16th June 2016

NIGERIA’S MOST INFORMATIVE NEWSPAPER NO 16,525

THURSDAY, 16 JUNE, 2016

EFCC summons Ali Modu Sheriff —P5,31

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Nigerian Tribune

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Hijab crisis: Heavy security as CAN holds prayer session

• No one can extradite me from US —Obanikoro

—P33

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PDP ex-NWC members flee as youths besiege party secretariat —P2

CBN finally frees naira •Value to be determined by market forces —P11 •Experts speak 10 takeaways from Emefiele’s press briefing on forex liberalisation 1. The fall in oil revenue has led to a drastic fall in foreign reserves from about US$42.8 billion in January 2014 to about US$26.7 billion as of June 10, 2016.

2. Foreign exchange earnings have fallen from about US$3.2 billion monthly to less than $1billion per month.

3. However, foreign reserve is still able to cover about five months of Nigeria’s imports as against the international benchmark of three months.

4. Henceforth, there will be only one FX market, which will operate through the inter-bank/ autonomous window.

5.

The exchange rate would be market-driven through the ThomsonReuters Order Matching System as well as the

Very hot coffee, liquid can cause cancer —WHO —P2

Conversational Dealing Book.

6. There will be primary dealers registered by the CBN to deal directly with the apex bank for large trade sizes on a two-way quotes basis.

7. The 41 items formerly constrained by the CBN will still not be eligible for trade on interbank.

8. Non-deliverable Over The Counter naira-settled futures with daily rates on the CBN-approved FMDQ Trading and Reporting System will be introduced.

9. Proceeds of foreign investment inflows and international money transfers shall be purchased by authorised dealers at the Daily Inter-Bank Rate.

10. Approved FX dealers to be unveiled tomorrow.

Herdsmen attack: Nimbo community seeks N17bn compensation —P4

Reps to probe centenary city project —P4

—P7

Flooded compound of a house in Ajah, Lagos, on Wednesday.

Again, flood sacks Ajah, Lekki residents

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Thursday, 16 June, 2016

PDP ex-NWC members flee as mob storms party office

•Youths hand over office keys to BoT chairman •I shall remain lawful, no matter the provocation —Sheriff Leon Usigbe and Jacob Segun Olatunji -Abuja

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LAIMANT to the offices of the National Secretary and the National Auditor of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Professor Olawale Oladipo and Alhaji Adewole Adeyanju, respectively, on Wednesday, escaped attack, as protesters stormed the national secretariat of the party in Abuja, to force them out of the office.

Both men had been trapped in the office complex after attempting to resume work, as hundreds of party faithful opposed to Senator Ali Modu Sheriff as national chairman of the party stormed the Wadata Plaza Wuse 5 edifice, demanding they left the building immediately.

Oladipo and Adeyanju are

the only members of the dissolved National Working Committee (NWC) of the party still with Sheriff.

Sheriff, who continued to claim the office of the national chairman did not report for work on Wednesday.

The protesters, who vowed to physically drag them out from their offices, announced that they would ransack each room in the building and lock in any of the former officers found inside.

Sensing danger to their lives, members of the PDP internal security personnel hurriedly arranged to whisk them away through a back entrance.

As Oladipo walked through the back door, some youths accosted him and he was said to have begged them to let him be, as he was quoted

as saying: “I will not come back; I will not come back.”

The former party secretary was thereafter driven out through the gate of the neighbouring Sky Memorial Complex to avoid more encounter with the irate crowd.

While the PDP security were able to take out Oladipo’s Toyota SUV to pick him up after his escape, Adeyanju, however, abandoned his blue-coloured Toyota Camry with number plate APP 767 CK, which was spared damage by the intervention of some concerned persons who pleaded with the youths not to damage the car.

After they fled, the proAhmed Makarfi-led National Caretaker Committee crowd continued to hold vigil at the premises of the office drumming and sing-

ing.

The angry youths later locked the main doors and gate of the party headquarters to prevent any of the Sheriff group members from further gaining access into it.

When the chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the party, Senator Walid Jibrin, arrived later, the proMakarfi crowd surrounded his car and he too was unable to drive into the premises.

However, after a brief exchange, the youths handed over the keys of the party secretariat to him and he drove off.

Addressing the crowd earlier, leader of one of the groups which came under “PDP National Rebirth Group,” Comrade Edede Franklyne, declared that Makarfi-led Caretaker Com-

Members of amalgamation of youths of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), during a protest against the leadership crisis in the party, at the National Secretariat, Abuja, on Wednesday. PHOTO: SUNDAY OSUNRAYI.

Very hot coffee, liquid can cause cancer —WHO

By Sade Oguntola WORLD Health Organisation (WHO) has cleared coffee of causing cancer, but a detailed investigation has found that drinking hot liquids, including hot coffee, may be linked to cancer of the oesophagus or gullet.

Coffee was classified as a possible cause of cancer in 1991, but the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), which is part of WHO, has now reconsidered the evidence.

It carried out a detailed review of the many studies published on the subject and found that coffee drinkers have no reason to worry.

IARC also investigated the herbal drink mate, also known as chimarrão or cimarrón, which is widely consumed in South America and drinks like tea consumed at high temperatures in Central Asia, China and Japan.

Mate is drunk at temperatures of more than 650C

(1490F), often through a metal straw. A temperature of 650C is quite hot.

The experts found that mate was not a cause of cancer, but they believe the temperature at which it is drunk probably is – and that other very hot liquids (around 650C or above) including water, coffee, tea and other beverages, could also be linked to oesophageal cancer.

Oesophageal cancer is the eighth most common cause of cancer worldwide and one of the main causes of cancer death, with around 400,000 deaths recorded in 2012.

IARC produces what it calls monographs on the causes of cancer, which use classifications from group one, where the link is definite, as with smoking; to group four, where there is probably no link.

The new monograph classifies hot drinks as group 2A, meaning they are “probably

carcinogenic to humans”.

Coffee and mate served cold are in group three, which means there is insufficient evidence to believe they cause cancer. IARC’s conclusions are published in the Lancet Oncology journal.

Studies in animals have shown that very hot water can promote the growth of tumours. IARC’s scientist, Dr Dana Loomis, in a comment said: “It appears that there is thermal injury from exposure to hot liquids that is capable of leading to cancer of the oesophagus.”

Those who enjoy hot tea in Europe and the United States probably do not need to worry, Loomis said. “It is important to recognise that hot drinks that were studied for the basis of this classification are perhaps a bit different from tea or coffee as consumed (in other parts of the world) – 650C is quite hot.”

In European countries, coffee and tea are usually

drunk at below 600C and milk is often added, which cools it. Tea in Iran and mate in South America are often drunk at 700C. The scientists found an “inverse relationship” between drinking coffee and certain types of cancer.

Liver cancer dropped by 15 per cent for each cup of coffee drunk, while in breast cancer and endometrial -or womb - cancer studies suggest there were fewer incidences among people who drank coffee than those who did not.

The WHO’s official spokesman in Geneva, Gregory Hartl, said the evaluation of hot drinks was based on limited evidence in humans and animals, and that more research was needed.

He stated: “We say: be prudent, let hot drinks cool down. The WHO’s advice was to “not consume foods or drinks when they are at a very hot, scalding hot temperature.”

mittee was out to rescue the party and advised Senator Sheriff to bow out honourably in the interest of the party.

Also speaking, the leader of a rival group supporting Senator Sheriff, under the umbrella of “Guardian of Democracy,” Comrade Solomon Azobie, insisted that Sheriff remained the national chairman of the party until a court of competent jurisdiction ruled otherwise.

In yet another twist to the crisis, after the pro-Makarfi protesters dispersed, another group sympathetic to Sheriff came back to the secretariat at about 5.15 p.m. and broke the padlock used to secure the main gate.

However, they made no attempt to enter the offices.

In a swift reaction on Wednesday, Senator Sheriff said the action was barbaric, declaring that he would remain a law-abiding citizen, no matter the provocation from any quarter.

In a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja, on Wednesday, by his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Honourable Inuwa Bwala, Sheriff also dismissed the claim by the Ahmed Makarfiled National Caretaker Committee of the party, that he was being sponsored by the Presidency and the All Progressives Congress (APC) to destroy the party, saying the claim was false.

The statement read: “National chairman of the PDP, Senator Sheriff wishes to condemn as shameful act, of hooliganism and brigandage being employed by the Illegal Caretaker Committee, led by Senator Makarfi.

“He views the sack of the secretariat of the party on Wednesday by hoodlums on the directive of the so- called Caretaker Committee as a sad reminder of the days of lawlessness, impunity and brigandage for which sponsors of the caretaker committee had been known over the years.

“While calling on his supporters to remain calm and law-abiding in the face of the various provocations by allowing the law to take its course, Senator Sheriff implored security agencies to stop taking sides in political matters, as demonstrated by some policemen deployed to secure the PDP

RAMADAN MESSAGE

Secreteriat.

“Meanwhile, the national chairman views the acts of desperation on the part of the so-called Caretaker Committee to confer a semblance of legitimacy on Senator Makarfi and his cotravellers as unfortunate, seeing they have resorted to blatant lies and blackmail of the person of the national chairman of the PDP, Senator Sheriff.

“At a press conference on Tuesday, one Dayo Adeyeye, speaking on behalf of Senator Makarfi, alleged that the national chairman, Senator Sheriff is being sponsored by the Presidency and the All Progressives Congress (APC) and that there was no court order granting him leave to operate his office.

“Ridiculous, as it may sound, given the fact that right thinking Nigerians know that, Makarfi and the cabal that has been sponsoring him are merely crying wolf, where there was none, having come face to face with the truth, law and reality, it is imperative to state some facts for the records.”

I was not chased out of national secretariat —Oladipo

National Secretary of the PDP, Professor Wale Oladipo, has refuted claims that he was chased out of the national secretariat of the party on Wednesday, by thugs.

Oladipo, in a statement he personally signed on Wednesday and made available to newsmen in Abuja, said he actually resumed duty at the party secretariat in the morning alongside the National Auditor of the party, Alhaji Adewole Adeyanju.

According to him, he witnessed the activities of some “miscreants” who invaded the party secretariat to cause trouble over nothing.

He insisted that he voluntarily left the office after he was done with his work.

“The news that I was chased out of office is a lie.

No one touched me or was I in anyway compelled to vacate office.

“I also want to appeal to all parties in this conflict to sheath their swords and refrain from all acts of lawlessness and embrace the rule of law as the only panacea to moving our party forward,” he pleaded.

Say, “O My servants who have transgressed against themselves [by sinning], do not despair of the mercy of Allah . Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Indeed, it is He who is the Forgiving, the Merciful.” And return [in repentance] to your Lord and submit to Him before the punishment comes upon you; then you will not be helped. And follow the best of what was revealed to you from your Lord before the punishment comes upon you suddenly while you do not perceive, Lest a soul should say, “Oh [how great is] my regret over what I neglected in regard to Allah and that I was among the mockers.”

—Surat Az-Zumar verses 53-56

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Thursday, 16 June, 2016

POWER SECTOR FACTS 4% CBN

4% NERC, NBET &Others

24% Discos

11% TCN

57% Gencos

57% GenCos

SHARING FORMULA DISCOS ONLY GET 24% of COLLECTIONS… DISCOS ARE NOT BENEFITTING FROM THE INCREASE IN TARIFF… DisCos are just COLLECTION AGENTS…

.

...Positioned to emPOWER Nigeria

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Thursday, 16 June, 2016

FG to focus on external borrowing Leon Usigbe -Abuja

I

N the face of dwindling oil revenue, the Federal Government is to engage in more external borrowing over the next three years to meet up with its obligations.

The move will enable local banks to focus more on assisting the private sector to grow by borrowing to the sector as government seeks diversification of the

economy.

Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, disclosed this to State House correspondents while briefing State House correspondents after the meeting of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) presided over by acting president, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, in Abuja, on Wednesday.

She was joined at the press briefing by the Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed and the Minister

of State for Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed, who said the new policy was part of the Debt Management Strategy for 2016 to 2019 approved by FEC. Noting that she presented the memo to that effect, she said the previous debt management programme had expired in December 2015 and there was a need for a new one.

She said: “There was a need for a new one for two

•As FEC okays debt management strategy

reasons. One was that the previous one had expired but two, the current economic challenges and then the economic circus of this government to reflate and diversify the economy.”

She said it was also necessary to have a new strategy to be based on the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF).

She noted that new MTEF assumed that the domestic debt would reduce from one percent of GDP to 0.7

Reps probe Centenary City project Jacob Segun Olatunji and Kolawole Daniel -Abuja THE House of Representatives, on Wednesday, mandated its Committee on Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to undertake an investigation into the Centenary City project to determine if it was done according to the extant laws.

The committee is to report back to the House within a month for further legislative action.

The Centenary City project was initiated to mark the 100th year anniversary of Nigeria by the former president, Goodluck Jonathan-led administration on January 1, 2014, which is to be funded by the private-sector.

The House resolution was sequel to a motion moved

by Honourable Timothy Golu, entitled: “Call for investigation of alleged irregularities surrounding the Centenary City project.”

The lawmaker, in his motion, alleged that the Centenary City project was marred with irregularities which may have cost the

Federal Government and the Federal Capital Development (FCDA) billions of Naira and loss of thousands of hectares of land.

According to him, “it was to showcase Abuja as a

modern city. Government was not supposed to be part of it.

“People were meant to be compensated, there is restiveness as there has been no compensation given.

With these irregularities, I want this House to investigate it,” Golu said.

The motion was adopted when it was put to vote by the Speaker, Honourable Yakubu Dogara.

Navy recovers vessel used for Feb 11 hijack, arrests owner THE Nigerian Navy, on Wednesday, said it had recovered a vessel that was used in the February 11 hijack of an oil tanker by suspected pirates.

Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Fergusson Bobai, told newsmen in Lagos, that his men also arrested the owner of MT Dejikun, the vessel used in the hijack, as well as an accomplice.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that MT Maximus was hijacked on February 11 off the coast of Cote d’Ivoire.

The Navy, however, arrested the suspected pirates after a gun battle that left one dead.

The pirates had hijacked the oil vessel laden with

4,700 tonnes of diesel fuel and held the crew hostage until they were rescued by the Navy on February 22.

Bobai said that MT Dejikun was vandalised and abandoned off the coast of Benin Republic.

“The Beninese Navy discovered there was nobody onboard the ship and took custody of the vessel.

“When they got the ship, they were able to recover some documents of the ship and during investigation, it was discovered that the owner of the ship is a Nigerian.

“The Navy operatives at the Forward Operating Base in Badagry arrested the owner of the vessel along Seme Border,” the Naval Commander said.

Bobai said the person that

chartered the vessel from the owner was also arrested, adding that the vessel and the suspects would be handed over to the police for further investigation.

per cent by 2019.

She added that while approving the new debt management strategy, FEC suggested some guidelines which included boosting exports.

According to her, some bottlenecks against exports would be removed.

The minister said FEC also mandated the Ministry of Finance to renegotiate some multilateral loans obtained by the precious administrations from agencies, including the World Bank, African Development Bank (AfDB), which were not favourable to Nigeria.

Adeosun explained: “Ministers have raised concern that some of the previous agreements that Nigerian government entered into were not optimal and cabinet agreed that these are not grants, but loans and therefore Nigeria should be confident enough to negotiate with some of these multilateral agencies to make sure that

those loans we take either from the world bank or AfDB are on terms that are advantageous to Nigerians.

“FEC unanimously supported us and mandated the Ministry of Finance, which is the main negotiator that henceforth, such loans will need to be structured so that they benefit Nigerians.

“We also agreed that there will be new instrument in the domestic market, particularly bonds, infrastructure bonds and inflation linked bonds to deepen the domestic market and create greater opportunity in the domestic market.”

She said FEC insisted on low costs and management of the foreign exchange risks, a strategy which she said would govern government manage borrowings for the next three years.

“They agreed that it is cheaper to borrow externally, but we must manage the risk involved,” she stressed.

Nimbo killing: Community seeks N17bn compensation THE Nimbo community, in Uzo Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State, has urged the Federal Government for compensation of N17 billion following suspected herdsmen invasion of the community.

Traditional ruler of the community, Chief John Akor, made the demand when he testified at the panel of inquiry into the incidence on Wednesday.

He said the sum would be a recompense for the ills suffered by members of the community.

“Our community demands a compensation of N17 billion for human losses, unlawful destruction of property and criminal deprivation of use of our farms for over two decades,” he said.

The monarch said the community also needed a traumatic hospital to rehabilitate victims of the prolonged herdsmen incursions.

Akor said that 11 people lost their lives during the April 25 invasion, while several others were injured, adding that the corpses were still at the morgues.

Akor said as a traditional ruler, he never collected any form of gratification from the herdsmen to allow them graze in the community.

Also testifying, PresidentGeneral of Nimbo Town Union, Mr Mathias Ekere, said the community had coexisted peacefully with the herdsmen for over 30 years.

Matthias said that from the outset, different cattle breeders resided in their community and the people insisted that each group must have identification mark.

Meet the new OAU VC, Prof Salami

Professor Salami WHEN later in the year, the Oluseyi Lufadeju Prize for the best graduating student in Urban and Regional Planning courses in the Department of Geography of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, is awarded,

Professor Ayobami Taofeek Salami will be standing on the reverse side of the podium, from where he was when the 1986 version of that same award was given.

Thirty years ago, the mint fresh vice chancellor of the OAU was the awardee for that same prize, which was presented to him by the then vice chancellor, the Babalawo, Professor Wande Abimbola.

The appointment of Professor Salami is an answer to the clarion call by many that young Nigerians be given the opportunity to steer the ship of administration at various levels of administration in the country. Born April 24, 1964, Salami is the youngest scholar so far to occupy this exalted position in this globally acclaimed university. Despite the hues and cries (which are in sync with the history of such announcements) that has attended the announcement of his appointment, the towering stature of Professor Salami as an academic of repute has not been disputed by anyone.

With several academic laurels, such as a second class Upper Division in Geographic Science and Regional Development in

his kitty, the alumnus has not rested on his oars since his graduation 30 years ago.

He had since added to his academic cap: •M.Sc (1989); Specialised in Land Use and Natural Resources Management.

•PGD (1990) (Remote Sensing Applications/GIS): Training in Environmental Data Generation/Handling and Geographic Information System (GIS).

•Ph.D (1996): Specialised in Land Use Assessment and Forest Monitoring.

He has, aside the Oluseyi Lufadeju Prize for the best graduating student in Urban and Regional Planning Courses in the Department of Geography, University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University (1986) been a recipient of several awards such as: •The Obafemi Awolowo University Postgraduate Fellowship Award in 1987-1989.

•The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Fellowship Award (1989 – 1990).

•Visiting Scientist Award, System Analysis for Research and Training (START) –International Geosphere-Biosphere Programme (IGBP), Washington DC, USA (2004).

•Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship, Philadelphia, USA (2009).

The new vice chancellor who is globally exposed has, aside from being the author, co-author and/or contributor to over 65 books, journals, lectures, thesis, research reports and conference papers proven himself an astute manager of men and resources since he joined the staff of the OAU, Ile-Ife in 1991, after his National Youth Service and having the benefit of work experience with the Shell Petroleum Development Company and universities in The Gambia, Tanzania and The Netherlands.

It is his propensity for collaborating with men and organisations to get financial support for the institution, which like other sectors of the economy, is in dire financial straits that many stakeholders believe will stand him out in the comity of university administrators in the forseeable future. If the huge number of grants which he was able to attract to the university in his short stay is anything to go by, this hope will not be misplaced. That is the only way to silence critics.

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Thursday, 16 June, 2016

No one can extradite me from US —Obanikoro

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igeria’s former Minister of State for Defence, Ambassador Musiliu Obanikoro, has said plans by the Nigerian government to extradite him from the United States of America will fail.

Obanikoro said this on Wednesday, following the search of his houses and confiscation of some of his properties by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Tuesday.

In a series of tweets in the early hours of Wednesday, Obanikoro said since the EFCC did not have any document indicting him for any crime, it would be impossible to extradite him from a civilised system such as the United States of America.

He tweeted: “Rumours of extradition are also lies – false allegations cannot stand up to any decent legal inquiry in a civilised system such as in the US.” The former High Commissioner of Nigeria to Ghana said so far no invitation had been extended to him by the EFCC or allegation levelled against him, thus expressing surprise over the search of his houses in Lagos, by operatives of the commission.

He said the government was only hounding the opposition because of its failure to deliver on its promises to the masses.

He tweeted: “If the harassment of the PDP members will help government to deliver good governance, many of us would submit ourselves willingly to Martyrdom.

“If hounding PDP members will solve Nigeria’s economic woes, then we welcome it.

“This rather is a woeful attempt to distract from those woes.

“But unfortunately, harassing PDP leaders is not in any way equal to the delivery of good governance, no matter who applauds such illegality.

“The aim of government is to distract the people from their woes. Such tactics have been tried before in Nigeria and elsewhere, and they failed.”

The numerous tweets are reproduced below: “Good morning friends and Good morning to all Nigerians. The following tweets are my reaction to recent developments. #MO

“The invasion and raid of my residence yesterday by agents of the state is a sad throwback to a tyrannical past that is better forgotten.

“In 16 years of democracy, we thought we had conquered despotism for

good in Nigeria, but in one year, this government has brought it back.

“Let me reiterate clearly: I have never received any invitation from the EFCC over any issue up till date.

This invasion therefore is premature.

me or any court order towards this signals a return to despotism.

“The illegal invasion and raid is a mockery of justice, an expression of disdain towards the judicial system and a terribly bad precedent.

Borno State governor, Kashim Shettima, addressing the 697 malnourished children and adults that were on Monday, moved from Bama to a special care unit in Maiduguri, the state capital, on Wednesday. PHOTO: NAN

Vigilante group clears B/Haram camps in Borno Chris Agbambu-Abuja

MEMBERS of vigilante group assisting the military in its clearance operations in the North-East have destroyed terrorists camp located in south of Sabon Garin Bale, Borno State.

The vigilante members recovered all hoisted Boko Haram terrorists’ flags, three Fabrique Nationale (FN) rifle magazines, two AK45 rifle magazines and 24 rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition.

They also rescued an 11 year-old girl who stated that she was abducted by the terrorists from Batha village.

A statement from the army, which confirmed this, disclosed that the vigilante did their best by engaging the terrorists who escaped into the bush.

The statement noted that some elements of Boko Haram terrorists on six motorcycles, on Tuesday, attacked Kutuva village, killed four persons and abducted four women from the village.

According to the statement, the local vigilante in Kaya mobilised immediately

to the village and trailed the terrorists up to their suspected hideout. ,It further disclosed that a team of local vigilante in Damboa, led by Sarkin Yaki Ali Gwoza, intercepted some persons on Njaba Road, south of Damboa town while on patrol.

During preliminary interrogation, they confessed that they were Boko Haram terrorists group members that were compelled to join the insurgency against

istry of Justice, Mr Saeed Saqeeb, said the judge was released in Okene area at about 7 p.m. on Tuesday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalled that Usman was returning to Lokoja when he was kidnapped at gun point on Ita-

their will and that they were on their way to Damboa to surrender to the military.

They attributed their decision to give up their nefarious activities because of continued military onslaught, sayinng life had become hard and unbearable for the terrorists generally.

Further screening confirmed 17 of them, as hardened Boko Haram terrorists, trying to escape and

infiltrate the society.

Similarly, a combined patrol team of 7 Division Garrison, 101 Special Forces Battalion and 3 Civilian JTF, while on clearance patrol, intercepted a Golf car with registration number BX 508 RBC, suspected to be carrying suppliers of logistics such as spare parts and improvised explosives making devices materials to Boko Haram terrorists along Kayamla general area Tuesday morning.

“The illegal invasion without EFCC’s invitation, notice of investigation or a court order is also a mockery of the intelligence of Nigerians.

“I put close to two decades into public service, in opposition and in government, all with an unblemished record and a clear conscience.

“To put one’s family and dependents through such trauma of illegal invasion, in this holy month of Ramadan, is an unfair reward for service.

“The illegal Invasion of my house @realFFK and several others in detention: give meno confidence in government’s willingness to do justice.

“EFCC has never officially made public any investigation of my record in government at anytime before this illegal invasion of my house.

“Suggestions of an EFCC investigation have dwelt solely in the realm of rumours, over which I have sued several media organisations to court.

“The rumour before was that of a $2.7billion arms issue, now they say it is NSA imprest account – let them make the documents public.

“I cannot submit myself to such glaring witch-hunt, injustice and charade, but I’ll fight it legally, with God and clear conscience on my side.

“Since EFCC opted to make this a media trial/ circus, let them make public any document linking me or any of my children to any financial scam.

“The allegations are lies, not backed by fact or evidence, but a burning desire to obliterate the opposition and keep Nigerians distracted.

Army aiding return of paramilitary agencies to liberated communities in North-East —Spokesman The Nigerian Army said, on Tuesday, that it was supporting paramilitary agencies to return to their positions in liberated communities in the North-East.

The information was contained in a statement issued by the acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Usman, in Abuja.

He said the Army was training personnel of agencies in relevant areas of basic security and surveil-

Kidnapped Kogi judge released Justice Isiyaka MomohJimoh Usman of the Kogi Customary Court of Appeal has been freed by his abductors.

A statement issued in Lokoja, on Wednesday, by the Public Relations Officer of the state Min-

“Furthermore, no court ordered a raid on my house or seizure of my belongings. Any such move is illegal and will be fought against legally.

“Such invasion and raid of my house without prior invitation from EFCC to

kpe-Okene road on June 12.

His police orderly, Corporal Abubakar Aba, was shot dead by the abductors while his driver was also shot severally.

“The judge has since reunited with his family members,’’ Saqeeb said in the statement.

lance operations in the region.

Usman added that personnel of some of the agencies were already collaborating with ground troops to conduct patrols in the general areas.

He explained that the Nigerian Army recently supported the redeployment of 21 personnel of the Nigerian Immigration Service in Dikwa, Borno.

“Troops of 22 Brigade Garrison, in conjunction with a detachment of the Nigerian Custom Service, have been conducting patrol on Dikwa-Mafa-Maiduguri Road to keep it safe.

“More paramilitary agencies have started returning to their units in some of the towns that were taken over by the insurgents.

“To this end, the Nigerian Immigration Ser-

vice recently deployed its personnel to Dikwa, the 21 personnel have been briefed at the 22 Brigade Garrison and are undergoing training on mines and IED awareness and ground signs.”

Usman said ground troops in different patrols also rescued 57 persons hitherto held hostage by Boko Haram insurgents in parts of Adamawa and Borno states.

The Army spokesman said the hostages comprising women and children had been taken to different military locations nearest to them for further screening and rehabilitation.

He said elements of the 22 Brigade Garrison rescued 14 Boko Haram hostages during an administrative patrol in Chingowa

village near Dikwa.

Usman said troops of 114 Task Force Battalion of 28 Task Force Brigade on patrol of road linking Izge and Bitta rescued 43 hostages at Madube.

He said the hostages had been taken to the brigade headquarters for screening and onward movement to the nearest camp for displaced persons.

Usman said two insurgents were killed, while three soldiers and 13 civilians were wounded in an ambush during one of the patrols near Gwoza.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalled that many areas had been cleared, while many hostages had been set free and scores of insurgents killed in different patrols conducted by troops across the region.

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Nigerian Tribune

Thursday, 16 June, 2016

Lagosmetro

‘Awawa Boys’ kingpin rapes 12-year-old, threatens to kill victim’s mother Dopemu residents, traders celebrate their arrest Bola Badmus

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PERATIVES of the Lagos State Task Force have arrested a leader of the notorious ‘Awawa Boys’ cult gang, Tobi Akinbayo a.k.a Scorpion and two others, namely Muyideen Olayinka and Ibrahim Olaniran.

They were arrested at Aluminium Village, Dopemu, Agege area, while other gang leaders, including Paul, a.k.a Bouncing and Habeeb, a.k.a Oluwa, are said to be at large.

Chairman of the Task Force, Olayinka Egbeyemi, paraded the suspects on Wednesday at the headquarters of the agency at Alausa, Ikeja, saying activities of the notorious ‘Awawa Boys’ had been given his agency and others sleepless nights as they engaged in rape, robbery and killing of innocent citizens.

Egbeyemi, who described the activities of the suspects as worrisome, disclosed that he directed the Surveillance unit of the agency to closely monitor their activities at different parts of the state, following several petitions received by him from members of the public.

Tobi a.k.a Scorpion, who lives at No. 10 Salako Street, Aluminium Village, Dopemu, in a statement made available by Head,

Public Affairs Unit of the agency, Mr Taofiq Adebayo, confessed that he and his boys were engaged in raping and killing of innocent citizens who confronted them during any of their operations around Dopemu area.

“We sell Indian hemp to commercial bus drivers and area boys around Dopemu and its environs,” Tobi said, even as he further confessed that his gang forcefully raped one Rufia, who lives at 26, Bello Street, Dopemu, Agege, on May 5, at about 12 noon.

Tobi, 28-year-old native of Kuta-Ilegbo, Abeokuta, Ogun State, according to Adebayo, described ‘Awawa Boys’ as an umbrella body, saying that it had branches in different parts of the state.

President, Aluminium and Accessories Association, Aluminium Village, Dopemu, Mr Biliaminu Oladimeji, while thanking the Task Force boss, disclosed that he and his members, including residents around the area, had lost several millions of naira to activities of the ‘Awawa Boys’ and other dangerous groups around the area.

According to him, different group leaders and their boys were in the habit of charging each trader in the area between N1,000 and N2,000 per day as security

levy, saying anyone who refused to pay would have his stall or shop burgled over night.

While expressing happiness over the development, Oladimeji said since the arrests were made, other group members in the area had disappeared for fear of arrest.

The rape victim, Rufia, said Scorpion jumped through the fence to enter their room on that fateful day while her mother went to the market.

She said Tobi tied her mouth and later raped her, leaving her in a pool of blood, adding that her mother could not report the matter to the police for fear of being attacked, but quickly decided to relocate her to Abeokuta where she was treated and had since been living.

“Tobi Akinbayo threatened to kill my mother if she dared report them to any security agency, including the Nigeria Police,” Rufia said.

Mrs Taiwo Iyabo, 46-year-old mother of Rufia, confessed that “truly, they raped my daughter but as they threatened to kill me and other children if I should report to the police, I quickly took her to her late father’s house at Abeokuta for local treatment and since then, she has been staying there for safety of her life.”

Scene of the accident.

2 killed, 2 critically injured in tricycle, tanker collision Opeyemi Owoaseye

Tobi Akinbayo, aka Scorpion, flanked by Ibrahim Olaniran and Muyideen Olayinka, at the Lagos State Task Force Headquarters, Alausa, during their parade.

TWO people died in an accident, after a tricycle rammed into a fuel tanker on Ikotun-Isolo Road, Ejigbo, on Wednesday.

The rider and a passenger on the front seat died instantly, while two other passengers had been taken to the hospital and are said to be in critical condition.

An official of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) said the accident was caused by the tricycle rider.

“The fuel tanker had just

left a nearby filling station and was driving out of the station around 9.00 a.m. when the accident occurred.

“While reversing, an LT bus and the tricycle, which were on different lanes on the main road, were speeding towards the tanker. At this time, about 20 per cent of the tanker was on the road, while 80 per cent was still inside the station.

“The LT driver was able to pull his brake, but the tricycle rider couldn’t; he rammed under the tanker.

A sharp iron rod in the extra-tyre compartment of the

tanker pierced him and the passenger beside him and they died on the spot,” he said.

Officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and policemen from the Ejigbo division responded to the emergency.

Another LASTMA officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the police towed the tanker and the tricycle to the police station.

The accident was confirmed by the police spokesperson, Dolapo Badmos, adding that the police were still investigating the case.

7

Nigerian Tribune

Thursday, 16 June, 2016

Edited By Lanre Adewole 0811 695 4647

Elegushi beach operators culpable in UNILAG PG students’ drowning —Govt Bola Badmus WORRIED by the recent deaths of two postgraduate students of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) in one of the beaches in the state, Lagos State government, on Wednesday, warned beach operators in the state to adhere strictly to the safety regulations guiding their operations.

Commissioner for Waterfront and Infrastructure Development, Mr Ade Akinsanya, gave this warning, saying defaulters would be appropriately sanctioned.

