from the 124 plays submitted for the competition, which focus on drama this year. The work of the panel of judges produced shortlist of 49, 25, 11 and then 3 from which the winning entry has now emerged. The other two

books that were in the final shortlist are: Alekwu Night Dance by Friday John Abba and Oduduwa, King of the Edos by Jude Idada.

Prof. Ukala in an interview on phone, expressed joy at winning the prestigious award, saying: “I am grateful to God; I am grateful to NLNG for providing the opportunity for me to explore the talent and creativity that God endowed me with.

I am also grateful to the judges for living up to the expectation of the in-

tegrity and transparency which such a huge prize demands.”

Announcing the winner at a world press conference held yesterday at the Food of Sun Restaurant, Eko Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, Prof.

Ayo Banjo, chairman of the Advisory Board of the NLNG Prize for Literature, which include Professors Ben Elugbe and Jerry Agada, said the panel of Judges made up of Prof. Charity Agnya as Chief Judge, Prof. Ahmed Yerima and

Prof. Akanji Nasiru as members, examined the entries from the set criteria: relevance, originality, form and style, thematic engagement, social commitment, language and aesthetics, and quality of production.

While Iredi War addresses the socio-political history of the Owa Kingdom and the imperialistic tendencies of the colonialists at the beginning of the 20th century; Oduduwa King of the Edos is a historical play that deals with the oral

history and cultural tradition of the Yoruba and Edo peoples of Nigeria.

Alekwu Night Dance is a play that explores the crime, deception and desire for vengeance in an Idoma community of Benue State, Nigeria.

In arriving at Ukala’s Iredi War, the judges specifically commended “the masterly handling of vast historical material through the narrative and action method”.

According to Prof.

Angya, “The language captures indigenous sen-

sibilities, preserves the profundity of the original, and yet entertains.”

In addition, the Independent International Consultant to the Advisory Board on the 2014 Prize, Prof. Mzo Sirayi, described the thematic focus of the book as, “poignant, proactive and stimulating”. In his words, “at no other time in history will the theme of war be more relevant than now given rising provocations and conflicts in different parts of the world”.

Glo thickens Ofala festival

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ational Carrier, Globacom has promised that this year’s Ofala Festival which begins in Onitsha on Thursday with an International Arts Exhibition would be a grand affair.

In a statement issued in Lagos, Globacom said that all arrangements had been concluded to make the festival exciting, with the line-up of exhilarating activities.

The company added that the Oreze Arts Exhibition, which in the local parlance means the King’s Crowd, would have over 60 artists participating with George Edozie as the Curator.

L-R: Bishops of the Diocese of Lagos West, Rt. Revd. Olusola Odedeji; Diocese of Ijebu South West, Dr. Babatunde Ogunbanwo; Diocese of Ijebu North, Dr. Solomon Kupolunu; Diocese of Awori, Dr. Johnson Atere; Diocese of Badagry, Rt. Revd Babatunde Adeyemi; Dean Emeritus, Dr. Adebola Ademowo; Archbishop Ecclesiastical Province of Lagos, Prof. Adebayo Akinde; Bishop of Diocese of Remo, Dr. Olusina Fape; Diocese of Ifo, Rt. Revd. Nathaniel Ogundipe; Diocese of Yewa, Rt. Revd. Michael Oluwarohunbi; Diocese of Egba West, Rt. Revd. Samuel Ogundeji and Diocese of Egba, Rt. Revd. Emmanuel Adekunle, after the Council Meeting of the Ecclesiastical Province of Lagos at the Cathedral Church of the Holy Trinity, Okenla in Ifo, Ogun State...on Wednesday

PDP berates Fashola over non-conduct of LG election

Award winner relishes experience

Defection: Obiano’s aide makes case for Obi

Wale Elegbede

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Tony Okafor

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he Lagos State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said that the inability of the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration in the state to conduct local government election at the expiration of tenure of the incumbent officers on October 29, shows that the ruling party is a bad model of government in a democratic setting.

In a statement signed yesterday by its publicity secretary, Taofik Gani,

the PDP averred that it shall as a law abiding party take appropriate steps at the expiration of the present council’s tenure to ensure that constitutionalism prevails, adding that it would ensure that all provocative actions of the APC in the state would be repelled.

The party alleged that the APC government is destroying and removing all PDP symbols, including the country’s national flag that are usually used to support the party and described the act as provocative.

Jonathan, Madueke absent from Ijaw summit Joe Obende Warri

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resident Goodluck Jonathan and the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Deziani Alison Madueke, were yesterday conspicuously absent from the 2-day 1st youth summit at the behest of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Western Zone, which kicked off yesterday.

Western zone of the IYC

consists of Edo, Delta and Bayelsa states just as they have other chapters such as East, Central, Abuja, Lagos, America and Europe.

Jonathan, who was to be guest of honour and who was programmed to make a ‘Presidential maiden speech’ at the summit slugged “Partnering for Prosperity and Sustainable Development” yesterday in Warri, Delta State was not even represented.

he overall winner of the 2014 Promasidor Quill Awards for journalists, Mr. Kunle Falayi, has described the Thomson Foundation Summer Convergence Course he went for as both eyeopening and empowering for him as he acquired multimedia skills that would be useful to him beyond journalism.

Giving an overview of the course, Falayi said through the course, he was able to acquire rare skills that distinguish

‘Nigeria loses billions to mental disorders yearly’ Muda Oyeniran n estimated hundreds of billions of naira in terms of human productivity is lost to untreated mental illness yearly in Nigeria, a Consultant Psychiatrist who is also the permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Femi Olugbile has disclosed.

