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Vol. 2 No. 465

Sanctity of Truth

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buhari takes charge

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Former President, Goodluck Jonathan, leaving for the Abuja Airport enroute Port Harcourt. Main Picture: President Buhari acknowledging cheers after taking the Oath of Office at the Eagle Square, Abuja, yesterday.

}5, 8, 45 - 51

l‘I belong to everybody; I belong to nobody’ DJ HUMILITY }19 I lost my dad, an ASP, when soldiers invaded his barracks

ORJI KALU

DENCIA }21 Subsidy removal, fighting The lady I thought corruption should be was my sister was President’s priorities actually my mum }7

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

Contents | 30.05.15 INSTYLE

Pearl It Up Whether it’s traditional attire or western-themed dresses, pearls are outstanding accessories that help accentuate your look

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FRONT ROW

All About Glitz Rahma Indimi Babangida, CEO of Deva Petals and manager of Fashion Cafe, talks about running the luxury fashion platform in Abuja.

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SHOWBIZ

Bitter-Sweet Memories Actress Foluke DaramolaSalako recounts being sexually assaulted as a teen and offers tips on how parents can protect children from the traumatic experience.

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SPORT

A Helmsman’s Legacies Ex-Lagos State sports commissioner, Enitan Oshodi, reminisces on the highs of his time and how the achievements can be built on.

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THE ARTS

Art on the Street Amid the crowded Lagos streets, many Nigerians are discovering that art could help lift them out of poverty.

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DESTINATION

Racing to Recognition The International Road Race may give Okpekpe some spotlight, but the Edo State community is still a rustic enclave in need of urgent development.

}42 Plus: Street Diary 12 | Perspectives 52

SATURDAY

Comment

Culture and the wind of change

eside corruption and other related vices, no other factor has done more damage to the socioeconomic development of our dear country Nigeria, than the trivialisation or outright bastardisation of her rich cultural heritage. Nigeria has an enviably rich cultural heritage that is full of inspiration and vitality, hence its relevance to her political, social and economic development. As erudite scholar and director general of the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC), Prof. Tunde Babawale notes, “Nigeria’s cultural diversity remains a treasure largely unexplored in her continued quest for national integration and ceaseless drive towards nationbuilding; yet, from independence to date, it has been one story of hate and denigration of the nation’s cultural heritage.” As Muhammadu Buhari assumed office yesterday as the President and Commanderin-Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, coming with hope for the much touted change for growth and development, among the sundry issues he is expected to tackle frontally include the hydra-headed monster called corruption, insecurity, power outages, unemployment, poverty alleviation. The fact remains that culture is a veritable means of entrenching progressive human development, enhancing creativity and increasing productivity for the common good; significantly, it can also be used as a stabilising agent and an effective tool for arresting the tide of poverty, unemployment, corruption among other. There is, therefore, need for government to prioritize culture in the economic fortunes and revenue earning projections of this country. In doing this government must empower and strengthen the various cultural agencies and parastatals such as the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilisation (CBAAC), National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), National Troupe of Nigeria (NTN). But importantly, the incoming president should revisit and expedite action on the National Cultural Policy which has been made ineffectual by bureaucratic bottleneck. The imperative for a national cultural policy cannot be overemphasised. As has been argued, the country’s socio-political landscape has been and is still chaotic, impeding growth and development, largely because of the total neglect of culture in our national life. The challenge before us “is to make use of our cultural institutions to facilitate reorientation of our

youths and political actors to imbibe the spirit of brotherhood and service, cultivate a sense of commitment, among other virtues of societal significance. This will go a long way in stemming the tide of political intolerance, character assassination, political violence and political rascality”. This, all the more, underscores the need for a cultural policy, and the provision of infrastructure and enabling environment. Significantly, objectives of the national cultural policy include the provision that it shall “serve to evolve from our plurality, a national culture, the stamp of which will be reflected in African and world affairs; promote an educational system that motivates and stimulates creativity and draws largely on our tradition and values, namely: respect for humanity and human dignity, for legitimate authority and the dignity of labour, and respect for positive Nigerian moral and religious values. “The policy shall promote creativity in the fields of arts, science and technology, ensure the continuity of traditional skills and sports and their progressive updating to serve modern development needs as our contribution to world growth of culture and ideas. The policy shall establish a code of behavior compatible with our tradition of humanism and a disciplined moral society.” The level of hate, violence, character assassinations and blame game that characterized the last elections, reinforces the need for a national cultural policy, and indeed for “change” in governments attitude to matter of and about culture. The contributions of Nigerian writers, artists, filmmakers to not only the development of Nigeria but also to the image laundering of the nation are palpably incontrovertible. The Nigerian movie industry, Nollywood, has continued to attract global attention, putting the nation prominently on the world’s cultural landscape. Yet, two major issues which remain a stumbling block to growth and professionalism in the industry still beg for attention, namely ubiquitous monster called piracy and the need for the establishment of a Motion Picture Practitioners Council of Nigeria (MOPICON). Surely, apart from the challenges of funding, the film makers have also to contend with the issue of piracy. Only recently, stakeholders in Nollywood, embarked on peaceful protest in Lagos, this was on the heels of the shocking discoveries of pirated copies of 30 Days in Atlanta by Ayo Makun aka AY and October 1 by Kunle Afolayan being sold on the streets in Lagos and elsewhere, even though the films are yet to be released on CDs.

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SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

SPECIALonREPORT The 8th Senate’s Fresh Generation Godswill Akpabio

Aliyu Wamakko

Jonah David Jang

Stella Adaeze Oduah

Samuel Egwu

Rabiu Kwankwaso

Theodore Orji

Mao Ohuabunwa

Uche Lilian Ekwunife

Buruji Kashamu

Jeremiah Useni

Abubakar Kyari

Ben Murray Bruce

Peter Nwaoboshi

Biodun Olujimi

Dino Melaye

Monsurat Sunmonu

Bayero Usman Nafada

Bala ibn Na’Allah

Isiaka A. Adeleke

Abubakar Danladi

Adeola Olamilekan

Binta Masi Garba

Rafiu Adebayo Ibrahim

Mustapha Bukar

Duro Samuel Faseyi

Fatimat O. Raji-Rasaki

Shehu Sani

Mustapha Bukar

Philip Aruwa I Gyunka

Buhari Abdulfatai

Suleiman O. Hunkuyi

Osinakachukwu Ideozu

Danjuma La’ah

Bassey Albert Akpan

Olanrewaju Tejuoso

Mohammed A. Ohiare

Nelson Asuquo Effiong

Achonu A. Nneji

Sabo Mohammed

David Umaru

Umaru Ibrahim Kurfi

Barau I Jibrin

Nnaemeka Anyanwu

Clifford A. Ordia

John Enoh Owan

Mathew A. Urhoghide

Utazi Godfrey Chukwuka

Rilwan Adesoji Akanbi

Gbolahan Dada

Abdul-Aziz M. Nyako

Francis A. Alimikhena

Olaka Johnson Nwogu

Ogba Joseph Obinna

Tijjani Yahaya Kaura

Donald Alasoadura

Rose Okoji Oko

Yele Omogunwa

Ogola Foster

Gershom H. Bassey

Suleiman M. Nazif

Malam Ali Wakili

Abdullahi A. Gumel

Marafa Bashir Abba

Yahaya Abdullahi

Abdulrahman Abubakar

Salihu Hussain Egye

Mohammed Garba

Ighoyota Amori

Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi

Ahmadu Abubakar

Mohammed Hasan

Isah Hamma Misau

Ibrahim Abdullahi

Muhammad Ubali Shitu

On June 4, 2015, the eighth Senate of the National Assembly will be inaugurated. Of the 109 Senators who will be taking their seats, 75, representing 68 per cent will be fresh in the upper chamber. Who are these fresh Senators? What are their backgrounds and antecedents? What quality of debate and contributions are we likely to see from them? These and more will be the kernel of a special report by New Telegraph on that day. The report presents a unique opportunity for family, friends and associates of these fresh Senators to felicitate with them. For enquiries and participation: Call Biodun: 0802-301-5582, Taiwo: 0803-304-2915, Onwuka: 0803-733-9843, David: 0810-759-1663

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

Buhari sworn in, says he would be president to all Anule Emmanuel and Johnchuks Onuanyim

P Abuja

resident Muhammadu Buhari yesterday swore to the oath of office and oath of allegiance as Nigeria fifth democratically elected President at a colourful ceremony in the nation's capital, Abuja, marking the beginning of a new Federal Government in the country. The oaths were administered on him and his Vice, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Mahmoud Mohammed. The venue of the inauguration, Eagle Square, yesterday was a beehive of attractive events. From the colourful parade by a contingent of military guards, the instrument of power was transmitted by former President Goodluck Jonathan to President Buhari. President Buhari was administered the oath of office and allegiance at exactly 11:50am while that of Vice President Osinbajo was completed at 11:35a.m. The ceremony also featured the lowering of the national and defence flags signifying the end of the old era and the beginning of a new dawn. President Buhari released balloons and pigeons indicating peace before inspecting the guard of honour which was mounted by 21 officers and 120 men of the Army, Air Force, Navy and the Nigeria Police. Delivering his inaugural speech, President Buhari dispelled fears that he would go after perceived enemies during his reign in the next four years. While thanking Nigerians and members of the international community for the success of the last general elections, President Buhari said: “A few people have privately voiced fears that on coming back to office I shall go after them. These fears are groundless. There will be no paying off old scores. The past is prologue.” Buhari said he would keep to his oath and serve as leader for all Nigerians. “Having just a few minutes ago sworn on the Holy Book, I intend to keep my oath and serve as President to all Nigerians. I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody,” he stressed. He also commended former President Jonathan for his statesmanship in pushing for the entrenchment of the true tenets of democratic practice in the country. The President assured Nigerians that he would hit the ground running and fo-

l ‘No settling of scores with anyone' lVows to tackle power, insecurity, fuel scarcity

News

Presidential inauguration's timelines 9.45am: Arrival of the Vice President- Elect, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo and his wife. They came in a convoy of four vehicles and were escorted to the VIP lounge where they exchanged pleasantries with former heads of state of Nigeria, visiting African heads of state and other dignitaries. 10.00am: President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari, arrives with his wife in a convoy of five Sports Utility Vehicles amidst a heavy security cordon. He waved at the dignitaries and sat down with his wife, but was soon reminded that he needed to go round to shake hands with the dignitaries who were already seated before his arrival. 10.20 am: President Goodluck Jonathan arrives dressed in his usual flowing Niger Delta attire with a bowler hat to match. He walks to a podium overlooking the soldiers on parade. Everyone in the arena stood and the Nigerian National Anthem is played. Thereafter, the Parade Commander salutes and requests for the permission of the Commander- in-Chief to carry on with the parade. Jonathan obliges him and was immediately escorted to his seat at the podium. 10.25 am: Christian and Islamic prayers were offered for the event to commence in earnest. 10.35 am: Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Alhaji Mohammed Gambo Saleh, was invited to take over the proceedings preparatory to the swearing - in formalities. He invites the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mahmood Mohammed, to administer the oaths of allegiance and office.

L-R: Wife of Lagos State Governor, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode; Governor Akinwunmi Ambode; the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Oluwafunmilayo Olajumoke Atilade and Chief Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel Ogundare, during the swearing-in ceremony of the governor, at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Onikan, Lagos …yesterday

cus immediately in tackling the current insecurity in the North-East perpetrated by the Boko Haram sect. He said that effective strategies would be put in place to address the epileptic power problem across the country. President Buhari also assured that his government would move swiftly to end fuel scarcity which has been hitting hard on them in the last two months. “Insecurity, pervasive corruption, the hitherto unending and seemingly impossible fuel and power shortages are the immediate concerns. We are going to tackle them head on. Nigerians will not regret that they have entrusted national responsibility to us. We must not succumb to hopelessness and defeatism. We can fix our problems,” he said. He promised to ensure a clear separation of power while working to empower law enforcement agencies to deliver on the core mandates. “The federal executive under my watch will not seek to encroach on the duties and functions of the legislative and judicial arms of government. The law enforcing authorities will be charged to operate within the constitution. We shall rebuild and reform the public service to become more effective and more serviceable. “While the Federal Government cannot interfere in the details of its operations it will ensure that the gross

corruption at the local level is checked,” he said. President Buhari, therefore, vowed that his administration would encourage the legislature to continue with making laws for the country that could promote development at all levels. “For their part the legislative arm must keep to their brief of making laws, carrying out over-sight functions and doing so expeditiously. The judicial system needs reform to cleanse itself from its im-

mediate past,” he said. For thejudiciary, he said: “The country now expects the judiciary to act with dispatch on all cases especially on corruption, serious financial crimes or abuse of office. It is only when the three arms act constitutionally that government will be enabled to serve the country optimally and avoid the confusion all too often bedeviling governance today.” In the long term, President Buhari explained that his government would

focus on improving the country's education system while addressing the unrest in the Niger Delta region as well as increasing issues of youth unemployment. “The Nigerian press is the most vibrant in Africa. My appeal to the media today - and this includes the social media – is to exercise its considerable powers with responsibility and patriotism,” he said. l SEE MORE INAUGURATION STORIES ON PAGES 45–51

Governors take oath of office Our Correspondents

ewly elected and returnee governors were yesterday sworn in across the states with a pledge to impact the dividends of democracy on the populace.

Wike: It’s time to rebuild Rivers

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, yesterday appealed to the people of the state to support him to rebuild the state and make it work again, stressing that former governor Rotimi Amaechi governed the state with impunity and crippled it. He said it was time to work and erect the landmark of progress; restore hope, build infrastructure and achieve real progress,

noting that the battle for a greater Rivers had just begun. Wike, who made the comment at the Liberation Stadium, Port Harcourt, shortly after he and his deputy, Dr. Ipalebo Banigo-Harry, were sworn-in by the Bayelsa State Chief Judge, Justice Kate Abiri, noted that the state stopped working more than a year ago, and that he wants to revive it. The governor said the state had been “rescued and reclaimed” from Amaechi’s dictatorial administration, which he decried for crippling the judiciary, and the state House of Assembly for his own personal interest. Wike accused Amaechi, who he described as the biggest beneficiary of the rule of law, for going through

great lengths to scuttle his swearing-in, adding that the former governor went to courts in Imo, Lagos, and Abuja to get injunction against him. He said: “When we were campaigning, we saw pervasive poverty in the state, and parents were worried about the future of their children due to the systemic failure of governance. Today, Rivers is at a crossroads. "The state of infrastructure is poor. But today, Rivers has been freed of the most decadent level of misadministration. Amaechi ruled as a dictator because of his excessive lust for power. Those we mistook as builders failed us. “Amaechi, the biggest co n t i n u e d o n page 6

10. 40am: Vice-President -elect, Prof. Osinbajo, is invited to take his oath of allegiance and oath of office. He proceeds to the take the oaths accompanied by his wife. 10.45am: President-elect, Buhari, is invited to take the oath of allegiance and oath of office. Accompanied by his wife, Aisha, he takes the oath amidst applause and jubilation. It's a new dawn. Immediately a special tune waxed in Hausa rents the air. 10.50am: The military band returns with trumpets blaring into the air. It is to signal the ceremonial handover of flags - the Defence Flag and National Flag. They were handed over to the RSM who in turn hands them over to the Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Akex Badeh. He hands it to outgoing President Goodluck Jonathan who hands it over to the new President and Commander -In - Chief, Buhari. 11am: The second phase of handover of flags begins. Two flags are brought down and folded while another two flags are hoisted to signify the end of one era and the beginning of a new one. 11.10am: Jonathan leaves the arena amidst tight security. Simultaneously, Buhari moves to release the white pigeons, the symbol of peace. This is followed by the traditional 21-gun salute. 11.15am: Buhari is invited to inspect the parade accompanied by the Commander, Brigade of Guards. He does it slowly on an open jeep. Intermittently, he waves with his right hand opened and subsequently greets the crowd with clenched fists. As he inspects the guard of honour, his citation reads out to the hearing of everyone. 11.22 am: Inspection of parade over and he returns to a spot overlooking the parade. Parade Commander Col. Jubril Braimah, seeks his permission to continue the parade. 11.50 am -12.15pm: Parade ends and President Buhari delivers his inaugural address to outline the focus of his administration. The National Anthem is played to signify the end of the presidential address. 12. 30pm: Closing prayers. 1pm: President Buhari is led by the presidential security details into his car and he departs the Eagle Square in a convoy.

News

co n t i n u e d f rom pag e 5

beneficiary of the rule of law turned into rascality. Today, impunity has been thrown to the wind. We have recovered our land for the good of all. Our blueprint is an agenda of hope.” Wike said he would carry out a forensic audit to probe the spending on the state power initiative, which he noted had not translated to regular power supply despite the huge funds that had gone into it. He thanked former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Mrs. Patience Jonathan, for their support, noting that he had no regret supporting the re-election effort of Jonathan. He said he would support him again if he had such opportunity. Wike, who also appointed Justice Daisy Okocha as the Chief Judge and appointed Justice Christy Gabriel Nwankwo as the president, Rivers State Customary Court of Appeal, said they would be sworn-in next Monday. He also ordered the recall of suspended members of ASUU, Rivers State University of Science and Technology, saying that the authorities should not have suspended them for engaging in lawful union activities. Earlier, the Chief Judge of Bayelsa State, Justice Kate Abiri, shortly before swearing-in Wike and Banigo, said she was embarking on a “special constitutional assignment.” According to her, there was no directive from the Attorney-General of the Federation, to swear-in Wike and Banigo, but that she was carrying out “a purely judicial exercise on the instruction of the Chief Justice of Nigeria.

Ambode: I will run an open government

The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, was yesterday sworn-in as the 14th Governor of Lagos State, promising to operate an open government to all residents in the state regardless of tribe, religion or party affiliation. Ambode, who was swornin alongside his deputy, Dr. Idiat Oluranti Adebule, at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, amid fanfare, promised to create a new Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment and Office of Overseas Affairs and Investment (LAGOS GLOBAL). Speaking after he was sworn-in by the state Chief Judge, Justice Olufunmilayo Atilade, Ambode promised to implement the 13-year economic plan for Lagos in order to take the state to the next level. Ambode said: “As we collectively face the challenge to make Lagos a better place to live in, we must recognise our strength in diversity. A common national identity where everybody counts. I shall

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

Governors take oath of office

L-R: Wife of former Cross River State Governor, Mrs. Obioma Liyel-Imoke; Senator Liyel Imoke and Governor Ben Ayade, at the handover ceremony in Calabar…yesterday Photo: state house, uyo

run an open government of inclusion that will not leave anyone behind."

Udom vows to enhance standard of living

The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, has assured the people of his determination to continue the uncommon transformation being witnessed in the state in addition to ensuring spread of amenities in every nook and cranny of the state. The governor who said this in his inaugural speech to the people assured them of full and total industrialisation of the state in addition to several other opportunities in order to enhance the living standard of the people. He said: “To those who stood with us in the long walk to this day we appreciate your support and to the few who were not with us, we do not have to see eye to eye to work hand in hand. Today we celebrate the triumph of Akwa Ibom People over the murky waters of politics."

Ortom vows to verify inherited debt

New Governor of Benue State, Dr. Samuel Ortom, yesterday took over the helm of affairs of the state as governor with a promise to investigate the N9.2 billion huge debt burden left on his shoulders by former governor, Gabriel Suswam. Ortom, who announced this while addressing the crowd of people who graced his swearing-in ceremony at the Ibrahim Babangida Square said: “We shall immediately make arrangements to determine and verify our indebtedness and work towards the immediate payment of outstanding workers' salaries and allowances of pensioners.”

Ajimobi: I’ve eradicated ‘Amala’ politics

As the first civilian governor to secure second term in the 39-year Oyo State, Governor Abiola Ajimobi, yesterday boasted of having banished “Amala politics”, which had for many years

impoverished many citizens of the state by giving undue advantage to a few. On his administration's social economic and infrastructural developments in the state, Ajimobi, who was flanked by his deputy, Chief Moses Alake Adeyemo, said: “We have effectively banished the era of “amala” politics which impoverished the public space and neglected the crying needs of the vast majority of our people by servicing the personal interests of a tiny few."

Ikpeazu takes over in Abia

Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu was yesterday sworn-in as the new Abia State Governor with a plea to the people to brace up for the hard decisions his administration would take to steer the state in the path of progress and development. The governor, who was sworn in at 10.30am by the state Chief Judge, Justice Theresa Uzokwe, also urged them to be ready to make sacrifice required to make Abia a better state.

Shettima: Past 4 years most challenging

Borno State Governor, Kashim Shettima, has described the last four years as horrific and most challenging in the history of the state. Shettima, who made this assertion during his second term inauguration ceremony held at the Ramat Square Maiduguri, yesterday, said: “We have gone through the most savage insurgency of the Boko Haram sect, which massacred thousands of our people, especially destroying the cream of our youths. “Our long and distinguished history taught us the valuable lessons which kept our stoicism, at the heart of the darkest period of the past four years.”

Okowa pledges to work with Buhari

The Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, yesterday pledged a total support

to the newly inaugurated government of President Muhammadu Buhari. The governor, who said his administration looks forward to a robust working relationship with the All Progressives Congress (APC) government at the federal level, also wished Buhari, a flourishing era as President. He said: “I wish to formally congratulate President Muhammadu Buhari on behalf of our people. I look forward to a robust working relationship with him and the Federal Government. We offer our sincere cooperation and partnership for the collective development of our nation.”

Ugwuanyi asks residents to tighten belts

The new Governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, in his inaugural address on Friday urged the people of the state to tighten their belts in the face of declining allocations from the federation account. Ugwuanyi took over from the former governor, Sullivan Chime, at an elaborate ceremony at the Okpara Square in Enugu. The governor, who described his government as one of “seamless continuity and consolidation,” said he would continue and consolidate the “good works” of his predecessor and former administrations in the state.

Lalong promises not to discriminate

The newly sworn-in Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong, has promised the people of the state that he would not discriminate against anyone, saying there would be no discrimination against any individual or ethnic groups, regardless of their political views or creed, during his administration. Lalong, who said this yesterday at the Rwang Pam Stadium while taking his oath of office alongside his deputy, Prof. Sony Tyoden, which was administered by

the state Chief Judge, Justice Pius Damulak, said: “Under my humble leadership watch all the ethnic nationalities and communities on the Plateau would be fairly and equally treated.”

Umahi takes over

The Governor of Ebonyi State, Mr. Dave Umahi and his deputy, Mr. Eric Kelechi Igwe, yesterday took oath of office as governor and deputy governor respectively by the state Chief Judge, Justice Aloy Nwankwo. Speaking at the occasion held at the Abakaliki Township Stadium, the former Governor of the state, Chief Martin Elechi, urged his successor not to abandon any project embarked upon by his administration. In his inaugural address, Umahi said his five-fold covenant with God would be displayed in all offices and schools as a promise of the new administration.

Gaidam pledges better deal

The Yobe State Governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Gaidam, has pledged to serve the people of the state faithfully and to the best of his ability. Speaking during his oath of office at the August 27th Stadium in Damaturu, Gaidam pledged to evoke more ways that would improve the living conditions of the citizenry. The governor was sworn in alongside his deputy, Mr. Abubakar Aliyu, by the state Chief Judge, Justice Garba Musa Nabaruma. Gaidam called on supporters of other political parties as well as those who contested with him to partner his administration by offering constructive inputs and suggestions for the overall development of the state, adding that there was a new beginning and a new mandate for change and sustainable development for the state.

Bello to review Aliyu’s tenure

The Governor of Niger State, Alhaji Abubakar Bello, has described as un-

fortunate the level of irregularities and corruption in the past government led by Babangida Aliyu, saying: “All areas of wastages and leakages will be stopped.” Bello said in his inaugural address yesterday at the Bako Kotangora Stadium Minna, that his government would not spare efforts to institutionalise transparency, accountability and inclusiveness, to ensure better scrutiny of the past government. He said: “We have seen how politics had consistently been used to divide and rule our people; and as a pretext for diverting our resources for funding projects of doubtful social and economic benefits to the state."

Adamawa deputy gov booed

Security operatives had herculean task trying to save the outgone Adamawa State Deputy Governor, Sa’ad M.C Tahir, who represented the former Governor, Bala Ngillari, who was conspicuously absent at the handover event. Also booed was the Senator representing Adamawa Central, Senator Bello Tukur, who represented Senate President David Mark. The former deputy governor, who was intermittently booed as he delivered the governor’s speech, was accosted by the angry crowd that pelted him with sachet water and shoes, immediately he left the podium. The crowd had said: “Bama so, Karya ne, mash Gudu su Gudu, lokacinku ya kare”, which translated into: “Na lies, we don't want you, shut up! Your time is over, PDP killed our nation.”

Masari vows to revive education sector

Katsina State Governor, Aminu Masari, has constituted a committee that would assist the government to revive the standard of education in the state. Masari contended that the state, which was synonymous with commerce and excellence, now ranked among the educationally backward states of the federation. “All we want from you are support and prayers in order to achieve the desired objective,” he said.

Ganduje promises bill on free pry education

Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State yesterday promised to submit a Bill on Free and Compulsory Primary School Education to the state House of Assembly for consideration. He made the pledge while taking the oath of office as the new governor of the state at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that Ganduje and his Deputy, Prof. Hafiz Abubakar, were sworn in by the Acting Chief Judge of the state, Mrs. Patricia Mahmud at about 10am.

30 MAY 2015

Remove fuel subsidy to succeed, Kalu tells Buhari Mojeed Alabi

he former Abia State Governor, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, has said his call for complete removal of subsidy on petroleum products by President Muhammadu Buhari, remains the best solution to the perennial crisis in the nation’s oil industry. This is even as he said the new leader has the best opportunity to achieve this at the moment, particularly as he now rides on great popularity and support from Nigerians. Kalu, who said this yesterday while speaking on the Cable Network News (CNN), also suggested cultural re-orientation and evaluation as the best approach to solve the challenge of corruption, which was facing the country. Setting agenda for the new President, Kalu said: “Well, as a businessman and as the Chairman of Slok, a major shipping firm in sub-Saharan Africa, what I will like to see from the new President, because he commands a lot of goodwill, a lot of ideas, is that he should be able to remove the subsidy.

News

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

Today, our labour unions are not very strong and Buhari is riding on the highest level of popularity and he is well accepted by the people. So he has a chance to remove subsidy and should act quickly on this and remove it totally, so that people can be able to do business in oil sector in Nigeria and be able to build refinery.” He added that corruption had eaten too deep into the nation’s system and so required serious attention. While urging the President not to delay his action on corruption, the former governor said: “Let me be honest with you, corruption is a big challenge in Nigeria because it has gone into the fabrics of every facet of Nigeria. So I think to fight corruption it is something that must start from day one. There is need for reorientation of our people and revaluation of our people and cultural reorientation of our people. So, frankly corruption must be fought head on, if truly he wants to succeed. There is a lot of corruption in both private and public sector because not only the people in government are corrupt.”

MAKURDI Suswam travels abroad

NEWS IN BRIEF

Former governor of Benue State, Dr. Gabriel Suswam and his deputy, Chief Steven Lawani, yesterday shunned the inauguration of the new Governor of the state, Dr. Samuel Ortom, and his Deputy, Mr. Benson Abounu. A close aide of the former governor, who pleaded anonymity, told Saturday Telegraph that Suswam had immediately after handing over to his successor at the Government House on Thursday, hurriedly left the state to Abuja where he departed the country through a British Airways flight out of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. The source hinted further that his wife, Yemisi Dooshima Suswam, also left the state in the late hours of yesterday to Houston, in the United States.

414

The number of refugees in United Arab Emirates at the beginning of 2010. Source: Blatantworld.com

BAUCHI SOKOTO Yuguda seeks for forgiveness Tambuwal appoints Former Bauchi State Governor, Isa spokesperson Yuguda, has expressed delight with the three arms of government in the state and the security agencies for their unflinching support, dedication to duty and cooperation accorded him during the eight years of his administration. Yuguda in a valedictory session marking the end of his administration attributed the unprecedented achievements his administration recorded during the period to his lieutenants’ support and cooperation. He outlined areas where his administration recorded tremendous achievements such as health, education, commerce, tourism, youth and women development, as well as rural transformation and roads construction.

N12.44m

The IGR realized from road taxes in Kebbi State in 2010. Source: National Bureau of Statistics

Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal, has appointed Malam Imam Imam as his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, the first appointment he will make following his swearing-in yesterday. In a statement he personally signed and issued to journalists in Sokoto, Tambuwal admonished the new spokesman to rededicate himself to his new assignment by contributing positively to information management flow in the state. Imam had served in the same capacity when Tambuwal was the Speaker of the House of Representatives from 2011 until few days ago. Imam, a former Group Politics Editor at Thisday Newspapers, was born on July 16, 1977 in Gboko, Benue State. He hails from Taraba State.

€23.9m

The transfer fee generated by Everton FC since July 2012 by players from the academy (between 15 & 21 years of age). Source: Football-observatory.com

PDP to provide credible opposition, says Ekweremadu Chukwu David Abuja

he Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, has promised that the members of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the incoming 8th National Assembly will provide credible and responsible opposition to deepen democracy and promote good governance in Nigeria. He also announced that the Forum of the PDP National Assembly Memberselect would hold a one-day retreat in Port-Harcourt on Monday to strategise towards their opposition role in the 8th National As-

sembly. In a statement in Enugu on the occasion of Nigeria’s 16th Democracy Day anniversary, Senator Ekweremadu, described the smooth transition from the PDP administration led by former President Goodluck Jonathan to the All Progressives Congress, (APC) government as a big leap for the nation’s democracy. He said: “It is to the credit of Nigerians that the Forth Republic has outlasted the nation’s previous democratic experience. Despite our challenges, Nigeria witnessed a historic transition from one democratic administration to the other in 2007."

Nigeria’ll be great under Buhari, says Islamic cleric Taiwo Jimoh

he proprietor of Markaz Institute of Islamic and Arabic Studies, Sheik Habeebullahi, Adam Alllory, has said the victory of President Muhammadu Buhari has given Nigerians hope that there are better days ahead for them. In a statement made available to journalists in Lagos yesterday, the group said: “Under your leadership Nigeria would soon be among the enviable political and socio-economic development nations in the world.

“Your victory was a well deserved and could not have come at a better time than now when the vast majority of Nigerians were yearning for a change, which coincidentally was the slogan of your campaign. “On behalf of the students and the entire congregation of Markaz mosque had sent our hearty congratulations message to the leadership of your party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and those who had made your victory a possible one at just concluded election.”

Rivers State Governor, Mr. Nyesom Wike (left), being sworn-in by the Bayelsa State Chief Judge, Justice Kate Abiri, at the Liberation Stadium in Port Harcourt…yesterday

Emir of Zaria attacked at el-Rufai’s inauguration with agency reports

l Governor condemns attack

he inauguration of Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai, yesterday ended abruptly as he could not review the parade mounted by the police as some youths pelted dignitaries with water sachets, stones and other objects in the pavilion. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the incident prompted security agents to fire tear gas into the crowd at the Murtala Square, Kaduna. Also yesterday, some irate youths attacked the Emir of Zazzau (Zaria), Dr. Shehu Idris and other traditional rulers, during elRufai’s inauguration as the new governor of the state. It was gathered that the incident occurred when el-Rufai, who was sworn in as the 22nd governor of the state, had concluded his address and was about to mount an open van to review the parade mounted by the police. While the crowd was dispersed by the police,

dignitaries remained seated, but the occasion ended abruptly without the governor reviewing the parade. However, the emir was alleged to have supported Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) against the then opposition All Progressives Congress (APC), which eventually won the April 11 governorship election. News Express reports that the youth stoned the emir and his convoy at the venue of the inauguration in Kaduna, chanting “Sabon Gwamna, Sabon Sarki” (meaning “New Governor”, “New Emir”) during the attack. It took the intervention of police personnel to disperse the attackers with tear gas. Idris was whisked away by security operatives after the swearing-in to avoid another physical attack on his convoy. It was gathered that the emir was invited to attend the swearing-in ceremony by the immediate past ad-

Ndubuisi Ugah

l Says himself, deputy to forfeit 50% salary ministration under former governor Mukhtar Ramalan Yero, who was the organiser of the event. One of the youth at the event, Haruna Gambo, said: “The Emir of Zazzau is a PDP member and not our traditional ruler. The emir is partisan; we expected him to be father to all in Kaduna State but he chooses to support PDP openly against our candidate. “So, why is he coming to attend this inauguration? We believe the emir will learn his lesson from today to be a father to all, irrespective of one’s party affiliation.” The Chief Judge of the State, Justice Tanimu Zailani, was also rescued by Senator-elect, Shehu Sani, from the mob and taken to his residence in Rigachikun. Sani said the attack on the emir affected Justice Zailani, “hence, we have to quickly whisk him away. But some people were

wounded by the stone pelted on the emir.” But el-Rufai, while condemning the attack, said a component of change, the maxim of the All Progressives Congress (APC), which won the governorship election in the state in April, was respect for institutions and commitment to lawful and peaceful means to express grievance, discontent or dissent. “Even in such instances, there can be no justification for any attempt to inflict embarrassment or cause disorder,” el-Rufai said. The governor, who spoke through his Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Samuel Aruwan, said he looked forward to the people’s support as the new government settled down to work. Meanwhile, el-Rufai yesterday said he would forfeit 50 per cent of his salary pending when the financial situation of the state improves.

News

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

FCT Patience, Amina absent at handover ceremony

N EWS I N BRIEF

Mrs. Patience Jonathan and Hajiya Amina Sambo, wives of the former President and former Vice-President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan and Alhaji Namadi Sambo, were yesterday absent at the handover ceremony held at the Eagle Square, Abuja. The duo were at the swearing in ceremony that brought in their husbands into office 2011. It would be recalled that Patience led the campaign for the re-election of her husband as president to the 36 states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). At the ceremony Jonathan sat between Sambo and President Muhammadu Buhari.

384

BAUCHI Clerics charge lawmakers on patriotism

A call has gone to newly elected Senators and House of Representatives members from across the country to do more for Nigeria and Nigerians irrespective of party affiliations. Chairman, North-East of the Christian Association of Nigeria (NECAN), Reverend Shu’aibu Byal, said the lawmakers should use their experience and talents to move the nation to greater height. Shu’aibu said: “We thanked God that the election was held under peaceful atmosphere in the country, my call to all Senators and House of Representatives members elected by the people from the various places in the country are expecting good from them. They should work for our country irrespective of ethnicity, religion or party affiliations to salvage and move our country forward.”

