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Friday, March 21, 2014 Vol. 1 No. 31

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Killings: Senate calls for state, local police

Page } 3

Reps probe Alison-Madueke’s N10bn bill on jet lN130m spent on maintenance monthly lNLNG yet to remit funds to Federation Account since 2004 Philip Nyam Abuja

The House of Representa-

tives yesterday mandated its Committee on Public Accounts to investigate the alleged wastage of

N10 billion on the arbitrary charter and maintenance of a Challenger 850 aircraft for non-official

use by the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke.

The resolution was

arrived at, following the adoption of a motion by Hon. Samuel Babatunde CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

iMMIGRATION TEST tragedy

Applicants sue FG for N523bn

lSeek N1m each, demand N50m for every dead victim lJonathan’s automatic job offer sparks rush for medical reports Tunde Oyesina and Cajetan Mmuta

E

ven as survivors of last Saturday’s Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) recruitment tragedy begin another desperate hunt for medical reports to qualify them for the automatic jobs promised by the Federal Government, a mega lawsuit pitting applicants---mostly youths --- against some government agencies may be underway.

President Goodluck Jonathan on Wednesday approved an automatic CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

OUR STAND Northern delegates oppose treatment of unequals equally Lateef Ibrahim Abuja

T

he Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) yesterday in Abuja

Staff of the Ministry of Water Resources with other stakeholders walking to mark the 2014 World Water Day celebration with the theme: “Water and Energy’’ in Abuja... yesterday.

PHOTO: ELIJAH OLALUYI

Confab: North opposes state creation, backs unicameral system

lCoomassie, Gana to lead Northern delegates met delegates to the ongoing National Conference from the North, with a charge to them

not to support creation of new states, and to back unicameral system of legislature at the na-

tional level, instead of the current bicameral system.

Also, at the end of the

AT A GLANCE

METRO

POLITICS

ENTERTAINMENT

NURTW, RTEAN invade police station, injure four Page 12

Taraba: Acting governor on the edge as lawmakers plot impeachment Page 18

Things you must know before signing a record deal Page 27

seven-hour retreat for the northern delegates to the conference, former Inspector-General

INSIDE BUSINESS PenCom approves 92,576 applicants’ retirement benefits Page 31

News. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Metro . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Politics . . . . . . . . . . . .

Opinions. . . . . . . . . . .

Arts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Education . . . . . . . . . .

Business . . . . . . . . . . .

Sport. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2 11 13 20 18 21 31 51

of Police, Alhaji Ibrahim Coomassie and one-time Minister of Information, CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

Lagos

Storm

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Reps probe Alison-Madueke’s N10bn bill on jet CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Adejare (APC, Lagos).

Adejare argued that reliable evidence available to him indicate that Mrs Alison-Madueke allegedly sunk N3.120 billion into the maintenance of a private jet dedicated to the service of herself and her family.

He alleged that the sum of 500,000 Euros (N130 million) was spent every month on the maintenance.

He noted that in recent times, Nigerians experience acute fuel shortage due to “dwindling national revenue which has reduced the quality of governance and deprived the people of dividends of democracy” The lawmaker submitted that he was not unaware that part of the money for the maintenance is spent on payments of allowances to the plane’s crew, hangar parking and rent, based on a lease agreement.

Adejare said he was “concerned that an official of government could be bankrolling this waste in the face of ever dwin-

dling public resources which amounts to a misplacement of priority, impudence and breach of public trust.”

According to him, the minister’s action contravenes the Fiscal Responsibility Act “and all other laws on fiscal discipline”.

Adejare cited Section 82 (2) (b) of the 1999 Constitution “which empowers the National Assembly to expose corruption, inefficiency or waste in the execution or administration of laws within its legislative competence and the disbursement or administration of funds appropriated by it.”

The committee is to submit its finding to the

House within three weeks.

The House also mandated its Committee on Gas to investigate the non-remittance of funds accruing from the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited, Bonny to the Federation Account from 2004 till date.

This was sequel to a motion moved by Hon. Aminu Suleiman (APC, Kano) under matters of urgent public importance.

Suleiman had in the motion noted that NLG has flagrantly disobeyed and breached Section 162 (1) of the 1999 Constitution by not remitting funds accruing to it within the period under review.

Section 162 (1) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended makes it mandatory for all revenue collected by the government of the federation to be remitted into the federation account.

He maintained that “non-remittance of funds accruing to NLNG Bonny from 2004 till date has adversely affected the federation account to the detriment of federal, states and local governments.

The unpatriotic actions of those in charge of the NLNG Bonny from 2004 till date has resulted in loss of huge revenue that ought to he shared to all tiers of the government from the federation ac-

counts for both recurrent and capital development.

“The non-remittance of funds that accrued to NLNG Bonny to the federation account from 2004 till date has badly affected all critical sectors of the Nigerian economy and constitute an economic crime,” Suleiman said.

The motion was, therefore, referred to the committee for necessary legislative actions without further debates from members.

It will be recalled that NLNG recently revealed that the Federal Government is raking in over N220 billion Corporate Income Tax (CIT) annually from its activities.

38o 25o Mostly sunny

LAGOS

32o 28o Storm

KANO

Sunny

ENUGU

36o 24o Partially cloudy

IBADAN

36o 25o Partially cloudy

CALABAR

34o 23o Thunder storm

MAIDUGURI

39o 21o Mostly sunny

ONITSHA

L-R: Director General, Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), Mr. Frank Nweke Jr.; Minister of State for Works, Bashir Yuguda; Vice President Namadi Sambo; Chairman, NESG, Mr. Foluso Philip; Minister of Education, Nyeson Wike, and Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State at the closing ceremony of three-day summit at Transcorp Hilton, Abuja... yesterday

Photo: Timothy Ikuomenisan

Applicants sue FG for N523bn CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

38o 18o

36o 25o Partially cloudy

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 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

TODAY’S WEATHER FORECAST ABUJA

FLIGHT SCHEDULE

employment for all those that were injured in the contentious test while three slots were also approved for deceased families.

But, apparently unimpressed by the government gesture, four of the applicants, acting for themselves and on behalf of fellow applicants to the ill-fated recruitment exercise, yesterday dragged the Federal Government, the Minister of Interior, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Nigerian Immigration Service and its Comptroller General, David Shikfu Parradang before a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, seeking an order declaring the con-

duct or the execution of the recruitment exercise illegal, unwarranted and a violation of the Applicants’ fundamental rights to life.

There were 522,675 applicants, out of which 15 lost their lives.

Among other demands, they want the court to order the Federal Government to pay each surviving applicant N1 million and families of deceased ones N50 million each as general damages.

This translates to N750 million for the dead and N522.66 billion for the surviving applicants, making a total of N523.410 billion.

The suit which makes some damning allegations against the whole exercise declares, among others

that, “the consultant firm for the recruitment exercise “is relatively unknown as it has no website of its own, no listing in any list of consulting firms, no history, no track record, and appears to have been set up just for this recruitment exercise.

And that “the decision to use the particular consultant was taken solely by the Ministry of Interior for political patronage and the NIS leadership did not protest it to avoid a clash with the ministry leadership.”

Meanwhile, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) in Edo State and Government Watch Initiative (GWI)

have joined in condemning the handling of the recruitment calling for the suspension or outright sack of the dramatis personae.

The plaintiffs who filed the suit at the registry of the court brought the application under Sections 33,34, and 44 of the 1999 Constitition (amended) and the equivalent articles of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Right Act. The applicants, Charles Ugwuonye, Friday Danlami, Chinedu Onwuka and Samson Ojo through their counsel, Emeka Ugwuonye, among other things, want the court to declare the recruitment exercise illegal and restrain the NIS C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 5

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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Friday, March 21, 2014

3

Killings: Senate calls for state, local police ADVICE Insecurity will be a thing of the past if the government okays state, LG police Chukwu David Abuja

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he Senate, yesterday, called for the establishment of state and local government Police to enable Nigeria effectively tackle the deteriorating security challenges in the country.

The Upper Chamber of the National Assembly hinged the call on the recent incessant attacks and killings of people in the North Central states of Benue, Nasarawa and Plateau.

This was as the Senate mandated its Committees on Security and Intelligence, Defence and Army, Police Affairs and Interior to undertake a fact-finding mission on the killings in Benue, Plateau and Kaduna and report back to it.

But the committees were, however, not given time frame on when to conclude the assignment and submit report to the Red Chamber for deliberation and further decisions.

The Senate made the resolution while considering a motion sponsored

by Senator Barnabas Gemade and five others from Benue, Plateau and Kadu-

...As it investigates incessant attacks in Benue, Plateau, Kaduna

na states, where unknowing gunmen invaded frequently and killed many people in recent times The motion, which was entitled, “recent attacks and killings in Plateau, Benue, Kaduna, and other parts of the Central Nigerian Area,” had Senators George Akume (Benue North West), Gyang N. S. Pwajok (Plateau North), Joshua C. Dariye (Plateau Central), Victor Lar (Plateau South) and Nenadi E. Usman (Kaduna South) as co-sponsors.

In his contribution, Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu said: “The principal purpose of government both as established by the Constitution and in political science is for the protection of lives and property of citizens, and that is part of the social contract. If we have devoted the whole day as we have done now to dealing with the issue of insecurity in Nigeria, we are living up to the expectation of the ordinary people of Nigeria, for us to show concern for the general insecurity in the country.

“It is well known that our country and our people are generally innocent and we abhor crime. Many years ago, as traditional people, we had our own internal mechanism of dealing with some of these

situations. But with civilisation and interaction with other people and the general criminality pervading the whole world, we are now infested with this virus of criminality in our country. And that calls for prompt action for us to do what other countries are doing in order to combat this menace.

“So, I do believe that a country as big as Nigeria needs to effect its security.

And just as have been men-

tioned, it would be difficult for us to afford effective security if we continue to use the type of policing we are having in Nigeria presently. We run a federal system of government and is completely unacceptable in a federal system for us to have a federal system and to also have a centralised Police.

“Policemen are not magicians. There is no way a policeman can stay in one kilometre and know when

a crime is being committed in another kilometre.

We must be able to provide sufficient Police personnel that should be at least one policeman per 100 metres away. And this can only be achieved if we decentralise our Police, ensuring that we have State Police and possibly local Police that is well coordinated and regulated. We had problem in the past in this area because they were not well regulated and they

were not coordinated.

“I think time has come for us to reflect on this and see how we can provide efficient security for our people. And our Police, as it is now, need to be more trained and then they will be able to ensure that the laws are enforced no matter who is involved.

“So, if we do some of these and all that we have said here, I am sure that we would be able to recovC O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 4

L-R: Son of the late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Bamidele; Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State; former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Masari; Major-General Muhammadu Buhari and Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Bisi Akande, at the Ibadan Airport, shortly after attending a lecture at the University of Ibadan... yesterday

70.1%

The female percentage of internet users of United States in 2011.

Source: Itu.int

291,484,587

The total population of Eastern Europe region in 2010 (representing 4.22% of world’s population).

Source: Blatantworld.com

30%

The number of fixed telephone subscriptions in Europe in 2011.

Source: Itu.int

FG decides financial bids for $5.8bn NIPPs today POWER

With a projected 5,454mw to be added to the national grid, Nigerians will smile soon Adeola Yusuf

T

he Federal Government is set to decide the financial bids for the $5.8 billion National Integrated Power Plants (NIPPs) today.

This move is to transform the sale of 10 NIPPs, owned by the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC).

New Telegraph gathered that the board of

NDPHC, headed by Vice President Namadi Sambo, has scheduled a meeting at Aso Rock where this critical decision is made.

“Tomorrow (today), the board will meet and decide on the financial bids for the 10 NIPPs,” a source said.

The Federal Government, it would be recalled, planned to rake in $5,814,002,617 from the sale of the 10 NIPPs. Bidding for the 10 plants was earlier opened in Abuja in an event co-hosted by the Niger Delta Power Holding Company Ltd (NPDHC) and the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE).

The NIPPs, which are being managed by

the NDPHC and jointly owned by the Federal Government, 36 state governments as well as local governments, will add an additional 5,454mw of electricity to power generation capacity.

The 10 power plants include the 434mw Geregu 11, Calabar 630mw, Egbema 378mw, Ihorvbor 504mw, Gbarain 252mw, Ogorode 504mw, Omoku 252mw, Alaoji 1,076mw, Olorunsogo 750mw and the 500mw Omotosho plant.

Already, Omotosho and Geregu II have been commissioned and are supplying power to the national grid while others are either awaiting commission-

ing or at near-completion stage.

The bids were opened and announced by the Chairman of the Joint Transaction Technical Committee (JTTC), Governor Gabriel Suswam, and the Chairman, National Council of Privatisation Technical Committee, Peterside Atedo, supported by the Director-General of BPE, Benjamin Dikki, and NPDHC Managing Director, James Olotu.

At the end of the opening, Seoul Electric Power emerged the preferred bidder for Geregu II with a bid of $613,111,113, while YellowStone Electric Power emerged reserved bidder

with a bid of $613,111,113.

Similarly, Ihorvbor had EMA Consortium and Index Consortium as preferred and reserved bidders having bid $580 million and $575 million respectively.

EMA Consortium emerged preferred bidder for Calabar with Nebula Power Generation Consortium as reserved bidder with bids value of $625 million and $623 million respectively, while Dozzy Integrated Power Ltd emerged preferred bidder for Egbema with a bid of $415,075,000 with AITEO as reserved bidder having bid $392 million.

Gbarian had KDI En-

ergy Resources as preferred bidder with a bid of $340 million and Azikel Power Ltd and reserved bidder with a bid of $305, 090,665, while Daniel Power was preferred bidder for Ogorode with $531,777,777 bid and ESOP as reserved bidder with a bid of $510 million.

Shynobe International Ltd emerged preferred bidder for Omoku with $ 318,710,840, and AITEO Consortium as reserved bidder with a bid of $312, 500, 000, while AITEO consortium, the sole bidder for Alaoji, emerged preferred bidder with a revised bid of $902 million after its C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 4

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Friday, March 21, 2014

2015: Southern Kaduna may dump Jonathan, Yero EXTINCTION Southern Kaduna people angry with federal and state governments over neglect Muhammad Ali Kaduna

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he people of Southern Kaduna may vote against the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2015 general elections over the neglect of the Christian-dominated zone in the face of incessant killings.

Already, a pressure group known as Con-

cerned Realists of Southern Kaduna has vowed to mobilise against President Goodluck Jonathan and Governor Muktar Yero in the 2015 elections.

Addressing a press conference yesterday, the group said that their people have been targeted for persecution and extinction by powerful forces, saying the governor and Vice President Namadi Sambo are not concerned about their fate.

“As a result, we will mobilise our people to vote against Ramalan Yero, Namadi Sambo and Goodluck Jonathan in 2015 as a protest to their insensitivity to the killings in South-

ern Kaduna and failure to honour our dead who have been slaughtered under their stewardship,” the group promised.

It will be recalled that southern Kaduna has always voted overwhelmingly for PDP since 1999 and the area has been subjected to incessant attacks since 2011. Last Saturday, gunmen killed over 100 people in Kaura Local Gov-

ernment.

The group also warned elected officials from Southern Kaduna to either present their neglect to the relevant authority or risk their support in the 2015. According to the convener, Dr. John Danfulani, “we would join hands with the youths and elders of good repute to renew and strengthen our commitment and faith in free-

ing our communities from extinction.”

Danfulani said that the killings started after the 2011 presidential election when “hundreds of our people have been maimed and killed, farmland and harvests destroyed, while families and communities displaced.”

“Notwithstanding the fact that the vice president is a former governor of

Kaduna State, the government that President Jonathan leads both at the state and federal levels have not shown sympathy or concern over these gruesome crimes,” he said.

The convener added that Sambo has never visited or sent representatives to any of the victims in the over 51 times that Southern Kaduna had been attacked.

FG decides financial bids for $5.8bn NIPPs today CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

initial bid of $680 million was said to be below the reserved price.

ENL Consortium and Index Consortium emerged preferred and reserved bidders for Olorunsogo after bidding $751,240,000 and $730 million respectively while Omotosho Electric power is preferred bidder for Omotosho plant after bid-

ding $659,999,000 and ENL as reserved bidder with a bid of $645,156,220.

Meanwhile, the least bid received in all categories was from EMA Consortium which bid $515 (five hundred and fifteen dollars) for Omotosho Power Plant, while AITEO Consortium which withdrew its bid for Olorunsogo will forfeit its $1 million bid security

Representative of the Director-General, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Mr. Olumide Oshineye (fourth right) congratulating the Chief Executive Officer of Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), operator of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Two (MMA2), Lagos, Mr. Christophe Penninck, after the DG inaugurated the new multi-million naira MMA2 Cargo Screening Machine…yesterday. With them (from left) are the Managing Director, Greater Washington Limited, Mr. Awosan Owolabi; Chief Financial Officer, BASL, Mr. Olusola Olayinka; Chief Operating Officer, Ms. Adebisi Awoniyi; Chief Security Officer, AVSEC of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mr. Roltwalker Salas and the Group Head, Internal Audit, BASL, Mrs. Yosola Popoola

N57.2bn

The internally generated revenue (IGR) of Rivers State in 2011.

Source: National bureau of statistics

N33.2bn

The internally generated revenue realized from PAYE (taxes) of Delta State in 2011.

Source: National bureau of statistics

71.9%

The male percentage of internet users of Hungary in 2011.

Source: Itu.int

Killings: Senate calls for state, local police CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

er our country from the doomsday that is being predicted. But I believe as said by Sekibo that we can overcome this challenge and be stronger again as a country.”

Leading the debate on the motion, Gemade lamented that the incessant invasion of communities and villages and killing of innocent citizens by suspected mercenaries made human life cheap to be wasted as measures seemed not to be forthcoming in tackling the problem.

While indirectly proposing establishment of state Police, Gemade said: “The incidences of serial night killings and daylight mass attacks bordering on war crimes are approaching a panic loss of confidence in the federal security regime and that

the pattern of federalised policing under a unitary command, may have made sense under military regimes in the past, but it is hardly the best in the prevailing situation of insecurity with the increasing volume of grassroots crimes and attacks on the nation’s defenseless rural communities.

“The Senate believes that the increasing sense of disconnection with local communities needs to be overcome and reduced by a reconsideration of the current military strategy.

This is so because identity politics of the civilian domain is growing more divisive as the military is constantly relied upon to use deadly force to deal with local crimes or uprisings and transborder attacks in most parts of Nigeria.

“The Senate realising that apart from providing

necessary democratic essentials, meeting the security needs of the people remains the primary purpose of government. As a result, if a state, local government, ward or village area under a federal system cannot be effectively protected by the federal police, federal army and other forces, the nation cannot afford to remain scared of trying tested solutions adopted by other federal systems of the world.”

He expressed concern that the constant invasion by unidentified armed men in the North Central, which have cost enormous loss of lives and destruction of property had degenerated into a state of civil war, saying that if nothing was done to stop the ugly development, the entire nation might be engulfed.

“The Senate is worried that in a confusion of daily headlines, the situation is further degenerating to a point in which we can clearly say that we are in the middle of a civil war with multiple illdefined fronts and worse still the perpetrators are often presented as faceless “unknown gunmen” “Boko Haram” or in some instances, “Fulani herdsmen” in ‘conflict’ with “farmers” and victims on the Plateau, Benue, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Borno, Adamawa, Yobe states and other parts of Nigeria.

“Senate is aware that in this war-like situation, the Central Nigerian Area in particular is strategically where the factors of ethnicity and religion interact and where the symbolism of Muslim-Christian cooperation and conflict has enormous implications

for the whole country. And that, it is where the constitutional issues of federal and state relations including the role of the federal Police and the military are at a critical point.”

In their contributions, the senators, who were visibly worried over the increasing spate of terrorism in the country, blamed the situation on the failure of government to provide effective leadership that would have nipped some of the menacing social vices in the bud.

According to Senator Femi Ojudu, “what is happening is a failure in leadership both in Aso Rock and in the National Assembly. We don’t have purposeful leadership in the country. This is why all the vices are taking place.”

Corroborating this position, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe said: “We must be

able to take responsibility for what is happening outside. God will not come down from heaven to do the work we ought to do.”

On his part, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Defence and Army, Senator George Sekibo, warned that the killings and all sorts of security challenges facing the country now were marks of disintegration, appealing that both government and the citizenry should join hands to forestall the impending calamity.

He also suggested that one of the effective means of resolving the numerous critical national crises in the country was for a state of emergency to be declared on security, assuring that if the right things are done, the predicted disintegration of Nigeria in 2015 would not come to pass.

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Friday, March 21, 2014

5

Coomassie, Jega lead Northern delegates to National Conference CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Prof. Jerry Gana emerged as the joint leaders of the Northern delegates.

In a position paper presented to the delegates, a copy of which was obtained by the New Telegraph, the ACF stated: “While one cannot doubt the contribution which state creation has done to the Nigerian project, it is also true that too many states have tended to convert them into mere cost or effort centres at the expense of socio-economic development.

“It is against this backdrop that the ACF believes any additional state at this point in time is counter-productive and therefore should be kept on hold until the need arises in the future.

“The argument that creation of state should be on the basis of equality, irrespective of population and landmass, is inconsistent with the elementary concept of justice since injustice is not only when equals are treated unequally but also when unequals are treated equally.”

On the recommenda-

tion of return to unicameral system, the ACF stated: “Considering the very high cost of governance and the fact that our problems have to do with execution than with lack of soundness of the law, a unicameral legislature at the national level reminiscent with what happens at the state level may help reduce cost and time for governance.”

The appointment of Coomassie and Gana as co-chairmen was announced in a communique issued at the end of the seven-hour retreat.

In the communique jointly signed by Coomassie and Gana, the retreat also resolved to establish an umbrella platform to be called the Northern Delegates Forum (NDF) under which all delegates will work in collaboration and for the common good of the North and the nation.

Other officials of the NDF, according to the communique are to be appointed in a manner that will reflect the diversity of the North as well as gender sensitivity and youth participation.

“The NDF, in collaboration with the appointed members of the think tank will harmonise position papers, working documents and research work already adopted or carried out by the various stakeholders who have come together to form the NDF. This will assist in adopting a common agenda for the North for presentation at the confab,” the communique stated.

The forum called on all delegates from each

of the northern states and the Federal Capital Territory to constitute themselves into state fora and designate its leadership, adding that the NDF will reach out to other groups with common aspirations with a view to solidifying the northern stand.

In a separate interview, Coomassie said the retreat was meant for the delegates to rub minds together ahead of the conference which begins next week.

According to Coomassie, ”We have brought in people who are experts in their fields to come and talk to us about these issues in the conference,” he stated.

Also, General John Shagaya (rtd) said, “We are here to share our experiences and history.

Our position will help the leadership of the conference and assist in canvassing objectively issues that will be good for Nigeria.

“We will discuss issues like the security challenges in the country and of course, devolution of power and corruption in high places that is going on unchecked.”

Similarly, Senator Ibrahim Mantu, a former Deputy President of the Senate, said that the gathering was to sensitise northern delegates to take a position on issues confronting the North and which will promote the unity of the nation.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (third right); Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Paul Bamgbose-Martins (right); Chairman, Somolu Local Government, Hon. Gbolahan Bagostowe (third left) and others during his inspection of newly constructed roads at Akinrinlo Street, Off Bajulaiye Road, Bariga, Lagos...yesterday

At last, Atiku opens up

Y

ears after he left government, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar had refused to speak about the battle between himself and his boss, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, until New Telegraph met with him recently... and he opened up... on how the feud affected governance, the third term agenda, why his ‘boys’ in government, at the time, abandoned him.

Hear him: “When the president and I took different positions, there was no more governance. In his second term, we were still busy fighting. So, the entire focus of governance which was set up during our first tenure; the economic reforms, this and that, everything was abandoned and we continued fighting till the end.”

On why his ‘boys’ abandoned him, he said: “When I spoke to one of them, he said it was a power game and that they wanted power too.”

... and much more

It is a must read.

Out on Sunday, March 23, 2014.

Applicants sue FG for N523bn CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

from spending the money realised from the recruitment exercise.

In a 45 paragraph affidavit deposed to by one Chris Ebosie, the applicants averred that in or around September of 2013, the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) placed an advertisement, titled “Nigeria Immigration 2014 Recruitment Exercise”, on its website http://www.immigration.gov.ng and several Nigerian newspapers.

They further averred that the said advertisement did not describe in a clear manner specific qualifications for the vacancies available and it did not indicate the number of vacancies available, but it merely encouraged anybody with qualifications greater than secondary school education to apply online through a website it designated for that purpose.

The plaintiffs also averred that the advertisement directed interested

applicants to pay N1,000 through various banks listed in the advertisement, including, but not limited to, Zenith Bank. Upon payment online of N1,000 (comprising N850.00 for Application Charges and N150.00 for Transaction Charges), an applicant will receive a three-page printout as in EXHIBIT A. The said print-out contains three sets of numbers, viz: (a) Validation Number, (b) Transaction Number and (c) Application Number.

But there appears no distinct values for these numbers.

Also they averred that there was no indication as to the purpose of the N1000 paid by each applicant and the application process was left open between September 2013 and January 2014. The NIS encouraged more and more Nigerians to apply for the vacancies.

Hundreds of thousands of people applied utilizing the same method that resulted in a print-out as in EXHIBIT A.

In addition, they averred that the consultant that handled the recruitment exercise into the Nigeria Immigration Service, was selected by the Ministry of Interior, without open competitive bidding and that the Ministry of Interior appointed the private firm, Drexel Nigeria Limited, to handle the recruitment process.

Meanwhile, families of surviving victims in Edo State reports are frantically seeking claims of one form of injury or ailment to secure automatic job in the NIS. Investigation by New Telegraph revealed that relations of most of the applicants have resorted to obtaining doctors medical report on behalf of their ailing sons and daughters.

The Public Relations Officer of the UBTH, Mrs. Kehinde Ibitoye, when contacted on phone yesterday, said the authority could only give medical reports to patients that were brought to them for treatment.

6

NEWS

Friday, March 21, 2014

photo news

Jonathan most incompetent minority to rule Nigeria - APC Temitope Ogunbanke

T L-R : Marketing Director, Unilever, David Okeme; President, Association of Advertising Agency of Nigeria, Bunmi Oke; Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Lagos Council, Deji Elumoye; General Manager, Sales and Marketing, Multichoice Nigeria, Martin Mabutho and Chairman, Brand Journalists’ Association of Nigeria, Goddie Ofose at a presentation of BJAN Media Influencer Award to Elumoye during a symposium to celebrate World Consumers' Right Day in Lagos...

he All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday described President Goodluck Jonathan as the most incompetent minority to rule Nigeria.

The party told the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that Jonathan is not the first minority to rule Nigeria and will not be the last, hence, it said, the frequent resort to his minority ethnicity is nothing but a poorlyveiled attempt to cover up his blatant incompetence, poor leadership and sheer cluelessness.

But the PDP has coun-

ter-accused the APC of planning a violent overthrow of government, saying the opposition party wanted to return the country to military era.

APC, in a statement issued in Ibadan yesterday by its Interim National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said the PDP's claim that the Boko Haram insurgency and other internecine crises in the country were being sponsored by the opposition because the President hails from a minority group was totally irresponsible and not grounded in fact.

First Republic Prime

Minister, TafawaBalewa (Sayewa) former heads of state,Yakubu Gowon (Angas) and SaniAbacha (Kanuri), APC noted, were also from minority ethnic groups. ''The PDP has recently been making outlandish statements and accusations that are capable of destabilising Nigeria. In its new-found proclivity for issuing frivolous press statements, the party has forgotten that facts are sacred and cannot be manipulated. But even by its low standard, the PDP has plumbed the depth of irresponsibility with its latest claim.

Three kidnappers to die by hanging Dominic Adewole Asaba

A L-R: Relationship Manager, Corporate Banking Coverage, Stanbic lBTC, Segun Ashiru; Director, Arco Petrochemical Engineering Company, Mrs Julie Okoigun; Group Managing Director/CEO, Arco Group, Mr. Alfred Okoigun and Chairman and Managing Director, ExxonMobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited, Mr. Mark Ward during a dinner by Arco to mark Oil and Gas conference in Abuja.

L-R: Area Sales Manager (South East), Nutricima, Mr. Noble Ihezie; Regional Sales Manager (East), Mr Anayo Nweje; winner of N1million Mega Cash Promo, Mr. Azuka Chetachukwu; and Regional Depot Manager, Onitsha, Atuchukwu Christian, during the prize presentation to winners at Onitsha Market, Anambra State.

Delta State High Court, Warri Division, yesterday sentenced three kidnappers who displayed no visible signs of remorse to death by hanging.

The convicts were found guilty of kidnapping an 80-year-old woman, Ighoru Eruvbedede, and killing her after collecting a ransom of N.8Million from her relations.

The victim, mother to a one-time Chairman of Delta State Art Council, on July 6, 2009, at Uduophiri Village, Patani, within the Bomadi Judicial Division was abducted by the con-

and executed their conspiracy by kidnapping the 80-year-old woman.

Prosecution further told the court that the convicted persons later placed a call to their victim's son, Jerry Eruvbedede, demanding a N20million ransom before she could be released.

The three accused persons, upon their arrest by security operatives of the SSS, admitted to have committed the offence.

They also admitted to have collected the N800, 000 ransom which they claimed was meant for the upkeep of their victim as the ransom was later scaled down to N4million.

Young generation have roles to play in governance -Buhari, Ajimobi Sola Adeyemo Ibadan

A

Enforcing discipline in Nigerian schools….Students of Debumart Comprehensive College, Agege, Lagos undergoing disciplinary action at the school’s premises…yesterday.

PHOTO:GODWIN IREKHE

victed persons.

The kidnappers, Shadrach Samson Dobibe, Francis Mudiaga and Ejiro Diamond, all in their 30’s were tried on a four-count charge of conspiracy to commit a felony to with kidnap, the substantial offence of kidnapping, demanding property with menace and murder.

The prosecuting counsel from the state Ministry of Justice told the court that the condemned persons, including a fourth accused person, one Akpodiete Oghenekaro, who was discharged and acquitted for lack of sufficient evident linking him to the offence, conspired

s if to justify his quest for leadership position in the country, as a septuagenarian, former Head of State, Mohammadu Buhari, on Thursday said there are roles for young individuals to play in the governance of any nation by tapping from the experience of the old.

The former presidential candidate of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) spoke at the 50th anniversary lecture of Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall, Uni-

versity of Ibadan, entitled: "Youth and the future of Nigerian Politics", delivered by former Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Shettima Mustafa.

Present at the lecture were the Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi; former governor of the state, Rashidi Ladoja; eldest son of Nnamdi Azikiwe, Bamidele; APC chairman, Bisi Akande; APC National Publicity Secretary, Lai Mohammed and former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nasir El Rufai.

In his remarks as

Chairman of the occasion, Buhari defended the importance of experience in governance, making references to many world leaders.

“China and Japan post 1945 had a history of very old people managing the affairs of these two great oriental economies. Mao Zedond and Chou En-Lai in their 70s laid the foundation for their successor, Deng Shao Ping, to bring one billion people out of poverty into self-sufficiency in food supply and an economy second only to the US.

NEWS

Friday, March 21, 2014

INSURGENCY

Church takes stock, counts losses to insurgency

Ibrahim Abdul Yola

T

he Catholic Diocese of Maiduguri has said that at least 109 members of the church were killed while no fewer than 27 women lost their husbands to Boko Haram attacks in the area.

The diocese covers the three North East states of Borno, Adamawa and Yobe.

1,000

Boko Haram: 109 killed, five kidnapped in North-East – Catholic Church At a briefing yesterday, the diocese also said 107 children were orphaned while five other members of the church were kidnapped by the sect in the course of their attacks on innocent citizens of the three states.

This revelation was made yesterday at Saint Augustine’s Minor Seminary, Yola by various priests of the church in the three North-East States bedeviled by insurgency during a press

The number of women that die every day of the consequences of pregnancy and child birth.

Source: Who.int

conference convened by the church.

The church’s Director of Social Communications, Rev. Fr. Gideon Obasagie, who lamented the persecution suffered

by Christians in the area said; “Unless the Federal Government takes drastic measures to safe-guard the lives of Christians living in the three states, Christians in the area will be completely wiped out going by the spate of violence in the area.”

24

The more years on average a female can expect to live in a high income country than a low income country.

Source: Who.int

While revealing the fate that befell his school when the insurgents attacked Chakawa, the Rector of St. Joseph’s Minor Seminary, Reverend Father Alexander Miskita William, said when the insurgents came into the town, they started firing shots which aroused the people’s suspicion, leading to enquiries about what was actually happening.

“We were surprised to note that insurgents have launched an attack on the

1/3

The fraction of female deaths that are due to cardiovascular disease and stroke.

Source: Who.int

area, because there were troops deployed in the area.

“We were told that Boko Haram was on rampage and we have to gather the students as we have no other alternative than to move."

“So when we heard the chanting of Allahu Akbar, we immediately took the 240 students in the school to safety through the perimeter fence where they spent the night in the bush.”

Adesina Wahab Ado-Ekiti

governorship aspirant in the Ekiti State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Adedayo Adeyeye, has appealed to President Goodluck Jonathan to intervene in the crisis rocking the party in the state, following the conduct of the ward delegates' congress of the party on Wednesday.

Addressing newsmen in Ado-Ekiti on Thursday at his campaign office, Adeyeye said the whole process was skewed in favour of a former gover-

L-R, President, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Okey Wali; Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Tambuwal and Chairman, House Committee on Judiciary, Aminu Shagari, after a courtesy call by the NBA to the Speaker in Abuja.

PHOTO: ELIJAH OLALUYI

Oshiomhole decries connections-driven admission to public schools Oshiomhole calls for standard, wants rot in education addressed

Abdulwahab Isa Abuja

E

do state governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole has observed that admission processes into Nigeria's public schools are driven largely by connections of candidates’ uncles and their eminent

relatives as against merits, and that this does not augur well for the country.

The governor stated this yesterday at the last plenary session of the 20th National Economic Summit titled "leadership and ownership in Nigerian education " which had private and public stakeholders in attendance .

He said Nigeria must go back to the basis in her attempt to arrest the falling standard of education adding that he had already started the initiative in Edo state through

periodic assessment of quality of teachers in Edo state by conducting regular tests to determine their competence.

He noted that education sector was being dragged down by powerful vested interest, noting that the vicious circle of corruption in the system can be broken by collective effort of stakeholders.

In her submission, Deputy Governor of Ekiti state, Professor Modupe Adelabu observed that for education sector to attain 21st standards, various

agencies and parastatals must be manned by qualified educationists. She said the Nigerian public school can compete with any other good one elsewhere if given adequate attention by relevant authorities.

Other panelists in the session include, former Vice-Chancellor of University of Lagos, Professor Oyewusi Ibidapo-Obe, CEO of Stanbic IBTC Mrs. Sola David-Borha and Senator Uche Chukwumerije , chairman senate committee on education.

He further said that the attack was premeditated to kill the priest as the insurgents kept asking of him as the operation lasted.

“There was a crippled man in the school who could not escape before the insurgents struck.

When they met him, they asked him to take them to the priest, but he told them that he was a stranger and does not know anybody fortunately that was his saving grace.

Ekiti congress: Save PDP from destruction, Adeyeye urges Jonathan

A

STANDARD

7

nor of the state, Ayodele Fayose.

The Afenifere stalwart said his appeal to the President was to save the party from imminent collapse in the state.

While appraising the conduct of the congress in many parts of the state, he alleged that the team that came from Abuja had a mindset of what to do, which was to tilt everything in favour of Fayose.

He listed 12 grounds where the Abuja team erred and where the conduct of the congress went against the spirit of fairness and equity.

Town Hall meeting: Kinsmen endorse Akpabio for Senate Tony Anichebe Uyo

T

he people of Abak federal constituency yesterday endorsed Governor Godswill Akpabio as their sole candidate for the Akwa Ibom North West senatorial election in 2015.

Speaking during a town hall meeting at the local government area Council Hall, a former Commissioner of Information in the old Cross River State, Obong Moses Ekpo, said it was impossible to thank the governor enough for all that he has done for the people of the area.

He said “for the senato-

rial seat in 2015, we don’t have anybody who will give us effective representation in the senate but you, because we have already seen your track record as the governor and we have no doubt that you will do well for the senatorial district in the senate.

According to Ekpo, “We the people of Abak 5 ( Abak, Etim Ekpo, Ika, Oruk-anam, Ukanafun LGAs)federal constituency are consistent with fairness, equity and justice. We will support President Jonathan for second term and we will support the rotation of the governorship to Eket senatorial district.”

the the ion. gov-

8

ACROSS THE NATION

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

ABUJA

EBONYI

NIGER

ABUJA

Abakaliki

MINNA

Niger residents go for bicycles

Ebonyi govt phases out bucket latrines

Boko Haram: Northern Govs to meet

Ebonyi State Environmental Protection Agency (EBSEPA) has abolished the use of bucket latrines in the state, the General Manager of the agency, Dr Okeh Okeh, said yesterday.

Okeh said in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abakaliki that landlords and other property owners must instal standard water system toilets and clean them daily in their buildings.

The Northern State Gover nors’ Forum (NSGF) has fixed an emergency meeting for Tuesday, March 25, 2014 in Abuja, the nation’s capital.

Forum Chairman and Governor of Niger State, Dr Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, disclosed this in a statement signed by Danladi Ndayebo, his Chief Press Secretary.

Top on the agenda of the meeting is the security.

LAGOS

Many residents of Minna have begun to acquire bicycles for transportation following the ban on the operations of commercial motorcyclists, called Okada, by the Niger State Government.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that many people within the city now ride bicycles to schools or work.

The state government banned the operations of commercial motorcycles early in the year to check the rising wave of crime in the state.

IKEJA

Lagos Assembly orders payment of former political office holders The Lagos State House of Assembly yesterday at its Plenary ordered the payment of outstanding salaries and allowances of former political office holders and allowances while probing the financial positions of the Local Government Councils and Local Council Development Areas in the state.

This was part of the recommendations of the seven-man Ad-Hoc Com-

NAN also reported that in some markets, where bicycles are sold in Minna, the prices of the product have risen with fairly used ones costing more because of customers’ preference for them.

A bicycle seller, Malam Farouk Umar, told NAN that the prices ranged from N13, 000 to N20, 000.

“A big bicycle now sells for between N18, 000 and N20, 000 but before now, it was selling for N16, 000.

EBONYI

mittee on outstanding salaries and allowances of former political office holders in LGs and LCDAs. Presenting the Committee’s report on the floor of the House, Leader, Hon. Ajibayo Adeyeye recommended that monies be deducted and sourced from the monthly allocations of Local Governments and LCDAs for the payment of outstanding salaries and allowances of former political office holders.

ABAKALIKI

AIG Zone 6 commends Elechi The new Assistant Inspector-General of Police [AIG] Zone 6, Calabar, Mr Musa Daura, has commended Governor Martin Elechi for the tremendous assistance his administration has rendered to the Police Force since his assumption of duty as governor. Mr Daura made his feelings known at Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital during a courtesy visit to the Governor.

Mr Daura who stated

that, Governor Martin Elechi has done what other governors have not done, said he was in Abakaliki to register his deep appreciation, and enumerated the areas the governor had intervened to include, the procurement of 6 Armoured Personnel Carriers [APC] to police, which he said was the highest gift from any state Governor so far, ranking Ebonyi State second after Lagos state.

A’IBOM

OGUN

UYO

ABEOKUTA

Govt descends on prostitutes For women of easy virtues roaming the streets of Akwa Ibom State every night in search of clients to exchange their body for money and those operating from various brothels and hotels around the state especially Uyo Capital City, they either leave the state or quit the business. This is because Akwa Ibom Government has concluded plans to arrest and prosecute them.

The state Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Dr. (Mrs.) Glory Edet who gave the marching order in a press statement, obtained by the New Telegraph in Uyo, warned the prostitutes to quickly leave the state or face the full wrath of the law as government would no longer condone their illicit activities.

Amosun orders payment of lecturers salary arrears Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunlle Amosun has ordered the management of the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, to effect the immediate payment of the outstanding one month salary arrears owed lecturers of the institution.

Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Taiwo Adeoluwa in a statement issued in Abeokuta, also said the governor had promised that all other outstanding arrears would be paid without delay.

He stated that Amosun-led administration inherited a backlog of arrears from the immediate past administration.

BAUCHI BAUCHI

Zone 12 promotes 1,296 police officers

6.58m

The total number of stateless persons (which include displaced persons, expelled migrants, and those who are unable to prove their citizenship) in the world in 2009.

Source: Blatantworld.com

24.4% The percentage of children aged less than 5 who are underweight of Nigeria in 2011.

Source: Who.int

28%

The percentage of households with a computer worldwide in 2006.

Source: Itu.int

Atleast 1,296 officers of the Nigerian Police Force assigned and working under the Zone 12 comprising of Bauchi, Borno and Yobe were decorated and promoted by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police In-charge of the zone, Muhammad Jiya Gana yesterday.

The AIG said the promotion of the officers and men of the force serves as morale booster aim at encouraging the officers to be dedicated and committed on their duty and service for their mother land explaining that it is also a reward for their hard work.

ADAMAWA YOLA

Killings: NIREC summons prayers, fasting L-R: Manager, National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC), Mrs. Kate Ibekwe; Head, Cards and e-Banking, Ecobank Nigeria, Mr. Tunde Kuponiyi; Assistant Manager, NLRC, Mrs. Owholo Eguono Linda; Assistant Manager, Mr. Osiemeaoge Solomon, and Cards & e-Banking Officer, Ecobank Nigeria, Mr. Akhigbe Emmanuel, during the first draw of Ecobank Nigeria Card 4 Prizes Promo held in Port Harcourt.

ANAMBRA AWKA

Group pledges support for Obiano’s administration

Citizens of Amorka Community in Anambra State under the aegis of Amorka Improvement Union (AIU), have congratulated Anambra State Governor, Dr. Willie Obiano and his deputy, Dr.

Nkem Okeke.

The community in a statement issued by its President-General, Comrade Justice Elekwachi, promised to support the Obiano’s administration just as they did during

former Governor Peter Obi-led administration.

The statement reads in part: “We, the good people of Amorka Community in Anambra State wish to express our support and loyalty to our new gover-

nor, Chief Willie Obiano and his deputy, Dr. Nkem Okeke. We pray that Almighty God guide, protect and give you both the wisdom to pilot the affairs of Anambra State.”

The Adamawa State chapter of the Nigeria Inter- Religious Council, NIREC has obliged all its local Government chapters to embark on immediate fasting and prayer programme, saying God’s intervention was the remaining solution to end incessant attacks on Christian population and other vulnerable individuals in the state.

