Fri 18 April 2014 by The Guardian Newspaper

TheGuardian Conscience, Nurtured by Truth Friday, April 18, 2014

Vol. 30, No. 12,895

www.ngrguardiannews.com

N150

Jonathan, govs, others parley, APC denies shunning invitation From Madu Onuorah and Bridget Chiedu Onochie, Abuja

• Senators want WASC exams extended for freed students

RESIDENT Goodluck P Jonathan yesterday met with members of the Nation-

the deteriorating security situation in the country. But politics seem to have been brought into the issue of security as none of the governors under the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform attended the crucial meeting even though they were in Abuja on

al Security Council (NSC) and also hosted an enlarged meeting of the nation’s governors at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The emergency meeting was convened to deliberate over

Wednesday where they visited the victims of Monday’s blast in Nyanya, Abuja. But most governors on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and Labour Party attended the parley. Meanwhile, senators have

called on the Executive arm of government as well as the West African Examination Council (WAEC) not to allow the Boko Haram sect truncate the education of the released female students of Government Girls College, Chibok, Borno State. The lawmakers appealed

that the girls should be allowed to write their final papers elsewhere in the state or alternatively, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The governors who attended the meeting included Ibrahim Shehu Shema (Katsina), Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu (Niger), Kebbi (represented by deputy governor), Mukhtar Ramallan Yero (Kaduna), Isa Yuguda

(Bauchi), Martin Elechi (Ebonyi), Garba Umar (Taraba), Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo (Gombe), Idris Ichalla Wada (Kogi), Jonah Jang (Plateau), Sule Lamido (Jigawa) and Emmanuel Ewetan Uduaghan (Delta). Others were Sullivan Chime (Enugu), Willie Obiano (Anambra), Bayelsa (deputy CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

FG assures delegates to World Economic Forum of security • Nigerian firm, SEPLAT, listed on London Stock Exchange • Another, Chesney Group, wins quality award in Europe By Kamal Tayo Oropo, Olawunmi Ojo (Lagos) and Karls Tsokar (Abuja) WO Nigerian companies, T SEPLAT Petroleum Development Company Plc and

Pope Francis during his arrival at Santa Maria della Providenza, a centre for disabled people, for the traditional ‘washing of the feet’ during Holy Thursday (Maundy Thursday) as part of the Holy Week in Rome… yesterday. PHOTO: AFP

Chesney Group, have made the country proud with their giant strides in the corporate world. The development came as the Federal Government reassured participants at the May 7-9, 2014 World Economic Forum’s Africa summit to be held in Abuja, next month of safety against the backdrop of heightened security concerns. The forum said it was putting in place unprecedented security measures to protect delegates in Abuja, adding that 6,000 soldiers and policemen would be deployed to guard the high profile delegates at the summit. “Our security planning for the World Economic Forum on Africa is already well under way and will be the largest security operation ever mounted in this country for an international summit,” the body said in a statement. “In total, over six thousand CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

‘Only 14 of 129 abducted girls found’ From Njadvara Musa, Maiduguri (with agency report) OUBT and confusion now D trail the claim by the Defence Ministry spokesman, Maj.-Gen. Chris Olukolade, who said in a statement late Wednesday that all but eight of the students of Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok in Borno State ab-

ducted Tuesday night by suspected Boko Haram insurgents, have been accounted for. The statement had also claimed that the Principal of the school, Mrs. Asabe Kwarmbula, had confirmed that all but eight of the students have been accounted for. But there was a twist to the

story yesterday when Kwarmbula herself refuted the claim of the military authorities that 107 of the abducted female students were rescued Wednesday in Sambisa Forest in a joint operation of local hunters and soldiers. Speaking with newsmen yesterday in Maiduguri in a telephone interview, Kwarmbula said that the claim of the mil-

itary over rescue of abducted students were not only “false and shocking”, but has already confused both parents and guardians of the missing girls abducted in last Tuesday’s attacks. Her words: “I was shocked and terrified when the military authorities in Abuja this morning said only eight girls are still missing, as the ab-

ducted girls had been rescued in their joint operations in the forests. We are still confused with these claims, because the girls who were forcefully loaded into trucks and Hilux vehicles are yet to be found since they were abducted in the early hours of Tuesday.” On the military’s statement, Kwarmbula said: “There is

nothing in the military statement that is true about our abducted girls. Up till now, we are still waiting and praying for the safe return of the students. All I know is that we have only 14 of them, and the security people, especially the Vigilance group and well-meanCONTINUED ON PAGE 2

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Friday, April 18, 2014

‘Only 14 of 129 abducted girls found’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 ing volunteers of Gwoza are still out searching for them. She continued: “The military people too are in the bush searching. So, we have not received any information that they have got the students yet. So, let it be clear that all the information passed to the media by the military concerning 107 girls is not true. “I, as the Principal of this school, did not tell anybody any figure on released students other than what our governor, His Excellency, Kashim Shettima, had informed the media on Wednesday.” The Principal also wondered how such a large number of girls would be found and nobody sees them either in Chibok town or with their

parents and guardians. “The parents of these girls are in pain and somebody is saying they are in safe hands. Where are they? she asked. On the rescued students, she said: “A military official called me from Abuja and I told him that I don’t want to be seen to be contradicting myself on the missing girls because what the governor had said was what we know about... What the governor said is still the true picture of the whole issue and that information given by the military is totally wrong.” The governor, Kashim Shettima, had at a press briefing on Wednesday said 14 girls have been rescued and a competent security source said two more girls were recovered ‘straying’ in the bush, making the number of those that were officially rescued to

16. A resident of Chibok, Monday Karda, said: “It is a shame that Nigerian authorities can go this far in misleading the people and the international community... only God knows the trauma those innocent girls are passing through in the bushes but someone is lying that they are safe.” Another resident and moth-

er of five, Hajiya Falmata Usman, said: “The insurgents are in Sambisa and not Cameroun. Don’t we have satellite images? Don’t we have fighter jets? Don’t we have enough troops to cordon the whole of Southern Borno and save these young girls?” A student in Maiduguri, Miss Janet Abu, said they deserve

an apology from Nigerian authorities. “I doubt much if I would pass my final year exams because my mind is with my abducted sisters. This is something that can also happen to me. “If it is true that the girls have been freed, we want the military to show them on television; we want to hear their

voices. “There is nothing in the military statement that is true about our abducted girls. Up till now, we are still waiting and praying for the safe return of the students. All I know is that we have only 14 of them, and the security people, especially the Vigilante and volunteers of Gwoza, are still out searching

Representative of the Chairman, Prof. Ibrahim Agboola Gambari (left); Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC); Bisi Akande; author, Yoruba Elite and Ethnic Politics in Nigeria: Obafemi Awolowo and Corporate Agency, Prof. Wale Adebanwi; Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola; former Governor of Ogun State, Olusegun Osoba; representative of Lagos State Governor, Rev. Tunji Adebiyi and Managing Director, Obafemi Awolowo Foundation, Dr. Tokunbo Awolowo-Dosunmu, during the public presentation of the book by Wale Adebanwi in Lagos… yesterday. PHOTO: AYODELE ADENIRAN

Nigerian firm, SEPLAT, listed on London Stock Exchange CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 security personnel, consisting of police and army will be deployed, covering a secure area the size of 250 square kilometres.” Abuja has hosted a number a international high-profile West including events, African and African Union summits, but the World Economic Forum conference has been described as the most prestigious meet to come to capital. Nigeria’s The forum with the theme “Inclusive Growth for Job Creation,” Yuguda said out of the nine committees set up to organise the forum, the security committee, chaired by the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Muhammed Abubakar, was given priority to ensure participants. of safety “The Inspector-General of Police did inform me that ad-

equate security arrangements have been put in place,” the Minister of National Planning, Bashir Yuguyesterday. said da, The minister, who said the country’s security challenges would not affect the forum, noted that the Federal Government had organised similar hitch-free events in the past. He recalled that the Federal Government hosted the 12th Plenary of the 36-Member Countries Leading Group on Innovative Financing for Development and other international events without hindrances. Yuguda said more than 1,000 delegates had been registered and that more participants were expected to register. He urged Nigerians to support the government in its ef-

fort to tackle security challenges and promote foreign direct investment in the country. This is the first World Economic Summit to be hosted by Nigeria and the 24th in Africa. Seplat was formally received at the London Stock Exchange (LSE) yesterday in a ceremony that saw the chairman, Dr. ABC Orjiako ring the opening bell. A similar ceremony held earlier in Lagos on Tuesday April 14, 2014 at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) in Lagos. Also, the owners of the Chesney Hotels received the Arch of Europe Award for Quality and Technology in the Gold category. Dignitaries in attendance at the LSE event included former Vice President of Nigeria, Dr. Alex Ekwueme and his

wife, Dr. (Mrs.) Helen Ekwueme, GMD of NNPC, Mr. Andrew Yakubu, former MD of Shell, Basi Omiyi, former Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Mrs. Ifueko Omogui-Okauru, 2nd Secretary at the Nigerian High Commission in London, Mr. Emmanuel Nweke, who stood in for the Nigerian High Commissioner in London, Ms Chinelo Anorom, Acting DG of the National Pension Commission, Celine Loader of CBN others. many and The event came on the heels of the dual listing of the company’s shares on the NSE and LSE following the company’s successful and over-subIPO. scribed Speaking at the LSE event, Dr. Orjiako expressed delight at the vote of confidence in SEPLAT by foreign regulators and investors. In his words: CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

Senators want WASC exams extended for freed students CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 governor, John Jonah), Liyel Imoke (Cross River), Godswill Ibom), (Akwa Akpabio Theodore Orji (Abia), Gabriel Suswam (Benue) and Oluse(Ondo). Mimiko gun Also in attendance were Minister of Defence (Lt.-Gen. Mohammed Aliyu Gusau), Minister of Interior (Abba Moro), National Security Adviser (Col. Sambo Dasuki), Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh, Service Chiefs, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Mohammed Dahiru Abubakar; Director-General of the State Security Service (SSS) and the Director-General of National Intelligence Agency (NIA). President Jonathan first met with members of the National Security Council in his office before he joined the

governors who were already waiting for him for the commencement of the meeting at the First Lady’s Conference room at the State House, Abuja. The enlarged meeting with the governors began at p.m. 2.00 about Nigeria is facing increasing insecurity in the country with the war against the Boko Haram festering in the NorthEast, the violent clashes between Fulani herdsmen and farmers. And on Monday, the nation’s capital was visited with a massive bombing at the Nyanya Motor Park close to Abuja, killing 75 people and wounding dozens. The enlarge meeting between the President and the on-going. is governors Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Senator Magnus N. Abe said government must

not allow the Boko Haram sect score victory over the students by allowing them forge ahead with their dreams of education. acquiring “We call on the Federal Government and particularly, the WAEC, to help these girls write their final examinations elsewhere. In doing so, they should provide enough security for them as well as ensure that if need be, they can be taken out of Borno or even been brought to Abuja to conclude the exams.” Impressed by the courage of the abducted girls to forge ahead with their education, Abe noted that “the dream of these girls should not be thwarted by the Boko Haram. “This is not a time for blamegame on any side. Rather, the whole nation should rise as one to ensure the remaining

eight girls in the custody of the sect are released and reunited with their parents unharmed. “We should all work with the Borno State Government to secure the release of the remaining girls. We are also parents and we plead that the dream of these girls should not be allowed to end because of this unfortunate and harrowing incident”, he added The Boko Haram insurgents on Tuesday abducted about 112 female students who were writing their West African School Certificate (WASC) examinations. A group of insurgents was said to have invaded the school on Monday night, broke into the hostels and ordered the girls out into their off. sped and lorries

Friday, April 18, 2014 | 3

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

News Confab dissolves into committees, commends rescue of Borno school girls From Terhemba Daka and Karls Tsokar, Abuja

• Civil societies protest against composition of panels

LENARY session at the P ongoing National Conference adjourned yesterday as

would sit at Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Abuja. However, yesterday’s session was nearly marred, as a delegate, Dr. Magdalene Mbadzendan Dura, called for the suspension of sitting on the ground that members present did not form quorum. This was backed by those who saw need for an early adjournment to enable delegates travel in time to join their families for the Easter break. But the chairman shrugged off the argument and proceeded with the session. Also, the Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) delegates yesterday protested against the composition of the 20 standing committees, saying that they did not reflect the wishes of delegates. The group, in a protest letter to the secretariat, said the

delegates prepare for committee sessions, billed to begin on Tuesday when members return from the Easter break. Conferees have already been placed in different committees. Conference Chairman, Justice Idris Kutigi (rtd), informed delegates on Wednesday that committee work would begin immediately after the Easter break. This follows the submission of the list of members and leadership of each of the 20 standing committees at plenary. At the resumed session yesterday, Kutigi informed that 10 of the 20 committees would hold sessions at the National Judicial Institute while the remaining 10

leadership composed the committees “arbitrarily and in total disregard to the choice and preferences of most delegates.” Meanwhile, a delegate representing Taraba State, Dr. Mrs. Salome Jankada, yesterday called on the conference to intervene and stop the wanton killing of her people by alleged invaders in Wukari. Jankada spoke after Femi Falana (SAN) urged the con-

ference to commend security agencies and the people of Borno State for their prompt response, which led to the rescue of 121 of the 129 school girls abducted by insurgents on Monday night. “Wukari is under siege and my people and their villages are being invaded and razed by terrorists, and nobody is saying anything,” she said. “Because I am here, my people are phoning and calling but I don’t have the solution,

We wish to place on record that this conference is a National Conference of the Nigerian people from all walks of life. It is neither a conference of ethnic nationalities nor a conference of regions or states. Furthermore, we totally reject the list of committees’ leaders that has been released

the government does. “I don’t know what to do. I am begging this honourable gathering, as a matter of urgency, to help us and quickly do something because, as I am talking here, I don’t know what to do anymore.” Falana, supported by Mike Ozekhomhe, had submitted that since the security agencies, on the directive of President Goodluck Jonathan, have secured the release of most of the abducted girls, the conference should commend their efforts and urge them to do more. This was seconded by Mrs. Josephine Anenih, who said the President’s directive and the cooperation of local chiefs and hunters in the area with security operatives should also be commended, adding that the development underscored the need for local communities to be involved in the policing of their environments. According to the letter, signed by the 24 CSOs delegates, they were drafted into committees where they did not have expertise and consequently, would not be relevant. The letter read in part: “Before the composition of the committees, the leadership circulated papers wherein delegates were asked to indicate in order of preference the committees they wished to serve in.

“We believe that if the committees of first, second and third choices are not available, the honourable thing to do is to inform delegates and give the option of choosing a fresh committee. We note that majority of CSOs delegates did not get placed in any of their preferred committees. “We feel this is deliberate and an attempt to exclude CSOs from contributing across the board to the important issues to be discussed in the various committees. We argue that the leadership erred by not getting back to the delegates in relation to their preferred committees’ choices before placing and lumping them into committees they had not indicated interest (in).” To that end, they demanded that the list be completely reviewed in line with the national outlook of the conference. They also called on the leadership to henceforth conduct the activities of the conference “in an open, transparent, fair and equitable manner. They noted: “We wish to place on record that this conference is a National Conference of the Nigerian people from all walks of life. It is neither a conference of ethnic nationalities nor a conference of regions or states. Furthermore, we totally reject the list of committees’ leaders that has been released.”

Govt declares today, Monday as holidays By Chris Irekamba HRISTIANS worldwide are C to mark the solemnity of Good Friday today in com-

Chief Executive Officer (CEO), London Stock Exchange Group, Xavier Rolet (left); Chairman, SEPLAT Petroleum Development Company Plc, A.B.C. Orjiako; Chief Executive Officer, SEPLAT, Austin Avuru; former Vice President of Nigeria, Alex Ekwueme; his wife, Helen and Group Managing Director of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Andrew Yakubu, during the formal signing ceremony for SEPLAT Petroleum Development Company Plc at the London Stock Exchange (LSE) in London... yesterday.

memoration of the passion, crucifixion and death of the Saviour Jesus Christ on Mount Calvary. This comes ahead of Easter on Sunday, which marks His resurrection. To this end, the Federal Government has declared today and Easter Monday (April 21)

as public holidays for the Easter celebrations. This was contained in a statement by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Mrs. Fatima Bamidele. According to the statement, the minister, Abba Moro, who made the declaration, enjoined all Christians in particular and Nigerians in general to use the occasion to pray for and support government’s efforts at attaining peace and unity in the country.

Retract accusation, apologise or face legal action, Buhari tells PDP ORMER Head of State and Fgressives chieftain of the All ProCongress (APC), Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, has given the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) seven days to retract its accusation linking him with the Boko Haram terrorist acts, tender an unreserved public apology to him or face legal action. In a statement he personally signed in Kaduna yesterday, Buhari said: “I cannot sit back and allow my image and that of my political party be smeared by falsehood in the name of politics.” He said the widely publicised serious allegations made against him by the PDP and its Spokesman, Chief Olisa Metuh, to the effect

that his utterances were responsible for the current state of insecurity and terrorism bedeviling Nigeria, were absolutely without basis. Buhari noted: “To support his claim, Mr. Metuh engaged in twisted logic and outright distortion - which he called facts - in which he said that I, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, beckoned on my ‘supporters to go on lynching spree’ should I lose the 2011 presidential election, as a result of which ‘an unprecedented violence broke out, claiming the lives of hundreds of innocent people.’ “I take very serious exception to this grave accusation against me. It is a false allega-

tion aimed at tarnishing my image and reputation in the hope of destroying my political and electoral standings, and that of my party, the APC, in the country. “Firstly, it is public knowledge that Boko Haram, as a terror organisation, long preceded the 2011 presidential elections. My utterances or lack of them on the 2011 presidential election could not, therefore, have created or sustained the Boko Haram insurgency. “Secondly, the PDP government of President Goodluck Jonathan constituted the Sheikh Ahmed Lemu Panel of Inquiry to investigate and report on the post-election violence in some parts of the

country. The panel discharged its duties within its terms of reference and submitted its report to the President. “This report was accepted by government and a whitepaper issued. Nowhere in that report, a product of thorough investigation of that unfortunate incident, was I mentioned in the remotest way to have uttered a word or acted in any form or manner that sparked off the violence. If I had, certainly, that investigation would have uncovered it. The truth is that I had not. “Thirdly, 2011 was not the first time I contested a presidential election and was declared defeated, it was the third! If I had had no cause to

‘beckon on my supporters to go on lynching spree’ in the two previous occasions, I would have had no cause to change in 2011 – and I did not,” According to him, Metuh also deliberately misquoted the interview he gave in Hausa on May 14, 2012, in which he said the opposition was determined to fight in the 2015 elections. Buhari explained: “I used the Hausa idiom, kare jini, biri jini, which is a metaphor for a very tough fight. “But, like the Islamic fundamentalist toga they falsely put on me because they cannot impinge on my personal and professional integrity, PDP apologists deliberately

twisted this idiom to mean I called for violence. “I am not a violent person and, other than my professional calling as a soldier, I have never associated with violence. I abhor violence and have never advocated it. I have always been a lawabiding person who insists on due process and the rule of law in all my private and public affairs. “It is, therefore, a grave infraction to my person, personality and integrity that such a false and malicious accusation is being leveled against me by the PDP. This is dangerous politics by the ruling party and it must stop forthwith.”

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Friday, April 18, 2014

Chesney Group wins quality award in Europe

JAMB releases 2014 UTME results, withholds 2,494

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

From Kanayo Umeh, Abuja

HE Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has released the results of the 2014 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted on Paper Pencil Test (PPT) and Dual Based Test. The board, however, withheld 2,494 results for possible disciplinary action. Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Dibu Ojerinde, who announced this at a press conference on the release of the results yesterday in Bwari, Abuja, stated that the board also considered 36,164 results of the 2014 exercise as invalid. He said that 37,315 candidates were absent, while adding that 174 candidates were visually impaired. He listed the scores for the PPT mode by saying that 275,

282 candidates scored below 150 points, 122,159 scored between 150 to 159 points, 115,456 scored 160 to 169 points. He also said that 315,401 scored between 170 to 199 points, 108, 488 candidates scored between 200 to 249 points, while 24 candidates scored 250 points and above. On the DBT mode, he said that 2,471 candidates scored below 150 points, 2. 830 candidates scored between 150 to 159 points, 3,808 candidates scored between 160- to 169 points. He further underlined that 6,678 candidates scored between 170 to 199 points, 1,309 candidates scored between 200 to 249 points, while 23 candidates scored above 250 points. He said that a total of 1, 865 centres were used for the

conduct of the Paper Pencil Test (PPT) and 133 centres were used for Dual Based Test (DBT) across the Federation. According to him, in this year’s exercise the Board experienced a remarkable decrease in the number of applicants that registered for the PPT. “This reduction in number is attributed to the growing confidence of candidates in the Computer Based Test (CBT),” Ojerinde said. He explained that 990, 179 applied for the PPT while 25, 325 applied for the DBT, which made it a total number 1, 015, 504 applications for both modes of testing. He disclosed that the board is mindful of the security challenges in the nation and will continue to work with relevant security organisations to ensure that the lives

of candidates are protected. “Let me also state emphatically that the board conducted examination in Biu as such no candidate’s life was lost. Prof. Ojerinde noted that the breakdown of application by institution shows the universities have the highest number of applicants as first choice. “995,901 candidates chose universities as their first choices. Only 13,761 chose polytechnics as their first choices, while 20,558 chose colleges of education as their first choices, while 32 candidates chose Innovative enterprise institute. The Registrar revealed that the Board had made adequate arrangement with the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) for the provision for

“We are delighted with the support shown and happy to welcome a range of blue chip investors to our share register. Despite a challenging market for oil and gas stocks, the response has been excellent and demonstrates strong demand in both London and at home for a leading Nigerian indigenous E&P player with Nigerian investors making up 40 per cent of the total.” Also commenting at the event, Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Mr. Andrew Yakubu said the NNPC was sceptical about granting operatorship to SEPLAT at inception but today “Seplat is the only oil company, not indigenous company, the only oil company producing above its technically allowed capacity.” The Chief Executive of the London Stock Exchange Group, Xavier Rolet presented the Chairman and the CEO with a commemorative plaque and limited edition bottle of champagne after the signing ceremony. Therefore, SEPLAT’s successful IPO and dual listing on the NSE and LSE clearly signpost a new era in the Nigerian E&P market and set SEPLAT apart as a veritable national champion. The award, given by Business Initiative Directions (BID) at its 27th International Arch of Europe Convention Awards and Dinner Ceremony in Frankfurt, Germany, was for Chesney’s “quality service, high standing performance and professionalism and contribution to the business world.” According to organisers, the Gold Quality Award had in the past been awarded to the world’s largest business organisations such as Tata Group, the largest multina- Chairman, Honeywell Flour Mills Plc, Oba Otudeko (sixth left), flanked on the left by former Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, Mr. Babatunde tional conglomerate compa- Odunayo and on the right by new Managing Director, Mr. Lanre Jaiyeola, with other board members at the Valedictory Board Meeting in ny of India; Turner honour of the former EVC/CEO in Lagos Construction Company U.S.A, the constructor of numerous high profile buildings; RAO UES of Russia, the largest power holding firm in Russia, and the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) ranked as one of the world’s richest corporations on the list of Fortune Global 500. The Managing Director of Chesney, Ken Obinna, in his response to the recognition, said it is a fulfilment of the company’s dream of winning international recognition through quality service delivery. “For an indigenous brand like ours, it was humbling to have been singled out for that honour on the basis of service,” he said. Over the last 27 years, BID has established the internationally-recognised Quality Awards, which are presented at annual conventions held in key economic cities such as New York, London, Paris, Geneva, Frankfurt and Madrid, as the standard of excellence for companies around the world. Pioneers in the field of quality, BID rests on a legacy of two core elements for improvement: the QC100 Model for Total Quality Management and the Quality Mix ProThe Managing Director, Chesney, Ken Obinna (2nd left) receiving the gold category of the International Arch of Europe Award for Quality gramme. Both have been implemented in 178 countries and Technology 2014, from Business Initiative Directions (BID) President, Mr Jose Prieto (middle) at the 27th International Arch of Euby BID in Frankfurt, Germany. With them are BID’s Scientific Director, Prof. Alphonsus Casal (left), and praised by some of the rope Business Convention organized nd most important leaders in Director, Chesney, Mrs Viv Obinna (2 right) and President, Quality Mix, Mr Norman Ingle (right).

the NDA Post-UTME and CBT at a later date. He described the recent UTME exercise held April 12, to mark the 6th edition of the PPT and DBT mode of exams as the most successful ever conducted by the Board. He, however, assured that the Board had made adequate arrangements for candidates to check their UTME results on-line via the organisation’s Website on www.jambresult.com using their registration numbers.

Okon Uya, chairman of defunct NEC passes on at 71 From Anietie Akpan, Calabar ROFESSOR Okon Edet Uya, P a professor of African and African-American History, former Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, one time Nigerian Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Argentina is dead. He was 71 years old. Uya who was also former Chairman of the defunct National Electoral Commission (NEC) in the regime of President Ibrahim Babangida and currently, member Parliament of Eminent Persons of African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) died yesterday afternoon at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH). When The Guardian visited his 149 Parliamentary Road, Calabar, Cross River State residence, all was quiet with few family and church members in a sad mood. Mr. Edet Uya, a staff of the University of Uyo and youngest of the siblings confirmed the death saying: “I feel very bad but I thank God he gave his life to God before he passed on.” He said no burial arrangements had been made for now but “we have to give him a befitting burial. He died this afternoon even though he has been down for over two weeks. He spoke with his wife this morning before he gave up.” Reacting to his death, one of his associates, a columnist with The Guardian, Dr Edwin Madunagu said: “He had not been in excellent health for some time now and I know philosophically such a thing could happen to any of us in that age bracket. “But his passing on saddens me because the relationship I had with this man is the type of relationship I have with some frontline Nigerian statesmen. “I will say intellectually and by instinct and naturally, Uya was a progressive and a socialist.”

Prof. Uya

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Friday, April 18, 2014 NEWS | 5

Gunmen kill two Customs officers, injure four, seize UN vehicle in Bauchi From Ali Garba, Bauchi NKNOWN gunmen yesterday ambushed Customs officials between Sade and Lanzai town in Darazo Local Council Area of Bauchi State killing two officers and injuring four. The incident took place along Bauchi Damaturu to Maiduguri Federal Highway. Reliable security sources from the Army and the Police confirmed the incident. In their separates accounts of the incident, the officers said the officials were attacked on their way from official assignment in Geidam in Yobe State. They said the hoodlums shot one custom official dead and set another official ablaze inside their two customs vehicles, which was burnt to ashes. When contacted, Public Relation Officer of the Nigeria

• Security team foil another attack, Tiv leadership asks subjects to relocate to Jalingo Customs Service in Bauchi, Samuel Ja’afar Gulak said their senior officers are in the hospital to see the victims and after investigation their officers will give full details of the incident, maintaining the issue is above his power on which he could not comment. Still on hoodlums’ activities in the state, gunmen numbering about 20 yesterday stormed Soro town in Ganjuwa LGA of the state and snatched three vehicles which included a white Hilux with reg. no 206 UN 139 belonging to the United Nations, a white Toyota Hilux belonging to BATV, with registration no 04C-04 BA. Police Public Relations Officer, Bauchi State Command, DSP Haruna Mohammed said one other vehicle was yet to

be identified and were all stolen at gunpoint. DSP Mohammed said that the suspects fired sporadically in the air to escape and a stray bullet hit one Bose Bappa Kari Male of Tudun Wada of Soro town that later died at the hospital while receiving treatment. He said the combined security forces have cordoned off the entire surroundings and adjourning towns and efforts are being intensified to get the fleeing suspects arrested. In another incident, the state Police Command said that a combined security team yesterday foiled an attack by unknown gunmen suspected be terrorists in Misau LGA. Briefing newsmen, Mohammed said that gunmen in a convoy of three Hilux ve-

hicles stormed Misau Local Government Council headquarters in a bid to unleash mayhem on the populace in the area. He said that combined security forces comprising the Police and Military, who were on red alert engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle and forced them to abort their mission and escape with bullet wounds. He assured that Joint security Forces are on their trail as the entire area has been already cordoned off in an effort to get the fleeing suspects arrested and to unravel their motive. In Taraba State, the leadership of the Tiv community not satisfied with the security arrangement by government has directed all its subjects to relocate to Jalingo, the state

UNECA chief lists gains of Nigeria’s rebased economy By Kamal Tayo Oropo NITED Nations Economic U Commission for Africa (ECA) said that the upward revision of Nigeria’s GDP has important implications for the rest of the continent and it raises the question whether there are other African economies with a systematically underestimated GDP. The Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), Mr. Carlos Lopes, in a statement yesterday by

the ECA Secretariat, said that using a recent base year and applying the 2008 System of National Accounts (2008 SNA) imply that the price structure is more representative of the economy. ECA’s African Centre for Statistics reports from a survey conducted in January 2014 that seven African countries still base on 1990 or earlier years, 10 countries have base years between 1991 and 2000, and further 19 have base years between 2001 and 2005. “On the system of national

accounts, only nine African Lopes, who consistently countries are reported to champions the need to tell have partially or wholly the African narrative from adopted the 2008 SNA, while credible statistical data said, the other countries are still “as shown by Nigeria’s case, it using previous versions,” is crucial for African counsaid Dozie Ezigbalike, who tries to regularly rebase and heads the African Centre for re-benchmark their GDP figStatistics at ECA. ures, considering current He added, “this suggests lists in the basket of products that the real size of many and activities that better capAfrican economies is likely to ture the size, structure, and be larger than their current trends of economy, it is also estimates. It also suggests important that countries use that as a whole, the role of the same classification and the African continent in the methodologies for better economy might have cross-country comparisons global been underestimated.” and regional integration.”

capital. The directive, according to the leadership of the Tiv led by Zaki Simon Uosu, expressed sadness that silent killings of the Tiv people by herdsmen is still rampant in most of the rural areas. Uosu accused chairmen of the various councils, traditional rulers in the councils, as well as the Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) of failing to protect the “defenseless and innocent Tiv people”

from herdsmen attacks. Citing the monarch of Gassol, the DPO and the council chairmen, who have failed to take the plights of the Tiv into consideration, Uosu said the need for the Tiv to relocate to the state capital has become necessary stating, “that is the only way the government would know that we are serious.” Uosu urged the Acting Governor, Garba Umar to “act fast and deploy security in sufficient numbers to patrol the affected areas.”

Bauchi distributes free drugs for under five, women From Ali Garba, Bauchi HE Managing Director, T Bauchi State Drugs and Medical Consumables Agency (DMMA), Adamu Ibrahim Gamawa has disclosed that his agency spent N14 million monthly on free drugs for under five and pregnant women in the state. Gamawa made the disclosure recently while distributing free drugs for under five children and women to fifteen (15) Primary Health centres within Bauchi metropolis saying they also sell drugs to private organisation at cheaper rate. He said the free drug for children under five was initiated by Governor Isa Yuguda in 2007 with the aimed of improving antenatal and reduce the rate of marternal mortal-

ity rate in the state. He said the agency have constituted a monitoring and evaluation committee to ensure that all drugs distributed to facilities reach the desire destination and implemented within the guides and rules of the implementation to avoid looting and misuse. Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, officer in-charge of under five clinic, Jahun Bauchi Hajiya Aisha Malanta thanked the state government for considering the plight of the children and coming to their. She complained that drugs for women are no longer available in the clinics as its was before, saying women find it difficult during delivery and after delivery for lack of drugs that will reduce rush of blood and other related cases associates with delivery.

TheGuardian on Saturday

COVER

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

SATURDAY, APRIL 19, 2014

National Confab:

Abuja Bomb Blast, Students’ Abduction:

Too Many Security Lapses AYING that all is not well with the country, security-wise, is stating the obvious. Nationwide, human lives are no longer sacrosanct, as human blood flows with ease. If it is not the Boko Haram sect members bombing Abuja, it is killing or abduction of students, just as herdsmen continue to have a field day, killing innocent people at will. Despite its promises and assurances, it does not appear government is winning the war against insurgency and crime generally, despite huge budgetary allocations to security yearly. The Guardian takes a look at the deteriorating security situation in the country, as many Nigerians wonder how long they are going to live with this precarious situation.

One Month Of Frivolities And Discordant Tunes

POLITICS

F the three months slated O for the national conference, one month has been spent by the delegates on frivolities, thereby raising doubts whether anything meaningful will come out of it in the next two months. Not surprisingly, some people are already calling for extension of time

Cover Extra

Saturday, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board LintoAST (JAMB) conducted the manual examination for admission higher institutions, while the electronic versions (Computer-Based Test, CBT) come up later. JAMB’s Public Relations Officer, Fabian Benjamin, explains what informed the distinction and how the two systems will run, saying the CBT, among others, will eliminate malpractices. He also spoke about how the issue of unstable power supply will be tackled during the examination, and other measures in place to ensure a hitch-free exercise.

These and more in The Guardian tomorrow. Grab your copy

tHe GUARdIAn www.ngrguardiannews.com

6 | neWs Friday, April 18, 2014

Clergy women lament killings, others From Joke Falaju, Abuja ssocIAtIon of nigerian Women in clergy (WIc) yesterday in Abuja lamented the unprecedented killings of innocent nigerians, and other societal ills bedeviling the country, calling for the emancipation of clergy women “to stand in the gap as the biblical wailing women” so as to restore peace in the nation. the clergywomen, during a courtesy visit to the national chairman, nigerian christian Pilgrims commission (ncPc), John-Kennedy okpara, said the association observed with dismay the deterioration that has characterized almost every facet of the polity. the women, who were all dressed in black, noted that “indeed death is no longer entering through the normal cause but has entered even palaces through the windows and cut off the young men and children on the streets. the spate of wanton shedding of innocent blood is unprecedented, our women and girl children are raped indiscriminately.” the leader of the delegation, Prophetess nonnie Robertson, who is the president of the association, added: “Kidnapping and child trafficking have taken notorious international dimension. there is absolute moral decadence among our youths who have been brainwashed into depraved pawns for use by self-seeking politicians, ritual wealth seekers, baby factory operators among others.”

