Fri 14 Feb 2014

TheGuardian Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Friday, February 14, 2014

Vol. 30, No. 12,832

www.ngrguardiannews.com

N150

President Goodluck Jonathan (middle), Vice President Namadi Sambo (fifth left) and members of the Federal Government delegation to 2013 Holy Pilgrimage to Israel during the submission of the delegates’ report at the State House, Abuja... yesterday.

Why we couldn’t withdraw subsidy on kerosene, by Alison-Madueke From Azimazi Momoh Jimoh and Bridget Chiedu Onochie, Abuja MAJOR reason the Ministry A of Petroleum Resources could not implement the Federal Government’s order to remove subsidy from kerosene was to avoid inflicting hardship on the citizens.

This was the position of Petroleum Minister, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke yesterday, as she briefed the Ahmed Makarfi-led Senate committee investigating the alleged non-remittance of crude oil funds to the government.

At the meeting, the Senate panel advised that immediate steps be taken to make budgetary provisions for payment for subsidy on kerosene.

This followed a disclosure by Alison-Madueke that the subsidy on kerosene was part of the items on which the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) spent $10.8 billion.

Alison-Madueke

• Senate panel seeks proper budget for subsidy on product • Attorney-general to give legal opinion on $6b NNPC/NPDC deal • Okonjo-Iweala says govt transparent, seeks independent audit explained that Nigerians would have been subjected to serious hardship if the government had withdrawn subsidy on kerosene as contained in the presidential directive of 2009.

According to her, the decision to stay action on subsidy withdrawal stemmed from the consideration that the government exists only for the welfare of its citizens.

She stressed that had government gone ahead to execute the presidential directive, the price of kerosene would have tripled and gone far beyond the reach of the common man.

The late President Musa

Yar’Adua had in 2009 directed that subsidy on kerosene be withdrawn. The petroleum minister informed the committee and an inter-ministerial committee later reviewed this development and resolved to stay action on it in the interest of the masses.

She further explained that the presidential directive for the withdrawal of subsidy on kerosene was not gazetted, a situation she noted, contributed to the staying of action.

“Let me just make a few points based on what is raised. First of all, I was not in office in 2009, neither was I the minister who felt that ac-

tion should be stayed at that time.

“I simply gave you what I thought would be their reason based on what has happened since then. But I would hasten to add that when a presidential order is given, either to remove subsidy or to impose, etc, it is not law until it has been gazetted. There is no gazette to that effect. At least, we have not found one”, she said.

Justifying NNPC’s expenditure on kerosene subsidy, Alison-Madueke said: “I also want to point out that between 2009 and 2010, there was actually a major confusion among marketers as to

subsidy or no subsidy for kerosene and marketers were not coming forward to take … in terms of kerosene importation which was when NNPC had to step up to the issue.”

Besides, NNPC explained yesterday that the alleged non-remittance of $10.87 billion was due to government’s failure to pay for subsidy on petrol and kerosene.

The Group Managing Director, NNPC, Andrew Yakubu, said: “This distinguished committee is invited to note that since January 2012, NNPC has not received any subsidy payments for petroleum products supplied to the domestic market.

“You may also recall that N888.101 billion and N971.138 billion appropriated for subsidy for years, 2012 and 2013 respectively, was grossly inadequate to meet the required subsidy payment to

Jonathan gives Super Eagles N31.5m – Page 2

both NNPC and other marketers.

“In spite of non-payment of subsidy, NNPC continued to sustain petroleum products supply, even when other marketers refused to participate.

This development led to the accumulation of $8.76 billion as unpaid subsidy due to NNPC for petroleum product supplied during the period under review.

“This amount comprised $5.25 billion for PMS and $3.51 billion for DPK and has been reconciled and signed off by statutory agencies, including PPPRA, DPR and NNPC.” Yakubu also disclosed that the $10.8 billion was spent on items comprising unpaid petroleum products subsidy totalling $8.76 billion; crude oil and products losses amounting to $0.76 billion; national strategic reserve holding cost amounting to $0.46 billion as well as pipeline maintenance and management cost amounting to $0.91 billion.

According to him, the CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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Friday, February 14, 2014

Reps okay second reading of budget amid row From Terhemba Daka, Abuja HE House of RepresentaT tives yesterday finally approved the contentious 2014 Appropriation Bill for second reading.

The bill was consequently referred to the committees of finance and appropriations for further action.

However, the Chairman of the Committee on House Services, Yakubu Dogara (APCBauchi), kicked against the N7 billion proposal for the national conference, which he described to be a “waste.”

Do gara, while citing similar proposals in the 2013 budget estimate, with N8 billion allocations for the building of African First Ladies secretariat in Abuja which the National Assembly rejected, called for the review of the proposal during the consideration.

In the same vein, Mohammed Monguno (APC-Borno), who is the chairman committee on agriculture kicked against the reduction of the sector’s allocation from the 2013 budgetary allocation.

He said the reduction of

about N20 billion from last year’s N80 billion, against this year’s N60 billion, left the sector trailing other countries on the recommended 10 per cent charter signed by most African countries, including Nigeria.

After an exhaustive debate on the budget, Speaker Aminu Tambuwal ruled in favour of the unanimous resolution that the budget be considered for the second reading.

The Chairman, House Committee on Federal Capital Ter-

ritory (FCT), Emmanuel Jime (APC), had on the budget’s first allotted day, kicked against its lack of details, especially from some of the government agencies.

The lawmaker had insisted that the proposal as present-

ed to the National Assembly was in breach of Section 21 (1) (2) and (3) of the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007.

His objection forced the House last week to defer consideration of the budget for Tuesday this week when a

committee mandated to look at the legal implications of the proposals laid its report and admitted that the budget was in breach, but it must be considered in the national interest.

I quit federal cabinet for guber race, says Orubebe From Abosede Musari (Abuja) and Ibidokun Olubukola (Lagos) HE immediate past MinisT ter of Niger Delta Affairs, Godsday Orubebe, yesterday declared that he was not sacked by President Goodluck Jonathan but resigned to go into gubernatorial politics.

He spoke while handing over the affairs of the ministry to Minister of State, Darius Ishaku.

At the valedictory meeting held in his honour, Orubebe said: “I wasn’t sacked. I wasn’t dropped. I put in my letter of resignation because I want to go and play politics in anoth-

• Professionals want Duke as COS er dimension at the state and federal level.

“You cannot make an omelet without breaking the egg.

Orubebe cannot become governor of Delta State without leaving the Ministry of Niger Delta.”

And as lobbyists continue to besiege Jonathan suggesting various individuals to replace former Chief of Staff to the President, Mr. Mike Oghiadomhe, a socio-cultural pressure group, South-South Professionals, has urged him to appoint former governor of Cross River State, Mr. Donald Duke, whom they described as the ‘right man for

the job.’

In a statement issued in Lagos yesterday and signed by its president, Fynface Wariboko and Ngalari Peters, the group said: “If there is anyone on whose head the cap of the Chief of Staff rightly fits at this moment in our polity, the President should waste no time in appointing Donald Duke as his right hand man.

“If the President is looking for a man with character, diplomacy, candour and a bridge builder, who will be fair to all, decisive and above all gifted with ideas, then he has to look back at Duke’s proCONTINUED ON PAGE 4

Jonathan

Senate panel seeks proper budget for subsidy on kerosene CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 amount has been fully reconciled and signed off with all relevant stakeholders.

But the Central Bank Governor, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, expressed disappointment over the failure of the NNPC and other related agencies to provide him with documents needed to verify the corporation’s position on the alleged missing funds.

He, however, informed the committee that since the PPPRA had the authority to procure all relevant information on the subject matter, he would have no choice than to believe in its verification and submission to the committee.

Sanusi’s declaration resulted from an interrogation by Makarfi regarding the submissions made by the management of PPPRA. He said: “I do not know how much oil has been produced from these wells. I do not know much crude has been taken. It is not a kind of central market. What is important is, if we agree with the finance minister, if we do establish that legally, a part of this

Jonathan gives Super Eagles N31.5m RESIDENT Goodluck P Jonathan yesterday rewarded home-based Super Eagles’ players and officials with N31.5 million for winning bronze in CHAN in South Africa.

should come to the Federation Account, then, it is a question now of some oil industry experts coming to audit properly, how much crude has been taken, how much has been sold, how much money has come in and how much ought to have come into the Federation Account.

“That is really beyond the responsibilities of CBN but in general, once it is accepted that this $20 billion has not been repatriated, for us, we have actually finished our own bit.

“PPRA says it is okay with the claims on kerosene. It is the agency that is legitimately authorised to certify claims on kerosene subsidy and it is saying that kerosene subsidy is okay, it is legal and it is allowed. That is the agency that has the responsibility but I do have a letter from PPRA in 2010 telling me that they do not pay kerosene subsidy based on a presidential directive.

“It is up to the committee to now decide whether that letter has been superseded by other directives and in fact, whether there has been appropriation for kerosene in the first place because the issue is, with or without directives, can NNPC pay subsidy on kerosene without appropriation? These are questions that are not very difficult to answer.”

But Makarfi advised the CBN boss against dabbling in areas in which he lacked legitimacy.

Makarfi said: “Forget about whether subsidy is budgeted for or not, that is for us, the legislature, to actually address.

“Do I take it that you are telling the committee that if

PPPRA that has certified about $8.5 billion as subsidy is comfortable and they think they have a legal basis to do so, you accept such because it is their responsibility to do so?

“This is one thing we want to put aside. Whether money is appropriated or not appropriated is a separate issue altogether.

“But what we are talking about, as you have said before that the legal authority that drives subsidy is PPPRA. As they have now brought us a certification of $8.9 billion, if that is their position irrespective of the opinion expressed by the ministry of finance, do you as CBN governor accept such a position?” Makarfi asked.

In his response, Sanusi said: “The PPPRA is the institution set up by government and it is entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that subsidy reduction is valid and legitimate.

“The executive secretary does that certification as his own responsibility and I have no reason to question him. However, if any information comes to us, say for example, if as we have seen some cases, we have some claims of vessels coming and we find that the vessels are not there, then that is a case for questioning but until something comes up, if PPRA signs up, it was its responsibility and if after that, there is any investigation that shows that they signed up wrongly, that is their responsibility because I cannot sit here and say that PPPRA signed up or not.”

Also yesterday, the committee summoned the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation, Bello Adoke, to appear within one week to give a legal opinion on whether or not the

Our error the caption of a photograph on page eight of The IofNGuardian yesterday, we wrongly referred to the Orodje Okpe, Orhue 1, Maj.-Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (rtd) as Maj.-Gen. Felix Emujakperuo.

The error is regretted.

NNPC was right over the claim that $6 billion did not belong to the Federation Account.

NNPC had informed the committee that part of the alleged missing funds was paid to the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC).

The committee equally condemned payments of kerosene subsidy without appropriation by the National Assembly. In a remark at the end of the investigative hearing that lasted several hours, Makarfi lamented that the whole world was watching the development, adding that it did not promote the country’s image that money should be spent without appropriation in a democracy.

His words: “The implications of spending money that is not appropriated is well known to everybody and the whole world is hearing this. I don’t want us to joke or play with this. It is the most central issue. All agencies that have spoken have confirmed to the whole world that this money was not appropriated and I want people to absorb the import of this confirmation.

“We will deliberate on how to deal with the past, how we will deal with the future is critically important and this is the best time to deal with the issue to avoid further contravention.”

Summarising various issues that had been established, Makarfi said: “We also heard from CBN that what they are questioning is part of the $10.8 billion. They believe that part of it should belong to the Federation Account but that they are not technically competent at this stage to state how much it is.

“We have agreed to see how we will engage technical experts to determine which part of the amount, if any, belongs to the Federation Account.

The question which is certain is that it is not all of it but part of it. But at this stage, we don’t know exactly. That is what is yet to be ascertained.

“We have also agreed and the

attorney-general had confirmed to us that he will be available next week Thursday to give the legal opinion on the NPDC issue. Those directly involved would be on ground.”

The Minister of Finance and Co-ordinating Minister for the Economy, Ngozi OkonjoIweala, told the committee that her ministry had taken necessary steps to promote good governance and transparency.

Responding to a question on the alleged inadequate attention paid to the investigation by the finance ministry, the minister totally disagreed and rather urged the lawmakers to make the required change.

She said: “On the statement by a member of the committee that the finances of the country are in a mess, I will like the distinguished senator to make a difference.

“The finances of the country that come into the budget have been managed very transparently to the point that the budget of the country is so detailed that people can tell how much is spent in the State House to buy forks and knives.

“Even if they don’t like it, they have the information and we should be proud of that as a country. There is no country from my experience of over 60 countries that has the details released by the budget office of this country.

“On the oil finances, what is being said here is made to look as if there is no accountability and that is not the case.

For two steady years, at the Federal Allocation Committee meeting, the Ministry of Finance ensured that the accounts of the country are transparently laid and every commissioner knows the details, they have their folders.

“It is as a result of the reconciliation that we arrived at $10.8 billion that everybody is now talking about. When CBN spoke about $49.8 billion, we are the first to say it’s not correct. After that, it was proved

that $49.8 billion was not the right amount, and the CBN had the courage to admit that it was actually $10.8 billion.

“It was the process employed by the Ministry of Finance that brought that about.

Without the steady work we have done to perfect the finances of this country, we won’t be talking about $10.8 billion.

“The issue is that where is that money? How is it being accounted for? And we have led the process. We asked both the NNPC and the PPPRA to produce their documents and they have produced certified copies for the $10.8 billion and we have asked for an independent audit.

“A lot of accusations are being made in this country and the only way to be satisfied is to have an independent audit.”

On the established facts by the committee, Makarfi continued: “The CBN said on the NNPC transaction that it was not in a position to know the exact amount that should be lodged in the Federation Account. We have agreed that that will be sorted out on technical grounds.

“Today is a fruitful day. We have narrowed down what the issues are, but that is not to say that we have come into conclusion on all issues.

“The major issue laid to rest substantially is the issue on the subsidy on petrol which is $5.254 billion because the PPPRA has certified it even though to further reassure Nigerians, the Ministry of Finance has undertaken to independently have it forensically examined.

“We have also received certification for kerosene subsidy but the key issue is the appropriation for it and we have all agreed here that no appropriation has been made for it.

“You should put heads together with the President on how to go about it and return to the National Assembly as soon as possible. We are concerned about the future.”

Friday, February 14, 2014 | 3

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News Eight feared dead in Edo auto crash

Boko Haram kills 10 soldiers in Adamawa

From Alemma-Ozioruva Aliu, Benin City

From Emmanuel Ande, Yola

HE Federal Roads Safety Commission (FRSC) yesterday confirmed the death of eight persons in a road accident at the Ugbogue axis of the Benin-Ore-Lagos expressway.

The FRSC Toll Gate Unit Commander, Adewale Ameen, who confirmed the accident to journalists said the crash involved an 18-seater bus marked CT 874 FST and a Mercedes Benz truck with registration number: MUS 570 SS, belonging to Lords Chosen Christian Movement.

Ameen attributed the cause of the accident to fatigue on the part of the bus driver who was said to have rammed into the stationery truck while driving from Lagos to Benin.

“Although the bus driver survived, eight passengers died in the bus,” he said.

The unit commander explained that, “it was an avoidable accident because the truck parked well away from the road.”

ARELY two weeks after B suspected Boko Haram members stormed a Catholic

T

UNICEF, EU laud Anambra over water supply From Uzoma Nzeagwu, Awka HE European Union (EU) and UNICEF Representatives in Nigeria yesterday commended Anambra East council in Anambra State for partnering the agencies to achieve great success in water supply and sanitation.

The agencies spoke at a oneday stakeholders’ sensitization meeting on implementation of Water Supply and Sanitation Sector Reform Programme II (WSSSRPII) held at the council headquarters.

Speaking at the event, the UNICEF Coordinator, Mr. Clement Chigbo, assured that the agency was committed to improving lives through capacity building and funding projects, especially in water sanitation among other assistance.

He added that UNICEF was highly committed to the development of women and children in the area.

While emphasizing that international organisations were working to improve lives, especially in the rural communities, Chigbo stated that without good water supply and proper sanitation habit, people would find it difficult to maintain good health.

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Obi

Leaders of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akwa Ibom State, Senator John Udoedehe (third left) and Group Captain Sam Ewang (Rtd) in a warm embrace after they and the two factions of APC in the state were reconciled by the Rivers State Governor, Chubuike Rotimi Amaechi (right) in a meeting with the two APC leaders and their supporters in Port Harcourt… yesterday.

NERC cautions power firms on service delivery From Emeka Anuforo, Abuja

• To implement local content law

N line with its mandate as IElectricity the regulator of the Nigerian Supply Industry

ment) regulations would ensure that processes are followed by the commission to enable compliance by the new owners of power utilities in the privatized power sector.

According to the provisions of the draft enforcement regulations, an offender is liable to pay N10,000 per minute that an operational guideline breach may have occurred in the sector.

This will, however, be upon a satisfactory conclusion of an investigation on the reported breach, NERC said.

Similarly, the commission may also suspend the operational licenses of a guilty operator, cancel licenses and seal off operational premises of offenders, depending on the gravity of the breach and offence.

The processes for initiation of an enforcement proceeding by the commission, Amadi noted, would include,

(NESI), the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) yesterday warned that it would sanction electricity utilities, which fail to play by its rules of effective service delivery.

Relatedly, the NERC has vowed to implement the local content law for the electricity sector once it is finalized and released soon.

The commission said the regulation had become necessary in the wake of government’s handover of operations in NESI to investors.

NERC officials spoke in Abuja yesterday at a public consultation on the draft Enforcement Regulation and the draft regulations on National Content Development for the NESI convened by NERC. Chairman of the NERC, Dr. Sam Amadi, stressed how the electricity industry (enforce-

receipt and investigation of a complaint for breach of operational guidelines, submission of investigative report, institution and review of an order for compliance to the guilty party and finally enforcement of administrative sanctions.

“The regulations are meant to create, promote and preserve efficiency in NESI, facilitate swift investigation and resolution of incidences of regulatory non-compliance, at the same time establish a system for deterrence and sanctions for acts or omissions which constitute disregard to industry regulations,” the NERC chief noted.

He stressed that the decision to introduce a local content policy for the electricity industry was to avoid a repeat of the mistakes witnessed at the early stages of Nigeria’s petroleum and telecommunication sectors.

NERC’s Commissioner in

charge of Legal, Licensing and Enforcement, Dr. Steve Andzenge, stressed that the local content regulation would strengthen the existing provisions in the industrial law and equally provide for the utilization of local human resources.

He said: “We had challenges with enforcement in the past because what we had before now was that the chief executive officers of these companies were actually appointed by the government and when you sanction them, they come out to say that they don’t have money to pay for the penalties.

“We are, however, confident that we can do better now that the private sector is in charge of the sector because no CEO will like to put the name of his company and its board in disrepute.”

Also, stakeholders in the industry have described the local content law as capable of enhancing enterprise development in the sector.

church in Madagali Local Council Area of Adamawa State and killed over 30 worshipers, about 10 soldiers were yesterday feared slain in an ambush by suspected members of the sect, in the border town of Izhe in Madagali council of the state.

A top military officer who spoke to reporters on condition of anonymity confirmed the attack, but declined to disclose the number of soldiers killed.

He said that the 23 Armoured Brigade Yola, Commander Brigadier-General Rogers Ibe Nicholas, was not on around to comment on the incident.

He added, “ I am not the right person to speak on this issue, my commander went to Gurin on an official assignment, when he returns you people can come and see him tomorrow [today].

The officer said that the soldiers were killed when they engaged the insurgents in a gun battle when the bandits attempted to attack a village.

Confirming the incident, the chairman of Madagali council, Mr. Maina Ularamu, who though could not ascertain the number of casualties, said that the soldiers were on a mission to repel an attack.

He said, ‘’the soldiers were going to repel a planned attack at Izhe border village when they were ambushed by the heavily armed insurgents. As I am talking to you, most villagers at the border areas have since fled to Madagali, the administrative headquarters of the council for fear of possible attacks.

“We are calling on the government to station more troops with armoured tanks.

These Boko Haram insurgents have more sophisticated weapons than the soldiers’’, Ularamu said.

PDP, others walk out on forum over call for Osun REC’s removal From Tunji Omofoye, Osogbo

• To begin sale of Ekiti guber poll forms

political parties includFPartyOUR ing the Peoples Democratic (PDP), Labour Party (LP),

dent Electoral Commissioner (REC), Ambassador Rufus Akeju, who was alleged of bias and having sympathy for the All Progressives Congress (APC), but INEC Chairman, Prof.

Attahiru Jega, rejected the request, insisting that the matter was still pending before an appellate court.

The Chairman, Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP), Tunde Popoola Olatunji, said the parties would not allow the REC to conduct the governorship election until the commission replaced him.

Olatunji, who is the chairman of APGA in the state alleged that Akeju was being over-protected by the commission, say-

All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and Democratic Peoples Party (DPP) yesterday staged a walk out from the stakeholders’ forum organized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osogbo, the Osun State capital.

In a related development, the PDP Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh, has disclosed that the party would begin the sale of the Ekiti State governorship nomination forms on February 24, 2014 and that of Osun State on March 14.

The parties had demanded the removal of the State Resi-

ing the best thing Jega can do was sanction Akeju to facilitate free, fair, credible and acceptable election.

A former chairman of PDP in the state, Chief Sunday Ojo Williams, noted that it would be difficult for the commission to conduct credible election if the REC is retained and allowed to conduct the polls in the state.

Before the commencement of the meeting, a group, Osun Liberation Movement had barricaded the entrance of the Leisure Spring Hotel, venue of the forum, protesting that the REC should be removed before the August 9, 2014 governorship election in the state in the

interest of peace.

Leader of the group, Mr. Olusola Daramola, said they were calling for Akeju’s removal because of his perceived compromise and alleged relationship with a national leader of the APC. The agitators left the venue of the parley when Jega told them that the commission would not act irrationally by acceding to their request, adding, “As a law-abiding commission we cannot act prejudicially.”

He said, “Let us be law-abiding and wait until the case before the Appeal Court is decided. If you have evidence against anybody bring it to us and we will take appropriate action. If you don’t please don’t say false-

hood against anybody”.

In his presentation, Jega had reiterated the commission’s resolve to hold free, fair and credible polls, saying the electoral umpire would not allow the mistakes that occurred in Anambra State to repeat itself.

Jega called on citizens to cooperate with the commission and urged the people to ensure they check their names in the register of voters, which he said would be on display 30 days before the election.

He, however, warned politicians against disrespect to the electoral law, saying that display of posters and erection of political billboards before the commencement of campaigns were inimical to the electoral process.

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Friday, February 14, 2014

Corps members protest non-payment of 12 months allowance in Kano Lawrence Njoku From (Enugu), Murtala Muhammed (Kano) and Ujunwa Atueyi (Lagos) VER 200 outgoing memO bers of the Batch ‘A’ National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) held a peaceful protest yesterday over the non-payment of their “packing allowance” by Kano State Government.

The affected corps members did their primary assignments with the state’s ministries, agencies and parastatals. Other corps members whose entitlements were denied also served in public secondary schools and some local councils, particularly in the metropolis.

Meanwhile, President Goodluck Jonathan has urged the outgoing corps members to peacefully participate in the 2015 general elections. At their passing out ceremony at the Iyana-Ipaja Orientation Camp in Lagos yesterday, Jonathan described year 2014

• Jonathan urges participation in 2015 polls as politically crucial for the nation and admonished them to embrace unity, peace and fair play during the exercise.

In an address read by the Special Adviser to Lagos State Government on Special Duties, Dr. Wale Ahmed, on behalf of Governor Babatunde Fashola, Jonathan said that much of the corps members’ contribution was needed to build an economically viable and genuine united nation.

It was gathered that traditionally, state governments often pay an accumulated N36,000 to corps members posted to these MDAs at the end of their service year. The Guardian learnt, however, that about 250 Batch A members in Kano were yet to be paid.

Similarly, the last batch, which completed service in November 2013, left emptyhanded, having staged same peaceful demonstration to

drive home their displeasure but without positive result.

When contacted, the Director of Administration and General Services, Ministry of Local Government Affairs, Muhammed Saliu, confirmed the delayed payment but blamed it on the NYSC management for failing to forward the list of affected corps members to the ministry.

However, the Kano State NYSC Coordinator, Abdulrasheed Sanusi, exonerated the agency of the allegation, stating that NYSC was only requested to forward the bank data of the affected members few weeks before their passing out. Nevertheless, he said the 2012 Batch C members were not included due to complications.

Jonathan expressed optimism that with the various skill acquisition programmes introduced into the scheme, the corps members were well equipped to establish themselves and make great inputs to the economy.

“Various programmes have been introduced under our transformation agenda to encourage Nigerian youths develop entrepreneurship skills that enhance self-reliance,” he said. “Skills Acquisition Centres for Youths, SURE-P Soft Loan for Young Entrepreneurs, You-WIN Programme and others are all efforts by the Federal Government to challenge your potential for self-actualization.

“As you know, 2014 is a politically crucial year for this nation, as the processes toward the 2015 elections will commence in earnest. As much as I encourage you to participate, let the unity and peace of the nation, fair play as well as discipline be your watchwords.”

And as Lagos State disengages 4,288 members, the State Coordinator, Mrs. Adenike Adeyemi, who earlier expressed joy over the successful completion of the service year, reminded the outgoing members that innovation and practical wisdom were all they needed to add to their already acquired skills so as to be transformed into entrepreneurs of small and medium scales.

However, she announced that seven members died during the service year while

praying their souls to rest in perfect peace. Also, six members received state awards, 12 received certificates of commendation, while 15 received attestations for varying degrees of commitment and excellent performance.

Also, eight of the 2815 members of the 2013 NYSC Batch ‘A’ serving in Enugu State absconded during their service year, two died in active service and another two had their service extended, while the others were discharged yesterday.

The Director of NYSC in the state, Mr. Hillary Nassamu, said during the passing out ceremony that 10 corps members won the Governor’s Award ranging from N100, 000 downward. He further disclosed that 21 corps members got letters of commendation.

‘International airports to get pilgrims camps’ From Mohammed Abubakar, Abuja RESIDENT Goodluck P Jonathan has directed that pilgrims’ camps be built inside all international airports across the country, particularly those involved in pilgrimages.

The President gave the directive at the State House yesterday after receiving the report of the Federal Government’s delegation to the 2013 Christian pilgrimage, led by the National President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, who chairs the body.

He assured that after discussing the issue with relevant ministers, the Federal Government would start the budgeting process for the facilities in order to cover all affected airports, noting that the planned camps could also be used for other purposes when not deployed for pilgrimage.

“We must build these facilities for both Christian and Muslim pilgrims since many people are being moved about the same time every year,” he said.

And following recommendations, Jonathan assured that government would implement the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with the

State of Israel to a logical conclusion to ease the movement of pilgrims.

He also directed Vice President Namadi Sambo to discuss at the National Economic Council (NEC) with state governors, who do not sponsor Christian pilgrims, to begin considering it in order to give all strata of the society a sense of belonging.

According to him, “there is no state in this country where there are no people of different faiths. State funds are general funds. The country is a secular state, so whether you are a Christian or Muslim governor, you are spending money that belongs to all Nigerians.

“Even if your state is 99.99 (per cent) Christians and there is only one Muslim there, he has to be protected, so also if your state is 99.99 (per cent) Muslims and there is only one Christian, he has to be protected.”

Oritsejafor had earlier listed Kano, Katsina, Rivers, Sokoto and Zamfara as states that did not sponsor pilgrims in 2013, just as he urged the President to make his participation and “A day with Jesus in Jerusalem” a yearly event, stating that the spiritual benefits of that exercise to the nation and its people are immeasurable.

Professionals want Duke as Jonathan’s Chief of Staff CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 file and antecedent. This man lifted Cross River State as a rural backwards state and catapulted it to national and world acclaim.

“His legacies today like Tinapa Business Resort, Obudu Cattle Ranch Resort, the yearly Calabar Christmas Carnival and Obudu Mountain Race are few examples that stand him head over heels or ahead of other contenders to this position.”

According to the group, Duke’s pedigree during his eight years rule as governor

clearly stands him out as a great asset to the President.

It added: “As the President rejigs his administration, there can’t be a better time than now to inject a fresh face like Duke into the team.

“Since leaving office, Duke has been apolitical, less controversial and has concentrated quietly in building his family business. We believe that as the President winds up his first term and appears to be planning re-election, Duke’s experience will come as a handy asset in guiding the President to carefully navigate the treacherous political minefields ahead.”

Deputy Governor, Economic Policy, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Sarah Alade (left); Governor, CBN, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi; Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Jonah Otunla; Minister of Finance, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala; Director-General, Budget Office, Bright Okogu; and Minister of Petroleum, Diezani Alison-Madueke, during the investigative hearing by Senate Committee of the Finance on the alleged unremitted N49.8 billion oil revenue at the National Assembly in Abuja… yesterday.

PHOTO: LADIDI LUCIE ELUKPO

Akinola wants govt to bluff West on anti-gay law From Charles Coffie-Gyamfi, Abeokuta NATION with abundant human, natural and mineral resources like Nigeria does not need any foreign aid to succeed but “leaders who are passionately and unashamedly patriotic” about the country, the former Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Peter Akinola, has said.

To that end, he urged the Federal Government to call the bluff of American and European countries that threatened to withdraw their aid to Nigeria following its signing into law the antigay bill. Noting that they are entitled to their foolhardiness, he stressed: “What they lack is the right to drag us by the nose to follow that misguided path.”

The cleric, who spoke yesterday in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on “Anti-Gay Law: Who Needs Foreign Aides?” during a lecture organised by the Chapel of Christ the Glorious King to mark its fifth anniversary, insisted that “Nigeria has only exercised her sacred duty safeguarding the interests of her people and this is the hallmark of sovereignty.”

While noting that the United States (U.S.), Britain, Canada and other Western

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Says patriotic leadership will not need foreign aid countries went too far with their threats, he queried: “If not shameless political arrogance at its correct interpretation, does it (withdrawal of aids) not sound like a cheap blackmail in the least?”

He stressed that no individual or country has the right to force a sovereign nation to act against its wish, adding that Nigeria’s situation is not so bad as to force it to either drink hemlock as is being ordered, “or else we have no choice but to perish.”

According to him, without foreign aids, Nigeria will not be doomed. Noting that the economy was buoyant between the 1960s and 1970s because of “patriotic leadership,” he lamented that, “unfortunately, our fault has remained the inability of leadership in their succeeding generations to sustain the beginnings.”

“By the 1980s, our back was on the wall with the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) along with other bitter pills,” he recalled. “It (SAP) was what threw the ‘foreign aid’ lexicon into our development vocabulary.”

The cleric regretted that the so-called foreign aid had become both a weapon and tool of international diplomacy, but “rather than help countries to cushion economic

shocks, aids can become an additional source of instability.

“A country gets hooked to it, it becomes an addiction and without knowing it, the unsuspecting poor country is exposed to the risks associated with being a beggarly nation.”

Nevertheless, Akinola regretted the huge sums of money lost to theft and others spent on frivolous projects. According to him, until Nigerians take their destiny into their hands by challenging bad leadership, the country would remain in the woods.

He further lamented that politicians are not concerned about how to improve the lot of the people but how to acquire more wealth and power. Therefore, he suggested that to get out of the woods, the country should “declare total war on corruption and have passionate and unashamedly patriotic leaders.”

Others are to sincerely terminate deliberate miscalculations, misappropriations, misuse and mismanagement of the country’s common fund, deal ruthlessly with saboteurs of the economy, and stop paying lip service to agriculture but give the sector priority in terms of development.

Old students sue Osun over schools’ re-classification policy

By Adeniyi Idowu Adunola GROUP of old students of St. A Charles Secondary School, Osogbo, Osun State, has asked the court to stop Governor Rauf Aregbesola from including the school in the ongoing merger and reclassification in the state.

The suit, filed by a current student and Chief Funsho Abiri, a 1975 graduate of the school respectively, is seeking the court’s declaration that the governor’s action is illegal, null and void.

In a motion ex-parte filed by their counsel, O.G. Olujimi & Co., the claimants are asking the court for, among others, an order of interlocutory injunction restraining the defendants from reclassifying the school pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit on the matter.

Also, in a motion on notice, they contended that the governor’s executive declaration violated the Education (National Minimum Standards and Establishment of Institutions) Act CAP of 2004 and the National Secondary Education Commission et al Act CAP of 2004, both of which prescribes a national structure for secondary schools for the country and vest the power for restructuring them in the Minister of Education.

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

FCTA, Isreali firm sign N28.1b pact on infrastructure

Friday, February 14, 2014 NEWS | 5

Jonathan commissions Aviation Village, NHF e-card scheme From Mohammed Abubakar and Terhemba Daka (Abuja)

From Terhemba Daka, Abuja RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan yesterday restated his administration’s commitment towards consolidating the ongoing reforms in the housing sector with a view to addressing the huge housing deficit in the country.

He spoke at the commissioning of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) Aviation Village, Abuja, a N2.4 billion mass housing project of 270 flats. “As for this adminis-

HE Federal Capital Territory P T Administration (FCTA) yesterday signed a N28.1 billion contract agreement with an Abuja-based Israeli construction company, Gilmor Nigeria Limited, to facilitate the provision of infrastructure for the building of affordable houses at Wasa District, located in the territory.

The contract sum, which has already been approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) after passing the necessary government procurement procedure, will enable the execution of the project on a landmass of 367 hectares and expected to be completed within the period of four years.

• Abba Ibrahim alleges govt neglect of N’East tration, I assure you all that improving the living standards of Nigerians is an imperative which we are resolutely pursuing”, he stated.

The President performed the official launch of the National Housing Fund (NHF) e-card.

Jonathan commended the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, and FMBN for initiating and financing the Aviation Village project, which he described as one of the

products of the reforms in the housing sector.

The President pointed out that the results of the recommendations of the 2011 housing retreat he hosted in Abuja are emerging. Besides, the National Policy on Housing adopted by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) in 2012 is also driving the reforms as housing financing institutions are being strengthened to increase their capacity to be more useful to low income earners, he noted.

Also launching the NHF ecard scheme, Jonathan said it was an effective tool for contributors to the NHF to easily assess and monitor their contributions and transactions with the Fund.

He equally noted it was part of his administration’s objectives to promote openness in government business, boost contributors’ confidence, and encourage defaulters to now start complying by making their contributions as and when due.

The President praised the Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) arrangement, which facilitated the Aviation Village, as “our intention is not to create a government monopoly but to encourage the private sector to drive the process while we provide the right policies and environment”.

In reference to the few number of houses being commissioned for now, Jonathan pointed out that “what makes change is not the big things we do but the little things we do and to do them well”.

Govt stalls Ndume’s trial over failure to produce witness From Lemmy Ughegbe, Abuja OLLOWING the failure of Fproduce government prosecutor to his witness, the trial

38% success in WAEC result, an improvement, says Jigawa From John Akubo, Dutse IGAWA State government yesJwith terday expressed satisfaction the improved performance of its indigent students in the 2013 West African School Certificate Examination (WASCE) where the state recorded 38 per cent of successful students with five credits and above including Mathematics and English Language.

This is against the backdrop of 2012 performance of 11 per cent where only about 1,900 students crossed the Rubicon of meeting up with minimum requirements of five credits including English and Mathematics.

of an alleged sponsor of the Islamic sect - Boko Haram, Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume was yesterday stalled.

Although Ndume’s counsel, Rickey Tarfa (SAN), tendered a composite judgment of the Court of Appeal in his interlocutory appeal challenging the admission of an electronic statement tendered by the prosecution, Justice Gabriel Kolawole, who said he was seeing the judgment for the first time, elected to proceed with the trial.

Justice Kolawole held that since the judgment only dealt with admissibility of some exhibits earlier admitted in the trial, the defence was at liberty at the final address stage, to apply that such evidence be expunged from the court’s

records.

He elected to proceed with trial and ordered the prosecution team to present its witness.

After some delays, the prosecution called its third witness, Aliyu Baka (a security personnel), whose only task was to confirm the statement he obtained from the accuse person.

When Baka stepped off the witness stand, the prosecution was expected to call more witnesses, but to everyone’s dismay, the prosecution said the other three witnesses it invited were not available.

Olatigbe prayed the court to adjourn the case to a further date, a request that prompted the court to adjourn to March 31.

Ndume, a serving Senator from Borno State, is facing terrorism related charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja. He was arraigned be-

fore Justice Kolawole on December 12 last year on a fourcount charge by the Department of State Services (DSS).

He is accused of sponsoring the Boko Haram sect, and failing to disclose the cell phone number of Konduga, which was alleged to be in his (Ndume) possession.

In the course of the trial last year, the prosecution, through its third witness, tendered on December 11 and 14, 2012 some call logs and three digital video discs (DVDs), containing calldata records intended to prove the allegation that Ndume had interactions with some Boko Haram members.

Also admitted were documents containing findings based on investigations carried out by a Special Investigation Panel (SIP) set up by the DSS on the case.

A prosecution witness told the trial court that there were 73

instances of communication between Ndume and Konduga.

A Nokia E7 phone allegedly belonging to Ndume was said to have been used in communicating with Konduga, whose phone identity the SSS gave as Nokia 2700.

Despite Ndume’s argument that the items marked P7, P8, P8a and P8b were inadmissible; the trial judge admitted them in evidence, a development that prompted Ndume’s two appeals.

In his appeal, Ndume asked the court to invalidate the admitted evidence on the ground that the trial judge erred in law when he admitted non-admissible materials.

The senator argued the evidence in question was admitted in violation of clear provisions of the Evidence Act. In its judgment on December 17 last year, the Court of Ap-

peal held that the trial court erred when it admitted the electronic evidence even when the prosecution failed to comply with the condition precedent as required under Section 84(1) and (2) of the Evidence Act 2011 (as amended) in relation to the admission of computer generated evidence.

The court held that the word “shall” used in Section 84 of the Evidence Act makes it mandatory that its provisions must be complied with.

“In this case, the respondent failed to comply with the condition precedent as prescribed in Section 84 (2) of the Evidence Act,” the court held.

It consequently declared as wrongly done, the admission in evidence of the items marked exhibits “P7, P8, P8a and P8b” containing alleged call data records of purported interactions between Ndume and a spokesman of Boko Haram, Ali Sanda Umar Kon-

TheGuardian on Saturday Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

COVER

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2014 Changing, but harmful, lifestyle as a result of growing urbanisation, unwholesome dietary/eating habit and poor quality locally-grown foods/fruits and substandard and indiscriminate consumption of imported foods, some of which are genetically modified, are gradually bring down many Nigerians across all ages with chronic diseases as stroke, diabetes, obesity, hypertension, cancer, kidney problems, etc.

How safe and nutritious are the foods/drinks you consume and the your lifestyle? Experts, including the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Prof Akin Osibogun, examine how these lifestyles are affecting the health of Nigerians.

Youth & Graduate Jobs

TWO WORDS /35

CAMPUS Kill It

POLITICS

Rivers State Governor Chibuike Amaechi says his return to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is foreclosed, adding: “I am progressive and you cannot compare me to others who are not,” insisting he has found political soulmates in the All Progressive Congress (APC). He also dismissed insinuations that he has abandoned governance for politicking, saying works are still ongoing on all projects initiated by his administration, despite the antics of his NaturalHealth opponents.

Hints on overcoming cigarette smoking and nicotine addictions.

These and many more in The Guardian tomorrow. Book your copies now!

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

6 | NEWS Friday, February 14, 2014

Poly teachers’ strike to end soon, says minister From Saxone Akhaine, Northern Bureau Chief HE Minister of State for T Education, Chief Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has said the Federal Government was doing everything possible to ensure that the 10 months’ strike embarked on by the polytechnic teachers comes to an end as it has decided to pay all arrears and also meet others conditions of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP).

Wike, who spoke yesterday after a meeting with all heads of parastatals under the Federal Ministry of Education in

Kaduna, said ministry officials have met with ASUP leaders last week to finalise the payment of all the lecturers’ salary arrears under the Consolidated Tertiary Education Institutions Salary Structure (CONTISS), amounting to N20.4 billion.