The council of eminent

Christian and Muslim leaders in the state who condemned the massive attacks on schools, churches and villages in a press conference yesterday, described the activities of insurgents in the North-eastern part of the country as irreligious, adding that the divine injunction to hold all human life sacred and inviolable is enshrined in all religions.

NEWS

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

TERROR ATTACK The students to arrive in Ilorin from Maiduguri today Biodun Oyeleye Ilorin

T

he Kwara state government, yesterday, dispatched a delegation to Maiduguri, Borno state, to evacuate students of the state ori-

Kwara evacuates own students from Maiduguri gin in the University of Maiduguri. The move was in response to requests from the students who, it was gathered, had bombarded government officials with distress calls and text messages expressing fear over their safety, as a result of massive attacks in Maiduguri last weekend.

29%

The rate non-communicable diseases (NCD) deaths in low-and middle-income countries in 2008 occurred before the age of 60.

Source: Who.int

Some of the text messages which our reporter sighted with one of the government officials read: “Maiduguri is under attack. 15 explosions this morning. We are picking bullets in the hostel. Please, we need your immediate help.

We need to be evacuated.

We, Kwara state students,

80%

The percentage of premature heart disease, stroke and diabetes preventable.

Source: Who.int

are waiting for the rescue team. Please, help do all you can to save our lives.”

The state commissioner for Information, Prince Tunji Moronfoye, who confirmed the development told newsmen that the delegation left Ilorin for Maiduguri yesterday morning. He did not give the number of students

36m

The total number of deaths caused by Noncommunicable diseases (NCD) IN 2008.

Source: Who.int

affected, but assured that the delegation was provided with enough logistics to enable it to evacuate the students at once.

It was gathered that the delegation and the students would be arriving Ilorin as from today. Moronfoye explained that it was the responsibility of the government to ensure

T

Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Oscar Onyema (left), presenting a gift to the Minister of Power, Prof. Chinedu O. Nebo during his visit to NSE in Lagos… yesterday

PDP asks Amaechi to resign Boko Haram, threat to polio he Peoples Democratic for the open confession of eradication – Uduaghan

Party, (PDP), Rivers State chapter, said that the State would be better off if Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi throws in the towel having failed in his oath of allegiance to protect lives and properties of the Rivers people as the chief security officer of the State.

This is as a result of what thepartysaidwasanopenacknowledgment of rising rate of crimes and insecurity in the State by Amaechi, while performingthegroundbreaking ceremony of the foundation stone laying of the new secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Rivers State Council.

The PDP in a statement from the office of the State Chairman, Felix Obuah, signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Jerry Needam, commended Amaechi

his failure, adding that he should complement his inability to discharge this responsibility by turning in his resignation letter.

"The party also regrets Amaechi’s continued misappropriation and misapplication of billions of State funds voted for security into All Progressives Congress (APC) sponsorship, only to turn around to blame his incapacitation on the PDP, the Police and perceived enemies, he said.

On the spate of criminal activities after the redeployment of Commissioner Mbu Joseph, as personally and publicly accepted by the governor, the PDP said Amaechi had at last admitted that he was the problem and not the former Police boss or the federal government as he was imputing.

Dominic Adewole Asaba

D

elta state Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, yesterday, said the nefarious activities of the Boko Haram sect had greatly aided the spread of polio infections in Nigeria. He maintained that their onslaught had become a potential threat to the overall eradication of the disease in the country.

Speaking in Sapele axis of the state, during the 2014 First Quarter Polio Eradication Programme and Sensitization Campaign, the Governor wondered why Nigeria still rank among Afghanistan and Pakistan in polio related cases.

He said although no case of the crippling poliomyeli-

tis infection had been recorded in the oil rich state in the last five years, efforts must be made to ensure that children across the three senatorial districts of the state were immunized against the dreaded disease. He called for vigilance in states where there are no incidences of polio virus, saying that the sect’s incessant killings in the North had greatly interrupted its sensitization campaigns.

According to him, “today, there is crisis in some parts of the North, so there will be tendency that people who are suffering from the disease might migrate to this part of the country. This is why we must be vigilant. Crisis does not help anybody, we must avoid trouble.”

the safety and wellbeing of its people wherever they may be, adding that there was no recourse to political affiliation in the conduct of such serious exercise. “The people of Kwara state voted us into power, so we have the responsibility to ensure their wellbeing at all time,” he said.

EFCC opposes Ajudua's bail application Joseph Jibueze

T

9

he Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), yesterday opposed a bail application by alleged serial fraudster, Mr. Fred Ajudua. The commission said that Ajudua could influence witnesses or leave the country if granted temporary freedom.

EFCC counsel, Mrs Edith Sanusi, told Justice Jose that the prosecution had filed a 16-paragraph counter affidavit in opposition to Ajudua's bail application.

Sanusi argued that there was a likelihood that the first defendant (Ajudua) would jump bail and interfere with the prosecution witnesses.

But Ajudua's lawyer Chief Charles Uwensuyi-

Edosomwan (SAN) said there was no proof before the court that his client had interfered with any witness, but that there was an overwhelming medical evidence that Ajudua was suffering from a lifethreatening ailment which needed proper treatment.

He said that Ajudua was ready to face trial contrary to the claim being made by the EFCC that he absconded after he was granted bail on medical grounds in 2005.

"My Lord, find it in your kind heart to grant the defendant bail," the lawyer pleaded.

Ajudua was arraigned before Justice Kudirat Jose of the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja for allegedly defrauding two Dutch businessmen of $1.69 million (about N252.8 million).

Oshiomhole blames education rot on poor leadership Cajetan Mmuta BENIN

G

overnor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State, yesterday, blamed the rot in the Nigerian education sector on poor leadership over the years, saying that Nigerian leaders must act with courage, conviction and be decisive to stem the decline of standard in the sector.

Oshiomhole who was the Guest Speaker at the 20th National Economic Summit (NES) in Abuja, with the theme “Leadership and Ownership in Nigerian Education in Focus” said that leadership was about courage, convic-

tion and being able to act.

“At the heart of the question is the issue of leadership. We do need our political leadership to go back to the basics and not the symbolism we currently witness. From the 50s to 60s Nigeria produced the best brains.”

According to him, “as the quality of the Nigerian leadership deteriorated from the days of the Military up to the moment, because we got our priorities wrong, we began to see the kind of wrath that characterized our schools. The way forward is for us leaders to go back to the basics and ask ourselves what are the issues,” he suggested.

10 NEWS

WARNING

People living in Riverine areas told to be vigilant as rainy season sets in

I

n line with the predictions of the floods by Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) yesterday, advised that states should be ready and prepared against flood disaster as the raining season sets in.

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

Prepare for flood disaster - NEMA The NEMA Coordinator of Niger and Kwara States zone, Mr. Lugard Bijimi, gave this advice while distributing relief materials to 34 fire victim families in Minna, adding that the people living along the flood plain of River Kaduna and River Niger should be prepared not to be caught unaware by flood disaster.

According to him, "people living in riverine

areas must be vigilant, especially those living in the lower areas of the three hydro dams in Niger State. They should be prepared against flood disaster as the raining season sets in, taking into consideration this year’s prediction by the NIMET. "Niger is prone to flood not only because of rains, but also because of the dams that could open their water runways with

devastating effect on residents in the lower areas of the dams".

He explained that the Agency would soon organise a stake-holders forum in conjunction with NIMET and Media, aimed at adequate sensitisation of the people of the state on how to heed NIMET's prediction and avoid disasters in the flood-prone areas of the state.

He however, decried

the rampant cases of fire incidents in the state, adding that the 34 families being compensated by the Federal Government were those whose houses were burnt in the last three to four months in the state.

He explained that NEMA had assessed the properties lost in the fire incidents before coming up with the list of beneficiaries, adding that the relief materials were

meant to bring succour to the victims and not as full compensation.

He urged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the materials, adding that government would not tolerate the sale of the relief materials by them. Some of the relief materials include 100 bundles of roofing sheets, 60 bags of nails, 150 pieces of wax print wrappers, food items and blankets.

Nasarawa LG polls: NASIEC bans elections in troubled spots Muhammad Ahmad

T

L-R: President, White House Group, Mr. Austin Eruotor; Principal Consultant, Rare Gem Consulting UK, Miss Chinwe Maduike and Chief Executive Officer, White Waters Limited, Mr. Nsikak Daniels, during a Press Conference to announce the forth-coming Foreign Business Investment held in Lagos …yesterday PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI

1.24m

The total number of people that die each year on the world’s roads.

Source: Who.int

828m

The number of urban residents who live in slum conditions worldwide.

Source: Who.int

50.1%

The percentage of the global population living in an urban area in 2009.

Source: Who.int

Osun 2015: I'm the anointed PDP candidate, says Adeleke Adeolu Adeyemo Osogbo

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he first civilian governor in Osun State, Alhaji Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke yesterday declared his intention to join the governorship race in the state under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) with assertion that he was an anointed candidate from the presidency for the race. The former governor who made this known at the party secretariat in Osogbo, said that he declared his intention based on the presidency's invitation that he was the

one that could win the state for the party in the forthcoming governorship election.

According to Adeleke, President Goodluck Jonathan said that " I am the one who could deliver the state for the party in the next election and that is why they are now telling me to go and pick my form."

The senator explained that President Jonathan said he learnt that he(Adeleke) would not contest the governorship.

He said Jonathan reminded him that he was the one that first sent the former Ogun state governor,

Otunba Gbenga Daniel to him on the issue and that he should get himself prepared for the race.

The erstwhile governor who recalled he spent some days at the Villa in Abuja when the president sent for him on the matter, said while trying to see the president, Gbenga Daniel called him on phone and said: 'I have been trying to reach you as President Jonathan has chosen you to be the candidate for the race in Osun State, but I want to confirm from you whether you will accept or not."

Adeleke who said that he was not in any way trying to enter the race through

the back door, explained that he had the intention of contesting for Senatorial seat of his district before the invitation. But he assured that if given the mandate by the party, he would make the party proud and at the same time transform the state beyond expectations.

He also stated that he asked the Presidency to tell him what would be the fate of those aspirants that had signified their intentions for the race in the past few years, and quoted the president as saying that he would reach out to other aspirants between Saturday and Tuesday on the matter.

he Nasarawa State Independent Electoral Commission ( NASIEC ) has banned elections in troubled spots in the forthcoming local government polls scheduled for tomorrow Saturday .

This was disclosed by the state chairman of the commission, Dr Abdullahi Modibbo yesterday during a press conference at the commission’s Headquarters in Lafia.

Dr Modibbo said that the commission has decided not to send electoral materials to polling unit that were deserted as a result of crisis.

The chairman said that the commission received complaints from interest

groups in two local government area namely: Awe and Ekye Development Areas. He explained that the number of polling units deserted would not affect the conduct of the elections in those areas.

"It is instructive, to mention here that the commission received complaints from particular interest groups from Awe, local government and Ekye Development Areas on deserted areas as a result of the crises."

"We as a commission has decided to ensure that polling unit deserted, we will not send electoral materials there. "By our findings, the number of polling units deserted is not enough to warrant stopping elections in such areas."

Bribe: ICPC secures conviction of two police officers Emmanuel Onani

T

he Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), has secured the conviction of two police officers, who were hitherto attached to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Kwara State Police Command, Ilorin.

Sergeant Alih Tenimu and Police Corporal Salawooden Abubakar, were sentenced to three and two years imprisonment, respectively, by Justice A. Mohammed of Kwara State High Court sitting in Ilorin,

for demanding and collecting N800,000, being a bribe sum from a suspect. Their respective sentences were without an option of fine.

The disclosure was contained in a statement made available to New Telegraph yesterday, by the ICPC's Head of Media, Folu Olamiti.

According to the statement, the convicts, alongside one Amodu Adamson, now deceased, were said to have collected the said sum from one Bello Manisara, "in order to close the case of criminal breach of trust, and threat to life, being investigated by them."

NEWS

Friday, March 21, 2014

Sectarian killings: Deploy troops to Benue, Reps tell FG APPEAL

Reps want contninuous armed attacks by herdsmen investigated

Philip Nyam Abuja

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orried by the increased attacks on villages across Benue State by nomadic herdsmen, the House of Representatives yesterday urged the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar and the Chief

of Army Staff, Major-General Kenneth Minimah, to urgently send armed men to the state to contain the situation.

The call was consequent upon a motion of urgent national importance brought on the floor of the House by a member representing Kwande/ Ushongo federal constituency in Benue State, Hon. Benjamin Aboho.

The House also called on the national security adviser to investigate the continuous armed attacks by nomadic herdsmen, particularly in Benue and Plateau States.

Aboho, in the motion informed the House that the violent activities of the nomadic herdsmen have in recent times covered many parts of Benue State, as well as the neighbouring states of Nasarawa and Plateau, thereby compounding the nation’s security challenges.

He said since April 2013, some villages in Kwande Local Government area of Benue State have been under consistent attacks by herdsmen, leading to loss of lives and property worth millions of naira.

He added that since April 14, 2014, the herds-

men have virtually occupied the land and have succeeded in sending families of the natives away from their land, expressing concern that the continuous occupation of the land would force a reprisal attack by the indigenes.

Addressing his colleagues, Aboho said; “Mr. Speaker, I am worried like any other Nigerian that the continuous occupation of the land will make the citizens to attempt to fight back, which may worsen the security situation in the country.”

Ekiti 2014: My re-election unstoppable, says Fayemi Adesina Wahab Ado-Ekiti

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kiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has said that his reelection in the June 21 governorship poll in the state is unstoppable, because it is God-ordained.

Speaking at the All Progressives Congress (APC) secretariat in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday, shortly after arriving from Abuja where he had obtained the APC nomination form at the national secretariat of the party, the governor said he was not in the race for personal aggrandising, but to consolidate on

A

GANG-UP

Governor's former aides allege Okorocha does not have sincerity of purpose in governance

Steve Uzoechi OWERRI

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ormer political appointees of Imo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha, under the auspices of the Forum of Former Governor Okorocha’s Political Appointees (FOFOPA), have accused him of not having a clear policy blue-

change of name

Jovita

I, formerly known and addressed as Onwuama Jovita Nnenna now wish to be known and addressed as Nnedum madu Jovita Nnenna. all former documents remain valid, amana medical centre and the general public to take note

Okorocha has no policy blueprint for Imo, say ex-appointees print on how to develop the state.

The group said it has therefore resolved to be part of the democratic process expected to enthrone a government of absolute sincerity and capacity in 2015.

In a statement signed

by Hon. Ebere Uzoukwa, secretary of FOFOPA, the former appointees of the governor said recent developments as regards the governance of the state have raised serious concern bordering on sincerity of purpose.

The group also added that there are clear indications that tend to give credence to the notion that

their former boss came into governance without any well-thought-out socio-economic policies and programmes that can create jobs, guarantee sustainable rural and urban development as well as revive the state economy to attract direct foreign investments.

The group maintained that any government without a blueprint clearly tailored to promote effective partnership with the private sector and longterm economic plan for job creation has definitely planned to fail.

The statement reads in part: “We are deeply concerned over the steady

rudderless drift of Imo State back to the woods. It is more worrisome when it becomes obvious that the state is being run without a plan or roadmap.

“Our former boss seems comfortable running the state on a trial-and-error basis. This is not obtainable anywhere in the world.

"We therefore, admonish aspirants that have shown interest in the governance of the state come 2015, to formulate a blueprint that can promote effective partnership with the private sector and marshal out long-term economic plan for job creation and job security in the state.”

democracy and the deepening of development in Ekiti State.

“We are not confused.

There is no confusion. We are very clear about where we have come from, where we are and where we are headed. When we started this journey, we said it is a collective rescue mission.

That is the journey that has brought us this far.

“We are on the march again and we are unstoppable. We know that the journey has not reached an end because we have not finished the job. That is why we are in this race.

It is service to our people,” Fayemi said.

Chartered chemists’ registrar under investigation - Witness Joseph Onyekwere

Managing Director, PAN Nigeria Limited, Mr. Ibrahim Boyi (right), presenting a gift to the Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Osita Chidoka, during PAN's visit to the FRSC in Abuja…yesterday.

11

defence witness in the suit filed by the suspended registrar of the Institute of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria (ICCON) against the minister of health and others, yesterday told a National Industrial Court (NIC) in Lagos that the acting registrar of the institute is under investigation.

Under cross examination by the plaintiff ’s counsel, Albert Akpomudje, SAN, the witness, Sule Audu, from the Federal Ministry of Health said the registrar, Prince Jay Oghifo, was suspended because he was under inves-

tigation. He added that it is the tradition to suspend officers accused of wrong doing while their investigation lasts.

He, however, said that the Acting Registrar, Ms. T. Bammodu, who also had a petition against her, was also under investigation before she was appointed to act in Oghifo's capacity.

The witness, who was the secretary to the panel that suspended the registrar, also admitted that most of what they investigated was never contained in the allegations leveled against Oghifo in the petition written by one Umar Maigari.

Lawmaker decries insecurity, impunity in Rivers Charles Onyekwere PORT HARCOURT

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Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker in the Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon. Ikunyiowaji Agbani, has expressed dismay over the high rate of insecurity and impunity in the state, blaming the state governor, Chibuike Amaechi, for the situation.

In an exclusive interview with New Telegraph in Port Harcourt, the lawmaker said his problem with Governor Amaechi

started when he refused to dump the PDP and join the All Progressives Congress (APC) as requested by the governor.

Agbani said upon his refusal defect to APC, the governor also refused to pay his entitlements, including other anti-Amaechi lawmakers in the hallowed chamber.

The lawmaker, who is the House Chief Whip and a member for Andoni Local Government area, expressed disappointment over the political crisis rocking Rivers State.

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Friday,March 21, 2014

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NURTW, RTEAN invade police station, injure four ABSURD Transport unions’ members take their fight to a divisional police station and injure four persons Babatope Okeowo Akure

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t least four persons were critically injured yesterday when the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) and the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) clashed in Ondo in Ondo West Local Government Area of Ondo State.

The wounded included the Ondo town branch Vice-Chairman of RTEAN, Alhaji Alimi Arowosola, and three others.

The bloody clash was over the control of motor parks and the loading rights.

Narrating the incident to journalists at the emergency ward of Ondo Specialist Hospital, one of the victims, Lukuman Saibu, alleged that the attackers were members of the NURTW. According to him, they were led by the branch Chairman of the Ondo/Lagos Unit, Dele Mallah.

Ironically, the fight broke out within the premises of the Enuowa Divisional Police Station in Ondo town.

Saibu added that his members were in the police station to lodge a complaint about their vehicle, which was vandalised by NURTW members at Awoyaya area on the Ondo - Ore Road in Ondo town.

He said NURTW had prevented his members from conveying passengers from Ondo town to Ore and Lagos.

Saibu alleged that the attackers who came in two Hummer Toyota buses, one with the registration number NND 109 XA inflicted injuries on him and other union members, using dangerous weapons such as bottles, cudgels and sticks.

However, Mallah declined to comment on the attack.

Also, when NT Metro visited the Enuowa police station, about 10:30am, broken bottles and stick littered the whole place.

Also sighted were notable members of the union in the area and several police officers from the division including the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of the station, Mr Ebenezer Adegalu.

Similarly, patrol van of the Special

Ant-robbery Squad (SARS) was also noticed patrolling the station, apparently to prevent further breakdown of law and order.

When contacted, Adegalu refused to comment on the incident.

But, a senior police officer, who did not want his name mentioned, said nine members of both unions had been arrested and transferred to Akure.

Similarly, when contacted on phone, the state Police Public Relation Officer (PPRO), Mr Wole Ogodo, confirmed the report.

Ogodo, who said he had not been properly briefed by the DPO in charge of the station, promised to get back to our correspondent later.

Speaking on the matter, the Chairman and the General Secretary of Ondo town branch of RTEAN, Alhaji Sebeeni Obadun and Mr. Henry Ogungbemi, accused NURTW members of launching the attack.

TEMPTATION

Suspects attempt to esc arrest by offering policem N200,000 cash Juliana Francis

P

olice have arrested t curity guards, who all connived with four oth rob a company they were ing at the Ilupeju area of t gos metropolis.

The suspects were said t offered N200,000 bribe to a patrol team attached to I Police Station, which stu on them while loading trucks with products fro

Group pra Juliana Francis

N Police IG, Muhammed Abubakar

ational Alliance for P and Security (NAPS Non-Governmental O isation (NGO), has comme the Inspector General of P Muhammed Abubakar, for e lishing a Police Mortgage, a other welfare packages for p The NAPS National Co nator, Bayo Fatusin, Nat

Health mission: My life now has meanin Muritala Ayinla

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resident of Lagos State, who had been battling with mouth turmoil since 2008, Mrs Oluwatoyin Omogbehin, has expressed appreciation to the state government.

Omogbehin said her hope had been restored through the Eko Free Health Mission.

According to her, all efforts to correct her deformity had been proved abortive owing to the cost of surgery.

She said: “I was initially told to pay N500,000 but later when the turmoil became bigger, I was told to pay N1 million or travel out of the country for operation.

“So, I became depressed and disenchanted about life. To me, life became horrible because I had thought there is no way I could make it in life with face turmoil. But today, the story is different because with the help of committed officials, especially Dr Fasawe and the Commissioner for Health, Dr Jide Idris, I have a brighter future.

“I’m no longer discouraged by my looks and face. I was given a letter by the commissioner to LASUTH where I was treated free. I can apply for any job anywhere.”

Omogbehin was among the about 17,000 residents of Ojodu Local Council Development Area of state who benefitted from the health mission

A doctor examining a patient

yesterday.

The residents were screened for ailments such diabetes, dental diseases, blood sugar, hypertension, nutrition, etc.

There was also HIV/AIDS testing and counselling, as well as counselling on reproductive health issues.

Surgeries were also carried out on some of the people whose cases warranted special attention.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Jide Idris, explained that the mission was to cater for the poor at the grassroots who did

Omogbehin

not have the wherewithal to treat themselv Commenting on the free health missi council Chairman, Mr Abiodun Oloro mended the government for coming to the the hapless residents.

He said: “So far, over 17,213 residents council have been attended to as at noon in consulting units.

“The Eko Free Health Mission is anothe tive programme with unquantifiable ben our people within this council.

“We know and believe that you have alwa

Esele: Recruitment, a state-backed extortion/ PAGE 15 | Taraba: Acting gov on the edge/ PAGE 18

POLITICS

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p-16

Friday, March 21, 2014

L-R, Minister of Trade and Investment, Olusegun Aganga; President Goodluck Jonathan; Adegbe and the MD/CEO Bank of Industry, Ms. Evelyn Oputu at a recent function in Abuja.

President Jonathan decorating Adegbe with the rank of a Colonel.

Adegbe: President’s last man standing ANULE EMMANUEL examines the role of an Aide-De-Camp to the office of a Nigerian President and the choice of Colonel Ojogbane Adegbe, the present occupant.

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ore often, people wonder what exactly is the role of the man who stands studiously behind the President in public, aside providing just security protection. AideDe-Camp (ADC), as they are referred to in most countries, ordinarily serve as personal assistants to a general officer.

The use of Aide-de-Camp is really an age long tradition associated with the military. Nigeria’s present democracy of course, also inherited this system. While the President as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces is entitled to a military officer as ADC, his deputy retains a police personnel in this seemingly enviable position.

Typically, the responsibilities of this officer to the President cuts across; providing for the personal well-being and security, and relieving the general officer of routine and time-consuming duties; preparing and organising schedules, activities, and calendars; preparing and executing trip itineraries; coordinating protocol activities; acting as an executive assistant and performing varied duties, according to the general officer’s desires.

Colonel Ojogbane Adegbe is the ADC to President Goodluck Jonathan, the last man standing. He is really first among equals but a highly privileged officer in

the military who knows where the king’s horse-tail is kept. Combined with his array of duties which are strategic, politicians see him as a powerful source to get the President’s attention.

A Mathematician and a holder of a Masters degree in Intelligence and International Security, the strong built soldier is perceived within the military circle as an upright and fine gentleman combined with his ability to pick a needle with a shot. These qualities and military prowess no doubt made him the preferred choice while the search for the C-in-C’s aide de camp was on.

As then Lt. Colonel, Adegbe first showed up at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on May 6, 2010 for an interview, the day President Jonathan was sworn in as a substantive President following the death of President Umaru Yar’Adua.

Besides criticisms that the President’s use of an ADC under a democratic dispensation is old fashioned, Nigeria is not

alone. It is a worldwide tradition that the President’s Aide-de-Camp comes from the military. Indeed, established democracies, and even the dictatorships, adhere to it.

One interesting thing is the fact that, the relationship between presidents and their Aide-De-Camps is not different from that between a needle and the thread. As the closest aide to the president, an aide-de-camp has his ears on very important issues.

Like obtained in other climes, Col. Adegbe is seen as the third eye of the president as well as his seventh sense.

Standing all times on the watch behind the president in public, he cranes his eyes in all direction and in no direction in particular just to observe and give his boss feedback on the general perception about what he does.

Aside other security apparatus within the confines of the Presidential Villa such as the Brigade of Guards, men of the Department of State Security, Defence Intelli-

President Jonathan and Adegbe at a military function.

gence, National Intelligence Agency (NIA), the ADC and the Chief Security Officer, every last point security for the number one citizen appears to rest on him.

One thing which the present Aide De Camp to the President is known for within the Presidential Villa and to anyone who has come in contact with him on the job is his calm, friendly but principled attitude to work.

At different public functions, Col. Adegbe in the course of a speech or remark by the President is sometimes seen dropping notes to alert his boss of either an omission or merely to guard him against areas he should not afford to goof. Fortunately for Adegbe, his principal acknowledges these qualities as well.

It was therefore not a surprise with the array of top officers and politicians who converged in the President’s office last year, November 11, 2013 when the ADC was decorated with his new rank of a Colonel. Apart from ministers who attended the ceremony, former Chief of Defence Staff, Ola Ibrahim, led other Service Chiefs to the event.

The National Security Adviser, Colonel Sambo Dasuki (rtd) did not fail to attend. President Jonathan was joined by his vice, Namadi Sambo and assisted by the officer’s wife, Oluwabukola, for the decoration.

His principal said of him: “I thank the Service Chiefs for finding time to be here in this ceremony. You are a privileged Colonel, otherwise they will not be here.”

The President’s remark came during the decoration ceremony of the ADC as CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

14 POLITICS

OPEN FORUM Comrade Femi Aborisade is a legal practitioner and human rights activist

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he deaths of job applicants during the recent money-swindling and murderous recruitment exercise by the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) have further demonstrated the stark reality of the failed state status of Nigeria as a nation.

A failed state is one whose central government is characterised by the following features, among others: Sharp economic decline, including massive unemployment, widespread inequality, extensive corruption, state illegitimacy, loss of physical control over much of its territory, loss of a monopoly of the legitimate use of force, widespread criminality and insecurity, inability to provide reasonable public services, prevalence of phenomena of refugees and involuntary movement of population, widespread group grievance, uneven development, brain-drain and environmental decay.

During the period 2004 – 2010, the country experienced sustained high growth rates, but without commensurate rises in employment. The structure of employment remained basically the same during the period with agricultural self-employment continued to dominate the country’s labour market. The most noteworthy employment development was the expansion of jobs in the communication sector as a direct consequence of the deregulation of the sector.

Unfortunately, the measures designed

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

...IMMIGRATION RECRUITMENT TRAGEDY

Moro, others must be brought to justice –Aborisade The government appears contented with creating jobs, which involve recharge card selling, job creation by gambling in the name of You Win, graduate street cleaners, graduate road traffic officers

Aborisade

to tackle the plague of unemployment fall short of the monstrous dimension, which unemployment and the accompanying pervasive insecurity and dare devil criminality have attained. The government appears contented with creating jobs, which involve re-charge card selling, job creation by gambling in the name of You Win, graduate street cleaners, graduate road traffic officers, vocational training of a few hands, and so on. What the disturbing degree of unemployment requires today is direct investment by the state and preparedness to fight corruption, head-on. The measures articulated or disarticulated in the Transformation Agenda does not show government is committed to posi-

tive reform not to talk of commitment to a transformation agenda, which is radical in nature.

At the backdrop of the deaths and agony witnessed in the NIS recruitment, Nigerians must pose fundamental demands. The death of between 16 and 21 persons at the recruitment exercise of the NIS on March 15 is a mirror of the calamitous magnitude of the unemployment problem in the country.

About one million youths struggled to have a space to take a test for only 4000 job openings. Rather than paying N4 million per month to each of the participants at the National Conference, government should use such resources to establish public enterprises and create jobs while groups sending representatives are made to cater for the needs of their representatives at the conference.

Rather than suspending the Central Bank Governor, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi

for crying out that $20 billion is missing, government should bring to justice those who have stolen the $20 billion job creating ventures.

For Nigeria to move forward, delegates at the National Conference should advocate that it should be legislated that it is a crime for government not to provide jobs as a fundamental right.

For the right to life under the constitution to be meaningful, the right to job must be given the status of a fundamental right.

The Minister of the Interior, Aba Moro and any other policy-making officials involved in the money-swindling and murderous recruitment exercise should not only be relieved of their political appointments, they must also be prosecuted and brought to justice. Apart from demanding that the Minister of the Interior, Abba Moro and other officials involved in the money-swindling and murderous recruitment exercise must be sacked from their positions, we also demand that privatisation of public enterprises must be reversed and governments at all levels must establish more public enterprises where the teeming army of the unemployed may be employed. In addition, government must implement Section 16(2)(d) of the 1999 Constitution which provides that governments must provide jobs or give unemployment allowance.

Interview by Temitope Ogunbanke

Okechukwu: Tragedy shows govt’s inchoate economic policy Mr. Osita Okechukwu is the National Publicity Secretary of the Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP).

I

join Nigerians to mourn the tragedy of gross unemployment; which claimed scores of lives of innocent youths that went out in search of Nigeria Immigration Service vacant placement.

I condole the families of the victims, pray to God for the repose of their souls and groans that these ambitious youths and pregnant mothers of our ancestry, died hungry, poor and in a state of agony in the midst of plenty.

It is my candid view that the tragedy of unemployment is the outcome of Federal Government of Nigeria’s nebulous and inchoate economic policy; which regrettably posits that government has no business in business and the monumental corruption, which governs the reproachable economic policy.

If the Peoples Democratic Party-led Federal Government had in the past 15 years invested our unprecedented oil and gas revenue to critical infrastruc-

If the PDP-led Federal Government had, in the past 15 years, invested our unprecedented oil and gas revenue to critical infrastructure ... there is no way over 400,000 youths will pay N1, 000 to chase less than 3,000 jobs ture like refineries, modern railway, power supply; there is no way over 400,000 youths will pay N1, 000 to chase less than 3,000 jobs in a single department of the state across the country.

I still maintain that heavy investment in critical infrastructure is the only solution to durable employment; how long do we wait for the Chinese, Dangote or Julius Berger?

For the avoidance of doubt, the Nigerian economy is informal and therefore has no infrastructural form; it is primitive and non-capitalist, for a capitalist state is predicated on an industrialised

Okechukwu

system.

The fact is that the over-dependence on the private sector is a farce; for 98 per cent of the captains of industry in Nigeria have no factory, even pure water factory; they are petrol-dollar predators. Therefore, they cannot provide employment.

This is the paradox of the much-touted Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s seven per cent annual growth for the one per cent, in the mix of gross unemployment for the 99 per cent, which led to this avoid-

able tragedy. This is why those that got the 1.6 million quasi-jobs she claimed was created last year were among the 400,000 chasing Immigration job.

It is my view that it is not too late in the day for the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and the President’s Economic Team to come to the reality that our economy is a primitive one, and allow President Goodluck Jonathan to build refineries to stem the unbridled $10.8 billion fuel and kerosene subsidy scam, for one refinery employs over 80,000 persons directly and indirectly.

Alternatively, the 2015 presidential election offers Nigerians a golden opportunity for a regime change. In sum, while we mourn our patriots, it is time ethnic merchants and religious jingoists at the national conference note that our problem in the midst of plenty is man-made common poverty, common hunger and common gross unemployment not ethnicity nor religion. This is the lesson of the tragedy of gross unemployment.

Interview by FELIX NWANERI

POLITICS

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

OPEN FORUM

15

...IMMIGRATION RECRUITMENT TRAGEDY

Esele: Recruitment, a state-backed extortion Comrade Peter Esele is the immediate past president, Trade Union Congress (TUC)

I

expect the Minister of Interior, Abba Moro, and those behind this recruitment exercise to have resigned by now. One thing is very clear; we are not in the stone age, that very clearly is what was executed. You can do your interview, you can shortlist candidates, and you can call them at different intervals, but having over 50, 000 people occupying a stadium in the name of interview, I think that is uncalled for.

I think the whole organisation did not do the country any favour at all.

If you put 50, 000 people in such a position, there will be stampede. What that means is that there was no organisation. If you go and watch a football match in a stadium; why is there no stampede? That’s because those in charge of the stadium organise the process very well. In the case of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), they did not organise it. If it was organised, and you ask them to sit down, calling out their names one after the other, there will not be stampede.

The minister is not taking responsibility, and that’s very bad. He should either resign or asked to go because his comment is debasing to us as a people. Making applicants pay for forms or interview, that’s fraudulent. Why are you collecting money?

How does the private sector carry out their employment? The civil service has carried out employment before, and it was not like this.

The minister is not taking responsibility, and that’s very bad. He should either resign or be asked to go because his comment is debasing to us as a people.

Making applicants pay for forms or interview, that’s fraudulent. Why are you collecting money? If government is collecting money from job applicants, what do you expect the private companies to do? Now, they’ve collected over N1 billion from people all around the country. What is govern-

Esele

ment budget for? That is the responsibility of the state. What they’ve done is to simply extort the unemployed. It’s blatant extortion and it is unfortunate that it has the backing of the state.

I’ve been watching the reactions, comments and body language of the minister; he’s not qualified to hold that

office.

What does this say of our unemployment situation in the country? They need to create jobs. Government jobs are always very few; it’s the private sector that is the engine room of job creation. What we now need to do is create the enabling environment for the private sector.

For example, if you have one million barber’s shops, and each of them creates like five jobs, and then you create the environment for about three million of that, you’ve created 15 million jobs. For you to create that kind of environment, you need to have power. And even graduates will go for that, and not look at the civil service. It’s when people have no alternative that they go for the civil service.

The sudden push for civil service jobs is because everybody believes that is where anything goes. Your salary can be 10, 000 and you can live a life of N10 million.

Government can be the single largest employer, but if you aggregate the entire private sector, it should be bigger than what government employs.

Interview by ETAGHENE EDIRIN

Yerima: FG not doing enough on job creation Alhaji Shettima Yerima is the President, Arewa Youth Consultative Forum

The tragedy has exposed the transformation agenda of the Federal Government to be only a figure-making agenda.

We don’t feel the impact of whatever figure they are quoting. It has exposed them not only to Nigerians, but also to the international community that the government is not doing enough

L

ast Saturday’s mayhem during the Immigration recruitment exercise has actually exposed successive government in Nigeria because this mess has come a long way; it didn’t start with this present administration. The society as a whole does not have respect for the present generation. To an extent, this is a picture of how deceitful these people are, telling them to go online and using press conferences to claim a phantom job creation that does not exist anywhere for the youths.

The youths of this country are determined to work. It is disheartening that youths of this country are looking for lawful means to earn a living but the government has no plan for them. It’s obvious that the political leaders don’t have the interest of the masses at heart.

The youths should not believe in any leaders except themselves and we must stand up to take our place.

The tragedy has exposed the Transformation Agenda of the Federal Government to be only a figure-making agenda. We don’t feel the impact of whatever figure they are quoting. It has exposed them not only to Nigerians

Yerima

but also to the international community that the government is not doing enough. When I heard the Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, say that they have created a number of jobs, I know that the youths of this nation are in a big mess. Therefore, we must buckle up and take our destiny into our hands. The three tiers of government must be held responsible for this unfortunate incident.

The local government does not have the autonomy of their own; they are tied to the apron string of state gover-

nors. The poorer people are more in number and those who held the country to ransom are not up to five percent.

Jobs have become what you need the connection of the five percent to get in Nigeria. The effect of poverty and unemployment we are experiencing in the land has been linked to the level of insecurity in the northern part of Nigeria where hundreds of people are being killed daily. To that extent, it shows that we still have a long way to go. The youths should be determined to hold this country and look at it as our own project, not minding those old cargoes that have held the country to ransom.

The common man does not have protection, no social amenities and nothing seems to be working. We have to make sacrifices to save this country from these classes of rulers.

Whether they sack the Minister of Interior or not, nothing will change.

The system is faulty. Yes, sack him as a scapegoat, but whosoever is there is the same thing. God only wants to expose Nigeria through that means but millions of people have been dying before now. The Nigerian government does not have value for human lives, otherwise this call for a national mourning for these martyrs who were ready to serve their fatherland but were cut short in their prime. Also, it is not normal for government agencies to demand for any fee from applicants under any guise. How could somebody seeking to contribute for his fatherland is being asked to pay for it?

Some even had to bribe to get a slot for an interview.

After all these, do you think such a person would come out as a decent citizen? He never got the job on merit and that is why corruption thrives in this country. This is not applicable to Immigration alone, other government agencies do the same thing too. That is how patriotism is being exchanged for corruption.

Interview by Wale Elegbede

16 POLITICS

Leading

Woman How did you come into politics?

I was hardly out of secondary school when I actually started getting involved in politics. I joined politics at a very young age. My father wasn’t an active politician but I got into politics somehow through him. It happened that my father was invited for a meeting but he couldn’t go, I overheard him talk about it and I went to represent him there. Incidentally, the meeting turned out to be a political meeting and that was how I started and I have hardly been out of politics. This year, I will be two decades in politics.

When you consider my age, how I have been around politically, you will know that I started politics relatively very young. It was an accidental thing but I know God destined it like that.

Did your interest in politics at that early age affect your growing-up?

I enjoyed some privileges when I was young. Along the line, some changes came and it wasn’t that rosy again. We had to relocate and I started to hawk and hustle at that early stage.

What type of hustling did you engage in?

I hawked garri and bread. At another point, I was a thrift collector at Mile 12 market. I was always at the Mile 12 market to collect the contribution of those market women, and I was very popular among them because the way we packaged ourselves, you won’t believe that we were thrift collectors, we go to office in a corporate outfit and I have a corporate briefcase.

After your experience in the market, did you go back to school immediately?

Along the line in my life, I made a mistake. I got pregnant when I was in secondary school and I had the child.

Unfortunately, the child died at one and a half years. At that point when the child died, I made up my mind that it won’t be the end of my education.

The day the child died, at his burial tomb, I made a vow that I must be somebody in life. The person that impregnated me denied the pregnancy.

I got admission for a Diploma programme in Linguistic at the University of Lagos in 1997 but there was no money to pay for tuition fee and I lost the admission. In 1998, I got another admission, pooled the money for tuition together, but it’s always difficult going for lectures. I always trek from Yaba to Akoka every day. At a point, I gathered money together and rented a room that looks like a shop.

One way or the other, I was able to finish my diploma in UNILAG. By then, I was already moving on politically.

At what point did your foray into active politics start?

I wanted to contest for the councillorship position in my local government but they said I should leave it for someone else. Along the line, my husband contested for the state Assembly but lost at

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

Adeleye-Oladapo: I’ve developed thick skin for blackmail

Hon. Adijat Adeleye-Oladapo is a second term member of the Ogun State House of Assembly representing Ifo 2 state constituency. In this interview with WALE ELEGBEDE, she speaks about the vicissitudes of life she had to overcome before getting involved in politics, how she was edged out of the race as deputy speaker of the House, among others. the primary in 2002. After my husband lost the primary in 2002, I left the Alliance for Democracy (AD) and joined the PDP at the twilight of the 2003 gubernatorial election. In 2004, I was appointed a consultant to the Ifo council chairman on Rural Development Matters. It was while I was there that I resigned in 2006 to contest for the House of Assembly election. It was like a joke because it wasn’t that I have money or backing. I contested the PDP primaries with five people, I got the ticket after much horse-trading and I found myself in the Assembly.

I can tell you that I am a living experience of those who play politics without using jazz or juju. I remembered during my first election, a fight broke out in Ifo 1 at the collation centre. The car I was in got trapped inside the crisis.

The driver was beaten mercilesly. One of those guys just shouted ‘that is her’ and I was dragged out of the car. The guy gave me a heavy blow and that day, I was fasting. They now said let us burn her, in front of me was a vulcaniser’s shop and behind me was a liquor seller with fire around. I begged those around and gave them money. Eventually, I was left off the hook.

During your first term in the Assembly, the altercation between you and the former Speaker, Mrs Titi Oseni, made headlines in the media. Do you regret doing so?

I don’t really like talking about that issue again. Before we were inaugurated, I showed interest in becoming the Speaker.

We were later called by the party hierarchy that it is not like that and for me that was the end of that intention. I gave all my support to her because there was nobody I can’t work with. Like I said, I don’t want to talk about it.

But she said you used to carry her bag at

The easiest name you can call a female politician especially one that is climbing high is prostitute... When I first started politics, I used to react to blackmail, but now, it is like a secondcloth to me

a point and you probably grew wings later.

Yes, I was carrying her bag b e cause she is older than me and she happens to be my Speaker.

What is the big deal in that and why can’t I carry her bag? To me it is nothing.

There was a w o r k - Adeleye-Oladapo shop I went to and the people were like I came to represent the Speaker, I said no that I was a member. They said but you always carry her bag. That means the way I was relating with her, people felt I was her personal assistant and they didn’t know I was a member. If not for anything, she was older than me. If I can give her that much respect and regard, then we need to ask what went wrong.

Some things happened that I wouldn’t want to talk about and we somehow found ourselves like cat and mouse. I wasn’t competing with her. Some people came between us and blackmailed me in front of her and she felt she would deal with me.

But people feel you are fighting with the present governor as well.

My issues with the governors have always been based on principles. The well-being of the people who I represent is my priority. The issue has always been that nothing has been done in my constituency. If you want me to stop talking, do something in my constituency. At the beginning of this administration, I had cause to raise my voice against the executive, but of recent, you hardly see me talk? It is not that anybody gave me money, but go and see what this administration is doing there now. So, how would I talk. My constituency is the most populated in Ogun State. If you are not doing what you are supposed to do for my people, I will talk.

There were insinuations that you have

dumped the APC for the Labour party?