Why FRCN shouldn’t be allowed to probe Sanusi, by counsel By Bertram Nwannekanma Federal High court, lagos yesterday reserved till May 12 for judgment on the suit filed by the suspended governor of the central Bank of nigeria (cBn), sanusi lamido, seeking to stop the Financial Reporting council of nigeria (FRcn) from investigating his financial dealings while in office. the trial judge, John tsoho, fixed the date after taking arguments that lasted for several hours from counsel on the matter. Before yesterday’s proceeding, hearing on the matter was last Friday stalled owing to outage in the court. At the proceeding yesterday, sanusi’s counsel, Kola Awodein (sAn) argued that the FRcn lacks the power to carry out the wide-ranging

• ‘He can’t escape investigation’ • Court fixes May 12 for ruling investigation into the books of cBn under sanusi, as the probe will be in breach of fundamental rights to natural justice. Awodein recalled that in the briefing note, his client (sanusi) was accused of recklessly spending about n20.2 billion on legal and professional fees, but that n19.8 billion of the sum was actually used to pay a judgment sum to some pensioners of cBn in a supreme court case filed by one Amao against the apex bank. the counsel denied that huge sums were paid as local flight fees to emirates Airline and Wings Aviation limited, which were said to be foreign airlines, adding that a proper

clarification would have been made had sanusi been given fair hearing. Awodein added: “the FRcn and the executive secretary who are to conduct the investigation have already shown that they have decided the issues by the statements they made about sanusi being financially reckless. “For instance, my lord, the FRcn executive secretary, in the concluding part of the briefing note to the President, said and I quote: ‘It is important for Mr. President to take action fast before sanusi resigns to foreclose investigation, and also so that the opposition will not accuse the President of allowing such financial reckless-

ness to be perpetrated by the cBn Governor under his watch.” But in his response, FRcn’s lawyer, Adesegun Ajibola (sAn), who had earlier adopted a preliminary objection to the suit, urged the court to discountenance the oral allegations raised by Awodein in court. He said the court is not an administrative tribunal, and that the allegations ought to have been raised as sanusi’s defence during the FRcn probe. Ajibola stressed that what sanusi hopes to do with the suit is to stop an investigation which is yet to commence as regards to him, and that the allegation of lack of fair hearing was misplaced because the suspended cBn governor had always been aware of the issues in the allegation.

He also argued that sanusi lacked the legal backing to refer to the briefing note, as same was not certified, being a public document as required by sections 101 and 104 of the evidence Act. According to Ajibola: “sanusi’s fear and anxiety of filing this suit are clearly misplaced. He has jumped the gun. He should have presented himself for the investigation and if he thinks that the investigation was conducted in a bias manner, he can challenge the report, but certainly not to stop the investigation. “there are many others that have been invited, including serving and former cBn officials, so it was not only about him and besides in this suit, sanusi failed to list the cBn as a party. so, I urge the court to strike out this suit,” Ajibola concluded.

Ademowo, Osu urge selfless service as Christians mark Good Friday By Felix Kuye and Chris Irekamba (Lagos) s christians in nigeria join their counterparts around the world to mark the crucifixion of Jesus christ and his death at calvary, some religious leaders have admonished nigerians to emulate his selfless and sacrificial life to achieve freedom for their fellow countrymen and make life more meaningful to all. In his message, the dean emeritus, church of nigeria

(Anglican communion) and diocesan Bishop of lagos, the Most Rev. Adebola Ademowo, said: “As we celebrate Good Friday, we have a duty to emulate christ’s selfless and sacrificial life, who through His death secured our freedom at a great cost. “As children of God, Good Friday teaches us to jettison all forms of vices like corruption, kidnapping, stealing and decay in our system that have put the nation into edu-

cational, economic, insecurity and political doldrums. other vices that must be done away with include refusing to work assiduously to industrialize our nation as well as masterminding and facilitating election violence. It is of paramount importance to call on the citizens of this great country, in the spirit of the season, to imbibe the true spirit of nation building, which is characterized by sacrificial living as against the

cankerworm of greed and grabbing which have eaten deep into the fabric of our country.” He urged political leaders and participants in the ongoing national conference to seek the common good instead of individual comfort and interest. explaining the importance of the event, in a statement, the director of social communications, catholic Archdiocese of lagos, Monsignor

Gabriel osu said: “Good Friday is a day of deep penitence when christians are expected to reflect on the life and death of christ, who paid the supreme price for the redemption of humanity.” He enjoined christians to use the period to pray for the repose of the souls of hundreds of nigerians who recently lost their lives as a result of bomb blasts, kidnapping and ritual murders across the country.

TheGuardian on Sunday Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

sUndAy, APRIl 20, 2014

COVER

Flouting the electoral laws n spite of timelines provided in the electoral Act, politicians have gone to town, mounting billboards, placing advertisements and holding campaigns, which they brand rallies, way outside guidelines, thus setting the stage for what could be the most lengthy, costly and rowdy political campaigns in the history of nigeria. And the electoral umpire, Inec, seems to have no answers to the many questions thrown up by the political class. campaign funds are being disbursed and it looks like no one is capturing and recording who is spending what. this is the road to 2015, rowdy and obviously lawless. Read what other nigerians think of this journey.

POLITICS

Enugu North, Waiting for the governorship pendulum to swing.

SPECIAL REPORT

IBRU

BUSINESS

At easter, Jesus brought God and men together.

These and more in The Guardian on Sunday. Grab your copy

lAGos’ costly railway project and why citizens have to wait a bit more.

delAyed budget passage in an election season causes anxiety.

NEWSFEATURE

Indecent exposure – A social malaise so difficult to tame.

Friday, April 18, 2014 NEWS | 7

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Defence Headquarters confirms principal’s claim over abducted students

GKS conference holds HE annual conference of T the Laity of God’s Kingdom Society (GKS), the

EFENCE Headquarters D has described the controversy surrounding “the

church of the living God, holds tomorrow at the headquarters, Salem-City, Warri, Delta State. Chairman of the Laity (Nigeria and Abroad), Bro. Emmanuel Ogidi, will address the conference, titled: “Be Ye Steadfast”. It will be preceded by the conference of the Youth Fellowship, as well as that of the Women’s Fellowship today. All the conferences are to be declared open by Chairman of the Executive Board of GKS, Bro. Godwin Ifeacho, supported by other ministers of the church. Conference events will end on Sunday with a special thanksgiving service at the service hall.

APC members protest congress result at Lagos Assembly By Wole Oyebade and Emeka Nwachukwu RACKS in Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) emerged yesterday as some aggrieved members of the party marched to the state House of Assembly, protesting against what they described as “stolen mandate” in the last ward congress. In a related issue, the decision to zone the governorship ticket to Lagos-East Senatorial District has drawn the ire of New Lagos Movement (NLM), which threatened to explore the court option after seven days if all means to reverse the decision fail. The protesters, from Ward B, C and E, in Ikeja Local Council Area of the state appealed to the government, especially the Lagos State House of Assembly, to investigate the matter and make their votes count “for the sake of peace and tranquility.” No fewer than 150 members of the party defied the scorching sun to march to the Lagos Assembly with placards calling their leaders unprintable names seeking “true change”. Some of the posters read: “We want true change”... “APC, we want true congress in Ikeja LGA”... “Let us use the broom to sweep corners of our room first”... “APC Ward C Ikeja LGA was clearly won by us.” The aggrieved protesters alleged that their ward congress, held penultimate Saturday, was fraught with irregularities, alleging that a chieftain of the party, Kemi Nelson, allegedly stole our mandate. Also speaking at a press conference in Lagos yesterday, Chairman of the New Lagos Movement, Mr. Niyi Akinsiju, said there is no zoning clause in the constitution of the APC, calling on the national leadership to intervene “as this culture of imposition does not accord with any principle of democracy within any political party.” According to Akinsiju, “while we do not discountenance the culture of zoning, even as it is not in the party’s constitution, however, it must be done by negotiation and expected to recognise the interest of all. Nevertheless, we are opposed to these sentiments of geography, religion or ethnicity.” Akinsiju admonished: “What can make a party strong is when a people can arrive at a decision and discuss issues amicably.

The Attache Embassy of Switzerland to Nigeria, Oliver Hegglin (left); Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Habiba Lawal and the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Zainab Maina, at the inauguration of the National Taskforce on Child Sexual Abuse and Violence Against Children in Nigeria held in Abuja…yesterday PHOTO: LADIDI LUCY ELUKPO

efforts at securing the lives of the abducted students of Government Girls’ Secondary School, Chibok” as unfortunate. In a statement last night, Director, Defence Information, Major-General Chris Olukolade insisted that “the ongoing frantic efforts of security forces along with vigilante groups including hunters working to locate and free the abducted students have continued to be keenly monitored at the Operation Centre of the Defence and Army Headquarters as regular progress reports are being received from troops on the ground.” But in the light of the denial by the principal of the school, Olukolade said,

Kutigi averts brawl over committee headship From Terhemba Daka and Karls Tsokar, Abuja N imminent brawl A among some female delegates following the controversy trailing the placement of members to head the 20 committees of the ongoing National Conference was yesterday averted by Justice Idris Kutigi, who simply refrained from dwelling on the matter and moved on to another topic. Specifically, a delegate representing Imo State at the parley, Chief Mrs Chidinma Uwajumogu had observed that some delegates were in the habit of taking matters to the Press once decisions are not in their favour, even if, such matters were adopted by the majority. Uwajumogu, yesterday took a swipe at the former President of the National Council of Women Society (NCWS), Mrs Ramatu Bala Usman for allegedly criticising the appointment of Mrs Iyom Josephine Anenih as chairman of a committee and other politicians, who she said, lacked the qualification to lead certain groups at the parley. “She (Mrs Usman) went on television to criticise the fact that Iyom Josephine Anenih was made a member of the social sector and its chairman. When asked if Anenih was not qualified, she said she (Anenih) was a

When they (media) asked her again if Prof. Ruquayyatu Ahmed Rufai was qualified to be a deputy chair, she said yes. The truth is that if she had a problem with Anenih’s quality, like we have been advised to either come to the office or complain at the plenary. She talked about how she was sent abroad to learn gender studies. So, I am beginning to think, do we need to publish our CVs for people to know that we are qualified and competent to serve here? politician and should therefore not be there. Mrs Usman said that she is more qualified to lead the social sector. “When they (media) asked her again if Prof. Ruquayyatu Ahmed Rufai was qualified to be a deputy chair, she said yes. The truth is that if she had a problem with Anenih’s quality, like we have been advised to either come to the office or complain at the plenary. “She talked about how she was sent abroad to learn gender studies. So, I am beginning to think, do we need to publish our CVs for people to know that we are qualified and competent to serve here? “ Josephine Anenih is a lawyer of many years standing, she has a Bachelor of Education from Great Ife in 1976. I think she is suited for the place. And why is it impossible for women to understand that two women can head a committee? Two men are already heading a commit-

Students protest in Akure From Akingboye Oluwaseun, Akure. ANDEMONIUM ensured P yesterday morning in Akure, the capital of Ondo State, crippling all commercial activities and vehicular movement along Oba Adesida and Oyemekun Roads. This followed a face-off between the National Association of Akure Students (NAAS) and the Governor Mimiko-led government. The impasse lasted for more than six hours causing stampede among the

people. Police vans, trucks, armoured tanks and several security personnel were deployed to enforce the order and directives given from the Command Headquarters to stop the youths from commencing carnival. After all measures failed to persuade the government to commence the event, thousands angry youths took to the streets, disrupting poles and signages on the highway, hurling stones and other objects at the security personnel, chanting protest songs

tee and many committees and they are not quarreling. We talk about women empowerment and working together, lip service. “If she is upset she should come and complain formally here not on an international television. And I don’t think she has the right to mention a delegate’s name and berate her in public and I think the house should take note.” Contributing, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa frowned at the submission made by Mrs Usman, arguing that some of them (politicians) fought hard including going through the rigors of detention and incarceration to sustain the country’s democratic structure and shepherd it to where it is today, and pleaded with delegates to refrain from heaping insults on politicians. Venting her anger on the issue while calling for restraints, Ita-Giwa explained that she was tired of taking insults as a politician in the country.

against the government and burning tyres on the road. The policemen, SARS, mobilepolice contingent and the Nigerian Civil Defence and Security Corp (NSCDC) swung into action and were patrolling the double-lane highways of Adesida and Oyemekun roads trying to restore peace among the increasing number of protesters. Gun shots and tear-gas were fired sporadically into the air to disperse the crowd, who thronged the front of Nigeria Post Office and around the venue of the event at Akure City Hall

Her words, “the insult on politicians must stop, and people must stop making derogatory remarks on politicians. Whether you like it or not, in a democratic dispensation any gathering must have some politicians connotation to it. There is no way you can separate politics from anywhere that you are gathered.” In his submission on the matter, Kutigi said it was wrong and against the rules of procedure for anybody to show disrespect to decisions taken at the Conference through upbraiding of other delegates using the media instead of raising such issues on the floor for clarification. He did not give room for a debate on

“the Defence Headquarters wishes to defer to the school principal and governor’s statement on the number of students still missing and retract that aspect of earlier statement while the search continues.” Authenticating the veracity of the initial reports, Olukolade, who is also Coordinator, Joint Information Centre, Counter Terrorism Campaign, explained that, “a report was filed in from the field indicating that a major breakthrough had been recorded in the search. There was no reason to doubt this official channel, hence the information was released to the public immediately. “Surprisingly however, the school principal, one of the sources quoted in the report has denied all that was attributed to her for whatever reasons. This is an unfortunate development indeed, yet the Defence Headquarters would not want to join issues with anyone. “It has to be reaffirmed however, that the report forwarded to the public on this issue was in good faith and not intended to deceive the public as is being interpreted following the denials by the school principal and Government of Borno State.” Like all other citizens, the Army spokesperson said, “the military is deeply concerned to ensure that the students are safe and freed alive. There is indeed no reason to play politics with the precious lives of the students. The number of those still missing is not the issue now as the life of every Nigerian is very precious.”

Friday, April 18, 2014

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

PHOTONEWS

General Manager, Consumer Product Division, L’oreal Central West Africa, Sekou Coulibaly (middle); Managing Director, L’oreal Central West Africa, Idoreyen Enang (right) and Brand Manager, Maybelline, L’oreal Central West Africa, Bukola Balogun, during the media launch of Maybelline ClearSmooth All in One Powder in Lagos. PHOTO: SUNDAY AKINLOLU

Former President of Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN), Rufai Ladipo (left) presenting the Outstanding Public Relations Company of the Decade award to the Managing Director of TPT International, Charles Igbinidu, at the Marketing Edge Magazine 10th anniversary celebration.

National President, Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents, Lucky Amiwero (left); Managing Director, Glaxosmithkline and President, Association of Nigerian Representatives of Overseas Pharmaceutical Manufacturers (NIROPHARM), Pharmacist Lekan Asuni and Deputy Controller of Customs, DC Yusuf Basar, at the NIROPHARM Business Networking Evening to find solutions to import logistics challenges in Lagos.

Chairman, Tequila Nigeria Limited, George Thorpe (left); Managing Director, Ayo Elias and Managing Director, Media Edge Limited, John Ajayi, during award of Outstanding Experiential Agency of the Decade to Tequila at the 10th anniversary of Marketing Edge Magazine in Lagos.

Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, Justice Olu Ariwoola (left); Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General of Lagos State, Ade Ipaye; Chief Justice of Nigeria, Aloma Mariam Mukhtar and Director General, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Dr. Paul Orhii, during the opening ceremony of the Judges Conference organised by NAFDAC in collaboration with the judiciary in Lagos PHOTO: GABRIEL IKHAHON

Niger State Governor, Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu (left); the new Emir of Agaie, Alhaji Yusuf Nuhu and the Sarkin Sudan of Kontagora, after Nuhu’s appointment as the 13th Emir of Agaie in Minna.

Founder of Radmed Diagonistic Centre, Dr. Adis Senbanjo (left); Chairman, Spectrum Leads Limited, Ade Coker; Founder and Chief Executive Officer, INLimited, Joke Coker and Dr. Lanre Coker at an exclusive art exhibition sponsored by INLimited in Lagos. PHOTO: AYODELE ADENIRAN

Registrar, Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi, Hajia Rakiya Arabi (left); Chairman, Governing Council of the institution, Adamu Ahmed and the Rector, Dr. Shuaibu Musa, at a news conference on the lingering national strike by polytechnic lecturers, in Bauchi.

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Friday, April 18, 2014

WorldReport African ministers adopt blueprint on universal health coverage From Chukwuma Muanya, Luanda Angola

Nigeria, WHO, AU seek integrated African response over Ebola

FRICAN Ministers of Health attending the maiden meeting jointly convened by the African Union Commission (AUC) and the World Health Organisation (WHO), in Luanda, Angola, yesterday adopted a blueprint on how to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in the region. Also, Nigeria’s Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, proposed 2020 target for member countries to achieve the dream. Meanwhile, Nigeria, the World Health Organisation African Region (WHO/AFRO), and the AUC have called for integrated response among countries in the continent for them to be able to contain public health threats such as Ebola virus, even as they launched the African Union (AU) campaign on Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). The ministers in an adopted blueprint on UHC in Africa committed themselves “to improving health outcomes and contributing to tackling poverty by increasing the coverage of health services, developing/improving comprehensive policies and strategies for health systems, promoting prepayment and pooling mechanisms, in collaboration with other sectors, to cover the entire population, and implementing public equity funds to cover the health cost of the poor and vulnerable; as well as monitoring and evaluating progress towards UHC.” The African Ministers of Health led by their Chairman of the African Union Ministers of Health, Chukwu, requested the AUC and the WHO in collaboration with relevant stakeholders to support African countries to develop their health financing mechanisms in order to move towards and sustain universal health coverage,

support the documentation and sharing of experiences and intensify efforts to mobilize governments and partners to scale up investment in human resources, the upgrading of infrastructure and equipment, production, procurement and supply of quality and safe medical products and health technologies. They, however, noted that UHC in Africa may not be realized unless shortfalls in agricultural production, education, regulation of the practice of traditional medicine, insufficient access to safe water, inadequate sanitation, poor infrastructure, and on-going conflicts, all driving the disease burden, are adequately addressed. The Commitment reads: “There remains a vicious cycle in which poverty and its determinants worsen the burden of disease, where illhealth contributes to poverty and that investment in health will contribute to health systems strengthening and human capital development.” They recommended that member states should take the following concrete actions to accelerate progress towards UHC: improve financial risk protection and expand population coverage by developing/improving comprehensive policies and strategies for health financing, promoting prepayment mechanisms to cover all populations, and implementing public equity funds; expand the provision of integrated people centered service delivery for UHC by undertaking comprehensive and coordinated health systems strengthening and developing decentralized health services; and implement a monitoring and evaluation framework to measure progress towards UHC. Chukwu and Ministers of Health from Namibia, Mauritania, Senegal and Congo de-

spite opposition from Ghana and Rwanda insisted on 2020 timeline for member states to achieve 100 per cent UHC. Chukwu argued: “You cannot just work without target. It is like playing football without a goal post. Deadline is part of encouraging countries that have not started. Deadline is actually encouraging countries to meet target. We need to have a target to encourage countries to forge ahead and we need to follow that part in order to meet our objectives.” Chukwu assured the conference that Nigeria will be able to meet the timeline. “We have started the process in Nigeria. The National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) has set targets and are making huge progress towards 100 per cent UHC. 2020 timeline is achieveable for Nigeria.” The call for 2020 timeline was also supported by the Regional Director WHO, Dr. Luis Sambo. He said: “I think that 2020 should be that date by which most Africa countries should be in the process to achieving UHC.” Also, the Executive Secretary of NHIS, Dr. Oluwafemi Thomas, said: “For us a nation, the minister has spoken and that is the agreement within the ministry. 2020 is realisable for Nigeria but it might not be realisable for some countries especially those who have not started. In our own case we have started and we have gotten all the political commitments that we need and the restructuring that we need is also concluded. The UHC fund has been established. I think the strategy is right. The procurement process is on, as soon as we procure all the equipment that we need, we are ready to deploy. Even at that from the little ef-

Three die in Ukraine, Putin warns of ‘abyss’ EPARATISTS attacked a SbaseUkrainian national guard overnight and Kiev said three of them were killed, the worst bloodshed yet in a 10day pro-Russian uprising, accompanied by tough words from Vladimir Putin that overshadowed crisis talks. Ukrainian, Russian and Western diplomats arrived for the emergency meeting in Geneva, but there was little hope of any progress in resolving a confrontation that has seen armed pro-Russian fighters seize whole swathes of Ukraine while Moscow masses tens of thousands of troops on the frontier. The Russian president, who overturned decades of postCold War diplomacy last

month by declaring Russia had a right to intervene in neighboring countries and annexing Ukraine’s Crimea region, accused the authorities in Kiev of plunging the country into an “abyss”. Kiev fears he will use any violence as a pretext to launch an invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces. “Instead of realizing that there is something wrong with the Ukrainian government and attempting dialogue, they made more threats of force ... This is another very grave crime by Kiev’s current leaders,” Putin said in a televised questionand-answer session with the Russian public that has become an annual event.

“I hope that they are able to realize what a pit, what an abyss the current authorities are in and dragging the country into,” said Putin, who stressed what he called his right to use military force while still saying he preferred dialogue. At the Ukrainian national guard headquarters in Mariupol there was clear evidence the building had come under attack. A grey police jeep was inside the compound on Thursday morning with broken windows, flat tires and bent doors. The gates of the compound had been flattened. There were shell casings outside the gates and several unused petrol bombs.

fort we are putting, it is getting clear that people are beginning to trust NHIS programmes because we have seen renewed interest in our programmes through more enrollment. “In the last quarter , we have been able to enroll more than what we did in the last three years. So we are really on course. From 2011 to 2013 November we were able to enroll 600,000 fresh enrollees but in the last four months or thereabout we been able to enroll more than 700,000, which is definitely more than what was done three years before this administration.” Chukwu on Wednesday called for the siting of the proposed African Centres for Diseases Control and Prevention (ACDCP) and African Medicines Agency (AMA) in the Nigeria .He said the call became necessary since Nigeria already has the structure with the already existing Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). Chukwu who was elected

Chairman of the forum April, 2013, at the 6th session of the Conference of AU Ministers of Health (CAMH6), which held in Addis Ababa told the over 300 delegates from Africa and development partners: “The Ebola outbreak in West Africa re-emphasises the need for integrated disease surveillance in the African region. It is time we fast tracked the call for the ACDCP. The NCDC has been expanded and strengthened to provide the necessary infrastructure and capacity to respond to public health threats in Nigeria and its neighbouring countries. “It is our expectation that this centre can be further adapted to serve as one of the hubs for the ACDCP that is expected to provide the requisite system that can respond to any threats to public health in the African region and beyond.” Chukwu said CAMH6 has worked with the AUC and the WHOAFRO to try and improve collaboration in order to strengthen African positions in issues of international public health importance. Chukwu added: “As we prepare to reach a consensus on the post 2015 development

agenda, it is my hope and expectation that Africa will become even stronger and emerge as a force to reckon with. “ A united front is the key here. It is therefore my believe that as we gather here to discuss these various issues affecting our people, and as we also prepare for the 67th World Health Assembly (WHA), we will resolve to begin to implement our plans.” Regional Director WHOAFRO, Dr. Luis Gomes Sambo told delegates: “We have found that the collaboration between AUC and WHO is useful to supporting countries in the African region…. We want to stress that we are concerned about the Ebola virus in Guinea, which has crossed border to neighbouring countries. We will like to express condolences to many lives lost especially those of health workers. There are over 200 cases and WHO has communicated all African countries to be vigilant and do comprehensive work to contain the disease. The disease continues to spread but we hope that soon we will be able to contain the situation but partnership and integration of efforts are

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

10 | Friday, April 18, 2014

Politics THE NATIONAL CONFERENCE

Truancy may affect confab’s decisions, says Briggs us see what we can give in return for what we can receive.

From Terhemba Daka and Karls Tsokar, Abuja S delegates to the 2014 National A Conference rounded off debate and comments on President Goodluck Jonathan’s

AN you come to agreement on these issues? C We may not agree, but people should bear in mind that delegates have come here with

inaugural speech last week, a rights activist and participant representing Bayelsa State, Ms Annkio Briggs, had raised a Point of Order. Her eventual prayer was a call on the conference Chairman, Justice Idris Kutigi, to caution members against truancy. Briggs said that increasing absenteeism of some delegates to the parley, taking place at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja, could affect the outcome of the conference. According to her: “It is not distinguishing or is it honourable for the delegates to conduct themselves in that manner. “I want to point out that the empty seats that we see here on a daily basis is very disrespectful to the members that are here. Because, I believe that all of us have very pressing issues that we can do on a daily basis; I know that I do. “But this is a sacrifice that we are all making to a call to serve the nation. I do not believe, sir, that every empty seat here has taken prior permission from the Secretariat to be absent. “I believe that people will need time off once in a while, but I refuse to accept that it is proper for such empty seats to be here.” Fielding questions from The Guardian last week, Ms Briggs explained why she was so concerned about absenteeism and the reason the conference devoted enough time to debate President Goodluck Jonathan’s inauguration speech. OU raised an observation last week on Y absenteeism by some delegates; does the development have the capacity to affect decisions on fundamental issues at the conference? Why will it not affect the issues when 492 delegates are supposed to be seated here on a daily basis? The procedural rules are very clear: that unless you have taken prior permission not to be available, and it will have to have been approved by the Secretariat, you must be at the sitting. But it’s very clear that some people have not come for days. I am not against anybody taking time off; I need to take time off, too. My church is doing a programme in Port Harcourt that I would like to attend from Wednesday to Friday but I can’t. This is a personal thing. So, if everybody takes off from this call to duty when it pleases them, then who will be seated here? Nigeria is at a very critical turning point in the history if this nation. We are 100 years old and we have got absolutely nothing right. If there is anything right in Nigeria, we won’t be sitting here for the next three months. If we are sincere that we want to fix Nigeria and we want Nigeria to be together, how do we fix Nigeria when half of us are absent? Those affected might have their reasons fro being away from the conference, isn’t it? I cannot understand why people have to be absent. I don’t know. Tomorrow, maybe I might have to be absent. But what I am saying is that I will do exactly as the rule says. I will seek permission and put it in writing; I don’t think anybody will say I cannot go. At least, let’s do things properly. If we say we want the right things done, what we are doing here is dishonourable and definitely not what Nigerians need. Anybody who cannot really give the time to serve Nigeria at this time should say so; it’s not by force. I think it is highly disrespectful to the call to duty by our country and it is also very disrespectful to some of us. Look at the elderly men, the emirs and traditional rulers; they are in the 70s and 80s and they are seated here. From morning till night, they are seated here. So, I don’t see why somebody like me should not be here.

Briggs Does the non-inclusion of quorum in the rules not contributing to these developments? I don’t think so. It has nothing to do with quorum. I am talking about personal commitment to the call to duty by Nigeria. What’s your take on the call for the suspension of all political processes for the next two years and have a Government of National Unity in place, to be able to resolve all issues? We are here to bring our different positions from where we are coming from. We are seated here and have not started the real discussion of our issues. People are misunderstanding what is going on here as part of it. No, its not part of it! When we start the work in earnest is when we go into the different committees; that is when the work will start. So, whether we put political issues on hold or we do not put political issues on hold, we are all Nigerians

seated here. Truly, we are here with different agendas because of the different people that we are. It is when another person is speaking that I am able to understand their pains and agitation of what is going on in this country. If I were not here, I would not have understood certain things that I have come to understand, especially about the reason, for instance, herdsmen are doing what they are doing. So, if these are the issues, let us seat down and talk. It is when we are talking that we will find the solution. It is not when we seat down and say we should keep this one on hold and keep that on hold and do it like this when we have not discussed. If we discuss, maybe we will see that yes, that’s a good way to go or not a good way to go. But we must start the process of talking and let everybody say what they want and let

It’s very clear that some people have not come for days. I am not against anybody taking time off; I need to take time off, too. My church is doing a programme in Port Harcourt that I would like to attend from Wednesday to Friday but I can’t. This is a personal thing. So, if everybody takes off from this call to duty when it pleases them, then who will be seated here? Nigeria is at a very critical turning point in the history if this nation. We are 100 years old and we have got absolutely nothing right. If there is anything right in Nigeria, we won’t be sitting here for the next three months. If we are sincere that we want to fix Nigeria and we want Nigeria to be together, how do we fix Nigeria when half of us are absent?

what they want for their people. There is no doubt about that, but we may also find a situation where we will agree with each other. It will be a win-win situation. We may also find ourselves in a situation where we would not agree. We should also prepare for those eventualities. Let us get talking first. What we are doing here is not talking; we have not started working; we have not. Three minutes of presentation of what I think the President said is not work. We need to go into committees and raise the issues. We need to raise the core issues and the core issues are things like federalism, restructuring of the country, political power, whether we should have regionalism, whether we should have more states and extra regions, etc. The people of Middle Belt have issues that they will raise. So, everybody has issues to raise. Some people feel that delegates wasted too much time debating the President’s speech given that it is not actually the work you are going to do; you know what you are supposed to do… It is better that we did that because we were taking the emotions that we would have taken in raw into the committees, and those emotions are there; let’s not pretend. We were taking the roughness off those emotions before we go into committees. Right now, believe me, I understand different people from the different parts of Nigeria much better than I ever did before I came to this conference. That is just the honest truth. I am sympathetic with other people’s issues and positions today much better than I ever was because I have heard them speak. I have been in the same room with them and I have heard their passions and have seen their faces and the pain they are going through. Before, I did not know and I would not have had time for it. All I am saying is that what we did was not a waste of time. You just cannot bring almost 500 people here and sit down and say start working; people will break other people’s head. We saw it the first day that the conference started. But you know, what we did was to calm everybody down; we needed the space of time for emotions to calm so that we could be reasonable and we could listen to each other. We assemble at 10am and seat down until 2pm and then, we come back at 4pm and seat till 6pm. Everybody else had something that they wanted to do but this is about Nigeria. Will three months be enough for the conference to address the fundamental issues? I think that we will not be fair to Nigerians on whose behalf we say we are here if we cast three months in iron, and say that we must finish by three months. How are we assessing what we are doing in three months? We could finish in two months if it’s a win-win situation, or we could finish in three months or in five or six months but we have to start working first; that is all I am saying. We have not started work and unless you people think we are working now. We were just getting the thing in order and delegates were just discussing for three minutes what they felt about what the President had said. And by their presentations, Nigerians can begin to see where the real work will go. Some people are for federalism; some people are not for federalism. We are for federalism because we know the benefits of federalism. There are some people who want the status quo to remain. There are people who do not want federalism because they know federalism will not work for their personal interests. But there are people to whom federalism is the only way Nigeria can move forward and only way they can develop.

Friday, April 18, 2014 | 11

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

THE NATIONAL CONFERENCE

Core issue at national conference is a remodeled federation freedom to each zone to create states and any number of local governments. (Model 1– Zones) (iii) On the other hand is the retention of 36 States as Federating Units but allowing for equality of states within the zones, making creation of 7 new zones necessary (Model 2 – States) (iv) In addition is the possibility to constitutionalise the zones to allow each zone to pass legislation and share political, economic and judicial institutions. This will mean that States are federating units. (v) Additionally, the concept of federating units may include recognition of special areas and cities of federal significance and minorities in need of special protection (Model 3 – Mixed Zone States)

By Olisa Agbakoba 1. The urgency of a national conversation on consolidation of our democracy is clear. 2. The President’s statement to conference and discussions by delegates make it clear that our focus is on how to remodel Nigeria’s Centralised Federalism. 3. To achieve the objective of remodeling a Centralised Federation to a balanced Federation is to keep in mind these principles: i. Federalism is best suited for nations with diversity, especially in relation to ethnic, language and religion. ii. There is no supermodel of Federalism; so, there is no one-size that fits all. The 28 countries in the world that are federal are all different. iii. Federalism unites diverse peoples, but supports assertion of distinct identities and recognises autonomy in certain matters. Federalism unites without eroding identity of distinct groups. iv. Striking a balance and identifying a workable Federal Model that is inclusive is a challenge for every country. 4. Key issues for Constitutional Review. 1. Devolution of Power from centre to Federating Units. 2. What units are Federating Units? 3. Fiscal Federalism/Revenue Sharing. 4. National Institutions critical to Democratic Consolidation. 5. Preparing Executive Bill with a Draft Constitution. 1. Devolution of Power (1) Exercise of Legislative Power between the Federal and State is divided into an Exclusive and Concurrent Legislative List. The Federal Government exercises power over 68 items on the exclusive list and 30 items on the concurrent list. The State may exercise power on the concurrent list of 30 items only if the Federal Government has not already “covered the field” in any of the 30 items. In effect, State Governments really have no power. (2) It is suggested that massive devolution of power from the Federal to the State Governments is vital. There are two kinds of devolved power – Political and Technical. Technical devolution is easier to agree than political. Nobody will argue that the States are better able to manage driver’s licence, trade within States, prisons, than the Federal Government. State Police may be more difficult, as it is perceived to mean exercise of political control. (3) The concept of shared or joint power helps to resolve some items of power seen or perceived to be “political” — Electoral, Police, Judicial, etc. On Police, the concept of municipal policing for States is a possibility, while streamlining the present Nigeria Police Force in a shared power scheme between Federal and State Governments. (4) A new list of Legislative powers may be divided into: a. Exclusive — Federal b. State — States c. Shared — Federal and States d. Residual — States (5) Patterns of Distribution of some Powers within Federations based on a study of 28 Federal Constitutions (just a rough guide) — (indicating which government may exercise powers). Patterns in the Distribution of Some Powers within Federations (Based on a Study of 20 Federal Constitutions) — Currency: always Federal. — Defence: always Federal, sometimes shared. — Treaty ratification: almost always Federal, sometimes shared. — External trade: usually Federal, occasionally shared. — Interstate trade: usually Federal, occasionally shared. — Intrastate trade: usually States, sometimes shared. — Major physical infrastructure: usually Federal, sometimes shared. — Primary/Secondary education: usually States, rarely Federal. — Post-secondary education and research: no clear pattern, usually States.

Agbakoba — Income security and Labour matters: mix of Federal and shared. — Pensions: shared and Federal. — Health care: usually States, sometimes shared. — Mineral resources: no clear pattern but in Nigeria, States suggested. — Agriculture: no clear pattern but States recommended, Federal for policy only. — Environment: usually shared States. — Municipal affairs: usually States, occasionally shared. — Court system: usually shared, occasionally Federal, rarely States. — Criminal law: no clear pattern but generally State. — Police: usually shared, rarely Federal. — Customs/excise taxes: almost always Federal. — Corporate and personal taxes: usually, shared, sometimes Federal. — Arms, ammunition and explosives: Federal. — Aviation, including airports, safety of aircraft and carriage of passengers and goods by air: shared. — Awards of national titles of honor, decorations and other dignities: Federal. — Bankruptcy and insolvency: shared. — Banks, banking, bills of exchange and promissory notes: Federal. — Borrowing of moneys within or outside a country: shared — Census: Federal. — Citizenship, naturalisation and aliens: Federal. — Commercial and industrial monopolies, combines and trust: Federal. — Control and Capital issues: shared. — Copyright: Federal. — Creation of States: shared. — Currency, coinage and legal tender: Federal. — Customs and excise duties: Federal. — Deportation of persons: Federal. — Designation of securities in which trust funds may be invested: shared. — Diplomatic, consular and trade representations: Federal. — Elections: shared. — Evidence: shared. — Exchange control: Federal. — Export duties: Federal. — External affairs: Federal. — Extradition: Federal.