Speaking on behalf of the minister after the meeting, the Executive Secretary, National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Dr. Masa’udu Adamu Kazaure, said: “The ministry is doing something about the strike by the polytechnic lecturers.

The ministry has already calculated the arrears of the

polytechnic lecturers, which is one of the serious issues and it is N20.4 billion.

“There was discussion last week between the minister and the union and agreement was reached. The minister has raised a memo and now waiting for approval to get these arrears to be paid to the lecturers. I believe that as soon as this money is paid, they would call of the strike.”

Wike said: “If you look at other issues raised by the polytechnic teachers, some of them are at the various stages of completion. Take the example of needs assessment, constitution of governing coun-

cil and the government have started implementing all these. So, as soon as we have met the conditions, the next thing is to sit down and clear the problem. The funds would be made available as soon as we get the approval.”

He also spoke on the issue of disparity between university degree holders and HND holders, pointing out that “the issue of what is regarded as disparity between degree and HND holders was also addressed during the meeting with the union”.

According to the minister, “The government has no intention to belittle polytechnic education. At the time dis-

cussion was going on with ASUU, the same discussion took place with ASUP. So, I think there is no iota of truth in the impression that government is belittling the polytechnic education.”

The Executive Secretary of the National Education Research and Development Council, Prof. Godswill Obioma, told journalists that “this is a regular meeting between the minister and the heads of parastatals to coordinate the activities of the ministry, with the parastatals in terms of mandate, strategy, plans, levels of achievement and looking at challenges and resolving the issues of the gaps”.

I am leaving to work for 2015, says Olubolade From Karls Tsokar, Abuja AS the dust settles on yesterday’s sack of some ministers by President Goodluck Jonathan, one of them, formerly in charge of the Police Affairs Ministry, Caleb Olubolade, has said he is going into the field to work for the 2015 general elections.

Meanwhile, the Police Service Commission has rectified the promotion date of two Chief Superintendents of Police (CSPs) who were skipped while they were away on assignment for the United Nations and African peace keeping missions.

Olubolade, while handing over to the Supervising Minister, Olajumoke Akinjide, yesterday in Abuja, said it was time for him to go into the field and work to ensure the success of the imminent elections next year.

“I have a constituency, the political class is there, waiting for me. And like I said, this is political season and so, we must go to the field and wake it up. That is enormous, that role is a patriotic one I must play for the successes of 2015 (elections),” he stated.

Borno set to rebuild destroyed houses, others From Njadvara Musa, Maiduguri HE Borno State governT ment yesterday released N100 million as directed by

Chairman, Senate Committee on Power, Philip Aduda (left); other members of the committee, Chris Ngige Nurudeen Abademi and Akin Yelure, during the 2014 Budget Defence in PHOTO: LUCIE ELUKPO Abuja…yesterday

Widows of slain policemen get N14m, others in Edo From Alemma-Ozioruva Aliu, Benin City BOUT four months after A seven policemen lost their lives while trying to rescue human rights activist, Mike Ozekhome, when he was kidnapped along the BeninAuchi road, Edo State government yesterday presented N14 million cheques to widows of the late security agents.

The government also supported the education of each child of the fallen policemen with N500,000.

Governor Adams Oshiomhole, who presented the cheques, said security of lives and property is the “irreducible minimum responsibility of every government to the people” even as he applauded the officers and men of the Nigeria Police, Edo State Command, for their efforts to get rid of criminals in the state.

“Many now freely tell me more and more people were able to visit Benin City during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

“The ember months, which used to represent a season when armed robbers are in control and very ordinary people are hiding, during the New Christmas and New year celebrations, the armed robbers were the ones hiding

and our people were moving freely.

“I believe that, objectively speaking, you have made a difference by your conduct and your leadership style and by the way in which you have motivated your officers and men to do the job so that we may have the peace we always enjoy in the state. So I thank you, appreciate and commend you, and to counsel you to continue to do your best as the reward for hard work is more work,” the governor said.

According to him, “whoever must work hard also desires to be compensated even harder by appropriate authority. The Police work, like several other types of work, is a teamwork.

“The captain can inspire the officers and men to work, but every member of the team could be the source of the strength of the entire team.

One member can also be the source of weakness,” he stressed.

Oshiomhole, who sympa-

thised with widows and children of the police officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, said “it is the way we look after widows, those who were widowed in the course of their husbands’ duties and those who were orphaned or became fatherless in the course of their fathers’ work; how we treat them, more than what we say, will send the correct signals to those in uniform that whatever happens in the line of their duty, the society appreciates.”

He called on the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Foluso Adebanjo, to ensure maintenance of vehicles and other equipment at the disposal of the police.

Earlier, Adebanjo said the command under his control in the last one year, has considerably reduced crime rate in the state.

He expressed appreciation for the support by Oshiomhole in the fight against criminality and making the state unsafe for criminals.

Okogie remembers Beko Ransome-Kuti, warns corrupt politicians

By Chris Irekamba RCHBISHOP Emeritus of the Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, Anthony Cardinal Olubunmi Okogie, has warned Nigerian politicians who are in the habit of looting the nation’s treasury to desist from such unruly behaviour or incur the wrath of the people.

In a statement made available to The Guardian, the cleric, while also joining the human rights community in extolling the virtues and lauding the legacies of the late human rights activist, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, expressed regret that most of the moral principles for which the nation’s heroes

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past lived and struggled to entrench in our polity, seemed to have been buried with them.

Okogie, who commended the human rights groups for the peaceful manner they comported themselves during the programmes organised to mark the eight-year remembrance of RansomeKuti, urged the nation’s leaders to live up to their electoral promises by providing the masses with the social amenities needed to make life worth living.

“How quickly we forget our heroes. It is sad that their legacies seem to be buried with them. This period is another opportunity for our leaders to

have a rethink and consider the plights of the oppressed masses. We live in a country where over 90 per cent of the citizens are oppressed and homeless, with nowhere to go to. This is why I am calling on our leaders, especially the corrupt ones who are in the habit of looting the nation’s treasury and manipulating the system for their selfish ends, to desist from doing such,” he said.

The Archbishop Emeritus, who lamented that some of the nation’s political and religious leaders have sold their conscience for the sake of money, also noted with dismay that the race for the occupation of political offices in

2015 has given rise to unethical and oppressive practices by politicians against the poor masses, which has made governance difficult.

“I want to call on all those who have sold their conscience for money to read the handwriting on the wall and repent before it is too late. Justice will soon catch up with all the corrupt leaders and their accomplices. There is no hiding place for them, even in the Presidency. Aso Rock is not a hiding place when the hand of justice calls,” he said.

He called on Nigerians to pray seriously for God-fearing leaders and peace and justice to reign, especially as the country is about to witness 2015 general elections.

Governor Kashim Shettima at the burial of 39 bodies to rebuild the destroyed houses, mosques and a market at Konduga by suspected Boko Haram gunmen last Tuesday.

Relief materials and food items have also been procured for distribution at designated resettlement camps of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on the Maiduguri-Bama road.

Speaking on the governor’s directives to rebuild the destroyed houses, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Babakaka Bashir Garbai, yesterday said the N100 million is for procurement of building and relief materials for victims of the attacks and killings.

Kidnapped doctor, businessman regain freedom in Ekiti From Muyiwa Adeyemi, Ado-Ekiti MEDICAL doctor with the EkiA ti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ado-Ekiti, Adekunle Abayomi and a Lagosbased businessman, Chief Femi Fadeyi, who were kidnapped by unknown gunmen on Monday in Ekiti State have been released.

But they did not regain their freedom without paying ransom as demanded by their captors.

A source close to the Ekiti State branch of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) yesterday disclosed that the association paid N800,000 out of N1 million demanded by the kidnappers to ensure the release of Dr. Abayomi while the ransom paid for Fadeyi has not been disclosed.

It was gathered that shortly after the ransom was paid, that the victims were released and found around Ijero-Ekiti.

While Chief Fadeyi was kidnapped on Monday on his way to buy petrol for his car at a fuel station in Ido-Ekiti, Abayomi was kidnapped on his way from AdoEkiti to another town.

Friday, February 14, 2014 nEWS | 7

THE GUARDIAn www.ngrguardiannews.com

Imo suspends council boss, Assembly declares seat vacant From Felix Kuye (Lagos) and Charles Ogugbuaja (Owerri) OVERnOR Rochas Okorocha of Imo State has suspended the Transition Committee Chairman of Oguta Local Council, Chief Henry Igbomezie. In his stead, Dr. Louis Obodo has been appointed to hold the fort during the period of suspension.

The development came as Speaker of the House of Assembly, Chief Benjamin Uwajumogu, declared the seat of Oru-East, represented

by Chief Greg Okemili (All Progressives Grand Alliance), vacant.

Meanwhile, Okorocha’s Special Assistant (Political-Lagos), Ebunola Martins, has said his boss is not in any way at war with Anambra State Governor Peter Obi contrary to the picture that is being created in the mind of nigerians.

According to a statement signed by the Senior Special Assistant to Okorocha on Media, Mr. Sam Onwuemedo and made available to The

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Lagos indigenes decry exclusion from Yoruba confab FORMER deputy governor A of Lagos State, Chief Rafiu Jafojo, has described as unfortunate the sidelining of the state’s indigenes by the Yoruba Committee on national Conference.

The committee met recently at the Ishara-Remo, Ogun State home of Sir Olaniwun Ajayi. The meeting was meant to strategise on the selection of delegates for the South-West geo-political zone ahead of the conference.

Chief Jafojo noted that no leader from Lagos was invited to the meeting despite the full participation of various groups in the state, such as the Awori Descendants’ Union, Association of Lagos State Indigenes led by Justice Ishola Oluwa (rtd) and Awori Welfare Association of nigeria led by Pa Opeifa at the recently-concluded Senator Femi Okunronmu-led Presidential Committee on national Dialogue at the nigerian Institute of International Affair, Victoria Island, Lagos.

According to him, Lagos State will continue to be the heartbeat of the Yoruba, adding that as long as leaders from other states from the geo-political zone continue to sideline the state from its affairs, the zone will never get it right.

He wondered how Yoruba leaders would be meeting to discuss the future of the nation without the contribution of such personalities like Alhaji Lateef Jakande, Justice Oluwa (rtd), Gen. Tajudeen Olanrewaju (rtd), former Inspector General of Police, Alhaji Musiliu Smith, Chief Jafojo, Chief J. Williams and other leaders from the state.

He, therefore, advised the conveners of the Ishara Remo meeting to take note of this omission and make amends before the next meeting in order to get Lagos State involved in the selection of delegates for the conference.

Such a move, he said, would ensure adequate representation of every section of the Yoruba nation.

• ‘Okorocha not at war with Obi’ Guardian yesterday in Owerri, Okorocha took the decision to suspend Igbomezie after a meeting with the State Executive Council.

According to the Speaker, the vacancy he declared was sequel to the May 20, 2013, court ruling, which was said to have quashed Okemili’s election and Certificate of Return.

By the action, two seats in the Assembly are vacant. They are Oru-East and Oguta. Last election conducted some months ago (last year) in Oguta was declared inconclusive by the Independent national Elec-

toral Commission (InEC). Till date, no new date has been fixed by the electoral agency for another election.

At a press conference in Lagos yesterday, Martins, while reacting to a media report in which the Chief Press Secretary to Obi, Mr. Mike Udah, faulted allegation

by Okorocha that some politicians in Anambra were sabotaging efforts at realising nigerian President of Igbo extraction, said his boss was only trying to make Igbo people see the need to work together to ensure that the race is not perpetually denied

Okorocha the constitutionally guaranteed right of any Igbo man or

woman to occupy the number-one position in the country.

According to Martins, the comments by Okorocha, which he made with a view to advancing the cause of Igbo people and better nigeria built on equity and justice, cannot and will never be a basis for face-off or war between the two respected sons of Igbo who have roles to play in ensuring that the South-East people get what others have been getting in the society.

In the report said to have been published in The Sun of January, 21, 2014, with the caption “Govs at War: Obi Attacks Okorocha”, Udah was said to

have faulted the comments made by Okorocha at the inaugural meeting of members of the executive committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the SouthEast states held in Owerri on January 18, 2014, to the effect that some political leaders in Anambra were not in support of efforts to ensure an Igbo becomes the nation’s president.

Martins, who said the APC presents the best opportunity for the Igbo to realise their dream of leading nigeria, urged all sons and daughters of the South-East to join Okorocha and others with same vision and commitment to make it a reality.

Judge withdraws from hearing Odumegwu-Ojukwu’s case

By Joseph Onyekwere USTICE Adebayo Oyebanji of the Lagos High Court, Igbosere, yesterday withdrew from adjudicating over the case involving OdumegwuOjukwu’s estate.

The case was brought against Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu- Ojukwu, the widow of the late Chief Emeka OdumegwuOjukwu, by Debe Ojukwu.

Justice Oyebanji asked that the case be re-assigned to another judge.

According to her, the reassignment is in line with the

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directive of the Lagos Chief Judge, Justice Ayotunde Phillips.

At the resumed hearing, while Debe, who appeared for himself, stood to address the court, Justice Oyebanji told counsel that the case file ought not to have been brought before her since she has been transferred. She said the case would be inherited by the judge that took over her previous court.

“I have observed that this matter was assigned to this court. It was before the cre-

NACA warns against drunkenness, unprotected sex at Valentine

By Chukwuma Muanya S part of its efforts to A ensure zero new Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV)/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) infection during this year’s Valentine celebration, the national Agency for the Control of AIDS (nACA) has reminded nigerians of the need to desist from activities that put them and their loved ones at risk of contracting the virus, as well as other Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs).

Director General of the national Agency for the Control of AIDS (nACA), Prof.

John Idoko, yesterday in a statement ahead of Valentine Day today, captioned “Valentine Day: Advocating for Zero new Infection” said that consumption of alcohol has become a worrisome aspect as it serves as catalyst in the spread of HIV/AIDS among sexually active partners.

He warned that either good or bad, alcohol intake does influence an individual’s judgments and perceptions.

Idoko said it is widely observed that drinking alcohol leads to increased risky sexual behaviour, like not using protection to prevent HIV/AIDS, or having sex that may later be regretted.

Idoko said: “Valentine day has over the years provided a period when gratitude of love is demonstrated between individuals through gestures of affection such as flowers, perfumes, clothes, among other gift items.

“Valentine’s Day, as good as it may be, has however, brought up a worrisome

aspect festering this celebration of love season. This is the high rate of indiscriminate sexual and other negative activities, which are perpetrated on this day, leading to uninformed decisionmaking among adolescents.

“In our quest to actualise a generation free from HIV/AIDS, nACA is advising that at this season of love, nigerians should make informed decisions about their sexual engagements in order to halt the spread of the virus. nACA reminds nigerians of the need to be principled and be those individuals who can step outside the box to abstain, or indulge only in protected sex at this period of love sharing.”

Idoko said it is also worthy to remind nigerians on the ABC approach to HIV/AIDS prevention. This concept in its basic form, he said, suggests prevention, education, and health promotion, which provide simple steps in curbing the spread of HIV/AIDS. The nACA DG said this three-approach emphasis on: Abstinence or delaying premarital sex; Being safer by being faithful to one partner or by reducing the number of sexual partners; and Correct and consistent use of condoms for sexually active young people.

On alcohol consumption and HIV/AIDS, Idoko said: “The high prevalence rate of HIV/AIDS among youths calls for the need to abstain and desist from heavy intake of alcohol, which distorts their thinking, thereby putting them at risk of contracting the virus,” he explained.

ation of the fast track division.

The Registrar should not have brought this case to this court.

It will go to the fast-track because Case Management Conference (CMC) has not commenced. I will only minute on it. I will give a date and ask the Registrar to take the case file to the office of the assigning judge”, Justice Oyebanji said.

The judge subsequently adjourned the case to March 3 for mention.

The case was sometime heard

by Justice Oyebanji on March 18, 2013, and was adjourned to May 22, 2013, for mention.

Joined as defendant in the suit are Prof. Joseph Ojukwu, Mr. Emmanuel Ojukwu, Mr. Lotanna Ojukwu, Mr. Emeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Mr. Patrick Ojukwu and Mrs. Mar-

garet nwagbo (nee Ojukwu).

Since the death of Odumegwu-Ojukwu on november 26, 2011, in the United Kingdom, the struggle for the control of the estate of Ojukwu Transport Limited has lingered as Debe sued members of Ojukwu family to court.

He claims to be a legitimate son of the late Biafran leader.

As the claimed first son, Debe is seeking to equally get a share of the Ojukwu family estate, saying that Emeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu was his father while he was married to his (Debe) late mother, Mrs. Margaret Ojukwu, when the late Odumegwu-Ojukwu served as an officer under the defunct Udi Division of the Old Eastern nigerian government, and he was born to the couple in August 3, 1956.

Debe Ojukwu, in the suit over Odumegwu-Ojukwu’s estate joined the Ojukwu family of Umudim nnewi and other major stakeholders in the Ojukwu family.

In the suit, Debe is further seeking compensation from the family for depriving him of his rights as the first son. He claims that his paternity is the major reason he is piloting the affairs of Silver Convention Family nigeria Limited on behalf of the entire family, that the company financed the late Ikemba’s burial ceremony up to the tune of n100 million.

Debe wants the court to declare that as the first son of the late Ikemba, he should lead the management and control of all the disposable assets and belongings of Ojukwu Transport Limited, OPL.

TheGuardian SUnDAY, February 16, 2014

Defections Without Scruples — How Lawful, How Harmful!

OLITICIAnS are busy crisscrossing the stage in aimless and reckless abandon. Today, they are here and tomorrow, they are there. They change colours without recourse to morality and without going to explain to their constituents. As the people look up to the judiciary to clean the stable and teach politicians appropriate behaviour, we take a look at all sides of the argument. Come with us!

P

nEWSFEATURE

InTERVIEW

The Leprosy Scourge

n 2015: Jonathan O should consult God and pray. He should also

ITH poor funding and W wrong health attitude, it is now clear why nigeria is yet to get the equations right on LEPROSY.

consider the laws and be disciplined enough — PETER JASPER AKInOLA, former Primate, Church of nigeria Anglican Communion.

BUSInESS: Mortgage financing, a tortuous journey towards home own-

The Guardian On Sunday is new, fresher, bolder; a delight to behold and more importantly, reader-friendly! Book a copy today.

8 | PHOTONEWS Friday, February 14, 2014

Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi (left) and Senior Special Adviser to the President on MDGs, Dr. Precious Gbeneol, during the launch of Conditional Grant Scheme (CGF) to Local Councils in the state.

Vice Chairman, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Mohammed Bello (left); Chairman of NERC, Dr. Sam Amadi and Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Transformation, U.S. Department of State Bureau of Energy, Dr. Robert F. Ichord, during a press conference in Abuja.

PHOTO: LADIDI LUCY ELUKPO

Category Marketing Manager (Standard Milk), Nutricima, Raphael Agbaje (left); trade partner/owner of G.C.A Stores, Port Harcourt, Gloria Aguleto; Regional Sales Manager, Port Harcourt, Anayo Nweje and another trade partner, Rose Obi, at the launch of Nutricima Mega Cash Promo in Port Harcourt.

Head, Advocacy Social Action, Vivian Bello (left); Executive Director, Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Auwal Musa Rafasanjani; Director, Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), Idayat Hassan and Co-convener, Say No Campaign-Nigeria, Samson Itodo, during the press conference by CISLAC on statement of senate committee probe on non-remittance of oil revenue to the federation account, in Abuja.

PHOTO: LADIDI LUCY ELUKPO

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi (right) presenting a souvenir to Commander, 97 SOG Port Harcourt, Air Commodore A.A. Jekennu during his courtesy visit to the governor in Government House, Port Harcourt.

Commissioner for Health, Lagos State, Dr. Jide Idris (left); Deputy Governor of the state, Adejoke Orelope Adefulire; State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola; Chairman of the occasion, Stella Okoli; Author of the book, Femi Olugbile; his wife, Olayemi Olugbile and Special Assistant to Lagos State Governor on Public Health, Dr. Yewande Adeshina, during the presentation of the book Heroes and Others in Lagos. PHOTO: SUNDAY AKINLOLU

The Vice President, Europe, Africa and Emerging Channels, MoneyGram, Carl-Olav Scheible (right) distributing books to the pupils of Archbishop Taylor Primary School, Victoria Island, Lagos during the donation of books to the school by MONEYGRAM.

Managing Director, New Horizons Systems Limited, Tim Akano (left); Chairman, Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Lagos Chapter, Joseph Okonmah and Principal Consultant, NECCI Consults, Nkechi Ali-Balogun, during February NIPR Lagos Chapter’s PR Clinic in Lagos.

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Friday, February 14, 2014

9

WorldReport Russia, U.S. take centre stage at Syria talks HE United Nation’s mediaT tor on the Syria conflict was to meet high-level Russian and United States diplomats in Geneva yesterday in hope of breathing new life into the flagging peace talks.

Lakhdar Brahimi was to meet Russian Deputy Foreign Minister, Gennady Gatilov and U.S Under Secretary of State, Wendy Sherman in an attempt to unblock the process.

After three days spent trading blame for the violence wracking Syria, representatives of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime and the opposition National Coalition had no scheduled meetings in Geneva.

“The presence now of the United States and Russia comes at the right time,” opposition chief negotiator Hadi Bahra told AFP, saying there was a need to “straighten out the negatives.”

The talks that began on January 22 were initiated by Washington, which backs the opposition, and Moscow, a key ally of Syria.

With the process at an apparent standstill Russia seemed prepared to play a greater role, and was expected to put more pressure on the regime to move things forward.

Russia — which has rejected a Security Council resolution that would allow the delivery of food and aid to besieged Homs and other cities — on Wednesday proposed a counteroffer that not include the threat of sanctions on Damascus.

Gatilov met Wednesday in Geneva with the regime delegation chief, Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Muallem, and the opposition said it might meet the Russian diplomat.

Syria’s deputy foreign minister, Faisal Muqdad, told AFP late Wednesday the Russians “intend to push these negotiations and make them succeed”.

“This was the main topic in the long meeting between Mr. Muallem and Mr. Gatilov,” he said, stressing though that “we believe all the pressure should be put on the other side.”

Kenya denies not cooperating with ICC case against Kenyatta ENYA’S attorney general K yesterday rejected accusations that Nairobi had failed

Russian President Vladimir Putin (right) with Egypt’s Military chief Field Marshal, Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi in the Novo-Ogaryovo residence in Moscow…yesterday. Putin wished Egypt’s military chief victory in the nation’s presidential vote as Moscow sought to expand its military and other ties with a key United States ally PHOTO: AP in the Middle East.

Saudi cleric chides women for going alone to doctor top Saudi cleric has guardian, or close relative, a A medical check-up could inA scolded women who visit must according to the strict clude “a woman showing male doctors without being segregation rules in the Musaccompanied by a male guardian, claiming that is prohibited by Islam, Al-Hayat daily reported.

His remarks follow the death of a university student last week after paramedics were denied access to her campus because they were not acc ompanied by a male

Pressure mounts on Morocco to end child exploitation after girl’s death HE death of a 14-year-old T housemaid abused by her employer has sparked a public outcry in Morocco, giving ammunition to those demanding an end to the exploitation of child workers in the kingdom.

The girl, known as Fatima, died last March after suffering third-degree burns to her hands and face.

Her employer, a woman, was jailed for 20 years in January after being convicted of her death.

The trial became a symbol of the ordeal that some of the tens of thousands of child do-

mestic workers have to endure in the north African nation, rights groups say.

Morocco’s labour laws prohibit the employment of anyone under the age of 15 and require the authorisation of a guardian for anyone under 18.

Despite some improvements, the national planning commission says, however, there are still more than 90,000 children under 15 working in Morocco.

And Human Rights Watch said in January that girls as young as eight continued to work in private homes for up to 12 hours per day, and for as little as $11 (eight euros) per

month.

The country has no laws protecting domestic workers — both children and adults — but parliament has tabled a bill aimed at regulating their working conditions.

The proposed law would give domestic workers contracts and a minimum wage of around $100 a month — half the national figure — as well as one day’s holiday per week and an annual leave allowance.

Employers who flaunt these terms could face financial penalties of up to 5,000 dirhams (450 euros, $600).

U.S. pledges support for Nigeria, Sudan

By Debo Oladimeji

T

HE peace and stability of Nigeria and Sudan remain one of the priorities of United States to Africa.

According to U.S Secretary of State, John Kerry and Assistant Secretary, Bureau of African Affairs, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, it is part of the Obama administration responsibilities that peace reigns in the two countries.

Kerry, who spoke during liveweb chat at the U.S Embassy in Lagos on Tuesday, said that America feels that it is part of its responsibilities to ensure peace in Sudan.

He assured that they would continue to support the Nigerian government in its efforts to end Boko Haram menace.

Kerry added that the U.S spent a great deal of time to help create the comprehensive peace agreement that led to the referendum that resulted in the independence of Sudan.

“We don’t the want the crisis to escalate and that is why we are committed. We believe that this is part of defining the future of Africa and we will remain deeply committed and personally engage in the efforts to help the people of South Sudan to define their own future in peace and prosperity,” he said.

In the same vein, ThomasGreenfield said that Boko Haram became more daring after U.S made the decision to sanction them.

“We are working very closely with the government of Nige-

ria to address the issue of violence extremism, in Nigeria.

We are encouraging the government to continue its efforts and we are supporting those efforts. One that brings in not only military element but also civilian elements to deal with what might be the issue that people have in this area. We want to continue to work with the government to make sure that Boko Haram does not continue to terrorize people all over Nigeria,” she said.

On the issue of same sex marriage, she said that the U.S would continue to put pressure on the Nigerian government and the legislators to repeal the law, which prohibits same sex marriage.

lim kingdom.

“Women are becoming negligent in consulting doctors without a mahram (male guardian), and this is prohibited,” Al-Hayat quoted Sheikh Qays al-Mubarak, a member of the Council of Senior Ulema (Muslim scholars), as saying.

parts of her body to a doctor.

This is not permissible... unless urgent,” he said.

Women “must seek help from a male doctor only when a female medic is not available. When this happens, they must not be alone and the doctor must only look at the pain” part of the body, he said.

to cooperate with International Criminal Court prosecutors’ crimes against humanity case against President Uhuru Kenyatta.

“The impression has been created in this court and elsewhere that Kenya has not at any time extended cooperation,” Attorney General Githu Muigai told a conference hearing on the troubled case at The Hague-based ICC. “Nothing could be further from the truth,” he said.

ICC prosecutors had asked judges to rule that Kenya had failed to help their investigation into the country’s top politician.

Kenyatta, 52, is facing crimes against humanity charges for his alleged role in 2007-08 post-election violence that rocked the east African country, killing more than 1,000 people.

ICC chief prosecutor, Fatou Bensouda has accused Nairobi of stone-walling the probe by refusing to hand over financial records which they say could shed light on Kenyatta’s alleged financing of the deadly unrest.

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

10 | Friday, February 14, 2014

Politics Bond politics: ‘Loan not to oil my re-election,’ Fayemi

By Abiodun Fanoro HE news recently that the Ekiti State GovernT ment has returned to the Bond Market to borrow N5 billion was received by members of the public with mixed reactions.

Both the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party in the State sharply criticised the decision by the Dr Kayode Fayemi to according to them “go to the bond market twice in two years to borrow funds.”

The parties claimed that Dr Fayemi went to the Bond Market in 2011 to borrow N20 billion which they said he could neither account for nor were there tangible projects on ground on which the loan was spent.

The State PDP which condemned the move, accused the Governor of taking the loan for the purpose of funding his re-electioneering campaign.

The Labour Party while expressing shock that Dr Fayemi is taking another loan few months to the end of his first term, noted that the Governor certainly had a hidden agenda which he had not allowed the public to know.

The parties accused the Governor of mortgaging the future of the State and the coming generations which they said “would bear the burden of the debt Governor Fayemi is accumulating for them.”

Governor Fayemi however vehemently denied the allegations which he said were deliberately cooked up by the opposition to mislead the Ekiti people and whip up sentiments for selfish political gain .

In an interview with The Guardian, Governor Fayemi said, “It is not correct to say that we are going to the Bond Market few months to the end of our first term. Those who said that totally missed the point. We went to the Bond Market two years ago to raise N25 billion for regenerating infrastructural projects.

“We accessed the first tranche of that bond which was N20 billion in December 2011. What we have done now is that we have just accessed the balance, which is N5 billion. If we add 20 to 5 it becomes 25, which is still the same bond.

Dr Fayemi debunked the claim by opposition that the N5 billion is to oil his re-election saying it was o deliberate mischief to promote disaffection among the people. “I always say and as you journalists always tell me, opinion is free, facts are sacred. What we took the balance for are specific and measurable. They are physical projects. They are not figment of our imagination. The projects are scattered all over the state and they are contractor financed. They are independently verifiable projects.

“The Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) would not give its approval if it has not come to verify and inspect the projects, read the feasibility study and the contractual agreement we have with the contractors handling the various projects. The genuiness of the bond is further boosted by the approval from the Debt Management Office (DMO). It is a fact that the DMO would not approve the borrowing if the state has over-borrowed, because the DMO regulates borrowing by states.

“Ekiti was not the only state that went to the Bond Market recently, but it is note-worthy that Ekiti was the only state that got all the amount

Dr Fayemi debunked the claim by opposition that the N5 billion is to oil his re-election saying it was o deliberate mischief to promote disaffection among the people. “I always say and as you journalists always tell me, opinion is free, facts are sacred. What we took the balance for are specific and measurable. They are physical projects. They are not figment of our imagination. The projects are scattered all over the state and they are contractor financed. They are independently verifiable projects.

Fayemi it asked for.

There was a state that asked for N20 billion but was given only N10 billion based on its capacity to carry.

The Governor said his Administration has stated repaying the N20 billion it took two years ago and it was not true he was accumulating debts for the State.

“In the case of Ekiti, every month we pay through an irrevocable standing payment order the sum of N4 million on our bond. If that is calculated since the 2 years we took the bond, it would show that we have paid back N9.6 billion from a bond of N20 billion. When people still harbour views view like this, we have vowed not to get annoyed but instead we would continue to communicate with them, we would continue to offer explanations. For people still harbouring this view my position is that they are doing so either as a result of genuine ignorance or lack of knowledge of the ways the Bond Market operates and of the genuine intention of government, may be as a result of disappointment experienced with past governments.

“It is therefore our duty to continue to explain and leave the books opened to them because we have nothing to hide. Ekiti State Government is the only one in the entire federation that has domesticated the Freedom of Information Act passed by the National Assembly. For those who may not be willing to access information about this bond through the government, because they think it could be partisan, they should go to SEC or the DMO. On the claim that the Government could not account for the first tranche of the bond the governor said, “All those projects we earmarked for the first tranche are now in place, generating funds for the state, adding value to lives and raising the profile of the state locally and abroad. Ikogosi, one of those projects that benefitted from the bond is today a centre of world attraction where tourists troop to in thousands on daily basis.

“Ikogosi Warm Spring prior our intervention was a residence for rodents and snakes. We used N1.5 billion from the first tranche to rehabilitate and put it in the current befitting state. Just after two years of our intervention, when we did asset valuation of Ikogosi, it has doubled, it is now N3 billion.

During the Christmas and the New Year festivities, over 30,000 tourists visited Ikogosi, while the surrounding communities are now profit-

Ekiti PDP chairman, Makanjuola Ogundipe ing from the rehabilitation as their businesses are experiencing boom.

He highlighted some of the projects the last tranche would be channelled to.

“We are targeting outstanding projects. The state’s Sports Pavilion is one of them.The money would also be channelled to the completion of Ekiti State Government House. Is it not funny that after over 17 years of creation the state has no Government House. There is no reason why it should be so, Ekiti must not be reduced to a second state or be made to permanently remain rural and rustic and not be able to compete in the committee of states. I reject that.

He also spoke on how the loan has transformed the lives of the people and the State’s economy. “Anybody who has a fair knowledge of how economies are regenerated would know that the capitals we have injected into the economy have begun to regenerate. They have increased the quality, the capacity and the creative tendencies of the state economy. For example if the government has not invested on road infrastructure there wouldn’t be good road, to evaluate farm products to the market and the cities.

“The influx of business-minded people into Ekiti has made the state much more competitive in terms of business. This is evident for instance in the countless number of hotels that have sprung up all over the state in the last three years. This is certainly unprecedented in the history of the state. The practice in the past where people in the state went to bed by 7 p.m. has changed, because we have installed functional street-ight in all major streets in the state.

“Today taxi, commercial motorcycle operators as well as traders operate their businesses beyond 11 p.m. Now there is hardly any time of the day that you enter Ado-Ekiti for instance that you will not find food to buy, because most restaurants operate far into the night.

“With investment in infrastructure, this government has successfully created night life in Ekiti, which was not there before.

The Governor who described critics of the loan as economical with the truth said, “One other area where critics of the bond have not been fair to us is that they have failed to tell the world that despite the fact that we went

The parties claimed that Dr Fayemi went to the Bond Market in 2011 to borrow N20 billion which they said he could neither account for nor were there tangible projects on ground on which the loan was spent.

The State PDP which condemned the move, accused the Governor of taking the loan for the purpose of funding his re-electioneering campaign. to the bond market that never prevented the government to deliver in all its obligations and pledges to the people of Ekiti. Rather than shirking away from our responsibilities, we have continued to perform beyond expectations. We have increased salaries of workers thrice in the state in just three years that this Administration has been in power, without sacking anybody except those that have got to the retirement age or those who were ghost workers.”

“This Administration gives social security to the elderly, this was a program conceived and started by us. The youths are also not left out as we have created a number of programmes that are giving them thousands of jobs. We remained un-wavering in both our free health and free education programmes. In the same manner we have continued to excel in our road projects. There is no community that we have not touched in our road projects.

“We are not incurring debts at all. As I said earlier, the money we took is for investment. This is a loan with a very low interest. Let me tell the whole world again that this N20 billion bond we took just two years ago, we have paid back nearly N10 billion. If in two years, we have paid almost half of the amount we borrowed, then where is the case of pilling up debts.

“From what I have just said it is obvious that opposition elements are just selfishly orchestrating lies against us. In another words, what this means is that if I am in office for a legitimate constitutional two terms, I would have finished all these projects and got the loan fully re-paid.

“Iree Burnt Brick Industry, another project that benefitted from the bond is now fully revived and is working optimally. It was abandoned for about 23 years. So where is the issue of pilling debts for future generations?

Friday, February 14 , 2014 POLITICS 11

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

APC’s ‘Change’: A Parody of their reality

By Sufuyan Ojeifo EADERS of the All ProgresLbeensives Congress (APC) have traversing the length and breadth of Nigeria, talking about “change” in the leadership of the nation.

They talk glibly about the need for change in how things are done.

It is their right to so do. In fact, it is good to talk about “change” because “change” is good. Even if you do not talk about “change”, it will present itself in both particular and general circumstances. After all, the truism is that the only thing that is permanent in life is change.

So, when I see them talking so passionately about “change”, which they claim is their motto, I consider them as being rather unimaginative. I dismiss them as boringly flogging something that is not new.

Do not get me wrong; I know that the message of “change” is a meaningful message, especially when credible change agents are passing it on.

But what rankles about the messengers of APC’s “change” is their hypocrisy, which they have tried to clothe with the integrity of the godly.

And because they present a picture that is false, this then causes so much noise in APC leaders’ communication process that substantially detracts from the credibility of the message itself.

I am always inclined to see the message from the prism of the persona and antecedents of the individual APC leader rendering the “change” mantra.

It would be worthwhile to remind many of them of their history and deny them of their unconscionable and farcical claim to probity.

When many of these APC leaders — former governors, incumbent governors, legislators, etc. — mount the soapbox to pontificate about their desire to bring about “change”, I always wonder what exactly they are talking about. What arrant nonsense! What shambolic dissimulation! Do they take Nigerians for idiotic and undiscerning folks?

The sensibilities of Nigerians have been insulted and assaulted over and again through the shenanigans of these questionable characters, who masquerade as patron-saints on the shifty political terrain.

I hope they would attempt some kind of self-interrogation, question their own sincerity, and, indeed, put their individualities on the scale of integrity to assess what they are really worth.

What exactly is their worth? Are they really better than their counterparts in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), whose motto is “Power to the People?” and whose character and politics the APC leaders willfully denigrate and demonise?

Is it not self-serving deceit to attempt, as the APC leaders have been doing, to portray the PDP and its government at the centre as incapable of transforming the nation?

I hasten to posit here that the APC and its leaders, which discerning and rational Nigerians know, can-

Akande not play Caesar’s wife in the intriguing game of duplicitous politics and electoral manipulations, nor can many of them in public offices and those who had held public offices before now, come to equity because they do not have clean hands.

Yet, with voices that seem to pack a whole lot of strength in them, these stocks have tended to overwhelm everyone with their unsolicited message of “change.” Their propaganda machinery is in overdrive!

It is unfortunate that these politicians engage in political sophistry that seems to be sitting pretty well with some of their sadly misguided followers. They exert themselves to force down the throats of well-meaning Nigerians their salad of lies, half-truths and misinforma tion.

Simply because they want to dislodge the present occupant of the nation’s presidential seat, they have stopped at nothing to pursue party lines and subterfuge. They have resorted to propagating outlandish claims against officialdom.

Nothing good or beneficial, as long as it proceeds from the bosom of the sitting president, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, or from his bag of goodies, matters to them. They act true-to-type, haranguing every transformative gesture.

They excel in pillorying every good action of government without giving credit where and when it is due. This strategy by the selfacclaimed agents of “change” does no credit to them. Rather, it denies them the credibility that anybody could have ascribed to their self-imposed task of trying to expose the underbelly of the PDP’s ruling Federal Government.

How can they appear or sound credible when the only elections in which they emerge victorious are transparent while the ones won by the PDP are rigged? It is the triumph of one-man-onevote when they win, but electoral charade when they lose.

In pre-election activities, it is in apple-pie order for a godfather in Lagos to select and/or impose candidates for elective offices, but a charade in PDP if anything close to that or exactly that happens. In post-election era, ju-

dicial victory for them is victory for democracy while judicial victory for the PDP is procured.

There is nothing to convince doubters that the APC is itself ready for “change”, not to talk of its ability to bequeath “change” to the people.

But politicians are incurable optimists. They can promise to provide heaven on earth, just as the APC is promising “change.” They will promise to build bridges where there are no rivers.

So, I ask once more, what manner of “change” can come from a group of people whose antecedents are well known to many Nigerians?

There was an APC leader who, for eight years, privatised one of the Southwest states; and, today, he is collecting royalty from those he helped into governorship positions in the zone. He is still very influential in the APC, which is promising “change.” Again, the question arises, what manner of “change” can come from such an APC leader?

Even some of them, who run their respective states, are no good examples: there is too much chicanery. Deception and systematic plundering of the people’s commonwealth have become “directive principles of state policy.”

And, sadly, they continue to perpetrate the perfidy while presenting themselves as puritans. Is this not the lot of the APC, whose ranks have been swollen, in recent times, by some PDP politicians, whose personal political history is entangled in questionable circumstances?

Ask the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and their rumps would be exposed; and, indeed, the alleged malfeasances of some of them have already become public knowledge. The attempt by the APC leaders to wax sanctimonious is, therefore, laughable.

I deny the politician in them the claim to saintliness; they cannot bring about “change” even in the context that they have promised it, for they cannot give what they do not have. This is the parody of their reality.

• Mr. Ojeifo contributed this piece from Abuja via ojwonderngr@yahoo.com.

TheGuardian

www.ngrguardiannews.com

12 | Friday, February 14, 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 The LASU crisis OMING only a few weeks after the school resumed following a protracted industrial action by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), it is unfortunate that the Lagos State University (LASU) is once again under lock and key, thereby worsening the already truncated academic calendar. The authorities of the institution should quickly review the situation, causes and effects, and work to reopen the school without further delay.

Nigerians are, of course, still jolted by the unexpected crisis and indeed, it could have been prevented if the authorities had managed the situation wisely. University administrators should, therefore, learn to handle issues affecting students with utmost caution to avoid such ugly incidents. They should never allow situations to degenerate into riots before acting.