The number of refugees in South Africa at the beginning of 2010. Source: Blatantworld.com

418,590

The total number of votes scored by APC in the South South zone in the presidential election of Nigeria in 2015. Source: INEC

AGBADO Oriade's Fidau prayer holds June 1 The death has been announced of Chief Abdul-Lateef Alao Oriade, a community leader in Agbado Railway Station, Ogun State. Oriade passed on May 25 and has since buried according to Islamic rite. The 8th day Fidau Prayer will hold on Monday, June 1. He is survived by many children and grandchildren among whom is Mr. Gbolahan Oriade, the prepress manager, Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited, Lagos. Oriade

490,000

The projected number of Americans above 65 years with Alzheimer’s in Texas by 2025. Source: Alz.org

Boko Haram: Buhari relocates military command to Maiduguri Ndubuisi Ugah and Emmanuel Onani

P Abuja

resident Muhammadu Buhari yesterday directed the Command and Control Centre of the military to move to Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, for effective coordination of the ongoing military operations against Boko Haram in the North-East. Buhari, who gave the directive at the Eagle Square, Abuja, during his inauguration, said total victory against Boko Haram could not be achieved, if the centre remains at the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in Abuja. His directive, however, came on a day a twin explosion killed seven people and dozens of others injured in Borno State. It was also gathered that the state police command has arrested one person in con-

l One arrested as twin blasts kill seven in Borno nection with the incident. However, President Buhari, while promising to commission a “sociological study” to determine the origin, modus operation, sponsorship as well as foreign collaborators of the outlawed sect, said the study would be commissioned as soon as the insurgents were completely routed from the North-East. Therefore, the President said: “My appeal for unity is predicated on the seriousness of the legacy we are getting into. With depleted foreign reserves, falling oil prices, leakages and debts, the Nigerian economy is in deep trouble. “It will require careful management to bring it round and to tackle the immediate challenges confronting us, namely, Boko Haram, the Niger Delta situation, the power shortages and unemployment,

especially among young people. “The most immediate is Boko Haram insurgency. Progress has been made in recent weeks by our security forces but victory cannot be achieved by basing the Command and Control Centre in Abuja. The command centre will be relocated to Maiduguri and remain there until Boko Haram is completely subdued.” Speaking further, he said: “But we cannot claim to have defeated Boko Haram without rescuing the Chibok girls and all other innocent persons held hostage by insurgents. “This government will do all it can to rescue them alive. Boko Haram is a typical example of small fires causing large fires. An eccentric and unorthodox preacher with a tiny following was given posthumous fame and following

by his extra judicial murder at the hands of the police. Since then through official bungling, negligence, complacency or collusion Boko Haram became a terrifying force taking tens of thousands of lives and capturing several towns and villages covering swathes of Nigerian sovereign territory. “Boko Haram is a mindless, godless group who are as far away from Islam as one can think of. At the end of the hostilities when the group is subdued the government intends to commission a sociological study to determine its origins, remote and immediate causes of the movement, its sponsors, the international connections to ensure that measures are taken to prevent a recurrence of this evil. For now the Armed Forces will be fully charged with prosecuting the fight against Boko Haram."

I’ll dedicate rest of my life to peace –Jonathan

ormer President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday received cheers and standing ovation from his kinsmen when he returned to Bayelsa State after handing over the reins of the nation’s leadership to President Muhammadu Buhari. Dressed in Ijaw attire, Jonathan and his wife who wore a flowing red gown walked gracefully into the Gabriel Okara Cultural Centre, Yenagoa, the venue of the grand civic reception organized in his honour by the state government. Colourfully dressed Ijaw women, Ijaw leaders and youths trooped to the arena to welcome their kinsman

President lauds ex-president's statesmanship l No alternative to democracy –Mark Chukwu David Abuja

resident Muhammadu Buhari on Friday in Abuja applauded former President Goodluck Jonathan for his statesmanship in conceding defeat in the March 28 presidential election. This is coming on a day the President of the Senate, Senator David Mark, enjoined Nigerians not to be discouraged by the slow speed and challenges of democracy but urged them to support the Buhari-led administration. Buhari, who gave the commendation in his inaugural speech during his Oath taking ceremony, said: “I would like to thank President Goodluck Jonathan for his display of statesmanship in setting a precedent for

us that has now made our people proud to be Nigerians wherever they are. I hope this act of graciously accepting defeat by the outgoing President will become the standard of political conduct in the country. “The Federal Executive under my watch will not seek to encroach on the duties and functions of the legislative and judicial arms of government. To achieve our objectives, we must consciously work the democratic system.” Meanwhile, Mark, who spoke yesterday at St. Mulumba Catholic Chaplaincy, Apo in Abuja to mark Democracy Day, said in spite of the imperfections in the system, there was no alternative to democracy because it gives power to the people who make the ultimate decision.

Ambode appoints SSG, CPS, others Muritala Ayinla

Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa (left) and the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Marshal Umukoro, at the swearing-in of Okowa in Asaba….yesterday

who they described as hero of democracy and ambassador of peace. The crowd let out cries of joy as the former President and his entourage entered the almost congested hall at about 3:13pm. The Bomo Council of Chiefs and People, Women for Change Initiative (WCI), the University of Port Harcourt Alumni Association (UPAS), the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) and the Ijaw National Congress (INC) were among the groups who came to welcome the former President. He said: “I am grateful to all Nigerians. The best I can do now is to dedicate the remaining part of my life to peace across the country."

arely three hours after his inauguration, the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, yesterday announced the appointment of some key officials to his cabinet. Ambode, in a statement he personally signed in Ikeja, named the immediate past Commissioner for the Environment, Mr. Tunji Bello, as Secretary to the State Government (SSG), while the Permanent Secretary in the office of the immediate Chief of Staff, Mr. Samuel Olukunle Ojo, as the new Chief of Staff. The statement further said Mr. Abiodun Bamgboye was appointed Principal Private Secretary (PPS), while Mr. Habib Adamson Aruna was appointed the Chief Press Secretary (CPS).

Bello, journalist and lawyer is a former Commissioner for Environment. He studied Political Science at the University of Ibadan and later went to the University of Lagos where he bagged a Masters in International Law and Diplomacy. He later read law in the same university. His bustling journalism career started with the now defunct Concord Press Nigeria, where he rose from being a feature writer to become the Editor of National Concord. He was appointed Commissioner for Environment in July 2011 by the former Governor, Babatunde Fashola. Aruna rose from the ranks to become the Editor of Sunday Independent, from where he resigned in November 2014, to set up Upshotreports, an online news portal. see news extra on page 53

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

INAUGURATION DAY IN PIX

L-R: Former president Goodluck Jonathan, wife of the Vice-President Dolapo Osinbajo and Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo at the inauguration in Abuja

L-R: Generals Ibrahim Babangida, Abdulsalami Abubakar, Chief Ernest Shonekan and former president Olusegun Obasanjo

L-R: Senate President David Mark, Dolapo, Vice-President Osinbajo, First Lady, Aisha Buhari, President Muhammadu Buhari and former President Jonathan

Cross section of service chiefs

L-R: Mr. Magnus Kalu, mother of the former Abia State Governor, Madam Eunice Kalu and a guest

President of Zimbabwe, Mr Robert Mugabe (right) and two other Africa presidents

L-R: Chief Bisi Akande; Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and General Abubakar

L-R: Aliko Dangote; Mr. Jim Ovia and Lt Gen TY Danjuma

photos: TIMOTHY IKUOMENISAN and elijah olaluyi

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

I N A U G U R AT I O N D AY I N P I X

Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun (left), with the state’s Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Olatokunbo Olopade (right), at the inauguration of Amosun, at the M.K.O Abiola International Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta...yesterday

L-R: Wife of Benue State Governor, Mrs. Eunice Ortom; Governor Samuel Ortom and the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Iorhemen Hwande, at the swearing-in ceremony of Ortom at the Ibrahim Babangida Square in Makurdi ...yesterday PHOTO: CEPHAS IORHEMEN

Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello (right), being sworn in by the state’s Chief Judge, Hon Justice Fati Lami Abubakar, at the Bako Kontagora Memorial Stadium, Minna…yesterday

L-R: Kwara State Chief Judge, Justice Suleiman Kawu; Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed and his wife, Mrs Omolewa Ahmed, during the inauguration ceremony of Ahmed in Ilorin......yesterday

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel (left) and the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Stephen Okon, at the swearing-in of Udom in Uyo…yesterday

Chief Judge of Kaduna State, Justice Tanimu Zailani (left), administering the oath of office on Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir el-Rufai, in Kaduna …yesterday PHOTO: NAN

L-R: Enugu State Governor, Mr Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; his wife, Monica and the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Innocent Umezuruike, at the swearing-in of the governor in Enugu …yesterday PHOTO: NAN

Amaechi beating a talking drum, while his wife, Judith, dances on in Abuja…yesterday

SATURDAY

Voices SATURDAY 30 MAY 2015

Can you marry somebody whose children are older than you? I would be seen as an intruder I cannot because I would be seen as an intruder. But the highest I can go for is 10 years older anything above that is a capital "no". The Lord says my thoughts towards you are for good, so I know my God wishes for me are good.

– Modupe Bello, businesswoman

I will not be comfortable No because the children will tell me that I am after their father’s wealth. They might even be giving me attitude by not making me feel comfortable in the house.

– Akintibubo Aderonke, civil servant

If she has money to spend on me! Why not if she wants me and I also see that she's real? So, why can't I since I’m not the first to do such a thing? Moreso she has money to spend on me. – Krane Oluwadamilola,

businessman

If the love is there

If the love is there and there is a very strong conviction, why not? It’s not about what people will say but your happiness in that relationship.

I can’t get involved in such a relationship

I can if the children understand and allow things to work. For me, it is all about his children saying 'yes' to me. – Mariam Huthman,

Though love doesn’t know age limit, when it comes to marriage, I don’t think I can get involved in such an affair. It is better if it’s the case of the man who wants to remarry maybe because he lost his wife. But for the woman, people will say you are cursed so I don’t think I can. – Glory Eskhaigbe, self-employed

businesswoman

It's digging my grave I cannot. How I can I marry a man who is my father’s age mate or even older than my father? It is more like digging an early grave for myself. – Elias Adeola, self-employed

It is not sanctioned by me

Getting marry to somebody whose children are older than me is not a good idea. But in a case where maybe her real husband is dead and she needs someone to fill the vacuum then that is fine but I will ensure that I do a thorough research to find out how responsible she was to her late husband. – Stanley Ikwue, civil servant

If there is mutual understanding between the kids and me

I can, as long as there is mutual understanding between me and the kids and we all will know our boundaries and just respect one another. – Taiwo Ajayi, banker

It will be complicated

– Kofi Agbo, area sales manager

That is not my spec I can’t. It is totally out of it. Although it is a personal decision, such a man is not my spec. I can’t marry an older man with such a wide range of age. I need to marry a man I will wake up in the morning, look at his face and smile. Also, be proud of him at any point and at anywhere, not the other way round. – Precious Okon, self-employed

If the children give their consent

I cannot because the marriage will be complicated. The children will have the mindset that I married their father because of his wealth. This would even affect the love later. – Kafaya Adewunmi, teacher

compiled by

olushola ricketts, lanre odukoya, ANGELA DAVIES and JOHN EDU

My husband is 20 years older than me Yes I can. My husband is 20 years older than me. But I would advise a man not to marry a woman that is far older him. – Aridunu Omo, politician

It's marrying a grandmother Of course I cannot. If the children are older than me it means I want to marry a grandmother. – Henry Oladele, journalist

A widower or divorcee can

A man, who lost his wife and a divorcee, can marry a young lady, who is younger than his children, even the last child, provided there is love, parents’ consent and other essential factors, which make a good marriage and home. When a young blood and elderly person's blood mix, the man becomes younger and the woman becomes happier and fulfilled. – Olisah Adiasor, civil servant

Street Diary

trange things appear to be happening in the country since the general elections of March 28 and April 11. First was the revelation of over $60 billion internal and external debt the outgoing government is leaving behind. This was quickly followed by the acute fuel scarcity that grounded all other sectors of the Nigerian economy. Electricity too seems to have finally gone comatose. Kerosene, diesel and aviation fuel are all far from the common populace. They have gone with the winds or so it seems. Water, the very essential for all household, has suddenly dried up from the taps also. This, in particular, has heightened fear of an imminent epidemic in the land. Expectedly, the masses are groaning. But, they are not alone in this anguish. The Police Force is also boiling. According to findings, the force is presently poised to deviate from the laid down procedures in elevating its personnel. It is gathered that some junior officers are about to be promoted over their seniors. This has been causing disaffection among the officers concerned for some time now. Aso Rock, according to impeccable sources, is allegedly behind this ignominy. It is rumoured that the exercise is meant to compensate the officers that worked with the former presidency, who had unduly benefited from similar “unmerited” promotions over the years. They were said to have lobbied for the promotions of these juniors to mitigate the perceived grumblings from their equally cheated course mates. Those fingered in this macabre dance include an officer identified simply as Moses, a Commissioner of Police and Chief Security Officer to the immediate past president, who joined the force as Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police from 1994 to 1996; the orderly to the immediate past first lady, who is now Assistant Commissioner of Police, Chinedu Uche. He is said to have enlisted as a Cadet ASP in 2000, but his course mates are still Superintendents of Police. The list also included the orderly to the immediate past vice president, an ACP, who also enlisted into the Nigerian Police as a Cadet Inspector in 2000. According to the aggrieved officers who, by their academic qualifications, went through Induction Courses to be commissioned as officers, were due for promotion since 2014. The trio of CP Moses, ACP Uche and VP’s orderly are said to have been using their connection in Aso Rock to make sure their course mates are promoted ahead of their seniors who are mostly SPs. Those hurt claimed to have petitioned the Police Service Commission but regretted that their petitions never saw the light of day. The Induction Course, is an exercise to formally confirm officers that are already commissioned. “They are not usually treated the same way as those enlisted into the force directly as cadet ASP or Inspector. As such, promoting the ASPs and Inspectors who enlisted directly above them would amount to grave injustice,” said a (Rtd) Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG), who does not want his name in print. Meanwhile, the inducted officers have all been in the service for about 10 years. Though, some have died and others retired. They had written an appeal letter dated July 7, 2014 to the PSC under the chairmanship of former Inspector-General of Police, Musiliu Smith, through the office of the then IGP, Ogbonna Onovo. In the petition, which was made available to Saturday Telegraph, the officers stated that the induction that was conducted between May and June 2000 was organised for confirmed Inspectors of police. It was, according to them, a six weeks programme from which Inspectors of police who were not confirmed on the rank were disqualified to join the rank and file of ASP Promotion Course that was to

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

A police squad on parade

Rumbles in the police There is anger among some senior police officers over plans to promote their juniors over them. This negation of the laid down procedure is perceived to have been politically-induced, reports ISIOMA MADIKE

Arase

come up later that year. They argued that the Induction Course is senior to both training and promotion courses as it is merely ceremonial. Participants, they say, are already officers waiting to be inducted into their new ranks. However, in May/June 2000 when these courses were organised, the PSC was not yet inaugurated by the president and all beneficiaries were told to wait for the inauguration. Eventually, and very curious too, the names of the inducted officers were never sent to the commission for ratification. This manipulation, according to them, was “to keep off the Induction Course beneficiaries from the PSC so that they may be made to become junior to those who were on Training Course since those in that category were mainly children of senior police officers at the force headquarters at the time.” The manipulation, was first uncovered during the tenure of Onovo as IGP. Onovo was said to have written to the Commission as a matter of urgency to correct the irregularity for which the Induction Course officers were planned to be kept out perpetually.

Okiro

Meanwhile, Section 38 of the Police Act, which deals with appointment of superior police officers, states as follows: “The types of appointments that may be made to the pensionable establishments of the superior police officers of the force are as follows: That is to say (a) A general duties appointment to the rank of ASP on trial of a member of the force inspectorate. (b) A general duties appointment by direct entry to the rank of ASP on probation of a cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police who has successfully completed a police training course. (c) A technical duties appointment to the rank of ASP on probation of (i) a member of no force inspectorate or (ii) a direct entry appointment and (d) a general duties or technical duties appointment, in a rank and on terms of service to be specified by the Nigerian Police Council of an officer transferred from the civil service of the federal or of a state.” Based on the above Act, the aggrieved officers are pleading with the police authorities and the PSC to release their names for promotion as plans have been concluded to promote their juniors ahead of them. They have also alleged that the outgoing president’s wife had vowed to use the

promotion to please and compensate her aides as she leaves office. According to investigations, the names of these junior officers had been forwarded for immediate consideration for promotion. They have also been asked to submit their ‘Aper Forms’ for 2013/2014. An Aper Form is the assessment for a particular year. It is said to be one of the final conditions before promotion. However, a source close to the president’s wife, who spoke to this reporter on phone, said that the allegations were baseless. The source, who declined to be mentioned, said: “How can an administration that has completed its tenure be meddling into police affairs? Are they saying that the first lady is now a member of the PSC? "What I think is that all manner of persons are just looking for ways to drag the name of the immediate past president and his wife into the mud since they believe they no longer have the power. If any officer is aggrieved on issues of promotion, such an officer should know the right step to take. People should just allow this family to take a deserved rest from governing a terrible country like Nigeria.” Incidentally, the aggrieved, police officers are begging the IGP, Solomon Arase, chairman, PSC, Chief Mike Okiro, and the Minister of Police Affairs, to, as a matter of urgency, intervene to right the wrong. “These respected individuals’ intervention is needed, and urgently too. The fraud about to be committed is without recourse to the provisions of the Police Act and Regulations,” they noted. This issue, which manifested first in 2009, had prompted the police authorities at the time to institute a panel that investigated the matter. The panel also determined the genuine senior of the two cadres. The committee sat and came up with a report that rightly put the ASP Induction participants as seniors to the Cadet ASP participants. This resulted to the promotion of the Induction Course Participants to SPs (WEF 01/01/2008) two months ahead of the Cadet ASP Course participants also to SPs (WEF 01/03/2008).

SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2015

SATURDAY

WeekendDelight 13

C o n v e r s at i o n

Instyle Dazzle in strapless dress p.15

TV & Radio Talking about the children p.33

Love & Living ‘I married my husband because we’ll live in Germany’ p.35

Hospitality

Panda Hotel Suites: Less could indeed offer more p.41

ADETU

THE ETIQUETTE

QUEEN

With her syndicated programme, Etiquette with Janet, self-effacing Janet Adetu literally has nowhere to hide. After working in top accounting firms such as KPMG and Ernst & Young, she decided to venture into the world of corporate image and etiquette. She tells OLUSHOLA RICKETTS how it all started. What do you do at JSK Etiquette? JSK Etiquette Consortium is a leading international protocol and image consulting company. We specialise in helping corporate organisations and individuals enhance their competitive advantage. We offer result-oriented trainings and solutions that promote behavioural change, professional image enhancement, team building and development. Our trainings are aimed at developing interpersonal skills, encouraging leadership potential, exhibiting exceptional customer service orientation and practicing essential workplace civility.

What influenced your decision to be a protocol and image consultant? Working as an auditor was eye-opening. It is a profession that requires strict formality, discipline and integrity. I discovered that image was an important aspect of generating credibility and trust among my clients. In reality, auditors are not always readily received with open arms, so by virtue of the nature of the job relationships were very limited. In pursuit of excellent results and effective time management on the job it occurred to me that I needed to present myself more approachably, friendly and accommodating. With acts of civility, the doors began to open and productivity grew. I was able to give the wow factor to my service. I went ahead to train and get certified in the United States of America, Canada and United Kingdom. I would say my desire to add values to lives is the driving force

ADETU

With acts of civility, the doors began to open and productivity grew. I was able to give the wow factor to my service

behind why I practice the profession today. How has the business been? Business has been interesting, rewarding and very challenging. There is no free lunch; everything requires hard work. We originally had our headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, for the first three years before we moved the headquarters to Lagos two years ago. In Nairobi, they were quite British-oriented and the reception was very good because they felt it was a skill that they CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

Weekend Delight

| Conversation

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

‘Our youths forget that it is not just about having a first class degree’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

needed. We had no issues there; things worked out well. When I was moving to Nigeria I had my reservations after discovering there were two schools of thought. The first school of thought states that Nigerians really need etiquette, which represents the older generation. The other school of thought being the younger states that Nigerians don’t need it. But since I have been conducting trainings, some youths who I have trained have realised that the reason they are not getting jobs is because they lack certain skills. If you are going for an interview, how do you present yourself? Your interview has nothing to do with your technical skills or the first class you made. But why do you think the younger generations feel they don’t need etiquette? Generally going by what we are seeing daily, the corporate world is constantly evolving and changing. It has to do with mindset, demeanour and attitude of the younger generation. I believe it is because they are used to the old conventional ways of doing things. It used to be who you know in an organisation to get a job, but today there is a lot of corporate governance going on in organisations. Today, we see that employment is all about merit or based on what you have to offer. There are many brilliant youths who performed very well in the university, but during interviews they fail to impress because they cannot answer questions properly. Our youths forget that it is not just about having a first class degree once they leave the university; it is now more about being able to sell the intangible skills. I think most youths don’t understand the magnitude of competition in the employment market and they don’t know that if you are trying to get a job, for instance, in a multinational company, you might end up having to attend between five to seven interviews. It is after they get into that net they will come to realise that securing a job is no ‘child’s play.’ What’s your background like? My first degree is a BSc Honours in economics; I also have an MBA at the Edinburgh Business School, Heriot Watt University Scotland, UK. Professionally, in addition to being a Certified Protocol and Image Consultant, I am also a Certified Chartered Accountant and a fellow with the Association of Certified Chartered Accountants (ACCA) in the UK. What were you doing before the establishment of JSK? I laid my hands into many things. I was the founder of a foundation for children born with congenital heart disorder, Golden Heart Trust in Accra, Ghana. Essentially the objective of the organisation was to pay for the open heart surgery of children born with a hole in the heart. I decided to use my 40-year birthday to give back to society by using my celebration moment to hold a charity ball in aid of these children. I wanted a purpose-filled celebration considering that fact that I was also a victim of congenital heart disorder. Surprisingly, I physically observed the entire five-hour surgery of the first beneficiary. I was commended for my efforts and was asked to continue the good deed. During my time as founder and president along with a group of trustees, we were able to raise funds and sponsor the open heart surgeries of almost 60 children with three years. In the process we were able to do a lot of advocacy, advisory services and consultation. Did you have any doubts when you de-

cided to leave paid employment? It is important for one to identify their strengths, discover their potential, maximize every opportunity and capitalise on it. Leaving paid employment was purely due to work related relocation, so doubt did not set in. I consciously decided to use my work experience to venture into my passion. Has it been challenging keeping professional relationship with men strictly professional? I am always professional in whatever I do; that is important for any woman in the work environment. You must have integrity, credibility and trust at the forefront of anything that you do because it speaks volumes for you. I didn’t have issues anywhere I had worked because I am calm and friendly. Mutual respect for fellow colleagues is the secret to success at work, especially when your appraisal is based on your overall performance. I hardly had issues with colleagues. I still see my former colleagues today in different environments and we exchange pleasantries very well after seven years. I feel this is possible because they remember me for who I was then and this is the brand I have continued to carry around. What would you say has prepared you for what you do today? It is interesting you asked the question. I didn’t really go out of my way to say I wanted to be a protocol and etiquette consultant; I stumbled on it by chance. I was born and raised in the United Kingdom. In the course of my growing up as an adult I always heard people saying that there were certain ways I conducted myself and executed my tasks. It was more about my behaviour and the way I carried myself. Honestly, I didn’t see all these myself and I was pleasantly surprised. I plunged deeper and sought how to develop this talent. I guess it came with a lot of exposure to other cultures, from travelling around and gathered experiences. My parents even told me that when I was in primary school at age seven, a teacher told them I would be a teacher when I grew up based on my level of intelligence, ability to disseminate knowledge and add values to others. It looks like my teacher’s prophesy has come to pass in the sense that I am actually teaching by training people. When did you relocate to Nigeria? My first footstep into Nigeria was in the ‘80s and I was very much a teenager. How did you adjust to the change? English was the only language I knew how to speak then, so it was really difficult for me to cope. The food was different, the language was different and the people were different. There was a lot for me to learn and adapt to. I learnt the Yoruba language through my dearest late grandmother. She was the brain behind that because she only spoke Yoruba and I would have to get people to help with the translation. I learnt the language for a good seven years before I mustered the courage to speak it. The truth about language is that it takes a lot of practice. I was able to shock a lot of people when I came out of my shell. I still have a British way of doing many things, but I guess that is my style and brand now. I am married to an Ijebu man. What role has your husband played in what you do? My husband has been very supportive, a very concise advisor and mentor, I have learnt a lot from him. Interestingly, he also says that I teach him a lot too. He urges me to follow my dreams.

ADETU

How would you describe marital life? Married life has been an experience; each day is a learning curve. It is important to understand that as human beings we are constantly changing as we grow and mature. Of course there would always be ups and downs in marriage because without that the marriage would not be real. We are all human beings and we are learning from one another on a daily basis. To the glory of God I have been in marriage for 24 years and my kids are now grown up. It was more challenging juggling work and married life when my children were younger because I needed to pay attention to their needs. Now, I have a more structured work-life balance and tried to prioritise my time. Marriage is beyond the wedding day or the beautiful dress or even the fairytale honeymoon. For us, we are trying to reach out to some of the younger ones in our Panache Finishing School, an arm of JSK which was set up to help our youths to face the real world by teaching them essential skills for survival. What would you love to change about yourself? I would only love to improve myself. I really want to be in a position where I could impact my generation and leave a legacy behind. I am inspired when say they learnt so much from being around me. I am a content person, but always striving for perfection and improvement. Having positive impact, adding values and making a difference to people’s lives are a huge source of passion for me. My mission is to change the strategies of others, when an individual or a corporate organization is able to see differences in the way they conduct business, present themselves and project professionalism that tells me that a recon-

structive change has occurred. That for me is an achievement. How do you combine motherhood, being a wife and work? My husband is a very busy person and I am too, but it is all about time management. I have been able to joggle my worklife balance well because I have always been focused and I don’t put my hands into too many things at a time. Though my children are not kids anymore, I still look for time to play mother to them because they still need me. I am always there for them no matter how far away they may be. I am more of a friend to my kids than a mother; it makes things easier for me. I use my children to learn as well and it helps me to understand what their generation wants because things were different for me at that age. I am still there for my husband as well because the role of a wife is never easy or ending. On weekends, I spend more time with my husband and we attend events together. The week days are normally very official, but my evenings and weekends are for my family. What has been the happiest moment of your life? I have had several moments from getting married to child birth, first job and desired contract. I am very grateful to God. Finding my brand has actually been fulfilling for me too because I feel like I am actually doing what I love to do best. Whenever I get positive feedback from my client I am happy as well, as it means that I have added value to someone’s life. I hope by His grace to impact more lives in the future and our nation will embrace the power of etiquette.

Instyle

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

Dazzle in

strapless dress A

Angela Davies

Toke Makinwa

Seyi Shay

re you searching for a dress with head-turning appeal? Then, slip into a strapless dress. The perfect strapless dress can make you look dazzling for an evening out, dinner, special occasion or just hanging out with friends. The strapless dress showcases the neck, collarbone, shoulders and upper torso in a classic, feminine way. Sexy and bold strapless dresses can be worn by women of different shapes and sizes. They come in varied lengths, flattering styles and fabrics. The length could be short, knee length, high-low and long. From glamorous gowns to effortlessly chic maxi silhouettes, you can choose from a range of stylish dresses to elevate any look. Tips for that flawless strapless dress: • Look for a strapless dress with a good fit - You should select a dress that fits your bust line well. The top of the dress should be tight and form-fitting but not so tight that you feel like you are bursting out. The waist should be trim while the bottom should be a bit loose to balance the fitting top. • If you have a large chest, choose a dress with stretchy, durable fabric and consider a strapless dress with a ruffle or other coverage on the neckline so

you don't reveal too much. The dress style matters - The right cut and fit of a strapless dress will make you look stunning, so avoid anything that looks shapeless. • A short strapless dress that hits above the knee is flattering on petite women, but long strapless dresses are flattering on many women and can make you look glamorous and tall. • Wear proper fitting underwear especially a strapless bra. A convertible bra will work well under a strapless dress as well and also provide adequate support. You could also consider pinning the bra to the dress to fasten it a bit more for extra comfort. • Glam it up - Strapless dresses are meant to show off your shoulders and neck, so select jewellery that will not take attention away from the dress. So, glam up your look with fancy chandelier earrings, beautiful pearl necklace, fancy choker, bracelets, heels and clutch for a glamorous look. Remember, wearing too many pieces at once can be distracting. • Style hair properly – It’s either your drop your hair or style in an updo to flaunt those exposed areas. Whatever style and length of strapless dress you decide to wear ensure you look spectacular and breathtaking. •

Genevieve Nnaji

Doris Simeon

Blessing Egbe

Amanda Ebeye

Mo Abudu

Instyle

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

Accessories to live for

Flower style pearl necklace

Pearl choker necklace

Long multi-strand pearl necklace

Pearl choker necklace and bracelet set

Pearl it up for a natural appeal Pearl accessories are outstanding choice for both English and traditional outfits, writes ANGELA DAVIES.

Drop pearl earrings

Pearl cluster earrings

earls are often related with vintage style and elegant beauty. Pearls are timeless, basic fashion jewellery which always makes a chic statement no matter the pieces you opt for. For pearl necklace, you could choose to wear single or multiple strand necklaces. But, the key to pulling off a fabulous pearl necklace look lies in the length, type of pearls and the occasion. Whether you wear a strand, double or multi-strand pearl necklace with details such as a bow, it will surely depict sophistication and splendor no matter the type of outfit you pair with it. Pearl necklace mixed with gemstones will look striking for wedding, evening and special events especially when worn with an elegant outfit. If you love donning choker necklaces, then, there are varied pearl choker necklace styles to select from to suit your

personal style and taste. When it comes to the earrings, opting for a pearl chandelier or pearl cluster earring style is a perfect choice especially for an evening outing. Studs, drop and other earrings styles can be worn during the day and to the office as well. You could also adorn your wrists with beautiful and stylish pearl bangles and bracelets in whatever size and style you desire. For a bubbly appeal, you could also try wearing multi-layered chain pearl bracelets. And beautify your finger with glamorous pearl cocktail rings in varied styles for a chic look. Pearl rings depict a sign of timeless elegance. Other striking pearl accessories that will add panache to any outfit are lovely pearl wristwatch, hair accessories and brooches. Pearl accessories may look simple but many of them are striking, so they should take centre stage when you dress up.

Faux pearl crystal rose cocktail ring

Pearl flower cocktail ring

Pearl hair slides

Pearl fashion wristwatch

Pearl headband

Pearl bracelet mixed gemstones

Double pearl necklace and bangle set

Pearl and crystal bracelet

Yellow gold diamond and pearl wristwatch

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

Instyle

MY STYLE

Attention-grabbing but prudish Nollywood actress Chizzy Alichi’s style may be simple, but she nonetheless takes delight in flaunting her shape in long conserved outfits, ANGELA DAVIES writes. How would you define your style? My style is very simple. I like being simple and natural. What determines the kind of outfits you wear? I will say the occasion and the weather.

Alichi

Beauty O

ily skin can be quite difficult to deal with sometimes. The accumulation of excess oil on the outer skin layer often leads to whiteheads, blackheads, and other skin irritations. However, oily skins are not entirely undesirable; they do have some benefits. Oily skin tends to age better and wrinkle less than dry skin due to the excessive production of oil. The first step to caring for oily skin is good hygiene. So, it is important to avoid touching your face with dirty hands. To prevent and care for oily face you will need to: • Wash your face twice daily (morning and night) with warm water and a mild soap for oily skin to open the pores and remove sebum without irritating the skin. Then rinse with cold water to close pores to keep oil from clogging. • Get a good facial cleanser for oily face that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide and use day and night. • You should always wash off

bought? It is human hair. Signature perfume My best perfume is Calvin Klein. I love the fragrance and it’s a perfume that I have been using for a long time.

Which outfits take up the most space in your wardrobe? That will be long and tight conserved outfits. I wear tight dresses to bring out my curves but at the same time it has to be long and conserved.

Best designer I love Gucci because their designs are beautiful and unique.

Is there any outfit you're unlikely to be seen wearing? I can wear any kind of outfit especially when I am shooting as long as it doesn't reveal my private part.

How do you love your makeup? I love my makeup natural. Heavy makeup doesn't look good on me and it makes me look older than my age.

What fashion rule do you live by? I will say looking good and comfortable but attention-grabbing.

How do you love your hair? I like long full hair especially when I fix any kind of weave-on.

Fashion item you cannot do without That will be earrings because it brings out the beauty of my face even without much makeup.

What kinds of shoes hold a special appeal to you? High heel shoes because they bring out the beauty of your outfit and also gives you confidence.

Can you recall the most expensive fashion item you have ever

Best colour I like red and blue.

What kind of jewellery appeals to you? I like simple but classy jewellery.

Facts Fatima Aliyu Garba, chief executive director of Abuja based House of Farrah, gave up being a lawyer and an IT consultant to embrace her childhood dream and passion for the world of fashion. Her journey into the fashion business began in 2004.

The cardigan was originally made to be a military jacket made of knitted wool.

Gucci’s loafer shoes with gilded snaffle created in 1932 to date are the only footwear on display in New York’s Museum of Modern Art.

Cotton is the most widely used clothing material. However, it became common in mid-1800s, when Eli Whitney’s cotton gin made it easy to separate the cotton fibres from the seeds.

Preventing and caring for oily skin or wipe off your makeup with facial wipes before going to bed. This is because if you forget to wash off your makeup at night, this may result in oily skin and pimples. • Ensure to use products that are specific for oily skin especially foundation, powder and other things you apply on your face. Also, avoid using excess makeup. • It is advisable to change your pillow case regularly; your hair passes a lot of oil to your pillow case which your face ends up absorbing. • It will be ideal to steam your face twice a week to help open your pores. To do this, pour some hot water into a large bowl and put your face over the steam. This reduces the secretion of oil. • If necessary remove oiliness during the day with medicated pads with salicylic acid or glycolic acid. You could also try some home-made facial masks for oily skin such as papaya, tomatoes, egg yolk amongst others.

Clockwise: Wash your face at least twice daily; cleanse with a good facial cleanser and steam your face twice a week

Front Row

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

'We carefully select brands that appeal to all ages' As CEO of Deva Petals and manager of Fashion Cafe, a luxury fashion platform in Abuja, Rahma Indimi Babangida is in a business that pushes her rather demure personality into the glitzy spotlight of the style world. But the alumnus of Lynn University, Florida, United States, is managing just fine.

What exactly are you into? I am into so many things that sometimes it is hard to pinpoint exactly what I do. I own Deva Clothing Line and Deva Petals. One could say business runs in my family. My siblings, even when they are still students, are usually into one business or the other. At the moment, I am helping my sister with her clothing line. She positions Fashion Café Abuja as an upscale fashion lounge, which caters to both male and female, though mostly female between the ages of 16 and 50. We aim for the cafe to exude elegance. Our intention is to stock luxurious and highend quality designs in the Cafe. We have a variety of styles from different brands and designers. We stock some brands that target the young clientele as well as the older level clientele. Our belief that quality in any form cannot be compromised drives us to the top. We aim to be a “one-stop Cafe” that caters to the interest of the Nigerian fashion buffs. We provide our resident brands with multi-functional retail space for the display of different labels and designs. We are proud to support established as well as young, upand-coming entrepreneurs with real talent. We make sure that the Fashion Café makes an inevitable institutional fashion platform, the one-stop platform for our customers’ desire. How did you decide on the idea? Well, the idea came to us naturally. In short, I can say the business had chosen us because it is a natural call and a good blend for us. Right from school, my sister could think through this fashion business, that since she is naturally cut out for the fashion business, one of the things that she should do is to give her fashion business a structure, which should involve drawing up appropriate boundaries for lines of business and defining shared services. It also occurred to me that I have to put in place some consideration for other coordinating mechanism that allows for adequate leverage. So, the moment we were set for the business, my academic exposure really helped me to easily specify the size and the shape of the business with indicative resource levels and location. So, the whole idea has helped us to ensure the creative process that yields high quality decisions on strategic priorities, resource allocation and business performance management. Here, I can proudly say that our designs

fashion business, we could take the steps to carve out our area of interest, and we even look to having customers struggle to keep pace with us. What was starting off like? Just like any other business, it was not a jolly ride. It actually started with some challenges which I considered very synonymous with the early beginning of every business. However, it has been quite satisfying and worth the while.