Akinsanya, who described as unfortunate the incident at the Elegushi Beach, which claimed the lives of Adeshola Ogunefun and Olufunmilayo Odusina, both Postgraduate students of the UNILAG, said the incident

could have been averted if safety measures were put in place.

He said operators of beaches and other public spaces earmarked for leisure must give priority attention to safety measures that would prevent avoidable mishaps.

“There is no doubt that the operators of the beach in question failed to adhere to the standard safety practice. The Lagos State government, through its safety commission, sets safety standards for all sectors involved in socio-economic activities in the state,” Akinsanya said.

“Henceforth, Lagos State government shall not hesitate to take appropriate action against operators of beaches and other public places who fail to comply with the state’s safety regulations,” he added.

92-year-old widow withdraws case against govt over school ownership Ayomide Owonibi Odekanyin A 92-year-old widow who sued the Lagos State government and other parties has withdrawn her suit.

Mrs Roseline Ololo had dragged the state government before a Federal High Court in Lagos over the ownership of Metropolitan College and Isolo Secondary School.

The widow had been having a running battle with the government over the ownership of the two schools since the last administra-

Police dismiss 5 officers for extortion, illegal roadblock No, it was for improper dressing —Affected officers Olalekan Olabulo FIVE policemen from different divisions have been arrested and dismissed by the police in Lagos State for various offences.

The suspects are identified as Michael Adeoye, Samuel Ando, Richard Ugwu, Daniel Osaimayu and Sulaiman Muhammed.

The state police boss, Fatai Owoseni, who confirmed the arrest and dismissal of the policemen, on Wednesday, warned policemen in the state to shun unethical conducts.

One of the officers, Osaimayu, who was until his dismisal attached to the State Task Force on the Environment and Other Related Offences, was arrested for allegedly extorting N50,000 from an unnamed motorist.

Osaimayu, who was a

seargent until his arrest and dismissal, said “I was at my duty in Oshodi when X-squad officials arrested me.”

He added that “that was yesterday around 10.00 a.m. A guy was arrested and during search, the money was found on him.

And the suspect confessed and pointed at me that I sent him.

“After I was arrested, I was brought to the X-Squad office in Ikeja.

They searched me, but no money was found on me. The CP should please reconsider me. I have a family I cater for.”

Another of the dismissed cops, Adeoye, said “I was coming down from inside Keke Marwa when I was arrested by X-Squad officers at Mile 12 Market on monday. I went to the market and I am an orderly to an APC chairman at Kosofe.”

He continued that “I went to the market to buy food for chickens I rear at home. I was surprised when I was arrested. I was told by the police at the squad that I was arrested for improper dressing.

Now nobody to feed my fowls. They would have all died.”.

Ugwu, on his own, denied being arrested for extortion when he said “I was arrested in Sabo, Yaba for improper dressing. I wore slippers because of the wounds I have on my leg. That is my offence. I am not into extortion.”

Owoseni, while speaking with journalists during the parade of the policemen, said “they were arrested for mounting roadblock which contravened the directivesof the Inspector-General of Police on roadblocks across the country.”

tion under Babatunde Fashola.

She had once threatened to occupy the Lagos governor’s office over the school matter.

The widow, in the suit, urged the court for an order returning her schools, Metropolitan College and Isolo Secondary School, back to her as the founder.

Joined as respondents in the suit are: the Federal Government of Nigeria, The Attorney General of the Federation, the Minister of Education, the Lagos State Government, Lagos State Attorney General, and the Lagos State Commissioner for Education.

When the case was called on Wednesday, counsel for the applicant, Malcom Omirhobo, informed the court of a motion on notice to discontinue the suit.

He prayed the court to withdraw the action in its entirety against all persons sued as respondents, in accordance with the rules of court.

In a short ruling, Justice Rabiu Shagari struck out the suit with no order as to cost.

Flooded areas at Ajah, VGC, Lekki, on Wednesday.

Again, flood sacks Ajah, Lekki residents from their homes Chukwuma Okparaocha FOR the second time in less than a week, many parts of Lagos have again been hit by massive flood as a result of hours of downpour.

According to information gathered by Lagos Metro, Wednesday morning downpour caused a huge flood at Mobil Estate, Ajah, where it was reported that roads were so flooded that Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) were not able to wade through the water that had flooded major roads.

It was also gathered that

parts of Ikorodu, Ikeja, Agege, as well as various communities in Agbado-Ijaiye area of the state were also affected.

While narrating his ordeal, a resident of Igbogbo area of Ikorodu, said his community was flooded with rain water after a downpour that started at midnight in Ikorodu.

“My entire community is a complete mess, as all ditches, potholes and drainages were all covered by brownish rain water. Cars got stuck for hours and the entire business came to a standstill,”

he further lamented.

Sharing a similar experience, a trader at Agege, who also preferred to remain anonymous, said, “we were all stranded as there is simply no road to pass. Roads were completely flooded that one couldn’t differentiate where a gutter was and where a road was.”

Similarly, a businessman at Adura area of Agbado, Mr Samson Akinwande, complained to Lagos Metro that rainy season always brought untold hardships on everyone around, especially traders.

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news

Thursday, 16 June, 2016

Get Polio, CSM immmunisation, NAHCON advises intending pilgrims

T

he National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), has advised intending pilgrims for the 2016 Hajj to ensure they received Oral Polio and CerebroSpinal Meningitis (CSM) immunisation before their departure.

The Commission gave the advice in a statement signed by its head of media, Alhaji Uba Mana on Wednesday in Abuja.

Mana said “in line with Saudi Arabian Medical Guidelines for intending pilgrims, all pilgrims for the 2016 Hajj are advised to ensure that they are immunised against Oral Polio and

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly IHEGWORO SYLVIA CHINENYE now ONYEKWERE SYLVIA CHINENYE . All former documents remain valid.

NYSC and General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, formerly Animashaun Monsurat Eniola now AJADI MONSURAT ENIOLA. All former documents remain valid. NYSC and General public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly Adam Aisha now Mohammed Adam Aisha.

All former documents remain valid.

NYSC and General public take note.

Cebro-Spinal Meningitis.�

He gave the assurance that adequate doses of vaccines have been secured and deposited in all state capitals by the Federal Ministry of Health and the National Primary Healthcare Devel-

opment Agency (NPHDA).

He explained that intending pilgrims were expected to be fully immunised 10 days before their travel date, in consonance with the International Health Regulations (IHR).

9

news

Thursday, 16 June, 2016

Nigerian Tribune

NLC gives notice of strike to FirstBank, Diamond, Ecobank, 3 others over mass sack Threatens to shut down banks’ outlets nationwide Soji-Eze Fagbemi - Abuja

T

HE Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), on Wednesday, issued a strike notice to six banks and threatened to shut down the banks and their outlets nationwide.

However, the NLC gave the banks a 14-day ultimatum, commencing from today, “to immediately recall all workers so sacked and allow unionisation of workers or face industrial action.”

The banks involved are Fidelity Bank, Diamond Bank, First City Monumental Bank, FirstBank, Ecobank and Skye Bank.

The letter, entitled: “Notice on mass sack of workers in your bank,” was addressed differently to the managers of the banks.

Signed by the deputy general secretary, Comrade Chris Uyot, on behalf of the NLC president, the congress accuse the banks to have arbitrarily sacked a large number of workers, contrary to laid down procedures and the country’s extant labour laws.

In addition, it said the banks had resisted unionisation of workers, despite efforts from the in–house unions.

“I have been directed to notify you that we have been

informed by our affiliate union, the National Union of Banks, Insurance and Financial Institutions Employees (NUBIFIE), that your bank has arbitrarily sacked a large number of workers contrary

to laid down procedures and the country’s extant labour laws.

“In addition, you have also resisted unionisation of workers in your bank, despite spirited efforts by

the union to amicably engage you in the process.

“By this letter, we are giving your bank 14 days’ ultimatum commencing from Thursday, June 16, 2016, to immediately recall all work-

ers so sacked and allow unionisation of workers in the bank or face industrial action, which may include closure of your banks and all its outlets nationwide,” the letter read.

Edo: PDP clears 3 aspirants for primaries Banji Aluko - Benin City

THE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has cleared three governorship aspirants to contest the governorship primaries of the party in Edo State slated for Monday.

The aspirants: Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, Honourable Matthew Uduoriyekemwen and Solomon Edebiri were given a clean bill of health after they were screened on Wednesday by the screening committee sent to the state by the national caretaker committee of the party.

Members of the committee, which had a former Minister of Education, Professor Tunde Adeniran, as chairman; Senator Joshua Lidani,

secretary; George Abiye Sekibo, Ndubuisi Nwigwe and Honourable Farouk Yahaya as members, held a closed door interactive session, which lasted about two hours, with the aspirants.

One of the aspirants, Matthew Uduoriyekemwen, who spoke with journalists after the screening, described the exercise as thorough, pointing out that they were asked questions bothering on their

qualifications, loyalty and commitment to the PDP, resourcefulness and support, leadership qualities, political structure, and others.

The committee chairman, Professor Adeniran, who

spoke with journalists after the screening exercise that was conducted at the state secretariat of the PDP, said the three aspirants passed the screening exercise as they met all the conditions stipulated.

...Another aspirant pulls out of APC primaries Banji Aluko - Benin City

FEW days after an All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Edo State pulled out of the race, alleging that the race was already predetermined, another aspirant of the party, Casely OmonIrabor, on Tuesday, pulled out of the race.

Omon-Irabor pulled out over what he described as

“secret agreement to manipulate the outcome of the primaries in favour of Governor Adams Oshiomhole’s anointed candidate.”

Omon-Irabor also accused the Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola’s panel, set up by the national headquarters of the party to look into the crisis affecting the Edo State chapter of the party, of colluding with the governor’s team to impose

the governor’s candidate on the delegates during the June 18 primaries.

Omon-Irabor, at a press conference in Benin, described the APC as a party of strange bedfellows who would, “neither sleep nor allow their neighbours to sleep.

“It started as a rumour and before we knew it, there was a recruitment of a surrogate aspirant by the incumbent. I and four others met and sent

a protest letter to the National Executive Committee of our great party; we were subsequently summoned to Abuja, but the anointed Prince was not in attendance.

“There were shootings and a false alarm of countershooting which prompted the National Executives to set up the Olagunsoye Oyinola’s panel to look into our petition and get a lasting solution to the Edo problem.”

10

Thursday, 16 June, 2016

Nigerian Tribune Thursday, 16 June, 2016 11 businessnews CBN finally frees naira, value to be determined by market forces

•To appoint primary, secondary dealers Sanya Adejokun -Abuja

T

he long wait for the release of guidelines for the much anticipated flexible foreign exchange market ended on Wednesday as Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, reeled out a 13-point guideline for the managed floating exchange rate regime.

At a world press conference in Abuja, Emefiele said the exchange rate would be purely marketdriven using the ThomsonReuters Order Matching System as well as the Conversational Dealing Book, while the market shall operate as a single market structure through the inter-bank/autonomous window.

Details of the flexible foreign exchange market and guidelines for the selection and operations of FX primary dealers were to be released yesterday while selected primary dealers would be notified by Friday.

“All other non-primary dealers would remain valid and eligible to participate in the market; inter-bank trading under the new guidelines will begin on Monday 20th June 2016; and the tenors and rates for the OTC Naira-settled FX Futures will be announced on Monday 27th June 2016”, Emefiele disclosed.

He contrasted the 2005 situation when oil prices sold for about US$50 per barrel for an extended period of time and average import bill was N148.3 billion per month to average import bill for 2015, which stood at N917.6 billion per month.

Emefiele noted that the interplay between reduced foreign exchange supply and rising demand accounted for a substantial reduction in the country’s foreign exchange reserves.

He also noted that the CBN had taken several steps to avoid further depletion of the reserves with several interventions and policies.

The new regime will also see CBN participating in the market through periodic interventions to either buy or sell FX as the need arises; introduce FX Primary Dealers (FXPD) who would be registered by the CBN to deal directly with the bank for large trade sizes on a two-way quotes basis.

“These primary dealers shall operate with other dealers in the inter-bank market, amongst other obligations that will be stipulated in the Foreign Exchange Primary Dealers (FXPD) Guidelines, which

would also be released immediately after this press briefing”, he stated.

Also, there shall be no predetermined spread on FX spot transactions executed through the CBN intervention with primary dealers, while all FX spot

purchased by authorized dealers are transferable in the inter-bank FX market.

Emefiele clarified that the 41 items classified as “Not Valid for Foreign Exchange” as detailed in a previous CBN Circular shall remain inadmissible

in the Nigerian FX market.

To enhance liquidity in the market, the CBN may also offer long-tenored FX forwards of 6 to 12 months or any tenor to Authorized Dealers; and sale of FX forwards by authorized dealers to end-users must be

trade-backed, with no predetermined spreads; In addition, CBN shall introduce non-deliverable over-the-counter (OTC) Naira-settled futures, with daily rates on the CBN-approved FMDQ Trading and Reporting System.

From left, Governor Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr Godwin Emefiele; Deputy Governor Economic Policy, Mrs Sarah Alade; and Deputy Governor Operations, Alhaji Suleiman Barua, during a press briefing to unveil the guidelines on the new flexible exchange rate market, in Abuja, on Wednesday. Photo: Sunday Osunrayi

“This is an entirely new product in the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market, which would help moderate volatility in the exchange rate by moving non-urgent FX demand from the Spot to the futures market”, the governor said.

The OTC FX futures shall be in non-standardized amounts and different fixed tenors, which may be sold on any dates thereby ensuring bespoke maturity dates; proceeds of Foreign Investment Inflows and international money transfers shall be purchased by authorized dealers at the daily inter-bank rate; and non-oil exporters are now allowed unfettered access to their FX proceeds, which shall be sold in the inter-bank market.

Stressing determination of the CBN to make the market as transparent, liquid, and efficient as possible, Emefiele warned “we would neither tolerate unscrupulous behaviour nor hesitate to bring serious sanctions on offenders.

Flexible exchange rate to reveal true value of naira, make citizens poorer —Experts Chima Nwokoji-Lagos Following the clue given by the Central Bank Nigeria that it will allow the Naira exchange rate to be market-driven, experts have concluded that though foreign investments might return to the country in future, the move is setting the stage for a devaluation of the currency; there by making low income earners poorer.

Commenting, in an email interview, on the policy scheduled to come into effect on June 20, Jurgen Hecker, Paris, France-based financial expert said, “The first implication is that Nigeria’s citizens will be officially poorer. I say officially because that was already the reality before this decision, except that the government and the central bank were hiding this fact, defending an unsustainable exchange rate with official reserves and capital controls.”

According to Hecker, the controls are now coming to an end, even though the market must still wait for the details of the decision; stressing that it looks like it will be a transition towards a free-floating regime, but maybe the central bank will continue to intervene at a certain level, “which we don’t yet know.”

“On the plus side: The fixed-rate regime and the capital controls have been

a real problem for foreign investment. So this decision could lead to foreign investment coming back into the country, which will help development in the medium to long term.

Importers of goods and services will now also find it easier again to buy dollars to pay for those imports. Of course the official devaluation means that they will need to pay more Naira for the dollars that they need.

And this will feed back into prices that Nigerian consumers have to pay for everything that is imported, which, as we know, is almost everything.

And that is what I mean that Nigeria has become poorer,” the financial expert said in an e-mail message to Nigerian Tribune.

More funds to flow in Also, Robert Olatunde, Head of Research at Afrinvest West Africa Limited believes that what the CBN has taken the step that will free up the market from the initial control it had.

He explained that licensing some primary market dealers who would be allowed to play in the new foreign exchange (forex) market, will enable funds to flow in, even from other autonomous sources to supply forex to the market.

“Not just that, the CBN has also introduced the futures market which will ensure that those demand that are not due at the immediate time for 3,6 or 12 months can be offloaded through the futures market

and that takes out the artificial demand that are not immediate. What is good is that the CBN has standardized it and they provide guarantee,” he stated.

However, he noted that the area of concern is that some of those items that have been banned from accessing forex from the CBN are still banned. “In our view, that may still create some form of market distortion but in any case what they have done now is just to bring in some respite into the market and we would expect that this new market which the CBN has guided will help address most of the concerns around the imbalance.

“At the immediate time, it may take some time before we see some adjust-

Etranzact rebrands, repositions across markets

By Paul Omorogbe Keeping up with its ethos of constant innovation, Etranzact, Africa’s foremost e-payment solutions provider has announced its corporate rebranding and strategic repositioning in transaction switching, mobile banking, mobile money, bulk payments, remittances, bills and utilities payments, collections and other payment technology areas.

The strategic rebranding of its identity, vision, mission, products and people, reaffirms the company’s leadership in the above areas.

Valentine Obi, Founder and CEO, eTranzact International PLC, speaking at a media briefing in Lagos said: “The new eTranzact identity shows how much our brand has evolved since we launched in 2003 and expanded to other countries. The “e” represents electronic, empowerment, ease and efficiency, showing where our company is today, our vision for the future and our commitment to simplify payments across Africa.

“We have always been at the forefront of innovation, providing complex and powerful technology with simple interfaces to en-

able efficient, convenient and cost-effective means of payment on all channels.

“With new and refreshed product offerings for business to business and business to consumer segments of the market, we are committed to our vision of being the leading payment technology provider for individuals and organizations”.

Etranzact has come a long way in the e-payments solution space and has been a pioneer in delivering electronic transaction switching and payment processing solutions across POS, web, mobile, ATMs and cards since 2003.

ments but definitely we should see the reduction in the spread between the interbank and the official market and the parallel market,” said Olatunde.

Though the CBN said that it would allow a “market-driven” rate on the interbank market in what it called “a transition to a market-based system,” a herd of financial analysts believes that “periodically intervening in the market to buy or sell, is unlikely to appease those who have been calling for a fully flexible exchange rate, particularly since the announcement was not accompanied by a rise in the interest rate. High interest rate is thought necessary by many as a way of attracting foreign inflows. The apex bank did not mention a level at which the currency would be defended, Elimination of Arbitrage An economic analyst and Head, Investment Advisory, Sterling Capital, Mr. Sewa Wusu, also believes that the flexible exchange rate will remove arbitrage in the market. That, he added, does not mean that there won’t be black market but it will remove arbitrage opportunity. According to him, the true value of Naira exchange rate visà-vis the dollar will be determined on that market.

And that is good enough because before now Nigerians did not know the true value of the naira.

12

businessnews

Thursday, 16 June, 2016

Flexible FX: Equities market halts 8-day loss Kehinde Akinseinde-JayeobaLagos

N

igerian equities trading close positive to halt eight-day loss on the Wednesday just as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) reveals the anticipated framework for flexible foreign exchange.

Gains made by blue chip stocks elevated the major market indicator, All Share Index (ASI) by 3.17 per cent to close at 27,891.96 basis points a s against 0.26 per cent down tick recorded on Tuesday.

An improved performance was recorded just as the market breadth closed positive with 33 gainers against 10 losers compared with 24 gainers and 17 losers of the previous day trade.

As predicted, market reacted to flexible foreign exchange direction as turnover closed positive with volume surge of 244.74 per cent against 12.05 per cent uptick recorded on Tuesday.

Analysis of price movement by value indicated that Dangote Cement Plc took the lead as its share value appreciated N4.90 kobo gain to close at N102.90 kobo per share.

Mobil Plc followed closely as it added N7.99 kobo to close trade at N169.50 kobo per share. Nigerian Breweries Plc also improved it’s share value by adding N5.75 kobo to N128 it traded to close at N133.75 kobo per share.

Conversely, Ecobank Transnational incorporated Plc led other 10 losers on the chart having shed 80 kobo to close at N16.40 kobo. Glaxosmith

also shed 80 kobo from its share value to close at N15.64 kobo.

The major contributors to the positive turnover were United Bank for Africa Plc, Skye Bank Plc

and First City Monument Bank Plc, while Guaranty Trust Bank Plc and United Bank for Africa Plc top the equities market value list.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE)

Recent investigation conducted by Business Tribune on finance companies’ activities in Oyo State revealed that Microfinance banking system is becoming more reliable, waxing stronger, as it is currently undergoing periodic restructuring to towards its lost financial position and responsibility in the small scale industry in the country.

Our report shows further that in Oyo State, the bank is expanding and thus providing improved services towards giving a boost to business activities of artisans, traders and famers in the state.

According to the Chairman, National Association of Microfinance banks, Oyo State Chapter, Mr Femi Jegede, Oyo State is endowed with about 50

pected to made entry/ re entry under the banking index were Skye Bank Plc and Unity Bank Plc, while Wema Bank Plc and Fidelity Bank Plc were likely to exit the Index.

From left, Lagos State governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode; Executive Director, Marketing, Honeywell Flour Mills Plc, Mr Benson Evbuomwan; The Vision of the Child Painting Competition Winner, Miss Favour Uti; Executive Director, Supply Chain, HFMP, Mr Rotimi Fadipe and deputy governor of Lagos State, Dr Idiat Oluranti Adebule, at the VOTC Award Gala Night, in Lagos, recently.

Senate constitutes committee to examine 2013 NEITI audit report The Senate on Wednesday set up a nine-member ad hoc committee to examine the financial losses and leakages contained in the 2013 Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) audit report.

This followed a resolution reached by the lawmakers shortly after the Executive Secretary of the agency, Mr Waziri Adio, briefed them on the content of the audit report at

plenary.

In his remarks, the President of the Senate, Dr Bukola Saraki, announced Chairman, Committee on Petroleum (Downstream), Sen. Jibrin Barau, as chairman of the ad hoc committee.

He said that the “outrageous’’ amount of money lost in the oil and gas sector as contained in the report would be taken seriously by the National Assembly.

According to him, the

Microfinance banks wax strong in Oyo —Report

By Kehinde Adio

has revealed that 22 major companies were likely to gain entry into different sectoral indices on the bourse, just as 22 others were likely to exit.

Among companies ex-

functional microfinance Banks spread across the 33 local government areas in the state.

Recently, members of the association converged on Eruwa town, in Ibarapa zone of the state for their evaluation meeting and to ruminate on the progress of microfinance banking activities in the state.

At end of the meeting it was resolved, as contained in the communiqué issued that every microfinance bank in the state should strive to embrace self regulation for sustenance.

Members were also encouraged to observe compliance with all the Federal Inland Revenue and State Board of Internal Revenue related taxes to avoid embarrassment.

The association also

enjoined the members to access the Central Bank of Nigeria special loan facility meant for microfinance banks in the country, saying that the prerequisite for qualification to participate in the scheme had been lowered . It also encouraged members to display high level of professionalism in the discharge of their functions in the economy.

Business Tribune learnt that the association had slated another general meeting for today in Ibadan, to review the activities of microfinance banking in that last three months in the state. According to the chairman, the meeting becomes inevitable to ensure that every microfinance bank in the state strives towards meeting customers’ demand with quality service delivery.

ad hoc committee will be saddled with the responsibility of scrutinizing the financial loss and leakages to government and come up with measures to tackle the problem.

“In view of the enormity involved, the general opinion is that we will set up an ad hoc committee with the responsibility of addressing them.

“The terms of reference are that the committee is to re-examine the financial processes and the fiscal audit report of the NEITI, the financial loss and leakages to government and all its ramifications. ``The others are remedial measures and sanctions where necessary, and

of course and more importantly, any relevant legislative action that will be required to block all forms of leakages,’’ Barau said.

The members of the committee are Sen. Tayo Alasoadura, who is the Chairman, Petroleum (Upstream); Sen. Bassey Akpan, Chairman, Committee on Gas and Sen. John Enoh, Chairman, Finance Committee.

Others are Sen. Chukwuka Utazi, Chairman, AntiCorruption Committee; Sen. Kabir Marafa, Sen. Solomon Adeola and Sen. Bukar Mustapha.

The committee is expected to complete its assignment and report back to senate in four weeks.

FG inaugurates steering, delivery committee on Bakassi seaport Sanya Adejokun-Abuja

AS part of efforts by the present administration to harness the vast potentials of the maritime for a sustainable national development Transportation minister, Rotimi Amechi, has inaugurated a 12-man committee on the Bakassi Deep Seaport.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mallam Sabiu Zakari, the Minister stated that the Bakassi Deep Seaport would serve as one of the primary catalysts for a

sustainable development of the Nigerian economy by attracting direct and indirect investment that would help to diversify and strengthen the industrial base of Nigeria.

Among others, the committee is to pilot the initial process for the actualization of the deep seaport and organise various investors’ roundtable discussions and interactive fora.

It is also to coordinate all procurement process in collaboration with the Cross River State Government.

Nigerian Tribune

Dangote cement names Ufot as director Dangote Cement PLC (DANGCEM-NL), Africa’s largest cement producer, has announced the appointment of Mrs Dorothy Udeme Ufot, SAN, as an Independent Non-Executive Director.

Mrs Ufot is one of Nigeria’s most experienced legal practitioners. She has more than 26 years’ experience in commercial litigation at trial and appellate levels, having been admitted to the Nigerian Bar in 1989 and then admitted to the Inner Bar as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in April 2009. She also qualified as a Chartered Arbitrator at the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, London, in 2003.

Mrs Ufot is an internationally recognised expert in commercial dispute arbitration, particularly in the area of international arbitration, and was appointed member of the International Chamber of Commerce’s International Court of Arbitration, Paris, in 2006.

She later became one of eight Global Vice-Presidents of the ICC Commission on Arbitration, in 2014.

Mrs Ufot was appointed to the Council of the ICC Institute of World Business Law by the Global Chairman of ICC, Mr Harold (Terry) McGraw, in Paris on 22ndApril 2016.

The ICC Institute of World Business Law draws together the finest legal minds to strengthen the links between international businesses and the legal profession.

Mrs Ufot has been a member of the council of the Legal Practice Division (LPD) of the International Bar Association (IBA), from 2006 to 2010, and is currently serving her second term as a member of the Nominations Committee of the IBA. She has also served as Vice-Chair of the Arbitration Committee of the IBA and has authored numerous publications on the subject of international arbitration.

Notable posts she has held include being a member of the Governing Council of the Nigerian Stock Exchange and Chair of its Rules and Adjudication Committee. Mrs Ufot has served as a Non-Executive Director of several wellknown companies including: Chevron Oil, Nigeria, PLC; MRS Oil, Nigeria, PLC, and SO&U Ltd, a leading advertising and media relations company.

Mrs Ufot is the Managing Partner of Dorothy Ufot & Co, a firm of legal practitioners and Arbitrators, which she founded in 1994.

13

editorial

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Thursday, 16 June, 2016

Nigerian Tribune

Muhammad Ali (1942-2016)

ASSIUS Clay was just a garrulous 12-year old when he experienced the devastating loss that would transform his life for good. No, it was not the loss of a loved one. The young Cassius’ bicycle, a possession to which he felt deeply attached, had been stolen, and he couldn’t stop telling anyone who cared to listen what he would do to the thief, if only he could find him. As it happened, Cassius, named after the Kentucky slave abolitionist, Cassius Marcellus Clay, would recover neither the bicycle nor the thief. What he found instead was the attention of Louisville police officer and boxing enthusiast, Joe E. Martin, who encouraged him to put his punch where his mouth was. Cassius, later Cassius X Clay, and eventually Muhammad Ali after his conversion to Islam, listened to Joe Martin, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Ali, who passed away on June 3 in a Phoenix, Arizona clinic following a brief period of hospitalisation for respiratory problems, will be rightly remembered as arguably the greatest heavyweight champion in the history of boxing. He remains the only man to have won the title on three different occasions: 1964, 1974 and 1978. He towered above boxing like no other pugilist before and after him. He fought with grace and panache, and spoke about the sport he loved with inimitable passion and eloquence. Before Nas, before Drake, and well before Jay Z, Ali rapped about boxing and life with pizzazz and cadence. He was a boxers’ boxer, and a larger than life athlete who used the charisma which he possessed in abundance to call attention to the plight of black people in the United States and everywhere else. Long before Black Lives Matter, Ali embodied the struggles of black people all over the world for the inalienable right to be treated with respect and dignity.

This is the sole reason why his transition leaves a deep hole in the public imagination; for Ali was

more than just a professional boxer. He got the business done in the ring quite all right. In an age not exactly lacking in stardust— think George Foreman, Sonny Liston, Floyd Patterson, and Joe Frazier— Ali stood head and shoulders above his equally luminary contemporaries because of the way he fought—unconventionally, often with magnificent cavalierness, always leading with his mouth. As evident from many of his most famous fights—the Rumble in the Jungle with George Foreman, say— not only could Ali deliver a good beating; he could take one.

Ali was a rebel with a cause, or many causes in fact; a talker with a theme; a pretty boy (as he never tired of reminding everyone) who exposed the ugliness of American liberalism; a conscientious objector; a devout Muslim and, above all, an individualist almost to the point of sedition. Ali used the boxing ring as a stage, and parlayed the freedom he found inside into the world of implications. In standing up to the American establishment in hot pursuit of a lost cause in Vietnam (“Man, I ain’t got no quarrel with them Viet Cong”), he was the epitome of every individual down the ages who has ever had to invoke the authority of conscience.

When, in 1964, Ali visited a Nigeria still giddy with the excitement of independence, he felt instantly at home. Images from the visit show him trying on a Yoruba three-piece complete with the agbada, and his hand at the gangan drum. Such was the measure of the man. Cosmopolitan to a fault, and willing to yield to every foreign experience, so long as it was human. The only thing he resented was injustice, and he dedicated his life to eradicating it. Not even the Parkinson’s syndrome which claimed the last 32 years of his life could strip him of his identity. Ali fought a good fight, and was victorious both in the ring and outside it. Goodnight, ‘The Greatest’.

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Thursday, 16 June, 2016

yournews

SEND YOUR SHORT MESSAGES TO: 08054005323, 08055001746

•This is Ibadan. PHOTO: TOMMY ADEGBITE

Kudos to FG on bailout for states LAST week, the Minister of Finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun, said the Federal Government was planning further financial bail-out for state governments so that they could pay the backlog of civil servants’ salary arrears.

While I want to commend this initiative, I want the Federal Government to monitor the disbursement to the civil servants and retirees itself.

The last bail-out for the states were mismanaged by the governors who diverted the money for the workers and retirees to service the debts they are owing banks, as well as to pay contractors.

With this, workers were only paid a fraction of their salaries, instead of it to clear the backlog, as well as pay retirees’ gratuities and pension arrears.

Evelyn Agada, 08097324106.

Niger Delta Avengers, give peace a chance I want to use this opportunity to call on the Niger Delta Avenger to give peace a chance so that the country can continue to experience economic growth. For some time now, the Avengers have been blowing up oil pipelines, and this has drastically reduced the earning potentials of government.

Apart from the economic loss to the government, the people of the Niger Delta are also feeling the brunt of these needless attacks.

With the spillage accompanying the blowing of oil pipelines, our farms have further been destroyed, while marine life has also been destroyed.

Also, the psychological torture that the people pass through as a result of the military stationed in their communities cannot be over-emphasised.

The continued attacks on oil facilities will, therefore, do nobody any good, as those who claim to be fighting for the Niger Delta people are only doing so because of what they stand

to benefit financially.

Niger Delta leaders should, therefore, be concerned about what is happening in the region today.

They should call the militant youths to order; the majority of the Niger Delta people are peace-loving people who would not en-

gage in the destruction of oil facilities.

What the Avengers are out to achieve is to be given access to the money they

were enjoying during the last administration.

•Anuku Uzor, 08136449554

On FG’s recruitment of 500,000 teachers IMMEDIATELY the Federal Government announced that it would start recruiting 500,000 teachers in order to reduce the unemployment rate in the country, I sensed the whole process will also be like the police recruitment exercise.

Just last month, the police announced that it wanted to recruit 10,000 policemen, but within a week, it received over one million applications.

Instead of the Federal Government asking youths to send in their applications, it can simply partner with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to retain qualified teachers who are serving in rural schools across the country.

For those who have finished their national service and are interested

in securing employment, the government should encourage them to think along the entrepreneurial line, particularly through agricultural ventures. Government can partner with the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) in this area. Offices should be set up in all the 774 lo-

cal goverment areas in the country, and then agricultural experts will be employed to train the youth.

After the training and internship, government can provide start-up grants to successful candidates.

I believe when this is done, it will go a long way in reducing unemploy-

ment in the country. The idea of telling unemployed youths to apply for jobs will simply continue to be frustrating due to the large number of people who will submit applications.

•Vincent Akadiri, 08030461538.