At a point, I had issues with the government and not the party. At that point, I decided to make consultations. Are my people being taken care of ? Are we better off where we are? It was in the course of that I need to make consultations. But I had at no time made any proclamation or statement to say that I am now in Labour Party. I didn’t register with Labour Party.

The only place you can say you sighted me publicly with Labour Party was when they were flagging-off their registration and it was still at the point of consultation.

I am a registered member of the APC. What lessons did you learn from the political game that edged you out as deputy speaker in this present Assembly?

Firstly, I never wanted to be deputy speaker and I didn’t fight for it. The Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) then took some decisions. The late Chief Taiwo Olowoake invited those of us from Ogun Central to his house and said the party has decided to pick me as the deputy speaker. I objected to it, but he said it was beyond me.

While electing the principal officers of the House, I had 10 votes, and my 10 was purely ACN. My friend and brother, Tola Banjo had 15 votes, nine opposition members who were begged and promised heaven on earth to join them to vote against me. Life continues. It is a game and I am a politician. It is what happened afterwards that worsened the whole situation. The fact that I was supposed to be CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

POLITICS 17

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

Leading

Woman How did your journey into activism started?

I grew up as a child, believing that I must contribute to change the society. I listened to my father talk about the need to change the country to a better place; he was an activist himself, a pioneer executive member of the students union of the Ibadan Polytechnic. My grandmother too was well known in her local community in Abeokuta, Ogun State for supporting other women and ensuring that things were done properly. She was a disciplinarian and a very strong woman. She made me to know that you must always resist oppression to make life easy for all.

I also started reading early, I found a good role model in people like Nelson Mandela. I internalised his message, ‘The struggle is my life.’ I was determined as a child to make a formidable impact in my environment. Thus when I was in the primary school, I was very active as a student, very independentminded and engaging. Also in my secondary school, I participated in the school literary and debating society, and several quiz competitions. My interest in school debates shaped my life, taught me critical thinking, I became well known in Osun Division of the then Oyo State. I won several prizes for the school and also led students to demand for their rights even as a teenager.

I later gained admission into the university in the late 80s and became a strong member of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) students union, where my activism led me to becoming the first female Public Relations Officer. I became the mouthpiece and image-maker of the union and led several struggles for the welfare of students. I was suspended several times, risked detention and arrest to create the environment for students to survive. I participated in the anti-Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) struggle, anti-military struggles and struggles for the emancipation of Nigeria. All through, I became a target of the state security agents likewise my parents who were also exposed to arrest for my conduct. I took a lot of risk during this period.

When I graduated from the university, I wanted to work with Chief Gani Fawehinmi but he was in prison at that time and the head of chamber said that he would need his consent to employ me.

I was offered a job at Ashland Oil but refused believing that I would better serve the country as a human rights attorney.

I later joined Dr. Tunji Abayomi’s chamber, where I had the opportunity to work with other pro-democracy activists to resist military rule. I attended all the meetings of National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) with him and represented Abayomi at different occasions and that exposed me more to risk at that time.

Later my boss was arrested and detained and I had to hold forth in the chambers for him, I also had to join other human rights lawyer to defend activists and students targeted for their pro-democracy

Akiyode-Afolabi: My father once disowned me for activism Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi is a human rights attorney and the Executive Director of Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC). In this interview with TEMITOPE OGUNBANKE, the lawyer-turned activist speaks on her life as an activist

Have you ever been harassed, arrested or detained?

As a student activist and union leader, I was exposed to several arrests at different places and detained at police stations with others for my belief. I was suspended several times for my involvement in the students’ union. The university authority also took me and others to court as student leaders. When I graduated and was working with Dr. Tunji Abayomi, I was also arrested and detained with him and others at the border on our way to Benin Republic for a pro-democracy programme during the military rule, as people have to travel outside the country to hold some critical meetings. I was also arrested in Jos and detained briefly.

While defending the students as a lawyer, I was arrested and detained at Sabo Police Station amongst other places.

Akiyode-Afolabi

activities.

Why are you so passionate about fighting for any cause you believe in?

Growing up, I had made up my mind to ensure that the society must get better.

I believe that another Nigeria is possible and we all need to play our part to be able to achieve the dream of the best nation in the world. I cannot stand injustice, I have the passion and commitment for change so that passion drives me every day and I realise that I cannot just stop, committing to that change seems to be the only thing that can make me happy. So, I do it with all my strength even at the risk of my life.

Why are you so much interested in gender issues, especially fighting the cause of women?

Women in Nigeria have continued to suffer structural and institutional injustices. The programme and projects of different government majorly have consistently and consciously exclude women despite the huge population of women as citizens. The environment is not suitable for women. There is a very strong ‘shadow system’ that continues to suppress women irrespective of their struggle for change.

There seem to be no serious commitment to advancing women’s cause in Nigeria and that is why today, violence against

tive action is a matter of right and not a privilege. We claim as women that we have suffered injustices not because of our fault but because the society has led us through several factors like religion, culture, law, beliefs to where we are. For us to be able to rise above all these anomalies, we need a level playing field. The call for affirmative action is not just a Nigerian thing but also a global principle to support marginalised groups. The turnaround in most African countries like Rwanda, Senegal, Malawi, South Africa and Uganda, is as a result of the contribution they made to support the female folk. We need to get to that understanding to support women. If you have a critical mass of women in the parliament, the faces of the laws will change and life will be better for women and girls.

My father was arrested and questioned several times about my whereabouts. When I came back, he called a family meeting and informed his siblings that he had disowned me as a child. It took him years to forgive me women is treated with impunity in most states. In places where there are laws and institutions, the enforcement seem to be slow and weak. Nigeria has ratified several human rights instruments promoting women’s rights but in reality the situation of women and girls still remains a challenge. Both state and non-state actors are responsible for the continued marginalisation of women. The implication of this is that, in order to address the problems of women, we must work together as men and women, the women cannot do it alone.

What is your take on 35 per cent affirmative action and women participation in politics?

The clamour for 35 per cent affirma-

Since you ventured into activism, were your parents and siblings not afraid for your life?

My parents were very afraid, especially because they had lost one or two children for other reasons of health (sickle cell). They felt others could do what I was doing; that I should not spearhead the struggle. My father was always coming to my school to check on me during students protest; he was very worried over my life because he felt I was taking risks as a young woman. The SSS and Police harassed them; at a point I went to ‘exile’ and was in hiding in the University of Lagos for about three months with other student union members. My father was arrested and questioned several times about my whereabouts. When I came back he called a family meeting and informed his siblings that he had disowned me as a child. It took him years to forgive me, but I think before he died he came to terms that I had to do what I did at that time for the benefit of the collective.

Can you share your happiest and saddest moments with us?

My happiest moment was when I had my first baby and saddest moment was when she died at age five.

18 POLITICS

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

Taraba: Acting gov on the edge The acting governor of Taraba State, Alhaji Garba Umar, recently escaped being impeached by the House of Assembly. IBRAHIM ABDUL reports on the intrigues

A

cting Governor of Taraba State, Alhaji Garba Umar, recently escaped being impeached by some members of the state House of Assembly. His face-off with the lawmakers stemmed from the poor running of the state and several other factors.

Though, they all claimed that the matter has been resolved, but from every indication the battle might have just begun.

The acting governor, last week, escaped being served impeachment notice over the disagreement between him and the governor, Danbaba Suntai on one hand and with the lawmakers on another hand. The crisis was said to have been resolved with a directive to Umar to drop some members of his kitchen cabinet.

The Assembly specifically asked the acting governor to either remove his Chief of Staff, Ahmad Yusuf popularly known as Gamalia, or get impeached.

Several sources said there was a brewing crisis between the Acting governor and the legislators over sundry issues, including alleged attempts by Umar to incite impeachment process against Governor Suntai.

Impeccable sources further said that the truce was reached after a marathon meeting between the acting governor and the lawmakers. The Assembly was said to have prevailed on Umar to drop some members of his kitchen cabinet alleged to have misled the acting governor on some state matters.

At the said meeting, which according to sources lasted throughout the night of March 6, “the acting governor agreed to pay all the standing statutory allowances due to the lawmakers as well as change his leadership style.”

Some lawmakers had accused the

Umar

acting governor of monopolising the activities of government and being incompetent, thereby grinding to a halt, government activities in the past three months.

Another source also said the lawmakers were not happy that government activities of the state remained grounded for the past three months, while the acting governor continues to complain of lack of funds.

Similarly, the lawmakers were said to have frowned at the decision of the acting governor to sit on the list of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) jobs sent to the state over a month ago as well as refusal to distribute the jobs to contractors to keep the activities of government running.

“Not only that, the legislators did not find it pleasant that the leadership of the Assembly met with the acting governor in Abuja over two months ago and draw a list of appointments, including special advisers to be made in the state but he (acting governor) sat on the list and refused to announce the appointments,” a lawmaker, who preferred anonymity, told New Telegraph.

Investigations further revealed that

the lawmakers were not also disposed to the acting governor contesting the governorship in 2015.

“Twelve members out of the 16 in the camp of the acting governor were said to have opposed to Umar’s ambition for 2015. The 12 lawmakers are of the opinion that the acting governor having failed in providing good leadership for the state, should contest the senatorial seat of his zone (Taraba North) and relinquish the governorship position to the southern zone of the state,” another lawmaker said.

Their reason, according to sources, was that the acting governor was not competent to govern the state.

“As you can see, for the past months that we silenced the cabal that wanted to hijack the government, nothing is moving in the state as the man seems to have lacked the courage and ability to govern the state,” he said.

It was learnt that the acting governor and some members of his cabinet were not happy with the position of the 12 lawmakers as Umar has made up his mind to contest for the governorship on February

28, 2015.

To enable him realise his ambition, the acting governor and members of his cabinet are alleged to have considered the option of impeaching the Speaker, Hon. Josiah Sabo Kente, who also hails from the southern zone of the state.

It was argued that the acting governor is afraid that the Speaker may prefer a candidate from the southern zone, though some lawmakers say they will resist any attempt by anybody to use them to create crisis in the Assembly.

Spurred by this development, the lawmakers allegedly drafted an 18-count impeachment charge against the acting governor, which was later dropped after the truce with stringent conditions.

Reacting to the alleged truce, Chief Press Secretary to the acting governor, Mr. Kefas Sule dismissed the story as a figment of the imagination of mischief makers who just wanted to drive a wedge between his boss and the lawmakers.

He said there was no crisis as “the acting governor just met with the lawmakers to iron out some grey areas of collaborative governance.”

When contacted on the matter, the House Committee Chairman on Information, Daniel Ishaya Gani, said the impeachment story was “a rumour.”

According to him, the House had not discussed the issue of the removal of the Chief of Staff.

He admitted that some members were not comfortable with the way and manner things were being done, but the House had not discussed it. He noted that the acrimony among members of the House which divided the Assembly, eight against 16, was slowly being put to rest as the lawmakers had decided to work for the betterment of the people of Taraba.

“The issue of Chief of Staff was purely an executive matter and not legislative issue,” Gani said.

He also said that the issue of impeaching the acting governor as rumoured in the state was untrue.

Gani maintained that the Assembly at present is united and has resolved issues capable of causing setbacks in the state.

Adegbe: President’s last man standing ‘I’ve developed thick skin for blackmail’ CO N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1 3

colonel.

“When you are given higher authority, you are expected to perform according to your status. We hope that whatever you have been doing very well, you will even do more,” the President noted shortly after performing the ceremony.

Gallantly, heavy built Adegbe now wears the new rank of a Colonel, what is fondly regarded to as red neck officer. With his senior military rank, the ADC has the only privilege among several other key principal staff of the President and rides in the same limousine, sitting side by side with his boss and discusses important issues at the pleasure of his principal.

Adegbe is a 1995 graduate of the Nigerian Defence Academy NDA, Kaduna,

a member of the 42 Regular Course. He also attended the Kings College, London where he obtained a Master’s degree.

However, as influential as the office of ADC to the president is said to be, occupants of this prestigious office are also at risk. In some countries, they are duty bound to die in the stead of their principal. As a true soldier who is ready to die at his duty post, the ADC must be ready to lie on top of the president or head of state and receive bullets on his behalf.

But they say, “you inhale smoke from making fire in the king’s furnace”, while the ultimate goal is to serve, the expectation exist too that the gains of being close to power, come with this distinguished privilege of ADC position which is the reason for the perception of his high influence.

CO N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1 6

the deputy speaker going by the wisdom of the elders of the party and the governor brought up another person to become the deputy speaker, for me, it is not an issue. What I saw as an issue was the fact that the governor was supposed to unite everybody but rather than doing that, the House got polarised along those that voted for me and those that voted against me.

Given your perceived closeness to male politicians, how have you been able to handle blackmail and name calling?

Politically, we have more active male politicians and they are the ones you see day to day. We have more uneducated women playing politics than educated

ones because they don’t want blackmail, violence and other issues in politics.

The easiest name you can call a female politician especially one that is climbing high is prostitute. They would say it is because she is sleeping with leader A and leader B. If that is what it is, then go and sleep with them and see if you can get to where they are politically.

When I first started politics, I used to react to blackmail, but now, it is like a second-cloth to me. You will have to try for you to call me names and it gets to me. Women should be supported to be involved in politics. We have many godfathers but where are the godmothers?

We need women who are achievers, who can come out and support other women with their resources.

19

EDITORIAL

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

Our VISION To build a newspaper organisation anchored on the sanctity of truth.

Our MISSION To publish a newspaper of superior value, upholding the fundamental ethics of journalism: balanced reporting, fairness, accuracy and objectivity.

Sanctity of Truth w w w.new telegraphonli ne.com

Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon and the truth – Buddha

FRIday, MARCH 21, 2014

The corruption monster continues to burgeon

N

igeria’s corruption rating has again failed to improve. In 2012, the country was ranked 139 out of 176 countries by Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index, placing it in the same ominous position with Azerbaijan, Kenya, Nepal and Pakistan. Yet, as if that was not mind-ripping enough, Transparency International ranked Nigeria again as number 144 among the 177 countries studied in the world in its 2013 corruption index, portraying the country as an example of countries with huge oil resources available to only very small elite. Not unexpectedly, Government’s denial chorus has started. It is a big problem when the leadership of the country chooses to remain in denial despite the appalling manifestations of corruption in every sphere of national life.

The United States of America recently released a more shattering report that squarely classified Nigeria as a corrupt country. US Secretary of State, John Kerry did not spare any word when he made far-reaching corruption allegations against the country in his ‘Country Reports on Human Rights Practices’. The lengthy report scored the country lowly for its performance and did not reckon with the activities of such anti-corruption agencies as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission

(ICPC) and the Police. Specifically, it said “the anti-corruption efforts of the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) and EFCC remained largely ineffectual. The ICPC holds broad authorities to prosecute all forms of corruption, whereas the EFCC is tasked with handling only financial crimes. Despite this wider mandate, the ICPC had achieved only 68 convictions since its inauguration in 2000,” Unfortunately, the damning report on the country’s anti-corruption fight did not conceal the US unflinching disapproval of the Presidential pardon granted a former governor, and noted that Police corruption remained widespread. “In January, the police released a new code of conduct, which includes provisions on officer integrity. The police did not report any enforcement actions related to the code of conduct,” it said.

While the country report frowned at Jonathan for not disclosing his assets, it also listed an assortment of high profile cases involving politicians and civil servants that have been left hanging, asserting that the EFCC seemed to have been constrained “by the fact he is being tele-guided by those that put him in office, on who to arrest and prosecute while his efforts at trying 12 prominent public officials met a brick wall with several frustrating setbacks during the year.”

According to the report, “the president had not published information on his assets as of year’s end,” insist-

ing the law required declaration of assets but not publication of the report.

Financial disclosure law, it noted, requires public officials, including the president, vice president, governors, deputy governors, cabinet ministers, and legislators (at both federal and state levels), to declare their assets to the Code of Conduct Bureau before assuming and after leaving office with violators risking prosecution. Sadly still, Kerry said in the report that ‘allegations continued that agency investigations targeted individuals who had fallen out of favour with the government, while those who were in favour continued their activities with impunity.’

Add these scenarios to the latest report from the American Government that it had documents with which it sought judicial backing to freeze the huge sum of $500 million allegedly stolen by late General Sani Abacha , and a clearer picture of the damage corruption has done to the country would emerge. Regrettably, more than 70 per cent of enterprises in the country considered corruption as a very strong obstacle to doing business in the country in 2007, according to National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo once estimated the cost of corruption to the African continent’s collective national income at 25 per cent while a staggering sum of $148 billion was lost annually to the canker of corruption.

The monster of corruption has so

devastated the fabric of the country that even as it claims to have achieved great progress in economic growth as conventionally measured, majority of its large population estimated at 150 million face debilitating poverty, deprivation, utter disenchantment and other ills.

The gloomy picture painted by the various reports should constrain both the leaders and the followers to embark on introspection and decide once and for all to uproot the evils of corruption from our society.

Perhaps, the curative process should start with convincing evidence of steps taken to address political corruption which has been a major reason the country has failed woefully. We think that all forms of corruption that have kept the country hostage must be effectively tamed.

We urge a focused ethical intent to inform and guide all policies and processes in the country if the leadership is truly determined to fight the war against corruption, and the jettisoning of defeatist and face-saving denials. Enough of the lackadaisical attitude in dealing with the corruption monster which is rapidly burgeoning. It is a sad development that the courts and anti-corruption agencies in foreign lands fight some high profile cases of corruption rooted in our country and obtain widely celebrated convictions while we seem incapable of doing same. We demand a change now.

BOLAJI TUNJI Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief IKE ABONYI Deputy Managing Director/DEIC FELIX OGUEJIOFOR ABUGU Managing Editor, South SULEIMAN BISALA Managing Editor, North GABRIEL AKINADEWO Editor, Daily LAURENCE ANI Editor, Saturday EMEKA MADUNAGU Editor, Sunday LEO CENDROWICZ Bureau Chief, Brussels MARSHALL COMINS Bureau Chief, Washington DC SAM AMSTERDAM Editorial Coordinator, Europe EMMAN SHEHU (PhD) Chairman, Editorial Board BIODUN DUROJAIYE News Editor PADE OLAPOJU Production Editor TIMOTHY AKINLEYE Head, Graphics ROBINSON EZEH Head, Admin.

20

Sanctity of Truth

OPINION Daa David Jang’s jamboree L

ife they say, begins at 40.So goes the weather- beaten saying. Maybe, that was in times past. In this age of flat screen and tablets, we should not rush into conclusions. Afterall, the Igbo say, whenever one gets up from bed is his day break.

Plateau state governor, Dah David Jonah Jang turned 70 recently, and I stumbled on the Thanksgiving service that followed the celebrations on TV. Prior to that live coverage, my impression of the former Air force officer was that of an embattled old man on the volatile Jos plateau. How wrong I was.

Let me start from the bad. Jang bought me over with his true confessions. It takes a nice man to recall his tousled past. And you know what? Men will always feed from the bottle. As babies, the feeding bottle is there to support mom’s breast. When they become boys, it is either the water bottle or soft drinks. Real men turn to alcohol, sometime between their salad days and their years of transformation.

Jang did what young men his age did. He always fancied a jar [glass of beer] after a hard day’s flight.

And who was there to let us into the old story? Arch Bishop Benjamin Kwashie of the Anglican church.

The sweet talking Man of God did not spare even himself in the homily.

Kwashie told the congregation his role in the whole thing. As a boy ,he lived with David and Talatu Jang in Lagos. His Lordship ran all the errands that set the barbecue steaming. He talked about Henessey. Today, the Bishop preaches from Genesis. And because our Lord Jesus turned water into wine, that revelation did

not come as a surprise to me.

What really moved me was when Jang faced his wife ,and with head bowed, said ‘thank you ma’.

The heroine was Mrs Jang. She tolerated all the excesses, raised the children and today is the real Queen of the Empire. Humble woman. When asked for her remarks, she gave it to God. Little was said, much achieved.

Jang’s daughter also spoke. Dad, she said, was so tough that the children found a name for him.

Stone, they nicknamed the man, for he rarely smiled.

It was like a jamboree. Vice President Namadi Sambo was there, as well as Senate President David Mark. Governor Gabriel Suswan, ex-governors Joshua Dariye and Ayo Fayose also graced the occasion. I saw Pauline Tallen. Water Resources minister, Sarah Ochekpe was sweet with her presentation. Did not know she could flow so well as a politician.

Well it was Jang’s day. And he made us all laugh.

So Stone could make people laugh.He said he wanted more grandchildren, so that any day the Lord called him home, and his body was brought into that same church for funeral service, the eulogy will not be complete without adding, survived by 40 grandchildren. I hope some bachelors are reading me.

Air Force Cadet Jang was trained in Germany as a pilot. His mother had actually wanted him to be a pastor. The irony is that the man who was going to fly airplanes had never boarded a flight in his life. Fact is, Jang’s first trip by air was in 1966 on his way to Frankfurt ,Germany from Kano, to commence training as a pilot..

Among those who went to the altar were two ladies who today are part of the David Jang household. One of them was handed over to the governor

Friday, March 21, 2014

as a toddler by her father. The other, lost both parents and was asked in. Her mother was Chief Bridesmaid at the wedding of Jonah and Talatu Jang in 1970.

Arch Bishop Kwashie prayed for peace on the plateau. He had words for the celebrant. “At 70,you are now a statesman. You should no more see yourself as a politician. I am tired of preaching at funerals, I was not ordained to mark funerals. I want to also christen babies.”

For those who do not know, Kwashie hails from Amper in Pankshin. One of his sisters, Mrs Helen Gomwalk was jailed following the assassination of Murtala Mohammed in 1976.Another, Mildred is Iliya Bisalla’s widow. The Kwashies, like the Gowons, settled in Wusasa, Kaduna state as missionaries in the early 20th century.

Mildred Bisalla was one of the four ladies in waiting at Gen. Yakubu Gowon’s wedding to Victoria in 1969.

The others were Hilda Adefarasin, Dora Adefope and Ruda Mohammed.

Today, Jang is a pastor, fulfilling his mother’s wish, before her demise. He is also a man of history. This is the only Nigerian to have governed three states. Governor of Benue, governor of Gongola, and now governor of Plateau. You cannot take it away from him.

There is something about Gongola. The state is no more. Jang’s predecessor, Yohanna Madaki died in May 2006.Jang’s successor, Isah Mohammed died a year later, in the same month of May. I have a word for Pastor Jang and his people.

For peace to reign on the plateau, something has to be done. And I will take him back to God’s words when he turned a new leaf. “There is somebody you offended that you must apologise to”. It turned out to be Mrs Jang. Privately, i have a word for the people of Plateau through Governor Jang. I would not mind the presence of Bishop Kwashie. Happy birthday,Your Excellency!

There was a Chinua Achebe (2) Andrew Iro Okungbowa

A

s I feasted on the scene and heard the people relate their tales, vision, images, symbolism and voices of the legendary Umuofia people flashed into view in a profound and appalling manner. It was too real a happenstance that I intoned that ‘this could not be happening in Achebe’s Ogidi in this Century.’ It was a moment of disbelief and denial!

A visit to Achebe’s family compound moments after that was enlivening, stimulating and inspiring. Unfortunately, on this fateful day, there was no one at home to give a tour of the birth place of the literary giant but my elderly guide did a good job as he enthralled one with the tales of the Achebes,’ particularly the exploits of the late Achebe who they hold in high esteem.

For me, the visit to Ogidi gave a good impression and a better understanding of the man - Achebe and appreciation of his literary, political, and spiritual and socio – cultural world views. To

think that Achebe who rose from such a common and unheralded background to become one of the most influential and notable literary icons ever in the world, is something to be celebrated. His voice, stance and dogged fight against colonialism and neo - colonialism would continue to resonate all over the world.

As I write this piece, the lessons and imageries so beautifully couched in his literary works and essays that one has read over the years came flooding like a flash. The endless list include Things Fall Apart, No Longer At Ease, Arrow of God, A Man of the People, The Trouble With Nigeria, Morning Yet on Creation, The Empire Fights\Talks Back and lastly, his most recent work, There was a Country.

‘There was a country’, in a prophetic manner, is to me, Achebe’s last but most profound gift to his country, Nigeria and last ditch effort by him to interrogate the foundational history of his country, its resources, human capital, pluralism, culture, people and to wit, its verbose, arrogant and uncouth leadership, which at every point in its development drives it

to the brink and abandons it to the vicissitudes of nature to reclaim.

You only need to read it to understand the pains of the man who over the years had been at the forefront of trying to point his country to the right direction.

That is, to have a humanist and democratic system peopled with good, talented and visionary leadership who can harness the latent gift and potential of the people and transform the country into a dreamed haven for all.

Unfortunately, Achebe has gone to his grave with all that burden and unfulfilled hope and vision because he was a true visionary.

Therefore, the greatest tribute ever that the country and Ogidi community would ever pay Achebe, and I think it is not only co-incidental but instructive that the federal government has just inaugurated a national conference to discuss the fate of the country in the same week that Achebe died, is to have a change of attitude and be devoted to enthroning true democracy, visionary and political-

ly correct leadership, regardless of which part of the country the leaders are from so far as they meet the popular aspiration of the people.

It is only when we are able to put off the present garment of neo –colonialism, political, economic, socio – cultural and religious perfidy and to wit ‘Boko Haramism,’ ‘MENDISM,’ ‘OPCISM’and ‘MASSOBISM,’ as well as all the other bigotry and pedagogue ‘ISMS’ that seek to polarize us and becloud the vision of how truly great we are as a people and nation (who still remembers the slogan of Prof Dora Akunyili of ‘Great nation, good people?) and in the spirit of what he exposed in his literary creations, particularly, his last treatise, ‘There was a Country,’ that I believe that the spirit of Achebe can rest peacefully and we all can truly and sincerely say that ‘There was a Chinua Achebe.’

Please Nigerians, don’t let his spirit hover in abeyance in the forest of Umuofia, sorry, in the forest of Ogidi for too long!

OPINION

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

21

Kolawole’s lies about T. A. Orji (2) Ebere Wabara

I

t is an indeterminable phenomenon.

In other words, conflict in the Nigerian equation is, therefore, critical to good governance. Yes, Kalu was at loggerheads with Obasanjo over developmental issues that bordered on the maltreatment of the Igbo—Kalu’s confrontational stance was not a personal thing and that was the only way to challenge the Otta bully. He could have, out of cowardice, as SK is suggesting, and self-preservation, kept mum in the face of needless oppressive tendencies.

Well-meaning Nigerians should take off their hats to Kalu for looking Obasanjo in the invidious face. Leadership is not supposed to be personalized. It is for the uplift of the society and enhancement of the people’s condition of living. Such public roles are not for ego-massaging of a vindictive, wicked and arrogant president, who wants everyone to endlessly kowtow to his whims and caprices as the worst president this country has ever produced.

It is not only Slok Airline that Obasanjo grounded for petty reasons that confirmed witch-hunt. Hallmark Bank PLC that was a first-tier corporate citizen, was also laid to rest because the Slok Group owned by Kalu had substantial investments in it.

Most bankers know that the bank was not in any way unhealthy—it was even healthier than some of today’s banks at the time of the vicious clampdown. Are SK and his benefactors equally aware that Slok moved on shortly thereafter to become the national airline of The Gambia? Is SK also

conversant with the fact that Obasanjo unsuccessfully used former EFCC boss Nuhu Ribadu to shut The Sun Publishing Company Limited, the publishers of Sun titles, among other atrocities by the Otta farmer?

Why should a sensible president deny a state its due because its governor insisted on the right things being done? This is the issue that SK should focus on and not blame Kalu for his bravery because he wants to justify the outlay by T. A. Orji.

Obasanjo should be held responsible for the underdevelopment of Abia between 1999 and 2007—not Kalu by any stretch of the argument. If Obasanjo had conducted himself well, his disagreements with Kalu should not have impacted negatively on the state. Such dispassion is the livewire of credible leadership, of maturity, of reason, of vision, of objectivity, of statesmanship, ad infinitum. It is not only Kalu or Abians that suffered Obasanjo’s misrule, Odi and Zaki Biam hapless people irredeemably did. There are so many other victims I cannot recollect immediately! Kalu could not have been spinelessly submissive just because he wanted Obasanjo’s ‘favours’ (rights and entitlements) for the state.

Why should governance and leadership be personalized? The point that must be underscored is that Obasanjo is very vindictive and bad-natured! In any case, what did other obedient and subservient South East governors get from Obasanjo between 1999 and 2007? In case SK does not know, Obasanjo hates the Igbo with an uncanny

passion—he has never hidden it! That is a subject for another day.

SK, please note that, contrary to one of your statements, T. A. Orji was not released by the EFCC to be sworn in. He was ingeniously shepherded by Kalu from Umuahia to the Abia State Liaison Office on Victoria Island in Lagos and hastily sworn in to foreclose his arrest (on grounds of immunity) by rampaging EFCC officers, who, as you rightly mentioned, were relentlessly trying to get at Kalu at the instance of headhunter Obasanjo! This man again? T. A. Orji was just at the point of being rounded up before Kalu’s masterstroke. That is why it is not good to obstruct injustice at times as T. A. Orji’s arrest would have effectively and gloriously truncated his governorship and saved Abians from the current rape and assault!

Another excerpt from the subtlety of SK’s reputational and perceptive mismanagement of T. A. Orji ahead of his senatorial day-dream arising from malarial affliction: “Orji’s performance in the last four years, in my opinion, is certainly way beyond what he recorded between 2007 and 2010. Significantly, unlike Kalu, Orji is in the good books of Abuja.” Why would a respectable columnist and former editor of a national newspaper make unsubstantiated, sweeping, irrational and self-opinionated overgeneralizations? What are the parameters to measure and assert that the last four years of T. A. Orji is far better than his first tenure approximately?

The entirety of T. A. Orji’s era, including

the few remaining months, is nothing to write home about. His massive media propaganda, sponsored awards and PR innovations through commercialized newspaper columns have not changed the reality on ground. Even if all the columnists in Nigeria are inaugurated to adumbrate T. A. Orji’s vain-gloriousness and irredeemable misrule in Abia State, it cannot change anything as a pig will always remain a pig.

Is SK aware that staff of Abia State University are paid one month in a quarter and told by the government to source for the remaining months? Does SK know that the Amachara General Hospital has remained in a decrepit condition since the last renovation in 2006? Is SK informed of the whitewashing of commissioners’ quarters built by Kalu as one of the ‘achievements’ of T. A. Orji? Has SK heard of the Ehirim Housing Estate constructed by Kalu and all the cock-and-bull stories as to who initiated it? SK, will you ever go to Ariara Market in Aba and hear tales of woe of excessive taxation by T. A. Orji and his agents? Simon Kolawale Live, have you recently travelled from Aba to Ikot Ekpene, Umuahia to Port Harcourt, and Igbere to Owerri or intra-city movements within the major cities of Abia State, particularly Aba for obvious reasons? SK, again, accept my invitation to visit the aforementioned flashpoints, among other places, with me at my own expense.

• Wabara (ewabara@yahoo.com/08055001948) is the media advisor to Kalu.

A State’s welfare triumphalism and its economic implications Aderemi Idowu

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he primary objective of a good government is to impact positively on its citizenry through policies and programmes that would have direct bearing on their day-to-day living. Those great men and women that brought about a welfare society must have thought completely out of the box in favour of those within the society that are really struggling to make ends meet in areas that are as basic but essential to human existence and dignity such as food, housing, health and education.

I was privileged a few weeks ago to experience a gathering of experts at the Parliament Building, United Kingdom where deliberations were centred on Home –Grown School Feeding for primary school children and challenges some nations are facing in putting food on the tables for these leaders of tomorrow, most especially in Africa and some emerging economies globally. Eminently seated with these world renowned technocrats from the World Bank, World Food Programme, African Union, Members of Parliament and other professionals around the globe was this familiar face in his usual “Dashiki” flowing white apparel, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola who to the surprise of his foreign audience, were jolted and shocked not only with the presentation but most importantly with the content, implementation and outcomes of his government O’MEALS programme in far away rural setting of Osun State, Nigeria.

There and then, his was the good reference point by all the participants of what a welfare programme should be both in delivery and achievable set goals of alleviating hunger while supporting education, nutri-

tional heath, economic development and empowerment at the local/ communities’ level.

Questions propping through my mind during and after the session were implicit and explicit tangible economic benefits in Osun State and why such opportunities are not being embraced by other states and the Federal Government of Nigeria? If a state that easily fits as one of the poorest in terms of federal revenue allocation could boldly feed two hundred and fifty two thousand, seven hundred and ninety three (252,793.) pupils on a daily basis (Monday to Friday) on nutritious menu that includes fish, egg, chicken, meat, juice/fruits and carbohydrates (all locally produced, processed, delivered, prepared and consumed); what could that figure of beneficiaries be across the 36 states plus the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja?

As a guess estimate, Nigeria could have helped over seven million school children out of hunger and into healthy, happy learning future leaders. This to me is what a welfare-caring society should do.

Not only that, what about job creation and business opportunities this kind of O’MEALS provide that could also be replicated in the 37 states in my beloved country?

Osun State, through this global laudable programme, has created three thousand and one hundred (3,100.) professional chefs (caterers); four hundred and sixty two (462) fish farmers; one thousand (1,000) pink cocoyam farmers all within the state economy. That alone could have eliminated a total figure of close to two hundred thousand self employed people into Nigerian economy with a likely multiplier effect in sundries or allied trades and businesses.

One has not added the 15,000 whole chicken and 35 heads of cattle per school week into this calculation.

When the history of a welfare state is finally written

in the not –so- far future, the one name that will be written in gold is this same man who has transformed technology to a local, accessible and available companion of Osun State secondary school students through OPON IMO Ipadlike Tablet of Knowledge). He is the same governor that is making school attendance an upward swing with a 24 per cent increase in school enrolment within a period of less than a year; feeding primary school pupils with nutritious menu and making lives more abundant to those who could have remained peasant, poor and miserable without a gainful employment in his state. His name is Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.

Take politics out of it, I am of the candid opinion that Nigeria as a country, with her multiform complexities and challenges, has the responsibility to take adequate look at what is happening in that South West state of the country with a view to replicating some of them.

Last year, I read online from my base in the United Kingdom here that Senator Uche Chukwumerije, a Peoples Democratic Party representative in the upper chamber of the National Assembly was in Osun and his recipe to Nigeria’s education’s quagmire was a replication of the new initiatives that are changing infrastructure and personnel of the education sector. These are said to be yielding bountiful results as indicated in the geometric rise in the better results now being recorded by school children in the public examinations.

Chukwumerije’s confession, to me, is the insight required by the PDP-led Federal Government to examine the Osun example towards solving many of the emergent problems bedevilling Nigeria and Nigerians.

• Mr. Aderemi Idowu, a Housing and Management Consultant lives in London and writes through remidowu@yahoo.co.uk

FAMILY AFFAIRS Page 22, FRIDAY, MaRCH 21, 2014

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PRINCESS ODUNAYOMI OKE

WOMAN EDITOR odunayomitide2010@gmail.com 0909 124 6811 (sms only)

Attention!

T

here is a page coming up next week, which is dedicated to Parenting from the fathers’ angle; it is called THE SUPER DAD’s page.

This will be showcasing a dad per week, and all the dads will be brought together at the end of every quarter; where the dad whose child’s story is ranked as best (most inspiring) will be honoured with the NEW TELEGRAPH, SUPER DAD’s prize for the quarter.

Do you think your dad is qualified for this honour? Then send in your story of 1,200 words minimum, attached with at least two clean, sharp and clear photograph of your dad. You could include one with you, or with the entire family.

Requirement for entry

The intruder in our bedroom

T

wo, they say is a company, while three is a crowd. But I have never seen that as a big deal, until last week when I had to contend with a stranger in the most unlikely place inside our villa; our bedroom.

Now, it is not like I am not accommodating; but if truth must be told, then we should also agree there is a limit to everything. More so, I am yet to see that woman who likes to share her spouse.

Husby, though very loving and accommodating could be somehow snobbish just to get a point across. His style is he would not quarrel with you directly, but would almost kill you with silence. And more annoying is, the times he was like that, he ensured he did not transfer his ‘aggression’ to others in the house, so only his real target would bear the brunt of it.

But he really got at me, this time around.

I entered our room a little earlier than usual, and there he was adjusting the TV set attached to the bed. Though we have not touched it for a very long time, but I felt he wanted us to see a movie that night, so I said casually, ‘something for us?’ Maybe I wasn’t actually expecting a reply, so I didn’t know if I got one; as I made straight for the bathroom.

I was still pondering on some events of the day, when the sound from the TV jolted me back to reality. ‘What could probably be the treat tonight?’ Though I never realised I was not going to be a part of the show, as my husband stayed glued to the set for what seemed like eternity, and did not make a move to check if I was sleeping or not.

I felt so ignored I could not sleep, though very tired. I knew the silence between us was not a healthy one, so I called out, ‘dear, are you angry with me over something?

No! His response though short, was very flat.

My husband is the friend I could be with for hours, even without any conversation; and I would feel relaxed as if i have shared all my worries with him. But there is a kind of silence between two people that is not golden, especially when it is not mutual; that is, when a party has something to say.

So I sat there on the bed looking at nothing in particular, staring at the telly without seeing any picture, hearing sounds, without making any meaning of whatever they are saying. Then I suddenly remembered there was a card I had not played.

I said ‘dear, do you know they say, anyone would talk, but only a true friend listens?’ I told him I have been talking to him, and he has not for once turned to answer me. I asked why he has ignored me from the moment I entered the room. Then I moved closer to him and held his shoulders

like a mother would do a hurting child.

And that was it! It was as if all along he had been waiting for me to play that card.

He started pouring it all out, just like a boy will pour out his heart when he craves attention or most often, acceptance.

Truth is, there is a boy in every man, and any woman who knows how to handle her man when the boy in him cries for attention, will get away with just anything.

But note it, only while it last! As it often don’t last for too long.

The next morning, we disconnected the TV set and moved it to one of the rooms at the boy’s quarters. I don’t want my husband to ever again think there’s another companion in the room he could turn to whenever he does not feel like talking with me.

Do you feel there is an intruder in your bedroom? Then deal with it! But remember; let every decision taken in your home be love motivated. Till next week again.

COUNSELLING I am becoming worried about my teenage son and daughter, they tug at each other when playing, and I have warned them against this severally; but they still do it.

Please what can I do to stop this?

To start with, I often counsel Parents against putting teenage sibling of opposite sex in same room. This is because human beings are biological animals, and instincts dictates faster to us, than reasoning. Your children must have been engaging in that right from when they were younger, and that would have been the best time to have corrected them.

Nevertheless, it is not too late to use the rod of correction on them, if word of correction has not worked. Better still, let them stop sharing room, and ensure they don’t go about in the house half dressed. Another is to check the movies on their phones, and to ensure they don’t stay awake at night watching ‘some movies’.

But if you feel it has completely gone beyond you, then don’t hesitate to involve a counsellor who will take them through a private counselling session.

• You must be between age 15 and 25.

• A student, Youth corper or working class young adult.

Rules • Make your father’s profile your starting point.

• List some of the special things he did, or still does to assist your Mom in Parenting.

• His influence on you as a child, and now as a young adult.

• Bring out some key points from your story, which will stand as factors to ensure your dad qualifies as the SUPER DAD for that quarter.

NOTE • Selection of story for each week will not just be on first come, first served basis, but on other points like; good write-up, quality of pictures, and strict adherence to the rules and regulations.

• There will be a final selection at the end of the year, where the quarterly winners will be brought together, and one will emerge as the NT SUPER DAD of the year.

• The overall prize to be won is fantastic, and there will be a well-covered award ceremony.

If your dad is caring and loving, always there for the family, then he deserves to be celebrated. So hurry, start sending your stories now!

NOTE: READERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO START SENDING IN CONTRIBUTIONS. ALSO, DON’T HESITATE TO SEND YOUR QUESTIONS TO THE COUNSELLOR.

LIFE

23

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ABIODUN BELLO FEATURES Editor

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FRIday, MARCH 21, 2014

Guests at the gala

Memories of Italian Navy’s visit T

he visit of the Italian Navy to its Nigerian counterpart was meant to be strictly a military affair. But it turned out to be more than that.

After the training, it was time to dance, unwind, wine and dine.

It was fun and it has deepened the relationship that exists over the years between Nigeria and Italy.

The visit of the 30th Naval group comprises Aircraft Carrier Cavour, supply ship Etna, Frigate Bergamini and patrol ship Borsini led by the Commander, Rear Admiral Paolo Trev.

The highpoint of the visit was the gala night held on the tarmac of the aircraft carrier.

The presence of the Italian Navy officers was seen as a show of solidarity with Nigeria which was celebrating 100 years of marriage between the Northern and Southern protectorates in 1914.

Speaking while in Nigeria, Trev said, “2014 celebrates centenary of

In the course of touring the world, the Italian Navy births in the country to train its Nigerian counterpart, writes FLORA ONWUDIWE unity, it offers a unique opportunity to focus on this great country, its history of freedom, its people, its achievements and aspirations.”

But the moment of joy went beyond that. It was intended to strengthen the cord of unity and friendship which has held the two countries together for many years.

The commander could not conceal his excitement generated by his visit to Nigeria for the first time.

He said: “It is exciting; I have come to learn about the continent that I did not know. I knew the northern part of Africa, but the true Africa is here, the centre of the South of Africa. I am having the feelings that this is the true of Africa.”

Trev also said they were on a very serious mission campaign to promote joint exercises and training, in order to develop capabilities of some navies of

the visited countries, to boost their effectiveness in surveillance activities and maritime security in their operational environment with positive results in global security.

“The training with the Nigerian Navy personnel is to help them to grow in order to improve in their maritime security by protecting im-

It is exciting; I have come to learn about the continent that I did not know. I knew the northern part of Africa, but the true Africa is here, the centre of the South of Africa

portant economic resources at sea and to help them grow with us,” the commander added.

Trev said that their mission as a group was highly demanding and complex, because of so many projects they had put together.

He said: “We sailed because we want to impart on our experience as the older navy to the younger navies, to train in tropical climate, interact with the allied navies, ensuring protection of merchant shipping fighting against piracy and illegal traffic and rescuing people at sea.

“It is part of confidence building and cooperation within the countries.

“The old navies were mixed up of America, French, British navies and other countries that are on the sea with us.

C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 2 4

24 LIFE

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

Cementing military relations with a gala C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 2 3

“It is part of building industrial capacity for those who are interested.”

Also in the field of military diplomacy, the commander said, “we support national affair policy as well offer support for the governmental meetings and for the developmental cooperation and participate in the high visibility in regional events.”

Coincidentally, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Usman Jibrin’s vision is in line with the mission of Trev.