Babangida (top and above)

The challenge we often face is how to make the next collection better than the last and labels are basically about working to showcase the expected African cultural dimension for how people should dress between functions or teams. This dimension goes beyond communicating values such as “trust” and “respect” to being respectfully explicit about our total personalities. What has the response been like? It has been very impressive. Of course, you know Nigerians are people who love to dress well, and our styles and designs are all wearable. My sister is just fascinated about being simple but not simplistic in her creativity. Talking precisely about the response, on a daily basis, fashion designers, buyers with a touch of class stroke our fabrics, and sneak glances at our rival collections and labels, hoping to pick our statement pieces to match and to get pepped up. When your customer is facing a serious issue, they want an expert who is proficient at providing solutions, which I can say that we have. So, in

How have you been able to surmount the challenges? The challenge we often face is how to make the next collection better than the last. It is very tough competing with yourself. This is a system we created, not only to please ourselves, but to also please our clients and customers. Some challenges have been surmounted, and you have to understand that challenges are part of life. So, we see challenges on daily basis and what is important for us is that we beat them to it in the course of our business. What influences the choice of those you decide to exhibit their labels? It is high quality creativity, smart finishing and impressive clothing materials or fabrics. What this means is that the designers must up their games, more so because we must be conscious of the global trends. We carefully select brands that appeal to all ages. We select brands based on a variety of different styles in order for our customers and clients to get what they want. When there is variety like that, everyone is bound to find something that appeals to them. How do you make profit doing this? I think it has to do with my interest in the business. Everything worth doing ought to be done well, and then of course profit would surely come. So, regarding making profit, we are not stagnant by the grace of God. Our clients have received our offerings relatively well. In our four years of existence, we have established strong distribution network across Nigeria by partnering with key designers. Furthermore, we are also looking to partner with some e-commerce platforms to drive adoption and sales of our labels and designs. And we are conscious of the fact that if you want to grow your business with incredible velocity,

then you have to make it everyone's goal to attract those customers you are likely to deliver the greatest value. If sales and marketing work together to attract ideal customers to your business, then you will waste less time chasing rainbows, and spend more time counting revenue. Our understanding is that businesses that truly commit to solving the disconnect between sales and marketing will stand out from the competition, better meet the needs of their customers, and significantly grow their businesses. What makes this different from similar businesses? As I said, we carefully chose our fabrics and designs. And at the same time, we make sure that we exhibit designs that are unique and creatively African. The distinguishing factor for us is that our Cafe is not only to meet the needs of the high net worth patrons. And our strategic objective is not to merely get noticed either, or network and just enjoy fashion vibe, but it is also to strongly target the superlative in artistry and/or creativity. We aspire to become more customerfocused. We understand not only the needs and priorities of our target customers, but we have also put in place the best structure to address those needs. What do you intend to achieve with this? We strive to achieve satisfaction for our market. We make sure that we deliver value which we take very seriously. I remember we wanted to get it right. We have tried so hard to find the right fashion rhythm and all we wanted was to offer the best for everyone. We are poised to be spirited-fashion designers, with the world of art and design our greatest passion in life. I knew that I wanted to pursue a business in design from a young age. My academic background has provided me with the skills to achieve my business goals of working as designers. Our designs are based on our understanding of the kind of clothing that is best for our market. We often bring our African culture and personality into our designs. For example, we could ask ourselves to provide a design for a casual outing with indigenous influence. So, we work with the notion of a common theme in our indigenous African culture. And we want to be a role model for other indigenous young people, and show them that they can do it too.

SATURDAY

Dencia

Kalu Ikeagwu

I was 16 years old when I knew my sister was my mother p.21

I'm not all about the ‘good man' role

p.22

ShowBiz SATURDAY 30 MAY 2015

DJ Humility: I carried bags of rice because I wanted to impress girls Benedict Afagwu aka DJ Humility came into limelight after featuring in some Disc Jockey championships, including Benson & Hedges DJ Championship in 2000. He was so into music that at the age of 17 he was already profiled in a popular entertainment magazine at a time. In this Interview with OLUSHOLA RICKETTS, he reflects on his career and his relationship with popular nightclub owner, Akeem Sodiende, who died recently. You’ve been around for almost two decades and still relevant; how have you been able to achieve this? I do my thing my own way; I don’t look at what others are doing. I try to follow trends too because if you don’t follow trends there is no way you can grow. There is need to do research, open your eyes to see what is happening and keep yourself updated. I am always on the internet and I have been to other developed countries too to see how things are done over there. In Nigeria, I started the hype trend. While DJ plays music, hype man continues to shout and call out names. Hype man brings energy to a party. I saw it being done abroad and I brought the concept to Nigeria. Today, hype is a major part every club you go. How did you come about Disc Jockey? I started as a rapper, though I later realised that it wasn’t my calling. While I was a rapper I met an amateur DJ in my area, Surulere Barracks, Lagos. I told him that since he was a DJ and I was a rapper we should be doing stuffs together. So, we were about having our Interact Day in my secondary school and I was entrusted with some money to get a DJ. I gave my DJ friend N2, 000, but three days to when we were supposed to have the event he was arrested by the police. We thought they would release him before the event and we actually did our best. On the day of the show all the members were screaming, thinking that I squandered their money. It was a big trouble for me and I went straight to the father of the boy. I told him I had paid his son some money to play in my school and students were all over me. He told me that he could not do anything and suggested I could go with his equipment. I carried the equipment to school even though I had no idea how to make use of it. I called another DJ to help me out. The guy set up the equipment and instead of him playing I was constantly disturbing him by collecting the headphone as if I knew what to do.

But that was how I developed the interest. I later met DJ Stramborella, the Efrebo singer, who taught me how to mix in 1994. How true was the story that you were once a bus conductor and load carrier (Alabaru)? That story of a conductor was when I was a very stubborn child at home. I did something wrong at home and my police father wanted to beat me with “Koboko.” So, I became so afraid and I flew. I sought shelter at the popular Ojuelegba under bridge in Lagos while they were looking for me. There, I met some boys who urged me to join them to do conductors for me to survive. Before I knew it some people went to tell my father that they saw me working as a conductor. I did conductor for like two days and that was all. My father looked for me and got people out to help him too. The case of the “Alabaru” occurred when we were in secondary school. We were planning our end of the year party and we agreed to contribute some certain amount of money, but most people failed to pay. We’ve distributed invitation cards to the girls, so some of my friends and I had to think of a way out because we didn’t want to embarrass ourselves. We went to Daleko Market somewhere around Mushin, Lagos, to help people to

carry rice. My parents were not poor, my dad was a police officer and he was doing well while my mother was a trader. We did that because of our own quest to make little money for the party to impress the girls. How was the experience being an unknown DJ? It was about the passion for me, unlike now that most people want to become DJ because of fame and women. This is the why most of them don’t know the basics of DJing. I did lots of DJ courses and travelled around the world. At what point did you think you became popular? That was when I started doing DJ championship and my first was in 1995 while I was 17 years old. I did well, though I didn’t win. In 1998, I participated in another championship and I took second position. In 2000, I did Benson and Hedges DJ championship and I won at the western region, but I came out second at the national level. So, I would say I started getting recognition among Nigerian DJs and entertainers with the DJ championships. Could you remember your first major pay? I cannot remember because since I started DJing they’ve been paying me. I remember playing at a classmate’s birthday in 1994 and I was paid about N500. But I now get more than N2 million to do shows. I still play for free based on relationships. What is your relationship with the Silverbird Group? I am an in-house DJ and producer. I

have been with them for 13 years now and the relationship has been cordial. Though we have our ups and downs, the truth still remains that everyone respects each other. Definitely there would be a time I would have to bow out because it is not my company, but while I am still there I would continue to give my best. Was Djing what you wanted to do as a kid? I was clueless as a kid. In primary school, I was a very stubborn boy; it was when I get to SS2 1 started looking at the direction of music. What then influenced your decision to do music? I got the inspiration from my cousin who is dead now. They said they would be war in Lagos during the June 12 crisis in 1993, so we went to the village. I was never a music person, but I knew how to sing just a song. So, I was always rapping and my cousin loved it. It was a new thing to them in the village and this cousin of mine was a good singer too. He could rap Mr. Loverman by Shabba Ranks from beginning to the end. I asked him to teach me Mr. Loverman and I taught him the song I knew too. But in school I was known to be a fighter and a bully, but when I got back to Lagos I started singing the new song I learnt. The whole girls loved me and anytime I sang Mr. Loverman the whole class sang along. That was how I became popular in my school and became a treasure in the eyes of girls. I had to change my ways too. I became a good boy and conscious of what I wore to school. From there I started representing the school for literary and debating activities and Press Day. When it came to entertainment I was the first they called upon. The good boy in me started coming out and from singing I went into DJing. While I was in school I was featured in the Fame Magazine, it was one of the biggest magazines then. It is just like the City People of today. Didn’t you have any problem with your dad? At the beginning my father never supported me. It was a serious war between me and my dad. Things changed for the better the day he saw the pubcontinued ON PA G E 2 0

Dj Humility

Showbiz

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

SHOWBIZ TODAY

LANRE ODUKOYA 08059296445 lanre.odukoya@newtelegraphonline.com

Reminisce, Faze, others unveil 'Orijinal Africa’s largest drum'

t was a carnival-like atmosphere at the National Art Theatre, Lagos, last weekend as Guinness Nigeria Plc unveiled the "Orijinal" Africa’s largest drum to the delight of enthusiastic guests. Consumers and lovers of showbiz got a feel of Orijin hospitality as they were left asking for more of what will be coveted many years after its debut. Guests got a taste of what to expect for the evening as the dance group set the tone with a fantastic display of cultural dance routines. Flowing with the expectant crowd was DJ Caise who dished out a perfect mix of old and new tunes that got the guests waltzing almost till mama called. Orijin brand ambassador and wave-making indigenous rapper, Reminisce, led the retinue of artists that put up spectacular performances at the event. Kola Soul, famous for his ‘Marry Me’ ensured the crowd got into the right mood with his sublime delivery before folklore vocalist, Adunni and the Nerfetiti, rendered some cultural tunes that got the guests

The Ayanjo Dance Troupe thrilling guests at the unveiling of the Orijinal Largest Drum by Guinness Nigeria Plc at the National Art Theatre Lagos.

nostalgic. Hip-hop singer, Faze, also brought back memories with some of his hit tracks while popular dance group, Dance Na the Main Thing, thrilled the audience

'I carried bags of rice because...' c ont i nued f ro m page 1 9

lication on magazine. He was so happy about it and encouraged me to continue. It is so painful that he is not around again, as I lost him in 2005. My father was killed by soldiers when a fight broke out between the Nigeria Police and the Army at Ojuelegba area of Lagos. They burnt the police barracks in Surulere (in Lagos); it was a national issue and tragedy then. My father was one of the two policemen that were killed by the soldiers. I know time will definitely come when I will face the government. We’ve gone to court and took some steps, but you know you can never fight the government. When it happened Olusegun Obasanjo was the president. My father’s name was Samuel Afagwu; he was an Assistant Superintendent of Police, Surulere Police Station Area C. What other things do you do? I do general events and I am also thinking of starting my DJ academy very soon. I don’t really want to talk about that, but I am trying to set up the biggest DJ academy in Africa. All what I do is still under entertainment. What has been the most fulfilling part on the job? I like the fact that I have been able to make millions of Nigerians happy on radio, in nightclubs and events. I am happy today when I see young DJs making waves because we started the revolution. When I started, DJs were not respected. There was a time we would go for an event and we would be asked to put out instruments

under the staircase or in an enclosed place. But today, no matter how small the venue or house, everybody wants to see the DJ. So, I feel happy being among the people who made DJing a respectable profession in Nigeria. I would also give a shout out to DJ Jimmy Jatt who I refer as one of my role models. In a recent conversation with DJ Gosporella he said he was the highest paid DJ at a time. Is that correct? I seriously disagree with that. With due respect to DJ Gosporella, I would not agree that he used to be the highest paid DJ. He is like a big brother and I respect him a lot. He was never the highest paid; I can mention all the highest paid DJs from 2000 till date. But he was highly respected. How did you feel about the death of Akeem Sodeinde, the nightclub owner? I felt so bad, though death is one thing everyone will surely face. I feel the death was as a result of negligence but when God says it is over, it is over. I have known Akeem for many years. I could still remember when he didn’t allow me access into a club at Ikeja, Lagos, where he was the bouncer because I was an underage. I was 15 years old; I am talking about 1995. How would you describe him? He is a businessman who didn’t play with his job and he was so passionate about the nightclub business. He knew his job and he respected people in the business. He would be missed in the nightlife industry.

with some stellar stage presence. Comedian, Seyi Law also ensured there were no dull moments with his rib cracking jokes which simply got the guests rolling to the edge of their seats. The high point of the evening was an unusual collaboration between hip-hop artiste, Reminisce and folklorist Adunni. The crowd was stunned as Adunni and the Nerfetiti remixed one of Reminisce’s hit tracks into a cultural piece. But little did they know about the trick before Reminisce eventually stormed the stage to relieve their suspense. It was a unique performance which received a standing ovation from

guests that were simply blown away. Speaking at the unveil, Ms. Eyitemi Taire, portfolio director, Lager and RTD, Guinness Nigeria Plc, said “the Largest African drum is another landmark in our journey as a business and eulogizing Orijin as the original drink for Africans”. “A drum announces the presence of the royals and the revered; it represents everything African. It is the single identifier that cuts across all African cultures. It represents the vibrancy, energy, uniqueness, and interconnectivity of Africans which perfectly reflects the essentials of the brand’s

originality,” Taire said. In his comment, the Ojora of Ijora, Oba Abdulfatai Ojora represented by Chief Joseph Ogunmola, commended Guinness for producing an iconic drink like Orijin. The "Orijinal" drum, a cultural icon, is an extension of the Orijin ideology of celebrating the contemporary African culture. The Orijin brand recently received the endorsement of Royal fathers across Nigeria as the drink of heritage for Africans. The "Orijinal" drum located at the National Art Theatre distinctly stands at a vantage point as a "pride for all Nigerians". The drum’s dimension determined by a team comprising Alexander Forbes actuaries and Billings Cost & Associates measures 22ftx25ft. On Orijin as a drink of culture and heritage, Taire explained that “we recognize the value of our culture and will do everything possible to keep our heritage. Orijin connects with our people at this level just in the same way a drum connects. Where ever there is a drum there is celebration. And wherever there is celebration, you can be sure there is Orijin, the drink of tradition.” Orijin is a blend of African fruits and herbs flavours mixed with alcohol. Guinness Nigeria Plc is also the brewer of Guinness Foreign Extra Stout, Harp Lager and Malta Guinness. The company was established in 1950, making it one of the oldest companies in Nigeria.

Humblesmith set to release Love Me

amed for that pulsating song dubbed, Chairmoo, Humblesmith who recently returned from a U.K tour has continued with his tradition of giving his fans “good music”. The singer is set to drop another song titled, “ Love Me”, a well composed musical piece with shimmering production and massive beats, which he hopes will endear him to more fans across the world. Produced by Mixta Dimz and mixed and mastered by Foster Zeeno, Love Me is a melodious Afropop tune with an infusion of highlife beat which promises to take over the airwaves soon. The song will be officially released on the June 1, with its video which was shot in London. With these two singles, Chairmoo and Boogati that preceded Love Me, Humblesmith has proved he is not a one hit wonder artiste, and for this singular reason, his fans across the country will definitely be anticipating to listen to the new song which will be on constant rotation on radio and TV stations in a matter of days . Born Ekene Ijemba , Humblesmith is a talented singer whose ability to perform with a live-band is next to none. The rising star began his career at a tender age after he was influenced by highlife legend, Bright Chimezie. Signed to DG records, Humblesmith is the next kid many anticipate to put Nigeria on global map.

Humblesmith

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

Showbiz

'I was 16 years old when I realised my sister was my mother' Reprudencia Sunke otherwise known as Dencia has called off her three-year career lull with a new musical video entitled, African Energy. The eccentric songstress and entrepreneur shed light on several misconceptions about her in this interview with LANRE ODUKOYA. You are back home from the US where you have been a red carpet item. Why did you return home? You guys (journalists) have been amazing people and I’ve seen stuffs you’d all written about me. Most times, I felt like, “oh, my God! That’s not true.” Now, I’m home to interact with the media, the journalists should know me; get to even familiarise with the lady they write those stuffs about. But writing those stuffs is okay, I can’t knock that off. I hope that when we finally start interacting, you can have access to me because I’m never going to stop anyone from writing things about me, but I will hope that before they write those stories, they can reach out to me and I’d confirm if it’s true or not. I want to be part of the solution and not the problem. I want to be the reason some guys will become more professional in plying their trade. There was something that happened that got me so angry that I broke two expensive phones. I broke even the door of my house. Some blogs actually posted the picture of my current home and I never sent those photos. And what they posted was a photograph of when someone actually lived there years ago. When it surfaced on the internet, I was extremely upset because it brought me back to a place where I felt that I wasn’t even safe anymore. It was like my home was on the internet. But you were home in 2011, does your fear has anything to do with an incident that happened then? Yes, I returned to promote my first single entitled, BerryBerry. I went back to Los Angeles and my home was robbed. I lost every single thing I’d worked hard for; it was like someone stole my whole house. So, I had to start life afresh, so having the photo of my apartment on the internet made me really feel I’m no longer safe. I live alone and got my home on the internet, imagine how anyone else would feel about that. We’ve got to respect people’s privacy. I’m a single female living in my Los Angeles home and anything can happen. There’d been cases of people who stalked people. I recently got stalked from Hollywood all the way to my house and that also made me unsafe. You recently said that these past three years had been quite tough, what exactly were the challenges you dealt with? Well, I’m not going to go into a lot of details but I honestly had personal things I was dealing with. I went through depression and it was really hard. I’m just glad today that I was able to get out of it and have life back. It was mostly feminist stuffs. Most people don’t know my story for instance. I was raised by my grandparents and I thought that my grandmother was my mother and that my mother was my sister until I was like 16. That story really never affected me until I became an adult. I cry every time I have to tell that

story. It really made me frustrated but I’m fine right now. I’m in a better place. You also reportedly said that you are through with business. Does that imply you are going to face music squarely? I have not left business. I took a year off to build what I call an empire. Right now, my business can run on its own without my presence. For like eight months I had to wake up every morning from 6am to midnight to run the business. It’s really hard for a female, especially being Black if you live in a racist area. But all of that is over now. I just let my business handle itself and I’m full time back to music. Now that you are in the country to release a musical video after the break, is anything going to change in your music style? Technically, I’ve been working with Nicholas Cooper, doing voice training and that has been amazing. That is preparing me enough to be a better artist. I’m in a point where I can confidently say that I’m a better artist. I am not going to box myself into one corner and say that my music has changed. But the video I’ve done and which I’m releasing is different from what I’ve ever thought that I’d do. I can only say that I’ve grown and I’ve a lot to offer this time. How are you dealing with loneliness and the fact that there is no man in your life yet? I actually talk to guys here and there; it’s just that it never goes anywhere. When time comes, I’m definitely going to be with someone and take time off for that too because I take time off for everything, just as I did with music. What is your nationality? I’m actually half Nigerian, half Camerounian. I didn’t find that out until some years ago when I found out that my mother was actually the one I’d always known as my sister. Most times when you hit the red carpet, people think you are Nicki Minaj. Do you consider that good or bad for your brand? I do not think that affects my brand. If I were Nicki Minaj, I would be upset that I have made the name so big and the media are beginning to mistake me for somebody else. I’m way taller than Nicki Minaj, we’re really not the same and they know that. They just want some drama and I’m not going to give that to them. Another person once called you Nicki Minaj fashion regression and you got very angry. Why did you get that upset? I wasn’t upset at all and there was a reason for that post. I’m a very calculated person. You opened a fashion store when you were 15. What influenced your fashion sense? I’m a very creative person and I’d already begun that when I was age eight. I tore up things and tried to put them

Dencia

together. I was into needling and the rest of it. I just saw that growing up, I was very different and I was raised by a grandmother who would let me do what I wanted to do and wore what I wanted to wear as long as I didn’t bring boys around. And when I opened my store, I was just 15 and that was when someone challenged me and I rose up to it. Fashion wise I’m inspired by things around me. I had an older sister who is actually my idol, and she was married at a time to a soccer player. She was great. I admired the way she used to dress and I’d always said when I grow up, I want to be just like her. She inspired me a lot. You mentioned earlier that you lived in a racist community. Does that explain

your change in complexion? Now, I do live in a racist community but I wasn’t living there before. So, when I moved to LA, I started working my way up. My skin tone has been changing for a while now. I live in a racist environment but they’re not racist because of their skin tone; they’re just not raised around Black people. Your name is Reprudencia Sunke and sounds really unfamiliar. Which part of Nigeria are you from? I’m from Calabar. Sunke is my grandfather’s name. He’s late and was half-Nigerian. My grandmother is called Prudencia and since I was the first grandchild, I was the real production of Prudencia’s reproduction (pun intended).

Showbiz

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

KALU IKEAGWU I'm not all about the ‘good man' role Kalu Ikeagwu has proven to be a quintessential actor in Nollywood, but his stories rarely scream on the headlines. The British-born Nigerian actor spoke to LANRE ODUKOYA about his rough journey into acting, relationship status and all you’ve read nowhere about him. What was your earliest influence? It’s largely due to the action my dad took regarding my chosen career, though it’s not quite what he meant it to be. My father was very apprehensive of me losing my culture because I was born in England. So, he made sure he taught me my native dialect which is Igbo, and made me know so much about where I came from. But because that was very alien in the surrounding I grew up in, it made me a lot more curious and I began to read more than I’d thought. In so doing, my imagination was fired up because most of the things I saw like the huts, cooking fire and a lot of other things were alien to me, so I had to imagine them myself. I think all this happened so that when I was in the university and fell into acting quite by accident, it was an easy transition for me and I’ve been thinking like that ever since. I think mostly in pictures and that was how I was able to register mostly all that I thought about in my head. But there was a story that your dad wanted you to be a medical doctor at first and a lawyer later on… That’s correct. He wanted me to be both

at different times. He actually wanted me to be a lawyer when he noticed my love for English literature. Do you now wish you had listened to him? No, I never felt like that at any point. It’s actually true that sometime in the industry, not very structured as it should, in this light, other professions feel a lot more favoured but a lot less fulfilling. At the same, you also have to understand that there was an innate thing that was guiding me. So, I believe that was God’s gift for me and it superseded whatever my dad wanted. By the time I go into the university, he recognised that I was in the place where I was meant to be. In my career, I’ve been able to play a lawyer and a doctor both of which dad had wanted me to be in the sense of the word, because of this, I’ve had to be a sort of an amateur lawyer and doctor in movie roles where I had to learn how these professions are practiced. So, even then, I have still managed to be what my dad wanted me to be. Maybe not in real life situation but on a presentational level, I’d been what he wanted me to be. No regrets whatsoever, it’s rather a tale of fulfillment.

Ikeagwu

You were mostly made to act the ‘good man’ role in nearly all of your movies; is that a coincidence and doesn’t it make you feel entirely stereotyped? Maybe you might need to watch a little more of my works because nowadays I’m more known for evil roles than the sort of the ‘good man’ role you’re talking about. In Tinsel, I play Alhaji Abubakar who is a murderer, a drug lord and one of the most dreaded people. I played alongside Uche Jombo as an abusive husband who’s always beating his wife. What you’d take away from all this is that I like to be a versatile actor. I like to play any role that comes to me, the ones I can portray in a convincing way. My aim as actor is to inform people and let my character speak to people with a view to changing their lives or modify their perception about a certain character in life. So even if I’m playing an evil person, I’m saying, look at this character, you can find him anywhere, he might appear this or that way, but never ever judge people by their appearances rather by their character. This is all I try to portray in my characters because it’s a gift that’s given to me which I must deliver with some level of responsibility. Writing seems to be one of your pastimes; what sort of writing do you do? I’m a sort of freelance writer. Largely, I write short stories from the experiences I’ve had, but mostly I try to write a blog which I haven’t updated in a while and I hope to go back to it. It’s kaluikeagwu.blogspot. org and that’s where I try to write most of what my thoughts are because I realised at a time that my fans had only either what they saw in the newspapers about me or what they interpret me to be from the movies they’ve seen. So, I decided to open up that blog to just give an idea with respect to my thoughts maybe on a weekly or fortnight basis on politics, emotional sides of affairs, spirituals stuffs and other things. Will you say that acting has paid the bills? Well, initially it wasn’t that easy but I can say now that it has paid all the bills and other things, but I wouldn’t also say that it has paid all the bills in a way, I will give all the glory to God that has looked after me in this

profession that I chose. God has given me work, fulfillment and the name that I cherish today, I’ll ascribe everything to Him. Have you ever thought of what your dad now thinks about you now? Well, though he’s late, I know that he’d be very proud of me because he always said one thing: “follow where your heart goes.” My father was one of the first Christians in my village, one of the first people that had education even when everybody was against him. So, he fought against all odds, he was a primary school teacher, a secondary school teacher and he went on to become a university lecturer. All this happened because of his unflinching belief in what his purpose on earth was. I learnt that from him and I’m following mine through as well. So, he cannot but be proud of me. You’re an adult who has got everything it requires to marry. Why are you still waiting? I respect marriage so much and being a human being, I had made some mistakes, but from the outset, God put it in my heart how important marriage is to Him. So, I’d since realised that it wasn’t something I could treat trivially. So, if I’m not wholeheartedly convinced about something, I don’t do it, especially as regard my profession, marriage and spirituality. I’m under God’s guidance for now, when it’s supposed to happen, it will happen. When it happens, I can assure you that it will be the right one. What was the first paid job you did and can you remember how it happened and how much you were paid? The first TV job that I got paid for was on NTA Enugu; that was for the Parliament of Vultures. It was supposed to be a satirical comedy aimed at the new dispensation of democracy coming into Nigeria. And for that, I played a very corrupt officer, I think I was paid N150 for two episodes and it was a huge sum of money at that time. How long ago was that? That was in the 1990s. I remember going with my colleague, we gave ourselves a huge treat after that pay.

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

FOLUKE DARAMOLA-SALAKO

I felt I was guilty when I was raped Foluke Daramola-Salako is a household name in the movie industry. The eloquent actress and movie director talks about her rape ordeal, foundation and new movie with ANGELA DAVIES. Why launch a foundation that focuses on rape and what are the objectives? Passion Against Rape in Africa (PARA) Foundation was borne not only from having been a victim of child sexual abuse, but also the need to raise an awareness through aggressive mass sensitisation programmes at all levels, targeting various stakeholders. The objectives are to formally educate about the risks of growing up as a young girl, push for enforcement of the law and prosecution of perpetrators so as to serve as a deterrent for future abusers, and inform and persuade the populace about control measure, rights and regulations around sexual abuse as an offence. Others are creating a forum for open discussions and interaction with industry experts and professionals for guidance and counselling sessions as well as creating boldness and confidence in the minds of victims while molestation is significantly reduced.

know how it is to have your daughter hawk goods or have them exposed to things that are unthinkable without able to defend themselves. So they need people who can enlighten them on what to do when they face certain problems. There is no reason why I cannot take one or two of my movies and show it at the grassroots while trying to sensitise people. We intend to start in Lagos, move to Abuja and then to Port Harcourt. We will also have seminars and crusades because rape cases are on the increase and the consequence is enormous but many people don’t understand. So we need to re-orientate the common man, address the issue and shield our daughters. Aside being a victim, what exactly drives this passion? I want to see that the inci-

You said you were a victim of rape. When did this happen? It happened when I was 16 years old. I was wearing a gold mini skirt and top and I think there was a wedding and I was going to return plates when he dragged me on the stairs. At that age, I was big and busty so people felt that I was older than my age. When it happened, I told my mother but she warned that no other ear should hear about it. I felt I caused it and it made me feel bad and guilty. So in my first marriage I was frigid. I saw sex as bad. The worst part was that I couldn’t even discuss with anybody because I felt I inflicted the pain on myself. I felt I was the one that was wrong. But in my second marriage, I had to see a psychologist who told me that the only way to come out of the ordeal was to talk about it, to create awareness for victims that find it challenging to speak about their personal encounter and it has helped. Today, I talk freely about it. How do you intend to achieve these objectives? I intend to start from the grassroots that is actually my target. I won’t even call PARA a foundation but a platform where I can impact on the grassroots. A lot of people in the grassroots do not understand the implication of rape. I can get aid from international bodies but I believe that in my own little way, I can penetrate my grassroots. I

BIG SCREEN

St. Mary

Tejiri's love rejects him. In her desire for wealth, she falls victim of a gang of human traffickers and organ thieves who are selling her and others into sex slaves. Will his best ... Featuring: Zack Orji, Ekpeyong Bassey-Inyang, Frank Dallas, Joseph Benjamin, Scott Roberts, Benita Nzeribe, Paul Obazele, Ibinabo Fiberesima, Toyin Alausa, Sefiya Dadiya, and Caren Agwambo

dence of rape is given the deserved attention and PARA is my passion to lead the fight against rape in Africa. My passion is to keep sensitising people of the world that our society must stop sweeping incidence of rape under the carpet and pretending it does not exist in Africa. Rape exists and it is criminal in its entire definitive ramification. I am also a victim that is why I am using my opportunity as a renowned Nollywood practitioner and human rights crusader to lead the way and war against the scourge. We know that parents cannot be with their daughters always, but, how can they be shielded from rape to an extent? The fundamental thing is for parents to be able to study their children, both the boys and girls. When you notice any changes in your child, you should ask what the problem is. Also, when your child is weary of somebody or she is getting scared around someone, you should be inquisitive to know why. When your daughter tells you that she doesn’t want to go to a particular place, you should ask why instead of forcing the innocent child to go there, not knowing what that man she calls ‘uncle’ is doing to her. In addition, if you have a teenage daughter who takes her bath outside, it should be stopped. It doesn’t cost a parent anything to know that their once boisterous, warm and playful daughter is now docile. Once there is a change in your daughter’s attitude, automatically you will know that something is wrong. What advice do you have for parents especially mothers? They should try as much as possible to be

friends with their children especially their daughters. And if your daughter is raped, you should encourage her to speak out so that she can be helped early and not suffer the consequences later in life. Also, do not make her feel responsible or guilty for the act because it could be psychologically tormenting. Besides the psychological damage, victims suffer physical damage and health consequences like unwanted pregnancy and HIV. Where do you see yourself in the next five years? I see myself taking PARA to another level. I mean going to different African countries to give speeches, hold seminars and crusades on rape, be a voice to the voiceless and make people understand that there would come a time when disclaimers will be put on the names of rapists. So if you believe that you can buy yourself away from the law, we will see how you will buy yourself away from the public because we intend to go that far. With this, rapists will know how it feels when every woman starts running away from them. This is your second marriage and you seem to be very happy. What is the secret? I will say peace of mind and having the right man by my side. Aside being my husband, he is my friend and that is very important in every marriage. He loves, understands, supports and cares for me. He is also there for me whenever I need him so why won’t I be happy? When you are contented in marriage, of course it will definitely show. How do you measure success? It’s more of value and moral based. Success is not how much you have but how much you have been able to impact on humanity. What has life taught you? Life has taught me that you should never compromise your happiness. Also, it is good to impact into humanity. What is your fashion fetish? I love wristwatches and my favourite designer is Michael Kors. What is your new movie, Cobweb, about? It is an intriguing story of what destiny wants for the only son of a poor fisherman and what his under-privileged illiterate father wants by force for his future. The story attracts the love and passion of every typical African home for the purpose of learning that the wish of destiny over who and what a child becomes in life can always supersede that of parental domination, force and probably their undue influence most times.

Foluke

San Andreas

In the aftermath of a massive earthquake in California, a rescuechopper pilot makes a dangerous journey across the state in order to rescue his estranged daughter. Featuring: Dwayne Johnson, Alexandra Daddario, Carla Gugino

Barley Lethal

A teenage special ops agent coveting a "normal" adolescence fakes her own death and enrolls in a suburban high school. She quickly learns that surviving the treacherous waters of high school is more challenging than international espionage. Featuring: Hailee Steinfeld, Sophie Turner, Jessica Alba, Samuel.L.Jackson

Showbiz

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

I hate domineering men, says V.E.R.A. Raised in Canada and United Kingdom, Adebola Adeyoye, popularly known as V.E.R.A believes she has what it takes to be the next big thing in Africa. The former backup singer of Roger Samuels, Steve Wonder, Wayne Malcolm Kelis, Nicole Scherzinger and Dorseleen Burrell speaks with OLUSHOLA RICKETTS. How do we describe you? My name is V.E.R.A. I am a graduate of business and sociology from Kingston University in London. I'm a singer, song writer and professional visual effects artist. What does V.E.R.A. imply? It means Voice Every Race Accepts. How did you come about music? Music to me has always been a way of life. Right from a very tender age I've always loved entertainment. As a little girl when guests came to visit I would be the one to entertain them with songs and my dance moves. Though I was doing it innocently, most guests didn't leave without giving me a small token. It was a way of appreciating me. When did you venture into music? This may sound like a cliché, but I've been singing right from a very young age. I joined the choir at my local church when I was nine years old. In school, I was also part of a choir and a singing group called African Divas. But professionally I have been singing since five years ago.

and design my own outfits. I'm different and my experience is different. My sound comes from my experience as a singer. How was growing up as a girl? Though I was born in Nigeria, I spent most of my childhood in Paris, Canada, and London. I travelled a lot with my parents and my siblings and it was fun. I am the only daughter of my mother, so I was pampered as well as disciplined. I remember Christmas in Nigeria; I would visit Santa clause at NTA Channel 7 and visit so many family members. What are you working on? Currently, I'm working on the video release for my debut single “Oh Nah Nah” and some other major surprises with known a r tistes in the industry.

Could you remember your first kiss and the feeling? This question is intimidating. I'm a very shy person. It was a long time ago; I can't remember. How do you plan to be a leading artiste in Nigeria? Through hard work, focusing on my style of singing and unleashing my creativity. How would you compare showbiz in the UK and Nigeria? The UK music industry is so different from Nigeria’s. But the Nigerian music industry is now so advanced and diverse. The afrobeat/afro pop culture is now accepted worldwide. If you go to a place like Dubai Nigeria’s music is very recognised there and the UK is now open to afro pop. This is a relief because it means Nigerians are leaving a stamp of greatness all over the world. In what ways do you think the industry could help up-and-coming musicians? Nigerians are so talented. I've been to events where I heard some up-and-coming artistes showcase their talent and I was left in awe. The sky is so wide that birds do not have hindrances when flying. I believe that once you have what it takes, help would surely come at the right time. The industry can, and should have sponsors that can help to elevate artistes to a level that they can then help and support themselves.

How has it been as a singer? Singing is a passion for me; it's a gift and a blessing. It’s one thing to be a singer and another to be an anointed singer. Being a singer comes with its own blessings and challenges. However, it's fun and exciting to be able to entertain and serenade with your voice. What kind of music do you do? I'm versatile; I can do any music that's thrown at me once the inspiration is there. I'm into all sorts of genre and style; I don’t belong to a certain genre. However, if I had to choose I'd say R'N'B and Reggae as well as Pop. R'N'B is my favourite because I love how the style tells stories. The first sets of CDs I got were Brandy’s “I Wanna Be Down” and Celine Dion’s “Because You Love Me.”

What do you do asides music? I'm a professional makeup and special effects artist; I design and make wedding dresses as well as custom Tshirts. I have my own make-up company called B'dvine Beauty.

Was music all you dreamt about? That's a good question. As a kid I've always loved entertainment and performing. It has always been a dream, but it wasn’t easy being an African and growing up with Nigerian parents. Education is always paramount and music then wasn't held in high regards. I grew up listening to different musicians, including Obesere, King Sunny Ade, Onyeka Onwenu, Sade Adu, Brownstone, SalawaAbeni, WasiuAyinde, Whitney Houston, Anita Baker, etc. I used to see myself as Whitney Houston and Anita Baker as a kid.