Rest in peace, Amodu, Keshi NIGERIA has definitely lost two of the best coaches on the African continent with the deaths of Stephen Keshi and Amodu Shuaib.

These two coaches, who once worked together with the Super Eagles, died a couple of days apart.

I hope the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) will immortalise them for their contributions to the devel-

opment of football in the country.

It is also important for football coaches in the country to take care of their health. Being a coach is not an easy task, as the stress of winning and losing matches take a toll on the heart. As a result, the majority of coaches normally have heart-related illnesses. It may be pos-

sible that both Keshi and Amodu had these heart diseases, which suddenly ended their lives.

It is, therefore, necessary that coaches give adequate attention to their health.

I pray that God will give their families the fortitude to bear the loss.

•Stanley Umoh, 08029518875

opinion Franchising electricity distribution for better performance 15

Thursday, 16 June, 2016

By Odion Omonfoman

M

ORE than two years after the conclusion of the power sector privatisation process, the sector seems to have gotten much worse. Generation is at an abysmal low level; system collapses are now more frequent, and the much-touted investments and efficiency in the power sector are yet to materialise. Even worse, the sector is faced with huge liabilities that require urgent government intervention to avert a financial collapse of the sector. Under the CBN-Nigeria Electricity Market Stabilisation Facility (CBNNEMSF), the CBN has injected over $1billion (N197/$) just to cover liabilities in the power sector from November 2013 to December 2014, as well as legacy liabilities to the gas sector. The CBN is looking at an additional injection of over $600 million to cover further liabilities from January 2015 to February 2016.

The CBN-NEMSF financing to the power sector is at an interest rate of 10 percent per annum and will cost electricity consumers over N124 billion in interest payments alone, over the next 10 years. In addition, the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trader (NBET) seeks to raise a minimum of $1.5 billion debt financing in longterm bonds to finance future liabilities in the power sector.

Without any significant improvement in power supply in the near horizon, electricity customers have to pay back these huge loans that have already been factored into their electricity tariffs!

The irony of the privatisation exercise is that the power sector has received far more funding from government post-privatisation than when the power sector was wholly owned and controlled by the government. It is a big irony not lost on members of the House of Representatives, who are opposed to further government bailout of the power sector.

To be fair to the Muhammadu Buhari government, it is worth stating that prior to February 2016, power generation had peaked to a new level of 5,070MW never before attained. The unexpected resurgence of militancy, resulting in large-scale sabotage of oil and gas facilities in the Ijaw areas of the Niger Delta is largely responsible for the low generation levels experienced from February 2016 till date. Clearly, the issue of militancy and pipeline sabotage may not be addressed any time soon except the militant groups responsible for the bombings toe the path of peace and halt further sabotage to oil and gas facilities in the Niger Delta.

On the other hand, efforts to add the much needed generation capacity have been constrained by the poor financial condition of the Distribution Companies (DISCOs) to service such invest-

ments. The DISCOs are faced with huge challenges, which are clearly visible in their operations and service delivery. Some of these challenges include a lack of sufficient energy supply from grid, high technical and non-technical losses, obsolete networks, lack of maintenance of network equipment, poorly trained manpower, poor customer data, low metre penetration, health, safety and environmental issues and a near absence of investments due to poor revenues, inadequate tariffs, huge liabilities, particularly from Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and external funding constraints.

It is important to state that these challenges were precisely the reason why the privatisation of the power sector was done in the first place. It was believed that the privatisation of DISCOs would solve these challenges. Two years after, DISCOs are yet to deliver the supposed gains/benefits of the privatisation. Notwithstanding, we must emphatically state that this is not a rush to judgment about the power sector privatisation. The privatisation process was legally carried out, even though the outcomes have been disappointing so far.

DISCOs need to do more to improve their operational efficiencies in order to improve their revenue profile.

Now, the concept of Electricity Distribution Franchise is an emerging Public Private Partnership (PPP) model pioneered in the Indian electricity distribution sector. Under the electricity distribution franchisee arrangement, specific functions for a demarcated area within the total licensed area of distribution is franchised out by the distribution utility to a private sector entity, while the Distribution Company retains the ownership of assets.

The appointed distribution franchisee provides certain services to consumers in the service area on behalf of a Distribution Company, including the corrective and preventive maintenance of network, breakdown rectification and other routine opera-

tion and maintenance of the distribution system, attending complaints, metre reading and bills distribution, as well as attending to the commercial complaints of the consumers within the service area as set out by the main agency. The Distribution Franchisee is responsible for the collection of money in the service area and commits to reduce the collection and distribution losses as per terms and conditions of franchise agreement between both parties.

Initially, such an arrangement was restricted to the outsourcing of basic functions such as billing, collection and repair and maintenance (R&M) of transformers. Over time, it evolved into incentive-based arrangements for the private sector to invest in the distribution network and be responsible for all functions after receiving energy from the utility right up to collection of revenues from consumers.

In India, Distribution Franchise is a middle ground between government ownership and full privatisation of electricity distribution networks.

The advantages of well-structured DISCO franchise operations are numerous: first, it improves the operational efficiency of DISCOs. Save for major faults at certain voltage levels (possibly at 33kV), customer complaints are quickly attended to and resolved as the franchisee is on ground and remuneration is incentive based. Service improvement and customer satisfaction, in our view, should be the primary driver of any DISCO franchisee structure. Resolving customer complaints in a timely manner actually increases DISCO revenues.

Also, franchisees can take upon themselves to secure operational/working capital to finance their operations in their areas of operations. Lenders are able to better assess their operations and provide working capital to the DISCO franchisee being that the cash flow from the franchisee area of operation may be ring-fenced. At the moment, most DISCO are unable to secure significant working capital to finance their operations. DISCO have very few operation field vehicles, which are insufficient to service even one business unit.

Lastly, franchisees are better able to carry customer enumeration exercises, as well as metering services, on behalf of DISCOs. Proper customer enumeration and metering are key success factors in DISCO operations. In addition, franchisees are able to address the issue of electricity theft via metre bypasses or unauthorised connections within their areas of operations without deploying much capital in doing so.

•Omonfoman is an energy consultant

Dangerous trend: Nigerian school children are dropping out

By Michael Omisore

IT is no longer news that a considerable percentage of the youth population within the primary and secondary school age bracket in Nigeria are not in school. The figure put at 10 million by a UNICEF report in 2014, the largest in the whole world, with 60 per cent from the Northern part of the country, and a bigger chunk of that percentage the female child. The reasons are as varied as their effects and outcomes plaguing the society like child labour, premature marriage, gross illiteracy, unemployment, low human capital, and juvenile delinquencies contributing to the insecurity being witnessed in the country.

Before highlighting the reasons, first of all, it is safe to state that it is not these children’s fault. To attribute the fault to these disadvantaged children is only trying to question why they are Nigerians and unfortunately born in Nigeria at this time, which doesn’t make much sense at all. Rather, the fault lies with the adult generation. We, the adults, are the ones to ensure children are in school. The argument may be the children themselves are not interested in going to school, but that submission is weak because education is light. And no properly oriented boy or girl will really want to stay in the darkness of underdevelopment.

Of all the numerous reasons, poverty stands out as a major scourge having its hand even in the other reasons that will be given. The ugly monster called poverty is increasingly hindering the growth of the society, because by being prevalent, it is perpetuating self, replicating and multiplying its influences as it continued to spread its tentacles and strengthen its hold. By a sizeable portion of children not educated due to its effects, and perhaps a yet bigger portion among those who go to school not well-educated because of poor schooling, the country is unknowingly breeding poverty ahead the next generation. Poverty therefore can’t continue to be the reason why the youths will not be educated. It is the reason why they must. For any responsive, serious-minded and forward-thinking government and nonprofit groups in the country, poverty alleviation or eradication plans in their different magnitudes should greatly impact on school enrolment.

Corruption is another major reason adduced for poor education in present day Nigeria, just the way it has affected other

aspects in our society. After all, if a good fraction of the trillions of naira said to have been stolen from the coffers of government had been used to build public schools across the country, we would probably have had many more children in school. That is however debatable partly because parallel to corruption is another self-inflicted menace seriously affecting the nation, which is incompetence. It was given a leg room by corruption some decades back and has since grown to be as massive and destructive as its enabler. Take for instance management and maintenance, the level of waste that have been attributed to successive poorly driven attempts and courses in policy implementation, infrastructural provision, human capital enabling, workforce management and so on by successive high and low authorities in power. This is negatively substantial in totality, perhaps competing in magnitude with corruption that gave it room.

Infrastructure is definitely highly essential. There is a need for a good environment for learning but infrastructure alone does not build the culture for learning. The reading culture in the Nigerian and African society which has gone so low to the extent that keeping something in a book has been maliciously described as a way to hide something from an African, is not only due to the lack of infrastructure but lack of proper orientation. The few libraries around are not always filled, for instance.

The available laboratories are not always put to maximum use.

The poor reading or learning culture is a more fundamental reason behind illiteracy, only being amplified by lack of infrastructure. Any culture problem, whether reading, learning or maintenance, is a people problem. So, if lack of infrastructure

will be taken as a major reason for children not being in school, what should be considered alongside is the proper orientation given to students to ensure that built infrastructure are maximally used.

There are other factors bordering on people and culture such as religion and tradition which do not encourage school enrolment, but they will be termed pointless here because education totally dissolves their strong points. In today’s world, education and learning are the surest ways to development, accomplishment and greatness and more realistic route to follow in life so as to beat poverty. Any argument on whether children of school age should enrol in school or not, wherever, however or whenever it ensues, should come to an end as quickly as one can take a look at the level of poverty, underdevelopment and underutilisation around, and such argument will never be raised again.

There is no basis for contention. For child nurture, grooming and development, education will always be the way to go.

If the factors mentioned above, though causative problems, are not absolutely responsible and should not be accepted as full excuses in any quarters for the inability of the country to fulfil the obligation of educating its young, attention may need to be paid to an intrinsic issue that is a shade different from these other factors but strongly connected, which are the individual and collective values we hold regarding human capital development. It could all boil down to the perspectives and values placed on education by the bigger fraction of the general populace including the different stakeholders and people that matter in this regard, from parents, teachers, school owners, the Ministry of Education and government as a whole. If poverty, corruption, incompetence, lack of infrastructure, prevailing poor learning culture, certain traditional and religion beliefs are hindering education, it may take a holistic change in values that will not only engender collective appraisal of the crumbling structures of learning, but also stimulate an anti-illiteracy revolution against all odds, in order to build a learning culture that cannot be easily corroded or eroded by the mentioned challenges.

•Omisore sent in this article via mdomisore@yahoo.com

16

Thursday, 16 June, 2016

Femi Olukunle Coordinating Editor 08158610216

Environment: FG urged to show more commitment Ademola Adegbite-Abuja THE Environmental Rights Action/ Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN) has urged the Federal Government to go beyond mere words on saving the country’s environment.

It said the government should put in place relevant laws to checkmate the activities of extractive corporations operating in the country.

The Executive Director of ERA/FoEN, Mr. Godwin Uyi Ojo, in a statement signed by the Head, Media and Communications of the organisation, Philip Jakpor, a copy of which was made available to Abuja Xtra, said the era of sloganeering on preserving the environment was over.

He lamented that the country was yet to come up with a new economic pathway that was not dependent on fossil fuels.

According to him, the significant drop in oil pricing requires an alternative economic blueprint that is envisaged within a post petroleum economy.

According to him, opening discussions with Russian government on building nuclear power plants in the country amounts to misdirection in policy.

“This, no doubt, is very disturbing. The current administration may have demonstrated willingness to tackle some of the identified issues such as the Ogoni cleanup which was flagged off on June 2, and for the government not to have given concrete time lines on commencement of the Ogoni clean-up and to deliver on any of the set objectives of the UNEP report is worrisome,” he said.

Ojo urged the Federal Government to demonstrate the political will to the nation’s environment through conscious and deliberate adoption of clean and safe renewables.

FCT Minister, Malam Muhammad Musa Bello (right) with the Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, during the 35th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and International Symposium of Shelter Afrcique, held at Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, recently.

FCT administration, Korean agency commence work on $15m model school project Christian Okeke-Abuja

W

ORK has commenced on the $15 million model school project being undertaken by both the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) administration and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), along Airport Road in Abuja.

The project is said to be the largest bilateral project being undertaken by the two countries.

It was designed as a landmark that would also help to strengthen the existing cordial relationship between Nigeria and Korea.

Although the target is that the school will commence academic programme by 2018 when the project will have been completed, KOICA has already offered to

carry out capacity building programme for the would-be teachers in the school.

It said the programme was to raise quality managers whose by-products would positively impact on the development of the country.

Recently, Korean Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Noh Kyu-duk, led a delegation from the Korean agency to visit the FCT Minister, Musa Bello, to assess the project.

While exchanging views with the delegation, the minister assured that his administration would strive to provide its counterpart fund for the project as and when due.

He pledged that the FCT administration would give all the necessary support to make the project successful.

The minister disclosed that the FCT administration was working at creating a special unit in his office that would com-

Lack of resources, major stumbling block to youths’ empowerment —Ayeni Mr Ayeni Samson, chairman of a non-government organisation, Peace Champion and Youth Empowerment Initiative, based in Abuja, in this interview by KOLAWOLE DANIEL, speaks on challenge to youths empowerment, amongst other issues. state of the economy that has resulted into reduction in job creation by both the private investors and government. Again, for those who want to be self-employed, majority lack resources to develop their own businesses.

Ayeni YOU have been involved in matters affecting youths for some time now.

What have you observed is lacking in today’s youth?

Zeal and the resources. The youths in Nigeria have lost zeal in the government promises and the zeal to strive for a better living. The reason is as a result of the poor

What’s your assessment of various government youth employment programmes?

There is almost no confidence in the government employment programmes because it is always influenced by the people in government. Also, the various government youth empowerment programmes have been ineffective due to mismanagement of funds. There is no merit in the processes.

How best do you think the government can really empower the youths?

By improving the economy, making available start-up loans to support youths

who are entrepreneurs. The government should also look into grassroots youths’ empowerment programme because the nation’s unrest issues start from the grassroots.

What informed your decision to set up the NGO? To promote peace by creating an avenue for people to have a means of livelihood, bearing in mind that just N5, 000.00 can bring an answer to such question that will turn a better life. Our youths are becoming frustrated because of unemployment.

Those with business ideas don’t have the support to start their businesses. The rate of youths’ restlessness and recklessness is high and this is informed by idleness.

It is widely believed that most people are now setting up NGO for profit making; hope your NGO is not one of them?

Not at all, it’s all about the drive to help humanity. Our focus is to promote peace among our youths from grassroots by sending them on vocational skill training programmes of their choice at no cost and empowering them after their successful trainings.

municate directly with all the multilateral agencies and countries that were doing projects on joint venture with the administration in order to smoothen their operations.

While noting that the geometric rise in Abuja’s population was posing serious challenges in the areas of managing the city’s traffic movements, waste disposal and electricity generation, the minister said the Korean government could consider the possibility of investing in those areas to deepen its relationship with Nigeria.

According to the minister, “electricity supply is a huge challenge and we need it for basic security issues like the street lights in the night, traffic lights for interchanges as well as the hospitals and so many other areas.”

He went further to say: “I can assure you that any project that any of the Korean companies is interested to do in Abuja to provide power, we are equally interested because power is needed now more than ever in the city for all the public facilities.

We get the power from the national grid and it’s not enough.”

Speaking on public transportation in the FCT, the minister said running the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system had posed great challenge as substantial number of the huge fleet of buses in the system were down and non-functional.

He disclosed the readiness of his administration to hand over management of the transit system to any experienced company.

Crew 1. Christian Okeke chidiabujatribune@ yahoo.com 08030947856 2. Clement Idoko idokoajiga@yahoo. co.uk 08034412281 3. Kolawole Daniel kolawoledaniels@yahoo.co.uk 08030763782 4. Adetola Bademosi gloriaadetola@ gmail.com 08182214290 5. Collins Nnabuife chideraacollins@yahoo.com 08039521408 Abuja Xtra email & GSM: abujaxtra@ gmail.com 08054501406

17

Thursday, 16 June, 2016

Nigerian Tribune

with Shola Adekola

m:0803 365 4818 e:sholanig@yahoo.com

From left; Captain Niyi Ogunnowo, a senior pilot; Alhaji Na’Allah Ishaq, Executive Director, Business Development; Captain William Inyang and Alhaji Muneer Bankole, MD/CEO of Med-View Airline , at the arrival of an additional Boeing 737-500 aircraft to the fleet of the airline at the Murtala Muhammed Airport 2, Ikeja, Lagos.

Sirika unfolds vision for Nigeria’s aviation Stories by Shola Adekola IGERIA’S minister of state for aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, has unfolded the vision and strategies of the President Mohammad Buhari led administration for achieving a quantum leap forward for the Nigerian Aviation industry.

According to the general manager, corporate communications at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Yakubu Dati, Sirika made it clear that Aviation was pivotal to the growth of key economic sectors not limited to travel and tourism but also to agriculture production and distribution, rural development, trade and commerce, manufacturing, oil and other non-oil sectors.”

In what could be termed a comprehensive mission, Dati declared that the minister had quite some surprises and a handful of seemingly simple solutions to longstanding problems and issues saying; “One surprise: Government plans to concession four major airports to the pri-

N

vate sector. The Minister believes that by bringing in the private sector, the country can achieve better infrastructural development and improve the efficiency of service delivery at these airports. The airports in question are the international airports in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Kano.”

He quoted Sirika to have said that some of the challenges facing the country’s airports were that of obsolete equipment dilapidated infrastructure; and inadequate capacity.

These challenges, according to Sirika , are expected to be addressed by the newly initiated concession programme, the much awaited completion of five new, world class, ultra-modern airport terminals in Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Enugu and Port Harcourt later this year.

Quoting the minister on the focus of Buhari administration for the sector; “the present administration is focussing on issues that will rapidly develop the aviation industry within the shortest possible time. These issues, include aviation safety and security, infrastruc-

tural development, the establishment of a national carrier, lack of a world class aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul,(MRO) facility in the country.

“Others are: How to quickly develop our air cargo capacity in order to participate actively in multi-billion dollars global agro-allied export trade. The restructuring of the country’s aviation agencies and the setting up of an aerospace University in the country.

Dati quoted Sirika to have stated that Buhari’s administration’s position on all of these tough issues, perhaps, has left no one in doubt about the policy direction of the Buhari administration as regards the aviation industry.

“On safety and security at our airports, the minister was of the view that government’s response should include the development of a new security strategy framework in partnership with international security organizations, the determined implementation of a certification programme for all our airports and a comprehensive security threat and vulnerability assessment of our airports. The Minister of state recently inaugurated a technical committee with the mandate to look into security at the country’s airports.

“Speaking on the vexed issue of a national carrier, Sirika was emphatic that the administration will establish a national carrier because of the benefits that the country would derive from it, especially from the various Bilateral and Multilateral air services agreements signed by the government with other countries, worldwide. It would also help stem current capital flight due to foreign airlines exploiting the current absence of a Nigerian national carrier.”

Sirika while saying that the carrier will be floated on the stock exchange and listed whereby Nigerians can buy its shares and own it, said to realize this, government would engage the services of a transaction adviser “to develop an appropriate business model and framework to establish a national carrier using a public/private partnership concept.”

Britain pledges to train 80 Nigerian aviation personnel THE Head of Aviation Security at the British High Commission in Abuja, Jankie Milies has indicated the readiness of the British government to conduct some training for about 80 aviation employees drawn from the relevant agencies in the country.

Milies who made this known when she led a Delegation of the high commission to visit the Minister of State for aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika in his office told the minister how the delegation had earlier undertaken an assessment of some of the nation’s airports airport with the assistance of the relevant agencies, in order to determine areas of possible assistance and how the team discovered some challenges in cargo handling.

She however said the team has one

more round of assessment to do before turning in their full report that would culminate in further discussions with the minister.

The minister who welcomed the gesture, also used the occasion to unfold the federal government’s ongoing efforts to put in place security equipment at the domestic terminal of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, Abuja that would enable some airlines operate from there, without hampering the ongoing restructuring and remodeling works.

This move which is aimed at decongesting the traffic at the international terminal and make surveillance easier is coming on the heels of aviation-related terrorism that haves occurred in some airports across the world of recent which the minister said has put

aviation under serious watch.

In a statement made available to Nigerian flight deck and signed by Deputy Director, Press & Public Affairs of the Ministry, James Odaudu, and the Minister said that the fact that recent security challenges have been aviation-related putting the issue of aviation security on the front burner as it is one of the weakest links being exploited by terrorists.

The Deputy Director, Press & Public Affairs at the Ministry, James Odaudu attributed reasons for the plan to further beef up security at the Abuja airport to why Sirika was trying hard to establish an aviation security system that is of world standard, with the ability to work with arms, sniffer dogs, modern surveillance equipment and intelligence gathering.

crucial moment 0803 365 4818

With Shola Adekola

Foreign Airlines trapped funds and its lessons for FG CONTROVERSY has continued to trail the alarm raised by the foreign carriers over their $591 million revenues made through tickets sold in Nigeria but trapped due to the recent forex policy introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Ever since the incident became known, there have been different reactions from different sides with different interest.

The mega carriers have been using all tactics including urging their home countries and the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the global clearing house for airlines to mount pressure on the federal government to release the trapped funds.

Obviously, the foreign carriers have the right to demand for their funds being the revenues they made through the services they provided for the Nigerian traveling public. It is their absolute right which no one must deny them of.

However, since the issue reared its head, two of the foreign carriers, Iberia and United Airlines have pulled out of the country based on what they called financial constraints inflicted on them by the forex policy even though there are indications that other reasons were responsible for their actions.

While it is being alleged that more of the mega carriers will soon stop their operations or relocate to neighbouring countries, some of them have denied such plan.

Many key players who have reacted to this have equally argued that many of the foreign airlines cannot pull out of Nigeria as they threatened in view of the strategic position of the Nigeria market to their operations coupled with the unlimited advantages they enjoy here.

Anyhow it is viewed by anyone, the question one should ask the government is what if the rumour of the airlines’ plan to pull out their services becomes real tomorrow as it happened in Venezuela, what next?

This brings to fore again the lack of interest on the parts of the subsequent governments including the present one to support their domestic carriers.

Before the issue of the trapped funds came up, key players had for long appealed to the past governments and the present one to come up with more robust policies that will empower and make things more easy for the local airlines to be more strengthened but to no avail.

Therefore, it was laughable when some people perhaps out of emotion asked the foreign airlines to leave the country as they threatened because of the trapped funds saying the local carriers will replace them.

Either one likes it or not, the presence of the mega carriers is a blessing to the Nigerian travelers whose movements to other parts of the world have been made possible by their ability to purchase the tickets of any airline of their choice amongst the foreign carriers to wherever they choose to go.

Therefore, without the presence of the foreign carriers, air transportation system in the country will surely be chaotic since unfortunately the domestic carriers have not really been encouraged.

It is on record that there are many policies of the government which have given the foreign airlines undue advantages over the domestic carriers such as: the multiple entry points, loose frequencies and lopsided Bilateral Air Services Agreements (BASA) the same government dole out to them which has majorly contributed to the inefficiency of the domestic carriers.

Therefore, it is hoped that issue of the trapped funds and the pull out of two airlines with the present global pressures being mounted on the federal government to release the funds will be an eye opener for the government to look inward.

18

Thursday, 16 June, 2016

Nigerian Tribune

with Tola Adenubi

m:07068476673 e:adenubiadetola@yahoo.com

African Circle procures garbage trucks, oil spill stores Stories by Tola Adenubi

From left; Alternate Permanent Representative of Nigeria to IMO, Mr Dikko Bala, Member, International Maritime Organisation Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS) Hakon Stohaug; Director-General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dakuku Peterside, Head, IMSAS team to Nigeria Captain Yalscin Cahit and another member, Wei Song during the submission of the preliminary audit report at NIMASA headquarters in Lagos recently.

Piracy: Why risk is higher in Gulf of Guinea

Gulf of Guinea is the North-eastern-most part of the tropical Atlantic, between Cape Lopez in Gabon, north and west to Cape Three Points in Western region Ghana. The intersection of the Equator and Prime Meridian (zero degrees latitude and longitude) is in the gulf. In this report, TOLA ADENUBI looks at why insecurity is higher in the gulf.

P

IRACY incidents off the Nigerian coastline in the first four months of this year are 21 per cent higher than previous peak levels recorded in 2008, Control Risks’ Maritime Risk Analysis division announced recently. Piracy and armed robbery at sea from January to April 2016 has been one of the biggest threats to maritime operators in the Gulf of Guinea; the frequency of incidents is 119 percent higher compared with the same period in 2015.

Data from Control Risks also identified offshore Bayelsa State as the top location for piracy incidents in Nigeria with 56 per cent of total incidents being recorded here between January and April 2016. Control Risks data shows an average of three kidnaps occurring per month in the first four months of 2016 compared to one kidnap per month in the same period in 2015.

Vulnerable Gulf Of Guinea There are 10 countries located in the Gulf of Guinea. They are Benin Republic, Cameroon, Cote D’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Equitorial Guinea, Republic of Congo, Togo, Ghana, Garbon and Nigeria.

Findings have revealed that the Gulf of Guinea’s vulnerability to incessant piracy attacks could not be unconnected to an unbalanced military collaboration between member states located in the gulf.

According to findings, many of the States in the gulf lack the economic wherewithal a nation like

Nigeria boast of, and therefore cannot confront piracy headlong the way Nigeria has confronted the menace in recent times.

While Nigeria, through the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA recently launched its satellite surveillance system, which, in conjunction with the Nigerian Navy and the Nigerian Air Force, monitors and confronts piracy attacks in the Gulf, other African nations in the gulf have not been economically chanced to enjoy such privilege.

Zone E Forum A standing forum for Zone E Heads of Navies by the Chiefs of Defence Staff (CCDS) of Nigeria, Togo, Benin and Mali needs to be replicated in the entire Gulf of Guinea by other members.

Currently, the Zone E arrangement is working between just these 4 countries. More collaboration is needed among international partners and African governments in the international waters around the Gulf of Guinea. Operations Atalanta, Ocean Shield and Combined Task Force 150/151 in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean can provide an adaptable template.

Philantropist gesture Finding further revealed that Nigeria willingly contributes more to military joint patrols in the gulf due to her status as the Giant of Africa. According to the Director of Information of the Nigerian Navy, Commodore Chris Ezekobe, in an exclusive chat with the Nigerian

Tribune, as the biggest economy in the gulf, it is normal that Nigeria takes the lead role in the onslaught against piracy.

“Nigeria is a giant in the sub-region, not just only in maritime security, so we cannot shy away from such responsibility. It’s like having a big man in your community; everybody will depend on the big man.

“However, whether we decide to shy away from this responsibility, let’s have it at the back of our minds that anytime there is piracy attack, the cost of insurance premium goes up, freight goes up, and thereby affects the cost of doing business at the ports.

“What we are doing is to ensure piracy attacks in our own waters go down,” Ekekobe stated.

IN a bid to actualise its mandate in the fulfilment of the provisions contained in marine pollution (MARPOL), one of the key conventions stipulated by the global maritime watchdog, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), African Circle Pollution Management Limited has procured more specialized garbage trucks and mini oil spill response stores.

The procurement of the specialised trucks and mini oil spill response stores were in addition to the ones it took delivery in 2014 in the furtherance of its roles and responsibilities as enshrined in the agreement it signed with the Federal Government through the management of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).

The trucks which are six in number were specially built by Mercedes Benz for African Circle Pollution Management Limited as their types are not presently in the open market.

Speaking at the formal unveiling of the trucks and mini oil spill response stores at Finger Jetty, Tin Can Island Port Complex (TCIP), Apapa, Lagos, the Executive Director, Marine and Operations of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Engr. David Omonibeke commended African Circle Pollution Management Limited for the strides it has made since it signed the build, own, operate and transfer (BOOT) agreement with the Federal Government over a decade ago.

Omonibeke who was represented at the occasion by NPA General Manager, Health, Safety and Environment (HSE), Mr Lawrence Alabi said the Federal Government was happy that African Circle Pollution Management Limited was living up to expectations in the discharge of its mandate as enshrined

in the agreement.

“There is no doubt about it. You are doing well. In fact, you are one of our worthy partners in the task of fulfilling the provisions of MARPOL and we are very proud of the achievements you have made over the years. This is one of the reasons why we are ready to showcase what you are doing within and outside the country.

In a recent meeting at IMO Headquarters in the United Kingdom, we made it clear that we are not lagging behind in addressing the provisions of MARPOL and those who are ready to showcase what we are doing to the world, anytime, any day,” he said.

The NPA Executive Director enjoined the management of the firm not to rest on its oars but continue to deliver on the provisions of the agreement it signed with the Federal Government through the authority in the years ahead.

Also speaking, the Acting Co-ordinating Manager, African Circle Pollution Management Limited, Mr Ahmadu Fidi Ahmadu said the procurement of the additional specialized trucks and mini oil spill response stores was in line with the company desire to discharge its functions effectively.

Explaining how the specialised trucks and equipment work, the Health, Safety, Environment and Quality Manager of the firm, Pastor Kingsley Okojie said the trucks have the capacity to compress 20 cubic metres of recyclable and non -recyclable waste.

African Circle Pollution Management Limited has a 25 years BOOT agreement to carry out the provisions of MARPOL as stipulated by IMO in Nigerian ports on behalf of NPA. In furtherance of this agreement, it acquired land in Snake Island, Lagos where it built a G-Force facility to tackle marine pollution, among other things.

Customs Eastern Marine Command lacks sea-going vessels-Controller THE Eastern Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has no sea-going vessel at the moment to tackle smuggling on the high sea. The Area Controller, Comptroller Usman Bello, made the disclosure in a statement recently, a copy of which was made available to newsmen in Lagos.

The controller, who paid a courtesy visit to the office of the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) the Eastern Naval Command, Rear Adm. J.O. Oluwole, said that hence, the assistance of the Navy to continue to assist the Customs.

He said that it was important for

the Navy to continue to assist the Customs and therefore appealed to the FOC to assist the service in improving revenue generation considering the current slide in the oil sector.

Bello requested from the Navy a list of foreign vessels that entered Nigeria’s territorial waters periodically to check revenue leakages arising from some vessels granted temporary importation permit by the Customs Headquarters.

He said that essence of the visit was to further strengthen the already existing synergy and inter-agency cooperation between the two agencies. Bello said that he

came to congratulate the FOC on his new appointment and to wish him great success and achievements as he took over the leadership of the Eastern Naval Command of the Navy.

He said he came to also thank the FOC and the officers and ratings of the naval command for the seizure of two boats of rice on the high sea between the border of Nigeria and Cameroon. Bello also thanked the former FOC, Rear Adm. Atiku Abdulkadir, for the inter-agency collaboration and synergy during his tenure. He urged the new FOC to sustain the inter-agency collaboration and synergy.

19

Thursday, 16 June, 2016

education

Editor: Laolu Harolds 08111845016 tribune.education@yahoo.com

Basic education: 5 states to

benefit from $100m grant T Clement Idokko - Abuja

he Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu, has commended the Board of Global Partnership for Education for approving a $100 million grant for the improvement of access and quality basic education in Nigeria.

He has also restated the commitment of the Federal Government to providing access and quality education to Nigerians at all levels.

Speaking in Abuja against the backdrop of the over 10.5 million out-of-school children in Nigeria, Adamu appealed to all stakeholders to join hands with the government to achieve the dream.

Five states of Kano, Kaduna, Katsina, Sokoto and Jigawa are to benefit from the $100 million education partnership project. The minister said the national launch of the Nigerian Partnership for Education (NIPEP) project would help reduce the challenge of the over 10.5 million out-of-school children in the country.

The fund, he said, is being received from the joint effort of international development partners, including World Bank, and USAID, among others, who have aggregated their resources and efforts together in order to make maximum impact in the education sector in Nigeria.

He said: “The project development objective of GPE/NIPEP is to improve access and quality of basic education in selected states, namely Kano, Kaduna, Katsina, Sokoto and Jigawa, with particular focus on girls’ participation in basic education.

“The other beneficiaries include teachers in government schools in the five selected states, the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and the Federal Ministry of Education.

“It is worthy to note that even before the insurgency, the North-West geopolitical zone had the highest number of out-of-school children in the country.

This informed the selection of the five states as focal states of the GPE/NIPEP initiative”.