Olugbile who made this known in a statement to mark this year’s World Mental Health Day(October 10) in Lagos also regretted that 90% of people with diagnosable mental illness never get to see a doctor or receive treatment of any sort.

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exceptional journalists in different parts of the world.

His words: “If there was a single event that could change someone’s life in a huge way, one would say the Thomson Foundation Summer Convergence Course, 2014 was exactly that.

The world of journalism is about telling stories in multimedia platforms and this training could not have come at a better time for me. Thanks to Promasidor Nigeria.”

Awka

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pecial Adviser to Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra state, JoeMartins Uzodike yesterday enjoined the people of the state, especially members of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) not to vilify former governor of the state, Mr. Peter Obi for defecting to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Addressing newsmen in his office, Uzodike said

PUBLIC NOTICE MOUNTAIN OF HOLY GHOST FIRE AND PRAYER MINISTRY 57, OLUWASEUN STREET, ODOERAN, OWORONSOKI, LAGOS The general public is hereby notified that the above MINISTRY has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under the Companies and Allied Matters Act No. of 1990.

The Trustees are: 1. Pastor Ojo Olayiwola Timothy 2. Ojo Ibiyemi Deborah 3 Daramola Samuel 4 Lawson Agarry 5 Owootomo Joseph AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ.

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

Signed: TRUSTEES

he was sure the ex-governor had no bad intention for the people of the state and Ndigbo in general for joining the PDP.

change of nameS

OPARA

Former MISS ANYANWU MODESTA NGOZI now MRS. OPARA MODESTA NGOZI. Former documents remain valid, NYSC and General public note.

UDOM

Former ADAEZE SANDRA OKOCHI now ADAEZE SANDRA UDOM. Former documents remain valid. General public note.

EAGLE Former CHINAGOROM UGOCHUKWU LIONEL now EAGLE CHINAGOROM UGOCHUKWU LIONEL. Former documents remain valid. General public note.

CHUKWU Former GINIKA NCHEDO IBEH now GINIKA NCHEDO CHUKWU. Former documents remain valid. Embassies and general public note.

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WORLD | News

Mark urges Aba manufacturers to promote indigenous brands ... As Abaribe assures of continuity of trade fair Chukwu David ABUJA

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he President of the Senate, David Mark and other members of the National Assembly, yesterday urged businessmen in Aba who are into manufacturing to be proud of and promote the indigenous brands of their various products.

Mark made the call at the second edition of Made-in-Aba Trade Fair holding at ThisDay Dome, in the Central Business District, FCT, Abuja. The trade

fair, which started last year, is being facilitated

by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, representing Abia South Senatorial District. Declaring the event open, the President of the Senate, who was represented by Senator Bashir Mohammed (Kano Central), told the Aba traders and manufacturers that they had what it takes to compete with other manufacturers across the world and should be bold to promote their products brands as ‘made in Nigeria’.

Mark, who described the displayed products at the fair arena as highly

qualitative, assured the indigenous businessmen and women that the Senate would support any policy that would help their enterprises to flourish.

“You have what it takes to compete with whatever products produced anywhere around the world. I have tested products made in Aba; I have used materials made in Aba, and I can tell the whole world that your products are good and qualitative. Therefore, whatever policy or encouragement you need, the Senate will support you”, he assured.

FG plans baseline for aviation industry Johnchuks Onuanyim ABUJA

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he Minister of Aviation, Chief Osita Chidoka, has stated that the Federal Government is planning to improve the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) through the establishment of a baseline in aviation sector for effective service delivery.

Delivering a lecture to participants of Course 36 at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies

in Kuru, Jos, the Minister revealed that the aviation sector currently contributes as little as 0.4 per cent to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product. Adducing reasons for this, the Minister stated that the sector was associated with low level of technology, low productivity and very poor return on investment.

In a statement from the Chief Press Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. James Odaudu, the Minister said that no nation can compete favourably with the rest of the world

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

Crowds cheer Kenyan leader as he returns from ICC

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resident Uhuru Kenyatta was welcomed by thousands cheering him home yesterday, a day after becoming the first sitting president to appear before the International Criminal Court on crimes against humanity charges.

Kenyatta, who was given a red carpet welcome with a military honour guard as well as dancers singing songs declaring he “is innocent,” had appeared in The Hague-based court Wednesday.

Thousands lined the roads and supporters chanted his name waving Kenyan flags after he landed in Nai-

robi airport shortly after dawn, with the president standing out the sunroof of a car addressing cheering supporters. “We want one Kenya, a Kenya that respects all, irrespective of religion, tribe or gender,” Kenyatta shouted to crowds who thronged the main highway from the airport to see him, waving, in a slow parade that lasted for hours. “Our unity will enable us to move forward.”

Kenyatta, 52, faces five counts at the ICC over his alleged role in orchestrating unrest in 2007 and 2008 that left 1,200 people dead and 600,000 displaced. He had been summoned to answer questions at his floundering trial for allegedly masterminding the

deadly post-election violence, with the judges now to deliberate on whether to send the case to trial -or to possibly abandon it after the prosecution said it did not have enough evidence. Traffic came to a standstill in central Nairobi as people danced and prayed on the streets.

“I came here to welcome our president,” said Florence Wangari, who runs a small business. “I have not been sleeping, praying and fasting because of all the tribulations that the president has been facing.” Mary Wanjiru, 35, with her tiny baby strapped to her back, said he was “happy our president is back”, and offering “thanks to God for seeing him through all this.”

without subsidizing the critical sectors of the economy like the aviation industry.