Who are your role models? Kim Burrell, Whitney Houston, my mum, Jessie J, and I love Tiwa Savage How did you combine academics with music? I’m very good at multi-tasking. There is always time for music. Once you have your head up and determined, you can always balance music and academics. You can mix work and play. What are your specific plans for the future? I want to be one of the best female vocalists all over the world. I want to keep creating good music and continue to be that Voice Every Race Accepts.

What roles did your parents play in your music career? My parents initially were not in support of my music because to them there's no future in it. Though they loved and spoke highly of musicians such as Ebenezer Obey, Sunny Ade and Haruna Ishola, no child of theirs should ever think of becoming a musician. But you know when God calls you for an assignment and He has plans for you, nobody can stop your destiny or stop you from operating in your element. My mother has finally given in to my music ambition and career. I am educated and still doing music. What makes you a different artiste? All artistes are not the same; we are all unique in our own different ways. My voice makes me different from other artistes and my style is also different because I make

How do you handle advances from men? I do that with a smile and a ‘no thank you.’ You just have to find a way to manage them.

What turns you off about men? I don't like lies, dishonesty, and domineering people in general. So if you are a male and you possess all these qualities, then I'm sorry.

V.E.R.A

What qualities must your ideal man possess? He must be God-fearing. Once you are God-fearing every other thing follows. Though I don’t believe there is such thing as an ideal man; a woman grooms a man to be her ideal kind of person.

O u t &A b o u t Yaw and Okey Bakassi in a stage play Yaw and Okey Bakassi in a stage play holds tomorrow at Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island Lagos. The event titled “YOU” will feature MI, Korede Bello, Rekaado Banks, Kiss Daniel, Olamide, Cynthian Morgan, Davido among others. This is the seventh year of Yaw Live on stage. “YOU” is a two-man satire written by Obi Martins and directed by Emma Uduma. The play deals with the past, present and future of the socio-political and socio-economy status of Nigeria.

DJ Exclusive’s album party On Saturday, June 13, DJ exclusive will be holding his album release party at the Landmark Event Centre, Oniru, Lagos. The Superstar album features top stars, including 2face, Timaya, Olamide, Wizkid, Banky W among others.

AY Live comes to Abuja AY Live Complete Happiness edition will hold on Father’s Day, June 21 at Trascorp Hilton, Abuja. I Go Die, Gordons, Akpororo, Helen Paul, Elenu, MI, Phyno, etc are expected to perform at the event too.

Yvonne Nelson’s new movie Sliverbird Cinema in Accra, Ghana will be hosting Yvonne Nelson’s new movie (If Tomorrow Never Comes) premiere on Friday, June 5. The movie is an epic story of a young girl who was sold into slavery by her wicked uncle after her mother died. It features Yvonne Nelson, David Dontoh, Kweku Elliot, Becca, Khareemah and a host of others.

Basketmouth Uncensored Basketmouth Uncensored holds on June 27 at the Armenian Ballroom, Manhattan, New York.

Filmmaker’s Forum The Nollywood Studies Centre holds the May edition of its Filmmakers’ Forum today at the Hotel De Island, Vitoria Island, Lagos. The speaker is the Zonal Manager, Nigerian Copyrights Commission, Barrister Chris Nwkwocha. Questions to be treated include steps to take to register and protect copyright, protection the law gives and steps to take to report and combat piracy. There will also be a premiere of a short film by Chukwuemeka Joseph, titled Paranoia.

SATURDAY 30 MAY 2015

SATURDAY

FREE

Sport Splash 25

Interview

Elite athletes will kill National Sports Festival – Oshodi p.27

Feature

2014/205 season: Mixed fortune for Nigeria’s foreign legion p.28

Copa del Rey final

Barcelona aim for second title of season p.29

U-20 World Cup tarlets to watch S in U-20 World Cup p.31

Nigeria's Ogenyi Onazi (left), jostling for the ball against an unidentified Iranian player at the last World Cup

Allow Keshi do his job, Lawal urges Nigerians F Vincent Eboigbe

The Team Vincent Eboigbe l Assistant Editor Ajibade Olusesan l Correspondent Charles Ogundiya l Correspondent © Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

ormer Nigerian midfielder, Garba lawal, has strongly disagreed with those picking issues with the list released by Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi, for the African Cup of Nations qualifier against Chad on June 13, insisting that as the boss Keshi has the ultimate duty of picking his players whether for good or for ill. Following the unveiling of the squad to prosecute the first of the qualifiers and the exclusion of several established stars like Mikel Obi, Emmanuel Emenike, Victor Moses, Ikechukwu Uche, Brown Ideye etc, fears have been expressed regarding the capacity of the invited players to get the job done. Lawal argued that those who have contrary opinions about the list have nothing

they can do about it and so they should give Keshi the latitude to do his job. “Keshi has made his list and we have to respect that. The reason he was re-hired is to do a job and his views in this instance are paramount,” noted Lawal. “Even the players who were left out must also respect the coach’s decision. That is the way it is. Besides, it is only one game and they would have the opportunity of making the team next time. Nobody knows Keshi’s plans.” Lawal was similarly unsparing of those calling for the use of only home-based players to prosecute the Chad game. “Those people don’t matter. Are they the coaches? The thing they can do is to call the coach and relate their position to him rather than going public with it. I believe that is the

best thing to do,” Lawal added. The ex-Roda of Holland midfielder who is also the general manager of Kaduna United is confident Nigeria can qualify for the 2017 AFCON having missed out of the last edition early in the year. He however cautioned against the notion that it would be a stroll in the park because of the quality of opposition in Super Eagles’ group. Nigeria are drawn in the same pool as Chad, Tanzania and seven-time champions, Egypt. “As a Nigerian, I’m confident we will qualify, but you can’t underrate any team these days. Football is played for 90 minutes and until the end of the game, nothing is certain. We can’t make the mistake of writing off Chad or Tanzania, we have to do the job,” said Lawal.

Sport

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

Nigerian League Rendezvous

I’m ready for Rangers challenge, says Amapakabo Stories by Charles Ogundiya

ead coach of Rangers International of Enugu, Imama Amapakabo, has said he is ready to face the new challenge he has been given as the acting technical adviser of the club. Speaking with League Rendezvous, the former Enyimba assistant coach made it clear that he was just standing in for the former technical adviser, Kelechi Emetole, who was asked to step aside by the management of the club. “I am just standing in for my technical adviser who was asked

to step aside,” he said. Top Scorers 5 GOALS “The management believes in me and I must repay their Ibrahim Shuaibu (Giwa FC) Tunde Adeniji (Sunshine Stars) trust with good results. We have 4 GOALS the players in the team but the Mfon Udoh (Enyimba) problem is the attitude of the Bright Ejike (Heartland) club itself. “We just have to work on the Mohammed Usman (FC Taraba) psyche of the players, the orien- Chisom Chikatara (Abia Warriors) tation of the team must change. Esosa Igbinoba (Nasarawa Utd) Ubong Ekpai (Kano Pillars) I am looking forward to getting the needed results to take Rang3 GOALS ers back to the top.” Victor Yakubu (Wikki Tourists) Rangers FC on Tuesday, after a joint meeting with the techni- Segun Alebiosu (Kwara United) Mubarak Umar (Wikki Tourists cal crew, directed the technical Ugochukwu Leonard (Nasarawa) adviser, Emetole, to step aside. The chief coach, Imama Okereke Maduabuchi (Gabros FC) Ifeanyi Onyeali (Abia Warriors) Amapakabo, was asked to take Onoriode M. Odah (Rangers) full charge of the technical crew till further notice.

Babangida

Government should hands-off clubs – Babangida

Chairman of FC Taraba, Tijani Babangida, has applauded the performance of the League Management Company after 10 matches in the league. He however calls for continuity in an interview with Charles Ogundiya. Excerpts...

Shooting Stars' Junior Ajayi (right) vying for the ball with Rangers' Godwin Aguda in a recent league match

Gateway shift base to Ilaro

gun State government-owned club, Gateway United, have announced a change of venue for its Week Three Nigeria National League home match against Akwa Starlets of Uyo on Saturday (today). According to the general manager of the club, Prince Adetunji Onatolu, the tie will be played at the Gateway International Staduim, Ilaro instead of the club's usual home ground, M.K.O Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta. The change was necessitated due to the May 29 Democracy Day celebration and the swearing-in

of the Governor Senator Ibikunle Amosun for his second term which will take place at the M.K.O Abiola Stadium. Already the Secretariat of the NNL has approved the use of the Ilaro Stadium for the match billed for Saturday at 4 pm. The management of Gateway United according to Onatolu therefore pleads for the understanding of its fans throughout the state and urged them to come out en-masse to give their usual support to the team at the Gateway International Stadium, Ilaro.

NPFL LEAGUE TABLE

No.

Team

PTS

Sunshine

Kano Pillars

Enyimba

Gabros Utd

Giwa FC

Wikki

El-Kanemi

Heartland FC

Warri Wolves

13 13

Abia Warriors

-2

Nasarawa

-3

Rangers

-1

Taraba FC

-1

Kwara Utd

-4

Akwa Utd

-5

Dolphins FC

-2

Bayelsa Utd

-4

Lobi Stars

-4

Sharks FC

-4

Shooting

-4

What can you say about the league after 10 matches? I am very impressed with the league and I hope they can keep it up like this for the whole season. The chairmen of the clubs have come together to support any decision taken on the field of play, we understand that as a team you can lose at home and also pick valuable points on the road. I just want to appeal to people that come to the stadium to support us in the drive to take our league to where it belongs. When your team lose at home, you don’t have to fight or start harassing the opponent or the referee. For now I can say the LMC is doing a good job. What about the level of officiating so far? It has been fantastic since the beginning of the season. Teams have been picking points away from home. If you recollect, my team lost a game at home but I also picked points away too. The truth is what I experienced at home was what I did away from home. I lost a game and drew two at home, at the same time, I won a game and drew two away, now everything is equal. This was possible because of the fair officiating we have been getting. What is the target for FC Taraba when the league resumes? The target now will be for my team not to drop any points at home again while making sure we pick some points away from home. It has been difficult for clubs to get funds, what would be your advice for the incoming government? My take will be for government

to hands-off management of clubs in Nigeria. Maybe not totally, but at least 80 per cent should be given to the private sector, so that the issue of non-payment of salaries and other problems will be avoided. It is difficult for state governments to continue investing in clubs given the other responsibilities of the states. You can see how the election affected some of the clubs and you can’t really blame these governors because they have to attend to more pressing issues. I just hope the incoming governors will continue to give their full support to the clubs in Nigeria. It is not just FC Taraba that are suffering, although some clubs are lucky because their salaries come directly with those of state workers, but FC Taraba are not in the same situation; we have to wait till after other expenses have been settled in the state. Which club has surprised you this season? I will say Gabros. They just gained promotion and you can see what they have been able to achieve in the league. Although if we look at it from another angle especially with the investment on the team and the type of players in the club, you will expect them to get the results. Whatever the case fact that they are just coming to the league and have done well is impressive. I will also mention Giwa. Despite the little resources from the owner they have been able to achieve what most of the government-owned clubs have failed to achieve this season. The two have shown that clubs can survive without government money.

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

Sport

Elite athletes will kill National Sports Festival â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Oshodi NTTF Presidency I tell people all the time that my greatest pleasure apart from my family is the fact that I work in sports. When you enjoy what you do the way I enjoy my sports then it would be an injustice to call it work. To see your athletes develop and grow from year to year is really fulfilling for me. What we have been able to achieve in the NTTF is also down to a lot of hard work from the board. The fact that I have so many talented people working with me at the NTTF and in Lagos Sports makes heading both offices much easier than you would think. I really enjoy what I do.

Outgoing Lagos State Sports Commissioner, Enitan Oshodi, believes that Lagos is now the centre of sports tourism this side of Africa due to the innovative classics that were introduced in recent time. He also speaks to Emmanuel Tobi about his tenure as commissioner, his headship of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation among other issues. Excerptsâ&#x20AC;Ś

tive of the controversies that may arise. When I came in, there were certain things that needed to change in Lagos State sports, we set clear goals and I am thankful we were able to achieve a lot of them.

National Sports Festival Our view in Lagos since the days of Bola Tinubu as governor of Lagos State has been consistent. The NSF should be an avenue for seeking out new, young talents who can then grow into national stars. The participation of our elite athletes in the NSF serves no purpose. I make bold to say that this is just a concoction for those states who judge their development only by the medals they win. It would even be understandable if they developed many of these elite athletes they intend to use, but in many cases they just use their superior funding to buy over young men and women who have been developed by coaches in Lagos and other states that have grassroots programmes. Either way we will continue to develop our young athletes and they will continue to represent us in the Sports Festival.

Challenges As I just mentioned, we faced a number of challenges and hurdles along the way. This is normal and to be expected. Once you sail away from the old way of doing things and towards a path of growth and development, you are bound to face certain obstacles and challenges. With a lot of patience you will manage such situations. Lagos Sports Classics The support we received from the governor, Babatunde Fashola, my colleagues in the Executive Council and the international and national federations across the sports was wonderful. The Classics brought together a wide range of government and private sector officials to work together and the results we achieved were fantastic. It is common to put down civil and public servants in this country but my experience with many of them was wonderful. To put together events that attract world class international athletes takes a lot of planning. I must thank and congratulate all those involved from the Immigration Services who oversaw the arrival of foreign guests, protocol officers, security services down to our sports officers in Lagos who went above the call of duty and this was what made the event a success. It gives me great pride to have led such an excellent team. Lagos is now the centre of sports tourism this side of Africa.

Life as Sports Commissioner It has been a tremendous adventure and a great privilege. Of course I had been involved in Lagos State sports long before I became a Commissioner, but to serve at the helm of sports in this great state is a special responsibility and opportunity, one which I thoroughly enjoyed. I can say I am pleased with what we have been able to achieve during my tenure, but there is still a lot of work to be done in sports and my true fulfillment will come when we have fully developed a vibrant, public engaging, developmental and commercially-viable sports sector in Lagos State and Nige-

Aruna Quadri, beneficiary of the Table Tennis Classics

Oshodi

Going to the foundation is the only way we will succeed as a nation

ria as a whole. My predecessor, Prince Adeniji-Adele, did a lot of good work and introduced a number of key innovations. I am pleased that I have been able to carry that baton and run a good race, but true fulfillment for all us sports lovers will only come when sports in Lagos and Nigeria truly begins to flourish and live up to the tremendous potential that we all know it has. I have always set my standards by those attainable in the most successful sporting nations. Until we attain those standards I can't be satisfied. We have the talent and skills in

Another chance There is always room for improvement. I think I would have focused more on school sports. Going to the foundation is the only way we will succeed as a nation. Get the children playing different sports from primary school, which was the case 40 years ago and we have done a lot in this area but there is a lot of scope for improvethis country to attain such standards ment. but we need to be visionary, knuckle Legacy down and do things properly. I will leave that to posterity. The people of Lagos are very discerning Avoiding controversies and perceptive. They will be the judge It depends on what you mean by of that. A lot of people talk about the controversies. If by controversies innovations we brought in across the you mean problems and clashes with spectrum of sports but for me personcertain people and groups, then I ally if I was to touch upon anything, encountered several obstacles dur- I think it was the wonderful engageing my tenure. The key is not to try ment I had with our athletes espeto avoid controversies but to have cially the secondary school athletes. a clear vision of development and We made the athletes the centre of steadfastly pursue this goal, irrespec- our vision.

Sport

SATURDAY N 30 M

EPL TOP SCORER 1. Sergio Aguero (26) 2. Harry Kane (21) 3. Diego Costa (20) 4. Charlie Austin (18) 5. Alexis Sanchez (16) 6. Olivier Giroud (14) 6. Eden Hazard (14) 6. Saido Berahino (14) 9. C' Benteke (13) 10. David Silva (12)

MOST ASSISTS 1. Cesc Fabregas (18) 2. Santiago Cazorla (11) 3. Chris Brunt (10) 3. Gylfi Sigurdsson (10) 3. Angel Di Maria (10) 6. Eden Hazard (9) 6. Leighton Baines (9) 6. J'Henderson (9) 9. Oscar (8) 9. Jamie Vardy (8)

MOST PASSES 1. Cesc Fabregas (2336) 2. Yaya Toure (2144) 3. S. Cazorla (2110) 4. Matic (1985) 5. Eden Hazard (1927) 6. David Silva (1839) 7. S'Nzonzi (1826) 8. J'Henderson (1798) 9. Gareth Barry (1726) 10. Phil Jagielka (1720)

SUCCESSFUL TAKE-ONS 1. Eden Hazard (179) 2. Alexis Sanchez (115) 3.R'Sterling (103) 4. P'Coutinho (109) 5. Yannick Bolasie (89) 6. Sergio Aguero (87) 6.Willfreid Zaha (87) 8. O'Chamberlain (83) 9. Mahrez (78) 10. Victor Moses (63)

MOST TACKLES 1. Nemanja Matic (129) 2. Nathaniel Clyne (115) 3. George Boyd (114) 4. Pablo Zabaleta (106) 5. Daryl Janmaat (104) 6. Jack Colback (102) 7. M' Schneiderlin (96) 7. Jake Livermore (96) 9. Joel Ward (95) 9. L' Valencia (95)

MOST BOOKINGS 1. Lee Cattermole (14) 2. Cesc Fabregas (12) 2. Joey Barton (12) 2. Jack Colback (12) 5. B'Ivanovic (11) 5. Nemanja Matic (11) 5. Gareth Barry (11) 8. Ben Mee (10) 8. Victor Wanyama (10) 8. S'Larsson (10)

MOST SAVES 1. Lukas Fabianski (137) 2. Robert Green (132) 3. Adrian (129) 4. Tom Heaton (128) 5. Pantilimon (109) 6. Hugo Lloris (107) 7. Brad Guzan (101) 8. David De Gea (93) 9. Julian Speroni (90) 10. Simon Mignolet (89)

MOST CLEANSHEETS 1. Joe Hart (14) 2. Simon Mignolet (13) 2. Lukas Fabianski (13) 2. Fraser Forster (13) 5. Thibaut Courtois (12) 6. Ben Foster (11) 6. Pantilimon (11) 8. Tom Heaton (10) 8. David De Gea (10) 10. Brad Guzan (9)

MOST FOULS 1. Ashley Barnes (74) 2. Graziano Pelle (70) 3. Victor Wanyama (68) 4. Leonardo Ulloa (67) 5. Fernando (61) 5. Fellaini (61) 5. Diouf (61) 5. Gareth Barry (61) 9. Cornor Wickham(58) 10. Jack Colback (57)

MOST OFFSIDES 1. Benteke (36) 1. Romelu Lukaku (36) 3. Charlie Austin (35) 4. Harry Kane (34) 5. Sergio Aguero (33) 6. Jamie Vardy (32) 7. Enner Valencia (30) 8. Diego Costa (25) 8. Graziano Pelle (25) 10. Bobby Zamora (24)

Serie A TOP SCORER Toni (Verona) 21 Icardi (Inter) 20 Tévez (Juventus) 20 Higuaín (Napoli) 16 Ménez (Milan) 16 Gabbiadini (Napoli) 15 Berardi (Sassuolo) 14 Di Natale (Udinese)14 Dybala (Palermo) 13

Assists Dybala (Palermo) 10 Hamšík (Napoli) 10 Pjanić (Roma) 10 Berardi (Sassuolo) 9 Vázquez (Palermo) 9 Bertolacci (Genoa) 8 Candreva (Lazio) 8 Anderson (Lazio) 7 Di Natale (Udinese)7

La Liga TOP SCORER Ronaldo (R'Madrid) 48 Messi (Barcelona) 43 Neymar (Barcelona) 22 Griezmann(Atlético)22 Bacca (Sevilla) 20 Aduriz (Athletic) 18 Bueno (Vallecano) 17 Suárez (Barcelona) 16 Benzema (Madrid) 15 Jonathas (Elche) 14

Assists Messi (Barcelona) 18 Ronaldo (Madrid) 16 Suárez (Barcelona) 14 Nolito (Celta Vigo) 13 Rodríguez (Madrid)13 Benzema (Madrid) 10 Koke (Atlético) 10 Isco (Madrid) 9 Bale (Madrid) 9 Cheryshev (Villarreal) 9

Bundesliga TOP SCORER Meier (Frankfurt) 19 Lewandowski (Bayern) 17

A. Robben (Bayern) 17

Assists De Bruyne (Wolfsburg) 20 Z. Junuzović (Bremen) 12 Firmino (Hoffenheim) 10

T. Müller (Bayern) 10 B. Dost (Wolfsburg) 16 M. Kruse (M'gladbach) 9 Di Santo (Bremen) 13 J. Schmid (Freiburg) 8 T. Müller (Bayern) 13 G. Castro (Leverkusen) 7 K. Bellarabi (Leverkusen) 12 T.Hazard (Gladbach) 7 Raffael (M'gladbach)12 F. Ribéry (Bayern) 7 Okazaki (Mainz 05) 12 A. Robben Bayern 7 Aubameyang (Dortmund) 16

2014/205 season: Mixed fortu Vincent Enyeama (Lille, France) Super Eagles captain’s second season as Lille's undisputable number one was not as successful as his first. The Nigerian was not only the best goalkeeper in Ligue 1 last year but he was regarded as one of the best players in that division after overseeing 21 clean sheets in just 38 league matches including a run of consecutive 11 matches without conceding a goal. He was thereafter named the best African player in France inning the Marc Vivien Foe Award and was also nominated for Africa Footballer of the Year award. However, the former Macabi Haifa goalie’s performance between the sticks was underwhelming in 2014/2015 season. He played 38 matches and conceded 68 goals, although he made 95 saves, one less than the number he managed last term; he could only oversee 14 clean sheets as against 21 he produced last year. He also played six Europa Cup matches making 25 saves as his club crashed out in the group stage of the competition. Ogenyi Onazi (Lazio, Italy) He is also an Eagle who lost his wings this season. Onazi played less than half of the number of league matches and he started just six of the 15 Serie A matches he played for Lazio. He produced just a solitary assist compared to the previous season when he was in action for his club an impressive 29 times scoring one goal with two assists. Victor Moses (Stoke City, England) After a dismal loan spell at Liverpool the previous year, Chelsea player, Moses, spent another season on loan at Stoke and he became an instant hit at the Britannia Stadium. However, incessant injuries constrained him to just 19 matches, scoring three goals, making three assists with 41 shots. Coach Mark Hughes has not hidden his desire to retain the winger despite those injuries and Moses may continue with the club next term Elderson Echiejile (AS Monaco, France) Echiejile played 888 minutes of Ligue 1 games from possible 3,420 minutes, thanks to the imperial form of French youngster, Layvin Kurzawa, who limited the Nigerian to 13 matches. Echiejile who joined the Principality Cup from Braga, Portugal, in January 2014 might be set for a regular starting role as Kurzawa has been heavily linked with a move to PSG this summer. Mikel Obi (Chelsea, England) He won his second English Premier League title with Chelsea this season, but Mikel will not be happy he did not play a huge role in the campaign. A combination of several factors limited the Nigerian to a bit-part role at the Stamford Bridge. The commanding performance of Nemanja Matic, late emergence of Kourt Zouma and injuries restricted the 27-year-old to 18 matches, most of them cameo appearances. Mikel started six matches and had one assist including three shots. Emmanuel Emenike (Fenerbahce, Turkey) It has been a disappointing year for Emenike as Fernernahce failed in their bid to retain the league title, and the 27-year-old will not be happy about his unimpressive outing this term. Emenike became an instant hero when he helped the Yellow Canaries to the league title last year with his 12 goals but the fans have turned their back on him after scoring just four goals in 27 matches so far. He further strained his relationship with them when he threatened to walk off the pitch as the fans were booing him for poor performance. It looks likely the Nigerian will play his football elsewhere next season. Abduljeleel Ajagun (Panathiniakos,

The 2014-15 season has ended in most countries in Europe and many Nigeria clubs. Many Super Eagles players endured a turbulent season. Aside from stream of the national team spent most part of the season warming the ben Nigerian football as Eagles begin an However, It is also instructive to note that some players, who are not integ Youngsters Odion Ighalo, Simon Moses, Anthony Ujah and Abduljeelel A performances of key N

Musa

Enyeama

Emenike

Mikel

Greece) The former Flying Eagles captain was one of the Nigerian players outside the mainstream national team who were outstanding in the season. He worked his way into the startling line up of the former Greek champions and consistently displayed good performances. The 22-year-old played 26 matches, 17 of them as a starter and his four goals from midfield showed he also has eyes for goals. Moses Simon (Gent, Belgium) He has been the revelation of the 2014-15 season in Belgium as his side, Gent, won the league title for the first time in more than a century of existence. The player only joined the club last January and instantly became one of the most important members of the squad after emerging Most Valuable Player six times in his first eight matches for the club. He played 17 times and scored seven goals during that hugely successful campaign. He is expected to re-enact such form for the Flying Eagles as they attempt to win

Uche

the FIFA U-20 World Cup for the first time. The championship begins this weekend. Nosa Igiebor (Maccabi Tel Aviv, Israel) Igiebor may have lost his place in the Super Eagles but he has continued to build an exciting profile with his club in Israel. He won the double with the club. The midfielder

Rory McIlroy World number one golfer Rory McIlroy has promised that any money he makes from this weekend’s Irish Open will be given to charity including the Cancer Fund for Children at Daisy Lodge. American businessmen Billy Rosenthal, Fred Carillo and Tom Iovino successfully bid £100,000 to play a round alongside McIlroy yesterday. “The auction was going way too slowly for my liking, so I put my hand up and said: ‘I’ll pay a hundred grand to play by myself,” McIlroy explained. “So that made them, there was a few billionaires in that room, so that got their hands in their pockets.

SPORT BRIEFLY

Vitali Klitschko

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko is planning to run for reelection if t Verkhovna Rada calls elections i the city, the mayor's press servic reported. "If the Verkhovna Rada announc the holding of local elections in K I am ready to take part in them," Klitschko said. Klitschko also insisted on the importance of decentralization o government bodies and delegat broader powers to them.

une for Nigeria’s foreign legion

an players are beginning to take stock of their performances for their various players like Vincent Enyeama and Ahmed Musa, many of those in the main nch in their clubs and this, many observers have posited, portends danger for other quest for AFCON qualification. gral part of Coach Stephen Keshi’s team, had decent outing for their clubs. Ajagun are some of them. Ajibade Olusesan in this piece reviews the Nigerian players abroad.

Onazi

Moses

is no mean feat, he scored those goals in 32 matches and had three assists under his belt. He’s got his reward for that wonderful showing already with a lucrative move to a more illustrious Werder Bremen where he will play his football next season. Ahmed Musa (CSKA Moscow) He is one of the few core Super Eagles players who enjoyed regular playing time in their clubs in Europe. He is expected to play his 30th league match against Rostov this weekend as they hope to seal a Champions League ticket. He has scored 10 goals even though they were not enough to give CSKA Moscow the title. Ike Uche (Villarreal, Spain) Ike scored six goals in 23 matches; it was a disappointing campaign when compared to the 14 he managed in the previous season. The 31-year-old striker also struggled with injury at some point in the season and he should be happy that his Villarreal still managed to make a return to the Europa League next season after finishing sixth on the log. Kalu Uche (Levante, Spain) After three years away, Kalu returned to Spain in January with Levante and still managed to score five goals in 16 appearances to steer the club away from relegation.

Igalo

Ideye

The player who joined from Granada of Spain last summer scored a massive 20 goals in 35 matches as Watford emerged second in the Championship and picked up automatic promotion ticket. He was rewarded with a call up to the national team and he appears to be one of the players to lead the attack of a new-look Super Eagles. Leon Balogun (Darmstadt, Germany) Leon is a defender with eyes for goal; he weighed in with four as his side secured promotion into the German Bundesliga.

Omeruo

the in ce

ces Kyiv, "

of ting

Sport

NEW TELEGRAPH MAY 2015

scored three goals in 29 matches as Macabi won the league and he also contributed significantly as they won the Israeli FA Cup. Odion Ighalo (Watford, England) Ighalo is regarded as the hottest Nigerian in Europe after helping Watford to secure promotion to the English Premier League.

Johnson-Thompson Katarina Johnson-Thompson says she would be disappointed not to win her first World Athletics Championships medal in Beijing later this year. The 22-year-old Briton is the current heptathlon world number one and took European indoor gold in March. "I feel ready now as an athlete to take on these challenges. I think I'll be disappointed if I don't come away with a medal," she told BBC.

Godfrey Oboabona (Rizespor, Turkey) The 22-year-old defender was involved in just half the number of league matches his club played this season. He has featured 18 times, two less than he managed in his debut season. Efe Ambrose (Celtic, Scotland) Ambrose lost his indispensability in Celtic squad this season as he managed 26 matches, 21 of them as a starter but did not finish most of those. Kenneth Omeruo (Middlesbrough, England) Omeruo was once tipped as one of the leaders of new generation of defenders in the world but his performance for Middlesbrough this season could make that a mirage. After a string of poor showing, Middlesbrough coach, Aitor Karanka, disappointingly dropped the Nigerian to the bench in the second half of the season. In all, he played 19 matches from a possible 38. Anthony Ujah (Cologne) Ujah was another bright Nigerian in Europe last season. 10 goals in the Bundesliga

Isaac Success (Granada, Spain) Success heads to New Zealand for FIFA U-20 World Cup campaign with the Flying Eagles with a boosted confidence having seen his La Liga side, Granada, escape relegation. 19 league appearances is good for a 19-year-old, but Success would have loved to score more than just one goal in the campaign and he will look to improve on that run next term.

Copa del Rey final

Barcelona aim for second title of season

arcelona will vie for the second of three possible titles this season when they host Athletic Bilbao in the final of the Copa del Rey on Saturday. In his first season in charge, head coach Luis Enrique has guided Barcelona to the Spanish league title, and can now add two more major titles, if they beat Bilbao and then Juventus a week later in the Champions League final on June 6. The Copa del Rey final is pitting the two teams with the most titles in competition history against each other. Bilbao, which has won 23 cups despite only fielding players born in the Basque Country or neighbouring northern provinces, will be looking to avenge losses to Barcelona in the 2009 and 2012 finals when the Catalan club took their record tally to 26 titles. "Athletic is a team that traditionally focuses on the cup and they will give us a hard fight in the final," said Barcelona midfielder Javier Mascherano. "Maintaining the culture of Athletic in this age of global football makes it a special club." Bilbao's mission is as clear as it is daunting: Stop Barcelona's big three. Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez have scored a combined 116 goals in all competitions this season.

Brown Ideye (West Brom, England) Despite an upsurge of form in January, Ideye still failed to win over doubters as he had an underwhelming debut season in England. The Baggies’ record-signing could not hit the ground running when he arrived in a 10 million pound deal, but he got some respite midseason when he scored three goals in four matches; sadly, the former Sochaux striker subsequently switched off. Although he escaped a winter break exit, he might not be lucky next time if he does not step up his game next term. Sone Aluko (Hull City, England) It was a season to forget for Aluko. Hull City were relegated on the final day of the season and the Nigerian even could not exert himself on the squad all year. Although he played 25 matches, he started 13 of them while his goal in the 1-1 draw at Everton in December was the only one he scored. In fact, the former Rangers player did not produce a single assist even though a winger.

Neymar

Vlaar looks to make FA Cup history

ston Villa captain Ron Vlaar has called on his team-mates to "write history" by winning the FA Cup this weekend. Villa will take on Arsenal, who won the world's oldest domestic cup competition last season with a 3-2 victory over Hull City in the Wembley showpiece. The Villans are looking to lift the famous trophy for the first time since 1957, something the Dutch international insists the squad are fully aware of. Vlaar admitted that Arsenal will be the favourites but believes the club's recent form proves they can pick up results Vlaar

under new boss Tim Sherwood. "It's been a really long time. I've been well aware of it because a lot of people have told me - they are looking forward to it and so are we," he said. "It's a final, it's 90 minutes. They are obviously more experienced having won it last year. "We have to be confident and believe that we can win the game. Looking around the dressing-room, we all believe and that's the most important thing. "We have all the fans behind us and backing us and it's going to be a great game. We can write history and we have to realise that. It's been so long since Villa won the Cup, and we can do it - we are so close. This is our chance."

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30 MAY 2015

Nigeria vs Chad

Use local stars, not ‘holidaying’ Eagles – Ekpo

Ifeanyi Ibeh s the national team gets set to commence its quest for a place at the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations, former Nigeria international, Friday Ekpo, has called on Super Eagles handler, Stephen Keshi, to focus more on players based in Nigeria rather than their overseas-based counterparts who, in the opinion of the former midfielder, are not really better than their Nigerian-based contemporaries. The Super Eagles will begin their 2017 AFCON qualifying campaign on June 13 with a game against Chad in Kaduna. The other teams they will come up against in Group G of the 2017 AFCON qualification tournament are Tanzania and Egypt. The Chadians are not renowned for football and have never made it to the Cup of Nations. They are currently ranked 152 in the monthly FIFA world rankings with most of their players plying their trade in the Chadian league. A handful of them also play in the French lower division such as team captain, Marius Mbaiam, who plays for French fourth division side, Jura Sud Lavans. And Ekpo doesn’t see the logic in calling up most of Nigeria’s army of “average” European-based players for the game against Les Sao. “Keshi should focus more on getting players from the domestic league into the Super

Eagles especially now that most of the European leagues have ended or coming to a close,” he told Saturday Telegraph. “I am not underrating the Chadians but most of these players from Europe will be on holidays whereas our own league is yet to get to the midpoint stage.” He added: “Besides, we have average players playing in Europe so it makes no sense having a team comprising entirely of European-based players. “Rather, what we should be having at a time such as this is a mix of players from the local league and a few from Europe. “And these players from Europe have to be the ones that Keshi really needs in the team so that they can help the home-based players develop their talent and confidence level.” Keshi recently called up 26 players from the domestic league for the game against Les Sao. Some of those called up include former junior international goalkeepers, Daniel Akpeyi and Ikechukwu Ezenwa, as well as CHAN 2014 stars such as Solomon Kwambe and his Warri Wolves counterpart, Azubuike Egwuekwe, as well as Sunshine Stars’ Kunle Odunlami. Warri Wolves superstar, Gbolahan Salami, and combative Kano Pillars midfielder, Rabiu Ali, who were also members of the bronze-winning Super Eagles team at the 2014 CHAN, were also called up for the game against the Chadians.

Avoid agents’ distraction, ex-captain tells Flying Eagles

World Championship, AAG: We want to raise a decent team – Ogba Charles Ogundiya

Ajibade Olusesan

ormer Flying Eagles captain, Abduljeleel Ajagun, has warned the players in the current squad to avoid getting distracted by desperate football agents who may lurk around the team during the FIFA U-20 World Cup. Ajagun told our correspondent from his base in Greece that it was a normal practice for scouts and agents to throng major junior competitions in search of youngsters to recommend to professional clubs across the world, but he counseled Nigerian players not to get carried away by the activities of these men. “This is a good team but if they want to go far in the competition they must remain focused. They have to avoid distractions from football agents who would normally want to talk to them about contracts and things like that. They have to concentrate throughout the competition and listen to their coaches,” he said. Ajagun’s team to the 2013 edition of the tournament crashed out in the second round,

Super Eagles invitee, Mfom Udoh

Awoniyi

but the former Dolphins star said Garba Manu’s side might be set to claim the title for the first time for the country. “They have what it takes to be successful at the competition. I watched them recently and I believe they can win the tournament,” he said.

he president of the Athletic Federation of Nigeria, Solomon Ogba, has reiterated the determination of the body to raise a formidable team ahead of the World Championship and the All Africa Games coming up later in the year. Speaking with Saturday Telegraph during the week, Ogba said there was need to work with a select few that could get the result for the country at the two competitions. “We will no longer put sentiments in our preparations,” the former Delta state commissioner for sports said. “We have mandated the coaches to work better with their athletes, because it is not going to be business as usual. “The performance of some of the athletes during the last All-Comers competition in Port Harcourt was not too good and we have made it clear to all the athletes to sit up. “It is not compulsory that we should go for competitions with a multitude; as

a federation we are going to work with the few that can get us results.” Ogba appreciated the effort of the newly appointed director general of the National Sports Commission, AlHassan Yakmut, for paying the money owed the federation and for approving its programmes for the year. He also unveiled the programmes of the federation starting from the 1st Golden League scheduled for June in Oba, Anambra State. Ogba said: “Preparation will kick off on June 11, inside the Rojenny Stadium, Oba, Anambra State, from there to Kaduna and later Ilorin in Kwara State.”