“The Nigerian Navy had set up its training and developed strategy to reposition the services to tackle emerging challenges on illegal bunkering, piracy in our maritime domain and in the Gulf of Guinea,” Jibrin said.

He added that the training visit of the Italian task force group was to “renewed efforts by the Nigerian Navy with the international need of the world on comparative training and in keeping for better service delivery.

“The areas of training were advance model, maritime domain awareness, force protection and environmental pollution prevention.

“Other areas include; oil rigs protection, vessel boarding as well as search and rescue operation.”

Jibrin said that the two navies, over the years, had enjoyed and maintained very cordial relationship, adding that the visit would further cement the existing cordial relationship between the countries.

Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola, spoke on the common interest that had kept the countries together, particularly on the socio-economic development the Italian community had contributed.

He said: “The visit will further enable us to cement our bilateral relations and open opportunities of other economic investments that will enhance cooperation and wealth generation of our people.”

The governor, who spoke through his Special Adviser on Commerce and Industry, Mr Seye Oladejo, said that, “your visit will enable us exchange ideas and experiences that will impact possibly on human capital development of our two countries which is a key index.”

Italian naval officers, crew and othersº

The circumnavigation to Africa was purely on humanitarian assistance, at each port they berthed, they welcomed children from over-populated nations, suffering from river blindness and other related health hazards with free medications and free eyeglasses.

A non-profit organisation, out to fight river blindness, Francesca RAVA Foundation, provided free eye examination to the children.

Nigerian children in Lagos were also given free eyeglasses to help in their study and to integrate them into the larger society.

Also, the personnel from the Italian Red Cross/Red Crescent, integrated with the military and civilian medical personnel, worked in the hospitals on board.

It was a complete home away from home where some working teams made of volunteer sailors, capable of restoring buildings, fixing different kinds of machinery, building wooden structures at the same time they worked in the kindergarten schools, orphanages and hospitals of host countries.

They sailed at 18 nautical miles about 36,000 kilometres towards the Suez Canal, which was where they started naval campaign across the red sea, the Gulf of Aden, the Indian Ocean and the Arabic Gulf before circumnavigating to Africa.

The arrival of Aircraft Carrier Cavour at the Apapa Port, Lagos was dramatic; all the

ceremonies usually accorded the Navy were on display.

Officers and ratings of the Italian Navy blew their beagle, announcing their presence, while their Nigerian counterpart, in turn, recognised them and saluted them.

The Aircraft Carrier Cavour and other ships displayed the Italian technology and creative ingenuity they were made of.

The aircraft carrier was used as a trailer to promote the best of the Italian products that would be on display at the trade Exhibition Expo 2015 coming up in Milano.

It was more of a showroom as each company had a stand to display its wares, which were officially declared open

by Jibrin, who spoke through the Flag Officer Command (FOC), Western Naval Command, Apapa, Rear Admiral Sanni I. Alade.

Trev and other naval officers, the representative from Lagos State Government, the royal fathers, the Ambassador of Italy to Nigeria, Fulvio Rustico and the General Consul, Lagos, Stefano Di Leo, all toured the aircraft carrier.

The eighth floor was the tarmac, a very long runway where six helicopter fighter jets, including armoured tank, were stationed.

That was the venue of the gala night.

The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Diaspora Affairs, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, including top government officials and

De Leo, Rustico, Dabiri-Erewa and Trev

Dabiri-Erewa being ushered into the ship by Trev

people from all walks of life were there to wine and dine together.

Of course, there was a lot to eat and drink. Many people posed behind the helicopters and the armoured tank to take photographs.

The Italians entertained “the guests” with a songstress, who along with the pianist

held the audience spell-bound for more than 30 minutes.

It got to a stage the audience clapped to the rhythm of the song, although the lyrics were in Italian language.

A group of six dancers (male and female), entertained the guests. It was no doubt a pleasant evening for the audience.

Entertainment

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FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 2014

‘My music is combination of Jazz chords, pop hooks, African rhythm’

Temitope Phil-Ebosie is a singer, songwriter and Tunesmith. She is also a style buff. Her appeal transcends the usual barriers of gender, age and genre. All makes you love her for her one-of-a-kind sound, her witty lyricism or her take-no-prisoners performances. You can’t also fault her forward-thinking imagery, because you are bound to be seduced by her elegant and daring style. The drama soul, as she describes her kind of music, reveals her inimitable nature in this interview with select journalists.

F

or starters: she is Temitope Phil-Ebosie and her stage name is TemmiDollface. Her words: “I am a singer, song writer, composer and a performer as well. I am born of Yoruba, Ibo and a quarter of West Indian and Scotish. The Scotish don’t really count because it can’t be seen in my mother but I feel like am a throwback. It skipped one generation and it came to me.

I call myself a creative multi-tasker, because I do quite a few things like my styling, creative direction, video, photo-shoots and all that. I am also a multi-genre artist. Having said that, it is human nature to want to box people and put them in category, so I do that for everyone and I call my style and kind of music as 'Drama Soul' Why 'Drama Soul'?

Drama Soul is a cocktail of all the different genres of music that I am influenced by. Influences such as Fela Kuti and other very wide spectrum of people that influenced my music, down to the love of old music, gospel and electro…so I like to express all these influences in what I do. I believe that my music bridges continents, cultures in a way that isn't expected. That is what Drama Soul is all about.

People won’t expect that you will take an afro beat, add a bit of instrumental, and a little of electro wonder and sing with Jazz vocal. That is what I like to do. I like to mix it up.

I will say that my style is very similar to the way my music is. "Drama Soul" invokes both past and modern luminaries, but matched with my own intrigue and quirk.

It is a breath mint for the pop scene.

Drama Soul deliberately evades the narrow categories of what urban music should sound like, not to mention that it defies the normal conventions of pop and every other genre it is derivative of.

Obvious reference points for my flamboyant sound are afro-beat, jazz, soul, hip hop, electro and r&b. But, that doesn't do justice to the variety of music I incorporate or to its singularity. It is a pull from different forces from the past, present and the future. In a nutshell, that is really whom I am. As much as I am in music, I am also a fashion person and I will say it’s 50-50, because both are my passion.

How and when did this musical journey start?

I started this musical journey at the age of seven and as much as I can remember. I am always singing and always gravitated towards music. But, I know that at seven I wrote my first song with the keyboard given to me by my Pastor. With my natural inclinations to know what to do, I found my way around the keyboard without any piano lessons. I just instinctively knew what I wanted to hear and created songs that I have a taste for and when I listen to such songs, I find it interesting that I could do that at that age.

How did your parents react to your decision to make music a career?

Obviously, back then, it wasn't exalted to do anything artistic. Parents and the society would suggest that you get a degree in another profession so you have something to fall back on. I left Nigeria for a school in England and thought I should do something in the sciences. So, I got my A Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics.

Then I got a degree in Food Science and Nutrition. A lot of people think that it has to do with the hospitality and catering business but it’s not. We were always in the lab testing foods, looking at food under microscopes, and doing lipid and protein extractions among other boring stuffs. From the first week at the university, I knew that wasn't my line but I stuck with it knowing I have something to fall back on.

While at the University I was exercising every musical muscle in me even to the point that I trained as a fitness instructor. I love fitness but that was really to get over my stage fright. So, I figured that the best way to overcome it is to throw yourself into the situation and the nerves will appear.

I also took on classes because all attention will be on you while you are in front of the class commanding your audience. That really helped me on my way to becoming the artiste that I am today. Even before I was done with university, I was performing at every given opportunity.

Once I was done with the university, I decided I would go for a performance school.

How have you been able to carve a niche for your brand at the international scene?

I supported Mary J Blige at the "Sisters with Soul'' concert at the Expo Centre Lagos that was in September 2013. I was also part of the line-up for Felabration concert where I gave good performance with my 10-piece band. I also opened for the likes of American R&B crooner Chris Brown, Neo-Soul artist Rahsaan Patterson at Shepherds Bush Empire, Keziah Jones, D' Banj, Somi, Bez, amongst other notable artists.

I was one of the few Nigerian artists invited to Nairobi, Kenya to take part in Coca Cola's new music TV show, "Coke Studio". Other artists on the show included King Sunny Ade, M.I Abaga, Waje, Salif Keita, Culture Music Club from Zanzibar, Just A Band from Kenya, and HHP. I had an MTV USA nomination for MTV Iggy "Artiste of the week", and I came second by a tiny fraction. I was in the running with Artists from Germany, America, the United Kingdom and Ghana.

My "PataPata" music video has been played on heavy CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

26 Entertainment

Friday, March 21, 2014

Victor Uwaifo, Tiwa Savage, Dazzle at NB Awards

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he recent Nigerian Breweries Plc Awards at the Intercontinental Hotels, Victoria Island, Lagos, is one event that would remain memorable in the minds of those present. It was an event to behold as it paraded an All-Star ensemble of entertainers, including the evergreen highlife music icon, Sir Victor Uwaifo, the delectable ‘Kele-Kele love crooner, Tiwa Savage, and popular comedian, Gordons.

It was the distributors’ award night where the company rewarded outstanding distributors and transporters that excelled in 2013. And Ifeoma Chukwuka Nigeria Limited emerged the best distributor, having sold the required Nigerian Breweries products. For that, the company went home with the coveted award and a brand new Man Diesel truck to further enhance their business.

In his welcome address, the Managing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Mr. Nicolaas Vervelde, extolled the invaluable contributions of the distributors and partners to the overall success of the company. And what the night meant for NB Plc? His words: “It was a year ago that we predicted a fierce competition in the beer market. However, our company won more market share in 2013. This night, market growth shows that distribution has been crucial to Nigerian Breweries’ success in the beer market.

We are committed to spending more money on our brands than the previous year. This is because 2014 is another year for partnership based on mutual respect and success.”

Compered by one of Nigeria’s finest radio and television on air personalities, Ikponmwosa Osakioduwa, the evening proved to be an exciting one for invited guests. In his usual energetic style, Sir, Victor Uwaifo dazzled guests with an animated performance that left the audience begging for more.

In line with its continuously rewarding productivity and good business partnership, Nigerian Breweries Plc restated its commitment to that effect, which was demonstrated at the distributors’ award night where the

company rewarded outstanding distributors and transporters that excelled in 2013.

73 year old Uwaifo who is also a professor at the University of Benin, proved his mettle to the audience as he gyrated

NOW Muzik grabs Tony OneWeek and K-Slim

Tiwa Salvage

NOW Muzik

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rhythmically to several of his hit songs like Guitar Boy, Mami Water, and Joromi.

Reminiscent of the rock stars of the 70’s and 80’s, he was decked in his signature well-tendered black Afro hairdo and dark glasses to match, and dressed in a bright shiny attire with his guitar gently hanging down his neck.

Next was Mavin’s, First Lady, Tiwa Savage, who as usual did not fail to thrill guests with a sublime performance of her hit tracks like Eminado and KeleKele Love. Popular comedian, Gordons left the audience reeling in laughter with his wise and hilarious jokes that have made him a household name.

‘My music is combination of Jazz chords...'

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

rotation on notable TV stations including MTV World, Channel O, Soundcity, One music, TVC and Channels TV amongst others. It made number two on the Soundcity and TVC best video countdowns; remarkable for a first video from a previously unknown independent female

artiste!

My music, imagery and style have earned me rave reviews on taste making blogs such as MTV Iggy, Okay Africa, Soul Bounce (an American blog in affiliation with the soul train music awards), Afro Punk, and a fast growing social media followership

ne of the foremost management solution outfits in the country, Now Muzik, has added Tony Oneweek and K-Slim into its fold. The duo is the new addition to the outfit, which already has 2face, J. Martins, Romeo and Rocksteady in its portfolio. They insist that the idea is to continue and not relent in its effort to make the music industry in Nigeria better with qualitative management of talents.

For an excited Efe Omorogbe, CEO Now Muzik, it is a matter of presenting good music to music lovers all over the world. He said, “Like most signings, it starts with gorgeous music. Tony Oneweek and K Slim have materials that we enjoy intensely and are proud to present to and share with the world. Oneweek is solid, tested and trusted. K Slim is fresh and promising. Our expectations are high.

We will, as always, activate the support mechanism and go for it.”

Tony Oneweek, it would be recalled, released his Gyration Master album in 1998 that caught on like wild fire especially with hit tracks like Everybody gyrate, Onwa December and Okocha.

Last year, he released Ife Di Mma featuring 2Face. The track is an infusion of gyration, highlife and afrobeat.

His foray into politics in 2011 gained currency as he emerged a minority leader at the Anambra State House of Assembly. Interestingly, Tony Oneweek is back and ready to gyrate with his numerous

fans, partisan politics notwithstanding.

On the other hand, Kosiso Henry Onwuekwe aka K-Slim, is an Afro hip hop artiste who dropped a single, Logo, in 2009. He was the winner of Tony OneWeek’s Anambra Music Talent Show Season One in December 2013.

As at the last count, he had performed on the same stage as some of the finest in the music industry in the country: J. Martins, MI, KC, PSquare, Flavour, Bracket, Ruggedman, Faze and the late MC Loph.

With confidence, K-Slim said: “My joy is that Now Muzik is among the biggest name in the industry. I am very sure they will do everything possible to make my career a great one. So, I thank God for directing my path to Now Muzik.

NAIJAZZ acts for iREP Film Festival 2014 As part of the iREP international documentary film festival 2014 themed ‘Rhythms Of Identity – Africa in self-conversation', NAIJAZZ music will be featuring four of its main artistes.

The acts listed include US-based Afro-Jazz musician – Segun Awe, master bassist and director of SPAN academy of Jazz and Contemporary Music – Bright Gain, and The Eko Brass Band and fast rising Afro-Jazz guitarist – Adeh.

The event produced by Inspiro Productions Limited will be held at the leading event and culture hotspot Freedom Park, Broad Street this Sunday and kicks off at 2pm.

Entry is free.

Entertainment

Friday, March 21, 2014

27

LYRICS for the week Dr Sid Ft Don Jazzy

Surulere

2Face

Omotola

Basketmouth

Omotola, 2face, Basketmouth, others for Nigerian Entertainment Conference

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he Nigerian Entertainment Conference, NEC, has entered year two with the announcement that this year's event will hold on Wednesday, April 23, this year.

The theme for this year is "Creating Pathways to the Future." Conference Chairman Ayeni Adekunle said in a statement that the umbrella summit for Nigeria's entertainment industry will again take place at the Grand Ball Room of Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos.

It reads in part, “We're back at Eko for the whole day on Wednesday April 23, with even bigger speakers, remarkable panelists and participants from across the country. Conference registration will open Wednesday March 19 on www.nec. ng and close on April 19. Attendance to all sessions and exhibitions is free, but registration is compulsory” It further stated that, “Confirmed speakers and panelists include accomplished Nigerian actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, known for her creative

dexterity, activism and inspirational life as one of Africa's most renowned actors.

Also speaking will be Pop icon 2Face Idibia, a pathfinder and leader in contemporary Nigerian music; Co-Founder of Jobberman Ope Awoyemi, Revered Showbiz consultant Edi Lawani, and Founder/CEO of Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) Peace Anyam-Osigwe.”

Others include Nigerian comedian Basketmouth, Digital Marketing expert and GM of Bytesize Bukola Akingbade, Chairman of NET editorial board and COO Q Networks Chris Ihidero, awardwinning journalist Olumide Iyanda, Olisa Adibua and Uche Jombo. More speakers and panelists will be announced later.

The theme for this year is "Creating Pathways to the Future", with sessions on Nollywood, Social Responsibility, information technology, Music, Media and Business.

"Just like last year, our speakers and panelists this year are the best in their

fields, with an incredible passion for the development of the industry," says Ayeni.

NEC 2014 will feature a keynote address on this year's theme, main papers on each of the sessions, panel discussions and a daylong exhibition.

Topics for this year include: 'Slaying The Collective Rights Monster' (MUSIC); 'Whose Content is it Anyway? (Media); 'Using IT for Intervention' (IT); 'The Desired Future' (Nollywood); 'Why We should Care' (Social Responsibility) and 'Solving The Distribution Problem Once and for all' (Business). Comedian and master of ceremonies Tee A will return as conference moderator.

NEC founded by PR Consultant and publisher, Adeunle, is produced by NET Newspapers LTD, with support from HIP TV, Beat FM, Classic FM, Naija FM, Top Radio, City FM, MTV Base, BHM, AV Edge, EDS, Emblue, F316, ID Africa, First Class Incorporated and The Sodium Group. '

Things you MUST know before signing a record deal

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ecent events have renewed an urgent need for artiste to work with professional artiste managers.

That will take the burden of having to bother off them and avoid unnecessary embarrassing situation, it has become very imperative that artistes must begin to take signing a record deal beyond child’s play.

Below are seven pointers for artistes in record labels, and upcoming acts looking for a deal, to go through before signing the dotted line, because a record contract is a legal binding document. An artiste cannot just walk out

of a contract because he feels like it.

There will be repercussions for breach of contract.

There is no perfect record label. It doesn’t exist. Record labels are made up of people, and mistakes will always be made. You just have to make the best out of any given situation.

A record label is created to run as a business, and make profit. Irrespective of how talented you are, if your music isn’t selling or making profit, you will be kicked out. It’s a business not a charity.

Don’t stop hustling. Some artistes become so relaxed when they get signed to a label. That’s the wrong ap-

proach. Record labels have many artistes to work on with limited resources. It’s only artistes who show they are willing to go the extra mile that will be noticed. Record labels don’t like lazy artistes.

Business is business. Don’t take anything personal. Leave your emotions before you walk through the door. The record business is a cutthroat business.

Nobody owes you anything. It doesn’t make sense to demand for a house and car when you haven’t brought a dime to the label. You only get treated based on what you have brought to the label.

Nobody pays for potential. Record labels only reward success.

Ehn ehn ehn ehn Nitori Olorun lorun Rehn rehn rehn rehn Oya e ma rerin lo…eh Rehn ehn ehn ehn…Dr Sid Nitori Olorun lorun Dr Sid Ehn ehn ehn Mavin no ni Don baba jay! Chorus Baba loke lo se gbogbo nkan Oya won lenu, oya won lenu eh…eh Awon fa mi lete kin tuto Won o le ri mi Won o le ri mi laiye laiye Awon aiye won ro pe opari Awon ko lo lorun mi Awon ko lo lorun mi o o eh Suru! Surulere! Suru laiye mi Surulere ogbeni Suru laiye mi o Surulere oremi Suru laiye mi o! Surulere Suru laiye mi o Verse – Dr Sid Say at the end of the day them go pass out No go tire na them go tap out When they see me Them dey shout out Cause I dey give them the money like e be handout….eh Na our destiny to standout Omo Olorun lo se Una go find out eh Them think say I go die out Whether you like it or not I go dey cash out Ni si yin t’aba n sere Won bere talo n sere Ma ma fi wa sere O sa mo Dr Sid ti gbe tutun de Oya je ka sere! Dokita wole Awon agba ati omo kekere E dide Oya make we dey let them know say Ehn ehn ehn ehn Nitori Olorun lorun Rehn rehn rehn rehn Oya e ma rerin lo…eh Ehn ehn ehn ehn Nitori Olorun lorun…eh Rehn rehn rehn rehn Oya e ma rerin lo…eh Chorus Baba loke lo se gbogbo nkan Oya won lenu, oya won lenu eh…eh Awon fa mi lete kin tuto Won o le ri mi Won o le ri mi laiye laiye Awon aiye won ro pe opari Awon ko lo lorun mi Awon ko lo lorun mi o o eh Suru! Surulere! Suru laiye mi Surulere ogbeni! Suru laiye mi o Surulere oremi! Suru laiye mi o Surulere! Suru laiye mi o Verse – Dr Sid! I don make mistakes I don grow! I don learn some things I no know! So I thank God I still dey here Una dey look but you no know say E don tey the days wey I dey cry out eh My fire no go die out Enemies them want me to bow out But my rivers of blessing will never dry out Ni si yin t’aba n sere Won bere talo n sere fi wa sere O sa mo Dr Sid ti gbe tutun de Oya je ka sere Hmmm Dokita wole Awon agba ati omo kekere! E dide Oya make we dey let them know say Surulere! Suru laiye mi! Surulere ogbeni Suru laiye mi o! Surulere oremi! Suru laiye mi o Surulere! Suru laiye mi! Surulere Suru laiye mi Surulere ogbeni Suru laiye mi o Surulere oremi Suru laiye mi o Surulere! Suru laiye mi

28 Entertainment TELEMOVIES

Friday, March 21, 2014

Genevieve, Nollywood’s most influential act?

Bayelsa Hosts AMAA 10th Anniversary Sponsors Night

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I

n what is turning out to be the best year for Genevieve Nnaji,m she has been named the best of a 100 most influential people in Nollywood by an online movie research group, Gistreel.com. In order to be titled a Nollywood’s Most Influential Person( NMIP) the person’s actions and opinions should strongly influence positively the course of events in Nollywood and or the African film industry. Listed below are the top 100 and how they faired: 1. Genevieve Nnaji (Actress) 2. Omotola Jalade Ekehinde (Actress & Humanitarian) 3. Dr. Victor O. Olatoye (President & CEO Nollywood Film Critics USA/NAFCA) 4. Ben Murray Bruce (CEO Silverbird Entertainment) 5. Emeka Mba (DG-Nigerian Broadcasting Commission) 6. Jason Igwe Njoku (CEO iROKO Partners) 7. Peace Anyiam Osigwe (President & CEO AMAA) 8. Ibinabo Fiberesima (President AGN) 9. Patience Ozokwor (Actress) 10. Fred Amata (Actor) 11. Emem Isong (CEO Royal Arts Academy /Film Producer) 12. Majid Michel (Actor) 13. Zeb Ejiro (Filmmaker) 14. Chinedu Ikedieze (Actor) 15. Osita Iheme (Actor) 16. John Okafor (Actor/Comedian) 17. Basketmouth (Standup Comedian) 18. Tunde Kelani (Film Producer & Director) 19. Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen (Filmmaker) 20. Teco Benson (Film Producer & Director) 21. Stella Damasus (Actress) 22. Zack Orji (Actor) 23. Ejike Asiegbu (Actor) 24. Olu Jacobs (Actor) 25. Nkem Owoh (Actor) 26. Mahmood Ali Balogun (Film Producer & Director) 27. Abdul Salam Mumuni (Film Producer) 28. Frank Rajah Arase (Film Producer & Director) 29. Vivian Ejike (Film Producer) 30. Stephanie Okereke (Actress) 31. Mercy Johnson (Actress) 32. Kunle Afolayan (Film Producer & Director) 33. Jim Iyke (Actor) 34. Desmond Elliot (Film Producer, Actor & Director) 35. Roger Quartey (Film Producer) 36. Segun Arinze (Actor) 37. Shirley Frimpong Manso (Film Producer & Director) 38. Fidelis Dukers (CEO Abuja Film Fest.)

39. Bond Emeruwa (Film Producer & Director) 40.Tchidi Chikere (Film Producer & Director) 41. Mac Collins Chidebe (Film Producer & Director) 42. Van Vicker (Actor, Film Producer & Director) 43. John Dumelo (Actor) 44. Funke Akindele (Actress) 45. Uche Jombo (Actress & Film Producer) 46. Nadia Buari (Actress) 47. Nkiru Sylvanus (Actress)

Genevieve

48. Ini Edo (Actress & Film Producer) 49. Sam Anwuzia (CEO of ZAAFA) 50. Mike Ezuruonye (Actor) 51. Moses Sneeze Inyang (Film Producer & Director) 52. Richard Mofe Damijo (Actor) 53. Jackie Appiah (Actress) 54. Monalisa Chinda (Actress & Film Producer) 55. Chika Zebrudaya (Actor & Comedian) 56. Ejiofor Ezeanyaeche (Marketer) 57. Paul Igwe TV Show producer 58. Omoni Oboli (Actress) 59. Juliet Ibrahim (Actress) 60. Emeka Rob Eze (Film Producer & Marketer) 61. Azuka Odunukwe (Marketer) 62. Samuel Aweyo (CEO Executive Image Movies) 63.Jeta Amata (Film Producer & Director) 64. Yvonne Nelson (Actress) 65. Victor Osuagu (Actor) 66. Arinze Ezeanyaeche (Marketer) 67. Lola Fani Kayode (CEO MNET) 68. Leila Djansi (Film Producer & Director) 69. Andy Amenechi (Filmmaker) 70. Fred Nuamah-CEO Ghana Movie Award 71. Chief Pete Edochie (Actor) 72. Prince Jide Kosoko (Actor) 73. Chijioke Nneji (Film Producer) 74.Onyemaobi Onyebuchi (CEO Onyeze Productions) 75. Okanayo O. Okanayo (Actor) 76. Agbor Gilbert Ebot (Film Producer) 77. Emeka Ike (Actor) 78. Kenneth Okonkwo (Actor) 79. Rita Dominic (Actress) 80. Kalsume Sinare (Actress) 81. Ayuko Babu (Founder Pan African International Film Festival) 82. Ramsey Nouah (Actor) 83. Victor Akande (Award winning Journalist The Nation) 84. Emeka Rollas (Filmmaker) 85. Emma Isikaku (Filmmaker) 86. Stella Damascus (Actress) 87. Sani Mu Azu (Filmmaker) 88. Joke Sliva (Actress) 89. Izu Ojukwu (Filmmaker) 90. Chioma Akpotha (Actress) 91. Oga Bello (Filmmaker) 92. Andy Best (Producer & Marketer) 93. Eucharia Anunobi (Actress) 94. Chidi Mokeme (Actor) 95. Charles Novia (Film Producer & Director) 96. Agya Koo (Actor & Comedian) 97. Bernie Anti (Soundtrack Producer) 98. Bob Manuel Udokwu (Actor) 99. Chika Ike (Actress) 100. Pascal Amanfo (Film Producer & Director).

he Governor of Bayelsa State, Hon. Seriake Dickson will tomorrow lead the way to the 10th Anniversary Sponsors Dinner of the Africa Movie Academy Awards, AMAA. The upscale event is billed for tomorrow at the Civic Centre, Ozumba Mbadiwe, Victorial Island Lagos. To grace the occasion with Governor Dickson are top government officials from the state, captains of industry and the entire corporate Nigeria.

This was contained in a joint statement by the Director General of the Bayelsa State Tourism Development Board, Mrs. Ebizi Brown and Chief Executive of AMAA, Ms. Peace Anyiam-Osigwe.

It stated that the sponsors dinner is designed to once again engage and partner the private sector on the potentials and benefits of the awards platform to the development of motion picture industry in Nigeria and Africa and also introduce the tourism development initiatives of the state.

According to the statement: “Through the Bayelsa State Tourism Development Board, the state has used AMAA as its flagship brand to project the oil-rich state as a destination of choice in areas of business and leisure for foreigners and Nigerians.”

Further on the sponsors’ dinner with Governor Dickson, Mrs. Brown said: “This year’s edition of AMAA is a special one for us in Bayelsa state and we want to make our guests both Nigerians and foreigners experience Bayelsa in different form. Our people, our culture and our exotic coastal areas will be showcased to attract the right investments and partnership with the private sector. The dinner will afford us to tell the leaders of private sector to explore the many opportunities in our state and we will seek their sponsorship for this year’s edition of AMAA.’’ In the same vein, AMAA boss, Ms. Anyiam-Osigwe disclosed that the relationship between the awards organization and Bayelsa State has blossomed in the last 10 years and the 10th Anniversary of AMAA is planned to give all guests an exciting and memorable experience.

Gov. Dickson Bayelsa and Africa Film Academy are working to ensure that the infrastructure that will support film making are readily available. We want to solicit the support of the private sector to support us and sponsor AMAA and other Nigerians initiatives that promote our creative industry, our people and culture. His Excellency Governor Dickson will lead this effort and make demand on Nigerian busiEbizi Brown ness leaders at the event. ’’ Spotlight

McLeod is Managing DiCrica,olin rector, Emerging Markets (AfBenelux, Central & Eastern

Europe & Nordic) for Universal Networks International. He is responsible for growing NBC Universal’s international TV channels business in these markets, establishing more collaborative operations to build scale and operate as a more strategic business.

He is responsible for the P&L of a portfolio of channels including Studio Universal, Universal Channel, 13th Street Universal,

Colin Mcleod Syfy & Scifi Universal, Diva Universal, E! & Style in this region.

Prior to this he was Managing Director, Central & Eastern Europe, Universal Networks International, where he was instrumental in establishing strategic relationships with key affiliates across the region and leading a robust growth strategy by launching channel brands in Balkans, Greece, Poland, Russia and Turkey.

Entertainment

Friday, March 21, 2014

29

Fred Amata’s World:

MOPICON should sail through at the confab …But who is representing our interest there?

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s the national conference gets underway at Abuja, Nigeria’s movie practitioners are at a cross roads, yet full of mixed expectations.

Though their grand patron, President Goodluck Jonathan, GCFR, had assured them on Tuesday, February 18, this year that they will be represented at the confab, members of the movie industry are worried about the absence of one of their own to marshal their points. And that the issue of the Motion Picture Practitioners Council of Nigeria (MOPPICON) as an executive bill that should speedily be passed into law, will be addressed this month with the prospect that their dream will come through after so many disappointments from previous governments.

Specifically, President Jonathan, had in his response after being decorated as the Grand patron of Actors’ Guild of Nigeria, AGN, promised to speed up the process of enacting MOPICON, Piracy acts into law for a better industry; and reforms of relevant agencies.

His reasons were simple: “It’s only Nollywood that government can partner with to get through to the grassroots even with the agriculture revolution that we are on with. Government will assist in film making. That way agriculture will be better encouraged.

Because what information ministry and National Orientation Agency cannot achieve with regards to grassroots reach, Nollywood will achieve it as both the young and the aged are keyed into it.”

So, as far as the thespians are concerned, the only item that matters to them is getting the conferees to formally establish MOPPICON. It is an agency that will supervise and represent the movie industry better, just as Advertisers, Practitioners of Nigeria, APCON, Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, and NMA and others take care of advert practitioners, legal and medical practitioners respectively, among other.

Apart from the only two agencies, Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) and the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), that they are always at loggerhead with, there is no government agency that is playing that role presently.

For stakeholders in the fledging Nigerian film industry, the establishment of MOPPICON is the only way out of the mirade of problems affecting the country. Their faith in MOPPICON is that the agency will help to streamline the industry, create employment opportunities for millions of Nigerian

youths.

As a major practitioner in Nollywood, I will be taking my journey with readers every Friday, from that path and other issues that affects us as an important component of our great country, Nigeria.

...MOPPICON. It is an agency that will supervise and represent the movie industry better, just as Advertisers, Practitioners of Nigeria, APCON, Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, and NMA

The place of practitioners in Nigeria: With the kind of good hands of fellowship that the president has so far extended is bringing sanity. Even though it is from the political point of view a generation of leaders of thought is formed. But there are still so much divide, because mostly, the industry was grown by independent creative mind. And because of these independent, each practitioner aspire to the position chief executive officer, director or head of where ever they find themselves.

Each practitioner is a business, and that practitioner is the head of the business. So you have a gathering of bosses, which is different from the civil service, where you have a structured leadership.

Take the recent visit of stars to the president, each person their heads his or her own business. So these pockets of interests, creative minds are, actually intelligent people that form a strong individual base. That is why today you see Edo Movie makers springing up; tomorrow you wil hear delta State film makers with another acronym will spring up.

Ways Out: All of these are not really good for development. But if MOPPICON comes, it can structure the industry. And when t h e guilds are structured in a way that you cannot practice unless you belong to a particular specialized guild, then we are in business.

Fred Amata

30 Entertainment TELEMOVIES

Friday, March 21, 2014

CinemaWatch (Radio/TV/Events Guide)

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Otv brings you a fun and entertainment-packed week with local and international movies, reality shows, kiddies entertainment, the best of local, international music and informative documentaries for the whole family.

Here is some of what you can look forward to this week: AFRICA MAGIC (Channel 1) •AFRICA RISING SEASON 1 The show where you get to hear, see and feel the heartbeat of Africa. Experience the people the culture and the diversity of Africa through hot debates, African...It airs on Mondays to Wednesdays at 5:00pm with repeats on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10:00am.

•KONA SEASON I Wanjala is off his game after the confrontation between Wangui and Julia and his talk with Julia the night before.

Frankie is upset that he allows other things to distract him, easily causing him to lose focus. Wanjala blows up and accuses her of focusing on his life rather than her own. He seems to hit closer to home than he is aware of. Lucky is excited at the progress he is making with his training but he is discouraged by Jimmy who is not really into it. He seeks out Binti to find out what is going on with Jimmy and whether he should be concerned and possibly move on. Binti assures him to hang in there because Jimmy is just fine.

Catch more drama and intrigue on Kona on Mondays to Fridays at 5:30pm with repeats on Saturdays at 1:30pm and on Sundays at 6:00pm.

Movies • THE LAST OFFER The influential Baron Idimu extends a lucrative offer to Christy and Nosa Williams, which, if they accept, could be their “get out of poverty ticket”. But will they still have a marriage worth saving thereafter? It airs on Thursday 27 March at 8:00pm.

M-Net MOVIES ZONE (Channel 2) • NINJA Two clueless bachelors are put in charge of twins while on the verge of the biggest business deal of their lives. Their inexperience leads to one debacle after another, and to a newfound understanding of what's really important in life. On Saturday 22 March at 6:30pm.

• THE LAWN BOY A young man from the hood, Michael makes extra cash mowing lawns in the suburbs. When he meets a young girl, Jennifer, his whole world changes as its love at first sight. Their attraction is mutual, but their backgrounds are completely different, something that both their families and friends are quick to point out. With the odds stacked against them, the lawn boy has to find a way to be with the girl of his dreams despite social pressure. On Sunday 23 March at 7:00pm.

AFRICA MAGIC WORLD (Channel 9) SERIES • CLICK AFRICA A magazine show conceptualized to capture, explore and grandstand Africa’s beauty to Africa and the world. Daily at 3:00pm • BEYOND THE BEATA

GOtv highlights for the week of March 21 - 27

Paul Walker

Behind the scenes look at the rising Kenyan music stars and their life story and their journey to fame.

Daily at 8:30am.

• TWO SIDES OF A COIN A soap that Centers around two families against each other, living in the same building with different social- status, beliefs, approach to life etc. nonetheless, there are so many factors that bring these individuals together. Daily at 6:30pm.

BLACKBELT (Channel 12) • THE BASTARD The incomparable Lily Li was considered an actress with an attitude, which was perfect for her becoming a bad-girl fighter. In "The Bastard", she plays a beggar girl that becomes a target for evil men plotting to make "The Bastard" a scapegoat for murder because he happens to look like a jailed dignitary's son who has been accused of murder. Airing March 27 at 9:00am, and March 28 at 12:00pm.

• LION VS. LION Ah Yue is an former cop fired for being too honest. He becomes fast friends with a small time con-man, and together the two scam their way into opening their own dojo. But when they get wrapped up with two factions fighting over a list revealing the names of the ls they will eventually

get in over their heads. Airing on March 31 at 5:00pm.

• FOUR RIDERS This prime example of director/cowriter Chang Cheh's mastery takes place in Seoul right after the Korean War, as a kung-fu master, combat instructor, explosives expert, and missile specialist must take on a venal drug smuggling gang. Representing the Book of Revelation's four riders of war, famine, disease, and death as heroes against murder, corruption, jealousy, and greed, it's a brutal battle where the one true winner is the audience. Airing on March 23 at 9:00am.

• THE TIGRESS OF SHAOLIN Liu Chia-yung is saved from drug smugglers by Hui Ying-hung, whose godfather is a drunken master and whose leprous godmother is mistress of the fairly off-putting Leprosy Boxing style.

The classic story of good versus evil is sprinkled with many strange kung fu moves and humorous set pieces, making for a lighthearted, action-packed viewing.

Airing on March 24 at 9:00am.

SONY ENTERTAINMENT (CHANNEL 20) – GOtv PLUS ONLY • EDDIE MURPHY RAW This is vintage Eddie Murphy standup, filmed at his wisecracking best at the

height of his fame in the 1980s following the runaway success of Beverly Hills Cop. Filmed live in New York; Murphy spends an hour and a half shooting the breeze about his favourite subjects.

Look out for his hilarious celebrity impersonations, as well as a cameo appearance by Keenan Ivory Wayans. It airs on Friday 21 March at 7:00pm.

BET (Channel 22) • THE WENDY WILLIAMS SHOW New outfits, new hot topics, new attitude, and new wigs! The Wendy Williams Show is back with an ALL NEW season! Mother, wife and bestselling author Wendy Williams burst onto the talk show scene in July 2009 with the launch of her new weekday program, The Wendy Williams Show which was an instant hit. Hosted by the unique, distinctive and entertaining personality that is Wendy Williams, this provocative talk-show features a mix of celebrity interviews and performances with guests from television, film, music and sports. During popular segments ‘Ask Wendy’ and ‘Hot Topics’ Williams offers real advice to audience members looking for solutions to problems and her own unpredictable, honest and opinionated take on the juiciest headlines. On weeknights at 10:00pm.

• RUN’S HOUSE Hip Hop's First Family comes to BET! Led by patriarch Rev Run, the Simmons family open their doors and their hearts to cameras, proving that a family that prays together stays together. For six seasons, follow the ups and downs of the Simmons family as Rev Run and his wife Justine parent in their own unique and effective way, navigating their family with grace and class in good times and bad. Watch as The Rev strikes a balance between being a father, a reverend and an icon, all in his attempt to keep rap's royal family securely grounded while living a uniquely privileged lifestyle. Every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at 9:00pm.

• BOBBY JONES GOSPEL Credited with taking gospel music mainstream, the appointed “Ambassador of Gospel” Dr Bobby Jones, Jr. hosts the gospel program which features inspirational and uplifting interviews from gospel music's most celebrated artists, groups, choirs and ministers.

With celebrity appearances and joyous performances from Pastor Shirley Caesar, The Rance Allen Group, Karen Clark Sheard, Richard Smallwood and Tamela Mann, this series will once again be sure to make the viewer's spirits soar. Get your praise on every Sunday from Dr Bobby Jones! It airs on Sundays at 5:00pm.

BUSINESS FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 2014

WHAT'S NEWS Aviation experts meet in South Africa, chart path for growth Egg-heads in the aviation sector from all over the globe converged on South Africa yesterday to proffer solutions to the challenges confronting Africa’s aviation sector and came up with a verdict that the sector needed urgent rescue from its troubles.

}p-32

Investing in groundnut oil processing Groundnut is one of the crops grown abundantly in Nigeria.

Groundnut oil is a vegetable oil that is in very high demand.

Extraction of oil from groundnut is also one of the projects that can contribute to the economic development of Nigeria. This is the essence of the write up.

}p-34

NRC pensioners take harmonisation battle to Abuja Barely three weeks after the Managing Director of Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Mr. Adeseyi Sijuwade, gave a hint of ensuring that Federal Government effects the longawaited harmonisation of the railway retirees’ pension with that of other Federal Government agencies, the NRC pensioners are also taking their destinies in their hands in a bid to see a quick resolution of the matter.

}p-35

BUSINESS CREW AYODELE AMINU, Deputy Editor (Business) SIMEON OGOEGBULEM, Dep. Business Editor BAYO AKOMOLAFE, Asst. Editor (Maritime) SUNDAY OJEME, Asst. Editor (Insurance) SIAKA MOMOH, Asst. Editor (Industry) JONAH IBOMA, ICT Editor DAYO ADEYEMI, Property Editor ADEOLA YUSUF, Energy Editor

CHUKS ONUANYIN, Energy NNAMDI AMADI, Reporter

}p-37

AYODELE AMINU, DEPUTY EDITOR, BUSINESS

ayodele.aminu@newtelegraphonline.com ayodeleaminu@yahoo.com

WITHDRAWALS Pension commissions makes access to workers' contributions easier.

Sunday Ojeme

A

s part of its mandate to ensure that employers registered under the new pension scheme have access to their funds based on stipulated circumstances, the National Pension Commission (PenCom) has processed and granted approval to 92,576 applicants for retirement benefits as at February this year.

These benefits come in form of programmed withdrawals, annuity and en-bloc payments to the beneficiary depending on their category.

The Commission, in response to an inquiry by New Telegraph on the delay by some Pension Fund Administrators to release contributors’ funds on time to them or their beneficiaries in case of death, said it maintained zero tolerance to service failure by any Pension Fund Administrator. It added that the Turn Around Time (TAT) for processing retirement benefits is less than a week where all documentations were complete.

Sections 3 and 4 of the Pension Reform Act, (PRA) 2004 stipulates the criteria for accessing benefits by the employees upon retirement.

According to the commission: “Pursuant to the above provisions of the PRA, the Commission issued the Regulation for Administration of Retirement and Terminal Benefits, which spelt out detailed requirements in processing retirement bene-

L-R: Mr Emeka Ene,Chairman PETAN; Herbert Wigwe, Group Managing Director Access Bank Plc; Iyowuna Briggs, Managing Director, NPDC and Jeffrey Hartman,Vice President, Business Development and Global Strategy Taleveras Petroleum Trading UK, during the 2014 Nigeria Oil and Gas conference in Abuja.

fits, to ensure compliance with the law. The PFAs and PFCs are thus mandated to comply with the PRA and the Regulation in the administration of retirement and terminal benefits.”

The regulator also stated that the PFAs were obligated to liaise with Retirement Savings Account (RSA) holders six months before retirement to

ensure compliance with the requirements of the law and regulations, by obtaining necessary documentations from retirees before the payment of any benefit or withdrawals from RSAs. It added that the retirees were therefore required to submit all the necessary documents to their PFAs to avoid any delay in processing their retirement

and terminal benefits.

Last year, the commission also confirmed that 3,329 persons who lost their jobs before reaching the approved retirement age of 50 years were given approval to withdraw N351million from their RSAs in 2009.

From the statistics, 206 were CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

Nigeria to erect refinery, imports salt from Namibia Bayo Akomolafe

T

here are plans by Nigeria to erect oil refinery in Namibia just as some Nigerians are keen on importing salt from that country to satisfy domestic market needs.

It was learnt that Nigeria has mooted plans to erect an oil refinery in Namibia but the

plan has taken long to materialise because of the winding bilateral channels that had to be followed.

Already, the two countries have binding bilateral engagements on trade which has been low.

It was learnt that President Goodluck Jonathan will be the guest of honour at the 24th Na-

mibian independence celebrations today and the country has vowed to take advantage of the president’s visit to discuss ways of setting up an oil refinery in the Southern African country.