Such subsidies, he said, should be founded on a sincere and committed public service. According to the Minister, Nigeria has the potentials to supersede the achievements of places like Dubai, Singapore and such African countries as Ethiopia, Kenya and South Africa in reaping benefits derivable from the sector, given its natural and human resources.

Stop perverting justice, APC tells Jonathan

Kenya’s president, Uhuru Kenyetta, is welcomed home after appearing before the International Criminal Court over deadly post-election violence

Johnchuks Onuanyim

French author, Modiano wins 2014 Nobel Prize in Literature

ABUJA

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he All Progressives Congress has said that it considered the continued closure of courts in Ekiti State against the order of the National Judicial Commission as an act of perverting justice.

The party, which linked President Goodluck Jonathan to the closure, called on the president to stop the perversion the cause of

justice.

The opposition political party, however, called on the international community to intervene in saving the nation’s judiciary.

A statement from the National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Alhaji Lai Mohammed reads in part: “Essentially, the PDP-led Administration of President Jonathan is holding litigants to ransom, preventing and perverting the course of justice, and restricting

access to the common man’s last hope. This action is tantamount to arresting a judgement, something the bar and bench consider with the utmost vile.

“The Chief Justice of Nigeria, who is the head of the Judiciary, ordered that courts in Ekiti must re-open and that security personnel should do their jobs by providing security. Instead, the security agents were wilfully deployed to prevent the courts from opening.”

Insurgency will soon end, IGP assures Ahmed Miringa MAIDUGURI

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he Acting Inspector General Of Police (IGP), Suleiman Abba, has said with the Federal Government’s commitment in supporting the force through Police Reform and the implementation of the reform by the 36 states across the nation,

violent crimes such as Boko Haram insurgency in the North East subregion and others will soon be eradicated, The IGP, who disclosed this on Wednesday in Maiduguri, while addressing over 1,500 police officers and men of Borno State police command, said the full implementation of Nigerian Police reforms by the 36 state govern-

ments in the country, along with the attitudinal changes on the side of officers and men of policemen, there will soon be a halt to criminality in the country.

Abba also described policemen serving in the state as heroes and urged them to be more committed to their duty; and fight Boko Haram insurgency, and other criminal activities headlong.

Tony Okuyeme

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rench author Patrick Modiano has been named the winner of this year’s Nobel Prize for Literature. The 69-year-old is the 15th French writer to win the prestigious prize, worth 8m kronor ($1.1m or £700,000).

Modiano was announced winner at a short ceremony in Stockholm with Peter Englund, the Nobel Academy’s permanent secretary, reading a citation which said Modiano won “for the art of memory with which

he has evoked the most ungraspable human destinies and uncovered the life-world of the occupation.” Born in a west Paris suburb two months after the Second World War ended in Europe in July 1945, he has written 30 different books, mainly novels. He is acclaimed as master of detective genre of the novel form.

Modiano is well known in France but something of an unknown quantity for even widely read people in other countries. His best known novel is arguably Missing Person, which

won the prestigious Prix Goncourt in 1978 and is about a detective who loses his memory and endeavours to find it.

His father was of Jewish Italian origins and met his Belgian actor mother during the occupation of Paris, and Modiano’s beginnings have strongly influenced his writing.

Jewishness, the Nazi occupation and loss of identity are recurrent themes in his novels, which include 1968’s La Place de l’Etoile – later hailed in Germany as a key post-Holocaust work.

German president honours protesters

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ermany’s president yesterday honoured the bravery of peaceful protesters who stood up to the communist dictatorship in East Germany 25 years ago, drawing parallels to the student pro-

tests in Hong Kong today.

President Joachim Gauck spoke at an event commemorating one of the biggest demonstrations in the city of Leipzig on October 9, 1989, which called for freedom and democracy.

None of those taking part could have known for sure whether authorities would opt for a “Chinese solution” and violently crush dissent as happened on Beijing’s Tiananmen Square months earlier, he said.

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

Sports News

International Football

Sports News

Eagles storm Sudan in a chartered flight

Italy lose Motta, Osvaldo

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Jonathan tasks Pinnick, NFF on football development

Sport

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Did you know?

That Cristiano Ronaldo is the only player to win the European Golden Shoe in two different leagues Premier League with Manchester United and La Liga with Real Madrid.

Osunwa wary of Sudan midfielders, bad pitch

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ormer junior international, Kelechi Osunwa, who once played for the two biggest clubs in Sudan, Al-Merrikh and Al-Hila, has warned the Super Eagles to be wary of the Sudanese midfielders and the bad pitch when both teams battle this weekend.

After two matches in Group A of AFCON qualifying, Nigeria is already playing catch up, with five points separating the country from pacesetters Congo, and cannot afford to drop

Osunwa

points against Sudan.

The Ismaily goal poacher has highlighted the strength of the Sudanese squad, saying he’s impressed with their midfield. ‘’They have very good midfielders who are the stronghold of the team. Mohand is there, he keeps the ball and is a very good dribbler, shoots always from afar most times unexpectedly. ‘’Umar Bahkit is another good midfielder that gives killer passes. There is another de-

fender Saif Massawi who has good aerial ability, so we have to watch out each time he goes for corner kicks against us or free-kicks. ‘’He has scored lots of goals with that. I think I know all about their national team because I have played with them all. I’m wishing Nigeria the best of luck,’’ he said.