Ogba

Federer, Wawrinka disagree with Nadal in umpire row

Federer

oger Federer on Wednesday admitted that allowing leading players to pick and choose who umpires their matches could set a difficult precedent for tour organisers. Federer was drawn into a debate that followed Rafael Nadal's admission that he had requested the removal of a respected umpire from officiating his matches. "I think everybody should be

treated the same way," said the Swiss star. "It goes back to the same thing that everybody is requesting things when they want to play. "The players understand that not every request can be granted. So at the end of the day, you can make a request, but it doesn't mean you're going to get it. "I think at the end of the day the tournament, tournament

director, ATP, governing bodies, ITF, whoever, they need to take the decision, I guess, and the players need to be okay with it or then you can have a dialogue, which can be relaxed or not so relaxed." Federer added: "It's very personal...you're better off with some people and some not, you know. So that's why I try to really not focus on who is the umpire; try to focus on my game, so those kind of things don't creep

in my head. But it's hard." Federer's fellow Swiss star Stan Wawrinka admitted that he has aired grievances about umpires in the past but indicated that on this occasion Nadal's request was ill-conceived and hinted that the top players receive favourable treatment from officials. "I have already made such requests over a short period of time for direct problems and issues I had with the umpire.

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30 MAY 2015

Starlets to watch in U-20 World Cup

The 2015 edition of the FIFA Under-20 World Cup kicks off in New Zealand on Saturday, with 24 teams competing for glory. Paul Pogba of Juventus was the star player in Turkey two years ago, and this time out there are plenty of promising young talents that will be hoping to make a similarly good impression. gary last summer. He scored once, provided four assists, including the one for Hany Mukhtar's winning goal in the final against Portugal, and impressed with his industrious and incisive work behind Davie Selke up front. Selke received the end-of-tournament awards but Stendera was just as influential.

Andreas Pereira: Brazil, attacking midfielder Andreas Pereira was born in Duffel in Belgium and played under-17 and under-18 football for the land of his birth before switching allegiance to Brazil, the land of his father. He was not involved in their fairly lacklustre qualification campaign but has been called into Rogerio Micale's squad for the tournament proper after impressing at club level for the Manchester United side that won this year's Under-21 Premier League title.

Kelechi Iheanacho: Nigeria, attacker It would be inauspicious not to include at least one Nigerian player, with their U-17 team having romped to a fourth World Cup title back in 2013. Many of those players will look to continue their impressive run through the youth ranks at this tournament, though special focus will be on young attacker Iheanacho, who won the Golden Ball in Abu Dhabi two years ago. Since then he's earned a move to Manchester City, where he's scored four times in five games for their reserves. Iheanacho is regarded as Africa's top young talent, and will be looking to deliver on the promise with plenty of goals in New Zealand.

Andrija Zivkovic: Serbia, forward Andrija Zivkovic is being watched by clubs all across Europe and will hope to add to his burgeoning reputation this summer. He was part of the Serbia squad that reached the semifinals of last year's U-19 European Championship, producing three assists in his two appearances at the tournament proper. At the age of 18, Zivkovic has already made his senior international debut for his country and turned out more than 60 times for Partizan Belgrade. Angel Correa: Argentina, forward Argentina were the class of the field during the South American U-20 Championship in Uruguay earlier this year. After failing to qualify for the previous U-20 World Cup, the six-time winners played bold and attacking football in romping past their continental opponents to secure their place in New Zealand. And it was the fleet-footed forward Angel Correa who was their outstanding player of the tournament, with four goals and three assists. Godfred Donsah: Ghana, midfielder Godfred Donsah has been one of the most talked about young players in Serie A this season after producing a series of impressive displays for relegated Cagliari. A small and agile box-to-box midfielder who cites Michael Essien as his role model, his energetic performances have attracted the attention of a number of clubs in both Italy and England. Juven-

Iheanacho

tus are reported to be close to agreeing a 6 million euro fee for his services. Marc Stendera: Germany, attacking midfielder Marc Stendera was a key part of the Germany side that qualified for this year's U-20 World Cup by winning the European U-19 Championship in Hun-

Groups GROUP A: New Zealand Ukraine USA Mynmar GROUP B: Argentina Panama Ghana Austria GROUP C: Qatar Colombia Portugal Senegal GROUP D: Mexico Mali Uruguay Serbia GROUP E: Nigeria Brazil Korea DPR Hungary GROUP F: Germany Fiji Uzbekistan Honduras

Nigeria’s fixtures Nigeria vs Brazil Date: 1 June - 13:00 (2am Nigerian time) Venue: Stadium Taranaki City: New Plymouth Nigeria vs Korea DPR Date: 4 June - 16:00 (5am Nigerian time) Venue: Stadium Taranaki City: New Plymouth Hungary vs Nigeria Date: 7 June - 17:00 (6am Nigerian time) Venue: Stadium Taranaki City: New Plymouth Top winners Argentina 6 Spain Brazil 5 France Portugal 2 W'Germany Ghana 1 Yugoslavia Soviet Union 1

1 1 1 1

U-20 World Cup in numbers 18 years and nine months is the average age that establishes Nigeria as the youngest squad at New Zealand 2015. The oldest, meanwhile, will be provided by the European duo of Germany and Ukraine, both of whom have an average age of 20. 14 seconds is all it took Nigeria's Monday Odiaka to score the fastest goal in U-20 World Cup history against Canada in 1985. In 2005, his compatriot, John Owoeri, netted the second-quickest, four seconds shy of the record. 13 goals were scored in the highest-scoring match in U-20 World Cup history: Brazil's 10-3 win over Korea Republic at Malaysia 1997. Future Seleção internationals Fernandao and Ze Elias posted braces apiece in the contest, while Adailton was on target six times in an incredible 39-minute spell. Kosta Salapasidis of Australia and Spain's Fernando Llorente,

Ezeli and the long, strange trip to the NBA

estus Ezeli's parents sent him to the United States when he was 14 years old so he could begin work toward becoming a doctor. No one back home in Nigeria was excited when he made a career detour to the NBA. "My parents are very academically oriented and they weren't very happy about that," Ezeli said. "They thought I was throwing my life away." Far from it, the Warriors are now in their first NBA Finals in 40 years after overcoming the Houston Rockets 4-1 after five games and Ezeli's recent contributions have been significant. No one, including Ezeli, 25, could have imagined where his life is taking him. He graduated from high school in his Nigerian hometown of Benin City when he was just 14 years old -- skipping kindergarten, then jumping from fourth to seventh grade. Education is first with his parents -- Festus Ezeli Sr., a businessman, and Patricia, who is an attorney and owns a school in Nigeria. With their son's college future in mind, the family made a trip to California to have Festus live with his uncle. Chuck Ndulue, a pediatrician in Yuba

City, hadn't seen his nephew since he was 3 years old. When he met the sprouting 6-foot6 teenager, he immediately introduced him to a game he'd never played. Ezeli attended Jesuit High School in Sacramento for a year and a half while beginning to learn basketball on an entry-level club team. His growth in the sport was painfully slow at times. Having grown to 6-8, Ezeli enrolled in classes at Yuba College. "I took basketball classes," he said. He did not play on the junior college team, but served as the team videographer. "I was one of the bigger ones and the other team would be thinking, 'Oh, we're in trouble now.' Then I set up my video pod, and they were like. 'What's going on?'" Ezeli's basketball turning point was attending the 2007 Reebok All-America camp in New Jersey. He had grown to 6-11 by then, but was a complete mystery to the basketball world. Sports Illustrated wrote in 2011 that recruiters regarded him as if he were Bigfoot. "All the colleges were, 'Where did this kid come from?'" Ezeli said. "Because all the basketball programmes are following these kids

from when they were sixth-graders. And I'm in the 12th grade and they've never heard of me." More than two dozen colleges, envisioning that potential, offered Ezeli scholarships, including one his parents strongly favoured. "When Harvard called, that's all they saw," he said. "Vanderbilt was the best of both worlds -- great school and great athletics. It was the only way I could justify to my parents not going to Harvard." With his mother pushing for a career in medicine, Ezeli began work in a difficult biology major. After his sophomore season, when it began to look like he could play basketball beyond college, he changed his major to economics. He blossomed on the basketball court as a junior at Vanderbilt and, despite a knee injury in his senior season, was drafted by the Warriors at the end of the first round in 2012. Health issues interrupted the first two and a half seasons of Ezeli's pro career, but he has gradually become a dependable backup to centre Andrew Bogut at the Golden State Warriors. • Culled from Bay Area News

Ezeli

who managed four goals in respective meetings with Argentina in 1997 and Chile in 2005, remain the only other players to have netted more than three times in one game. Remarkably, Brazil repeated the ten-goal feat at the same edition, registering a 10-0 thrashing of Belgium - the tournament's biggest-ever win just three days later. 13 years and three months was the tender age at which Republic of Ireland's Jason Byrne became the youngest player in the history of the U-20 World Cup in 1991. The most youthful of the 504 players selected for New Zealand 2015 is 16-year-old Panamanian Adalberto Carrasquilla, born on 28 November 1998. The oldest, meanwhile, are Colombia's Daniel Londono and Bryan Rochez of Honduras, both of whom were born on 1 January 1995 - the latest possible date to qualify for this edition.

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Lifestyle Life is short, live it. Love is rare, grab it. Anger is bad, dump it. Fear is awful, face it. Memories are sweet, cherish it. - Unknown

30 MAY 2015

Pennant soaks up the sunshine with wife

ermaine Pennant is in no rush to discuss Wigan future as he soaks up the Spanish sun with his stunning wife Alice Goodwin. Pennant certainly isn’t rushing into any decision in regards to his future as the winger suns himself on holiday with wife Alice Goodwin. The former Arsenal and

Birmingham winger is currently away in Marbella with his model partner as they celebrate their wedding anniversary. Alice left very little to the imagination on Monday as she posted a bikini-clad picture of herself with the footballer to her Instagram account.

Pennant and wife

When will Khedira, model girlfriend tie the knot?

he won the first season of "Germany's Next Top Model" and is now a soughtafter model and presenter. He is an internationally successful soccer star: Lena Gercke Sami Khedira are among the most beautiful couples in Germany. Since May 2012, the dream couple has been engaged, but when will the long-awaited wedding take place? They are both very busy and always on the move: The blonde beauty from

Marburg is a proud winner of the first model casting show "Germany's Next Top Model" and she always booked for many fashion shows and advertising campaigns. The two are totally in love; they repeatedly show this with sweet snapshots on Instagram. The whole of Germany is now waiting excitedly when they will finally enter into the covenant of marriage. Stories courtesy Dailymail

Tedeschi

Tedeschi ‘steals’ Ronaldo’s heart after Shayk split

ristiano Ronaldo is reportedly dating Italian model and actress Alessia Tedeschi, who travelled to Spain to watch Real Madrid's Champions League draw against Juventus. Ronaldo - who notched his 61st goal of a stunning season during the weekend win against Getafe - recently split with supermodel Irina Shayk. Thanks to a set of newly unleashed bikini snapshots from Tedeschi's recent sunsoaked jaunt to Miami it's easy to see why she'd catch the eye of one of the sport's most celebrated players.

Sporting a deep, rich tan, the brunette beauty was seen frolicking in the crystal clear waters off the Floridian coast as she displayed her ample bosom and taut frame in a beige crochet swimsuit. Protecting her eyes from the abundant sunshine with a pair of circular-framed, reflective shades, the stunner gave fellow sunbathers a peep of her pert posterior thanks to her barely-there bottoms. She was spotted strolling along the golden sands before wading into the inviting sea as she chatted with an equally attractive female friend.

Sami Khedira and Lena Gercke enjoying a day on the beach

TV & Radio with Angela Davies

Kruuzin with the kids

hildren are the most prized possession on earth. They should be able to speak up, speak out and be cared for. According to Frederick Douglas, author and diplomat, it is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men. Children's Day is recognised on various days in many places around the world, to honour children globally. It was first proclaimed by the World Conference for the well-being of children in 1925 and then established universally in 1954 to protect an "appropriate" day. In line with this, on Wednesday, May 27, which is known as Children’s Day, a day set aside to celebrate the Nigerian child, many television stations had as guest star kids on their programmes where these kids talked about their career, passion and the country to indicate that they are an important part of this country as well as the future leaders. In the Wednesday (May 27) edition of Kruuzin, an entertainment programme that features topical issues, interview, celebrity gist, today in history, music videos and inspiring quotes from great men and women, the presenter Patience Okeafor dedicated the programme to celebrate Nigerian children with the theme, “Celebrating children with talents.” The show kicked off with a short documentary about how Children’s Day came about, the abuse, exploitation and the sufferings children in different parts of the world had to go through. The first guest on the programme was Princess Mercy who at the age of 25 began her charity work by adopting three of her sibling’s children because of her passion to help and care for people. She grew up unable to tell apart who are siblings were because of her mother’s love and passion for caring for her biological and other people’s children. Although she left the rural area at the age of six to live with her elder sister, she learnt kindness, how to love and care for others from her mother which later shaped her passion to help children. Even though she does not run an orphanage, she has four established orphanages to which she is affiliated. According to Princess Mercy, the

Amarachi

worst form of neglect the Nigerian child faces is neglect. Hence, she advised parents to pay attention to their children and also allow them express themselves to enable them to build their character from a tender age. The quote segment had different inspiring quotes on children from renowned men and women to mark the day. In the countdown to Nigeria star kids segment, Okeafor profiled three star kids who are currently making waves in the music industry. The first kid was Ozzy Bosco who won “Kids Got Talent” show in 2011 at the age of four and has successfully recorded

Programme summary Nectar (AIT)

Sunday @ 9:30 pm Nectar tells the story of a relationship between three families, the Akanbis, Adelekes and Olowolagbas, who are all rivals for several reasons.

Patito’s Gang (STV)

Saturday @ 12:30 pm It is a weekly premium talk show. It is a village square of social comment about life in Africa’s most populous country.

Travel radio (City 105.1 )

Mon - Fri @ 6:45am It’s a 15 minutes programme that gives travel information, weather report, fun destinations and local flights schedules on the go.

TELEVISION

several albums and featured some top musicians in his songs. He is also a brand ambassador for different products. The second star kid was Amarachi, winner of the maiden edition of “Nigerians Got Talent”. Today, the energetic dancer has several music videos to her credit. The third and final star kid was 12-year-old, Chukwunwike Uso, Boy Chyko. Aside singing and dancing, he plays the piano and drum. He gets music inspiration from Usher, Tuface and Wizkid. The second guest on the programme, Boy Chyko, is the brain behind the song titled, “Jega”. According to him, “Jega” is a peace song and he gave it that title because of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Attahiru Jega’s tenacity when the result of the presidential election was being announced. Boy Chyko’s message to Nigerian children is never to give up on their dreams. The down-side of the programme is that, although there is time constrain, it is also impolite for the presenter to interrupt a guest while he or she is making an important point. But generally, the programme is informative, entertaining and exciting. So, to know what your favourite celebrities are up to, current music videos as well as trending topical issues, watch Kruuzin on Galaxy Television on Monday through Friday at 10:00 am.

FACE BEHIND THE VOICE

mitaomu Abiodun Gbenga popularly known as DJ Unbeatable is a media and entertainment consultant, producer, artiste manager and professional disc jockey. He attended Federal College of Education, Lagos, and then moved to Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, where he studied business administration.

Beat this DJ if you can As an aspiring chap, he taught himself how to disc and also mingled with other professionals in the industry. Dj Unbeatable has worked in different clubs in and outside Lagos as well as radio and television stations as a Disc Jockey and Video Disc Jockey. But presently, he is making waves with Rainbow 94.1FM on the Happy Hour, Throwback

This weekend

Ozzy Bosco

Boy Chyko

SATURDAY, 30 MAY, 2015

and Rainbow Joint show. He has flawless skill when it comes to mixing and synchronising music at all times.

Gbenga

LTV

GALAXY TV LAGOS

9:00 Red Carpet 9:30 Ibudo Labe Orun

8:00 House 22 8:30 Nollywood English 10:00 News 11.00 Primetime Africa Sunday 8:30 Nollywood Yoruba 10:00 Naija Rave 10:30 Celebrity Zone 11:00 Echoes 11:30 Woman 2 Woman 12.00 Galaxy Party Time 1:00 NTFS 1:30 Solid Entertainment 2:00 Hour of Salvation 2:30 Dawn in the Creeks 3:00 Democracy and the Rule of Law 4:00 Ogun Standard 5:00 Tropical Paradise 6:00 Destiny River 7.00 News 7.30 Beyond Doubt 8.00 Inspire Dot All 8:30 Nollywood English 10.00 News 11:10 Movie

Saturday 7:00 AM Saturday Live 9:00 Voice of Restoration 10:00 Deluxe 11:00 School Buggie 11:30 Silent Noise 12:30 Afin Alayeluwa 1:00 Mariana and Scarlett 2:00 Mide Mase 3:30 One Touch 4:10 Mountain Top 4:35 The White House 5:00 Power in the Word 5:30 Health Wise 6:00 Iroyin 6:30 Hour of Empowerment 8:00 News 9:00 Music 9:30 Red Hot 10:00 You will get there Sunday 7:30 Better Life for City People 8:00 Sunday Express Live 9:30 Path To Paradise 10:00 Naaginn 11:30 Burning Spear 12:00 Purification of Soul 1:00 Mo gbejomide 2:00 Nnkan Nbe 2:30 Hour of Salvavtion 3:00 Gbarada 4:00 News 4:10 Redemption Way 5:00 Grace Point 5:30 Great Hope 6:00 Iroyin 6:30 Inside Out with Agatha 7:00 News 7:10 Promised Land 7:30 LAMATA ½ Hour 8:00 Sunday Menu 8:30 Crime Fighters

Saturday 8:30 Movie 10:00 Sport Edge 11:00 Lab Rats 12:00 Empowerment Zone 1:00 Galaxy Party Time 1:30 Editors Forum 2:00 Fat Burners 2:30 Kuti’s career Palace 3:00 Ile Alayo 4:00 Nollywood English 5:00 Destiny River 6.00 Rhythms And Blues 6:30 Tropical Paradise 7:00 News 7:30 Squatterz

RADIO

Magic Fm 102.9 Aba Saturday 7:00 Afro NaijaFlava 9:00 At Your Request 10:00 Talk Sports 11:00 Rep Your Club (Soccer) 1:00 Those Were the Days 2:00 At Your Request 3:00 It’s Our City 4:00 Old School Highlife 6:00 Extra Time 7:00 The Big Saturday

Sunday 7:00 A Day with the Lord 10:00 Sunday Free Way 12:00 Kick Off/Predictor Game 1:00 100% Naija 2:00 Focus on Family 3:00 Tear Rubber 4:00 Campus Line 5:00 Magic FM Music Survey 10:00 Soft Side 11:00 Who’s on Your Mind

City FM Saturday 8:00 Weekend Update 8:30 Growing Up Matters 9:00 City Talks 10:30 Don-Diggy’s Corner 12:15 The City Kids Show 2:00 Fan Zone 3:30 Soccer Wrap 7:00 Encounter With Grace 8:00 Round Table 11:00 Elisha Baza Show

Sunday 5:00 Praise In The City 5:30 Christ Embassy 6:00 Sunday Praise Show 3:00 Music Culture 6:00 Singspiration 8:00 Only the hits 9:00 Once Upon A Time 10:00 Refresh

SATURDAY

The Arts SATURDAY 30 MAY 2015

eautiful sculptors, breathtaking paintings and much more, adorn some strategic places in the ever busy mega city, Lagos. Artists take advantage of the population and unending activities in the city to create, display and sell their works on the streets. From sculptors to paintings, carvings and other forms of art, talented Nigerians street artists eke out a living. “When there is hunger and poverty, it makes you to locate your destiny,” Ayo Phillips who has his workshop and street gallery at the bustling Allen Roundabout, Ikeja, noted. Though he discovered his own talent on time, he stopped after his secondary education because of financial constraints. He got apprenticed to an established artist where he honed his talent for two years before establishing his own on the street. But that was not the case for Adebayo Michael of Bayus Natural Arts, Lagos. He studied Fine Arts at the Federal Technical College, Yaba and has not looked back since graduation. Though he majored in painting, he displays both painting and other forms of art, according to the demand of his customers. Talking about art as a possible panacea for unemployment, Adebayo said that anybody can succeed in arts if they are focused. “If you are devoted and set your mind there, you will succeed. Art requires constant attention and the more you do it the more you get it right until you become an authority in it. It’s not something you do this month and leave it, you have to keep at it to have a breakthrough. Every day you paint you get new techniques,” he said. “Art is so wide. Under it you have textile, sculpture, wood works and others. Though one may know how to do most of them, it’s advisable that one specializes in one. I know all of them but I specialized in painting. The carvings you see are the ones I buy from people who specialized in wood carving. Though I have an idea, I can’t do it as much as them, just as they can’t paint as much as I do. I buy them for variety sake, so my customers could have whatever they want when they come. Only painting cannot sustain me.” On the other hand, Campbell Onogwu Phillips is a graduate of Fine and Applied Arts from the Benue State Polytechnic, Gbokolo. Though a street artist, he has a studio, has participated in many exhibitions both nationally and internationally. Campbell who said he has graduates in his employ believes that not only could art help curb unemployment, parents could assist their children to discover their talents early and help them harness it. “It’s just that some fellows want to have a white collar job,” he noted. For those who are tired of searching, I advise for them start a hand job even if it is not arts to make ends meet. Some artists did not go to the university and they are doing well. So the youths both the educated and uneducated can leverage on their talent and get gainfully employed. “Children can be sent to artists to learn art after school. They will enjoy it and they will fall back on it if after their university if they are unable to find a job. So instead of children wasting their time after school, they can enjoy art to avoid sweating in suits under hot sun submitting CVs to over a hundred companies without getting a reply from one. I have people working for me that are

Portrait of the former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Dr. Kingsley Chiedu Moghalu

Ayo Phillips at work

On Lagos streets, art finds ample space Amid the crowded Lagos streets, many Nigerians are discovering that art could help lift them out of poverty, writes EBERE AMEH who had a chat with a few who speak on how the government could lend its support. graduates. One is a medical student but in Nigeria of today, it’s not what you studied that one will ends up doing. Unemployment helps people to discover their hidden talents,” Campbell noted. Street art is visual art created and displayed in public locations. It is usually unsanctioned artwork displayed outside of the context of traditional art venues. Also referred to as urban art, guerilla art, post-graffiti and neo-graffiti, American Multidisciplinary Street Artist, John Fekner, defined it as "all art on the street that’s not graffiti." In Lagos, there are sculptures, paintings, wood works, bead works among other art forms displayed on the roads; the most popular being paintings. Por-

traits of notable persons, excellently painted by the artists help to advertise and portray their ability. Some choose the streets as their gallery preferring to communicate directly with the public at large to being confined studios and galleries that many Nigerians may never visit, others are outdoor because of their inability to rent a studio or get their art to the galleries. However, they are all talented and now, will not trade their street galleries for anything. “I have a studio at Ogba. I decided to come here so I could make some sales as I wait for the selling of my works that are in galleries. But so far, it has been good,” Campbell said. For Adebayo, displaying what his

A typical Street Art gallery

customers want is what did it for him. “I display what customers want and so they buy. People like cultural paintings and in the course of this work, I have found that Igbo patronise artworks more, followed by Yoruba. People like Paintings, especially charcoal paintings because its novel. I display wood works, sculptural pieces, bead works among others in addition to my paintings and in all, business has been good,” Adebayo said. Ayo however, does not believe in exhibition, studios and galleries. “I have not done any though, and I don’t even have the money to think of doing one. I believe that making it is not by exhibition, its God that gives the increase. There is no exhibition greater than what I have here.” Though they all seem to be making a head way with their work, they were unanimous in their complaint about piracy and lack of encouragement by the government. “The Chinese people came with a new technology that we call canvassing. They manipulate pictures putting different backgrounds and effecting other changes and modification before printing it. The difference is that it is not as durable as the one we paint with ink. Ours is everlasting. We paint our portrait on canvass and it lasts from generation to generation,” Adebayo said. Ayo concurred, admitting that art would have been very good but for computer and the Chinese who he says ‘have spoilt everything’. “We are not making money because of piracy. They use computer to do the same thing we do but our own is the original and more durable. People go for that Chinese ones because they are cheaper. Those are pirated ones and we can’t fight it. We just pray to God to give us our own customers who know the value of pure art." On government’s lack of support, they said that different government agencies harass them for one levy or the other instead of encouraging them. “Government doesn’t encourage art. They disturb us. They ask for money and park our artwork to their office and tell us to come and pay a lot of money. We pay so much. Because art is something that beautifies the environment, they should even pay us for that instead of harassing us,” Ayo noted. Adebayo is of the opinion that government should support and patronise artists while creating more awareness for the profession.

SATURDAY

Dear Love Doctor, ‘I cheated on him with my neighbour'

p.37

Life Experience

'I had plastic surgery for a guy'

p.36

L ve&Lv ng SATURDAY 30 MAY 2015

‘I married him because he'd take me to Germany' Confession

The problem with Nigerians living abroad is that whenever they decide to travel down to the country to pick a wife, they hurry through the entire process

In this story, a desperate man meets a desperate woman. They get married for their own secret selfish reasons but things begin to fall apart not long after...

married Paul my husband after we had dated for only three months. The truth was that he had just flown into the country from overseas and was desperate for a wife. Because my husband was so desperate to marry at that time, he put so much pressure on me to wed him within just three months of our first meeting. He promised that he would take me along to Germany and I only agreed because I wanted to travel out of the country for greener pastures. I fell for him because I was also desperate to leave the country for greener pastures. Since I was an unemployed graduate, I was desperate to travel to Europe to have a better life. So I didn't care about his character or behaviour. All I cared about was getting a man who would take me out of the country to Europe or America. So we didn't really have any realistic period of courtship before getting married. On my wedding day, we were like two strangers coming together to make vows, because we had not really known each other well enough to even consider getting married to each other in the first place. The problem with Nigerians living abroad is that whenever they decide to travel down to the country to pick a wife, they hurry through the entire process. In fact, I got married to my husband in such a rush that I didn't even have time to think before going to the altar. However, after our wedding, my husband fulfilled his promise to take me to Germany. But in Germany, I soon realized that I had married a man who just couldn't be faithful to one woman. No matter how hard he tried to hide his womanizing, I caught him cheating on so many occasions that I can't count. The most painful part of my husband's cheating lifestyle was that he gave me STDs all the time. Sometimes when he came home after seeing another woman outside, I was tempted not to open the door for him. Even seeing him in the doorway with lipstick stains on his shirt

made me so mad that I felt like I had walked into a trap by marrying this kind of man. The first time I found out that I had contracted an STD from my husband, I wrote him a letter to read in front of me. It was a good letter, very matter of fact. I didn't threaten or give ultimatums. I simply told him that I was still committed to him and that I believe he is to me, but that my trust is shattered and I am very angry. I told him I want us to go to see a counselor or our parish priest and that we can fix whatever is wrong. I wrote the letter in such a loving and tender way that he had nothing to lose by being honest with me and admitting he cheated. I basically said: "You cheated. I know it and you know it. And now I have an STD because of it. How are we

going to deal with this?" He read the letter. He was silent. I left the room to give him some time to process it. He came to me and offered a very strong denial that he has never had sex outside of our marriage. I started to cry and told him that I don't believe him. But my husband continued to strongly deny. He insisted that I must have had an extra-marital affair or that I picked the infection from a toilet somewhere. I have now been married for almost seven years. I am currently separated and waiting to file for divorce because my husband was unfaithful and gave me an STD. He has a history of lying to my face impulsively until finally I ask over and over again until he eventually tells me the truth. We were first separated for seven months until we

recently tried to work it out. However, when I again asked him if he had any sexual relationships with any women during our separation, he first pretended not to hear my question. But I asked him this question again before we had unprotected sex, and he said he did not have sex with any other woman in my absence. The reason we had unprotected sex was because we were going to try for another child, since we already have a five-year-old daughter. He told me that I didn't have anything to worry about. But a week later, I noticed that I was finding it difficult to urinate. So I sat him down and asked him point blank if I had anything to worry about and that he should tell me if he cared about my health. I told him that I wouldn’t get mad, and that I needed to know so I could get screened for STDs. It was then that he admitted to having sex with a woman…more than once...and unprotected. At that point I started thinking if it’s worth keeping this family together if all my husband does is lie to my face? I just feel like he can never be trusted. We are separated again right now and I do plan on filing for divorce because I feel like our marriage vows have already been broken and completely violated. From hindsight, I have realized that my ambition to travel out of the country to Europe for greener pastures put me in such a mess. If I hadn't been so desperate to leave the country for greener pastures, I wouldn't have married such a bad husband in the first place. I shouldn't have been so desperate to travel abroad. I should have taken my time to know the man well before agreeing to marry him. I now realise that all that glitters is not gold.

Love&Living

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

Dating apps 'are causing cases of syphilis, gonorrhoea and HIV', experts claim Love News

ating apps such as Tinder and Grindr are fuelling a rise in syphilis, gonorrhoea and HIV, health experts have warned. Rates of the sexually transmitted infections have increased, local officials note, mirroring a national trend. They warn high-risk behaviours - including using social media such as dating apps to arrange casual and often anonymous sexual encounters - are to blame. And they warn having sex without a condom, having multiple sexual partners and having sex while under the influence of alcohol or drugs can also increase the risk of suffering an STI. The Rhode Island Department of Health revealed from 2013 to 2014, cases of syphilis rose by 79 per cent, gonorrhoea by 30 per cent and HIV by almost 33 per cent. Nicole Alexander-Scott, director of the department, said: 'These data send a clear signal that despite the progress we have made in reducing STDs and HIV over the years, there is more work to do.' The department noted, 'the recent upturn in STDs in Rhode Island follows a national trend'. Officials added: 'The increase has been attributed to better testing by providers and to high-risk behaviours that have

become more common in recent years.' They warned new cases of HIV, Aids and infectious syphilis continue to increase among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, at a faster rate than in other populations. Infection rates of all STIs were also seen to have a greater impact on the African-American, Hispanic, and young adult populations, experts said. Ms Alexander-Scott, said: 'We are fortunate in Rhode Island to have great partnerships among state agencies, community-based organisations, and health-

care providers to continue to educate, test and treat for sexually transmitted diseases. This trend reminds us that we cannot become complacent.' She said key public health programmes have helped curb the number of people suffering STIs in the state over the last three decades. Routine testing of pregnant women has almost eliminated the number of babies born to mothers with HIV. Courtesy: Daily Mail.

'I had plastic surgery for a guy'

One Republic

"Counting Stars" Lately, I've been, I've been losing sleep Dreaming about the things that we could be But baby, I've been, I've been praying hard, Said, no more counting dollars We'll be counting stars, yeah we'll be counting stars I see this life like a swinging vine Swing my heart across the line And my face is flashing signs Seek it out and you shall find Old, but I'm not that old Young, but I'm not that bold I don't think the world is sold I'm just doing what we're told I feel something so right Doing the wrong thing I feel something so wrong Doing the right thing I could lie, coudn't I, could lie Everything that kills me makes me feel alive

Life Experience

f the guy you’re sleeping with tells you to get boob job, how do you react? Disgust? Anger? Resentment? If you’re me, the answer is appreciation. I should know—I had breast augmentation for my boyfriend, and I don’t regret it (for the most part). When Tom and I started dating about a year ago, I immediately afforded him a level of trust that was well beyond any of my previous relationships. Everyone who knows me can attest to the fact that I have a horrible track record with guys, but Tom felt different. It wasn’t long before I was sharing pieces of myself that I wouldn’t even disclose to my oldest friends. Needless to say, I trusted him implicitly. The topic of my breasts (or lack thereof) didn’t surface until one innocuous night about a month into our relationship. We were lying in bed talking about nothing in particular when suddenly it just spilled out of his mouth—no context, no icebreaker—just pure, unadulterated candor. “I think you would look great with a boob job.” I had no idea how to react at first. I asked him why he thought that, and his response was completely benign—he explained that he could sense my insecurities about my chest and that if I was more comfortable with myself, I’d by definition be more comfortable with him. It would strengthen our relationship and make sex more enjoyable. Or so he said. To be fair, I think Tom was picking up on a very deep-seated insecurity that I carried around for the majority of my life. It started in high school and only worsened when I left for college and joined a sorority, where I quickly realized that bragging about one’s trips to the plastic surgeon was just a regular day-to-day conversation. Sili-

Love Songs

cone or saline was part of our lexicon. I’ve never been one to buy into a conventional, cookie-cutter concept of beauty, and I prided myself on accepting my flaws (of which there are many, trust me). However, my early twenties in particular was a constant barrage of painful reminders about my very noticeable AA cups. It was also around this time that I lived with a girl who would print out pictures of Victoria’s Secret models and paste them around our room with the words “Don’t Eat” emblazoned across the images in thick black sharpie. As you can imagine, spring break was among my least favorite times of the year. While my flat chest was a very real issue for me, I never discussed it with anyone. I almost felt as though vocalizing it would be akin to admitting some kind of weakness or, even worse, a vapid lack of gratitude for all of the amazing things my body did allow me to do. I have always had the

incredible fortune of experiencing good health, and it seemed silly to pick myself apart for something so trivial. So, I kept it to myself and stuffed my resentments at the bottom of a drawer filled to the brim with push up bras and padded swimsuits. However, Tom’s blunt discussion of my boobs resurfaced every single doubt I’d ever had about myself. It was almost like I was waiting for someone to finally validate what I was feeling— like I needed someone to say it was OK. I told Tom I was really into the idea, and we talked about how big I should go. This was never something I would want pursue on my own, but maybe Tom was right—maybe this would give me the confidence to really love my body in a way I never had before and, in turn, change our relationship into something even better. In my mind, the positive benefits were endless. Following our conversation, I immediately did my own research, and it became very apparent that Tom was on to something. According to theAmerican Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, there were 286,693 breast augmentation procedures performed last year alone, making it the second most popular procedure after liposuction. . It’s pretty staggering when you think about it. I figured that if it worked for all those folks, it could certainly work for me. Three weeks later, I was scheduled for surgery. I had worked out with my surgeon that I would go from AA's to more appropriate D cups. In the course of adjusting my bra size, I thought any and every problem—real or imagined—that Tom and I had encountered in our relationship would be fixed. It sounds so incredibly naïve looking back, but I genuinely thought he would look at me differently. Maybe he would continued on page 38

Lately, I've been, I've been losing sleep Dreaming about the things that we could be But baby, I've been, I've been praying hard, Said, no more counting dollars We'll be counting stars Lately, I've been, I've been losing sleep Dreaming about the things that we could be But baby, I've been, I've been praying hard, Said, no more counting dollars We'll be, we'll be counting stars I feel the love and I feel it burn Down this river, every turn Hope is a four-letter word Make that money, watch it burn Old, but I'm not that old Young, but I'm not that bold I don't think the world is sold I'm just doing what we're told I feel something so wrong Doing the right thing I could lie, could lie, could lie Everything that drowns me makes me wanna fly

Love Poem

Joanna Fuchs

Idle Dreams In idle dreams of long ago, I imagined my true love; A perfect match, a soulmate, An angel from above. Now you’re here, and now I know Our love will stay and thrive and grow.