Adamu, who was represented by the Minister of State for Education, Professor Anthony Anwukah, said the project was structured around three main components of promoting school effectiveness and learning outcomes; increasing access to basic education for out-of-school girls, and strengthening planning and management systems including learning assessment and capacity building.

He reiterated the current administration’s zero-tolerance for corruption, saying government would not hesitate to apply sanctions on any official who fails to operate within the sphere of the financial regulations.

A cross section of students of the University of Ibadan Distance Learning Centre taking their matriculation oath on Tuesday. Photo: LAOLU HAROLDS

NUC slowing down growth of distance learning —Don As UI Distance Learning Centre matriculates 3,227

By Laolu Harolds The National Universities Commission has been accused of unwittingly inhibiting the growth of Distance Learning mode of education in Nigeria through its continuous approval of part-time programmes in tertiary institutions.

Professor I. O. Asubiojo of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, made the comment while delivering the matriculation lecture of the Distance Learning Centre of the University of Ibadan for the 2015/2016 session, held at the International Conference Centre, Ibadan on Tuesday.

Speaking on the topic ‘Nurturing Distance Education in Nigeria’, Professor Asubiojo noted that the various part-time programmes being granted approval by the NUC, and the way they are run, is hurting the development of distance learning.

Speaking on the absolute necessity of distance learning in Nigeria, he noted that the volume of demands for university education in the country far outstrips the number of available spaces.

Nigeria, he noted, with nearly 180 million people has only 132 universities, while Japan with a population of 127 million has 1,223 universities serving it.

This gross inadequacy of tertiary institutions in Nigeria, he said, creates a crisis of access to higher education, which neces-

sitates the Distance Learning modes.

But he identified the various challenges inhibiting the growth of distance learning, including the reluctance of many people to shift from the traditional face-to-face mode of instruction.

Others, according to him, are what he termed “confusing policies from the National Universities Commission”; inadequate internet facilities, copyright issues and alignment of academic procedures for dual-mode system of instruction.

Among the strategies he suggested for improved distance learning delivery are the provision of low power consumption computer tablets for offline applications; improvement in the power situation in the country, which he said would gradually reduce the downtime of internet facilities, thus enhancing e-learning tremendously.

He also recommended remuneration for lecturers for course development/teaching.

To minimize cheating during examinations, Asubiojo recommended the setting of open-book types of questions that require higher order thinking skills. This he said could also be complemented with necessary software that could help detect cheating in e-learning examinations, among others.

The vice-chancellor, Professor Abel Idowu Olayinka, assured the new students that the University of Ibadan does not discriminate between the certificates of stu-

dents in the two modes (distance learning and conventional), as the only difference between students in the two is just the mode of study.

For the 2015/2016 academic session, he announced that 3,484 applications were received, out of which 3,227 were offered admission.

He said, “The University of Ibadan is committed to the development of distance education and the sustenance of its leadership role in this mode. It is this goal that prompted the university to, among other enormous strides, embark on the construction of a 1,500 capacity Computer-Based Testing Centre to ease the delivery platform to students in the DLC, especially in the conduct of examinations.”

Olayinka also announced that the various revalidation exercises conducted by the NUC indicated that the Distance Learning programme of the University of Ibadan “is on a strong footing, and the centre is being considered as a flagship for other aspiring institutions in Nigeria to emulate.”

He advised the new students to shun all forms of anti-social activities in order not to truncate their expected goals. He also urged them to take maximum advantage of the various facilities provided to aid their learning, and to comport themselves in a way that would protect the image of the university.

20

education

Thursday, 16 June, 2016

Lagos begins 13-week skill training for LASU, LASPOTECH students Naza Okoli - Lagos

T

he Lagos State Ministry of Education last week launched a 13week entrepreneurship training for final year students of the Lagos State University (LASU) and Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH).

A statement issued by the management of LASU at the weekend indicates that

more than 500 students are expected to take part in the training.

“The programme is aimed at equipping over 500 students with the critical skills and knowhow important in either becoming employable by corporate organisations, or employers of labour, through the setting up of small scale businesses. The programme will run for 13 weeks, Saturdays only, this second (2nd) Semester.”

The statement also indicates that successful participants would be eligible for funding and internship opportunities.

“To graduate from the programme, the students are required to attend at least 21 out of 24 sessions; arrive and be seated at least

five minutes before every session; and complete all required modules and assessments.”

Tagged ‘Ready, Set,

Teachers from 23 states jostle for Maltina Teachers’ award ORGANISERS of the 2016 Maltina Teacher of the Year Award say they have received scores of entries from teachers across 23 states for the contest, which has been endorsed

by the Nigerian Union of Teachers, NUT. Maltina Teacher of the Year Award is an initiative of the Nigerian Breweries Plc/Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust, which is de-

signed to reward commitment and diligence to duty by exceptional teachers across the country.

Mr Edem Vindah, Nigerian Breweries’ Sustainability/Regulatory Rela-

its programmes to ensure their safety.

He reminded the students that they were yet to be bona fide students of the university until they obtain

the mandatory 50 per cent requirement in the examination, which he said would enable them secure admission into the mainstream of the university.

UNILORIN prelim school admits 2,560 Biola Azeez - Ilorin The University of Ilorin School of Preliminary Studies (SPS), Fufu, Kwara State, has admitted 2,560 students for its 2015/2016 remedial programmes.

Speaking with journalists during 2016 orientation programme for the new students in Fufu on Monday, the director of the school, Professor Mohammed Mustapha-Akanbi, said that over 6,000 students applied for admission into the school, which runs only science and artsbased courses, and that 2,741 candidates accepted the offer while 2,560 paid school fees.

“Since its inception, the SPS has successfully presented several thousands of students for admission into the mainstream of the university. For instance, in the 2014/2015 academic session, well over 2,000 students that met the entry requirements gained admission into the University of Ilorin.

“A major attraction and benefit is the fact that the pass grade of 50 per cent score obtained at the SPS examination has an expiry date of two years.

This means that a student who scored 50 per cent or above, but who for one reason or the other is unable to secure admission within relevant admission will have his/her result ‘banked’ and re-presented for admission in the following year without having to go through the formal training again,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, the vice chancellor of the university, Professor AbdulGaniyu Ambali, rep-

resented by the deputy vice chancellor (academics), Professor Abiodun Durosaro, warned that the institution would not tolerate “co-habitation of students

of opposite sex.”

Professor Ambali also said that the university had made hostel accommodation compulsory for all students willing to run

From left, Dolapo Otegbayi, Marketing Manager, Peak; Niyi Williams, chef; Esther Adeniyi, representative of YABATECH Secondary School, the winner of the cooking competition; Omolara Banjoko, Senior Brand Manager, Peak; and Dr Elo Ukatu, Public Health Physician, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), during the Friesland Campina (Peak Milk) World Milk Day and Students Cooking Competition held at the LTV 8, Ikeja, Lagos, last Wednesday. PHOTO: Sylvester Okoruwa.

Firm holds science exhibition for secondary schools in Ondo Hakeem Gbadamosi-Akure No fewer than 20 secondary schools across Ondo State participated in a science exhibition organised by a private company, Bawalyz Global Concepts, which was targeted at developing science students and preparing them for future challenges.

Speaking during the exhibition in Akure, the state capital, where different projects were presented by the students, the managing

director of Bawalyz Global Concepts, Mrs Jumoke Abdulahi, said the exhibition was put together by the company to bring out the best in the students and to promote scientific innovation.

She noted that scientific learning should go beyond learning within the four corners of a classroom, but through students putting what they learn in school into practice.

“We are experiencing global changes for now,

and we also put at the back of the mind of the students that they can be more productive for their immediate environment, by becoming entrepreneurs even when they are still in school.

“We are doing this to let the students know that technology has gone beyond what they used to think in the past; and by the time these students see other schools developing, they will go back to their schools to develop more,” she said.

Methodist old students charge Ajimobi, donate books to student

By Tunde Adegbola The Alumni Chairman of 1985/1991 set of Methodist High School, LagosIbadan Expressway, in Oluyole Local Government Area of Oyo State, Mr Ganiyu Kareem, has urged Governor Abiola Ajimobi, to invest more on public schools’ infrastruc-

ture to enhance the condition of learning.

He said that the idea of returning schools to missionaries by the state government should be abolished.

Kareem gave the charge at the school premises in Ibadan, during a programme organised by 1991 set to inspire the students

Work’, the training is an initiative of the Special Adviser on Education to Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, Mr Obafela Bank-Olemoh.

on their academic pursuit.

The programme featured the presentation of books, financial rewards and trophies to current best students in Science, Arts and Commercial classes.

While lamenting the current poor condition of the school, he pointed out that the school was no longer the same as it was, add-

ing that the alumni of the school would not relent in their efforts to ensure that the school regains its lost glory.

He, however, charged current students of the school to rise above the challenges confronting them with respect to adequate learning and personal development.

She advocated for greater emphasis on the teaching of science in schools, as “there are so many things that can be better through scientific exploration.

“Charity begins at home.

The Bible says ‘if the foundation is destroyed, what will the righteous do?’ So, the present state of the nation is also affiliated with the elementary and the fundamental state of many students at the moment, because the people we see or look up to today were once students.

“For instance there’s a project in this exhibition on how cassava water can generate electricity. It was broken from ethanol, which further gives energy.”

Mrs Abdulahi, however, solicited government’s support in the realisation of development of sciences in schools and also in funding projects being executed by the students, noting that it would go a long way to develop the nation.

tionships Manager, said interested teachers should download from and submit completed application forms to the Maltina website www.maltinanigeria.com; sendvia email to maltinateacheroftheyear@heineken. com or post to P.M.B. 12632, Marina, Lagos.

The deputy general secretary, Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Mr Wole Oyeniyi, at the flag off of the 2016 edition of the contest in Lagos recently commended the initiative and declared the support of the union for the project.

“This is the first time that an organisation is putting up a project of this magnitude for teachers in Nigeria. We really appreciate you and the contribution your organisation is making towards the improvement of the education sector in Nigeria,” he said.

In its maiden edition last year, the competition was limited to teachers in the nation’s public secondary schools, but the scope has been extended this year to include private secondary schools.

Kufre Ekanem, NB Plc’s Corporate Affairs Adviser, said the quality of the 2015 winner encouraged the organisers to believe that teachers in the nation’s public schools can match their counterparts in the private schools.

Ekanem added that collection of applications would last till 30th June 2016.

According to Ekanem, each state champion will get N500,000 and the top 10 teachers will be recognised before the grand winners are announced.

The second and first runners-up will receive trophies and an additional N750,000 and N1 million respectively.

The Maltina Teacher of the Year 2016 will get an additional N1,000,000 instantly plus N1 million every year for the next five years, a development training opportunity abroad and a block of classrooms built at the school where he/she teaches.

“It is our hope that through the Maltina Teacher of the Year initiative, we can inspire this nation to accord our teachers their deserved credit and bring back respect to the teaching profession in Nigeria,” Ekanem added.

21

education

Thursday, 16 June, 2016

Academics can save Nigeria from economic doldrums — Crawford VC Naza Okoli, Lagos

T

HE vice chancellor, University of Crawford University, Igbesa, Ogun State, Professor Isaac Rotimi Ajayi, says Nigeria would overcome all its current economic challenges if members of the nation’s academic community would point the government in the right direction.

Ajayi said this while giving the opening speech at the university’s 4th International Conference held recently at the Multipurpose Hall of the university.

He said: “If Nigeria would get out of its present state of economic doldrums, the academia would need to rise and live up to their expectations by evolving alternative view based on objective rigorous researches.

It is time for the academia to draw the attention of the government to areas that would boost the economy.

“There is no gainsaying

that capital expenditure, welfare and public services are dwarfed by the current structure of expenditure where about 80 per cent of the national income is paid as wages to public sector workers.”

While delivering the keynote address, Mr Victor Eremosele, chief executive officer of M E Consulting, who spoke on the topic ‘Re-inventing the Nigerian Economy,’ said the nation’s economy required a

complete overhaul. “‘Reposition’ means to change the direction of the vehicle. ‘Reinvent’ means to change to a more suitable vehicle. Nigerian economy appears more in need of the latter than

the former. Nigeria’s GDP grew by -0.365 per cent in the first quarter of 2016, down from six per cent only two years ago.”

Eremesole also agreed that much progress would be recorded if the “yawn-

Don canvasses cost sharing, agric extension policy Adelowo Oladipo - Minna

From left, Group Public Relations and Event Manager, Dufil Prima Foods Plc, Mr Tope Ashiwaju; winner, 2016 Spelling Bee, Secondary Category, Master Olaseinde Oluwafemi, and 2nd place winner, Master Komolafe Kehinde, during the prize presentation to the winners at Lateef Bayero Hall, Alausa, Ikeja, on Monday. PHOTO: SYLvester Okoruwa

Students taught values of savings investment As Zenith bank holds Financial literacy day at IGS

by Laolu Harolds

The need to create awareness among school children about investment in its various forms, as well as to prepare them for a better financial life in the future was the thrust of the Financial Literacy Day held on Tuesday June 7, 2016 by the Zenith Bank Plc, at the Ibadan Grammar School, Ibadan, Oyo State.

Financial Literacy Day is a Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) initiative, and Tuesday’s event was the second such programme held at

the school by the Zenith Bank.

Mr Lawrence Akande, Regional Manager, Zenith Bank, who addressed the students, told Tribune Education in an interview that the programme was designed to teach students “financial discipline and to create awareness of the financial products available in the country that they can tap into, especially when they become adults.”

The principal of the school, Mr O. F. Ajani, in his brief address, thanked Zenith Bank “for bringing

to our doorsteps this wonderful programme,” which he said would definitely enrich the students’ attitudes, knowledge and skills required to manage funds in the future.

Mr Akande took the students, step-by-step, through several concepts in financial management, banking and investment, beginning with the definition of ‘financial literacy’ itself.

“When we have money in our hands,” he started, “we can do a lot with it besides buying things; the smart

ones among us can do a lot of things (with money) without necessarily spending it on food.”

Akande spoke about the benefits of imbibing the saving culture and, better still, investing money for the rainy day.

He defined and explained basic concepts like ‘legal tender’, ‘trade by barter’ as well as spoke on the evolution of what is today known as ‘money’, in its various forms.

The first metal money, according to him, started in China in 1200 BC. He also

FG to review Nigeria’s education curricula Clement Idoko - Abuja A Professor of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry from the Nigeria/Turkish University, Abuja, Onyii Nwagbara, has called on the Federal Government to review the nation's education curricula in order to promote science and technology.

He particularly advised government to encourage the development of renewable energy in the country by ensuring that youth receive quality education in that direction.

ing gap between the academia (which creates talents) and real world (which uses talents)” were bridged. He also appealed to the private sector to “invest in value-adding research.”

Professor Nwagbara spoke at a three-day workshop organised by the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), in collaboration with the Toncia Energy Consulting and Professional Services Limited, for all the work cadres in the organisation.

Nwagbara called on government at all levels and other stakeholders to review the educational curricula in the Nigerian school system, if government's policy for the attainment of uninterrupted power supply is to be achieved.

He said: “Luckily for us, Nigeria is blessed. Renewable energy is free; it’s God’s gift to man: the wind around us; the sun, which we have in abundance; geothermal, the heat beneath our feet; hot springs and all.

“All we need to do in Nigeria is to put our acts together to ensure it is commercially viable. We need to educate our very, very enterprising and intelligent youth to be able to come into the ‘green field’, to be able to develop our country sustainably.”

The media consultant to

Toncia Energy Consulting and Professional Services Limited, Mr Enyinnaya Sampson, said the training programme was in a bid to enhance the productivity level of her workforce as well as reposition the organisation for the challenges ahead in the oil sub-sector.

In his remarks, the General Manager, Strategy and Planning, PTDF, Mr Jide Adebulehin, thanked Toncia Consults for putting up the training programme for enhanced performance of the agency's workforce.

recounted how paper money started as ‘promisory notes’, before it eventually evolved into polymer and its present form.

Terms such as Biometric Verification Number (BVN), Personal Identification Number (PIN), withdrawal/deposit slip, cheque, Automated Teller Machine (ATM), debit and credit cards, and how these differ from prepaid cards were explained were explained, while students were encouraged to ask questions at any point they required further clarification.

But particularly, he took time to explain how (and why it is important) to “grow money”, as well as the various concepts associated with it, such as ‘interest’, ‘active and passive income’, ‘stock’ and ‘dividend’.

At the end of the teaching, students were divided into groups and each group was encouraged to appoint a leader/representative who would answer questions on their behalf.

Questions were posed to each group, and correct answers were rewarded with gifts. At the end of the day, every student who participated in the programme went home with a gift courtesy of Zenith Bank.

The Head of Department, Agriculture Economic Extension of the Federal University of Technology (FUT) Minna, Professor Oladimeji Bolaji Adeniji, has advocated the need for cost sharing among the federal, state and local governments in Nigeria as well as the communities in parts of the country, saying this is essential if the nation is desirous of revitalising the agricultural extension in its decision to diversify the economy.

He stated further that the Federal Government, in conjunction with the other two tiers of government, as well as the stakeholders in the agricultural sector should also put in place an Agricultural Extension and Advisory Service (AEAS) policy in order to attain food security and meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

Professor Adeniji stated this while delivering the 43rd Inaugural Lecture of FUT, Minna at its Caverton Lecture Theatre, permanent campus, Gidan Kwano.

In the lecture titled ‘Agricultural Extension for Food Security: Implications for Sustainable Development Goals’, Professor Adeniji stressed the need to urgently address the challenges affecting the coordination of extension and advisory services to attain the required pace of development.

He also proposed a cost sharing ratio of 36 per cent, 25 per cent, 35 per cent and 40 per cent among the federal government, state governments, local government councils and communities respectively.

He also made a case for a demand-driven approach to AEAS, noting that it has a variety of tools consistent with a pluralistic extension system to be deployed in providing targeted, effective and efficient response to the needs of the clientele.

22

education

Thursday, 16 June, 2016

FUTA student wins international grant To partake in UN space workshop in Mexico

O

NIOSUN Temidayo Isaiah, a 500 level student of the Department of Meteorology and Climate Science, Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), has emerged one of the 14 global winners of the 2016 International Astro-

nomical Federation (IAF) Emerging Space Leaders Grant instituted by the International Astronomical

Federation, Paris, France.

The grant which was keenly contested with more than 100 students

and young professionals from 38 countries around the world submitting applications to participate

in the programme, produced two African winners – Oniosun, and Tijesu Ojumu, a graduate of FUTA,

Lafia Varsity to commence courses in medical sciences Godwin Agwam - Lafia THE Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Lafia, Nasarawa State, Professor Muhammad Liman, has said that the institution will commence offering courses in Medical Sciences from the 2016/2017 academic session.

The vice chancellor, who was represented by the registrar of the institution, Dr Idris Jibrin, when he played host to officials of the state's council of Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), who were on inspection tour to the university, said two programmes in the proposed new faculty are already waiting for accreditation by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

He also said that the Dalhatu Afraf Specialist Hospital, Lafia, has already been donated to the institution by the state government for the smooth takeoff of the programme, and that the state government has fully transferred the ownership of its take-off site to the institution.

Professor Liman disclosed that the institution currently runs eight programmes with full accreditation and five programmes with interim accreditation.

The vice chancellor also said that plans have reached advanced stage to commence postgraduate studies in the university.

Tribune Education reports that officials of the NUJ, led by the state chairman, Dan Yakubu, visited the institution's facilities, which included an ICT centre, science laboratories, 300-seater capacity auditorium and faculty building projects.

Proprietor, Crescent University, Abeokuta, Judge Bola Ajibola (middle), Erelu Abiola-Dosunmu (fourth from right); CEO, Dukelands Construction Limited, AlhajaAmatullahAjibola (third from right); vice chancellor, Professor IbraheemGbajabiamila; registrar, Mr Zachariya Ademola Ajibola and members Erelu AbiolaDosunmu’s entourage during the inspection visit.

Abiola-Dosunmu donates Law auditorium to Crescent varsity HER Royal Highness, Erelu Abiola Dosunmu, has been applauded for her endowment of the new Bola Ajibola College of Law auditorium building of Crescent University, Abeokuta.

The Founder/Proprietor of Crescent University, Judge Bola Ajibola, remarked that the donor had done what would immortalise her name forever and which had earned her the accolade ‘Mother of Crescent University.’

Ajibola made this remarks during an inspection visit of AbiolaDosunmu to the site of the on-going building.

By donating the building, Abiola-Dosunmu is the first female alumnus of the university to donate such an edifice.

Expressing his deep appreciation, Ajibola recounted that similar kind gestures had been extended to the university by other personalities like Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Sir KesingtonAdebutu, Mallam Yusuf Ali, Alhaji Femi Okunnu, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Mr Raji Fashola, the late Alhaji Wahab Folawiyo and late Dr Remi

Olowude.

He acknowledged DrAbiola-Dosunmu as a lady who is conscious of tomorrow and somebody "to be compared with those who established Cambridge, Oxford Harvard universities.”

Earlier in his welcome speech, the Vice Chancellor, Professor IbraheemGbajabiamila, conceded that the donor had added her name to the legacies

of “our benefactors in this university,” and that such benefaction was the best investment she could make in her lifetime.

Professor Gbajabiamila lamented that running a private university is a daunting task and that it would take between 25 to 30 years for such a university to break even.

Describing Crescent University as a university for the future, the vice

chancellor said Judge Ajibola decided on his retirement to invest his entire wealth to widen access to tertiary education.

Responding and describing the edifice as incredible, Erelu AbiolaDosunmu said “my utmost desire is to continue to make contributions towards projects of this nature. I pledge and promise to make further contributions.”

who currently works at the National Space Research and Development Agency.

Oniosun, the President of the University Space Club under the Centre for Space Research and Applications (CESRA), will participate in the 67th International Astronomical Congress, Space Generation Congress and UN/IAF Workshop in Guadalajara, Mexico between September 21 and October 2, 2016.

During the congress, Oniosun will be presenting series of research works and a paper on the ‘University Space Club;’ analysing past and ongoing projects/events as well as shedding light on the club’s mission with a view to collaborating with other space enthusiasts.

The Emerging Space Leaders (ESL) grant is usually awarded to students and young professionals between the ages of 21 and 35 adjudged to have contributed the most to Space Science and Technology in the World.

Reacting to the development, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Adebiyi Daramola, expressed gratitude to God for the continuous growth of the university, particularly in terms of research and collaboration, which he noted has been very instrumental in taking and sustaining the university in the global market.

He expressed fulfillment that the university was able to compete favourably in the global intellectual market and acquire numerous laurels at both student and staff levels.

Bayelsa gov, others to be honoured at EKSU convocation Shola Oladipupo - Ado-Ekiti TWO important dignitaries are to be honoured during this year’s 21st convocation ceremony of the Ekiti State University.

Those to be conferred with honorary degrees include a telecommunication mogul, Mr Gbenga Oyebode, and the Governor of Bayelsa State, His Excellency Henry Seriake Dickson.

Asides the two dignitaries, the Chancellor of the University, His Royal Majesty Oba Adegoke Adeyemi, the Alara of Aramoko Ekiti will also be conferred with an honorary degree.

The Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Samuel Oye Bandele, has declared that all the graduating students of the university would take their certificates on the convocation day at the rate of N10,000 instead of the current N25,000.

The convocation for the award of first degrees will take place on Friday, 24 June, while the award of higher degrees and conferment of honorary degrees will take place on Saturday, 25 June, 2016.

Meanwhile, fresh students of the university at the Osun State College of Education, Ila-Orangun,

took the matriculation oath recently.

While telling them that the secret of the success at EKSU lies in the strong desire to maintain high academic standards and moral probity, the vice chancellor advised the new students to avoid unwholesome behaviours, as the university authorities would monitor their activities very closely.

“As new members of EKSU family, you should work assiduously to justify the dreams of the founding fathers by playing responsible roles in contributing to the human development needs of our country,” the VC said.

He warned that the university would not hesitate to expel any student whose behaviour does not conform with acceptable norms of the university.

The Provost of the College, Professor Isaac Oyewole, said that the college would continue to sustain the relationship with EKSU because of the high standard of the institution.

He advised the students to be of modest behaviour and warned that indiscipline would not be tolerated.

At the occasion, the EKSU registrar, Akin Arogundade, administered the matriculation oath to the students.

23

T hursday, 16 June, 2016 Editor:

health

Sade Oguntola sadeboguntola@yahoo.com 0805 506 9260

Sickle cell disorder:

Prevalent, but still misunderstood

June 19 every year is commemorated as World Sickle Cell Day (WSCD) as designated by the United Nations. This year, as Nigeria marks this day along with other countries of the world, VERA ONANA writes an exposé on the condition.

S

“

he suffered as a child. She was given all sorts of things as treatment. She even had a special pot for snake meat.

Sometimes during crises, they will tie her upper arms and legs tightly with raffia and keep her on a mat outside the house. At other times, they put her in a big basin of hot water. She suffered terribly due to ignorance and it was only when she was all grown up that she found out she had Sickle Cell Disorder. She is over 50 years and still lives with it.”

Those were the words of a son about his mother who wasn’t diagnosed for years and lived through hell. Though that was several years ago, how well has the general perspective, conception and knowledge of the Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) improved in today’s Nigeria? A lot of people remain grossly uninformed about the disorder even though as at 2014, Nigeria, has the highest prevalence of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) in the world. Also, over 40 million Nigerians carrying the “S” gene.

The figure as a matter of fact has not decreased but is rather on the rise. Unfortunately, Nigeria has the largest population of people with sickle cell disorder, with about 150,000 births annually. The incidence of sickle cell anemia in Nigeria is among the highest in the world, with more than 100,000 Nigerian children being born each year with the disorder. Those with the disease suffer a higher than average frequency of illness and premature death, especially in infancy. The condition can also cause heart attack, kidney failure, severe infections and sudden death.

Indeed, this number far exceeds the total population of every other affected African country and several of them put together.

Despite the large number of people with sickle cell disorder, the Nigerian society in general still has a negative image of SCD and reported negative perceptions and attitude.

Ironically however, SCD remains misconstrued by the general populace as several erroneous misconceptions trail the disease.

This year, as the world marks another world sickle cell day, honorary Consultant haematologist, Dr Olawunmi Oluwayemisi, of the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) speaks elaborately on SCD in a bid to straighten out the several misconceptions that cloud the condition. She started “The gene responsible for SCD is the S gene. It is an abnormal gene that is responsible for the production of abnormal haemoglobin that causes the red blood cells to sickle when they circulate in areas with low oxygen tension in the blood vessels.” However, she went on, “despite the fact that it is non-communicable unlike Ebola, HIV and others, the fact that Nigeria has the highest burden of Sickle Cell Disorder (SCD) in the world with 150,000 new births every year may be because of the survival advantage that children who are carriers of sickle cell gene (AS) have over children that are AA in malaria endemic regions like Nigeria. AA children below the age of five years die more from malaria than AS children, so AS children survive better than

AA children. Consequently, there are many carriers of the S gene in Nigeria and when two carriers of this gene make a child; the chance of having an SS baby is 25 per cent for every pregnancy.”

The expert described how sickle red blood cells are different from normal blood cells, saying “the difference between a normal child and a child with SCD is in the red blood cell. The red blood cell of a normal child is biconcave in shape and it is very flexible which makes it to be able to manoeuver through tiny blood vessels whose diameter are smaller than the size of the red cell. The red cells of a child with SCD, on the other hand, are sickle in shape and rigid. They cannot manoeuver through tiny blood vessels and so they can obstruct blood flow through such vessels.”

Dr Oluwayemisi itemised certain distinguishing features that characterises people living with SCD. She said that usually, they have certain distinguishing physical features like thin arms and bloated stomachs for some reasons. “This is attributed to the fact that the sickle red blood cells in their blood is rigid and blocks blood vessels that supply oxygenated blood to different parts of the body including the bones and organs in the abdomen, thereby causing damage and stunted growth.”

“The disorder is as well characterised by acute and chronic pain in most parts of the body, bone pains, painful and swollen hands and/or feet in children, anemia, infections,

enlarged liver and spleen.”

She added that people living with SCD have crisis like people living with asthma, stating what a typical SCD crisis entails she said “there are four major crises that the people living with SCD struggle with. There is what is called vaso-occlusive crisis (pain crisis) and this is the most distinguishing clinical feature of SCD. It is due to lack of oxygen supply to various organs in the body, thus leading to pain.”

“Another is hyperhaemolytic crisis; this increases the rate of destruction of the patient’s red blood cells, leading to severe anaemia. Aplastic crisis also occurs in which the patient’s bone marrow temporarily stops producing red cell due to viral infection. This also leads to severe anaemia. Sequestration crisis is another, in this kind; red blood cells are trapped in the spleen or liver leading to enlargement of these organs and consequently, severe anaemia.”

What triggers crisis for people living with SCD differs, she said. “For most of them, what triggers crises could include dehydration, infections like malaria and environmental temperature change.”

She elucidated on priapism, a sex-linked crisis that affect males living with SCD. “It is also known as painful penile erection. It is common in adolescents. It is caused by accumulation of blood in the penis. The penis remains erect and does not return to its flaccid state, despite the absence of physical and psychological stimulation.” While other diseases like thalassaemia and Haemoglobin C disease can be associated with SCD, certain treatment options are available. “Option to reduce the amount of sickle cells in the blood include Hydroxyurea therapy, Blood transfusion and exchange blood transfusion. As a matter of fact, bone marrow transplantation can provide cure.” Sadly however, she bemoaned the lack of facilities for such treatments in the country. “Though we have the manpower, enough haematologists, it is unfortunate that we do not have enough facilities to tackle SCD.” That being said, we must not underestimate premarital counselling.

“People need to know their genotype early enough before they become committed into any relationship that can lead to marriage,” she concluded.

Although the development is commendable, the once-in-a-year campaign is relatively inadequate to achieve the desired result on such a public health problem that has moral and religious undertone in the diverse society across the globe.

In Nigeria, under the former President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, the Federal Ministry of Health in collaboration with the MDG office in 2011 and 2012 empowered six Federal Medical Centres in the six geopolitical zones to run dedicated clinics and programmes for the management and control of SCD. Also, the Sickle Cell Centre at Idi-Araba, Lagos, is a laudable one, but inadequate for the 3.4 million Nigerians with SCD and the 150, 000 children who are born with the disease yearly. The situation demands that more of such centres be replicated across the country.

Sex, Sexuality&your health

natural health

Pako Ijebu, new mouthwash to come!

Page 26

All about male genital hygiene Page 26

24

Thursday, 16 June, 2016

Dr. Ben Ajayi 0805 400 5447

you-and-eye@gmail.com

Dr. Johnson’s sudden change in vision

D

r. Johnson is a 55-year-old experienced surgeon who works in a big hospital in one of our cities. He is extremely busy, attending to over 150 patients and performing about 25 surgical operations every week. Last Monday was not a particularly good day for Dr. Johnson. He had about nine patients on his operation list.

Having commenced work at 7.00am, he was just on the third patient at 11.00am. He knew he was unusually slow, yet he could not pin it down to anything in particular. He believed he was in good health and had remembered to check his fasting blood sugar the week before. He had passed urine a little more frequently than usual in the preceding three days. The result was, however, reported as within normal limits.

“May be it is this heat” he rationalised.

He had had to do the last surgery without any air-conditioning in the operating theatre because the notorious PHCN had done what it knew how best to do – “Power Holding.” The larger generator in the hospital had broken down from overuse and the smaller one was barely adequate to power the lights and the key items of

equipment needed for the surgery.

Intermittently, Dr. Johnson experienced mild blurring of his vision. “I think I will call it a day after this one” he said to himself.

“Michael” calling to his assistant, “You may have to do the other cases except the next one which I expect may give you some difficulties. We shall put that on our list for Friday.”

“What is the matter sir?,” asked Dr Michael. “You seemed to be doing quite fine except…” “Except that I am unusually slow,” added Dr Johnson, completing the sentence for Dr Michael. “I have intermittent blurring of vision and I have to go and see my ophthalmologist,” he added.

Dr Johnson discovered to his amazement that he could see distance clearly with the reading part of his glasses. This, he knew was unusual and later told the ophthalmologist. In the past, he saw blurred objects whenever he looked through that portion of his glasses.