According to Namibian Minister of Industry, Calle Schletwein, the two countries would CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

Rates Dashboard

DELE ALAO, Brands/Marketing Editor ABDULWAHAB ISA, Finance Editor

www.newtelegraphonline.com/business

PenCom approves 92,576 applicants' retirement benefits

WOLE SHADARE, Aviation Editor CHRIS UGWU, Capital Market Editor

NEW TELEGRAPH

‘WE ARE HERE TO STAY,’ SAYS MULTICHOICE BOSS

INFLATION RATE February 2014......................7.70% January 2014 .......................8.00% December 2013....................8.00%

LENDING RATE InterBank Rate . . . . . . . . . 10.75% Prime Lending Rate. . . . . . 17.01% Maximum Lending Rate..24.90%

EXCHANGE RATE

(Parellel As at Mar. 14)

USD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N172 Pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N282 Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N240

EXCHANGE RATE

(Official As at Mar. 14)

USD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N157.74 Pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N262.27 Euro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N180.76

32

BUSINESS | NEWS

FINANCE Taxes, high fuel cost, others negatively affect African airlines Wole Shadare JOHANNESBURG

E

gg-heads in the aviation sector from all over the globe converged on South Africa yesterday to proffer solutions to the challenges confronting Africa’s aviation sector and came up with a verdict that the sector needed urgent rescue from its troubles.

They noted that to get out of the woods, the continent must improve on its air safety and have financially strong carrier, stressing that air transport is the key to many opportunities.

They spoke yesterday at the 23rd African Aviation MRO supplies and stakeholders conference tagged, “MRO Africa,” which centres on airline Maintenance, Repairs and Overhaul (MRO) in Africa.

In attendance were South Africa’s Minister of Transport, Dipou Peters, former Secretary General, African Airlines Association (AFRAA), Nick Fadugba, Chief Executive Officer of South African Airways, Monwabisi Kalawe, Chairnan, Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), Capt.

Noggie Meggison, representatives of airplane makers, Boeing, Airbus, Bombardier, global airline chiefs, among other dignitaries.

Kalawe listed fuel, personnel and multiple taxes as factors that have done incalculable damage to many carriers in the continent, adding that these airlines

Aviation experts meet in South Africa, chart path for growth find it extremely difficult to compete with foreign carriers which have younger aircraft fleet of less than five years and enormous resources to edge out African airlines on many of the routes they ply.

The participants disclosed that rising jet fuel prices is increasingly affecting profit margins of African airlines, while some airports lack modern and adequate handling facilities to meet standards to handle passenger and cargo aircraft, while African governments are suffocating the airlines with big taxes.

Airlines global body, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) had also voiced concern over the high tax regime affecting the airline industry and said that it hampered air travel demand and, at times, violated international conventions.

Higher taxes dampen travel demand and that is bad for the airlines and more importantly for the continent’s local economy.

High taxes on the jet fuel which goes up as high as 40 per cent in some states, coupled with higher airport charges in the form of user development and airport development fees, which have cascading effect on the air fares, have had a negative impact on the domestic passenger demand in India.

Government’s recent move to handover six airports including Chennai and Kolkata to private players for operation

PenCom approves 92,576 applicants' retirement benefits CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31

employees from the public sector, while 3,123 were from the private sector.

The following year, precisely in 2010, the total number workers who lost their jobs and subsequently withdrew a quarter of their pension balance rose to 8,057. It comprised of 471 public sector workers and 7,586 from the private sector. They made a total of N1.2bilion.

In 2011, 11,883 sacked workers got N1.82billion as part of their pensions. Out of these, 522 worked for the Federal Government and 12 served in the state public service, while 11,349 were from the private sector.

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

The total figure for 2012 and 2013 is what has been included to the previous ones to arrive at the current 92, 576.

Just as the number of beneficiaries are growing annually, the pension funds’ assets have equally been increasing, peaking at N4.09 trillion as at January 31, 2014.

PFA officials, under the aegis of Pension Fund Operators Association of Nigeria (PenOP), had projected during one of their meetings in Lagos that the assets would hit close to N4.3 trillion at the end of 2014, with 5.9 million registered contributors to date and at annual growth rate of N500 billion.

and management is being opposed by the national airports unions on the ground that the decision will lead to higher airport charges for the passengers.

Kalawe further stated that airline operators are affected by increasing fuel prices and higher taxes imposed by government, adding that aircraft operators in the region are badly hurt by rising jet fuel, which almost doubled in the past year, forcing some aircraft to fly to neighbouring Kenya for re-fueling at prices 30 per cent lower than in Tanzania.

He, however, stated that the only way out of the situation was for carriers in the continent to go into partnership, engage in fleet renewal, upgrade of infrastructure and governments’ ambition to have national carriers that would be well funded.

Also, Fadugba regretted that the carriers are still far from competing with the likes of British Airways and Emirates, hinting that Emirates annual revenue of about $15 billion far exceeds that of South African Airways and Kenya Airways

put together which he said is about $7 billion.

He said: “You can see the mis-match and how they out number our airlines with huge number of frequencies they do to Africa. Emirates does eight frequencies daily to South Africa with wide-body aircraft. If you get to Dubai, there are over a hundred wide body airplanes in the airport, far more than what three airlines in Africa have. It is essential that African airlines come together to increase their chances of financial success.”

Managing Director, Vono Products Plc, Mrs. Titi Bakare; Managing Director, Mr. Joel Ajiga; and Head of Sales, Vitafoam Nigeria Plc, Mr. Bamidele Owoade, during a press conference to mark Vitafoam Nigeria Plc 2014 World Sleep Day, at the Corporate head office, Ikeja, Lagos.

PHOTO:TONY EGUAYE

New Internet governance plan gets support Jonah Iboma

A

s United States of America moves to handover the technical management of the Internet to a global multi-stakeholder body, Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers, (ICANN), research has shown support for the plan among developing countries.

The Pew Research Center found that majority of respondents opposed government re-

strictions on on-line activity in 22 of 24 countries surveyed.

Support was especially high among younger people and in countries with high percentage of people using the Internet.

89 per cent of those surveyed in Venezuela said that they supported an unfettered Internet, as did at least 80 per cent in Lebanon, Chile, Egypt, Argentina and Brazil.

The numbers were high in Mexico (79 per cent), South Africa (77 per cent), Bolivia (76

per cent), Malaysia and the Philippines (both at 73 per cent) and Nigeria (72 per cent).

"Support for Internet freedom tends to be strong in nations with high rates of Internet penetration such as Chile and Argentina, where roughly two-thirds of the population is online," the Pew report said.

"It is less common in nations with lower penetration rates, like Indonesia and Uganda," where 55 and 49 per cent, respectively, said they oppose government censorship.

Nigeria to erect refinery, imports salt from Namibia CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31

have their trade representatives engaging to map the way forward in facilitating trade and finalising the pending issue of the oil refinery.

He said: “We will have an engagement with the Nigerian business delegation that will accompany their president to Namibia to find ways of im-

proving trade relations.

“We will also take advantage of the engagements to discuss progress made in the erection of an oil refinery in Namibia

by Nigerians. We need to find ways of engaging in separate ways that will not infringe on the current customs unions that we belong to.

“It is important to note that as Namibia we are a member

of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) and Nigeria negotiates with us through the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

These have been the setback in the two countries improving trade and we are both supporting the implementation of the Free Trade Area in Africa that will facilitate free movement of goods,” Schlettwein said.

Agric

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

BUSINESS 33

AGRIBUSINESS

quality long-grained parboiled rice.

Season of agric rethinking.

Siaka Momoh

T

his is the popular slogan today in the agriculture sector in Nigeria, and it is for real. It is agric for business, nothing-else.

Agreed we have had varuious programmes in the past that attempted to boost agriculture. We had Operation Feed the Nation, under General Olusegun Obasanjo as military Head of State); we had Agriculture Revolution under President Usman Shehu Shagari; we had presidential Committees on Agriculture under Obasanjo too (as civilian president). But none of these strategically and seriously looked at agriculture as serious business.

Today, it is no longer business as usual. We now have a minister who has a robust passion for agriculture. Government is pushing agriculture and the private sector is taking the lead. But one must quickly state here that the budget allocation to agriculture still falls short of the 10 per cent Maputo recommendation. Our allocation hovers between 1.7 and 2 per cent!

The private sector is taking the lead as represented in the advocacy role that the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) is playing and the investment of private sector players in the sector. The 19th Nigerian Economic Summit which was wholly dedicated to agriculture is proof of the seriousness with which this subject is being handled.

The summit witnessed robust discussions by industry stakeholders on growing agriculture as a business. Starting from this week, we are opening a debate on the NESG summit discussions. We will therefore appreciate your own comments. These will be published on these pages. It is your platform.

Nigeria has, for too long, neglected agriculture. The sector has been underplayed. We got spoilt with oil. We opted for the rent economy which discovery of oil and our taste for easy money foisted on us.

According to Akinwunmi Adesina, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Nigeria is blessed with 84 mil-

Cocoa farmers at work

Agric for business lion hectares of arable land of which 40 per cent is cultivated.

He disclosed that the country also has the largest rivers in Africa in addition to availability of cheap labour and a huge market population of 167 million people.

For him, with such great potential, Nigeria should stop being a market for other countries and focus on creating opportunities for Nigeria farmers so as to unlock the potentials of agricultural sector.

This is why government has come up with the Agriculture

About 1.5 million smallholder farmers received subsidised seeds and fertilisers

Transformation Agenda (ATA) embarked upon with the objective of turning agriculture into a “moneymaking business and away from a development project.”

Goals of ATA Stimulating 3.5 million jobs across the agricultural value chain and adding 20 million metric tons of food to the domestic food supply by 2015.

Achievements The following have been achieved, according to the minister: Growth Enhancement Scheme put in place. This is aimed at providing farm inputs to farmers. It comes with the development of Electronic Wallet Scheme (to improve farmers’ access to subsidised seeds and fer-

tilisers) and registration of farmers (to improve the reach to targeted farmers).

About 1.5 million smallholder farmers received subsidised seeds and fertilisers through this scheme.

In 2013, over 3.5 million farmers received their subsidised inputs through the Electronic Wallet Scheme.

10 million farmers have already been registered in the database.

Rice self-sufficiency by 2015 In 2012, Nigeria produced over 1 million metric tons of paddy rice, which is about one third of the additional rice needed to meet the target for rice production.

In two years, the private sector has established 14 large scale integrated rice mills producing international

Cassava flour substitution policy This is aimed at reducing import bill on wheat by replacing some of the wheat flour used in bread and confectionaries. Incorporation of 20 per cent high quality flour has been introduced to corporate and major bakers.

This is commendable, but there is still a lot of room for improvement. We cannot clap for government yet. We will only do this when the likes of ‘Agege’ bread bakers who bake for the masses, adopt the policy.

Moreover, investigation shows that it will take a revolution, so to say, to make Nigerian consumers of bread and confectionaries switch to cassava bread. So we need to do a lot of work – campaign, counseling and all that.

New tropical wheat varieties These are varieties that are heat tolerant. The minister said at the summit that these were being released and when planted, would produce at least 2.5 million metric tons of wheat. And only recently, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Akinwunmi Adesina, said at the Wheat Farmer’s Field Day held at Kadawa, Kano, that our young children have become hooked on Indomie and pasta, all made from wheat; even the older generation who eat pounded foods, traditionally made from yams and cassava CONTINUED ON PAGE 34

Innovation: Researchers invent cocoa butter replacer from mango seed fat

A

team of researchers from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has invented cocoa butter replacer (CBR) extracted from mango seed fat with palm stearin blends.

Head researcher from the School of Industrial Technology, Prof Ir Mohd Omar Ab Kadir, said that cocoa butter was a highly demanded fat among tropical plant fats, but its world production was

decreasing due to cultivation difficulties.

“According to the Malaysian Cocoa Board, land for cocoa cultivation has decreased to 10,000 hectares from 12,000 hectares from 2010 to 2013,” he said.

Furthermore, he said that the price of cocoa of RM10, 000 per ton currently was expensive due to lack of supply, adding that CBR from mango seed fat could be one of the options

Mango seed fat

for chocolate, confectionary and cosmetics industries.

Dr. Mohd Omar said that the research that started in 1990 showed CBR extracted

from mango seed fat and palm stearin blends via supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO2), had similarity in texture and taste with pure cocoa butter.

34

BUSINESS | AGRIC

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

Investment opportunities

Investing in groundnut oil processing Olumakinde Oni

G

roundnut is one of the crops grown abundantly in Nigeria. Groundnut oil is a vegetable oil that is in very high demand. Extraction of oil from groundnut is also one of the projects that can contribute to the economic development of Nigeria. This is the essence of

the write up.

Groundnut is grown heavily in the middle belt and Northern part of Nigeria. This means that the raw materials for processing groundnut oil are readily available. Establishment of groundnut oil processing factory will contribute to the rural sector development, as farmers will be encouraged to produce more

because their products have ready market.

With the Nigerian population of over 160 million people and vegetable oil being a daily need, it is clear that market for groundnut oil in Nigeria is huge. The supply cannot meet consumer demand. Establishment of groundnut oil processing factory will create employment opportunities

Groundnut pyramids. INSET: Groundnut processing machine

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33

now eat pounded foods from wheat flour. That is the strong Nigerian consumers taste for wheat-based products referred to earlier.

Said the Minister: “There is an intense battle to shift the tastes of consumers away from our local foods to foods made from wheat. Such over dependence on imported wheat will pose significant risks to Nigeria’s future growth. Nigeria must grow a lot more of its own wheat and reduce the national, economic and political risks from depending on other nations for our food supply.” This is why we say there is the need for a revolution to achieve this.

The minister said that today, Nigeria’s wheat import is about four million metric tons per annum and estimated to grow at an alarming rate of 5 per cent per annum. “At this rate, the country will be importing 10 million metric tons of wheat per annum by 2030, spending US$15 billion annually on wheat imports alone,” he said.

Government is not throwing up its arms in desperation.

Adesina said: “A silent revolution is already happening on farms across Northern Nigeria. This revolution is being sparked by the release of two high yielding improved wheat vari-

thereby reducing social vices.

Vegetable oil is one of the chief sources of vitamins and minerals which are meant for the growth and development of human beings. In this case, establishment of this project will contribute to physical and mental development of Nigerians.

The technology for the production of groundnut oil is very simple to install and maintain. As such, various government agencies (state and federal) can install it in rural areas of the country as part of poverty alleviation programme.

of machines in the appropriate accommodation, recruitment of personnel and project commercial take-off. Investors will be readily assisted in any of the above listed steps.

Financial implication It will cost about N3, 900,000 to establish the project as highlighted below: N Pre-Investments : 200,000 Plant and machinery : 2,200,000 Utilities/accommodation : 1,000,000 (Rented apartment) Raw materials : 500,000 Total : N3, 900,000 =========

Production technology To produce groundnut oil, groundnut with pedigree to produce oil are procured and brought to the factory. The nuts are sorted out and cleaned before being fed into the machine for extraction. The extracted oil is then refined through the process of filtration and heating. The end product is then collected and packaged in the desired containers. Establishment of this project involves feasibility study preparation, procurement and installation

Profitability The plant has the capacity of crushing 500 metric tons per annum. A net profit margin of N20,000 per ton of raw groundnut crushed has been computed. This means that prospective investors can earn N10 million annually from this project. Serious-minded investors can be assisted in the establishment of the project.

Agric for business eties, Norman Borlaug and Reyna-28 produced by International Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre (CIMMYT) and International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) in collaboration with our own Lake Chad Research Institute (LCRI), Maiduguri. These varieties give average yield of 5 to 6 tons per hectare. In addition to high yields, these varieties have excellent milling and breadmaking quality.

“We have begun massive distribution of these varieties to farmers through the Growth Enhancement Scheme and electronic wallet scheme.

In the 2013/2014 wheat dry season, 9,143 farmers in eight northern states (Kano, Jigawa, Kebbi, Zamfara, Borno, Yobe, Gombe, and Sokoto) each received improved seeds, at no cost, and two bags of fertilizer, at 50 per cent subsidy, via their mobile phones.”

He said that a total of 2,500 ha of wheat fields were cultivated in 2013; for the 2014/2015 wheat season, a total of 75,000 ha will be cultivated by 75,000 farmers; the area under wheat production is expected to increase to 150,000 ha by 2015/2016 dry season and to 300,000 ha by 2016/2017 dry season.

“At the average yield of 5 mt/ha, Nigeria will achieve its target of producing 1.5 million metric tons of wheat by 2017 and reduce imports by 50 per cent,” he said.

Horticulture We still import juices and concentrates, but we are making some progress through private sector initiatives like Teragro which has established a $6 million plant in Makurdi to process oranges into concentrates. In Kano,

Harvest time for farmers

OLUMAKINDE ONI can be reached on olumakindeoni@yahoo.com.

Dansa Foods is investing $35 million in the establishment of a tomato processing plant. The company is also investing $45 million to set up a 6000 ha pineapple plantation and processing plant in Cross River State Cotton and palm oil production Nine million oil palm seedlings and 75,000 ha of cotton were planted and cultivated all over the country through farmers and plantation estates, all provided free by government. Farmers produced 240,000 tons of seed cotton. Eight of the ginneries that have gone moribund for years have been revamped.

Pension

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

PARITY Railway retirees demand equal pay with colleagues in other agencies.

Sunday Ojeme

BUSINESS

35

NRC pensioners take harmonisation battle to Abuja

B

arely three weeks after the Managing Director of Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Mr. Adeseyi Sijuwade, gave a hint of ensuring that Federal Government effects the long-awaited harmonisation of the railway retirees’ pension with that of other Federal Government agencies, the NRC pensioners are also taking their destinies in their hands in a bid to see a quick resolution of the matter.

President of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NRC chapter,) Alhaji Rauf Balogun, early this week, travelled to the Federal Capital Territory to meet with the Minister of Transport, Senator Idris Umar, to once again register the grievances of the retirees whose pension has remained the lowest among their peers.

New Telegraph gathered that while the pensioners are happy with the expected 33 per cent increase promised by the Federal Government to all its pensioners across board, they are, however, not satisfied with their minimum monthly take home pay, which is still pegged at N5,000 as against N8,000 for retirees in other Federal Government agencies.

One of the executive members of the union told New Telegraph on condition of anonymity that although the Federal Government had redeemed its promise of paying pensions to retirees regularly, the issue of harmonisation was still a matter of great concern to the aged pensioners.

He said: “We are grateful to this administration of President Goodluck Jonathan. The president has fulfilled his promise of paying pension regularly as at when due. While we appreciate his concern and quick intervention in that regard, we also want to appeal that he should give directive quickly on harmonising the pension across board."

During the verification exercise in Lagos last month, Sijuwade had assured the pensioners of improved welfare packages, saying that the welfare and wellbeing of the pensioners would receive a boost through enhanced pension rates as all the recommendations made by the Ministerial Committee on Pension Rate Increase were receiving attention.

He promised that very soon the monthly pensions of the retirees would be scaled up.

According to him, “Having worked for the corporation for many eventful years of your life and now that you are senior citizens, you deserve nothing less than a retired life of bliss and plenty.

“As you come out to participate in the 2014 verification exercise, I share in your joy of having another opportunity in the land of the living to visit your former place of work.

“I am sure that some great and nostalgic thoughts of yesteryears will be run-

File photo of pensioners awaiting verification.

Umar

Sijuwade

ning through your hearts as you come into the warmth and beauty of a new Nigerian Railway.

“I must thank you for serving the corporation so dutifully well to the end and for sustaining it for my generation to meet to work in,” he said.

Balogun, who was on tour to Abuja when New Telegraph visited his office at the NRC headquarters in Ebute Metta, Lagos, threw the weight of the pensioners behind the verification exercise, saying that the union shared the view of the railway management on the exercise.

He said: “This exercise will go a long way to justify and sustain our persistent claim that there are no ghost pensioners in NRC. It is the tradition of the pensioners’ union to collaborate with the management in lobbying for funds to offset genuine claims and entitlements of the pensioners.

“We cannot afford to allow such money to go into wrong hands. Our union is

proud to be associated with a management that does not tamper with or mismanage pension funds.”

Prior to the present administration of President Goodluck Jonathan, railway pensioners in the country easily became

The monthly pension is regular but the general complaint is harmonisation of the pension with other Federal Government agencies.

The minimum a railway pensioner earns is N5,000 compared to N8,000 earned by his peer in other agencies

the reference point as far as neglect, hardship and other forms of derogatory expressions were concerned in describing the depth of retirees’ frustration.

After working strenuously for years to move cargoes and human beings across the country when the rail system was still active, majority of the workers who retired were abandoned to their fate with their pensions stolen by corrupt government officials.

However, recent determination by the current administration to revive the rail system is going along with the drive to improve the welfare of the workers and that of the retirees.

New Telegraph source at the pensioners’ pool at the headquarters provided insight into this when he said that things had improved for the pensioners better than it was in the past.

He said: “We are now being paid as at when due. We are grateful to the president and the minister.

“The monthly pension is regular but the general complaint is harmonisation of the pension with other Federal Government agencies. The minimum a railway pensioner earns is N5,000 compared to N8,000 earned by his peer in other agencies.

“Even if the 33 per cent is eventually approved we will still be underpaid. We have written series of letters to the minister and he set up a committee and the committee believes that we have a case so they are working on it.

“We are over 18,000 spread across the country. We cannot give government any ultimatum, we are only appealing but we are hoping it will come on time. We want the harmonisation done before the 33 per cent increase, otherwise we will still end up being underpaid.”

36

BUSINESS |PENSION

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

Oyo pensioners now more miserable –Balogun PATHETIC Fraud cut short retirees' monthly stipend.

Sunday Ojeme

F

ollowing the pension scam that rocked the Oyo State Local Government Service Pensions Board last year, a former lawmaker in the state, Senator Lekan Balogun, said life was becoming more miserable for pensioners in the state.

Balogun, who lamented the plight of the pensioners, said apart from the fact that they were not being paid as at when due, the aged retirees were also not receiving the amount due to them.

He said: “From the story I picked up, there are some scandals in the pension purse relating to missing funds. This has resulted in pensioners not getting their funds as at when due and becoming miserable.

They are also not getting what they should get.

“In fact, pensioners are much more miserable than used to be the case previously.

Though I don’t have the figures, but I am aware that pensioners

are miserable.”

Last year, the Oyo State government, through the Chairman of the Board and the Local Government Service Commission, Chief Lasisi Ayankojo, reported a massive fraud of N2.6 billion at the state’s LGSPB. The alleged culprits, who are currently being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, include the former Head of Service in the state, Mrs. Kudirat Adeleke and 11 others who were arraigned on November 7, 2013, on a 213-count charge bordering on conspiracy, obtaining money through false pretense, and forgery.

The board discovered the fraud aftermath of complaints by local government workers and teacher retirees who claimed that their pensions had not been paid to them by government.

Upon the receipt of the complaints, the board set up a committee to look into the details of the retirees’ grouses, and the committee, in the process of its work, found out that monies were indeed collected by civil servant intermediaries working in the commission and never remitted to the pensioners.

N.Y court to weigh pension privacy

T

he New York state Court of Appeals on March 26 will hear an appeal of a case on whether public pension information should be kept private, according to reports monitored on Stargazette.

The Empire Center for Public Policy has been in a legal battle for years with several public pension systems after lower courts ruled starting in 2011 that the names of pensioners do not need to be made public.

The fiscally conservative think tank in Albany won the right to argue the case before the state’s highest court last June after an appeals court in Albany ruled in February 2013 to keep private the details of teachers’ pensions.

Timothy Hoefer, executive director of the Empire Center, said the ultimate decision by the Court of Appeals would have a significant impact on what pension information is made public.

“This is incredibly important,” Hoefer said. “If we don’t prevail on this measure, then we lose a major right of access to pensioners’ names.”

In recent years, most public pension systems in New York have refused to release details about pension recipients and how much they are receiving in retirement.

The only one to keep the records public is the retirement system managed by the Comptroller’s Office. It is the state’s largest pension system, with more than 1 million active members and retirees, and valued at $173.2 billion.

The Empire Center sued the state Teachers’ Retirement System in 2012 after the system in 2011 would no longer release the names of teachers receiving taxpayer-funded pensions. The move came after a state appeals court ruled in October 2011 that a New York City police pension fund was not public.

The center, which publishes pension details on its website, SeeThroughNY.net, has argued that the courts have incorrectly ruled against it. The center claims the courts have confused the right to keep private the details of spousal pension benefits with the actual retired state workers.

L-R: Special Guest of Honour, Mr. Lanre Laoshe; President, Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria, Mr. Fatai Lawal; and Managing Director, Plum Insurance Brokers Limited, Mrs Laide Osijo; during the Miss Insurance Beauty Pageant in Lagos

The money was collected via issuance of cheques to the affected civil servants in their own personal names, rather than through e-payment into the accounts of pensioners.

It was also revealed that the then Executive Secretary and Director, Finance and Administration of the board, between September and November 2010 withdrew cash totaling N680.43 million from the Local Government Staff Account meant for pensioners, and another N1.35 billion from the Teachers Account of the board.

Also, two officers of the board, alongside seven other top civil servants of the board,

collected N173 million from the pensioners’ accounts between September 2010 and March 2011.

The suspects’ last appearance in court was in February while the matter was adjourned till today.

While calling on the state government to inject more discipline into governance, Balogun, who is currently a chieftain of the People Democratic Party, pointed out the need for those in power to always have the welfare of ordinary people at the back of their mind.

He said: “We should have a more disciplined approach to governance. We should be more conscious of catering

for the needs of the ordinary people. That would generate a serious and conscious pursuit of government policies to benefit the ordinary people. Right now, there is no such thing going on here in Oyo. “You will be surprised that even some teachers have been working without salaries here in Oyo State in the last one year. Some have been laid off because they are said not to have gone to primary school yet hold university degrees.

Government keeps saying their salaries are coming. So that is what we now call ‘it’s coming in Oyo’. They will be waiting forever.”

Pension funds: Zenith, UBA, others to collaborate with PFAs CUSTODIANS Six Pension Fund custodians unveiled by CBN.

T

he Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has released names of six licensed pension custodians. The Pension Fund Custodians are expected to collaborate with the Pension Fund Administrators in managing workers’ contributions as stipulated under the Pension Reform Act 2004.

According to the list released by the apex bank, the pension contribution would henceforth be in the custody of First Pension Custodian, UBA Nominee, Stanbic Nominee, Zenith Pension Custodian, Diamond Pension Custodian and FCMB Nominee.

Whereas, the primary functions of the PFAs include opening of retirement savings accounts for all employees with a PIN attached, investing and managing pensions funds and assets and keeping proper books of account of all pension fund transactions managed by it including a data bank for same, it also include receiving directly from the employers, the total pension contributions on behalf of the PFAs and advising the PFAs within 24 hours of the receipt of each contribution, holding pension funds and assets in safe custody and on trust for the employees and his beneficiaries, in a retirement savings account as well as assisting the PFAs in the settlement of claims and in the administration of the pension funds' investment including

the collection of dividends and other related activities.

The Federal Government took the decision to separate the functions based on the wrong management and non-maximisation of previous pension schemes.

The Pension Act also provides that any individual or corporate body that carries on business as a PFA or a PFC without a licence from the National Pension Commission commits a criminal offence. The penalty for an individual is a fine of not less than N5 million or imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years. For a corporate body, the fine is not less than N10 million with a fine of N2 million for each Director or officer of the PFA or PFC with an imprisonment term of not less than five years.

BUSINESS | INTERVIEW 37

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

We are here to stay, says Multichoice boss Nico Meyer is the Chief Executive Officer of Multichoice South Africa, operators of DStv, a pay TV platform in Nigeria. In this interview with select journallists, he speaks on a wide range of issues including piracy, the rate and impact of Multichoice on subscribers, among others.

Business Editor, Ayodele Aminu was there.

How important is AMVCAS’ position and its impact on content development in Africa?

From our perspective in Multichoice, we continue to invest in local content and Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Awards is part of the recognition of local content and its development across the continent. We use the Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Awards as a platform to help nurture local content.

How would you access the impact of Multichoice, DSTV and GOTV content on your subscribers in Africa?

For us, it’s about an experience and the way to convey the experience is through content. So, DSTV which has already been on the continent for 20 years does exactly that. We have also recently launched GOTV to enhance the service. So, to us, content is extremely important to both DSTV and GOTV subscribers, especially local African content. And that is what AMVCA rewards, hence our huge investment in it.

How do you react to the allegation that the rate charged for your services in Nigeria is higher than that of South Africa?

That’s simply not true. When compared, in terms of our services that we provide in other African countries, Nigeria is one of the lowest in terms of what we charge.

But also bear in mind that we also provide services for different levels of income. So, we have structured our bouquets to actually satisfy the different levels of income.

The GOTV service is by far the lowest as per cost and it goes up gradually into the different tiers of services we provide on DSTV, up to premium bouquet. Now when you compare that to the entire continent, Nigeria is actually one of the lowest.

Normally in financial planning, when subscribers increase, the cost should decrease per subscriber. How has that worked in DSTV? There are some factors we need to take cognisance of. One is that we continue to invest in local content. You would have seen in the last ten years that we continue to invest more in local content. Secondly is that with a lot of the international content that we bring, payment is based on the number of people using the services. When you have an increase in the number of people using the service, the cost also increases proportionate to the increase in the number of people using the service. So, unfortunately you discover that when you continue to invest in the industry, the costs is increasing over time.

Part of our investment in local content is because it’s so important to nurture local content in the development of quantities.

For instance, in Nairobi, Kenya, we have set up a studio to facilitate the creation of local content. Also here

in Lagos, we have studios and we are in the process of bringing more and more content into the Lagos studios.

And it is so important that we continue to invest in the industry because that is the only way you get the industry to continue to grow.

How is Multichoice Africa positioning compared to competition?

As I have said, we have been on the continent for over two decades. So, we are here for the long run.

Also, over the last ten years, we have invested heavily in local content through the means of Africa Magic.

So, we are focused on bringing the best digital television experience to the consumer. And that is where our investment is. Our attitude towards competition is that we welcome competition and that is because it expands and continues to grow the industry and our beliefs is that as the industry grows, the quality of content will increase over time to such an extent that we will be able to export some of the content into the international market. And that is when we believe the industry will be on the right track.

In terms of corporate social responsibility (CSR), how does muiltichoice contribute to the community?

Corporate social investment is extremely important to us. Where we see ourselves playing that role is in the area of education on the continent. Our focus for many years now is in the area of the Multichoice Resource centres. We have rolled out these Resource centres around the continent. In Nigeria, we have about 300 resource centres. And what we do at the resource centers is that we utilise the content that we have for the growth of our education sector. We focus around the Natural Geographic Channel, the Animal Channel and the History Channel. In other words, the educational content that we have is provided in these resource centres, which are school-based, for free. And this really helps education on the continent. And this has had a lot of impact across the continent and Multichoice has been doing this for so many years. And we will continue to do so.

Multichoice is firmly committed towards Nigeria. We were twenty years ago and we are now and into the future. I think our track record says it all

How has piracy impacted on your subscriber base in Nigeria?

Piracy is very detrimental to the growth of the creative industry in general. What really happens here is that you need to pump funds into the local industry to make it grow and with piracy, those funds are not available to pump into the industry. We are completely destroying the broadcast industry. And this is applicable to both the local content providers as well as the international content providers. So, we are very active in terms of combating piracy. And piracy comes in many forms, but we have a systematic approach to continuously take on piracy on all fronts. On one side to protect our business, but also to protect the wider business of broadcasting in terms of future development.

Is piracy limited to Nigeria?

Piracy is across the continent and you see many forms of piracy but the actions we take is across the continent.

We see the incidents all across the continent.

What will be Multichoice’s contribution to the Digital Switch over?

We have been very active with various governments across the continent to assist with the digital migration. I think it is important to understand that we have already started digital migration when we launched satellite in Nigeria many years ago. Now that we have gotten to digital terrestrial we continue to offer our assistance. We are very suitable partner to assist many governments in terms of digital switch over. We have also championed the education of the media on digital migration. We have organised digital dialogue summits for the African media across the continent including here in Nigeria. We have the technology, we have the process and we bring the best expertise to the table. We also have the best of content.

All of this we bring to the table.

Many foreign investors in Nigeria do not show commitment by acquiring assets. Is this the same case with Multichoice? Have you come here to stay or are you just a briefcase investor?

We have been in Nigeria for over 20 years. We have local partners and we have invested in numerous properties across the country, from Lagos through Abuja where we have set up our offices. In the future, we will be setting up significant studios in Nigeria and that construction work has already commenced. So Multichoice is firmly committed towards Nigeria. We were twenty years ago and we are now and into the future. I think our track record says it all. Our commitment spans from investment in properties as well as our philosophy to employ local manpower. And through this process we hope to give consumers in Nigeria exactly what they want.

38 BUSINESS | FOR THE RECORDS CONTINUED FROM YESTERDAY 30. ABRIDGEMENT OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Briefing Note Allegation 30: that the financial statement was highly abridged, with poor disclosures of transactions and events of a financial nature.

Response: ii. The financial statement cannot by any stretch of the imagination be described as “highly abridged”. Rather, all transactions in the financial statement were substantiated and were prepared in line with the CBN’s framework with all relevant notes, schedules and disclosures copiously made for clarity.

31. NON- CHALLANCE AND AMCON’S OPERATIONS Briefing Note Allegation 31: that AMCON made a loss (after taxation) of N 2,439,701,422,000 (over N 2.4 Trillion) and also had a negative total equity of N2,345,620,364,000 (over N 2.3 Trillion) at the end of 2011. The FRCN alleges that I should have brought it to the attention of His Excellency, Mr President, that a large portion of the AMCON bonds would be due for redemption by 31 December 2013 and that the inability of the Federal Government to fulfil the guarantee may affect the credit rating of Nigeria negatively. In other words, the CBN breached its statutory objects under Section 2(e) of the CBN Act by not drawing His Excellency’s attention to the matter.

Response: i. A major achievement of the Central Bank was that the AMCON bonds in question that matured at the end of 2013 were successfully redeemed without any budgetary appropriation or call on the Federal Government to guarantee the repayment as referenced above. ii. It must be emphasized that AMCON bonds are not instruments issued by the CBN. On that score, it would be most inappropriate and against every known principle of standard accounting convention for the CBN to incorporate full disclosures on the maturity profile of AMCON’s bonds in its audited financial statements (balance sheet and notes). iii. Rather, in accordance with international best practice, the CBN is only required to disclose in its accounts, the portion of the bonds held by it (the CBN). To this extent, the CBN made appropriate disclosures in the financial statements on the bonds it held as at 31 December 2012. See Annexure T – which is note 6 to the CBN’s 2012 financial statements showing the amount CBN has invested in AMCON bonds.

32. NON-APPROVAL OF 2012 FINANCIAL STATEMENT BY CBN BOARD Briefing Note Allegation 32: that the date of the Board’s approval of the financial statements was not indicated or disclosed and accordingly, the response provided to the President’s request for clarifications indicated that the management letter on the financial statements was yet to be discussed by the Board Audit and Risk Management Committee.

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

Sanusi's response to allegations in relation to suspension

Sanusi

Response: i. The financial statements were presented to the board and approved on 26 February 2013. The date of approval was stated clearly on the balance sheet page behind the signature of each of the directors. (See Annexure U for a board approval dated 26 February 2013 approving financial statements). Issues of a material nature requiring adjustments had been fully incorporated into the Financial Statement prior to presentation to the Board. ii. The items in the Management Letter were suggestions for improvement made by external auditors and these were subsequently considered by the Board Audit and Risk Management Committee and are being implemented

by Management on an on-going basis.

33. COMPLIANCE WITH THE PPA Briefing Note Allegation 33: noncompliance with the provisions of the Public Procurement Act (PPA).

Response: i. The only issue that has been raised to the knowledge of the CBN, is that the CBN, over a period in the past, did not obtain ‘Certificate of No Objection’ from the BPP before awarding contracts. ii. On 11 August 2008 (before my tenure), the CBN wrote to His Excellency, President Yar’adua, requesting for certain exemptions in CBN’s procurement process. See Annexure V. On 20 August 2008, the President gave his approval to the CBN’s application. See Annexure W. iii. In line with this approval, the CBN continued to approve its contracts in full compliance with the Public Procurement Guidelines, with the only exception that it did not apply for a ‘Certificate of No Objection’ based on the Presidential waiver. iv. It should be noted that the CBN’s own

procurement process is more or less identical to the procurement process under the Public Procurement Act (PPA). Indeed, the BPP has had occasion to write in the past commending the CBN’s commitment to transparency and making recommendations for further improving the process. See Annexure X. v. In the course of the CBN interaction with the BPP on this subject, we provided an explanation by way by a letter of 11 August 2013, informing the BPP of the Presidential waiver. After an exchange of correspondences between the CBN and the BPP on this issue, the BPP disagreed that the Presidential waiver constituted an exemption from the requirement to obtain a Certificate of No Objection and insisted that the CBN should start doing so. vi. The CBN, out of an abundance of caution, immediately began to obtain Certificates of No Objection in respect of subsequent procurements within the stipulated threshold. In this regard, the CBN did obtain Certificates of No Objection dated 17 December 2013, 31 December 2013 and 14 February 2014. See Annexure Y [A-D] t. It is important to note that the contracts for which these Certificate of No Objections were issued were approved based on the same process that apply to all the other contracts approved by the Bank. This, in itself, is testimony that the Bank has always complied with the provisions of the Act. vii. It is also important to note that in October 2013, the BPP-appointed consultant (Messrs Sada Idris & Co) also gave the CBN a good bill of health after reviewing the bank’s procurement processes for 2010 and 2011. See Annexure Z. In its final report, the consultant in fact mentioned that the CBN satisfactorily complied with the provisions of the PPA. viii. Furthermore, the CBN has facilitated compliance with the provisions of the PPA by making it a requirement for entities seeking to access the CBN Intervention Projects Fund, to comply with the PPA and to obtain a Certificate of No Objection to Contract Award, where required. See Annexure AA for the BPP Letter of No Objection of 12 October 2010 in relation to procurements by the Nigeria Police Force.

34. UNLAWFUL EXPENDITURE ON CBN INTERVENTION PROJECTS Briefing Note Allegation 34: that CBN Interventions in areas like Education, Community, etc. are unlawful.

Response: i. A principal focus of the CBN Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policy in the last decade (even before my tenure) has been the Educational sector in Nigeria. The CBN Act lists its objects, functions and prohibited activities, and

the Board is empowered to approve the budget and formulate policies of the CBN. The Intervention Projects mentioned are CSR interventions that fully comply with the CBN Act and were duly approved by the Board. ii. It is worth noting that the CSR policy of the CBN is consistent with the activities of many other central banks of developing countries including, Bank Negara Malaysia, the Bank of Namibia, the Bank of Botswana and the Bank of Indonesia. iii. The Federal Government of Nigeria has been aware, supported and encouraged the CBN intervention projects, in recognition of their positive contribution to development. iv. During the recent strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), the CBN intervention projects in universities were an important fulcrum in the settlement negotiations between the FG and ASUU as borne out in the Memorandum of Understanding between the FG and ASUU, where the Intervention Projects were recognised as part of the contributions of the FG to Education in tertiary institutions. v. Furthermore, the FG standing committee on the Implementation of Needs Assessment of Nigerian Public Universities requested that the CBN channel a portion of its annual budget to the identified projects. See Annexure BB - The Interim Report of the Technical Sub-committee of the Committee on the Implementation on Needs Assessment of Nigerian Public Universities. vi. A major aspect of the CBN intervention projects is the Centre for Excellence, which are not merely physical structures. The CBN entered into Memoranda of Understanding with partner Universities to develop a holistic and multi-faceted scheme which includes the establishment of Centres for Excellence under which the CBN would, in the principal areas of Economics and Finance, fund the endowment of Professorial Chairs, create access for Nigerian students to participate in virtual and remote learning with foreign tertiary institutions like Harvard, Princeton, Oxford Universities, and special programs for students of Business and Economics.

In this regard, the CBN is in the process of establishing Centres for Excellence across the geo-political zones of the country including: • Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria • University of Nigeria, Enugu • University of Ibadan, Ibadan • Nigeria Defense Academy, Kaduna • University of Lagos, Lagos • University of Maiduguri, Borno • University of Port Harcourt, Rivers • University of Jos, Plateau • Bayero University, Kano TO BE CONTINUED TOMORROW.

CRIME

39

NEW TELEGRAPH

newtelegraphonline.com/entrepreneur

JULIANA FRANCIS juliana.francis@newtelegraphonline.com

FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 2014

‘State Police is the solution to rising insecurity’ Mr. Rekpene Bassey is the Special Adviser on Security Matters to the Cross River State Governor. In this security chat with CLEMENT JAMES, Bassey speaks about the security challenges confronting Nigeria as a society, insisting that State Police is the solution to the present security problems in the country.

Excerpt; The security challenge seems to be highly politicised in the country. Is that supposed to be the case at this point in time?

I think that’s the first mistake, to begin with. It’s a fundamental error to politicize security. There are three areas in a nation that should not be politicized; Health, Education and Security. You can add economy to the list. The moment you politicise these areas, then you are bound to elicit more challenges. The politicisation of security, for me, is not in good taste at all, even though one may not completely remove elements of politics. But that’s not going to help us.

As an expert on security matters, what are those things that may have been done which escalated insecurity in the country?

Nigeria, to begin with, is the only Federal Republic in the whole world that is operating a centralised policing system.

All nations like ours, from America to India, have levels of policing, from community policing to state policing. In the U.S., they have over 50 police services in the over 50 states. As a matter of fact, there are close to a thousand security agencies which deal with various levels of crimes. FBI, for instance, deals with crime at the Federal level. You have the New York Police Department, Los Angelos Police Department, Oklahoma Police Department, etc. And then they have the Sheriffs. Why are we not practicing it?

Maybe it’s because of the fear that politicians may hijack and manipulate it for selfish interest. That’s about the only fear. But if you look at it from the point of crime prevention, you need to look in the direction of State Police. Security is in the Exclusive Legislative List. The Constitution provides for a Federal Police in the country and says there shall be no other Police. But in the reality of the present threat in the country, we must contemplate the possibility of allowing for the creation of a State Police.

The other problem which has brought us here is that, for the most part, we have been reactive instead of being proactive.

You see, preventive security which is also proactive security is better than reactive security. I give you an example. Somebody wants to commit arson and you ar-

rest him before he commits the act. You have saved the cost of the property and the time used for investigation. A lot of the things happening now started many years back. There had been indications to that effect. But we didn’t deal with it.

From the days of Matatsine in Kan which operated all the way to Adamawa in the 80’s. The indications have been there even from the point of the vast air and sea boundaries. If we want to function at the maximum in security operations, we must take politics away.