— Fingerprints, identification and criminal records: shared. — Fishing and fisheries including fishing and fisheries in rivers, lakes, waterways, ponds and other inland waters: shared. — Immigration and emigration: Federal. — Incorporation, regulation and winding up of bodies corporate, including co-operative societies, local government councils and bodies corporate: shared. — Insurance: shared. — Maritime shipping and navigation, including (a) shipping and navigation on tidal waters; (b) shipping and navigation on the River Niger and its affluent and other inland waterways or inter-State waterway: shared. — Meteorology: Federal. — Military (Army, Navy and Air Force): Federal. — Mines and minerals, including oil fields, oil mining, geological surveys and natural gas: usually shared, sometimes Federal. — National parks: shared. — Nuclear energy: shared. — Passports and visas: Federal. — Patents, trademarks, trade or business names, industrial designs and merchandise marks: shared. — Posts, telegraphs and telephones: shared. — Prisons: States. — Public holidays: shared. — Railways: shared. — Regulation of political parties: shared. — Taxation, of incomes, profits and capital gains, etc.: shared. • Supreme and Constitutional Courts are almost always established in the Constitution and are thus not a head of power. In some federations, municipal, or local governments are also constitutionally established.

3. Fiscal Federalism/Revenue Sharing (i) Arrangements around the raising, sharing and spending of money are critically important for the functioning of Federal system and often evoke political tensions. (ii) Assignment of Revenue Power in 28 Federations • Generally speaking, central governments in Federal systems collect at least 50% of the Revenue (USA, Canada, Switzerland) • In Austria, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, India, Germany and Spain, the Federal Government collects between 60 & 75%. • There are some Federations where the central government collects over 8%. Nigeria and Venezuela are the most extreme cases, with central revenues of 97% and 98%, respectively. • The challenge in Nigeria is how can we create a balance between the Federal and State Governments in Revenue Sharing? • The first broad principle is for Federal Government to allow States control over Natural Resources in their domain. • The second principle is the possibility to isolate Hydrocarbons as it is for now crucial to the Nigerian economy, and create transitional provisions to transfer ownership to oil bearing States over a period but in the meantime review percentage derivation! Create a sunset clause after which the transition period will end. • Review Land Administration within the framework of the Land Use Act, but with ownership returning to original owners. • Review Tax Administration so VAT, for example, is State and not Federal Tax. The General principle is to rebase the formula to share revenue, essentially by: (i) Transferring ownership of certain resources to States. (ii) Reallocating some taxation to States. (iii) Re-allocating money to States as a result of major re-allocation of power from Federal to State Governments.

4. National Institutions for Critical Democratic Consolidation The Constitution Review Process should isolate some national institutions that will sustain the Constitution and check executive dominance in governance. It is possible to identify and incorporate independent national institutions that are vital to democratic consolidation. There should be constitutional guarantees to make these institutions independent and free from executive interference; funding, tenure etc. Nigeria can take the South Africa example; Chapter 9 of the Constitution of South Africa titled — “Institutions Consolidating Democracy” insulates critical national institutions from political interference. For us, Section 153 of the Constitution providing for independent executive agencies should be reviewed. National institutions include Courts, INEC, Police, ICPC, Accountant General, Attorney General, CBN, National Human Rights Commission, EFCC, Public Defender, Code of 2. What are Federating Units Conduct Bureau, Auditor-General, etc. They (i) Federations are shaped by historical need insulation from political interference. processes. They can have as few as 2 units to over 80. Populations of federations vary — 5. Report of the Conference India, with well over a billion, to St. Kitts and Conference, in addition to producing a Nevis with only 46,000. Nigeria’s federating Report, ought to draft an Executive Bill and units have generally reflected its diversity. attach a draft Constitution, incorporating Three Federating Models our resolutions. (ii) The six geopolitical zones broadly In order to make our work relevant, it accommodate Nigeria’s diversity but not in should be recommended to the President to full, as the number of States within zones are send an Executive Bill to the National unequal. To balance, it is possible, to present Assembly for Referendum and enactment of the zones as the new federating units with a New Constitution.

TheGuardian

www.ngrguardiannews.com

12 | Friday, April 18, 2014

Conscience Nurtured by Truth

FOUNDER: ALEX U. IBRU (1945 – 2011) Conscience is an open wound; only truth can heal it. Uthman dan Fodio 1754-1816

Editorial It’s Good Friday HRISTIANS are today celebrating Good Friday, the yearly C reminder of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, the Son of God and supreme model of believers. The death of Jesus Christ on the Cross of Calvary remains the central paradox upon which the Christian faith is based. The paradox arises from the suffering and humiliating death of Jesus on the one hand, and his divinity on the other. Christian believers for over 2000 years have annually celebrated His death for its vicarious and atoning value. Ordinarily, Good Friday should be a day of sorrow and of mourning over the death of an innocent person who did no harm to anyone, but who was nevertheless hated, humiliated and crucified for proclaiming the truth to the world. The events of the day thus throw up the question: What is good about this day of wickedness, anguish, sorrow and death? But taken within the context of atonement and seen in the light of the resurrection and the salvation Jesus won through his death, it is understandable that this Friday should be universally acclaimed as “Good Friday” by Christians all over the world. However, beyond the ritual of re-enacting the crucifixion and other acts symbolising the passion of Christ on this day and around this time, Good Friday is significant as a day of meditation on the cross and its meaning not only for the Christian life, but for all meaningful life. Nigerians’ propensity for seeking success and prosperity while rejecting the pains and sacrifices that must be endured before hand, contradicts the call to sacrifice that Good Friday represents. A disposition towards crass materialism, excessive wealth accumulation, blind pleasure and conspicuous consumption is clearly at variance with the spirit of this holy day. Unlike the spirit of sacrifice exemplified in the suffering and death of Christ on Calvary, many Nigerians are generally averse to the idea of suffering today for tomorrow’s gain. As a people they seem to lack the patience for long-term investments that would yield wholesome returns at a later date. Many would rather cut corners and engage in corrupt deals for instant gratification than endure the sweat and tears upon which real lasting wealth and well-being are built. Life on the fast lane and on easy street – a life punctuated by short-cuts to riches and success more appealing to too many. That is why corruption thrives so well in Nigeria’s national environment. That is why in spite of Nigerians’ highly visible religiosity, there is a great difficulty translating the lofty ideals and values of the two major religions into daily living. This year’s celebration of Good Friday yet again assumes a special significance for all Nigerians. The public holiday being observed today is an opportunity for the much desired introspection. The other side of the event of Calvary for Christians is Jesus’ resurrection from the dead which is celebrated on Easter Sunday. Good Friday this year should be seen as a day to (among other ideals), rekindle hope in the possibility of a new Nigeria – a new Nigeria populated by inspiring and self-sacrificing leaders, as well as hard-working and law-abiding people; a new Nigeria dominated by men and women who appreciate and celebrate daily in their private and public affairs the dynamics of deferred gratification. Jesus has pointed the way to what constitutes sacrificial leadership, which in turn promotes good governance. He has laid down his life, teaching the world humility, fortitude, suffering, sacrifice, justice and true love. He has affirmed that it is the way to guarantee authentic peace – a peace that endures. As Christians mark Good Friday today, may all Nigerians take these truths to heart so that it shall be well with the nation. May they celebrate the ideals and values of Good Friday, be prepared to sow seeds of self-sacrifice today for tomorrow’s glory.

LETTERS

Jonathan dribbles Nigeria’s intellectuals IR: A strong voice is being Smentary raised in favour of parlia- What is the intellectual justification for attending system of govern- GEJ’s conference? None. But money is a big tempment, even by internationally acclaimed intellectuals. But, what is a parliamentary system? Nigeria has a bicameral legislative system; if one is foolish at any given time, the other will be wise, and that seems to me a perfect arrangement. If you have a parliamentary system, will you not have a Prime Minister – a kind of president? Why did Nigeria run away from the British parliamentary system in the first instance? Now, having run away for whatever reason, you should, if you are responsible, make the best of where you have run to – the American presidential system. The question I have always asked is: Why is the Great Britain maintaining her parliamentary system and America her presidential system, while Nigeria is going around like butterfly or political prostitute? What is the big difference between the presidential and the parliamentary systems, given that you need a prime minister or president in either case? Can’t you incorporate certain elements of the “parliamentary system” to modify

tation. Traditional rulers, Christo-Islamic leaders, many academics need money for opulent lives. I don’t think Femi Falana would have attended the conference if Chief Gani Fawehinmi were alive, hale and hearty. Nigeria is groping intellectually, politically and morally disoriented. what you find to be problematic in the presidential system? Some people go to university at home or abroad. They change from one area of specialisation to another. After exhausting their chances within the system, they went back home without any degree. No, I am not saying they are the ones ruling Nigeria, because I don’t know. Did the presidential system make itself, or some human beings made it, and can one tailor it to suit one’s purpose? For instance, I believe a president is as powerful as your constitution allows; an electoral system is what you decide it should be. President Goodluck Jonathan discarded electoral reform, and is now holding a conference on how to stabilise Nigeria. Is that not what the Yoruba

call Ajala ta n na o (someone beats Ajala from behind, and the same person is asking: Ajala, who beat you?). GEJ has been doing everything but what would stabilise Nigeria politico-economically. To make himself relevant, he is now asking what are necessary to stabilise Nigeria. The Sheikh Lemu’s Committee that he setup told him what to do; many Nigerians hailed the committee nationwide. Did GEJ act on it? What is the intellectual justification for attending GEJ’s conference? None. But money is a big temptation. Traditional rulers, Christo-Islamic leaders, many academics need money for opulent lives. I don’t think Femi Falana would have attended the conference if Chief Gani Fawehinmi were alive, hale and hearty. Nigeria is groping intellectually, politically and morally disoriented. • Pius Abioje, University of Ilorin.

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Friday, April 18, 2014

Opinion Theatre of absurdity in Abuja By Tola Adeniyi UCH as I welcomed the idea of holding M a National Sovereign Conference which all patriotic citizens of this country had canvassed since the past 54 years to resolve the national question, I never for once thought that what would eventually present itself as a National Conference would be glorified clowning at the country’s centre. For starters, the organisers of the conference chose their disused wardrobes to pick out the oldest and in some cases the most soiled of their apparels. True, old wine tastes better, and in some cases, are more enriching and invigorating. But some old wines packaged in new bottles may demean the brightness of the new bottles and offend both the eyes and the taste of the patrons in the market place. It turned out that the worn-out apparels assembled in the dead woods that were paraded were as placid as their ages and disuse could make them. The only evidence of the deadness of the participants was the cacophony of the snoring noises oozing out of their nostrils. While their bodies registered for the conference and were indeed physically present, their aged minds were settled on the gateway to heaven! Technology, that modern day thief that can pry into the innermost recesses of happenings has been exposing the tomfoolery going on at Abuja. At first, the participants did not know that in all issues of taking a vote, it is generally two thirds of voters that are considered a comfortable majority. In the Nigerian experience, it had to take days to settle a simple issue of what constituted a majority. In the

end, after several days of bickering and horse trading, a magic formula of 70 per cent was agreed to. Thereafter the address of the president to the gathering, and true to type, the president dusted up the cupboards of generations of past rulers of the land and regurgitated what and what were said and retold since 1804! A most uninspiring speech, but nonetheless gleefully applauded by the largeness of government contractors and wheeler-dealers in the conference hall. The president announced to the gathering that he was going to give out his daughter in marriage in the backwoods of Otueke, the village where the president claimed he was denied shoes while growing up. Pronto, the conference hall was emptied and nearly all the contractor-participants and favour seekers scurried to Otueke. Meanwhile, they would collect their pay taken from the impoverished tax payers for their truancy! Three weeks into the so-called conference, there has not been any statement of substance made. Of course, all sorts of funny costumes have been on display. Some members have been showing off their masquerade attires in a way to convince onlookers that the delegates to the Abuja Confab were actually the newly recruited members to the National Cultural Troop! It has been all theatre and theatricalities. When points of order were raised, those affected routinely ignore such orders. Some of the delegates have been behaving as if the country was their fiefdom while other participants were props men in their theatre of the absurd.

Last week, the dramatis personae were consumed by debates on how much food they should consume per day and how much a plate of eba, or tuwo, or edikaingkon, or pounded yam or rice should cost. People almost went physical over such a pedestrian matter like how much should be deducted for a plate of food from their four million naira per quarter largesse. The real reasons why Nigerians have been clamouring for conference for decades had been overshadowed by melodrama of the worst order. The conference had been taken over by slapstick comedy, and the actors and actresses were displaying wobbled interpretations of improvised plots and themes. The only thing they got right was the funny costumes appropriate for zanies. Nigerians wanted and still demand the immediate reversal of the constitutional disasters heaped on them by the military. Presidential system with all its pathological corruption imposed by the military must go. Nigeria must be returned to the well practiced, less expensive and most inclusive parliamentary system. Nigerians want real fiscal democracy and resource control. Nigerians want real devolution of powers and elimination of the corruptionladen arrogance of the power at the centre. Nigerians want Regionalism and less dependence on the centre. Nigerians want a federation or confederation of six or eight geopolitical zones entrenched in the Constitution and the nearsovereignty of federating regional or zonal units. Nigerians want a permanent restructur-

ing of the polity. Human population census figures should no longer be manipulated for political gains. Gross injustice, inequities in the sharing of the commonwealth and arrant mismanagement of national assets must stop. Most of the items on the exclusive list must be removed and Nigeria practices true federal system. As of a fact, most Nigerians want a loose federation as obtained in the United States of America, Canada, Britain, and other multi-national, multi-ethnic and multi-lingua communities. These are some of the salient issues that had been in the forefront of national agitations before the president woke up one morning and announced to a very forgiving citizenry that he was organising a National Confab. What he did not tell the eager compatriots at that time was that he was setting up a theatre company that would receive their tutelage from Baba Sala, the doyen of comedy in Nigeria. As things stand, it is almost certain that Nigerians would merely have wasted billions of Naira to watch a very uninspiring melodrama. Perhaps I should show some charity and admit that there are some lone stars in the assemblage of sleepy old men, and those stars, though negligible may turn out to be the saving grace for the play producer/directors at the Circus show. If care is not taken and tired men and women in Abuja do not quickly wake up from their slumber and appreciate why they were sent to Abuja, we might resign ourselves to the dreadful option of having the creators of the woes in our formless structure to step in and clear the mess. And that, with their boots!

Rwandan genocide: The lucky ones? By Jessie Fubara-Manuel HEY are the lucky ones’, she said. ‘These ones are the T lucky ones’, she repeated with her fingers pointing down. We were at the Kigali Memorial Centre, Rwanda, and it was a particularly chilly day. We were standing by the mass graves of thousands who had been killed in the Rwandan 1994 genocide. April 1994 was a good year for my family. Our new baby boy was just two months old and he filled the house with joy and laughter. After the loss of our first son twelve months earlier, this gift was a sheer miracle and we revelled in the joy of it day and night. We lived in a world of fantasy – of blue skies and beautiful rainbows, of blossoming flowers and clear skies, of sounds of laughter and music. Daily, we gave thanks to God for the life we had. It was a different story for my friend Alice. In April 1994, she lost her entire family - her father, mother, three siblings of two brothers and one sister! It was a particular day, the date of which is lost to her, in that dark month of April 1994 that her world changed. She had gone to visit a friend in the neighbouring village to find out if the stories of killings were real there, if it was true that their brothers had become their killers. She returned to an empty house – no sound – none, not even of the goats and sheep. Even the animal knew something terribly bad had just happened there. Where were members of her immediate family? Someone said they probably had run into the bushes to escape the machete – to somewhere safe. Then someone else said, they probably had all been killed or they had been pushed alive into the pit toilet and so must be dead. They were never found – all five of them. Seventeen years after, Alice still wonders what happened to her family. Could they be alive somewhere – waiting to be found? Could she possibly see them on the streets of Kigali one of these days? She looks and searches and wonders! I do not know how much of ‘thanking God’ that she did or does. The silent war in Rwanda had been raging for many years - the cold war between the Tutsies and the Hutus. They were a people of one language, one culture, one tradition, one mode of dressing. But inspite of the many things

they had in common, they still found space to bring up differences and make it a reason for war. The diversity of their looks – the uniqueness of their appearances became the factor that differentiated them and made it easy to call one Hutu and the other Tutsie. And in this process of naming the one as different from the other, they welcomed stigmatisation and marginalisation. Everyone knew that majority of one tribe despised the other. The categorisation of persons along tribal lines was a political strategy to ensure easy administration of what was considered a very large territory by the colonists. But for years on end – they pitched battle against each other and killed themselves. They made the weapons of death with which they brutally executed the verdict of death. At the memorial site, we saw pictures that tell the story of long ago – a sad story that seem to today define Rwanda. Their story – the story of Rwanda – is not complete without the events of April 1994. We saw the pictures of corpses littered on the streets, of machetes stacked for battle against defenceless people, of betrayals that led to massacres, of faces, faces like Alice’s, looking for their lost families. We saw the horror of the true story of a people whose lives have been shaped by the violence that defied common sense. What happened? Did the victims not hear the propaganda in the media calling for one tribe to kill the other? Did they trust so much that they could not believe the one who would raise his hands to kill would be their brother, their neighbour, their friend, etc. As we moved from room to room, we wept for so many reasons. We wept for the grievance that would turn brother against brother, for the misconceptions that tainted the thinking of one to consider another, not anymore as a human being, but as a ‘cockcroach’ to be exterminated for the good of the earth. We wept for the innocent souls that suffered cruel deaths at the hands of their killers. I wept and I asked ‘where was God’? Where was God when the people were killed and butchered and buried alive and maimed? When children cried for the loss of their parents and their skulls smashed across hard rocks? Where was God in all these? My friend, Beatrice stepped up, put her hands on my shoulders and answered me ‘God was being killed and butchered and buried alive

We wept for the grievance that would turn brother against brother, for the misconceptions that tainted the thinking of one to consider another, not anymore as a human being, but as a ‘cockcroach’ to be exterminated for the good of the earth. We wept for the innocent souls that suffered cruel deaths at the hands of their killers. I wept and I asked ‘where was God’? Where was God when the people were killed and butchered and buried alive and maimed? When children cried for the loss of their parents and their skulls smashed across hard rocks? and maimed’. ‘God was with the oppressed and the betrayed and the hungry and the naked.’ ‘God was never far’. As we made our way back to the mass graves, I asked my friend Alice, why ‘these ones’ were the lucky ones? She stopped and looking down at the graves seems to be speaking to them ‘because they are at rest’, ‘because they have no questions and no quest’, ‘because in their death, they became heroes’. It has been seventeen years and although Alice claims to bear no grudge, her soul is not at peace for she is still searching, still asking, what happened to her family. She is still watching out for familiar faces – maybe one could be her father, or mother or sister or brother. And it dawned on me that at the time in which I felt God’s face smiling at me with goodness, my friend was looking for the back of God. Right now, I am thinking about home, about my country Nigeria, and about the silent violence that is no longer headline news. I am thinking about the daily killings that have defied security intelligence and skill. I am thinking about the hatred that is slipping through tribal lines. And I pray to the God who is never far, to bring forth justice and peace. • Fubara-Manuel wrote from Kigali.

Friday, April 18, 2014

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Opinion Crimea, Putin and Soloyvov By Wole Akinyosoye RESIDENT Bashar Assad should be the hapP piest on earth now that global attention has turned from Syria. Assad should be happy that Kiev is the new Damascus and Crimea is now Homs. The Syrian president can at least drop his made-in-Russia bombs on his citizens in peace, without distractions from nosey journalists and ambivalent homilies from the Western capitals. The spotlight is on Russia and Ukraine on what Christiana Amanpour, the lucid CNN anchor aptly called the Putin’s Crime in Crimea. Eastern Ukraine still boils with Russian ethnics asking to go the way of Crimea, in a crisis apparently contrived in Moscow. Putin’s “Crime” is vexing to the West that has grown used to a unipolar world since the demise of Soviet Union and the Cold War in the 1990s. Washington is comfortable with a tamed Russia but apparently all is not well. If all is well, the fabled Russian Bear should by now be an herbivorous animal, a creature devoid of teeth and paws; one incapable of causing the trouble in Ukraine. America and her European allies are learning in Ukraine that Vladimir Putin is not Mikhail Gorbachev or Boris Yeltsin. Their greatest fear is that Mr. Putin may in fact be Nikita Khrushchev. A vanquished Russia rising from the ashes of the Cold War should be worrisome to Europe because Russia is not Afghanistan, Pakistan or Iran. It requires great brawns and tact to manage a former superpower with extensive atomic capacity and one with the territorial ambitions the West now accuses Russia of nursing in Eastern Europe. It is tougher than managing a strayed bull in a China shop. Samuel Huntington modelled the post Cold War world for the world shortly after the end of the Cold War in the 1990s. His book, The Clash of Civilizations, predicts the end of the Cold War would also be the end of the big wars; the type Europe has known since Napoleon. The eminent historian foresaw the coming of the socalled democratisation of violence, the festering of small wars of private militias against established nation states across the globe. Samuel Huntington also predicted that religion would replace ideology, especially in

the fragile confluences on earth, where Islam and Christianity share uneasy boundaries. Huntington had in mind deadly retail wars like those al-Qaeda is waging on the West and Boko Haram on Nigeria. Although he justifiably earned the sobriquet of Modern Nostradamus for his “dead accuracy” his prognoses significantly failed to envisage Russia and Vladimir Putin in the current form. George W. Bush, the 43rd President of America also did not envisage Vladimir Putin and Russia in the current form. Bush who relished his reputation as an ardent hawk came smitten from his first meeting with the Putin whom he described as honest and straightforward. “We share a lot of values”, he enthused about Putin after the meeting, reportedly crooning that he looked into Putin’s eyes and “saw his soul.” Hilary Clinton the ardent liberal and accomplished Bush critic was more suspicious. Clinton retorted that Putin a former KGB agent is by definition not expected to have a soul! Now with the Russian flag flying in Crimea and the spectre of Russian attack still looming on Kiev it is likely George Bush is contemplating Mrs. Clinton’s retort in retirement. Putin, a human, obviously has a soul, may be not the type a Western leader would consider normal for this season. Vladimir Putin’s soul longs for a strong Russia, may be not Josef Stalin’s Russia but Leonid Brezhnev’s Russia, one with vast regional and global influence. Putin loves a Russia feared by friends and foes. That needn’t be a respectable Russia but one that would make neighbours like Belarus, Georgia and Ukraine cowed with unconditional respect. The anti-Russian voices in Ukraine goading Kiev to dump Moscow for Brussels obviously failed to notice the claws of this Russian Bear and they are no good music to Putin’s soul. To Moscow, Ukraine spinning out of Russia’s orbit with all its territory intact is simply not thinkable and the logic is simple, Ukraine is not Belarus, Poland or Bulgaria; it was a breadbasket of the defunct Soviet Union and still of strategic importance to Russia by history and geography. Before Russia seized

Crimea, Ukraine was home to Sebastopol; the only warm water port the Russian Naval fleet has to the Black Sea. Even now, the fragmented Ukraine still has ethnic Russians in its eastern parts. But it is inappropriate to compare Vladimir Putin and Adolf Hitler, as Hilary Clinton would have us do even in the face of the raging crisis. Pairing Vladimir Putin with Adolf Hitler on the Richter scale of evil is like pairing flu and cancer. Firstly, the contemporary dialectics of global politics are decidedly skewed against the rising of a demon that would grow to the height of the German Fuhrer. Secondly, Adolf Hitler enjoyed the support of Germans in ways Mr. Putin can never hope for in contemporary Russia. For all his swagger, Putin still lacks the charisma and flair for drama; the essential characteristics that advanced the Fuehrer’s evil on the global scale. Thirdly, and most importantly, the missiles of sanctions from London, Washington and Brussels are already falling on Moscow to stunt Putin growth into an uncontrollable demon. Mrs. Clinton obviously knows more than anyone that the appeasement policy of Great Britain which thought it was expedient to court evil rather than confronting was main reason for the Fuhrer’s vile. To understand Putin’s soul, the world needs to understand Vladimir Solovyov. The latter, a 19th Century Russian philosopher is a guiding light to the soul of Putin. The Russian strongman often enjoins his staff to study Soloyvov who propounded on Russia’s Divine Destiny. The philosopher deeply disdained the West, particularly the Montesquieu concept of separation of power, which he called a ruinous path to “unchecked egoism and anarchy.” Solovyov died homeless in 1900 while Nicholas II still reigns in Moscow. Like Fyodor Dostoyevsky a more popular compatriot, he died in abject penury in the midst of his books. Now in a post-Cold War Russia looking for glory, Putin has lit a touch on Solovyov’s grave. Vladimir Putin might have consulted Vladimir Soloyvov before he proceeded to seize Crimea. He still might be doing so as the crisis rages in east Ukraine. The body language of the major combatants

suggests that a shooting war is a remote possibility in this crisis. A direct shoot out between East and West is unlikely, expect Moscow decides to play a Russian roulette by invading Ukraine. Most likely prognoses are that Brussels and Washington would continue the verbal war with Russia as Moscow perfects the title deeds on Crimea. But the strategy of the West would be to kill Moscow’s appetite for future acquisition by ensuring that it suffers constipation from Crimea through trade and economic sanctions. Ukrainians now have better justifications for demand for closer ties with Brussels. So do Mikhail Gorbachev’s Georgia that is still smarting from the 2008 Russia’s invasion on South Ossetia. Now with other Russian ethnics in Ukraine still routing for the Russian flag, Crimea is receding into history and it is likely not coming back to Ukraine in the foreseeable future. The most plausible deal would be autonomous Crimea in the long term. Even an autonomous Crimea would pander to Russia’s interests because the ethnic slant of Crimea will always favour Russia as demonstrated by the recent plebiscite. Putin is still the guy with the bloodied nose here. The narrative on Ukraine is essentially on Russia as a regional bully. When this conflict broke out some months back John McCain, US Senator and former presidential contender lampooned Russia as “a gas station masquerading as a country.” The Senator of course hyped the facts. Sure, Russia is the biggest gas station in Europe but it also has enough atomic war heads to fry the world many times over. Russia is therefore also a very important country in the contemporary scheme of things. It is not wrong for a nation to be a gas station in a world where energy is life itself. It is dangerous if the best thing the nation has going is being the gas station of others in a world that runs on technology and innovation. It is precarious if the nation is a former superpower that covets the image of its grandiose past. Even Vladimir Soloyvov would agree that Russia might not fulfil its destiny on that track. Russia will also not fulfil its destiny by staying in bed with despicable regimes like Bashar Assad’s in Syria. • Akinyosoye is a member of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs.

FRESH and INEC’s double speak By Mobolanle Bashiru N what appears to be a muddle up in the operations of the Ivious Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, the obinability of the electoral umpire to present a consistent position in its on-going dispute with the Fresh Democratic Party, FRESH, over its de-registration of the party, may cause another major dent on it’s image. Sequel to an earlier press conference held by the National Executive Committee (NEC) of FRESH, charging INEC with gross disrespect of a standing court judgment which upturned its deregistration of the party in December 2012, Prof. Lai Olurode, INEC’s National Commissioner in charge of southwest, said that deregistered political parties, including FRESH might seek re-registration. This is despite the fact that Kayode Idowu, chief press secretary to the INEC chairman had earlier said that the court judgment on parties’ deregistration had revalidated the recognition of the Fresh Party. He said, “As regards the court case, I am only aware of the existence of Fresh Democratic Party... at present, the number of political parties in Nigeria stands at 29.” You may check Punch on-line of August 17, 2013 for confirmation of this statement. FRESH lawyers, Messrs Fred Agbaje, a constitutional lawyer and the party’s National Legal Director, Kola Dopamu, had secured the victory overturning it’s deregistration by INEC on July 28, 2013 under Justice Gabriel Kolawole at the Federal High Court 5, Abuja. The lawyers had told the court that Section 78 (7) (ii) of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended), which INEC invoked to deregister FRESH was unconstitutional because it offended the provision of Section 40 and Section 221- 229 of the 1999 constitution (as amended). The court granted this prayer and gave the landmark judgment in favour of FRESH. The obvious contradicting position taken by INEC’s spokes persons affirms long-held beliefs that there might be a deliberate attempt to frustrate the party from taking part in subsequent elections in Nigeria. This act of impunity by

INEC, is another chapter in the on-going catalogue of attempts to disenfranchise FRESH and it’s followers. At a follow up press conference, the party issued another statement in which it said: “INEC has conducted elections and are conducting elections, but has refused and or neglected to include the name of Fresh Democratic Party in the ballot papers in spite of many complaints from us. “We have made representation to INEC and wrote letters, and when the chairman said he was not aware of the judgment, we forwarded a certified copy of the judgment to him, yet no effect has been given to the order of the court to rescind the purported de-registration. Obviously, INEC and its officials are acting discordantly and that explains why there is cacophony of voices from its stable. “Our position on this is that Fresh Democratic Party remains a legal entity by virtue of the Electoral Act 2010 (As amended) and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999. We shall not seek to be registered or re-registered. “We therefore use this medium to draw the attention of all democratic institutions including the Senate, House of Representatives and the leadership of those houses to the gross disobedience and contumacy of INEC and its officials to a lawful court order. In spite of INEC’s disobedience, FDP being a law-abiding organisation has continually appealed to millions of its supporters who are getting restive over the issue to remain calm. We reject in its entirety the suggestion and idea that Fresh Democratic Party should seek registration or re-registration and call on INEC to do the needful and include our Party in all the activities of the commission.” Some national newspapers like New Telegraph, Daily Independent and National Mirror, have run editorials on this contentious issue. According to an editorial in the National Mirror edition of Wednesday, March 26, 2014, which shed more light on the de-registration saga: “This particular judgment ought to have returned the parties to status quo ante. We are aware that INEC had got favourable rulings in three similar exercises involving National Action Council (NAC) of

Dr. Olapade Agoro; Hope Democratic Party (HDP) of Andrew Owusu, and National Conscience Party (NCP), but FRESH’s action is unique in the sense that it altered the balance of power between the two parties, which would take only the ruling of a higher court to reverse. If this has not been done, the most honourable thing is for INEC to let FRESH Democratic Party be.” This view was also echoed by the Daily Independent, in it’s editorial of Monday 24 March, 2013, where it wrote, “… we believe that political parties such as the Fresh Democratic Party have a democratic right and indeed a political responsibility to engage in another round of legal tussle with the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) over the commission’s refusal to recognise the party after it recorded a legal victory over its deregistration last year. The party and others sidelined have every reason to be disconcerted… The non-inclusion of the party is a clear violation of the spirit and rule of the law. It is also in contempt of the court.” Another editorial in the New Telegraph of Tuesday, April 1, 2014 stated: “…But for the political parties that were deregistered, INEC does not have the power to do so. The fulcrum of their argument, which derives from a superior body of law, the 1999 Constitution, was that Section 40 constitutionally guarantees freedom of association. The Electoral Act 2010 from where INEC derives its power to deregister political parties, conflicts with the 1999 Constitution that guarantees freedom of association. Besides, a court of competent jurisdiction has already made a judicial pronouncement on the matter, INEC should obey the court ruling as a law-abiding corporate body.” It couldn’t have been better put. As long as this impunity by INEC continues, it must know that it has a new battle on hand, and if care is not taken, the Commission could shoot itself in the foot if FRESH returns to the court and successfully charge the Election umpire with contempt as being threatened by the party. • Bashiru wrote from Abuja.