“Are you a diabetic” asked Dr Owo-Eye, the consultant ophthalmologist. “Not at all” replied Dr Johnson, showing him the result of the fasting blood sugar he did a week before. “I have examined your eyes

and cannot find any abnormality. The commonest cause of fluctuation in vision is diabetic hyperglycaemia (high level of sugar in the blood). I am sure you know that. We must repeat this test,” said Dr. Owo-Eye. Dr Johnson had a random blood sugar test done immediately and a fasting blood sugar the following morning. He was alarmed at the very high values. The fluctuations in his vision had saved him from going into coma by forcing him to seek attention.

Apart from diabetes, there are other causes of painless loss of vision or fluctuations in the acuity of vision. These include mild bleeding into the eyes from sickle cell

My wife just reported that she couldn’t see well with her glasses. It all started suddenly after a meeting she held in her office.

disease, sudden increases in intraocular pressure due to various causes, severe hypertension and neurological causes.

“By the way, did you say your blood pressure was normal?” asked Dr OwoEye. “Yes, it was 140/90mmHg,” replied Dr Johnson. “I think I would like to check this personally just to be certain the reading is correct.” Dr Owo-Eye was satisfied with Dr Johnson’s BP and decided to admit him for treatment.

Just as he was concluding the arrangement, a call came through to Dr Johnson’s cell phone. As he answered, his face was twisted and mouth wide open. “What is it?” asked Dr Owo-Eye. “My wife just reported that she couldn’t see well with her glasses. It all started suddenly after a meeting she held in her office,” related Dr Johnson.

Now both doctors were puzzled. Before they could gather themselves together and decide what next to do, another call came through. This time, it was from Mrs. Johnson’s secretary. There was a smile on Dr Johnson’s face. “What’s up?” asked Dr Owo-Eye in anticipation. “Mrs. Johnson had picked up someone else’s glasses!” said Dr. Johnson gleefully.

Dr Abayomi Ajayi

ivf &you

info@nordicalagos.org

0700 6673422

The other side of infertility Peju and Dapo had been trying to have a baby for six years when they finally thought of seeking professional help through Assisted Reproduction Technique (ART). Initially, they were convinced that the problem was with Peju. Usually, couples think most problems with infertility are due to the woman. The doctor they met suggested Dapo’s sperm is checked too, simply because it makes it a lot easier to narrow the problem that way. It was a great shock when they discovered that he was Azoospermic, that is, he had zero sperm count!

Azoospermia is not a very common condition quite right, but it happens. Often it could be caused by a blockage and the only definite way to find out what was responsible in this case was to have a testicle biopsy. They did a hormone check and the result came back a little odd. So they had the biopsy and the conclusion was that he lacked any sperm producing cells. All the investigations done on Peju including Laparoscopy came back normal.

The couple was devastated, but at the same time happy that they finally knew what was wrong. They were then persuaded to try out the procedure of Intrauterine insemination (IUI) using donor sperm. At first, Dapo was unsure about his ability to raise a child that was not biologically his, but later decided it was probably their only hope because the couple could not even begin to think of adoption.

Peju had a really hard time trying to pinpoint her ovulation and after two failed attempts was put on the fertility drug clomid that made it much easier to tell when she was ovulating. After two failed attempts of Intra-uterine insemination , the couple decided to do another cycle and this time luck shone on them. Four weeks later she tested positive and was pregnant.

It was really great for Dapo as well. He felt so much involved and he was with Peju throughout. He was there through all the IUI’s and through the pregnancy. After nine months, Peju gave birth to a beautiful and healthy baby girl, Damilola. Now, Dami as she is fondly called is two and a half years old and her parents have never had regrets because she looks so much like both of them. They never even mentioned to each other about the donor but are both very thankful to him.

Six months after the birth of her daughter, Peju herself became a donor. She wanted to help others achieve parenthood as well. The lesson here is that you should not give up. It is all worth it over again if it works. By the time most couples have reached a point of asking for reproductive assistance, they’ve usually learned that the infertility experience is far more than just a physical challenge. The truth is that trying to conceive without success places an emotional strain on partnerships and on each individual’s sense of well-being.

For this reason, fertility experts have

long recognised the importance of offering psychological services to their patients.

In some practices and for some patients situations, involvement with a counsellor maybe mandatory in helping people experiencing infertility. There are independent consultants who offer their experience in assisting women and couples with issues surrounding infertility, pregnancy loss, and postpartum adjustment. At these consultations, things like personal and family history of psychiatric treatments, alcoholism or drug abuse, emotional instability, individual and family medical history are discussed. Others like learning disorders and /or cognitive impairment and sexual and gynaecological history also come up.

There are usually a number of other important considerations, such as the couple’s beliefs. It’s important to look at the grieving response of both partners. It is better to explore the couple’s relationship in regards to whether they are fully in agreement, or if some level of appeasement is going on.

Timing intercourse to achieve pregnacy and pregnancy testing It has been demonstrated that pregnancy only occurs if intercourse occurs within six days before and on the ovulation day.

From studies, it is known that intercourse after the ovulation day does not result into pregnancy. The probability of conception ranges from 10 per cent when intercourse

occurs on the day of ovulation itself.

Data suggests the best timing of intercourse in order to achieve conception is on days 10, 12, 14, and 16 (in case of late ovulation) of a 28 day cycle or days -4.-2, 0, +2 in relation to expected ovulation in the case of cycles different than 28 days.

PREGNANCY TESTING The general rule of thumb can be used to test for pregnancy a day after late menses or about 15 days after ovulation. The test can be positive anywhere from about two to three days prior to a missed menstrual cycle to four to five days after.

Modern pregnancy tests available over the counter are as accurate as those done at the chemist or in the hospital. The tests are very sensitive to HCG (human chorionic gonadotrophin) also called the pregnancy hormone. The test can be positive a few days before the missed period. An early morning urine is usually most concentrated with this hormone and is best used to achieve accuracy.

Sometimes, women find that they have test positive pregnancy test but later they start their period or it becomes negative.

The earlier pregnancy is detected ,the more likely to find miscarriages. Testing with extremely sensitive pregnancy kits show that one in two or three pregnancies are not carried to term. These biochemical pregnancies as they are called, are not clinically diagnosed.

25 healthnews

Thursday, 16 June, 2016

Nigeria needs 1.7 million units of safe blood annually —Minister

By Sade Oguntola

M

i n i st e r of State for Health, Dr Osagie Ehianire said Nigeria requires 1.7 million units of blood for its hospitals, saying there was an ever increasing need for safe blood in the country.

Dr Ehianire spoke at the 2016 World Blood Donor day celebration at the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS), South West zone centre.

Ehianire who spoke through NBTS Southwest Zonal coordinator, Dr Wale Oluwunmi, said health related sustainable development goals cannot be achieved without adequate supplies of safe blood for those who need it.

According to him, “blood transfusion saves lives and improves health, but many patients requiring transfusion unfortunately do not have timely access to safe blood.

“While the need for blood transfusion may arise at any time in both urban and rural areas, its unavailability has led to deaths and many patients suffering compromises health.”

The Minister therefore urged all state governments to take ownership of blood safety programme in their respective domains as a strategy to sustain blood safety programmes.

Ehianire said the National Blood Transfusion services in line with its mandate was striving to provide adequate supplies of safe blood, adding that

in 2015, the body collected 60,385 units of blood from voluntary blood donors through its 17 centres.

NBTS, he said, however issued 45,394 units of blood for blood transfu-

sion in various hospitals, nationwide.

According to him, “while the demand for blood is growing in the developed world with longevity and increasingly sophisticated

clinical procedures, national blood supplies are not sufficient to meet existing requirements in developing countries” He reiterated the importance of creating and ex-

panding a strong base of voluntary blood donors by healthy committed youths and adults, who he described also as the safest group of donors.

According to him, “our

From left: Coordinator, LUTH’s Cardiac project, Dr Olugbenga Olusoji; Dr Ezekiel Ogunleye; Head of LUTH’s Cardiac Project, Professor Jane Ajuluchukwu; Chief Medical Director, LUTH, Professor Chris Bode; Chairman, Medical Advisor Committee, LUTH, Professor Olufemi Fasanmade; and Dr Adetola Daramola and Professor Christy Okoroma and others at the hospital’s briefing to announce seven open heart surgeries carried out at the hospital, recently.

World Milk Day 2016: 5 million children suffer stunted growth —Expert Newton-Ray Ukwuoma Lagos Over five million Nigerian children, about 15 per cent of the younger generation between the ages of zero and 15, are estimated to suffer from stunted growth as a result of insufficient dairy products intake, a Public

Health Physician of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Dr. Elochukwu Ukatu has said.

Addressing a gathering of school children during the 15th edition of the World Milk Day celebration organised by Peak Milk in Lagos, Nigeria, Dr Ukatu said the absence of pro-

tein-filled dairy products in the daily nutrition of children results in “stunting,” a condition she said is “a reflection of chronic malnutrition”.

Ukatu, who said the condition cannot be reversed at an older age even when protein is sufficiently taken, encouraged parents to ensure

children within the ages of 0 and 15 years take proteinfilled products such as milk daily, stating that “stunting is not a condition one can recover from”.

“When a child is underweight, the child can be fed to gain weight, but a stunted child may not catch up with other children even if he is

Fidson campaigns for better health care for Nigerian children

Concerned about the recent report by United Nations Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF) on Child Mortality and Malnutrition in Nigeria, Fidson Healthcare Plc is clamouring for better child health and nutrition, as part of its support for the global campaign against Child mortality.

UNICEF’s recent report stated that every minute one child under the age of one dies in Nigeria while five women die every hour at childbirth. Many of these deaths are from preventable causes, such as pneumonia, malaria and diarrhoea in the case of children, and excessive bleeding and infection in the case of maternal deaths.

UNICEF also revealed that more than half of the children in five northern states in Nigeria suffer severe effects of malnutrition. It also stated that as a result of malnutrition,

statistics show that 10 per cent of our current national blood supply is from this source, while 60 per cent comes from commercial blood donors and 30 per cent from family replacement donors as practiced in the hospital setting. This needs to be reserved to move us towards obtaining 100 per cent voluntary nonremunerated blood donation by the year 2020.”

APIN’s representative, Mr Kehinde Olatunde who urged Nigerians to be regular blood donors, said it has many benefits to the donor and the motive should always be to save lives.

At the event, President JCI, Ibadan, Mr Wale Bakare, said its members and their friends were going to donate 100 units of blood, saying for the past few weeks on the social media, its members had embarked on blood donor drive among their friends.

Bakare, who said blood donation was to be a regular exercise by the group, declared that its members were doing this in support of those that need blood to be healthy.

58 per cent of children under five in these states suffer from stunting, meaning their physical and mental development have been impaired. An estimated 370,000 children with severe acute malnutrition in these states will require life-saving treatment this year. Without such treatment, some 70,000 of those children are likely to die, it reported.

Expressing concern about the worrisome statistics, General Manager, Sales & Marketing, Fidson Healthcare Plc, Mr Ola Ijimakin advocated for the involvement of all stakeholders in addressing the issues of child health, mortality, and malnutrition in Nigeria.

“There is the need to save the future of this country by paying serious attention to the health and wellbeing of our children as a matter of urgency. We cannot continue to fold our hands

and watch our children suffer malnutrition or die of preventable diseases. The government, organisations, groups and even individuals at family level must play a role to help save a child”, he noted.

Ijimakin acknowledged the efforts of the Nigerian government through the Federal Ministry of Health’s Integrated Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (IMNCH) in making frantic efforts at addressing this concern.

“We appreciate the Nigerian government for putting together a programme that is designed to revive primary health care in every local government.

“This programme is said to cover broadly some significant maternal and child health interventions. We hope that it will drastically reduce maternal, newborn and under-five mortality in line with the fourth and fifth

Millennium Development Goals targets. But we cannot leave it to the government alone. We all have to play a part in addressing these problems”, he emphasis3ed.

Ijimakin also recommended that with proper attention and a sustained investment in quality healthcare solutions, as well as timely intervention to the various health issues ravaging the health of the Nigerian Child will save more lives.

The pharmacist described Fidson’s role in proffering quality healthcare solutions to several health problems affecting children in Nigeria adding that Fidson also plays a major role in educating parents on the healthcare needs of their families, particularly the children through various channels of communication available to the company and through its representatives across the country.

The company also ex-

plores global health calendar events to create more enlightenment on children’s health issues, using both direct interactions, press and online media channels. Fidson also celebrates Nigerian children through programmes and events like the annual Astymin Brilliance Rewards (ABR), where excellence is celebrated and rewarded amongst basic school leavers, this has been consistent in the past five years. There is also, the Astymin School Programmes and Tuxil Health Talk in Schools etc.

Partnerships also exist with some Non-Profit organizations that focus on Children’s Health and Education. Some of them are Children Emergency Relief Foundation (CERF), Children Developmental Centre (CDC) as well as some Orphanage homes, in line with the company’s strategic CSR focus.

well fed later. And about 15 per cent of children experience stunted growth in Nigeria”.

Ukatu also stressed the importance of exclusive breast feeding for children between zero and 12 months, while noting that insufficient intake of milk and other protein enriched foods cause stunting.

She charged parents to be creative in the preparation of milk. According to her, “milk can be used to cook meals, even indigenous meals such as “moimoi” [beans pudding], “abacha,” [cassava salad] “semovita” instead of only tea and cereals”.

Ukatu, however, advised moderate consumption of milk by adults as excessive milk intake in adults can be harmful.

“Milk is good for growth and development, every child needs to take milk daily. However, since adults are no longer growing, milk intake should not be excessive or daily. It should be done in moderation because the excess may accumulate in the body. Adults at the age of 40 should discontinue milk intake,” she said.

This year’s event captioned “The Art of Milk” was witnessed by over 4000 students from 500 primary and secondary schools in Lagos.

26

Thursday, 16 June, 2016

Pako Ijebu, new mouthwash to come!

By Sade Oguntola

T

he most popular and commonly used oral hygiene kits remain the regular tooth brushes and a plethora of tooth pastes. However, some individuals have adapted traditional chew sticks.

Chewing sticks have become a favourite amongst not just local African folks, but amongst persons of affluence.

In Nigeria, almost everyone has at one time or the other used locally sourced chewing sticks for oral hygiene. This has given rise to several studies on the efficacy of local Nigerian chewing sticks against germs that cause infections and tooth decay in the mouth.

In recent times, there has been an increase in the brands of tooth pastes and upsurge in advertorials for mouth washes with claimed high efficacy in their antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antiplaque properties.

While chewing sticks and many of the toothpastes are available and affordable, many of these branded mouthwashes are quite expensive. This has conferred on these mouthwashes an ostentatious status, with many local folks believing they are not as effective as their manufacturers claim.

Mouthwashes are an adjunct to, not a substitute for, regular brushing and flossing for plaque control. Many different mouthwashes are commercially available and are recommended to treat infection, reduce swelling in gums, relieve pain, and reduce mouth odour or to deliver fluoride locally for prevention of holes in teeth.

Massularia acuminate popularly referred to by the Yoruba people of Western Nigeria as Pako Ijebu or Orini Ijebu is one local Nigerian chewing stick that has been highly researched and found good for maintaining good oral health.

Now researchers in a new study have confirmed that extracts from this chewing stick could be incorporated into tooth paste or used as mouth wash for periodontal infections.

In the study, the antimicrobial effect of its water and ethanol extract on disease causing microorganisms in the mouth was compared with that from commonly sold mouthwashes in shops. These were germs collected from the oral cavity of healthy undergraduate students of Delta State University, Abraka.

The study published in the 2016 edition of Journal of Restorative Dentistry involved researchers from the Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State. These are Emudainohwo Joseph Oghenebrorie Tedwins; OwheUreghe Ubreye Benjamin; Ewharieme Daniel Ayobola; Moke Emuesiri Goodies; and Erhirhie Earnest Oghenesuvwe.

They reported that both extracts contain potential antimicrobial substance that can be used in the control of bacterial and fungal infections, thus providing scientific support for its use in the treatment of pero-dental infections.

According to them, this chewing stick when properly used will be more effective in the treatment of pero-dental infections compared to the mouthwash used in this research given that most of the pero-dental infections are caused by bacteria.

But they added that more research should be carried out on the antimicrobial effect of the leaf, stem, and root extract of this plant to ascertain the pharmacokinetics and its mechanism of action.

Previously, researchers have also found indigenously prepared neem and mango chewstick mouthwashes, to be effective in reducing plaque.

The study involved 105 children aged between 12 and 15 years, who were randomised into three groups, namely neem, mango, and chlorhexidine mouthwash groups.

Ten millilitres each of herbal and chlorhexidine mouthwashes (0.2 per cent) were administered according to the group allocation twice daily for 21 days.

The researchers, in this study, documented in the 2014 edition of the Journal of Traditional Complement

natural

health Medicine, found a significant reduction in plague formation in all the three mouthwash groups at 21 days and at one month from discontinuing the mouthwash.

Although Chlorhexidine, the conventional mouthwash component to fight plaque, was more effective in plaque reduction at two months than the neem and mango chewing stick mouthwashes, all the three mouthwashes tested had similar effect on the gum at 21 days (immediately after discontinuing the mouthwash) and at one and \\O\E\ADVERT\HAMEKO ADVERT two months from discontinuing the mouthwash.

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sex,sexuality

&your health With Monica Taiwo

strictly adult teenagers, adult & geriatric sexual well being

08187754992 (sms only) taiwomonica@gmail.com

All about male genital hygiene It is the body part that men arguably value the most, so you owe it to your penis to always keep it clean, healthy and fit for purpose. Give it the care it deserves and you may not be the only one to benefit, your partner will probably be grateful too.

Gently wash the penis with warm water each day when you are having a shower or bath. If you have a foreskin, pull it back gently and wash underneath.

If you don’t wash underneath the foreskin correctly, a cheesy-looking substance called smegma may begin to gather. Smegma is a natural lubricant that keeps the penis moist.

It is found on the head of the penis and under the foreskin. If smegma builds up in the foreskin, it can start to smell, stop you easily pulling your foreskin back and become a breeding ground for bacteria. This can cause redness and swelling of the head of your penis, called balanitis.

‘Off-putting smell’ Patrick French, a consultant physician in sexual health, says: “It’s really surprising how many men don’t clean underneath their foreskin. Not only do they regularly develop complications from poor hygiene, but it’s also very off-putting for a sexual partner.”

Don’t try to forcefully pull back the foreskin of a baby or young boy as this could be painful and cause harm. Their foreskin

might still be attached to the head of the penis and will therefore not retract fully. At this stage of their development, there is no need to clean inside the foreskin.

While regular personal hygiene is important, too much washing with soap and shower gels can cause soreness. Gently washing your penis once a day with warm water is sufficient to maintain good hygiene.

If you want to use soap, choose a mild or non-perfumed soap to reduce the risk of skin irritation.

It may be tempting to use talc and deodorants on your penis, but these are best avoided because talc will get under the foreskin, where it may cause irritation.

Circumcised men have to be just as careful about cleaning their penis. Gently washing the penis with warm water once a day is sufficient.

Testicles and pubic area Don’t forget to clean the base of the penis and the testicles, where sweat and hair can combine to produce a strong smell, just as unpleasant as in your armpits.

These areas need frequent washing to stop sweat from accumulating, especially as they are enclosed in underwear for most of the day.

Make sure the area between the base of the testicles and the anus is also clean and

odour-free.

While you’re down there, it’s a good idea to check your testicles for lumps once a month after a warm bath or shower.

Look out for any unusual lumps or swellings that were not there before.

Personal hygiene tips for healthy penis Intimate hygiene is extremely important for a man as it is tied to sex and romance.

So, here is what every man needs to know about personal hygiene for a healthy penis.

Water consumption: Water is needed to flush out the toxins from the body. Drink sufficient water to maintain a good amount of blood and oxygen to the penis.

Reduce sweat: Excess sweat at the penis and scrotum develops into infection and odour. So, it is important to maintain dryness either by absorbing the moisture with a towel or by applying powder to the area.

Scrotum temperature: The ideal temperature for the scrotum is 37 degrees C. When the scrotum is at normal temperature it is elongated and smooth, it is relaxed. The scrotum contracts and get wrinkled when it is cold, sexually stimulated or when you exercise.

Shaving: It is also important to shave or trim in order to prevent irritation and infection. You should take a hot shower before

PHOTO: Google you shave to make the hair shaft soft. Exfoliate the area to open the pores to help you get a clean shave and use a clean blade to shave off the hair.

Foreskin cleansing: Wash the penis daily with soap and water by retracting the foreskin, if you are an uncircumcised male. Failure to do so can lead to infections, inflammations, phimosis and even tumours.

27

Thursday,16 June, 2016

Taiwo Adisa - 08072000046 Group Politics Editor taiadis@yahoo.com

My grouse with Oshiomhole —Ize-Iyamu

Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu is a governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the forthcoming election in Edo State. BOLA BADMUS, brings excerpts from an interaction he had with journalists about his ambition, current socioeconomic situation in the state and his chances as an aspirant.

S

PECIFICALLY, what is your grouse with Governor Adams Oshiomhole?

My problem with Oshiomhle! Quite interestingly, I supported him to become governor. The platform is our platform; we him to join us. I don’t want to use the word decamp, but we made him to join us. And at that time, certain things were at the back of my mind.

One, he came from a place that has never had a governor. We have three senatorial districts. I come from Edo South, and Lucky Igbinedion was once the governor of our state. He is from my senatorial district. Edo central, even though recently they have not had governor. They once had late Professor Ambrose Ali. But Edo North that has six of the 18 local governments, in the state has never had a civilian governor. So, I said that to be able to lay a foundation in future where you come from would no longer be an issue, it would be good if we once and for all balanced out by giving somebody from Edo North to be governor.

Number two, I was looking at his antecedents; presumed antecedents, that this was a former president of the Nigeria Labour Congress. If such a person is governor of Edo State, the man is going to be in the forefront of making things happen. I was thinking that workers would enjoy; more industries would come and there would be agricultural loan. So, there were a lot of things that were at the back of my mind that such a person would really make a lot of change. I didn’t do any due diligence; I didn’t call former labour leaders to ask for their opinion.

I didn’t call journalists to say, ‘please you know what we don’t know, who is this guy?’ I didn’t pray. Therefore, in his first term, we managed him. But I was already seeing disturbing signs. He never liked any dissenting voice. A lot of things he did were done on the spur of the moment.

He never consulted, so there were so many ‘things’ I was seeing, but I kept telling myself, the man is not that experienced. Maybe he was more interested in the labour activism; I saw that and I said maybe in his second term, he would change.

When he was about seeking a second term, a lot of the guys who supported him to be governor said no, they would not support him for his second term. But, I said I would like to support him. One, I said I didn’t want it to be said that we didn’t allow Edo North to do two terms. If you bring somebody else from Edo North now, that one too would want to do two terms and in any event, whatever lapses he had in the first term, in the second term, he would be able to correct them. It was a big mistake and like you just pointed out, sorry, I didn’t pray. And so I supported him again. His second term, I am sorry to say, is a disaster. If you ask me where this man has done well, I would just tell you in a few words that he didn’t do well. I am not being malicious.

Even if I wasn’t running, now, I would be very strong in condemning him, because I am disappointed. I brought him in; all the money he spent, we brought it together for him. So, I feel very, very disappointed.

In the second term, he became uncontrollable; he became inaccessible, and launched war on practically every sector.

And the areas that were crying for attention, he was not ready to listen. His own senatorial district for example, Edo North has been completely abandoned. A man who says he is starting two new universities, let’s be honest, at a time, when the economy is experiencing a kind of down turn!

Ize-Iyamu

He made the announcement, but some of us knew that it was not reasonable. Now, you said you would give my place one; you will give your place one. My place already has a College of Education; you said you are upgrading it. You finished the one in your place, completely a brand new university, and it has opened. The one in my place, even one naira, he has not released and I am not kidding.

Please go and check capital release for what is called the College of Education, Ikeadolor, you will find out that in the past seven and half years, even N10,000 capital release, the governor never gave. These are things that

My place already has a College of Education; you said you are upgrading it. You finished the one in your place, completely a brand new university, and it has opened. The one in my place, even one naira, he has not released and I am not kidding.

you can easily verify. A lot of people he is now patronising were people who did not know how he came into office. So, they could knee down, or prostrate for him.

But, somebody like me that he knelt down to when he was looking for office, how can you expect me now to join the chorus and also begin to kneel down for him?

Some individuals believe you lack necessary structure to actualize your dream, because you have just returned to PDP? Somebody asked me, Pastor, everybody is worried about your structure, what is the secret behind your political structure? I asked them to tell me what people call political structure because I came back to PDP two years ago; I have been away for the past seven years, so which structure do I have? But I explained to them that what they call structure is actually goodwill. I have the goodwill in every part of the state. A friend of mine just came back from America; he came with a load of souvenirs. Every place I go to in Edo, I have friends.

I was in Edo Central and to my surprise, I saw vehicles branded in my colours; I don’t know the owners. They did not even come to me to ask for permission or to even tell me, ‘this is what we are doing for you,’ but I just saw vehicles already branded, I counted at least five branded in my colour. So, the structure I have is the goodwill as somebody who has lived with the people; somebody they know; somebody they trust; somebody who is accessible to them and that is what I am carrying into this election. So, I am coming from the background of how the system works. I have a clear idea of what should be done.

Oshiomhole, on my 50th birthday, wrote a nice letter then. We have not quarreled and he said, ‘whatever I have achieved in the past 44 months is largely due to the quality of counsel you have given to me on how government should be run.’ Let me assure that those who know me will tell you that I am a very serious-minded person and maybe, that is why I also have a lot of adversaries at that top level of the political class. Now, it is a different matter because I tell people the truth, I am accessible to them. I left office about nine years ago, but you will be surprised that people still come to me because they believe in me. So, I believe I will be bringing in integrity, I will be bringing in experience, I will be bringing in sincerity, I have a clear vision of what should be done. So, from the day I enter as governor, you know what you should expect. I believe in what I want to achieve so that at least you can measure it and see whether it is real.

The nation is passing through economic depression and states are badly affected. How do you hope to run the state with the lean resources if elected governor?

Now that we are going though a serious economic time, I think what we need is somebody that knows the priorities of our people; somebody that would prudently manage their resources. Somebody asked me a question that with the lean resources now, how are you going to cope if elected governor? I told him that even with the current lean resources, we would be able to do more than we did with the surplus resources we had in the past. One of my grouses, as somebody who has always lived in Edo, is that government’s money is often squandered and I would give you an example. These days, government would do projects and nobody would even ask what the cost of the project is. I don’t know how a project can be appreciated when the cost is not known.

politicscommentary Senator Kashamu: The journey so far

28

By Austin Oniyokor

T

HE inauguration of the 8th Senate this time last year came barely a few days after some powerful forces orchestrated what no less a personality than the highly revered Hon. Justice Gabriel Kolawole of the Federal High Court, Abuja, has described as “a show of shame” by laying a siege to the Lagos residence of Senator Kashamu and attempting to abduct him for allegedly committing an offence several courts abroad and at home have said he knew nothing about.

Following public outcry and the timely interventions of the judiciary, which has been rightly described as the last hope of the common man, “the oppressive agents of darkness” left Senator Kashamu’s residence on the 28th of May, 2015. So, when the 8th Senate was being inaugurated on the 9th of June, 2015 – exactly 12 days after the siege – a lot of people were sceptical whether Senator Kashamu would be among those to be sworn in.

To be sure, the major reason the unsuccessful plot was executed was to prevent him from exercising the mandate freely given to him by the good people of Ogun East Senatorial District. That perhaps explains why he remains the only senator who got a resounding round of applause and a loud ovation when he was called to take his Oaths of Office and Allegiance during the inauguration of the 8th Senate and the election of principal officers. Simply put, he was the cynosure of all eyes.

Not done, the “powerful forces” again coalesced and sought to use his younger brother and friend, Mr Dapo Abiodun, who contested against him on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), to undo him. He not only filed a petition to challenge Senator Kashamu’s election, he told everyone who cared to listen that he had been assured that Senator Kashamu would be sacked from office.

True to his words and rather curiously, the National and State Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal purportedly “set aside” the declaration of Senator Kashamu as winner of the 28th of March, 2015 Senatorial election into the Ogun East Senatorial District despite leading Mr. Abiodun with over 37, 000 votes after the so-called cancellation of voided and irregular votes by the tribunal! But as God would have it, the appellate court upturned the verdict of the lower tribunal and reaffirmed Senator Kashamu’s victory in a landmark

Kashamu

judgment delivered on the 8th of December, 2015. Thus, it could be safely said that the first six months of Senator Kashamu’s one year sojourn at the Red Chamber was full of needless distractions. Yet, he has since put all of those behind him and settled down to give quality representation to the good people of Ogun East Senatorial District in particular, and Nigerians in general.

There is no better proof than the number of bills he has sponsored for the well-being and good governance of Nigerians, and the projects and items he has attracted to his Senatorial District in the last one year or six months, if you like.

As at the last count, he has sponsored about four bills which are at various stages in the National Assembly. The bills include the Mental Health Bill, the FRSC Act Amendment Bill, the National Security Tax Fund Bill and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) Act Amendment Bill. While the Mental Health Bill seeks to provide a frame work for the admission and treatment of persons with mental health conditions, the FRSC Act Amendment Bill is meant to protect the sanctity of our Constitution by ensuring proper delineation of duties and responsibilities between Federal and State agencies as concerns traffic issues for optimal performance and effective service delivery. Perhaps drawing inspiration from the success of the Security Tax Fund in some states and abroad, the National Security Tax Fund Bill seeks to devise new ways through which the security agencies can access additional funds in order to make them more efficient and responsive to today’s security challenges.

The intention of the NESREA Act Amendment Bill is to rejig the enabling Act setting up the agency and make it come

Thursday, 16 June , 2016

to terms with present realities as they relate to the Environment.

Beyond all these, Senator Kashamu has influenced and seen to the construction of schools in four primary schools in Ogun East Senatorial District. They include the construction of one block of three classrooms, office and VIP toilet at Ansar deen High School, Ijebu-Isiwo; construction of one block of three classrooms, office and furniture at Japara High School, Ijebu Igbo; construction of one block of three classrooms with VIP toilet at Idomila, Ijebu Ode and construction of one block of three classrooms, office, furniture with VIP toilet at Ansar deen Primary School, Irolu-Remo.

Over 10 of such projects spread across the nine local government areas in Ogun East Senatorial District have been initiated and included in the 2016 budget upon careful consultations with community leaders and elders.

There is also provision for the construction of skill acquisition centre in Ogijo, the sinking of motorised and solar-powered boreholes as well as electrification of various rural communities. Perhaps the most audacious of all the projects influenced by the senator is the inclusion of the repairs of the old Ijebu-Ode/Ore-Benin Expressway in the 2016 budget for which about N90million has been budgeted. The road cuts across five of the nine local government areas that make up Ogun East Senatorial District. It is instructive to note that Senator Kashamu opted for this strategic road to be included in the budget when he saw that the Sagamu-Ogijo-Ikorodu road – another major road which had been of concern to him – had already been captured in the original budget estimates sent by the Federal Ministry of Works to the Senate Committee on Works of which he is a member.

What is more, over 40 wheel chairs, 150 sewing machines, 160 grinding machines, 40 motorcycles and 120 generators have been shared to his constituents and even those outside his Ogun East Senatorial District in the last one year. Of course, these are exclusive of the vehicles distribution and other humanitarian and empowerment initiatives that he has been known for over the years through the Omoilu Foundation.

•Oniyokor is a Media and Legislative Aide to Senator Kashamu

The global fund: Which way for Nigeria?

By Simeon Christian AS I teamed up with my four other colleagues to represent Nigeria and Africa as a whole at the ONESummit2016, the one question I kept asking myself is which way Nigeria on the Global Fund? Having seen that the Global Fund will form a fulcrum of our discussions at the summit.

Funnily, we arrived at the summit and I was grouped into a team of 15 people, with 14 of them being Europeans whose countries are among the biggest donors, and myself - the only African/Nigerian. Each team was saddled with the responsibility of figuring out what message to sell to the world leaders in terms of replenishing the Global Fund. I was first startled and at a mix as to which way to go. Am I suppossed to be asking world leaders for replenishment or am I supposed to be talking to Nigerian government - as a beneficiary of the Global Fund? And in its proper utilisation?