Meanwhile, Osunwa has warned the Eagles to expect to play on a bad pitch in Khartoum. ‘’ I think they have a strategy, having changed their mind about

the venue. The pitch is not too good because most teams in Sudan use it as their home ground, and it’s a very busy pitch and not properly taken care of,’’ Osunwa added.

“The national teams, most times, have difficulties wining in Omdurman, but most games played on the artificial turf are won by them.” ‘’They know the Nigerian team have many foreign-based players who may find it difficult to cope with the pitch.’’

Eagles ready to spill blood lSet for Sudan’s artificial pitch

Echijile

The Sport Team

Adekunle Salami l Deputy Editor, Sports Emmanuel Tobi l Assistant Editor, Sports

Ifeanyi Ibeh l Sports Correspondent

Ajibade Olusesan l Sports Correspondent

Charles Ogundiya l Sports Correspondent

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

Emmanuel Tobi and Ifeanyi Ibeh

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s the Super Eagles get set to take on Sudan tomorrow in a crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Khartoum, members of the team have vowed to do all they can to emerge victorious against the Falcons of Jediane, even if

they have to spill blood in the process.

The Super Eagles face the possibility of not defending their AFCON title next year in Morocco after grabbing just a point out of a possible six from their opening two matches of the qualifying campaign.

The Super Eagles lie in third place on the Group A log, three points behind second-

placed South Africa, and five points behind group leaders, Congo, who inflicted a 3-2 defeat on the reigning African champions last month in Calabar.

As a result of that home loss, and the subsequent goalless draw against South Africa in Cape Town, Stephen Keshi’s side head to Khartoum to take on the Sudanese well aware that anything less than a win against the former African champions would further jeopardise their chances of featuring at next year’s tournament in Morocco.

“We are left with no choice but to go out there and win,” said Super Eagles goalkeeper and skipper, Vincent Enyeama.

“We have our backs to the wall and when you find yourself in such a situation, you just have to fight back with everything you’ve got.”

The Falcons of Jediane currently lie at the bottom of Group A after losing their opening two matches of the qualifiers, including a 3-0 home loss to South Africa.

But Enyeama is under no illusion Saturday’s game will be a stroll in the park for the reign-

ing AFCON champions.

“I don’t think it’s going to be an easy game. They will also be eager to appease their fans for that loss to South Africa, but we are also eager to win,” he continued.

“I think it will come down to who wants it more on Saturday and I think we are hungrier for victory,” added the Lille of France goalkeeper, whose sentiments were echoed by midfielder, Ogenyi Onazi.

The Lazio of Italy ace, said: “We are only thinking of victory, and by the grace of God, that is what we will be giving to Nigerians on Saturday.”

Asked how tough he expects Saturday’s game to be, Onazi said: “It won’t be an easy game, but we have all agreed to do all we can to win on Saturday and next week as well, even if we have to spill blood.”

After Saturday’s game in Khartoum, the Super Eagles will welcome Sudan to Abuja next Wednesday, and Nigerian defender, Elderson Echiejile, has set his sights on winning both games, especially as the last two qualifying matches, away to group leaders Congo and at home to South Africa, in November would be a lot tougher.

“We are going for the maximum points against Sudan so as to be better placed in the table, especially as the last two qualifying games, against Congo and South Africa, will not be easy,” he told his website www. elderson3.com.

“We are equally aware that Sudan will not just surrender to us because we are Nigeria.

They will want a famous win, but we are training hard, team spirit is very high and with the support of other Nigerians, we will be victorious.”

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH

2015 AFCON QUALIFIERS

Eagles storm Sudan in a chartered flight P lAkinwunmi leads delegation

Pinnick urges Eagles to re-enact 2001 feat against Sudan

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igeria Super Eagles last night departed from Abuja ahead of a decisive AFCON qualifier in Sudan this weekend.

NFF’s 1st Vice President, Mr. Seyi Akinwunmi will led the Super Eagles’delegation to Khartoum for tomorrow’s showdown. There were also members of the Executive Committee, Chief Felix Anyansi-Agwu, Director of Technical, Dr. Emmanuel Ikpeme and a couple of secretariat staff.

The aircraft chartered by the Nigeria

Football Federation for the round trip departed the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja at 11pm yesterday, to arrive in Khartoum by 6am Sudan time. The Nigerian delegation will stay at the Grand Holiday

Villa Hotel, with the players scheduled to train at the Khartoum Stadium by 8pm.tomorrow’s match will start at 8pm Sudan time, and the delegation will return to Nigeria immediately after the game.

resident of Nigeria Football Federation, Mr. Amaju Pinnick has charged Super Eagles players to remember the heroics of their predecessors and imbibe the spirit with which the Class of 2001 demolished the Falcons of Jediane 3-0 at home and 4-0 away in Korea/Japan 2002 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

On January 27, 2001, the Eagles lashed the Falcons of Sudan 3-0 in Port Harcourt, and then secured a vital 4-0 win in Omdurman on July 1 of the same year to virtually seal the ticket to the Far East.

“I am of the firm belief that you are capable of re-enacting those wonderful memories of fabulous wins over Sudan home and away, and the NFF is fully behind you to go to Khartoum and conquer. Then, we will prepare to complete the job here

in Abuja before we plan for the two remaining games in November,” Amaju said in Abuja on Thursday.

He added: “As true warriors and champions of Africa that you are, Nigerians have no doubt about what you are capable of doing in Khartoum. This is the first competitive match under this new administration and we are giving you every motivation to achieve victory.”

In 13 contests at senior level since November 1963, Sudan have only beaten Nigeria on two occasions.