Friday, April 18, 2014

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

TheMetroSection It’s sober Good Friday...! • Christians urged to emulate selfless lifestyle of Christ • US warns citizens in Nigeria over security during holidays By Chris Irekamba, Gbenga Akinfenwa and Emeka Nwachukwu ODAY is Good Friday, a religious holiT day commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary. The holiday is observed during the Holy Week, which is heralded by Palm Sunday and is two days to Easter Sunday, the resurrection of Christ. It is also known as Holy Friday, Great Friday, or Black Friday. On this day, some Christians, especially faithful of the Catholic Church, refrain from eating beef (meat) to share in the grief and pains of the Saviour. Good Friday is heralded by the Holy Thursday, which is the day Jesus had the Last Supper with His disciples. The components of Good Friday include the Veneration of the Cross, the chanting of the ‘Reproaches’, reading of the Passion, and receiving the per-consecrated Host, (the body and blood) where Christians unite with Christ, the Saviour. There is also the Kiss of the Cross, where Catholic faithful are allowed to show affection and love for their Saviour. In commemoration of the season, the Federal Government has declared Friday and Monday as public holidays to mark the Easter celebrations. The Minister of Interior, Comrade Abba Moro, made the declaration in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs. Fatima Bamidele on Wednesday. He enjoined all Christian faithful and Nigerians in general to use the occasion to pray for peace and unity in the country. The statement further urged Nigerians to continue supporting and co-operating with President Goodluck Jonathan in his efforts to build a peaceful, united and virile nation. As Christians all over the world celebrate Good Friday today, there have been messages from prominent Nigerians, clerics and political office holders, urging Nigerians to keep hope alive of a better and united country. One of such persons is the Delta State governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, who has urged Nigerians to stop the killings and love one another. Uduaghan advised Nigerians to purge themselves of all impeding factors to the progress of Nigeria as a nation. In a goodwill message to mark this year’s Easter celebrations, the governor said: “Nigerians need to drop every hindrance to peace and unity of the country by

nation will be salvaged. Love builds, motivates, and restores. This is the mission and vision of The Salvation Army as well in uniting the people of all class, race, colour, and creed with Christ. “Finally, as we celebrate Easter, let us ponder on this atoning work of Christ and be willing to make the world a better place to live in by living the divine nature as well as sharing in it.” Also, the General Overseer of Powerline Bible Church, Lagos, Bishop Lawrence Osagie, has enjoined Nigerians to emulate the selfless lifestyle of Jesus Christ, who put others above Himself. To move this country to a level of greatness, Osagie called on Christians not to misunderstand or forget the reason of Christ’s selflessness, who had the opportunity to throw away the cross but kept on because He had a goal and dream of saving the world from their sins. “He died not for himself, but for the world. I encourage that we should emulate the spirit of Christ, who put others above himself. We should learn to be a people who would follow that attitude, which would make the season more meaningful,” he said. Rev. Father Jude Abulu of Saint Timothy and Titus Catholic, Isheri Oshun, Lagos has urged Christians to see “Good Friday” as a time to engage in a deep sober reflection and remedy past mistakes. Meanwhile, following the frequency of attacks in Nigeria in the past few days, the United States Department of States has warned American citizens living in Nigeria over possible attacks that might be carried out by extremists in the PHOTO: GOOGLE.COM The cruciﬁxion Northern parts of the country during the Easter manifesting love to one another and to peace and co-existence for the good of celebration. their father land. all”, he added. The warning came on Wednesday, “No time is better than now to purge In the same vein, Territorial Combarely 48 hours after the US issued a ourselves of those burdens that have im- mander, National Leader of The Salvapeded our progress as a people over the tion Army, Commissioner Mfon Akpan, fresh travel alert for Nigeria as a result of years by demonstrating love in its fullin his Easter message to Nigerians, said the bomb blast that reportedly claimed ness not only to one another but also to the calamities, woes and problems wit- several lives and property in Nyayan our society,” he stated. nessed in the country today came as re- area of Abuja. “The government of Nigeria has deAccording to him, Good Friday/Easter sult of selfishness, greed, ignorance clared Friday and Monday public holioffers ample opportunity for Nigerians about God and His word, and most esto reflect on renewal and sacrifice, a time pecially unforgiving spirit of some Nige- days, and given the history of bombing attacks on weekends (some to look at old challenges in new ways, as rians. associated with holidays), as well as the well as a time to strengthen their faith in According to Akpan, these cankerrecent bombing in Nyanya on April 14, God through His son, Jesus Christ. worms have destroyed lives, property the US Mission in Nigeria urges all US “The lessons of peace, love, selflessness and relationships, among others. He and sacrifice for the common good must called on Nigerians to show love to one citizens living and travelling in Nigeria to take extra prebe imbibed by all Nigerians for national another. cautions for personal security and progress. I wish to task Christian and “Where there is love, forgiveness and safety,” the statement read. Muslim leaders to preach harmony, selfless ambition, the problems of our

One killed in Edo communal dispute From Alemma-Ozioruva Aliu, Benin City ownership of farmlands, which Ekhameye and his people had HERE is tension in Edo State claimed ownership and alleged as an age-long land dispute encroachment against the peobetween the people of Iviukha ple of Ikpele. in Weppa Wanno and Ikpele in The unsuspecting Ekhameye was said to have hired some Okpekpe clan, all in Etsako East Local Council of Edo State, labourers, who operate in has reportedly led to the death groups, in his community to till of a middle- aged man identi- his land that fateful Sunday morning. fied as Oseni Ekhameye, who His assailants were said to have was said to have died from severe machete cuts inflicted on earlier ravaged his farmland him under the supervision of a where they were said to have uprooted the crops he had earprominent member of the lier planted. community. One of his wives, Umoru Otsemobo who His wife had gone to the village is said to be from Ikpele com- to make the report of the incimunity, is now receiving treat- dent when she overheard the people planning to attack her ment at the University of husband and immediately, she Benin teaching Hospital (UBTH) after surviving several left the house of the community head, she was followed by a machete cuts from the same prominent member of the compersons who killed her husmunity with three newly sharpband. The Guardian gathered yester- ened cutlasses. She was said to be rushing to tell her husband day that the incident, which in farm, which is less than a happened on Sunday, had kilometre from the residence of been a build-up of rift over

the village head, where she had gone to make her report about what she over heard the assailants planning when the assailants apparently lurking in a nearby bush attacked the late Ekhameye and the other labourers that have gone to his farm and under the supervision of a member of the community, the assailants inflicted deep cuts on his head and other parts of the his body. They also allegedly descended on his wife, who was said to have feigned death before rescuers rushed them to a hospital in Agenebode, where her husband later died and she was transferred to UBTH. When The Guardian visited the community yesterday, there was tension as youths in the area were threatening reprisal attacks as they said they would not allow their son to be killed “in such a dastard way.” The leaders of the community, have therefore, called on the

police and the state government to ensure justice is done. A statement issued by the Iviukhua Progressive Union Worldwide and signed by its President General and General Secretary, High Chief Kennedy Izuagbe and Gabriel Inaede condemned the act. “We condemn this callous act in the strongest possible terms. We also want to use this opportunity to appeal to the Nigeria Police Force, Edo State Command to ensure that they get to the root of this matter and bring all the miscreants who perpetrated this heinous crime to justice. “Though some arrest have been made, some of the perpetrators of this dastardly act are still at large. Notable among them are the wife and son of the mastermind of the act, who according to eye witness, inflicted the machete cuts on Oseni Ekhamheye.

“Let us recall that similar incidents have degenerated into communal clashes in some Nigerian communities that have snowballed into unmanageable proportions but Iviukhua, being a law-abiding community was able to prevail on her citizens, especially the youths, to prevent any reprisal attacks. We will like to state unequivocally that this peaceful approach by Iviukhua community must not be misconstrued for weakness.” The Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, Moses Eguavone (DSP) confirmed the incident to The Guardian when he said: “It was a reported case of wounded originally but the victim eventually died while receiving treatment. The case was first reported at Agenebode Division before it was transferred to the state CID. Arrests have been made and the police will ensure that justice is done and those who are found culpable prosecuted accordingly.”

Briefs Heavenly Dew holds at Triumphant Baptist Church RIUMPHANT Baptist Church, T Akowonjo will tomorrow hold its monthly programme tagged "Heavenly Dew with the theme:"Let us go to Gethsemane," from 7.30 a.m. 8.30a.m. The Church Pastor, Dr. Sunday Oladejo says the monthly prayer programme is an avenue for people to pray for themselves and also avert dangers in the country.

Easter programme at Lord’s Chosen Ministries HE Lord’s Chosen CharisT matic Revival Ministries has concluded arrangements to hold its yearly Easter programme with the theme, “God’s Covenant of Peace and Blessing.” The two-day power-packed programme, which begins tomorrow, will end on Sunday at the Chosen Revival Ground, along Oshodi-Apapa Expressway, by Ijesha, Bus Stop, Lagos, at 8.00am daily. According to the Public Relations Officer of the church, Pastor Louis Chidi, “Our General Overseer, Pastor Lazaus Muoka has been inspired by God to help bring to mind the significant of Easter, which symbolizes the victory of Jesus over death and which by extension, is the victory over hopelessness and anarchy, for Christ’s resurrection ushered us a new hope for peace and blessing. We advise the nation to use the opportunity of this year’s Easter to foster peace and love in the country, as this is the only way we can acknowledge and appreciate what Jesus has done for humanity.”

Olugbemi for burial May 9 rites for Madam FwhoUNERAL Abigail Adetoro Olugbemi, died on February 18, of the age of 90, begin with service of songs on May 7 at her residence, No. 4 Road D. C.A.C, Awamaridi, Oki, off Olodo-Iwo Road, Ibadan, Oyo State at 5.00p.m. There will be a Christian wake at the Church Hall, Cathedral Church of Saint David, KudetiIbadan at 5.00p.m. on May 8 while funeral service holds May 9, at the Cathedral Church of Saint David, Kudeth Ibadan at 11.00am. to be followed by interment at the church cemetery. She is survived by children, grandchildren and great grandchildren among them is Bayo Olugbemi.

Olugbemi

Friday, April 18, 2014

Briefs ‘Artisans major stakeholders in delivery of quality, functional building’ YO State Governor Abiola Ajimobi has observed that the importance of artisans and craftsmen in building and construction industry cannot be overemphasized as they are major stakeholders in the delivery of quality and functional buildings. Ajimobi made this observation in Ibadan during the Up skilling Training workshop for construction artisans and tradesmen in South-west states of Nigeria organized by the Nigerian Institute of Building. The governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Survey Isaac Ajiboye Omodewu said that the artisans and tradesmen needed to be continuously trained and retrained to reduce the incidences building collapse being witnessed in all parts of the nation recently. The National President of Nigerian Institute of Building, Tunde Lasabi, advised the artisans and craftsmen, numbering about 180, from the six states in South-west geo political zone to be more proficient in their trades so that they could be more confident in the performances of their duties, the attribute he further said would make them thorough bred tradesmen. “We shall train the tradesmen, we shall minimize, albeit eradicate the scourge of incessant building collapse in Nigeria, we shall encourage sharp display of intellect from our tradesmen, we shall consequently create employment opportunities for teeming Nigerians” Lasabi said. He, therefore, called on the artisans in vocations such as plumbing, tilling, bricklaying painting, carpentry and iron bending present at the workshop to take the occasion as a life time opportunity which must be seized to become more relevant in their chosen field.

The triplet: Blessing, Bright Erifeta and Bridget mark 50th birthday tomorrow HE commercial town of T Sapele in Delta State will come alive tomorrow as Bishop of the Anglican Dioceses, Rt. Rev Dr. Blessing Erifeta and his triplet brother, Rev. Bright Erifeta and sister, Mrs. Bridget A. Sylvester, celebrate their golden 50th birthday. The ceremony is scheduled for St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, Sapele at 10 am. A statement from the Dioceses said that three books would be presented for launching in tomorrow’s occasion. The trio of Blessing, Bright and Bridget hail from Otefe Community, Oghara in Ethiope-West Local Government Area of the state. While Bishop Blessing Erifeta is the head of the Anglican Dioceses in the entire Sapele region, Rev. Bright Erifeta serves at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church in Warri. The female in their midst, Mrs. Bridget Sylvester holds sway at St. Mark Anglican Church, Oghara-Junction. Top government functionaries from Asaba, Benin, Yenagoa and Port Harcourt are already in Sapele waiting for tomorrow’s celebration.

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‘We just pay for darkness…’ • Nsukka business community protests alleged exploitation by EEDC From Lawrence Njoku, Enugu ERTURBED by alleged exP ploitation of their members by the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC), members of the Allied Business Community, Nsukka, on Wednesday staged a peaceful protest at the premises of the company in Nsukka. The group made up of traders, who carried placards with various inscriptions, said they were protesting age-long injustice. Some of the placards read: “Forced to pay electricity bills; EEDC stop Exploiting Nsukka people; Replace estimated bills

with prepaid metres; NEPA- 30per cent, PHCN-percent, EEDC- 0 per cent,” among others. In a letter signed by its President and Secretary General, Okagu Augustine and Ojobo Godwin, respectively, they said, “Over the years, Nsukka has continued to suffer neglect in the provision of power, a situation that has critically affected our businesses. Recently, the town has been thrown into darkness with consequent collapse of businesses.” Apart from the worsening power supply, members of the group said they were worst hit by estimated billing system. They added: “In what appears

to be a well-calculated act aimed at exploiting our members, EEDC has made it near impossible for us to have prepaid metres, which will enable us pay for power depending on the rate of consumption. “The implication is that while we use insignificant power per month, we pay far more than other people who enjoy power supply to the fullest. “We even have worst cases where some of our members are billed for energy they never consumed. Such persons are forced to pay the bill or have their line disconnected. What could be more injustice than this?” They appealed to the EEDC authorities to stop “every form of

exploitation, which comes in form of estimated billing”. “Our members and indeed, Nsukka residents should not be billed for energy they never consumed. “Power supply to Nsukka should increase appreciably in order to help our businesses, which have collapsed”, they further demanded. The group observed that apart from hosting a University, Nsukka also houses several businesses, a situation that makes the need for adequate power supply imperative. The group marched through Enugu Road, Nsukka to the EEDC office, where some workers on sighting them

took to their heels. The Business Manager, Nsukka Unit of the EEDC, Mr. Akin Wale, who addressed the protesters promised to look into their complaints and appealed to them to exercise some patients He stated that the EEDC was working round the clock to end power outages in the area, stressing however, that the issue of poor power supply was a national problem. Wale noted that efforts were made to procure more prepaid metres, explaining that no staff of the company would exploit any of its customers.

FRSC trains 49 convoy for Wada From John Akubo, Lokoja

HE Federal Road Safety T Corps (FRSC), Lokoja Command, has begun the train-

The protesters

Fayemi’s wife empowers rural dwellers in Ekiti The visit presented a veritable platform for the governor’s HE wife of Ekiti State Gover- wife to rally support for her nor, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, has husband’s second term ambibegun distribution of tion in the June 21 governorkerosene, garri and palm oil ship election. processing machines to farm- Having kept faith with his steads across the 16 local promises to the people so far, councils of the state. she said that “the governor deThe gesture is in continua- serves another four-year tenure tion of her empowerment to enable him to extend the schemes, which had seen her dividend of democracy to the touring the state on different nooks and crannies of the occasions since her husband, state. ” Dr. Kayode Fayemi, became At each stop, the governor’s the governor of the state. wife urged the women to form As at Wednesday, she had vis- themselves into cooperative soited 12 locations, which were cieties to benefit from the Ekiti the converging points of Development Foundation’s hamlets in Ekiti South-West, soft loans. Ijero and Oye local councils. The women, who were preAmong items distributed dominantly farmers, trooped were cooking stoves, treated out in their hundreds to give mosquito nets and other em- the governor’s wife a rousing powerment materials. welcome, singing and holding From Muyiwa Adeyemi, Ado Ekiti

brooms, the symbol of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Each hamlet leaders seized the opportunity of the governor’s wife’s visit to present catalogue of demands, which included request for grading of roads, provision of potable water, electricity supply, among others. The Baale of Bolorunduro, Alhaji Ganiyu Oyebode, thanked the government for empowering the women at the grassroots and assured the governor’s wife of his people’s support for the governor in the coming poll. Responding, the governor’s wife urged the villagers to be rest assured of her husband’s commitment to taking the state to greater heights if given another opportunity.

She said: “Governor Fayemi has delivered on all his promises to the people of the state. My visit is to demonstrate to you that the government is also concerned about the development of rural areas. “Any government with the fear of God, with wisdom and compassion will not wait for the people to demand for basic amenities before making them available. Your demands will be attended to. “The only thing I demand of you is to ensure that you cast your vote for my husband on June 21. He is not God, but he does not promise what he cannot deliver.” She advised the villagers against voting for candidates with sugar-coated mouth who would only deceive them with empty promises.

ing of 49 convoy drivers and three safety managers in specialised driving for Kogi State government. This is coming against the backdrop that the state governor’s convoy had been involved in a number of crashes, including the one in which the former president of Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Prof. Festus Iyayi was killed in November last year. The state Sector Commander, Mr. Godwin Omiko, who spoke to newsmen in Lokoja on Wednesday, indicated that the drivers were drawn from the governor’s convoy and other top government officials working at the Government House. Continuing, the state commander said the training had become necessary to equip the drivers with modern techniques of driving in the convoy, thereby ensuring the safety of the governor, top government officials, drivers and other road users. With this development, he said, the state had finally agreed with the earlier demand that the drivers be sent to the command for formal training. He pointed out that the organisation had in 2012 trained over 700 convoy drivers from 35 states and the FCT.

Student wants Lagos environmental law declared illegal, govt disagrees • Court to rule on May 26 By Bertram Nwannekanma LAGOS High Court sitting A in Igbosere has fixed May 26, 2014, for ruling on an application, urging it to declare as unconstitutional the arrest and trial of person on the basis of violating environmental sanitation law in the state. Trial judge, Justice Raliatu Adebiyi, yesterday fixed the date after taking argument from Lagos Solicitor-General, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), who argued that the alleged breaches of fundamental human rights in the circumstance are intrinsic to the trial of the applicant in the Magistrate’s Court. Pedro had told the court that the alleged failure to observe any of the fundamental rights in the process

Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola (SAN) is a valid ground of appeal or application for judicial review and not an application for enforcement of fundamental rights. A student, Faith Okafor, had, in a fundamental human rights suit, sought a declaration that Lagos State government’s directive for people in the state to stay at

home and not to move about between 7a.m and 10 a .m of every last Saturday of the month is unlawful, illegal and unconstitutional. The applicant, through her lawyer, Mr. Ikenna Okolie, is seeking an order restraining the respondents from further restricting her or anyone’s movement within the state at any time or day whatsoever on the basis of environmental sanitation. She also sought the sum of N5 million as exemplary damages against the respondents, as well as a refund of the N2,000 collected from her as fine for an environmental sanitation offence when she was arrested and tried in a special offences court, which found her guilty. According to the applicant, her trial and conviction for an environmental sanita-

tion offence violate her fundamental rights to fair hearing as provided under Section 36 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended and Article 7 of the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act CAP A9, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and is, therefore, unlawful, illegal and unconstitutional. But in urging the court to dismiss the application, Pedro argued that the applicant failed to present to the court the said directive by the state government, restricting movement of people during the exercise. He stated that a court of law is not obliged to speculate or entertain any academic or hypothetical or abstract issue. The solicitor-general ar-

gued further that the policy of the state government for the citizens to dedicate three hours in a month to clean up their immediate environment is in the public interest and health. “Section 20 provides that the state shall protect and improve the environment and section 24 (d) provides that it shall be the duty of every citizen to make positive and useful contribution to the advancement, progress and wellbeing of the community where he resides. “It is, therefore, submitted that environmental sanitation policy of state government is intra-vires the provisions of the constitution and not inconsistent with the fundamental right to dignity of human person, liberty or movement,” Pedro said.

Friday, April 18, 2014

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Business Electricity generation drops to 1,714MW By Roseline Okere IGERIA’S electricity generN ation has dropped to 1,714.89 Megawatts Hour/Hour (MWH/H) as at yesterday, compared with 3,563 generated in December last year, according to the current generation report by the Presidential Taskforce on Power. The country’s electricity generation was put at between 3,463.40MW 2,500MW as at March. Also, the total energy sent out as at April 13, stands at 1,667.16 Megawatts Hour/Hour (MWH/H), while peak generation was 3,359.90 Megawatts (MW) and peak demand forecast 12,800.00 MW. This is far less than the high-

• Dagogo-Jack lists options for improved power supply est peak generated electricity, which was 4,517.6 MW on December 23, 2012. The current drop in electricity generation may not be unconnected to electricity bottleneck such as the prolongation of Interim Rules Period (IRP). The Chairman of Presidential Taskforce on Power, Beks Dagogo-Jack, said recently that there was every indication that the IRP designated to terminate on March 1, 2014 or “such other time as the commission may designate” shall not occur on the said date. According to him, the prolonged Interim Rules Order (IRO) and continued delay in

the declaration of Transitional Electricity Market Stage (TEM) could encourage the power Distribution Companies (Discos) to engage in avoidable sharp practices especially those with “favourable” minimum monthly invoice settlement conditions. He explained that the Discos may be collecting a lot more and yet short-changing the market ...a situation which could seriously threaten service delivery sustenance owing to mounting unpaid upstream liabilities which can cause a serious decline in gas and generation availability in a matter of months, such that sustaining even

3000MW on the grid could become a herculean task under these conditions. He said that deliverable milestones contained in the very bold and ambitious Nigeria Power Sector Reform Roadmap launched had been achieved except two, which are the declaration by the Minister of Power of the TEM that would kick-start a fully contracted and rules-governed electricity market wherein the sanctity of contracts shall be full to protect market liquidity, and incentivise increased investment and a well incentivised and liberalised domestic gas market expected to be delivered by the pending Petroleum

Industry Bill (PIB). Dagogo-Jack hinted that conscious of the risks associated with handing over the companies for privatised company operation without TEM or a substitute, the Presidential Task Force on Power made repeated representations to the Ministry of Power, Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) leading eventually to an acceptance by NERC to develop and institute a set of interim rules to conduct the market in the pre-TEM phase. Such would be done until the declaration of TEM with a commitment that the IRP shall not be in operation for more than three months. Dagogo-Jack noted that unfortunately the IRO issued

by NERC in December 2013 appears to have some significant sources of concern which are capable of impacting very negatively with the sustainability of the market especially as it appears the IRP would stretch much longer than the three months originally committed to by NERC. He noted that a key implication of the non-declaration of TEM was the necessary suspension of all the industry agreements and contracts between the trading parties. “The main effect of this during the IRP is that the market participants (gas suppliers , Gencos , TCN , Discos , MO , NBET ) have no enforceable and fully risk-allocated contractual basis for extracting performance from one another.”

Transcorp records N11.15b gross earnings in Q1 By Helen Oji RANSNATIONAL T Corporation of Nigeria Plc (Transcorp) has

Head of Ogun State Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Onucheyo Enebi (left); Director-General, Dr. Joseph Odumodu and Managing Director, AARTI Steel Group, Sohan Baghla, during the facility tour of the firm by SON’s DG in Ogun State, yesterday.

Overseas manufacturers task Customs on PAAR scheme By Wole Oyebade N the wake of single winIAssessment dow and Pre Arrival Report (PAAR) system, mandated by the Nigerian Customs Service, stakeholders have called for improved awareness on the automation system. The stakeholders, under the aegis of Association of Nigerian Representatives of Overseas Pharmaceuticals M a n u f a c t u r e r s (NIROPHARM), said understanding of the system, currently implemented in the country, was important to facilitate trade. Speaking at an interactive forum in Lagos, NIROPHARM president, Lekan Asuni said his association pays atten-

tion to the series and sequence of activities that occur from the point of manufacture to the end users, adding that they are aware that the Nigerian Customs Service has come up with different initiatives such as the single trade window, the pre arrival assessment report and IT based services as part of efforts to facilitate trade. Asuni, who is also the Managing Director of GlaxoSmithKline Plc, commended the custom, though added the need for improved engagement with the stakeholders to elicit better understanding of the subject matter. In his presentation, Deputy Comptroller of ICT for the Nigerian Customs, Yusuf

Bashar, reiterated customs desire to fast track the clearing process for imported cargos into Nigeria in the fastest time possible. Bashar revealed that the PAAR system is currently a worldwide accepted system that saves time and very cost effective. He informed that the PAAR has a variety of indicators that are conscious of national security and International trust, cooperation and seamless networking among stake holding nations and agencies, while also saving the nation huge expenses in foreign currencies. Bashar added that NIROPHARM members, who are desirous of fast tracked treatments, should be regis-

tered with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) and also be ready to show proven records of good past performances. The customs boss noted that the automation system of PAAR is gradually warming up to perfection, with his officers running a 24-hour shift daily to facilitate the process. He, however, regretted that bottlenecks arise when organisations in Nigeria result to alterations on their overseas assessment reports, alongside other shortcomings. “If you avoid short cuts, understand the process, display transparency and integrity, single trade window and PAAR offer all stakeholders a cost effective

process,” he said. Chairman of the occasion and Executive Chairman, Greenlife Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Dr Obiora Chukwuka earlier stressed that the health of a nation greatly depends on the industry, adding that stakeholders need such fora to facilitate trade and health of the nation. President, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Olumide Akintayo; Managing Director, Family Care sbu PZ Cussons, Alex Goma; President National Association of Managing Directors of Customs Licensed Agents, Lucky Amiwero and Momodu Segiru Momodu, who represented the Director General of National Agency for Food, Drugs and Administration (NAFDAC).

announced gross earnings of N11.15 billion for the Group, and profit before tax of N3.77 billion in its first quarter 2014 operations. Specifically, the Group’s gross earnings for the first quarter ended March 31, 2014 stood at N11.15 billion, an increase of 152 per cent over N4.42 billion, posted in Q1 of 2013 while profit before tax, which stood at N3.77 billion, represents 187 per cent growth, when compared to N1.31 billion achieved in the first quarter of 2013. Group profit after tax grew by 278 per cent, from N834 million in the first quarter of 2013 to N3.15 billion for period under review. Total assets for the Group also grew by 16 per cent, from N149.64 billion in full year 2013, to N173.61 billion for the first quarter ended 31 March 2014. Commenting on the results, the President and Chief Executive Officer, Transcorp, Obinna Ufudo, said: “Our first quarter results are in line with our expectations as we continue to deliver on key diversification milestones in all our strategic businesses. “A significant portion of our current profits is attributed to improved performance in our power and hospitality businesses recorded from the beginning of the year. “For the rest of the year, we expect to consolidate on our strong financial results by improving power output from our Ughelli Power Plant, developing new hotels, diversifying and increasing the scale of our agribusiness and exploiting opportunities within the oil and gas industry,” he added.

Friday, April 18, 2014

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Customs collect N77.9b revenue in first quarter hENigeria Customs Service T said it collected N77.9 billion revenue in the first quarter of 2014. This was contained in the summary of monthly revenue document of the Service, which was obtained by NAN, in Abuja. The document stated that N27.4 billion was collected in January, N23.8 billion in February and N26.7 billion in March. It pointed out that out of the revenue collected during the period, N41.7 billion was remitted to the Federation Account and N36.2 billion remitted to non-federation account. The revenue, the document stated, was collected from duties, fees and levies, adding that N7.2 billion was collected on port levy, N1.4 billion from levy on sugar, N7.2 billion from wheat grain levy and N1 million from flour levy. It also stated that N41.7 billion of the revenue figure was realised from five per cent Value Added Tax (VAT), while N131.8 million was from National Export Supervision Scheme. Other special levies, which provided revenue during the period, according to the document, were Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme and ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme, which accounted for N10.5 billion and N6.3 billion, respectively. A further breakdown of the revenue figure showed that N2.6 billion was generated from 100 per cent rice levy, N79.2 million from brown rice levy and N112.5 million from steel levy.

Head, e-Business and Payment, Union Bank of Nigeria and Publicity Secretary, Committee of e-Banking Industry Heads (CeBIH), Fatai Baruwa (right); Group Head, e-Channels, Skye Bank and CeBIH Chairman, Chuks Iku; Deputy General Manager, GTBank and Vice Chairman, CeBIH, Simi Osinuga; Head, e-Business, Stanbic IBTC Bank and Internal Auditor, CeBIH, Adeleke Adekoya, at the press conference of CeBIH, in Lagos.

Singapore’s investment firm targets second deal in Africa By Chijioke Nelson, with Agency Reports

Lauds growth opportunities in Nigeria

hE Singaporean investT ment company- Temasek holdings Pte, may have

jectory into the continent’s business six months earlier in Tanzania, an indication of growing interest in Africa, which many countries have been assessed as expanding faster than developed markets. According to reports, the Singapore’s state-owned

inched closer to securing a second major deal in Africa, as it moves for $150 million stake in Nigeria’s Seven Energy International Limited. The development was coming on the heels of its first tra-

investment company is targeting the stake in Seven Energy International- the Nigerian closely-held energy company. But Temasek’s spokesman, Stephen Forshaw, said: “We are interested in investment opportunities in Africa where they fit our investment

Osun to procure 6,000 tonnes of fertiliser this year to create wealth and employhE Osun State govern- • Approves 15% subsidy on agric implements ment, which are part of T ment has approved conAgricultural the six Integral Action Plan,” tract for the supply of 6,000 of urea at N5,800 per bag,” he state’s metric tonnes of fertiliser for the 2014 planting season. The Commissioner for Information, Sunday Akere, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, in Osogbo, adding that the contract had already been awarded. “The State Agricultural Development Programme (OSSADEP) had requested for the procurement of 6,000 metric tonnes of fertiliser. “Gov. Rauf Aregbesola has approved the procurement to facilitate food security in the state. “The government has also ordered for 3, 500 metric tonnes of NPK at N6,000 per bag and 2,500 metric tonnes

said. The commissioner said that the state would not release any money to the contractor until the consignments were delivered, adding that government would ensure that the contract was executed to specification. “The consignment will also be inspected by both the state’s Tender Board and the state’s Planning Committee before the payment is effected,” Akere said. Meanwhile, the state government said on Monday that it had approved a 15 per cent subsidy on agricultural implements for farmers in the state. The Chairman of the

Development Corporation, Solagbade Oladepo, made this known during a board meeting in Osogbo. Oladepo said the farmers would benefit from the government’s agricultural loan scheme, which would commence in May. he explained that the state government had procured agro-processing equipment such as cassava chipping and grain processing machines, multi-grain thresher, rice reaper and yam flour processing machine for sale to women and youths at 40 per cent subsidy. “This is in line with the government’s policy to banish hunger and poverty and

Oladepo said. According to him, the commitment of farmers to food production would go a long way to reduce hunger, and thereby reduce criminal activities. he urged farmers not hesitate to contact, visit and make enquiries at the corporation’s headquarters at Ilobu Road, Osogbo, saying that the government has packages for farmers to increase food production. The chairman commended the state government for its continued support to farmers, especially in granting agricultural loan to improve farmers’ activities.

themes; in particular, around the transformation of economies and the demand for consumption by growing populations.” Seven Energy, founded in 2004, focuses on the emerging Nigerian domestic gas market, according to a statement. however, the state-owned firm had in November last year, announced a $1.3 billion investment in three gas blocks offshore Tanzania, by its liquefied natural gas unitPavilion Energy Pte. “It ticks all the right Temasek boxes as it is an investment in a fast-growing emerging economy and it is an investment in resources. They are slowly getting more comfortable with the region. “Investing as little as $150 million in a Nigerian company makes sense because the country is still politically unstable,” a Singapore-based economist at CIMB Group holdings Bhd., Song Seng Wun, said. Before now, other investors like Carlyle Group LP and Robert Diamond’s Atlas Mara Co-Nvest Limited have been seeking to profit from the continent’s development. A former Chairman of Goldman Sachs Asset Management, Jim O’Neill, said: “Nigeria has the potential to be one of the top 15

economies in the world by 2050, fueled by its population, which would account for about a fifth of Africa’s people by then.” “One has to have a very highrisk appetite to invest in a failed state like Nigeria. After the BRIC economies, investors are chasing the next frontier markets to pour their money in. Africa has been talked up by various analysts and the media, but it could turn out to be a nightmare or quagmire,” an adjunct Associate Professor at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, Friedrich Wu, said. The International Monetary Fund had recently said that economic growth in subSaharan Africa will accelerate to 5.4 per cent this year, from 4.9 per cent in 2013, while Nigeria ‘s growth would rise to 7.1 per cent from 6.3 per cent. Ahead of the most recent investments in Africa, Temasek’s assets in the continent, central Asia and the Middle East accounted for just two per cent of its total holdings as of March 31, 2013, according to its latest yearly report published in July. That is also on a par with investments in Latin America and compares to 13 per cent in Australia and New Zealand, and 12 per cent in North America and Europe.

CeBIh to sustain partnership with CBN, NIBSS on e-payment policy By Chijioke Nelson hE Committee of eT Banking Industry heads (CeBIh) said it remains committed to strengthening the relationship with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (BIBSS) for the implementation of effective e-payment system in the country. The Chairman of the group and Group head, e-Channels, Skye Bank Plc, Chuks Iku, made the disclosure at the maiden edition of the CeBIh briefing with Finance Correspondents, in Lagos, yes-

terday. CeBIh is the body of all heads of e-business/ebanking/e–channels/card services of all banks in Nigeria, with the major objective of promoting electronic banking services in line with global best practices. According to Iku, the group was formed to articulate and contribute views on the formulation and implementation of policies, laws and regulations affecting e-payment; collaborate with and advise CBN on regulations affecting ebusiness; and encourage and facilitate a forum for interac-

tion and exchange of information, ideas and experiences among members. Other objectives include the promotion of public awareness on the use and value of electronic channels; interoperability of all e-channels; and cash-less society as being championed by CBN. CeBIh boss, while acknowledging the spirited efforts of the apex bank in this direction, added that “as individual professionals in our various banks and as a group, we have worked relentlessly prior to the introduction of the policy and we are still actively

engaged to ensure that the policy is successful even as we await the July 1, 2014, nationwide roll-out of cash-less scheme. “The committee and all member banks have partnered with NIBSS for an incentive scheme for members of the public, whereby cash-back rewards are given to cardholders for using their cards to make payments on alternate channels, aimed at encouraging usage of cards on Point of Sale and the Web. “CeBIh as a body, has engaged Microsoft Nigeria to fashion out means of creating

a uniform approach to compliance with the need for migration of ATM operating system from Windows XP to Windows Embedded 8.1- the new operating system designed to run on ATMs. “CBN issued a directive on ensuring the installation of anti-skimming devices on all ATM terminals in the country with a view to preventing the ability of fraudsters to copy personal data from the magnetic strip on cards and we committed to ensuring that this is achieved before the expiration of the deadline.” he pointed out that the body

is committed to the quality of service provided by the members, which depend largely on the quality of their exposure to current global trends and trainings available in the epayment industry. Iku said the body had in November signed an agreement with the UK-based International Academy of Cards and Payment (IACP), popularly known as Lafferty, to conduct certification training and ensure that the members are well trained and equipped for the delivery electronic payment services in the country.