I saw with amazement young people speaking with passion and asking the governments of their respective countries to increase their (fund) support for the replenishment of the Global Fund. Ultimately and innermind, that couldn’t have been my own campaign slogan. It is which way Nigeria?

In recent times, there has been reports from some media houses in Nigeria that there are plans to withdraw the Global Fund support from Nigeria - the veracity of which is yet to be ascertained. However, The National Agency for the Control of AIDS, NACA, on the 9th of May 2016 explained the alleged fraud in the Global Fund grants.

Fraud.

There are only two reasons why the Global Fund may be withdrawn from Nigeria: Fraud and Epidemic Free.

For the latter, Nigeria still ranks high in HIV/AIDS cas-

es worldwide same with Tuberculosis and Malaria. So it couldn’t have accounted for the alleged withdrawal report. Therefore, the most tenable reason the fund could be stopped is due to fraud (i.e) mismanagement of the fund.

The Global Fund is a 21st century partnership organisation designed to accelerate the end of AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria epidemics. Founded in 2002 in partnership between governments, Civil Society, the private sector and people affected by the disease. The Global Fund raises and invests US$4billion a year to support programmes run by local experts in countries and communities most in need.

Nonetheless, the Global Fund has not suspended its sup-

port to Nigeria, according to NACA. But “what has been suspended is the quarterly disbursement of funds. The grants are still ongoing” - NACA. It will be catastrophical for a country like Nigeria whose health system is still fragile and not virile enough to provide quality health services to its citizenry. How would those living with HIV/AIDS been able to afford the antiretroviral drug? Or how much more people would Nigeria be loosing to preventable and treatable diseases like malaria and tuberculosis?

On the other hand, Nigeria has come of age and it is time to start thinking beyond the aid. We need to fortify our health systems and make them virile enough to withstand any “shock.” We can’t continue to pride ourselves as an established nation without a strong health system.

For how long are we going to keep relying on aids?

As world leaders will be gathering in Canada come September 2016 to replenish the Global Fund, there are two things involved for Nigeria. It is in ensuring that the funds are judiciously utilised and that the funds are used to tackle what it is meant for: HIV/AIDS, Malaria and Tuberculosis. Secondly, Nigeria should be rising to the point of becoming a big donor and not a beneficiary. Nigeria is a wealthy country that can do more for a better health system, so says France Minister for Development, JeanMarc Ayrault at the ONEYouthSummit in Paris 2016.

We need to invest more into the health system. The current allocation of less than 4.3 per cent is a far cry to the targetted 15% agreed in 2001 by African leaders in Abuja.

It is time to start thinking like a donor and not a beneficiary of the Global Fund. We have what it takes. This is the way Nigeria.

Christian, a research consultant, is a public affairs commentator

29 news I can’t negotiate for Niger Delta militants —Ajumogobia

Thursday, 16 June, 2016

Leon Usigbe -Abuja

F

ORMER Minister of Foreign Affairs, Odein Ajumogobia, has turned down an offer to negotiate with the Federal Government on behalf of the militant groups in the Niger Delta.

Reports had suggested that the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA), which had claimed responsibility for blowing up oil and gas installations in the region in recent times, had nominated him and a few others to negotiate on its behalf.

But in a statement made available to the media on Wednesday, which was personally signed by him, he said though he was contacted by persons claiming to speak for the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND), he had not agree to negotiate on the militants’ behalf.

“My attention has been drawn to widespread reports in the media claiming that I have agreed to participate in negotiations with the Federal Government over the issue of attacks against oil installations in the Niger Delta on behalf of some of the alleged perpetrators of these actions or connected persons.

“This is not so. I wish to make it absolutely clear that I do not know the alleged perpetrators nor have I offered to serve as their representative in any prospective discussions with the Federal Government in any capacity whatsoever.

“I was recently contacted by someone who claimed to represent the MEND. In that conversation, the caller asked if I would be willing

to participate in an initiative to find ways to end the attacks on oil installations through dialogue towards restoring peace and stabil-

discussions with credible parties who could help to facilitate such a dialogue to halt the actions that were undermining the social

Dialogue with FG, Reps tell Niger Delta Avengers Jacob Segun Olatunji and Kolawole Daniel THE House of Representatives, on Wednesday, urged the Niger Delta Avengers to give peace a chance and embrace dialogue with Federal Government.

The House also urged the lawmakers to discontinue the bombing of oil installations in the Niger Delta region.

It also urged the Federal Government to formulate a sustainable plan to end militancy rather than the confrontational approaches so far adopted.

The resolution was sequel to a motion sponsored by Honourable Ekpenyong Ayi and 30 others, entitled: “Need for an improved funding for the amnesty programme and a suitable strategic plan end militancy in the Niger Delta.”

The lawmaker, while moving the motion on behalf of others, noted that the administration of late President Umaru Yar’Adua introduced the amnesty programme which led to higher oil revenues for the country.

He, however, expressed worry that N20 billion pro-

posed by the Federal Government was inadequate to sustain the payment of stipends of N25,000 to ex-agitators, their training allowances, tuition fees and other commitments.

According to him, “the

amounting to about $10 billion and report to the House within six weeks for further legislative action.

The motion was sponsored by Honourable Jones Onyereri who claimed that from 2008 to 2015, about $10 billion had been lost to unpaid freight charges by government agencies.

But the Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, in his presentation, said the Federal Government was disturbed with the unwholesome activities in NIMASA. The minister, who was represented by the permanent secretary in the ministry, Mr Zakari Sabiu, told the committee that a new Director-General was appointed with a clear mandate to sanitise the agency and block all revenue leakages.

Also speaking, the Director-General of NIMASA, Honourable Dakuku Peterside, admitted that the agency was being owed huge debt spanning from January 2010 to December 2015.

incessant attacks on oil facilities has led to Nigeria losing its place as Africa’s largest oil producer because it’s oil output has fallen to a 22-year low of 1.4 million barrels per day against the budgetary

target of 2.2 million barrel per day.

He noted that the attacks had negatively impacted on electricity output in the form of thermal power stations that are reliant on gas to power the turbines.

and economic stability of the region and the nation, I would readily participate.

“In such an event, I would seek to articulate the proper interests of all law abiding Nigerians generally and the ordinary people of the Niger Delta states, in particular.

“I am not affiliated to or the official or legal representative of any particular group and I am certainly not an advocate for the unstated demands or actions of any insurgent organisations,” the statement read.

Troops arrest 7 pipeline vandals in Delta Ebenezer Adurokiya -Warri MILITARY operatives in Warri, Delta State, have arrested seven suspected oil and gas facilities vandals in two separate operations.

This came barely a few days into the ceasefire truce between members of the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) and the Federal Government troops in the Niger Delta region to halt all hostilities.

The suspects were allegedly arrested at Tebujoh community in Warri SouthWest Local Area on Tuesday and Wednesday morning.

A source said four of the seven suspects were arrested in a boat on Tuesday afternoon.

The source added that the other three were rounded up at about 6.30 a.m. on Wednesday.

NNPC owing NIMASA $3bn —Reps THE House of Representatives Committee on Maritime Safety, Education and Administration, on Wednesday, disclosed that the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Pipelines and Products Marketing Company (PPMC) are indebted to the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) to the tune of $3 billion in freight charges.

Chairman of the House committee, Honourable Mohammed Bago, made the disclosure during investigative hearing on the revenue leakages and operational deficiencies in NIMASA. He also hinted that the National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS), a subsidiary of the NNPC, was owing NIMASA about $780 million in freight charges.

The investigative hearing was as a result of the House resolution on March 9, which mandated the committee to probe the alleged revenue leakages and deficiencies in NIMASA,

ity in the region.

“My brief response was that if the Federal Government was genuinely interested in entering into

He said under the current administration, they had put measures to block all leakages, adding that they now had in place a functional satellite surveillance system as well as a dedicated desk recovery unit.

Earlier in a welcome address, Speaker of the House, Honourable Yakubu Dogara, had said the former DG of NIMASA was removed because he decided to make the agency a cash cow to few individuals.

However, a legal practitioner and resident of Gbaramatu kingdom, Alaowei Cleric, disclosed that the suspects were fishermen.

According to him, they had gone to fetch wood for fishing purposes and were returning home when military personnel swooped on them in the creeks.

Chairman of Kokodiagbene in Warri South West,

Comrade Sheriff Mulade, said one of the arrested suspects was a student and passenger, wanting to board a boat from Tebujoh to Warri.

He added that the military personnel later released the two suspects, but seized a 200hp boat.

Meanwhile, Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Delta, Commodore Raimi

Ortom cuts short vacation to fight criminals Leon Usigbe -Abuja CONFRONTED by growing insecurity, Governor Sam Ortom of Benue State has cut short his recently announced vacation to tackle criminals who he has vowed not to allow to take over the state.

He met with acting president, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Wednesday, to brief him of the security situation in the state.

Briefing State House correspondents after the meeting, he accused the past administration in the state of being responsible for the deteriorating security situation in the state, saying that as the governor, he was determined to rout the criminals.

“I have cut short my vacation to address some critical issues of the state, most especially security matters, economic, social vices and

state matters that require my urgent attention. I have postponed the vacation indefinitely.

“I cannot in any way surrender my state to criminals. I am going to fight them headlong. I am the governor of Benue State, I was duly elected and I have the backing of my people to fight criminals so that we can have a free society to build our economy.

“We just need to strengthen ourselves and fight the criminals that are unleashing terror on our people.

“We have dedicated the state to God and we trust Him that He will help us.

I trusted Him to become governor and I became a governor. I am also trusting Him to succeed,” he said.

The governor remarked that the state’s amnesty programme had succeeded in mopping up over 600 illegal arms from circulation, as over 800 young people

CAN cries out over killings of Xtians in North Adetola Bademosi -Abuja THE Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), on Wednesday, raised the alarm over incessant killings and persecution of Christians in the northern part of the country.

It stated that the “church” in other states, especially in the North, are being treated unjustly.

This was contained in a communiqué issued and

Mohammed, confirmed the arrest of two persons from two operations.

According to him, those arrested in error would always be released after establishing their innocence.

He added that the target of the command was to arrest vandals of oil and gas facilities in his area of responsibility and not really any militant in whatever name.

signed by its Director, Legal and Public Affairs, Albert Uko, at the end of its National Executive Council Meeting (NEC) held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja.

It cited an instance where a Christian elderly woman was recently murdered in cold blood for complaining against the blocking of her shop and a situation where a Christian brother was beaten to a state of coma

for eating in the afternoon during Ramadan fast.

It said this was a clear evidence of the degree of intolerance for Christianity in some parts of the country, especially where Sharia law is of prominence.

While expressing its displeasure over both incidents, it stressed the need for the Federal Government to ensure that perpetrators of the crimes were brought to book.

came out to surrender.

He threatened that those who refused to embrace the amnesty programme would be arrested now that the programme was over.

“Now that the carrot approach of the amnesty programme is over, we will now adopt the stick approach. We are going to pursue them to their homes. Wherever they are, we are going to arrest and prosecute them. We are going to go after them fully,” he stressed.

On the declaration of Fridays as a public holidays in the state to enable civil servants to participate more in farming, he said the critics of the initiative were ignorant.

“Now, we are finding it difficult to pay salaries. We are down by four months at the state level and five months at the local government level.

“Coming to a state that is more of civil service, I have said that I have declared Fridays as public holidays because this is cropping period.

“They should go to the farm between now and the end of July that is cropping period. This can help because no matter how little, whatever they contribute in agriculture will add value to the state economy.

“I am a farmer and I am demonstrating it. I am going into the farm myself and everybody has keyed into the programme. They are happy,” he said.

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Saraki asks CCT boss to disqualify self over threat of consequences Sunday Ejike - Abuja

S

ENATE President, Senator Bukola Saraki, on Wednesday, challenged the threat by the Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), Danladi Yakubu Umar, that the delay that he (Saraki) is allegedly employing will not reduce the consequences of his trial at the end.

Saraki is on trial over allegation of false declaration of assets slammed against him by the Federal Government.

Saraki claimed that Umar’s threat during the sitting of the tribunal on June 7, while warning the defence against delay tactics, was an indication that the two-member panel tribunal, which Umar is presiding, had made up its mind to convict him at all cost irrespective of the evidences at the trial.

The Senate President, therefore, asked the CCT chairman to step aside from further participation in the

N5.1bn alleged fraud: Ex-president Jonathan’s aide, accomplice remanded AyomideOwonibi-OdekanyinLagos

A former Special Assistant on Domestic Affairs to the former president Goodluck Jonathan, Waripamo Owei Emmanuel Dudafa, was on Wednesday remanded in Kirikiri prison over an alleged N5.1 billion fraud brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Justice Mohammed Idris of a Lagos Federal High Court ordered Dudafa’s remand after he was arraigned for the alleged fraud.

Dudafa would be in prison till Thursday when the court would rule on his bail application.

Also remanded in custody is one Iwejuo Joseph Nna who is also known as Taiwo Ebenezer and Olugbenga Isaiah, who was arraigned alongside Dudafa.

The two accused persons had pleaded not guilty to all the charges, and upon their pleas, the EFCC prosecutor, Rotimi Oyedepo, urged the court to remand them, pending their trial.

Counsels to the accused persons, Gboyega Oyewole and Sunday Abumere, informed the court that they had already filed bail applications on behalf of their clients, while urging the court to admit their clients bail on liberal terms.

trial initiated against him by the Federal Government.

In a fresh motion on notice brought pursuant to Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution, Saraki insisted that the tribunal chairman is in a hurry to convict him without giving him a fair hearing and opportunity to defend himself.

In the motion filed by his lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi, Saraki said the threat by CCT chairman would prejudice the out-

come of the trial.

The motion, predicated on eight grounds, indicated that the threat of consequences issued by Umar has caused Saraki to lose confidence in the impartiality of the chairman and that he is no longer having confidence that he can get justice from the tribunal if the chairman continues to participate in the hearing and determination of the case against him.

Part of the grounds of the

motion was that the defendant (Saraki) has lost confidence in the ability of the tribunal chairman to conduct a fair trial and dispense justice according to law.

“The defendant is deeply worried and lives in perpetual fear since the statement was made by the chairman of the tribunal and no longer believes that justice can be done in the trial.”

Saraki denied the allegation that his lawyers have been employing delay tac-

tics to slow down or frustrate the trial.

A 26-paragraph affidavit in support of the motion, deposed to by one Olufemi Balogun, said Saraki is currently facing trial before the CCT on a 16-count charge bordering on violation of the provisions of the Code of Conduct for public officers and that one witness, Mr Michael Wetkas, called by the prosecution had given evidence and undergoing cross examination.

From left, member of the American Business Council (ABC) and Managing Director, Coca-Cola, Adeola Adetunji; ABC Consultant, Kunle Olumide; Director, US Chamber of Commerce, Leila Ndiaye; President, ABC and President GE, Lazarus Angbazo; ABC member and Managing Director, Dow Chemical, Tony Grossman and a member of ABC, Ralph Osoude, during the presentation of the Report of Pipeline to Power (Gas) in West Africa by the US Chamber of Commerce and the American Business Council Nigeria, recently.

2015 presidential campaign fund: EFCC summons Ali Modu Sheriff THE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has invited a factional chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, for questioning on the 2015 presidential campaign funds of the party.

Sheriff was believed to have benefitted from the funds released by the presidency for the re-election bid of the then President Goodluck Jonathan.

The EFCC, which has been inviting and retrieving huge sums voted for the 2015 presidential election from various political actors, asked Sheriff to report to its Borno State office in Maiduguri, according to reports on Wednesday.

The invitation, it was gathered, was extended to Sheriff on Tuesday.

However, there has been no official confirmation of the development by the EFCC. But a top notch of the commission said Sheriff is being expected at the Maiduguri office of the commission.

The source explained that most of the funds traced

to political gladiators in the presidential election had been allegedly picked up at the Fidelity Bank Plc branches in state capitals across the country.

The money has been allegedly traced to a former

Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani AlisonMadueke, who deposited $115 million in Fidelity Bank Plc, through its now sacked Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Nnamdi Okonkwo.

The money was then changed into Naira for distribution to top chieftains of the PDP and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The sum in Naira was put then at N23.3 billion.

N2.1bn alleged fraud: Absence of counsel stalls Dokpesi’s trial again Sunday Ejike - Abuja

THE trial of the former Chairman of DAAR Communications Plc, Chief Raymond Dokpesi, before a Federal High Court in Abuja, on Wednesday, suffered another setback because of the absence of the counsel to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Rotimi Jacobs, prosecuting the matter on behalf of the Federal Government.

Dokpesi, who is the owner of the African Independent Television (AIT) and Raypower Radio, is being prosecuted by the anti-graft agency over the N2.1 billion he allegedly

collected from the office of the former National Security Adviser (NSA), Colonel Sambo Dasuki.

He had, however, pleaded not guilty to the six-count criminal charge, bordering on breach of public trust and procurement fraud.

In the charge, signed by the Deputy Director, Legal and Prosecution Department of the EFCC, Aliyu Yusuf, Dokpesi was alleged to have between October 2014 and March 2015 conducted procurement fraud by fraudulently receiving N2,120,000,000 into the account of DAAR Investment and Holding Company for the funding of media

activities for the 2015 presidential election campaign of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The alleged offence is contrary to Section 58 (4) (b) of the Public Procurement Act 2007 and punishable under Section 58 (6) and 7 of the same Act. It will be recalled that the trial of the erstwhile chairman of DAAR Communications Plc. had suffered several adjournments at the instance of the prosecution counsel.

At the resumed hearing on Wednesday, the defence counsel, Mr Ifedayo Adedipe, informed the court that Jacobs was absent in court.

Nigerian Tribune

Buhari condoles with Ghana president over mother’s death Leon Usigbe - Abuja

PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari has condoled with President John Mahama of Ghana over the passing away of his mother, Hajia Abiba Nnaba.

According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the president on media and publicity, Femi Adesina, in Abuja, on Wednesday, Buhari, in a telephone call, “prayed that Almighty Allah will grant the soul of Hajia Nnaba eternal rest and comfort all who mourn her.”

The president told the Ghanaian leader that his personal thoughts and prayers as well as those of Nigerians are with him as he mourns the passage of a beloved mother.

The president further prayed that the loving memory and virtues which Hajia Abiba Nnaba lived for would continue to inspire all who knew her and generations to come.

Police recruitment: Jigawa to screen 5,060 candidates Adamu Amadu - Dutse

THE Jigawa State Commissioner of Police who is also in charge of the ongoing police recruitment exercise in the state, Mr Rabi’u Yusif, said that 5060 candidates had been shortlisted for screening in the state.

The commissioner made the disclosure yesterday at the state police command headquarters, in Dutse.

The commissioner expressed satisfaction on the conduct of the candidates that applied for the job in the state.

According to him, “the exercise is going smoothly and hitch-free since its commencement.”

Mr Yusif decried non participation of female candidates, which he attributed to poor enlightenment on the importance of women police in the society.

He stated further that “over 5060 candidates applied and shortlisted for screening in all the three cadres: Assistant Superintendent of Police, Inspectors and Recruits (Constable).”

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Oyo workers stage mass protest against govt policies •As Ajimobi meets labour leaders, confirms receipt of N84bn

By Wale Akinselure

T

HOUSANDS of Oyo workers on the platform of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), on Wednesday, marched around the state capital, Ibadan, in protest against what they described as the anti worker policies of the Governor Abiola Ajimobiled government.

Tagged a Mega rally, the protest, which commenced from NLC state Secretariat, American Quarters, Agodi, Ibadan, saw workers marched through Agodi to Oje, Beere, Mapo areas, under the supervision of the police and other security agents.

In their various addresses at different points, the labour leaders echoed their demands: “No to Concessioning or privatisation of public schools,” “the immediate payment of outstanding six months salaries arrears and pension arrears,” “withdrawal of trump-up charges against the labour leaders,” “regular promotion and payment of allowances and leave grants.”

Led by the Deputy President, NLC, Mr Kiri Mohammed, the workers maintained their “No retreat, No surrender” stand if the state government failed to constructively dialogue with them and accede to their demands.

The process of dialogue also commenced on Wednesday with the national leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and the State Executive Council meeting with Governor Abiola Ajimobi and state executive council.

The labour team was led into the state executive council chamber at about 3:30pm by Speaker, Oyo House of Assembly, Hon-

ourable Micheal Adeyemo, and other members of the Assembly.

Meanwhile, earlier on Wednesday, Governor Abiola Ajimobi, in a bid to ascertain the compliance or non compliance of civil servants to the ongoing strike, took a tour around various ministries, directorates and agencies at the Secretariat, Ibadan.

Ajimobi expressed satisfaction at the level of attendance of workers to their work, thereby, maintaining that the ongoing strike action had not hampered government’s operations.

He added that the tour also afforded government opportunity to ascertain the state of infrastructure of various government offices.

“You can see that work is going on smoothly here.

We are happy about the attendance. This monitoring exercise has also afforded us the opportunity to see the situation of various government offices. And we want to, as a matter of urgency, embark on renovation of these offices to enhance productivity and morale of our staff. We want befitting offices for

our workers and not stoneage offices,” he said.

Speaking further, Ajimobi confirmed the receipt of N84 billion from the federation account in 12 months, as recently disclosed in a report.

He explained that N42 billion came into the coffers of the state government while the remaining N42 billlon was meant for local government councils.

He assured that, once the figures were reconciled, the details of how the entire sum of N84 billion was spent would be published.

Ajimobi was accompa-

Members of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Oyo State chapter, on Wednesday, during the mega rally round Ibadan, the state capital, over what they termed state governemnt’s anti-workers’ policies. PHOTO: TOMMY ADEGBITE

Stop capital projects to pay us, Ondo workers tell Mimiko Hakeem Gbadamosi-Akure THE leadership of Organised Labour in Ondo State, on Wednesday, called on the state government to halt all capital projects in the state to pay the salaries of the striking workers in the state.

The workers union, com-

prising of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and Joint Negotiating Council (JNC) stated this in Akure, Ondo State capital, while meeting with the members of the state House of Assembly on the way out of the two weeks old strike.

They also urged the state government to mop up all available funds to pay the workers’ salaries and alleviate the suffering of workers in the state.

The meeting, which was called at the instance of the leadership and members of the state House of Assembly,

Fayose swears-in replacement for resigned works commissioner •Ex-commissioner says ‘I didn’t run away, I quit on health ground’ Sam Nwaoko-Ado Ekiti

EKITI State governor, Mr Ayodele Fayose, has appointed Mrs Theresa Funmilayo Ogun, as the new Commissioner for Works to replace Mr Kayode Oso, who resigned from the government on health grounds.

Mrs Ogun, who was sworn-in on Wednesday, was until the new appointment the special assistant to the governor on Widows Matters.

The resignation of Oso on April 6 had ignited controversy in the state as rumours had been that rather than the health grounds

nied by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Olalekan Alli; Head of Service, Mr Soji Eniade; the Chief of Staff, Dr Gbade Ojo and other government officials.

Meanwhile, the meeting between labour officials and government ended five hours after with no agreement between both parties.

Briefing journalists of the outcome of the meeting, Deputy President, NLC, Mr Peter Adeyemi, said the demands of the labour movement had been tendered to the state government but no decision could be pronouced until the

which the government announced as the reason for his resignation, the excommissioner was allegedly running away from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

But the ex-commissioner Oso, who was at the swearing in of his successor at the governor’s office on Wednesday, affirmed that he had actually resigned on health grounds and denied that he had any issues with either the EFCC or Governor Fayose.

According to Oso, the allegations that he ran away to stave off arrest by EFCC, were “the handiworks of

the enemies of Fayose’s government.”

Governor Fayose, who was represented on the occasion by his deputy, Dr Kolapo Olusola, said Oso’s clarification had laid to rest the allegations by the opposition All Progressives Congress, which he accused of consistently making the allegations.

He charged the new commissioner to live up to expectations of her office, saying “Oso is a hardworking, honest and rugged commissioner. In fact, he served the state meritoriously well and I want to say that he has left a big shoe for you to wear.

“But Mrs Ogun did well in her past position and I see her as a formidable replacement. The new office conferred on you greater responsibilities and let transparency, probity, loyalty and accountability be your watchwords.”

Mrs Ogun promised to rededicate and recommit herself to the service of the state for the realisation of Fayose’s dream of making Ekiti greater than he met it.

She said she would key into the programmes already outlined by her principal to improve the infrastructural facilities of the state.

was attended by the striking workers who frowned over the late intervention of the lawmakers.

Speaking during the meeting, the Chairman of the NLC in the state, Comrade Bose Daramola, disclosed that no fewer than 23 workers and 12 pensioners have lost their lives since the commencement of irregular salary payment in the state.

The Speaker, Honourabel Jumoke Akinjide said, “You are the engine room of this administration, we acknowledge your contributions towards the development of this state, without you, things will not go on.

“We also acknowledge the strength you have to change things in this state. This government is your baby and the pillar upon which this government is erected. We understand and feel your pains.”

Akindele assured the workers that the leadership of the House would present the grievances of the workers before the state, saying appropriate action would be taken by the state government as recommended by workers’ union.

team briefs other members of the union about the outcome of the meeting.

“We need to first brief our members before we take a consensus decision. Then, we will get back to the state government and the house of assembly. We don’t have the competence to call off the strike now, because we are only a delegation that was sent by the workers to represent them. When we make our decision, you will be informed,” Adeyemi said.

In his remarks, Oyo State governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, lauded the level of commitment and maturity displayed by the national leaders of the labour unions.

“During the meeting, I saw a lot of honesty and sincerity of purpose in the labour leaders. We were also very open and transparent with them. Democracy is the government of the people, by the people and for the people. We are all working for the progress and development of our state. I have no doubt in my mind that we will all succeed at the end of the day,” Ajimobi said.

INEC to provide 396 data capturing machines in Ondo THE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is to provide 396 Direct Data Capturing Machines (DDCMs) for 203 Registration Areas during the upcoming Continuous Voters Registration (CVR) exercise in Ondo State.

Olusegun Agbaje, the Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, made this known on Wednesday, at a CVR Stakeholders forum.

Agbaje said the DDCMs would be made available at the 193 voting points in the state.

According to him, the exercise would take place in the state between June 22 and June 26.

Agbaje added that to make it a success, 792 Assistant Registration Officers, made up of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and INEC staff would handle the machines.

The REC said the essence of the exercise was to enable those that attained 18 years after the last CVR exercise to register and obtain their Permanent Voter’s Card.

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Hijab crisis: Heavy security at Baptist Girls High School As CAN organises prayer session Oluwole Ige, Osogbo

A

S controversy continues to trail the recent court judgment, which allows female Muslim students to wear hijab in Osun State public schools, there was heavy security presence at Baptist Girls High School in Osogbo, where the secretariat of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), was located.

Osun State chapter of CAN had organised a joint special prayer session on the crisis generated by the issue of hijab within the school premises.

The joint prayer session was coming up a day after Christian students in public schools complied with the directive of CAN by wearing religious garments to some schools on Tuesday.

Addressing journalists after the prayer session, the vice chairman of CAN in the state, Pastor Moses Ogundeji, said the religious body would not rescind its directive to Christian pupils to be wearing choir robes and church garments to schools, if the judgment was implemented.

He maintained that the prayer, which was organised by the CAN chairman in Osun, Reverend Elisha Ogundiya, was specifically meant to reject the court ruling on hijab and other alleged plots to islamise the state.

Ogundeji added that the prayer was also meant to seek for peace from God and nullify anti-kingdom laws and dealings with satanic forces that were tormenting the state for the past few weeks.

While calling for the return of mission schools to the original owners, he said “we don’t want crisis in Osun because of hijab issue. Already the state is being oppressed by demonic spirit and evils as well as the country at large.”

According to Ogundeji, “we are trying to resolve the crisis with prayer, if the state government should expel any Christian pupil or student; it means all the students in public schools will be sent packing.”

“The country has no rest from the hands of Boko Haram, Niger Delta avengers, Bororo herdsmen. Therefore, let there be peace in Osun and let the state be free from the shackles of evil and oppression,” he remarked.

It will be recalled that Governor Rauf Aregbesola

had, on Tuesday, warned that any student found wearing unauthorised

cloth to school would be sanctioned, urging CAN to pursue its cause within the

confine of the law.

Meanwhile, it took the timely intervention of the

Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdul Rasheed Akanbi, to avert crisis yesterday when CAN

mobilised its members to Baptist High School, Adeeke, Iwo to ensure Christian pupils in garments and robes were not denied entrance, by security operatives who besieged the school.

CJ orders Aregbesola to provide information on Osun debt profile Oluwole Ige- Osogbo

Patrol vans of security agencies at the Baptist Girls High School, Osogbo, venue of the special prayer organised by Osun State Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) over hijab issue, on Wednesday.

From left, former President Olusegun Obasanjo; the Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abulrasheed Adewale Akanbi and the President, Nigerian Association for Young Adults of Canada, Mr Sola Agboola, during a courtesy visit to Obasanjo at his residence, Hilltop mansion, Abeokuta, on Tuesday.

PHOTO: TOMMY ADEGBITE

Ogun sensitises farmers to new agric initiatives IN order to further boost food production in the state and key-in into the new Federal Government agricultural initiatives, the Ogun State government has held a one-day sensitisation programme for farmers.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Mrs Ronke Sokefun, said the Senator Ibikunle Amosun led administration, which had put agriculture on the front burner of the development plans of the state in the past five years, was now determined to turn the sector to a more vibrant

commercial entity that would position it as the food basket of the nation.

Mrs Sokefun said emphasis would now be placed on the production of rice, which the state was known for its comparative advantage both in the upland and lowland varieties as well as oil palm, which would be harnessed to serve as dependable source of raw material for Agro-based industries and generate employment opportunities, especially for youths and Oil Palm farmers.

To achieve these lofty goals, the commissioner

said the state would support farmers in these two key areas as well as other categories of farmers with loans through its Commercial Agricultural Credit Scheme (CACS).

She also praised the Federal Government for its efforts at positioning agriculture as sustainable bedrock that could effectively boost the economy of the country and called on Ogun State farmers to key into Federal Government’s Intervention programmes, especially through the Central Bank and the Nigeria Insurance Corporation whose officials enlightened the farmers

at the sensitisation programme.

Responding, the Chairman of the Ogun-State chapter of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria, Chief Segun Dasaolu, praised the state government for its commendable agricultural programmes and interventions, especially through granting of loans in the last five years, adding that more still needs to be done now that oil revenue have dwindled and called on the states and Federal Government to join hands so that all agricultural initiates could be successful.

THE Chief Judge of Osun State, Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo, on Wednesday, granted a mandamus order compelling the state governor, Mr Rauf Aregbesola, to provide information about the debt profile of Osun State and its defrayment modality.

A human rights lawyer, Mr Kanmi Ajibola, had sought for a mandamus order in pursuant to Order 40, Rule 3 of the High Court with 30 paragraphs affidavit in support of motion ex-parte.

Ajibola had applied to the court to compel Aregbesola to provide the lists of all capital projects being executed by his government since inception.

He also sought an order compelling the state governor to provide detailed information about the financial cost of all the capital projects executed by him.

Ajibola, who implored the court to compel the governor to provide evidence of the lodgment of the deductions from the salaries of the Osun State civil servants, averred that such evidence was crucial to their contributions to the pension scheme into the Retirement Savings Account (RSA).

The human rights lawyer also sought an order of the court, compelling Aregbesola to provide evidence of the lodgment of the contributory pension scheme into the Contributory Retirement Savings.

However, since the case was filed on May 12, 2016, the governor has not been represented in court by any lawyer.

The Chief Judge subsequently granted all the order and directed the respondent to provide all the information as sought by the applicant.

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2017 census must be accurate, acceptable to Nigerians, Senate warns NPC Ademola Adegbite- Abuja

S

ENATE Committee on Information, Communications and Technology (ICT) and Cybercrime, on Wednesday, warned the National Population Commission (NPC) to forthwith commence the preparation towards the successful conduct of the 2017 census exercise, saying Nigerians would not tolerate nor accept any flimsy excuse, after postponing it from 2016 till 2017.

The committee chairman, Senator Abdulfatai Buhari, gave this warning, while leading members of the committee to the commission‘s headquarters in Abuja, as part of their oversight functions to know the level of preparedness of the NPC towards the forthcoming nationwide census.

He lamented that agencies like NPC, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as well as the Nigeria Immigration Services (NIS), including many other government‘s agencies and parastatals, were backward because of lack of ICT knowledge or they intentionally ignored it.