The more experienced Falcons battered the Red Devils 4-0 in Nigeria’s first appearance at the Africa Cup of Nations in 1963, in Kumasi (Ghana), and then narrowly edged a 1968 Olympic Games qualifier 2-1 in Khartoum, though Nigeria qualified after winning the home leg 1-0.

South Africa target away win over Congo

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Akinwunmi

Omeruo (left)

Onigbinde sure of Senegal,TunisiabattleforGroupDleadership victory in Sudan S

F

ormer Nigerian manager, Adegboye Onigbinde, is quite hopeful the Super Eagles will overcome the Sudanese opponents, Falcons of Jediane in tomorrow’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at the Khartoum Stadium.

Unarguably, a make-or-mar encounter for both sides as far as Maroc 2015 Afcon is concerned as Nigeria and Sudan maintain an uncomfortable third and fourth spots respectively on Group A log behind leaders, Congo and South Africa.

Onigbinde said it will be sad for him as a person if the 2013 Afcon champions failed to qualify for the biennial football showpiece in Morocco.

“We’re most likely to expect a result befitting our performance as well as preparations for the crucial game.

“I don’t know the team quite well at the moment, but I’ve always wish them well in their endeavours.

“So, I sincerely hope and pray they come out victorious against Sudan in Khartoum as well as in Nigeria and go ahead to qualify for the Afcon final in Morocco.

“For several reasons I won’t be happy if Nigeria didn’t qualify for the 2015 Afcon as it would be a huge dent on my contributions as well as sacrifices for the development of the game.

“We had it a bit rosy against Sudan in 2001 because our game was more organised then than what it is at the moment.

“However, we still owe it to ourselves to be concerned and prayerful that Nigeria gets it right in the remaining four matches on the 2015 Afcon qualifying calendar,” said the Caf and Fifa instructor to supersport.com.

enegal and Tunisia will battle it out for the top spot in Group G of their African Cup of Nations qualifying group when they lock horns at the Stade Léopold Sédar Senghor in Dakar tonight.

Both teams have six points from their first two group games with Senegal certainly the most impressive of the two sides, both finding the back of the net on regular occasions and being able to keep two clean sheets.

In their opening encounter

in Group G, at home, goals from Mame Diouf and Sadio Mane handed Senegal a 2-0 win over Egypt on September 5, while five days later, goals from Mane (his second in qualifying) and Dame N’Doye handed them a 2-0 away win over Botswana.

Tunisia have also been impressive in their two opening Group G games with a 2-1 home win over Botswana on September 6, followed by a 1-0 away win over Egypt four days later.

Algeria sweating on Slimani’s fitness

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Slimani

lgeria are sweating on the fitness of Islam Slimani ahead of their double clash with Malawi in Group B of the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2015 qualifiers.

The Sporting striker missed Tuesday and Wednesday’s training ses-

sions after complaining of muscular pain in his thigh.

However, Slimani will travel to Blantyre with the rest of the squad, and will undergo further tests today to see if he is fit enough for tomorrow’s tie.

Fennecs’ boss, Christian Gourcuff, has already lost attacking midfielder Ryad Boudebouz and striker El Arbi Hillel Soudani to injury, and his striking options could be further depleted should Slimani be forced to withdraw.

The Fennecs are leading Group B on six points ahead of their double tie with the Flames, in Blantyre on tomorrow and in Blida four days later.

n away win over Congo tomorrow in the Afcon 2015 qualifier could signal a prelude to another era of dominance for Bafana Bafana as it did in 1997, midfielder Dean Furman said yesterday.

“We are once again hoping to build something special with this group,” he said before the team’s departure for Pointe-Noire at the OR Tambo International Airport yesterday.

Some 17 years ago, Bafana announced their arrival on the global stage when they beat Congo 1-0 to qualify for the 1998 Fifa World Cup in France.

The victory propelled the South African national team to great heights, leaving a footprint beyond the shores of Africa.

“The group of play-

Mashaba

ers we have are happy to be here and are proud to be in the national squad.

I think in the last two games, we showed that fighting spirit and we want to make the country proud.

“We know ourselves and we have a good team and great competition for places and we will be in it all the way for the win.”

Congo lead group A -having won both of their games over Nigeria (3-2) and Sudan (2-0) -- while Bafana are second with a 3-2 win over Sudan and goalless draw against Nigeria.

Constant offers Guinea teammates cash to beat Ghana

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uinea defender Kevin Constant has promised his teammates a 5,000 Euro reward if they negotiate their 2015 African Cup of Nations qualifier against Ghana.

The Trabzonspor defender has been ruled out of the clash in Casablanca and Tamale respectively due to a calf injury.

The ex-AC Milan player wants to motivate his international colleagues ahead of the two-legged ties against the Black Stars.

The Syli Nationale will be hoping to record a win over the Ghanaians in Morocco ahead of the return

Constant

fixture at the Tamale stadium.

They lie third on the table in group E with Ghana and Uganda tied at the top with a less goal difference.

SPORT | INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

Italy lose Motta, Osvaldo

Spain defend Chelsea’s Costa S pain boss Vicente del Bosque and midfielder Andres Iniesta have defended Diego Costa following recent criticism of the Chelsea star.

Costa has lit up the Premier League following his arrival at the Blues in the summer after scoring an impressive nine goals in seven matches.

Despite this, though, the former Atletico Madrid star has come under fire for not scoring yet for Spain and is being made a scapegoat for their recent woes.

However, Del Bosque is not concerned about the player. “We would like to see Costa do with the national side what he is doing at Chelsea” he said.

“We are not worried about him because he is a regular goalscorer in his team and his league but we would also like to see him score goals for Spain.”