Friday, April 18, 2014 19

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Weekend

Pause, Remember, Repent Arts & Culture

From runway to cinema, Jaiyeoba finds a voice in The Seed

– P. 27

Autowheels

Audi A4 bounces back with more power

–P.45

Aviation Business

–P.47/48

‘Nigeria is Africa’s fastest growing business aviation economy’

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20 WEEKEND Friday, April 18 , 2014

‘Easter denotes love, forgiveness, As Christians all over the world observe Good Friday today, CHRIS IREKAMBA unveils various messages of hope from priests, who also explain the significance of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection

The Last Supper

Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, ‘Take, eat; this is my body.’ And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink of it, all of you; for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, I shall not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.’ Matthew 26:26-30 ODAY is Good Friday. It is the most T solemn day in the Christianity calendar, because it commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. And as Christians all over the world prepare to mark Christ’s resurrection from the dead on Easter Sunday, just 48 hours away, religious leaders have underscored the importance of the season. They have also called on politicians and Christians to use the occasion to reflect deeply on the sacrifice that God made by sending His only begotten son, Jesus Christ, to redeem humanity from destruction. Those who sent their goodwill messages include the President of Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Rev. Felix Omobude; the Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins; and General Overseer of the Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministries, Pastor Lazarus Muoka,

Others are: Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of Lagos, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Rt. Rev. Adebayo Akinde and Primate of the African Church, Most Rev. Emmanuel Josiah Udofia. In his goodwill message to Nigerians, Rev. Omobude described Easter as the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He said that the Christian faith would have been in vain if Christ did not rise from the dead. He called on Nigerians to think about other people more than themselves and also make enduring sacrifices that would affect others positively. Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins also described Easter as the most important feast for Christians. He said that Christians should proudly remember Easter in the sense that Christ died, rose from the dead, which enabled Christians to receive a new life. He said: “the aspect of the new life that we received from the resurrection of Christ

is what makes Easter very important for us as Christians. As Saint Paul said, ‘if Christ did not rise from the dead, then our hope, our faith and all that we do is in vain.’ Because He rose from the dead, we have hope of eternal life. So, Easter is a very vital feast for us as Christians. We have a new life from His resurrection.” He continued: “As we go through difficulties, challenges and problems at this time in Nigeria, we must realise that hope is not lost. If we bear the cross well and learn lessons from the problems that we have at this point in time, then the future is bright. The future will be great for us as Nigerians. That means, as we live from day to day, we want to see what we can do as individuals and as a nation to make life better for other people. That is why Christ came into the world, to make life better for us. That is why He died on the cross so that we can be free from sin. So like Christ, we too must be willing to give as much as it takes, in order to make life better for other

I think that those who have the responsibility of leadership in the country, just as Christ came and offered Himself, not minding the fact that He is God, giving Himself in order that others may live, it is the same way that our leaders should get rid of selfishness, greed and welfare of themselves and their families alone and think of the common good. They should ensure that the nation as a whole, and the people have food to eat, accommodation, security, good roads, education. If they are able to do these for us, then they are indeed following Christ as the saviour of the world

people. “I think that those who have the responsibility of leadership in the country, just as Christ came and offered Himself, not minding the fact that He is God, giving Himself in order that others may live; it is the same way that our leaders should get rid of selfishness, greed and welfare of themselves and their families alone and think of the common good. They should ensure that the nation as a whole, and the people have food to eat, accommodation, security, good roads, education. If they are able to do these for us, then they are indeed following Christ as the saviour of the world. “And I think these lessons are not just for Christians alone, but for everyone, who is in leadership positions. Sacrifice for the welfare of others is what God requires and that is actually what can bring satisfaction to whosoever is in leadership position at any point in time. I think that the same thing can also be said for individuals within the nation. If we cannot lead the whole nation, at least the small little environment in which God has placed us, we need to do the best we can to bring new life to the people, and assist them to be what God wishes for them to be. There is so much we can learn from the death and resurrection of Christ.” Enumerating the lessons of season, Omobude said: “The resurrection message unifies us and each time we have the opportunity to celebrate it, we remember the sacrifices that God made by sending His son to die for us. So, the message for Nigerians – Christians and non-Christian alike – is to learn to live a life of sacrifice and putting others first. If we do that, this nation will be a better place to live in. If

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Friday, April 18, 2014 WEEKEND

sacrifice, selflessness’ Jesus, with the comfort of heaven, didn’t come here on earth and make sacrifices, there would have been nothing like Christianity and we would have nothing to celebrate.” Also in his message of hope, Pastor Lazarus Muoka noted: “Easter is that season in the Christian calendar that marks the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.” He also described Easter as “the bedrock upon which man’s reconciliation was made possible.” He added: “Without the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ from the dead, there would be no restoration of peace; the peace, which only God gives to those who have received Jesus Christ as their Lord and personal Saviour. So, at Easter, we are reminded of how God sent His son to die as a sacrifice for our sins, in order to rescue us from the impending danger that had been earmarked for all mankind as a result of the sin of Adam and Eve. Thus, by His death and resurrection, the covenant of peace and blessing, which mankind originally had with God at creation was restored.” Rt. Rev. Adebayo Akinde, who defined Easter as the commemoration of the glorious resurrection of Jesus Christ, also recalled that God came down in a human form, which, according to him, “is what reincarnation is all about at Christmas, through biological parents, Joseph and the Blessed Virgin Mary.” According to Rev.Omobude Pastor Muoka Rt. Rev. Akinde him, God decided to come in human form, to enable Him atone for the sins of all men. joy, peace and deliverance. He averred that Christ endured the “The peace brought to humanity as a result of shameful death on the Cross of Calvary Christ’s suffering, death, burial and resurrecfor humanity’s the sake. On the lessons, tion is the peace that lasts. It is not such as Akinde said those who put their trust promised to pacify and quell the persecutors, and confidence in God through Jesus but a promise of inner calm amidst the storm, Christ, have hope of eternal life. He a full, free gift from the overflowing bounty of called on every Christian to persevere God’s love. and not to compromise the divine in“The victory of Jesus over death is the victory junction. over hopelessness and anarchy; for Christ’s resHe said: “They should be obedient to urrection as epitomized by Easter ushered us God, endure deprivation of comfort or new hope for peace. If the world, particularly even material gain, because at the end of Nigerians will acknowledge and appreciate it, there will be gains. We shall be raised this wonderful work of grace, then the politiup on the last day. There is hope for cal and economic nightmare that have characChristians with the resurrection of terised our society will become a thing of the Christ. Our leaders too should know that past. this world is not our permanent place of “Let us, therefore, not ignore Christ’s counabode. Let everybody know that they seling. It is only in having a union with Christ shall give account of their stewardship that we will have peace. Thus, He beckons on to God. They should know that there is us that are heavily weighed down to come and life beyond this life; and ensure that they obtain freedom. So, in order to appreciate do not contaminate themselves with the what Christ has achieved for us, we should use pollution that is in the world. Any one the occasion of this Easter to promote peace that has this hope purifies himself or and love among ourselves.” herself.” The Primate of the African Church, Most Rev. Mouka also implored Nigerians to use Emmanuel Josiah Udofia reminded Christians the occasion of this year’s Easter to foster that at Easter, God showed His love to humanpeace and love in the country, saying ity. He said this is the period for them to play “this is the only way for Christians to ap- their roles as children of God by demonstratpreciate what Jesus did for humanity.” ing God’s love to one another. He urged His words: “Easter brings that opti- Christians to preach the gospel to those who mism, that no matter how difficult or are outside the kingdom, adding that they also how challenging your situation or con- need the love of God as well as partake in eter- Archbishop Martins Primate Udofia dition may be, as long as there is resur- nity. rection, there will be restoration. And if He said: “The death and resurrection of Jesus could defeat death, then all things Christ is a central point in Christianity. In would have been the focus point in home for the saints. Because Christ has resurare possible. This also suggests that as other words, without Easter, there would have Christianity? Easter makes our faith to be rected, there is hope for all of us. ” bad as the prevailing situation in our been nothing called Christianity. So, His death alive; it strengthens our faith. Easter, He also enjoined Christians and those in aucountry might appear, things will get and resurrection make it possible for people to which has to do with the resurrection of thority to imbibe Christ’s virtues and humble better because the covenant of peace and enter into a relationship with God. Imagine a Jesus Christ, gives us a lively hope. themselves. “Jesus Christ, as a leader, humbled blessing God established with man is situation if Jesus Christ did not resurrect; what “Easter is a foundation of our witness; Himself and died on the Cross,” he stated. “I’m still valid. John 14:27 says, ‘Peace I leave it is also a foundation for our fellowship not saying that our leaders should die, but with you, my peace I give unto you: not with God. It was on the cross of Calvary without humility there is no exaltation. So, as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let that God, by His mercy, demonstrated His our leaders, for them to lead well, they should not your heart be troubled, neither let it love towards mankind, by making it pos- be able to humble themselves and forgive all Easter brings that optimism, that no be afraid.’ sible for us to have a living hope in Him.” those who have wronged them in one way or “Our Lord Jesus has expressly told us matter how difficult or how challengCalling on Christians and Nigerian lead- the other. that whatever trouble we are passing “Our political leaders should not pay evil for ers to forgive one another, Udofia said: through in this world, we should not be ing your situation or condition may “The cross is all about forgiveness because evil or say because this person or that ward did afraid of, nor troubled by it, for He will be, as long as there is resurrection, without Easter there would have been no not vote for me, therefore, I am not going to do give us inward peace in the midst of all forgiveness at all. We would have been things that can affect his or her life positively. our troubles. Not as the world gives, for there will be restoration. And if Jesus wallowing in our sins. But on the cross, They should have the love of God, forgive Christ’s peace is vastly different from could defeat death, then all things Christ bore everything on our behalf. It everybody who might have wronged them, so that peace which is given or enjoyed by means that without the cross, that they will be able to deliver the dividends are possible. This also suggests that therefore the world. which led to the Easter, there would have of democracy. So that everybody can enjoy it. “The world may wish for peace, yet as bad as the prevailing situation in “During Lent, many Christians fasted for been no forgiveness. Easter makes our never intend it; or they may wish it, yet about 40 days. The benefits are all-encomfreedom possible. Without Easter, the not be able to give it. But Christ’s peace our country might appear, things will Pentecost would not have been possible. passing, Christians should learn to forgive one is real and effectual, solid and substan- get better because the covenant of That was when the Holy Ghost came upon another. They should accommodate others. tial. The world’s peace is only a freedom the church and the church became vi- Nigerians should love one another; we should from outward trouble, but Christ’s peace peace and blessing God established brant and (members) were able to witness love God with all our hearts, with all our souls, is a deliverance from inward guilt, with man is still valid for Christ. It is also about hope for believ- and with all our all minds. When Nigerians though it does not give us an exemption ers and also an assurance of the heavenly love one another, they will not kill one anfrom outward trouble, yet it assures us of other, or plan evil against the other.”

Friday, April 18, 2014

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Friday, April 18, 2014 23

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BusinessRound-Up

In association with

Ambassador James Entwistle

Focus On US/Nigeria Trade Relations The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) is a United States Trade Act that aims to significantly enhance market access to the US for Sub- Saharan African countries. James Entwistle, the US Ambassador to Nigeria joined CNBC Africa’s WOLE FAMUREWA for a focus on U.S –Nigeria trade and business relations. OLE: A good place to start is to hear W more about the level of investments that we are seeing from the US into Nigeria. Of course you know the big news about Nigeria emerging as the largest economy in Africa, we expect that to attract a lot more investments this way. James: Well, first of all, I’m delighted to be here. President Jonathan rang the bell at the New York Stock Exchange last September, so I’m delighted to be able to reciprocate. Yes, we have a vibrant, USNigeria commercial relationship, some of our biggest companies in the world as you know are active here in Nigeria, so I think the commercial relationship between our two countries is very bright. Wole: how do you see that progressing going forward given all we are seeing like the bombing in Abuja? When we have headlines like that, a lot of investors begin to get worried, do you think the flows will continue regardless of these types of attacks? James: Well, first of all, I have to condemn that bombing on behalf of my government in the strongest terms and offer my condolences to the victims and their families. We stand with Nigeria as it grapples with violent terrorism but I think the investment climate here remains positive, I think you will see more US companies investing here. Obviously the security situation is a factor but the Niegrian government is obviously responding strongly to those threats as we try to help them do that. Wole: Alright, let’s talk a bit about AGOA. It’s a big deal, I spoke to Nigeria’s trade minister and he was suggesting that a lot of Nigerian entrepreneurs are not taking enough advantage of what AGOA represents. Can you just speak on that point? James: Well, I agree with him, we will like to see the AGOA relationship expand beyond the petroleum. It seems to me as a non-economist that the best way to do that is through the export of processed agricultural products. Any Nigerian business men who want to do that, should come in and see us because we are glad to help them negotiate the entry levels into the US market. So getting more

Nigerian goods into the US via AGOA is something we are glad to help you. Wole: Alright, we look forward to that. The final word would be with respect to what we’ve seen recently in terms of flows into Nigeria. I see GE for instance making huge investments in Nigeria can you suggest any other major investments we can anticipate coming into Nigeria anytime soon? James: The ones that are big, General Electric is very active here. Very recently, Procter and Gamble opened a huge factory I believe up in Ogun State. Those are the most recent examples and I am confident that you will see more of that.

SECURITY ON hIGh ALERT AhEAD OF WEF: OKONJO-IWEALA over 50 lives in the outskirts of capital Abuja on Monday. hE World Economic Forum on Africa held in “We would like to take this opportunity to asNigeria is set to go ahead as planned with in- sure you of your safety during your participatense security to ensure the safety of particition at the upcoming World Economic Forum pants. on Africa 2014,” read a statement jointly issued There were mounting worries that the highby the Minister of Finance, Ngozi Okonjolevel meeting gathering of political and busiIweala and chief economic advisor to the presiness leaders would receive low attendance dent, Nwanze Okidegbe. following suspected terror attacks that claimed “Nigeria’s security agencies are currently in By Trust Matsilele

About 36,000 people have been killed in Nigeria by Islamic militant group Boko Haram.

the middle of a robust and thorough investigation to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice”. “Our security planning for the WEF on Africa is already well under way and will be the largest security operation ever mounted in this country for an international summit. In total, over six thousand security personnel, consisting of police and army will be deployed, covering a secure area the size of 250 square kilometres,” confirmed the government. Nigeria has experienced numerous attacks chiefly from the Islamic militant group, Boko haram. Up to now no one has claimed responsibility over the Nyanya bus terminus bomb blasts. Boko haram, an al-Qaeda linked terror group is fighting for the establishment of a wholly Islamic state in Africa’s most populous country. Over 250 schools are reported to have been tortured since the beginning of the year especially in the North-eastern region of the country while, 36,000 people are believed to have been killed by the militant group since 2009. The Northern part of the country is comprised of predominantly Muslims while, the southern part is mainly Christians. The Nigerian government has commenced putting in place the largest operation of security personnel to ensure safety of those attending.

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INTERVIEW

Governor Raji Fashola

Importance Of Hospitality Industry In Lagos State

According to Babatunde Raji Fashola, Governor of Lagos state, the future of Lagos State’s economy would be defined by tourism, technology, education and development of human capital. CNBC Africa’s ESTHER UGBODAGA caught up with him at the launch of the Eko Signature to get his thoughts on the importance of the hospitality industry and more. ASHOLA: I think it’s another addition to the footprint of increasing investments in Lagos, growing the economy of the state and the country, particularly taking advantage of an emerging and expanding tourism business in the state. From my part, it represents a vote of confidence in the policies and the programs that the government in the state particularly towards ensuring that businesses thrive here, policies of efficiency, service delivery, access to justice, protection of citizens’ rights, proprietary and personal and security of life and property. Of course we just concluded an economic summit, focusing on power which would be defining for businesses and help to reduce operating costs, therefore allowing for even bigger scopes of investments and commitment from monies that are freed up as a result of the expectation that in a very short time, power in sufficient amounts will be made available on reliable basis. Esther: Specifically, in terms of tourism, policies of the Lagos state government, how are the policies supporting the industry? Fashola: Well, you’ll recall that for the first time, Lagos state has a ministry of tourism, it was a deliberate policy decision on our part because we see scope for economic expansion and that is a sector of our economy that perhaps hasn’t been fully and appropriately measured. Its potentials haven’t really come on stream as the transport assets improve because tourism is all about destinations. If there are no destinations to go to, there’s no tourism. So we are trying to build transportation in the sense that we are building road, rail and ferry increase it significantly which will see the full impact. We are helping to harmonise the payment of operational costs, levis, business taxes in a way that it is easy and conducive for businesses to pay. The message that is coming to me, is that the rates are reasonable but the administrative processes for paying them have put some challenges but we will harmonise that. As the gover-

nor I meet with leaders of the private sector every six months to get a feedback on what the issues that are constraining the growth and efficiency of their businesses and every

lutions over the last 14 years of the life of the summit and we have resolved all of the resolutions except for about 15. Esther: Now that Nigeria’s GDP has been rebased, we have 510 billion US dollars and we know that alot of the commercial activities are right here in Lagos. What chunk of that, do you think, Lagos State actually has? Fashola: Well, a very sizable chunk. I think that with the non-oil GDP, we are well over 30 per cent before the rebasing. I haven’t seen the details of the decomposed figures state by state yet because we worked with the federal government in doing this and you know, the announcement was made only Sunday and from Tuesday we’ve been busy at the summit. I am that by next week, our ministry of economic planning will already be working to give us the final details of the state by state impact and the sector by sector impact in each state as well in order for us to know where to focus energies on but for us, clearly the future medium term and the future economy of Lagos will be desix months, I come back to tell them, which fined in a substantial by tourism as it would be of the issues they raised at the last meeting defined by technology and of course education have been resolved. The same thing with the and continuous development of our human economic summit, we passed about 142 reso- capital.

Sonnie Ayere

Progress Of The Nigerian Mortgage Earlier this year, the Nigerian Federal Government launched the Nigerian Mortgage Refinance Corporation (NMRC) with the aim of resolving access to affordable housing finance. Sonnie Ayere, the C.E.O of the Nigerian Mortgage refinance Company joined CNBC Africa’s WOLE FAMUREWA to discuss the progress the company has made so far. OLE: I think a lot of people were excited W when we heard about the NMRC launch but it’s been a few months. Just give us an up-

chaired by the minister also, it was extremely exciting, extremely successful which actually showed that the states date on what has been going on behind the want to come on board. So, there’s a lot scenes? of energy to make this a success. With the Ayere: Since the launch, the company has deficit we have, what we expect to see, embarked on its capital raising, we have also once we have the uniform standards – concluded the tier 2 loan from the World which we are working on- then you’d Bank and I can say that the tier 1 capital raisfind that the institutions would begin to ing was successful raising above the miniwarm up and then we can now have mum required for the licence with CBN and more financing hopefully by more of the we are now going through the verification final quarter of this year. process. Wole: Let’s talk about the place of penWole: So, how quickly can we expect you to sion funds in all of this. Everyone really actually take off? A lot of people are expecting points to that huge build-up of assets you to begin to get more involved in the close to over a trillion naira, a huge mortgage market? chunk of that is in fixed income right Ayere: We are expecting to operationalise by now. Tell us about how quickly and how the end of June, that’s the promise we gave to realistic it is, for us to get that money inthe Nigerian public and that was given by the volved in this housing reforms? minister. We are on track to achieve that, the Ayere: One of the good things that we board has been constituted, there’s been sev- have even at the launch, you heard the eral board committee meetings etc, so there’s acting DG mention that they are very a lot going on. very interested in supporting the housWole: So what can we expect when you do ing sector. Now one of the reasons why take off? I think a lot of people are expecting we also have the guarantee structure in the current housing deficit to begin to be ad- respect to the bonds to be issued by dress to some extent when the NMRC takes NMRC to be explicitly guaranteed by the off. government, is also to provide initial proAyere: It will help significantly, it’s not going tection to the pension or the investors so to just eradicate it but it will help signifiwe expect that this should be a bond that cantly. As you know, we’ve talked about other will be totally attractive to pension issues that need to be reserved, foreclosure funds. We still need to meet with them tightening, etc. We are working on that. and make sure that we are all. There was another housing conference that Wole: But you already get that sense that happened about a month ago which was they are going to get involved?

Ayere: Oh absolutely. Like I said, the reason why we had that guarantee structure in place was to make sure that they are comfortable from day one and then they can get use to the asset class, we all reason together in terms of how the sector can improve and begins to perform. From day one, we expect them to play a significant role in providing the long term funds that will be needed. Wole: The final one, I want to get from you, everyone is talking about single digit mortgages. Are we close to that? Ayere: It depends on the monetary policy going forward will entail. NMRC would effectively raise money based on what the monetary policy is. So, if for instance MPR rates go down to six per cent like it was before it took that dramatic rise, if it goes back to six per cent, then you can expect mortgages will fall within the single digits. Wole: But if that doesn’t happen we shouldn’t expect it? Ayere: yes, because effectively, we have to have a structure that is sustainable as to one that is not sustainable. If we have a structure that says lets purse single digits today where you best credit rates is in double digits, you are going to have to subsidise it. As you know, subsidies are not very sustainable. What we want to have is a model that from day one, is sustainable and that is why we wanted something that to a certain extent is market driven.

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A THUMBZUP APPROACH TO INNOvATION IN S.AFRICA

ENyA’S transition to a green economy K could generate an estimated 45 billion US dollars by 2030 for the East African country.

By Thando Matutu NNOvATION in South Africa has become the Ilines trend, as local intellectuals are making headworldwide through technological development The latest innovation has been introduced by Stafford Masie, founder of Thumbzup, a South African based IT technological company focusing on innovation development. In partnership with ABSA they have introduced the Payment Pebble. “The Payment Pebble is a miniaturised derivative of a point of sale that changes your phone into a point of sale device,” Masie told CNBC Africa. On 18 September 2013, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in South Africa announced Sandile Ngcobo as the man behind the world’s first digital laser. Under normal circumstances, to manipulate the shape of lasers would require the use of expensive mirrors and spatial light modulators however Ngcobo discovered that laser shapes can be manipulated digitally. South African I.T specialists have a history for creating cell phone applications which appeal to consumers because of convenience. Thus Herman Heunis, former CEO and founder of Mxit, a cell phone messaging application, reached millions of consumers in a short term period. Masie hopes his product will share similar success. “Reaction from clients has been phenomenal, we’ve had incredible numbers we are very happy. We have done 90,000 devices in South

By Farhaanah Mahomed

Great minds think alike

PHOTO Getty images

Africa and we could see in the next few years between, 250,000 and 700,000 in the [South African] market,” added Masie. A once-off payment of 160 rand for the first device ordered an inception offer of 50 rand payable monthly for a year and there after 20 rand payable a month in the following year. Masie believes that people want convenience in reference to payment procedure. “Consumers have credit cards, and therefore will use the Payment Pebble for their payments because of easy accessibility,” he said. The Payment Pebble allows merchants to accept card payments using phone or a tablet and all types of debit and credit are compatible. He added that the world must expect more innovations from South Africa. “We got astrophysics, marine biologists and professors who do incredible things,” explained Masie.

A greener economy could also result in greater food security, a cleaner environment and higher productivity of natural resources. This is according to the Green Economy Assessment Report released by the Kenyan government and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). “Green Economy driven by resource efficiency is the basis for sustainable development and poverty eradication. A green economy revolution is already taking place in Kenya, where the harvesting of geothermal energy from the East African Rift is just one of the many renewable energy projects underway across the country,” Judi Wakhungu, cabinet secretary of the Kenyan Ministry of Environment, Water and Natural Resources, said in a statement. “By learning to more accurately value our own natural resources, Kenya will be able to better harness these strategies as it moves towards a holistic, inclusive green economy in the future.” The report also finds that with an investment of two per cent of Kenya’s GDP (Gross Domestic Product) into a green economy, the country’s national GDP would exceed its current rate by about 12 per cent, or 3.6 trillion Kenyan shillings (KES). This will result in national income per capita doubling from KES 39,897 to KES 69,702 by 2030, as well as Kenya’s green-

KENyA’S SHIFT TO A GREEN ECONOMy COULD GENERATE US$45 BILLION By 2030 house gas emissions reduced by nine per cent. “Under a business-as-usual investment scenario and a two per cent investment, GDP would only increase to KES 53,146 over the same period of time,” said the statement. Also, while agriculture accounts for about a quarter of Kenya’s national GDP as well as 65 per cent of its exports, the report finds that green economy investments would increase Kenya’s average agriculture yield by about 15 per cent from its current baseline. Renewable energy recourse would also double geothermal capacity by 2030 and will contribute to 20 per cent of the country’s total power supply. Achim Steiner, executive director of UNEP and the UN under-secretary-general, added that Kenya has already demonstrated leadership by pioneering green economy approaches to its various sectors. “The next wave of investment and innovation in Kenya will be driven by the need for new energy sources, wealth generation and job creation. Kenya is already demonstrating leadership by pioneering green economy approaches in the energy, urban and natural resources sectors as a vehicle to deliver its national development goals,” he said.

NIGERIA’S PROPERTy SECTOR SLOWLy RISES By Dara Rhodes

things that you will notice recently is that the Nigerian economy has gone through the reARLIER this year, Nigeria’s President Goodluck basing process,” Damilola Akindolire, General Jonathan launched the Nigeria Mortgage Refi- Manager of the AlphaMaed Property Developnance Company (NMRC). ment Company. The refinance company which is supported by The company was launched in line with Presithe World Bank was launched to provide long dent Goodluck’s Transformation Agenda and term funds to mortgage lenders. Despite the fact aims to boost the country’s real estate sector that the country’s real estate sector has the capac- by enabling primary mortgage banks and ity to drive Nigeria’s economy, various problems other financial institutions to offer mortgage have stunted the growth of this sector. facilities to Nigerians at affordable prices. “There has been some progress made. One of the “What this [the rebasing of the economy]

means is that, it’s going to help the NMRC to raise the required funds to capitalise the Nigerian mortgage industry and refinance existing mortgage assets,” he said. According to him, more activity is expected in Q3 and Q4 of this year as there are plans to conclude the second tier capital and the NMRC is expected to raise another 50 billion in bonds from the Nigerian markets. Nonetheless, with a population of over 170 million only about 20,000 of them have mortgages, private money needs to be used City skyline of Nairobi, Kenya together with public money.

NIGERIAN POLICE SET TO COMBAT TERRORISM

Refinance Corporation

By Dara Rhodes NvESTIGATIONS have begun into the cause of Iabout the blast that occurred in Abuja which killed 70 people. The attack that took the lives of 71 people and left 124 seriously injured, shook the country’s capital as the reality of the gross insecurity in the country hit Nigerian citizens. “Well it’s really an unfortunate incident that

S.AFRICA COULD BOOST PROPERTy INDUSTRy THROUGH vISA PROGRAMME By Trust Matsilele ORTUGAL’S golden visa programme earP marking high earners is gaining traction and helping fuel domestic economic growth.

happened, for now, what is clear is that it’s a case of a suspected bomb explosion and investigation is currently on going,” Frank Mba, Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Police Force told CNBC Africa. Nevertheless, the Nigerian police force have assured the people that they have the upper hand in the situation and they are doing their best to get to the bottom of this problem. “The scene is already secured by the police supported by the Nigerian military, the civil defence, the department of state security and other law enforcement agencies. We are all working together to actually handle this situation and handle it effectively,” he explained. According to him, the head of the Nigerian police force has directed the line of investigations, and commanded increased surveillance in and around Abuja,” “We are raising the security around Abuja and keeping alert, undercover officers have gone out, and we are paying very close attention to other motor parks and other vulnerable points within and around the city,” he said. The World Economic Forum on Africa with the theme, Forging Inclusive Growth Creating Jobs has been scheduled for the 7th9th May in the country’s capital and while the news of the bomb blast may have caused worry, many believe this won’t deter the world leaders from gathering next month.

A sizeable number of South Africans are reported to be pursuing the initiative which might soon be employed by emerging economies as a stimulant in the property industry. “Giving citizenship is one way of attracting real foreign money into the country on a high level. However, there should be a thorough thought process to such an initiative as one would have to be convinced to invest a figure like 500,000 euros in the country,” Chris Immelman, managing director of Pam Golding international projects told CNBC Africa. “Over the years we have had these programmes running. In 2002 we sold a number of properties to South Africans in Mauritius, the overriding interest at the time was the residence aspect as it allowed one to acquire Mauritius residency. The response was the same when we introduced the programme in Seychelles,” he added. The Portugal government introduced the scheme so as to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) to induce growth without having to borrow from lending institutions. The golden visa programme was launched by the Portuguese government in October 2012 as a fast pathway for foreign investors from non-EU countries to obtain a fully valid There is increased surveillance around and within the city. PHOTO: Getty Images residency permit in Portugal.

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Friday, April 18, 2014 ARTS 27

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Revue From runway to cinema, Jaiyeoba finds a voice in The Seed By Kabir Alabi Garba OSEPH Jaiyeoba, in the past 10 years, has been a popular figure on the runway. He has modelled in the fashion industry and graced the runway for iconic designers such as Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren, Giorgio Armani, Dolce Gabana, Sean John, and DKNY. And like many practitioners in the creative industry, the well-sculpt model with smooth look, is putting into good use, other talents of his, this time, filmmaking. Jaiyeoba is the producer of The Seed (Irugbin), a new film that was premiered last Sunday. Held at the Ikeja City Mall, Lagos, the event attracted a host of celebrities, high networth guests, screen practitioners, as well as movie lovers. It was a mini carnival of sort at the Silverbird Cinema, venue of the screening, as not only did celebrities bond with their fans, they also shimmered the red carpet in resplendent attires. Among artistes who sashayed the carpet was the boisterous Saidi Balogun, who played one of the roles in the flick. Eyes were also on Kelechi Idegbe, Grace Amah, Bukola Awoyemi (Arugba) and producer/actress, Allwell Ademola, who plays the role of a stubborn mother-in-law, that gives the tragic heroine, Folasade (Kabirat Kafidipe), a lot of headache. While some musical artistes – including Sanjo – and fashion designers also rose to celebrate with Jaiyeoba, the eventual appearance of Denrele added to the sensation. Beyond the teasers that whetted the appetite of screen lovers, the premiere also revealed the gradual sneaking in of movie culture into the country’s cinema landscape as they were in the 70s and 80s. Coming after Jaiyeoba’s first two movies – Ohun Aye and Igbagbe — The Seed is the story of Sade Adeleke, who, too soon, loses a rich man she married because of his wealth and then finds herself in trouble fuelled by other relatives of the deceased. She has to rely on David Bello (Joseph Jaiyeoba), a guy she jilted years back, when she married Chief Adeleke – for financial security. After many years, Adeleke passes on, leaving some good inheritance for Sade. Unfortunately, she is not going to get this easily as Adeleke’s family fiercely contests the largesse with her. To make the matter worse, the late husband’s family members – including his younger brother Bamji, acted by Saheed Balogun – connive with the deceased’s lawyer (Dele Odule) to change the content of the Will Adeleke left behind. David Bello is now a big lawyer, and this is how Sade badly needs his help. As usual, the likes of Jide Kosoko, Dele Odule, Balogun and Kafidipe give a brilliant performance in the flick. But the star of the film is the judge, who demonstrates compelling professionalism in the way she acts. The prolonged inheritance case demands that the movie return to court repeatedly. Her characterisation is so inspiring that rather than getting bored, viewers enjoyed the scenes because of her performance. N On what next after the premiere, Jaiyeoba says the film will be screened in some other places after which it will be released on DVD.

Joseph Jaiye Oba and Denrele He addss, “I thank God that we have been able to take the movie to this stage. I have enjoyed the full cooperation of our actors and actresses and other practitioners that participated in the making of the film. The cast and crew have delivered even beyond my dream. The response of the generality of the viewers tonight shows that The Seed is a successful movie.” Several things inspired the story, Jaiyeoba reveals. According to him, “first, my childhood friend is going through something very similar. In his case, it was what his father, left for his mum; the father’s family is stepping on it. I felt like it is unfair that things such as these are still going on in our country. And the painful part is that they couldn’t do anything about it.” He continues, “I was also inspired by Saheed Balogun’s movie Eti Keta (Third Party), scripted by Allwell Ademola. The movie is 70 per cent English and 30 per cent Yoruba. And I wanted to also make a movie that will have a clean picture and sound that will be cinema-worthy. So, I took these three components and created something special.” Jaiyeoba, however, says that the message he wants to pass across with the film is that it is a bad idea to look down on anyone, no matter what the situation is. He adds, “No one knows tomorrow. The person you think is nothing today, can always come back to become something tomorrow. Secondly, we as Nigerians need to start fighting for our rights. Don’t settle for less.”

On the choice of his cast, which also include Rachael Oniga, Allwell Ademola, Kelechi Udegbe, Shaffy Bello, Doris Simeon and Grace Amah, Jaiyeoba justifies himself because he believes everyone played their role to perfection. Besides, they contributed immensely in the development of the film. “I cast the film before writing it. The moment that story was made in my head, I knew who was to play what. My experience in the course of shooting also showed that life is always about learning. I learnt about myself as a filmmaker in the process of making this film. Filmmaking is way beyond the producer and the creator. It has a lot to do with the persons that surround you while you are at location and beyond. No opinion is stupid. The opinion of others around you carries your movie when you as a producer get mentally tired,” he explains. Talking about his movement from modelling to movie, the producer, who starred in Adunni Ade-produced recent hits popular comedy skit, Date Gone Bad, says the runway has dramatically changed from what it used to be. “It is not a switch; acting has always been my first love. I used to act as a kid in Ibadan, at B.C.O.S TV station. So, I came back to my first love, I still model, when I have the time for it,” he says. Feasting on his smooth looks and straight build, Jaiyeoba says, “when I came to the modelling industry, there was a switch. The world is not producing super-models anymore, apart from the ones we already know. It used to be singing stars, movie starts, and super-

models, but now, it is singing stars, movie stars, and celebrities. “So, models such as myself always do shows with the super-models, the difference is just that when the show is over, I pick up my model bag, and go home, and the next day I go do the next show, the clients know who I am, while the public focus on the super models.” Which do you find more interesting modeling or film? “Modeling is somehow easier because people dress you, make you up, and you are wearing cloths that are very expensive, and you walk or you take pictures While movie can make you go crazy. One person doing it all. You are the producers, the writers, and the actors, running around like a chicken with the head cutoff. Once again, I love it too much, so, it’s worth it,” he remarks. What was his experience while working on the film? “Life is always about learning. I learnt about myself as a filmmaker in the process of making this film. Filmmaking is way beyond the producer and the creator. It has a lot to do with the person that surrounds you while you at location. No opinion is stupid. The opinion of others around you carries your movie when you as a producer get mentally tired,” he retorts. Talking about how expensive the film is? Jaiyeoba confesses the budget wasn’t a joke. “I wanted this to be done right. From the Camera to sound, to location, and cast, it was not a child’s play. So, the budget was up there, if you know what I mean,” he breathes.

28 ARTS Friday, April 18, 2014

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Nigerian Idol IV enters Top 12 stage HE theatrics behind the Wildcard episode of the Etisalat sponsored Nigeria Idol Season IV, where the judges select the last three contestants to make up the Top 12 finalists, came to the fore last weekend as the contestants made the most of it to thrill the audience and judges. The wildcard stage is for the judges to exercise discretion and make way for the reentry of three evicted contestants for the race to the top prize in the competition. The lucky ones were Evelle, Antwon, and Eye-D as the judges, backed by a well-entertained and participative audience, faced a tough task of sifting between excellent performers. With each judge having the power to save only one contestant, all 10 evicted contestants who were called back, sang their hearts out in the bid to win a place in the show. At the end of their performances, each judge was asked to save the contestant who convinced him/her that he/she deserved to be in the top 12. After careful deliberations, the effervescent Nneka Egbuna chose to save Evelle; Dare-devil Judge, Dare Art-Alade, gave his vote to save Antwon; and Dede Mabiaku decided to use his wildcard vote to save EyeD. This third round of eviction now brings to a total of 12 contestants that have made it to the next round of the competition. To win her spot in the top 12, Evelle thrilled the audience and judges with her rendition of ‘Diamonds’ by Rihanna and Antwon performed Usher Raymond’s song ‘There Goes My Baby’. Antwon was rewarded for his riveting performance by cheers and support

Top 3 Contestants saved by Judges Wild-Card, Odugbemi Idown Sarah, Anthony Akpan, and Zibili Evelyn, at the Etisalat Sponsored Nigerian Idol Season from the audience and judges. According to Dede, his performance justified his place among the top 12 contestants. “If Antwon continues this way in this competition, he will be the one the others have to beat,” he said. Eye-D, the African queen of the night who sang the popular Nigerian song by Christie Esien Igbokwe of blessed memory, ‘Seun Rere ’, was met with applause and dancing from the crowd and the judges. Nneka described

her performance as authentic, fetching, and original. “It stood out from the rest and I loved it,” she said. As a show of support to the other contestants who didn’t make it in the wildcard round, the judges thanked them and wished them the best in their future music careers. According to Dare “You all gave a wonderful performance tonight, don’t give up on your musical abilities.”