The students were reportedly disenchanted with the management of the institution for closing the registration portal against about 1,292 students who had not registered for the second semester examinations. The vice chancellor was reported to have said that only the 708 students who were able to register before the portal was shut would sit for the examinations.

Enraged by the apparent non-compromising posture of the institution’s management, the affected students, who vowed not to carry over their courses to the next semester, went on rampage. The school’s Senate has since shut the institution indefinitely.

It is certainly open to debate the wisdom behind the school authorities’ decision to shut the registration portal when majority of the students had not registered.

Students’ registration portal should be open at all time, although, there may be penalty for late registration. If that were the case, the current situation could have been avoided.

There is a need for better management on the part of the university authorities. A university is the eye of a society and it is the furnace from where the best minds are minted.

However, nothing justifies the level of violence and destruction perpetrated by the students, and parents should instruct their wards on good mannerism.

Like all other public universities in the country, LASU is struggling to cover lost grounds caused by the long ASUU strike and cannot afford this new round of closure.

The school has the potential to be a great institution depending on its internal governance but this can’t be achieved with frequent closures. The current crisis should be thoroughly addressed with greater understanding on the part of the school’s management and better behaviour on the part of the students.

C

Ijegun oil spill disaster HAT could have been another oil fire disaster was averted the other day around W Ijegun town in Lagos State after a ruptured oil pipeline spilled a very large quantity of petrol into the area. About 150 buildings had to be evacuated. The patriotic decision of the community leaders to bar people from scooping the spilled petrol apparently prevented a fire outbreak.

The spill, however, caused enormous damage to the fragile ecosystem with thousands of dead fishes, crustaceans and other aquatic life floating on the Ijegun-Imore River. The sight advertised the horror or the extent of damage which indiscriminate human activities could cause to the environment.

That was not the first disaster in Ijegun. In May 2008, an oil pipeline was ruptured by an earth-mover working on a road construction site and ignited an explosion. The conflagration killed hundreds of people including school children, injured scores of others and dislocated many from their homes.

The latest incident shows that no lessons were learnt. Residents say the spill was caused by negligence on the part of the Pipeline and Products Marketing Company (PPMC), a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) in charge of pipelines. The company has reportedly failed to repair the pipeline for more than a year after leakage was reported. On that basis, residents are now justifiably demanding compensation for the economic loss on the community.

Since October 1998, when a pipeline fire disaster killed over 1000 people in Jesse, Delta State, Nigeria has witnessed several other pipeline disasters out of which about seven occurred in Lagos alone while Abia and Delta recorded two each. On the whole, nearly 2000 people perished and several hundreds suffered severe burns. The environmental impact of the disasters on biodiversity is, of course, inestimable.

Worldwide, the oil industry is operated on approved international standards. There is strict adherence to regulations guiding health, safety and environment (HSE).

Unfortunately, the oil industry in Nigeria appears to be different. The national oil company and its joint-venture partners as well as contractors have seemingly devised a ‘Nigerian’ standard of operation something lower than what obtains elsewhere.

That may explain the frequent disasters recorded in Nigeria.

Weak laws and corruption have made it difficult to enforce the approved international standards. This carelessness built on corruption is costing Nigeria so much in human and material resources.

The time has come for government to enforce the rules and ensure strict adherence.

The NNPC pipelines laid in the 70s and 80s are old and need change. Vandalism is also rampant. Standard of operations must improve in the oil industry and attitude must change if the curse of oil on Nigeria would not be more devastating than it already is.

LETTERS

Between California and Lagos IR: There are interesting SUnited developments between the States and Nigeria with regard to California State and Lagos State. California State and Lagos State are bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean. They are the richest states of the U.S. and Nigeria respectively.

There is a Victoria Island in California, there is as well a Victoria Island in Lagos State.

Californians and Lagosians have had great cause to mark the date September 9. In the case of California September 9 marks the admission (1850) of California to the Union of the United States. In the case of Lagos it marks the birthday of Buba Marwa, the most popular military administrator of Lagos State (born 1953).

California and Lagos lead in manufacturing, IT and the entertainment industries of U.S. and Nigeria respectively.

In California there was Leland Stanford, born March 9, 1824, a pioneering businessman, lawyer and philanthropist who lost a son. Stanford kept dogs, bred award-winning horses and had a deep interest in farm machinery. Relatedly, in Lagos we have Subomi Balogun, born March 9, 1934, a lawyer, pioneering banker and philanthropist. He also lost a son. Like Stanford, Balogun loves animal life and

agriculture. Balogun keeps ostriches, rabbits, goats and grasscuters. He also loves cultivating food crops.

In California, Steve Jobs was born February 24, 1955.

Much talked about, business mogul he rose from grass to grace. Jobs was known to walk long distances for free meals provided by the adherents of Hare Krishna.

Born of a Muslim father, he had an aversion for television and has been described as a technology evangelist.

In Lagos we have Jimoh Ibrahim, born February 24 1967, known for his phenomenal rise in the business world and known for eating on credit as an undergraduate. Also born of a Muslim father, he has an aversion for

video films and has been described as a motivational s p e a k e r .

Steve Jobs dropped out of Reed College which has the only nuclear facility operated by students whereas Jimoh Ibrahim finished at then University of Ife (OAU) which has Nigeria’s only programme in nuclear engineering.

In California, William Randolph Hearst was born April 29, 1863 and was into Mass Communication, a Major seller of advertisement space, a multi millionaire whereas in Lagos State, we have Mike Adenuga, born on April 29, 1953 now, into Telecommunications, a major buyer of advertisement, a billionaire.

Augustine Togonu-Bickersteth, London, England

Alhaji AbdulAzeez Arisekola Alao IR: Thank you for serenadSYorubaland ing the Aare Musulumi of in the birthday column of your esteemed weekly Kaleidscope of Sunday, February 9, 2014.

Whereas other information on him in your write-up is correct, I wish to state that Alhaji Alao, despite coming tops in the entrance examinations to Christ School AdoEkiti and Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan could not take

up his admission in both schools due to lack of funds. He was even invited for a chat by the white (foreign) principal of Christ School due to his (Aare)’s brilliant performance in the exams.

I consider this information necessary to put the record straight.

Thank you.

Oloye ’Lekan Alabi, Aare Alaasa Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oyo State

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Friday, February 14, 2014

13

Opinion Cancer: Overcoming myths with love

By Abia Nzelu THE current focal cause of the Committee Encouraging Corporate Philanthropy (CECPNigeria) is ‘Taking Cancer Prevention to the Grassroots’ through the use of Mobile Cancer Centres (MCCs).

Tuesday, February 4, was World Cancer Day (WCD). World Cancer Day was established by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) to raise awareness about cancer in order to encourage its prevention, detection, and treatment. World Cancer Day 2013/ 2014 focused on Target 5 of the World Cancer Declaration: Dispel damaging myths and misconceptions about cancer. The tagline for WCD 2014 is “Debunk the myths”. The campaign is centered on the following myths and their related truths about cancer: Myth 1: We don’t need to talk about cancer Truth: Whilst cancer can be a difficult topic to address, particularly in some cultures and settings, dealing with the disease openly can improve outcomes at an individual, community and policy level.

Myth 2: There are no signs or symptoms of cancer Truth: For many cancers, there are warning signs and symptoms and the benefits of early detection are indisputable.

Myth 3: There is nothing I can do about cancer Truth: There is a lot that can be done at an individual, community and policy level and with the right strategies; a third of most common cancers can be prevented.

Myth 4: I don’t have the right to cancer care Truth: All people have the right to access proven and effective cancer treatments and services on equal terms, and without suffering hardship as a consequence.

From the foregoing, it is obvious that cancer can be prevented (truth 3). The question is, how do we prevent cancer? Let’s start by examining what prevention means.

Preventing any disease can be grouped into three levels, namely: primary, secondary, and tertiary.

Primary: Prevention aims to prevent the disease from occurring. For example: education (truth 1) about good nutrition, the importance of regular exercise, and the dangers of tobacco as well as regular examinations and screening tests to detect precancerous stages of cancers such as cervical and colorectal cancer; to monitor risk factors for cancers such as

diabetes, malaria, HIV/AIDS and vaccination against the three major cancer causing viruses : Human papillomavirus, hepatitis B and C viruses are examples of primary prevention of cancer.

Secondary prevention is used after the disease has occurred, but before the person notices that anything is wrong. This takes advantage of truth 2 above. A doctor carrying out screening tests to detect early breast lump or prostate cancer is an example of secondary prevention. The goal of secondary prevention is to find and treat the disease early. In many cases, the disease can be cured.

Tertiary prevention targets the person who already has symptoms of the disease. The goals of tertiary prevention are: prevent damage and pain from the disease, slow down the disease, prevent the disease from causing other problems (called “complications”), give better care to people with the disease as well as make people with the disease healthy again and able to do what they used to do. Developing better treatments for cancers is an example of tertiary prevention. Examples include better surgeries, new medicines, and other interventions. Although each of these levels of prevention is good, it is important to give priority to primary and secondary prevention to effectively improve cancer survivorship.

In a nutshell, cancer prevention involves health education and awareness (truth 1), interventions such as vaccination and screening as well as prompt treatment (truth 2 to 4). Indeed, awareness is good; screening is superlative but treatment after diagnosis is paramount. The aim of awareness will be defeated if there is no access to screening facilities and the aim of screening will be defeated if there is no access to treatment after diagnosis.

Fortunately, all of these services can be made universally available in Nigeria by means of Mobile Cancer Centres which is the current focus of the CECP-Nigeria and the thrust of truth 4 above. Truly, all people have the right to access proven and effective cancer treatments and services on equal terms. Why should ten (10) precious Nigerians die every hour from cancer, most of which is preventable? Why should one (1) out of every thirty (30) Nigerian with leukemia (blood cancer) die whilst ninety-nine per cent (99%) of patients with

leukemia at the Tata centre in India survived?

Especially since a large proportion of these patients with leukemia are children and young adults.

This is why the CECP-Nigeria is calling on all Nigerians to support the move to take cancer prevention to the grassroots by donating towards the acquisition of thirty-seven (37) Mobile Cancer Centres (MCCs), one for each state and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

A Mobile Cancer Centre is a clinic on wheels, in which screening, follow-up and several forms of treatment (including surgeries), can take place. It includes facilities for mammography, sonology and colonoscopy. It will also contain colposcopy and cryotherapy equipment as well as a theatre and laboratory for preventive screening against cancer and other common diseases which are known to increase the risk of cancer.

These include malaria, diabetes, hepatitis, kidney disease, hypertension and HIV/AIDS. Thus the MCC would tackle the double burden of disease in Nigeria i.e. communicable and noncommunicable diseases.

To achieve this, every Nigerian has a role to play. Like Lily Tomlin said, I always wondered why somebody doesn’t do something about that. Then I realized I was somebody. According to Bill Gates, “you do not need to be the chair of a large foundation to have an impact on the world. Risk takers need backers. Good ideas need evangelists. Forgotten communities need advocates. And whether your chief resource is volunteer time or hard-earned dollars, for a relatively small investment catalytic philanthropy can make a big impact”.

For example anyone may contribute towards the Mobile Cancer Centre project by sending the sms ‘LIFE’ to ‘44777’ at N100 per sms; or higher amount via ATM or online at www.quickteller.com using the code ‘777526’.

World Cancer Day (WCD) 2014 was marked by CECP-Nigeria with the flag off of the ‘Big War against Cancer in Nigeria’ by representatives of the Organised Private Sector (OPS) at Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja. Incidentally, the month of February is also the month of love, with Lovers’ Day or St. Valentine Day being the 14th of February. February is also the month of philanthropy with the last Monday in February being designated as International Corporate Philanthropy Day (ICPD) (24th of February, 2014). It would be marked with the annual bell-ringing

and hoisting of the ICPD flag at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Lagos. This will be followed by the formal declaration of “The Big War against Cancer” on Saturday, March 29, 2014 at the Eko Hotel and Suites. Be there!

Philanthropy and love are two sides of the attitude needed if we must win the ‘Big War against Cancer’ which we flagged off on World Cancer Day. We need people with large hearts – passionate lovers of humankind who are willing to invest in the welfare of society at large. Although their contributions to the big war might be deemed to be a sacrifice, they themselves would benefit immensely thereby.

The giver invariably gets more than he gives.

Like Henry David Thoreau said, “Goodness is the only investment that never fails”. Those who bring sunshine into the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves.

Therefore, with love as our primary motive, let us embrace true philanthropy, and the spirit of generosity and sacrifice. It is only then that we can truly say that the deeper message of St. Valentine Day and International Corporate Philanthropy Day (ICPD) have taken root in us.

The 37 mobile cancer centres (MCCs) which we need to win the ‘Big War’ would be realised if Nigerians would join in publicizing the two codes – 44777 and 777526 within their spheres of influence. A great way of making this Valentine/Philanthropy season count, could be to become a volunteer (Connector) in support of this campaign. Similarly, individuals, families or organisations who have the means could donate one or more of the MCCs, which cost N95 million each. The donors would have the MCCs branded in their honour. Further information is available at www.cecpng.org.

Together we can! If only we ACT! Attack Cancer Today! We shall ACT! Attack Cancer Together!! We must ACT! Attack Cancer Totally!!!

We wish you all a happy St. Valentine Day and an impactful International Corporate Philanthropy Day (ICPD) celebration.

• Dr Abia Nzelu is the Executive Secretary of the Committee Encouraging Corporate Philanthropy (CECP-Nigeria).The article is to mark both the World Cancer Day and Valentine Day.

A Nigerian in Dubai

By Maryam Abdulkareem OR one to talk about a thing, one has to first experience and Fin Dubai, have a feel of that thing. As a Nigerian living and studying I can boldly talk about a few things I have experienced in my two years of stay in the country.

Most people consider Dubai as basically a place for tourist attraction, but have never considered the idea of staying permanently; that is working or studying here. I recall a few people my family and I told I was going to be studying here found the idea a little bizarre as they all had no idea there were actually opportunities for studying here. What most people do not know is that there are a considerable number of non-citizens living in Dubai (and even United Arab Emirates in general). The UAE welcomes people from all over the world, and the so called non-citizens who might have at first come to the country for its tourism end up getting attracted and attached to it because of its employment and investment opportunities (this, very few people know about or even do not bother to find out about). As a result of the open mindedness of the country to accepting citizens from all over the world, the Emiratis as they are called (the original citizens of the United Arab Emirates) are outnumbered in their own country comprising just nine per cent of the population, while the non-citizens from all over the world (Nigerians included) make up 91 per cent of the entire population – although there is definitely a huge difference between the benefits a 1st class citizen gets and what the 2nd class non-citizens get.

As I have said earlier, the non-citizens here (including Nigerians who are the ones I’m focusing on) are mostly attracted by the employment opportunities and investment opportunities the country has provided. From my two years of stay in this country, I have found different categories of Nigerians: there are employed Nigerians who are working and doing well; some who are unemployed and still searching; those who are here for tourism; those who come here for business purposes; and finally my kind – those of us that come here for education.

The reason most Nigerians living here love the county is also the same reason that pushed people from other countries to come too, and some of the benefits include: for the employed, there is an income tax free salary which a few other countries do not have. Also, one gets a feel of the multicultural nature of the country; getting to meet new people from different countries and learning about their culture and beliefs. Also, in addition, there’s the adventurous aspect, Dubai is a tourist attraction kind of emirate in the United Arab Emirates, so living and working here enables one have a feel of the wonderful places the Emirates has provided for its tourists better than when one just comes on holidays once in a while to feel it.

For a student living and studying in Dubai, it’s also almost the same reasons, going to schools where you get to interact and learn the cultures of other students from all over the world. My school for instance, which is a Canadian University in Dubai, offers this opportunity. It gives you a feel of studying in both Canada and the UAE. It’s been a lovely experience so far. Although a Nigerian studying in UAE might have to spend

a lot on the fees and all as a result of the conversion rate, but it’s worth every penny one spends.

In general, living here as a Nigerian isn’t difficult at all. Food is cheap and easily accessible; although, not all Nigerian products are sold here, that’s why while coming here for instance as a student, I get most of the essentials that might not be likely for me to get here like palm oil, yam, Poundo yam, and other things I might end up craving and miss back home while the general other stuff can be got here. Also going from one place to another is also very easy, there are easily accessible taxis that are just a call away, and would be there almost immediately compared to what we have in Nigeria, and sometimes if one finds it sort of expensive to keep using taxis, trains are available here too.

For everything that has an advantage, there must also be disadvantages. What might be a turn-off in Dubai would be the weather; it gets really hot, but as a Nigerian one might not feel it so much as we have a similar weather. Although compared to Nigeria, they have winter, spring and summer seasons, it rarely ever rains here.

In my two years of stay in this country as a Nigerian, I have had no regrets whatsoever, Dubai is a beautiful and wonderful place to live. But you know as they say, there is still no place like home, and sometimes it just feels a little weird being a second class citizen in another man’s country when one can be a first class citizen in one’s country and have access to all the benefits of being one.

• Abdulkareem is a Nigerian student in Dubai.

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Friday, February 14, 2014

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Opinion The Nigerian Industrial Revolution Plan

By Goodluck Jonathan WELCOME you all to the formal launching of I(NIRP), The Nigerian Industrial Revolution Plan our flagship programme to industrialize Nigeria; and The National Enterprise Development Programme (NEDEP), our new strategic platform to deliver growth within Nigeria’s micro, small, and medium enterprises.

This year, 2014, is of special significance to us as a nation because it marks 100 years of our Nationhood. As we go forward into the next 100 years, it is clear to us as an Administration that the measure of a great nation cannot be detached from the dependability of its economy.

And a great economy must be based on a solid Industrial sector, with well diversified lines and sources of revenue, and a vibrant Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector, to create jobs and provide linkages.

The Nigerian Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP) and the National Enterprise Development Programme (NEDEP) will help to fast-track the attainment of these goals. They are targeted at transforming Nigerian businesses and changing the lives of ordinary people. They will accelerate inclusive growth and job creation and stem the drain on our reserves caused by importing what we can produce ourselves. NIRP and NEDEP will also give fresh impetus to our agenda for National Transformation Agenda by ushering in a new era of value addition, enterprise development and industrialisation.

I sincerely believe that the Nigerian economy must be developed into one of the most important elements of our national strength and a major assurance of the future of our people. That is why we have been resolute in executing Nigeria’s agenda for economic reform.

Our track record in this regard is strong. Every year, since coming into office, we have consolidated Nigeria’s fiscal position by reducing government overheads. We have launched the boldest transformation of the agricultural sector and we are well on the way to increasing Nigeria’s food production by 20 million tonnes per annum.

Among other significant achievements, we have fundamentally re-organized the power sector for improved performance by privatizing 11 distribution and four generating companies and bringing in private sector capital and expertise. We have upgraded facilities within the Nigerian aviation sector to standards never seen before in this country and we have restarted rail

services that had been dormant for over 20 years. Our road networks have also received unprecedented attention and improvements in the last three years.

It is our expectation that the NIRP and the NEDEP will be major additions to these landmark achievements. The NIRP which is the most ambitious industrialization programme ever pursued by our nation will accelerate growth in those industries where Nigeria has comparative and competitive advantages such as the processing of food and agricultural products, metals and solid minerals processing, oil and gas related industries, and construction, light manufacturing and services.

These subsectors were prioritised because they will also generate jobs and tap into existing markets and demand in Nigeria. In each of these sectors, we could become number one in Africa, and in the top 10 globally, because of our competitive advantage. The Nigerian Industrial Revolution Plan will also address age-old constraints that have persistently limited manufacturing. It will build-up industrial infrastructure, prioritize power for industrial use, reduce borrowing costs and mobilize funding for the real sector. It will also facilitate youth training in industrial skills, improve our investment climate, raise our product standards, link innovation to industry, and promote local patronage of ‘made in Nigeria goods.’

The goal of the Nigerian Industrial Revolution Plan is to increase the contribution of the manufacturing sector to GDP from the present 4%, to more than 10% over a five-year period. This will boost the annual revenue earned by Nigerian manufacturers by up to five trillion Naira per annum.

Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, turning now to the National Enterprise Development Programme, I cannot overemphasize the importance of micro, small, and medium enterprises to national development. All over the world, Micro, Small,and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are the primary drivers of employment. With the effective implementation of NEDEP, Nigeria will fully tap their immense potential as the bedrock for industrialization and inclusive economic growth.

A survey conducted in 2010 by SMEDAN and the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics showed that we have 17 million Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), employing over 32 million people. If each Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in Nigeria employs just one addi-

tional person, we would create 17 million extra jobs, and unemployment in Nigeria would be drastically reduced. That survey was conducted three years ago. Today, we have more Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in Nigeria, with the potential for even greater impact.

NEDEP has placed Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises at the centre of our National Economic Policy. Our vision is to take this new model for national enterprise development to all the 774 local governments in our country. The programme will fully unlock the potential of Nigeria’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises sector by resolving many of the problems that most small businesses face such as – access to finance, access to markets, weak business development, dearth of technical skills, lack of infrastructure, and insufficient market information.

Under NEDEP, enterprise zones will be created in every state of the federation, equipped with essential infrastructure for small businesses to thrive and transform Nigeria through employment generation, economic linkages, and rural industrialization.

The integrated approach being pursued under the Nigeria Industrial Revolution Plan and the National Enterprise Development Programme which allows for better coordination, synergy, effectiveness and more efficient utilisation of resources, will positively transform the Nigerian economy. We have made very notable progress towards our objective since we started implementing the two programmes 12 months ago. Through the NIRP, we have significantly cut the costs of business incorporation in Nigeria. We have mobilized new investments in the Sugar sector exceeding 3 billion US dollars. In just four months, our landmark Auto Industry Development Programme has attracted over six international car manufacturers, including Nissan and Hyundai. We have also consolidated gains in the cement sector, which has attracted US$ 8 billion in investments and is supporting 1.6 million jobs. In 2013, Nigeria became a net exporter of cement for the first time in our history.

Looking ahead, we envision greater collaboration between the NIRP and relevant ministries to promote and facilitate renaissance and growth in other sectors such as textiles and garments, leather, palm oil processing, cocoa processing, basic steel works, chemicals, petrochemicals, fertilizers, light manufacturing and many more. Our achievements in the National

Enterprise Development Programme have been just as impressive. The programme has taken the Federal Government’s support for MSMEs into every corner of Nigeria. In just five months, we decentralised the activities of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and established its presence in all 36 states of Nigeria. We have identified and are also vigorously supporting at least one product in all 774 local governments in Nigeria based on each local government’s area of competitive advantage. To help tens of thousands of small businesses have better access to finance and capacity support, we have formed over 10,000 MSME cooperatives and registered them with the Corporate Affairs Commission.

We have refocused attention on micro enterprises. Over the last 12 months, the Bank of Industry has disbursed 10 billion naira to the smallest and most fragile businesses at the bottom of the pyramid. As we look ahead to the future, sustainability and effectiveness are core principles that will guide our actions. We will not only sustain the momentum of both the NIRP and the NEDEP, we will also expand their impact and reach.

To ensure the attainment of this goal, I will soon inaugurate the National Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise Council, which will be chaired by the Vice President. Furthermore, the NIRP Presidential Advisory group, which will meet with me periodically, will also be established. Both bodies will constitute part of the institutional framework to monitor and provide guidance for the implementation of these programmes.

Let me emphasise that legacies define all historical epochs. At this stage of the Nigerian journey, we must strive to build legacies that will outlive us. All great countries are built on sustained improvements from one generation to the next and I assure you all that this administration will leave worthy legacies for future generations of Nigerians. We will leave this country stronger, and better than we met it. With the diligent implementation of revolutionary programmes like the Nigerian Industrial Revolution Plan and the National Enterprise Development Programme, we can truly make Nigeria the giant of Africa.

• President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR delivered this address at the Official Launch of the Nigerian Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP) and National Enterprise Development Programme (NEDEP) on Tuesday February 11, 2014

The misnomer of 2015 Igbo presidency

By Clement Omeneogor OMETIMES, the kind of personalities that are being saddled Scio-cultural with the responsibility of running the affairs of apex Igbo soorganisation Ohanaeze Ndigbo is baffling. Just like every other organisation, Ohanaeze had its crises before now, and many had thought that the organisation has been repositioned with responsive leaders who are imbued with vision and are prepared to work for the collective interest of the Igbo at all times. But that appears not to be the situation for now, as the recent action of the president of the organisation, Chief Gary Nnachi Enwo-Igariwey raises a lot of curiosity.

Igariwey was in the news following his visit to the former governor of Abia State, Chief Orji Uzor Kalu in his Abuja residence supposedly to prevail on him to shelve his (Kalu’s) 2015 presidential ambition. But where and when did Kalu said that he would be contesting 2015 presidential election? On which party platform will he be contesting the election, if at all he decides to contest, considering that his party Progressives Peoples Alliance (PPA) which he has abandoned for long is good as dead.

Besides, Kalu has consistently denied having presidential ambition in 2015 ever before now. So which presidential ambition did Igariwey visit Kalu on behalf of the organisation to prevail on him to shelve; or was the visit a dramatised attempt to position somebody for political relevance ahead of the elections?

It should not surprise Nigerians if the visit was arranged by Kalu’s political allies. If not, where and when did the Ohanaeze leadership sat and agreed to send Igariwey to visit Kalu and prevail on him to shelve his 2015 presidential ambition? Why was Igariwey alone on the visit, instead of going with other members of his executives? That speaks volume of the circumstances surrounding the seemingly contrived visit, and what it was meant to achieve for those behind it. Besides, the grave silence of members of the executive is worrisome as it may signposts that they are beneficiaries of the charade.

Without any dispute, Kalu’s alleged 2015 presidential ambition

will not be a problem to the unity of Igbo in 2015. How would the ambition of a man who has not attended any meeting convened by the Ohanaeze Ndigbo or any other Igbo groups since he left office as the governor of Abia State be a problem to Igbo unity? Even the Nzuko Igbo group which he floated sometime ago to feather his political nest, has since lost its voice and presence in the polity. Of what political value was Kalu to the Igbo when and after he left office in 2007 as governor of Abia State, apart from engaging in political dispute against his people, and making provocative utterances in the media? Who among Kalu’s colleagues in the zone is still grandstanding politically for his people; is it Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani, Chief Sam Egwu, Achike Udenwa or Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju? They have all cued in to work with their people for the good of the zone, having accepted the fact of their exit from office as governors.

If Kalu has such political value and acumen as he, his allies, and Igariwey want the world to believe by the visit, why was he unable to manage the success of his party in Imo and Abia states in 2007? Why has he been so desperate to return to PDP by hook or crook, instead of teaming up with the members of the major opposition party, All Progressives Congress (APC) to prove his political worth in 2015? Igbo had not forgotten in a hurry his involvement in many leadership crises that rocked Ohanaeze Ndigbo; only for him to use the same Ohanaeze leadership to shore up his political image ahead of 2015. Obviously, the purpose of the visit, which Kalu’s newspaper editors have been celebrating in their columns, is to pretend that Kalu is still a force to reckon with ahead of the 2015 polls.

While it is his constitutional right as a qualified Nigerian to seek any public office in the country, as he did in the 2007 presidential election, and the 2011 Abia North senatorial election – and failed woefully – he ought to draw a parallel line between his personal ambition and the general political interest of the Igbo who are prepared to head into 2015 politically without Kalu, who, as an individual, is not a factor in determining the Igbo interest politically in the next election. It is doubtful if he

has the charisma or Midas touch to do so against the Igbo leadership in state governors, representatives at the National Assembly and other public office holders who are charting the way forward based on the political realities on ground.

It is only wise that these political leaders form the fulcrum of the partnership with the leadership of Ohanaeze to ensure that the people of the zone get what belongs to them from the government all the time. Even if there is need to incorporate the exgovernors, former public office holders and others in the political affairs of the zone, such persons should be ready to cue in into agenda of the people, and obediently work with the present political leaders of the zone.

That was what happened in the 2011 general elections and the zone is presently reaping the dividend of their massive support for President Jonathan in the election. Apart from holding more than 35 per cent of the public offices in the country, the zone has witnessed tremendous infrastructural development courtesy of the present government.

An examination of the political atmosphere in the country today and the body language of the political leaders in the southeast zone, indicate no doubt that the zone would do something in 2015 different from what they did in the 2011 presidency with or without the leadership of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo. Igbo will throw their weight behind President Jonathan, if he wishes to run for second term in office. With the present political situation in the country, Igbo can make moves to contest the Presidency in 2015, only if it is clear that President Jonathan will not be contesting the election. And if such need arises, Igbo will go for leaders who are educated, committed and authentic Igbo presidential materials. There is every need for Igbo to be at alert on the activities of the present leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo ahead of next year’s general elections. Nobody must be allowed to drag the values of the people to the mud for selfish interest.

The Abuja visit to Kalu should serve as enough warning of what awaits the collective interest of the Igbo.

• Omeneogor, a system analyst, wrote from Toronto, Canada.

15

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

BUSINESS Friday, February 14, 2014

Business ‘Agric projects in Kano, Kogi to cost $465m’ From Joke Falaju, Abuja HE United Nation T Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) has put the cost of developing agricultural infrastructure in project sites of Kogi and Kano states at $465 million (N74 billion).

A breakdown revealed that $314 million would be spent on developing infrastructure around cassava value chain in Alape Staple Crop Processing Zone (SCPZ), Kogi state, while $151 million would be expended in provision of infrastructure for rice, sorghum and tomato value chain in Gafan, Kano State SCPZ. The infrastructural facilities include construction of roads, provision of water, supply of power, supply of

liquefied natural gas supply, telecommunications, construction of rail network and cargo air complex, among others.

The UNIDO representative in Nigeria, Dr. Chukwuma Ezedinma, who spoke on Wedneday in Abuja at a technical workshop for Ministries, Departments and Agencies on Staple Crop Processing Zones, put the cost of specific agricultural infrastructure for the Alape project site at $137 million.

Some of the specialised infrastructure to be provided in the project site include provision of access roads to the SCPZ, rural power supply through solar power generation, Knowledge dissemination cell, market intelligence cell, collection centers, primary processing

hub, reefer vans among others.

The infrastructure for Alape project site would also include the construction of access roads between Obajana, the project site and Kabba road, and the power connectivity would include the transmission of electricity from the Obajana substation.

He added for povision of water supply, water would be channeled from river Ohin to the SCPZ while gas would be channeled through a 29 kilometre pipeline from Obajana to the project site.

Ezedinma pointed out that because of the grains that would be produced in the Gafan Project site in Kano state, about six-silo complex would be constructed to

preserve the produce.

The UNIDO Representative also highlighted the estimated cost of providing infrastructure in other SCPZ to include Badeggi, Niger state -$181.4 million, Omor Anambra state- $186.6 million, Okolo Rivers state, $79.6 million while the cost for infrastructure in Adani SCPZ, Enugu State was put at $149.7 million.

The Permanent Secretary Mrs. Ibukun Odusote in her opening address mentioned that the workshop was organized to ensure collaboration between relevant MDAs, private sectors, development partners and other internation organizations to brainstorm and ensure the smooth take-off of the project.

“This is important as the

Bharti Airtel’s Director and Africa Head, Airtel Money, Chidi Okpala (left); Director of Business Development, mFino, Chalapathi Rao Immidi and Executive Vice Chairman, Brinq Africa (Ingenico Partner), Deji Fisho at the fourth MobileMoney Expo themed: ‘Promoting Financial Inclusion’ held in Lagos, yesterday.

Dealers task govt on agreed rice duty ICE Millers Importers and R Distributors Association of Nigeria (RiMIDAN) has appealed to the Federal Government to urgently implement the $190 duty per metric tonne on rice Speaking yesterday at a press briefing in Lagos, the Secretary-General of the RiMIDAN , Alhaji Shaibu Mohammed regretted that over 20 vessels of rice are currently stucked at the high seas,as a result of Federal Government’s breach of agreement reached with the association Nov 21,in Abuja.

Only recently, the Federal Government , through the inter-ministerial committee on dutiable rate, held a stakeholders meeting with the dealers in Abuja, to quickly arrest the rate of smuggled rice through the Republic of Benin into Nigeria According to Mohammed,“ Federal Government called a

meeting of stakeholders to address the situation before Chirstmas season which accounts for the highest point of rice consumption.

This was with a view of ensuring that the chrismas imports were done legally through the Nigerian ports.

“The new dutiable for legal import was not implemented by government, even though it would have saved the industry and boosting national revenue by N50 billion.”

At the meeting, the Interministerial Committee approved reduction of the duty from $570 to $190 per metric tonne as a benchmark for imported rice within the stipulated time of two months.

The body is composed of the presidential committee on trade malpractices, customs and ministries of agriculture.

The association has however expressed regret that the new

dutiable price for legally imported rice has not yet been implemented by the government Shaibu said that understanding with the association to import rice within two months to cushion the effect of smuggled rice into the country.

According to him, at the meeting ,the Federal Government decided to reduce the duty rate from 100 per cent to 50 per cent.

“Before now almost all the agreement reached by the committee concerning duty and benchmark was always implemented immediately “We are so shocked that after the Federal Government gave the go ahead to bring in rice most of our members swung into action and ordered rice that is now stocked at the high seas of the nation’s territorial waters.

“The waiting game has been

on for over two months because certain government agencies are yet to receive some directives.

“We appeal to the National Assembly and the President, to save us from this colossal loss” The rice dealers association equally disclosed the that Benn republic parliament has since passed a motion which drastically reduced duty on rice that has drastically reduced the duty levy which has further made it easier for smugglers to smuggle rice into Nigeria and made it difficult to import rice especially at the dutiable rate of $570.

RIMIDAN also alleged that the Minister of Finance has refused to implement the approved $190 dutiable levy and has appealed to the National Assembly to propel action in order to restore the confidence in the sector.

World Bank and African Development Bank (AfDB) have enlisted their support for the development of SCPZ for Kogi and Kano states. Hence, a formidable synergy to address some critical challenges arising from the establishment of SCPZ is required at this state”, she stated.

She mentioned that the idea of the SCPZ has been identified as a platform for private-sector driven government-enabled value added agro-processing

investment to increase national agricultural production capacity, reduce post-harvest losses, enhance food security, create jobs and stimulate rural agro-industrialisation.

She disclosed that six out of the fourteen SCPZ sites had been selected for development under the first phase, adding that the sites were designed to be multicrop processing zones, located near high agricultural production areas with cluster of agro-processing activities.

‘Nigeria, others drive Nestle’s growth’

By Femi Adekoya ITH the Eurozone yet to W recover from the economic downturn as well as the cost-conscious nature of consumers within the region, markets within zones in America, Asia, Oceania and Africa in 2013, accounted for the slow growth witnessed by Swiss food giant and world’s largest food company, Nestle.

Specifically, Nestle’s sales hit CHF 92.2 billion with sales in emerging markets last year rising to 9.3 per cent, faster than the 8.8 per cent recorded after nine months, fueled by “strong” results in Africa, the Middle East and Indonesia, compared to one per cent recorded in its developed markets.

Meanwhile the company has unveiled plans to maintain its portfolio management strategy by increasing its investments in healthcare services, even as its growth slowed in 2013.

Going by its resolution, Nestle may announce new deals in the area of mergers and acquisitions to deepen its presence and enhance its growth in the markets.

Indeed, the firm, which recorded the smallest yearly sales growth in four years amid sluggish spending and lower prices in developed

markets, is strategising to move beyond relatively stagnant traditional food markets into “wellness”, where growth prospects and profit margins are more enticing.

According to the firm, demand for such products will rise as aging populations require more special diets to deal with a range of ailments.

Speaking at a press conference following the release of the group’s 2013 financial results in Vevey, Switzerland and closely monitored in Lagos, yesterday, Chief Executive Officer of Nestle, Paul Bulcke said: “Mergers and Acquisitions is part of our equations” adding that the group was always looking at attractive bolt-on opportunities.

He noted that despite the soft growth recorded in the 2013, the firm projects a rise in revenue to about 5 percent this year excluding acquisitions, disposals and currency shifts, with the second half stronger than the first.

According to the firm, the five percent forecast was below estimates for growth of about 5.3 per cent, based on a company-compiled consensus.

After a challenging 2013, this year “will likely be the same,”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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Friday, February 14, 2014

16

NIMC concludes ‘user acceptance test’ for e-ID cards

By Adeyemi Adepetun HE National Identity T Management Commission (NIMC) has carried out User Acceptance Test (UAT) on the National Identity Smart Card facility to ensure it conforms to international standards and best global practices in line with the objective of the NIMS project.

The UAT, according to NIMC, would meet the requirements as provided by Datacard Group to the commission. The comprehensive functions of the system include communication with other sub-systems at NIMC; identifying each citizen by installing personal data and applications on the chip and physical customization of the card to suit each individual. It also includes complete deliv-

ery of the validated system.

The Director-General of the Commission, Chris Onyemenam, in an interview, said the test case was necessary to check the Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) and the System Acceptance Test (SAT) configuration.

Explaining the process of the FAT and the SAT, the Director General noted that ‘test data’ was used to encode on the chip of the e-ID card before it can be printed.

He said: “The smartcard chip encoding applications allows for personal information to be encrypted on the chip of the National Identity Card according to the card profiles, while the machines was used to write names on the card.

The NIMC DG added that the process by which the chip

on the card is encoded and data are written on it is called chip encoding.

Speaking further, the NIMC boss said the applications currently encoded on the chip are: ICAO/ePassport application, which enables

the card to be used as a travel document; the eID application which is the holders Identity; the PKI application which ensures that the card conforms to international security standards; the Match On Card (MOC) application,

which will be used for authenticating and verifying the holder; and the Euro MasterCard Visa application which allows the card to be used as a payment solution such as an ATM card.

According to him, the test

Emerging markets drive Nestle’s growth CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 Chief Executive Officer Paul Bulcke said, pointing to weakness in Europe and North America. The overall performance will be “similar to last year,” he said.

“Like other global consumer goods companies, Nestle’s growth slowed in 2013 as emerging market demand cooled and mature market consumers remain cost-conscious. It expects growth for 2014 to be below its long-term target as well”, he added.

Bulcke further said Nestle has no plan to further reduce its stake in L’Oreal SA after this week’s agreement

to sell part of its holding in the cosmetics maker for six billion euros ($8.2 billion). A share buyback to be funded from the proceeds will be announced “soon,” the company said.

Also, the firm’s profit margins also contracted in the Americas, narrowing by 0.5 percentage point to 18.2 per cent amid what Bulcke described as a “price war” in U.S. bottled water.

Sales in the region rose 5.3 percent as Nestle boosted marketing for its DiGiorno frozen pizzas and new Butterfinger peanut-butter cups. In Asia, Oceania and Africa, sales rose 5.6 per cent.

Vice-Chancellor Obafemi Awolowo University, Ife, Prof. Idowu Bamitale Omole (left) and Executive Director Lagos & West Directorate, Keystone Bank, Mrs. Yvonne Isichei, during a courtesy visit by the Vice Chancellor to Keystone Bank Head Office in Lagos, yesterday.

case processes was followed carefully to ensure that the National Identity Smart Card are up to global standards and certification before it can be introduced into the market.

He said: “The successful SAT, and the subsequent successful UAT were done following a successful EMV activities.

“The ePKI Key Ceremony was conducted recently, thus making sure the NIMC have completed the full circle of tests and functional systems deployment to ensure the proper and standardised issuance of the National Identity Smart Card.”

The Director-General added that the next step following the successful User Acceptance Test is the fieldtesting of the card, which will commence immediately across Nigeria and globally.

The DG assured that all things being equal, the field tests will take no more than two weeks and by the grace of God, will be very successful.

He also assured that persons who have enrolled for their National Identification Number (NIN) will soon be issued their National Identity Smart Card, and called on those yet to be enrolled for their NIN to visit any NIMC enrolment centre close to them to do so.

Nigeria to showcase food, drugs, others at German fair

By Wole Oyebade IGERIAN food and pharN maceutical sectors will be among the top beneficiaries

of latest innovations slated for display at this year’s processing and packaging trade fair (Interpack 2014) holding in Dusseldorf, Germany.