Meanwhile, Iniesta added: “It is not a big thing that he has not scored. I hope that goal comes sooner rather than later but the team gets together every month, not every week.

He has to be relaxed because his play is spectacular. It is only a question of time before he gets a goal.”

Costa

I

taly have been handed a further double injury blow with the withdrawal from Antonio Conte’s squad of Paris Saint-Germain’s Thiago Motta and Inter Milan Dani Osvaldo.

The Azzurri lost Giacomo Bonaventura at the start of preparations for Euro 2016 qualifiers with Azerbaijan and Malta and have doubts over Marco Verratti’s availability too, whilst Daniele Rugani had to drop down to the Under21s to cover Alessio Romagnoli’s injury there.

Conte however lost two further players in the shape of Motta and Osvaldo, with the PSG man suffering with tendinitis and the Inter forward suffering a second degree strain to his left adductor.

Both men are confirmed by the Italian Football Federation to return to their clubs, with Osvaldo facing as long as a month on the sidelines.

Di Maria: Ronaldo convinced me to join United A Thiago

Koscielny out of France friendlies with injury A rsenal defender Laurent Koscielny has been ruled out of France’s upcoming friendly matches against Portugal and Armenia because of Achilles heel injuries.

The French federation said Koscielny, who is suffering from tendonitis in both heels, has been released by France coach

Koscielny

Didier Deschamps to return to Arsenal following discussions with the player and the team’s doctor.

Koscielny’s withdrawal is also a source of concern for Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger after Germany and Gunners playmaker Mesut Ozil was sent back to London with a left knee injury expected to sideline him for 10 to 12

weeks.

France host Portugal on Oct 11 and play in Armenia three days later. All are part of Group I qualifying matches for the 2016 European Championship although France already qualified as host.

ngel Di Maria has revealed that Cristiano Ronaldo convinced him to join Manchester United from Real Madrid in the summer.

United spent a British-record €75 million to acquire the Argentina international, with his move bringing an end to successful four years at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The winger has now revealed that Ronaldo had a huge say in his

A

decision to move to Old Trafford, with the Portugal international having won the Ballon d’Or during his own spell at the club.

“Before we knew I was coming to Manchester, he told me it’s a massive club, I would be very happy here and it would be good for me,” Di Maria told United’s official website when asked about Ronaldo’s influence.

“At that time we didn’t know for sure that I was coming or not so we didn’t go into great detail but what he did say helped me greatly to make my decision.”

Robben set to return for Kazakhstan game etherlands will be boosted by will be strongly fancied to bounce N the return of Arjen Robben back from that reverse against Kawhen they look to avoid a humili- zakhstan in what will be the first ating Euro 2016 qualifying loss to Kazakhstan.

Guus Hiddink’s side suffered a shock 2-1 defeat to Czech Republic in their Group A opener last month following an injurytime winner from Vaclav Pilar in Prague.

The World Cup semi-finalists

meeting between the two nations in a full international.

Netherlands have never lost a European Championship qualifier or play-off at home and Hiddink believes the prospect of losing that record should be unthinkable heading into Friday’s contest at the Amsterdam Arena.

ed in Beijing this week for Saturday’s Gillette Superclasico de las Americas and Martino is hoping to see more of the same from his side at the Bird’s Nest Stadium.

“We will try to do what we did against Germany,” he said.

“Brazil won’t change their tactics, although the new coach called up a lot different players.

“Argentina against Brazil is the most important derby between national teams. It doesn’t matter where the match is held, it’s always

Robben (middle)

Ideye, Anichebe get return date

Argentina, Brazil tie the biggest – Martino rgentina coach, Gerardo Martino, has labelled the match up between Argentina and Brazil as international football’s greatest rivalry.

The former Barcelona coach Martino succeeded Alejandro Sabella as national team boss following the World Cup and began his tenure with an impressive 4-2 victory over world champions Germany in Dusseldorf last month.

The Albiceleste land-

53

important for the history between us and now also for the players.”

Martino

Ifeanyi Ibeh

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est Bromwich Albion coach, Alan Irvine, is hoping his Nigerian duo of Brown Ideye and Victor Anichebe will be back in training next week.

The Super Eagles strikers have missed West Brom’s last two matches with ankle and groin problems respectively.

Ideye picked up an ankle injury in the while scoring his first goal for the club in West Brom’s 3-2 League Cup win over Hull City last month, while Anichebe has been hampered by a groin

problem.

Anichebe’s complaint appears to be the more severe of the two, although Irvine is hopeful that both will be able to return at the start of next week ahead of Manchester United’s visit to the Hawthorns on October 20.

“We are expecting Brown and Victor to train at the beginning of next week certainly Brown, Victor we are not as confident about,” Irvine said.

“He’s 50-50 in terms of being able to train on Monday, but Brown we are almost certain will train then.”

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AYISAT YUSUF-AROMIRE

Ex-Super Falcons defender Best Food: Amala and Vegetable Best Drink: Fruit juice Best Colour: Yellow Best Club Supported: Arsenal, Barcelona Best Car: Lincoln and Range Rover Best Designer: Gucci Best City visited: Canada, Dubai Best Perfume: Anticipate Intense Best Music: Gospel music Best Actor: Olu Jacob Best Actress: Omotola JaladeEkeinde Best competition ever attended: 2004 African Women Championship in South Africa

A’Ibom Stadium to host Nigeria, S’Africa game Adekunle Salami

S

uper Eagles will play their last 2015 African Nations Cup qualifying match against South Africa on November 19 at the new Akwa Ibom Stadium, New Telegraph can report.