Now that all 12 top contestants have successfully secured their spot in the competition, the show promises to be a lot more interesting. The million-Naira question now is who amongst the top 12 will be crowned the winner of season IV of the Etisalat-sponsored TV show. The judges may have their opinions but the Nigerian public will be the ones to make the final decision through their voting.

Egwu Ogba celebration in Omoku By Tonye Dagogo RADITIONAL celebration has existed for a T long time among groups of people in different communities within Africa and some continents. It is believed to be an integral part of the people’s socio-cultural life style. Categorized under the intangible heritage, which is transferred from one generation to another, it is associated with totems, deities, coronation, burial and marriage rites etc, due to the belief of the Africans, that there exists certain celestial spirits that mediate between man and the supernatural spirit. Such celebrations are in most cases accompanied with dances, music, incantations, libation and proverbs, which have characterized most communities in Africa. This feat by the early missionaries has only succeeded in robbing some African communities of their age long rich trado-cultural celebrations, but there still exist some communities, which have not only found delight in such traditional celebrations, but develop efforts to protect and preserve them from going into extinction. Some examples of such traditional communities that still display their rich traditional celebrations are the Ogba communities. The Ogba Kingdom is believed to have been founded in the 16th century, with its origin linked to the 15th-19th century Benin Kingdom. Presently located in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, with its headquarters at Omoku, it houses the Oba (King) of Ogba land, who is the ruler of the entire Ogba kingdom. The kingdom was made up of four quarters in the past, namely Obakata, Obosi, Usomini, Obieti (the largest quarter), and of recent the emergence of a fifth quarter, known as Obohia (Bush quarters). Egwu Ogba or Nchaka, is a 4-day festival within Omoku and its environs, which seeks to achieve amongst all, the cleansing of the entire Omoku town from both evil spirits and evil mortals, who reside in the town, unification of family members from both far and near, appreciation of the gods for the planting and harvesting seasons, display of mystical powers, skills and strength by participants, exhibition of supreme rulership of the Oba of Ogba land over his subject, through his significant role, as well as transformation of Omoku town into a tourism destination, where tourists from all walks of life visit on annual basis.

A scene from the last Egwu Ogba festival The Egwu Oba or Nchaka festival just like most African festivals, gives room for consultation, proclamation and preparation, where it is expected that elders and chiefs from Umu-ebe, descendants of the first Oba, as well as Umueze-Ogba royal kindred, from all towns and villages in Ogba, will converge at the hall of the Oba’s palace to fix a date for the Nchaka festival, which is normally the last week of November. Such fixed date will be passed to the Oba divisional Council of Chiefs and traditional rulers for ratification before a proclamation by the Oba of Ogba land through his town criers, who uses a metal gong (i.e ukela), to intimate the public on the forthcoming festival. It comes during the notable market days of Orie (small market) and Nkwo (big market day). This act of intimation affords all expected participants, including those resident in the plantation, the opportunity to prepare for the d-day. After the intimation comes the four days of Egwu Ogba festival. On the first day, during the afternoon hours, women from each family, adorned with casual wrappers and simple blouse and on bare foot, are led by the eldest woman in each family. She

dresses in Akwete cloth from her shoulders to her waist as a mark of seniority and leadership role, and holding a burning firewood in her right hand as they embark on a procession to the Arena or square of the four aforementioned quarters in Omoku. The procession is marked with enhancement, incantation, dancing, clapping of hands and striking of metal gongs (ukela), without other traditional musical instrument set up at the arenas. The women in turns invoke their ancestral spirits that are identified with the festival, to cleanse the town and do away with evildoers. This cleansing process prohibits the torch bearers light from going off, because it signals bad omen, with the bearer considered as an evil person and stigmatized for life. The spiritual cleansing, which is characterized with prolonged enchantment and rebuking of unwanted captains of the evil world, thereafter terminates at “Mini Omoku” (Omoku Rivers), a tributary of Orashi River. Here, each of the four quarters take possession of separate major river point that will accommodate them, where they carry out the final incantations, to send out

evil spirit from the land, after which each oldest woman from each family, throws the burning firewood into the river, which signifies a send forth or passing away of all perpetrators of evil in Ogba town. The prepared food is thereafter taken to the house of the eldest male of each family, here all the family members gather to eat, with the women separated from the men. After eating and drinking, all family members retire to their various homes, paving the way for another two elaborate days of merriment, which calls for eating of special dishes such as pounded yam and native soup. Climaxing into the morning of the fourth day, the men and youth after the night celebration, converge at the four squares, with women, children and tourist as spectators. Their assembling provokes a lot of attention, where on individual or group bases, men and youths possessing the ogy, at various interval strike it on the ground, saying tua njoli (evil leave the land), as well as display with metal gongs, ornaments, rattle nuts, without any central traditional musical instrument for formal display. This captivating day which marks the end of the festival, is also characterized by those who possess spiritual powers and magical skill, who use such avenues to test their mystical powers, while challenging those with same. This show of power continues until the arrival of the Oba of Ogba land, in the early hours of the morning, to perform the spiritual blessing of his subjects at ahia Orie square, situated in Obieti quarter (big quarter), resulting into mass exodus from the other three quarters, with a view to catching a glimpse of the Oba of Ogba land, as well as to share in the blessing. This exercise of oral proclamations is aimed at, eradicating all associates of evil in Ogba land, which is synonymous with the actions and oral expressions of the participating men and women of Ogba origin. This then marks the end of the Nchaka festival. In conclusion the Nchaka or Egwu Ogba festival is a reminder of the ancient traditional celebration of the Ogba people, associated with agricultural fertility and cleansing, and as such is regarded as the most elevated celebration in the land and must not be allowed to go extinct, but rather documented and preserved for the future generation. And fortunately, in spite of the poor participation experienced these days due to modernization, Christianity and youth restiveness, the festival still subsists. * Dagogo discussed this topic with the National Museum Study Group, Port Harcourt recently

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ARTS Friday, April 18, 2014 29

Film Cries of marginalization as Presidential film grant thins off Stories by Shaibu Husseini T was a smart move on the part of members of the Project Act Implementation Committee that they met with practitioners of the movie industry up Northern Nigeria called Kannywood penultimate week. There has been high level of apathy by the practitioners there towards the Project Act grant- a N3 Billion intervention grant approved by President Goodluck Jonathan to alleviate the obstacles to the sector’s growth and promote key components along the movie value chain through the provision of grants to support existing or aspiring practitioners within the industry, including those in the Diaspora. The thinking amongst practitioners in Kannywood is that the grant was not meant for them as much of the interaction on the grant has been between the grant handlers and those categorized as ‘core Nollywood practitioners’. Which is why not a single application has come from Kannywood to either access the capacity building and film production component of the grant since the Project Act Implementation Committee launched the application portal in July. “You know they always say that the fund is meant for Nollywood. Those in charge have had so many meetings with those they know as Nollywood. We are not Nollywood. We are Kannywood. So until the call circular for this meeting, we didn’t know that we are also beneficiaries of the grant by Mr. President,’’ a Kannywood practitioner said last week. And the fellow is right. Much of the interaction on the grant has been between the handlers of the grant and those they recognize as practitioners in Nollywood. Information on the grant has not been able to go round. Even though the handlers of the grant claim that they have been placing notices on the grant in the media and even have a website where people can source information, there are still so many motion picture practitioners who don’t belong to the ‘circle of those that are recognized as practitioners in Nollywood’ that are at a lost on how they can access the grant. “This is not how to administer a grant,” an

Members of DGN at Colarado Film School elder practitioner said last week. “Elsewhere, information on grants is widely circulated. There is even an office you can go to, to source information. There would have been an office in Lagos, in Kano, in Enugu and in centres where movies are produced in commercial quantities so that people can go and get information and additional information that those newspaper adverts and information on websites don’t contain. You even know some of the grant handlers that you can call and get information from but in this case, the grant handlers are faceless. “Okay, now If the handlers of the fund say the information has gone round why are they holding interactive sessions in Kano almost a year after the application portal was opened,’’ the elder artiste asked, stating too that he expects the committee to also hold similar interactive sessions ‘with practitioners of other industries’ including players of the Yoruba movie industry whom the elder artiste cynically referred to as ‘Yoruwood’.

Jaywon, Nnenna gear up for thrilling Easter show S Easter approaches, A Jaywon – the Sensational Hitmaker is putting the final touches on his elaborate rehearsals as he prepares to join forces with the Nnenna & Friends team and a diverse blend of multi-talented entertainers for the biggest and unforgettable Easter Show this season. Nnenna and Friends is a popular television show produced by Wale Adenuga Productions and according to Nnenna, the lead act of the show, “we are really doing our very best to ensure that all guests get the top-notch family entertainment they deserve this Easter Sunday. “Jaywon, Papa Ajasco & Company, N-Stars, The Oshadipe Twins, Acapella, Mc Prince, Universal Crew, Desmond Osarobe, wapTV’s Omonla are really looking forward to entertaining our guests who would also receive bountiful gifts and prizes from Indomie Noodles, Ribena Fruit Drinks, Bigi Sausages, Leo Smart, Street Kitchen, Toasties Bread Chips, Aquarite Water, Beloxxi

Biscuits and other trusted family-oriented corporate bodies.’’ The Nnenna & Friends Easter Show holds this Sunday, April 20 at the National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos starting from

2pm. The event would also be recorded and broadcast on the award-winning wapTV (StarTimes Channel 116) across Africa with a Live Online Stream available on www.thewaptv.net.

Even practitioners of that divide of the motion picture industry say they are completely ignorant about what the whole idea of Project Act Nollywood is about. “I am not aware there is a grant like that,” a top Yoruba movie producer said during the week. However with the application window closed on two components of the grant- capacity building and film production, what is left is the N2 Billion Innovation Distribution Fund (IDF), which will only be accessed by stakeholders interested in establishing distribution structures. So, it is unclear what the interactive session between the grant handlers and the Kannywood practitioners will achieve. By last week, about 23 motion picture practitioners — members of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN) were spending their second week in the United States of America as beneficiaries of the capacity building component of the grant. Each of them reportedly got 6000 US Dollars to train at the Colorado Film School, in Denver, United States. The institute is ranked amongst the best 25 film schools in the world. The Guardian learnt that the total sum the grantees received includes cost of tuition, which is priced at $3000. Although initially the grant was not meant for any foreign training, the handlers may have bowed to pressure by the practitioners to allow them head abroad so that they can in the words of the President of the Directors Guild of Nigeria Andy Amenechi, who is also in Colorado “have a whole new learning experience that will change the Nigerian film industry forever.’’ In fact, Amenechi who has shot

over a hundred home video productions foresees “a revolution’’ considering what he said was the “kind of first class training they were receiving in Colorado.” Meanwhile, all the 23 grantees are due back this week and the plan as Amenechi hinted is to have them share what they have learnt with other filmmakers in and around Africa. Good as it sounds, one of the challenges that would face the grantees when they return would be the near lack of equipments to work with. A lot of them are new to some of the equipments that they are being exposed to in Colorado. Some of them may not even find some of those equipments to work with, when they return. Besides, six weeks appear inadequate to build the kind of capacity that will cause the ‘revolution’ that Amenechi envisages. This was why the general thinking was that the infrastructural development component of the grant would have come before the capacity building component so that stakeholders can source funds to set up studios that will be well equipped and useful to the grantees of the capacity building fund. There is not a single well-equipped post-production studio in the whole of the country. Practitioners who want quality output for their movies, still travel abroad for a simple procedure as colour correction and sound dubbing. Much of the resources that filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has spent on the making of his big budget film October 1 has been on offsetting travel and accommodation cost because he has to travel to the United Kingdom for post production work. The filmmaker Izu Ojukwu has been in Germany, carrying out post-production procedures, since the beginning of the year. Anyhow, the next stage for the grant will be to disburse funds to successful applicants for the Film Production Fund (FPF) component of Project ACT-Nollywood. Submission of entries closed since March 28 and over 250 applications were reportedly received. However, winners of the FPF will be in two categories – one for up to N10 million – with preference given to films already under implementation; and the other for substantially more has been set aside for “special movie projects that have the potential to position Nigeria on the global stage of movie making and to raise the bar on innovation, quality and experience in Nigeria’s motion picture industry.” Stakeholders expect the grant handlers to advance the grants only to filmmakers with projects with commercial prospects. They even propose that this segment of the grant should be revolving so it can be available to other filmmakers in future.

Big headline for Tedela, 2014 AMVaCA winner WARD winning actor, Identity’ piece which A Tope Tedela has landed includes Kunle Afolayan, his first magazine cover in Yvonne Nelson, Fred Amata, the April edition of Nolly Silver Screen. The actor who shot into the limelight after clinching the Best Actor in a Drama at the 2014 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards is featured in the main interview segment of the magazine and there he talks about his journey into the world of make believe. Also Tedela discusses his inspiration, the role in A Mile from Home, which won him the award and his love for the theatre. Also in the April edition of Nolly Silver Screen, Newspaper columnist and film critic, Wilfred Okiche profiles ten Nollywood actors who now go behind the cameras in his ‘Dual

Uche Jombo-Rodrigues, Rita Dominic and Saint Obi among others. Also featured are interviews with Kehinde Bankole, Alexx Ekubo and Nzeribe ‘Sambasa’ Chiedozie while Agina Eberechukwu’s article ‘Nollywood: a house divided?’ explores the Asaba home video industry versus the new big budget cinema productions. The magazine also feature exclusive pictures from the set of Stephanie Linus’ upcoming feature Dry. The online magazine also features reviews and the regular dose of Nolly Silver Screen staples such as Nolly Pop Quiz, DVD Releases, and Vox pop.

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Literature How love for books improves reading culture, by Wood By Ijeoma Opara T was indeed an evening of cupcakes and drinks as writer and jourItook nalist Ms Molara Wood, author of Indigo, a collection of short stories, listeners through some of her creative journey. Indigo, which she describes as her imaginative odyssey, with varied experiences collected in 17 short stories with 12 of them lengthy traditional stories. While commenting on the declining rate of reading culture, she said “Book readings need to happen more in our environment so that people can know what our writers are doing and young once can be inspired to explore their creativity imagination because not everyone can write a book. That way, we will keep our literary culture vibrant; we need a lot more readings; we don’t even have enough. Readings like this when made interesting people would want to open a book and discussing literary works will encourage more people”. The stories Wood read at the event made strong impressions on the senses as they were very descriptive; one could feel the scenario being painted by the writer’s choice of words. According to her, that was made possible because she visualizes a lot, adding, “I think writing should explore all the senses especially the visuals. It is part of the quest to make writing as real as possible. When you paint a scene, you try to make the reader feel like he is there by using words on the page”. Putting the short stories together didn’t come in one day, she said, “I was just writing short stories and before now and then revisiting them before I gradually decided to put them in form of a book“. Although there is no central message, there are all sorts of messages, according to Wood, noting, “I merely just want to explore my world in creativity and imagination to see where it takes me. The messages are coincidental and I don’t think there is one overriding the other apart from the fact that we have an interesting environment through fiction and so we should sell our society through fiction. “One should enjoy the story which forces the reader to question certain things about life, and the environment to ask deeper questions about some of what we do and how things are”.

Member, panel of judges, Prof. Nasiru Akanji (left); member, Advisory Board for Literature, Prof. Ben Elugbe; General Manager, External Relations, NLNG, Dr. Kudo Eresia-Eke; Chairman, Advisory Board for Literature Prize Emeritus Prof. Ayo Banjo; Chairman, panel of judges, Prof. Charity Angya; member, Advisory Board, Prof. Jerry Agada and Prof. Ahmed Yerima shortly after the handover ceremony on Tuesday… in Lagos

Ezeigbo’s Dancing Masks… Of aesthetic appeals in contemporary Nigerian poetry By John Uwa kAChI Adimora-Ezeigbo is a contemporary African writer of Nigerian extraction whose fictive oeuvre does not only adumbrate contemporary feminist issues, but also raises a finger of protest in the theory and practice of feminism in Africa and the rest of the world. her “accommodationist” ideology which provides an alternative ideological canvas for the criticism of African feminist fiction strikes my critical curiosity; but not in the same way that this collection Dancing Mask elicits some sort of curiosity to reveal that which the “dancing mask” conceals. This curiosity could plunge one into some sort of confusion about the nomenclature by which this new poetic voice may be identified in literary discourse; Ezeigbo the Novelist, or the Poet? This confusion may have been informed by Nnolim’s (2010) classification of poetic craftsmanship into the “poet qua poet” and “the versifier”. To him, the “poet qua poet” is he who is totally committed to the art of poetry without doing anything that is really significant outside of it. The “versifier” on the other hand is the poet who writes one or two lines when his poetic muse comes visiting occasionally, and afterwards, goes back to his original vocation. Charles Nnolim is one critic of African literature who has, and will continue to inspire the younger generation of African critics that has much respect for the man and his achievements. Notwithstanding, it is not difficult to hold a point of view which suggests that Nnolim’s classification is more of a polemical fiat that is based on analytical convenience and critical preference more than a literary axiom. This point of view is

informed by the fact that Ezeigbo currently has four published collections of poetry. These collections have been equally well-received in the same way as the five novels she has so far written. This observation is important to the review of this collection where Ezeigbo legitimately recommends herself as a poet that cannot be ignored in the criticism and evaluation of modern Nigerian poetry. In Dancing Masks, Ezeigbo reveals her maturity from her first three collections of poetry by presenting a superior socio-political vision for which established poets like Tanure Ojaide, Odia Ofeimun, Niyi Osundare and Tayo Olafioye have variously received critical reception. A semiotic analysis of the Dancing Masks renders a spectacle of people, grappling with floods of socio-political aberrations that are masked in hope and humour, signified by two

dancing masks on the front cover page of the collection. By this token, the masks become a motif through which greater insight is provided into themes of social relevance in contemporary Nigeria. Ezeigbo presents us with a mask behind which most people live, and “behind which certain human tendencies are disguised”. The collection is divided into five parts, and each deals with distinct contemporary issues in Nigeria. The first section “Signs of the Times” which contains nineteen poems deals with the themes of nature, woman, sex, prostitution, exploitation, sexual violence, corruption, love etc. In this section, Ezeigbo seems to be moved by a miscellany of poetic muse which allows her to peck on various contemporary issues of our society from environmental pollution to other social aberrations. Like Chielo, the priestess of Agbala in Things Fall Apart, when Ezeigbo is in her creative elements as this collection proves, we see a personality that is paradoxical to her every day gentle and motherly disposition; and with the vigour of a prophetic muse, Ezeigbo reverberates the end-time prediction of Apostle Paul in 1st Timothy 4: 1-5 and 2nd Timothy 3: 1-5. To paraphrase the quote, men whose hearts have been seared with a hot iron will speak lies in hypocrisy. Men shall become lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, unthankful, traitors, heady, high-minded, fierce, trucebreakers, incontinent, despisers of those that are good and lovers of pleasure. Ezeigbo keeps the steam of her deployment of formal poetic elements in full motion when in “Ways of dying”, she employs elements like oxymoron, personification, apostrophe and simile to raise some existential issues that facili-

tate the cyclical ironies of human existence. Unlike William Wordsworth whose loss of “visionary gleam” readily connects him to the supernatural realm, Ezeigbo suggests that there are those who will not give in to nature’s hostilities without giving it a fight. To her, these people are like the “legendary cat” and only bow out after they are “done and ready proper”. Using seven irregular verses in conformity with the free verse tradition in “News flash”, this emergent poetic voice takes a poignant look at governance and exploitation. The word “Ajabu” and the words “Ghanamust-go-bag factory” in the fifth verse are images or symbols which help in creating some sort of imaginative or mental pictures of the high level of financial misappropriation and corruption that is being practised at the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, by elites and the political class. The poet also indicts those who have embraced the policy of “siddon look”, and the “mutes and mumu”. The corrupt mentality of public service holders that the “public service is not free service” is also presented as a paradox in the second stanza. The painful irony of these paradoxes is that those who ought to stand for truth and justice have kept sealed lips. This is why in “Murderer of conscience”, Ezeigbo makes a defiant appeal to all those who are disposed and predisposed to standing for justice and truth, but have tarried. Using apostrophe in the first four lines, metaphor and extended metaphor in lines 8, 9 and 10 of the first verse, Ezeigbo opines that there are defenceless people who have been permanently placed in exploitative limbo, subjugated and oppressed; people who must be defended by those whose consciences have not yet been seared with a hot iron.

Stage is set for drama contest 2014 LL is set for drama contest in The A Nigeria Prize for Literature 2014 edition. The prize is worth USD$100,000 and awarded annually; Tade Ipadeola won last year with his poetry collection, The Sahara Testament. Entries for this year’s contest were formally handed over to the Advisory Board of the prize, which in turn handed them over to the three-man panel of judges consisting of chairman, panel of judges, Prof. Charity Angya, a professor of Theatre and Drama at the Benue State University, Makurdi, Benue State with Prof. Ahmed Yerima, playwright and past winner of The Nigeria Prize for Literature, 2006 edition and Prof. Nasiru Akanji, a respected scholar and professor of Performing Arts, University of Ilorin, as other members. Also on the panel is Prof. Sirayi, a playwright and Dean, Faculty of the Arts at Tshwane University of Technology, South Africa, who will serve as an international consultant to the prize this year. Entries received indicate that 124 are for drama while only five are for critical essay (criticism) on Nigerian literature. Advisory Board chairman, Prof. Banjo charged the judges to produce a winner “who has a vision of what Nigeria is, what she could be and that vision which transcends to the larger world; we want something which is profound; something we haven’t seen before”. he further tasked them to look for out for alluring dialogue, as the hallmark of drama. On her part, jury chairman and first female to be jury chair of the prize, Prof. Angya promised “the best of the best, who will emerge the winner of the prize”, and praised the advisory board, saying, “What LNG has done is to produce a formidable board to carry out its assignment”. On the impact the prize could have on winners, Prof. Yerima said the prize “lifts you very high. I find it hard writing a play now because of fear of failure. The prize propels you to be better”.

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Friday, April 18, 2014 33

Friday, April 18, 2014

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Friday, April 18, 2014 ARTS 35

VisualArts Masters Series… unchaining national collection for broad viewing RINGING modern and contemporary B Nigerian art into wide viewership via a non-governmental initiative enlivens

By Tajudeen Sowole

shrinking popularity of the country’s national collection. Titled Masters Series, it’s a group exhibition of select works by renowned artists from the collection of the National Gallery of Art (NGA), currently showing till May 11, 2014 at Red Door Gallery, Victoria Island Lagos. When the exhibition opened on Tuesday, the presence of visitors such as the members of the corporate sectors, expatriates, even some of the masters radiated a new aura that brought freshness into the decades-old collection. Without an adequate gallery space, the vast collection acquired over 50 years period are housed inside a section of the national theatre building and in the stores of the NGA, at the Abuja office as well as some outstations across the country. Over the decades, the dwindling popularity of the National Theatre edifice, coupled with the rise of Lagos and Victoria Islands as the hubs of art have drastically reduced human traffic who visit the gallery space of the national collection. From Abayomi Barber’s sculptural impression of Yoruba water goddess, Yemoja, mounted at he immediate entrance of Red Door, to the cubism paintings by Yusuf Grillo, pencil portraits of legendary theatre artist, Duro Ladipo and Picasso by Theresa Lucy Akinwale as well as Ladi Kwali’s mastery of pottery among other works of. 27 masters on display indicate all is not exactly lost despite Nigeria’s unexplained lack of a national gallery of art space. In the next three weeks or more, the two floor Red Door gallery where the works are mounted will continue to serve as a window through which Nigeria’s history and rich artistic expression are viewed, most likely, by those who never saw the collections. And for those who are familiar with some of the collections, it could just be refreshing seeing the works at new space outside the NGA environment. Ahead of the opening, director at Red Door Gallery, Bola Asiru assured that “many of the works on display will bring back nostalgic feelings amongst many people who have not viewed these classic pieces in decades.” He disclosed that the gallery, which made its entry into the Lagos art scene late last year has “a strategic collaboration with the NGA,” to hold what he described as a “landmark exhibition.” Quite an unprecedented gathering of masters under one roof, outside the confinement of the NGA. Some of the other works on display include a sculpture The Academicians by Grillo, Man of the People by El Anatsui as well as paintings and sculptures by Prof Ben Enwonwu, Ehrabor Emokpae, Gani Odutokun and Ben Osawe. Other featured artists are Uzo Egonu, Tayo Adenaike, Sina Yusuf, Solomon Wangboje,

Abiodun Olaku, Odita Udechukwu, Obiora Udechukwu, Muraina Oyelami, Kolade Oshinowo, Josseph Ajiboye, Jimoh Buraimoh, JD Akeredolu, Gani Odutokun, Haig David West, dele jegede, Bruce Onobrakpeya, Ben Osawe Amos Odion, Ablade Glover and Akinola Lasekan, The last time a select group of masters were shown, it was not from the national collection. Organised by Mydrim Gallery, Ikoyi, but on display at Terra Kulture, Victoria Island, Lagos in 2007, it was a also a show confined as Living Masters. Apparently, the Red Door-NGA organised Masters Series is unprecedented. Asiru argued that the partnership “is momentous because it is the first time that a private gallery will collaborate with the NGA to exhibit works of Masters on a large scale.” He explained that the show stresses the Red Door policy of adding value to the art and culture sector. “The collaboration is part of our policy to make the space not just a commercial gallery, but add other values.” Regular showing of the vast collecSculpture titled Yemoja by Abayomi Barber. tion of NGA ap-

Visitors during the opening of Masters Series

peared to have been clouded or incapacitated by inadequacy of space and proximity to hub of art appreciation. However, the challenges of space, has not exactly stopped the NGA from showing the works, the curator at NGA, Lagos station Mrs Okoroma Ekene explained. Speaking through her representative Emeka Odiari during the preview, Ekene disclosed that NGA mounts new set of works in every six month inside the National Theatre complex. She added that the collaboration with Red Door Gallery is expanding the scope of such exhibition to include the private sector. Asiru insisted that the gallery’s “philosophy as an organization is to celebrate those things which are positive and great about Nigeria and Africa as whole. The global art community is increasingly excited about African fine art and it is critical for Africans to also celebrate their heritage and be excited about the great men and women who have left a legacy for the next generation of art enthusiasts and collectors.” Indeed the aesthetic, cultural and education value of the works selected for the Masters Series speak volume of the broad benefits to the viewing public. For example, a painting titled Po-

lice. Brutality rendered in a burlesque expression and dated 1980, explains the long history of the recurring abuse of power by members of the Nigerian security men. Also, Nigeria’s colonial era under British rule is recalled in a portraiture, Nigerian Soldier Under Colonial rule by Lasekan, dated 1978. And for scholars who may want to study the elongated and dance periods of Enwonwu, works such as Ghana Dance (1975), African Dance (1973)! Dance Form (1981) and Negritude may be of useful resources. In fact, Negritude, which is one of the most repeated series of Enwonwu is perhaps very crucial given the origin of the theme. It has a link to a global gathering of art and culture professionals of black descents in the late 1950s, of which the artist participated. The Director-General of NGA, Abdullahi Muku who writes Foreword of the catalogue notes that “staging of The Masters Series, is not only a timely celebration of Fine Arts in Nigeria, it is the celebration of those wonderful creative brains that produced the works as well.” He argued that the partnership “is not a coincidence,” and cited government’s policy of Public Private Partnership (PPP). “This collaboration derives from the Government policies that give fervency to the synergy and productivity of PPP (Public Private Partnership).” Muku also writes that the Masters Series comes at a period when Nigeria is still celebrating her centenary. “The richness of Nigerian Art, as an all-important documentation of many spheres of the nation, and as evident in the works of Nigeria’s all-time greats in Nigerian Art, predetermines a rich, deep, and colourful heritage deserving of communal celebration. Indeed, Nigeria is in the mood of celebration, relishing the fruitfulness of her 100 years of amalgamation that began in 1914. The centenary celebration has overwhelmed the nation with pomp, pageantry and razzmatazz – all of which will continue, for a long time, to serve as mementoes and memorabilia of sweet reminiscences.” Parts of Muku’s texts states: “This exhibition of masterpieces by revered Nigerian masters, which is the Red Door Art Gallery’s maiden staging of The Masters Series, is not only a timely celebration of Fine Arts in Nigeria, it is the celebration of those wonderful creative brains that produced the works as well. The show, therefore, is a salute to creativity. It is an acceptable traditional homage to the sages of artistic creativity in Nigeria. It is an outpouring of libation to the gods of creativity and to the fertility of creative heritage, the masterpieces that are sourced directly from the National Collection.”

Friday, April 18, 2014

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ExecutiveBrief

EDITION 303

In association with TRIPPLEA ASSOCIATES LIMIED

Sir Benjamin Wilcox: The visionary professional Coxdyn Nigeria Limited is a unique and indigenous company that has the franchise of ISUZU elevators and escalators conveyor and related products that provides vertical elevation or horizontal conveyance in Africa. The organization is a great company that has redefined the sales, installation, refurbishment and maintenance of elevators in the country. Sir Benjamin Wilcox, the Chief Executive Officer of the organization obtained a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Cum Laude) and MBA Finance at the University of Minnesota, USA where he won the Exxon outstanding student award in Finance. He is a seasoned technocrat, accomplished entrepreneur and financial consultant with a wealth of experience spanning over 36 years. His professional career started with a brief stint as Research/Teaching Assistant with the University of Minnesota after which he joined Burroughs Corporation, Ford Motor Company, NNPC and OPEC. As an experienced Management Consultant with diverse business interests, Sir Wilcox serves on the board of several companies in Nigeria. In this interview with Nnamdi Nwokolo, the knight of the order of Saint Christopher and a Justice of Peace (JP) spoke on the Focus of a CEO. we try to maintain a constant focus on quality with full dedication, commitment, and teamwork. We are committed to being very aggressive in our attitude towards quality and customer service, because we want to be ranked as the “best” in our industry. Quality is not just another goal; it is our basic strategy for survival and future growth.

ITH a background in finance, what inspired your interW est into elevators? My background basically is finance; I’ve worked in so many organizations including OPEC, World Bank and Ford Motor Co all in finance. When I came back to the country, I was doing consultancy jobs for different state governments and in the process I came across a lot of things. As I grew older, I felt the need to do something different. I could see that the built environment has great potential for growth. In the course of my research, I went to the CBN to find out what makes this industry tick. I was going through a publication when I saw the role of elevators in the growth of the industry. In furtherance of my research, I tried to find out how many organizations are into elevators and realized they were few. I found out that most of the elevators in the country are coming from different parts of the world. So, I felt I can make a difference in the industry. That was how I came into the field.

What are your Focus/Projections for the organization? I know that we have come here to stay because we have passed the stage of going under. We want to create an organization that deliver on its promises in a positive way to create a competitive advantage, and we will be united by our commitment to our core values. Since its inception, Coxdyn has been governed by its core values. They shape the culture and define the character of our company. They guide how we behave and make decisions in fulfilling our obligation of building a better, stronger and more durable company for future generations, protecting the brand, meeting our commitments to stakeholders, acting with an owner mentality, developing our people and the global environment. We intend to become an outstanding company, whose true measure is in the height and depth of our excellence, the length of our patience and the breath of our sympathy for the environment. Our service delivery stands us out. We want to build a sustainable organization that we can pass on to the next generation. We also believe that one day we should be able to produce our elevators locally.

It requires a lot of technical experience, how did you cope with that? From my background in consultancy, I searched around to get a technically competent company that I can acquire or partner with. acquired TEEJAY Elevators and absorbed the staff. That was how we dealt with the technical area. Coxdyn is managed by a team of professionally qualified, widely traveled and internationally connected managers. On any job function, we deploy a unique combination of local and foreign professionals to deliver excellent and cost-effective solution to problems. Our policy of involving best available locals with rigorous supervision provides us safe working environment without compromising on quality. Coxdyn Nigeria Limited is about four years now and we have done over 85 elevators in the country. We deployed the elevators that service the tallest building in the country, NECOM house. With the little period we’ve been in business, we’ve made a great impact in the industry.

Leadership Philosophy: When we talk about leadership, the average man on the street sees it as the president. If anything happens in any part of the country, you see most people pointing fingers at the president. No, for goodness sake we are all leaders in our small worlds. We have to build it from there. If you are a bad husband, then, you are a bad leader and vice versa. All we have to do is to exhibit good leadership wherever we find ourselves; it is the aggregate of this leadership behavior that will eventually transform the country. If we are looking at one person and expect miracles, then we will not go beyond where we are. We should be leaders wherever we are. How can a country like us still be arguing about Petroleum Industry Bill? International Oil Companies come here and start dictating to us. If this bill is passed, it will help the local economy. We are seeing the effect of the Nigerian Content Act, what stops us from passing the PIB.

When you set out as an entrepreneur, what were your phobias? As a former employee of World Bank and with my experience, the fears were insignificant. Before I took the decision to go into entrepreneurship, I’ve done my due diligence, did a lot of research in what I’m going into. I saw a very big market there because as long as we are progressing, we’ll continue to build houses to accommodate our people. The question is will it be highrise buildings? Yes, we will because there’s a limit to how much land we have. I took a chance, but it was a calculated risk. You must have a purpose driven life for you to achieve success in anything in life. There must be something that drives you, something you subscribe to. Vision is another key issue, but it comes only after purpose. If you know the purpose for which you are created, you can now vision and create that future accomplishment in line with that purpose in different spheres of human endeavour. The fear like I said was insignificant because of all these factors. What were the principles that helped you get to where you are? I have a mother who is focused because she can read so. I had the opportunity of going to school. But while in school, I gave all I have to my studies. God was on my side, I did very well and got a scholarship to study abroad. The truth is you have to be honest in your dealings with people. Somehow I’ve learnt a lot of lessons in sincerity and consistency without negating the principle of hard work. Your success begins when you choose to do something different. Anybody can become who he/she wants to become. One fascinating aspect of life and creation is that God has given every man the power to make choices. The power and ingenuity to recreate is in you. This ability has nothing to do with where you were born, neither is it proportionate to how wealthy you or your parents are. The people who have become successful did so because they chose to do something different. Living and achieving success in whatever endeavour depends on who you are and what you are

Sir Benjamin Wilcox (JP) doing. Take for example, if you identify a need to improve your live and you strive to implement an action to improve it, you will become somebody. If you chose to become adamant and give millions of reasons to justify your circumstance rather than taking action to improve it, you also become somebody. But in the final analysis, you are not the same person. What are the unique factors that stand your organization out? Our quality objectives are to deploy ISUZU elevators, escalators etc of high quality, on time, and at the lowest cost. The attainment of such objectives will lead to, customer satisfaction, enhanced performance and efficiency. Once an objective is achieved, it should be recognized and reset to stimulate further quality improvement. To reach our objectives,

What’s your assessment of the present crop of leaders at all levels in the country? It is said; don’t judge so that you don’t be judged. I’m not the best person to assess these people. What I know is that most of these people ought not to be there, because they don’t have an agenda. I pity President Goodluck Jonathan because of all the presidents we’ve had as a country, I believe he’s the one that has tried the hardest. Fishermen are very reliable and enduring set of people, with all the insults he gets as president, he’s not shaken because of his belief in transforming the country. The young man has the interest of the masses at heart with the signing into law the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Bill 2010 (Local Content Bill) which has increased Local Content in the Oil and Gas sector. The administration diligently implemented its agenda for national transformation in priority areas, including power, rehabilitation and expansion of national infrastructure, agricultural development, education and employment generation. What drives you? Challenges drive me. Something I admire is that God has given us everything we need; we need to continue to explore it to our benefits. The moment you begin to utilize your talent, God multiplies them and gives you the energy to move on. The moment you do one thing well, it creates the opportunity to do another one. I’m working in line and I’m enjoying God’s grace. He gives me the power and the ability. Additionally, it has to do with proper and efficient time management. It has to do with effective utilization of time and proper planning.