Representative of Messe Dusseldorf, organiser of the fair, Itua Akhigbe, said this yesterday in Lagos, as he highlighted that the fair would showcase latest ideas, trend setting concepts and technological innovations for pharmaceutical and packaged food, with immense benefit for local processing companies.

At an event to herald the trade fair holding from May 8 to 14, 2014, Akhigbe said the fair is the destination point for anyone in the processing industry, especially to fill existing technology gaps.

He observed that innovative

packaging is the in-thing globally, with estimated trade volume value of more than 500billion Euros in 2012.

According to projection for 2017, the Nigerian packaged food is expected to see growth rate of between 10 to 29 per cent, while market for beverages will rise by 35 per cent.

Akhigbe, however, said innovations were crucial to be able to survival in the competitive domestic and international markets.

According to him, “regardless of whether we talk about manufacturers of foods, beverages, pharmaceutical and cosmetic products, suppliers or service providers - despite all the differences within the individual areas some subjects all have in common - all

of them focus on resource efficiency, security and flexibility.

“It is therefore very important in going there to know the direction in which technology is heading, understand where basis for knowledge-transfer is and where they can get inputs from established companies to improve their own business pursuits in Nigeria.”

He added: “The rhetoric of Africa rising and Nigeria on the cusp of continental dominance in products, really bring a lot of importance to the table. There are a lot of novel things that can be done here and Nigeria is avery important market for Interpack 2014, especially the use of machinery.”

Friday, February 14, 2014 17

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TheMetroSection It is the season of love...!

• As Lagosians join the rest of the world to mark Valentine’s Day IGERIANS have today joined the N rest of the world to mark St. Valentine’s Day. For the last two

Ewekoro NYCN to install new executives HE investiture of the new exT ecutive members of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ewekoro Local Council chapter, Ogun State, holds today at Hallmark Event Centre Hall, Itori, Ogun State at 2.00p.m.

The event would be used to launch N5million NYCN building and presentation of awards to eminent personalities that have contributed immensely to the growth of the area.

Chairman is Alhaji R.A Bakare, Royal Father of the Day is Oba Mufutau Hamzat, while the executive chairman of the council, Oludele Soluade is the Chief host.

Heavenly Dew holds

RIUMPHANT Baptist T Church Akowonjo will tomorrow hold her monthly A beautiful Valentine’s card feast day.

Celebrating St. Valentine’s Day is not just a couples’ thing, either. Special gifts are given to special people in our lives to let them know we love and care for them. Red roses, perfumes, fashion accessories, smart

phones, kitchen utensils, shaving kits and more, are among the precious gifts to give that touch the heart.

Whether you are popping the big question with a unique proposal straight from out of a movie, spend-

ing the day with your heartthrob, going out with your family or simply having a good time with your colleagues at work, just spread the joy; catch the spirit of Valentine’s Day and radiate love among your fellow human beings!

• Doctor, pastor arrested for bank robbery in Lagos

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took to my heels.I swear to God, as a medical doctor, I have never handled guns. It was because I had no money to renew my medical licence. I was looking for N250, 000 to do the registration and I could not opt out as I was afraid of Fineboy though he was later killed during a gun battle with the police.”

Telling his story, Pastor Isaiah Willie Of Happy People Bible Church, Ayobo blamed the devil and greed for his woes.

The suspects

His words: “The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak. I am a man of God and I won’t tell you lies. I joined the gang when one Confidence ran to me for cover when he was declared wanted by the police. From assisting the man, he introduced me to the Chairman (leader), Fineboy. Fineboy now told me to provide my Honda bulletproof car for an operation, as their vehicle was faulty. After the operation, he gave me N400, 000 and I still drove them to First Bank robbery where

I got N300, O00. We did not succeed with the Access Bank robbery and I was very sad when I read in the papers that three policemen were killed.”

“I am a man of God and I preach the Word of God. The bible condemns all the vices that I involved myself in, but greed and the devil made me to do it. Again, I was afraid to quit as Fineboy had warned he would wipe out my family if I tried to quit. I am very happy that I have been liberated from armed robbery

programme "Heavenly dew" at 7.00am-8.30am.

The theme is "Help of the helpless."

The church pastor,Dr. Sunday Oladejo said “the programme is designed to enable people pray and get solutions to their challenges.”

Church marks anniversay

‘I am sorry for the policemen we killed’ ‘By Odita Sunday PERATIVES of the State Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested a pastor, a medical practitioner and a musician for allegedly belonging to a notorious armed robbery gang that has been robbing banks in the South West.

The gang was alleged to have killed three policemen last November during an attack on Access bank, Ayobo, Lagos branch and others in Ondo and Ogun states.

The medical practitioner, Dr Tajudeen Dosumu, claimed that he joined the gang after he was sacked from the General Hospital Ikeja (now LASUTH).

“The day I joined the armed robbery gang was when my younger brother introduced me to one Confidence who in turn took me to our leader, Fineboy. The first robbery operation was when I drove the gang to a filling station at the Okokomaiko area of Lagos. The second one was the first bank robbery and the last one was the Acess bank robbery where we killed three policemen. We did not succeed because the police stormed the place and we fled but later laid ambush for the policemen.

“When my gang was firing the police, I could not stand the gunshots noise, so I

NNUNCIATION Catholic A College, Irrua, Old Boys’ Association, Lagos branch, meets on Sunday, February 16, at No. 4, Olatunji Ogunsanwo Street, off Isiba Oluwo Street, Orelope Bus Stop Egbeda, Lagos at 3.00p.m.

By Nike Sotade and Eno Bassey

weeks, merchants of Valentine’s Day products have been painting the town red with gifts in many shades of the red- crimson, scarlet, ruby, maroon, burgundy and more. It is the season to celebrate love and present gifts to loved ones.

However, many don’t know how Valentine’s Day came about and there are many schools of thought on the origin of the day. Everyone knows it is a day filled with heartfelt thoughts and gifts to our loved ones.

St. Valentine is the name given to three different martyrs whose feast falls on February 14. One legend has it that the first St. Valentine was a Roman priest who went against an emperor’s order that outlawed marriage for young men so they could be better soldiers.

When he continued to perform marriages in secret, his actions were soon found out and he was sentenced to death. Before his death, the imprisoned Valentine sent the first Valentine greeting to the jailor’s daughter and signed the letter “from your Valentine.” He was beheaded and buried in a cemetery named for him.

The second was another Roman bishop who was beheaded and the third was a little-known martyr in Africa. The only thing our modern day Valentine’s Day has in common with the lives of the saints is the

Briefs Annunciation Catholic College old boys meet

by this arrest but my fear is that my arrest will affect Christendom as those who reposed their trust in me as a pastor will be discouraged but it is better I face the shame and go to heaven than to die and go to hell fire.”

The musician, Jonathan Narim, claimed that he met the gang after one of his musical performances at the Apapa area.

“I went to three different operations including the Access Bank robbery attack where the policemen were killed. I got to know that three policemen were killed just last week. I felt sorry for our actions.”

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Umar Manko, who paraded the suspect yesterday at the Police Headquarters, Ikeja said the robbers were members of a notorious gang that has terrorized banks in the South West.

He said the gang has killed policemen and snatched their rifles.

Manko who praised the Officer-in-charge of SARS, Abba Kyari and his decoy team for ending the dynasty of Fineboy who has been terrorising banks, showcased 13 AK 47 rifles, 300 rounds of AK 47 ammunition, magazines, gas cylinder, police walkie-talkie and other ATM breaking tools and ATM machines recovered from the robbers.

HE 42nd edition of Ark of T Covenant Passover Feast/ Thanksgiving Service of Divine Heart of Christ Church World wide will hold from Sunday, February 16 through Friday, February 21 with revival service at 6.00p.m. and vigil /Passover Feast at 9.00p.m., midnight – 5.00a.m. respectively. Grand finale is on Saturday, February 22, 2014 at 1.00pm. at 9, Adetoro John Street, off Oyebajo Street, Igbobi/Fadeyi in Somolu Local Council of Lagos.

Chief host is Hezekiah Olujimi Akingbehin.

Lawani-Osunde dies at 65 HE death has occurred of T the President, Nigeria Society of Anaesthesia (NSA), Dr. (Mrs.) Adesuwa Safu Lawani-Osunde, 65. She died on February 1.

She was married to former Secretary General, Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Dr. Lasisi Adam Osunde.

The family will announce the burial arrangements later and she is survived by five children.

Lawani-Osunde

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18 Friday, February 14, 2014

Barcelona Hotel offers a complete view of Abuja at Valentine’s

Briefs Nigerian women hold conference in Abuja From Madu Onuorah, Abuja TWO-DAY conference of Nigerian women aimed at galvanising interventions and strategies for greater electoral representation and victory in next year’s elections begins in Abuja next week.

The meeting will focus on extracting commitment from key political leaders on ways to rewrite statutory provision that will favour women in the coming general elections.

To be held at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, it will be attended by President Goodluck Jonathan leaders and members of the National Assembly, chairmen and women leaders of the registered political parties, serving and former Ministers, female legislators from federal, state and local governments and officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Others expected include development partners; women focused organisations, private sector and representatives of various women and youth groups.

Majority Leader, House of Representatives, Mrs Mulikat Akande, said in Abuja Monday that the conference “will access and agree on practical interventions for increasing the role of women in political parties; agree on strategies for tailoring energies for grassroots mobilisations in favour of female candidates in 2015 elections; revisit political parties statutory gender provisions and generate practical commitments to actualise the provisions and provide a learning space for female politicians to build their capacity.”

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LAWMA signs MoU with KFI on waste management Barcelona Hotel From Karls Tsokar, Abuja HEN beauty and style are synchronized with good rhythm and elegance, the ‘wow’ factor naturally comes in. This best summarizes the captivating spectacle of the new Barcelona Hotel that opened business today, Valentine’s Day. The seven-story, 300 fully furnished room edifice on 23 Blantyre Street, Wuse II, Abuja will be opened to guests today, being a special day of love and compassion, with a weekend treat to the public, beginning with a special church service to be held in the 1000 sitting capacity Grand Ballroom by 10.00 am in the morning.

Completed with a roof-top garden and restaurant that can sit more than 300 people spread on three wings, such that each of the arms gives the customer a distinctive

W

view of the capital city, thus an amazing 360 degrees view of Abuja, making the uniqueness broader and breathtaking.

The hotel is to be managed by a renowned hospitality consultant Colin Waterton, a veteran Hotelier in Nigeria.

The hotel boasts of the best facilities in the sector with Chinese dinning rooms, spa and wellness centre, automated and secure locking systems in all the apartments, swimming pool and an underground car park with a capacity to accommodate 200 cars conveniently.

According to the Sales and Marketing Manager Bamise Ogundare: The Chairman of the of the Hotel, Chief Edward Nkwuegu (OFR), an Architect, carefully conceived and designed the hotel, putting into consideration some of the vital perspectives that

would ensure the total comfort of the guest.”

He said the soft opening day, which coincides with Valentine’s Day, is going to be fun as the first guests would enjoy massive discounts on beautiful rooms, and a retinue of activities to make the weekend special and memorable.

Reeling out the programme, Ogundare said: “A welcome cocktail at the pool terrace with cultural troops performing and a Valentine dinner buffet at the Rooftop Restaurant, with a full live band entertaining from 7. 00 pm to 10 pm with a disc jockey (DJ) entertaining for the relaxation of customers in the garden till dawn.”

“Saturday would not be different as there would be breakfast on top of Abuja, both Nigerian and English cuisines would be served from 7 am to 10 am at the

Roof top Restaurant, followed by a light cocktail at the lobby after a familiarity tour of the hotel.”

“Also on Saturday, there would be a buffet lunch for our first guests at the continental and pool terrace from 12 noon to 3. 00 pm and then a dinner in the African Restaurant with Makossa live band and cultural dance display at the African restaurant from 7 pm to 10 pm. The amazing weekend treat will be capped with a Sunday Brunch at the Roof-top Restaurant with Jazz music from 7 am to 3pm.

With room checkout time extended to 4. 00 pm, couples will enjoy all of these and much more for the Valentine to ensure maximum relaxation, emotional commitment and reinvigoration relationship for lovers of all categories is assured”, he said.

Group decries rise in cancer among children NON-GOVERNMENTAL organisation, Children With Cancer Intervention Initiative (CCII), has expressed displeasure over the treatment of children suffering from cancer and the alarming increase in the disease in Nigeria.

Addressing journalists in Ikeja, Lagos, the Coordinator, CCII, Honor Onyebuchukwu, said the ugly development calls for urgent intervention of all stakeholders, especially

A

the government.

Her words: “In our hospital, the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) alone, we had about 25 bright and intelligent children aged between eight months and 14 years battling with the disease as at May, 2012. We lost 10 of them.

Just a week before Christmas, we lost yet a dear little twoyear-old girl referred to LUTH from Port Harcourt hospital and these are the ones we know about.”

Also, the CCII coordinator said there are urgent needs in the Oncology Wards of LUTH where these children are kept for treatment.

Onyebuchukwu said their visits to the Oncology Ward of LUTH revealed that the ward was lacking important equipment for proper care of children with cancer, including provision of installation of oxygen piping, procumbent of cold centrifuge and accom-

modation for caregivers during treatment.

On the group’s quest to meet their needs, she said they had sent letters to the Minister of Health and the Senate President on July 2013, requesting that they look into the issues.

“But up till now, we are still waiting for their responses”, she stated.

Onyebuchukwu said they believe the government would provide free treatment for children with cancer.

By Yetunde Ayobami Ojo OR capacity development and to establish an African Centre of Excellence on Waste Management, the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Knowledge Factory International U.K (KFI) to this effect.

The Managing Director of LAWMA, Mr. Ola Oresanya, while signing the MoU at LAWMA headquarters at Ijora, said the aim is to improve on public and private sector performance in solid waste management and related issues across Africa and beyond.

According to him, signing MoU marks the official commencement of the partnership between LAWMA and KFI for capacity development through knowledge exchange.

“The objective of this MOU is to establish the basis for the development of a collaborative based knowledge transfer programme between both parties for the establishment of African Centre of Excellence on Waste Management.”

“To initiate action to foster the achievement of the partnerships’ respective objectives in the areas of knowledge transfer and capacity development on waste management and leadership for public and private sector in Africa under the framework of the Centre.”

“The specific objectives within the framework of the Centre include Bridge technology gaps and correct policy deficiencies in the waste management sector,” he said.

Oresanya said the issue of waste affects the lifes of everybody in a society, noting that recycling is a profitable venture if properly explored. There are a number of recycling going on- organic compost, red bottle, paper conversion and tyres.

He noted that there is opportunity for other countries to come and see what LAWMA is doing in enhancing human capacity building and knowledge transfer among local, national and international organisations.

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Aghwefada for burial tomorrow RS. Mary Imaku Eko Aghwefada (nee Oghoro Ekorhi), M who died at the age of 102, will be buried tomorrow at Edado Ehwerhe of Ehwerhe Agbarho in Ughelli North Local Council, Delta State.

Thanksgiving service holds on Sunday, February 16, at Godwill Mission, Onokpasa Street, Agbarho at 9.00a.m.

She is survived by children among whom are Godwin Aghwefada, Rev. Peter Aghwefada, Elder Joseph Aghwefada, Mrs. Mary Philomena Ibuje and Amb. Henry Aghwefada.

Mark Valentine’s Day at Hardley Hotel O mark this year’s Valentine’s Day, The Hardley ApartT ments, Waziri Ibrahim Crescent Victoria is inviting guests to “Come with your loved ones and enjoy a 50 per cent discount on all categories of rooms” and unmatched entertainment from DJ TL Smooth on the wheel of steel.

“It’s the ultimate season of love and at H-Bar , we give love, take love and share love.”

Indomie to sample eight million Nigerians nationwide O fewer than eight million consumers will, this year, be N sampled with the varying flavours of Indomie Instant Noodles nationwide, as part of Dufil Prima Foods’ efforts to continually ensure objective consumer feedback and satisfaction.

This projection came about as a result of the company’s desire to surpass last year’s 5,000,000 consumers sampled last year.

Speaking on this development, the Head of Marketing, Dufil Prima Foods Plc, Mr. Manpreet Singh, affirmed that the company intends to extend the sampling to the entire geo political zone in the country namely: North-Central, North-East, North-West, South-East, South-South and SouthWest.

He further stated that the sampling exercise is targeted at creating excitement and increasing the emotional connection between the brand and its consumers, as a way of encouraging a store experience in the home of consumers.

Also speaking, the Public Relations Manager, Dufil Prima Foods Plc, Mr. Tope Ashiwaju, ascertained that product sampling is an ideal way to continuously earn customer trust and loyalty while also sustaining existing ones who have maintained their brand loyalty over the years.

“The importance of enabling our consumers sample the brand cannot be overemphasized because sampling has been known to give consumers the actual experience of the product.

Friday, February 14, 2014 19

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Weekend Budget of controversy

Arts & Culture P. 35

How Akeeb Kareem’s father nearly killed his talent as musician

Autowheels P.44

Business Travels P.46

Behold! Alluring 2014 Range Rover Sport

Air safety is everybody’s business

20 WEEKEND Friday, February 14, 2014

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Nigerians upbraid federal

Jonathan

By Ade Ogidan, Business Editor and Chijioke Nelson

“Our strong economic performance of the recent years is already being translated into increased job creation across various sectors…this administration is fully aware that more jobs are needed to support our growing population. This is my priority- and this is why the 2014 budget is focused on jobs and inclusive growth. To achieve this, we will continue our drive to create an environment conducive for our private sector to thrive…” President Goodluck Jonathan.

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan’s showcasing P of the thrust of this year’s budget could be described as soothing to the populace, who had over the years, been yearning for a policy determined route out of poverty, that had been ravaging a nation that is otherwise flowing with the proverbial milk and honey.

However, the President’s statement appeared to have derived its soothing value only on the surface level. Analysts have described the various provisions as another journey into uncertainty, with inbuilt alibi to explain failures.

All over the world, budget serves an inevitable tool for planning and steering the course of a country. National budget, therefore, is a deliberate estimate of the course of action of a government in the form of planned revenue and expenditure over a fiscal year. The expenditure plan has become an important document in every economy that dictates the decision, of not only the public sector, but also the private sector. Its importance explains the reason why economic activities struggle in the presence of a poorly planned and executed budget.

However, national budget is not purely an economic document, but a mixture of economic, political and technical inputs. While economic budget is entirely designed to allocate scarce resources for the best economic use, national budgets have a political basis wherein different interests push and pull, in an attempt to obtain benefits and avoid burdens.

Analytically, the 2014 budget pending before the National Assembly, is predicated on the assumptions the production of 2.3883 million

Mark barrels of oil per day (mbpd); anchored on four main pillars of macroeconomic stability, structural reforms, governance and institutions, and investing in priority sectors; benchmark oil price of $77.5/barrel; average exchange rate of N160 per U.S. dollar; and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate of 6.75 per cent, with single digit inflation target.

It is entitled: “Budget for Job creation and Inclusive growth,” with the theme and thrust of fiscal consolidation and a focus on inclusive growth. Fiscal deficit is projected to rise slightly to 1.9 per cent of GDP in the 2014, up from 1.85 per cent projected for 2013. The position reflects a direct consequence of declining revenue, compounded by the expenditure restraint.

It is projected at about N4.6 trillion, with over 72 per cent as recurrent expenditure and 28 per cent or N1.178 trillion for capital projects. This was contrary to the N1.7 trillion budgeted for capital spending in 2013, representing a decrease of about N608 billion of capital budget provisions.

Expected Federal Government’s retained revenue for 2014 was projected at N3.731 trillion, with about N2.114 trillion from oil and gas and N1.021 trillion from non-oil sources, including personal income tax, company taxes, custom duties, Value Added Tax, as well as N452 billion and N143 billion from Federal Independent Revenue and unspent balance.

Dr. Uzochukwu Amakom of the Institute for Development Studies, University Of Nigeria, Enugu Campus observed that in Nigeria, budget documents over the years have reflected a tussle between politics and economics with the former prevailing over the later.

This may explain the reason for scepticisms that have been on the increase about government living up to their budgetary promises and expectations. The individuals, entrepreneurs, investors and the entire organized private sector also seems to have lost confidence in the credibility of the budget because of the large variances between the projected parameters and actual results.

Amakom said, “inflation is one index of macro-economic stability and has been projected in 2014 budget. It affects government’s fiscal projections and operations. First, it gives an indication of how the government expects the general prices to behave over time.

Secondly, inflation serves as a measure of the real value of economic variables in the eco-

Tambuwal nomic system. Inflation derives from the structural, fiscal and monetary interactions in an economy.

“But available statistics for the past years have been mixed. In 2011, government targeted inflation rate at 12 per cent, while actual inflation stood at 10.3 per cent. Actual inflation in 2012 was 12.5 per cent from the projected 9.5 per cent.

However, inflation rate declined in 2013 from the projected figure in 2012 to 8.7 per cent. Actual inflation rate declined in the first quarter of 2013, despite the impact of flood in 2012. The need to provide government projection in inflation has always been necessary, given the distortional impact of inflation in an economy.

“The projected exchange rate of the naira against the dollar in the 2014 budget is N160 per dollar, which is not different from the 2013 benchmark. This is largely as result of the effort of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to keep the exchange rate fairly stable. In the first and second quarter of 2013, exchange rate appreciated modestly from the targeted figure due to tight monetary policy stance.

“However, by the end of the second quarter of 2013, the Naira has depreciated relatively due to increased dollarization of the economy. Thus, the ability of the CBN to prevent the Naira from possible depreciation would be dependent on its monetary policy stance vis a vis global crude oil supply and capital flow in 2014. Nevertheless, the N160 per dollar in 2014 could have implication of increasing revenue generation capacity of the government with its attendant effect of increasing the prices of imported goods. It is important to note that currently, the Naira is losing value against the dollar and must be factored in the exchange rate projection for it to be meaningful.”

The incongruity were mostly felt in the broad category of real sector provisions with over 73 per cent variance with provisions to the two major sub-sectors of agriculture and rural development (74.19 per cent) as well as water resources (59.51 per cent). Physical infrastructure, regional development as well as human capital development had their fair share of 18.24 per cent, 40.13 per cent and 45.95 per cent respectively.

The 2014 budget proposal for waterways and seaports, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and aviation increased dramatically by 125.78 per cent points, 69.69 percentage points and 352.33 percentage points respectively.

Such sharp contrasts and disconnect between policy and budget are visible in the total capital budget provision for the year 2014 of less than 25

per cent capital expenditure proposal, while recurrent expenditure increased dramatically to over 75 per cent of the total proposed budget at the expense of public spending on social services.

A review of the previous budgets’ performances showed poor capital budget performance and were below 15 per cent of the appropriated sum in July 2013. However, it is unfortunate that the recommendations of increasing capital expenditure in the 20142016 MTEF are mere lip service. How can a developing economy like Nigeria, with high dearth of infrastructure and high level of unemployment, continue to increase her recurrent expenditure against capital expenditure?

The level of outlay to recurrent expenditure is crowding out expenditure on capital that is needed to develop the nation; hence the huge allocation to recurrent has constituted a major drain on public resources.

The unemployed population is at present dominated by the youths who are mostly school leavers with senior secondary school qualifications and graduates of tertiary institutions. The composite employment data showed that the rate of unemployment surged from 11.9 per cent in 2006 to 14.6 per cent in 2007 and 21.1 per cent by January 2010 and has deteriorated to over 35 per cent in 2013.

The Federal Government’s Transformation Agenda has, as its target, the implementation of a youth employment support programme that includes conditional cash transfer, vocational training and the development of Industrial clusters. But an analysis of the proposed budget of the Federal Ministries of Trade and Investment, Finance, Agriculture and Rural Development, showed more reasons to doubt than be optimistic.

Having overlooked the assessed loopholes in the 2014-2016 Medium Term Expenditure Framework, such as the lack of consultation and abandonment of the Medium Term Sector Strategy, it was no surprise framework failed.

However, with the Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala realising of the threat of rising recurrent expenditure at 76.3 per cent and the shrinking capital expenditure at 23.7 per cent, it has become imperative to seek measures to reverse the trend.

Still, even as she acknowledged and iden-

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government over 2014 budget tified with civil society groups over some bloated figures and items like Travel and Training Expenses in the budgets of MDAs, her ministry failed to effect a change in their budgets proposals.

For example, the Ministry has a budget of N201.9 million (18.13 per cent increase from 2013) for “Other International Travel” and N181.8 million for “Other Local Travel” (an 18.12 per cent increase from 2013), beside budgeting N48.9 million and N33.2 million for Local and International Training respectively. The Ministry of Finance, with all its financial experts, made a budget proposal of N43.1 million for financial consultation and one begins to wonder how much non-financial MDAs would budget for financial consultation?

Though the blackmail is that a reduction in the recurrent budget may elicit lay-off of workers, such fears, ordinarily, need not be, if wastages and frivolities are removed from the budget line items with seriousness, professionalism and prudence on the part of the civil servants and their finance and budget departments. But most of all, proper scrutiny of budget line items by the supervising and collating ministries, such as the Ministry of Finance and the Budget Office is key.

One example: a quick look at the budget line items of the Centre for Automotive Design and Development under the Ministry of Trade and Investment shows the repetitive use of numbers. For instance, the sum of N319, 098 was allotted five times; the same figure was allocated for Local Travel and Transport; Training, Local Travel and Training; Others, Internet Charges, Consultation and Professional Services; And Fuel and Lubrication. The sum of N53,183 was allocated nine times for telephone charges, water rate, sewage charges, newspapers, magazines and periodicals, printing of non-security materials, teaching aid, postage and courier service and sporting activities.

A similar repetition is noted with N106,366, which was allocated 12 times to electricity charges, Maintenance of Motor Vehicle/Transport Equipment, Maintenance of Office Furniture, Maintenance of Office/IT Equipment, Maintenance of Plant/Generators, Other Maintenance Services, Cleaning and Fumigation Services, Financial Consultation, Motor Vehicle Fuel Cost, Refreshment and Meal, Honorarium and Seating Allowance, Welfare Package, Promotion/Recruitment/Appointments.

The sum of N212,732 was allocated four times for Maintenance of Plants/Generator, Local Training, Legal Service and Plant/Generator Fuel Cost. This pattern of allocation is common among all the parastatals and agencies in this ministry, reflecting laxity in filing budget circulars and scrutiny.

The lack of transparency in budget line items is most evident in the Ministry of Agriculture.

A cursory look at its budgets revealed that N36.3 billion, about 54.4 per cent of the total allocation to the agriculture sector goes to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, while 40 agencies and departments are left to share the remaining N30.4 billion, about 45.6 per cent.

This brings to mind the question: What is actually the role of the main ministry?

Of serious concern is that the line items in the ministry’s budget lack direction and details. For instance, items such as fertilizer, seeds, and equipment were listed devoid of the specific quantities and types. “Support for investment in agro- processing, product development” did not specify the intervention locations and in this way, it will be difficult to track investment and monitor success. It also makes it difficult to ascertain where and how these items would be used.

Another very critical observation is that while many items were not just duplicated in the budget, but featured over 10 times as line items with different allocations- organic and inorganic fertilizer, herbicides, fungicides, it is more confusing to find items like Seed, having different allocation from Seeds and also Improved Seeds. It would be relevant for stakeholders to understand the differences between these items in the budget for the benefit of doubt.

Furthermore, aside having Seed, Seeds And Improved Seeds; Tomato Seeds, Okro Seeds, Onion Seed and Different Kinds of Seeds were listed with different allocations in the budget, making the budget unnecessarily long and unwieldy. In order not to mislead the public,

Okonjo-Iweala

Wogu

Sanusi

Okogu

If you take the N2 billion that is supposed to be the empowerment initiative for the entire North-East zone where this insurgency is greatest, it is about the same amount of money that is being wasted on an aircraft. And the aircraft is just part of the overall cost of the official travelling of the Executive branch of government which amounts to about N7 billion. Yet, we have a situation where 70 per cent of the country does not enjoy more than 10 hours of electricity supply and virtually 70 per cent of the country does not see clean, safe drinking water from their taps. it would be more preferable for the budget drafters to define the particular type and quantity of seeds to make the budget items less cumbersome and help relevant bodies in the performance of their oversight functions.

It was also identified that the agricultural budget is full of budget lines that are not clear with proposed expenditures that are bloated.

For example, the total amount budgeted for seed, seeds, improved seeds, all kinds of seeds and cuttings, seed dressing and seed fund is N3.95 billion. It is worrisome that this lump sum is almost the total amount allocated to three research institutions- National Centre for Agricultural Mechanization, Ilorin, (N598.7 million); National Cereals Research Institute, Badeggi, (N1.23 billion); and National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom (N2.26 billion). The ambiguity seems endless.

The relevance of many other items in the agricultural budget is somewhat questionable. For instance, N172 million was budgeted for school feeding programme and feeding of less privileged members of the public in six poverty stricken states of the federation, while N15 million is for management of acute malnutrition in rural areas of Lagos, Kano and Onitsha. The Emir of Kano, Obi of Onitsha and Oba of Lagos are identified as nutrition ambassadors. But how these programmes relate to the mandate of the ministry and the development of the agricultural sector is not very clear.

Already, the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), has faulted the Federal Government’s devotion of N712 billion to debt servicing alone. According to the chamber, the amount meant that 70 percent of total

capital expenditure for the year is spent on outstanding debts, a phenomenon not in tune with national development priorities of the time.

In a statement signed by Remi Bello, president, LCCI, the chamber said allocating N663.6 billion to domestic debt interest payment as well as N48.4 billion to foreign debt payment was not good for an emerging economy.

“In an economy with a huge infrastructure deficit, poorly funded institutions and poverty incidence of over 65 percent, spending an equivalent of $4.6 billion on interest payment in one year is difficult to justify,’’ he said in a statement, adding, “it is instructive as well that the debt service appropriation is equivalent to 712 per cent of the capital vote for the works ministry (N100bn); 2455 percent of capital budget for transport ministry (29 billion); 1548 per cent of capital vote to health ministry (N46 billion); 2034 per cent of capital vote to agriculture ministry (N35 billion).”

The chamber also faulted the structure of this year’s budget proposals which devotes 76.3 per cent to recurrent expenditure, while allocating merely 23.7 per cent to capital expenditure, saying such could infuse low infrastructure investment, weak competitiveness and productivity of enterprises as well as wasteful spending and corruption as recurrent expenditure were generally more susceptible.

“The chamber is concerned that in the past couple of years, an increasing proportion of the nation’s resources are being committed to recurrent spending, which is also a reflection of higher consumption spending as against investment expenditure. This fiscal structure is certainly not in the best interest of the economy and not consistent with the objective of job creation and inclusive growth. The National Assembly would therefore need to address the relativity of recurrent and capital expenditure proposals,’’ he noted.

The Arewa Consultative Forum, the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) and the Civil Society Legislative and Advocacy Centre and the AntiCorruption Network and activists condemned the allocations for the Villa Zoo and the amount budgeted for President Goodluck Jonathan and Vice-President Namadi Sambo’s local and foreign trips.

According to them, the allocations are not only wasteful, they boldly signpost government’s insensitivity to the plight of Nigerians.

The groups were reacting to media reports that the Presidency had budgeted N1.6 billion for a new jet; N34.5 million for two animals for the Villa Zoo; N2.4 billion for Jonathan and Sambo’s foreign and local trips; N362 million for meals and refreshment and N834 million for fuelling generators in the Presidency and the MDAs. To the NEF, the 2014 budget tells a sad story about the situation Nigeria has found itself today. Its spokesman, Prof. Ango Abdullahi said: “If you take the N2 billion that is supposed to be the empowerment initiative for the entire North-East zone where this insurgency is greatest, it is about the same amount of money that is being wasted on an aircraft. And the aircraft is just part of the overall cost of the official travelling of the Executive branch of government which amounts to about N7 billion. Yet, we have a situation where 70 per cent of the country does not enjoy more than 10 hours of electricity supply and virtually 70 per cent of the country does not see clean, safe drinking water from their taps.”

“You can’t see Nigerians receiving free medical treatment or even at reasonable prices.

As an oil producing country, we are paying the exact amount of money being paid in other non-oil producing countries.” He also faulted the N7 billion voted for the National Dialogue and the votes for travel by government officials to the detriment of education and health care delivery.

Of the over N295 billion at stake, N75 billion is from the over-bloated yearly budget of the National Assembly (N150 billion), while N220.32 billion came from the line items of all the MDAs, including the Presidency. Indeed, the fiscal projections, with their attached figures are in the public domain and speculations over its constituents in terms of capital-recurrent expenditure ratio; real and fictitious items; proposed votes on every item; duplications of items; quality of the fiscal document in terms of assumptions and economic direction, among others, can now be deciphered without doubt.

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Friday, February 14, 2014

www.ngrguardiannews.com

BusinessRound-Up

NIGERIA'S EPAYMENT REVOLUTION

S.AFRICA’S MEGA-RICH CONTINUE TO MAKE BANK

By Dara Rhodes

By Wilhelmina Maboja HE NUMBER of South Africa’s megarich individuals continue to grow as they take advantage of new wealth opportunities in the country.

“There are certain [wealth trends such as in] the financial services industry, [and] there’s definitely some good money being made out of the banking sector, [such as] stock broking. That’s the reported wealth we’re seeing,” MUA insurance Brokers head Warwick Scott-Rodger told CNBC Africa.

“There are obviously a lot of entrepreneurs in the market that are making a lot of money that we don’t know of. There’s a balance of both at the moment, but clearly we’ve got some clever and wealthy individuals in this country.”

Scott-Rodger added that one had to be creative in this day and age in order to take full advantage of wealth-creating opportunities, and combine it with hard work in order to climb up the ladder.

Andrew Amoils from New World Wealth, “In South Africa, based on our measurements – we look at US dollar millionaires so that we can compare across countries – there are just over 48,000 US dollar millionaires in South Africa. About 600 of those have over 30 million US dollars, which are considered ultra-wealthy individuals”.

“That’s just a term that’s been coined because those individuals are so wealthy that they don’t need to think about what they spend their money on. They’re just that wealthy.”

Some of South Africa’s mega-rich have earned their wealth from the telecoms, insurance, healthcare and banking industries.

New World Wealth keeps a database of over 1,000 high net worth individuals and income distribution statistics are ob-

In association with

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Stephen Saad, Aspen Pharmacare CEO, is one of South Africa's many ultra-rich individuals. served from each country, which are then put into the company’s model to determine the number of millionaires.

“We also look at asset allocation, so we work with wealth managers and high net worths to work out their asset allocations and what they spend their money on, the demographics [such as] what gender they are, what sectors they’re coming from, what cities they live in and things like that.”

Amoils added that particularly the wealth managers and luxury goods companies are particularly interested in knowing as pects such as where the high net worths are allocated, where they’re attempting to grow, which countries and cities they dwell in and what brands they’re buying.

While Johannesburg is number one to some of the wealthiest South Africans, Cape Town is not far behind. Most of South Africa’s multimillionaires however reside in Sandhurst, Hyde Park, Bryanston and Houghton, which are all in Johannesburg.

PHOTO: Leadership Platform

“We use primary residence as allocation of where people live, where they work, where their businesses are located, and most of the businesses in South Africa are located around Johannesburg, the Sandton area in particular,” Amoils explained.

“The real estate, retail and fund management sectors are quite big in Cape Town, but a lot of the other sectors aren’t particularly well-developed.

Johannesburg has a far broader spread of millionaires across various sectors.”

There is also a concentration of new wealth in Stellenbosch and Cape Town, and wealthy individuals commute between Johannesburg and these regions. Decisions can also be executed in places of residence but after having been birthed in other regions.

“In Joburg, the growth is incredible at the moment. We’re seeing massive growth there purely because there’s serious growth there. There’s serious wealth there. The money is being made maybe primarily in Joburg but you can’t discount Cape Town, there are a lot of clever business men,” said Scott-Rodger.

NAMIBIAN DEBT INCREASE ACCREDITED TO HOUSEHOLDS sector credit extensions have been averaging between 13 and 15 per cent. This has mainly been attributed by an uptick in household debt as N INCREASE in Namibian debt could opposed to corporate debt, which has ranged be primarily attributed to an increase much lower between nine and 10 per cent,” Daniel Kavishe, an economist at Simonis Storm in household debt.

“Since [the] second quarter of 2013, private Securities, told CNBC Africa.

Total Namibian debt grew by 1.05 per cent during December to 88 billion Namibian dollars. This represents an annualised growth rate of 13.39 per cent.

“Consumers and businesses were trying to take advantage of the fact that they were facing a period where they were [in] a very low interest rate environment and therefore, the most prudent thing to do was for them to take up more credit during this period as opposed to a period when the interest rates would possibly start rising,” Kavishe said.

He added that, as a result of this and the parallelism between Namibia’s and

By Nicole Cassandra Naidoo

A

N 2013, supported by the central banking policy, payments via e-channels grew considerably and more growth is expected this year.

“I think the growth has been driven by the banks and the central bank. The central theme that started it all at that time was about reducing costs,” Ade Shonubi, CEO of the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) told CNBC Africa.

The cashless policy which was announced in 2011, aimed at reducing the cost of banking services (including cost of credit) and drive financial inclusion by providing more efficient transaction options and greater reach.

“If we could move people away from cash to a less cash environment which was electronic in nature, it would make things more efficient for the banks. Their margins were under pressure on the revenue side, so they had to manage costs,” According to Shonubi, people didn’t gravitate towards the policy out of force as the convenience of the system developed a life of its own that was attractive to people and therefore stimulating growth.

“Angola is doing about five times the volumes that we are doing on one-tenth of the size which means to be on par with them, we need to be doing 50 times what they are doing,” he explained.

Thus, while Nigeria still has a long way to go in comparison to Angola, the country achieved quite significant growth last year.

“In terms of the value of transactions, it’s still small compared to cash, cash is king. I think cash is still using 80 per cent of the exchange mechanism that is in place today,” he added.

Nonetheless, in Lagos, the commercial nerve centre of Nigeria, it is quite prevalent as people in the city have the tools such as internet, bank accounts cards.

South Africa’s rates, there was also a possibility of the Bank of Namibia raising the country’s interest rates.

“Namibia will have to look at a lot of factors such as economic growth and our current inflation levels but at the same time, it will also have to look at the household indebtedness of consumers. During the next monetary policy committee, the Bank of Namibia will have to consider the fact that South Africa has already increased their repo rate by about 50 basis points and right now, the two of them are on par,” Kavishe explained.

“We believe that there will be an uptick or an increase of between 25 and 50 basis points for the mere reason that the interest rate increase is inevitable so the Bank of Namibia will want to do it much earlier in the year as opposed to during later monetary policy committee meetings.”

NIGERIA'S BOOMING BEAUTY INDUSTRY

By Dara Rhodes AS THE BEAUTY industry in Nigeria gets stronger, it is now absolutely normal to see the average woman with full face of makeup.

However about 10 to 15 years ago, only celebrities and the elite in the country wore makeup.

These days, more parents are even willing to let their children go into the booming industry.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

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Friday, February 14, 2014

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INTERVIEW

THE COST OF SLOW POLICY DECISIONS IN NIGERIA. Politics often gets in the way of policy making. A good example is the fiscal cliff debacle in the USA last year. In Nigeria, one of several issues that seem to be suffering because of politics is the passage of the 2014 budget. Pat Utomi, Founder of the Centre for Values in Leadership and Supo Shonibare, Partner at Ogunsola Shonibare joined CNBC Africa’s Godfrey Mutizwa for mor

space. Even if one disagrees with my own targetary of what I think the economic policy should be, it will be more helpful if those who are opposing what the parliament is presenting can offer alternatives that are not just alternative in triggers but alternatives in passing of the development and I think that is basically because if you at how Nigeria has progressed from the first republic to the second republic to the third republic, the quality of our participants have more or less Let me begin with you Pat. Almost every year we reduced from what we had in the first and hear about the passage of the budget. Last year, second republic. I’m not sure that some of these participants in politics quite underperhaps for the first time we saw the president stand the argument. I hope that as we practically cancelling going to parliament to progress and be more informed people who present the budget because the law makers weren’t ready. How much is that costing Nigeria have a vision of a common policy that would and why is this such a big issue almost every sin- push a better Nigeria. If the argument is based on that, it will be worth it but a lot of gle year and how do we get beyond this so that Nigeria takes its place as many people have said, as Africa’s biggest economy and perhaps economic leader?