Many people say the porous nature of our borders has made the proliferation of small fire-arms possible. If you were in a position to deal with that, what would you do?

In the U.S., the border post from the San Diego flank had some challenges.

Mexicans were crossing into the U.S. at will. Now, what the U.S. government did was to set up the U.S. Border Guard. It’s a full-fledged security outfit aircraft and snoopers, amongst other things. It has the power to patrol the borders between the U.S. and Mexico and there has been tremendous success. One of the things I would do, if I were in a position to do it, would be to create a Nigerian Coast or Border Guard, equip it with all the appurtenances of security equipment and let it work. Now, is it that there are no security outfits that patrol our borders? Of course, there are! The Customs, the Immigration, the Police and the SSS are all there. But they are faced with a whole lot of challenges. You need a dedicated outfit to effectively patrol our borders. And you

Bassey

know that our borders are so vast.

People say our security agencies are not prepared for the magnitude of the current challenge. They allude to allege obsolete equipment and the seeming large number of casualties on the side of security agencies. What’s your take on this?

No, that’s not the point. The point is that our security agencies are largely underfunded and this has some implications on their morale. Now, if you have the best equipment and you have an illmotivated human factor, then you have poor results. The best equipment was produced by man and man needs to man them to produce the best results. But illmotivated personnel will have a problem.

In the face of this therefore, the best alter-

CRIME QUOTE

Do they (US and European states) have the challenges we have? Do they have the issue of where you come from? Do they have the religious crisis that we have? Do they have the level of tribal differences in the states?

Do they have such challenges? So, these are issues that should be put into consideration.

“Do they have the same political issues that we have, the same political problems; that you want to contest as president but because you’re not from the North, you cannot contest? IGP, Mohammed Abubakar

native is to have a State Police. Today as we speak, the army is involved in internal security operations. It has become an action agency. The army is not supposed to be involved in arresting armed robbers, kidnappers, burglars, etc. That is not the role cut out for the army. It should stay within the statutory ambit of protecting the territorial integrity of the country.

That’s why we must address the issue of fiscal federalism.

Recently, it was reported that agents of the United Nations were in the state purportedly to retrace the boundary between Nigeria and Cameroun without consulting with the Nigerian officials. What’s the present situation like?

When we heard it, the office of the Surveyor General was directed to go and find out. Really, there was an apprehension but that has been cleared.

There may have been error in not involving Cross River but our findings shows they were within the limits allowed. The Attorney General of the state is a member of the NigerianCameroun Boundary Commission and he briefed us. The apprehension has been cleared. That said, I must emphasize that no part of our land will be taken by anybody. The loss of Bakassi remains painful to us. So, we will not allow any part of our land to be taken away.

s

40 CRIME

Sanctity of Truth

Four business women arrested for goods diversion

TITBITS Woman urinates on police officer

K

Juliana Francis

eandra Harrison may have gone out of her way to piss off a Texas police officer by allegedly urinating on him during an interrogation, TV station KETK reports.

On Saturday night, Rosenberg Police Department officers were doing a property check of an apartment complex when they allegedly saw a man holding a shotgun and arguing with another man near a car, a Rosenberg officer told The Huffington Post. Other media outlets reported the gun-toting man was Harrison’s father, Leonard Harrison.

Harrison, 21, was inside the car and police claim she refused orders to get out of it. That’s when things got messy, according to police.

As an officer tried to arrest her, she allegedly urinated on him and began laughing, according to KTRK-TV. When she was asked if it was intentional, police claim she said, “It sure was.”

Harrison was charged with harassment of a public servant and resisting arrest. Leonard Harrison was also arrested. He faces a charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, according to Click2Houston.com

D

etectives attached to the Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad (FSARS), Adeniji, Adele, Lagos State, have launched a hunt for two fleeing suspects, after arresting four women for diversion of truckloads of baby wears, valued at millions of naira.

Arrested alongside the four women, is a man. But all five suspects had vehemently denied being part of the gang that used to divert trailers loaded with baby items.

One name however, was constant amongst all the arrested suspects. The name is ‘Iyiola Afusat.’

One of the suspects said she bought some cartons of baby items from Afusat. Another revealed that Afusat kept some cartons filled with baby wears in his abandoned shop.

But the name that has any meaning and interest for detectives is ‘Uche,’ which most of the suspects claimed not to know.

Police detectives are working on the theory that Uche is the brain behind the gang and had been into the crime for long.

The gang apparently used to lay ambush for trailers loaded with baby wears along the Eko-Idumota Bridges.

Police said the gang used to attack and divert such trailers in the wee hours of the mornings and nights as the vehicles are heading to Lagos Island to off load their wares.

Suspects in police custody are; Kuburat Ayinde, Fatimoh Abolakale, Alhaja Muyinat Ogattan, Yetunde Adekunle and Lekan Idris Buraimoh.

According to the police, on March, 1, 2013, undercover detectives trailed some members of the gang to the Ebute-Metta area of Lagos and arrested them.

Police claimed that the arrested suspects had allegedly confessed to working with Uche, whose other names are yet unknown.

Police investigation revealed that Uche is notorious for hijacking goods from unsuspecting traders and truck owners, along the Carter and Eko Bridges of Lagos.

The Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mr. Chris Ezike, in charge of FSARS, who spoke about the arrest of the suspects said: “Items recovered from the syndicate include cartons of kiddies’ shoes, cartons of toys, cartons and bales of readymade clothes. Cartons of school bags, cartons of slippers, ladies knitted tops, cartons of boots, female foot wears, sacks of

Friday, March 21, 2014

Ogattan and Buraimoh

Adekunle, Ayinde and Abolakale

children’s wears, cartons of towels, cartons of food flasks, glass cups, amongst others.”

Narrating how she was arrested, Ogattan said that Afusat was not a friend, but a trader, just like her. They met on Lagos Island where they both sell.

According to her, she bought the items from Afusat, at a very cheap price, but it never crossed her mind that Afusat was robbing other traders.

She added: “Afusat called me at about 3pm some days ago. She said she wanted to know if I would buy some of her goods. I later went to meet Afusat. She gave me some of the goods, which I’ve already sold. I bought the goods for N500, 000. Yes, I know that she used to sell her items cheaper than what is obtainable in the market. This is the first time I would be doing business with Afusat. It was after my arrest that police told me that Afusat diverted and stole some of the goods. I didn’t know they were stolen goods. But these recovered goods do not belong to me. They

belong to Iyiola!”

Ogattan, who admitted knowing the fleeing Uche, said it was long she saw Uche last.

“It was Afusat who called me that Uche wanted to do a work.

Uche and I had never worked before, but I knew him from breweries. I think he was a driver back then.”

Abolakale said that Ayinde came to call her to buy some lace materials and when she got to Ayinde’s shop, police swooped on her.

“I don’t know anything about stolen or diverted goods. What Kuburat told me was that she travels to Cotonou to buy her lace materials. She didn’t tell me that they were stolen goods,” said Abolakale.

Ayinde admitted to selling lace materials, stressing that none of her materials were stolen ones.

She was however the person who went with Iyiola to get an abandoned shop to keep the stolen items.

According to her, she was in her shop, at Herbert Macaulay Street, on the Lagos Island, when

policemen came to arrest her.

She however did not deny knowing the elusive Iyiola. Ayinde explained: “These goods do not belong to me. They belong to Iyiola. She came to drop the goods there. Fatimoh is one of my customers who came to buy lace from my shop. I don’t know anything about Iyiola’s business.”

Buraimoh, the only male among the suspects, said: “I don’t know anything about these stolen items. But it was Kuburat who came to tell me that Iyiola wanted to use my abandoned shop for safekeeping of her goods. I was planning to renovate the shop.

Kuburat told me that Iyiola was her customer. They both promised they would pay me for the use of the shop, but we never got round to agreeing on a particular amount.”

Adekunle like others, denied being part of any gang, insisting she also went to Ayinde’s shop to buy some lace materials before police picked her.

Woman accused of calling 911 when cops refuses sex

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he wanted some 9-funfun. A 58-year-old Florida woman is behind bars for misusing 911 after allegedly asking dispatchers to send an officer she found attractive back to her home for some “extra duty.”

Maria Montenez-Colon, of Punta Gorda, first called 911 on Friday evening saying she wanted her Corvette back.

The officer who responded to the call said the suspect was very drunk when he arrived -and very forward.

She allegedly told the officer he was sexy and asked if he was married. She also allegedly told the officer, “I haven’t been penetrated in years,” and “I am so horny,” NBC-2.com reported.

The officer attempted to get Montenez-Colon back on topic by asking what he could do for her. To which she responded:”You can [expletive] me.”

ARTS FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 2014

NEW TELEGRAPH

www.newtelegraphonline.com/arts

CULTURE

Tony Okuyeme

P

41

enultimate Saturday, Nigerian artist under the aegis of Female Artists Association of Nigeria (FAAN), showcased the contributions of Nigerian women to national development at the grand opening of a two-week Art Exhibition at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, to commemorate the 2014 International Women’s Day. The exhibition was organized in collaboration with the French Institute in Abuja and Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.

In her welcome address, President of the Association, Mrs. Ngozi Rosemary Akande said notable Nigerian women have played major roles in almost every facet of national development, be it in the arts and culture, politics, science and technology, just as they have ventured into areas hitherto dominated by men, which explains why the association gave artists a free hand to paint women achievers who have touched their lives positively at the exhibition.

Noting that Nigeria is blessed with a lot of talented, intelligent and hardworking women, she many of them pass uncelebrated. “They shy away from public art functions such as conferences and art exhibitions, or from participating in politics and governance either due to the long-standing traditions of Africa which relegate them to the homes or due to the responsibility of motherhood and the challenges of child-rearing. Though their creativity is already manifest in the highly skillful home crafts that many of them produce on commercial basis which are sold across West Africa and beyond, some of the women also demonstrate great talents in professions such as painting and sculpture,” she said.

The FAAN president maintained that it was in recognition of the need to correct the imbalance and position Nigerian professional female artists in their proper place that the association is poised to properly equip them to contribute meaningfully to the development of society.

Similarly, the Ambassador of France to Nigeria, His Excellency, Jacques Champagne de Labriolle, acknowledged that no proper solution can be found in any society without the participation of women, saying, “We are now in 2014, well into the 21st century and it should be common knowledge that no sustainable solution to the most crucial social, economic and political problems of any society can be found without the collaboration of the entire society.”

According to him, all over the world, it is usually societies and movements that do not respect women’s rights that are the most prone to violence and terrorism, noting that there were many examples that conflict prevention and peace maintaining are stronger where and when

Without culture, and the relative freedom it implies, society, even when perfect, is but a jungle. This is why any authentic creation is a gift to the future." ― Albert Camus

Nigerian female artists showcase contribution to development

Some of the works on display at the exhibition.

women rights are respected and when there is no gender discrimination.

It should be common knowledge that no sustainable solution to the most crucial social, economic and political problems of any society can be found without the collaboration of the entire society

For the ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Mrs. Salamatu Hussaini Suleiman, the contributions of professional women to national development, such as exhibited by the female artists by using their talent and creativity to induce positive changes in the Nigerian society and promote women’s rights, was certainly admirable and worthy of emulation.

Highlight of the event was a round tour at the exhibition stand where the FAAN President, Mrs. Ngozi Akande, conducted dignitaries round to show

them the various art paintings and sculptures by different female artists.

Present at the exhibition was the Executive Secretary of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), Dr. Barclays Foubiri Ayakoroma who was represented by the Acting Director, Orientation & Cultural Affairs Department, Mr. Alex Omijie and his wife, Chioma, the Director-General, National Gallery of Art, Alhaji Abdullahi Muku who was represented by Mr. Mufu Onifade and other Directors from the National Council for Arts & Culture (NCAC), amongst others.

42 ART

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

Let there be libraries in every street –James Dr Raphael James is the Director General of Centre for Research, Information Management and Media Development (CRIMMD).

He is also the owner of the CRIMMD photo museum of Nigerian history and CRIMMD public library. Author of over a dozen books, he still has six books in press for the celebration of the Nigerian centenary. EBERE AMEH visited CRIMMD recently and writes

B

old and conspicuous, the Nigerian flag hung in front of the one storey building that houses the Centre for Research, Information Management and Media Development at Idimu, a suburb of Lagos, that bright afternoon. Despite the CRIMMD that is boldly inscribed on the front of the building, passers-by do not seem to know the immensity of the treasures that lie within.

The CRIMMD Museum of Photo History is home to amazing collection of photographs and portraits of basically everyone that matter in Nigeria. It also has pictures of historical works of art, and almost every important thing you need to know about the history of Nigeria, dating back to 1800 A.D. With a Director General who is even more of a historian than a curator, one becomes oblivious of the time as he takes one down memory lane, telling the interesting and thought provoking stories behind some of the pictures and relics there.

There are pictures portraying the telltale signs of the slave trade, the European explorers, the merchants of the Royal Niger Company, the Nigerian civil war, among other important events in Nigerian history.

Portraits of Mungo Park; Richard Landers; Fredrick Lord Lugard, who amalgamated Nigeria in 1914 and his wife Flora Shaw, Mary Slessor who stopped the killing of twins in Calabar and other colonial leaders are conspicuously displayed at the museum. So also are pictures of former civilian and military heads of state, governors, the Senate presidents and Speakers of the House of Representatives, Governors of the Central Bank of Nigeria and other important government functionaries.

The pictures of first ladies of Nigeria from Flora Ogbeyalu Azikiwe to Dame Patience Jonathan, including those of other notable women activists like Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, and Margaret Ekpo and all other Nigerians who have contributed in no small measure to the shaping of this great country are not left out.

With a section on great Nigerian revolutionaries like Isaac Boro, Chief Odumegwu Ojukwu and the likes, it also has

Dr. James and children on excursion to the Museum.

relics of these revolutions, flags, stamps, currencies and other memento of historical significance, making it more than a photo museum.

To the left of the museum is the CRIMMD Public Library, which boasts of an array of books and dailies and serves the people of the area.

Though James identifies lack of funds as his major challenge, the location of the museum and the small space which is not enough to take the important treasures are important factors hindering the blooming of the centre.

Locating this rich information hub from Lagos is indeed a herculean task.

A native of Abia state in eastern Nigeria, James studied Psychology at the Ondo State University. Eventually marrying from Ogun State in South-west Nigeria, he believes he is a true Nigerian because according to him “It’s just a few of us who have the courage to do the cross tribal marriage.”

Why History, instead of the Psychology that he studied, you naturally ask?

“I studied psychology but I also have a diploma in journalism. I started my career with Newswatch Communications Limited and that fanned my enthusiasm in the media. However, along the line I discovered that I have more flair for research jobs. So I got immersed in research and that is part of what I’m doing

That all hands should be on deck to ensure that there is at least two libraries in every street of the major cities and indeed everywhere in the country, just as we have churches

today,” he explained.

According to him, about six years ago, he started the museum to encourage the young ones who come to the library to know more about their past.

“I had only a business centre, when I left the services of the Abia State Government House. Along the line I discovered that the young ones came to the business centre with other people’s results. They ask for a tipex and erase the person’s name and make photocopy with their own names on it.”

These youths were job seekers who felt that if they went to an employer and tender their right credential, they might not get a job. Knowing that the certificate does not really matter, what matters is what one knows, James decided to contribute in helping them to improve and change their wrong mindset. “That was how the idea of opening a library in 2004 came up. We called it the CRIMMD Public Library and we encourage people to come read, gain knowledge, tell us thank you and walk away,” he said.

Commissioned on November 15, 2004, it had about 12, 000 registered youths as members who came at different times, before it was moved from Ejigbo to its present site.

It was his attempt to encourage young people to understand our history more, not necessarily by talking, but by the use of photographs, which can tell the story even better, that led to the establishment of the museum. Also, nursing the ambition to be part of the Nigerian centenary project that was coming up then he set up the museum in October 2012, about two years before the centenary programme that we are celebrating now.

“So far it has been good. Many schools around here do come for excursion to the museum and they have been learning a lot from what we have on display. Both the library and the museum

are open to everyone, from children in the nursery and secondary schools to undergraduates and adults, all are free to access the facilities. Though we might not have much of a particular book on a particular discipline, we have books covering practically every discipline.”

Narrating the story of a young doctor who came after her graduation to thank him for the library, which she used to prepare for her exams, James says he is fulfilled.

“Those are the few things that have actually kept me going today. Such testimonies give me a sense of fulfilment. I must say that maybe because of the poor reading culture we have, people don’t come as often as we expect but if JAMB, WAEC or some professional exams like ICAN is coming up, the library is always filled up. I didn’t set it up because of the monetary value. I set it up to see if I can change the world in my own little way, and so far, I think it has been wonderful.”

On how to revamp the reading culture of Nigerian children, he said that all hands should be on deck to ensure that there is at least two libraries in every street of the major cities and indeed everywhere in the country, just as we have churches.

James who is the proud father of Oluebube Sharon James, the youngest author in Nigeria, believes that it takes nothing to start a library, explaining that all that is needed is space and a couple of books. He bemoaned the children’s resort to the internet, adding that while most information online are incorrect, many children actually visit porn sites instead of the reading and the assignment they claim to be doing.

“All you need is a space. If you have two to three books, start with it. You can ask for help from your neighbours CONTINUED ON PAGE 43

ART 43

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

Oye Ogunwale

A

group, Igbo-speaking Community in Lagos State, headed by Chief Ebere Ubani, a retired police chief, has set an agenda to revive Igbo culture and tradition. This project is being carried out in conjunction with the apex body of Ndigbo, Ohanaeze.

Disclosing this to New Telegraph in Lagos recently, an executive member of the group, Chief H.O. Nwaode said this project became imperative in order to hand over Igbo culture and tradition which is fast vanishing to the present and future Igbo generations.

He explained that the project would be launched during this year’s Igbo Day Celebration to be held in Lagos few days’ time.

He point out that it is very appalling that 70 percent of Igbo children born in Lagos and diaspora knew little or nothing about Igbo culture and tradition while some could not even speak their father’s language, Igbo.

Chief Nwaode said that during the Igbo Day, many Igbo traditional costumes, arts and masquerades would be showcased for their children and wives

Group calls for revival of Igbo culture

Atilogu dancers.

to see and appreciate.

Chief Nwaode, who is the chairman of the planning committee of the Igbo Day celebration, said the oc-

casion would also be used to honour many important Nigerians including the former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP),

COSON holds AGM in Lagos Tony Okuyeme

R

ising from a two day meeting in Lagos last week, Board of Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON) took several important decisions to ensure that COSON continues to thrive as Africa’s fastest growing collective management organization. At the meeting presided over

by Chief Tony Okoroji, Chairman of the society, the Board reviewed the report of the management on critical issues.

A statement signed by Mayree Uket for COSON, states that among the many important decisions taken is that May 20, 2014 be set aside for the 4th Annual General Meeting of the society and for the meeting to be held in Lagos. The Annual General meeting, the statement continued, will coincide with the celebration of the 4th anniversary of the approval of COSON by the Federal Government as the nation’s sole Collective Management Organization for musical works and sound recordings, a development which unleashed the revolution in copyright royalty collection and distribution in Nigeria.

“At the Annual General Meeting, the report of the auditors to the members of the society will be reviewed and elections to any vacant positions on the Board will be held During the board meeting, the relationship between COSON and the broadcasting institutions in Nigeria was also reviewed. The Board commended COSON members across the country for their steadfastness and commitment to the mission of the society during the recent events related to the payment of copyright royalties by broadcasting stations in Nigeria.”

The first day of the COSON board meeting was dedicated to training of the members of the Board on Modern Trends in Collective Management and Related Governance Issues. The training was conducted by Mr. Robert Hooijer, one of the most respected experts on copyright collective management in the world. Mr. Hooijer, a former Chief Executive Officer of the Paris based International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC) was for a long period Chief Executive Officer of Africa’s biggest CMO, Southern African Music Rights Organization (SAMRO).

Mr. Hooijer was in the country for the second time in one year to provide

the COSON management cadre with a one week intensive training programme through different aspects of modern collective management including Licensing, Membership, Distribution, Tariff Setting and Accounting.

Among those who attended the management training are Ms. Bernice Eriemeghe, Head of Finance and Administration; Mr. Vincent Adawaisi, Head of Membership; Mr. Isa Aruna, Head of DataTech; Mr. Chibueze Okereke, Head of Licensing; Mr. Efe Enahowo, Senior Executive, Licensing and Ms. Mayree Uket, New Media.

Speaking on the developments, COSON General Manager, Mr. Chinedu Chukwuji said ‘the events of last

Chief Bamanga Tukur for his untiring efforts and contributions to the national development of the country, Nigeria. week emphasize the core values of COSON. The 4th AGM in four years apart from several Extra-Ordinary General Meetings in between is evidence of an organization that is totally dedicated to complying with the rules and regulations and keeping the membership informed on every subject. Ask the agencies that regulate us and they will tell you that at COSON, transparency and accountability are at the heart of our corporate personality and that we take every measure to maintain a world class standard. Our continued investment in the training of the members of our Board and our operatives is because we are focused on being the best in the world.

Knowledge is power. A COSON leadership made up of very knowledgeable people is a huge asset to the creative industry in Nigeria.’

‘Let there be libraries in every street’ CO N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 4 2

on the same street. Those that their children have graduated could donate a book or two to your library and the younger ones would have access to it.

It is better than pilling up those books, keeping them in your house and throwing them away or burning them afterwards. When I newly started, a Truck Pusher (kole-kole) donated some unique books to the library, including one written by Mamman Vatsa. Those books, which I have not been able to see in any bookstore up till now, were meant to be burnt.”

James has written over a dozen books excluding the ones for the centenary that will be out in a few days.

Among the unpublished books for the centenary is ‘100 Women of the Centenary’ , a book that is set to celebrate notable women of the centenary.

His other books for the centenary celebration, which their publication is stalled because of funding are ‘100 Nationalists,’ ‘The History of Nigeria,’ ‘Dates and Events,’ which is a chronology of events from January 1st 1914 to date, everything that happened every single day in Nigeria. ‘Dates and Events’ has over 3000 pages.

Talking about the challenges he faces, James said funding. “Everything I’m doing here is from my own purse. whatever money I realise from the sale of my books is what I put into the library and the museum. Because of that, a whole lot of my friends say I am crazy. At a point I used to believe I was crazy until somebody told me I wasn’t crazy, that I am mad. He said it is because I am making a difference. So I said thank God. “I appreciate those who actually be-

lieve in what I’m doing. I don’t think I’d have done any other thing that would have made me more happy than what I’m doing now. Even when the fund is not coming, I feel satisfied. A couple of friends have said I should look for grants here and there but because of the wrong impression people have about Nigeria, that everybody is doing 419, I can’t approach anybody for funding. If People want to assist or be part of what we are doing here, they can pay us a visit, if they feel satisfied, they can support us and we’d appreciate it.”

James who is a media consultant, researcher, author, curator and librarian, all in one, says he wants to change the world. For his selfless service to his motherland and by extension, mother earth, he has won a number of awards, of which space may not permit us to mention.

44

TOURISM

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

ICC Durban

WTM Africa offers bright prospect –Swart Andrew Iro Okungbowa

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NDABA hosted by the South Africa Tourism (SATOUR) has in the last 24 years been promoted as the premier travel trade exhibition for the Africa continent to showcase its destinations to the world.

It has enjoyed huge following from various key players and organisations across the continent and around the globe since its 24 years existence but all that visibility and advantage may come under threat as a new travel trade event known as WTM Africa (Africa Travel Week) by Thebe Reed Exhibition and UK-based Reed Exhibitions sets to debut in the shores of the country.

This year’s Indaba is billed to hold between May 10 and 12 in its traditional base, the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Durban while the debutant travel show is scheduled to hold in Cape Town at the International Conference Centre (ICC) between May 2 and 3.

Uneasy calm has reigned in the South Africa tourism scene as many people have expressed the fears that the new event, may rival the already established Indaba.

But to get a proper understanding of the various under currents in the South Africa tourism, New Telegraph engaged the founder of Africa Travel Business Association (ABTA), Monique Swart who is based in South Africa.

What is your view of the event?

I am very excited that WTM will be hosting their first ever Africa event and that ABTA will be part of this. WTM is a leading global travel industry event,

having hosted successful exhibits across the globe and we look forward to this event finally coming to Africa.

How will it benefit Africa and how can the continent players take advantage of it?

Face to face networking opportunities are a vital aspect for any business wishing to grow its client and partner base. In Africa, where there is a huge expansion of new companies moving into emerging markets almost daily, the opportunity for companies to get access to good travel service providers and for those service providers and Travel Management Companies’ (TMC) to expand their partner network across the continent is of vital importance.

WTM Africa is going to be a perfect opportunity for companies across all industry sectors to accomplish exactly this. In addition, ABTA, along with some other industry bodies, will be hosting education sessions at WTM Africa, aimed at assisting companies in better understanding the trends, challenges and opportunities within the African Business Travel industry.

Do you think that that Africans are excited by this expo in view of their commitments to other global and regional exhibition?

I think that Africans are very enthusiastic and excited to have the opportunity to be part of WTM Africa.

Wherever I have travelled in the last six months, interest in WTM Africa has been expressed to me at length and I have no doubt that there will be a strong African delegation in attendance from regions including Nigeria, Ghana, Angola and Kenya to name just a few.

market place.

Looking as the South Africa market and taking into view Indaba which is already entrenched and would hold few weeks thereafter, it is a welcome development for the market?

WTM Africa will place a strong focus on including delegates and exhibitors from across the African continent and have done a great job in spreading the word and building interest from many countries outside of South Africa. Through its variety of education sessions, WTM Africa will also have a strong educational element to the event which will make it so much more than just a trade show. From ABTA’s perspective, we are also happy to see that a big focus of the show will be on the business travel industry, where many other shows focus more on leisure travel, so yes, I think it is a very welcomed new event for the African

Do you see it as a competition for Indaba and it is likely to affect the fortune of Indaba?

Indaba is a fantastic event with a long history and I don’t believe that WTM Africa will have much of an impact at this stage. I do think though that whenever a new competitor enters any market place, it is up to the existing companies to ensure that they stay fresh and relevant in order not to lose interest from their current supporters.

From ABTA’s perspective, Africa is such an incredible continent with so many opportunities, and we need to have as many of these types of industry events as possible to promote cross border networking and interaction. There is plenty of opportunities and business to go around.

Indaba launches Premium Lounge

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s Indaba continues preparation for business this year, South Africa Tourism (SATOUR) has created a Premier Lounge as a way of adding value to the annual travel trade exhibition. The chief executive officer of SATOUR, Thulani Nzima has described the new initiative as offering as ‘‘think of the lounge as your officer away from the office during Indaba.’’

It is part of the plans

by Indaba to migrate over the next few years from double-storey stands to a beautifully appointed studio configuration.

The purpose of the new Premium Lounge zone will be to fast-track the focus of INDABA back to deal-making, giving premium exhibitors an area perfectly equipped to accommodate their meetings with buyers.

Exhibitors who make use of the Premium Lounge are guaranteed

up to 15 meetings with quality, hosted buyers every day. Entry to this zone will be carefully managed to make sure that only people who (literally) mean business are granted access.

Premium Lounge studios will only be available to exhibitors who have already taken up Indaba stands of at least 18 square metres, and therefore already meet the product exhibitor qualification criteria.

METRO 45

Friday, March 21, 2014

hun N200,000 bribe, arrest six thieves

cape men

two selegedly hers to guardthe La-

to have a police Ilupeju umbled g their om the

company.

The stolen products are 630bags of PVC chemicals valued at N3 million.

The guards are Obete Obete, Olalere Olanrewaju, while their accomplices are Suleiman Alabi, Akeem Taiwo, Fatai Aweda and Suleiman Aremu.

Aweda and Alabi were the motor boys who came with Taiwo, the driver of the truck, to load the products, while Aremu was the buyer.

Attempting to exonerate themselves, the security guards told police that it was Alabi who lured Braide them into the act.

The state Police Public RelaShe said: “If not that they were tions Officer, Ngozi Braide, con- caught in the act, the security firmed the incident. guards would have come up with

the story that they were overpowered and tied up by the robbers.

“That is the latest trend that we have uncovered among security guard who team up with robbers to rob the companies they are supposed to watch.”

It was gathered that on February 7, the team, which was on a routine patrol around the Ilupeju axis, noticed suspicious movements at No. 6 Industrial Avenue, Ilupeju.

According to a source, one of the principal suspects, Aremu, offered N200,000 bribe to the police, to escape arrest.

Braide said the suspects would be charged to court for conspiracy, stealing and for attempting to bribe the police.

aises IG for reforming police

Peace S), a Organended Police, estabamong police. oorditional

Secretary, Mazi Chibuike Jonas and National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Sule Alhmed, said in a statement that Abubakar deserved commendation for the establishment of the Police Mortgage Bank Limited to ensure that serving and retired police officers own houses of their own.

“He should also be applauded for the introduction of high-tech equipment which has made ap-

prehension of criminals easier,” they added.

While noting that the IG would not have achieved all these without support from President Goodluck Jonathan, the group said one of his greatest achievements was the abolition and dismantling of road blocks nationwide which had reduced corruption among policemen.

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We authorised Okota demolition – LASBCA

L

us in mind; hence we are not surprised when Local Council Development Area was considered for a gigantic people-oriented programme such as Eko Free Health Mission.

“To complement the state programme on health care, centres are very functional, equipped with essential drug, most especially in the area of mother and care. Our primary health centre at Gbadamosi runs a 24-hour service, while those at Ogba, OkeIra, Aguda and Akiode are all providing healthcare for the communities within which they are located and beyond.”

NAPS also commended Abubakar for reinvigorating the police medical services while also ensuring the devolution of power to Zonal AIGs which had brought about smooth running of administration in the police.

The group, which has offices in all the six geo-political zones of the country, also commended the IG for renovation of barracks across the country.

agos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) has cleared the air on the demolition of buildings of one Mrs Tessy Ego and five others at Ago-Okota Road in Lagos.

The LASBCA General Manager, Mrs Bola Animashaun, told our correspondent that the buildings were demolished on legal grounds because they had no appropriate ownership documents such as certificates of occupancy (C of Os) and building plan approvals.

Animashaun cited Lagos law reform of 2010 on urban, regional planning and physical development which deprived unauthorised buildings without C of Os, building approvals and other title documents of legal status.

Ego had told NT Metro that she had all the docu-

ments of right to ownership.

The women, who claimed that her house was demolished by unknown people without notice, said she bought the house in 2010 from one Alhaji Akilogu.

She said: “The place is a close, not a road or a partway. I wonder if the place is obstructing any government plan on any project and when we met with the surveyor general, we were told that the place is not government acquisition.”

Ego alleged that a Chinese company in the area was behind the demolition because of its desire for expansion at all costs.

She also claimed that one of the victims was approached earlier to sell his house for N5 million but refused.

Three men to die for killing toddler Babatope Okeowo Akure

T

hree men are to die by hanging for murdering a one and half-year-old girl, Rachael Dada Akingboye, in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.

The men, Olusegun Obaro, Jonah Lase and Theophilus Friday, were sentenced to death by hanging on the orders of Justice Olusegun Odusola of Akure High Court.

The convicts were brought before the court on a two-count charge of abduction and murder of Dada on June 7, 2011 at Ikoriho in Igbokoda.

The offences contravene Section 316 and punishable under Section 319 Criminal Code, Laws of Ondo State of Nigeria 2006. Odusola said the first and second accused were guilty of kidnapping and murder while the third accused was guilty of murder.

The prosecution had brought the accused to court for kidnapping and killing Dada, although they denied the allegations. At the trial, the prosecution called a witness while the accused called one witness each. The Police Sergeant, Odebimtan Dickson, who testified against the accused, said the girl was kidnapped from her mother and found dead a day after, with some of her body parts missing.

In his defence, the counsel to the accused, Mr Wale Omotosho and A. I. Erugba, said the prosecution had not been able

to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt and that he had not been able to establish the guilt of the accused.

According to him, the prosecution did not prove that the deceased was kidnapped for monetary gains or the intention to achieve unlawful purposes.

However, the prosecution counsel faulted the arguments of the defence counsel saying the Investigating Police Officer and the prosecution team had been able to prove their case beyond reasonable doubt.

In his judgment, the judge held that the court was mindful of the fact that the confession of an accused in criminal charge could be used against him and was not binding on the co-accused.

Odusola said the court took into consideration the confession of the 1st and 2nd accused that the 3rd accused person was instrumental to the kidnapping, adding that the confessional statements had satisfied the court about the involvement of each of the accused.

He said: “From the totality of the evidence before this court, the prosecution has proved that the acts of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd accused persons were responsible for the death of the deceased. In sum, I find the tree accused persons guilty of murder.

“The offences for which the accused were charged are strict liability offences. Death penalty is the punishment for each of the counts.

RCCG LP10 holds Holy Ghost Congress

T

he Lagos Province 10 (LP10) of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) holds its Holy Ghost Congress today.

The programme tagged: “My Rain Must Fall,” comes up at the provincial headquarters, Number 2, Somoye Street, Mulero Bus Stop, Agege, Lagos.

It features salvation, deliverance, healing, prosperity and breakthrough.

Expected at the congress are anointed men of God, including Pastor J. O. Olagbade-

gun. The host is Pastor Lucky Onyeemeosi, the Pastor in Charge of Lagos Province 10.

Pastor Onyeemeosi

46 BUSINESS | FINANCIAL MARKET NEWS

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

20-Mar-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.

Bonds

Price

FGN Bonds Issuer

Rating/Agency

NA

NA

Description 10.75 31-MAR-2014 9.20 29-JUN-2014 9.25 28-SEP-2014 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

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Outstanding Value (N'bn)

Maturity Date

TTM (Yrs)

Bid Yield (%)

Offer Yield (%)

Bid Price

Offer Price

31-Mar-07 29-Jun-07 28-Sep-07 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

10.75 9.20 9.25 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

35.00 45.00 100.00 535.00 327.47 452.80 20.00 100.00 300.00 351.30 233.90 600.00 50.00 75.00 150.00 200.00 591.57

31-Mar-14 29-Jun-14 28-Sep-14 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

0.03 0.28 0.53 1.09 2.41 3.10 3.35 3.45 4.19 5.28 5.59 7.86 9.98 14.69 15.17 15.67 16.34

12.05 12.99 14.24 13.58 14.42 14.36 14.21 14.20 14.10 14.03 13.97 13.96 13.80 13.58 13.56 13.53 13.56

7.31 12.44 13.93 13.42 14.35 14.24 14.09 14.08 13.99 13.95 13.87 13.90 13.75 13.54 13.51 13.47 13.50

99.94 98.91 97.56 90.55 97.25 101.75 88.63 87.12 89.46 107.10 73.53 111.30 102.11 108.88 93.16 67.56 76.80

100.09 99.06 97.71 90.70 97.40 102.05 88.93 87.42 89.76 107.40 73.83 111.60 102.41 109.18 93.46 67.86 77.10

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE Rating/Agency

4,167.04 Issuer

Agency Bonds AMCON FMBN

NA

***LCRM

Description

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

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Issue 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 6.00 112.22 116.70 66.49

31-Oct-14 24-May-15 03-Apr-17 09-Dec-16 20-Apr-17 06-Jul-17

0.62 1.18 1.54 2.72 3.09 3.30

1.00 2.63 2.27 2.00 1.49 1.00

15.30 17.09 16.55 16.20 15.74 15.22

91.35 82.41 101.01 89.06 85.92 84.43

05-Aug-14 15-Oct-14 31-Aug-15 30-Sep-15 30-Jun-16 30-Jun-16 19-Apr-17 30-Jun-17 31-Dec-17 30-Sep-18 04-Oct-18 09-Dec-18 12-Dec-18 14-Feb-19 02-Oct-19 22-Nov-19 12-Dec-19 30-Sep-20 27-Nov-20 31-Dec-20 06-Jan-21

0.38 0.57 1.45 0.82 1.35 1.36 3.08 1.91 3.78 2.56 4.54 2.76 2.76 3.34 3.22 5.68 3.37 4.08 6.69 4.09 4.13

4.88 5.99 4.44 3.23 4.46 3.48 5.59 7.60 1.79 1.80 1.00 1.00 1.21 1.00 2.46 1.94 2.74 2.74 1.00 1.44 1.95

18.51 20.26 18.77 17.66 18.84 17.85 19.84 21.70 15.94 15.97 15.05 15.21 15.42 15.21 16.69 15.91 16.95 16.85 14.93 15.55 16.06

98.28 96.73 92.34 95.94 94.67 97.60 78.06 88.37 94.57 95.97 96.60 98.65 104.84 98.26 97.20 94.80 94.72 94.15 94.01 102.11 101.78

07-Oct-14 18-Dec-14 31-Dec-14 17-Aug-15 09-Dec-15 06-Jan-16 29-Sep-16 25-Oct-16 30-Sep-17 30-Nov-17 09-Apr-18 09-Sep-18 09-Sep-18 22-Sep-18 18-Oct-18 17-Feb-19 14-Nov-20

0.55 0.75 0.78 0.93 1.01 1.09 2.53 2.60 3.53 2.15 2.05 2.47 2.47 4.51 2.33 2.66 6.66

1.00 5.21 8.71 4.88 1.00 2.63 1.00 1.34 4.52 1.88 3.48 5.20 5.06 3.06 2.29 6.11 2.76

15.26 19.60 23.12 19.38 15.54 17.13 15.16 15.52 18.71 15.97 17.55 19.35 19.21 17.12 16.41 20.30 16.69

98.07 95.87 95.73 92.48 96.96 97.32 95.59 97.33 85.70 104.69 97.44 97.63 101.80 90.47 98.88 93.92 94.26

11-Feb-18

3.90

1.00

15.14

85.82

Bid Price

Offer Price

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1,304.32

Sub-National Bonds A/Agusto A-/GCR A+/Agusto A/Agusto Nil A+/Agusto A+/Agusto; A+/GCR A-/Agusto A/Agusto A+/Agusto; A+/GCR A-/Agusto; A-/GCR A/Agusto; A-/GCR† A-/Agusto A/Agusto; A-/GCR A/Agusto; A-/GCR Aa-/Agusto; AA-/GCR A/Agusto; A-/GCR A/Agusto Aa-/Agusto; AA-/GCR A/Agusto A-/GCR

KWARA NIGER KADUNA *EBONYI *BENUE *IMO LAGOS *BAYELSA EDO *DELTA NIGER *EKITI *NIGER *ONDO *GOMBE LAGOS *OSUN *OSUN LAGOS *EKITI *NASARAWA

14.00 KWARA 5-AUG-2014 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 14.00 DELTA 30-SEP-2018 14.00 NIGER II 4-OCT-2018 14.50 EKITI 09-DEC-2018 14.00 NIGER III 12-DEC-2018 15.50 ONDO 14-FEB-2019 15.50 GOMBE 02-OCT-2019 14.50 LAGOS 22-NOV-2019 14.75 OSUN 12-DEC-2019 14.75 OSUN II 30-SEP-2020 13.50 LAGOS IV 27-NOV-2020 14.50 EKITI II 31-DEC-2020 15.00 NASARAWA 06-JAN-2021

05-Aug-09 15-Oct-09 31-Aug-10 30-Sep-10 30-Jun-11 30-Jun-09 19-Apr-10 30-Jun-10 30-Dec-10 30-Sep-11 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 06-Jan-14

14.00 14.00 12.50 13.00 14.00 15.50 10.00 13.75 14.00 14.00 14.00 14.50 14.00 15.50 15.50 14.50 14.75 14.75 13.50 14.50 15.00

17.00 6.00 8.50 16.50 13.00 18.50 57.00 50.00 25.00 50.00 9.00 20.00 12.00 27.00 20.00 80.00 30.00 11.40 87.00 5.00 5.00

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

567.90

Corporate Bonds A+/Agusto; AA/GCR Aa/Agusto Nil Bbb-/Agusto A-/Agusto BB+/GCR A+/Agusto; A-/GCR A-/Agusto A/GCR BBB-/GCR BBB+/DataPro†; BB+/GCR A-/DataPro†; BB-/GCR AAA/DataPro†; A+/GCR A/Agusto; A/GCR Bbb+/Agusto; BBB+/GCR BBB-/DataPro†; BB+/GCR A+/Agusto; A-/GCR

LAFARGE WAPCO GTB µ NGC *UPDC *FLOURMILLS *CHELLARAMS NAHCO FSDH UBA *C & I LEASING *DANA# *TOWER# *TOWER# UBA *LA CASERA *CHELLARAMS# NAHCO

11.50 LAFARGE WAPCO 7-OCT 2014 13.50 GUARANTY TRUST 18-DEC-2014 17.00 NGC 31-DEC-2014 10.00 UPDC 17-AUG-2015 12.00 FLOURMILLS 9-DEC-2015 14.00 CHELLARAMS 06-JAN-2016 13.00 NAHCO 29-SEP-2016 14.25 FSDH 25-OCT-2016 13.00 UBA 30-SEP-2017 18.00 C&I LEASING 30-NOV-2017 MPR+7.00 DANA 9-APR-2018 MPR+7.00 TOWER 9-SEP-2018 MPR+5.25 TOWER 9-SEP-2018 14.00 UBA II 22-SEP-2018 15.75 LA CASERA 18-OCT-2018 MPR+5.00 CHELLARAMS II 17-FEB-2019 15.25 NAHCO II 14-NOV-2020

07-Oct-11 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 09-Apr-11 09-Sep-11 09-Sep-11 22-Sep-11 18-Oct-13 17-Feb-12 14-Nov-13

11.50 13.50 17.00 10.00 12.00 14.00 13.00 14.25 13.00 18.00 16.00 18.00 16.00 14.00 15.75 17.00 15.25

11.80 13.17 2.00 15.00 37.50 1.50 15.00 5.53 20.00 0.94 8.01 3.63 1.00 35.00 3.00 0.54 2.05

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

175.67

Supranational Bond AAA/S&P

10.20 IFC 11-FEB-2018

IFC

11-Feb-13

10.20

12.00

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE Rating/Agency

12.00 Issuer

Description

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Issue Value ($'mm)

Maturity Date

Bid Yield (%)

Offer Yield (%)

6.75 JAN 28, 2021

07-Oct-11

6.75

500.00

28-Jan-21

5.67

5.52

106.02

106.89

5.13 JUL 12, 2018

18-Dec-09

5.13

500.00

12-Jul-18

4.79

4.59

101.28

102.06

6.38 JUL 12, 2023

01-Apr-10

6.38

500.00

12-Jul-23

6.08

5.95

102.09

103.01

FGN Eurobonds

Prices & Yields

BB-/Fitch; B+/S&P BB-/Fitch; BB-/S&P BB-/Fitch; BB-/S&P

FGN

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

1,500.00

Corporate Eurobonds Afren PLC I

11.50 FEB 01, 2016

01-Feb-11

11.50

450.00

01-Feb-16

3.85

3.10

113.53

114.98

GTBank PLC I

7.50 MAY 19, 2016

19-May-11

7.50

500.00

19-May-16

5.41

4.85

104.18

105.33

GTBank PLC II

6.00 NOV 08, 2018

08-Nov-13

6.00

400.00

08-Nov-18

6.39

6.12

98.45

99.53

B+/S&P

Access Bank PLC

7.25 JUL 25, 2017

25-Jul-12

7.25

350.00

25-Jul-17

7.29

6.82

99.87

101.24

B/S&P; B/Fitch

Fidelity Bank PLC

6.88 MAY 09, 2018

09-May-13

6.88

300.00

02-May-18

8.33

8.03

95.00

96.00

B/Fitch

Afren PLC II

10.25 APR 08, 2019

08-Apr-12

10.25

300.00

08-Apr-19

5.23

4.65

114.19

115.43

B/S&P; B-/Fitch

First Bank PLC

8.25 AUG 07, 2020

07-Aug-13

8.25

300.00

07-Aug-20

7.30

6.86

103.48

105.16

B+/S&P; B+/Fitch

Afren PLC III

6.63 DEC 09, 2020

09-Dec-13

6.63

360.00

09-Dec-20

6.48

6.22

100.59

101.62

B-/S&P; B/Fitch B+/S&P; B+/Fitch

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

2,960.00

**Treasury Bills DTM 7 14 21 28 35 49 56

FIXINGS Maturity 27-Mar-14 3-Apr-14 10-Apr-14 17-Apr-14 24-Apr-14 8-May-14 15-May-14

Bid Discount (%) 11.70 11.80 11.90 11.80 12.25 11.90 12.60

Offer Discount (%) 11.45 11.55 11.65 11.55 12.00 11.65 12.35

Bid Yield (%) 11.73 11.85 11.98 11.91 12.40 12.09 12.85

Tenor CALL 7 DAYS 30 DAYS 60 DAYS 90 DAYS 180 DAYS

NIBOR

Money Market Rate (%) 10.7500 11.0000 11.3750 11.7083 11.9583 12.2083

Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards)

Tenor

Rate (%)

OBB

10.25

Tenor

Bid ($/N)

Offer ($/N)

10.46

Spot 7D 14D 1M 2M

164.80 164.90 165.16 165.79 166.72

164.90 165.18 165.54 166.54 168.29

O/N Tenor Call

REPO

Rate (%) 10.33

NA

NA

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

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

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

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

535.00 327.47 452.80 20.00 100.00 300.00 351.30 233.90 600.00 50.00 75.00 150.00 200.00 591.57

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

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

1.09 2.41 3.10 3.35 3.45 4.19 5.28 5.59 7.86 9.98 14.69 15.17 15.67 16.34

13.58 14.42 14.36 14.21 14.20 14.10 14.03 13.97 13.96 13.80 13.58 13.56 13.53 13.56

13.42 14.35 14.24 14.09 14.08 13.99 13.95 13.87 13.90 13.75 13.54 13.51 13.47 13.50

90.55 97.25 101.75 88.63 87.12 89.46 107.10 73.53 111.30 102.11 108.88 93.16 67.56 76.80

90.70 97.40 102.05 88.93 87.42 89.76 107.40 73.83 111.60 102.41 109.18 93.46 67.86 77.10

BUSINESS | FINANCIAL MARKET NEWS

47

4,167.04

Local Content: ‘Nigeria loses N61tr Why power firms haven’t listed, by Nebo to oil firms' non-compliance’ Rating/Agency

Description

Issuer

Agency Bonds

AMCON FMBN

NA

HOME GROWN

***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

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Issue Value (N'bn)

Maturity Date

Avg. Life/TTM (Yrs)

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 6.00 112.22 116.70 66.49

31-Oct-14 24-May-15 03-Apr-17 09-Dec-16 20-Apr-17 06-Jul-17

0.62 1.18 1.54 2.72 3.09 3.30

PURCAHSE PACT

Power companies may be allowed to list on the NSE within the next three 17.00 05-Aug-14 0.38 years.