*Send your love poems along with your name and number to ireto007@yahoo.com

Romantic Joke

In A Courtroom

In a courtroom, a lawyer called his first witness who happens to be an elderly woman to the stand. He went to her and asked, "Mam do you know me?" She responded, "Why, yes I do know u Mr Pollus. I've known you since you were a young boy, and to be frank, you have been a big disappointment to your parents and to the society. You are a liar, you cheat people including your wife, and you manipulate people and talk about them behind their backs. You think you are a big man when you don't even have brains. Yes, I know you!" The lawyer was stunned! Not knowing what else to do, he pointed across the room and asked, "Mam, do you know the defence lawyer?" She replied, "Yes, I do. I have known Mr Gideon since he was ayoung boy too. He has been your very good friend since childhood because the two of you have the same character. He has also been a very lazy man and he has a drinking problem. Infact he is a criminal and he can't even build a normalrelationship with anyone and his law practice is one of the worst in the entire state. Not to mention he cheated on his wife with 3different women, one of them was your wife. Yes, I know him. The defence lawyer almost fainted. The Judge called both lawyers to his table and in a very quietvoice, said, "If any of you idiots asks her if she knows me, I'll make sure you lose your license."

30 MAY 2015

Relationships & Love Advice Dear Love Doctor, I am 31, my fiancé is 36 and a paramedic – he’s an ambulance driver. It’s a good relationship and I love him, but he works shifts and often does overnights at the weekend. I often feel lonely. I was home alone a few months ago watching TV when my neighbour across the street knocked the door. He said something had gone wrong with his laptop and asked if he could use our computer as he had important work to do. I let him in, gave him a drink and left him to it for an hour or so. Around 10 pm he came into my room, thanked me and kissed me on the cheek. Then he sat down next to me, leaned in and we started kissing softly. It felt so nice and I couldn’t tell him to stop. Things got a bit more heated and we had sex. I felt so guilty but there is no denying I loved every minute. It’s turned into regular sessions when my fiancé works evenings. The sex feels really hot, probably partly because we know it’s never going to be more than sex. I know the guy over the street just sees this as fun – he’s not looking for anything serious. In one way I feel cheap. I really love my partner and I don’t want to be caught cheating, but I feel addicted. I know it will all end in tears but how can I stop? Love Doctor’s Advice: Be clear, you will get caught it’s just a matter of time - and the cheating will do immense damage to your relationship. Chances are that you will lose your fiancé.

Blackberry Connection Nkechi, 29, from PH, a graduate and beautiful, wants a man of 32 to 35 years for a relationship that will lead to marriage. He must be a Christian and working or businessman in the East. BB pin: 293AE0D5.

• Connect with Mike on WhatsApp or BlackBerry Pin: 7ab29e22 or 21978F71 for details on how to send your BlackBerry or Smartphone Connect request. • Call Mike on 07031028714, 08131161840 to link up and for direct hookup.

Love&Living

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

‘I cheated on him with my neighbour'

Having your neighbour pop round on lonely evenings has become a habit but habits can be broken. Tell him it’s over, then make sure you don’t stay home alone when your fiancé is working. Arrange to go out with

girlfriends or family, or get into some new interests like get fit or voluntary work. You say you love your fiancé so put more energy into your relationship. You can inject some sparkle and have mind-blowing sex with him too.

H♥♥K UP...find your heart’s desire Women SEEKING relationship/ marriage

MEN LOOKING FOR RELATIONSHIP/ MARRIAGE

♥ Tosin, 43, from Kwara, a Christian, works, 6ft, AA genotype, needs a man between 44-50 years for marriage. 08137398286.

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♥ Emmy needs a loving person in Lagos as his online business partner. Text 0704 510 6540 or 08131161840. ♥ Uche, 32, HIV positive, from Abia, wants a very fair, pretty, slim, working girl of 18-24 years who works with any federal establishment. +234 8107968407. ♥ Kingsley, 36, businessman from Anambra, living in Edo, needs a God fearing working or business lady of 23 to 34 years for marriage. 08039318878.

Lovers’ Answers Game: The rule: Ask the opposite sex one question about love, and choose your lover from the top 3 answers. A girl whose number is 09098192687, is asking

all men: "Why do some men want to marry virgins, and who will marry those girls they deflowered?" *Call Mike: 07031028714 to send questions or issues.

Odd News

Naughty children may have the 'CEO gene'

arents who brag their child could be the next Tim Cook or Bobbi Brown - despite a less than glowing report card - may well be right. A new study claims naughty schoolchildren may have what's been called the ‘CEO gene’ making them more likely to head up a major company in the future. Scientists claim that a particular gene sequence associated with ‘mild’ rule breaking in children is the same one that leads to leadership qualities found in successful high-flying chief executives. However, it depends on a child’s home environment, because bad behaviour in the classroom can also lead to a withdrawn personality that’s not good for business, the study warns. Psychologists from Kansas State University analysed health data covering 13,000 adults and discovered the influence of DAT1, which transports the chemical dopamine to the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that helps control the brain’s responses to reward and pleasure. They found that in children, DAT1 leads to ‘mild’ bad behaviour such as playing truant, but not serious bad behaviour such as violent crime. Pupils’ excessive consumption of energy drinks is fuelling deteriorating behaviour, it has been claimed. Chris Keates, general secretary of the NASUWT, likened the caffeinated refreshments to ‘readily available legal highs’. Some children drink ‘excessive’ amounts of Red Bull, Monster and Relentless, causing ‘hyperactivity’ and an ‘inevitable crash’ later, the teaching union said. Of the 3,500 teachers it surveyed, 13 per cent cited ‘use of caffeine and energy

drinks...as a driver of poor pupil behaviour’. The teaching union is now working with national drug and alcohol charity, Swanswell, to provide pupils, parents and schools with advice on energy drinks. The move comes as doctors warned last week the drinks can trigger heart problems in healthy teenagers. However, they also discovered it provides positive leadership qualities in adults who often went on to become the heads of companies or lead divisions within a company. Psychologists believe those with DAT1 learn early on to push boundaries. Psychological sciences assistant professor, Wendong Li, explained: ‘Mild rulebreaking is actually positively correlated with the chance for you to become a leader in adulthood. ‘These kinds of behaviours can provide you with an advantage because they allow adolescents to explore boundaries and learn something new.’ But the gene sequence can also lead to erratic, non-consistent and sometimes selfish behaviour which is not good for leadership. People with DAT1 'were less likely to regulate their own behaviours to make a positive change,' he added. Different outcomes may be influenced by the environment children grow up in, at home and at school, according to the study, published in the journal, The Leadership Quarterly. ‘It’s like a mixed blessing - this gene can have both positive and negative effects on leadership,’ Professor Li said. If the naughty children have supportive parents and the ability to work with others, then they are more likely to go on to become leaders, the study says. Courtesy: Daily Mail

Love&Living True Story

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

'I slept with my handyman'

here was an ad on TV recently where a good-looking handyman is in a woman's home doing some work. She is obviously flirting with him and won't leave him alone and at the end of the ad the handyman says to the camera "you don't want me hanging around your house when you're not there do you?" It reminded me of some of my earlier experiences as a tradie. I started my working life as an electrician's apprentice. I spent four years climbing up and down ladders and crawling around doing all the mucky jobs that the tradesman got me to do, and didn't really have much to do with the clients. While grafting on building sites, every so often I would hear stories about so-called "desperate housewife" customers who supposedly would throw themselves at some tradies, getting up to all sorts of mischief. However, as a young apprentice I never experienced such a thing firsthand, simply finding customers to be either nice or not and that was about it. After I had completed my apprenticeship I started working self-employed as a general "handyman" with a mate. We went around together doing odd jobs at peoples', homes including gardening, electrics, air-conditioning, hanging doors, and fixing fly screens. In this job I started to deal with clients more closely. With this kind of work — between the hours of 7am and 6pm in peoples' homes — the people you tend to deal with the most are women, generally mums who have sent their kids off to school, or stay-athome wives. Leaving my teenage apprentice days behind me I had now grown into the body of a man and due to the hard physical work I was doing, had gotten myself into pretty decent shape. The first time I realised that some of our clients might be taking a bit of interest in me was on a hot summer's day when I was doing some gardening. I was using a heavy petrol hedge trimmer and had taken my T-shirt off to work on my tan when my workmate told me that he had seen the client, a lady in her late thirties, watching me from the top window. And he said she wasn't checking up on the hedges... ...I began to start noticing this sort of behaviour more and more, and was by now becoming worldly enough to work out when someone was flirting with me. It became quite amusing for me and my work partner to see how many drinks, cakes, biscuits or cold beers we got offered by certain ladies who didn't ever seem particularly keen for us to hurry up and get the job finished. After a couple of years working with my friend he decided to completely change career and go to uni, and I decided to carry on the business alone and see how it went. How things changed when I started working solo! I had several women flirt ridiculously with me. On one occasion a customer answered her door in a bath towel (I couldn't see a reason why she hadn't got dressed) and then, while discussing the job with her, she brazenly undid the towel in front of me and rearranged it leaving nothing to the imagination. The smile she gave me meant she knew exactly what she was doing. I, for my part just looked away, stunned, and managed to mumble something about getting on with the job. Then one day, after having avoided or got away from a few similar en-

counters, I finally let my guard down. I was installing a ducted air-conditioning unit into a large posh house, a job which I would probably finish in two days but gave myself an extra day cushion, just in case. When I arrived I met the client who was a very attractive brunette lady, I guessed somewhere in her mid-thirties. She was really helpful and incredibly friendly. She started to flirt a bit and hung around chatting to me while I started work. She jokingly said comments such as "I bet all the ladies love it when you show up" and said because of the heat she didn't mind if I wanted to take my shirt off, which she gave a bit of a cheeky smile about. Pushing my luck, I jokingly replied "only if you do too". We spent the rest of day being very chatty and friendly and when I left at 4pm she said how she was looking forward to seeing me again the next day and watched me drive away. The next day when I arrived she was wearing a skimpy outfit of jean shorts and a revealing, low cut T-shirt. She smiled when I arrived but didn't really say much. I kept trying to offer small talk but she just pretty much stood around and watched me work for rather a long time... ...I started to feel a bit uncomfortable with her one word answers and the fact she just kept watching what I was doing, so uncomfortable that I started to be incapable of doing anything properly. I became really clumsy and kept dropping things, fumbling around and obviously distracted. She then spoke and asked if I was uncomfortable with her watching me. I mumbled something along the lines of "no, you're fine, it's okay". She then asked if that meant I enjoyed her watching me. I became very uncomfortable and really didn't know what to say. She seemed to be gaining pleasure from the fact that I was obviously intimidated. She walked right up to me with a sort of smirk on her face and then kissed me, pushed me against the wall and the next thing I knew we were tearing at each other's clothes and soon on the floor. Afterwards, she just got up and said "now, I think you've got some work to do". She became very aloof and standoffish with me so I did some more work then left for the day. The next day when I arrived she didn't seem to pay me much attention, acting totally normal as if nothing had ever happened. Then around lunchtime the same events as the day before unfolded, although this time it was a lot longer lasting and she seemed much more "normal" afterwards and not so stand-offish. By now it was Friday and I hadn't finished the job yet because the constant distractions had got me behind, so she said I better come back the next day to finish off. So on Saturday I arrived early, looking forward to seeing my temptress again and a little disappointed I would be finishing the job and would probably not see her again after that... ...But when I arrived a man opened the door. This, I discovered, was her husband. He was immediately superfriendly — thanking me for coming to finish on the weekend and thanking me for the work I had done already. He straight away offered me a drink and some food which I felt too guilty to accept.

She then came to see me, smiling her hello and telling her husband what a hard worker I was and how lucky they were to get someone decent to do the installation. When he was out of the room she was flirting with me again and even when he was in the room she continued, seeming to gain pleasure and amusement in the situation without one hint of shame. The husband even made some lunch for me, insisting I sit with them and eat. The whole time she just smirked at me and made inappropriate innuendos and comments. Finally I finished the job and tried to race out of the house as fast as I could. The husband again was really nice and grateful for the job and asked me back to do a twice-yearly routine maintenance on the system, which she was also very insistent upon. I eventually agreed because it seemed the easiest option to get me out the house fastest. I have never felt so guilty in my life after this. I felt terrible, hating myself and still to this day I feel anger towards that woman when I remember how she treated her husband. I cancelled the maintenance schedule by mail and have never seen either of them since. I now always work with someone else if I can and I stay very professional and talk only about business issues with clients who I'm even slightly wary of. I do wonder how many other tradies aren't as honourable as me and take advantage of Australia's "desperate housewives".

'I had plastic surgery for a guy' C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 6

value me more or be attracted to me more strongly. I thought, in the grander scheme of things, that my future relationships would be more loving and complete. These insecurities about my body that I carried around for years would be a thing of the past. My surgery went very smoothly, and as soon as the bandages came off I sprinted to the store and bought every new bra I could get my hands on. I flaunted adorable string bikinis that had been stashed away in my closet for years. It was pure bliss. Tom said over and over that I looked much happier. In many ways, getting sliced open and filled with silicone was a blessing. In other ways, I’d made a huge mistake. One of my main reasons for undergoing the surgery was Tom, but nothing about my post-surgery surge of confidence changed the way he treated me. We still had the same problems we’d had before. Even worse, he seemed to develop a hypersensitivity to the way I interacted with other men during the course of the brief relationship that followed. We ultimately broke up four months later. Despite what you’re probably thinking, I don’t regret my decision in the slightest. Sure, I did this for a guy I barely knew, but at the end of the day I won. I’m so happy he pushed me in the right direction. My new breasts helped me find a sense of balance and inner peace with my body while quieting the negative inner monologue I lived with for years. Ultimately, I’m not sure I would’ve had the courage to embark on this journey by myself. While my friends think that Tom’s suggestion was more along the lines of objectification and an example of the vicious cycle of perfection women are expected to adhere to, I think he was really doing me a favor. I think more men should be comfortable discussing these types of issues with their partners. If a guy comments on my appearance I know to take it with a grain of salt, but I think in this instance, Tom had an extremely valid point. Would I make the same decision again? Absolutely. I’m happier than I’ve ever been in my life, and I attribute this largely to the surgery. I love my new boobs. Does that make me shallow? Maybe. But, at the end of the day, life is way too short to be unhappy, even if that means getting plastic surgery. Trust me, there are far worse things than finding your happiness with the help of a little silicone. Courtesy: xo.com

Wedding Traditions

The bride giving out her crown: Holland

uring the ceremony, the bride and groom walk on a bed of flowers to the altar and flowers are tossed at them as they depart. During the reception traditional items would be served including sweetmeats called bridal sugar and spiced wine which was known as bride's tears. Instead of tossing her bouquet, the bride would give out her crown, and whoever got it was the next to be married. Finally, after the wedding, the newlyweds planted lilies of the valley around their house to symbolize the return of happiness and with each season their love would be renewed. Courtesy: Irish Central.

SATURDAY

Travel &Tourism SATURDAY 30 MAY 2015

Travel Personality

CHEF'S CORNER

Taleb Rifai: You can’t promote sustainability if you don’t promote tourism p.40

An unusual fish and plantain treat

Hospitality

Founder of the hospitality company, DML, Chef Daniel Olurin, shares his fish and plantain recipe with ANDREW IRO OKUNGBOWA.

Panda Hotel Suites and Lounge: Less could indeed offer more p.41

Destination

Okpekpe: Frozen in time but racing to recognition p.42

Ingredients: ing stock and a pinch of dry chilli • 150g Dory fish fillet flakes to taste and cook for four • 2 plantain (350g) minutes, stirring continuously. • 200g fresh spinach • Grill the pieces of fish on a grid• 20g ginger dle/pan for three minutes on • 20g garlic each side. • 30 g onion • Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a • 1 vegetable stock cube separate wok, add the onion, gincrushed ger and garlic, a pinch of salt and • A' tsp dried chili flakes a pinch of vegetable seasoning • 3tbsp olive oil stock to taste. Stir-fry on medium • A' tsp mixed herbs heat until golden brown. • Peel the skin away from the planPreparation: tain and slice it vertically into • Cut the plantain into three equal two equal parts. parts and boil with skin on for 15 minutes until it is soft and a knife Presentation: can easily pierce through it. • Stack the eight sliced pieces of • Cut the fish fillet into four equal plantain in a set of two forming parts and delicately season with a tower of four levels a pinch of salt, half a teaspoon of • Place the steamed spinach on to mixed herbs and a tablespoon of the plate in a row of four leaving olive oil. a two-inch gap between each leaf. • Rinse the spinach with cold water • Place the fish in a line on the and pat dry with a paper towel. spinach in the centre of the plate Take out four whole spinach • On each side of the fish, place leaves and finely chop the rest a moulded tower of the finely and set aside in a bowl. Steam chopped spinach creating a tothe leaves for three minutes and tal of six towers in-between the set aside. Chop into thin strips whole spinach leaves. (Julienne) the ginger, onion and • Delicately place the ginger, gargarlic. lic and onion onto the spinach • Heat a teaspoon of olive oil in mould. a small wok and add the finely • Drizzle some olive oil and the chopped spinach. Add a pinch of plantain and fish and scatter on salt, a pinch of vegetable seasonsome chili flakes.

Looking to a strong presence in the Middle East market, Swiss International has signed a strategic partnership deal with Al Shiha Holdings. It is a joint venture and a development/ representation contract. By this development, the two companies have agreed to birth a new entity called Swiss International Middle East which will operate hotels in the countries of the Middle East. These are all GCC countries, Iraq and Jordan. The management team is under the leadership of Mr. Naji Al Shiha as the chief executive officer while the team is complemented by Mohammed Al Shiha as chief financial officer, Mr. Jamal Abd Saih Hamed as head of business development and

A tantalizing blend of fish and plantain

PROFILE Daniel Olurin, an aviation management consultant and pilot graduate as well as a trained chef, is the founder of DML, a highend hospitality company that develops, manages and operates a portfolio of high-profile restaurants, lounges and bars. The company also operates a food and beverage division – CHEF DML - where the primary aim is

TRAVEL BEATS

Swiss Int'l partners Al Shiha Holdings

L-R: Henri Kennedie (Chairman and CEO), Maji Al Shiha (CEO Middle East), Jamal Al Hamed (CSO Middle East) and Ghazi Ghorayeb (COO Middle East) Mr. Ghazi Ghorayeb as the chief operating officer. Under the terms of the agreement, the following hotels will be operated by Swiss International Middle East: Swiss International Dammam – 121 rooms; Swiss International Al Baha – 62 rooms; Swiss Spirit Hotel & Suites Rimal – 62 rooms; and Swiss Spirit Hotel & Suites Turaif – 55 rooms In addition, the Group expects further announcements for

Riyad, Jeddah, Mekkah and Dammam in the KSA and Dubai in the UAE. Commenting on the new deal, Mr. Naji Al Shiha stated: “for some time, we were orienting ourselves on collaboration with a company where we could operate with some fresh brands in our rapid developing society. Swiss International, under the leadership of a seasoned hotelier like, Mr. Henri Kennedie is exactly what we wanted.

to give clients an amazing and innovative hospitality experience. Chef Daniel is committed to delivering a high level of hospitality experience and culinary innovation to his clients. He continues to develop a multinational identity whilst making significant contributions within the food, beverage and hospitality industry.

Southern Sun Ikoyi wins certificate of excellence Southern Sun Ikoyi has won Trip Advisor 2015 award of excellence, making it the fifth in a role. The certificate of excellence is earned only by receiving consistent great reviews from the hotel’s customers and international travellers posted on the world’s largest travel portal Trip Advisor. This reaffirms the hotel’s commitment to delivering quality, consistent and leading service within Nigeria’s thriving hospitality sector. The general manager of the hotel, Mark Loxley, elated over the development, described it as proof of the hotel’s excellent product and services: “The much coveted certification is indeed a great honour. The fifth consecutive win for the hotel is of particular significance being

that this distinctive certification does not only celebrate the hotel’s excellence in hospitality services but more importantly that the award is voted for, by the esteemed guests, travelers and visitors to the hotel.” Loxley stated that, “Southern Sun Ikoyi will not rest on its oars, rather it will continue to raise the bar of quality service delivery and standards to its valued customers.” The win comes with an added merit to the hotel as it also signifies Southern Sun Ikoyi’s official adoption into the Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence’s Hall of Fame, an outstanding international accolade of distinction, granted only to businesses that have won the Certificate of Excellence for five years in a row.

Travel & Tourism

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

Taleb Rifai: ‘You can’t promote sustainability if you don’t promote tourism’ TRAVEL PERSONALITY With international tourist arrivals reaching the 1.1 billion mark and exports from international tourism hitting $1.5 trillion in 2014, tourism is enjoying its best run in recent years, as the Secretary General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), Dr. Taleb Rifai, speaks on the gains of tourism and the challenges ahead. How has the UNWTO changed during the past decade in terms of its role on the world stage and with helping destination marketing organisations? Also, where do you see it going during the next decade? The changes in UNWTO stem from two main lines. One is the changing nature of the industry itself which may set to be in tune with that. Secondly, the redirection of our priorities as a result of that and as a result of past experiences as well, not necessarily only due to the changes. I would sum this up in three points. One point is we had to focus on two major priorities which became very clear to us. One of those points is how do we increase the competitiveness and the ability of destinations to attract more tourism and generate more benefits from the tourism industry, as a result of the incredibly unprecedented growth that this sector, this human activity is experiencing, whether it’s through marketing, whether it’s through infrastructure development, whether it’s product development and all the elements that have to do with increasing competitiveness. That also includes travel facilitation, air connectivity and other kinds of connectivity. This is one basket. The second basket that we’ve identified for ourselves is the sustainability concerns, because you can’t just concentrate on raising competitiveness and looking only at the growth of this industry which is happening with and without us. It’s how was this growth managed, how was it directed, and how was it really impacting people and the planet and such. The core of our mandate as a UNspecialised agency is to promote sustainable tourism, but you can’t promote sustainability if you don’t promote tourism, so that’s why we said competition and growth on one hand and sustainability on the other. We stand for a belief that the growth of this industry on one hand and the preservation, protection, responsibility and sustainability on the other hand are not a zero-sum game. We believe that we can continue to grow; we have to embrace growth and never be afraid of it. We have to equip our members, particularly governments and destinations, with whatever would enable them to grow in a healthy way but to do that in a sustainable way. I don’t think you would find many destinations that don’t want to be sustainable, that don’t want to preserve their artwork, their national treasures, anything that’s beautiful and dear to them. But a lot of destinations probably don’t know how to do that in the most efficient way. What is your advice to best carry out this sustainable tourism, how to go about it? You’re correct in assuming that no destination would declare that it is not interested in preservation. Cultural and

natural heritage are the natural capitals of tourism. You don’t consume your capital. It’s a very simple logic in that regard. Destinations don’t always conform to the same values. Some destinations are not capable of practicing growth they’ve reached, and some destinations don’t know how to do it. It’s a mixture of know-how but also political will in that regard. We also shouldn’t assume that everybody has bought into this. Yes, in principle, nobody would want to associate themselves with practices that are not sustainable, but do they really have the will and determination to make strong commitments? What are some examples of how you promote sustainable tourism to destinations? We have developed something very important called the sustainability criteria in UNWTO. We’ve been working with these for years now. There are many ways of doing this and engaging with us on particular projects. There are general principles and criteria, but each case has to be seen on its own so you have to be aware and be informed. You also have to be flexible enough to say, “Okay, in this particular case, what do I do and how does this criteria apply?” We have been asked many, many times to do things like this. Another area of which we are very active in now is the promotion of our global code of ethics in tourism. That is a code that was approved by the UN General Assembly in New York in 2001. It’s a roadmap for good and ethical tourism practices. When we say this, we don’t only mean how to respect the environment. We also mean how to respect societies, economies, fair distribution of benefits, respect to the local culture, respect to social norms, respect to the environment, etc. On a related vain, I’m interested in getting your take on the visa waiver processes throughout the world. Recently, we have examples of Egypt now requiring everybody to get a visa before they arrive. Then you have Australia and Indonesia not reciprocating visas with each other. And then you have the U.S. going in the opposite direction and increasing the number of visa-waiver countries. You can’t really attract visitors to a destination if they can’t get permission to go there. At UNWTO we have the largest database on visas in the world with every country’s regulations, rules, application forms, strengths and

weaknesses are available in our database. Our studies have proven now that 63 per cent of people in the world still need a priority-stamped visa to enter a country. Now, that’s not good because that’s almost two-thirds of the world requiring a visa to move from their countries to other destinations that are inviting them. The good news is that in 2008 this percentage was 77 per cent, which means that our efforts and the awareness of these destinations have some results. Of course, we’re always considering security. You don’t want people to travel to places where their security is not guaranteed, not only to visitors but even to the people who live there. You can create a system that is secure and comfortable but also friendly at the same time and easy to go through. We are under-utilising our technological means to do that and we could have a more robust online visa application process. Why not? Why do we insist people continue going through bureaucratic procedures to get their visas at a time when people say, “You don’t want to give me a visa? I’ll go to another place that would receive me without a visa.” With the example of Egypt, tourism there is a bloodline, it’s a lifeline. With regard to the U.S., we’re very encouraged by what’s happening there because it sets the example for the rest of the world. The U.S. recognises the connection between visas, income, jobs and devel-

opment. Every 43 new tourist visas to the U.S. creates one job. It’s as simple as that. When you think about it like this, you can’t just say leave it to a bureaucratic city to say yes or no. Of course their job is to say yes or no, but also to understand what’s behind the decision. President Obama even publicly said this. That’s an excellent point. What do you think of the technology rolling out at airports related to visas such as automated passport control, mobile passport control in the U.S. and elsewhere? Do you think these technologies will be enduring? We hope that the airports and governments will do more with these technologies. For example, in Australia you don’t have any stamped fees on your passport anymore. You apply for the visa online, you get your answer online and you get a code. Visas can and should go in that direction. Nowadays, passenger loads of any aircraft are checked and all the information is imputed before the passenger boards a plane. All this information is received by the destination where an aircraft is going even before the aircraft lands. Technology has allowed us now to compile data, analyse data, compare data and help people not to suffer from these scrutinises. What we need to do is isolate unwanted persons, not nationalities per se. What is the single biggest challenge facing global tourism today, and where do you see the most opportunity? The biggest challenge in the competitiveness basket is still visa facilitation and ease of travel. I hope that we can reconcile the two elements of security and facilitation in the spirit of one thing not being held against the other. Another challenge in the longterm is sustainability and making sure that the 1.1 billion international travellers every year and growing still make the right impact on the places where they travel to. *Culled from www.skift.com

Rifai

30 MAY 2015

HOSPITALITY

One of the rooms

Panda Hotel Suites and Lounge: Less could indeed offer more

ocated in Ogba Road, Agege area of Lagos, Panda Hotel Suites and Lounge is proving to be the next best option for business and leisure seekers in Lagos, thrilling its guests with a fine mix of facilities and services. Although a small range hotel, nothing is lost really as it comes with its own attractions that a first time visitor to the home would easily be pleased with. Its serene and creative use of space are strong points. The manager of the hotel, Vivian Okusun, explained that the hotel might be small but it certainly offers one of the best facilities in the city. According to her, the 11-room hotel offers a homely environment and services. The hotel is devoted to serving both the corporate world and

leisure seekers, she said. For businesses and residents of the neighbourhood as well as visitors, this is one place they would surely like to own and call home because it appears primed to cater to their hospitality needs. All the rooms are spacious and furnished and fitted with a number of hospitality gadgets and amenities for the guest's comfort and relaxation. There is, besides the regular comfort, internet facility. Each room is named after some world renowned cities, namely – Miami, Zurich, California, Frankfurt, New York, Texas, Paris, London, Florida and New Jersey. These are not just mere labels or symbolisms, the manager pointed out that they represent the culture of finesse and excellent service that the hotel stands for and promote. It has a restaurant where diners are delighted with the best of African and continental dishes, all a la carte. Guests will certainly enjoy the depth and richness of African dishes, especially Nigerian home cooked delicacies. You would be surprised by the mixture of the Nigerian menus on offer. It is not surprising that walk– in guests have made the restaurant their second home. Even the bars

- the outdoor and the indoor – are as well patronised by residents and visitors alike because of their rich offerings and settings. Business and social events are also hosted by the hotel. Although it has no dedicated or purpose-built hall or conference facilities, the VIP bar is sometimes converted into a conference or meeting room to meet clients' needs while the hotel's outdoor section is used for different social events such as wedding and birthday celebrations. But in-house guests need not worry about the parties, apparently. Okususn says they are usually insulated from the party or noisy atmosphere as their privacy and serenity are of premium to the hotel. A separate entrance is created for them to access their rooms and other sections of the hotel whenever there is an outdoor event, she explained. Security of the guest, she says, is also guaranteed as they have both internal and external security mechanism in place as well as a CCTV camera. There is also a promise of 24-hour power supply, while guests are also delighted with different entertainment packages from DJ session daily and live performances by different Nigerian musical artistes at weekends and festive periods.

Transcorp Hilton Abuja has taken part in Careers@Hilton Live: Youth in Hospitality Month, Hilton Worldwide’s largest ever global career event showcasing to young people, the many opportunities available in the hospitality industry. All through this month, Hilton Worldwide hotels and corporate offices around the globe played host to hundreds of events exposing employment seekers, including young people, to the vast array of exciting opportunities available in the hospitality industry. The event is part of Bright Blue Futures, a global programme that encourages team members to donate their time and expertise to help young people achieve stability and bring hope to their communities, preparing them for a brighter future. As part of this effort, Transcorp Hilton Abuja in conjunction with ACE Africa Charity, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) hosted a series of career events

that saw students of Government Secondary School Durumi, Pupils of Durumi Primary School and selected youths from the communities learning about careers in the hospitality industry from the team members of the hotel. The events included CV writing workshops, career show, job shadowing and a 10-day job internship program for 20 selected youths. The hotel’s general manager, Etienne Gailliez, said, “young people continue to face challenging employment prospects, so it is more important than ever to make sure they receive information and advice about the options available and the skills and attributes they will need once they embark on their chosen careers. “We are passionate about raising awareness of the opportunities the hospitality industry offers and we are delighted to be doing this through one of our biggest ever careers events across the globe.”

Le Meridien Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort earns Trip Advisor 2015 certificate of excellence The Uyo–based Le Meridien Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort has earned the Trip Advisor 2015 certificate of excellence, which celebrates excellence in hospitality and conferred only establishments that have consistently achieved great traveller reviews on Trip Advisor. Parts of the factors considered include accommodations, eateries and attractions located all over the world that have continually delivered a superior customer experience. Trip Advisor uses a proprietary algorithm to determine the honorees that take into account the quality, quantity and frequency of reviews and opinions submitted by travellers on Trip Advisor over a 12-month period as well as business’s tenure and ranking on the Popularity Index on the site. To qualify,

a business must maintain an overall Trip Advisor bubble rating of at least four out of five, have a minimum number of reviews and must have been listed on Trip Advisor for at least 12 months. The management of the resort, expressed delight at winning this certification, saying, ‘‘we’re proud to have more than 12 winning hotels around the world earn this prestigious award for exceptional achievement,” said the general manager, Marc Devroye, adding that “there is no greater seal of approval than being recognised by our customers. With the Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence based on customer reviews, the accolade is a remarkable vote of confidence to our continued business success and commitment to service excellence.”

NEW TELEGRAPH PARTNER HOTELS B E N E F I TS There are lots of benefits to derive as one of our partner hotels. For enquiries and details on how to join the programme, please contact Andrew Iro Okungbowa: 08023152195 (sms only), e-mail: iroandy@ymail.com or Chinyere Opara: 08063768131 (sms only) e-mail angela_ curtis-2@live.com

HOSPITALITY BIT Transcorp Hilton Abuja joins Hilton Worldwide’s career event

Hotel's facade

Despite opening in Agege which already teems with hotels, there's no doubt that Panda Hotel Suites and Lounge's fortune won't be eclipsed given its array of services and enthusiasm, writes ANDREW IRO OKUNGBOWA.

Travel & Tourism

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

ABA

FESTAC, LAGOS

LAGOS

REE DANIELS HOTEL AND SUITES

ABA

Panda Hotel Suites & Lounge

42 Travel & Tourism

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

DESTINATION The International Road Race may give Okpekpe a day in the spotlight annually, but the Edo State community is still a rustic, laid back and neglected enclave in need of urgent development, writes CAJETAN MMUTA.

O The land

kpekpe is one of the towns located in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State. Located about 25 kilometres from Auchi, the most cosmopolitan and famous of the towns within the region. The town's mountainous, rocky and undulating ranges and valleys are unique features which make the region, otherwise known as Afemai land, an alluring place. The people belong to the Ibie ethnic group and generally speak the Ibie language. They are found in the northern end of Edo State. Okpekpe is bordered by River Niger to the east, Etsako West to the west, Auchi to the south, and Kwara and Kogi states to the north. While some of the bordering communities or towns to Okpekpe are Igegba, Itsukwi, Imiakebu, Ebelle, Ukhomedokhai, Okeko, Ikphelli, Okho and Apana in Uzairhue. According to legend, Okpekpe people are said to be the descendants of Ogogo (father) and Atuegbe (mother) who migrated from Benin Kingdom during the reign of Oba Ewuare, following their refusal to heed the long mourning period, which entailed a stoppage of farming activities, decreed by the Oba in honour of his late son. Just like any traditional society, it has an entrenched traditional authority under the headship of Onwueweko of Okpepke. The crown of Onwueweko Okpekpe rotates between two title holders â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Apa and Ede titles. His Royal Highness Apa Peter Abalume Osigbemeh is the reigning monarch. Okpekpe people annually celebrate different cultural festivals with the Beans (Eshil) Festival and New Yam (Ukphakpha) as the frontline festivals and Okpekpe National Day celebration, which is a current creation. The town teems with vast natural resources which are largely unexploited, however, they are noted for their rich agrarian nature (some of their staple products include rice, cassava and yam), which is the main stay of the community besides trading and other forms of commercial activities, which over the years have taken deep root. With just one primary school (Otsele Primary School established in 1914) and a secondary school (Okpekpe Grammar School built in 1980). The world at Okpekpeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s feet Okpekpe has in a way over the years remained an anonymous community just like similar other communities. Its existence is known only to locals and people who over the years have had course to pass through. But all that has changed as three years ago the community rose from its state of relative obscurity to the world stage with the introduction of the Okpekpe International Road Race championed by the governor of the state, Adams Oshiomhole. Besides being the brain behind the event, which in its three years of existence has earned the stamp of the International Association of Athletics

OKPEKPE: Frozen in time but racing to recognition Federation (IAAF) and become a global event and won the attention of some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s elite road runners, he is also the star athlete of the event, taking active role in running the10-kilometre road race from start to finish. The event which recently held its third edition (May 16) has suddenly given the town global renown while its people bask in the new found attention. An ignited sleepy town Three years into the Okpekpe International Road Race, the community is still its sleepy, laid-back old self, as the people go about their daily chores resigned to fate but hopeful that tomorrow would yield something brighter. Barring the newly constructed major road leading into the town from Auchi perhaps the people would have been cut off from civilisation, as has been the case over a number of years. Other than this stretch of newly constructed road which also serves as the turf for the road race, roads in the community are generally in deplorable states. What you have are mostly sandy, untarred roads and footpaths connecting different parts of the community.