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Plotting a Better Course for Your Company

EXECUTIVE FINANCE By Alaina Love MAGINE if you had the chance to go back in time. Armed with the knowledge you’ve acquired, you’d have the chance to plot a new course for your future. Would you take it? Like it or not, the current economic crisis has given business leaders a chance to do just that. How leaders capitalize on this crisis and turn it into an opportunity will determine the fate of their organizations and the fate of the employees depending on them for survival. Consider these facts. In December 2008, the National Bureau of Economic Research announced that U.S. manufacturing had hit a 26-year low and that the economy had been in a recession since December 2007. The news came as no surprise to many business leaders, who watched unemployment rates rise to a 2008 year end level that was equivalent to rates seen in 2003. Business has gone back in time for sure—five years, maybe more. One response leaders could have to the steady diet of dire business news might be to panic, slash programs, plants, and head count, and engage in serious belt-tightening to prevent additional losses. We’ve seen plenty of that going on recently…some of it necessary. Perhaps a better reaction, however, might be for leaders to honestly look at the facts and, instead of blaming the plight of their businesses solely on the economy, examine what their organizations did or didn’t do to contribute to the current situation. This nation needs business leaders who, instead of licking their wounds and searching for someone else to fault, will plot a different course that will lead to a better outcome. A platform for sustained success in this economic climate might mean beginning at the beginning—and examining issues like these:

Company Purpose: Given what leaders now know, does the company have a purpose that’s sustainable for the long term? With all that has changed, it would be a mistake to assume that the mission of the company is still relevant in the new economy and that the present workforce is committed to it. It’s worth the effort to revisit the questions: What do we offer in service to others that the current market will value, and what do we stand for? Only when armed with clear answers to these questions and an engaged workforce to support them

Customer Service By Michael Ward N the world of customer service, there are no strangers, just friends you haven’t met yet. And unfortunately, some of those new friends are mean, rude and just weird. But no matter the disposition of your customer, your demeanor should always be poised and professional. You’ve probably heard the expression, “The customer is always right.” No one is always right, not even customers, so we’ve slightly amended this phrase to read as follows, “The customer is always right...if you want to keep your job.” And you do want to keep your job, right? In this economy, jobs are precious resources. So if you want to excel in the customer service field, there are a few things to remember. A smile goes a long way, but attentive, professional service goes even further. Not every customer is going to leave your business happy, but by treating people with the same respect you expect from them, you can at least minimize the damage a miserable customer can do to you and your company. Here are a few customer service tips broken down by the most popular customer service industries:

“Counter” culture and retail jobs. When people think about customer service jobs, they often think about the cash register

can leaders begin to shape a better future for everyone. Passionate Leadership: Are the leaders who are guiding the company leading with authenticity? Do they know themselves well? It’s important for any leader to have a profound understanding of who they are and how their passions can be applied to the business, but it has never been more essential than now. Leaders are being called upon to inspire the workforce, act with humility rather than arrogance, and demonstrate dignity in managing employees—both those who are asked to leave and those who will remain. Passionate Workforce: Leaders must define the workforce needed to reinvent their organizations, and they must leverage the skills and passions of everyone on the team. Accomplishing this requires deep understanding of each employee’s passions, especially of those in critical positions. If their passions aren’t aligned with their work roles, the organization won’t maximize its investment in talent at a time when it most needs to do so. Operating Principles: Along with examining company purpose and individual passions, it’s essential in tumultuous times to be certain that the organization’s operating values—and the way they are implemented— are in line with its stated purpose. Nothing derails a company faster than leaders who espouse a set of values that they do not demonstrate. It’s a credibility killer among employees, customers, and shareholders alike. Clear Vision: No leader can flawlessly predict every twist and turn in the road, but it’s essential that a vision for the future be determined without delay. At a time when many organizations are struggling for footing, it’s tempting to change course on a weekly basis to stay ahead of the curve. But engaging a workforce and minimizing the fear so prevalent right now requires a consistency of vision—and leaders who frequently communicate the progress toward it. It’s time to get back to the basics. More than ever, today’s economic changes have illuminated the need for leading with purpose and passion— because anything less simply won’t be enough.

Customer Service Jobs Require More Than a Smile: jockeys breaking change, and the sales floor employees folding sweaters and stocking shelves. These retail jobs can be stressful, especially during the holiday shopping season. (And if you haven’t already started your seasonal job search, this is a great place to look). One way to ease the stress of these retail gigs is to embrace the diversity they offer. Ask your manager if you can move departments, or see if you can cross-train to learn a new skill set. For example, if you’re a front desk officer charged with making a positive first impression with customers, see if you can be a changing room attendant. Manners are on the menu at restaurant jobs Restaurant jobs may be the most demanding of customer service jobs. You’re always on your feet, hungry people aren’t always the most polite, and the late-night and weekend hours can be demanding. But these jobs can be especially rewarding because they’re one of the few gigs where your effort and positive attitude are directly linked to your earning potential. That’s right; tips represent the bulk of the pay for servers and bartenders. So remember: Grabbing that extra serving of blue cheese dressing or bringing the undercooked steak back to the kitchen after a sincere

apology can reap you big rewards on the flip side. Dialing in call center jobs Taking a steady stream of calls from angry and confused customers would be tough to do for 30 minutes. But imagine doing it for eight hours at a time. Many customer services jobs involve never seeing actual customers, but instead talking over headsets while typing up a storm. If you don’t have an on site ergonomic expert at your telemarketing camp, here are a few basic guidelines to make sure that you won’t get carpal tunnel syndrome your first week on the job. Be sure to keep your eyes at least 20 inches from your computer screen, adjust the monitor to your eye level and keep your feet positioned firm on the ground. And don’t slouch. Working at a desk or cube all day can make you feel cramped and restless.

EXECUTIVE HEALTH James LaValle, R.Ph, ND, CCN

Intestinal Health - The Health Topic of the Coming Decade

OR the last several years I have been emphasizing on the importance of reducing belly fat, but just as important is getting one’s gut into shape on the inside. What I’m talking about is intestinal health. Antibiotics and probiotics are two key players here. Antibiotics wipe out friendly flora in our intestines. This was clearly demonstrated in a study of patients taking the popular broad spectrum antibiotic Ciprofloxacin, commonly known as “Cipro”, which wiped out about 30% of the patients’ good bacteria population. After treatment, it took up to four weeks to re-establish the original level of healthy bacteria, but some strains took up to six months or longer to re-establish. While antibiotics are sometimes necessary to kill dangerous bacteria, they have historically been over prescribed. Many of us are all too familiar with the pink bubble-gum flavored medicine we took as children. As adults we may have begged our doctors for a magic fix in the midst of a bad cold, hoping to ward off a sinus infection. Little did we know the consequences? In children, frequent use of antibiotics is especially dangerous when it begins at an early age. For instance, children who had been on antibiotics their first year of life had a significantly higher risk of developing asthma by the age of 7 and this risk increased with each additional round of antibiotics. The overuse of antibiotics has also destroyed people’s intestinal and immune health. And if it doesn’t stop there, without good bacteria to protect the gut, other bad bacteria such as those that cause food borne illnesses are more able to take hold in the gut. The importance of probiotics and their posi-

Success Strategies By F. John Reh E all know how essential innovation is to W business success. If Apple Corp. had not innovated, we would not have iPhones. If Microsoft had stopped innovating when they released DOS, we never would have seen Windows operating systems. If manufacturers had stopped innovating, we would all be driving Model T’s and calling each other on candlestick phones that need operator assistance; there would be no television to watch. Innovation is Essential So if innovation is so important, why do so many companies spend all their time making tiny process improvements and watching their competitors steal their customers with innovative new products and services? Clearly the problem is not that business owners and managers don’t see the need for innovation. Many just don’t know how to encourage innovation. However, most actively discourage innovation - not on purpose, perhaps, but very effectively. Let’s look at two small companies. One is an example of how to discourage innovation. The other is an example of how to encourage innovation. Discourage Innovation - Kill The Company Carol runs a small family business. She is very good. She knows what she is doing and is able to tell everyone else specifically what to do too. Unfortunately Carol’s business has been going downhill. She has had to lower her prices, which reduces her profits. She keeps losing business to her competitors who come up with better products and cheaper ways to do things. Several long-time employees have left and it takes a lot of time and effort to train the new people in the right way to do things. How can that happen? Carol is smart and works hard. She pays her people well. She tries different things. People are happy in the office, but they don’t talk amongst themselves much; they just all stick to their own jobs and try to do them right. Carol believes in MBWA (Management By Walking Around). You see her walking all around the office watching what people are doing and when they do something “wrong” she steps in and shows

Action is the foundational key to all success. -Pablo Picasso

tive effects on the immune system cannot be over-emphasized. I wrote about this topic in my book “Cracking the Metabolic Code’’, and for 20 years I lectured on, wrote about, discussed, and cajoled both patients and health professionals alike on this topic. Unfortunately, many of them looked at me like I had two heads. We are now experiencing the many negative effects of our health care system’s failure to pay attention to this area of health — untold problems with opportunistic infections in hospitals, increased problems with autoimmunity, asthma, allergies, and increased gastrointestinal diseases and conditions. Even cancer risk increases when we don’t pay attention to our gastrointestinal health and the balance of gut flora. But there is good news. Over the last decade there has been a groundswell of research in this area, and so finally, conventional medicine is starting to recognize the role that beneficial flora plays in our health. Scientists are now looking to replace antibiotics with probiotics for both prevention and cure of certain diseases. Here are some examples of how probiotics have been shown to be helpful in the treatment of serious medical conditions: In the treatment of diarrhea, probiotics help crowd out diarrhea-causing bacteria like E. coli and Clostridium difficile; Probiotics increase the secretion of IgA, an intestinal immunoglobulin that helps fight infections and prevent allergies; Probiotics have been shown to both prevent and improve symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease; Probiotics help lower the risk of getting cancer in several ways.

How to Innovate in Business them how to do it right. Often people call Carol to their work station to ask how to do something new. They all remember how Carol reprimanded Jeff when he tried something new. She didn’t even have time to listen to his explanation of why. Carol’s approach works well when you are training toddlers or teaching mathematics in grade school. It would also work on the battlefield. But it will not produce the innovation Carol’s company needs to survive and prosper. Carol is overlooking the greatest asset of her company, its employees. Each of them has unique experiences, education, and background. They have different perspectives, different problem solving skills and techniques. There may not be a single one of them who is as smart as Carol, who knows the business as well as she does, or who is as good at innovating as Carol. But, as smart as Carol is, she is not smarter than everybody. Encourage Innovation - Grow The Company Valerie has her hands full. Her little company has been growing so quickly that it’s hard to keep up. There are a lot of new employees who need to be trained in how the company does things. Without this training, her company would lose some of its product quality. Fortunately, Anna showed a real gift for explaining things and she handles most of the training these days. Valerie remembers the “old days” when it was just a handful of them. They would sit around an old picnic table out in the shop and have lunch together and talk about kids, movies - and the business. Lots of happy chatter and some crazy ideas came out of those lunches. Everyone seemed to enjoy it except Devon, the new guy. He was always the last one to show up and the first to leave. He would talk occasionally, but not often. Valerie smiles now when she thinks about how he has developed. Devon wasn’t much of a “big thinker” like the rest of them, but when they came up with an idea, Devon was the one who could take it from a rough sketch to a finished product. Valerie’s day is frequently interrupted by phone calls from her team. This morning Eva called to let her know that the new packaging technique

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AutoWheels Audi A4 bounces back with more power

Audi A4 Stories by Dele Fanimo F you think the 211horse power of Audi A4 a Itheyear ago, is the limit of German automaker, 2014 version will disappoint you with its 220horse power. Indeed, the new car is bigger in every ramifications new features include Bluetooth and iPod interface among others. Under the new arrangement, the 2.0-liter turbocharged fourcylinder engine has been given a 9-horse power bump up to 220. The 2014 Audi A4 is offered only as a sedan, though the Audi All road is effectively the wagon version. There is also a higher-performance version of the sedan known as the S4. Both are reviewed separately. Trim levels are broken into three tiers:

Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. Standard features for the Premium include 17-inch wheels; automatic headlights; front and rear foglights; automatic wipers; a sunroof; cruise control; automatic climate control; a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel; eight-way power front seats with four-way driver lumbar adjustment; leather upholstery; a dash-mounted Multi Media Interface, or MMI; Bluetooth phone connectivity; and a 10-speaker sound system with a CD player, an auxiliary audio jack, an iPod interface and satellite radio. Options include a navigation system (with voice controls and console-mounted MMI), a Cold Weather package (heated front seats and a 60/40-split folding rear seat) and an S line style package, which adds 18-inch wheels,

xenon headlights and sportier exterior trim. The Premium Plus comes standard with the Cold Weather and S line packages and further adds keyless ignition/entry, auto-dimming exterior mirrors, and tri-zone automatic climate control and driver seat memory functions. The MMI Navigation plus package has the Premium’s navigation system, but further adds front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, Bluetooth audio connectivity and Audi connect (enhanced Web-based navigation, information and WiFi access). Also optional are a blind-spot monitoring system and a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system. The Prestige includes all of the above as standard plus adaptive xenon headlights. Exclusive to the Prestige is the optional Driver

Toyota recalls Hilux, Rav4 to replace spiral cable N what appears to be a novel INigeria move in the country, Toyota Limited, on Tuesday, announced the recall of the 20042005 Hilux and the 2005-2006 Rav4 to replace a malfunctioning spiral cable. Indeed, this is the first time such a recall is taking place in Nigeria. The gale of auto recall by the company had hitherto been restricted to other part of the world including Europe, America, Asia and the pacific. The auto firm also said the 20062008 Toyota Yaris would be recalled to fix its seat track that was found to be unstable in some of the model units. This recall is coming against similar recall, which affected nearly 6.4 million vehicles worldwide for problems associated with air bags

that might not deploy or seats that could move in a crash. The Executive Director, TNL, Kunle Ade-Ojo, said at a press conference in Lagos, that the recall from Nigeria was at the instance of its parent company, Toyota Motor Corporation, which acted following persistent complaints from both owners/dealers of the affected vehicles about the recurring faults. He explained that recall of vehicles was often undertaken by manufacturer as a safety measure and a mark of responsibility and genuine concern for the welfare of the customers. “This is to show that the safety of our customers is paramount to us,” he added. Ade-Ojo also stated that the “Reports from the TMC indicate

that no records of accidents from the spiral cable malfunctioning and seat track problem had been reported.” He said not all units of the three models sold in Nigeria were affected, adding that the firm was still compiling a comprehensive list of those involved, in conjunction with its accredited dealers. He said the chassis numbers of the affected vehicles would soon be published once the list was ready to further alert the owners and where to take the vehicles to. Already, he said the company had placed an order for the supply of the spiral cable from the manufacturer and expected the delivery of sufficient number in a couple of weeks. He said it would take just about an hour to fix the cable problem,

as “All we need to do is to remove the cable and replace it.” According to Ade-Ojo, the cable connects the switches on the steering wheel to the horn and the airbag, which is responsible for transmitting electrical signals to those points. He explained that owners of vehicles with such defect would usually get alerted through a signal light on the dashboard. For the Yaris, he said the problematic seat track made the seats to move back and forth, which could cause some discomfort and injury to the passengers. He absorbed Toyota of any blame in the delay in identifying the problems. “Toyota has a culture of continuously assessing its vehicles.

Select package, which adds adaptive cruise control, adaptive steering and adjustable vehicle settings known as Audi Drive Select. A power rear sunshade is also available. Optional on both the Premium Plus and Prestige is the Sport package, which adds a sport-tuned suspension and front sport seats. Also available is the Audi Exclusive Line Interior package that adds upgraded leather upholstery and special interior trim. The Black Optic package features 19inch wheels and gloss black exterior trim. Every 2014 Audi A4 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 220 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) are standard, while all-wheel drive is available with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission. Audi estimates that any of these powertrain variations will bring the A4 from zero to 60 in 6.2-6.6 seconds, which would be an average time for this class. In terms of safety, the 2014 Audi A4 comes standard with antilock brakes, stability and traction control, front side airbags and fulllength side curtain airbags. A blind-spot warning system is optional on the Premium Plus and standard on the Prestige. Rear seat airbags are optional on all trims, while the Prestige can be equipped with an adaptive cruise control system that warns the driver and primes the brakes should it detect an impending collision. Front and rear parking sensors and a rearview camera are optional as well. The 2014 Audi A4 features one of the best cabins in its class. The interior’s austere design lends an air of adult seriousness, while the top-notch materials send a message of sophisticated refinement. The use of real leather as standard equipment also gives the Audi an advantage over its competitors from BMW and Mercedes, which use premium vinyl.

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Infiniti QX80 exudes full-size luxury StoriesBy Dele Fanimo HE 2014 Infiniti QX80 is a T full-size luxury Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) that offers seating for seven or eight passengers. It’s offered in one well-equipped trim level with a choice of rearwheel drive or four-wheel drive. Standard features include 20inch alloy wheels, automatic bi-xenon headlights, foglights, a sunroof,

roof rails, rear privacy glass, a power lift gate, front and rear parking sensors, keyless entry/ignition, automatic tri-zone climate control, leather upholstery, a heated eight-way power driver seat (with power twoway lumbar), a six-way power front passenger seat, driver memory settings, second-row captain’s chairs, a power-folding

60/40-split third-row seat, auto-dimming mirrors and a power tilt-and-telescoping and heated steering wheel. Standard electronics include a 360-degree parking camera, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, an 8-inch touchscreen display, a voice-activated navigation system and a 13speaker Bose sound system with a CD player, satellite radio, an auxiliary

audio jack and a USB/iPod interface. Options are arranged in packages, some of which require other option packages as prerequisites. The Theater package adds a rear seat dual-screen entertainment system, a 120-volt household-type power outlet and heated second-row seats with a power tip-up feature for easier third-row access. The Split Bench Seat package replaces the second-row captain’s chairs a n d

center console with a 60/40split-folding bench seat that increases seating capacity from seven to eight. The Deluxe Touring package adds 22-inch wheels (available separately) as well as Infiniti’s Hydraulic Body Motion Control suspension, an upgraded climate control system, upgraded leather upholstery and special wood trim, ventilated front seats and a 15-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system. Finally, the Technology package adds adaptive headlights, adaptive cruise control, blindspot monitoring and a lane departure warning and keeping system. Powering the 2014 Infiniti QX80 is a 5.6-

Infiniti QX80

liter V8 engine that produces 400 hp and 413 pound-feet of torque. A seven-speed automatic transmission is standard. Rear-wheel drive is also standard, with four-wheel drive (with low-range gearing) available as an option. Properly equipped, the QX is capable of towing up to 8,500 pounds and, if so optioned, also features an automatic-leveling rear suspension. The 2014 Infiniti QX80 comes with stability and traction control, antilock brakes, a 360-degree parking camera, front-seat sideimpact airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and front active head restraints. Included with the Infiniti Connection telematics service are automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle notification, remote door access/locking, geo-fencing and max speed notifications. The optional Technology package bundles several safety-related features, including blindspot monitoring, a lane-departure warning and keeping system, frontal collision warning, frontal collision mitigation and a back-up collision mitigation system.

FRSC deploys 455 patrol vehicles, 12 tow trucks and 66 ambulances for Easter URTHER to its 2014 strategic Fcrash, goals towards a zero road the Federal Road Safety Corps has deployed 455 patrol vehicles, 66 Ambulances, 102 motor bikes, 12 tow trucks and over 34,000 personnel along designated routes as part of measures to ensure sanity on the nation’s highways, during this year’s Easter celebration. Part of this nationwide engagement plans include a massive deployment of personnel and logistics along 23 designated critical corridors and black spots such as Sagamu-Ore-Benin, LokojaBenin-Auchi, Onitsha-IhialaAba, Abuja-Keffi-AkwangaHawanKibo-Jos, MinnaBirnin-Kebbi-Sokoto-GusauFuntua-Zaria, Kabba-UmuokeEkiti-Ido-Ilesha, Benin-WarriPatani-Portharcourt and Makurdi-Oturkpo-Obollo Afor-9th Mile highways and 65 routes, identified for this exercise”. This is in addition to the Corps’ 24 emergency ambulance response centres located at designated routes across the country in the FCT, Kaduna, Gombe, Jigawa, Taraba, Niger, Kogi, Ondo, Edo, Osun, Nasarawa, Plateau and Kwara states, which will be complemented by relevant stakeholders such as the Nigerian Police, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, National Emergency Management Agency and others. The Corps’ operational road map for a crash-free 2014 Easter celebration, tagged “Operation Easter 2014”, is tailored towards reducing road crashes by 15% and fatalities by 25% before the end of 2014 and is to be flagged- off nation-

wide from 16th – 23rd April, 2014 as part of measures to cope with traffic peculiarities resulting from usual upsurge of vehicular and human traffic in the country. Similarly, this year’s nationwide exercise has become necessary to reduce the spate of road traffic crashes in the country usually attributed to the perennial rise in the violation of traffic rules and regulations especially during festive season. In the same vein, the intensive special patrol is aimed at addressing the spate of avoidable road crashes usually associated with surge of human and vehicular traffic across the country and is an all inclusive exercise which will witness intensive patrols, prompt rescue services, strict enforcement of traffic rules and robust public enlightenment campaigns across the nation. Details of the objectives of this special exercise include the removal of obstructions from the highways, traffic control/decongestion, public enlightenment campaigns through the distribution of safety handbills and other forms of awareness campaign, in addition to strict enforcement of road traffic regulation infractions such as use of cell phone while driving, speed violation/dangerous driving, overloading/wrongful over taking, number plate/driver’s licence violations and other road vices. In the same vein, road users are strictly advised to desist from night trips and to ensure that vehicles which ply the highways conform with safety standard such as functional

head/tail lights, wipers, tyres, fire extinguisher, caution sign and non-defective windscreen. Against this backdrop, motorists are hereby warned to ensure strict compliance with all traffic rules and regulations and proper maintenance of vehicles which ply the highways as there will be no waiver for any infractions by motorists. Passengers are equally enjoined to monitor

their drivers on reckless driving, driving under the influence of alcohol and other road vices as any form of compromise may lead complacent persons to grave consequences. Still on the Easter special patrol, the Corps’ mission during the nationwide exercise is to ensure presence of FRSC operatives along all corridors of the nation’s highways for effective traffic man-

agement and prompt response to road crashes and forms part of the Corps’ vision to build a consistent tradition of enforcing traffic rules and regulations throughout the year to avoid a one-off approach to road safety management in Nigeria. As usual, uniform personnel are advised to abstain from all forms of “above-the-law” attitude and strictly comply with traffic regulations to avoid

arrest and subsequent prosecution. Meanwhile, the FRSC wishes to reiterate its appeal to the Nigerian motoring public to report any road crash by calling the toll free line 122 and 070022553772 for prompt response to road crashes and any other traffic-related challenges.

Citroen to introduce flagship SUV By Dele Fanimo ITROEN will debut the DS 6WR, a production version of its admired Wild Rubis SUV concept, at the Beijing auto show on Sunday. The DS 6WR will go on sale in China by year end as the flag-

ship of Citroen’s DS upscale subbrand. It will compete against the Audi Q3 and Mercedes GLA, a Citroen spokeswoman told Automotive News Europe. Citroen has no plans to sell or produce the car in Europe at this time, the spokeswoman said. “Never say

never, but for the moment the DS 6WR will be sold only in China and surrounding countries.” The DS 6WR supports PSA’s new strategy of turning DS into a standalone brand, said Ian Fletcher, a senior analyst at IHS Automotive. “The model allows the DS

New car buyers name honda best overall brand OR the second consecutive FHonda year, new car buyers voted “Best Overall Brand” in Kelley Blue Book’s annual Brand Image Award study. The company also took the “Most Trusted Brand” honour for the third straight year. Honda’s win wasn’t a big surprise as the company boasted the highest average scores among all 12 Brand Watch factors, including affordability, “cool” factor, driving comfort, driving performance, durability/reliability, exterior styling, fuel efficiency, interior layout, prestige/sophistication, reputation, ruggedness and safety. Strong consumer perception of the Accord, Civic, CR-V and Odyssey helped drive Honda’s

success in earning the top honour among all automakers, KBB said. “Considering Honda has also won the award for Most Trusted Brand among non-luxury shoppers three years in a row, this win isn’t a huge surprise,” the publication noted. Jeff Conrad, senior vice president and general manager of the Honda automobile division for American Honda in a statement remarked: “A brand is really built over the long haul through consumers’ experiences with its products, and Honda is committed to delivering class-leading vehicles that provide lasting enjoyment and value to our customers.” He also added that “Honda

simply embraces the challenge of being a brand that people can trust.” In the luxury category, Mercedes-Benz captured the sales crown from BMW who last year was crowned. Mercedes obtained the top average Brand Watch factor scores among all luxury makes and was “highly regarded with its strong lineup and performance AMG variants,” KBB stated. Ford reclaimed the top spot among truck shoppers, ousting last year’s winner, Toyota, from the Best Overall Truck Brand category. Ford has won five out of six times since inception of the Kelley Blue Book award.

brand in China to offer a range of premium vehicles in three popular categories in China: the compact, the large car, and now the SUV segment.” The DS 6WR shares front-end grille style elements with Citroen’s DS5 and DS 5LS, which the French carmaker launched in China in 2013 and in March, respectively, The DS 6WR was designed in Paris, which Citroen calls the “capital of luxury and fashion” to meet strong demand from Chinese consumers for French luxury goods. The SUV will be built at PSA/Peugeot-Citroen’s factory in Shenzhen, Guangdong. The plant, a joint venture with Changan Automobile, opened in September and has annual capacity of 200,000 units. The DS 6WR’s length of 4550mm and width of 1860mm are slightly smaller than the Wild Rubis’s length and width of 4700mm and 1950mm, respectively. However, the DS 6WR’s height of 1610mm makes it 20mm taller than the Wild Rubis.

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Quote of the week

AviationBusiness

“I have often said that the lure of flying is the lure of beauty. That the reasons flyers fly, whether they know it or not, is the aesthetic appeal of flying.” — Amelia Earhart ibeuwaleke2012@yahoo.com 08033151041 (SMS only)

‘Nigeria is Africa’s fastest growing business aviation economy’ By Ibe Uwaleke ECOND Nigerian Business S(NBAC), Aviation Conference organized by EAN Aviation recently was well attended with over 159 delegates from across the globe. This year’s conference which surpassed last year’s own by 25 per cent in attendance took place at the prestigious Wheat-baker Hotel Ikoyi, Lagos. All the international and national speakers, panelists and government officials who were present debated the Nigerian business landscape and revisited the essential themes from the first annual event held last year. This year’s conference was designed to provide a platform for analysing and reviewing Nigerian business aviation and to stimulate discussion about what was needed to support continual, sus-

ISSUE tainable development. Hosted by the esteemed Chair, Alan Peaford MBE, delegates heard from a variety of speakers, including financiers, lawyers, operators, OEMs, local authorities and other key stakeholders in Nigerian aviation. Managing director/CEO of EAN Aviation and convener of the conference, Segun Demuren, opened discussions by highlighting the rapid expansion of Nigerian Business Aviation. “It has been an extremely busy year for the sector,” he stated presenting a number of key facts about the industry. “Nigeria is now Africa’s fastest growing Business Aviation economy with more new and pre-owned aircraft delivered to Nigeria, than South Africa in the last year. The country’s private jet fleet is larger than the commercial aircraft fleet.

Growth has been driven predominantly by the oil and gas industry however other sectors including finance, manufacturing, telecoms and agriculture are all contributing to a market which is set to grow by 20 per cent this year.” He also highlighted challenges the forum debated later including the fact that ‘any aircraft put on a 5N (Nigerian) registry will lose asset value by as much as 25 per cent, yet incur higher insurance premiums, up to 35 per cent higher in some cases. Maintenance and service support still remain a challenge and whilst the fleet continues to grow there are no accurate figures for the amount of jets operating in Nigeria. Educated guesses say between

100 and 150, with an anticipated 350 set to be in operation by 2016’. However underpinning the significance of the conference and the Nigerian pride in its business aviation sector, Demuren stated that OEMS, operators and key stakeholders are all delivering the same message. “We believe in Nigeria. We are committed to Nigeria and we are willing to understand how we can do business successfully in Nigeria” Captain Nogle Meggison, Chairman of the Airline Operators Committee said that transport logistics within Nigeria also stimulated growth with poor roads, a limited domestic airline fleet and train network meant that executive jets provide a solution to much of the logistical challenges in the country. “The time saving, the convenience and the increased pro-

Participants at the NBAC two-day conference

FAAN assures passengers of adequate security at airports during Easter holidays By Ibe Uwaleke

• Cargo terminals ready 16 months, says MD

HE management of the T Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria wishes to assure

the security screening points. Passenger facilitation at all our airports has also been enhanced by the installation of more modern and bigger conveyor belts and metal walk-through detectors. The expansion and modernisation of all the airport terminals in the country under the Airport Remodeling Project of the Federal Government, now provide better ambience and more space for shops and restaurants at the terminals. This helps passengers relax comfortably while waiting for their flights. The Authority however advises air passengers to make early arrangements for their travels and to leave home early on their travel dates, in

members of the public, especially passengers and airline operators, that necessary operational and security measures have been put in place at all our airports to ensure hitch-free passage of passengers and cargo during the forthcoming Easter holidays. Apart from the statutory security and safety measures already in place at the airports, sniffer dogs and members of the Bomb Detection Unit of the Nigerian Police Force have also been deployed at the airports, to complement the effort of our Aviation Security personnel at

order to complete their boarding facilities in good time. We wish all passengers safe and enjoyable Easter celebrations. Meanwhile the six fresh cargo terminals being constructed across Nigeria will be completed in 16 months so that Nigeria can begin to benefit from the £2 billion perishable cargo market in Africa. Managing Director of FAAN, Saleh Dunoma said this while delivering a paper at the concluded 4th Annual Emerging Airports Conference and Exhibition which took place in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. He called on foreign investors to take advantage of the fertile investment climate

and invest in the Nigerian aviation sector. In a statement issued by aviation spokesperson, Yakubu Dati, the MD also described the massive remodeling projects across its 22 network across Nigeria as a veritable foundation for investments in the sector. “Opportunities abound in the Aerotropolis project where investors are guaranteed return on their investments, he was quoted to have said” He invited investors to be part of the Aerotropolis and fresh produce market and described Nigeria’s rating as the 26th economy in the world as a clear indication that Nigeria is taking its pride of place as truly leading economy.

ductivity that follows means business aviation is not a luxury but an essential tool for growth in Nigeria.” He argued that the government is supporting expansion adding that it has removed import duties on new jets; has signed the Cape Town convention reassuring lessors about asset security; invested in new infrastructure including a private jet terminal that opened last year in the political centre of Abuja; and does not impose a time restriction on the amount of time a foreign registered private jet can stay on Nigerian soil. Whilst this is stimulating growth he acknowledged that improved regulations, comprehensive MRO offerings, the implementation of structured safety management systems and local participation were all necessary for ongoing success. The Growth in Opportunities panel addressed some of these issues stating that manpower and human resources are still an issue. Demuren commented, “the struggle is to educate and train as quickly as possible, knowledge transfer which will take some time before we have enough home grown engineers.” Ettore Poggi, MD of ExecuJet Africa suggested that real economic growth within the sector will come from the business of supporting private jets through training, support and maintenance. “We need to encourage aircraft operators and owners to keep maintenance checks in the country. If we begin with A and B checks then the heavy maintenance will follow,” he stressed. Key government officials who joined the elite audience including Acting Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, Benedict Adeyileka, an engineer, presented the government’s industry support by discussing the country’s ongoing transformation agenda which is currently reviewing General Aviation (GA), in recognition of its contribution to supporting the local economy. The NCAA is currently reviewing all elements of GA regulations covering a wide range of sectors from Air Ambulance and Aviation Leisure Activity to the Air Taxi and Corporate Charter market. He said that the NCAA is taking an inclusive approach by requesting feedback from all aviation stakeholders, “The only way we can develop the most suitable industry regulations is through your feedback and we encourage you to submit your thoughts,” he told the audience. “Automated issuing of permits to local operators is also close to fruition, although when implemented will not initially be accessible to for-

eign operators,” he added. “Whilst the authorities seem to be making progress, aviation financing doesn’t seem to be following suit. Most aircraft in Nigeria are cash bought,” stressed by Melanie Humphries, Head of Aviation Corporate and International Banking Investec. She stated that flexibility, partnerships with local banks and simple financial engineering could provide solutions to the lack of aviation finance currently available. ‘To date it has proved difficult for international financiers to encourage local bank participation. However once an aircraft is purchased the post acquisition panel suggested that the situation is improving for maintaining and keeping the aircraft. An increased availability of hangerage, improved and larger ramp space, and growing maintenance facilities are all helping to protect the asset’. Addressing the concerns of insurance fees Simon Richards, Executive Director Contract and Leasing Willis Aerospace mentioned that “There is nothing wrong with having any specific registration, what affects the price is supply and demand.” He called for local insurers to play their part in the market development. The panel also reiterated the need to select the right aircraft for the mission and the OEM panel echoed these thoughts with acknowledgement that Nigera’s business aviation community can benefit from the complete range of aircraft types to fulfill its varying requirements. The OEMs also explained that service maintenance offerings were improving but issues with spare parts were often related to customs issues rather than availability. To counter this issue the regulatory bodies are now allowing spare parts to arrive in the country through duty free channels thereby reducing waiting times at customs and downtime of aircraft. However Achuzie Ezenagu, MD of Toucan Aviation stressed that for OEMs to really help Nigeria develop they must have “boots on the ground to support development across the country and be on hand to support maintenance and post acquisition services.” Demuren rounded up the event. In his closing remarks he said: “Aviation is tough and locals need to take it more seriously, participate in its development, and need to maintain a long term vision recognising that it takes investment in time and money to make sure that we grow this vibrant and vital subsector of the economy”. Dates for the third annual NBAC event were announced as the 26 and 27 March 2015.