6.00 15-Oct-14 0.57

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

Nigeria should focus on Sub-National Bonds developing indigenous A/Agusto KWARA capacity instead of A-/GCR NIGER A+/Agusto KADUNA looking for assistance.

A/Agusto *EBONYI Nil *BENUE A+/Agusto *IMO A+/Agusto; A+/GCR LAGOS A-/Agusto *BAYELSA A/Agusto EDO A+/Agusto; A+/GCR *DELTA A-/Agusto; A-/GCR lost N61 NIGERtrillion igeria A/Agusto; A-/GCR† *EKITI ($380 billion) in capital A-/Agusto *NIGER A/Agusto; A-/GCR to failure *ONDO of oil flight A/Agusto; A-/GCR *GOMBE companies to develop Aa-/Agusto; AA-/GCR LAGOS A/Agusto; A-/GCR *OSUN local capacity.

A/Agusto *OSUN Executive Secretary, NigeAa-/Agusto; AA-/GCR LAGOS rian Content Development and A/Agusto *EKITI A-/GCR *NASARAWA

Adeola Yusuf

N

Monitoring Board, NCDMB, TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE Mr. Ernest Nwapa, said this Bonds atCorporate the Nigerian Oil and Gas A+/Agusto; AA/GCR LAFARGE WAPCO (NOG) conference in Abuja.

Aa/Agusto GTB µ Nwapa, however, noted that Nil NGC Bbb-/Agusto *UPDC the major challenge is not in A-/Agusto *FLOURMILLS the amount lost, but the conBB+/GCR *CHELLARAMS A+/Agusto;lack A-/GCRof opportunity NAHCO tinued to A-/Agusto FSDH develop the capacity of indiA/GCR UBA vidual BBB-/GCRplayers. *C & I LEASING # BBB+/DataPro†; BB+/GCR *DANA The slow pace of developA-/DataPro†; BB-/GCR *TOWER# ment of the manufacturing caAAA/DataPro†; A+/GCR *TOWER# A/Agusto;of A/GCR pacity indigenous players, UBA Bbb+/Agusto; BBB+/GCR *LA CASERA he said, has also been caused BBB-/DataPro†; BB+/GCR *CHELLARAMS# by this loss.

A+/Agusto; A-/GCR NAHCO TOTAL VALUE mainThe OUTSTANDING NCDMB boss tained thatBond if the manufacSupranational turing capacity ofIFCthe comAAA/S&P panies is not developed, all TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE the achievements recorded in Rating/Agency the area of Local ContentIssuer will fizzle out.

FGN Eurobonds He said: "The current perBB-/Fitch; B+/S&P formance level of indigenous BB-/Fitch; FGN BB-/S&P operators, in the area of engiBB-/Fitch; neering is 90 per cent; fabricaBB-/S&P tion – 60 per cent, while TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUEmanufacturing is 10 per cent.

Corporate Eurobonds "If the manufacturing caB-/S&P; B/Fitch Afren PLC I pacity of the indigenous playGTBank PLC I B+/S&P; B+/Fitch ers is not raised, we will GTBank PLCnot II B+/S&P Access Bank PLC get the much needed growth B/Fitch Fidelity Bank PLC ofB/S&P; Nigerian content."

1,304.32 05-Aug-09 15-Oct-09 31-Aug-10 30-Sep-10 30-Jun-11 30-Jun-09 19-Apr-10 30-Jun-10 30-Dec-10 30-Sep-11 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 06-Jan-14

14.00 KWARA 5-AUG-2014 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 14.00 DELTA 30-SEP-2018 14.00 NIGER II 4-OCT-2018 14.50 EKITI 09-DEC-2018 14.00 NIGER III 12-DEC-2018 15.50 ONDO 14-FEB-2019 15.50 GOMBE 02-OCT-2019 14.50 LAGOS 22-NOV-2019 14.75 OSUN 12-DEC-2019 14.75 OSUN II 30-SEP-2020 13.50 LAGOS IV 27-NOV-2020 Alison-Madueke 14.50 EKITI II 31-DEC-2020 15.00 NASARAWA 06-JAN-2021

He said the unfortunate situation of the Nigerian Immigra11.50 LAFARGE WAPCO 7-OCT 2014 tion employment 13.50Service's GUARANTY TRUST 18-DEC-2014 exer17.00has NGC 31-DEC-2014 cise underpinned the need 10.00 UPDC 17-AUG-2015 for job creation through the 12.00 FLOURMILLS 9-DEC-2015 support of indigenous 14.00 CHELLARAMS 06-JAN-2016 compa13.00noting NAHCO 29-SEP-2016 nies, that manufacturing 14.25 FSDH 25-OCT-2016 is13.00 keyUBA to 30-SEP-2017 long term job creation.

18.00 LEASING 30-NOV-2017 HeC&Idisclosed that in 2014 MPR+7.00 DANA 9-APR-2018 and beyond, NCDMB will MPR+7.00 TOWER 9-SEP-2018 ensure that 9-SEP-2018 firms that flout MPR+5.25 TOWER UBA II 22-SEP-2018 its14.00 directives are sanctioned, 15.75 LA CASERA 18-OCT-2018 while work stoppage fines will MPR+5.00 CHELLARAMS II 17-FEB-2019 be15.25 applied strategically .

NAHCO II 14-NOV-2020 The NCDMB boss maintained that the NCDMB will insist the requirements 10.20 IFCthat 11-FEB-2018 of the law are complied with, noting that it has given operaDescription tors adequate opportunity to fully comply with the law.

He said between 2010 and 6.75 JAN 28, 2021 2012, the NCDMB initiated 5.13 JUL 12, 2018 Capacity Development Inter6.38concentrated JUL 12, 2023 vention, CDIs, on creating awareness on the Nigerian Content requirements and commenced change in the 11.50 FEB 01, 2016 management processes 7.50 MAY 19, 2016 of operators.

6.00 NOV 08, 2018 7.25 JULthat 25, 2017in 2013, Nwapa noted 6.88 MAY 09, 2018 the NCDMB focussed on con10.25 APR 08, 2019

14.00 14.00 12.50 13.00 14.00 15.50 10.00 13.75 14.00 14.00 14.00 14.50 14.00 15.50 15.50 14.50 14.75 14.75 13.50 14.50 15.00

8.50 31-Aug-15 1.45 16.50 30-Sep-15 0.82 13.00 30-Jun-16 1.35 18.50 30-Jun-16 1.36 57.00 urchase agreement 19-Apr-17 3.08 entered 50.00 30-Jun-17 1.91 into by federal government 25.00 31-Dec-17 3.78 50.00 and the privatised 30-Sep-18 2.56 distribu9.00 04-Oct-18 4.54 tion and generating companies 20.00 09-Dec-18 2.76 was one of the reasons delaying 12.00 12-Dec-18 2.76 27.00 14-Feb-19 3.34 the power firms from quoting 20.00 02-Oct-19 3.22 on the floor22-Nov-19 of the Nigerian 80.00 5.68 30.00 12-Dec-19 Stock Exchange (NSE). 3.37 11.40 30-Sep-20 4.08 Power, Professor 87.00Minister of 27-Nov-20 6.69 5.00 31-Dec-20 4.09 Chinedu Nebo, said this yester5.00 06-Jan-21 4.13

Chris Ugwu

P

solidating its CDIs, while it also dialogued, corrected and 07-Oct-11 11.50 cautioned non-compliance 18-Dec-09 13.50 01-Apr-10 17.00 transactions.

17-Aug-10 10.00 Henceforth, he noted that 09-Dec-10 12.00 operators will be expected to 06-Jan-11 14.00 29-Sep-11 13.00 Nigericomply fully with the 25-Oct-13 14.25 an Content Act, adding that it 30-Sep-10 13.00 will not pardon any offender, 30-Nov-12 18.00 09-Apr-11 neither will it bend16.00 the rules 09-Sep-11 18.00 to favour any individual or or09-Sep-11 16.00 22-Sep-11 14.00 ganisation.

18-Oct-13 17-Feb-12 14-Nov-13

15.75 17.00 15.25

day while on a courtesy visit to the Exchange.

He said that the purchase 11.80 07-Oct-14 0.55 agreement allowed 13.17 18-Dec-14 the buyers 0.75 2.00 0.78till ownership of31-Dec-14 the companies 15.00 17-Aug-15 0.93 five years. 09-Dec-15 37.50 1.01 look at the 1.09 situ1.50"When you 06-Jan-16 15.00 29-Sep-16 2.53 ation here, the Nigerian Stock 5.53 25-Oct-16 2.60 Exchange also expects at 3.53 least 20.00 30-Sep-17 0.94 2.15pathree years of30-Nov-17 due diligence, 8.01 perwork and09-Apr-18 submission of2.05an3.63 09-Sep-18 2.47 nual reports09-Sep-18 before a company 1.00 2.47 35.00 22-Sep-18 4.51 is listed.

3.00 18-Oct-18 “Be that as it may, with2.33 the 0.54 17-Feb-19 2.66

567.90

2.05

14-Nov-20

6.66

All-Share Index rises 0.46%

# Risk Premium (%)

Valuation Yield (%)

1.00 15.30 2.63 17.09 2.27 that are 16.55afoot things 2.00 16.20 are1.49encouraging a 15.74 1.00 15.22

Indicative Price

91.35 82.41 101.01 today , we 89.06 dialogue 85.92 84.43

between the successor companies, privatised from the Power Holding Company of Nigeria 4.88 18.51 98.28 (PHCN) and government of Ni5.99 20.26 96.73 geria, especially the National 4.44 18.77 92.34 3.23 17.66 95.94 Council on Privatisation, to see 4.46 18.84 94.67 if these five years can be negoti3.48 17.85 97.60 5.59downward 19.84so that within 78.06 ated 7.60 21.70 88.37 the1.79 next two and -half years, we 15.94 94.57 1.80 will be able to15.97 see them go95.97 to the 1.00 15.05 96.60 stock market because we believe 1.00 15.21 98.65 that veritable 104.84 way of 1.21the most15.42 1.00 15.21 98.26 getting the financing they need 2.46 16.69 97.20 to 1.94 expand their facilities 15.91 94.80and 2.74 much better 16.95 94.72 to give services 2.74 16.85 94.15 our1.00people, will be by going to 14.93 94.01 15.55 he explained.

102.11 the1.44 stock market,” 1.95 16.06 101.78 “So, we are already encouraging them, but it is time bound, so, we are trying to see 1.00 15.26 98.07 if something can be done95.87 legal5.21 19.60 8.71remove that 23.12 time restraint 95.73 ly to 92.48 so 4.88 that they 19.38 can go sooner to 1.00 15.54 96.96 the2.63 stock market.”

17.13 97.32 1.00 15.16 of financing, 95.59 On the issue 1.34 15.52 97.33 Nebo said that the govern4.52 18.71 85.70 ment addressing 1.88 was already 15.97 104.69 17.55 of financing 97.44 the3.48major issue 5.20 19.35 97.63 for5.06 expansion and consolida19.21 101.80 3.06and that is 17.12 90.47 tion where the stock 2.29 16.41 market is very critical. 98.88 6.11 2.76

20.30 16.69

93.92 94.26

175.67

Chris11-Feb-13 Ugwu

10.20

uted the resurgence 12.00 11-Feb-18 of

bears 3.90 to profit takings by market specu12.00 nvestors got respite yesterday lators whose consequential efIssue Date Coupon (%) Issue Value ($'mm) Maturity Date Yield (%) after days of downward trend fect was a loss of N333Bid billion that held sway in the Nigerian within the three days of trading Stock07-Oct-11 Exchange (NSE) as the 500.00 in the value 28-Jan-21 of equities. 5.67 6.75 market sentiments became The equities market closed 18-Dec-09 5.13 500.00 12-Jul-18 positive. on a positive note making4.79the 01-Apr-10 6.38 12-Jul-23 The bear had maintained its 500.00 NSE ASI to appreciate by6.08 0.46 stronghold on the stock market 1,500.00 per cent to close at 37,136.60 baas major blue-chip companies sis points, compared with the join the league of losers, leav- 450.00 depreciation01-Feb-16 of 1.62 per cent 01-Feb-11 11.50 3.85 ing both the market capitalisarecorded previously 19-May-11 7.50 500.00 19-May-16 .

5.41 tion and the All-Share (YTD) 08-Nov-13 6.00Index at 400.00 Its Year-to-Date 08-Nov-18 6.39re25-Jul-12 7.25 days.

350.00 25-Jul-17 the red zone for the past turns currently stands at7.29 9.73 09-May-13 02-May-18 8.33 Market watchers 6.88 had attrib- 300.00 per cent.

I

GTB led 24 gainers against 1.00 15.14 85.82 26 losers topped by Cadbury at the end of yesterday's sessionOffer Yield (%) Price Offer Price an improvedBid performance when compared with previous outlook.

Prices & Yields Market turnover closed posi5.52 106.02 106.89 tive as volume traded appreci4.59 ated by 26.04101.28 per cent 102.06 against 102.09 5.95 per cent 103.01 11.38 decline recorded in previous session.

Access bank, Zenith bank, and United Bank for Africa 3.10 113.53 114.98 (UBA) were 104.18 the most active as 4.85 105.33 they boosted the market turn6.12 98.45 99.53 6.82 Zenith bank 99.87 and GTB 101.24 top over.

8.03 96.00 market value95.00 list.

B/Fitch

Afren PLC II

08-Apr-12

10.25

300.00

08-Apr-19

5.23

4.65

114.19

115.43

B/S&P; B-/Fitch

First Bank PLC

8.25 AUG 07, 2020

07-Aug-13

8.25

300.00

07-Aug-20

7.30

6.86

103.48

105.16

B+/S&P; B+/Fitch

Afren PLC III

6.63 DEC 09, 2020

09-Dec-13

6.63

360.00

09-Dec-20

6.48

6.22

100.59

101.62

FMDQ Daily Quotations List

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

2,960.00

20-Mar-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 FIXINGS Money Market Foreign Exchange (Spot & Forwards) to the FMDQ OTC PLC Terms of Use and Disclaimer Statement.

**Treasury Bills

FGN

DTM 7 14 Bonds21 28 35 Rating/Agency 49 56 63 70 77 91 98 105 112 119 NA 140 168 259 294 308 322 336 350

Maturity 27-Mar-14 3-Apr-14 10-Apr-14 17-Apr-14 24-Apr-14 Issuer 8-May-14 15-May-14 22-May-14 29-May-14 5-Jun-14 19-Jun-14 26-Jun-14 3-Jul-14 10-Jul-14 17-Jul-14 NA 7-Aug-14 4-Sep-14 4-Dec-14 8-Jan-15 22-Jan-15 5-Feb-15 19-Feb-15 5-Mar-15

Bid Discount (%) 11.70 11.80 11.90 11.80 12.25 Description 11.90 12.60 10.75 31-MAR-2014 12.60 9.20 29-JUN-2014 12.50 9.25 28-SEP-2014 12.70 4.00 23-APR-2015 12.25 13.05 16-AUG-2016 12.50 15.10 27-APR-2017 13.10 9.85 27-JUL-2017 13.20 9.35 31-AUG-2017 13.20 10.70 30-MAY-2018 13.20 16.00 29-JUN-2019 13.25 7.00 23-OCT-2019 13.00 16.39 27-JAN-2022 13.30 13.20 14.20 14-MAR-2024 13.30 15.00 28-NOV-2028 13.15 12.49 22-MAY-2029 13.55 8.50 20-NOV-2029 10.00 23-JUL-2030

Offer Discount (%) 11.45 11.55 11.65 11.55 12.00 Issue Date 11.65 12.35 31-Mar-07 12.35 29-Jun-07 12.25 28-Sep-07 12.45 23-Apr-10 12.00 16-Aug-13 12.25 27-Apr-12 12.85 27-Jul-07 12.95 31-Aug-07 12.95 30-May-08 12.95 29-Jun-12 13.00 23-Oct-09 12.75 27-Jan-12 13.05 12.95 14-Mar-14 13.05 28-Nov-08 12.90 22-May-09 13.30 20-Nov-09 23-Jul-10

Bid Yield (%) 11.73 11.85 11.98 11.91 12.40 (%) Coupon 12.09 12.85 10.75 12.88 9.20 12.81 9.25 13.05 4.00 12.64 13.05 12.93 15.10 13.61 9.85 13.76 9.35 13.79 10.70 13.90 16.00 14.11 7.00 14.32 16.39 14.90 14.85 14.20 15.07 15.00 14.96 12.49 15.57 8.50 10.00

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

Bonds Tenor

NIBOR

CALL 7 DAYS 30 DAYS Outstanding 60 DAYSValue 90(N'bn) DAYS 18035.00 DAYS 36545.00 DAYS

Rate (%) 10.7500 11.0000 11.3750 11.7083 Maturity Date 11.9583 12.2083 31-Mar-14 12.5417 29-Jun-14

100.00 28-Sep-14 535.00 23-Apr-15 NITTY 327.47 16-Aug-16 Tenor Rate (%) 452.80 27-Apr-17 1M 12.0959 20.00 27-Jul-17 2M 12.8542 100.00 31-Aug-17 3M 12.9170 300.00 30-May-18 6M 14.1137 351.30 29-Jun-19 9M 14.5083 233.90 23-Oct-19 12M 15.8580 600.00 27-Jan-22 50.00 14-Mar-24 75.00 NIFEX 28-Nov-28 150.00 22-May-29 Current Price ($/N) 200.00 20-Nov-29 BID($/N)591.57 164.5900 23-Jul-30 OFFER ($/N) 164.6900

4,167.04

Tenor

Rate (%)

OBB

10.25

Spot O/N 10.46 7D Offer Yield 14D TTM (Yrs)REPO Bid Yield (%) (%) Tenor Rate (%) 1M Call 10.33 2M 0.03 12.05 7.31 1M 11.25 3M 0.28 12.99 12.44 3M 11.92 6M 0.53 14.24 13.93 6M 12.17 1Y 1.09 13.58 13.42 2.41 14.42 14.35 NOTE: 3.10 14.36 14.24 3.35 14.21 14.09 :Benchmarks 3.45 Bond 14.20 14.08 * :Amortising 4.19 Bond 14.10 13.99 µ :Convertible 5.28 Management 14.03 13.95 AMCON: Asset Corporation of Nigeria 5.59 Government of13.97 13.87 FGN: Federal Nigeria 7.86 Mortgage Bank 13.96 13.90 FMBN: Federal of Nigeria IFC: International Finance Corporation 9.98 13.80 13.75 LCRM: Local Management 14.69Contractors Receivables 13.58 13.54 NAHCO: 15.17 Nigerian Aviation Handling Company 13.56 13.51 NGC: Nigeria-German Company 15.67 13.53 13.47 UBA: United Bank for Africa 16.34 13.56 13.50 UPDC: UAC Property Development Company WAPCO:West Africa Portland Cement Company

*from the Amortising bonds, the average life is calculated and not the duration #

Risk Premium is a combination of credit risk and liquidity risk premiums Rating/Agency Issuer **Exclusive of non-trading t.bills

Agency Bonds AMCON NA

FMBN ***LCRM

TOTAL OUTSTANDING VALUE

Description

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

Tenor

Bid ($/N)

Price

Offer ($/N)

164.80 164.90 164.90 165.18 165.16 165.54 Offer Price Bid Price 165.79 166.54 166.72 168.29 99.94 100.09 168.39 171.08 98.91 99.06 172.08 176.31 97.56 97.71 179.04 188.27 90.55 90.70 97.25 97.40 101.75 102.05 88.63 88.93 NA :Not Applicable 87.12Rate Bond 87.42 # :Floating 89.46 coupon bonds 89.76 ***: Deferred 107.10 107.40 †: Bond73.53 rating expired 73.83 111.30 111.60 102.11 102.41 108.88 109.18 93.16 93.46 67.56 67.86 76.80 77.10

Issue Date

Coupon (%)

Issue 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 6.00 112.22 116.70 66.49

31-Oct-14 24-May-15 03-Apr-17 09-Dec-16 20-Apr-17 06-Jul-17

0.62 1.18 1.54 2.72 3.09 3.30

1.00 2.63 2.27 2.00 1.49 1.00

15.30 17.09 16.55 16.20 15.74 15.22

91.35 82.41 101.01 89.06 85.92 84.43

1,304.32

48 BUSINESS | MONEY LINE

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

Nigeria will be 15th largest economy by 2050 –O’Neill ECONOMIC GROWTH

listed among the expected 15 largest economies by 2050.

“What you are seeing today is the list of the 15 largest economies by 2050 and Nigeria is there. This means that Nigeria can be the 15th largest economy by 2050.

“You have one ingredient in a very substantial way; you have a large and young population that is outstanding significantly," he said.

According to him, if the population is properly harnessed, Nigeria will make it to be the 15th largest economy by 2050.

The management consultant, therefore, urged the Federal Government to ensure that all the strategies it had put in place to drive the economy were implemented.

He said that the Growth Environment Score (GES) had indicated that the largest economies in the world also had large population growth.

The expert noted that the countries that formed 11 largest economies in the world contributed 70 per cent of the world population.

“So, if the 15 countries can do the right things and improve productivity, the world will be diversified and be better.

Strategies put in place to drive the economy must be implemented.

M

r. Jim O’Neill, a former Chairman, Goldman Sachs Asset Management, a consulting firm, said Nigeria could be the world’s15th largest economy if its large population actively participated in economic development.

O’Neill made the prediction at the ongoing 20th Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja yesterday.

The theme of the summit is “Transforming Education through Partnerships for Global Competitiveness”.

He said that events in Brazil, India, Russia and China known as “Bricks Nations” had shown that with their large populations, they could engage the world.

He said that economic growth was driven over a long-term by population and productivity.

O’Neill, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), said that with all available indices, Nigeria had already been

“There are various variables to help them and education is one of them,’’ he said.

O’Neill also charged the government to strive to improve power supply in the country, adding that Nigeria should emulate South Korea, which shared similar indicators with it.

“Today, South Korea has the wealth of a level which is very similar to the so-called G-7 developed nations.

“They are the only large population which has made that change in my life time.

“So, where they did well, you can emulate, harness and develop your society along those lines and you will get to be where they are today," he said.

He said that the Korean situation was possible in Nigeria because the country had more than two times Korea’s population, adding that by 2050 Nige-

G

uaranty Trust Bank Plc expects to increase loans by 15-20 per cent this year after growth of 29 per cent last year as it seeks opportunities in telecom, oil and gas and manufacturing, its chief ex-

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

Offer 163.38

Open-Buy-Back (OBB) Overnight (O/N)

Rate (%) 11.33 11.63

NIFEX Spot ($/N)

Bid 163.4000

he Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) said yesterday, it will sell N313.88 billion worth of treasury bills.

The CBN posted the information on the sale of the treasury bills for the second quarter of the year on its website.

It said the bills would have 91-day, 182-day and one year tenor and would be re-opened at the regular debt auction.

he said.

Shares in GT Bank climbed 8.23 per cent to N25 yesterday.

Agbaje said he expected return on equity (ROE) to grow in excess of 25 per cent this year, compared with 29.3 per cent in 2013.

Offer 163.5000 Source: FMDQ

The apex bank explained that the 91-day treasury bills would be worth N50.28 billion, 182-day worth N33.27 billion and the one year bills were worth N63.73 billion.

It also said it would sell new bills including 91-day Treasury bill worth N33.27 billion, 182-day bills worth N50.28 billion and one year bills worth N83.05 billion.

Cashless policy will boost states’ internal revenue –CBN

T

Money Market Offer 11.85 11.85 11.80

ecutive told Reuters yesterday.

GT Bank CEO Segun Agbaje told an analyst conference call that foreign currency lending to the power and oil and gas sectors drove loan growth last year, though low yields on dollar-based loans cut margins,

T

Treasury Bills Maturity Date 08-May-14 07-Aug-14 22-Jan-15

Jonathan

CBN to sell Treasury bills worth N313bn

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

growth and development of the economy.

“This may determine if you will be the 15th largest economy in the world by 2050.”

GTBank sees 15-20% loan growth this year –CEO

Economic Indicators M2* CPS* INF IBR MPR 91-day NTB DPR PLR Bonny Light Ext Res**

ria would be six times more and wealthier than South Korea.

He noted that no fewer than 45 million people in South Korea had access to modern technology, which they used in helping the growth of the country’s economy.

“If 170 million population of Nigeria is given that tradition, especially the young people, it is a huge change influence, and the second aspect is power.”

O'Neill called for more trade among neighboring countries in Africa in order to improve economic activities in the region.

According to him, if Nigeria can trade with other African nation, it will be more self-fulfilling.

He added that "everything else is education; get all your young people into proper education to give them chance to develop their skills to contribute to

he Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) yesterday said that its cashless policy would boost internal revenue generation capacity of states in the country.

The CBN Controller in Jos, Mr. Mathias Kura, said this at a meeting of the bank’s officials with members of Plateau State Executive Council in Jos. Kura said that the internal revenue gains to Plateau and other states would increase with the implementation of the cashless policy.

"We first introduced this cashless policy in Lagos State and later in six other states and one of its immediate benefits is the significant increase in their internal revenue generation,” he said.

He said that the policy was intended to reduce the cost of money in circulation around the country.

According to him, the government spent more than N140.5 billion on printing of notes, movement and storage of currencies in 2012.

BUSINESS | CAPITAL MARKET 49

Daily Summary as of 20/03/2014 Sanctity of Truth

Printed 20/03/2014 14:40:30.030 Friday, March 21, 2014

The Nigerian Stock Market Exchange as at March 20, 2014 Daily Summary as of 20/03/2014 Printed 20/03/2014 14:40:30.030

Daily Summary (Bonds)

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

Activity Summary on Board EQTY Symbol FTNCOCOA OKOMUOIL PRESCO

No. of Deals 1 5 22 28

Current Price 0.50 42.00 38.80

Quantity Traded 3,966 7,932 327,000 338,898

Value Traded 1,983.00 316,486.80 12,284,580.00 12,603,049.80

Symbol LIVESTOCK

No. of Deals 5 5

Current Price 3.38

Quantity Traded 217,270 217,270

Value Traded 734,372.60 734,372.60

556,168

13,337,422.40

Quantity Traded 387,544 2,942 15,800,003 443,195 16,633,684

Value Traded 526,981.44 3,383.30 59,750,155.88 26,258,078.16 86,538,598.78

16,633,684

86,538,598.78

AGRICULTURE Totals CONGLOMERATES Daily Summary as of 20/03/2014 Diversified Industries Printed 20/03/2014 14:40:30.030 A.G. LEVENTIS NIGERIA PLC. JOHN HOLT PLC. TRANSNATIONAL CORPORATION OF NIGERIA PLC U A C N PLC. Diversified Industries Totals

33 Symbol AGLEVENT JOHNHOLT TRANSCORP UACN

Daily Summary

No. of Deals 11 4 201 68 (Equities) 284

CONGLOMERATES Totals Activity Summary on Board EQTY

OIL AND GAS Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Energy Equipment and Services JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC Energy Equipment and Services Totals Integrated Oil and Gas Services OANDO PLC Integrated Oil and Gas Services Totals Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors CONOIL PLC ETERNA PLC. FORTE OIL PLC. MOBIL OIL NIG PLC. TOTAL NIGERIA PLC. Petroleum and Petroleum Products Distributors Totals Daily Summary as of 20/03/2014 OIL AND GAS Totals Printed 20/03/2014 14:40:30.030 SERVICES Automobile/Auto Part Retailers R T BRISCOE PLC. Automobile/Auto Part Retailers Totals

Activity Summary on Board EQTY Courier/Freight/Delivery

RED STAR EXPRESS PLC SERVICES TRANS-NATIONWIDE EXPRESS PLC. Courier/Freight/Delivery Courier/Freight/Delivery Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Employment Solutions C & I LEASING PLC. Employment Solutions Totals

Current Price 1.34 1.21 3.78 58.90

284

Page Quantity Traded 1,196,910 1,196,910

1

of 12 Value Traded 598,455.00 598,455.00

Symbol JAPAULOIL

No. of Deals 16 16

Current Price 0.50

Symbol OANDO

No. of Deals 212 212

Current Price 14.56

Quantity Traded 6,945,677 6,945,677

Value Traded 95,270,570.63 95,270,570.63

Symbol CONOIL ETERNA FO MOBIL TOTAL

No. of Deals 49 25 1 20 28 123

Current Price 51.90 3.66 93.86 124.86 148.00

Quantity Traded 55,611 163,907 824 213,309 70,651 504,302

Value Traded 2,606,613.15 570,396.36 73,476.08 25,560,240.47 10,396,541.86 39,207,267.92

8,646,889

135,076,293.55

Quantity Traded 7,500 7,500

Value Traded 9,675.00 9,675.00

351 Symbol

No. of Deals 1 1

Current Price 1.35

RTBRISCOE Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol REDSTAREX TRANSEXPR Symbol Symbol CILEASING

No. of Deals Current Price Quantity Traded 10 4.47 332,000 8 2.62 525,000 No. of Deals Current Price Quantity Traded 18 857,000 Page No. of Deals Current Price Quantity Traded 1 0.50 100,000 1 100,000

Value Traded 1,407,920.00 1,375,500.00 Value Traded 2,783,420.00 10 of 12 Value Traded 50,000.00 50,000.00

Hotels/Lodging IKEJA HOTEL PLC Hotels/Lodging Totals

Symbol IKEJAHOTEL

No. of Deals 3 3

Current Price 0.63

Quantity Traded 64,990 64,990

Value Traded 41,427.40 41,427.40

Media/Entertainment DAAR COMMUNICATIONS PLC Media/Entertainment Totals

Symbol DAARCOMM

No. of Deals 2 2

Current Price 0.50

Quantity Traded 4,000 4,000

Value Traded 2,000.00 2,000.00

Symbol LEARNAFRCA UPL

No. of Deals 5 6 11

Current Price 1.64 3.34

Quantity Traded 104,500 89,212 193,712

Value Traded 171,380.00 312,242.00 483,622.00

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol No. of Deals Current Price

Daily Summary as of 20/03/2014 Printing/Publishing Printed 20/03/2014 14:40:30.030 LEARN AFRICA PLC

UNIVERSITY PRESS PLC. Printing/Publishing Totals

Road Transportation ASSOCIATED BUS COMPANY PLC Road Transportation TotalsEQTY Activity Summary on Board Specialty SERVICES SECURE ELECTRONIC TECHNOLOGY PLC Specialty Specialty Totals Published by The Nigerian StockServices Exchange © Transport-Related

AIRLINE SERVICES AND LOGISTICS PLC NIGERIAN AVIATION HANDLING COMPANY PLC Transport-Related Services Totals

5 5

0.93

Quantity Traded 140,250 140,250

Value Traded 126,030.00 126,030.00

No. of Deals No. of Deals1

Current Price 0.50 Current Price

Quantity Traded Quantity 450,000 Traded

Value Traded 225,000.00 Value Traded

Current Price 2.93 4.73

Page Quantity Traded 11,700 2,633,747 2,645,447

ABCTRANS

Symbol NSLTECH Symbol Symbol AIRSERVICE NAHCO

1

No. of Deals 4 61 65

SERVICES Totals

450,000

16,295,309.22

EQTY Board Totals

5,005

320,341,226

3,757,387,682.89

Equity Activity Totals

5,005

320,341,226

3,757,387,682.89

Name VETIVA GRIFFIN 30 ETF Exchange Traded Fund Totals

ETF Board Totals

Daily Summary (ETP) Symbol VETGRIF30

No. of Deals 4 4

Daily Summary (Equities)

Activity Summary ETP Activity Totals on Board EQTY CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE

Current Price 16.78

Quantity Traded 13,051 13,051

Value Traded 218,995.78 218,995.78

4

13,051

218,995.78

4

13,051

218,995.78

Symbol COSTAIN

No. of Deals 15 15

Current Price 1.33

Page Quantity Traded 307,483 307,483

Infrastructure/Heavy Construction JULIUS BERGER NIG. PLC. Infrastructure/Heavy Construction Totals

Symbol JBERGER

No. of Deals 3 3

Current Price 75.00

Quantity Traded 5,513 5,513

Value Traded 392,801.25 392,801.25

Real Estate Development UACN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CO. LIMITED Real Estate Development Totals

Symbol UAC-PROP

No. of Deals 6 6

Current Price 19.25

Quantity Traded 30,600 30,600

Value Traded 589,430.00 589,430.00

343,596

1,390,065.34

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © Building Structure/Completion/Other

COSTAIN (W A) PLC. Building Structure/Completion/Other Totals

CONSTRUCTION/REAL ESTATE Totals CONSUMER GOODS Beverages--Brewers/Distillers GUINNESS NIG PLC Daily Summary as of 20/03/2014 INTERNATIONAL Printed 20/03/2014 14:40:30.030BREWERIES PLC. JOS INT. BREWERIES PLC. NIGERIAN BREW. PLC. Beverages--Brewers/Distillers Totals

24

407,834.09 407,834.09

Current Price 165.00 24.00 3.77 146.00

Quantity Traded 913,438 303,682 200 1,894,379 3,111,699

Value Traded 150,570,720.85 7,528,644.95 718.00 276,047,493.71 434,147,577.51

Symbol 7UP

No. of Deals 22 22

Current Price 91.00

Quantity Traded 108,652 108,652

Value Traded 9,944,633.04 9,944,633.04

Symbol DANGFLOUR DANGSUGAR FLOURMILL HONYFLOUR MULTITREX NASCON UTC

No. of Deals 26 211 73 31 2 46 1 390

Current Price 8.99 8.80 74.50 3.65 0.50 11.48 0.54

Quantity Traded 76,244 8,336,249 Page 417,413 1,910,244 13,997,642 2,640,408 10,000 27,388,200

28,484,954.62 6,870,523.43 6,998,821.00 30,350,729.66 5,600.00 146,325,215.33

Food Products--Diversified CADBURY NIGERIA PLC. NESTLE NIGERIA PLC. Food Products--Diversified Totals

Symbol CADBURY NESTLE

No. of Deals 72 151 223

Current Price 78.00 958.80

Quantity Traded 338,224 339,972 678,196

Value Traded 26,401,366.24 328,860,395.52 355,261,761.76

Household Durables VITAFOAM NIG PLC. VONO PRODUCTS PLC. Household Durables Totals

Symbol VITAFOAM VONO

No. of Deals 19 1 20

Current Price 4.11 1.66

Quantity Traded 200,824 500 201,324

Value Traded 795,914.23 790.00 796,704.23

Personal/Household Products P Z CUSSONS NIGERIA PLC. UNILEVER NIGERIA PLC. Personal/Household Products Totals

Symbol PZ UNILEVER

No. of Deals 28 38 66

Current Price 32.30 45.00

Quantity Traded 348,471 226,504 574,975

Value Traded 11,255,613.30 10,010,494.30 21,266,107.60

32,063,046

967,741,999.47

Beverages--Non-Alcoholic Totals

CONSUMER GOODS Food Products DANGOTE FLOUR MILLS PLC DANGOTE REFINERY Published by The NigerianSUGAR Stock Exchange © PLC FLOUR MILLS NIG. PLC. HONEYWELL FLOUR MILL PLC MULTI-TREX INTEGRATED FOODS PLC NATIONAL SALT CO. NIG. PLC U T C NIG. PLC. Food Products Totals

CONSUMER GOODS Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Daily Summary (Equities)

968

Page

Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services ASO SAVINGS AND LOANS PLC Mortgage Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals

HEALTHCARE Healthcare Providers EKOCORP PLC. Activity Summary on Board EQTY UNION DIAGNOSTIC & CLINICAL SERVICES PLC Healthcare Providers Totals

HEALTHCARE Pharmaceuticals EVANS MEDICAL PLC. Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © FIDSON HEALTHCARE PLC GLAXO SMITHKLINE CONSUMER NIG. PLC. MAY & BAKER NIGERIA PLC. NEIMETH INTERNATIONAL PHARMACEUTICALS PLC Pharmaceuticals Totals

ICT IT Services NCR (NIGERIA) PLC. TRIPPLE GEE AND COMPANY PLC. IT Services Totals Daily Summary as of 20/03/2014 Processing Systems Printed 20/03/2014 14:40:30.030 CHAMS PLC

E-TRANZACT INTERNATIONAL PLC

Symbol No. of Deals AIICO 29 CONTINSURE 3 CORNERST 5 GNI 5 GUINEAINS 1 HMARKINS 1 INTENEGINS 11 LASACO 2 LAWUNION 1 LINKASSURE 1 MANSARD 11 MBENEFIT 2 NEM 17 NIGERINS 1 OASISINS 2 PRESTIGE 10 Daily Summary (Equities) UNIVINSURE 5 WAPIC 99 206

Current Price 0.80 1.00 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.57 0.50 0.50 0.50 2.04 0.50 0.74 0.50 0.56 0.58 0.50 0.68

Quantity Traded 1,738,069 1,140,344 232,047 731,011 1,000 800,000 292,485 25,000 4,000 800 Page 493,614 1,004,000 903,500 11,000 13,213 620,887 18,700 2,858,921 10,888,591

Symbol NPFMCRFBK

No. of Deals Current Price 1 0.71 1

Quantity Traded Page 44,899 44,899

Symbol ASOSAVINGS

No. of Deals Current Price 1 0.50 1

Quantity Traded 497,200 497,200

Value Traded 248,600.00 248,600.00

Symbol AFRIPRUD CUSTODYINS FBNH FCMB ROYALEX STANBIC UBCAP

No. of Deals Current Price 148 2.63 35 1.92 471 11.99 101 3.25 12 0.61 16 20.07 120 2.08 903

Quantity Traded 6,597,132 4,501,499 19,449,832 10,815,866 527,960 41,665 4,874,836 46,808,790

Value Traded 17,279,145.62 8,977,535.70 233,043,183.30 33,599,827.50 304,740.76 838,811.09 10,138,128.64 304,181,372.61

243,410,341

2,209,978,512.70

Quantity Traded 811 1,200 2,011

Value Traded 2,870.94 600.00 3,470.94

2,862

Daily Summary (Equities) Symbol EKOCORP UNIONDAC

No. of Deals Current Price 3 3.72 1 0.50 4

Symbol EVANSMED FIDSON GLAXOSMITH MAYBAKER NEIMETH

No. of Deals Current Price Quantity Traded 7 2.22 19,800 Page 62 2.83 9,127,536 19 70.00 81,817 11 1.85 122,644 12 1.60 84,215 111 9,436,012 115

Value Traded of 12 33,225.26 33,225.26

5

Value Traded 41,799.00 of 12 26,866,046.92 5,727,205.40 229,211.40 128,006.80 32,992,269.52

6

Symbol NCR TRIPPLEG

No. of Deals Current Price Quantity Traded 5 15.99 5,243 1 1.97 334 6 5,577

Value Traded 79,693.60 627.92 80,321.52

Symbol CHAMS ETRANZACT

No. of Deals Current Price Quantity Traded 2 0.50 68,600 3 2.32 50,000 5 118,600

Value Traded 34,300.00 110,500.00 144,800.00

12

Activity Summary on Board EQTY

Value Traded 25,000.00 25,000.00

174,177

Page

250,121.52

7

of

Symbol Symbol ASHAKACEM BERGER CAP CCNN DANGCEM DNMEYER FIRSTALUM IPWA PAINTCOM PORTPAINT WAPCO

No. of Deals Current Price No. of Deals Current Price 44 14.23 6 9.01 16 45.00 16 8.75 53 228.51 3 1.28 1 0.50 1 0.61 1 1.90 3 4.41 89 109.10 233

Quantity Traded Quantity Traded 612,198 40,463 77,138 474,052 202,938 6,800 10,000 400 100 101,000 2,083,284 3,608,373

Value Traded Value Traded 8,721,383.94 351,546.35 3,133,347.69 3,973,253.16 46,468,809.99 8,494.00 5,000.00 232.00 181.00 445,410.00 228,988,446.32 292,096,104.45

Electronic and Electrical Products CUTIX PLC. Electronic and Electrical Products Totals

Symbol CUTIX

No. of Deals Current Price 14 1.74 14

Quantity Traded 990,350 990,350

Value Traded 1,666,501.00 1,666,501.00

Packaging/Containers AVON CROWNCAPS & CONTAINERS W A GLASS IND. PLC. Packaging/Containers Totals

Symbol AVONCROWN WAGLASS

No. of Deals Current Price 1 1.55 1 0.63 2

Quantity Traded 13,480 200 13,680

Value Traded 20,894.00 120.00 21,014.00

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Totals Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

12

Value Traded 1,396,047.49 1,140,344.00 116,023.50 366,510.61 500.00 400,000.00 163,465.61 12,500.00 2,000.00 400.00 4 1,010,798.70 of 12 502,000.00 663,095.00 5,500.00 7,663.54 351,302.65 9,350.00 1,959,289.74 8,106,790.84

32,995,740.46

ICT ICT Totals

INDUSTRIAL GOODS Published

by The Nigerian Stock Exchange © INDUSTRIAL GOODS Building Materials Building Materials ASHAKA CEM PLC BERGER PAINTS PLC CAP PLC CEMENT CO. OF NORTH.NIG. PLC DANGOTE CEMENT PLC DN MEYER PLC. FIRST ALUMINIUM NIGERIA PLC IPWA PLC PAINTS AND COATINGS MANUFACTURES PLC PORTLAND PAINTS & PRODUCTS NIGERIA PLC LAFARGE WAPCO PLC. Building Materials Totals

Value Traded 424,361,362.66 122,411,377.42 111,467,450.29 35,766,199.41 465,370,635.65 23,268,778.43 10,895,547.82 155,953,938.70 4,225,925.50 119,440.00 2,297,850.73 Value Traded 541,270,017.38 1,897,408,523.99

9,438,023

Daily Summary (Equities) Telecommunications Services Symbol No. of Deals Current Price Quantity Traded MASS TELECOMMUNICATION INNOVATIONS NIGERIA MTI 1 0.50 50,000 PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY Telecommunications Services Totals 1 50,000 Daily Summary (Equities)

Value Traded 678,711.78

of

FINANCIAL SERVICES Micro-Finance Banks NPF MICROFINANCE BANK PLC Micro-Finance Banks Totals

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

Processing Systems Totals Daily Summary as of 20/03/2014 Printed 20/03/2014 14:40:30.030

272,935,874.84 of 12

3

N.E.M INSURANCE CO (NIG) PLC. NIGER INSURANCE CO. PLC. OASIS INSURANCE PLC PRESTIGE ASSURANCE CO. PLC. UNIVERSAL INSURANCE COMPANY PLC WAPIC INSURANCE PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services Totals

Quantity Traded 57,312,962 18,849,800 8,417,606 17,898,188 19,352,326 6,793,929 4,973,562 22,953,171 417,475 238,880 2,340,461 Quantity Traded 25,622,501 185,170,861

HEALTHCARE Totals

12 of 12 Value Traded

No. of Deals 84 44 1 118 247

Beverages--Non-Alcoholic Activity Summary onCOMP. BoardPLC. EQTY 7-UP BOTTLING

Symbol GUINNESS INTBREW JOSBREW NB

Printed 20/03/2014 14:40:30.030 MUTUAL BENEFITS ASSURANCE PLC.