Senator Buhari stated that Nigeria remained underdeveloped as successive governments refused to use the power of technology to get accurate results acceptable to all and sundry, pointing out that most developed countries used statistics of their populations to develop their economies.

According to him, “we are here to assist the NPC to get prepared, because you know the world has gone digital. We don’t want a sit-

uation where there will be a doubt or query after the census. You know things are so easy now with ICT and we want accuracy.

A former militant, Bibi Oduku, on Wednesday, cautioned that negotiation with the Niger Delta Avengers and other militants in the region, as being contemplated by the Federal Government, will make attacks on oil installations as well as other forms of violence a vicious cycle in the area.

He warned that engaging in dialogue with the militants would motivate other violent groups to spring up.

Oduku, who heads a group, Riverine Security Coastguard, while speaking in Abuja, disclosed that he had informed the government through the media, that the renewed attacks by militants would come up, adding that it was left for the government to decide if previ-

be able to do something great for this country, so we want a result of census that would be acceptable to all Nigerians,” he explained.

Traders and sympathisers at the scene of a fire incident which gutted Mararaba Market in Nasarawa, on Wednesday. PHOTO: nan

Unemployment taking toll on youths —Buhari

As Tambuwal increases corps members’ allowances Kola Oyelere and Muhammad Sabiu

President Muhammadu Buhari has admitted that unemployment has taken its toll on the youth, urging youth corps members serving across the country to make use of the entrepreneurial programmes, with a view to be self -reliant during and after their service year.

This is just as the state coordinator of the NYSC in Kano State, Malam Abdullahi Yusuf Baba, has tasked corps members to contribute their quota towards the development of the country Buhari made the call during the orientation for the 2016 batch A stream II corps members on Wednesday, through an address read by the Kano State Commissioner for Information, Comrade

Negotiation with NDA, other militants won’t end pipeline attacks —ex-militant gave them opportunity of Christian Okeke - Abuja

“They have already asked for extension that they want to do it next year. We believe there will be a lot of improvements, we should

ous negotiations with the militants yielded much fruits.

According to him, instead of the planned dialogue option, the government should go after the militants and hold them responsible for their heinous crimes.

“If the government dialogues with these groups today, tomorrow other groups will still come up.

If Nigeria as a nation, as a great country called the giant of Africa says it wants to dialogue with Avengers, that means that is a shame to Nigeria as a nation,” he said.

Oduku said as an alternative, the government might consider planting a particular platform that should go against the issues in the region.

“When these boys started as a militant platform and the Federal Government

an amnesty, what was the meaning of the amnesty?

It means they were dropping their arms and when they dropped their arms, it means they are not going to engage in any form of criminality,” he said

Muhammed Garba He also urged corps members serving across the country to shun acts of terrorism, robbery, prostitution and other social vices capable of truncating the peace of the nation Meanwhile, Sokoto State government has jacked up allowances of youth corps members serving in the state, with a pledge to begin immediate payment of the new payment structure.

Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal announced the new policy during the swearing-in ceremony of 2006 Batch A Stream II corps members, at the state NYSC orientation camp in Wamakko.

He expressed the state government’s appreciation for the services of youth

corps members, saying government would continue to make their welfare top priority.

Tambuwal said the new increase affected all categories of youth corps members, while the allowances of corps members in medical line would be more than others.

“Graduates of medicine will now be paid N50,000 from the current amount of N36,000. Pharmacists will now N25,000 up from the N19,000 obtainable in the past, while graduates of laboratory science and other medical technicians like nurses are now entitled to monthly stipend of N15,000, up from the current N9,000 they are getting from the state government.

We’re partnering with COREN for better service delivery —NDDC acting MD Dapo Falade - Port Harcourt

ACTING Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mrs Ibim Semenitari, has said the commission is working with the Council for Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), as part of new measures adopted to ensure high standards in its service delivery to communities in the Niger Delta region.

She made this known while addressing the officials of the SERVICOM Office, led by the acting National Coor-

dinator, Mrs Nnenna Akajemeli, who paid her a courtesy visit in her office in Port Harcourt, on Tuesday.

According to her, the interventionist agency was working with COREN to produce a standardisation manual which would enhance service-delivery to the people of the region, adding that the manual would be binding on all its engineers when it becomes operational.

“If jobs don’t meet the NDDC standard, all the engineers who certified the

jobs will not only face professional sanctions, but will face administrative disciplinary measures. In some instances, they might even face criminal charges,” she said.

The NDDC acting Chief Executive Officer said the commission recognised the critical need for effective service delivery, which was why it had forwarded a memorandum to President Muhammad Buhari, requesting the upgrading of SERVICOM in NDDC to a full directorate.

329 former staff members drag DICON to court Muhammad Sabiu-Kaduna

At least, 326 retired staff members of the Defence Industry Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), in Kaduna State, have dragged the management of the organisation to the Federal High Court in Kaduna, demanding for the sum of N 267,223,82.521 as retirement benefits due to them when they were sent on compulsory retirement.

When the case came up for mention on Wednesday, Counsel to the plaintiff, Mr Gloria Ballason told the court that the case had been on since 2004, even when a lower court ruled in their favour.

She told the court that series of letters had been written to the management to ensure that the earlier ruling directives were carried out but to no avail.

Gloria maintained that she wanted the court to compel DICON to pay the retired staff their entitlements because many of them had died while majority of them could not afford to pay their rents.

UNN Enugu campus shut over students’ protest Jude Ossai - Enugu

THE Enugu Campus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNEC), has been closed down indefinitely following students’ unrest in the institution.

It was gathered that students of the university staged a protest, last Monday, over epileptic power supply on the campus, leading to the destruction of louvres, water tanks and street lights, before police fired tear gas to stop them.

Further checks by the Nigerian Tribune, revealed that the crisis that culminated in the closure of the campus, began over a week ago when the Students’ Union Government locked up lecture classes, insisting that the authorities must fixed the electricity generator on the campus.

Calm however seemed to have returned on the campus, after meetings with the Deputy Vice Chancellor, where agreement was reached that the classes should be reopened on Monday.

However, the instability of the generator on Monday, led to the protests.

In a memorandum issued on June 14, 2016 and signed by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Enugu Campus, Professor Smart Uchegbu, the university authorities announced “the closure of the university of Nigeria, Enugu campus indefinitely.”

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Thursday, 16 June, 2016

Lalong, Jang trade words over grazing reserve As Plateau govt inaugurates 14-man committee Isaac Shobayo - Jos

P

LATEAU State governor, Simon Lalong, has condemned the position of Senator Jonah Jang, on grazing reserve, saying the former governor is suffering from postelection trauma.

Even as the former Governor Jang representing Plateau North in the National Assembly, has accused Lalong of playing politics with the controversial issue capable of igniting fresh crisis in the state.

According to a statement signed by the Director of Press Affairs, Mr Emmanuel Nanle, the governor accused Jang of fanning the ember of discord, adding that grazing reserve and ranches are options that were entirely within the purview of the customary land owners and local government.

The governor said that

the administration had not at any time acquired any land in any locality for the purpose of ceding land to any group.

To address the issue, the governor said the administration had established 14 MSN committee under the chairmanship of Professor Ochapa Onazi, to look into the issue of constant clashes between herdsmen and farmers in the state.

However, Jang has rejected grazing reserve policy, describing it as an-

ti-people.

In the statement signed

by Mr Clinton Garuba, an aide to Jang, the senator said, “For the Federal Government which owns no cattle, to connive with willing state governors to impose a grazing reserve policy on helpless citizens who have suffered the brunt of rampaging herdsmen in recent past, is not only an abuse of their rights but an assault on their already battered psyche; and this must be

vehemently resisted.”

Jang said his position on grazing reserve policy remains the same both on the floor of the senate and at any other forum that Plateau people have no land to cede to the Federal Government or any group for grazing.

He bemoaned Lalong for trying “to play politics with issues that affect the very fabric which defines the heritage of the people, their culture and their land”, adding that if the people wanted it,

it would not have been generating heated controversy in the state.

In a related development, a group of clergymen “Berom Ministers Forum (BEMFO)”, on Monday, declared a day fasting and prayer on the controversy surrounding grazing reserve in the state for God to intervene.

The president of the forum, Reverend Jonah Nash, said the prayer is necessary to foster unity among the people of the state.

Youths, women protest FG’s delay in release of C’River Superhighway EIA Anthony Ubong - Calabar SCORES of youths and women, on Wednesday, took to the streets of Calabar, the Cross River State capital ,protesting over Federal Government’s delay in the release of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), for the 260 Kilometre Superhigh Way project initiated by the state governor, Professor Ben Ayade.

The protesters said that the delay in the release of the EIA by the Federal Government is stalling the construction of the Superhigh Way, which according to them, is impeding economic development in the state.

The protest, which commenced at about 800am from Botanical Garden, on IBB Road, Calabar, witnessed a large turnout ,with the protesters carrying placards Speaking after the protest, the state chairman of National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Mr Ndiyo Ndiyo, accused some politicians in the state of working against the project.

Ndiyo said that there is no development in any part of the world that doesn’t come with destruction, therefore, rather than frustrating the Superhighway project, using the EIA, the Federal Government should partner the state to make the project a reality.

He, however, called on the Federal Ministry of Environment to expedite action on the approval of the EIA.

From left, Minister of State, Agriculture, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri; chairman, Tuns Farms Nigeria Limited, Chief Olatunde Badmus and the Minister of Agriculture, Chief Audu Ogbeh, during the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on National Egg Production Scheme (NEGPRO), between Ministry of Agriculture and Tuns Farms Limited, in Abuja, on Wednesday.

School feeding: Tuns Farms, FG sign N25bn MoU on egg production Collins Nnabuife -Abuja FOLLOWING its plans to embark on an egg per day for school children, the Federal Government has signed a N25 billion Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tuns Farms, to improve egg production in the country.

The project, called National Egg Production Scheme (NEGPRO), is also aimed at increasing

the output of egg production in the country to 50 million table eggs daily by 2018 and a create one million jobs.

Speaking with journalists at the end of the occasion, chairman of Tuns Farms, Chief Olatunde Badmus, said the Ministry of Agriculture would assist the Bank of Industry (BoI) to access N25 billion from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to finance the project.

“The ministry appointed us as a consultant and manager of the scheme.

We are to create one million employment through the scheme and produce 50 million table eggs daily by 2018.

“The Ministry of Agriculture will assist the BoI to access N25 billion from the CBN under the agricultural scheme. The BoI will select some commercial banks that will participate in the

Invest in generation of electricity through coal, Reps tell FG Jacob Segun Olatunji and Kolawole Daniel - Abuja THE House of Representatives, on Wednesday, urged the Federal Government to put all necessary machineries in motion that would lead to the generation of electricity through coal in all the states where there are proven and inferred coal reserves.

The House also asked the Federal Government to create conducive environment to attract private sector investments in the coal sector, including the issuance of sovereign guarantee to foreign investors.

The House resolution was sequel to a motion moved

by Honourable Ahmed Abu, tagged “Urgent need to commence generation of electricity through coal”.

While moving the motion, the lawmaker noted that, coal, mainly sub-bituminous steam coal occurrences in Nigeria have been indicated in more than 22 coalfields spread over 13 states of the federation.

He added that the proven coal reserves so far in Nigeria is about 639 million metric tonnes, while the inferred reserves sum up to 2.75 billion metric tonnes, and currently, Nigeria’s coal industry, has four existing mines, namely, Okpara and Onyeama Un-

derground Mines in Enugu State, Aba surface mine in Kogi State and Owukpa underground mine in Benue State, in addition to more than 13 undeveloped coal fields.

The lawmaker equally expressed concern that there has been an un-ending fall in electricity generation, which worsened on March 24, 2016, when there occurred a total system collapse at about 1.00 p.m, with all the Distribution Companies (Discos), receiving zero allocation from the system operator.

When the motion was put to vote by the speaker, Honourable Yakubu Dogara, it was unanimously supported by members.

programme and loans under this programme is at single digit rate,” he added.

In his address, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh, expressed the readiness of the government assist in the programme to ensure self sufficiency in egg production.

“We are ready to give you the necessary support to make you keep growing and be able to grow others.”

He also hinted the plans of the government to give every child at least three eggs in a week or an egg per day to combat malnutrition.

“We are about to begin a huge school feeding programme, we need to give every child at least three eggs a week, if not an egg per day. We need these children to have a greater sources of protein in their diet,” he noted.

Part of the terms is that the Tuns Farms will recommend eligible entrepreneurs to access the N25 billion facility through the BoI. The company will also develop customised and standard feed concentrate for the scheme.

50,000 Nigerians visit South Africa annually —Envoy THE South African High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr Lulu Mnguni, on Wednesday, said that about 50,000 Nigerians visited South Africa for tourism annually.

Mnguni told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), in Lagos that Nigerians constituted about 50,000 of the recorded annual average of about 10 million foreign tourists.

“South Africa has really been able to harness its tourism potential to continue to attract internal and external tourists.

“South Africa receives an average of about 10 million foreign tourists yearly, including about 50,000 Nigerian visitors,” he said.

The high commissioner, who said that his government was ready to share its tourism development expertise with Nigeria, noted that Nigeria was endowed with potential that needed to be harnessed.

Stop blackmailing Sheriff, Northern youths tell Makarfi Bola Badmus -Lagos A group, Northern Youths United Against Impunity (NYUAI) in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), on Wednesday, faulted a report credited to the national caretaker committee of the party, led by Senator Ahmed Makarfi, that the dejure PDP national chairman, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, was being used by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) against PDP. The group, in a statement issued and signed by its national cordinator, Alhaji Tanko Yunusa, described such statement as propaganda and cheap blackmail against the former governor of Borno State.

The youth further described the view expressed by the Senator Ahmed Makarfi-led panel as lacking facts and adequate information to address the contending issues.

“If they say it is the APC that is using Senator Sheriff to destabilise our party, shall we also say it was the APC that used Governor Ayo Fayose and others who brought him and sold him to other stakeholders as the ‘messiah’ the party needed?” the group queried.

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communitynews

Thursday, 16 June, 2016

Assembly orders demolition of 6 illegal petrol stations in Ilorin Biola Azeez-Ilorin

I

n its demonstration of total opposition to indiscriminate construction of petrol stations in densely populated areas in Ilorin metropolis, the Kwara State House of Assembly has directed that six petrol stations be demolished by a task force of the State Town Planning and Development Authority (TPDA).

The legislature took the decision in its sitting, following the presentation of the report by the ad-hoc Committee on Indiscriminate Construction of Petrol Stations in Ilorin Metropolis.

The motion to that effect had earlier been moved by a member representing Ilorin North West Constituency, Honourable Abdul Rahman Abdul Rafiu.

Reading the resolutions of the assembly, the Speaker, Dr. Ali Ahmad, explained that the directive for the demolition of the six illegal petrol stations became necessary in view of the fact that the stations were sited in densely populated residential areas thereby making the lives and valuable properties around them vunerable to fire outbreak.

The petrol stations are Muniat Integrated Services, Ile Alawo Okelele; Olufield Resources, Kuntu Ilorin; A Petrol Station, which is under construction and located immediately after Shifau Alake Mosque, Ero-Omo, Kilanko Street, an unnamed petrol station on Oko-Erin Road, just before Saw Mill junction, Jofaru Petrol Station before Taoheed Road bridge and the petrol station under construction at Toaheed/Basin Road junction.

The assembly, which directed the state Town Planning and Development Authority to report actions taken on the affected petrol stations to the assembly within one month, equally mandated the authority to ensure a petrol station opposite Kwara Chemicals on Oko-Erin Road complied with safety measures and should also be made to pay penalties for its flagrant disobedience to the laws of the land.

The assembly also directed that another 23 unapproved, uncompleted petrol stations which are not located in residential areas be made to face double penalties before approval is finally granted them to serve as deterrent to others.

It equally enjoined the state government to immediately set up a Town Planning Tribunal to handle town planning related matters as well as strengthen the TPDA to make it perform its statutory functions

effectively.

The legislature, which warned the TPDA against approval of building plans without prior inspection of the site, urged the authority to adhere strictly to its mandate.

The assembly also urged

the state governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed, to produce Master and Regional Plans for urban settlements in the state, to ensure that urban settlements in the state conform with universal best standards The Speaker said the de-

cision of the legislature to sanction the petrol stations was a demonstration of the fact that the legislature under him places communal interest above parochial or personal considerations in the discharge of its constitutional

duties Earlier, the Chairman of the ad-hoc commitee, Honourable Kamaldeen Fagbemi, had, while presenting his report, observed among other things, that Kwarans were justifiably opposed to the siting of petrol stations

in residential areas and that the absence of a modern Master Plan for development of towns and cities in the state had paved way for indiscriminate conversion of residential areas to commercial estates thereby endangering the lives of the masses.

Unstable power supply: Residents give IBEDC ultimatum by rita okonoboh

Residents of Challenge, Bolumole, Anfani, College Crescent, Ajeigbe, among others, have given the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) a two-day ultimatum to rectify what it referred to as “outrageous billing and epileptic power supply.”

The residents, who embarked on a protest, were at the headquarters of the African Newspapers of Nigeria PLC Publishers of the Tribune Titles in Ibadan, to register their displeasure over the electricity situation in their areas.

A resident, Abimbola Oladipo, a fashion designer, bemoaned the situation, stating that her business, among other small businesses, had been seriously affected. She stated that her flat was given a bill of N9,600 for the outgone month, noting that the light situation had been very poor.

Another resident, Mr Victor Oyewole, stated that electricity supply in their respective areas, in the last three months,

had been largely unstable.

According to him, “we have not had stable light in our respective areas for the past three months. To make matters worse, when light comes, it lasts for just a few minutes before it is turned

off again yet, they bring crazy bills. We are being charged between N5,000 and N10,000, yet there has not been light.”

Oyewole stated that the protesters had been to Capital Building, headquarters of the IBEDC in Ibadan, where it was said

that some of the areas had fault with their supply and that efforts were ongoing to rectify the situation.

“Officials of the IBEDC said there is a fault and that they would rectify it within the next two days.

As such, we are giving

them till tomorrow as they promised to do something about the light, otherwise, we would protest again. In the meantime, we don’t want to see any IBEDC official disconnecting electricity supply in these areas,” Oyewole stated.

Residents of Anfani, Challenge, Bolumole and College Crescent in Ibadan, protesting irregular power supply in their areas in front of Tribune House, Imalefalafia, Ibadan, on Wednesday. PHOTO: OYEBANJI PETER

Omo Ibile Igbomina sets up committee to resolve land/chieftaincy disputes biola azeez-ilorin

Worried by land and chieftaincy disputes in Igbomina in Osun and Kwara states, the umbrella body of all socio-cultural associations of indigenes of Igbomina land, the Omo Ibile Igbomina, has inaugurated committees on dispute resolution and youth employment/ education.

Speaking during the inauguration of the com-

mittees at Igbomina House, Ganmo in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State recently, the National President of the organisation, Engineer Timothy Adebayo, said disputes arising from land and chieftaincy matters were becoming rampant in the area.

Adebayo, who said no community can witness development where rancour or disagreement is

prevalent, added that the organisation made the move to ensure the security of life and property and attract sustainable development to the area.

“Our dear elders, Igbomina sons and daughters, we have discovered that dispute arising from land and chieftaincy matters are rampant in our towns and villages. These disputes are no doubt clogs in the wheel of our development ,” he said.

While noting that unity, progress and development of Igbomina land is the thrust of his administration, Adebayo disclosed that his team had had consultations with stakeholders on the Igbomina project in the last five months.

Speaking on the employment/education committee, he said young ones in the area were facing the problem of unemployment while those of school age

Residents to raise fund for road repair in Usi-Ekiti Residents of Irede Estate and Bishop’s Court in Usi-Ekiti have concluded plans to raise fund for the repair of the damaged road linking their community to the major road in the town.

Deaconess Victoria Ojo, a retired nurse from the area, who is coordinat-

ing the fund raising, told Community News that the effort is informed by the need to make the road passable for road users.

According to her, “we learnt that a previous government had completed and commissioned the road on paper but the

only thing visible here is the drainage while the road is still in a very bad shape.

“As we speak, none of us living in this area can go home with our cars, even okada riders don’t ply the road anytime it rains. We have sent several SOS to the government but there

has been no response.

“Rather than wait until government is ready for us, we have decided to raise fund to repair the road through direct labour. All the landlords and residents of the area are ready. We are hoping that work would commence in a couple of days.”

had issues with admission.

He said the committee on youth/education was set up to tackle issues concerning youths, adding that, “youths are the hope of tomorrow and we have made it clear from our inaugural speech that the Igbomina youth is of concern to this administration.”

Engineer Adebayo also said that preparations for the 10th annual Igbomina Day on November 5, 2016 had commenced with the inauguration of the central planning committee, adding that the event would hold at Ilala in Irepodun Local Government Area of the state.

He said the three committees were made up of resourceful and committed sons and daughters of Igbomina land, adding that the organisation had no doubt in their ability to deliver on their mandates.

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Thursday, 16 June, 2016

foreig naffairs with seyi gesinde

T

op Republicans joined with President Obama and other Democrats on Tuesday in sharply condemning Donald Trump’s reaction to the nightclub massacre in Orlando, decrying his anti-Muslim rhetoric and his questioning of Obama’s allegiances as divisive and out of step with America’s values.

Trump, who just a week ago signalled an intent to snap his campaign into a more measured tone for the general election — showed no sign of backing down from his suggestions that Obama was somehow connected to or sympathetic with terrorists, telling the Associated Press that the president “continues to prioritise our enemy” over Americans.

Washington Post stated that in separate appearances, both Obama and his potential successor, likely Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton, blasted Trump’s proposal to ban foreign Muslims from the United States as dangerous and contrary to the nation’s traditions.

A visibly angry Obama also dismissed Trump’s repeated demands for him to use the term “radical Islam” when

08116954632 foreignnewseditor@gmail.com

Night club massacre: Top Republicans join Obama in condemning Trump’s words

Barack Obama

speaking about the Orlando shootings and other attacks.

“Calling a threat by a different name does not make it go away,” Obama said. “This is a political distraction.”

Clinton described Trump’s response to Orlando as rife with “conspiracy theories” and “pathological self-

Donald Trumpw

congratulations.”

The remarkable bipartisan outcry over Trump’s positions — coming at a moment of national mourning after the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history — set off a new wave of alarm within the GOP over whether the real estate mogul’s promised pivot

bombs by government helicopters over rebel-held districts.

Barrel bombs fell on the Salhen, Ferdos, and Jisr al-Haj districts of Aleppo, killing nine people including two children.

Further shelling and air strikes in the Salahadeen,

Sukary, Malaah, and Castello areas caused the deaths of 25 people, among them women and children.

Raids by warplanes continued overnight into Wednesday morning.

Those wounded in the strikes included independent

Euro 2016: Russia summons French ambassador after fan violence The French ambassador to Moscow has been summoned to the Russian foreign ministry after sharp criticism of policing at the Euro 2016 tournament.

“Further stoking of an-

Israel cuts water supplies to West Bank during Ramadan Israel’s national water company has cut crucial water supplies to large areas of the occupied West Bank, leaving tens of thousands of Palestinians without access to safe drinking water during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

Mekorot, the main supplier of water to Palestinian towns and cities, siphoned off water supplies to the municipality of Jenin, several Nablus villages and the city of Salfit and its surrounding villages.

Ayman Rabi, the

executive director of the Palestinian Hydrology Group, told Al Jazeera on Tuesday that in some areas people had not received water for more than 40 days.

“People are relying on purchasing water from water trucks or finding it from alternative sources such as springs and other filling points in their vicinity,” he said.

“Families are having to live on two, three or 10 litres per capita per day,” he said, adding that in some areas they had started rationing water.

Alligator drags US child into water near Disney resort to the general election would ever materialize.

The rift also highlighted the enduring tensions between establishment figures who want to be more inclusive and the bulk of the party, which backs Trump’s proposed Muslim ban and has rallied around him as the presumptive nominee.

34 killed in another day of bombardment in Syria At least 34 people have died in another day of bombardment in the Syrian city of Aleppo, a source inside the city told Al Jazeera.

The deaths on Tuesday came amid aerial bombardment, shelling and the use of barrel

other NEWS

ti-Russian sentiments... could significantly aggravate the atmosphere in Russian-French relations,” the ministry said.

Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov rebuked French

French police stop a coach carrying Russia fans. PHOTO: @ALEXANDERSHPRYGIN

police for detaining 43 Russian fans after clashes in Marseille.

Separately, France is to expel four Russians arrested in Lille, BBC said.

France’s crackdown on hooliganism among supporters relates to incidents outside the stadiums.

UEFA, football’s European governing body, separately fined Russia and gave it asuspended disqualification following fan violence inside the stadium in Marseille where Russia played England on Saturday.

journalist and activist Hadi al-Abdullah, who has been covering the battle for Aleppo from rebel-held areas.

Pictures posted on Twitter captured the moment Abdullah was hit by debris formed by a shell landing near his position.

The bombing inside Aleppo comes as rebel forces and government troops fought bloody clashes for its surrounding villages.

At least 70 rebels were killed in separate clashes on Tuesday when government forces recaptured the village of Zeitan and in the village of Khalasah, which is still contested.

Since 2012, Aleppo has been fought over by rebels, government troops, and Kurdish factions, as well as fighters from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) group.

ISIL were forced from the city in 2013, but still control large parts of the surrounding countryside to its east.

Authorities are searching for a child who was dragged into the water by an alligator near Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa in Orlando.

Orange County Sheriff’s Office spokeswoman Rose Silva said the two-yearold boy was snatched and dragged into the Seven Seas Lagoon about 9:30 p.m on Tuesday, local news outlets reported.

Deputies were continuing the search for the child and local authorities called in

the help of an alligator trapper.

Al Jazeera revealed that a police official said that the father of the boy entered the water and tried in vain to grab his son as the alligator dragged him into the lagoon.

“At some point the mother may have also entered the water, so the parents diligently tried to get the child,” the official said.

The family of five was holidaying from Nebraska and were out relaxing at the beach area of the lagoon.

Germany will not recognise polygamy or marriages involving minors, Justice Minister Heiko Maas has said “No-one who comes here has the right to put his cultural values or religious beliefs above our law,” he told Bild.

In some Islamic countries, men are allowed to take up to four wives, but in Germany polygamy is banned by law.

Concern about polygamy and underage marriage has risen recently, as Germany has been taking in record numbers of migrants, many from Muslim countries.

The law in Germany is clear: no-one is allowed to be married to more than one person at a time, and that includes recent arrivals in the country.

But in practice polygamous relationships are often quietly tolerated, the paper reports. For example, if a man dies, his inheritance

may be distributed between his two wives.

But Mr Maas wants to stop authorities turning a blind eye.

“Everybody must abide by the law, no matter whether he has grown up here or has only just arrived,” he told the tabloid.

This also applies to forced and underage marriages.

“We cannot tolerate forced marriages, above all, if they affect under-age girls,” Mr Maas said.

Germany won’t accept polygamy with minors, minister warns

Germany Justice Minister Heiko Maas.

PHOTO: AP

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Thursday, 16 June, 2016

Editor: Ganiyu Salman tribunesporteditor@yahoo.com 08053789060

D’Tigress out of Rio Olympics T

By Ganiyu Salman

HE hope of Nigeria’s D’Tigress to participate at the 2016 Rio Olympics was finally dashed on Wednesday, following the triumph of Korea in the last group C game of the ongoing FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Nantes, France.

D’Tigress had finished its two group games on Tuesday with one loss to Belarus and win over Korea to amass three points.

Korea however, proved many bookmakers wrong as it defeated Belarus by a point, 66-65 to finish second on the table and remain in contention for the Rio 2016 ticket.

Despite the defeat, Belarus finished tops on the table with a +10 goal advantage, while the Koreans followed also with three points and no goal deficit to qualify for the quarterfinal on superior goal advantage over the Scott Nnaji ladies who recorded 130 points and conceded 140 points.

Kang Ajeong’s sheer brilliance made the qualification of Korea possible as she led all scorers with 18 points, while Kim Danbi was also instrumental in the success with 17 points.

Meanwhile, the spokesman of the Nigeria Basketball Federation

(NBBF), Mr Segun Ikuesan, has rued the inability of D’Tigress to qualify for the Rio Olympics despite what he described as adequate preparation for the ongoing qualifiers in France.

“It was painful, the players did their best and the coaching crew but it is unfortunate that we crashed out on head-to-head rule.

“We had thought that Belarus will also beat Korea so that we can finish second on the table but it didn’t happen. The NBBF did all it could to prepare the team but it is one of those things that the Rio 2016 ticket has been lost.

“The team was well prepared, the players went to Turkey on a training tour and the preparation at home was equally massive,” Ikuesan told Tribunesport by phone on Wednesday evening.

Nigeria’s men’s team, D’Tigers will however, feature at Rio 2016 as Africa’s reigning champions.

D’Tigers won the 2015 AfroBasket Men Championship held in Tunisia.

Shooting Stars 3 Almar FC Rivers Utd 4 Kaduna Utd Prime FC 2 Kano Pillars Kogi United 1 Wikki Sunshine Stars 1 Abia Comets

(Sunshine wins 4-2 (pen) FC IfeanyiUbah 1 Lobi Stars Nasarawa United 1 Go Round Crown

1 Tornadoes

(Crown wins 5-4 on pen)

Kakuri Football Academy, Kaduna South has won this year’s Peace and Unity football competition after a 3-2 victory over Emirates FC of Unguwar Rimi.

The tournament was organised by a sports philanthropist, Mr Gana Namaigero.

Speaking with Tribunesport, Namaigero said the tournament was organised to foster unity among youths in the state.

“I realised football can easily unite people especially the youth. So I decided to use this platform to reach out to these youth,” he said.

He disclosed that 48 teams in the Kaduna metropolis participated in the championship adding that “now with what we have seen, we intend to make it an annual event.”

Namaigero noted that the competition will serve as a platform for the discovery of talents.

“When the tournament was go-

0 0 1 2 1 0 0 1

D’Tigress’ Upe Atosu

Dream Team to excuse foreign stars from Rio 2016 camp There are very strong instructions that a majority of foreign professionals who will feature for Nigeria at the Rio Olympics could well be excused from the month-long Atlanta training camp.

The training camp in Atlanta is from June 29 to July 29, when most pros will be busy with pre-season at their various European clubs.

AfricanFootball.com has now scooped that the professionals will be

Kakuri Academy wins Unity Cup Muhammad Sabiu-Kaduna

Federation Cup results:

ing on, agents and scouts were at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium taking notes of the performance of individual players. So, I believe some of these talents discovered

through this competition could become great professional footballers in the near future with adequate motivation,” Namaigero said.

Shell Cup final: Fosla Academy faces Excel Secondary School today

By Niyi Alebiosu The final of this year’s edition of the annual All Nigeria Secondary Schools Football Championship tagged Shell Cup between Fosla Academy, Karshi, Abuja and Excel Secondary School, Port Harcourt, holds today at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos.

Fosla Academy defeated Asegun Comprehensive High School, Ibadan 3-0, while Excel Secondary School whitewashed Government Secondary School, Darazo, Bauchi, 4-0 in the second semi-final.

Speaking with Tribunesport, Fosla Academy technical director, Patrick Nwaogu, ex-

pressed optimism that his wards will emerge victorious in today’s final.

According to him, “our boys have done all that was expected through the coaches and the players but playing in the final is not always easy more so when you are playing against an equally good side which is a high scoring side as well. We are not going to underrate our opponents. We are going into the final with determination and seriousness so as to actualise our dream of emerging victorious”.

Meanwhile, the Bauchi boys will take on their counterparts from Ibadan in the third place match also at the same venue before the grand finale.

expected to feature in the team’s friendly against another Riobound team Mexico on July 2 after which they will be allowed to return to their various clubs and are then expected back in time for a final test game against Honduras on July 27.

We first broke the story that coach Samson Siasia has already reached an agreement with Arsenal for Alex Iwobi to join up with the Olympic team

after his pre-season with the Gunners.

Players from the Nigeria league formed the bulk of Siasia’s team who won the U-23 AFCON in Senegal last December to qualify for the Rio Olympics.

But it is expected now that overseas-based professionals will dominate the final squad to Brazil.

Nwakali denies Arsenal deal Nigeria starlet and reported Arsenal target, Kelechi Nwakali has rejected Twitter and Facebook accounts supposedly belonging to him after news emerged on social media that he had completed his longawaited move to the English Premier League side.