It appears that no effort has been made over the years to conquer the undulating and rocky ranges of the town. The buildings are still largely traditional while few buildings are of modern outlook. It is only at the outskirts of the town - thanks to the new road - that you see modern houses with appealing aesthetics springing up with a number of them near completion. Water is a scare commodity in the town as the people lack any source of potable water. Their sources of water include dug wells and rivers while they clamour for the sinking of bole holes at strategic locations by the state government. Electricity is also not working in the town though there is a semblance of rural electrification but the people are yet to reap the full benefits. Economic activities in the community are still largely restricted to farming and trading that go on round the clock. A daily market holds at the market square, which also serves as the gathering point for the road race while the socio-cultural life of the people have also been on the decline except for the occasional vibrancy witnessed during festive periods and staging of communal events.

Generally, life here may not be brutish but it is hardly exciting. It is widely believed that this state of neglect and abject squalor have over the years resulted in many of its people, particularly the youths abandoning the town daily to seek greener pastures elsewhere. Given this state of affair, the people three years ago welcomed the introduction of the road race because they believed it would help open their community to the world and bring about the much needed development and also elevate their status while bequeathing immediate fame on it. Therefore, if there is any area so far that the community seemed to have benefited, besides the fact that their town is now famous and on the global map, it has bolstered the economic and socio life of the people. Views from the people High Chief Perky Ugbodagah, a pensioner and an indigene of the community, highlighted global exposure which the community has gained since the introduction of the road race. According to him, the community is now re-energised while the people in the Diaspora are gradually returning

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

Travel & Tourism 43 TRAVEL INFORMATION

Top 10 rated national passports Before now many people have assumed and regarded the US passport as the most powerful national passports but a new study undertaken by GoEuro has revealed that the Swedish national passport is the most globally powered following a sampling of 50 countries to determine which country’s national passport is the most useful travelling globally The study based it ranking on factors such as visa free access, cost of renewal, length of validity and the amount of hours one must work to obtain their passport. Based on this, Sweden is rated number globally, as its holders have access to 174 countries while its cost $43 to renew, an amount, which translates to only one hour’s work on minimum wage. The US passport is rated fifth, costing $135 to renew, that is, a total of 19 hours of work at minimum wage. The country with the highest cost of renewal is Turkey with the cost puts at $251 while the lowest renewal fee globally is that of the United Arab Emirates - $14. Liberia passport’s renewal fee is at $50 requiring 278 hours at minimum wage to earn the amount. Holders of Sweden, Finland, Germany, USA and United Kingdom passports have the greatest freedom of movement with visa free access to 174 countries while at the bottom of the list is Afghanistan passport with access to only 28 countries. Here are the top 10 countries: 1. Sweden 2. Finland 3. Germany 4. UK 5. USA 6. Denmark 7. Canada 8. Spain 9. Belgium 10. The Netherlands

The Okepkpe road

Mayaewo Tour summer package L-R: Nollywood actor, Paul Obazele, former sport minister, Bolaji Abdullahi, Oshiomhole and other dignitaries at the Okpekpe International Road Race... recently

A glimpse of Okpekpe community's outlook

home in their numbers. He, however, urged the governor to fulfil his promise of building bole holes in the community urgently. Also, the special adviser on media to the state governor, Kassim Afegbua, spoke of the window of opportunity, which the event has brought to the community. “The annual event has opened a new opportunity for the people of the community and the council area.” The chairman of the council, Suleiman Afegbua, revealed that investors have now been attracted to the community as his office has recently been inundated with enquiries and requests for land acquisitions for projects development. Top on the list, he said, is request for building of hotels. He said this is expedient given that the town lacks any hotel. With a hotel in the town, the economic and social activities would further be improved as visitors to the town and those seeking to attend the event are forced to spend the night at Auchi due to the absence of hotels in the community. “Since the race first took place, we have had people within and outside the state who have come to the council to show interest in investing in the community,’’ he said.

“They had met with me for land to be allocated to them in the community for investment purposes. The race has made the economy of this small and once insignificant community of Edo to blossom. The people have been exposed to the world in a positive way." A former police commissioner of the state, Mr. Foluso Adebanjo, observed that the annual race would further enhance security of the area. “It is a good thing that this kind of sporting activity is being organised here in Okpekpe. I can tell you that the economic benefits of the race will enhance security in the locality because the people, especially the youths would be engaged economically through sporting activity.” Mr. Adolphus Bello, an indigene who was born and bred outside the community, is delighted by the state of development. For Esther Audu, who described Okpekpe as her maternal home, it has been a remarkable experience. According to her, her mother who operates a restaurant in the community recorded more sales during the event than she had ever made. The traditional ruler, Onwueweko Okpekpe, stated that the road race is a blessing to his people and the community. “I feel elated to be the host because it is my kingdom. The only challenge I have is that we don’t have hotels where visitors to the event can lodge. What we have is a situation where visitors for the event lodge as far as in Auchi and other communities.

‘‘Now that it is an annual event, I am appealing to investors to come take advantage of the race by investing in the community. My community is a potential tourism destination, the environment is hilly and mountainous, and it is a good environment to live in.” For Oshiomhole who had a day before the event married a new wife, former Iara Fortes from Cape Verde, it was no doubt a fulfilling experience. "I am satisfied that the purpose of opening up this place is being fulfilled going by the level of acceptance the race has received locally and globally. I appeal to our commercial banks and cottage industries to come here and boost commercial activities in this community."

High Chief Perky Ugbodagah

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Spain tops list of world’s most tourist friendly nations Heading the list of 10 top-rated most friendly tourist destination in the World Economic Forum Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report 2015, is Spain, with its culture, infrastructure and outstanding attractions giving it a head lead above other nations of the world. 141 countries were mentioned in the report of the world body with Spain at the top spot followed by France, Germany, USA, UK, Switzerland, Australia, Italy, Japan and Canada. Some of the factor considered before arriving at this classification includes business environment, culture, safety and health.

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30 MAY 2015

SATURDAY, 30 MAY, 2015

SATURDAY

Politics COVER 45

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Jonathan: Bowing out amid controversy p.47

Investigations

Plethora of uncompleted projects p.49

Perspectives

The return of Eagle Square â&#x20AC;Ś p.52

buhari: Long Walk to Presidency

Onwuka Nzeshi

"What matters most is not how many times you fall but that you never give up trying." -Rusty Lindquist in Life Engineering.

ÂŠ Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

braham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States is regarded by many historians as one of the greatest examples of persistence and a vivid lesson on how to handle failure in life. Lincoln was born into poverty, faced defeat several times, but refused to quit. In fact, he lost eight elections, failed in business twice and suffered a nervous breakdown at the death of a loved one, yet he never gave up on his dreams. He later became one of the greatest presidents in American history. As Rusty Lindquist captured it in his blog Life Engineering , " what matters most is not how many times you fall but that you never give up trying." Muhammadu Buhari, the fifth democratically elected President of Nigeria may well be own own Abraham Lincoln when one considers his long, tortuous journey to Aso Rock Villa in Abuja. It is a walk that has taken him twelve years to reach his destination. This is no mean feat. It is only a man of rare courage, strong determination, uncommon vision and perhaps, special

mission that could endure the stress of such an endeavor.

First Coming In his first incarnation as leader of Africa's most populous nation, Major General Muhammadu Buhari and his "colleagues in arms" shot their way to power. They were ushered in by the sonorous tunes of martial jazz in the wee hours of December 31, 1983. The ominous music was punctuated at regular intervals by the national anthem and a terse declaration that the government of President Shehu Shagari had been toppled in a coup d etat. The mere thought of a change by force; probable cross fire between troops loyal to the federal government and the coup plotters sent shivers down the spines of the citizenry. As the day rolled by and the military felt convinced they were in full control, Buhari was announced as the new Head of State. He launched his cardinal programme, War Against Indiscipline ( WAI) through which he confronted indiscipline, corruption and economic sabotage. But his reign was shortlived and he was overthrown in a palace coup on August 27, 1985. The Interlude Since he came by force and was pulled out unceremoniously, Buhari went into

a life of solitude for thirteen odd years. These were the years of sustained military rule and endless political transition programmes. Even when his colleagues in arms retreated to the barracks and democracy was restored on 1999, Buhari still maintained a low profile. The Return When he saw that his former boss, General Olusegun Obasanjo was able to return to power as a democratically elected President, Buhari began to dream of a return too. He joined the All Nigeria People's Party (ANPP) and became its presidential candidate in the 2003 elections. He lost the election to Obasanjo who was then seeking a second term in office. He challenged the results of the election up to the Supreme Court but lost the legal battle. In 2007, Buhari was back again in the ring. Once again, he was the presidential candidate of the ANPP and the main challenger in the contest. But he lost the trophy to President Umar Musa Yar Adua of the ruling People's Democratic Party( PDP) in controversial circumstance. In anger and disappointment, he fell out with his party and began to seek an alternaCONTINUED ON PAGE 46

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Buhari: Long Walk to Presidency to be PDP loyalists sought to stop him. Fortunately, his return to power was a project whose time had come. Needless to recall that he finally scaled these hurdles and went on to win the March 28, 2015 presidential election. The icing on the cake was that President Goodluck Jonathan conceded victory to the APC, accepting the outcome of the election even before the results were fully released. Apparently, Jonathan's rare act of statesmanship humbled Buhari and saved the Nigeria from erupting into post- election violence.

C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 4 5

tive platform to actualise his ambition. By 2011, he had formed the Congress for Progressive Change ( CPC) and had no troubles becoming its presidential candidate. He was the central character in the party and commanded a large followership in the Muslim dominated northern parts of Nigeria. He was however able to garner twelve million votes and winning the governorship seat in one out if the 36 states in Nigeria. As in the previous attempts, Buhari lost the presidential race to President Godluck Jonathan, candidate of the ruling party. Buhari alleged he was cheated; he wept openly and declared that that was going to be his last attempt at seeking to rule Nigeria. The Merger Tired of challenging the PDP on individual basis, the opposition political parties in the country decided to join forces at the next general elections. They began the merger talks as the dust of the 2011 elections settled across the polity. Midway into President Jonathan's tenure, the All Nigeria Peoples Party( ANPP) , Congress for Progressive Change( CPC), Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and a faction of the All Progressive Grand Alliance ( APGA) fused together to form the All Progressives Congress( APC), a mega opposition platform. To them, the results of the 2011 election was an eye opener. If Buhari, flying the flag of a little known CPC , could gather twelve million votes, it would not be too difficult for the new political conglomerate to win the trophy work-

Pleasantaries between President Buhari and the former president, Jonathan, during the handover

ing together. After a lot of turbulence , the new party chose Buhari as its presidential standard bearer and Prof. Yemi Osinbajo as his running mate. From the onset, they left no one in doubt as to their mission- to dislodge PDP, the ruling party from the seat of power. 2015 Election The 2015 presidential election became a watershed. Not only were the electioneering campaigns tedious, they provoked a lot of controversies, mudslinging and campaign of calumny. Al-

PROFILE

Ndubuisi Ugah

or the second time in a little over 30 years, Muhammadu Buhari, will be assuming office as Nigeria’s fifth democratically elected president after his first sojourn as military head of state on December 31, 1984. Born a Muslim Fulani in Daura, Katsina State, on December 17, 1942 to Malam Adamu and Zulaihatu, the young Buhari after completing his secondary education in Katsina Provincial Secondary School, enlisted in the Nigerian Army in 1961 and thereafter attended the Nigerian Military Training College now Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna. From 1962 to 1963, he trained as Officer Cadet in Aldershot in England. On completion, Buhari was commissioned as second lieutenant, in January 1963. Between November 1963 and January 1964, Buhari attended the Platoon Commanders’ Course in Kaduna. He also perfected his Military transport and logistics skills with a Mechanical Transport Officer’s Course at the Army Mechanical Transport School in Borden, United Kingdom in 1964. As he rose through the ranks, Buhari visited Wellington, India, in 1973, for a course at the Defense Services Staff College. As a colonel, between 1979 and 80, Buhari acquired a Master's degree in Strategic Studies from United States Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Following his commissioning as a second lieutenant in 1963, Buhari was appointed Platoon Commander of the Second Infantry Battalion, Abeokuta, Ogun State. He also stepped up and served as Commander in the same Battalion between 1965 and 1967 From Abeokuta, Buhari moved to Kaduna as 2nd sector Brigade Major of First Infantry Division, from April 1967

though the APC enjoyed a ass following in the northern and south- western parts of Nigeria, Buhari's candidature faced immense difficulties arising from his past as a military dictator. There were a lot of anxieties when questions were raised about his qualification to run. He failed to present his School Certificate and instead referred those who demanded it to approach the authorities of the Nigeria Armed Forces for it. He was accused of lying on oath and dragged before the courts. In fact he face multiple charges in various courts as done Nigerians believed

The man from Daura In retirement, Buhari served as the chairman of the Petroleum Trust Fund Buhari

to July 1967. He later moved to the Third Infantry Brigade on the same rank between July 1967 and October 1968 before moving on to 31 Infantry Brigade, as Commandant, between 1970 and 1971. Buhari’s Army career also saw him serve as Assistant Adjutant-General, First Infantry Division Headquarters for two years, beginning from 1971. He served as Acting Director of Transport and Supply, Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport Headquarters. While at the Defence Headquarters, Buhari served as Military Secretary and member, Supreme Military Council from 1978 to 1979. Buhari held many command posts

including General Officer Commanding (GOC), 3rd Armed Division Nigerian Army, Jos from where after the coup of December 31 1983, he was invited by his colleagues to lead the nation as head of state and Commander-in-Chief – a position he held for 20 months before he was forced to retire following the August coup 1985. While undertaking his military duties Buhari also serve in various national administrative capacities. In the 1975 Murtala/Obasanjo regime, Buhari was the governor of the North-Eastern state which comprised the current North-East geo- political zone. He subsequently served as Federal Commissioner or Minister for Pe-

May 29, 2015 Yesterday, he took his oath of office as the fifth democratically elected President of Nigeria. It was a colourful ceremony that attracted several world leaders to Abuja. It was an event that would be remembered for a long time to come. The previous day, he had received the handover notes from his predecessor in office, President Goodluck Jonathan . He and his deputy, Osinbajo were also conducted round the Aso Rock Presidential Villa. In life, not many persons have a second chance to rule over a kingdom. If Buhari had been a king in the mediaeval times, perhaps he would have remained banished from the land after surviving the palace coup that truncated his reign when his colleagues in arms ousted him in 1985. For Buhari, this reincarnation is a dream come true; the fulfillment of a destiny and Nigerians look forward to the fulfillment of his promises to the electorate. He cannot afford to renege on his promise to stir up positive changes in various sectors of the society. troleum and Natural Resources in the Obasanjo military regime in 1976 and chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) when it was created in 1976. In retirement, Buhari served as the chairman of the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF) set up by the late General Sani Abacha’s administration to carry out development projects from excess funds saved from removal of petroleum subsidy. When he threw in his hat into politics General Buhari pitched tent with the All Peoples Party (which later morphed into All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP). He won the presidential ticket of the party but lost the election to former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Owing to his political appeal and large followership, Buhari again clinched the ANPP Presidential ticket for 2007 general election but lost to late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). As a result of irreconcilable differences in principles and philosophy, Buhari bid farewell to the ANPP and together with associates across the country, formed the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC). Again, Buhari's presidential challenge failed to stop former President Goodluck Jonathan as president in 2011. Known to be a non-quitter, Buhari alongside his political associates in February 2013 saw the emergence of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Following a successful campaign, Buhari clinched a historic victory in the rescheduled March 28 Presidential election and thus became the first opposition candidate to defeat an incumbent president. Buhari was a recipient of many national awards and medals including the Grand Commander of the order of the Federal Republic (GCFR). He is married with children and grand children.

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Buhari

on the marble…

“M

y decision will be tied to the constitution of the APC. If the party chooses me as its candidate, I will contest. If the members do not consider me, I will not contest but I will still support the party. My decision to run for 2015 will solely be that of the party.” - Giving conditions that will make him declare an interest in running for president in 2015. Anyone who steals Nigeria's money will end up in Kirikiri prisons. - January 6, 2015

“... I am not a rich person. I can’t give you a pocketful of dollars or naira to purchase your support. Even if I could, I would not do so. The fate of this nation is not up for sale. What I will give you, and this nation is all of my strength, commitment, sweat and toil in the service of the people. What I can give you is my all. I do not intend to rule Nigeria. I want to democratically govern it with your help… Nigeria is our home” -Dec 11, 2014 “I have at least N1 million in my bank, having paid N5.5 million to pick my form from my party. I have around 150 cattle

because I am never comfortable without cows. I have a house each in Kaduna, Kano, Daura, and one in Abuja, which I borrowed money to build. I never had a foreign account since I finished my courses in the USA, India and the UK. I never owned any property outside Nigeria”. -Buhari as a CPC presidential aspirant. “To revamp the system, there is need for trillions of Naira but where will they get it from? PDP has killed this country in the last 16 years. If we don’t kill corruption in Nigeria, it will kill Nigeria. Many of us are still here because we have nowhere to go in the world than to stay in Nigeria. -Buhari on his stance on corruption “Our objective is to throw away PDP and rehabilitate our country. We will not be distracted by their plans and smear campaign…That is why this election will be very defining, especially for the youths and the change we all want.” - Before the elections on March 19 “Christian and Muslim, Southern and Northern, rich and poor, young and old, man and woman. We are all citizens of Nigeria. There is no dividing line among us that I care to honour. Either we advance as one or fail altogether.” - On his vision for Nigeria

Yusuf (left) with his father, Buhari

Yusuf, Buhari’s son, appears in public for the first time

usuf, the hitherto unseen son of the president-elect, Muhammadu Buhari, on May 28 appeared in public for the first time. Yusuf, who bears a striking similarity to his father, arrived in the country from the United Kingdom together with his father in the early hours of May 28 aboard a British Airways flight.

Yusuf is the only son of Hajiya Aisha Halilu, the second wife of the president, while the others are girls. Buhari divorced from his first wife Safinatu, with whom he had five children, and married Aisha, 44, in 1989. They also have five children together. Safinatu was a Fulani from Adamawa State.

L-R: Ondo State Governor, Olusegun Mimiko, wife of Bayelsa State Governor, Rachael, Governor Dickson Seriake, former President Goodluck Jonathan and wife, Patience arrive their hometown of Otuoke

Jonathan: Bowing out amid controversy Dominik Umosen

he immediate past president, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, appears honoured and appreciated judging from rave reviews that greeted his graceful concession of defeat in the last general elections by most Nigerians and the international community. This is a pointer to a guarantee of a positive role, especially at this critical stage of the country’s history. Nigerians are united in the consensus that his leadership helped to stabilise the polity when the continued unity of the country seemed most insignificant. Some, however, has a different view. For instance, the Muslims Rights Concern (MURIC) believes his presidency was biased against Muslims. By his admission, Jonathan, it appears, had inadvertently intensified the so-called malicious gangup that transmogrified into his electoral humiliation. In a recent statement, the former president said that he is devoting his retirement to canvassing for peace among the adherents of the various religions. Yet, MURIC was not amused. Rather it said, “while we agree that there is every need for peaceful coexistence, we of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) regard former president’s declaration as immodest, belated, hypocritical and an absolute afterthought. “Jonathan’s ‘request’ to become an ambassador of peace is baffling. People do not ask for honour. It is given freely, willingly and spontaneously. Honour is earned through quality leadership, not demanded and snatched via rough tackles and armtwisting. People who are truly honourable do not lobby for it. The quality of honour is like the golden fish. Honour has no place to hide. People will see it wherever it is even without showing itself. So, why is our immediate past president parading himself as a peace ambassador? “A peace ambassador must be acceptable to all parties but the case of Jonathan is different. He is not acceptable as an ambassador to Nigerian Muslims. We cannot accept Jonathan as a go-between in matters affecting us and our Christian neighbours because his sins against us are so many that we have stopped counting. But we continued to respect him because of his former exalted office. We believe that respect for the office of Mr. President is respect for our country, Nigeria. “MURIC complained when he marginalised Muslims in ministerial and other appointments. We cried out when Jonathan turned his national conference to an overwhelmingly Christian conference. There are many more. Just recently and a few days to handing over to a new adminis-

tration, Jonathan gave Nigerian Muslims a direct slap on the face when he selected members of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) without consulting Muslim leaders at all. How can he shave our heads in our absence? No good ambassador will do this. “It means that if he becomes ambassador of peace, at worst, he would just sit down in Otuoke, invite the Christians and take a decision without meeting the Muslims. Or, at best, he would ignore the recognised leadership of Nigerian Muslims and simply handpick the minority Muslims in his state to represent all the Muslims of Nigeria. Respect begets respect. Jonathan has forgotten that people below are watching those on top. “How can Jonathan be an ambassador of peace? His militant kinsmen threatened the rest of Nigeria with hell on earth, if he lost the election, and he kept quiet. His wife publicly insulted Northerners in particular and Nigerian Muslims in general calling us people who produce children without caring for them and the husband kept mute. Jonathan has no sense of justice. Neither can he call those under him to order. How can such a man be crowned ambassador of peace?” MURIC) asked. But the former president, who seems to be the most vilified, countered that he took the decision to concede voluntarily because of his strong belief that Nigerians can only practise their religions in an atmosphere of peace. He said this shortly after he was presented with the 2015 Epitome of Peace Award by the Field Superintendent of The Apostolic Church Nigeria, Federal Capital Territory Field, Apostle John Buzu, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The award, however, has been most sensationally misrepresented. Jonathan said the award, which was in recognition of his decision to concede victory, led to peace in the country, has further motivated him into doing more for the country. He promised to work hard to reduce religious and racial discrimination in the country now that he has left office, even as he hoped that people would be ready to join him in the crusade. “To whom much is given, much is expected. For you to honour me today, you have given me another mandate to work harder to ensure that we as Nigerians continue to live in peace. One thing I have decided I will do after leaving office is to be talking to faithful of all religions: Christians, Muslims and other religions, on the need for Nigerians to live in peace. This is because when there is crisis in any part of the country, nobody can practise his own religion. If there is crisis anywhere, people cannot go to the mosque; they cannot go to the church.

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'We have an opportunity; let's take it'

am immensely grateful to God, who has preserved us to witness this day and this occasion. Today marks a triumph for Nigeria and an occasion to celebrate her freedom and cherish her democracy. Nigerians have shown their commitment to democracy and are determined to entrench its culture. Our journey has not been easy but thanks to the determination of our people and strong support from friends abroad we have today a truly democratically elected government in place. I would like to thank President Goodluck Jonathan for his display of statesmanship in setting a precedent for us that has now made our people proud to be Nigerians wherever they are. With the support and cooperation he has given to the transition process, he has made it possible for us to show the world that despite the perceived tension in the land we can be a united people capable of doing what is right for our nation. Together we co-operated to surprise the world that had come to expect only the worst from Nigeria. I hope this act of graciously accepting defeat by the outgoing president will become the standard of political conduct in the country. I would like to thank the millions of our supporters who believed in us even when the cause seemed hopeless. I salute their resolve in waiting long hours in rain and hot sunshine to register and cast their votes and stay all night if necessary to protect and ensure their votes count and were counted. I thank those who tirelessly carried the campaign on the social media. At the same time, I thank our other countrymen and women who did not vote for us but contributed to make our democratic culture truly competitive, strong and definitive. I thank all of you. Having just a few minutes ago sworn on the Holy Book, I intend to keep my oath and serve as President to all Nigerians. I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody. A few people have privately voiced fears that on coming back to office I shall go after them. These fears are groundless. There will be no paying off old scores. The past is prologue. Our neighbours in the Sub-region and our African brethren should rest assured that Nigeria under our administration will be ready to play any leadership role that Africa expects of it. Here I would like to thank the governments and people of Cameroon, Chad and Niger for committing their armed forces to fight Boko Haram in Nigeria. I also wish to assure the wider international community of our readiness to cooperate and help to combat threats of crossborder terrorism, sea piracy, refugees and boat people, financial crime, cyber crime, climate change, the spread of communicable diseases and other challenges of the 21st century. At home we face enormous challenges. Insecurity, pervasive corruption, the hitherto unending and seemingly impossible fuel and power shortages are the immediate concerns. We are going to tackle them head on. Nigerians will not regret that they have entrusted national responsibility to us. We must not succumb to hopelessness and defeatism. We can fix our problems. In recent times Nigerian leaders appear to have misread our mission. Our founding fathers, Mr Herbert Macauley, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Alhaji Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Malam Aminu Kano, Chief J.S. Tarka, Mr Eyo Ita, Chief Denis Osadeby, Chief Ladoke Akintola and their colleagues worked to establish certain standards of governance. They might have differed in their methods or tactics or details, but they were united in establishing a viable and progressive country. Some of their successors behaved like

President Buhari giving his inaugural speech on Friday, in Abuja

inaugural speech spoilt children breaking everything and bringing disorder to the house. Furthermore, we as Nigerians must remind ourselves that we are heirs to great civilizations: Shehu Othman Dan fodio’s caliphate, the Kanem Borno Empire, the Oyo Empire, the Benin Empire and King Jaja’s formidable domain. The blood of those great ancestors flow in our veins. What is now required is to build on these legacies, to modernize and uplift Nigeria. Daunting as the task may be it is by no means insurmountable. There is now a national consensus that our chosen route to national development is democracy. To achieve our objectives we must consciously work the democratic system. The Federal Executive under my watch will not seek to encroach on the duties and functions of the Legislative and Judicial arms of government. The law enforcing authorities will be charged to operate within the Constitution. We shall rebuild and reform the public service to become more effective and more serviceable. We shall charge them to apply themselves with integrity to stabilise the system. For their part the legislative arm must keep to their brief of making laws, carrying out over-sight functions and doing so expeditiously. The judicial system needs reform to cleanse itself from its immediate past. The country now expects the judiciary to act with dispatch on all cases especially on corruption, serious financial crimes or abuse of office. It is only when the three arms act constitutionally that government will be enabled to serve the country optimally and avoid the confusion all too often bedeviling governance today. Elsewhere relations between Abuja and the States have to be clarified if we are to serve the country better. Constitutionally there are limits to powers of each of the three tiers of government but that should not mean the Federal Government should fold its arms and close its eyes to what is going on in the states and local governments. Not least the operations of the Local Government Joint Account. While the Federal Government cannot interfere in the details of its operations it will ensure that the gross corruption at the local level is checked. As far as the constitution allows me I will try to ensure that there is responsible and accountable governance at all levels of

government in the country. For I will not have kept my own trust with the Nigerian people if I allow others abuse theirs under my watch. However, no matter how well organized the governments of the federation are they cannot succeed without the support, understanding and cooperation of labour unions, organized private sector, the press and civil society organizations. I appeal to employers and workers alike to unite in raising productivity so that everybody will have the opportunity to share in increased prosperity. The Nigerian press is the most vibrant in Africa. My appeal to the media today - and this includes the social media – is to exercise its considerable powers with responsibility and patriotism. My appeal for unity is predicated on the seriousness of the legacy we are getting into. With depleted foreign reserves, falling oil prices, leakages and debts the Nigerian economy is in deep trouble and will require careful management to bring it round and to tackle the immediate challenges confronting us, namely; Boko Haram, the Niger Delta situation, the power shortages and unemployment especially among young people. For the longer term we have to improve the standards of our education. We have to look at the whole field of medicare. We have to upgrade our dilapidated physical infrastructure. The most immediate is Boko Haram’s insurgency. Progress has been made in recent weeks by our security forces but victory cannot be achieved by basing the Command and Control Centre in Abuja. The command centre will be relocated to Maiduguri and remain until Boko Haram is completely subdued. But we cannot claim to have defeated Boko Haram without rescuing the Chibok girls and all other innocent persons held hostage by insurgents. This government will do all it can to rescue them alive. Boko Haram is a typical example of small fires causing large fires. An eccentric and unorthodox preacher with a tiny following was given posthumous fame and following by his extra judicial murder at the hands of the police. Since then through official bungling, negligence, complacency or collusion Boko Haram became a terrifying force taking tens of thousands of lives and capturing several towns and villages covering swathes of Nigerian sovereign territory. Boko Haram is a mindless, godless

group who are as far away from Islam as one can think of. At the end of the hostilities when the group is subdued the Government intends to commission a sociological study to determine its origins, remote and immediate causes of the movement, its sponsors, the international connexions to ensure that measures are taken to prevent a recurrence of this evil. For now the Armed Forces will be fully charged with prosecuting the fight against Boko haram. We shall overhaul the rules of engagement to avoid human rights violations in operations. We shall improve operational and legal mechanisms so that disciplinary steps are taken against proven human right violations by the Armed Forces. Boko Haram is not only the security issue bedeviling our country. The spate of kidnappings, armed robberies, herdsmen/ farmers clashes, cattle rustlings all help to add to the general air of insecurity in our land. We are going to erect and maintain an efficient, disciplined people – friendly and well – compensated security forces within and over – all security architecture. The amnesty programme in the Niger Delta is due to end in December, but the Government intends to invest heavily in the projects, and programmes currently in place. I call on the leadership and people in these areas to cooperate with the State and Federal Government in the rehabilitation programmes which will be streamlined and made more effective. As ever, I am ready to listen to grievances of my fellow Nigerians. I extend my hand of fellowship to them so that we can bring peace and build prosperity for our people. No single cause can be identified to explain Nigerian’s poor economic performance over the years than the power situation. It is a national shame that an economy of 180 million generates only 4,000MW, and distributes even less. Continuous tinkering with the structures of power supply and distribution and close on 20 billion dollars expanded since 1999 have only brought darkness, frustration, misery, and resignation among Nigerians. We will not allow this to go on. Careful studies are under way during this transition to identify the quickest, safest and most cost-effective way to bring light and relief to Nigerians. Unemployment, notably youth un-employment features strongly in our party’s manifesto. We intend to attack the problem frontally through revival of agriculture, solid minerals mining as well as credits to small and medium size businesses to kick – start these enterprises. We shall quickly examine the best way to revive major industries and accelerate the revival and development of our railways, roads and general infrastructure. Your Excellencies, my fellow Nigerians, I cannot recall when Nigeria enjoyed so much goodwill abroad as now. The messages I received from East and West, from powerful and small countries are indicative of international expectations on us. At home the newly elected government is basking in a reservoir of goodwill and high expectations. Nigeria therefore has a window of opportunity to fulfill our long – standing potential of pulling ourselves together and realising our mission as a great nation. Our situation somehow reminds one of a passage in Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar: "There is a tide in the affairs of men which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune; Omitted, all the voyage of their life, Is bound in shallows and miseries." We have an opportunity. Let us take it. Thank you. • Inaugural speech by Muhammadu Buhari

President

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Kawo-Command junction road, Kaduna State photo: ibraheem musa

Plethora of uncompleted projects

Like the Dr. Goodluck Jonathan’s government which expired on May 29, many state governors under that administration also completed their tenures same day. However, most of their promises were unfulfilled. The common of such assurances are tasks either initiated by them or inherited from their predecessors. These, according to ISIOMA MADIKE in this report, have today become mere lip service to the people as myriads of uncompleted projects still dot the states’ landscape, begging for attention But, that has not been the case in many states where their governors’ administrative tenures came to an end yesterday. For instance, the government of Martin Elechi of Ebonyi State, which came on the saddle on May 29, 2007, has left many projects he promised his people, uncompleted. The new administration of Dave Umahi would have to grapple with that. The most visible of such uncompleted projects include, World Trade Centre, which is a 14-storey building design with other three buildings around it and strategically located in the metropolis. It is sited at the popular Presco Campus junction of Ebonyi State University and was initiated by the government of Sam Egwu in 1999. Egwu had abandoned the project prompting Elechi’s administration to re-award the contract to an indigenous contractor, EDON Nig. Limited. Work went on smoothly and got to plastering level but stopped half way for lack of funds. The Managing Director of the company handling the project, Edward Nkwegu, had requested for release of funds to the company to enable it complete the job. Instead of Elechi acting as expected, he maintained that the state was faced with financial challenges. The Centenary Tower was also con-

Investigations

overnance is a pact with the people, and it is the responsibility of any government to deliver services to the masses through various policies and programmes that have direct relevance to their socio-economic aspirations. One important factor about the success of a particular programme or project embarked upon by any government is to ensure that such venture is completed. It is true that in Nigeria, cases of abandoned, White Elephant or simply uncompleted projects abound such that, in some instances, benefiting communities remain pessimistic about those sited in their areas unless it was completed. So, for any government to establish confidence in the mindset of the people, it must simply deliver his promises.