The President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Amaju Pinnick, made this disclosure on Thursday during a courtesy visit to Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom.

Similarly, the Governor confirmed that President Goodluck Jonathan will commission the stadium

Uyo stadium

on November 6, adding that construction company, Julius Berger, will maintain the facilities for 10 years.

Meanwhile, the new Stadium has been described as an edifice for the entire country and not just the people of the state.

The Commissioner for Youth and Sports in the state, Monday Uko, who stated this on Wednesday stressed that the 30,000 capacity stadium was ready for international football and athletics events.

He said; “The stadium is equipped with all the modern facilities and after inauguration, we expect it to host big events.

“A good product does not require much stress to sell, it will sell itself.

We have a world class stadium, a product of the vision of Governor Godswill Akpabio and we expect to stage international meets.”

Uko also stressed that the stadium, which is 98 per cent ready for use, would be open to Akwa United for their league games.

Jonathan tasks Pinnick, NFF on football development

P

resident Goodluck Jonathan has tasked the new president of Nigeria Football Federation, Mr. Amaju Pinnick, to consolidate on football development in the country while assuring that the Federal Government would give even more support to Nigerian football.

In a meeting at the Presidential Villa, also attended by the Honourable Minister of Sports/Chairman, National Sports Commission, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, the President, while congratulating the new board, charged members to work extra hard at driving Nigerian football to new heights.

“I congratulate you on your coming into office, but it means a lot of work.

You have to invest a lot of energy into building on past successes and reaching new heights. You can count on the support of the government.

“However, I am even more motivated by your pledge to seek greater support from corporate Nigeria. You know very well how much our people love the game of football, and it

is now your responsibility to work really hard to see how our people can derive greater joy from watching the national teams play.”

Speaking earlier, the NFF president heaped plaudits on President Jonathan for his keen love and support for Nigerian football, which has been amply demonstrated over the years.

“Mr. President, on behalf of the Nigerian football family, I wish to express deep appreciation to your excellency and your administration for the huge support that has been given to Nigerian football and the national teams over the years. You have, indeed, been Nigerian football’s Number One Supporter for several years now.

Pinnick added that, “The NFF is indebted to the leadership of the National Sports Commission, led

by Dr. Tammy Danagogo and the Director General, Gbenga Elegbeleye, for the much that they have done and always ready to do for the NFF, especially in bringing to an end the crises of the past few months. They have been marvelous.”

NEW TELEGRAPH FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2014

55

Sanctity of Truth

On Marble

The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.

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Ponte Fabricio, in Rome, was built in 62 BC. The bridge is almost unchanged, and still serves thousands of Romans today.

Nigeria in retrospect: Good, bad and ugly scenarios A lthough the Superintendents of the Nigerian State have ignorantly yanked of history as a secondary school subject, I believe that history is germane in interrogating the dynamics, and tracing the trajectory of the Nation. The same contempt for history by successive rulers (leaders) is carried on in other spheres where Nigerian governments have continued to discriminate against Arts and Humanities in preference to the Science based disciplines. Even in the Universities, there is in existence a pernicious doctrine of 60:40 quota for Science and Arts in students’ Admission, provision of facilities and disbursement of funds, training grants etc. Under TetFund arrangement, the Federal Ministry of Education, federal scholarships and training abroad have been denied Doctoral students pursuing programme in liberal Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences since the past five years, while their contemporaries in other Science Disciplines are granted tens of millions of naira to pursue post graduate education overseas.

We have consistently argued that our socio-cultural attributes, our political economy demand that we examine critically the neo-liberal policies handed over, or forced down our throats by external institutions and Donor Agencies. These policies have become obstacles rather than panacea to Nigeria’s developmental challenges. Where is Nigeria coming from, where is it headed to, and what means do we employ to get to the desired destination?

Nigeria’s current station may not be comprehensible, except in relation to the past; and the future inevitably takes root from the past and present. This is the current dilemma that the Nigerian rulers do not appreciate. They prefer that we conveniently overlook the Nation’s past, deluding Nigerians with a future paradise that is largely illusory. What is on ground, does not justify such optimism. 54 years after political independence and speaking retrospectively, the land is akin to a hotchpotch, a society without direction, no sense of order, indeed a lawless vast land. Its size and resources belie its current state, a country of dashed hopes and expectations.

On 1st October 1960, with the lowering of Union Jack, a symbol of British rule and colonialism, and the hoisting of the new National green, white, green flag, Nigerians celebrated what they believed was a new dawn in nation building. The man who invented the flag has recently been conferred with a National Award, by President Jonathan. This award to Michael Taiwo Akinkumi coming 54 years deserves to be celebrated. In a country given to unnecessary adoration of never do wells, criminals and inanities; this honour is one commendable way of appreciating industry and uncommon initiative. The Nigerian roll call of honours, aside from such redeeming and illuminating features, is a tainted list. Given the plenitude of its resources, Nigerians were not being overly ambitious when they anticipated a complete transformation of the nation. About 5 decades of uninspiring leadership has turned Nigeria’s face backwards, abused and desolate. Independence did not bring the desired unification of the diverse peoples that inhabit Nigeria following the 1914 amalgamation. Election crisis in 1964 – 65, military coups in 1966 and the

Ivory Glory

NKEMDILI NNONYELU aunnonyelu@yahoo.co.uk 08122801926 (sms only)

Balewa

Jonathan

civil war exposed the weak underbelly of the emergent nation.