Symbol No. of Deals Current Price ACCESS 239 7.60 DIAMONDBNK 50 6.50 ETI 112 13.25 FIDELITYBK 115 2.01 GUARANTY 314 25.00 SKYEBANK 150 3.40 Daily Summary (Equities) STERLNBANK 45 2.22 UBA 216 6.99 UBN 56 10.00 UNITYBNK 2 0.50 WEMABANK 42 0.98 Symbol No. of Deals Current Price ZENITHBANK 410 20.79 1,751

FINANCIAL SERVICES Totals

225,000.00

4,462,899

Insurance Carriers, Brokers and Services AIICO INSURANCE PLC. CONTINENTAL REINSURANCE PLC CORNERSTONE INSURANCE COMPANY PLC. GREAT NIGERIAN INSURANCE PLC GUINEA INSURANCE PLC. CONSOLIDATED HALLMARK INSURANCE PLC INTERNATIONAL ENERGY INSURANCE COMPANY PLC LASACO ASSURANCE PLC. LAW UNION AND ROCK INS. PLC. LINKAGE ASSURANCE PLC Daily Summary as of 20/03/2014 Published by The NigerianINSURANCE Stock Exchange MANSARD PLC©

Other Financial Institutions AFRICA PRUDENTIAL REGISTRARS PLC CUSTODIAN AND ALLIED PLC FBN HOLDINGS PLC FCMB GROUP PLC. ROYAL EXCHANGE PLC. STANBIC IBTC HOLDINGS PLC Daily Summary as of 20/03/2014 UBA CAPITAL PLC Printed 20/03/2014 14:40:30.030 Other Financial Institutions Totals

11 of 12 Value Traded 32,643.00 12,541,491.82 12,574,134.82

107

Daily Summary as of 20/03/2014 Exchange Traded Fund Printed 20/03/2014 14:40:30.030

FINANCIAL SERVICES Banking ACCESS BANK PLC. Daily Summary as of 20/03/2014 DIAMOND BANK PLC Printed 20/03/2014 14:40:30.030 ECOBANK TRANSNATIONAL INCORPORATED FIDELITY BANK PLC GUARANTY TRUST BANK PLC. SKYE BANK PLC STERLING BANK PLC. UNITED BANK FOR AFRICA PLC Activity Summary on Board EQTY UNION BANK NIG.PLC. UNITY BANK PLC FINANCIAL SERVICES WEMA BANK PLC. Banking ZENITH INTERNATIONAL BANK PLC Banking Totals

Published by The Nigerian Stock Exchange ©

249

4,612,403 Page

Page

12

293,783,619.45 8 of 12

9

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12

50 NEWS | WORLD

Friday, March 21, 2014

Crimea: US imposes new sanctions against Russia

P

resident Barack Obama has said the United States is levying a new round of economic sanctions on individuals, inside and outside the government, in retaliation to Kremlin's actions in Ukraine.

Obama, who also signed a new executive order that would allow the U.S. to sanction key sectors of the Russian economy said, the new penalties mark the second round of economic sanctions the U.S. has levied on Russia this week.

The first round of penalties

had little impact in stopping Moscow from annexing the strategically important Crimean Peninsula from Ukraine.

Also, the British Prime Minister, David Cameron said more names would be added to the list of those facing travel bans and asset freezes.

German Chancellor, Angela Merkel said the EU would be ready to impose economic sanctions against Russia, if there were an escalation. Crimea remains tense after its leaders signed a treaty to join it to Rus-

sia.

French President, Francois Hollande said a summit planned for June between the EU and Russia would be cancelled, describing the events of the past weeks as "unacceptable".

Mr Cameron said the countries of the European Union needed to speak with a clear and united voice.

Over dinner Europe's leaders will discuss their next moves.

A few more Russian names may be added to the sanctions

hat. That is the easy part. The names are already drawn up.

The question is whether, this time, they will go after people closer to President Putin. That is less certain”, he stated.

The treaty signed by Crimean leaders with Moscow recently absorbed the peninsula - an autonomous republic in southern Ukraine - into Russia, following a referendum, which the West and Kiev say was illegal.

The treaty has now been approved by Russia's lower house

of parliament - the Duma - and is expected to be ratified by the upper house on Friday.

Speaking ahead of the vote in the Duma, Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov described possible sanctions as "illegitimate" and "not based on international law".

Mr Lavrov said the treaty with Crimea would "be a turning point in the fate of the multi-ethnic peoples of Crimea and Russia, who are linked by the close ties of historical solidarity".

US foreign policy: Israeli PM upsets Kerry

I

n a rare move, the US Secretary of State, John Kerry has picked holes on the statements of the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu over the US foreign policy.

In a telephone interview, Kerry told Netanyahu that the comments made by his Defense Minister, Moshe Yaalon were inconsistent with strong ties between Israel and the United States, the spokeswoman of the state department, Jen Psaki has Afghan security personnel drag and kick the body of a militant at the scene of an attack on a police station in Jalalabad yetserday. said.

At least six Taliban suicide attackers stormed a police station in the centre of the eastern Afghan city of Jalalabad, killing three "Clearly his comments were people in a major assault ahead of the presidential election.The target of the complex assault was a police station close to the not constructive," Psaki told governor's house in Jalalabad city, which has been the scene of repeated militant attacks in recent years.

reporters, after Yaalon accused AFP PHOTO/Noorullah Shirzada the US administration of showing weakness around the world, particularly on its policy with Iran and Ukraine.

Kerry, who spoke with Netanyahu yesterday expressed his orwegian car carrier vessel Defence Minister David John- sightings” as the best lead has arrived at the search ston said. investigators currently have, zone in the Indian Ocean, Australia’s defence forces Australian Maritime Safety after it was diverted from its trip were doing everything they Authority General Manager, from Madagascar to Melbourne. could in one of the most remote John Young said the objects Hoegh Autolines spokesman, locations in the world, Senator were “relatively indistinct on Ben Stack said the car carrier Johnston told AAP in Jakarta, imagery”. arrived on the scene at 8pm lo- where he was attending an inOne was about 24-metres frica’s parliament marked cal time, after the request from ternational defence dialogue. long, approximately double its 10th year anniversary Australian authorities.

Earlier, Mr Johnston told the length of a standard shipin low key, but with some Mr Stack said, he could not Sky News that the operation to ping container, while the other hopes that, it is moving slowly confirm whether those on find debris will be a “logistical one was smaller, and about five towards independence. board the ship had sighted the nightmare”. “This is a terribly metres in length.

Speaker after speaker objects depicted in the satellite complex logistical operation to A flight crew combing the wished the Pan-African Parimagery. identify what we have found via southern Indian Ocean for liament (PAP) well, despite “They want to help in any the satellite,” he said. the missing Malaysia Airlines the blatant evidence that, unway they can and they’re going “We are in a most isolated Flight 370 said they are getting less political leaders on the to do as the Australian authori- part of the world, in fact it radar hits of “significant size,” continent give it real teeth, it ties ask them to,” he said. probably doesn’t get, if I can indicating something lying be- is bound to atrophy.

"This parliament is not supFour Australian aircraft cov- be so bold, more isolated. We low the water’s surface, ABC ered a 23,000 square kilometre are doing everything we can News America also reports. posed to be a department of the “Those who are experts in- African Union (AU) — i t is supexpanse of ocean about 2500km to try to solve this potentially dicate they are credible sight- posed to be independent," the southwest of Perth before air tragic mystery.”, he said. searches were brought to a halt The first search plane ar- ings,” Mr Young told a press PAP’s first president, Gertrude for the day. The search resumes rived back to Perth this eve- conference in Canberra this Mongella of Tanzania, said.

Her remarks were applaudthis morning. ning, confirming it was not afternoon. “The indication to Authorities should know able to find debris. Limited me is of objects that are of rea- ed by parliamentarians and a something definite on the pos- visibility hampered the search sonable size and awash with smattering of current and forwater, bobbing up and down mer heads of state. sible discovery of the debris for flight MH370. within “two or three days’’, Describing the “credible on the surface.”

Ghana’s Jerry Rawlings, a

Missing plane: Norwegian ship arrives Indian ocean, investigates debris

N

displeasure over the comments, adding that the United States has an "unshakeable commitment" to Israel's security.

"It is certainly confusing to us why Defense Minister, Yaalon would continue his pattern of making comments that don't accurately represent the scope of our close partnership on a range of security issues and on the enduring partnership between the United States and Israel."

But Kerry has a "thick skin" and "we're ready to move forward and keep talking about the peace process," Psaki added.

In a later statement issued by the Israeli Defense Minister's office, after he spoke with his US counterpart, Chuck Hagel, Yaalon said: "There was in my comments no criticism or intention to offend the United States."

Africa’s parliament marks low-key anniversary

A

dashing young air force officer when he first seized power in a coup in 1979, conjured up some of the passionate and left-wing spirit of that era when he called for the PAP to be given legislative powers and for its 265 members to be directly elected.

Those reforms are way behind schedule because enough of Africa’s 54 presidents ensure they are never tabled at AU summits. So the PAP remains a merely consultative assembly, whose members are nominated by national parliaments.

"To continue to delay will condemn us to the depths of irrelevance," Mr Rawlings, now a heavily-built 66-year-old, told the audience.

Bosnia goalkeeper wants Osaze at World Cup Emmanuel Tobi

B

osnia-Herzegovina goalkeeper, Asmir Begovic has expressed his delight on the prospect of playing against Super Eagles outcast, Osaze Odemwingie, when

they battle Nigeria at the World Cup finals in Brazil on June 21 at the Arena Pantanal, Cuiabá.

Odemwingie has not played for Nigeria since he fell out with head coach Keshi in 2012.

He took to Twitter to vent his frustra-

SPORT

tion about being subbed in a match against Rwanda, sparking a feud which saw him miss the 2013 African Cup of Nations but he has however apologised for his actions.

Begovic who plays together with Odemwingie at Stoke City maintained that the CONTINUED ON PAGE 53

NEW TELEGRAPH

newtelegraphonline.com/sports

ADEKUNLE SALAMI, DepUTY Editor, SPORTS kunle.salami@newtelegraphonline.com adekunles@yahoo.com

Begovic

Did you know?

That the 1950 World Cup game between Uruguay and Brazil at the Maracana Stadium recorded the highest number of spectators, 199,854!

FRIday, MARCH 21, 2014

AUTHORITATIVE VOICE IN GLOBAL SPORT

Brazil: In Keshi I trust - Hamilton

Keshi

Mercy jacob

F

Hamilton

Jersey of controversy: Nigerians bare their minds }p-53

51

New

or mer Nigerian international, Paul Hamilton, has expressed confidence in the Stephen Keshi-led team to perform at the World Cup, predicting that the Super Eagles will soar high n Brazil.

Hamilton, who was also a former Green Eagles coach, asked Keshi not to be distracted by side talks, but should rather remain focused on the tasks ahead.

“Keshi is a history maker that is why I don’t blink my

eyes when people come with all manner of suggestions.

He grew up as a player under my tutelage and I can attest to what he can do.

“Even as a coach, he has set some remarkable records; since he took over as Super Eagles coach, he has made some remarkable achievements; I would not be surprised if the team gets to the knockout stage in Brazil.”

Hamilton, however, disagreed with Nigerians who believe that the Super Eagles stand no chance in making it to the knockout stage, insisting that the Super Eagles can surprise the world.

“I want to disagree with those who believe that Super

Man Utd ready for any team –Moyes

U-17 World Cup: Nkiyu expects tough Mexico match

}p-54

}p-55

Eagles don’t stand a chance to progress in the World Cup. He said,” If you can remember, no Nigerian gave the Super Eagles a chance at the last African Nations Cup in South Africa and in the end; Eagles came back with the trophy.

“My only worry for Keshi is side talks and distractions generally. I want to advise Nigerians to desist from anything that will affect the team negatively; rather they should pray and support the team to succeed.

“Keshi should be given a free hand to choose his players. He should not accept any player from any quarter no matter the pressure if he hopes to succeed.”

52 SPORT

Sanctity of Truth

SportL

Odion

Friday, March 21, 2014

NEW TELEGRAPH

www.newtelegraphonline.com/Sport

WITH Tobi Emmanuel

0805 400 5669

princetobby@yahoo.com tobi.emmanuel@newtelegraphonline.com

ifestyle

Ighalo Nigeria and Granada of Spain Striker

lantain Rice and p : d o o f t Bes nks k: Soft dri Best drin r: Sky blue ou elona Best col ited: Barc nchester United is v y it c d: Ma Best upporte s b u l c Best 7 : X6 and Q ana Best car er: Dolce and Gabg ign s e Best d e Million fume: On ngs r e p t s e B el So sic: Gosp Best mu Ib r or: M u Best act ss: Mercy Jonhson re Best act Puma : Best BOOT no: 9 y e s Best jer

“I

went with my brother as spectators to watch a local wrestling competition. The contest was between residents of Mile Two, Gambia lane and Baribabou against Ijaw settlers of Mile One of Port Harcourt. While the wrestling bouts were going on, a man who I have not seen in my life challenged my elder brother to a wrestling bout. I was dumbfounded at the challenge; as he started undressing and making jest of my brother.

“In fact, the challenger himself was small in stature like me then. I took it as an insult for this small person to challenge my elder brother. I angrily stripped off my clothes and stepped into the arena; spectators booed me. They murmured and shouted, yet I was not demoralised. They shouted at me saying this small boy was about to die in the hands of a champion.

“Sincerely, I never knew the challenger was a champion. I was discouraged initially, I almost submitted to defeat, but something inside of me urged me on and to the surprise of the spectators, I held him up, slammed him on the ground, and he was gasping for breath.

“The crowd was overwhelmed and just as it is the tradition of our Ijaw people; they carried me shoulder high in jubilation. It happened by accident and that was in 1983 at Egelege ground. I consider that day as

TURNING

POINT VICTOR KODEI the turning point of my life and career.

The feat informed my decision to take up wrestling as a career even till today.

‘A week later, there was another wrestling challenge and all eyes were on me, the rookie that upset a champion. On my own part I wanted more exploits.

“This time, I was directly challenged by an opponent and the immediate past director of sports, in Bayelsa State, Mr. Jackson Bidei, was present at the venue.

As I triumphed, he took me to my parents and asked their permission to train me as a wrestler which was granted and the story to stardom began.

“In 1987, I represented Nigeria at the wrestling event and won a silver medal. In 1988, I started winning gold medal. From 1988 till 2003, I won African title 14 times and five times Commonwealth champion from 1987 till 1992. In 2004, I won my last Common-

wealth Games gold.

“At the Olympics, I was the best in my category from Africa, Commonwealth and the Grand Prix at that time. My first Olympic was the 1988 Seoul Olympics and I was placed eight position in the world when all the eastern bloc were there at the time.

“In 1992, two days before the competition, I sustained an injury on my left knee and was hospitalised where a small surgical procedure was performed.

“After that, I

staged a comeback and qualified to represent Nigeria at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics where I finished sixth. At Sydney 2000, I dropped to 13th position and this was my last outing as an Olympian. The federation internacionale La Lutte, the World Wrestling Body, commended what I had done in Nigeria, I was sent to Senegal to groom wrestlers for the 2012 Olympics.

“The Georgians and Bulgarian experts were there but Senegal could not qualify for the Olympics in the continent.

So FILA sent me there for six months to see if I could change things and with God on my side I did quite well. Eight wrestlers qualified for the London 2012 Olympics.

“When the election time came and Daniel Igali, the technical director moved up to contest, I never knew my time was here to move up too in the Nigerian Wrestling Federation.

“The decision was thrown open to the members of the federation on the best candidate to succeed Igali as Technical Director and after voting I emerged winner. This has been a result of hard work within and outside the country for wrestling development. I am very proud that the NWF is doing well with prospects of bringing out results for Nigeria in future events.”

Vox Pop

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

SPORT 53

Jersey of controversy: Nigerians bare their minds Mixed reactions have continued to trail the Super Eagles World Cup jerseys unveiled by the Nigeria Football Federation few weeks ago. Our correspondents spoke to Nigerians and many of them are of the opinion that the colour of the jersey does not tally with the national colours and want it changed before the World Cup.

Olusola Dada, Brand expert

I

t is unfortunate that we could produce and present such a bad jersey. It looks like Globalcom colour, which is not Nigerian green. I don’t know what that red colour is doing on that white jersey. It should have been green colour over white and you have white colour on the green jersey. That is Nigerian colour. And I must also add that by virtue of my profession, I think the NFF also did a bad job with the unveiling ceremony, it did not befit a country going to the World Cup.

Ajibade Babalade, former Super Eagles player

N

o, I don’t like it at all; it is not a pure green.

When I first saw it on the pages of newspapers and later on the screen during the presentation, I told myself this is bad. We need pure green, the Nigeria green; we all know what the green stands for.

King Fuahd Yamarita, Recording artiste

J

erseys don’t play football.

T h e y shouldn’t use the colour of the jerseys as an excuse if they fail to perform in Brazil, or are they saying that it is only green that they wear at their various clubs? Maybe with this green we will do very well at the World Cup.

Emeka Ezeagwu, Journalist

T

he jersey was a misnomer.

I don’t know why Adidas came up with that. The colour does not represent Nigerian flag even the texture is something else. If they cannot give us something like we had in 1994 World Cup, I think they should have come up with something that we can appreciate. I cannot spend my money to buy that jersey, never!

F

I

was amazed when I saw the colours. They do not represent the national colours of Nigeria.

For over fifteen years, I have watched our national team with keen interest, but I have not seen these colours before in our jersey. I think Nigerians need to know the reasons why the designers and those that approved it decided to distort our national pride.

The presidency needs to call both the manufacturers, designers and the football authorities to order before we go to Brazil for the World Cup.

I

heard that FIFA had asked Africa representatives at next year’s World Cup to use red to differentiate themselves from the rest of the World.

I don’t know how true this is, but if it is not true, I would want those that distorted both the National colours to be tried for sabotage

Nicholas Ukadike, Ex-Eagles player

hat green one, the home jersey is not our traditional green. There is nothing wrong with the white jersey except that red was used for the numbering, but that green needs to be changed to our traditional green.

I

T

Oluwaseyi Aliu, Trader

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ctually, I haven’t seen the home jersey, the green one, but I saw the white one they used against Mexico and it wasn’t bad.

competition.

“I am impressed with the team’s performance so far. I see them getting to the final stage in the competition if they continually improve on their performances.

But, to achieve this, the girls must ensure they get better in every match.

“They must ensure that they are not intimidated by the Europeans or the Asians who are the powerhouse of world female football. We are Africans and we must play with power and pace which we are noted for, he advised.

Shina Okeleji , Sports journalist

I

don’t think Adidas would have gone ahead to produce the jersey if they didn’t get approval from the NFF. The fans and media should ask the NFF the reason for approving the colour and design in the first place. Asking Adidas questions is like asking from the head, we need to ask from the bottom on how it was approved.

Femi Akinola, Businessman

T

he green jersey is not something we are used to but I like the white one they used against Mexico. The only thing I would like them to do is to change the red that was used to number the jerseys. Green should be used instead.

Lagos Council Chairmen Hail Wrestling Federation Charles Ogundiya

N

N

igerians are known for Green and White and any other colour is fake. There is nothing wrong in changing Super Eagles jersey but that green and white which was our colour should not be ignored.

n 2002, we used something similar to this and nobody complained. We’ve used various designs, various colour over the years, and for me if this is what they want that’s alright by me. I don’t think anything is wrong with the color, if we win the World Cup with this jersey, nobody will say anything.

U-17 Women World Cup: Teteh warns Flamingoes against complacency ormer women U-20 Coach, Emmanuel Teteh, has hailed the brilliant performance of the Flamingoes after their 2-1 victory over Colombia on Thursday, advising the Bala Nkiyu-led team not to give room to complacency.

Speaking in an interview with New Telegraph, Teteh advised the Flamingoes to bank on their natural stamina and technics to overpower their opponents in the remaining matches of the

Giwa Ismail, Student

New

Dauda Waheed, Businessman

Ugochukwu Ananaba, Engineer

don’t know what all the fuss is about the jersey because I think it is quite attractive. I really admire it, and I hope it brings us luck at the World Cup.

Mercy Jacob

I

see sabotage in the design of the Eagles World Cup jersey. The red colour used in the inscribing the numbers is alien to us.

North Africans are known to use the red colours because they have red colours in their national flags.

If you observe carefully, you would see that no country in West Africa has red on their flag and none of them inscribed it on their jersey.

Dare Esan, Sports Journalist

Adeboye Ademola, Businessman

I

Old

Daniel Mbeh, Transporter

igeria Professional Wrestling Federation has been commended for recognising the good works of some notable Nigerians at its gala nite held in Lagos recently.

Chairman of Yaba Local Government Development Area, LCDA, Abdul Raheem Jimoh said the award from the wrestlers has laid upon him the task of working more for his people, adding that “sports in Yaba LCDA has received greater attention from my administration and

will continue to receive same as empowerment tool for the youths of the LCDA.” The nite was a grand occasion to honour former Governor of Lagos State, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, his wife Oluremi, chairman of Lagos chapter of All Progressive Alliance, APC, Chief Henry Ajomale and 15 chairmen of Lagos Local councils.

Tinubu was given Governor Emeritus/Leadership award, his wife was honoured with the Best Senator/Good Governance award, Chief Ajomale received Peace Maker award, while the local government chairmen bagged Inter-Continental Good Governance and Peace awards.

54 SPORT | INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL

D

avid Moyes insists Manchester United are ready to take on any side in the Champions League quarterfinals, adding that he believes the Red Devils can win the competition after their stirring secondleg comeback against Olympiakos.

United are the lowest-ranked side in their respective league in Friday’s draw, but Moyes sees no reason why his side can’t go on to win the trophy for a fourth time.

“I hope so,” he said.

“We will probably go into the quarter-final tie as underdogs but I don’t see why not. This football club is capable of it. If we play to our capabilities, which we’ve not shown that often this season, I think we can be

Man Utd ready for any team –Moyes a match for any team.

“This club has history in the competition. It knows what to do at this stage. We’re not shocked

F

or mer Liverpool star Jamie Carragher says Manchester United will be wanted by Europe’s big guns in the next round of the Champions League.

Carragher, who won the Champions League in 2005 with Liverpool, told Sky Sports after United’s 3-0 victory that

to be in the quarter-finals - it’s something we do regularly. We will try to get into the last four now.”

they would be the team that the remaining sides in the competition will welcome in Friday’s draw.

He said: “You worry about them in the next round who they are going to come up against.

“Everyone will be hoping for United in the draw, I think so.”

Carragher

PSG boss backs Zlatan for Ballon d’Or

P

F

“He likes to know what you’re asking him to do, and once he’s understood that, he puts in the necessary motivation and concentration.

“He’s always there an hour before everyone else, working in a professional

ictor Valdes is making progress in talks with Manchester City over a move to England when his Barcelona contract expires, it has been reported.

Spanish daily, Mundo Deportivo, cites a report from French newspaper, L’Equipe, which claims Monaco were hopeful of nabbing the Barca keeper but

ernando Torres insists that he has not given up on his chances of securing a place in the Spain squad for this summer’s World Cup despite been left out of Vicente del Bosque’s side for the recent round of friendlies.

However, the Spaniard, who has only managed four Premier League goals this term, is determined to win back his place in the national team by performing until the end of the season.

“The World Cup is just around the corner and

Draws hold today in Switzerland

T

he draws for the Champions League quarter-finals will take place today in Nyon, Switzerland and is scheduled to start at noon, Nigerian time, with Uefa general secretary Gianni Infantino and director of competitions Giorgio Marchetti in charge of proceedings, assisted by the ambassador for the final in Lisbon, Luis Figo.

The quarter-final ties will be determined by an open draw. At this stage of the competition, no

teams are seeded and clubs from the same national association may be drawn against each other.

The eight teams are Manchester United, Real Madrid, PSG, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Borussia Dortmund, Atletico Madrid and Barcelona.

The quarter-finals are played on a homeand-away basis, with the first legs on Tuesday 1 and Wednesday 2 April and the return legs the following week, Tuesday 8 and Wednesday 9 April.

Bayern way ahead of Dortmund – Muller

Zlatan

Valdes close to Man City switch

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Torres wants Spain World Cup shirt

Moyes

Every team wants United – Carragher

aris Saint-Germain boss Laurent Blanc has stated his admiration for Zlatan Ibrahimovic and believes the striker is the one current player at the club who could win the Ballon d’Or. Blanc said: “He’s a guy who, contrary to what people might believe, is very open. He really loves football. It’s true that, from time to time, he has his bad moments during which you shouldn’t bother him too much. But I’ve known players more difficult to handle than him.

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

manner. In my team, the one who could be the Ballon d’Or is Ibra. He astonishes me with the speed of his movement and his balance, which is in keeping with that of a guy who measures 1.75 metres.”

Valdes

are likely to lose out to City.

It is said that Valdes had previously agreed to move to the principality but a clause in the contract he agreed allows him to break it for City.

Muller

T

homas Muller feels Borussia Dortmund are no longer on the same level as Bayern Munich. BVB finished 25 points behind Bayern in the Bundesliga table last term, but trail Pep Guardiola’s men by 23 points this year.

“Dortmund are no longer on par with Bayern, but are now a team that can make life difficult for us. At some

point, Dortmund were the team that spurred us on to improve,” Muller was quoted as saying by Abendzeitung.

“It is important that the situation changes again. I don’t think things will always be like this, where we could be crowned Bundesliga champions as early as March. Things will get tighter at the top again.”

Torres

those who are in the best form will be the ones to go,” Torres told AS. “I will work, which is the only thing I know how to do, and the final part of the season is very important.”

Neymar unhappy at Barca

Neymar

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eymar’s former Coach Muricy Ramalho says the Barcelona player currently seems sad at Camp Nou. The 58-year-old worked with the player while the pair were at Santos and also criticised Lionel Messi for not passing to Neymar enough.

“He seems sad to me,” Ramalho told TV Globo.

“The team seems to be playing for one man only.

These were the concerns I had about him going to Europe. He is sat on the bench.

“Against Manchester City there were two passages of play in which Neymar was free but Messi didn’t pass him the ball. He will finish being the best player in the world in a year and a bit.

“Messi is still at his peak and Neymar is preparing to be the best with patience. He is on the right track to do it.”

SPORT 55

Sanctity of Truth

Friday, March 21, 2014

Sport Trending U-17 World Cup: Nkiyu expects tough Mexico match TWITTER |@NTelegraphSport

Ruggedman It’s not that Man United won last night’s match, it’s the way they did it. Losing 2 nil in the 1st leg and been written off. They needed 3 goals and they got it. @RuggedyBaba Bimbo Adeola Now, Man United are resurrecting. @bimbolovesmusic Antonio Valencia This is nothing compared to the joy you have given me Manchester. lManchester United player, Antonio Valencia, after posting a picture of his swollen left eye. @ 7AntoV

Frank Edoho With that bump above his eye, they have turned Valencia into Shrek. But good luck anyway to Man U. @frankedoho Wayne Rooney Great performance from the lads and another brilliant atmosphere at Old Trafford. That one was for the fans! @WayneRooney

Charles Ogundiya

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he head coach of the Nigeria Under-17 team at the Under-17 Female World Cup in Costa Rica, Bala Nkiyu, has predicted a tough match against Mexico when both teams battle in their last group match on Monday.

Nkiyu maintained that the team must work harder after their 2-1 victory over Colombia Thursday morning thereby qualifying for the quarter final of the competition.

The Nigeria ladies overcame initial scare from their Colombian opponents

after trailing from a goal from Angie Rodrigues in the third minute.

Needing all three points to stay alive in Group D, Colombia came out of the blocks with a third minute goal as Angie Rodriguez looped a header from a perfect Nancy Acosta cross over the head of stranded goalkeeper, Onyinyechukwu Okeke.

But Flamingoes were able to re-group as the team, drew level just past the midway point of the opening half with Joy Bokiri curling in a free-kick from the edge of the penalty area.

Nigeria took the lead 15 minutes into the second half as some sloppy marking

from a corner allowed Uchenna Kanu to nod the ball in unchallenged at the back post.

Coach Bala said he expected the team to stay till the final of the competition.

“We are grateful to God for the victory, but the hard work starts now. The competition doesn’t end in the quarter final, it extends to the final and I want my team to be there till the last day. But before then, we have to get a win against Mexico on Sunday so that we can top the group. It is not going to be a walk in the park and I have told my players to get the victory needed against Mexico,” he said.

Pistorius to sell house for legal bills

David De Gea What a fantastic night!! Great atmosphere! Thanks for your support, I’ll never forget it! Never give up!! @D_DeGea

O

Rio Ferdinand That response tonight by the players/staff/fans is what makes MUFC special....we won’t get carried away with tonight...a top night though. @rioferdy5 Samuel Eto’o Two children of the same mother,...Mama Africa!!! lChelsea star, Samuel Eto’o, after posting a photo of himself and Didier Drogba. @setoo9 Yohan Blake PEOPLE - this is why I train hard every day so I can help the world to be a better place. Look at this. As I turn up the collar on my favourite winter coat, I see kids in the street with not enough to eat who am I to be blind pretending not to see their need? @YohanBlake Novak Djokovic Visited Google few days ago in San Francisco.Amazing experience.. Played tennis with this Google Glass. Futuristic. @DjokerNole

Maria Hurtado (C) of Colombia and Ugochi Emenayo (R) of Nigeria battle for the ball during the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2014 Group D match between Colombia and Nigeria at Alejandro Morera Soto Scotiabank on March 19, 2014 in Alajuela, Costa Rica.

scar Pistorius is selling the house where he killed Reeva Steenkamp to raise money for his legal bills, the athlete’s lawyer Brian Webber said Thursday.

“Due to the delay in finalizing the trial, the decision to urgently dispose of his single biggest asset has had to be made,” Webber said in a statement.

Pistorius valued the house at $456,000 at his bail hearing last year. He has not been back there since it was returned to him by police over a year ago, Webber said.

Bosnia star wants Osaze at World Cup Give Keshi some CO N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 5 1

Super Eagles will be a tough team at the World Cup. “There are a lot of great forwards in our group, and Peter’s going to be up there. It all depends on who performs in the summer,” Begovic told www.stokesentinel.co.uk.

“There’s going to be difficult games and no match will be easy. The guys from Argentina will take some beating.

“Peter and I have been teasing each other a little bit. He’s not quite sure he’s going to be in the squad yet and we all have to keep working hard to make sure

we get our places for Brazil.

“Once the squads gets finalised I’m sure the banter, the texts and the jokes will be flowing.”

Odemwingie has been quick to im-

press since arriving at the Britannia Stadium from Cardiff City in January.

The 32-year-old has scored three times in seven games mostly from the right wing, including two in a 3-1 win over West Ham last Saturday.

Begovic added, “He’s been great.

I’d heard some good things about him from before, and he’s enjoying playing in the team as much as we’re enjoying having him.

“It seems like the system and the way we are trying to play suits him well. He’s been committed to the cause right from the start.

sources at the headquarters of the NFF that some of the board members who met at the secretariat mandated the Director of Competitions, Sanusi Mohammed, to convey their position immediately to the Nduka Irabor led LCM. Part of the issues the concerned board members have with the style of the LMC is the fact that in delisting the two clubs from the league which the NFF had earlier ratified during its Annual General Meeting in Asaba, Delta State, the federation was never informed

in writing of such a far reaching decision.

They further frowned at the style of the leadership of the company which they say prefers to relate with other stakeholders including the clubs like a master-servant relationship.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Professional Football League Clubs Owners have mandated the LMC to without further delay recall the duo of Giwa FC, and Nembe City FC to the league which is expected to enter Week Three this weekend.

Osaze

NFF board members condemn Nembe, Giwa sacking Jude Opara Abuja

S

ome executive committee members of the Nigeria Football Federation have kicked against the position of the League Management Company of Nigeria to continue to exclude the only two privately owned teams, Nembe City of Bayelsa and Giwa FC of Jos from the ongoing Nigeria Premier League.

New Telegraph learnt from inside

peace, Ejidike pleads

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igerians have been urged to stop distracting Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi, with all manner of suggestions.

Keshi The Chairman of Karate Federation of Nigeria, Chief Donatus Ejidike, who stated this on Thursday, also said it was sad that Nigerians are yet to develop confidence in Keshi after all he has achieved.

Ejidike, who recently bagged Pillar of Sports honour stressed that the Eagles coach was on the right track to achieve success in Brazil.

He said, “It is funny when people talk about players and issues in the national team. We all know that just one person is in charge and the best thing is to leave it at that.

“The coach should be allowed to do his thing his own way. He won the Nations Cup and has also recorded good results including a 2-2 draw with Italy in a friendly match. We have a good team and the coach is also great.

He should be allowed to take whoever or remove whoever.”

World Record

On Marble “If the only prayer you said in your whole life was, ‘thank you,’ that would suffice.”

– Meister Eckhart

Sanctity of Truth

w w w. new tel eg rap ho nl i ne. co m

Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon and the truth – Buddha FRIday, MARCH 21, 2014

Angel Falls is named after the American aviator Jimmie Angel. On November 18, 1933, he became the first person to fly over them.

N150

Unmasking the Nigerian leaders I n 1895, the American writer, Robert W. Chambers published a collection of ten short stories. Most of the stories verged on the weird and since it appeared on the bookshelves, the collection has rightly earned critical endorsement as a classic in the area of supernatural fiction.

One of the stories, “The King in Yellow”, is an imaginary play in which the characters are at a dance. Much to their surprise, a stranger appears wearing a bloodied shroud and Death mask. As the shocked dancers try to unmask the stranger, they find nothing but an empty shroud and Mask, a portent of death and destruction.

It is somewhat early in the year, with nine months still ahead of us and the possibilities of several monumental things happening, but I dare say that March 15, 2014 will be more than a footnote in the annals of Nigeria. I strongly believe that several years from now when people discuss one of the major turning points in Nigeria’s history, that date will have a memorable bittersweet resonance. It will be referred to as the day Nigerian leaders, at least those of this era, were unmasked.

Yes, on March 15, 2014, about 25 Nigerian job seekers, mainly youths, died as they tried to seek legitimate employment. The victims, like the other horde of applicants, found their way to designated venues across the country.

They knew the odds that were stacked against them. Up for grabs were almost 5,000 positions in the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS). Most of them had been applicants for a couple of years and had fallen into this arduous routine that had become like a national employment lottery. So they had gotten used to the fact that they would borrow money to meet the demands of the lottery. In this particular lottery, 600,000 had spent N1000 each as a processing fee, even though from past experience they knew nothing was being processed other than an official scam.

Some other parts of the borrowed money would also be used as transport fare, and the remaining bit would barely suffice for some snacks, refreshment and maybe a meal for the duration of the recruitment exercise. Even as they headed for the venues, figuring out the institutionalised odds against them, some of them knew they were part of the 54 percent of the unemployed youths as stated by a 2012 survey. They also knew that government had been claiming that it was steadily provid-

Graffiti EMMAN USMAN SHEHU

Immigration officers at CGI’s maiden parade

ing jobs. But they were yet to see them.

May be the 5000 Immigration Service vacancies were part of the new jobs.

At the back of their minds, they also knew that performing brilliantly in the recruitment exercise was not a sure-fire guarantee of nicking one of the slots. They would have to press privileged buttons, get in touch with one influential person or the other.

The more influential, the better, preferably a permanent secretary, minister, senator or a member of the House of representatives. A note from one of such highly-connected persons might ensure a placement. The drawback being that even the highly-placed people could have a relation in mind, who would not even show up at the recruitment venue.

So hoping against hope, for to allow hope dwindle would be like self-immolation, they pressed on to the venues.

The day’s challenges segued into each other. Sort one out and the other slots in almost seamlessly. The challenges were like the burden in the myth of Sisyphus.

Not only was there such a surprising overcrowding, the officials simply ignored them for much of the time.

The sun added its bit to their mounting misery

In that Greek myth, Sisyphus was condemned to perpetually rolling a rock up the mountain, only to have the rock roll back to the bottom every time he reached the top. The hopelessness of the struggle with the burden did not take long to manifest for them at the various venues.

Not only was there such a surprising overcrowding, the officials simply ignored them for much of the time. The sun added its bit to their mounting misery. Then relief seemed to be at hand.

The officials moved towards them and then threw the papers in their direction. The desperate surge from every direction in a bid to grab a piece of paper, including those still unable to get into the venue, became a tragic flood.

Confusion…chaos…stampede… and … death. The death toll mounted from venue to venue.

The survivors reached their homes as the day wound to an end. They heard that the Minister of Interior had blamed them for being impatient.

There was not much of a kind word from the Comptroller General. So they hoped the Chairman of the Immigration Board would offer some apology.

The hours dragged on, nothing came from that direction. Still they hoped, given that the news was all over the place that the President would have heard and pause in his preparations for the commencement of the National Conference. They were sure he would show some true leadership qualities-

and do the needful. They imagined he would go on air, do even a brief speech to condemn the shoddy recruitment exercise, suspend the Minister and the Comptroller General, and order an investigation. They were sure he would apologise for what had happened given that a government agency was involved. They wished he would also utter a prayer for the peaceful repose of the souls of the dead, promise that the funerals would be appropriately taken care of and commiserate with families of the deceased, even though he would not be able to make a symbolic visit to any of the homes. They also had two other hopes. They hoped he would order a stop to such recruitment and at the same time instruct the officials concerned to take a more proactive approach to creating jobs. They heard none of the aforementioned as the days went by.

The survivors are wondering what kind of leaders they have in the country. They are wondering where are the compassion and truthfulness that they expect these leaders to imbue from the religions they loudly profess. As the days go by, the survivors realise that an unmasking has taken place even though at the expense of the lives of their colleagues. The survivors can see clearly now. They have a better understanding of the kind of leaders they have. It dawns on them that all those sweet election promises of nirvana in the country are just another scam.

The scales are coming off their eyes.

OmoBaba

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