Utomi: First of all, we have established that it is part of the budget process. The nature of politics is that you’ll have those give and takes. Back in the 1970s, when I was a graduate student in the university in the United States, a policy scholar at UC Berkeley, Aaron Wildavsky wrote an interesting book on the ‘politics of the budgetary process,’ so it is necessarily part of it. The real challenge is the nature of accountability in any democracy that allows the people to hold the politicians accountable for performing in the interest of all rather than in the narrow play of their political interest. Also the nature of the education of the politicians so that they know where to draw the line.

But Pat is that costing Nigeria particularly at an important time as we know that the continent is growing and Nigeria is growing. The average seven per cent is very good even when you compare against the rest of the continent but at the same time, there are others as well who are also picking up and where growth is picking up as well.

Utomi: Well, yes growth is required not only for Nigeria’s interest but for the whole sub-region.

I’m a believer in the flying geese hypothesis which for me is a much better explanation for what happened in South-East Asia that anything else. Nigeria needs to take the rest of the economies in the sub region with it and that is why we have a higher order expectation from policy makers and politicians because it carries a big burden. However we cannot eliminate these things from happening, both sides have to raise the game. The executives have to raise his game, it presently plays fairly sloppy in my opinion and the people on the legislative side have to also understand that this is beyond petty bickering. If all get the boundaries right, we can still go through this process and come out with what will drive the growth that is required.

Let me come to you Supo. Is this bickering really necessary and I often watch parliamentary debates and I always get the feeling that these guys are sitting there wasting time

Shonibare: Well as Pat has just said, it’s not unusual to have differences in opinions in our view and not result in the nation. All parliaments have issues and debatable differences about budgets so it’s not unusual. The problem in Nigeria I think has been the clash and the characters of those who are occupying the political

tween certain thought processes of informed people who have a vision of the kind of society they want to transform. I’m not convinced that we have that at the moment. times, the argument is not based on that So what you are trying to say is that, yes this is costing Nigeria but not very much, it’s a necessary part of the project and there isn’t much one can do because this time around we just happen to have a set of politicians that are not up to the task.

Pat, could the solution be to fix a time frame perhaps between which this needs to be done.

In other words, give the politicians their time but then you tell them, you need to do it within a month or within two weeks.

Utomi: That can be helpful but sometimes it might hinder some important things that need to be dealt with but it can force behaviour.

Shonibare: Surely if we were more preMore importantly is the education of these acdictable and we had a system that had pretors. As Supo said, the quality of actors was so dictable policies but then we’ve been on much better in the first and second republics autopilot for several years and I think the business community itself is running the eco- but the way the military exited this last time left nomic space and I think that although it will things such that all comers just got on the cost us, I think what we need to look forward scene and we are struggling with that. We need to raise the raining, we need to train. We’ve is to have a foundation that can ensure that talked about it for a long time, we have an instieconomic policies are consistent with a tution like the congressional budget office in thought process so that we can choose bethe United States that does so much, and here in Abuja, they’ve talked quite a bit about trying to create such an institution. There is also a problem with the current political culture in Nigeria and it is that it is significantly anti- intellectual so how to educate them becomes a problem because their disposition is, is it grammar we will chop and that is very frightening for any society to have these kinds of people as political actors. However, its changing and I think it will change. If the political parties evolve as I see them evolving and create certain clear world views, and then the country returns to some national planning, not the old style east national planning, a clear national vision, shared values amongst the elites, then you can play within certain parameters and we need to work towards that.

EDCON ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP CHANGES

By Farhaanah Mahomed HE SOUTH AFRICAN retailing group announced changes in their leadership, starting with the replacement of their chief financial officer.

Mark Bower, the group’s current chief financial officer and deputy chief executive officer, will be retiring after being with the company for 24 years.

“Mark has been an important and integral part of the senior leadership team of Edcon and he will remain with the company for the next six months as part of the plan to ensure a smooth handover. The board would like to express their appreciation and gratitude for the commitment and invaluable contribution Mark has made to the business,” said the company in a statement.

Bower will be succeeded by Toon Clerckx, former CFO of the multinational pharmacy, Boots Health and Beauty, effective by the 17 February 2014.

Clerckx holds a Masters degree in applied economics from Antwerp University and has worked in several senior finance roles in the United States and Europe.

Edcon’s Discount Division has also appointed

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NIGERIA'S BOOMING BEAUTY INDUSTRY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23 “Time has changed. People are more aware, they want to look good, there’s a cultural shift and as a result, there’s a market for it,” Bimpe Onakoya, Head Makeup Artist, Elite Pro Nigeria told CNBC Africa.

According to Onakoya, once most young people leave higher institution, they really don’t want to work for any company as they would rather go and do their own thing than apply to firms.

“As a result, I am a makeup artist, I run a training school, I train students and when they are done, there’s always a job for them. So it’s just a big market and I’m sure that if our parents had

That sounds to me like you are almost talking about a constitutional process where you need to change the constitution and perhaps include in that constitution a requirement in terms of the qualifications for lawmakers and the president and perhaps tightening things up and looking for very specific things.

Garth Napier as their new chief executive officer effective immediately.

Napier holds an MBA from Harvard Business School USA and was employed as a manager at the global management consulting firm, McKinsey and Company prior to joining Edcon in 2008 as a strategic assignment executive.

Napier replaces Christo Claassen who has resigned from the group.

“We are excited about the changes we are making in the team. Toon and Garth bring with them a wealth of experience and fresh energy which will only strengthen our group,” said Jurgen Schreiber, chief executive officer of Edcon.

Utomi: Again, it would be undemocratic to say you would have to have a master’s degree to run for any office, we would not do that but the political class can create a culture that will show how leadership selection takes place, you get certain kinds of people going into certain kinds of positions. What happened was that, thugs took over, really. Let’s be frank. You rewarded your thugs who helped you steal ballot boxes with appointment to parliament or something like that and then we have this bizarre situation where people do not understand what is going on around them but it can change and it will change. Its improving and I

known about this, they’d have loved to do it, but they were not aware,” she explained.

In addition, as unemployment continues to remain a huge problem in the West African country, this industry is seeing a surge of young people and thus expanding the market tremendously. Nevertheless, Onakoya attributes the interest in the industry to the inter-connectivity of the world.

“The world has become a global village, a Nigerian person living in Ondo, can see what their American counterpart is doing and they want to look as good and now, they don’t even just want to look as good, they want to look better.”

As a result of this, a lot of international brands such as MAC and Maybelline are coming into

Nigeria and she believes that there is a huge platform for them in the country.

“We like our ‘Owambes’ and everybody wants to look good. Over the weekend from Thursday to Friday, makeup artists make so much money, they always smile to the bank, they make in a day, what some people earn in a month,” she said.

Nonetheless, she believes that with the high cost of doing business in Nigeria, one of the only ways international make up brands can survive in the country is by being affordable and she is certain that if the products are affordable, Nigerians will buy.

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

KENYA COFFEE SECTOR CLOSE TO CLUTCHING AT STRAWS

By Wilhelmina Maboja ENYA’S COFFEE sector could be in trouble due to combination of poor global prices and a poor coffee production by farmers.

“The value chains in agriculture have been having a lot of issues, but I think now there are new developments, especially the fact that agribusiness is becoming very important in Africa right now, and the whole idea of transforming agriculture into agribusiness is really the area where we need to drive growth and drive employment,” Peter Kegode, coordinator at Kenya Agribusiness and Agro-industry Alliance, told CNBC Africa.

“It’s becoming an important area and there’s a lot more focus now on agribusiness and on agriculture than before.”

The livelihoods of over 250,000 small scale farmers is now under threat, as well as one of Kenya’s biggest exports, which, according to data from the Africa Trade and Investment Exchange, accounts for close to 25 per cent of the country’s GDP. Kegode added that the country’s approach to agriculture needed to be changed, and that the sector needed to be critically examined before introducing a transformational agenda.

Kenyan farmers have begun suffering from low prices which is due to large producers in regions such as Brazil, who sell agricultural products at a much cheaper level, and who subsequently drive the price on the market.

“There’s a number of things that are affecting Kenyan producers, and I think one of them is productivity, [which] is very low, and I think [for] any farmer who is producing coffee or tea, with low productivity, it becomes very difficult for them to stay afloat,” Kegode explained.

“Therefore, there are issues to look into deeply, the issues of the soil fertility, how to push productivity to levels that even global prices would not impact the farmer. That is really the bottom line.”

Kegode added that Kenya should in the meantime concentrate on coffee production, as close to 90 per cent of farmers are producing below average levels.

Many are producing two kilograms of coffee per tree, while some of the best farmers can produce up to 40 kilograms per coffee tree.

“When you look at a farmer who is doing 40 kilograms per tree and the other who is doing two, that gap is too great. We need to intervene in that gap and bring it down. The sooner we do that, the better,” said Kegode.

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S.AFRICA’S NEW GENDER BILL RUFFLES FEATHERS WITH 50% WOMEN QUOTA

By Wilhelmina Maboja HE NEW GENDER BILL aims to implement gender equality and equal opportunity but will have to set feasible grounds to meet its expectations.

“There are over 40 pieces of legislation that address women empowerment, or they address transformation, but women empowerment is one of the aspects that they have to address.

However, all those [over] 40 pieces of legislation have not managed to empower women,” Mikateko Joyce Maluleke, special advisor to the minister in the Department of Women, Children and People with Disabilities, told CNBC Africa.

“When you look at [the] Statistics South Africa report from 2002 to 2010, where they were looking at vulnerable groups, women were the worst in terms of housing, jobs, health, every aspect of life. All those pieces of legislation that are in existence, we’re not saying they’re not good. We’re saying they’re sufficient to address women’s issues, but women are not prioritised.”

The Women Empowerment and Gender Equality Bill, which was introduced last year, aims to broaden employment, education and health opportunities for South African women.

Maluleke gave an example of the Mining Charter, which included human resource development, employment equity and other aspects, but majority of those aspects prioritise men more than women. It also aims to eradicate gender-based violence, discrimination and violence against women, children and those with disabilities.

The bill also includes the legislation of a quota of 50 per cent of women on all decision making structures such as in boards and in public and private bodies. “[The bill] is trying to elevate women. For example, the Mining Charter provides that if you don’t meet certain requirements, the license won’t be renewed. [Currently] you can meet all the requirements and if women are not represented, you can still get the license. We’re saying women should be one of the prior-

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Friday, February 14, 2014 ities,” Maluleke explained.

South Africa’s mining sector in particular is increasingly dominated by men, but with a growing number of women engineers and miners, provisions will have to be made as soon as possible to allow women into the sector.

“Women are not [in the sector] because they didn’t want to be there, it was because of the protective discrimination laws that were there. Women were not allowed to be lawyers, not allowed to be engineers. Now, there are women,” said Maluleke.

For example, in the Defence Force, there were no women, now [there are]. In Judiciary, we have women sitting there. Not just engineering, but also underground, there are women. However, the [mining] sector is not used to women working there.”

The 50 per cent quota has however not been without criticism, and entities such as the Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) have argued that the quota target is unrealistic and unattainable.

BUSA added that the bill will subsequently criminalise employers for not being able to achieve what they believe to be the impossible.

“BUSA says it’s government’s responsibility to protect women [and] the responsibility to come up with laws that will protect women. Also, when we say 50 per cent, we take into consideration that in some areas, there are no women,” said Maluleke.

“The bill says the public, which is government and private sector, must develop and submit plans to the minister. We need something that tells us that everybody is taking this into con-

AFRICA A TOP GLOBAL BUSINESS EXPANSION DESTINATION

By Wilhelmina Maboja OREIGN GOVERNMENTS and global companies have begun to enlarge their African footprint by expanding into the continent.

“I think it’s very interesting to watch the growth in Africa.

Certainly from our perspective as lawyers, we see immense investment going into Africa. Some of that goes via South Africa, a lot of it goes [elsewhere in Africa], so South Africa doesn’t have a monopoly on that inward investment,” Norton Rose Fulbright, director of Africa practice Steven Gamble told CNBC Africa.

“In terms of countries, I think it’s safe to say that the usual suspects – Kenya, Mozambique, Angola, Nigeria – [are] all very exciting [and] lots of different projects are happening in those countries, and the investment is coming from all around the world.”

While South Africa has tried to continue positioning itself as the gateway into the rest of the continent, global and international companies have nonetheless ventured into other African countries and managed to set up thriving businesses.

“Even from a legal perspective, looking at the law firms that have shown their interests in Africa, setting up here, they’re looking at South Africa as a platform to [the rest of] Africa to provide those services. [For example], you’re looking at Industrial and Commercial Bank of China investing into Standard Bank a long time before everyone else,” Gamble explained.

Jon Foster-Pedley, dean of the Henley Business School Africa, however explained that the roles of China, America and Japan on the continent need to be reviewed as they have changed over time.

China remains an important major continental trading partner but Foster Pedley illustrated that its original policy was to sell its wares and work with governments.

“What you’re seeing now is a much stronger commercial approach from China. Iinstead of going government to government, it’ll be companies, it’ll be working with lawyers to set up the conditions [of operation], and less government involvement,” he said.

“Why it’s good [is because] you’re getting more fair practice.

Why it’s less interesting is that you’ve got less involvement of governments where you really need aid to be placed and where you need to have large governmental programmes.”

Foster-Pedly added that while South Africa may be a top investment destination and a strategic entry point into other African countries, regions such as Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and Angola are now at the forefront of economic growth.

“We’re sitting in South Africa now and historically South Africa has seen itself as the gateway into Africa. That’s all changing now. When we come out of South Africa and get into the [rest of] the continent at large, we find a different energy and sense of possibility and dynamism,” said FosterPedly.

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SME’S IN NIGERIA NEED MORE SUPPORT

By Dara Rhodes As the Nigerian government takes strides in aiding SME’s, many believe that the risks connected with funding are declining.

The country’s government is currently seeking ways to improve access to medium and long term funding for Nigerian entrepreneurs in 2014, though many believe that funding isn’t the only problem.

“We need to remember that we are 150 or 160 million people in the country so what that means is that there are a lot more SME’s that should be out there. We need a lot more entrepreneurs, we need a lot more people running businesses from the start up to the medium stage to the large stage” Ugbake Eguegu, Managing Partner at Accelsor Investment Partners told CNBC Africa.

The importance and significance of small and medium enterprises cannot be over emphasized as they remain the growth engines of any economy. However with the current high interest rates in the country, many argue a lot more could still be done.

“The problem is, with the banking industry, they are more comfortable with funding existing businesses so where you hear a lot of talk in the newspapers about zero COTs and a lot of efforts being put into funding SME’s, I still don’t feel it’s enough,” he explained, Last year, the central bank launched a N220 billion Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises fund to provide the much needed capital for that sub-sector of the economy. In addition, the Federal government slashed business registration fees in Nigeria by 50 per cent, nevertheless, Euguegu believes SMEs need more support.

“We need people being funded from between three to five per cent long term with a lot of breaks and things like zero COT for us to actually impact the funding gap that is actually existing in the SMEs space,” he said.

Nonetheless, Euguegu believes that the SMEs in Nigeria are being helped the most by the informal funding structure as the banks take a long time to understand the business plan, vision.

“We get a lot of people sending business plans to us asking us to be part of their business and asking us for funding options but the truth is that it’s still not enough. Many people come to us and businesses like ours to ask for funding but what needs to happen is not what is happening now,” he added.

COMAIR REVENUE SOARS AT 23% DUE TO INCREASED CAPACITY

By Farhaanah Mahomed OUTH AFRICAN Aviation Company, Comair posted revenue growth of 23 per cent for the six months ended 31 December 2013.

The group attributes the growth to a 15 per cent increase in capacity due to a replacement of their Boeing 700-300s with larger 800s.

“The four new Boeing 737-800s that were introduced into the Kulula fleet during the comparative period, contributed for the full six months of the first half of the current financial year,” said Comair.

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Earnings per share and headline earnings per share grew from 16.4 cents to 34.3 cents. The company also announced that an interim cash dividend of 5 cents per ordinary share has been declared.

Cash generation was also strong, resulting in a cash balance of 695 million rand. Comair attributes this to several investments they have in place, including pre-delivery payments towards its next four Boeing 737-800s which will be delivered in late 20152016.

Ticket prices however were driven by the weakening rand. The exchange rate resulted in a 14 per cent escalation in fuel prices and also affected their US dollar based maintenance costs.

“By December the jet fuel price had reached a new high, 225 per cent up on its previous stable level of 4 rand per litre in 2010,” the company added.

"The continued devaluation of the [South African currency] has driven the rand price of fuel and dollar-based technical services to record highs. We therefore do not foresee early growth in market volumes as ticket prices will remain at the levels necessary to recover such escalating costs.”

As a result, the domestic passenger market will continue to shrink 5 per cent year-on-year however, Comair believes that their new aircraft will resolve fuel price challenges as well as allow them to maintain a healthy lead over the profitability of their competitors.

“We remain well placed for the full 2014 financial year, despite a further 12 per cent increase in the fuel price since December, driven mainly by the depreciation of the rand,” the company explained.

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Friday, February 14, 2014 ARTS 27

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VisualArts At art auction lecture, critic, ‘gamblers’ take divergent views

By Tajudeen Sowole S a fledging secondary art market that is A barely six years old, art auctions in Nigeria have been evolving, but there are some grey areas to be smoothened out. However, the teething challenges are not enough to discredit the role of auctioneers in this short period of phenomenal growth in the sector, so argued participants at a recent forum in Lagos.

With Art Auctions in Nigeria: Ladders of Progress or Shots in the Artists’ Feet? as theme, the lecture was delivered by Ozioma Onuzulike. It was the second lecture on art auction-related subjects organised by Omooba Yemisi Adedoyin Shyllon Art Foundation (OYASAF) Lecture Series within five months’ interval, and it confirmed the unprecedented interest in Nigerian art market, courtesy of art auctions in Lagos.

Onuzulike is of Department of Fine and Applied Arts, University of Nigeria (UNN), Nsukka, Enugu State.

His over 6,000-word length lecture pierced through the audience’ hearts like a palette knife struggling to reconcile conflicting shades and strokes on canvas. But a chunk of the audience hardly found any knock for the Lagosbased auction houses, though a few areas were noted as needing improvement.

Whatever criticism Onuzuike reeled out, the two major art auction houses in Nigeria, Arthouse Contemporary Limited and Terra Kulture-Mydrim got more than enough doses.

Though he started with a few commendations, for example, by noting, “generally, the art auctions have given artworks more value, particularly those of younger generation of artists”. On the other side of the lecture’s daring blade, Onozulika questioned the expertise of the auction houses in the selection of works, and harshly described the buyers and sellers at Nigerian art auctions as ‘gamblers’.

But the art auctions in Nigeria must have been good gambling, so suggested Onuzulike’s confirmation of the progression that breezed into the Nigerian art space after the Arthouse Contemporary’s debut sales of N74,845,000 in 2008 when Dr. Bruce Onobrakpeya’s Greater Nigeria, a panel of foils led the sales for N9.2 million at hammer price.

Still on the positivity of the secondary market, the art auction houses, he argued, had added more than economic value, noting, “in a country without viable art historical and critical publishing, the auction catalogues, in spite of their lack of careful documentation, have also doubtlessly provided invaluable records of modern and contemporary Nigerian works of art” and that the catalogues “are of important archival value”.

Also examined in the lecture was the comparative market value for artists, which is one of

A section of participants shortly after the event the contentious areas of Nigeria’s art market. On the issue, Onozulike appeared to have continued from where the last lecture, Jacob Jari’s The Price of Art and its Implication on Art Practice in Nigeria left off some months ago.

He referenced Jari’s argument that art sales at Nigerian auctions defy “logic” in comparative market values of artists’ works.

For Onuzulike, Arthouse and Terra Kulture-Mydrim have not done enough in their search for rare works, saying, “It is apparent that both auction houses do not devote time and resources to scouting for rare works by living artists who are still in active production and, especially, those by emerging talents”.

His further diagnosing of the auction scene’s expertise threw in what looked like a false alarm when he said, “the identities of those who select works for their auctions are a closely guarded secret.” But it’s a well-known fact that Arthouse, for example, always published the identity of the auction house’s specialists inside the catalogues.

Supporting his argument about the lack of expertise in the personalities that select and value art for auctions in Nigeria, Onuzulike drew comparison with what obtains abroad in auction houses that are over 100 years old such as Bonhams, Sotheby’s, Christie’s and other well established auctioneers.

He stressed: “My research, however, shows that

Nigerian auction houses do not have in-house specialists in the professional sense of ‘specialists’”, stating that the auction houses were not capable of detecting forgeries.

Onuzulike stated, “Operators of our art auction houses are gamblers”, and warned that “artists who submit” to the auction houses “may be lucky to find the auctions becoming ladders of career progress; others may be unlucky to find the auctions becoming veiled weapons with which they unwittingly shoot themselves in the foot”.

Artists, art collectors, dealers and connoisseurs present at the forum generally agreed that the auction houses had not done badly given the short history of the secondary market in Nigeria.

Art teacher, Dr. Ademola Azeez, noted that more energy should be expended on documentation of art, “and not just on production of art works”.

In her response to the issue of transparency and expertise, the CEO of Arhouse Contemporary, Mrs. Kavita Chellaram, who came in midway into the presentation, disagreed with Onuzulike. She clarified that the identity of “our specialists are well known to people because we publish their names and photographs in every auction catalogue”. She also noted that the challenge of combating forgery in the art market

was not peculiar to Nigerian art, explaining, “Forgeries exist all over the world, and we are trying our best to discourage such practice”.

Omooba Sehinde Odimayo, a specialist of nearly three decades experience and one of the experts in the Nigerian art auction market, noted that some of Onuzulike’s arguments were not fair to the evolving secondary art market in the country.

Artist and art educationist, Dr. Kunle Filani, art patron, Chief Rasheed Gbadamosi, President of Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA), Oliver Enwonwu and others who contributed to the debate agreed that challenges were part of any evolving market such as Nigeria’s secondary art market. But Filani warned that “both the primary and secondary art markets must not commoditise art”.

Specifically, the convener of the forum, Prince Yemisi Shyllon cautioned that “we should applaud the starters of auctions in Nigeria”, arguing that it was unfair to compare over 100 years of art business in Europe with 10 years of art auction in Nigeria. He added that “Art business is never done in a hurry”.

The OYASAF Lecture Series started in 2012 with a Wotaside Studio collaboration of Prof. Francis Ugiomoh’s On African Art and Identity Blogging: A Historical Perspective.

Young artists’ Cupid of art for Valentine’s Day

By Tajudeen Sowole ENTORSHIP and self-discovery in art face the test of patronage as young artists gather for the week of love to share their thoughts in a different way devoid of the usual celebration of the ‘symbolic day.’

It’s not about the ancient Roman symbol of love nor the Renaissance artists who depicted the gods of Love in masterly sculptures and paintings; the gathering focuses the love of sharing art. Works of 13 young artists, are featuring in the exhibition titled Cupid, which opens at Alexis Galleries Victoria Island from tomorrow, and showing for one week.

While some of the exhibiting artists have links with established studios and masters, others are coming from schools of self-discovery. But the common factor that brings the artists together in the next one week “is the Valentine mood,” coordinator of Alexis Galleries, George Edozie explained during a preview of the show. He disclosed how the gallery “hope to see these young artists from different school of thoughts perform while we are preparing them for the future.”

The exhibiting artists include Aseleke Akeem, Yemi Uthman, Akhile Ehiforia, Badejo Abiodun, Effiong Issac Sunday, Emeka Nwagbara, Lawal Is-

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mail and Dagogo. Others are Owolabi Ayodele, Raji, Salako Olajide Tyna Asebowale and Oyewole Olufemi.

Edozie added that the gathering dips into the week of love but “it’s about falling in love with art and not the youthful exuberance that characterised Valentine.” He stated that significantly, the artists are young, and the gallery has a better idea to give youths a medium of expression during the period.

The curator of the exhibition, Patty Chidiac disclosed that the gathering of the young artists was inspired by the response of the art loving public last year February when a similar show held in the gallery. “People used the Valentine period to buy art for their loved ones.”

For the artists, the contents or themes of their works are as diverse, beyond the mood of the week. From Badejo’s streetscape Oke Imesi , a capture of a quiet town in Osun State, to Olajide’s a youthful dream Aspiration, Adeleke’s Night Reflections and Effiong’s Harmony, the artists are presenting works that, indeed, have the flavour of tomorrow’s masters.

Chidiac assured that with the supports of sponsors such as. Veuve Clicquot, The Homestores, Chocolate Royal , Arra Vineyards, Avenue suits, Cool FM, Wazobiar FM, and Nigeria Info 99.3. Fm, Alexis Galleries will be willing to lift the artists

further even beyond Cupid.

For one of the artists, Olufemi, his subject, he explained “in both the hustle and bustle of a city and the serene and tranquil calmness of the sea.” Inspiration for his art, he stated c”omes from confrontation with nature which demands a response; sunset, heavy showers, sunrise over a

Badejo Abiodun’s Oke Imesi showing at Cupid

city, any or all of these elements might dictate the form that the response will take.”

Mohammed argued that “Art is an unending adventure that keeps you moving from one level of creativity to another,” and thus derives his creative strength from the motivational sentence.

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28 Friday, February 14, 2014

‘We will sustain progress of artists’ guild’

By Tajudeen Sowole WARE of the enormous challenges ahead in sustaining, perhaps increasing the rising profile of the Guild of Professional Fine Artists of Nigeria (GFA), the newly elected president, Abraham Uyovbisere has assured that the guild’s new executive will consolidate on the achievement of the last two years.

The Uyovbisere-led executive, which was elected two years ago renewed its mandate last week after members of the guild voted the team, except one.

According to the president, the list of other members of the new executive include Hamid Ibrahim Vice President, Secretary Sam Ebohon; Financial Secretary , Fidelis Eze Odogwu;; and Social Secretary, Gab Awusa.

Uyovbisere assured that “We will do everything within our might for the bond to be in-

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tact and for GFA to blossom like a beautiful rose of flower.”

Name of the New Executive Members are: Uyovbisere stated that the entire members of the guild owe the success of the election to the unity that exusts in the professional body.

He also “thank God and our distinguished apostles for making the general election successful.”

The members of the guild, he added, “have a common purpose which is forging ahead despite the odds as a brotherhood to systematically and persuasively be consistent in building art to an appreciable level we aimed to be overtime in our constituency; and most sincerely to work with members for national and international art exploits.”

Two years ago, Uyovbisere took over from the guild’s first president Edosa Oqiugo, and continued his predecessor’s projects. Perhaps most pronounced of the guild’s achievement in the last two years is the wider exposure members have been enjoying. Such visibility included exhibitions and art auctions in the U.K. For example, the last editions of Bonhams’ Africa Now auction had special section for the members of the guild. The section tagged Works by Artists from the Guild of Professional Fine Artists of Nigeria and codenamed ‘lots 191 to 215’ featured works of GFA members such as Lekan Onabanjo, Sam Ovraiti, Edosa Ogiugo, Abiodun Olaku, Duke Asidere, Ben Osaghae, Bunmi Babatunde, Reuben Ugbine, Alex Nwokolo, Tola Wewe, Fidelis Odogwu, among others.

Also, last year the group had an exhibition titled Transcending Boundaries, held at The Gallery, Cock Street, London, U.K. The president had said of the show: “the past president of the guild, Edosa Ogiugo introduced the

promoter Aabru Art to us, who got a venue for in London.

Through a jury process, the works were selected for the exhibition.”

Under the promotion of U.K-based Aabru Art, Transcending Boundaries offered art connoisseurs in London a large gathering of contemporary African art. Some of the visitors to the show might have been shocked seeing African art from a different context devoid of the ancient art they used to know, reports coming frok the event said.

The show he added, served as another door opening, not just for Nigerian artists, but Africans as a whole. “For the first time, a show with different artists from Nigeria held in central London gallery, which is a very highbrow area for artists from this part of the world to show. And the audience, perhaps for the first time saw, in large number, contemporary works of African artists in a show, thinking we the exhibiting artists all studied in the U.K, whereas we all studied here in Nigeria.”

At home GFA had three major events, starting with a debut group art exhibition, Threshold in 2008; an induction ceremony for patrons and awards for selected masters, in 2009; and another group exhibition, The Crux of the Matter, in 2010.

Aims and objectives of GFA include: to promote the appreciation of Fine Art in Nigeria; project the good image of professional artists in the society; establish ethical standards and rules that would encourage and enhance the proper practice of the profession in Nigeria; encourage interaction and unity between Nigerian and non - Nigerian professional Fine Artists and synergize and affiliate with any recognized art body; promote self-sustenance through professional art practice.

GFA is a group of artists known for dominating the professional studio practice in Nigeria. Some of its members’ antecedence dates back to the 1980s through the early 1990s.

GFA’s first executive led by Ogiugo as president in 2008 included, Abiodun Olaku, Vice President, Alex Nwokolo, Financial Secretary, and Sam Ovraiti, Social Director.

President of GFA, Abraham Uyovbisere

Wiley…Rising profile of Nigerian portraitist across the world FTER impacting on the U.S. art scene with his unique porA traitures, Nigerian-born American artist Kehinde Wiley’s popularity has kept rising.

A few weeks after his work was shown in the ongoing global exhibition in preparation for the Brasil 2014 World Cup, Wiley has just been listed among the honourees of the Brooklyn Museum, U.S. as part of the museum’s annual fundraising gala, which celebrates the community’s creativity.

The section, also known as the Brooklyn Artists Ball, according to the organisers, will also honour art patrons Jane and David Walentas as well as artists Jenny Holzer and Ai Weiwei.

Scheduled to hold in April 16, 2014, the honour adds to the recent visibility of Wiley, whose art in recent times, have been making impressive outings outside the U.S. Some of Wiley’s works include that of hip-hop stars such as LL Cool J, Ice T, and Biggie.

Recently, Wiley was among over 30 artists whose works opened as ‘Fútbol: The Beautiful Game at Lacma, Los Angeles’, as part of the preparation for Brasil 2014 World Cup. The exhibition, according to the organisers, examines football and its significance in societies around the world, noting that “as a subject, football touches on issues of nationalism and identity, globalism and mass spectacle, as well as the common human experience shared by spectators from many cultures”.

Still on till July, the exhibition features artists, both living and departed, Andy-Warhol inclusive - from around the world “who work in video, photography, painting and sculpture”.

For Wiley, his work at the show continues the artist’s portraiture identity as a No 10 footballer is placed against a patterned background.

Some of the other works viewed online included two roomsized video installations—Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait, by the artists Philippe Parreno and Douglas Gordon; Volta by Stephen Dean—anchor the exhibition. Miguel Calderon’s 2004 video of Mexico v. Brasil representing a 17-0 victory for Mexico.

Late last year, Wiley had his first U.K. solo exhibition titled: The

World Stage at the Stephen Friedman Gallery, London. The show was the seventh in the artist’s series focusing on Black communities in Israel, Sri Lanka, Senegal, Nigeria, China and Brazil.

Wiley visited Nigeria in 1997 at the age of 20, after his mother insisted he must meet his father.

Based in New York, Wiley is known in the U.S., Europe and the Middle East as a portraitist whose works are blends of African and Western themes. His work started with his focus on the hip-hop scene of Los Angeles, painting youths with ‘sagging’ pants. In fact, his concept, he declared, was to cast the hip-hop image in a classicist form. And since he moved to New York, Wiley’s work has been linked to what observers describe as positive change towards black youth.

Searching for models for his recent solo show titled, The World Stage, held at Studio Museum, Harlem, New York, early in the year, Wiley had to travel across the world. He recalled that the subjects painted in oil and enamel on canvas are models from cosmopolitans cities such as Lagos, Mumbai, Dakar, Rio de Janeiro and Delhi.

Some of his solo shows are Economy of Grace, Sean Kelly Gallery, New York, 2011; The World Stage: Israel, Roberts & Tilton, Culver City, CA; and Selected Works, SCAD Museum of Art, Savannah, GA 2010.

Brooklyn Museum stated that the Board President Stephanie Ingrassia and her husband, Tim, and Board Treasurer David Berliner and his wife, Betsy Jacobs, will chair the highly anticipated event, the centerpiece of which is the seated dinner where guests dine at multisensory table environments created for the occasion by leading Brooklyn artists. This year, the Museum has tapped 16 artists—Ellen Altfest, Oliver Clegg, Ghost of a Dream, Rico Gatson, Orly Genger, Alejandro Guzman, Nina Katchadourian, Olek, Adam Parker Smith, Iona Rozeal Brown, Carrie Schneider, Alyson Shotz, Courtney Smith, Nick Van Woert, Marianne Vitale, and Heeseop Yoon—to transform 40-

foot-long tables into unique installations on view for that night only.

On the other Honourees, the museum said: About the Honorees David and Jane Walentas have pioneered the development of DUMBO. As the founder and owner of Two Trees—a New York-based real estate development firm that has owned, managed, and developed more than $3 billion in real estate over the past 40 years, David Walentas is the visionary who assembled numerous DUMBO properties 30 years ago and played a singular role in creating this artistic, vibrant, mixeduse neighborhood. Today, DUMBO is one of the most successful urban revitalization developments in the United States.

With Two Trees’ enlightened development (and a contribution of 100,000 square feet of space a year to arts groups), DUMBO is a home to emerging and established arts and cultural organizations, creating one of only two Arts Clusters designated by the New York City Economic Development Corporation. Two Trees has also attracted an eclectic mix of residential and commercial tenants, which include Etsy, Huge, Wireless Generation, and scores of others, which also make DUMBO one of the city’s most vibrant technology sectors.

World Press Photo winners emerge

By Tajudeen Sowole ODAY, the World Press Photo jury will announce winners of the 57th annual contest. According to the organisers, all the awarded images will be published in an online gallery at www.worldpressphoto.org.

Determining the winners are 19 professionals in the fields of photojournalism and documentary photography who converged on Amsterdam, February 1, 2014 to judge all entries.

The jury, chaired by Gary Knight, founder/photographer of VII Photo Agency, had discuss the merits of the entries over a two-week period.

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The jury operates independently and with a secretary without voting rights who safeguards the fairness of the procedure.

The competition is the world’s leading contest for professional press photographers and documentary photographers, setting the standard for the profession.

The office of the World Press Photo Contest explained how the jury arrived at the shortlist: “contest draws entries from professional press photographers, photojournalists and documentary photographers around the world. By the midJanuary deadline, 98,671 images had been submitted by 5,754

photographers from 132 countries”.

The over all winner of the World Press Photo of the Year gets a cash prize of 10,000 euros. In addition, Canon will donate a professional DSLR camera and lens kit to the author of the World Press Photo of the Year 2013. Other awards include first second and third prizes in all categories. Firstprize winners in each category receive a cash of 1,500 euros.

Winners of second and third prizes, and those receiving honorable mention, get a Golden Eye Award and a diploma. The annual Awards Days, a two-day celebration of the prizewinners, takes place in Amsterdam

on 24 and 25 April 2014.

The prize-winning pictures will be presented in an exhibition that travels to more than 100 cities in over 45 countries, to start in Amsterdam in De Nieuwe Kerk, April 18, 2014.

World Press Photo organises the leading international contest in visual journalism. The foundation is committed to supporting and advancing high standards in photojournalism and documentary storytelling worldwide. Its aim is to generate wide public interest in and appreciation of the work of photographers and other visual journalists, as well as to promote the free exchange of information.

Wiley

Friday, February 14, 2014 ARTS

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Literature When Otuoke hosted Arrow of God @50 panel Vice Chancellor, Federal University, Otuoke, Prof.

Mobolaji Aluko (left); Chairman, Arrow of God @50 Committee, Dr. Wale Okediran and other writers being shown round the university

By Florence Utor S part of preparations for the celebration of the 50th anniversary of Chinua Achebe’s Arrow of God scheduled for March 29, 2014 at the Federal University in Otuoke, Bayelsa State, the National Planning Committee for the event represented by Dr. Wale Okediran in the company of members of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Bayelsa State chapter, paid a courtesy call on the management of the university a fortnight ago, Monday, February 3, 2014.

Accompanying Okediran on the visit were members of Bayelsa ANA, Emmanuel Frank-Opigo, (chairman) Chief Simon Ambakederemo (patron), Elder Comish Ekiye (patron), Julius Laye (PRO) and Stella Toruemi (Treasurer).

To receive the team of writers was the management of the university led by its Vice Chancellor, Prof.

Mobolaji Aluko, Mr. David Suowari (Registrar), Mr. Atonbara Ombu (Bursar), Prof. Philomena Ejele (Dean, Humanities & Social Sciences), Dr. Onyema (HOD GES) and Dr. Okeke (HOD, Humanities) among other officials of the university.

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Hero

By Badmus Gamaliel Bullet sounds rob the night of its eerie silence Snatching sleep from my treasured grasp, As fear is left unrestrained; Endless chorus of ‘help’, soaked in fright, Reverberates constantly in my eardrums, In the speed of bad news I rush to my door, Double bolting that wobbly plank shut!

I crouch back in the darkened silence – Silence, echoing the receding pounds of my chest – To the safety of the cobwebbed intruded nook of my fortress; Eyes transfixed to the ceiling, gazing at the heavens, Absentmindedly counting the beads on my celestial rosary Whispering a prayer that may be my last For her whose screams, now stay mute.

In his remark, Dr. Okediran, who is the Chairman, National Organising Committee, thanked the university authorities for agreeing to collaborate with his committee to execute the celebration. He further explained that 50 years of the anniversary of Arrow of God would be marked in about 70 countries around the world from January to December 2014. In Nigeria, he said, the event would hold in eight different cities such as Otuoke, Abuja, Lagos, Ibadan, Awka, Ogidi, Sokoto and Port

Harcourt from March 29 to April 28, 2014.

Activities, which would take place in each of the eight cities, include a symposium and literary competition among secondary school students, as well as a stage adaptation of Arrow of God. While responding, Prof. Aluko observed that even though he is an engineer, he is also a lover of arts having acted in many stage plays as a student. He confirmed that the university has student and staff population of 1000 each. He also assured the visi-

tors that even though the university is just about three years old, it would do its best to support the hosting of a very successful event.

Thereafter, the visitors were taken on a guided tour of the university by the Vice Chancellor and his team. Among the places visited were the faculty buildings where students were seen receiving lectures as well as the new Language Laboratory, recreation facilities and the administrative section.

In Dead Roses , many sides of Valentine unveiled

By Kenechukwu Ezeonyejiaku

ly raped to death.

Oluwakemi said she felt so bad about the incident, which got stuck in her subconscious ever since even though she didn’t know the victim. She decided to create her own characters out of that incident complete with a family and friends around the victim to make the story believable.

Dead Roses is of 266-page long with 25 chapters; it’s a story of teenage love and friendship between the main characters, Adebola and Bolarinwa. Bolarinwa is tricked by his two classmates, Babatunde and Femi whom he regards as friends into believing that Adebola is in a love tangle with their teacher, Mr. Tommy without knowing that they had evil plans for her. On Valentine day, he foolishly falls for the plans of his friends and lures Adebola to a desolate area of the school with a promise that she has a gift to hand over to him. In the process, the two purported friends surface with a third character, Adelani and they forcefully have their turns with the innocent and

defenseless girl whom they later realize is still a virgin. She later dies as a result of severe beatings she ESTERDAY, February 14 was Valentine’s Day, receives while trying to resist the assault on her. the day set aside for the celebration and Oluwakemi said the novel, which took her over exploration of love in all forms. Young men and four years to put together, is a story she feels everywomen eagerly expressed their love for each body can find a connection with and learn from other by sending Valentine gifts; some went out when they read it. on dates to catch fun and give each other treats.