Getting rid of aerophobia Sports, entertainment and aviation are three of the most exciting professions in the world; you are dealing with the same magnitude. —-John Travolta

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Aviation stakeholders ask Govt to weigh consequences of agencies’ merger plan By Ibe Uwaleke IR Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) and the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) have asked the government to weigh the consequences that would result should it go ahead to merge the three aviation parastatals. At a press conference on Tuesday at their union house Ikeja, Lagos, the unions said Nigeria would be risking the chances of retaining Category-1 air safety status which the country obtained in 2010 and until recently was recertified by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), that visited the country in March. According to them, until the FAA team released its report on Nigeria’s air safety status, the government should not do anything that will jeopardize her chances of retaining this hard earned achievement. In their own words they said the entire aviation workers reject the proposed merger by the Federal Government of the three parastatals under the Federal Ministry of Aviation namely, Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). According to them they were shocked by the announced merger which is coming at a

time when Nigeria as a signatory to the convention on International Civil Aviation has in the past fourteen years made significant progress in institutionalizing and nurturing the Nigerian civil aviation authority into a sound civil aviation regulatory institution that is now a reference model of a CAA in the west African sub-region and in Africa. “We view the decision of the government to merge the NCAA - a regulatory entity with NAMA and NIMET both service providers within the aviation industry as ill-timed, ill-conceived and inimical to the sustenance of the feat Nigeria has attained in the area of international certification by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Federal Aviation Administration of the United States of America (FAA CAT 1). While the Unions recognize the prerogative of the Federal Government to restructure and consolidate its parastatals for whatever reasons, we are of the opinion that the government should have consulted widely on the issue and its consequences on the industry before taking the decision. We say boldly that whatever savings the federal government intends to achieve through this merger will definitely compromise safety which we all know is priceless. You cannot quantify the cost of safety and efficiency neither can we mortgage safety on the platter of reducing cost,” they stated.

Some of the aviation unions’ officials addressing the press on why Govt must reverse the agencies’ merger decision… on Tuesday. They continued: “We wish to remind the Federal government about Nigeria’s obligations under the Chicago convention of 1944 and the consequential commitment to subject its civil aviation activities to regular, routine and scheduled oversight/inspection by the International Civil Aviation organization (ICAO) which is charged with the responsibility of setting standards for civil aviation and over sighting same globally through its universal safety audit oversight program. May we state here that Nigeria has and maintains similar commitment with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) pursuant to its being a signatory to the World Maritime conventions.

“Specifically we invite the Federal government to note that ICAO through its mandatory Audit program checklist has a protocol (USOAP CMA Protocol Question org. 2. 023) that relates to the issue of conflict of interests within the civil aviation regulatory system which frowns at civil aviation regulatory authorities being service providers. In fact this subject was extensively discussed at the 38th session of the ICAO Assembly in Montreal and a resolution was passed with a directive to member states to endeavor through national legislation to separate civil aviation regulatory responsibilities from those of service providers. The resolution became necessary because ICAO recognizes

that a potential conflict of interest exist where a single entity performs both functions. It is obvious here that the regulator cannot regulate itself because there will definitely be conflict of interests. It would suffice to state here that the FAA CAT1 protocol questionnaire which is largely modeled after that of ICAO, contains a verbatim provision on conflict of interest. Why then would the Nigerian government make such a pronouncement having been part of the 38th ICAO assembly that took the referenced resolution? Out of the 197 contracting states, over 100 have CAA’s that are independent of other Service Providers. Other non-compliant states are transiting into the ICAO rec-

ommended model. Even Ghana was in Nigeria to do a study to implement same in their country. “The Unions invite the Federal government to also note that what it seeks to do by the proposed merger is a situation that existed over 20 years ago in the days of the defunct FCAA, when the FCAA as it then was, carried out both regulatory and service provider functions. That system was found to be unprogressive, dysfunctional and unable to project adequately the safety oversight responsibility of the then FCAA and Consequently, the Federal government scraped the FCAA in 1996 and transferred its safety and economic regulatory functions to two departments in the Federal Ministry of Aviation namely, Directorate of Economic Regulation and Monitoring (DERAM) and Directorate of Safety Regulation and Monitoring (DSRAM). After wide consultations both at home and abroad with stakeholders on the way forward with regards to its safety oversight obligation under the Chicago convention, the Federal Government saw the need to conform with the prescriptions of ICAO on the structure of a state regulatory system (ICAO doc. 8335 Chapter 3) and global best practices by establishing NCAA in 1999 as a distinct regulatory authority separate from the service providers to wit: NAMA, FAAN and NIMET,” they finally submitted.

Emirates opens 35th dedicated Lounge at Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Airport By Ibe Uwaleke MIRATES airline has celeE brated the opening of its 35th dedicated lounge at Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Rome. The Lounge represents a Euro 2.53 million investment on the part of the airline, with the aim to provide a seamless, luxurious travel experience to its premium customers. These include First Class and Business Class customers, as well as Platinum and Gold members of Emirates Skywards - the airline’s frequent flyer programme. This follows the opening of the Emirates lounge in Milan Malpensa Airport in 2013. The official opening was marked by a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by Mohammed Mattar, Emirates’ divisional senior vice president Airport Services, Fabio Maria Lazzerini, general manager

di Emirates Italia and Lorenzo Lo Presti, ADR, Aeroporti di Roma Chief Executive Officer. “We work hard to consistently deliver the best travel experience to our customers, and the new lounge in Rome is a testament to our commitment. This is the largest dedicated lounge at the airport in Rome, and is in a new design that reflects the modern style of the Emirates lounges at Dubai’s Concourse A,” said Mohammed H. Mattar, Emirates’ divisional senior vice vresident, Airport Services. “Our history in Italy started in Rome when we first established our presence in 1992, and it is the only city in Italy where we fly our iconic A380 aircraft. We have seen passenger numbers grow steadily in the last five years. The need for an Emirates lounge has never been greater. It

underpins our ongoing investment in Italy, and from our chauffeur driven service to the tranquil luxury onboard, we provide our customers with a seamless Emirates experience they

are accustomed to,” Mattar added.” Emirates customers to and from Rome grew by over 110 per cent in 2013 from 2009 figures. The airline remains one of the most committed

enterprises in Italy, with the UAE being Italy’s first trading partner in the Middle East. According to the ITE (Italian Trade Agency), exports from Italy to the United Arab Emirates in 2012

exceeded €5.5 billion. In addition to the two Emirates daily flights, the airline’s commitment to Rome continues with the BNL Internazionali d’Italia sponsorship.

Murtala Mohammed Airport, Lagos rated best emerging airport in African Region By Ibe Uwaleke EDERAL Government’s Fthetransformation agenda in aviation sector, particularly the remodeling and expansion of Nigerian airports introduced by the immediate past minister of aviation, Princess Stella Oduah, received a tremendous boost recenly in far away Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, when the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Ikeja, Lagos was singled out and given an excellent award as the 2014 best emerging airport in Africa Region. The ceremony took place at the Fourth Annual Emerging Airports Conference and Exhibition which held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Managing director of Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Saleh Dunoma, an engineer, who led the Nigerian team to the event, received the presti-

gious award which took place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. Organisers of the conference who cited the revolutionary turn-around of the airports in Nigeria as amongst the reasons for the award, also applauded the Aerotropolis and the fresh and perishable cargo projects at two Nigerian airports, as clear indicators of an emerging giant. A statement issued from the conference floor in Abu Dhabi by the group spokesperson of aviation parastatals, Yakubu Dati, said the award ceremony also featured conferences and exhibitions which attracted over 15 airport directors, Civil Aviation Authorities (CAA’s), airport companies from the emerging markets in Africa, Asia and Middle East. Dunoma who presented a paper at the on-going conference according to Dati, showcased the investment potentials and business opportuni-

ties in the Nigerian aviation industry. Others who attended the event included: Mozambique Airports, Tanzania Airports Company, Ghana Airports Company, Kilimanjaro Airports Company (as delegate), Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, Bahrain Airports Company, GMR Airports and GVK Airports from India. The rest were: Abu Dhabi Airports Company, Dube Ports – South Africa, Jordan

Airports Company (delegate), Egyptian Airports Company (delegate), ADPI – the airport design company, Hill International, TAV Airports Holdings (Turkey) and over 45 exhibitors representing airport suppliers, investors, contractors, equipment manufacturers, suppliers and others involved in ground handling, airport operations, airport ATC / ATM, airport maintenance and ancillary service providers.

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FridayWorship By Afis A. Oladosu In the name of the Almighty, the Beneficent the Merciful “The Messenger believes in the Guidance revealed to him from his Lord and so do the Believers. They all believe in the Almighty, His angels, His books and His Messengers. They say: “We do not discriminate against anyone of His Messengers.” And they say: “We hear and we obey. Grant us your forgiveness, O Lord; to You we shall all return”. (Q2: 285) ODAY’s sermon is not meant for T you but for us. But in dedicating the sermon to our Christian compatriots who are marking the Easter Friday today, we are equally drawn into a dialogic encounter with aspects of the Christian faith from which creedal postures in Islam take shape and derive strength. In other words, today’s sermon ponders the enigma, named Isa (Jesus Christ) – upon him be peace. In pondering his personality, we have an opportunity to review commonalities between Islam and Christianity. In ‘looking’ at the figure of Jesus Christ, we have the opportunity to look at our world through a new window, a window which brings humanity face to face with the Truth; the Truth which is, and has remained one and indivisible since the beginning of the world and so shall it be till the end of life. In other words, brethren, the persona of Prophet Isa calls attention to our world- a world in which that which is right could be multifarious. Any mention of Jesus Christ, therefore, functions as a solemn reminder to humanity that our world is designed

“Surely, the religion with Allah is ISLAM,complete submission”... Qur’an 3:19

Reflections on Maryam, Jesus Christ and the Easter (1) by the Almighty as a conundrum or a jigsaw puzzle. The more of the world you know, the more ignorant you become. Without divine intervention, in the absence of His direction and instruction, through His books, Prophets and messengers humanity would have had to wallow in the abyss of ignorance. Imagine a situation where no answers are available in the revealed books on the beginning and ending of the world, scientists would have become gods; atoms would have occupied the cathedrals as objects of worship and adoration. Brethren, in the absence of the Glorious Quran, the question ‘who is Prophet Isa?’ would have remained unanswered till today. But dear brethren, it was beyond him. It was not his choice – that he is probably the only personality in the ‘house of God’ in whose birth, life and death much controversies and polemics exist. It was not his choice that he was born by a woman whose personality was equally a matter of controversy. In other words, Prophet Isa’s mother was born to the family of a chaste woman and a righteous man by name Prophet Imran (a.s). Both husband and wife had desired the fruit of the womb. They had toiled and labored so that the wife could become a mother. I remember that sister too. She has been married now

since a couple of years ago. She is still waiting. Imran’s wife had to wait too. She had to wait because Prophet Ibrahim’s wife (a.s) equally had to wait. But keep this in mind. Throughout the ‘waiting period’, the wife of Prophet Imran never despaired in the mercy of the Almighty. She knew that when the Almighty enters into a covenant with the righteous, He is faithful and bonded by His words. She knew that one measure of the treasure of faith is the extent to which we are ready to outstay the challenges which faith is putting us through. She knew the Almighty stands not in need of a child; she knew He has not yet said ‘be’ to the ‘union’ not because He is callously unwilling – fal iyadhbillah - but because He has a better plan for her, for him, for them. Would you wait for your Lord? Would you stand by and beside your creator? Would you wait for His plans for you? Would you be patient? Eventually, she became pregnant. The wife of Prophet Imran (a.s) became pregnant. It happened with ease; it was like a play. Suddenly hope rose once again. Faith became strengthened by the power of faith. The wife of Prophet Imran reaped the fruit of standing by the Almighty. Thus she teaches this to me – those who stand by the Almighty are never let down in time of adversity.

Pushed more by faith and strengthened more by commitment she immediately made a vow: “I dedicate to you whatever is in my womb please accept it from me, You alone hear and knows all”. In other words, long before the fetus became a child, the bearer of the womb had delivered her to her Creator. She had vowed to put the unborn child into the service of the Almighty in the monastery. The wife of Prophet Imran, cared less about what was in her womb; she cared more about what would become of it. Invariably she put to bed. She said, as if she was telling her creator: “I have brought forth a female child” (Q3: 36). She probably expected a male; the Almighty gave her a female. She was given a female child because it is only the latter who could bear the burden of bringing a great man to the world. This is probably what the Almighty alludes to when He says: the Almighty knew very well what she had delivered” (Q3: 36). In other words, the wife of Prophet Imran wanted an heir, someone who would carry on and carry through the divine ordinance, the Almighty chose for her an ‘heir’ who was destined to bring forth to the world a wonder. Thus the moment the cord, which binds the womb to the fetus was separated, she named the new

child Maryam. She said: “I have named her Maryam and I seek Your protection for her and her children from the mischief of Satan, the accursed.” (Q3:36) Brethren, Maryam’s sojourn in the monastery is marked by series of miracles which the Quran recalls with delight. Those miracles occurred as precursors to the fulfillment of her divine mission in life and on earth. For example, each time Prophet Zakarya enters the monastery with the intention to give her (Maryam) food, he finds in her presence enough meal to satiate her hunger. Each time he asks her “where did you get this?,” Maryam would respond: “It is from the Almighty; He provides sustenance to whoever He wills without measure.” Having lived all her life in the sacred precinct of the monastery, Maryam became an exemplar in chastity and integrity. She was kept away from the social corruption and debauchery that were prevalent in the dissolute community in which she was born. She preserved her chastity at a time moral depravity was the order of the day. Ultimately and miraculously, the virgin girl, Maryam, became pregnant after she received the ‘word’ from the Almighty. She received the same ‘word’ whose power and potency led to the creation of Prophet Adam out of nothing. She received the same word which led to the creation of Hawa (Eve) out of Prophet Adam (a.s). She received the same word which, by the will of the Almighty, has been leading to conception and population of the world by humans each time the male and female copulate. TO BE CONTINUED (08122465111 for texts only) Oladosu A. Afis Ph.D

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MarketReport EQUITY MARKET SUMMARY

AS AT 17-04-2014

PRIMERA AFRICA www.primera-africa.com

Friday, April 18, 2014 MARKET REPORT

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MARKET INDICATORS

AS AT 17-04-2014

PRIMERA AFRICA

NSE’s All-Share Index records marginal growth ahead Easter break By Bukky Olajide HE equities market closed T yesterday on a positive note, as Nigerian Stock Exchange All Share[NSE] Index [ASI] appreciated by 0.07 percent to close at 39,325.98 basis points, compared with the appreciation of 0.21 per cent recorded previously. Its Year-to-Date (YTD) returns currently stands at -4.85 percent. Lafarge Wapco recorded the highest price gain, leading the gainers’ chart with N4.01 to close at N110.01 per share. Stanbic IBTC grew by N1.01 to close at N21.36, while Mobil garnered N1 to close at N123 per share. CAP improved by 40k to close at N40, while Access Bank gainer 39kobo to close at N8.26 per share. However, the market capitalisation stood at N12.932 trillion, compared with the N12.937 trillion achieved on Wednesday. On the other hand, Nestle led the laggards’ with N35.10, to close at N1,149 per share. It was trailed by Okomu Oil

Palm with a loss of N3.88 to close at N36.02, while Mrs Oil fell by N2.72 to close at N51.72 per share. GT Bank depreciation by 21kobo to close at N27.20, while National Salt Company of Nigeria lost 16kobo to close at N11.55 per share. NAN also reports that investors’ bought and sold 788.93 billion shares valued at N5.69 billion transacted in 4,385 deals, an increase of 185.08 per cent. This contrasts with the 276.74 million shares worth N3.60 billion achieved in 4,859 deals. UBA drove the activity chart for the day with an exchange of 562.27 million shares worth N3.88 billion. UBA Capital followed with 72.49 million shares valued at N189.09 million, while FBN Holdings traded 21.84 million shares worth N267.16 million. Transcorp followed with a total of 16.54 million shares valued at N63.52 million, Zenith sold 12.72 million worth N280.18 million.

Political calendar works against investors • S&P 500 hits record loss LREADY hit by concerns A that valuations are too high just as the Federal Reserve withdraws stimulus, the equity market is entering what has historically been the worst period of the presidential cycle, the stretch before midterm elections. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index has lost 2.5 per cent and 0.3 per cent on average in the second and third quarters of years like this one, according to data compiled by S&P Capital IQ and Bloomberg. Stocks in the benchmark gauge are about one per centage point away from matching such a loss after posting the biggest weekly slide since 2012. While the pattern may be coincidental, it makes sense to Malcolm Polley of Stewart Capital Advisors LLC, who says uncertainty comes to a head as the president’s policies are debated. It’s being exacerbated in 2014 after winter weather made it impossible to tell whether gross domestic product is stagnating and investors speculated how soon Fed policy makers will tighten, he said. “The economic picture is cloudy, the interest rate picture is cloudy, the valuation picture is cloudy,” Polley, who helps oversee $1.2 billion as president and chief investment officer of Stewart Capital in Indiana, Pennsylvania, said in an April 7 telephone interview. “Couple that with what I call the political silly season. You’ve really got a recipe for a difficult market.” Stocks have fallen more often before midterm elections. In the average year, the S&P 500 has declined in the second and third quarter 38 per cent of the time. That compares with about 60 per cent of the time in a midterm year, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Since the end of World War II, the president’s party has given up seats in the House in almost 90 per cent of midterm votes.

The S&P 500 rose 0.6 per cent to 1,853.47 at 10:21 a.m. in New York. The last time a reelected president faced midterm elections was in 2006, when President George W. Bush was in office. The S&P 500 retreated as much as 7.7 per cent in the second quarter before Democrats swept control of the House and Senate. Investors shun equities in the months before elections as they wait for clarity on the direction of U.S. policy, Sam Stovall, chief equity strategist at S&P in New York, said by phone on March 31. House Republicans have unveiled plans to repeal President Barack Obama’s health-care law and balance the federal budget in 10 years, while the president is working on legislation to eliminate salary disparities between men and women. “The market in general can deal with good news, it can deal with bad news, but it doesn’t do well with uncertainty,” Drew Nordlicht, managing director and partner at HighTower Advisors LLC in San Diego, said in an April 3 phone interview. The firm oversees $22 billion. “Midterm elections usually breathe in an element of uncertainty.” In 2010, when Obama’s tax policy and overhauls on health-care and financial system drew criticism as antibusiness, the S&P 500 tumbled as much as 16 per cent from April through July. Democrats later lost their House majority. During Bill Clinton’s second term in 1998, the S&P 500 declined 7.7 per cent over the six months through September as Republicans called for an impeachment inquiry on the president. Voters rejected the focus on Clinton’s affair with former White House intern Monica Lewinsky, giving Democrats a surprise win.

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Sports DStv BB: Dodan Warriors’ promise to bounce back, as Islanders confront Union Bank

Ahead Brazil 2014 World Cup

Argentina fans buy 29,000 match tickets for Nigeria game From Ezeocha Nzeh, Abuja ECAUSE they believe the B Group F match between their country and Nigeria could be very crucial in their bid to make the round of 16 of the Brazil 2014 FIFA World Cup, Argentina fans have already began moves to ensure that their national team received enormous support to ensure they beat the Super Eagles in the game. The fans have so far bought over 29,000 tickets for the Nigeria versus Argentina match scheduled for June 25 in Porto Alegre. Nigerian ambassador to Brazil, Adamu Emozozo, who was at the National Sports Commission (NSC) to brief the Minister of Sports, Tamuno Danagogo, on the measures taken by the embassy to ensure that Nigeria makes a good outing in Brazil, disclosed that the country’s mission has concluded arrangements to ensure that the Nigerian contingent is given a warm reception at the Mundial Coupe. He urged Nigerians to buy match tickets, especially for the game against Argentina and assured that the host country’s fans would also support the Super Eagles against Argentina, who they see as

By Adeyinka Adedipe ODAN Warriors Basketball D Club have promised to bounce back from their sur-

their arch rivals in football. Emozozo also disclosed that he has been in constant touch with the secretary of Curitiba, who, he revealed, has assured him of the city’s maximum support for the Nigerian team, adding that the Super Eagles are also seen in Brazil as one of the tough teams that could pose a threat to Brazil’s aim of winning the trophy at home. “Nigeria needs maximum support in the World Cup, this is where the efforts of the supporters club are needed. We need fans to cheer our team to victory. “As we speak, the fans of Argentina have bought over 29,000 tickets of the Nigeria versus Argentina match. What this means is that the Argentines will receive full support from their fans in the match against Nigeria. But that does not mean that the Eagles will not match the Argentines support for support. It is an obvious fact that the Nigeria’s Sani Kaita (right) tussles with Argentina’s Lionel Messi when the teams met in their opening game of Argentines are seen as football the South Africa 2010 World Cup. The teams will meet again in a Brazil 2014 World Cup group game in Porto Alegre. PHOTO: AFP. archrivals.” Earlier, the Sports Minister had promised the leadership of the Nigeria Football Supporters Club, led by its president, Rafiu • NCF Introduces National Secondary Schools Cricket Championship Oladipo, of the Commission’s From Ezeocha Nzeh, Abuja readiness to work with them to HE Nigeria Cricket State, Government Secondary failure on the ages of the playensure that the Super Eagles Federation (NCF) has invit- School Owerri, Imo State, ers, as well as the poor traindid not lack support during the ed 10 secondary schools to the Enitona High School, Port ing facilities in Nigeria, World Cup. 18th edition of the HOWZAT Harcourt, Rivers State, Adeniyi added: “We have National Cricket Junior Super Government College, decided to introduce the League, which is billed to hold Umuahia, Abia State and National Secondary Schools Championship at the Umuahia Township Government College, Afikpo, Cricket train and get himself familiar because we have realized that Stadium this weekend. Ebonyi State. with the race track. Tagged the Philip Asiodu Briefing the media at the end there is urgent need to replace “I’m here to train ahead of the Cup, the NCF said yesterday in of its board meeting yester- the ageing members of the May 3 race. I came all the way Abuja that the cricket league day in Abuja, chairman of the national cricket team. from Kano. Right now, I am “These players have played would be used to test run its NCF Media Committee, training in the morning and proposed National Secondary Kayode Adeniyi, said the for the national team for so evening to get myself ready for Schools Cricket League, which board’s decision to com- many years and their performthe race. I will stay for a week, it aims to introduce in August. mence without delay the sec- ances in Malaysia proved to us then travel back to prepare for The invited schools include ondary school cricket was as a that we need to begin an the D-day. Ansar-Ud-Deen Grammar result of the national cricket urgent search for their “As you can see right now, we School, Lagos, team’s failure to secure the replacements. With the secare six from Kano, a friend Comprehensive High School, World Cricket League ondary schools champifrom Ethiopia is also training Ayetoro, Ogun State, Oke Ado Division Four ticket at the last onships, we can pick players ahead of the race. One thing who would be groomed into High School, Ibadan, Oyo playoff in Malaysia. we all must understand is State, AAU Secondary School, Saying the board blames the future champions for Nigeria that, the money involved can Ekpoma Edo State, Federal turn my life around, so we are Government College, Warri, coming for business not for Delta State, Bishop Crowder jamboree,” Usman said. Seminary, Awka Anambra

10 schools battle for 18th Philip Asiodu Cricket Cup in Umuahia

African athletes converge in Okpekpe for training THLETES from some African A countries and Nigeria are currently in the mountainous community of Okpekpe for training ahead of the second edition of Okpekpe Road Race. Five thousand athletes, across the world, have already registered for the 10-kilometre race billed for May 3. Some of the athletes were seen yesterday training ahead of the event in the hilly town. An athlete, who simply gave his name as Usman from Kano State, said he missed the first edition of Okpekpe Road Race, hence he decided to spend a week in the community to

Pepsi Academy remains positive despite defeat by Eaglets

Abraka Turf Easter Polo gallops off with funfair HIS year’s edition of the include the team from ing, the high profile polo fiesT yearly Abraka International Cowdray Park and Ham Polo ta, promises to live up to the Polo tournament will gallop Clubs in the UK. billings at the biggest polo off today at the Abraka Turf and Country Club in Delta State. The competition has been a regular feature since the private country club opened for business to clientele that includes families, vacation seekers, campers, as well as corporate groups. Already, there is excitement in the air as defending champions, Ashbert Raiders, are looking forward to conquering all oppositions that

prise loss to Nigeria Customs last weekend, as they battle Police Baton in one of the week seven games in the Atlantic Conference of the DStv Premier Basketball League. Proprietor of the team, Sam Ahmedu, told The Guardian that his players would bounce back from the defeat and continue their search for a Final Eight ticket. He stated that surprises were part of the games and assured that his young players would soon get use to the rigours of the league. He noted that his team would work assiduously to secure victory against Police Baton. Atlantic Conference leaders, Islanders will take on Union Bank in a must-watch game at the Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Lagos. Though Islanders are the away team, they have, however, become unbeatable at the venue, after losing just one game away, to amass five victories in six games. Union Bank has three victories from six games and the Stallion Boys (Union Bank) are in desperate need of points to ensure they make it to the Final Eight. Nigeria Customs will host Oluyole Warriors in another encounter that promises to be interesting. Oluyole Warriors are second on the log with four wins in six games and a win over Customs would do their Final Eight ambition a lot of good. Royal Hoopers, still bottom of the league despite their winning their second game last weekend, will travel to Ilorin to confront Kwara Falcons. In the Savannah Conference, defending championship, Kano Pillars, will be at home to Kada Stars, Bauchi Nets will host Mark Mentors of Abuja, Nigeria Immigration takes Plateau Peaks, while Gombe Bulls battle Niger Potters.

Two others teams from the home front are also going to be part of the rush for the much coveted Patron’s Trophy and other mouthwatering prizes. Tournament co-ordinator, Adaeze Igwe, during the week confirmed the presence of some top foreign players who are going to add value to this year’s edition. With traditional rivals like Ashbert Raiders, Aqua Dulcis and Ashton Wells participat-

event this Easter holiday. The presence of world-class professionals is already making polo aficionados to begin to salivate at the prospect of yet another Abraka high goal extravaganza. Regulars and debuting players from Lagos, Port Harcourt, Abuja and Kaduna will be matching talents and wits in what promises to be a weekend of intense, invigorating polo at the highest level. The tournament will climax on Easter Sunday with the final game.

FFICIALS of Pepsi Football O Academy have expressed happiness with the players despite a heavy defeat suffered in a friendly match with Nigeria’s U-17 national side, the Golden Eaglets. The Pepsi Academy boys lost 9-0 in the match played at the Agege Stadium, Lagos on Tuesday. Speaking after the match, Technical Officer, Pepsi Football Academy, Adewale Laloko, said the match was an exposure for the boys to play a tough and tactical team like the Golden Eaglets who are preparing for a major regional competition in Togo. “The game has helped us to assess

the response of our boys to training and instructions”, he said. Laloko also explained that only players from Agege Centre out of 14 centres across Nigeria were used to prosecute the match, as there was not enough time to pick and assemble the best players from different centres across the country. Marketing Manager, Key Accounts, Seven-Up Bottling Company, Patricia OrdiaIletogun, said Pepsi would not relent in supporting initiatives either in music, sports or education that would bring out the best in Nigerian youths.

Also speaking, Coach of the Golden Eaglets, Emmanuel Amunike, said the team is making steady progress, but added that there is a still lot to do to get a world-class team. “All what we can do as a team is to continue to encourage ourselves and God’s willing, we will put smiles on the faces of Nigerians when the time comes,” Amunike said. Established in 1992, the Pepsi Football Academy has discovered and nurtured young Nigerian football talents to stardom. John Mikel Obi, Osaze Odemwingie, Elderson Echiejile are some of the stars that have been nurtured in the academy.

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Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

By Wale Ewedemi UCH has been said about the rebasing of M Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which placed Nigeria as Africa’s largest economy. Firstly, let me clear the air by saying that the rebasing was not expected to directly amount to more money for the average Nigerian. The rebasing was done to attract more foreign direct investment to develop the local industries, that would eventually add value to the people through direct and indirect jobs. With this you might choose not to celebrate the resulting rise in GDP, but don’t condemn it because it is not felt on the streets of Makurdi and Nnewi. To feel it, you would have to position yourself to take advantage of the direct investment if you are not already in position. In effect, beyond providing a basis for methodological collection, treatment and dissemination of data, and highlighting areas of strength and weaknesses for policy makers to look at, the rebasing has nothing to do with the man on the street. Chief Economist (Africa Region) of the World Bank, Francisco Ferreira said the rebased nominal GDP, which saw estimates for 2013 hitting $509.9 billion from $285.56 billion, had exposed sectors where Nigeria’s economy was recording dynamic growth, and therefore would be areas of attraction for investment inflows. Ferreira also said besides attracting investment into highly performing sectors, areas that have not been witnessing astronomical growth in recent years will also draw investors’ attention. The rebasing has done some good, it has brought out areas in our economy that has great potential especially in the knowledge based Creative Economy, like motion picture, sound recording and music production which accounts for 1.42 per cent of GDP. The standout sectors are the Motion Pictures, Sound Recordings and Music Production (Media & Entertainment) with a re-based value of: 0.88 per cent (2010), 1.01 per cent (2011), 1.20 per cent (2012) and 1.42 per cent (2013). The 2013 Nominal GDP growth rate figures for the Media & Entertainment is 33.49 per cent and Publishing is 14.06 per cent. According to the NBS, data/baseline estimates for this computation was gotten from (Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN), Music Label Owners and Recording Industries Association of Nigeria (MORAN), Nigerian Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON) and administrative data from NEXIM bank. This is based on revenue generated/total sales from the number of movies and sound recordings produced. This also includes revenue generated from TV rights, royalties and fees. It is important to note that Nollywood as well as most of the creative industries were outside our GDP in the past. “So how do you now help them if you don’t know their size or how they are growing? The information for the creative industries will help us very much because they are growing and creating jobs. From almost 0.0 per cent, they are now 1.2 per cent of GDP, which is significant,” says Statistician General of the Federation, Dr. Yemi Kale. So, now that it is confirmed that the Creative Industry is actually adding to GDP what next? Governments number one focus should be copyright enforcement and intensification of the reform of the Nigerian Copyright System; The Nigerian Creative Industry is at present threatened by the high rate of copyright piracy. Although Nigeria has what may be considered a good copyright law and the Nigerian Copyright Commission has launched many commendable programmes, enforcement of existing legislation remains a major problem. Why? Can Nigeria afford protection to artists, musicians and film makers and at the same time preserve the country’s public domain? To effectively protect creative works generated by the entertainment industry, the government must address the widely held belief that intellectual

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Nigeria’s creative industry and GDP rebasing

Minister of Finance, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala property protection is a Western concept irrelevant in Africa. “The government must seriously address the numerous factors that undermine effective enforcement of IP laws in the country including lack of coordination among the responsible agencies, lack of accountability, and lack of resources. However, for enforcement to make sense and be effective, the underlying law must be appropriate, balanced, understood by the general public, and a product of broad-based

debate and participation,” says Prof. Uche Ewelukwa Ofodile, Professor of Law, University of Arkansas School of Law. Secondly, I join the call for the government to consider the establishment of the Film Development Fund, provision of sector specific investment/tax incentives, especially towards the establishment of cinemas, to address the issue of low cinema screen density; as well as fund private sector initiatives to enhance human capital development in the

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Editor: MARTINS

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ABC (ISSN NO 0189-5125)

The creative economy is based on a new way of thinking and doing. The primary inputs are our individual talent or skill. These inputs may be familiar or novel; what is more important is that our creativity transforms them in novel ways. In some sectors, the output value depends on their uniqueness; in others, on how easily it can be copied and sold to large numbers of people industry. Also of note is that the Nigerian Creative industry is wider than just film, music and publishing. Other creative industry subsectors include fashion, broadcasting, advertising, comedy, gastronomy, make-up artsiste, arts and crafts, dancers, software engineers, etc. The creative industry comprises industries that use their brain, talent or skill as the primary raw material for their goods and services. This is a call for the Federal Government to consider a renewed focus on the creative industry. The creative economy is revitalising manufacturing, service, retailing and entertainment industries. It is changing where people want to shop, live, work and learn – where they think, invent and produce. The creative economy is based on a new way of thinking and doing. The primary inputs are our individual talent or skill. These inputs may be familiar or novel; what is more important is that our creativity transforms them in novel ways. In some sectors, the output value depends on their uniqueness; in others, on how easily it can be copied and sold to large numbers of people. In the last four years of running the Creative Entrepreneurs Association of Nigeria, we have continually mentored and trained entrepreneurs in the creative industry, helping them to reach for greater heights and accomplish their dreams. The truth is entrepreneurship is not like Agege Bread, that’s soft and easily conquered. It takes dedication, focus and commitment. A lot of young Nigerians are trying their hands on entrepreneurship and the success rate is very low especially in the creative industry. What can the government do to focus its light on the creative minds of young Nigerians, hoping to find the Next Konga, Jobberman or Linda Ikeji. Please, note that creative businesses can start very small in your garage or BQ, and scale up very fast unike other industries that need huge capital to start. President Goodluck Jonathan should show his commitment to the developing a non-oil sector, Nigerian creative industry by having a ministerial portfolio dedicated to the creatives – Ministry of Creative Industry. He should remove them from culture, from youth, from communications. Let’s take this industry serioulsy. Nollywood, fashion industry, music industry, comedy, software industries and Nigerian music industries are developing the hard way without governemnt support yet they are contributing to development and improving at between 13 to 34 per cent yearly, imagine what will happen with governemnt focus. UK Prime Minister, David Cameron recently created the position of Minister for Culture, Communications and Creative Industries. St Lucia has a Minister for Tourism, Heritage and the Creative Industries. April 2, 2014, Haiti also created the Ministry of Culture and Creative Industries with a secretary of state for the creative industries. Even Ghana is moving with the times and last year created the Ministry for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts. If we are the largest economy in Africa, and the second largest film industry in Nigeria. What are we waiting for? • Ewedemi is the Director General, Creative Entrepreneurs Association of Nigeria. Info@creative-nigeria.org www.creative-nigeria.org