However, several Nigerians still remember with nostalgia, the immediate post independence years, the days of Azikiwe, Awolowo, Ahmadu Bello, Tafawa Balewa, M.I Okpara, Akanu Ibiam, Dennis Osadebe, Eyo Ita, Aminu Kano, Joseph Tarka etc.

Although visionary, most of the founding fathers were too ensconced in their ethnic cocoons, were barely nationalistic, as they saw Nigeria in terms of territorial space, not as a Nation State, and therefore worked to undermine the nation. Much of the Landmines that pockmark the nation today, were laid during the first years of independence. The unattractive nature of the centre then, may have informed Ahmadu Bello’s decision to send his second in command, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa to Lagos as Prime Minister. In spite of their shortcomings, inexperience in modern institutions of governance, the founding fathers, compared to the military leaders, with one or two exceptions, and the successive civilian leadership we have had, were saints and men of conscience. In several communities in Nigeria, the infrastructure they built serve as reminders of their sterling performance.

Can we say the same of the military, and their intervention in politics? The “Go on with one Nigeria” (Gowon) philosophy of General Yakubu Gowon served in a cruel manner to hold the country together at great cost to Igbos and other south Easterners who lost millions of their citizens.

Beyond that, is the tragic failure to advance the nation, to utilise the enormous proceeds

from oil to quick march Nigerian development. Gowon’s severally quoted comment that the “Problem with Nigeria is not money, but how to spend it” revealed the pedestrian basis of his Administration. Murtala Mohammed came with a sense of mission, but was cut down in his prime and Olusegun Obasanjo, Mohammed’s deputy stepped into office. There were massive road construction, industrialisation and a virile foreign policy, during Obasanjo’s military reign.

The second attempt at civil rule during the second Republic saw the emergence of Alhaji Shehu Shagari, of the National Party of Nigeria, (NPN), who defeated Obafemi Awolowo of Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), Nnamdi Azikiwe, Nigeria Peoples Party (NPP) Waziri Ibrahim of Great Nigerian Peoples Party (GNPP), Aminu Kano, Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) and Tunji Braithwaite of Nigerian Advance Party (NAP) fame. Shagari’s era is mostly remembered for the obscene lifestyles of party stalwarts, and contractors. Their bizarre showmanship stood in contradiction to the Austerity Measures and Stabilisation Polices in 1981 – 82.

While sister Asian countries, Malaysia, Singapore made tremendous progress, Nigeria regressed under the combined weight of bad leadership, warranting the second coming of the military led by Muhammadu Buhari, a Major General, as he then was, assisted by General Tunde Idiagbo. Both of them tried to forcefully whip Nigerians into line, through several draconian decrees. However, it is to Buhari’s credit, that after several years in governance, he is seen by friends and foes as corrupt free,

but whether this zero tolerance for corruption could be translated into capacity and competence for national service delivery is yet to be seen particularly in a different clime with supposedly democratic institutions acting as checks. The high handedness of the regime, its alienation from the military hierarchy, rank and file conspired to ensure the removal of Buhari/Idiagbon in another palace coup, bringing on board the charismatic General Ibrahim Babangida who ruled for eight years 1985-1993.

He introduced Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) to kowtow to the demands of international Capital. SAP could not save Nigeria, as the khaki boys were not sincere in its implementation. The measures put in place were largely unsuccessful as the well being of the people was discountenanced, while the soldiers helped themselves with state funds. The changes that SAP sought to introduce in the realm of trade liberalization, deregulation and privatization created the enabling environment for the holders of state power to convert state resources to personal use, capture and privatize the state.

Babangida’s era also witnessed massive sitting of projects, expanded road network, housing schemes, and also the single minded pursuit of the development of a new capital city. However the volte face in its elaborate political programme, the annulment of the 1993 elections presumed to have been won

by MKO Abiola, led to nationwide protests that saw Babangida handing over power to Ernest Shonekan, who was promptly sacked by the bespectacled general Sanni Abacha.

For its numerous and well known deficits, Abacha’s inglorious era, does not deserve further elucidation. Suffice it to say however that some civilian regimes have come to resemble the Abacha era in some significant ways.

Since 1999 till date, the country has been under civil rule. As in the days of yore, good and dark sides mark our chequered existence. From Obasanjo through Yar’Adua to Jonathan, it has been a witch’s brew of rising expectations that are largely unfulfilled. The percentage of Nigerians living in poverty is increasing as more than 60percent live on less than $1.25 a day. The increasing pauperisation of the masses is an eloquent testimony that Nigeria’s natural endowments have not been used to improve significantly the living standards of the citizens due to decades of leadership failure. The Constitutional Conference woefully failed to live up to its billing, though unsurprisingly.

There is no country yet. Paradoxically, Nigerian is a miserable country in the midst of abundance, even as terrorism, spearheaded

by Boko Haram, killed several in North East, Nigeria and other places in the North. There are today in Nigeria thousands of internally displaced persons. In such a scenario in the midst of near anarchy, real and genuine development is put on hold. The build up to 2015 shows that it is pregnant, made more worrisome by the desperate struggle for power and the absence of spirit of patriotism and nationalism. The Nigerian story is a story of the criminalisation of the state, how successive ruling elites have shared the country to themselves, balkanised, mismanaged and ransacked the country. If care is not taken, the country may be waiting for its requiem. Our prayer is that the political elite may have the goodwill to work towards overcoming the looming catastrophe.

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by Banex Junction, Mabushi, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Advert Hotline: 01-8541248, Email: info@newtelegraphonline.com Website: www.newtelegraphonline.com ISSN 2354-4317 Editor: YEMI AJAYI.