According to her, “Anger raged in me when my On the other hand, it was also a day when cousin told me about this incident which hapmany bad things happen in the name of love. In pened in their school and it got me pondering and this era of social media networking, unsuspectasking: ‘why would she be raped? Why would a ing and innocent youths are known to have young girl that has prospect and future die like been wooed into making travels or going to that?’ Love is a beautiful thing but young girls dates to meet with their purported ‘Vals’ online should be careful when they fall in love and when only to end up getting harmed. The case of they go out to meet with people”.

Cynthia Osukogu is still fresh in the memory.

For ANA chairman, Lagos State chapter, Mr. Femi This is actually what the book, Dead Roses, a Amos, the book is a very educative piece which book chosen by Association of Nigerian Authors reveals the ugly things that happen in the society (ANA), Lagos State chapter, as February book-ofmost especially in the name of Valentine celebrathe-month, is all about. tion.

Dead Roses is a beautifully told story of friendAccording to him, “Valentine is not all ship, love, family, and of betrayal. Dead Roses is a about the red, the white, the chocolate, the reflection of the frailty and innocence flowers or the gifts; there are some terrible of teenage love filled with its huge things happening in the name of irony.

Valentine. The tragic romance the book Speaking at ANA monthly reading actually talks about it is like a warning to and presentation of Dead Roses at everyone that look, ‘when you are celeUniversity of Lagos, the author, brating Valentine, you need to be careOluwakemi Omowaire, said the novel ful’”. is a romantic tragedy; a beautiful love Former ANA chairman, Dr. Tolu Ajayi, story gone sour and in line with the congratulated the author for choosing title Dead Roses, of an actual dead rose what he referred to as “a very good at the end of the story. theme” and said that it would go a long According to Omowaire, the story, way in addressing the menace, saying, though a fictional account was inspired “Rape cases are becoming very ramby an event narrated to her by her pant in African societies and for the cousin which happened way back in writer to explore it is very commendable. As a nds, ie fr er h y b d 2000 when they were in their final year iddle) flanke t… in Lagos. rampant case in our society, the book will go a long in secondary school. It’s about a beautiful i Omowaire (m em way in addressing the causes, the reasons behind ak w at the even lu O ei h or young girl who was lured by her male The auth unmi and Samuel Isic the perpetration of the act and how to redress it in w Fa a ol friends on a Valentine date and was subsequentOmot its entirety”.

Y

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How to foster happy Christian home

By Olugbenga Ogunmoyela N an age when even many Christian marriages are under serious threats and the institution as God ordained is facing serious challenges unprecedented on a global scale, Naked — The Mystery of Openness in Marriage written by Noruwa Joseph Edokpolo appears timely, practical and persuasive illustration of how through being ‘naked’ with our spouses in the various dimensions of marriage, we can enjoy a considerable breath of fresh air and renewal, turnaround or restoration. It is presented in flowing prose; a direct and straight forward everyday language that readers will enjoy from cover to cover without dropping.

The author presents the reader, with a thoughtprovoking companion, on practical principles and solutions for building a happy Christian home, through an exciting light-hearted, metaphorical use of ‘nakedness’ illustrated with deep spiritual insights. It is a language style that is characteristically deliberate and simple, yet could only have been borne out of the rich experiences of a counselor, change catalyst, facilitator and business coach like Pastor Noruwa.

From the introduction, the reader is invited to take responsibility and introspect, allowing the holy spirit to lead; to believe in possibilities; being ready to look inwards because if for example a man instead of reading and standing ‘naked’ is still busy rationalizing and pointing one finger at his wife like Adam did in Genesis 3:12, “four fingers are pointing at him”! In fact, the Bible description of being ‘naked but not ashamed’ in Gen.2: 25, is that it is in this state that the couple will be able to discuss anything under the sun with each other without any inhibitions.

In Chapter one, the author prepares the mind of the reader on what to expect from the book; how frictions can disappear in marriage, what will enhance trust and submission; how to build a home that will enjoy peace and joy like a river;

I

and how to develop a real partnership based on trust and love experiencing daily renewal.

Chapter two outlines the characteristics of an exemplary ‘naked’ man like Abraham who trusted God with all his heart, was “God-like” to the children, lived sacrificially by putting his household first, after God at all times, and above all led his family with unusual humility even from his position of strength, just like the example of Jesus Christ who washed his disciples’ feet.

In a world today of paradoxes and complexities, the author invites the reader to the need for

‘naked’ living; always doing according to your capacity without any pretentions, without the ego-driven pressure of always trying to impress your spouse or relatives by over-reaching yourself, as is common even among many Christians today who promise what they know they have no capacity to deliver. It shows the two sides of the author as an ‘experienced marriage counselor and a deep-rooted family man, even painting graphical details of how to satisfy your spouse sexually and yet also being satisfied; and above all, how to stay away from the temptations of life by always focusing your mind only on those things that you know God will approve especially when you are away from home.

In Chapter three, the key principles for achieving this state of harmony in marriage are laid out – mutual respect and honour; natural beauty, both inside and outside, devoid of any ‘blotted’ imaginations and distrust; the virtues of diligence and industry; confidence, comfort and contentment in and with whatever God had given you or done in your life; being comfortable to ‘undress’ before your spouse without any airs; setting life ‘goals and priorities’ together and above all, investing all the ‘time and heart’ possible in your marriage.

The author lists the hindrances to nakedness and affirms in Chapter four, that being “totally naked’ is ‘tough in reality’ but can only be achieved through a focused determination to overcome the barriers of sin (with the examples of pride of life, rebellion, stubbornness, hardheartedness, unforgiveness, trust-destroyers, inadequate verbal and non-verbal communication); unfulfilled sexual desires; the recurring ghost of past indiscretions; uncontrolled spending and poor management of family finances by your spouse.

The next three chapters then give vivid details of the benefits of ‘naked living’ in marriage.

These include a home and life of peace and infec-

tious joy; an exemplary Christian home where speedy answers come to ‘naked’ prayers and your heart’s desires; and the wisdom of establishing a culture of three different prayer levels in the home - individual, with spouse and the whole family together. The author however cautions that a ‘wonderful marriage’ is not necessarily ‘problem-free’ but must at all times be one of unending desire for togetherness and romance, in which honouring God is central and where to the bystander, there is a transparent “what you see is what you get’ There are copious references to King Solomon’s alluring romance with his virgin wife, expressed in the Book of Songs of Solomon, through verbal and non-verbal communication, the place of preparation of heart and body with “pleasant smells,” in enhancing intimacy; and the age-old virtues of virginity which have been lost today to man’s sexual perversions. The author re-inforces the point that giving and receiving of yourselves requires a transparent nakedness and how the foreplay of respect, honour and adoration brings out the best in every couple, drawing richly on Solomon’s captivating descriptions of his experiences.

In chapter 8, the author draws the curtain with the ‘Final Words’ on the benefits of this ‘new’ culture of nakedness, if adopted, both to the initiated and the uninitiated; the culture that glorifies God and is guaranteed to give you peace of mind no matter your background or status. He advocates that this is a culture that must be firmly anchored on the immutable words of God in the Bible. The reader is encouraged to see the futility of following the pervasive “herd mentality” of today’s world.

Overall the book contains very few and minor proof-reading errors which the reader may not even notice but will obviously be addressed in subsequent editions.

CBAAC Colloquium 2014 holds in Jamaica REPARATION appears to have been P perfected for this year’s international conference of the Centre for Black Arts and African Civilisation (CBAAC) holding between April 23 to 26, 2014 at the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus, Kingston, Jamaica.

With Toward a New Pan- Africanism – Deploying Anthropology, Archaeology, History and Philosophy in the Service of Africa and the Diaspora, as theme, the conference is expected to attract Pan-Africanist, historians, academics, archaeologists, anthropologists, philosophers, activists and other experts within Africa and the Diaspora as participants. The conference was initially slated for last year November but due to funding challenges, it was not held.

Pan African Strategic and Policy Research Group, PANAFSTRAG, and Department of Language, Linguistics and Philosophy, University of the West Indies, Jamaica are partnering CBAAC for success of the event.

The organisers stated that at the end of the conference, it is expected the programme will foster renewed commitment to stocktaking, improved

investigation and dissemination of knowledge and general considerations on history of Africans and the African Diaspora besides giving attention would have been drawn to the multidimensional benefits of Anthropology, Archaeology, History and Philosophy in the Service of Africa and the Diaspora; It also stated that it would be a platform to harness the gains of Anthropology, Archaeology, History and Philosophy in the Service of Africa and the Diaspora.

“Historians are still debating the demographic, economic, social, cultural and religio-metaphysical consequences of enslavement, the slave trade, and the “middle passage” on/for Africa, Africans, and people of African descent in the Caribbean, the Americas and elsewhere. It is extremely difficult to settle the debate with population figures everybody will agree with. However, the long term psycho-behavioral consequences on the survivors, both in Africa and the Diaspora, have never been addressed systematically.

Frantz Fanon’s insight in The

wretched of the earth can be relied on to suggest a profound psychological adjustment to constant threat and uncertainty. This idea is now vigorously explored by the new emerging field of “behavioral epigenetic” (G. Miller 2010). This development can have significant impact on our understanding of the systemic problems faced by Africans today in Africa and elsewhere.

“Intellectuals and activists from the Caribbean and North America, like Blyden, DuBois, Garvey, and Padmore, to mention but a few, were instrumental in the emergence and consolidation of the idea of Pan-Africanism and forging a sense of common origins and common destiny. The new push of the African Union, toward the goal of “United States of Africa” is a particularly exciting and timely move.

“The proposed conference aims to take advantage of this momentum to jumpstart a New Pan-Africanism upon a template deriving from such vantage points situated in the disciplines of anthropology, archaeology, DG of CBAAC, Prof. Babawale history and philosophy.”

AWF Hosts Abbah, Liam, Makut in Abuja

By Florence Utor WO writers and a singer/songwriter T Theophilus Abbah, Paul Liam and Christy Makut - will share the spotlight in the February 22nd edition of the Abuja Writers’ Forum’s Guest Writer Session at the Nanet Suites, Abuja.

Theophilus Abbah began his journalistic career as an international affairs reporter with Punch in Lagos, and currently works as a newspaper editor in Abuja. He is a past winner of the Forum for African Investigative Reporters Editor’s Courage Award, and a finalist in 2012 Wole Soyinka Investigative Journalism Award in the print category.

Abbah’s creative writing forays began via his short stories, which appeared in Sunday New Nigerian from1985 while he was in secondary

school. He studied English Language i at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He recently published Lost in the Wind.

Paul T. Liam is the Assistant Secretary, Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Niger State Chapter, Mentor and Public Relations Manager of the Hilltoparts Centre Minna. He is a literary columnist with Niger State’s Newsline. He is a prolific poet, critic, essayist, book reviewer and author of the poetry collection, Indefinite Cravings. He has helped with organising literary events in Niger State such as the Annual Schools Carnival of Arts and Festival of Songs (ASCAFS), ANA/Yusuf Ali Reading Campaign, ANA Niger Read to a Child Campaign 2008, ANA Niger Writers’ Spell, Teen Authors’ Flash, among others.

Liam is the coordinator of the ANA Niger Bi-

monthly Guest writers’ programme, ‘Writers’ Spell’. He coordinated the Radio programme, ‘Hilltoparts Reveals’ on Crystal 91.2 FM last year.

He is the coordinator and anchor of the Hilltoparts Centre’s monthly programme, ‘Teen Authors’ Flash’. He is also part of the annual Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu (MBA) Literary Colloquium. He co-edited the children anthology Dewdrops published by the Hilltoparts Centre and is Head, Interpreter, a publication of Niger State Book Development Agency.

Born in Kaduna State, Singer and Songwriter, Christiana Makut is the third of five children born to retired Air Force officer, Wing Commander Caleb Makut, and a teacher, Sarah Makut. She spent her early days at Air Force Base, Ikeja, Lagos.

After secondary school, she gained admission to study Economics at the University of Abuja, where she developed an interest in International Trade.

In her own words: “I love music, and I love to swim when I find the time. I also enjoy reading a really good book. I’m a broadcaster who started out with Cool FM, Abuja in 2008, and then pioneered Nigeria Info FM, Lagos alongside a few of my colleagues. I am a sucker for humour!”

Her musical instrument of choice is the guitar.

The Guest Writer Session, which started in June 2008, holds at the prestigious Nanet Suites located at the Central Business District in Abuja, and runs from 4-7pm on the last Saturday of every month. It also features side attractions like poetry performance, mini art exhibition, a raffle-draw for books, and a stirring dose of live music.

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Revue How Akeeb Kareem’s father nearly killed his talent as musician

By Taiwo Oladokun

I come from a home where the first time I told my father that I wanted to be a singer, he retorted by saying ‘’Olohun o ni je ki n se ori buruku, Mi o bi alagbe l’omo o. Mi o ni alagabe niran mi,’’ meaning, “God will never visit misfortune on me. God did not give me a beggar as son; there is no beggar in my lineage.’’

BOUT the middle of 2013, Nigeria’s foremost A music publicist and critic, Benson Idonije, in one of his usually well-researched, factual and incisive articles, brought back into readers’ consciousness, the exploits of Blackman Akeeb Kareem, one of Nigeria’s most talented composers and musicians. The musician relocated abroad after releasing many hits that were top of the chart with a consistency that points to his prodigious career and the profoundness of his music. Drawing, with dexterity, from his rich Yoruba and, by extension, African cultural background, Akeeb Kareem became the toast of fans across the world.

One of the issues raised by Benson Idonije in his 2013 article bordered on the whereabouts of this huge talent whose vocal quality endears him to many at home and abroad. A recent encounter with Kareem, now an evangelist, at a studio at Brixton, London where he was recording some special gospel numbers revealed why he left Nigeria, how he became an evangelist, commentary on the current musical trends in Nigeria and a wide range of issues including his life as a secular musician, among others.

How it all started If I say it is God, I mean it is God and I will explain it. I come from a home where the first time I told my father that I wanted to be a singer, he retorted by saying ‘’Olohun o ni je ki n se ori buruku, Mi o bi alagbe l’omo o. Mi o ni alagabe niran mi,’’ meaning, “God will never visit misfortune on me. God did not give me a beggar as son; there is no beggar in my lineage’’. This is because entertainers were regarded as beggars in those days. Sadly, I was alone, really alone because my father being a Muslim had so many wives. I lost my own mother in 1953 when I was about eight years old and with no brother or sister from my mother, I was really alone. In 1965, my father drove me away from his house at Idi Araba, Lagos because I still wanted to pursue a career in music and I had no one to defend me. As a result, I started sleeping in cinema houses. There was a particular one on Ikorodu Road, Lagos called, Revolis Cinema where I would sneak into the Cinema Hall after the day’s shows so I could be locked in to pass the night.

Meeting King Kenny Tones After the shows I would be there singing to workers of the cinema. One night one of the patrons who was leaving the cinema heard me sing and said ‘’That was a good voice. You have a good voice’’ I did not know that the man was a popular Lagos musician then called King Kenny Tones. One of his popular singles then was ‘B’omo olomo ba n lo ni Titi’ and ‘Iwa Rere’ He asked me to see him at Kool Cats Inn, Apapa Road, Lagos. On getting there he asked me to practise with his band. I was really afraid because that was the first time I would be playing with a Band. But it turned out well. King Kenny Tones brought me into his Band and asked me to be playing soul while he played highlife. That was about 1966/67.

The Orlando Julius Connection After some months of playing with the Band, one day, another Band came to do a recording in Lagos and they lodged at Kool Cats Inn. After their recording, the Band leader and some of his boys were relaxing in the bar of the Inn when the leader saw me, called me and asked that I go

Kareem with him to Ibadan to sing for his Band. I didn’t know who the man was and wondered why this one was inviting me again. The leader turned out to be the popular Orland Julius Ekemode, who at that time just released his hit number ‘Soul Lo L’aye’. I tried to reject the invitation and put him off by asking him to seek permission from my father if he wanted me to follow him to Ibadan. To my surprise, Orlando Julius went with me to my father who gave his permission and blessing. That was how I joined the Orland Julius Band to sing souls as I was doing with the King Kenny Tones Band. That was in 1968. I was very good at replicating the songs of international stars such as Otis Redding and James Brown etc. Orlando was playing permanently at Independence Hotel, Oke Bola, Ibadan at that time. I was singing soul music for the band while he played highlife.

My favourite musician then was Otis Redding who, shortly after I got to Ibadan, died with some members of his Band on their way to a performance. So I wrote a song entitled ‘The Soul Man Is Gone: In Memory of Otis Redding.’

The Orlando Julius Band was preparing for a recording then. So I asked to be permitted to record my tribute to Otis Redding and Orlando allowed me record the song with the Band.

That was my very first professional recording and it became a hit. During that time too there was a very popular DJ, perhaps the biggest DJ in that part of Nigeria then, who also took interest in my music and further helped to make what we can call my ‘brand’ popular.

Joining the Nigerian Army At that time too, the Nigerian Civil War was going on and I had the opportunity to join the Army. When I joined, I was attached to a Band called ‘The Ibadan Garrison Organization’ (IGO).

So we were moving from place to place; from Ibadan to Akure to perform. I left the Army in 1973 and went to EMI where I recorded Mo ma nwo lolufe lo in 1974. From there I moved to DECCA, to record a single then. The first side is titled ‘Olu Igbo’ and the flip side had ‘Egba ni Mi’. That was how DECCA signed me on and I made other albums with the company including ‘Mother Is Gold.’ I did very well with EMI and DECCA. My royalty was paid promptly. I was even receiving cheques from radio stations that were playing my music abroad because I was a member of the Performing Rights Society of Great Britain. But the situation was different in my country. In fact, radio stations in Nigeria think they are doing musicians a favour by playing their music. It was this frustrating situation

that made the late Fela Anikulapo Kuti to stop Radio Nigeria from playing his music at a point.

From Decca to Shanu Olu After doing very well with Decca, the owner of Shanu Olu Records, one of the first indigenous recording companies in Nigeria approached me and persuaded me to move to its label adducing reasons of patriotism and the need to support the growth of our own initiatives. He also promised he was going to take care of me.

That was how I jumped ship and moved to Shanu Olu where I recorded ‘Amebo’ which was an instant hit on release in 1984. It was in the top ten for a long time. And you know that albums in the top ten then were identified based on empirical evidence of how they were doing in the market. Researchers including journalists would visit record stores and gather data based on sales. So, ‘Amebo’ was in the top ten consistently. Apart from this, it was being played all over the place so much that fans started calling me Baba Amebo instead of Blackman. After sometime, I approached Shanu Olu for my royalty but I was shocked when he told me the record did not sell. I couldn’t believe this and told him that even a blind man knew that ‘Amebo’ sold and well beyond Nigeria because the album also contained a number, ‘Obiara pe ma sem’ done in Twi, a Ghanaian Language. In fact, that album contained some of my best songs including ‘Iya’ (Mother), ‘God is the Greatest’ that preached peaceful religious coexistence etc. I was very disappointed and discouraged as a professional musician.

Leaving Nigeria This experience forced me to start reconsidering my future in Nigeria. The broadcast stations won’t pay you and an indigenous recording company was coming up with stories on your intellectual property and your rights while foreign companies were ensuring that you received your royalty promptly. After that experience, I decided to take a break by travelling to the United States to meet Lionel Richie who was billed to perform at the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles. Lionel Richie is one other musician I like and he had just about that time released ‘All Night Long’. But as I was preparing for the journey to the US, I received an invitation from France to come and play with my Band. That was how I left Nigeria for France in 1984.

A stunning acceptance in France On arrival in Paris, I went to play at a Nightclub before the real show and I was stunned by the response of the crowd. This really encouraged me and took my mind back to how talents were not appreciated in my country. After my main show, a recording company signed me on and I released an album titled ‘Peace and Love’ containing numbers such as ‘Ma Cherie’, ‘Ara Me e riri’, ‘O ya E je ka jo’ among others. To a very shocked artiste, the album went to top ten in France. For the record to sell well and to beat the track of racism, the company suggested I got a new stage name and we came up with Michael Jones, having told them that my Christian name was Michael. And I looked at myself and said ‘’Akeeb Kareem’s music going on top ten in France!’’ That really boosted my confidence and helped to assuage the bad feelings I left Nigeria with. But I decided I was not going back to Nigeria. I sent for my wife who came to join me in that 1984. Then in 1986, I visited Nigeria with my wife. After the visit I went to London while she returned to France. She later came to join me in London that same year and we have been living in London since then. From that 1986, I did not visit Nigeria again until 2010 because of the experience I had and the way things were being done. Unfortunately, the situation appears to have remained the same. Dedicated and honest people are the ones that are suffering. Talented and upright people are frustrated while mediocrity is given prominence because

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...‘Why Nigeria should appreciate talents’

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 35 they of connections in high places. These are some of the reasons why I decided not to go back to Nigeria. I have had a flourishing and rewarding career in Europe playing in Austria, Germany, France etc. and I thank God immensely for that.

Encountering Christ and gospel music In 1981, I delved into gospel music though I was not a Christian and I was not near being born again. That is why wherever I go to preach or minister through music after I met Christ, I tell people that they should not assume that every gospel singer is a Christian as there are many gospel singers who have nothing to do with Christ. That was my state in 1981 when I recorded ‘Baba Mi L’oloko’ (God My Father is the Driver of Life) and people thought I was a genuine Christian. I wasn’t. I didn’t even own a Bible! I was just trying to exercise what I thought was my ability as the best composer and singer. And that is the hollow feeling we have when we are outside the boundary of Jesus Christ. But we are nothing at all without Him. I will continue to thank God for what He has done fors me. I am not an educated man with degrees but God has been kind to me. I give this testimony because I want people around the world to believe that if God could favour me this way without any qualification by human standards, then He can do it for any other person.

On December 17, 1986, I was hospitalised here in London for an ailment which made me to lose a lot of blood and was later pronounced dead. In fact the Doctors had started to counsel my wife on how to handle the situation and also asked her to get in touch with those who were needed to be contacted. While this was going on I found myself racing faster than a Formular 1 Car through the woods. After some time, I got to place where I saw a very big sea and started hearing beautiful melodies the type I had never come across in my life, before that encounter and till this day. I approached the sea and felt like eating the alluring sand of its beach. On the other side of the sea, I saw what looked like a rainbow but it turned out to be a Choir of over 500 singers with a man conducting them. Then I started looking for a canoe to cross to the other side of the sea to join the singers because the melody was overwhelming.

After searching fruitlessly for a canoe, I decided to walk across the sea, But immediately my toe touched the waters, I received what can be described as an electric shock and the conductor of the Choir turned back and shouted ‘‘Go back!’’. I started begging him to allow me join the Choir, telling him that I could sing. The man said ‘’Yes, we know you can sing and that you can teach us but go back’’. After a long time of waiting, I decided to turn back. On turning back, I found myself in a jungle covered with thick fogs as if the heavens came down and I walked back through the fog.

While this was going on, the Doctors who had

pronounced me dead noticed that I still had life and they rushed out to invite my wife apologising to her over the initial pronouncement. They told her that though I still had life but I might not recognise her for hours and truly for days I couldn’t recognise my wife or anyone for that matter.

The turning point On December 19, 1996, I was still on the hospital bed when information came that I had to go through another surgery. I began to think that the white people had really resolved to ensure my death so I said I was going to pray to Jesus before I went into the Theatre. So I made a vow to Jesus that I would give my life to Him if I survived the surgery. And I survived it to the glory of God. When I was recuperating, I asked my wife for a pen and paper one day and wrote a poem entitled ‘If Death Knocks on Your Door, You will Know You are Nothing Out of Nothingness’.

After few days I wrote another one, ‘If Jesus Is Not the Answer, then There Was No Question’. But despite these outbursts, I was still not a true Christian. I told Jesus after the surgery that if He would take me home safely from the hospital, I would dedicate my life to Him. But the reverse was the case when I got home as I went back to living my life as before and within four days I was back in the hospital. Unknown to me my wife had contacted many pastors to pray for me and I believe their prayers worked.

On the 15th of February 1997, I was led to call a Pastor friend but I refused but surprisingly, the man himself called on the 16th and on the 17th of February, I went to see the man and as we were praying together, a voice told me to give up my fame and use my talent for evangelism and to stop; that I should start a Ministry and not a Church and that He would give me peace that passeth all understanding and rest from the pursuit of the vain things of life. That was my turning point and He has fulfilled all His promises and more. So I have been into spreading the gospel around the world ever since through the

Akeeb Kareem Media Ministries. By His grace I am scheduled to evangelise in Canada this April, in addition to similar engagements in and outside the United Kingdom. Comparing my life with Christ to life without Him, I can boldly say that life without Christ is a life of struggles and emptiness though we may have all the fame and wealth of this world.

Assessment of the current Nigerian musical scene People have asked me this question before. I want to say that each genre of music has its own period and it natural for people to say the genre of their own time is the best. So I disagree with people opining that the current genres of music are not as good as the ones before them. I believe that whatever genre of music that we have now is existing in accordance with the taste and trend of this period. There are millions of people who are made happy by the current genres of music the same way the genres we played made some people happy. They are luckier than us in terms of access to technology and wider markets. So I am happy for them. Comparing our own time with theirs will not be a just exercise because as I said, this is simply their time. They should however try to specialise and not want to combine the role of composer, producer, marketer etc. I also hope that a strong policy will be put in place to ensure that their record labels and marketers treat them well in order to avoid what somebody like me suffered in the hands of the indigenous recording company mentioned earlier. Above all I want to admonish them to remember God in whatever they do and fear Him as the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.

Role of a gospel musician I believe a gospel singer is a Preacher. A gospel singer should not record just danceable songs. If you are a called gospel singer, God will always give you a message. Therefore every song must carry a message from God to people who are listening to the music. It is not enough to just

string words together and believe that is gospel.

I am not judging anyone but there is nothing wrong with admonishing and correcting one another with love.

If I meet the President of Nigeria I will remind him of the achievements of great leaders around the world and encourage him to emulate them. I will ask him as many others have been doing to focus on regular power supply as this will serve as a catalyst for greater development. I will draw his attention to the fact that many Nigerians are dying daily from generator fumes; many companies have folded up as a result of inadequate power supply. So if that can be fixed, companies will operate at full capacity, employ many Nigerians and life will be sane and safe. This will also spiral down to having good educational and medical and security facilities in the country and the Nigeria will move forward. This will encourage a lot of Nigerians in the diaspora to come and invest in our country’s economy. When the country is running well and corruption is reduced to the barest minimum, the bitter struggle for power will also reduce. I will also tell the President to listen to the people instead of listening to his party.

Appreciating fans and personalities Many people have contributed to my person and my professional career. I want to register my appreciation to my wife who has stood by me right from the very first day. She took the risk of marrying me despite very stiff opposition because I was a popular secular musician back then. Today, I beat my chest to say I have the best wife in the world. She has been an exceptional source of courage to me especially in the last 17 years that I have been working in the Lord’s vineyard. I also appreciate my children and my fans in Nigeria and around the world. I cannot also forget Prince Biodun Sanda, former General Manager of the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State. He is a friend in need and indeed. I cannot quantify his contributions to my life and my professional career. His belief in me is unparalleled. It is very sad and unfortunate that the Nigerian system does not value talented people like him. He is a man of immense talent and indeed an asset that the system, especially in Oyo State has ignored to their huge disadvantage. Others are King Kenny Tones who discovered me, Orlando Julius Ekemode who gave me the opportunity of my first professional recording, Uncles Tunji Oyelana and Jimi Solanke , King Sunny Ade, the late Sikiru Ayinde Barrister who was a great composer and exceptional vocalist, Pa Benson Idonije, The Guardian columnist, an erudite music critic and publicist who, without even knowing my whereabouts did a piece on my career in The Guardian in 2013. Above all, I thank God for giving me the talent and I appreciate all Nigerians for their love and support over the years.

Dr. Oladokun is SA (Media) to Culture and Tourism Minister

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THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Film At 64th Berlinale…

Nigeria has joined the revolution, says Kene Mkparu From Shaibu Husseini, Berlin, Germany IGERIA is not the only country where movies N on celluloid have been replaced by digital technology. The story is same everywhere-from Cape to Cairo and from New York to Ireland. The digital revolution has effectively replaced celluloid both as recording and distribution devices.

Here at the on-going 64th Berlin International Film Festival which opened on February 6 and will last ten days, nearly 95 percent of the expected 2500 film screenings during the festival including those that will be screened at the European Film Market are digital.

Clearly, the various film industries have embraced digitalization and this has, in the last two years, left cinema owners and festival organizers including officials of the Berlinale to be faced with enormous technical and logistical tasks that have arisen from the film industry’s digitalization.

One of the challenges that the Berlinale organizers say they have had to contend with is distributing the films, presented in Digital Cinema Package (DCP) format, with their ever larger data volumes as it also involves converting the films in advance to the DCP format where necessary.

But the festival has continued to run smoothly without any hitch thanks to seven enterprises including Colt, Barco, EMC, Dolby, Doremi, DVS and VIDI who are supporting the Berlinale this year in the field of digital cinema. For instance Colt is providing collocation services, which enables the festival to operate a high performance storage system supplied by EMC. Also to be able to transcode the films that were submitted in very diverse formats into DCPs, DVS has supplied several Clipster postproduction workstations that are especially well equipped to accelerate such computationally-intense processes.

In the same vein, Barco, global experts for digital cinema projectors, is along with other services, providing, the Festival with a selection of DP2K and DP4K projectors, as these are crucial for transforming the Berlinale’s temporary venues into modern movie theatres.

Indeed the decision by the Berlinale organizers to also reconsider and remodify its technical and logistical processes prior to the festival has also facilitated smooth screening at the festival, which accredited over 20,000 professionals this year.

The situation with digital revolution back in Nigeria is quite encouraging. With major Hollywood studios threatening to stop production on 35mm film format, owners of the three top cinema chains in the country- Geneis Deluxe, Film House and Silverbird Cinemas say there is nothing to worry about the threat as they have also joined the big players internationally with the cinema chains of Digital Cinema Technology.

Managing Director of Film House Kene Mkparu says cinemagoers in Nigeria have nothing to worry about as they can now, courtesy Film House experience 3D features with 7.1 digital surround sound systems in any of the cinema outlet in Lagos, Calabar and Ibadan.

Although Mkparu would not say if his Filmhouse, reputed as the fastest growing cinema chain in Nigeria, is the only firm that has embraced the digital revolution, he asserted that the cinema chain not only is first in digitalization, but that film house is ‘’the only cinemas with digital capability in all its locations with 3Dfeatures, 7.1 digital surround sound and HRF capability’’.

But to complement his firm’s digital facilities, Mkparu disclosed that the Filmhouse which in December 2012 launched its first two cinemas in Surulere, Lagos and at the Calabar Marina Resort, has also launched a digital laboratory that would make it easy for Nigerian film makers, content producers and corporate advertisers to produce the highest grades possible in Nigeria at far reduced costs. Mkparu also said ‘this Digi-lab can convert HD films, adverts, commercials and promos to international standard cinema compli-

Festival director, Kosslick and other guests at the opening of the Berlinale on Thursday ant Digital DCP format. Filmhouse recently reworked Rukky Sanda’s Nollywood film, Gold Diggin from a regular HD feature to a high grade DCI compliant DCP feature with an upgrade to 7.1 Surround Sound. These made the presentation quality of the movie far superior to what has been seen at the other cinema chains of the same film’’ The Filmhouse boss who hinted that the firm is also now currently in the last stages of construction and fit-out launch of five cinemas in Ibadan (it already has an outlet in Dugbe, Ibadan which it launched in 2013), Port Harcourt, Asaba, Kano and Apapa, in Lagos assured of a digital experience for Nigerian cinemagoers. “The roll-out of Digital Cinema has indeed commenced in a big way so we can comfortably say that cinema goers in Nigeria are in for a whole new world of

digital experience this year, the days of low quality Nollywood films are soon to be a thing of the past.” Mkparu said.

The Berlin film festival continues with film screening and the striking and closing of deals at the European Film Market. Nigeria as an industry is not represented but there are some Nigerian filmmakers who came on their own to seek coproduction and distribution opportunities. At one of the co-production sessions, notable actor Akin Fadahunsi who runs Bluestreak Solution Nigeria was able to secure co-production agreement with a European production company. ‘’We will continue the discussion after the festival with the producer I have secured but I am looking for four more production companies because I have a couple of stories to produce. I am also looking for films I can market in Nigeria.

Flower Girlmarks remarkable year of release

By Shaibu Husseini N Nigeria movie production skies, rarity is that a movie slums if it is not available on other exhibition platforms outside the usual cinema run.

But the story of Flower Girl, which has the signature of Michelle Bello as producer and director, is different. Since its release in February 2013, the movie, which has received countless nominations and won a few awards, has continued to make the headlines and gain international recognition even without being available on other exhibition platforms.

This month, Flower Girl celebrates a remarkable year of its release having hit the big screen last year selling out screens in cinemas and ending up being among a few of the highest grossing Nigerian productions in 2013. Apart from its box office successes, the film also showed across 15 cities in

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6 countries and 3 continents around the world. First released across major cinemas in Nigeria on valentine day and released in Ghana in April of 2013, the movie earned a deserved nomination at the 2013 edition of the African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) and was released across selected UK cinemas in October.

Also, the movie received an official selection at the Hollywood Black Film Festival, Los Angeles and at the Black Film Festival in the UK where it won the award for Best African Film. Similarly, Flower Girl featured on the official selection list of the African International Film Festival (AFRIFF) and it is reportedly on the official selection list of the 2014 Toronto Black Film Festival, which opens on February 14. Later in March 2014, the movie will be in contention for four awards at the second edition of the African Magic Viewers Choice Award (AMVCA). It will also battle for honour at the 2014 Screen Nation awards scheduled for February

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Described by a cinemagoer at the Odeon Cinema Greenwich, London, England as ‘’a simple story in the Romantic Comedy genre that is well told and shot for the big screen for all to enjoy, not just Nigerians’’ Flower Girl is the story of a shy florist Kemi (Damilola Adegbite) whose relationship to Umar (Chris Attoh) hits troubled waters, Kemi seeks the help of movie superstar, Tunde (Chuks Chukwujekwu) and they hatch a plan to get Kemi and Umar back on track. However, the plan doesn’t quite work.

Producer and Director of the movie Michelle Bello disclosed that the movie would soon be available for Internet subscription. She also hinted of plans to release the movie on DVD later in the year and also plans to have the movie screen on selected flight routes by international airline.

I found one on the legendary Marvin Gaye and am sure it will inspire people who are familiar with his story back home’’ Fadahunsi who was at the last Cannes International Film Festival and at the Locarno International Film Festival in Switzerland said. Also Peter Okonkwo who said he is an independent film agent based in Nigeria and in Japan said has been able to open discussion on the possibility of selling some rights to a leading cable station in Europe. ‘’They saw my portfolio and they were impressed and have asked for a meeting later in the month. That’s the benefit of coming out, sadly, those who run Nollywood are not here’’ he said.

NANTAP, AMAA, NICO, National Troupe mourn Kafewo, Ayegba

By Shaibu Husseini RIBUTES have continued to pour in for two T prominent members of the theatre community in Nigeria — Professor Samuel Ayedime Kafewo and Dr. Martins Ayegba both of whom died in a motor accident that occurred on the Abuja-Kaduna highway on Friday, February 7.

Kafewo, Head of Department of Theatre and Performing Arts, Ahmadu Bello University and Dr. Martins Ayegba, Postgraduate Programme Coordinator of the Department were on their way from Abuja to Zaria when the unfortunate car incident occurred. Both Kafewo and Ayegba and another Professor Jenks Okwori were returning to Zaria after a workshop on Theatrefor-Development (TFD), which they facilitated.

However, only Okwori survived the accident but he is reportedly in a very critical condition.

Until his demise, Kafewo was the SecretaryGeneral of the Society of Nigeria Theatre Artists (SONTA), the umbrella body of theatre arts lecturers in Nigerian Universities. A renowned theatre for development specialist who is survived by a wife and four children, Sakef or Kekere as his close friends called him was only recently inducted into SONTA Hall of Fame at the 24th Annual SONTA Conference which held in Makurdi, Benue State.

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ARTS Friday, February 14, 2014

Dawn in the Creeks…

…promotingpeace, empowering youths

By Anote Ajeluorou

Twenty-one young Nigerians from Niger Delta communities will star in an empowerment reality TV show to be curated by Jeta Amata.

Participants will be empowered with grants and equipment to make Nollywood-type narrative films about life in the region.

OR several years now, Nigeria’s volatile Niger Delta region has caught the attention of the world for the wrong reasons. Traditionally known as the economic bedrock of the country, it soon turned violent following the neglect and insensitivity of oil prospecting companies in collusion with the Federal Government in denying the region development. This is coupled with gross environmental degradation and youth unemployment. Violence and extreme form of militancy ensued; it threatened Nigeria’s economic base, with the multinational companies rethinking their strategies albeit too slowly for local restive youths.

But a new initiative from the United States Government with Nollywood collaboration is underway as part of efforts to transform the area and put it in better perspective for the world to see.

Dawn in the Creeks is a reality TV initiative conceived to empower local youths, who would ordinarily resort to militancy to redress the injustice in the region. They would be turned into filmmakers, as alternative vision to one of violence and militancy.

Youth anger bubbled over with rising unemployed in spite of the billions of petro-dollars the Niger Delta generates daily. But with this critical intervention, which some would say should have happened years ago, a

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measure of succour might well be on the way for the embattled Niger Delta youths.

At a press briefing on Monday at the home of the Consulate-General of the U.S. Embassy in Ikoyi, Lagos, the U.S. envoy, Mr. Jeffrey Hawkins, said Dawn in the Creeks was a programme designed to bring about Nollywood, Hollywood and diplomacy to interface, as alternative vision in the oil-rich but volatile Niger Delta environment.

Hawkins noted the need to strengthen the partnership that exists between his country and Nigeria. As 2015 general elections draw near, Hawkins said it was in the strategic interest of his home country, the United States, which he said has “a strong interest in supporting the country’s peace, prosperity, and security”, especially as Nigeria is “an economic and cultural giant with a growing and dynamic population and plays a critical role in Africa.

“Essential to this is the stability of the resource-rich Niger Delta – an economic engine of the country, but a region historically prone to violence. The absence of a ‘social contract’ at the local level, coupled with poor public service delivery, youth unemployment, environmental degradation, upcoming national- and state-level elections and the planned end of amnesty, leave the Delta vulnerable to renewed conflict.

Reducing that vulnerability is in the interests of both the U.S. and Nigeria”.

However, Hawkins noted that the narrative of violence has begun to change even though some of the fundamental issues remain. What is needed, in his view, was sustaining that narrative violence with positive action that could impact on local communities and the teeming idle youth through positive engagement, adding, “from civil society groups to artists, youth leaders to dynamic politicians, many Nigerians in the Delta are challenging the narrative of violence and striving for a future of peace and prosperity.

American Consulate-General, Mr. Jeffrey Hawkins and Creative Director of Dawn in the Creeks’ reality TV, Mr. Jeta Amata at the press briefing on Monday… in Lagos “Local teachers, journalists and religious leaders are joining forces to advocate for improved service delivery. NGOs and Nollywood stars are teaming up to discredit violence. If amplified, these inspiring stories can drown out the adage that ‘violence pays’, and set the tone for a new public narrative of peace”.

DESIGNED as a project that would give voice to Niger Delta people, especially its youths, the idea is to go from entertainment to implementation of change for the largely neglected people of the region. Nollywood’s innovative producer and director, Jeta Amata, who has also experienced America’s Hollywood, is the Creative Director of Dawn in the Creeks reality TV. He has the task of selecting seven youths each from three communities of Ozoro in Isoko North Local Government Area, Delta State, Nembe in Bayelsa State and a third community in the region. He would engage them on life in their respective communities, then fly them to Lagos for training in filmmaking the Nollywood-style.

Thereafter, a grant of N1 million and equipment would be given to each to make their own film the way Amata has taught them. These 21 youngsters would then screen their films in cinemas with the full compliment of a red carpet reception. But this is just the

pilot phase of this audacious project of empowerment. Seven other youngsters with creative minds would be further selected from 52 other communities as time goes on, who would all be trained in a few weeks and then empowered financially to make their own films as well.