The 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup winner has been consistently linked with a move to Arsene Wenger’s team alongside teammate, Samuel Chukwueze, with the rumours intensifying after social media accounts of dubious origins appeared to show him confirming his move to the north London giants.

A picture emerged on Facebook showing the youngster holding an Arsenal jersey and the statement “New Life Begins @Arsenal”.

However, Nwakali, who captained the Golden Eaglets at Chile 2015 to success has moved swiftly to deny those claims, writing on his Insta-

gram page that he does not have a Facebook or Twitter account.

“Please everybody do not be fooled. I do not have a Twitter or Facebook account! Please everybody report this account because it is not me I only have Instagram,” said Nwakali who is the captain of the current Flying Eagles.

Nwakali

39

tribunepools

DR. JK POOLS – 07039275802 (5XX12) 8 -9 -24 -27 -41.

I have discovered that there was wrong poological mis – calculation which will not repeat itself again.

A professor of mine in a University yesterday appealed to me to change gear by applying the theories of the late forties that usually clicked 3/3 and 4/4. I therefore agreed with his advise. Pleass stay with me and keep records. Now pick two bankers from 8, 9, 24, 27, 41 and add to the above bracket games, call for details. Goodluck says DR. JK Pools.

INNOCENT NAP (08095602590) 3 NAP 7 ENGLISH N30, 000 WINNER MEMBERSHIP GROUP A. N50, 000 4 Special Draws N6, 000 Wk 48 No 16x 26x 36x= 4/4 4 Special Draws N6, 000 Wk 49 No Nap Nap Nap Nap with Nap Nap 4 Special Draws N6, 000 Wk 50 No Nap Nap Nap Nap with Nap Two Bankers Wk 48 No 26x 36x Pair 34x 16x Wk 49 No Nap Nap Nap Pair Nap Nap Stakers try to get Innocent 4 special draw this Wk 49 cost N6, 000 Two Bankers cost N4000.Send MTN Card.

M.B.A EXPERT (08104694618) PAIR 4XX 37 Week 49 pools settings are again with no Australian coupon fixtures.

This trend does not give a true picture of Aussie season. A better outing in week 50 is assured with week/ dates. Good luck.

LUCKYMAN 08054352685 (39XX40) WE ARE EURO CHAMPIONSHIP SPECIALIST. We have 3 Euro draws for all our fans, we are set to dash out 3 Euro draws for all our fans. Call now and win BK Fortune on pools, Send N2500 MTN Card 39 draw 40.

THE LILIES 08086944309 (47 NAP 49) The lilies is really set to help you win on pools, stick to us weekly we will help you win big jackpot on pools.

Call now for our Euro release with only N2500 MTN Card. The road to big jackpot will be widely open for all our fans. 47 NAP 49.

MISTER DRAW 08030415683 = 10XXX Germany will hold N-Ireland plus 2 super draws cost N2000 MTN Card winning is wonderful win now.

MID- WEEK GIVES 14/15 08087176217 American major league, Japanese and Chinese leagues are included in the teams on this week’s coupon. We are not bothered as we are sure we shall help our punters to make it with our forecasting prowess.

All fans and pools lovers are hereby enjoined to use coupon No’s 14/15 for a sure draw on the card, Add them to our IBK and get your 2/3 unfailingly.

Our IBK still sells for #1,500, 2 draws cost N3,000 and 3 draws sells for #10,000 on 08087176217.

Wishing you best of luck!

SIR MICHEAL NAP 11 PAIR 15 (09091874579) All is set again this week for 3/3 and 4/5 cost just N15,000. Call for acct no or mode of payment.

ZION NAP – 08062748396 15X 19X 32X 23X 41X 05X Free winning clue for week 49= The direct 3 draws cost N10, 000= to prepare you for week 50 N100, 000 – 3 direct & fixed draw. Call, pay & win now. goodluck.

FAITHFUL AUSSIE (07082899957) 15XX39 3 YEARS ANNUAL WEEK 49 SUREBET.

2014, 2015, 2016 = Annual Nap. Wk49-2014-06x 29x 43xxx-15x = 8drs Wk49-2015-08x 24x 38xxx-15x = 6drs Wk49-2016-X X X - 15x 39x Win with your faith on authentic winning information. Faith winning mission designed to put smile to faithful stakers=N45,000. Good luck at FAITH MISSION.

KARMARK SUPER – (08186673842) 1XX 15.

Belgium VS Rep of Ireland on number 1 is going to draw with 2 others. Sure for all interested stakers. Nap cost N 6,500 while the permutation is N5,000 = payable to Mr S.B. Odusola. IBTC Bank No 0001361916. God bless JOSEPH INITIATIVE WIN – 08167278061 (19XX39) 26X 43X 49XX – 39X 29F (4/5) Read our advert for confirmation. Salisbury and Stirling Lions on same digit = 39xxx. Week 49 sure win again on another S. vs S same digit.

Sporting KC and Sanfrencce H = 19x 39x and other 3 confirmed draws (naps). Cost N35,000. Congrats.

4 MEMBERS. 4 BANKERS 4 MEMBERS = 15X 33 (08162705220) 4 BANKERS N6000 WK 49= 2013 No 1x 34x 47x 49x with 33x 42x 4 BANKERS N5000 WK 49= 2014 No 6x 15x 35x 36x with 15x 42x 4 BANKERS N5000 WK 49= 2015 No 8x 15x 24x 38x with 15x 33x 4 BANKERS N5000 WK 49= 2016 No Nap Nap Nap Nap with 15.33 Stakers try to get 4 members 4 bankers this Wk 44 cost N6, 000 member Aussie system booklet out N30, 000. Winner membership Aussie 2016 N50, 000.

WEEK 49 STATUS. EKO- 01, 29, 30, 31, 34-42 LKO-02, 03, 15, 22, 49 SUNDAY- 4, 5, 12-14, 17-23, 27, 32, 33, 43, 44, 46-48 MONDAY- 06, 07, 16 TUESDAY- 08, 09, 10, 11 EDITOR’S PLACE: 02 - 05

Thursday, 16 - 22 June, 2016

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE POOLS PAGE

THE WINNERS CHOICE GET A COPY AND WIN

PLEIAD DE MAXWELL – 09099968585.

SPORTING KC – VEGALTA. S.= 41X 42X. Did you aware that draws are fixed on tabulation, calculation and computation of matches on numbers and teams not minding the coupon fixture. Never doubt your winning chances with the newly introduced leagues.

Note draws are due in European Championship, M.L.S American Super League, Sweden Seperettan, Finland, Norway, Japan. J and China Super League, Iceland, Romania, Croatia can Turkey hold Czech Rep? Ukraine hum......

New York, Real Salt, Sporting K.C and Toronto are MLS draws region, Sangatosu to Vissel Kobe, Shadong L and Yanban are not push over for draws. Contact De Maxwell draws clinic for your sure win after discharged. TOKEN MANAGER. ISREAL BAIL OUT – 09085712800.

Only winners celebrates= your seasoned debt recovery/payment point.

10 – 10 – 10 – 10 – WEEKS NAP & WIN. Week 9 – 06x 14x 48xxx – 41x= 11drs.

Week 19 – 11x 29x 46xxx – 32x= 11drs Week 29= 15x 19x 38xxx – 32x= 8drs.

Week 49 – X X X= 32xx 41xxx ?drs Congratulations, Be bailed out of your financial mess if not for once. Our millionaires friends are to add to their wealth with the above 10 – 10 weeks Nap illustration – Get celebrated. N50, 000 – 1MILLION. NAZAR MASTER APPRECIATES STAKEHOLDERS Nazar Master Pool company Limited, Ibadan, Oyo State.

The Pools Company was lauded for its first class services to stakers, agents, collectors and other critical stakeholder coupled with promoters winning and big dividend declared on its Treble chance this Aussie season.

According to ‘NAZAR MASTER’ we are encouraged by the commendation we have been receiving from stakeholder on the Pools industry. We have no choice than to maintain the standard and we shall never lower the Benchmark. Invest and win big.

He promised higher dividend in Aussie 2016 and prompt payment on fixed odds.

ARMSTRONG AUSSIE WIN – 08154836338 AVONDALE ON NUMBER 12 OF 11 DRAWS. Winning directives from the source (PPA). Team Avondale away No. 12 in week 52 ‘2014 Avondale HOME No. 12 in week 48 ‘2016 2 – 2 YEARS WINNING INSTRUTION (PURPLE COLOURED AFFAIR) Week 52 ‘2014 – 16X 17X 36XXX – 11drs.

Week 48 ‘2016 – 16X 17X 36XXX – 11drs, 39xxx DANDENONG. C. XX BLACKTOWN. C. = Confirm from your accurate records.

Following week addition 1st alphabets home and away No 1 2014 = B + S = 21 = 20X 21-2016 = B + R = 20 = 19X20 Week 01 ‘2014 – 24X 29X 34XXX 20X. Week 49 ‘2016 – X X X - 19X20 NB = We operates now on foreign Experts (PPA) winning instruction. N50,000 = ONE CUSTOMER. OBINYAN PROMISES GOOD TIDINGS. The wizard of 1.2x in Africa,The Chairman managing director of kings & George group of forcast papers CHIEF EHI OBINYAN assures stakers of good win in 2016 Aussie despite the hidden place.

He therefore enjoined stakers to browse through his fortune papers for regular win this Aussie. Buy, study and keep records of the group of the fortune forcast papers for your winning assurance, the papers are Pools Telegraph, Zeters Pools Guild, Shoot Pointers, Murphy sports, The New Dream and Final Result.

OLA-CITY WEEK 49 RELEASE (PHONE 08140575314, 08085005634) GOT 3 DRAWS CORRECT IN WEEK 47 ON NOS 9X 20X 32X.GOT NOTHUING IN WEEK 48 PROMISED TO GET ALL CORRECT THIS WEEK 49 AND WEEK 50.

WEEK 49 PAIR 14XXX 23XXX The compiler of Ola-City International Australia draws for this week 49 and week 50 cost N10,000cash each week, which will surely get all correct.

Pay your N10,000 cash to First Bank Plc, Account No 3033318854 and Account Name OLAFENWA RAMONI OLA-CITY and collect 3 draws on the phone by text message after the confirmation of your payment. Phone 08140575314, 080850005634. God bless.

JACOBSON THE AUSSIE MANAGER (07065292905) ON 4WEEKS WINNNING DIRECTIVES B- B –B –B AT HOME NO 1 Controlled tabulated, calculated & compilated winning directives as directed by our newest Aussie managers on fixed matches.

Week 47 – Brazil Home No.1 = 01X 12X 47XXX. 43/49 Week 48 – Bonnyrigg Home No. 1 = 5X 16X 39X - 43 Week 49 – Belgium Home No.1 = X X X - 39x 41 Week 50 – Bonnyrigg Home No. 1 = X X X - 46x 48 Congratulation our 2016 Aussie assured Naps started well with the above winning illustrations. Draws are fixed on scheduled and gazette winning directory. Welcome to the wise stakers abode – N50, 000 -N250,000 . Good luck.

SUNDERLAND SYSTEM 09038460009= 15 NAP 39 Aussie system booklet out N3000. Membership N50, 000 Two. B ANSWERS WK 48 NO 4X 16X PAIR 34F 36X 4. Special draws N6, 000 Wk 49 No Nap Nap Nap Nap= 4/4 4. Special draws Wk 50 No Nap Nap Nap Nap= 4/4 Two Bankers N3000 Wk 48 No 4x 16x Pair 34f 36x Wk 49 No Nap Nap Pair Nap Nap Two Bankers N3000 Wk 50 No Nap Nap Pair Nap Nap Time to win pool this Wk 49 Sunderland system 4 special Draws this Wk 49 will play 4/4 correct hurry up to get your copy today two Bankers cost N3000 Wk 49 No Wk 48 No 4x 16x Pair 34f 36x 18x 19f. Send MTN Card 09038460009.

MADAM DE MADAM AGAIN – 08023329191 (15 SURE 19) 16X 26X 36XXX – FREE PAIR 39XX. Congratulations, another incredible win at the Madams place with the above games in week 48. REALSALT LAKE MUST SPORTING K.C. Winnings on unusual coupon fixture on Sweden, Japan, China, M.L.S. super leagues is only possible on bookmakers and Experts on fixed matches draws calculations instruction/ directives. Week 49 sure Win – X X X = 15 X 19.

Confirmed winning at the Madams of Mr Joshua winning place. Contact our Media Manager for your sure win. N100,000 Welcome & good luck.

TRIPLE OFFERS: 2-32-43-(14/15) 08035324990 Fixtures this week again contain assorted strange lots from Europe, America, Japan and Chinese leagues. This is rather strange and it calls for caution on the part of punters.

Forecasting with figure or number juggling, date of play etc with luck will be at work and some people may still hit it this week.

Based on this, rather than teams names, we present 2-32-43-14/15 this week. It will prepare you well for real Aussie fixtures next week.

We wish all punters the available lucks this week on 08035324990.

AMUKO & ASSOCIATES THE AUSSIE MANAGER 07014686970 (31 SURE 32)

MODUPE – (08033566694) 10X 37X 40XXX — 2 DRS Call for winning details. Goodluck.

HOPE NAPS & CO – 08107128449

MUST – 31 MUST 42 = 42XX 31X No retreat, No surrender. The management of Hope Naps & co International is now fully ready to unleash terror on promoters with the above (must) pair and 3 fixed draws for your Aussie merriments.

Cost N25, 000 payable to Gbadebo Stephen A. at First Bank No. 3088328923.

Your winning Naps will be sent to you by text message of your payment confirmation. 31 MUST 42. Good luck.

INDELIBLE IKE & BROTHERS. THE PROMOTERS REGRET. 08168157259 = (42 MUST 19) Again our Annual week 48 calculation & tabulation winning information is now Talk of the Town. Reference to our last week advert.

Wk 48-2014-08x 21x 29xxx 21xx 5drs Wk 48-2015 12x 37x 39xxx 22xx 7drs Wk48-2016-05x 26xx 49xxx 23xx 11drs. Our calculated draws was not correct, thank God we still have a FULL PAYMENT of 11 draws. The above chat shown the descending of draws formation only the Experts with unequal winning gazette unveiled it as directed by our overseas seasoned Experts. IKE & BROTHERS week 49 nap is a replica of week 48 Naps. Cost N50,000 = win AKIN MR AKIN – 07067202291 SHOW CLASS ON 11 DRAWS OF SUCCESS WINNINGS. (19 sure 20) Newly introduced Aussie & non Aussie winning information directly from Sydney the capital city of Australia.

Wk 46 – 13x 33xx 43xxx = 19x Wk 47 – 02x 12x 32xxx = 20x Wk 48 – 16x 26x 36xxx = Wk49 - X X X - 19X20 N25,000 Affordable price to all new intending winning desired stakers.

FORTUNE DONOR DONATES 42\43 (08099111828) Your selfless and hardworking fortune donor international is at it again with a superlative pair on No’s 42\43.

Play them anywhere this week, they are due for a draw and will surely oblige us with a draw.

Combine this duo with our IBK and have your usual 2/3.

Our IBK costs only N1, 5000, 2 draws sell for N3,000 and 3 draws cost N10,000 on 08099111828. Be a regular winner ADEOTI SYNDICATE (07051327960) TURKEY X (09) GERMANY (10X) FOR 1 DRAW In every weeks of 9 . Check week 9,Nos 6 play 0-0 draw In week 19, No’s 6 repeated 2-2 draws.

Also No’s 11 play 1-1 draw.

In week 29, Nos 11 still repeat 0-0 draw.

In week 39, Nos 9x 1-1 draw and Nos 10x play 3-3 draw all with their 4 others.

This week 49, what you expect to happen? Send for week 49 release to know what will happen. Time never late to win.

Send your N5,000 cash to Ahmed Shafiri A/C Nos 2001788431, Zenith bank Ibadan, not affect Aussie season.

Good luck and God bless.

MAN CITY SYSTEM 08166222529= 09038633666= 15 NAP 42 RELEASE WINNER MEMBERSHIP AUSSIE 2016 N50, 000 English system booklet N30, 000 4 special draws N6, 000 Wk 48 No 16x 23x 43x= 4/4 4 special draws N6, 000 Wk 49 No Nap Nap Nap Nap= 4/4 4 special draws N6, 000 Wk 50 No Nap Nap Nap Nap Two bankers N3, 000 Wk 48 No 16x 26x Pair 23x 43x Two bankers N3, 000 Wk 50 No Nap Nap Pair Nap Nap Stakers try to get MANCITY 4 Special draws this Wk 49 cost N3000. two Bankers this Wk 49 costN3000.

MALLAM BAWA MUSA SET AGAIN 08052506287 WK 50 PAIR 1, 2 WK 48 = 4X, 39X, 43X PAIR 13F, 14F WK 50 = BET BET BET PAIR 1,2 Congrats to all my new and old customers who got my special release for week 48 which played 3/3 nap correct on 4x, 39x, 43x, pair 13f, 14f. Adamstown R. Is set at No 41 home under the bar again in week 50 for another 3 unfailingly nap draws, cost N10,000 cash. Payments at Access Bank to Mallam Musa Ibrahim, Acct no 0042075587. Call 08052506287.

NEW EMIRATE INT. NAP = (08087104491) 19x 34x 36x 41x 42xx Free win at Emirates in preparation for our Annual week 50, 51, 52 naps. Cost N100,000 each week. Make good use of the above sure win.

MAGIC KINGDOM – 08056753098/07085060512 NAP – 31X 47X 48 PAIR 44 and 46 KEY – REP OF IRELAND at away No 1 meeting letter ‘B’ the above games is sure for good win.

KEY – Following week HOBART. Z must be at away No. 40 plus other two draws.

Cost N10,000. Call for details.

LEKE INTERNATIONAL NAPS 09091798611 BET 11, 32 My special nap for last week scored 4x, 23x, 43x, pair 13f, 36x. In week 49 and 50, I’m here by assuring all my customers and stakers in general of another Naira rainfall of winning to all. Cost N25,000.

WE ONLY OPERATES IN CUP & AUSSIE SEASON Congratulation our Annual week 49 since 2014 winning gazette is at it again. Human memory is short lived remember week 49-2014 of 8 draw and week 49 – 2015 of 6 draw.

Now history is set to repeat itself. 2014 – 2017. Annual winning instruction.

Week 49 winning gazette of Teams of 49 (H + A) 2014 – Canberr 0 vs Cooma. T. = C + C= 6x + 9= 15xxx 2015 – Tiger FC vs Monaro= T + M= 33x – 9= 24xxx 2016 – Yanbian vs Guangzhou. E= Y + G= 32xx 31.

NB= 2014 and 2015 draws is fixed on CODE + 9 and -9.

Never compromise your week 49 sure win.

Lets celebrate you – N50, 000= Goodluck MR RESORT MANAGER PUT SMILE ON STAKERS FACES. THE WISE SOLOMON OF OUR TIME 09091111800. (32XX 41) Wk 48’ 2015 – 37x 39x 41xxx Wk 48’ 2016 – 39x 41x 43xxx In week 48 2015 = Nap was on addition 1st of alphabets home &away number 1 & 49.

A + M + T + C = 1+13+20+3 =37= 37X 39X 41XXX In week 48 2015 = Nap was on addition of 1st alphabets No’s 2 & 48 = H + B + F + W = 8+2+6+23=39=39X 41X 43XXX. In Aussie draws are always scare but winning is sure on Authentic winning directive. Act wisely; Join the Solomon Resort draws management group- N50,000. Call to pay and win.

JOSEPH INITIATIVE WIN – 08167278061 (19XX39)

PLACE YOUR ADVERT HERE WEEK 48 XRAY 11draws of rare winnings, only our pools page compiler add to stakers winning dividends. Congratulation.

Madam De Madam and Ike Brothers fulfilled their winning promises.

Peter, Mrs Henry, Sir Braka, Luckyman, Leke International, MBA Expert, Winner solution and Joseph initiative got their pairs correctly as promised. Narrowly missed at Mr A. George, Magic Kingdom and Victorious Victor free winning lines.

Our daer compilers promised good & confirmed winning week for all stakers this week, you are therefore enjoined to be part of the success.

Appreciate them for better service.

26X 43X 49XX – 39X 29F (4/5). Read our advert for confirmation. Salisbury and Stirling Lions on same digit = 39xxx. Week 49 SURE WIN AGAIN ON another S. vs S same digit. Sporting KC and Sanfrencce H = 19x 39x and other 3 confirmed draws (naps). Cost N45,000. Congrats.

MADAM DE MADAM – Your newest winning contact made me a successful man. God bless my dear madams of Mr. Joshua - Tony. Abuja HOPE NAPS & CO – 08107128449 ( 31 MUST 42) Call and win). Good luck.

GERMANY

TWO BANKERS N3,000 WK 49 WK 48 NAP X23X NAP X39X PAIR PAIR 03 X43X 15 F44F

AUSTRIA

TWO BANKERS N3,000 WK 48 WK 49 X16X NAP X49X NAP PAIR PAIR X04X 19 X05X 20

FRANCE

TWO BANKERS N3,000 WK 48 WK 49 X26X NAP X36X NAP PAIR PAIR X17X 07 F18F 33

SEND MTN CARD TO 09084916233, 08142362005.

MRS. HENRY – PAIR 17XX 24XX 08170779623 & 08071554934 Congratulation! Congratulation!! Congratulation!!!

On No 16XX 17XX 23XX 33F 39XX which played 4/5; as the PPA President promised to put smiles on stakers face; in which he fulfilled his promise. I am also using this medium to inform all registered members that Mr Robinson PPA President has arrived Nigeria to shake promoters in WKS.49 & 50. Key: SORRENTO AT NO. 31 AWAY, open to previous week, Bank on No 17 and No 24 said President of PPA Mr Robinson. Note: No 24 is a fixed draw on coupon.

Cost price for wk49: N70,000 (Seventy thousand naira only) Call – 08170779623 & 08071554934 JACOBSON THE AUSSIE MANAGER - 07065292905.

ADVANCED IN AUSSIE 2016 SEASON. CALL AND WIN.

ALHAJI SADIKU. 08062978995 TALK OF THE TOWN RELEASE. Please note that in this current Aussie season, “whenever BONNYRIGG is at NO. 1 HOME, it is a classified authentic key to promote 3 sure Nap draws and strong pair” WK. 48 = 39X, 41X, 43X. Pair 16X, 23X WK. 50 = NAP, NAP, NAP. Pair X, X. Cost price = N20,000 cash.

Pay at any G.T.B, to Alhaji Sadiku Adedoja, accts No. 0030411077.

Call 08062978995 or 08183573342…N.B. I don’t publish or advertise expect I am sure of my Nap PORTUGAL

TWO BANKER WK 48 N3,000

X16X X23X WK 49 PURPLE NAP NAP

COROATIA

TWO BANKER WK 48 N3,000 X26X X43X WK 49 PURPLE NAP NAP

TURKEY

TWO BANKER WK 48 N3,000 X36X F38F WK 49 PURPLE NAP NAP

SEND MTN CARD TO 09038633666\08095602590

PETER NAP:01 PAIR 12 (08076546261)

Congratulation to all those that will get my release this week, as the odd week setting that get 1XX, 2XX, 13XX 3/3 in wk 47, though 1XX, 2XX was published free that week, will get again this week, cost just N25,000.00 pay to saving acct no: 3023114822 First bank in person of Mr. Onaolapo Peter G. Call on 08076546261. Meanwhile bank on 1 or 12 for X this week.

LOVE BEST TWO BANKERS N4,000 WK 49 WK 50 WK 48 NAP NAP X04X NAP NAP X43X PAIR PAIR PAIR 33 NAP 03F 42 NAP X04X

MOVE FORWARD TWO BANKERS N4,000 WK 49 WK 50 WK 48 NAP NAP X16X NAP NAP X36X PAIR PAIR PAIR 03 NAP 38F 15 NAP X39X

SEND MTN CARD TO 08166222529, 09038460009.

ARMSTRONG AUSSIE WIN – 08154836338

HOME & AWAY TEAMS NO 1 ADDITIONAL NAP SURE WIN. 2014 = B+ S = 20X21 – 2015 = B + R = 20 = 19X20 Operates on PPA winning instruction. Call & win N50,000 AMUKO & ASSOCIATES – THE AUSSIE MANAGER – 07014686970 Contact us and win with special revealed week 49 annual winning (NAPS). We only speak CUP & AUSSSIE Language N50,000

Solomon Resort Remain Irresistible to stakers. welcome to new resort place.

NJOROGE MR. ASSURANCE – 08177474535. ANNUAL 2015 &2016 WEEKS 48 &50 WIN. APIA – LEICHARDT HOME NO 1 WKS 48 & 50 – 2015 BONNYRIGG W.E HOME NO 1 WKS 48 & 50 – 2016.

Our previous 2 weeks performances in 2015.

Wk. 48’ 2015 – 12x 22x 43xxx / / Wk. 48’ 2016 16x 36x 49xxx Wk. 50’ 2015 = 19x 29x 41xxx / / Wk. 50’ 2016 x x x Now, 2016 Bonnyrigg @ home wks 48 & 50.

NOTE: Tugger U or Tiger M = Letter ‘T’ must be at home 49 (must).

Congrats the Assurance family that won with us last week on 16x 39x 41xxx. No release in week 49, so GET PREPARED for wk 50 = 2nd round win = N100,000.

SIDELINES

no 16,525

n150

THURSDAY, 16 june, 2016

“Post UTME screening has afforded the universities the opportunity to identify the following: 1.

Students who have been rusticated from other universities, 2.

Those who forged their JAMB results, Those who have been in3. volved in criminal activities such as cultism, rape, stealing, armed robbery, ritual killings, drug and alcohol addictions, kidnapping and other illegal activities.

4.

Those who do not have the requisite competence to study the courses they applied for.

Those who are not interest5. ed in their courses but are pushed by their parents.

These are not matters which JAMB can identify.”

AST week I started an examination of the recent decision of the Federal Government of Nigeria to scrap the post UTME examinations being conducted by Universities. I examined the statutory powers of the Joint Admissions Matriculation Board (JAMB) to conduct examinations and stated that such powers do not detract from the right of and indeed the statutory duty of individual universities to screen candidates who have applied to them for admission and why the screening must of necessity include oral and or written test. This week I will relate the factors which brought about the adoption of Post UTME screening exercise in the first place and why, as these factors are still in existence, the decision to scrap post UTME examinations will eventually prove to be a costly one for tertiary education in Nigeria.

Initial success of JAMB examinations and subsequent problems For a long time after its inception, the Board conducted on a yearly basis, separate matriculation examinations into Nigerian Universities on the one hand and Polytechnics and Colleges of education on the other hand. In recent years the Board conducted a Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

For a long time the Board was able to discharge its functions with some level of credibility. To a large extent, the students who were admitted to the Universities through the Board seemed to justify the creation of the Board in the first place. However with the passage of time and the advent of other factors such as National population increase, things took a turn for the worse.

L

OFR, CON, SAN, LL.D, D.Litt

One of the English fans jailed and banned from France for causing violence at the ongoing Euro 2016, Ian Hepworth, is a psychiatric nurse. With his behaviour in France, will it not be necessary for Hepworth’s employers to let him undergo psychiatric test when he resumes work?

afeonthursday

aareafe@gmail.com

Minister’s pronouncement to scrap Post-UTME exams: A serious mistake (2) Factors such as corruption began to have an effect on the quality of students admitted to the Universities through JAMB. No longer could the Universities be assured of the fact that they were admitting the best qualified students. In many instances examinations papers were openly compromised and sold to students even within the premises of the examination venue. Students who had scored very high marks in the examination conducted by the Board were in most cases unable to cope academically after admission

by Universities of their choices.

Effect of drop in standards The above stated scenario was bound to have and indeed had effect on the educational fortunes of the country. Graduates of Nigerian Universities who hitherto were able to compete with their counterparts from other parts of the world for placement in Post Graduate Programmes of some notable foreign Universities became totally disadvantaged for no other reason but the fact that they possessed degrees of Nigerian Universities.

The genesis of Post-UTME It was with this state of affairs in mind as the Pro-Chancellor of University of Lagos and the Chairman of Committee of ProChancellor that I began the advocacy for the introduction of some form of further screening, after the conduct of the UTME examination for applicants into the Nation’s tertiary institutions. I gave the first public hint of the introduction of such a system during the 2002 Convocation of the University of Lagos of which I was at the time, the ProChancellor and Chairman of Council. My remarks regarding the planned introduction of the Post-JAMB screening received wide applause from all present. On the 15th of December 2003 I renewed my call for the introduction of the said test. This was on the

occasion of the presentation of an award by the National Universities Commission to the Governing Council of the University of Lagos as the best in the Country. At the said occasion I stated as follows: “The situation is now such that unscrupulous parents and guardians of candidates and even candidates themselves act in collusion with elements in JAMB to forge and falsify results of JAMB examinations. The good candidates who scored averagely and who would have been able to sustain any rigorous academic activity are thus edged out by this evil contrivance….

In the days before JAMB was established when each university was in control of its own admission and matriculation process, our degrees, diplomas, certificates and qualifications suffered no credibility locally and abroad. Nobody questioned our degrees outside the borders of Nigeria. Regrettably, the flaws in JAMB process which was not in existence in its early years of existence is now a big factor to this inimical and sorry state of our degrees in Nigeria which each University must reverse and halt. The university authority in Unilag is bent on improving the quality of admission and afortiori the quality of its degrees. ..

In pursuance of our goal of restoring the old glory of our qualifications, diplomas and certificates the University of Lagos will guard jealously and ensure that those fraudulent students who are admitted through false JAMB results and whose intellect are not reasonably justifiable or sustainable in any credible academic environment will be “weeded.”

The final decision of the Federal Government to continue to use JAMB as benchmark while the universities were to commence Post-UTME screening exercise.

Consequent upon this address, the body of Vice-Chancellors and Committee of ProChancellor of Nigerian Universities met several times on the matter.

After careful examination of the issues involved, the Federal Government resolved that there was no need to scrap JAMB. It stated however that JAMB should continue to conduct its matriculation examinations to provide minimum benchmark for suitability for university education the universities should intensify their own statutory roles by conducting elaborate screening of the successful JAMB candidates to determine among them those who are prepared for effective and quality university education.

The effect of the screening exercise carried out by universities on the students turned over by JAMB. The Post-UTME screenings have had a profound effect. It has greatly increased the quality of students admitted in the Universities. At the inception some students who scored very high marks in the examination conducted by the Board failed to justify such high ratings in the Post-UTME screening.

The screening has afforded the universities the opportunity to identify the following: 6. Students who have been rusticated from other universities, 7. Those who forged their JAMB results, 8. Those who have been involved in criminal activities such as cultism, rape, stealing, armed robbery, ritual killings, drug and alcohol addictions, kidnapping and other illegal activities.

9. Those who do not have the requisite competence to study the courses they applied for.

10. Those who are not interested in their courses but are pushed by their parents.

These are not matters which JAMB can identify. (To be continued)

This is Nigeria’s worst Olympics preparation —Toriola Having been part of the last six Olympics build up, Africa’s most decorated table tennis player, Segun Toriola has lamented Nigeria’s preparation for the Rio Olympics describing it as the worst ever.

Toriola, 42, who will be making history in Brazil, as the first African athlete to feature in seven Olympics said he has never seen this kind of preparation since he made his debut at the Barcelona ’92 Olympics.

“I don’t think we ever had it so bad like this because even the last Olympics in London, by this time, we had started prep-

aration and I don’t think any athlete can do much in Brazil. It is disheartening that nobody is even telling us (athletes) what is the next thing we need to do? I think nobody should expect much from the athletes because most of our opponents are about to round off their preparations while we have not even started,” he said.

On the idea of focusing on sports that are going to win medals, Toriola said, “I want our administrator to know that qualifying for the Olympics is not on a platter of gold as you have to compete to qualify to make it to the Olympics. But we have to know that

it is the biggest stage for every athlete and all those who have been winning Olympics medals had quality preparation and I think our athletes should be given enough support.”

The former African champion, who had after nine years of playing professionally in the French table tennis league, will be quitting Argentan club and move to Belgium.

Toriola, who is expected to feature in his seventh Olympics in Brazil played his last game for Argentan on May 3 and was honoured last weekend by officials of the club in France.

Toriola

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