Isioma madike

Makurdi Sheraton Hotel, Benue State

photo: cephas iorhemen

CONTINUED ON PAGE 50

Cover

Investigations

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

Civic Centre, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State photo: adesina wahab

What the governors left undone C O N T I N U E D f r o m PA G E 4 9

ceived by the outgone administration to commemorate Nigeria’s 100 years of existence. It is sited at the Trans-African highway along Abakaliki/Ogoja/Cameroun road and the new state secretariat complex otherwise known as Ochudo City. Few months after its completion, the over N60 million tower collapsed. This led to the then state Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Dr. Abia Onyike, to state that the contractors of the project and the state government had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to complete the reconstruction on or before May 24. He even promised that the tower during the reconstruction will be reduced from 40 to 35 heights to forestall re-occurrence of similar disaster. But that was not to be, at least, at the time of handover on May 29. Another was the international market project, located along the Trans African highway. This, like Centenary Tower, was initiated by Elechi at the inception of his administration. It has 7,077 lock-up shops with modern facilities out of which 5,600 shops was completed and are ready for use. On the day of the inauguration, 343 shops were allocated to the traders that applied for them. The outgone administration equally embarked on the construction of 13 General Hospitals across the 13 local government areas of the state. But, the project suffered setback as none of the hospitals was completed. Most of them are still at their foundation level as at the time Elechi’s government expired. Rotimi Amaechi also made a pledged to his people that Rivers State under his watch would enjoy 24 hours uninterrupted power supply and went on to make its actualisation a priority. He targeted December 31, 2012 as delivery date. But exactly one year later in 2013, Amaechi officially admitted that there were challenges inhibiting the actualisation of the project and blamed the then Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) for the failure. “We had promised to deliver on 24hour power supply by the end of 2012. Unfortunately we couldn’t meet this deadline, as we still need the PHCN to hook us up and grant us the requisite permission to distribute,” he had told Rivers people. Incidentally, the people are still waiting as the project is yet to see the light of day. The state, however, built up 560 megawatts, but the target of over 750

megawatts, is still a mirage. “The most important milestone, perhaps, recorded in the past year on the way to achieving the power target. We believe we should be able to gradually deliver on this promise to our people. We are certain that with the massive investments government has made in the power sector we are close to meeting our promise to our people,” the administration had said. A few days before May 29 handover, the House of Assembly invited nine commissioners, including that of power, Augustine Wokocha, for questioning. Wokocha, a former lawmaker told the House that in the last four years, his ministry received N30 million out of the estimated N70 million needed to actualise the project. He added that the remaining N40 million ought to have been released to the ministry in the second phase of funding, but that the outgone government lacked the finance to do that. The Monorail Project that has gulped millions of dollars, according to experts, is one of the most ambitious projects undertaken by the state. It was conceived to be the first of its kind in Nigeria, a modern day transport system meant to decongest the ever-busy Aba-Port Harcourt road. Once the Aba Road is blocked due to heavy traffic, the other roads linking it are affected. So, the project was supposed to ease the challenge of traffic in Port Harcourt metropolis. It was started five years ago, and was to be executed in phases, with the first phase linking Azikiwe to the old Port Harcourt town axis. The first phase is almost finished. It is what becomes of the second phase that observers are con-

Makurdi water works, Benue State photo: cephas iorhemen

We believe we should be able to gradually deliver on this promise to our people

cerned about. There is also the Adolphus KaribiWhyte Mega Hospital project conceived by the Amaechi administration, which could not be actualised. It was supposed to handle serious health cases, those that are usually referred outside the country. It was meant to be a 1,000-bed hospital in a Public Private Participation (PPP) arrangement between the government and a Canadian Company, Clinotech. About $50 million (N9.2 billion) is said to have been released for the project. The site was cleared, buildings demolished, but real work never commence while Clinotech absconded from the site. The Independent Power Plant (IPP) project located in Oghara, Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State is among the many projects still begging for attention in the oil rich state. Since

its contract was awarded in 2009 at the cost of N21.5 billion before its upward review to N23.6 billion, several amounts, including N27 billion, had been quoted as part of the money embezzled from the project. A mystery fire gutted the project site early this year and destroyed substantial part of the installed equipment, which gave credence to the insinuation that the scheme was a ruse. But shortly before the May 29 handover, the state government doused the controversy trailing the non-completion of the project when the administration’s Commissioner for Energy, Mrs. Gloria Okologbo, appeared before the state’s House of Assembly Committee on Finance and Appropriation. The commissioner reveled to the legislators that the equipment to complete the project had been procured. According to her, the project, which had reached its advance stage, was only awaiting installation and commissioning. She blamed the delay in the installation on lack of access road to the project site. “Now that the road is completed, equipment will be moved to the site soon,” she said. Another is the seemingly abandoned Ughelli-Asaba dualisation road contract that angered Delta Assembly. The length of the entire road project is about 149 kilometers and segmented into three different sectors with different contracting firms, including the China Civil Engineering and Construction Company (CCC), that handled a portion of it. The Sector ‘C’ portion of the project, awarded to ULO Consultant Company, the contracting firm handling the construction work of the Asaba International Airport, appears to have been abandoned. Delta’s N49 billion Leisure Parks is still in the doldrums also. The projects were designed by the Delta State Government some years ago under its “Delta Beyond Oil” mantra, to be one of the means to diversify the economy of the state and reduce its over-dependence on oil. They were to be built at Oleri in Udu Local Government Area of the state and at Ogwashi-Uku in Aniocha South Local Government Area. While the Oleri was designed to host a world-class Water Theme Park, a Wildlife Park was billed for Ogwashi-Uku. They were expected to consist of, waterfalls, African Cultural Village, Children’s Play-Ground, Cinema/Casino Halls, a Sports Village, three and five Star Hotels and Villas when completed. “Upon completion”, boosted Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, “they will be the first

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

Investigations

30 MAY 2015

Cover

All projects initiated by my administration will be completed before the end of my second term

Ezekwesili

Multi-billion naira 5-star hotel located at the heart of Minna, Niger State photo: dan atori

Collapsed centenary tower, Ocho-Udo city, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State photo: uchenna inya

of its kind in West Africa.” 500 acres of land, which represents the state government’s 10 per cent counterpart funding of the project was immediately provided for Sarner PFN Limited, its partner, for the project to kick off. The retired Managing Director of Guinness and Chairman of the investment group, late Abel Ubeku, at the unveiling ceremony of the project, spoke glowingly on how the projects would provide jobs for the indigenes of the state. Till date, the people of Delta State are still waiting for the projects’ take-off. The site at Ogwashi-Uku is today a tick forest. This has forced the indigenes of the area to threaten to de-acquire the land. Chief Lawrence Okolobi, the Ozomo (mouthpiece of the palace) of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, said, “Personally I have tried to see the Commissioner for Tourism, Mofe-Damijo, to iron things out with him about the project but to no avail. But as a politician now, what they say here is not what they say and mean there. Whatever they are doing there the community does not know. “On several occasions, I have gone to the project site to query what they are doing there. I have challenged them over the secrecy involved the project, how they don’t want the people of the state, even the host community, including the palace, to know about it by barricading the entrance with soldiers. We are just waiting for the appropriate time to claim back what belongs to us. We will take back the land. Even the length of the land they took there, we don’t know. Why we are worried about the size of the land is that, often times, politicians will come through the back door and take Ogwashi-Uku land in the name of citing industries but would later share it among themselves,” Okolobi alleged. The popular Okpanam road dualisation is another. The amount approved for the project work was not disclosed. Due to

the speed of the work, it was almost certain that TRATRIX, the contracting firm, handling the project would not complete it before the May 29 handover. And that was exactly what happened. In like manner, the Asaba International Airport has also been dragging. The airport was initially awarded at the cost of N6.7 billion. Uduaghan, during the preparation for the governorship race in the state in 2006, vowed to complete the airport within six months. However, between 2007 and 2012, over N27 billion was quoted to have been spent on the project. But the airport was recently downgraded for lack of basic amenities and shoddy job done on the runway by the ULO Consult, the contracting firm handling the project. Massive work is yet to be done on the airport, including the beautification aspect. The Asaba Fly-over Bridge is also there uncompleted. The contract for the bridge was awarded on August 6, 2013, at the cost of N3.5 billion. It was planned over the existing two-lane popular INTER-BAU roundabout, which was also expanded to three lanes, complemented with U-turns and independent entry and exit lanes. Gabriel Suswam of Benue State promise to complete all projects initiated by his administration before leaving office on May 29, 2015 has also become mere lip service to the people of the state as a myriads of uncompleted projects are still begging for completion. “I will not hand over any uncompleted projects to my successor in 2015; all projects initiated by my administration will be completed before the end of my second term,” Suswam said during the commissioning of the N4.9 billion 54.14 Tor Donga-Zaki Biam road in Katsina Local Government Area of the state. He had added that his administration "cannot forget the people who made him who he

is today.’’ Today, most of such promises are now considered as "empty and mere radio propaganda". This may probably be the reason why many indegenes of Benue consider Suswam as “a failed governor” the state has produced. Suswam also awarded contracts for many road projects but did not complete them. The contract for the construction of the Makurdi International Conference Centre at the Ibrahim Babangida Square was equally abandoned. Worse still is the non-completion of work for the rehabilitation of the state-owned media establishments like Radio Benue, The Voice Newspaper and the Benue Television, which has so far gulped about N628, 889, 919 since it was started more than seven years ago. Dr. Babangida Aliyu’s eight year rule also expired with many of the projects promised the people uncompleted. One of such projects is the multi-billion naira 5-Star hotel located at the centre of the city. Tongues had waxed as to the viability of the project, especially in terms of patronage. In the last two years, no fewer than three 3-Star hotels have sprung up and have suffered severely low patronage. Those who should know have tried to advise the state government against such white elephant considering the state as a largely civil servant enclave with no serious industrial base capable of attracting patronage from outside the state. But the state government in its wisdom had expressed optimism that the project would be viable, describing it as futuristic in conception. Aliyu tricked the people when he claimed not to be committing any money into the hotel project other than the provision of land. He is today accused of not completing the over 10 kilometre roads in each of the 25 Local Government Areas, totalling N8.6 billion since 2009 also. Others are the $700 million for the development of an Estate to be known as “African Village”, the Waterfalls and a Cable Car all at Zuma Rock since 2008. He had also promised the people the establishment of a $300 million Niger-American Medical City in Minna, the N2.5 billion 10,000 capacity steel stadium in Maikunkele,

near Minna, the N4.6 billion shopping mall in Minna, and the N1.8 billion Madalla Ultra-Modern Market. Other projects in sluggish movement include the Construction of Baro Refinery, into which N12.8 billion was committed by the state government; construction of Hydro Dam in Izom, where the sum of $250 million was also committed and Minna Cargo Airport have all gulped billions of naira with most of them not seeing the light of day. There are the construction of Permanent National Youths Service Corps (NYSC) Camp and the IBB University Business School at Suleja. During the tenure of former Ekiti State governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, his administration took a loan of N25 billion from the Capital Market to execute some projects tagged “Legacy Projects”. The projects listed for execution included new Government House, new Governor's Office, a Civic Centre, a State Pavilion and the dualisation of Ado-Ifaki Road among others. However, before Fayemi handed over to the administration of Ayo Fayose, only the New Government House, which gulped about N3.5 billion, was fully completed. The New Governor's Office, proposed to be located near the Assembly Complex, did not take off at all. The site was only bulldozed and abandoned and it was estimated to gulp about N2 billion. In Lagos State, several projects including roads embarked upon by Babatunde Fashola in the last eight years are yet to be completed. Many are waiting to see how the new administration, which has often stated that governance is a continuum, would handle the numerous uncompleted projects scattered across the state. Governor Nasir el-Rufai will have to grapple with a lot of rural and urban roads in Kaduna State, which the immediate past administration of Muktar Yero did not complete. In addition, the new administration will have to complete the expansion of the Kawo-Command Junction dual carriage way, which dissects Kaduna town, as well as the never-ending Zaria Water Project. On December 20, 2012, Alhaji Ramalan Yero, made a solemn promise at Sir Patrick Yakowa, his predecessor’s funeral at Fadan Kagoma. Unequivocally, Yero promised to complete Yakowa’s projects. But, until the end of his administration on May 29, the promises had remained at best, empty. • Reported by UCHENNA INYA (Abakaliki), EMMANUEL MASHA (Port Harcourt), DOMINIC ADEWOLE (Asaba), CEPHAS IORHEMEN (Makurdi), DAN ATORI (Minna), ADESINA WAHAB (Ado-Ekiti), MURITALA AYINLA (Lagos) and IBRAHEEM MUSA (Kaduna)

World Trade Centre, Presco campus junction of Ebonyi State University, Ebonyi State photo: uchenna inya

Perspectives

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

Hitler, Nobel and President Buhari

f names of individuals who are considered to be uniquely evil in deed and character are listed, Adolf Hitler, the blood-thirsty German dictator, will occupy a conspicuous space among such infamous people. The world is still in shock, by Hitler’s savageries and infamy. But does it mean that Hitler cannot be associated with any “good” even if such positivity was infinitesimal during his life time? History has it that Hitler gave Germany political peace and brought the country out of the great depression. The German economy was burdened by reparation payments and loss of Rhineland, which were the conditions of the Treaty of Versailles that ended World War 1. The political and economic situations at that time were so turbulent that Germans resorted to eating grass to ward off hunger. Poverty was pervasive. This was compounded by 30 per cent unemployment rate. Hitler weathered the storm, restored the moribund economy and the employment problem was totally resolved. He also designed the Volkswagen or “People’s Wagon,” a novel idea, meant to give every German the opportunity to own an affordable car. This is an accomplishment that is still in use till today. In a speech he read on April 28, 1939, Hitler presented to his supporters what he considered to be his accomplishments: “I overcame chaos in Germany, restored order, enormously raised production in all fields of our national economy. I succeeded in completely resettling in useful production those seven million unemployed who touched our hearts. I have not only politically united the German nation, but also re-armed it militarily, and I have further tried to liquidate that treaty sheet by sheet whose 448 articles contain the vilest rape that nations and human beings have ever been expected to submit to. “I have restored to the Reich the provinces grabbed from us in 1919; I have led

Waheed Bakare on Saturday 08124877036 (sms only) waheedbakare2003@yahoo.com millions deeply unhappy Germans, who have been snatched away from us, back into their fatherland; I have restored the thousand-year-old historical unity of Germany living space; and I have attempted to accomplish all that without shedding blood and without inflicting sufferings of war on my people or any other. I have accomplished all these, as one who 21 years ago still an unknown worker and soldier of my people, by my own effort….” However, Hitler is remembered mostly for his evil machinations, especially his role in World War II. Many nations got entangled in his web of bestial monstrosity. His regime was responsible for the death of no fewer than 5.5 million Jews and millions of other victims discriminately regarded as “sub-human” by Hitler and his supporters. An estimated 19.3 million civilians and prisoners of war were also killed in addition to 29 million soldiers and civilians that died during the war as a result of Hitler’s predatory incursion into many countries in Europe and Africa. The world had never witnessed such carnage before. Even Germany cannot celebrate the so-called Hitler’s accomplishments. Rather, the country from time to time continues to apologise to the world for giving it a killer with depraved mind and unrivalled imperiousness. So, whatever he accomplished was destroyed by his depravity and vaulting ambition. Hitler is today remembered for what he did last and not what he did

Nigerians are now going to be interested in what he has to offer in the next four years and this is what he is going to be judged with before. The story of Alfred Nobel, a Swedish chemist, engineer, innovator and armaments’ manufacturer will reinforce my position that a man is as good or as bad as his last deed. Nobel was the inventor of dynamite, an explosive, used in blasting rocks, and, sadly too, in killing human beings during wars. Although dynamite was the most famous among Nobel’s inventions, he had at least 350 patents on cannon and armaments. He became stupendously rich selling these armaments. The more blood was shed, the more financially successful Nobel became. But the death of Nobel’s brother, Ludvig, in 1888 changed the mind of the merchant of death and destruction. Ludvig died during his visit to Cannes, France, and a French newspaper erroneously published Nobel’s obituary. The

newspaper chided Nobel as inventor of dynamite, describing him as marchand de la mart est mort (“The merchant of death is dead”). The paper went on to say: “Dr. Alfred Nobel, who became rich by finding ways to kill more people faster than before, died yesterday.” Nobel was flabbergasted to read his own obituary. He was, however, more saddened by how the newspaper described him and wondered whether he wanted to be remembered as someone who brought sorrow, tears and blood to many homes while he was alive. From then on, he dedicated himself to promoting good ideals and societal values. Unknown to his family, friends and colleagues, Nobel left most of his wealth in trust, in order to fund what is now known as the prestigious Nobel prizes. Today, what the world remembers Alfred Nobel for is the Nobel prizes, which reward academic excellence and eminence in physics, chemistry, medical science or physiology, literature and the fifth being the prize for an individual or society that promotes peace. The lesson for President Muhammadu Buhari in all of this is that his perceived past good deeds or misdeeds will no longer count. Nigerians are now going to be interested in what he has to offer in the next four years and this is what he is going to be judged with. It is good that the President had realised the enormity of the responsibilities on his shoulders and the expectations of Nigerians. Former president Olusegun Obasanjo has assured Nigerians that the President is in a familiar terrain and his wealth of experience will reflect in his administration. I hope this is so. The President cannot afford to squander his goodwill. Having good intention to govern a country will not count. What will count is good governance that the people can see and feel. It is my wish and prayer that the President steers Nigeria’s rudderless ship to a safe berth. The count has begun for you, Mr. President.

The return of Eagle Square …

esterday marked the 16th anniversary of ‘unbroken democratic’ rule in Nigeria and perhaps more importantly the inauguration of a new presidency. Both represent important milestones in the country’s democratic journey and crisis-ridden effort to forge a genuine nation-state. An understated dimension to these events is that Abuja’s Eagle Square is back! Watched by foreign and local dignitaries who graced the occasion Muhammadu Buhari was inducted president. But what about Eagle Square? What do Egypt’s Tahir Square, the Moscow Red Square, China’s Tiananmen Square, London’s Trafalgar Square and Nigeria’s Eagle Square have in common? They represent powerful, historical symbols of statehood, self-determination and compelling landmarks in their respective countries’ national journey. They necessarily evoke national pride, deep reflection and are simultaneously centres and triggers of national renewal. A recent example is the Tahir Square Cairo where a ‘new Egypt’ was midwifed. The Eagle Square, Abuja was constructed in 1999 to serve as the platform for the official take-off of the Fourth Republic. It has since then provided the primary arena for the symbolic transfer of power and inauguration of new governments, notably the swearing-in ceremony of the president. It is used for hosting the National Day parade as

The induction of the Buhari presidency could have been held in Aso Villa but was not. This is important for Nigerians out there watching well as in staging a number of political rallies/programmes and perhaps less importantly - religious crusades/rallies, musical concerts/shows, launchings and award ceremonies. Under former President Goodluck Jonathan’s watch, Eagle Square suffered significant decline in status and symbolism. The first culprit fingered was the extreme insecurity situation in the country largely powered by Boko Haram bloody depredations. Clearly, the Jonathan presidency had its point but at a fundamental level it failed to appreciate the power of symbols of state. It is worth recalling that the nation’s 52nd independence anniversary was held in the Presidential Villa, Aso Rock, instead of the traditional Eagle Square Abuja. And that was for the second consecutive year. To compound this miscalculation, a very lame explanation was

put forward by the presidency to defend an indefensible position. In a curious defensive pitch then, the erstwhile Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati dismissed insinuations of fear of terrorist attack as a reason for the venue shift and alluded to cost-saving for 2014 centenary event. According to him, “The anniversary is also low-keyed this year taking place within the precinct of the state house. President Jonathan has personally responded to the allegation that the event is being held within the state house by making it clear that in 2014, we will have a big event; the centenary of Nigeria's celebration, since amalgamation.” The induction of the Buhari presidency could have been held in Aso Villa but was not. This is important for Nigerians out there watching. This is important because a president must always signal that he is clearly in charge. Former President Jonathan failed to do this on successive, critical bends in his tenure. In retrospect it's worth analyzing that by appearing to initially retreat under the Boko Haram pressure he essentially conceded a psychological victory to the dark group who were threatening the continued existence of one Nigeria. That political mis-signaling actually endangered rather than protected our democracy and diminished the perception of the moral courage of a popularly elected

president. Former President Jonathan ought to have gone ahead with all the relevant national events at Eagle Square because the buck stopped at his table. It was well within his constitutional powers to order adequate security for the events and ensure the safety of all Nigerians. Such course would have communicated a weighty message to members of the Boko Haram sect and other shadowy crises entrepreneurs who dogged his presidency and finally buried it. And it is not inconceivable that a powerful presidential showing on October 1st 2012, at the Eagle Square, Abuja, broadcast nationally, could have had some deterrence effect on the agents of darkness who carried out the Mubi massacre that occurred 24 hours later. With the return of the Eagle Square, notwithstanding the enervating challenges of building a new state, an important signal has been sent to Nigerians suggestive of a new beginning. Moving forward, in marking the 16th anniversary of democracy and simultaneously inaugurating a new presidency, the most urgent imperative is the cobbling of a new road map by the country’s new political leadership, to deepen and guide a more meaningful national journey. It is hardly disputable that rightly or wrongly, the Nigerian presidency is one of the most powerful in the world and the current occupant should know this.

30 MAY 2015

SOKOTO Leadership is public trust, says Wamakko

N EWS I N BRIEF

News Extra

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

Former governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Aliyu Wamakko, yesterday said leadership was a public trust that must be handled responsibly. Wamakko said this in Sokoto while receiving an award from the state’s council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ). He added that leadership was a responsibility bestowed on people and leaders must strive to live above board and discharge their duties with absolute fear of Allah. “Those in position of authorities must serve as leaders and not as rulers, and they must carry everybody along. To whom much is given much is expected and the people of Sokoto State have done much for me in the last eight years. So, I had the moral obligations to serve them diligently, honestly and piously as a leader, not as a ruler,” he said.

FCT OJO We wish Buhari a successful Lawmaker hails Jonathan A member of the House of Representatenure – PDP The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday said it wished President Muhammadu Buhari success in piloting the affairs of the country in the next four years. In a statement yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh, PDP said it appreciated the fact that Buhari’s success would be to the benefit of Nigeria as a nation. “It is against this backdrop that we wish him good health, vigour and wisdom to pilot the affairs of the nation in the next four years. “We also join millions of Nigerians and the international community in commending and applauding the immediate past President Goodluck Jonathan for a smooth transition as well as his democratic credentials and enduring legacies in ensuring the stability of the nation,” the statement said.

tives representing Ojo Federal Constituency, Tajudeen Obasa, yesterday hailed former President Goodluck Jonathan for ensuring a peaceful transition and a successful handover from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Obasa said people like Jonathan were God sent to transform the country and Africa as a whole because he paved the way for change by playing a politics of sweetness. He said he was not surprised because from the first day in office, Jonathan told the world that the blood of Nigerians was not worth his ambition, while urging President Muhammadu Buhari to continue from where the ex-president stopped in order to enhance the development of the country.

CJ, lawyers laud Buhari’s position on independence of Judiciary Tunde Oyesina ABUJA

awyers yesterday lauded the decision of President Muhammadu Buhari not to interfere with the running of the Judiciary arm of government. Buhari had in his inaugural speech after his swearing-in said that he would not interfere with the operations of both the legislature and the judiciary. This was just as the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) charged Buhari to in his first 100 days in office give attention to corruption and unemployment. In a similar vein, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Mohammed Mahmud, who administered the oath of office on the president, called on the federal and state governments to provide adequate security for judges in the

face of recent kidnapping of judicial officers. Commenting on Buhari’s decision to allow for the independence of the judiciary, Mr. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN), said the decision was welcomed as it is one the backbones of a strong democracy. Also reacting, Dr. Awa Kalu (SAN) said the president’s promise was an indication that rule of law would be given a place of prominence in this new dispensation. Kalu, who said the starting point of lawful society was the enthronement of the rule of law, however, commended the president for taking such decision. The NBA through its National President, Austin Alegeh (SAN), said the new administration should in the first 100 days in office to tackle the numerous problems facing the country.

NDLEA vacates Buruji Kashamu’s residence l ‘Why we left his house'

Borno State Governor, Kashim Shettima (left), being administered with the oath of office and oath of allegiance by the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Kashim Zanna, at the Ramat Square in Maiduguri …yesterday

El-Rufai inherits N8.6bn as Lamido leaves N105.4bn liabilities DEBTS

Two governors lament huge debt burden at inauguration.

Dahiru Suleiman and Mohammed Kawu

with agency reports

ormer governor of Kaduna State, Alhaji Muktar Yero, has announced that his administration is leaving behind N8.6 billion in the state’s treasury. The clarification by Yero followed reports that the former governor was leaving an empty treasury for the new governor. Yero said over N73 billion would be left as debt for the state contrary to over N100 billion debts been speculated. Speaking while handing over to the Governor Malam Nasir el-Rufai, at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, Yero said the debt comprises external and internal debts

l I met an empty treasury –Bauchi gov as per breakdown below. “The current debt position of the state as at 28 May 2015, has been indicated in the compiled notes. We are, therefore, handing over the total debt stock of N73, 933, 104, 923, 22, which comprises external and internal debt. “External loans $234,416,052.16 equivalent to N46, 062,745,245.51 at the exchange rate of N195.5 per dollar as at December 2014. “Internal loans Bond – N2.031,612,259.3, contractors arrears – N23,531,154,819.69, gratuity Arrears - N1,307,592,598.71 and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) MSMEDF – N1,000,000,000.0 which gives total of N27,870,359, 677.71,” he said. Yero also said the state government awarded so many projects in the state in which many had been completed with the contractors paid. In his remarks, el-Rufai said he was surprised that

the situation in the state was not as bad as he thought. He said despite the clarifications, he would still go through the notes and hope the immediate past government would be ready to explain areas that needed to be explained. In another development, former governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Sule Lamido, has left about N105.4 billion liabilities to the new administration of Governor Badaru Abubakar. The liabilities comprised N13.7 billion Dutse Airport projects and the N91.7billion meant for contractual liabilities. Speaking while handing the mantle of the state leadership to Abubakar, the acting governor, Alhaji Lawal Abdu, said the total capital projects awarded by the past government stood at N158 billion out of which N66.8 billion was paid by the former administration, leaving a balanced of N91.6 billion.

According to him, the ongoing projects were classified into four categories based on their level of completion while projects yet to commence stood at N10.6 billion and projects between one per cent to 30 per cent stages of completion were valued at N52.2 billion. Others include projects between 31 to 50 per cent stages of completion, which stood at N3.9 billion, while projects that reached 50 per cent stages of completion were valued at N24.9 billion. Responding, Abubakar said: “I will like to assure the good people of Jigawa State that the APC government will run an open door policy, and will accommodate all and sundry.” Meanwhile, newly elected Bauchi State Governor, Mr. Mohammed Abubakar, has lamented that former governor of the state, Isa Yaguda left an empty treasury for the new administration.

peratives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have withdrawn from the residence of Ogun State Senator-elect, Buruji Kashamu, after six days, according to Channels Television. The NDLEA had laid siege to the residence, claiming that Kashamu was wanted in the United States on alleged drug offences. The agency insisted it had an extradition request from the US but this was not tendered in court as the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos on Wednesday declared as illegal the arrest and planned extradition of Kashamu. The NDLEA, at the time, denied receiving any court order, insisting that it would continue to maintain presence at his residence.

Kashamu’s lawyer, in a Thursday morning interview on Channels Television, said that the agency’s operatives were still at Kashamu’s residence in defiance of the court order. Meanwhile, the NDLEA yesterday said it pulled out its operatives from the house of Senator Buruji Kashamu in compliance with a court order. NDLEA said it withdrew from the Lekki, Lagos home of the Peoples Democratic Party stalwart “when it officially received a copy of the order from the court on May 28.” In a statement by NDLEA’s Head, Public Affairs, Mr. Mitchell Ofoyeju, the agency said Kashamu’s counsel had signed an undertaking to produce him in court for hearing.

Hotel operators highlight growth areas for Africa Andrew Iro Okungbowa

s the hospitality industry across African continues to enjoy increasing growth and attention from investors across the world, 10 top rates of growth for the industry in 2015 has been outlined by key operators and leaders of the industry. This was the outcome of a recent meeting to discuss issues relating to the industry. A document authored by Bench Events, organisers of the yearly Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF), listed the top 10 growth areas under five

broad headlines to include: long-term planning, finance, development, people and culture. At the session, which was attended by many of the leading international chains, experts, investors and operators among others, Africa governments were urged to give top attention to long-term strategic development. They argued that, “When they do so, there can be a greater degree of certainty about the local environment for a new (or refurbished) hotel. This reduces the inherent risk of investing in a particular location.”

Sport Extra

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

National Stadium drinking joints worry Yakmut

Adekunle Salami he Director General of the National Sports Commission, Alhassan Yakmut, is worried stiff about the number of drinking joints at the premises of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos. Yakmut observed during his recent inspection visit that more people go to the stadium for social reasons than for sports. He condemned the current situation and vowed to take urgent steps to bring athletes back into the arena to take their rightful place. The DG said: “I saw many drinking joints. They were up to six or more and I was looking out for athletes who are the original owners of the stadium and I did not see any.

“It is ridiculous that you see people drinking beer morning, day and night at the stadium while the athletes are nowhere. We are going to fix the gymnasium and upgrade all the facilities that will bring back athletes to the stadium. “Steps will also be taken about those drinking joints. I don’t know the template yet but the situation for now is too bad.”

Yakmut vowed to be in Lagos for one month to enable him to tackle some of the problems at the National Stadium. “I will be in Lagos and work everyday to put things right. Before then there will be drastic changes within the complex, we cannot allow National Stadium to die. After the Abuja Stadium, this is next in terms of standard and capacity,” the DG added.

Blatter wins re-election as FIFA president

epp Blatter was re-elected as FIFA president for a fifth term on Friday, chosen to lead world soccer despite separate U.S. and Swiss criminal investigations into corruption. The 209 FIFA member federations gave the 79-year-old Blatter another four-year term after Prince Ali bin alHussein of Jordan conceded defeat after losing 133-73 in the first round. Prince Ali's promise of a clean break from FIFA's tarnished recent history was rejected despite the worst scandal in the organization's 111-year history. The election went ahead Friday after U.S. and Swiss federal investigations struck at the heart of Blatter's "football family" this week. Two FIFA vice presidents and a recently elected FIFA executive committee member were still in custody Friday as the votes were counted. Still, soccer leaders worldwide stayed loyal to their embattled president of 17 years, even though Prince Ali pushed the election to a second round by getting a surprising 73 votes.

Blatter

Federer

Federer, Sharapova progress in French Open

econd seed Roger Federer reached the French Open fourth round for the 11th year in a row with a 6-4 6-3 6-2 win over Damir Dzumhur in Paris. The Swiss, who won the French Open in 2009, will play either Gael Monfils of France or Pablo Cuevas of Uruguay for a place in the quarter-finals. Defending women's champion Maria Sharapova beat Australia's Sam Stosur 6-3 6-4 to reach the last 16. Former champion Ana Ivanovic

secured a 53-minute 6-0 6-3 win over Donna Vekic. Ivanovic was the first player of the day back to the locker room, breaking Vekic's serve five times on the way to victory. The 27-year-old, who also reached the French Open final in 2007, was cheered on by boyfriend and Bayern Munich and Germany midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger on Court Suzanne Lenglen.

NCC Tennis League: Mcleod, Idoko set to shine in Abeokuta Ajibade Olusesan

ll eyes will be on national junior champions, Martins Abamu, and Angel Mcleod of CBN Futures at the Abeokuta centre of the Nigeria Communication Council Tennis League as the tournament serves off today across the country. There are other centres but tennis lovers in the South West will have opportunity to watch Team Ogun and CBN Futures

tangle at the Abeokuta Sports Club on Saturday and Sunday. Joseph Imeh and Ronke Akingbade are the star male and female for Team Ogun. Others are Patience Onebamhun, and Simbiat Aleem female players while Monday Igbinovia and Michael Eludoyin are the leading male players. Abamu and Angel Mcleod will be supported by Umoru Balami, Emmanuel Idoko, Michael Michael

and Marylove Edwards as CBN Futeres look to start their campaign on a bright note. Asaba centre will see Team Tombim from Abuja confront Team Delta. Tombim has in its ranks, the highest ATP ranked player in Nigeria, Moses Michael, Henry Atseye a former No. 1 and CBN 2015 doubles finalist Christian Paul. Sarah Adegoke, also a former No.1 is the star lady player. Team Delta is featuring

Candi Idoko who has won several national doubles and singles titles, Albert Bikom, and John Otu. For the ladies, they have Elizabeth Pam and the Okoro sisters - Ann and Marian. Other centres are Abuja and Onitsha. According to the organisers of the event, International Tennis Academy, all teams are expected to arrive their respective venues on Friday while matches will be played on Saturday and Sunday.

Sport Slaming Adekunle Salami adekunles@yahoo.com 08050498539 (sms only)

Mixed feelings on Flying Eagles

esults have shown that Nigeria is good in agegrade competitions generally. Over the years, the country has recorded amazing results in continental and global events. People have different opinions about Nigeria’s success in age grade football but that is a story for another day. World football governing body, FIFA, clearly stated that the objective of age grade football was purely to help member countries across the globe in their developmental process. The junior competitions are meant to assist countries build players from tender age and nurture them through different age categories till they break into the senior cadre. Despite winning the FIFA U-17 World Cup four times, the transition has not worked for Nigeria and the general impact has not manifested in the senior national team. However, Coach Manu Garba and his national U-20 team look poised to change that. The transition of the UAE U-17 victorious team to the current Flying Eagles is great. Over 80 per cent of the players are still together. The understanding and cohesion is there in the team that is set to compete for honours in the FIFA U-20 World Cup that starts today in New Zealand. The team with the same technical crew was a delight to watch when Nigeria ruled the World at U-17 level in 2013. With Nduka Ugbade working with Manu especially on the science of the game, the team looks better at the U-20 level. This was evident at the Africa U-20 Championship where they won the trophy for Nigeria. The team also took part in a pre-season competition, Super Four, and emerged victorious with four wins and a draw in a six-team event involving the best top four clubs in the country and the national U-23 team. Plenty of talents are in the team. Taiwo Awoniyi is on current form the most deadly player in the team. He was only a stand-in for Isaac Success in UAE but has now developed so well that he is being tipped to graduate straight into the Super Eagles. It was Awoniyi who came to the rescue of the U-23 team in a crucial away match against Zambia. He scored the two goals in Nigeria’s 2-1 win that gave the country a ticket to the All Africa Games. Bernard Bulbwa, Kingsley Sokari and Musa Yahaya are expected to operate in the midfield and the three players are very skillful. Sokari who plays for Enyimba could be the revelation in the competition with his abundant talent. The late arrival of Simon Moses, Success and Kelechi Iheanacho is a huge task for the coaches. Garba has said they will not be rushed into the first team but will be gradually integrated. I am aware Nigerians are eager to see Iheanacho in national colours after his exploits for Manchester City U-21 team. He is expected to play a big role in the campaign of the Flying Eagles because of his exposure in England. This team has also won my heart. I believe in the players and the technical crew. When Garba or Ugbade talk, you will be convinced they understand what they are talking about. However, while expecting a good performance from the boys, I will not join those who have already given the trophy to the team without seeing the quality other countries will parade. For example, Nigeria’s first match is against Brazil. The South Americans have won the trophy five times and they deserve some respect. The outcome of that match means a lot to the team. North Korea and Hungary cannot be underrated as well. I remember Nigeria’s Chile ‘87 squad that paraded great talents like Adeolu Adekola, Nosa Osadolor, Etim Esin, Ene Okon, Lawrence Ukaegbu and a host of others got to the World Cup after a good pre-competition run only to record just one point from three games. The team lost 4-0 to Brazil in the first match and was unable to regain confidence. They drew 2-2 with Korea and lost 2-0 to Russia in the last match. It is a virtue for the team to approach the competition with confidence especially with three big wins in the playing tour but it will turn to a snag if the team or some of the players are over confident even before the competition. No doubt, Nigeria is parading a good team, I urge followers of the game to enjoy the competition and appreciate the progression of this Flying Eagles team. Winning will be a bonus, let us support these players to maintain their rise to stardom. Age grade competition is not just about winning.

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

30 MAY 2015

DESTINATION

Okpekpe: Frozen in time but racing to recognition

P.42

SATURDAY

Perspectives

Sanctity of Truth

Hitler, Nobel and President Buhari

N150

SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2015

p.54

ENGLISH FA CUP

Benteke dares Arsenalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s might

Adekunle Salami he final of the oldest football competition in the world, the English FA Cup holds today at the Wembley Stadium, in England. Ordinarily, the final should be a one-sided affair because of the pedigree of the two teams expected to thrill followers of the game at the magnificent stadium in the heart of London. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Arsenal, the defending champion and 11-time winners, up against Aston Vila, a struggling EPL outfit that managed to escape relegation this term. In the 2014 final, the Gunners were expected to have an easy ride over Hull City but the encounter turned out to be highly explosive. Arsenal were two goals down

and had to fight back to win 3-2. Against Aston Vila, attention will be on in-form striker, Christian Benteke. The Belgian has scored 12 goals in the last 12 matches in all competitions. He is one of the players that finished the last season on a high in the EPL. The 24-year-old single handedly took Villa to the final, more or less. The striker scored one goal against Liverpool in the crucial semifinal 2-1 win over the Reds. Villa have won the FA Cup seven times and will bank on the magic of Benteke to win again. It will however be a tough call for the striker and his colleagues because the Gunners will be aiming to retain the trophy. In addition, Arsenal will also be looking to be the

best team in the competition. The Gunners and Manchester United have won the FA Cup 11 times each and another win today will make Arsenal the all-time best in the competition. Striker Olivier Giroud has not scored in his last six games and will need so much confidence to nail Villa. Alexis Sanchez and Theo Walcott have been impressive in recent games but to beat the Villa defence they must intensify their efforts. Of all the strikers to be paraded by both sides today, Benteke is the hottest and the expectation is that Arsene Wenger will plot a strategy to check the rampaging striker. A highly thrilling encounter is anticipated with the odds in favour of the Gunners.

Printed and Published by Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Ltd: Head Office: No. 1A, Ajumobi Street, Off ACME Road, Agidingbi, Ikeja-Lagos. Tel: +234 1-2219496, 2219498. Abuja Office: Orji Kalu House, Plot 322, by Banex Junction, Mabushi, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Advert Hotline: (Lagos 09029281425), (Abuja 08055118488) Email: info@newtelegraphonline.com Website: www.newtelegraphonline.com ISSN 2354-4317 Editor: Laurence ani.