For Amata, who is from the Niger Delta also and an issue-based filmmaker with a difference (Black November was his most recent film on the Niger Delta crisis that possibly fetched him this job), this is his moment of passion. Giving back to lift up fellow Niger Deltans for whom the pains of deprivations has been keen also has the imprint of a calling. And so he said, “This is not just about a reality TV show; it’s not about the people telling their story and empowering people but this is about the business of Nollywood. I learnt how to hold camera, edit films on the computer here without going to any school school to learn it! It’s what we do; it’s what has amazed the whole world.

We’re number two in the world, no kidding.

“I want to thank the U.S. Government for allowing us do this the way we want and know it. This time it’s not about them lecturing us on what to do. We start from Ozoro, which is also a community from my own local government area, to teach these youngsters how to make films the

Nollywood-style and tell their own stories. The films they will make will be screened in cinemas in Nigeria and at international festivals”.

Amata is immensely positive about the impact the reality show would have in the lives of those to be selected to star in it, pointing out that his mission was to disrupt whatever normal humdrum activity the selected youngsters were engaged in and refocus them in filmmaking as alternative passion worth pursuing to change the narrative of both their lives and that of their region away from that violence and militancy. Also for Amata, this was no longer time for the usual blame-game, of who was right or wrong. It’s his desire to leave a better Niger Delta both for his own children and those of others so they could grow up in an environment of peace and prosperity.

Already, the U.S. Government, which has strategic investment in the region’s oil wealth, is providing the seed money for the pilot programme.

However, it’s the hope of the Consulate-General, Hawkins and Creative Director, Amata, that corporate organisations buy into the positive story the reality TV show engenders. Amata has promised to bring his creative ingenuity that has seen him making such impressive films as Amazing Grace, Mary Slessor, Inale among others into the project to

Consumer promo… High expectation for another Dubai experience

By Florence Utor ONSUMER promotions are an integral part of marketing mix. Among the multifarious reasons for which companies embark on consumer promos, two stand out: increasing sales and rewarding consumers.

Legend Extra Stout, from the stable of Nigerian Breweries Plc., has a short but rich history in the annals of consumer promotions in the country.

Its first promo, in 2012, the brand rewarded consumers with gift items such as generators, refrigerators, TV sets, etc.

Legend decided to take it not a notch, but 21 notches higher. The highlight of the 2013 edition of the consumer promo was flying 21 lucky consumers to Dubai, for the opportunity of shopping for items up to N1 million within 60-second timeframe.

Of the millions of Nigerians that participated in the Legend Real Deal National Consumer Promotion, only 21 emerged via raffle draws for an opportunity to go to Dubai.

The 21 consumers were taken on a shopping experience, in three groups of seven consumers.

The first set that left the shores of Nigeria on Friday, May 17 and by the time they touched down in Lagos on Monday, May 20, they had in their possessions several gift items which they had shopped for, courtesy of the brand.

These items consisted television sets, laptops, home theatres and so on.

The ‘Legends’ that embarked on the Dubai unique shopping experience were Uchechukwu Dennis Chukwu from Ebonyi State, Nwabuoke Ikechukwu Ambrose from Delta State, Oluwabusuyi Kelvin Olubusuyi from Ekiti State and Solomon Okoro Ike from Imo State. The others are John Akoji from Abuja, the Federal Capital

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City, as well as Temitope Ogunyemi and Austin Nwakaife, both from Lagos State.

When Nwabuokei Ikechukwu Ambrose, from Delta State was informed that he was a winner, he did not believe. He said: “I thought it was a joke or a scam. But after some days, the Legend people came to Ughelli to visit me. That was when I knew that it was real.”

He described his experience as memorable.

According to him “I will never forget it for the rest of my life. I am very grateful to Legend Extra Stout and Nigerian Breweries Plc.” One of the items, which Ambrose picked that excited him was a laptop. He explained: “Well, my employers shared laptops in the office I

Winners at the last promo

work, and deductions were to be made monthly from our staff salary, but I could not get one, because at that time, I was involved in the burial of my mother, so, I was not around. When I returned, they told me that the laptops had been exhausted and that I had lost the opportunity. But I prayed to God that I would have mine. But here I am in Dubai and I have a brand new laptop on a platter of gold. For more than three years, I’ve been looking forward to having a laptop, a BlackBerry phone, which I could not afford. But now, I’ve these items. I also got a new phone for my wife and for my children. I have two boys and two girls.”

For Solomon Okoroike, from Owerri, Imo State, the Dubai trip was dramatic. Legend Extra Stout

has gone to great lengths to publicise the ongoing Real Deal National Consumer Promotion.

Solomon, like millions of Nigerians desirous of travelling to Dubai, bought Legend Extra Stout, from a bar, sent the numeric code, which he found under the crown cork to 30380.

But Solomon doubted the promotion at first.

After winning, a phone call was put across to him the following day to inform him of his good luck. He was informed that a team would be coming to officially meet with him.

Then a series of incidences, which would make him doubt the promo started to occur in succession. Given the antics of kidnappers, fraudsters and people of questionable character, he expressed his fears to a friend who agreed to ‘protect’ him.

The officials that were to meet him on behalf of the Legend brand team were late in meeting him, despite an agreed time. They eventually met at an agreed bar and his friend tagged along just to give him protection. While they were discussing, Solomon’s friend suddenly got up and all entreaties by Solomon to prevail on him to stay till the end of the meeting fell on deaf ears.

According to Solomon, on arrival at the Lagos airport, the Legend team representative that had been calling him non-stop suddenly became incommunicado. He said when they eventually met, her voice profile did not match her actual appearance. Secondly, he noticed her chatting with a certain young man of average height who was frequently either making or receiving phone calls. He told himself that he would overpower the guy if they got into a duel.

(The guy later turned out to be John Akoji, from Abuja, who also won the Legend trip to Dubai).

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Friday, February 14, 2014 ARTS

Heritage George wrapper in tradition of Ndoki

By Otuka Victor Ucheoma RESS is a coded sensory system of non-verbal D communication that aids human interaction. It forms an integral part of a people’s culture and thus contributes considerably towards the establishment of their identity. In the Niger Delta, especially the eastern Ij0 and their surrounding nations, exotic textile fabrics and other accessories of dressing which came as a result of the activities of Portuguese merchants, missionaries, and explorers, found their way into their cultures. These foreign materials were later appropriated as dress forms, so as to project a unique identity of the people in question.

One of such materials is the textile fabric called “George”.

This cotton Indian madras is known as “Injiri” or “plain India” in most parts of the Ijo world, but simply referred to as “George” by the Ibospeaking Ndoki people of Eastern Niger Delta.

The prominence of this fabric in the Ndoki cultural sphere can obviously be ascribed to inter cultural diffusion arising from trading relationships which existed between them and the entire eastern Ijo nations.

The adopted non-indigenous item exemplify cultural authentication, that is, the process whereby borrowed objects are accepted in a way that they become indigenously meaningful and useful.

The adoption of the George wrapper in about the 16th to 17th century clearly distinguished and demarcated the Ndoki people from their immediate contiguous neighbours. The Ndoki are an Igbo speaking group which occupy an area of land that spans about 20 kilometers radius.

They inhabit a vast area located within the southernmost fringe of the Nigerian federation, and are found in the three states of Abia, Akwa Ibom and Rivers. The topography of the area is flat with a lot of cultivable arable lands. There is also abundance of rivers, creeks and fresh water streams. Their occupation is mostly trading, fishing and farming. The Ndoki are quite a culturally vibrant people with numerous traditional festivities, with the George wrapper prominently featuring as the basic dress code.

There are mainly two broad types of the George cloth; namely plain George and intorica. The plain George is usually in varying vivid colours and in monochrome. The intorica comes in plain cotton fabric embellished with colourful silk embroidery of patterns and motifs.

The George cloth is used by men, women and children for varying purposes. In Ndoki, the cloth assumes its cultural responsibility even from the moment of birth. Usually, the father of an Ndoki new born child ceremoniously delivers a piece of the cloth to the mother to carry it.

This personal emblem of entry into society also marks the individual’s departure from life, when family mourners dress the corpse for burial. The Idian madras holds a special place in the Ndoki life as a symbol to oil a person’s journey from the womb to the vault of family and community, and then out into the world beyond this life.

Another important stage in an individual’s life is during ‘inwo eze’ (shedding of the milk teeth.) this period marks a spiritual rebirth of the child’s tender soul and body; in preparation for the challenging life ahead. Like the shedding of older skin in reptiles, the child thus begins his journey of growth. To celebrate this, the infant is elaborately clad in George clothes and coral beads (kalaari) and is escorted around the community in a kind of procession by family members. He is presented with cash gifts and George wrappers. The cloth here plays the symbolic role of purity, wealth and dignity. Literally, the child is being fortified for life with the tripod offerings of uprightness, affluence and self value.

At funeral ceremonies, the cloth is equally significant. The Ndoki engage in elaborate funerals especially for the elderly, chiefs and those who attained certain levels in the society. This burial practice is believed to honour the dead by sending them off to join their ancestors, with the expectation that they will look back with satisfaction and thus extend benevolence to their earthly relatives. In the Ndoki world view, the use of George cloth to either decorate the setting for lying- in- state, drape the coffin before interment or its placement inside the grave are exceptional media to honour them.

At Second Burials, the tying of the cloth finally authenticates the exit from the mourning rites.

It signifies sanctity and purity as opposed to the

darkness and bondage of mourning.

The George cloth is equally symbolic in masquerade costumes.

A masquerade’s costume will be lacking a very important cultural element if the cloth is not included.

The uniqueness of Ndoki Traditional Festivities stand on the importance placed on trying the George cloth during such events, especially during the popular Ikoro dance. One is actually regarded as a true Ndoki gentleman or lady if he or she ties the wrapper around the waist, while adorning a shirt or blouse on the body, as the case may be.

The females tie two pieces of the cloth as “eregbo na ntukwasi” , that is, to tie a layer of cloth over an underlying one. The men tie one piece in a style known as “nturu’. This dressing applies to all outings or festivities. Anyone who does not adhere to this dress code is seen as not being “well dressed”. He could also be fined or eased out of their gathering.

However, African-prints or “Ukpo’, as it is known in Ndoki, can be tied in some cases. This may be particularly for those who are mourning and by tradition are not supposed to dress in George as a sign of respect for their deceased relation.

In Ndoki land, great achievements are cherished, recognized and celebrated. When one performs or achieves a feat, he is treated as a hero. These achievements could be in the form of initiation into the Okonko Society, coming of age celebration, killing of a priced game like leopard or buffalo or acquisition of an expensive property.

In appreciation of such feats, the celebrant or achiever is presented with the cloth by well wishers who would spread or wrap him in them to share in the joy.

In the same vein, friends and family members may show support to their own through “Ike agwuma”. It involves typing of a folded strip of George cloth on a man’s waist. This signifies support or encouragement for him in his quest for achievement. This could precede the traditional slaughtering of a funeral cow (by a single stroke of the machete) or a wrestling bout.

George wrappers could be a status symbol. An Ndoki woman would naturally show-off her wealth in fabric, jewelry and other accessories.

Her chest, apart from containing other materials like flannel and akwete, is usually stuffed with assorted varieties of George cloth. The male also flaunt their collections of George wrapper, especially the initiates of Okonko Society who receive a countless number of the cloths on their initiation day.

In marital rites, the cloth forms an important aspect of the dowry payment, hence the groom may provide the bride with a chest filled with assorted wrappers. This signifies the man’s ability to clothe his wife and provide for her needs. Similarly, in the course of a man’s marriage to his wife, he may decide to carry out the “Igwe Nwanyi” or Igba Nwanyi Akwa. This literally means tying a cloth around his wife’s waist. It is a way for the man to emphasize his wealth. In this ceremony the man purchased a box-full of George fabrics and other gifts items for his wife in appreciation of her fidelity and loyalty.

The George fabric is also important in Ndoki traditional worship. Prior to the spread of Christianity in the land, the people long had a belief system rooted in the worship of different deities, among which were nene okpumu, iyieke, amadioha and others. There was (and still is) the belief in personal deities to whom sacrifices are offered. The fabric is held in high esteem and thus has become an essential ingredient of ritual sacrifice. During divination, the diviner adorns the wrapper in the shrine as a symbol of purify, uprightness and reverence to the deity. This cultural attachment to the cloth has long stood the test of time but however, the recognition for it is gradually reducing.

The initial emphasis on social order and cultural reaffirmation are being swept under the carpet of globalization and modernity. Yet most Ndoki patriots would continue to uphold the cultural superiority of the plaid madras. And by concentrating on this cloth that has significant use and meaning from birth through death and further through all faces of the people’s tradition, one can then see the inter connecting systems of the Ndoki cultural life.

Victor Ucheoma discussed this topic with the National Museum Study Group in Port Harcourt recently

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Friday, February 14, 2014

AutoWheels

Behold! Alluring 2014 Range Rover Sport

By Dele Fanimo EHOLD it, you get a crush. Own it and savour B the pride drive it and feel paradise on wheels. It is the amazing 2014 Range Rover Sport.

Though launched in Europe in May 2013, upwardly mobile Nigerians can’t wait for the arrival of this Sport Utility Vehicle in the country, perhaps in the second quarter of the year.

Indeed, for those in the market for a luxury SUV, the 2014 Range Rover Sport, is worth the wait.

What with its perfect blend of luxury, performance and off-road capability.

The less expensive super charged V6 engine will be more than adequate for most buyer’s needs, and the added fuel economy is definitely worthwhile. However, the V8 is really the way to go for those who want to experience the Range Rover Sport’s full dynamic driving capability.

Engine Two new engines are offered in the Range Rover Sport, both with start-stop technology.

The base engine is a 3.0-litre supercharged V6 that produces 340 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. The V6-powered RR Sports can reach 60 mph in just less than seven seconds, which is quicker than the previous generation’s V8.

For those in need or want of more power, the RR Sport is also available with a supercharged 5.0litre V8 engine putting out 510 horsepower and 461 lb-ft of torque.

Acceleration is strong with either engine, but the V8 can reach 60 mph in less than five seconds and, it can exceed 150 mph while still sounding fantastic.

Both engines are paired with a new 8-speed automatic transmission. Combine this with 800 pounds of weight loss (compared with the previous generation) and you have the two largest contributors to improved fuel efficiency. The average fuel economy of the V6 improves from 15 mpg to 19 mpg, while the V8 sees a more modest improvement of two additional mpg with a rating of 16 mpg. Granted, neither fuel economy number is particularly impressive on its own, but both are reasonable for a high-performance large SUV. Interior Even though Range Rovers are capable of traversing the toughest terrain to the middle of nowhere, you’ll get there in the lap of luxury, sur-

rounded by the new Range Rover Sport’s luxurious standard leather and loads of high-end amenities.

During our on- and off-road trek of several hundred miles, we found the big seats quite comfortable and easy to adjust to the right driving position; the head restraints are especially sumptuous. Rear seats offer good legroom, but the seats themselves are stiff and may become uncomfortable after a few hours.

Controls have been complex in past generations of the Range Rover, but in the 2014 Range Rover Sport they were quite intuitive and easy to operate.

Rover is offering a third row in the RR Sport, but it

is designed for limited use. Adults would find the space cramped; however, it should work well for children. The seating is actually referred to as “5+2,” meaning this really is a 5-passenger vehicle that offers two additional seats if needed. The seats fold flat into the cargo floor when not in use.

Terrain Response Range Rover has a well-earned reputation for its off-road prowess and the 2014 Range Rover Sport certainly doesn’t disappoint.

The all-new Terrain Response two-system allows those who aren’t experts to take full advantage of the Range Rover Sport’s capabilities. Drivers can choose from General, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud/Ruts, Sand and Rock Crawl. Each setting

optimises drivability and traction by adjusting engine output, transmission, differentials, and chassis systems to match the demands of the terrain. The system can also be left in Auto and will choose the setting that best fits current conditions.

We experienced a wide variety of off-road conditions and primarily left the system to decide on its own; however, for much of the steep terrain and deep water we put the transfer case in Low, which unlike past models can be done while the vehicle is still moving.

On rutted off-road track, the RR Sport felt solid with a comfortable ride. There was no groaning

CONTINUED ON PAGE 45

Bonluck debuts with buses, coaches

By Adeniyi Idowu Adunola ITH improved high end techW nology aimed at upping the ante in the bus and coach segment, a Chinese motor company, Bonluck Nigeria Limited, has thrown its hat into the Nigeria market ring.

The company, which has over five decades of experience in building buses and coaches, is coming into the market with several unique selling propositions as enunciated by its Regional Managing Director, Friday Yange.

At a briefing to herald the commencement of its operation in Nigeria, Yange said that the company’s product, which was from the stable of Jiangxi Kama Business Bus Company Limited of China, stands out as the preferred brand.

He disclosed that Bonluck products had successfully passed Standard Organisation of Nigeria

Products Assessment Conformity Program (SONCAP), Australia ADR Certification, US DOT Certification and EU ECE Certification.

Bonluckbus is the first Bus and Coach manufacturer in China, exporting in large quantities to developed countries including the US and Australia with its intellectual property and Chinese national brand.

The managing director noted: “Our products include 12 major series, covering all models of sixmetre to 15-metre high-end passenger vehicles for inter city transportation, urban passenger vehicles, road passenger vehicles, Motor homes, special vehicles and commercial vehicles. In addition to marketing of compressed natural gas (CNG) luxury passenger vehicle and urban passenger vehicle, hybrid power passenger vehicle and urban passenger vehicle using Zinc air fuel cell.”

He also stated that, the company

has an international network of auto manufacturers and dealers adding that this will “enable us to source and import vehicles of all types and specifications upon customer’s request - should such vehicles are not readily available. Leadtime for these imports range from as low as four weeks to three months depending on the vehicle.

We offer our corporate clients full package of services which include, full after-sales service support and repairs, one to two-year warranties depending on the vehicle, genuine spare parts, fleet branding and financial options.

According to him the operation in Nigeria and Africa region would be specially for the sale of buses and coaches because they are ardent and strong believers in innovation; taking “pride in our various products and relationships, poised to become a preferred brand to our target market by providing efficient, durable,

innovative products and services.”

He assured that Bonluck understood that as times and market evolve, it will continue to reinvent, re-align and diversify its business interest such that it can remain competitive - evolving into auto assembling and manufacturing to serve Nigeria and the whole of Africa.

The company plans to position itself as the preferred Bus and Coach Brand by providing cost effective and durable product through prompt after sales service support to customers and good returns to stakeholders.

The company in China covers a total area of 150,000 with 30,000 of workshop area and has a modern production system and assembly plant. With a production capacity of 5,000 units of buses and coaches annually there is room for 10,000 units per year after expansion.

Friday, February 14, 2014 AUTOWHEELS 45

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Toyota recalls 1.9m Prius cars worldwide OYOTA has announced a global T recall of 1.9 million of its signature Prius hybrid cars, dealing a blow to a brand favoured by the eco-conscious including Hollywood celebrities.

The company said it decided on the call-back – its biggest-ever for the vehicle –after the discovery of problems with software used to control a power converter that posed a risk to drivers.

“Because, in the worst case, the car could stop while driving we do consider this a potential safety issue and that’s the reason why we are implementing this recall,” a Tokyo-based company spokesman said.

No accidents have been reported as a result of the defect, the world’s biggest automaker said.

The Prius was one of the first hybrid cars to go mainstream and was quickly adopted as a symbol of green, with the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio and Cameron Diaz snapped behind the wheel.

The company recalled Prius models last year and in 2010 for different problems, but Wednesday’s announcement marked the biggest call-back for a car that Toyota has bet will lead a bigger move to green cars.

Last year, Toyota’s chairman Takeshi Uchiyamada challenged automakers to step up sales of hybrids in the United States, calling them “a long bridge” into future vehicles.

He was chief engineer of the Toyota team that developed the Prius, the world’s first mass-produced gasoline-electric hybrid car, and launched it in 1997.

Since then, the company has sold over 3.6 million Prius globally.

ers of about 16.3 million vehicles who said their value had been reduced because of the recalls.

In September, last year Toyota reissued a recall of 870,000 vehicles in

On Wednesday Toyota said that, in most cases, the defect could set off a vehicle’s warning lights and “probably” cause it to enter “failsafe mode”, in which the car can still be driven but with reduced power. It would slow down, eventually to stop,” a spokeswoman added.

Toyota said it was aware of more than 400 cases of the problem, including 300 in Japan and 90 in North America.

The recall covers about 997,000 vehicles in Japan with another 713,000 vehicles in North America. Most of the remainder are in Europe, the Middle East, and China.

The problem is the latest for Toyota and other Japanese automakers that have recalled millions of vehicles in recent years, damaging their long-held reputation for quality and safety.

In October Toyota recalled 885,000 vehicles worldwide to fix a problem with air conditioning equipment that could cause a leak that could affect air bags.

Earlier that month a U.S. court found Toyota was not to blame for a fatal crash involving claims of unintended acceleration.

The safety scare prompted a worldwide recall of millions of cars, the first of a series for Toyota, which had previously traded on the safety and reliability of its cars.

But weeks later, the automaker lost a related court case in which it was found at fault for a fatal accident.

Toyota earlier agreed to pay about $1.1 billion to settle a class action lawsuit launched by U.S. vehicle owners affected by the series of mass recalls.

The company did not accept any blame but agreed to compensate own-

the United States and Canada after discovering initial repairs were not performed properly.

And in April it recalled 1.73 million vehicles worldwide because of airbag

problems.

Toyota conducted a leadership shake-up in March last year after its management style had come in for criticism.

Chief Executive Officer, Diesel Tech Workshops Nigeria, Bongani Dube (left) Managing Director, BonluckBus Nigeria Limited, Friday Sylvanus Yange and the Vehicle and Asset Finance Manager, StanbicIBTC Bank, Olukorede Arowojolu at the introduction of BonluckBus in Lagos… recently.

U.S. auto industry quality slips for first time in 16 years, says survey NGINE and transmission probE lems caused quality in the U.S. auto industry to slip for the first time in 16 years in a vehicle dependability study of owners of 3-year-old cars and trucks, falling from last year’s recordhigh levels.

The industry’s 2011-model cars, introduced in 2010, the year after sector sales hit a 28-year low during the recession, saw a nearly 6 percent decline in quality to 133 problems per 100 vehicles from 126 last year, according to the J.D. Power U.S. vehicle dependability survey released on Wednesday. It was the first increase in the average number of problems since 1998.

General Motors Co (GM.N), the number one U.S. automaker, received eight segment awards, tops in the industry, and all four of its brands finished above the industry average.

Its luxury Cadillac brand was one of the biggest gainers in the survey, jumping 11 spots to rank as the third most reliable.

The biggest complaints among the more than 41,000 owners surveyed were about engine hesitation, rough transmission shifts and lack of power, but David Sargent, vice president of global automotive at J.D. Power, said a lot of that was due to lack of consumer familiarity with the smaller, less powerful 4-cylinder engines many buy now.

“The manufacturers are starting to recalibrate the engine and transmission to squeeze every last point-one mpg (miles per gallon) out of the vehicle to help them hit CAFE regulations,” he said of the rising federal fuel efficiency standards.

“Some of the manufacturers accept that by doing that there’s a compro-

mise,” Sargent added. “The consumers complain that the engine and transmission are not responding the way they want.”

Engine and transmission problems rose by nearly six per 100 vehicles, accounting for most of the industry’s overall increase, and the decline was particularly sharp with 4-cylinder engines, where the number of problems for every 100 vehicles rose by nearly 10, J.D. Power said.

While the automakers will adjust, the issue will continue because of the continued push for greater fuel efficiency, Sargent said. And this year’s results are only just beginning to show the affect of another trend - the higher penetration of technology like voice recognition and navigation systems. The inclusion of those features will lead to

How innovation scaled up Mack Truck sales, by Shittu N this age of paucity of funds, outIdaunting, right purchase of trucks appears but with the introduction of specialized single digit interest rate facility, sales figure has been on the high side, says Group Executive Director, Lanre Shittu Motors, Mr. Taiwo Shittu.

Against the backdrop of over 100 percent turnover witnessed by the company on the sale of Mack trucks,in Nigeria, last year the CEO, said incentive such as the low interest rate was the needed elixur to boost sales.

Shittu said. “The single digit finance has worked for us. We recorded over 100 per cent increase in sales last year compared to 2012.” He noted that more and more transporters are embracing the scheme, “but we will like more people to key into it”.

Shittu further explained that his company which has been into the truck business for many years, has an appreciable number of new Mack trucks in stock as well as spare parts and technical expertise.

He identified those who have keyed into the scheme to include operators in haulage and gas business, breweries, cement, consumables and all kinds of wet and dry cargo operators noting that. “The scheme kicked off about eight months ago and it has also increased our customer base”, he revealed.

On why his company introduced the single digit interest rate scheme, he said “our desire is to get the best for our customers, as we discovered that many banks were not adequately financing transporters businesses due to high interest rates.

“The advantage you have with us is that we have the trucks on ground and those who buy now will avoid higher prices due to the increase in the import duty tariff and levy as a result of the new auto policy”.

He expressed satisfaction with the commitment of customers towards the scheme, explaining that “the good thing is that none of our customers has defaulted so far in servic-

ing the facilities for the acquisition of Mack trucks, stressing that this has encouraged us to extend the scheme to the Yutong bus brand, also distributed by our company”.

Shittu further stated: “we have come to discover that Nigerians are very credit worthy, and beyond that, the durability of the Mack trucks has contributed largely to ensure that the operators get returns for their investments which enables them to service the facility. We are highly encouraged by our customer’s commitment to servicing the facility, and we believe the reason behind this is that the vehicles are performing and giving them value for their money”.

Meanwhile, LSM is still in discussion with Mack Truck on the possibility of setting up an auto assembly plant in Nigeria, as he disclosed that “we are talking with our partners on the possibility of setting up an assembly plant in Nigeria, and the discussion is on-going and fruitful. Mack is showing interest because Nigeria is a very important market with huge volume”.

even more complaints.

Toyota Motor Corp’s (7203.T) luxury brand Lexus led in reliability for the third straight year with a score of 68 problems per 100 vehicles, down from 71 last year.

“The gap between them and everyone else is crazy,” Sargent said of Lexus. “Mercedes is in second place and they’re closer to the average than they are to Lexus. It’s like everyone has been lapped by Lexus.”

Vehicle dependability is important to automakers because fewer problems translates into more loyal customers. J.D. Power said that 56 percent of owners who don’t experience any problems with their vehicles stay with that brand for their next purchase. That loyalty rate slips to 42 percent when three or more prob-

lems are experienced.

Sixteen of the 31 brands measured saw their scores decline or remain unchanged in the survey. However, the U.S. domestic nameplates improved at a slightly greater rate than imports, narrowing their scoring gap to eight problems per 100 vehicles with an overall average of 138, down from a gap of 10 last year.

U.S. auto sales rebounded almost 12 percent in 2010, the year after demand hit its lowest level since World War Two and both GM and Chrysler underwent governmentsponsored bankruptcies and Ford Motor Co (F.N) borrowed heavily to avoid the same fate. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FIA.MI) owns Chrysler Group.

Porsche falls in rankings, INFINITI rises

Behold! Alluring 2014 Range Rover Sport CONTINUED FROM PAGE 44 or squeaking (except from the passengers) as the vehicle traversed extreme angles that required the full use of its 21 inches of axle articulation. In fact, the RR Sport is impressively quiet on- or offroad.

The 2014 Range Rover Sport possesses an amazing ability to wade through more than 33 inches of water — that measures almost up to the door handles. Doors are triple-sealed to keep the occupants dry, and an industry-first Wade Sensing system alerts the driver if the water is getting too deep. Part of our drive included traveling upstream through a small river. Talk about odd sensations: From the riverbank, the vehicles, with their wheels completely submerged, looked like Range Rover boats.

What really sets the Range Rover Sport apart from its predecessor and much of the competition is its inherent agility.

And while it certainly has amazing capability off-road, we also found it to be surprisingly responsive on the twisty roads through the U.K. In addition to a lighter and more rigid

chassis, the new RR Sport’s suspension has been updated for better handling all around. The Terrain Response 2 system features a Dynamic mode, which provides a firmer ride, tighter body control, reduced roll and more responsive steering. The active rear-locking differential helps maximise traction, and torque vectoring uses the brakes to reduce under steer and improve stability through corners. What all this really means is that you can take full advantage of the big power under the hood and have a great time when the road gets interesting.

To check this large SUV’s stability at high speed, we took advantage of a closed runway at Cotswold Airport in Wales to take the RR Sport to 150 mph.

There was a bit of wind whistling at 130 mph, but otherwise the RR Sport was solid at top speed, and hard braking slowed us quickly with no drama.

This was in the same vehicle that hours earlier had successfully driven through door-high water — there aren’t many vehicles that can perform both these tasks, and with such ease.

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BUSINESSTRAVEL Friday, February 14, 2014

BusinessTravel

Quote of the week Government transformation agenda is gathering momentum in the air transport sector. NAMA is a major agent of that transformation. The goal is to create a safe and seamless airspace in a sustainable way while maintaining all international best practices and standards.

——Stella Oduah (OON), [Immediate past Minister of Aviation]

Air safety is everybody’s business AFETY has improved from Sneering better aircraft design, engiand maintenance, the evolution of navigation aids, and safety protocols and procedures.

It is often reported that air travel is the safest in terms of deaths per passenger mile. The National Transportation Safety Board (2006) reports 1.3 deaths per hundred million vehicle miles for travel by car, and 1.7 deaths per hundred million vehicle miles for travel by air. These are not passenger miles. If an airplane has 100 passengers, then the passenger miles are 100 times higher.

The number of deaths per passenger mile on commercial airlines in the United States between 1995 and 2000 is about 3 deaths per 10 billion passenger miles.

Navigation aids and instrument flight A modern-day Honeywell Intuvue weather system visualizes weather patterns up to 300 miles away.

One of the first navigation aids to be introduced (in the USA in the late 1920s) was airfield lighting to assist pilots to make landings in poor weather or after dark. The Precision Approach Path Indicator was developed from this in the 1930s, indicating to the pilot the angle of descent to the airfield. This later became adopted internationally through the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

In 1929 Jimmy Doolittle developed instrument flight.

With the spread of radio technology, several experimental radio based navigation aids were developed from the late 1920s onwards. These were most successfully used in conjunction with instruments in the cockpit in the form of Instrument landing systems (ILS), first used by a scheduled flight to make a landing in a

snowstorm at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 1938. The ICAO for international use adopted a form of ILS in 1949.

Following the development of radar in World War II, it was deployed as a landing aid for civil aviation in the form of ground-controlled approach (GCA) systems, joined in 1948 by distance measuring equipment (DME), and in the 1950s by airport surveillance radar as an aid to air traffic control.

VHF omnidirectional range (VOR) stations became the predominant means of route navigation during the 1960s, superseding the low frequency radio ranges and the nondirectional beacon (NDB). The ground based VOR stations were often co-located with DME transmitters. With the proper receiving equipment in the aircraft, pilots could know their radials in degrees to/from the VOR station, as well as the slant range distance Ground-based navigation aids are being supplanted by satellite-based aids like Global Positioning System (GPS), which make it possible for pilots to know their position with great precision anywhere in the world. With the arrival of Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS), Satellite navigation has become accurate enough for vertical (altitude) as well as horizontal use, and is being used increasingly for instrument approaches as well as en-route navigation. However, because the GPS constellation is a single point of failure, onboard Inertial Navigation System (INS) or ground-based navigation aids are still required for backup.

Aviation safety hazards Main article: Foreign object debris Foreign object debris (FOD) includes items left in the aircraft structure during manu-

facture/repairs, debris on the runway and solids encountered in flight (e.g. hail and dust). Such items can damage engines and other parts of the aircraft. Air France Flight 4590 crashed after hitting a part that had fallen from another aircraft.

Misleading information and lack of information A pilot misinformed by a printed document (manual, map, etc.), reacting to a faulty instrument or indicator (in the cockpit or on the ground), [4][5] or following inaccurate instructions or information from flight or ground control can lose spatial orientation, or make another mistake, and consequently lead to accidents or near misses.

Boeing studies showed that airliners are struck by lightning twice per year on average; aircraft withstand typical lightning strikes without

damage.

The dangers of more powerful positive lightning were not understood until the destruction of a glider in 1999. [10] It has since been suggested that positive lightning might have caused the crash of Pan Am Flight 214 in 1963. At that time, aircraft were not designed to withstand such strikes because their existence was unknown. The 1985 standard in force in the U.S. at the time of the glider crash, Advisory Circular AC 20-53B replaced Advisory Circular AC 20-53A, in 2006. [11] However, it is unclear whether adequate protection against positive lightning was incorporated.

The effects of typical lightning on traditional metal-covered aircraft are well understood and serious damage from a lightning strike on an airplane is rare. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner of which the exte-

rior is carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer received no damage from a lightning strike during testing Ice and snow Ice and snow can be factors in airline accidents. In 2005, Southwest Airlines Flight 1248 slid off the end of a runway after landing in heavy snow conditions, killing one child on the ground.

Even a small amount of icing or coarse frost can greatly impair the ability of a wing to develop adequate lift, which is why regulations prohibit ice, snow or even frost on the wings or tail, prior to takeoff.

Air Florida Flight 90 crashed on takeoff in 1982, as a result of ice/snow on its wings.

An accumulation of ice during flight can be catastrophic, as evidenced by the loss of control and subsequent crashes of American Eagle Flight 4184 in 1994, and Comair Flight 3272 in

1997. Both aircraft were turboprop airliners, with straight wings, which tend to be more susceptible to inflight ice accumulation, than are swept-wing jet airliners.

Airlines and airports ensure that aircraft are properly deiced before takeoff whenever the weather involves icing conditions. Modern airliners are designed to prevent ice buildup on wings, engines, and tails (empennage) by either routing heated air from jet engines through the leading edges of the wing, and inlets [citation needed], or on slower aircraft, by use of inflatable rubber “boots” that expand to break off any accumulated ice.

Airline flight plans require airline dispatch offices to monitor the progress of weather along the routes of their flights, helping the pilots to avoid the worst of inflight icing conditions.

Aircraft can also be equipped with an ice detector in order to warn pilots to leave unexpected ice accumulation areas, before the situation becomes critical. [citation needed] Engine failure Further information: Turbine engine failure and ETOPS An engine may fail to function because of fuel starvation (e.g.

British Airways Flight 38), fuel exhaustion (e.g. Gimli Glider), foreign object damage (e.g. US Airways Flight 1549), mechanical failure due to metal fatigue (e.g. Kegworth air disaster, El Al Flight 1862, China Airlines Flight 358), mechanical failure due to improper maintenance (e.g. American Airlines Flight 191), mechanical failure caused by an original manufacturing defect in the engine (e.g. Qantas Flight 32, United Airlines Flight 232, Delta Air Lines Flight 1288), and pilot error (e.g. Pinnacle Airlines Flight 3701).

In a multi-engine aircraft, failure of a single engine usually results in a precautionary landing being performed, for example landing at a diversion airport instead of continuing to the intended destination. Failure of a second engine (e.g. US Airways Flight 1549) or damage to other aircraft systems caused by an uncontained engine failure (e.g. United Airlines Flight 232) may, if an emergency landing is not possible, result in the

Atlantic Aviation commences commercial helicopter services in Nigeria

By Chika Goodluck-Ogazi TLANTIC Aviation, new helicopterA services operator has begun commercial flights of Augusta Westland 139 (AW139) helicopters, one of the world’s leading providers of high-quality transportation from Lagos to offshore oil and gas producers.

Atlantic Aviation, a Nigerian company owned by Jagal Group with technical service support from CHC Helicopter, started crew-rotation flights for Shell from Murtala Muhammed International Airport to the Deepwater Discovery drill ship.

The Regional Director, Atlantic Aviation, Shaf Syed said: “These flights are only the first of what we expect will be many years of helping oil and gas operators to go further, do more and come home safely in Nigeria, one of the

world’s fastest growing regions for this industry.

“Today represents a culmination of several months of planning and hard work from many people, to establish and demonstrate Atlantic Aviation. In line with the Governments’ strategic agenda on investment, job creation and Nigerian Content Development, Atlantic Aviation is investing in delivering to Nigeria world-class standards through quality and excellence,” he noted.

He said that with technical service support from CHC for training, flight and engineering standards, Atlantic Aviation would become “the leading helicopter operator in this market.

“Customers will feel reassured by the depth of experience and expertise that we bring to this sector in Nigeria,” he said.

According to the company, the twinengine, medium-sized AW139 helicopter is well suited to current and future requirements of Nigerian offshore drilling, having the range and capability to operate into the deep water and frontier drilling ultra-deep water fields.

The AW139 aircraft is a new technology helicopter that meets all the latest offshore safety requirements whilst bringing enhanced customer comfort to the offshore traveller.

Atlantic Aviation has established bases with efficient facilities and hangars in Lagos (able to operate out of both Snake Island and international airport) and Port Harcourt, where further investment is being made to develop a stateof-the-art operational hub. The company is able to serve customers on longterm contracts and for hourly charter work.

Friday, February 14, 2014 BUSINESSTRAVEL 47

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Virgin Atlantic, SITA partner on technology for travelers’ comfort

By Chika Goodluck-Ogazi IRGIN Atlantic has partnered V with SITA, a provider of global information and telecommunication solution for the air transport industry to test how the latest wearable technology, including Google Glass, can best be used to enhance customers’ travel experiences and improve efficiency.

The airline staff wearing the technology would start the check-in process the moment Upper Class passengers step out of their chauffeured limousine at London Heathrow’s T3. At the same time, staff will be able to update passengers on their latest flight information, weather and local events at their destination and translate any foreign language information.

According to Virgin Atlantic, the

new solution would replace an existing process for serving passengers traveling in the Upper Class Wing, the airline’s premium entrance at Heathrow dedicated to upper class passengers.

The Director of Information Technology, Virgin Atlantic, Dave Bulman said: “While it’s fantastic that more people can now fly than ever before, the fact that air travel has become so accessible has led to some of the sheen being lost for many passengers.

“Our wearable technology pilot with SITA makes us the first in the industry to test how Google Glass and other wearable technology can improve the customer experience.

We are upholding Virgin Atlantic’s long tradition of shaking things up and putting innovation at the heart of the flying experience.”

Virgin Atlantic has also continued to push the boundaries with other technological advancements with SITA, including testing iBeacon with its Upper Class passengers at Heathrow, a new low-powered Bluetooth transmitter that can notify nearby iOS Apple devices of nearby services, discounts and updates on their flight boarding schedules.

Furthermore, Virgin Atlantic’s

newly enhanced mobile site means that passengers will be able to book flights, check in online and check their flight status on the move, while also having access to the vast range of information on the main website, including destination and airport guides as well as details of baggage allowances and much more.

The Chief Technology Officer, SITA

Jim Peters said: “2014 is shaping up to be the breakout year for wearable technology, and Virgin Atlantic is the first to bring its vision to reality.

At SITA Lab, we’ve taken the lead in testing and trialing this new technology for the air transport industry, and it’s been fantastic to work with Virgin Atlantic to launch the industry’s first wearable technology application.”

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Friday, February 14, 2014

FridayWorship

By Afis A. Oladosu

In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful “The people of al-Hijr denied the Messengers. We brought them Our Signs but they turned away from them. They carved out houses from the mountains, feeling safe, but the Great Blast seized hold of them in the morning, so all that they earned was of no use to them.”

(Q15:80-84) T is a mansion. Everything about it Ience gives a sense of splendour, of the presof everything money could buy.

From a distance, the passer-by could count chalets of different architectural designs. The roofing sheets, though now jaded and worn out, were definitely the ones only the millionaire of yesterday could buy.

Brethren, this is a mansion built by one of the powerful men of yesterday in this region. But alas! It is now desolate and prostrate. It is now deserted and rejected. On your way from that other city and back, you could see its new “landlords” and “occupiers”: termites, rodents, maggots and other crawlers. The big mansion of yesterday is now a hut of today, it is loathed even by the sons and daughters of the big man of yesterday.

Brethren, look around our cities today, you would discover there are new millionaires in town. Yes! Millionaires and billionaires: men and women who are competing, on a daily basis, for the world. They are competing to build new mansions, new estates. They are stealing from the public wealth to build houses their children would put on sale after their demise. They are busy building

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

On termites and lessons in Thamudic history mansions that would be “inherited” by termites and caterpillar ants tomorrow.

Now when compared to the ones built by those who came before us, men and women of discernment would agree with me that our dwellings and mansions today, no matter the engineering wizardry that may be applied on them, are actually like anthills in comparison to those built by, for example the Thamud.

Remember, the people of Thamud.

Those were really great men. Brethren, of the peoples and nations mentioned in the Qur’an, the Thamud are the ones about whom we probably have the most extensive knowledge today. Historical resources reveal that a people called Thamud indeed existed. They are the ones referred to as the people of Hijr in the Qur’an. (Q15). The Greeks also refer to this people as Tamudaei, that is, Thamud, in the writings of Aristo, Ptolemy, and Pliny. They lived before Prophet Muhammad (s.a.s), by approximately between 400-600 AD. Eventually, they ceased to exist. They lived in luxurious dwellings. They lived in houses made not of bricks and blocks like yours and mine. They lived in mountains carved out by themselves with their own bare hands. Brethren, imagine how mighty a race the Thamud was!

The Almighty alludes to this when He

says: The people of al-Hijr denied the Messengers… They carved out houses from the mountains, feeling safe, but the Great Blast seized hold of them in the morning, so all that they earned was of no use to them.

(Q15: 80-84) Brethren, whenever providence takes you on a trip to Jordan, enquire about the location of the Thamud. There you would see marvelous stonework and the expertise of those people. You would see their landmarks in the Rum Valley in Jordan, better known as Petra. Prophet Salih (a.s) said to them: “Remember when the Almighty appointed you successors to ‘Ad and settled you in the land. You built palaces on its plains and carved out houses from the mountains. Remember the Almighty’s blessings and do not go about the earth, corrupting it.” (Qur’an, 7:74) In other words, having found themselves in luxury, the Thamud began to see themselves as the center of the universe.

They neglected the lessons which were inherent in their own nature and existence: that the power which created them as powerful subjects is that whose power is inimitable.

Brethren, we need more contemplation of their history. The latter should inform us that while the Thamud built their own mansions from elements in nature, majority of the mansions being built by

big men of today equally have iniquitous foundations. Like the Thamud, these are men who do not know what life it is: that it is the flash of a firefly in the night, the breath of a buffalo in the wintertime. Brethren, human life is like the little shadow, which runs across the grass and loses itself in the sunset.

Brethren, the Almighty has also likened earthly possessions, particularly that of those who disbelieve in His message, to a spider’s web. He says: “The parable of those who take protectors other than the Almighty is like that of a spider who builds for itself a dwelling, and surely the weakest of all dwellings is the dwelling of a spider, if they but knew it”-(Q29:41).

Brethren, while visiting the people of Thamud with one of the harshest retributions for their iniquities, the Almighty probably desired to teach us some eternal lessons: that indulgence in wanton disobedience of the injunctions of the Almighty does not pay, neither in the short or long run; that nations which perpetrate evils which their predecessors never imagined, would also be visited by retributions the like of which is unknown to human history.

In the life of the people of Thamud there is yet another history: that when carefully pondered the Almighty, in

relation to His creatures, is like a gardener and his garden. The gardener’s sole desire is to have a beautiful garden; a garden that would be well kept and healthy. This usually entails clearing of the weeds that are harmful for the good plants. The gardener has to trim branches and leaves to maintain their good health. He has to water the garden when needed, or withhold it when that becomes useful. It is because of such good care that his garden remains beautiful and healthy. The removal of iniquitous nations from the earth therefore may actually be for the protection of this ‘garden’, this earth, from implosion and self- destruction.

Brethren, while the gardener does his job, it is possible that that the weeds or plants that the “gardener” removes or the leaves and branches that he trims may suffer much pain. In such situations, their instincts are bound to react to their own physical needs since they have little or no understanding of their surroundings, let alone the rest of the garden. They may complain about their immediate needs and sufferings and do not know what is ultimately good for even themselves, much less the entire garden. While dealing with the iniquitous, humanity may raise their voices in empathy; each time retribution comes to the sinner, the righteous is often the first to pay a visit in sympathy.

We may, however, expand the regions of the similitude to the current “gardeners” in charge of this garden, Nigeria. The sense one gets is that of a style of governance which sees majority of the populace as “weeds” in the garden while the political class is seen as the “flowers”.

While the populace sleeps in darkness, they are budgeting millions of naira for the purchase of generators; while the populace sleeps in the open spaces, they are busy building mansions, which shall be occupied by termites sooner or later.

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MarketReport EQUITY MARKET SUMMARY

AS AT 13-02-2014

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Friday, February 14, 2014 MARKET REPORT

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MARKET INDICATORS

AS AT 13-02-2014

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NSE’s All Share Index down by 0.43 per cent

By Bukky Olajide RADING on the floor of T Nigeria Stock Exchange (NSE) closed yesterdauy on a negative note with All Share Index ( ASI) depreciating by 0.43 per cent to close at 40,278.61 points.On Tuesday, the index lost 0.48 per cent The Year-to-Date (YTD) return reflects a negative change of 2.54 per cent.

Similarly, market capitalization recorded a loss of 0.43 per cent to close at N12.91 trillion, compared with the loss of 0.48 per cent recorded Tuesday, which closed at N12.97 trillion.

Market analysts blamed the decline on the prices of some highly-capitalised stocks that shed weight.

The total value of the stocks traded on the floors of the NSE was N5.92 billion, up by 35.55 per cent from N4.37 billion recorded earlier.

The total volume traded was 354.89 million in 5,091 deals.

The three most actively traded stocks were Wema Bank (65.12 million), GT Bank (34.91 million) and Zenith Bank (28.99 million), while the most actively traded sectors were Financial Services (287.58 million), Oil and Gas (22.35 million) and Conglomerates (13.86 million).

Therefore, liquidity-pull from domestic and foreign investors has caused the Nigerian equities market to erode about N427 billion from its recent gains.

Last week, ahead of the implementation of 75 percent Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR), Nigerian banks pulled funds from the equities market to hedge themselves from resultant shocks.

In addition, analysts observed that the pull back by the US Federal Reserve on its Quantitative Easing (QE) policy is already reverberating around the world, especially in emerging markets, and has sent stock markets plummeting.

The U.S Federal Reserve’s monthly bond purchase which was reduced to $65 billion, and its recent bond issue with 1.5 percent yield, caused most US foreign investors to look within their market, at the expense of emerging markets like Nigeria.

Foreign investors who are the biggest buyers of Nigerian equities and at the last count, they made up over 50 percent of equities deals at the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

Illiquidity was also trailing the stock market as recent increases in bond yields prompt many investors to sell down their holdings on equities in order to position in the debt market.

Analysts observed that rising yields on fixed income securities (treasuries and bonds) may douse local investors’ appetite for increased asset allocation to equities.

Following further reduction in the U.S. Federal Reserve’s monthly bond purchase to $65 billion, analysts expected weaker portfolio inflows is reinforced, with implication for equity pricing on the NSE. Analysts added that the increase in the CRR for public sector deposits and the commencement of parallel run of both Basel I and II minimum capital adequacy computation from January has put pressure on liquidity, which may dampen the market run that is expected with audited results coming in the short to medium term.

Lafarge pledges to enhance shareholders’ value through product diversification

By Helen Oji AFARGE Nigeria Plc has Lbring pledged to continue to in new investments, products and solutions to enhance the growth of the company and add value to shareholders.

Lafarge Country Chief Executive Officer, Nigeria and Benin Republic, Guillaume Roux stated this yesterday during the ‘bell ringing ceremony in Lagos yesterday.

He explained that the company would continue to introduce more sophisticated solutions and products into the market to enhance profitability and sustainable growth of the company.

He pointed out that government is already developing standards in its reform to ensure that quality cement with standard applications are produced in the country, adding that the company is working with the authorities to bring in world wide expertise into Nigerian as a fast growing market.

Guillaume explained that the Nigerian Cement Industry is equipped with modern technology to produce quality cement with different applications.

He also unfolded the company’ plans to build a concrete

development lab in Nigeria as done in some limited countries in order to bring research development all over the world and adapted to finding solutions suitable for development.

This, according to him, would enhance industrialization growth in the country, as well as educate its customers on how to run business effectively.

He disclosed that the company has signed an alliance with LAPO on microfinance to develop affordable solutions for small houses and shops, adding that this initiative would attract a lot of investment into the country this year.

“We are well known in all the countries and we are present in Nigeria for a long term. We have gone from three to eight million capacity and we would continue to double next year to increase shareholders returns.

We believe that to be better citizens in Nigeria, we have to develop solutions which are adapted for different usage. We have signed agreement with LAPO on micro finance to develop affordable shops solutions for small sops and houses and this would start to bring a lot of investment into the country this year and we would also support smaller entities such as the distributors, block makers and so on.”

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Sports Keshi: We never discussed technical assistant issue, but I want Okpalla, Ogugua back HEissue of a technical assisT tant for the senior national team has been in the news recently, with reports claiming that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has concluded plans to impose a foreign assistant on Super Eagles’ Chief Coach, Stephen Keshi.

The NFF came out on Wednesday to deny planning to employ an assistant for the team, adding that it would do everything possible to ensure that the coach succeeds at the Brazil 2014 World Cup, which holds in June.

Yesterday the man at the centre of the storm came out to state his position on the issue, saying that he has never discussed the employment of an assistant with the federation.

In an interview published by supersport.com, Keshi, who is currently holidaying in the United States, said the NFF President, Aminu Maigari has never agreed for any assistant to be added to his coaching team, “so I am not sure who invents these stories and what their aims are.”

He, however, revealed that he has told the NFF to bring back his former assistants, Sylvanus Okpalla and Andyson Ogugua.

According to Keshi, “I was invited to a meeting where I was asked how the federation can help me in my job to improve things.

“I said I wanted Sylvanus Okpalla back as my assistant and Andyson Ogugua, my video analyst (these two were part of the back room staff that won the African Nations Cup in South Africa last year), but I have not been given an answer regarding when I can have them back.”

Keshi also spoke on his involvement in the just concluded African Nations Championship (CHAN), saying that he never wanted to lead the Eagles to the competition.

“Initially, I was told that the Federation had no money to prosecute the competition so I was not thinking about it.

Then later, I was informed that the country will be attending so I suggested that someone else take the team so I can go have a rest and recharge my batteries while planning for the World Cup. “But I was overruled and so we went. It was not a bad experience and I saw some

good play from my players.”

He expressed belief that the team could have done even better if the local league was not on break months before the competition.

“We were unhinged because the local league had ended four months or so before the tournament started and most of the players I used to prosecute the qualifiers had gone abroad. Still I am proud of those that went with us.”

Keshi said his next major ambition was to see that Nigeria performed well at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, adding that the friendly game against Mexico and the international friendly championship in the United States would help the team prepare well for the Mundial.

“The Mexico game is one match I am hoping to use to try a few things with some of the players I have called up.

Also, a chance for us to gather again, speak to each other and get the players to remember the challenges at hand,” he added.

On the chances of new players making the World Cup team, Keshi said, “for sure, I have said this over and over again that my team is not yet sorted out.

“However, any player looking in from the outside has to be better than what I currently have. So, when we invite anyone, he must give me that something special to warrant a place in the squad.”

One player Keshi seems to admire is Leyton Orient’s former England youth international, Elliot Omozusi, “I have watched him and I like him as a right back. He has energy to go up and down that flank.

“However, we are working hard to get his clearance from FIFA so he can play for us; if the clearance had come through he would have been available for me to look at him.”

Would it not be better for the Federation to concentrate more on getting the clearance for Omozusi, rather than insist on a foreign assistant for one of Africa’s most successful indigenous coaches.

He responded: “I love coaching Nigeria and I have always been proud to represent my country in any form. So I am not going to let anything distract me from this job, millions of Nigerians appreciate what we are doing, the Federation’s president sup-

By Olalekan Okusan IGERIA’S duo of Aruna N Quadri and Kazeem Makanjuola, as well as their

Keshi ports me and the President Goodluck Jonathan too. So I am calm. We move on.

Nigeria is bigger than any man, even Stephen Keshi.”

Keshi recently named his squad for the friendly against Mexico, with Super Eagles’ skipper, Joseph Yobo, who has not been invited to the team since Nigeria won the Nations Cup in South Africa, among

the invitees.

He explains: “I had told you before that Yobo was a part of this team. That when the time is right, he would make a return. Now Yobo is ready and he is making his comeback.

“There are several players I’m inviting whom I have not seen since last year. There is a need to see them again and know how ready they are and see if

the fresh ones can fit in to our plans for the World Cup.” These players include Israelbased leftback, Juwon Oshaniwa, while uncapped Ramon Azeez, Imoh Ezekiel and Michael Uchebo will get a chance to stake a claim for a place on the final World Cup squad.

Zico tips Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay to win 2014 World Cup RAZIL legend, Zico believes B the FIFA World Cup hosts can win the tournament, but has also tipped Argentina and Uruguay to challenge for the title.

Luiz Felipe Scolari’s Brazil are considered strong favourites to take a sixth world crown after winning the tournament’s precursor

event, the FIFA Confederations Cup, on home soil last year.

And Zico, who was part of the legendary 1982 team but was never able to lift the World Cup, feels Brazil can regain the trophy they last won in 2002.

“If we don’t have (injury) problems with our key play-

Quadri, Makanjuola exit singles at ITTF World Tour in Kuwait

ers, I think Brazil are one of the favourites,” Zico told Arena SporTV. “And our major rivals in my view will be Argentina, because they have (Lionel) Messi, and Uruguay, because they have three of the best forwards in the world (Edinson Cavani, Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez). So I think the World

Cup will stay here in the Americas.”

Brazil hammered reigning world champions, Spain 3-0, to win the Confederations Cup, a victory that Zico feels has been key to re-establishing a connection with the fans.

“They did an important thing – they got the Brazilian people

back on side at the Confederations Cup,” he added.

“They created a style of play that brought the supporters back.

“I was able to see some games live at the Confederations Cup, and we felt a rapport between the supporters and the national team that had been lost. So I think they are on the right track.”

compatriots from Africa were shown the exit in the singles event of the ongoing International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) World Tour tagged Kuwait Open.

The first casualty was Nigeria’s Makanjuola, who failed to win a game in his two matches against his French and Portuguese counterparts.

Makanjuola, who is making his debut in an ITTF World Tour, fell to France’s Benjamin Brossier 5-11, 9-11, 811, 5-11, while he suffered another defeat against Portugal’s Joao Monteiro 1012, 7-11, 6-11, 7-11.

However, Portugal-based Quadri began his campaign in group nine on a good note with 13-11, 11-8, 11-8, 11-6 win over Egypt’s Mohamed Elsobky but he failed to progress after losing to Russia’s Alexey Liventsov 11-7, 9-11, 11-8, 11-9, 11-7 to exit the singles event.

Also, Lagos Classics champion, Egypt’s Omar Assar could not advance to the main draw after a narrow loss to Singapore’s Zhaoxu Xin in an encounter that ended 11-9, 511, 11-4, 9-11, 7-11, 11-5, 9-11 having recorded a 4-2 win over Korea’s Chan-Hyeok Park in his first group match.

Like Omar, his compatriots like Mohamed El-Beiali, Khalid Assar and Aly Lashin were booted out of the event.

The only player flying the continent flag in the men’s singles is Egypt’s Ahmed Saleh, who won his two matches to seal a place in the last 64.

Speaking after his exit, Quadri admitted that he played well but that his opponent was more tactical in his approach to the game.

“Nothing went wrong during the match because I played better than the first game that I won. I want to say that there was so much difference when compared to my performance in this same tour three years ago. My opponent did not win an easy point. Before I used to have difficult in receiving service but this year I was able to overcome this. I hope to do better at the Qatar Open next week,” Quadri said.

He added, “I have leant a lot and I will keep improving because most players now are now changing tactics and this most times make receiving services more difficult. I hope to take part in this year’s German and Spanish Opens as part of my build up to the Commonwealth Games in Scotland.”

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60 SPORTS Friday, February 14, 2014

Tottenham beats Barcelona to sign ‘Nigeria’s Iniesta’ OTTENHAM have seen off T competition from Barcelona to land Nigerian wonderkid, Musa Yahaya, dubbed the new Andres Iniesta.

The 16-year-old was part of the Nigerian team, which recently won the Under-17 World Cup, and clubs from all over Europe have been interested in signing him.

Spanish giants, Barca were in talks with Yahaya’s agent last week, but Spurs have since moved in and agreed a deal to bring him to White Hart Lane.

According to reports, the midfielder will have a medical in north London before the weekend ahead of signing a five-year contract.

Yahaya currently plays for African side, Mutunchy Academy and it is thought that he will stay with them until his 17th birthday –

when he becomes eligible to obtain a UK work permit.

A fast, skilful and powerful play-maker, who can also play on the wing, Yahaya recently told reporters that he has been nicknamed ‘new Iniesta’ for years because of his accurate passing and ability to unlock defences.

Franco Baldini, the Tottenham sporting director, has been instrumental in negotiations as the north Londoners look to have seen off Ajax, Man City and Chelsea.

“Yahaya will be accompanied on the trip by his father, one of his agents, Mohammed Babawo and Auwal Yusuf, the coach of the nursery team, which has been nurturing him since childhood,” the report said.

“All members of the en-

Korean Embassy takes taekwondo to schools in Abuja From Ezeocha Nzeh, Abuja HE Korean Embassy, T through its Cultural Centre in Nigeria (KCCN) has commenced the introduction taekwondo in Nigerian primary schools.

The programme, which commenced at the weekend in Abuja with full sponsorship from the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in partnership with Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB) is intend to promote taekwondo in FCT elementary schools, using the Model Science Primary School in Maitama and the Local Education Area Primary School, Wuse as its take off point.

The event was officially kicked off with a presentation of training kits to the schools and it was attended by the Director of Korean Cultural Centre, Mr. Kwon Yong Ik; director, FCT UBEB, Dr. Adamu Jatau Noma, secretary UBEB, as well as head heachers of Model Science Primary School, Maitama and L.E.A

Wuse II Zone 3 whose schools are two of the six pilot schools for this project.

Speaking at the occasion the head of Korean Cultural Center in Nigeria, Yong Ik reiterated the commitment of Korean government to promoting taekwondo in Nigeria, adding that taekwondo as a sport has given hope and created opportunities for youths all over the world.

He noted that the modalities for executing the programme would include the provision of training kits for schools listed in the project, as well as the posting of indigenous instructors who have been trained by the KCCN to teach the pupils on the basics of the sport.

“This programme is expected to offer a good opportunity to hatch the young athletes with sound physical and mental fitness as well as groom the future and future champions in Nigeria. We have with the help of UBEB in-

tourage have been issued visas to the United Kingdom.”

The report says, “Yahaya is still a minor, he cannot sign a professional contract.

However, there is a four – year deal waiting for him to sign when he clocks 18.”

Yahaya is player of great potential. He is somewhere between a traditional playmaker and a deep lying striker. He likes to score as he himself claimed but at the same time, he likes to provide assists for others as well.

He said, “but the role of playmaker, just behind the strikers, is something I love.

I love to have the ball at my feet and to look up and play my mates in with a pass.”

Musa Yahaya tries to beat the Iraqi goalkeeper during their UAE 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup group game. The PHOTOS: FIFA. ‘new Iniesta’ has joined England’s Tottenham.

Keshi explains Agbim’s absence from Eagles’ list UPER Eagles’ Coach, SoutStephen Keshi says he left CHAN goalkeeper, Chigozie Agbim, from the players listed for the international friendly match against Mexico in Atlanta on March 5 because there was no need for a full house for the game.

According to Supersport.com, the 52-year-old Keshi explained from the United States of America (USA), where he is at present on holidays to see his family, that he dropped Agbim since the African champions will play just one international game next month.

“I don’t think there is need to start raising issues on players left out of the friendly match against Mexico or those named in the team for the game. It is just a test game to see a few new players and those, who we have not seen in a long while. So leaving out Chigozie Agbim and a few other players is no big deal.

“We have just one international game to play next

month at the moment except things change, and it will make no sense inviting three goalkeepers for just one game. Remember, football is a game of two halves. So how do we integrate a third goalkeeper in a friendly match if we decide to play two different teams for each half?

“Also Agbim had a good test at the Chan recently so I don’t think we have to take three goalkeepers to just one match,” explained Keshi.

The 2013 African Coach of the Year also dismissed insinuation that he may have opted to drop Agbim for the match against Mexico’s El Tri owing to the goalkeeper’s performance at the 2014 African Nations Championship (Chan) in South Africa, where Nigeria finished in third position.

“That’s totally untrue (about leaving out Agbim). It is not possible for a player to feature in every match. You’ll see that we have a number of players in that list who have never played at senior international

Again, Nigeria drops in FIFA ranking IGERIA has dropped six though the top three reN places on the latest mained the same.

Spain, Germany and Armonthly FIFA Rankings as they are now 47th in the w o r l d .

Nigeria were 41st in the previous rankings, but are now ranked 47th in the latest FIFA ratings despite winning a bronze medal at the recent African Nations Championship (CHAN), where ranking points were at stake.

The Eagles have a date with Mexico, who are ranked 21st on the FIFA Rankings, in a friendly on March 5 in USA. The match should bring out the best in the Eagles, as several players will be pushing for places on the World Cup squad. And a victory for Nigeria will most certainly improve their standings by the next FIFA Rankings.

FIFA said it considered 42 international ‘A’ matches for the February edition of the world ranking – 40 of which were friendlies.

Switzerland and Portugal were the notable movers,

gentina continue to make up the top three, but Portugal rose one place to fourth, swapping positions with Colombia, while Switzerland ascended two spots up to sixth place.

Switzerland’s rise shunted Uruguay down into seventh and Italy to eight, while Brazil climbed above Netherlands into ninth place.

Elsewhere, there was some big movement among the African nations, as the 2010 African Nations Cup is no longer part of the four-year cycle of matches that the FIFA World Ranking considers.

That meant major falls for 2010 winners Egypt, who dropped seven places to 39th and beaten finalists Ghana, who dropped 13 places to 37th.

In contrast, Cape Verde Islands rose to become the third-best team in Africa, rising eight places to their highest ever ranking spot of 27th.

Ivory Coast remain Africa’s

level before and we have others making return to the team.

“As I said, it is a test game and it is just one match and it will be needless to bring in three goalkeepers,” said Keshi to Supersport.com.

Keshi also made it clear that the battle for places in the squad to Brazil remains open

to players, who impress in the build-up to the World Cup. “Whoever impresses us ahead of the World Cup and is ready for the big stage will get the chance. This team is not yet the best but we can build on our successes. Our boys will have to fight for places in the team to the World Cup and that’s why we have test matches to look at them,” he said.

WBFN to give fans prizes at Victor Ochei Tourney

By Adeyinka Adedipe N its bid to make this year’s Iketball Victor Ochei Wheelchair Baschampionship more attractive, the Wheelchair Basketball Federation of Nigeria (WBFN) has announced attractive goodies for spectators, just as Oyo State team has expressed readiness for the championship.

President of the Federation, Bukola Olopade, who disclosed this, said spectators to the championship, which holds from February 18 to 22 at the sports hall of the National

highest-ranked team, despite dropping six places to 23rd, while USA lead the way in CONCACAF, climbing up to 13th place.

Iran dropped four places to 38th but remain Asia’s top dogs and 89th-placed New Zealand are the OFC’s No. 1 team again.

The next FIFA World Ranking will be released on March 13.

Stadium, Surulere would go home daily with different ranges of mobile phones, while on the final day, fans will go home with star prize of Plastma TV courtesy of Legend Interior.

He further said that the idea behind giving out prizes through a raffle draw was to encourage the spectators and draw fans to the championship.

He also stated that the 3rd edition of the championship would be supported by notable musical acts, D’banj and Olamide as part of their contribution to the development of special sport athletes.

Meanwhile, the Oyo State wheelchair basketball team is finalising preparation ahead of the championship, which has N5 million as prize money.

The commissioner for youth and Sports, said that the camping exercise would enable the team excel at the championship assuring that the state would continue to support the special sport athletes so that they can bring honours to the state.

World and European champions, Spain, are still number one team in the FIFA rankings.

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Struggling Inter aim to save season at Fiorentina

Man United can win Champions League, says Moyes ITH Manchester United 15 W points out of first place in the Premier League and out of contention for the Capital One Cup and FA Cup, Manager, David Moyes has decided that he could make due with only winning the Champions League in his first season at Old Trafford.

“It’s been a difficult season,” Moyes told reporters, who wanted him to freak out. “I hoped we would be in a better position at this point, still competing for more trophies, but I think I’ll be fine with just winning the Champions League. It’s a nicely designed trophy and you might as well

ROUBLED Inter Milan will T seek to kick-start their stuttering season in a bid to avoid

start with the best one.”

“This has been a season of unusual occurrences for Manchester United — first home loss to West Brom since 1978, first home loss to Newcastle since 1972, three defeats in a row for the first time since 2001.

“So why not our first European Cup since 2008?

Chelsea finished sixth in the Premier League and won the Champions League at the same time a couple years back. We’re in seventh and now we’ve got Juan Mata, who was on that Chelsea team, so I’d say we’re right on pace to do the same.”

Tom-Cleverley in action for Mancherster United in Wednesday’s EPL clash with Arsenal. It ended 0-0

Five things to know about Spanish league TLETICO Madrid’s Spanish A league title aspirations will be under further scrutiny after a week, when it lost three matches and saw its slim lead atop the standings erased by Barcelona and Real Madrid.

All three clubs are tied on 57 points going into the 24th round of games, with Madrid on the best run of the co-leaders, going unbeaten in 24 games in all competitions.

That includes back-to-back Copa del Rey wins over Atletico to reach the final.

Atletico On The Ropes Atletico badly needs a win to get its title aspirations back on track. After starting the first 35 games with a single defeat, it has now lost its last three straight games.

For a team that had only

We are ready for title fight, says Arsenal goalie RSENAL goalkeeper, A Wojciech Szczesny insists that despite dropping two more points on Wednesday, the Gunners’ title bid is still very much alive.

An uninspiring 0-0 draw with Manchester United followed Arsenal’s 5-1 hammering at the hands of Liverpool at the weekend - results that have seen Chelsea leapfrog the Gunners to go top of the Premier League table.

However, despite a difficult week at the Emirates, Szczesny believes his side are still very much in the hunt.

“We have dropped points in our last two games and now we have a lot of teams very close together at the top,” Szczesny told the Sun. “It is going to be tight but we will put everything into our last 12 games of the season and if we show our character I believe we can do it.

“We will be fighting right to the end and that’s the least you can expect from players playing for Arsenal Football Club.

“We showed a lot of mental strength to recover from the weekend defeat at Liverpool and now it’s time for us to push on and give it a real go.

“We are a bit disappointed that we didn’t beat Manchester United on Wednesday but at least we got a point against a very good side and the clean sheet is also a positive.”

known success for most of this season, rebounding from the subpar performances is perhaps the biggest test to its season ahead of Valladolid’s visit to the Vicente Calderon tomorrow.

Coach Diego Simeone admits that fatigue may finally be catching up with a limited squad that is also still in the hunt for the Champions League.

Madrid On A Roll Madrid became the first Spanish club in nearly a century to reach the Copa del Rey final without conceding a goal in the competition, yet

that still won’t earn Spain Captain, Iker Casillas a return to the first team come Sunday at Getafe.

Diego Lopez has been the regular Madrid goalkeeper in the league despite Casillas’ Stellar play in both the domestic cup competition and the Champions League. Casillas has not conceded for close to 900 minutes.

The goalie controversy even led Carlos Ancelotti’s daughter, Katia to chirp in with her opinion. She backs Lopez.

“I’ve spoken with the coach and everything is settled,” said Casillas, who received an apol-

ogy from his Italian coach over the matter. “When someone apologises, the correct thing to do is to accept it.”

Barca Swagger The spring in Lionel Messi’s goalscoring step has returned of late, and Barcelona is looking all the better for it.

Wednesday’s 1-1 cup draw at Real Sociedad put the Spanish champions into the final from one of the Catalan club’s most inspiring performances of the season.

Like goal scorer, Messi, the team was full of verve and showcased much of the slick, quick combinations that it

has come to characterise in recent seasons but that have dropped off under Coach, Gerardo Martino.

missing out on European football for a second year when they travel to in-form Fiorentina tomorrow.

The Italian giants lie fifth in Serie A but have started 2014 poorly, winning one game since the turn of the year, last week’s scrappy 1-0 victory over lowly Sassuolo.

Walter Mazzarri’s side have struggled on the road, losing all four away matches in 2014, which includes a 1-0 defeat by Udinese that knocked them out of the Italian Cup at the quarter-final stage.

“Up to now this year hasn’t been particularly good compared to how Inter have done historically,” admitted Mazzarri on Wednesday.

Their poor results have led to criticism of new president Erick Thohir, who bought a 70 per cent stake in the club in November but who spends little time in the city.

January’s aborted deal, which would have seen midfielder, Fredy Guarin head to Juventus in a swap with forward Mirko Vucinic was called off after fan protests, further souring relations with their bitter rival.

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GolfWeekly

An instructor demonstrates with a plastic club pupils of a private school during a past Starting New At Golf (SNAG) programme, while SNAG master trainer from the United Kingdom, Tony Howarth (far right) watches.

Lagos blazes trail as 2AT, UBEC introduce golf to public schools Stories by Eno-Abasi Sunday FTER a successful stint with A some private schools in the state including St Saviour’s School, Ikoyi and Grange School, Ikeja, 2AT Nigeria Limited, in concert with Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board is set to lengthen the sports’ menu of public schools in the state.

This is in the form of introduction of golf to public primary schools, a step, which would go a long way in not only popularising the sport among pupils, who ordinarily would not consider taking to it for obvious reasons, it would also demystify the notion that it was an exclusive preserve for the haves.

The programme, under the initiative, “Let’s Play Golf In Schools,” and which is employing the Starting New At Golf (SNAG) curriculum organisers say, has received the blessings of the Lagos State Amateur Golf Association.

Expected to set sail with a train-the-trainers workshop to be held at Astro Turf 2000, Osborne road, Ikoyi, the workshop is specially designed to help Physical Education teachers from the 20 Local

Government Education Authorities (LGEA’s) in the state deliver the programme successfully within the school setting.

“Our objective is to teach the teachers how to teach golf in Physical Education (PE) classes,” Adekemi Badmos, Director 2AT Nigeria Limited stated stressing that, “the train-the-trainers workshop is to equip the teachers with the know-how to teach their students golf within their school

settings.

“We are training PE Co-coordinators/teachers from the 20 LGEA’s of the state. The aim is to create awareness and let them know that golf can be taught outside the traditional venues of the sport, Badmos stated.

She continued, “core sports such as football, table tennis, basketball and athletics get introduced at this level and we think golf should too. Even

though many golf professionals are going into schools to teach, we will reach a lot more children if the teachers are empowered to do it themselves. In this direction, the teachers would be trained on Wednesday 19th and Thursday 20th February, while on Friday, February 21, we are expecting 50 children from four primary schools for the demonstration exercise.”

However, “the main programme would start with five

schools next term once all logistics have been sorted out. Hopefully, this our noble initiative would greatly assist in growing the game or increase interest in it by exposing as many children to it.

“The Lagos States Universal Basic Education Board and the Sports Ministry have been very supportive of this initiative and it all goes to show how genuine the state’s

intention for sports development is,” she stated.

Badmos also informed that a master SNAG trainer from the United Kingdom, Tony Howarth, would be on hand to facilitate the three-day training programme.

The SNAG curriculum runs in over 10 countries including, the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Japan, and Scotland. The Nigerian franchise is run by 2AT and it is presently being deployed in some private schools in Lagos.

NGF not imposing any charges on golfers, says Issa-Onilu OLLOWING the disquiet in Faround some golf clubs from the country over the alleged decision of the Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF) to levy each registered golfer in country the sum of N10. 000, the NGF has denied that any decision of such has been taken, much less implemented.

In fact, the Federation says this issue, alongside others were only discussed at the board meeting with no decision yet arrived at even as it informed that having met the federation in a comatose state, a lot of steps were being contemplated on how to cover

lost grounds and break new ones.

Some golfers had alleged sighting a letter from the new board of the NGF headed by Dr. Peter Deshi, addressed to their club captains, wherein they were requested to pay the sum of N10. 000 each in aid of the Federation’s activities.

Some of the golfers, who belong to highbrow clubs, where private membership is the norm were particularly livid as to why such demand should be made of them at all, when the federation had not

yet made public its blueprint for golf development.

But Director of Marketing and Sponsorship of the Federation, Lanre Issa-Onilu in a chat with The Guardian yesterday countered this saying that the federation, which is currently trying to create a clement atmosphere for seamless administration of the sport in the country, has so far not made any demand on golfers or golf clubs in that regard.

“In fact, the letter we wrote to golf club captains has to do with the data base of Nigerian golfers we are working

towards putting in place so that at a glance, one can decipher the number of golfers in the country, club members, executives, club specifications and sundry information so that we can feed them into our website so that from anywhere in the world, people can have access to these details.

The NGF chief stressed that other lofty plans and programmes the federation was putting in place would be unfolded at the National Summit on Golf planned for next month, where other strategic stakeholders includ-

ing golf club captains would make their inputs and buyins.

Issa-Onilu, who informed that the federation has already acquired a software that would facilitate the maintenance of an up-to-date handicapping system for the country (which would be updated regularly), hinted that grassroots’ programmes would be given immense attention even as driving ranges would be built in the six geo-political zones of the country, with a view to winning converts for the sport.

TheGuardian www.ngrguardiannews.com

Friday, February 14, 2014

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

By Nwachukwu Joshua REAT was my joy and I presume, that of G Nigerians, when the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) called off the five months

old strike on the 17th of December. This really can and should qualify as a Christmas gift from the Federal Government.

This protracted industrial action was necessitated due to the failure of the Federal Government to implement the 2009 (now 2013) agreement aimed at improving the university system.

Ever since they began the strike I was their faithful adherent; I even wrote two articles supporting their cause, which made me become a pariah among my peers.

Even though I was at the suffering side; being at home while my counterparts in private universities and even overseas were in session. I reasoned that it was a fight not for the short term but for the long term and also because as a student, I have a first-hand experience of the rot, decay and anomaly in the educational sector, which is in dire need of salvation.

This rot was confirmed by the report of the Committee on Needs Assessments of Nigerian Public University, which was presented last year November to the Federal Government.

Among its findings the committee noted that “the physical facilities of the universities were inadequate, dilapidated, over stretched, and improvised. In the area of laboratories and workshops,” it notes among others, equipment and consumables are absent, inadequate or out-dated. While Kerosene stoves are used as Bunsen burners in some laboratories”.

In the area of academic staff, the report states that “many universities are under staffed, while a large number are under qualified”. For example “only seven universities have up to 60 per cent of their academic staff with PhDs, while some universities do not have more than one professor in the university”.

Also the teaching staff-students ratio is very high in many universities: “National Open University of Nigeria 1:363, University of Abuja 1:122, Lagos State University 1:114,” when compared to schools with world repute the difference and impact is clear; “Harvard 1:4; MIT 1:9; Yale 1:4, Cambridge 1:3”.

In the area of non-teaching staff, the committee states that the universities are over-staffed with non-teaching staff, in fact the number of non-teaching staff is twice the number of teaching staff.

Many have accused the government alone as the cause of the afore-stated problems. Not only is this absolutely false but it is very dangerous since it prevents us from tackling the real problems, which ultimately leaves the problems unsolved.

There is no doubt that the government has always demonstrated apathy towards quality education, which has been exemplified in inadequate funding and improper supervision, which has necessitated continuous strikes and other forms of industrial disputes for donkey years, but I think the lecturers, who are also ASUU members, and the administrators of the university have a major role to play.

From a more general perspective it is on record that money is neither the driving force of any venture nor the determinant of its success but the dedication and capacity of the workers. There are various examples to support my stance, many business ventures the likes of Microsoft, Apple, Ford, McDonald, when they started, began with little money and was between the family members or a few friends but with dedication and capacity these companies are now reputable and financially buoyant.

In the university environment, I do not think that the lack of funds is the main and only reason for the failure in the educational sector.

I may agree that the monies universities receive from the government, IGR, grants and

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Decay in the university system: Who is to blame?

donations are not sufficient, but the question which has to be tackled is, the “little monies” the university authorities have gotten how have they used them?

There is a consensus that if those little monies have been used judiciously the decay would not have gotten to this stage.

Just as I congratulate ASUU for succeeding in getting the government to kowtow to their needs, many are sure that the money will not reflect in the university sector, because of the high rate of corruption among ASUU members. The committee under reference notes also that “the university management, spend millions to erect super-gates when their libraries are still at foundation level; expend millions to purchase exotic vehicles for university officers even though they lack basic classroom furnishings; Spend hundreds of millions in wall-fencing and in-fencing when students accommodation is inadequate and in tatters; are more interested in spending monAlso join our on-line conversation

ey on creation of new programmes instead of consolidating and expanding access to existing ones”.

I think ASUU has to find a way to tackle the growing rate of corruption among its members. Corruption among illiterates though unpardonable and bad is understandable, expected and can be tolerated but among intellectuals who are supposed to be beacons of virtue and leadership in the society, it is unspeakable, shameful, spiteful and ignominious.

ASUU also has to tackle the dropping rate of the intellectual life of many lecturers, because many have forgotten what the vocation of teaching entails. Though not a vocation to abject poverty neither is it a vocation to affluence and luxury. It is a call to service.

Rather than focus on enriching themselves through researches and contribute to social dialectics and contemporary issues, many lecturers spend time comparing themselves

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Many have accused the government alone as the cause of the afore-stated problems. Not only is this absolutely false but it is very dangerous since it prevents us from tackling the real problems, which ultimately leaves the problems unsolved.

There is no doubt that the government has always demonstrated apathy towards quality education, which has been exemplified in inadequate funding and improper supervision, which has necessitated continuous strikes and other forms of industrial disputes for donkey years, but I think the lecturers, who are also ASUU members, and the administrators of the university have a major role to play. with politicians and petroleum workers and are yearning to have similar bulging bank accounts, they no longer glory in the education of the youth which is the country’s only true and valuable asset.

This shows a crisis of values in the intelligentsia.

We have intellectuals who not only are lazy but when they put their heads on the pillows they do not dream, many who claim to be engineers, have not developed any machine even simple ones like a water filter to help those in the villages purify borehole water well. How then can they train future engineers?

According to the committee report’s, no Nigerian academic is in the league of Nobel Laureates or a nominee of Nobel Prize. In the past three years there are only two registered patents owned by Nigerian Academics.

This is not surprising since while their counterparts in Europe and Asia reserve the evening for brainstorming, our Nigerian intellectuals quaff away at the bars and staff clubs, and they always complain of lack of funds.

The educational sector has never been known to be a place where the teachers are very rich but it has always been known to be the oven where young people are baked into men and women of character and learning.

But because of the corruption among some lecturers, many university graduates are half-baked since their lecturers have little or nothing both academically and morally to offer. That is why many Nigerian Graduates are unemployed. Their unemployment is not as a result of unavailability of jobs in Nigeria, after all, many companies keep “importing” workers from neighbouring countries and even from China, India and Lebanon, but because the graduates are not skilled or employable.

Also rather than preach and encourage magnanimity, peace, nationality, creativity, critical thinking, virtue and ingenuity, our university system teaches and encourages vices, ethnicity, cramming, conflict, corruption, dullness and insipidness, under the guise that they (lecturers) cannot be challenged; this is not the idea of a university.

The future of the Nigerian is in the hands of Nigeria’ literati – the cognoscente, intelligentsia, academics, highbrows, and scholars.

The literati of Japan, USA, South Korea, and the Asian Tigers are effecting changes.

I want to remind ASUU that with the release of some funds and more in future, all eyes are on them and we are expectant.

I plead with the Jonathan-led administration not to joke with the educational sector since it is the bedrock of any meaningful development and the thermometer posterity will use to judge his administration.